Be thou the first true merit to befriend, his praise is lost who stays till all commend.

Never elated when someone's oppressed, never dejected when another one's blessed.

Words are like Leaves; and where they most abound, Much Fruit of Sense beneath is rarely found.

Praise from a friend, or censure from a foe, Are lost on hearers that our merits know.

Oft in dreams invention we bestow to change a flounce or add a furbelow.

Nor Fame I slight, nor for her favors call; She comes unlooked for, if she comes at all .

Not always actions show the man; we find who does a kindness is not therefore kind.