One finds many companions for food and drink, but in a serious business a man's companions are few.

Even to a wicked man a divinity gives wealth, Cyrus, but to few men comes the gift of excellence.

Surfeit begets insolence, when prosperity comes to a bad man.

Adopt the character of the twisting octopus, which takes on the appearance of the nearby rock. Now follow in this direction, now turn a different hue.