²⁸ In a multitude of people is a king’s glory,
But in the scarcity of people is a prince’s ruin.

^7 [a](A)Excellent speech is not fitting for a fool,
Much less are ^(B)lying lips to a prince.

^6 (A)Many will seek the favor of a ^[a]generous person,
And every person is a friend to ^(B)him who gives gifts.

23 When you sit down to dine with a ruler,
Consider carefully ^[a]what is before you,
² And put a knife to your throat
If you are a ^(A)person of great appetite.
³ Do not ^(B)desire his delicacies,
For it is deceptive food.