If you be among great men, make not yourself equal with them; and when ancient men are in place, use not many words.
LXX
Sirach 32:9
In all thy gifts shew a cheerful countenance, and dedicate thy tithes with gladness.
Parallel Translations
If thou be among great men, make not thyself equal with them; and when ancient men are in place, use not many words.
When among great men, don’t behave as their equal. When another is speaking, don’t babble.
Comprehende muche in fewe wordes: [in manie things be as one that is ignorant:] be as one that vnderstandeth, and yet holde thy tongue.