247
Watch over thy expenditure, for he who through vain glory spendeth uselessly what he hath on empty follies, will receive neither return nor praise from anyone.
Firdausī.
248
If thou art a man, speak not much about thine own manliness, for not every champion driveth the ball to the goal.
Sa’dī.
249
The potter forms what he pleases with soft clay, so a man accomplishes his works by his own act.
Hitopadesa.
250
No man of high and generous spirit is ever willing to indulge in flattery; the good may feel affection for others, but will not flatter them.
Aristotle.
251
An ass will with his long ears fray
The flies that tickle him away;
But man delights to have his ears
Blown maggots in by flatterers.
Butler.
252
Books are pleasant, but if by being over-studious we impair our health and spoil our good humour, two of the best things we have, let us give it over. I, for my part, am one of those who think no fruit derived from them can recompense so great a loss.
Montaigne.