Let honesty be as the breath ...

Let honesty be as the breath of thy soul; then shalt thou reach   the point of happiness, and independence shall be thy shield   and buckler, thy helmet and crown; then shall thy soul walk   upright, nor stoop to the silken wretch because he hath   riches, nor pocket an abuse because the hand which offers it   wears a ring set with diamonds.
Let honesty be as the breath of thy soul; then shalt thou reach the point of happiness, and independence shall be thy shield and buckler, thy helmet and crown; then shall thy soul walk upright, nor stoop to the silken wretch because he hath riches, nor pocket an abuse because the hand which offers it wears a ring set with diamonds.

Quotes from the same author

One today is worth two tomorrows.
The doorstep to the temple of wisdom is a knowledge of our own ignorance.
Watch the little things; a small leak will sink a great ship.
Honesty is the best policy.
Dost thou love life? Then do not squander time, for that is the stuff life is made of.