n there is a
necessity for doing it, you must not leave. Come not near the books or
writings of anyone so as to read them unasked; also look not nigh when
another is writing a letter.

Let your countenance be pleasant, but in serious matters somewhat grave.

Show not yourself glad at the misfortune of another, though he were your
enemy.

They that are in dignity or office have in all places precedency, but
whilst they are young, they ought to respect those that are their equals
in birth or other qualities, though they have no public charge.

It is good manners to prefer them to whom we speak before ourselves,
especially if they be above us.

Let your discourse with men of business be short and comprehensive.

In visiting the sick do not presently play the physician if you be not
knowing therein.

In writing or speaking, give to every person his due title according to
his degree and the custom of the place.

Strive not with your superiors in argument, but always submit your
judgment to others with modesty.

Undertake not to teach your equal in the art he himself professes; it
savors arrogancy.

When a man does all he can though it succeeds not well, blame not him
that did it.

Being to advise or reprehend anyone, consider whether it ought to be in
public or in private, presently or at some other time, also in what
terms to do it; and in reproving show no signs of choler, but do it
with sweetness and mildness.

Mock not nor jest at anything of importance; break no jests that are
sharp or biting, and if you deliver anything witty or pleasant, abstain
from laughing thereat yourself.

Wherein you reprove another be unblamable yourself, for example is more
prevalent than precept.

Use no reproachful language against any one, neither curses or
revilings.

Be not hasty to believe flying reports to the disparagement of anyone.

In your apparel be modest, and endeavor to accommodate nature rather
than procure admiration. Keep to the fashion of your equals, such as are
civil and orderly with respect to time and place.

Play not the peacock, looking everywhere about you to see if you be well
decked, if your shoes fit well, if your stockings set neatly and clothes
handsomely.

Associate yourself with men of good quality if you esteem your
reputation, for it is better to be alone than in bad company.

Let your conversation be without malice or envy, for it is a sign of a
tractable and commendable nature; and