3. As the heavens are high and the earth is deep,so the hearts of kings are unsearchable.
4. Remove the dross from the silver,and a silversmith can produce a vessel;
5. remove wicked officials from the king’s presence,and his throne will be established through righteousness.
6. Do not exalt yourself in the king’s presence,and do not claim a place among his great men;
7. it is better for him to say to you, ‘Come up here,’than for him to humiliate you before his nobles.What you have seen with your eyes
8. do not bring hastily to court,for what will you do in the endif your neighbour puts you to shame?
9. If you take your neighbour to court,do not betray another’s confidence,
10. or the one who hears it may shame youand the charge against you will stand.
11. Like apples of gold in settings of silveris a ruling rightly given.
12. Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine goldis the rebuke of a wise judge to a listening ear.
13. Like a snow-cooled drink at harvest timeis a trustworthy messenger to the one who sends him;he refreshes the spirit of his master.
14. Like clouds and wind without rainis one who boasts of gifts never given.
15. Through patience a ruler can be persuaded,and a gentle tongue can break a bone.