LIII
Cherishing of Kindred
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Constancy of attachment even in adversity belongeth only unto kindred.
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If a man is blessed with kindred whose love for him bateth not, his fortunes will never cease to grow.
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The man who rejoiceth not in the intimacy of his kindred is like a tank without bunds: the waters of prosperity will flow away from him.
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To gather and attach one’s kindred to oneself: that is the use and purpose of prosperity.
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If a man have a sweet tongue and a liberal hand his kinsmen will gather round him in serried ranks.
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Behold the man that giveth freely and entertaineth not anger: the world hath none who hath a more attached kindred than he.
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The crow concealeth not its food selfishly from its fellows but shareth it lovingly with them: prosperity will abide only with men of a like nature.
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It is good if the prince treateth not all his kinsmen alike but hath a graduated scale for each: for there are many that have an eye to privilege.
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The estrangement of a kinsman is easily remedied: remove the cause of the coolness and he will come back to thee.
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When a kinsman that hath broken with thee cometh back to thee for a reason, accept thou him, but with caution.