Appendix
The Qualities of People
Chapter 96: Nobility
Kural 951
An innate sense of right and shying away from wrong
are found together only in the nobly born.
Kural 952
Men of noble birth will never fall away from these three:
correct conduct, truthfulness and modesty.
Kural 953
Four traits define the true gentleman: a smiling face,
a generous hand, a courteous demeanor and kindly words.
Kural 954
Though millions upon millions could be gained by it,
men nobly born would never commit a demeaning deed.
Kural 955
Though their means of charitableness may be cut off,
venerable families will never be severed from propriety.
Kural 956
Those committed to their family's flawless fame
dare not commit deceitful, dishonorable deeds.
Kural 957
In high-born men, blemishes are clearly seen,
just as the moon's elevation makes it more visible.
Kural 958
When a man with good background lacks loving affection,
doubts arise whether he arose from that family.
Kural 959
The nature of a soil is known by the seedlings it sprouts.
The nature of a man's family is known by the words he speaks.
Kural 960
Those desiring greatness must desire modesty. Those seeking
their family's honor must seek to be respectful to all.