31. A guest thinks he’s clever who mocks at a guest and runs from his
wrath away; but none can be sure who jests at a meal that he makes
not fun among foes.
It is unwise to mock another in front of other people because you never
know how many enemies you may create.
32. Often, though their hearts lean towards one another, friends are
divided at table; ever the source of strife it will be, that guest will
anger guest.
Friends do not always agree on everything and may argue over some
issues. These issues can cause anger if brought up.
33. A man should take always his meals betimes unless he visit a
friend, or he sits and mopes, and half famished seems, and can ask or
answer naught.
You should eat before you visit a friend. If you don’t, you may go hungry
for fear of asking your friend for food.
34. Long is the road to a false friend leading, even if he dwells on the
way: but though far off fared, to a faithful friend straight are the
roads and short.
A false friend will cause himself to be unavailable even if he lives very
close to you. A true friend, however, will cause himself to be easy to
contact no matter where he lives.
35. A guest must depart again on his way, not stay in the same place
ever; if he bide too long on another's bench the loved one soon
becomes loathed.
Take care not to overstay your welcome at a friend’s house or your friend
will begin to think ill of you.
36. One's own house is best, though small it may be; each man is
master at home; though he have but two goats and a bark-thatched
hut 'tis better than craving a boon.
Living in your own home is always better than having to beg for shelter.
37. One's own house is best, though small it may be, each man is
master at home; with a bleeding heart will he beg who must, his meat
at every meal.
It is better to live independently then to have to beg for food.
38. Let a man never stir on his road a step without his weapons of
war; for unsure is the knowing when need shall arise of a spear on the
way without.
Carry a weapon when traveling because you cannot be certain you’ll be
able to find one if you need it.
39. I have never found one so noble or free with his food who was not
gladdened with a gift or one who gave of his gifts such store but didn’t
love reward, could he win it.
Always repay what others give you even if they do not ask for it.
40. Let no man stint himself and suffer need of the wealth he has won
in life; often is saved for a foe what was meant for a friend, and much
goes worse than one believes.
Do not make yourself go without in order to hoard money for another
person because this invites the other to take advantage of you.