Vita recta.--Wisdom without honesty is mere craft and cozenage. And
therefore the reputation of honesty must first be gotten, which
cannot be but by living well. A good life is a main argument.
Obsequentia.--Humanitas.--Solicitudo.--Next a good life, to beget
love in the persons we counsel, by dissembling our knowledge of
ability in ourselves, and avoiding all suspicion of arrogance,
ascribing all to their instruction, as an ambassador to his master,
or a subject to his sovereign; seasoning all with humanity and
sweetness, only expressing care and solicitude. And not to counsel
rashly, or on the sudden, but with advice and meditation. (Dat nox
consilium. {17a}) For many foolish things fall from wise men, if
they speak in haste or be extemporal. It therefore behoves the
giver of counsel to be circumspect; especially to beware of those
with whom he is not thoroughly acquainted, lest any spice of
rashness, folly, or self-love appear, which will be marked by new
persons and men of experience in affairs.
Modestia.--Parrhesia.--And to the prince, or his superior, to behave
himself modestly and with respect.
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