9 Dishonest people use gossipto destroy their neighbours;good people are protectedby their own good sense.
10 When honest people prosperand the wicked disappear,the whole city celebrates.
11 When God blesses his people,their city prospers,but deceitful liarscan destroy a city.
12 It's stupid to say bad thingsabout your neighbours.If you are sensible,you will keep quiet.
13 A gossip tells everything,but a true friendwill keep a secret.
14 A city without wise leaderswill end up in ruin;a city with many wise leaderswill be kept safe.
15 It's a dangerous thingto guarantee paymentfor someone's debts.Don't do it!