9 There’s a prosperity that a man finds in misfortunes;

and there’s a gain that turns to loss.

10 There’s a gift that won’t profit you;

and there’s a gift that pays back double.

11 There are losses because of glory;

and there’s one who’s lifted up his head from a low estate.

12 There’s one who buys much for a little,

and pays for it again sevenfold.

13 He who’s wise in words will make himself beloved;

but the pleasantries of fools will be wasted.

14 The gift of a fool won’t profit you,[fn]

for he looks for repayment many times instead of one.

15 He’ll give little and insult much.

He’ll open his mouth like a crier.

Today he’ll lend, and tomorrow he’ll ask for it back.

Such a one is a hateful man.

16 The fool will say, “I have no friend,

and I have no thanks for my good actions.

Those who eat my bread have an evil tongue.”

17 How often, and of how many, will he be laughed to scorn![fn]