The peace of society dependeth on justice; the happiness of individuals on the safe enjoyment of all their possessions.
Keep the desires of thy heart, therefore, within the bounds of moderation; let the hand of justice lead them aright.
Cast not an evil eye on the goods of thy neighbour; let whatever is his property be sacred from thy touch.
Let no temptation allure thee, nor any provocation excite thee, to lift up thy hand to the hazard of his life. Defame him not in his character; bear no false witness against him. Corrupt not his servant to cheat or forsake him, and the wife of his bosom, O tempt not to sin!
It will be a grief to his heart, which thou canst not relieve; and injury to his life, which no reparation can atone.
In thy dealings with men, be impartial and just, and do unto them as thou wouldst they should do unto thee.
Be faithful to thy trust, and deceive not the man who relieth upon thee; be assured it is less evil in the sight of God to steal than to betray.
Oppress not the poor, and defraud not his hire the labouring man.
When thou sellest for grain, hear the whisperings of conscience, and be satisfied with moderation; nor from the ignorance of the buyer make any advantage.
Pay the debts which thou owest; for he who gave thee credit, relied upon thy honour; and to withhold from him his due, is both mean and unjust.
Finally, O son of society! examine thy heart, call remembrance to thy aid; and if in any of these dealings thou findest thou hast transgressed, take sorrow and shame to thyself, and make speedy reparation to the utmost of thy power.
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