²⁸ In the multitude of people is the glory of the king,
    but without a population, a prince is ruined.

⁷ Fine speech^[a] is not becoming a fool,
    still less^[b] is false speech^[c] for a ruler.

⁶ Many will seek favor before the generous,
    and everyone is the friend of a man of gifts.^[a]

¹⁵ With patience^[a] a ruler may be persuaded,
    and a soft tongue will break a bone.^[b]

² By the rebellion of a land, her rulers increase,
    but by a person of intelligence who knows justice, it will last.

¹² A ruler listening to a word of falsehood,
    all his officials are wicked.

²⁶ Many are those who seek the favor^[a] of a ruler,
    but from Yahweh one obtains justice.^[b]