211
Like a beautiful flower, full of colour but without scent, are the fine but fruitless words of him who does not act accordingly.
Dhammapada.
212
When men are doubtful of the true state of things, their wishes lead them to believe in what is most agreeable.
Arrianus.
213
Most men the good they have despise,
And blessings which they have not prize:
In winter, wish for summer’s glow,
In summer, long for winter’s snow.
Sanskrit.
214
The best conduct a man can adopt is that which gains him the esteem of others without depriving him of his own.
Talmud.
215
Whoso associates with the wicked will be accused of following their ways, though their principles may have made no impression upon him; just as if a person were in the habit of frequenting a tavern, he would not be supposed to go there for prayer, but to drink intoxicating liquor.
Sa’dī.