Fragment 303

303. (Graeco-Syrian Maxims.) When wise men arrive in a foreign land, they should first observe in silence, listening carefully to learn the reputation of the local sages—what sort of men they are, and whether they can match them—while inwardly comparing their words with their own thoughts. Once they have judged which side is superior, they should then reveal the wealth of their own wisdom, so that they are valued for the treasure they possess, while sharing it to enrich others. But if their knowledge is too slight to be given, they should instead receive from others and depart.