83. False Friendship

The friendship of those who feign affection is an anvil 
on which they hammer you when the opportunity arises.

For those who act like friends, but are not,
friendship fluctuates like a fickle woman.

Though their learning may be abundantly good,
ignoble men rarely learn goodness of heart.

Fear the cunning friend who, harboring
wickedness in his heart, smiles sweetly to your face. 

Distrust whatever words may come from men
whose hearts do not beat in harmony with your own.

Sounding very much like a good friend's words,
a rival's words are nonetheless known very quickly.

Knowing how the bending of a bow forebodes nothing but harm,
never trust an enemy, though he bends low in his speech. 

Folded in respect, a foe's hands may hide a dagger.
So, too, his tears dare not be trusted.

Men may amply aid you, yet despise you in their heart;
make them laugh, but let feigned friendship die.

When the time comes that foes pose as friends,
keep a friendly face but banish their brotherhood from your heart.