Proverbial Wisdom

Express the idea behind each of these proverbs using different words as much as you can.

655. A bad excuse is better, they say, than none at all.

Stephen Gosson (1554-1624)

The Schoole of Abuse

656. Health is the first good lent to men;
A gentle disposition then;
Next, to be rich by no by-ways;
Lastly, with friends t’ enjoy our days.

Robert Herrick (1591-1674)

Hesperides, 121

657. The greatest attribute of heaven is mercy;
And ’tis the crown of justice, and the glory,
Where it may kill with right, to save with pity.

John Fletcher (1579-1625)

The Lover’s Progress (Lisander), Act III., Scene III.

658. Great joys, like griefs, are silent.

Shakerley Marmion (1603-1639)

Holland’s Leaguer (Philautus), Act V, Scene I

659. They only babble who practise not reflection.

Richard Brinsley Sheridan (1751-1816)

Pizarro (Elvira), Act I, Scene I

660. Least said is soonest mended.

Old Proverb