Page:Poeticedda00belluoft.djvu/69

 The babbling tongue, if a bridle it find not, Oft for itself sings ill.

In mockery no one a man shall hold, Although he fare to the feast; Wise seems one oft, if nought he is asked, And safely he sits dry-skinned.

Wise a guest holds it to take to his heels, When mock of another he makes; But little he knows who laughs at the feast, Though he mocks in the midst of his foes.

Friendly of mind are many men, Till feasting they mock at their friends; To mankind a bane must it ever be When guests together strive.

Oft should one make an early meal, Nor fasting come to the feast; Else he sits and chews as if he would choke, And little is able to ask.

Crooked and far is the road to a foe, Though his house on the highway be; But wide and straight is the way to a friend, Though far away he fare.

Forth shall one go, nor stay as a guest In a single spot forever;