It is wrong to follow the advice of an adversary; nevertheless it is right to hear it, that you may do the contrary; and this is the essence of good policy.

So long as money can answer, it were wrong in any business to put the life in danger.

However much you study, you cannot know without action. A donkey laden with books is neither an intellectual nor a wise man. Empty of essence, what learning has he whether upon him is firewood or book?

The wise man tells not what he knows. It is not prudent to sport with one's head by revealing the king's secrets.

I have often found a small stream at its fountain-head, that, when followed up, carried away the camel with his load.

Pride thyself on what virtue thou hast, and not on thy parentage.

It is safer to be silent than to reveal one's secret to any one, and telling him not to mention it.