CHAPTER 70
COMPORTING ONESELF BEFORE PRINCES
691. Whoever desireth to move with princes, let him be like unto the men that warm themselves at a fire : let him not approach too near nor stand too far away.
692. Not to itch for those things that the prince desireth : that is the secret of acquiring his lasting favour and thereby growing in affluence.
693. If thou desire not to fall into disgrace steer clear of all graver failings: for once suspicion is roused, it is impossible for any one to remove it.
694. Speak not in whispers in the presence of the great ones : nor smile to another's face when they are near.
695. Do not try to overhear any conversation nor to fish out that which is withheld from thee: and then only receive the secret when it is imparted to thee.
