The 33 Strategies of Self-Defense

Never let your interest in their affairs and petty squabbles go beyond the surface. Give them gifts, listen with a sympathetic look but inwardly keep both the friendly kings and the perfidious tyrants at arm's length. You can sit back and read the signs or you can actively work to uncover your enemies. Follow David's example, say. Or do something that can be read in more than one way,. That may be Superficially polite but that could also indicate a slight coolness on your part or be seen a subtle insult.