[7] Though thy beginning was small, yet thy latter end should greatly increase. [8] For enquire, I pray thee, of the former age, and prepare thyself to the search of their fathers: [9] (For we are but of yesterday, and know nothing, because our days upon earth are a shadow:) [10] Shall not they teach thee, and tell thee, and utter words out of their heart? [11] Can the rush grow up without mire? the flag grow without water? [12] Whilst it is yet in his greenness, and not cut down, it withereth before any other herb. [13] So are the paths of all that forget God; and the hypocrite's hope shall perish: [14] Whose hope shall be cut off, and whose trust shall be a spider's web. [15] He shall lean upon his house, but it shall not stand: he shall hold it fast, but it shall not endure. [16] He is green before the sun, and his branch shooteth forth in his garden. [17] His roots are wrapped about the heap, and seeth the place of stones.