Kural 691
Associates of contentious kings should be like men warming
themselves by a fire, moving neither too near nor too far away.
Kural 692
Do not desire to get what the king desires to have,
and the king himself will confer enduring wealth.
Kural 693
One wishing to be wary must beware of his own indiscretions.
Once suspicions are aroused, they are rarely removed.
Kural 694
In the presence of the great ones, never speak
in whispers or exchange smiles with others.
Kural 695
The emissary neither eavesdrops nor meddles into matters.
Instead, he listens raptly when secrets are revealed.
Kural 696
Sensing unspoken thoughts and ascertaining the ripe moment,
speak of vital matters amiably, without offending others.
Kural 697
Speak useful ideas that interest the sovereign.
Always leave useless thoughts unspoken–even if he inquires.
Kural 698
Never criticize the king because he is young or your own kin.
Rather respect the resplendent dignity that kingship commands.
Kural 699
Men whose wisdom is unwavering
do not use their high reputation to excuse lowly behavior.
Kural 700
Men who do unworthy deeds, expecting the king’s indulgence
because of a long-standing friendship, warrant their own ruin.
