BY BENJAMIN FRANKLIN
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790): An American statesman and philosopher. While ambassador to France, he secured the ratification of a treaty with that country which was of inestimable value to the struggling colonists. He wrote "Poor Richard"s Almanac," "Autobiography," and papers on political, scientific, and moral subjects.
These proverbs are taken from "Poor Richard"s Almanac," a yearly publication full of shrewd sayings about industry and economy.
If pride leads the van, beggary brings up the rear. He that can travel well afoot, keeps a good horse.
Some men grow mad by studying much to know; but who grows mad by studying good to grow?
Take this remark from Richard poor and lame,-Whate"er"s begun in anger ends in shame.
The worst wheel of the cart makes the most noise. He that falls in love with himself will have no rivals.
Against diseases, know the strongest fence is the defensive virtue, abstinence.
If you would have a faithful servant and one that you like, serve yourself.
A mob"s a monster; with heads enough, but no brains. The discontented man finds no easy chair.
God helps them that help themselves.
Three can keep a secret if two of them are dead. Diligence is the mother of good luck.
When Prosperity was well mounted, she let go the bridle, and soon came tumbling out of the saddle.
A little neglect may breed great mischief: for want of a nail the shoe was lost, and for want of a shoe the horse was lost, and for want of a horse the rider was lost.
A false friend and a shadow attend only while the sun shines.
Plow deep while sluggards sleep, and you shah have corn to sell and to keep.
Old boys have playthings as well as young ones: the difference is only in the price.
If you would keep your secret from an enemy, tell it not to a friend. One to-day is worth two to-morrows.
What maintains one vice would bring up two children.
It is foolish to lay out money in a purchase of repentance.
If you would know the value of money, go and try to borrow some: for he that goes a-borrowing goes a-sorrowing.
Pride breakfasted with Plenty, dined with Poverty, and supped with Contempt.
Fly pleasures and they will follow you.
Creditors have better memories than debtors: creditors are a superstitious sect, - great observers of set days and times.
Sloth makes all things difficult: industry, all easy. But after all, do not depend too much upon your own industry and frugality and prudence, though excellent things: for they may all be blasted without the blessing of Heaven.