16. by me princes govern,and nobles – all who rule on earth.
17. I love those who love me,and those who seek me find me.
18. With me are riches and honour,enduring wealth and prosperity.
19. My fruit is better than fine gold;what I yield surpasses choice silver.
20. I walk in the way of righteousness,along the paths of justice,
21. bestowing a rich inheritance on those who love meand making their treasuries full.
22. ‘The Lord brought me forth as the first of his works, before his deeds of old;
23. I was formed long ages ago,at the very beginning, when the world came to be.