16. [For their feet run to evil,they hasten to shed blood.]
17. In vain a net is spreadright under the eyes of any bird—
18. They lie in wait for their own blood,they set a trap for their own lives.
19. This is the way of everyone greedy for loot:it takes away their lives.
20. Wisdom cries aloud in the street,in the open squares she raises her voice;
21. Down the crowded ways she calls out,at the city gates she utters her words:
22. “How long, you naive ones, will you love naivete,
23. How long will you turn away at my reproof?[The arrogant delight in their arrogance,and fools hate knowledge.]Lo! I will pour out to you my spirit,I will acquaint you with my words:
24. ‘Because I called and you refused,extended my hand and no one took notice;
25. Because you disdained all my counsel,and my reproof you ignored—
26. I, in my turn, will laugh at your doom;will mock when terror overtakes you;
27. When terror comes upon you like a storm,and your doom approaches like a whirlwind;when distress and anguish befall you.’
28. Then they will call me, but I will not answer;they will seek me, but will not find me,