THE KING'S MIRROR 



83 



when he comes of age, if he is trained in youth while 

 under control. 



And further, there are certain things which you must 

 beware of and shun like the devil himself : (Jhese are 7 

 drinking, chess, harlots, quarreling, and throwing dice J 

 fp- stakesj For upon such foundations the greatest \ 

 calamities are built; and unless they strive to avoid 

 these things, few only are able to live long without 

 blame or sin. 



LObserve carefully how the sky is lighted, the course 

 of the heavenly bodies, the grouping of the hours, and 

 the points of the horizonjLearn also how to mark the ^ 

 movements of the ocean and to discern how its turmoil 

 ebbs and swells; for that is knowledge which all must 

 possess who wish to trade abroad. ULearn arithmetic 

 thoroughly, for merchants have great need of that.J^^^ 



Clf you come to a place where the king or some other "^ 

 chief who is in authority has his officials, seek to win / 

 their friendship; and if they demand any necessary fees / 

 on the ruler's behalf, be prompt to render all such pay- I 

 ments, lest by holding too tightly to little things you \ 

 lose the greater. Also beware lest the king's belongings / 

 find their way into your purse; for you cannot know but \ 

 that he may be covetous who has those things in charge, / 

 and it is easier to be cautious beforehand than to crave / 

 pardon afterwards. Jlf you can dispose of your wares at 

 suitable prices, do not hold them long; for it is the wont 

 of merchants to buy constantly and to sell rapidly. 



If you are preparing to carry on trade beyond the 

 seas and you sail your own ship, have it thoroughly 

 coated with tar in the autumn and, if possible, keep it 



A,**.. 



'ffce 



Uuf' 



