Sirach 33:25–31

Put thy servant to work, and he will seek rest;

Leave his hands idle, and he will seek liberty!

Yoke and thong bow down the neck,

And for an evil servant ⁽there are⁽ stocks and chastisement.

Put thy servant to work, that he be not idle;

Foridleness teacheth much mischief.

Appoint him ⁽a task⁽ in thy house such as befitteth him,

And if he obey not make his fetters heavy.

But be not overbearing against any creature,

And do nothing that is without right.

Hast thou an only servant, let him be as thyself—

For thou hast need of him as thy very self.

Hast thou an only servant, treat him as thy brother—

Be not jealous against thy very life!

If thou treat him ill, and he proceed to run away,

On what way shalt thou find him?