Expose not the secret failings of mankind, otherwise you must verily bring scandal upon them and distrust upon yourself.

If thou art wise, incline to truth; for truth, not the semblance, remains in its place.

Reveal not every secret you have to a friend, for how can you tell but that friend may hereafter become and enemy. And bring not all mischief you are able to upon an enemy, for he may one day become your friend.

The rose and thorn, the treasure and dragon, joy and sorrow, all mingle into one.

A friend whom you have been gaining during your whole life, you ought not to be displeased with in a moment. A stone is many years becoming a ruby - take care that you do not destroy it in an instant against another stone.

The sea does not contain all the pearls, the earth does not enclose all the treasures, and the flint-stone does not inclose all the diamonds, since the head of man encloses wisdom.

The heart is like a musical instrument of many strings, all the chords of which require putting in harmony.