Wisdom of Ben Sira 12:10-12

New Catholic Bible

¹⁰ Never trust your enemy;
    just as bronze tarnishes, so does his wickedness.
¹¹ Even if he acts humbly and in a subservient manner,
    take care to be on your guard against him.
Behave toward him as if you were polishing a mirror,
    and you will see that his tarnish does not last.
¹² Do not allow him to stand near you,
    lest he overthrow you and take your place.
Do not let him sit on your right hand
    or he may oust you and take your seat,
and in the end you will realize the truth of my warning
    and recall my admonition with regret.