If thou be rich, strive to command thy money, lest it command thee.

It is the lot of man but once to die.

What money creates, money preserves: if thy wealth decays, thy honor dies; it is but a slippery happiness which fortunes can give, and frowns can take; and not worth the owning which a night's fire can melt, or a rough sea can drown.

Wouldst thou multiply thy riches? diminish them wisely; or wouldst thou make thy estate entire? divide it charitably. Seeds that are scattered increase; but, hoarded up, they perish.

If thou desire to be held wise, be so wise as to hold thy tongue.

Borrow neither money nor time from your neighbor; both are of equal value.

Afflictions clarify the soul.