Let not one even as a sport
The ill-natured enmity court.
Incur the hate of bow-ploughers
But not the hate of word-ploughers.
Forlorn, who rouses many foes
The worst insanity betrays.
This world goes safely in his grace
Whose heart makes friends even of foes.
Alone, if two foes you oppose
Make one of them your ally close.
Trust or distrust; during distress
Keep aloof; don't mix with foes.
To those who know not, tell not your pain
Nor your weakness to foes explain.
Know how and act and defend well
The pride of enemies shall fall.
Cut off thorn-trees when young they are;
Grown hard, they cut your hands beware.
To breathe on earth they are not fit
Defying foes who don't defeat.
APPRAISING ENEMIES
