The Insolence Of Wealth Poem by Theognis of Megara

The gods send Insolence, to lead astray
The man whom Fortune and the Fates betray,
Predestined to precipitate decay.
Wealth nurses Insolence, and wealth, we find,
When coupled with a poor and paltry mind,
Is evermore with Insolence combined.

Never in anger with the meaner sort
Be moved to a contemptuous, harsh retort,
Deriding their distresses; nor despise,
In hasty speech, their wants and miseries.

Jove holds the balance, and the gods dispense
For all mankind, riches and indigence.