Ben Sira - chapter 32

32: 1- 24 (translated by Edgar Goodspeed)
If they make you master of the feast, do not be uplifted; behave like one of them among them.  Look after them, and then take your seat; when you have performed your duties, take your place, so that you may rejoice on their account, and be crowned with a wreath for your efficiency.  Speak, elder, for that is your part, with sound understanding, and do not interfere with the music.  When there is to be entertainment, do not talk volubly (NRSV: do not pour out talk) and do not philosophize when it is inopportune.  A carbuncle signet / a ruby seal in a gold setting is a musical concert at a banquet.  An emerald signet richly set in gold is the melody of music with the taste of wine.  Speak, young man, if you are obliged to, and only if you are asked repeatedly.  Speak concisely; say much in few words; act like one who knows more than he says.  When among the great do not act like an equal; and when another is speaking, do not babble.  The lightning hastens before the thunder, and approval opens the way for a modest man.  Leave in good season and do not bring up the rear; hurry home and do not linger.  Amuse yourself there, and do what you please, but do not sin through proud speech.  for all these things bless your Maker, Who makes you drink His blessings till you are satisfied.  The one who fears the Lord will accept His discipline, and those who rise early to seek Him will gain His approval.  The one who pursues the Law will be filled by it, but the hypocrite will be tripped up by it.  Those who fear the Lord will discern His judgment, and will kindle upright acts like the light.  A sinful man will shun reproof, and will find a legal decision to his liking.  A man of discretion will not neglect thougt; an alien or a proud man will not cower from fear; do nothing without consideration; and when you do a thing, do not change your mind.  Do not walk in a path full of obstacles, and do not stumble over stony ground.  Do not trust an untried way, and guard against your children.  In every act have faith in yourself, for the is the keeping of the commandments.  The one who has faith in the Law heeds the commandments, and the one who trusts in the Lord will not fail.