Page:Niti literature (Gray J, 1886).pdf/48



being a benefactor, is a (real) relative; a relative not conferring a benefit is a stranger; a disease, though arising in the body, is not beneficial; a herb from the forest is a boon.

A man who injures another's virtue in his absence, who speaks lovingly in his presence, one would consider such friendship like honey in a pot of poison.

In poverty a friend forsakes you; son, and wife, and brothers too forsake you; being rich, they cling to you: wealth in this world is a great friend.

One can know a (good) servant by his taking errands, a relative when danger comes; thus also a friend in times of poverty, and a wife when wealth disappears.

He is a relative who in prosperity makes you cling to him; he a father who supports you; in whom there is affection, he is a friend; she a wife who pacifies.