²² A cheerful heart is good medicine,
    but a crushed^(A) spirit dries up the bones.^(B)

²³ The wicked accept bribes^(C) in secret
    to pervert the course of justice.^(D)

²⁴ A discerning person keeps wisdom in view,
    but a fool’s eyes^(E) wander to the ends of the earth.

²⁵ A foolish son brings grief to his father
    and bitterness to the mother who bore him.^(F)

²⁶ If imposing a fine on the innocent is not good,^(G)
    surely to flog honest officials is not right.

²⁷ The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint,^(H)
    and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.^(I)

²⁸ Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent,
    and discerning if they hold their tongues.^(J)