《智慧书·第三辑·一〇一至一五〇》第3则
Let each keep up his Dignity. Let each deed of a man in its degree, though he be not a king, be worthy of a prince, and let his action be princely within due limits. Sublime in action, lofty in thought, in all things like a king, at least in merit if not in might. For true kingship lies in spotless rectitude, and he need not envy greatness who can serve as a model of it. Especially should those near the throne aim at true superiority, and prefer to share the true qualities of royalty rather than take parts in its mere ceremonies, yet without affecting its imperfections but sharing in its true dignity.
注释摘要
这一则的标题与正文其实是一句话的两个半段：每个人各自保持自己的尊严，即使不是国王，行为也应当配得上一位君王——但在合宜的限度之内。葛拉西安在这里做了一个关键区分：尊严不是地位，而是品行。地位是命运的礼物，尊严是自我锻造的作品。所以他紧接着说：行动要崇高，思想要高远，在一切事情上如同君王，至少在功绩上如此，即便没有权势。这句"至少在功绩上就算在权势上不是"是…