In malice lieth the strength of the wicked; in criminal code, the strength of kings, in attentions of the weak and of women; and in forgiveness that of the virtuous. To control speech, O king, is said to be most difficult. It is not easy to hold a long conversation uttering words full of meaning and delightful to the hearers. Well-spoken speech is productive of many beneficial results; and ill-spoken speech, O king, is the cause of evils.

In plain words: Wicked people draw strength from malice, kings from the law, the weak from care and attention, and good people from forgiveness. Controlling speech is very hard; kind, well-chosen words bring much good, while harsh words cause great harm.