Page:Norse mythology or, the religion of our forefathers, containing all the myths of the Eddas, systematized and interpreted with an introduction, vocabulary and index.djvu/143

 26. A foolish man Thinks he knows everything If placed in unexpected difficulty; But he knows not What to answer If to the test he is put.

27. A foolish man, Who among people comes, Had best be silent; For no one knows That he knows nothing Unless he talks too much. He who previously knew nothing Will still know nothing, Talk he ever so much.

28. He thinks himself wise Who can ask questions And converse also; Conceal his ignorance No one can, Because it circulates among men.

29. He utters too many Futile words Who is never silent; A garrulous tongue, If it be not checked, Sings often to its own harm.

30. For a gazing-stock No man shall have another, Although he come a stranger to his house. Many a one thinks himself wise, If he is not questioned, And can sit in a dry habit.

31. Clever thinks himself The guest who jeers a guest, If he takes to flight. Knows it not certainly He who prates at meat, Whether he babbles among foes.