Born Nature [from 'proverbs Four Hundred' In Tamil] Poem by Rajendran Muthiah

11. The swelling, sweet rivers flow into the sea
yet the sea doesn't lose its saltiness.
If joining with the wise, amends, not the minds,
they are low-born.

12. When the jewels wearing belle with timid looks
of the deer, gazes, it shields the man's shame.
Nappinnai charmed Thirumal at Thozhunai.
It is true one talent beats another.

13. The white-skinned helped not the snake-flag owned in war
but did the last rites after Duryothan's death.
It is bearing of one's son on arms to show
the gala-fest after it is o'er.

14. O, wench with fragrant tresses! Don't seek the fit
to befriend. Make friendship with rich or poor.
If you befriend a dog, won't it share with you
the tasty flesh of the rabbit.

15. O, Chief of the hills with falls dashing on rocks!
The fair shining moon in the vast sky moans
as a snake swallowing it. Coming woes come
to one as the effects of one's past deeds.

16. O, Wench of sweet words and bamboo-like arms!
The fit folks don't rage when they find faults in friends.
Can he who milks the cow without feeding
the calf, live? No one lives.

17. When one gives something to your safe custody
You ought to give it back when one requires.
Don't make delay to return it. Wherever
You hide the meat, its smell betrays it.

18. O, Chief of the fertile lands abound with cranes!
For the cause of your living with the worthy
you should not befriend the lowly men.
Don't think of eating sugar mixed with sand.

19. O, Chief of the sky-high hills and rocky tracts!
Bear with the angry protests of a man
and do good to win fame. Wreaking vengeance
spoils your name. Self-restraint is adorable.

20. One who depends on the support of a king
helps him who carries out the king's orders
to get his hand. It likens the calf which licks
the neck of the cow and sucks not at the tits.