21. Should you draw a sword against a friend,do not despair, for it can be undone.
22. Should you open your mouth against a friend,do not worry, for you can be reconciled.But a contemptuous insult, a confidence broken,or a treacherous attack will drive any friend away.
23. Win your neighbor’s trust while he is poor,so that you may rejoice with him in his prosperity.In time of trouble remain true to him,so that you may share in his inheritance when it comes.
24. The billowing smoke of a furnace precedes the fire,so insults precede bloodshed.
25. I am not ashamed to shelter a friend,and I will not hide from him.
26. But if harm should come to me because of him,all who hear of it will beware of him.
27. Who will set a guard over my mouth,an effective seal on my lips,That I may not fail through them,and my tongue may not destroy me?