23. All our acts are subject to their proper time and place, and to the modes of their operation and combination according to the course of nature; hence it is that the more diligent are the most successful (everywhere). 24. We ought therefore to rely in our exertions and clearness of understanding by the help of Sástras and association with the wise, for fording over the ocean of this world. 25. Actions of the past and present lives are the two fruit trees growing in the garden of humanity; of which the one that is cultivated best, thrives and fructifies the most. 26. He who is unable to overcome his false fate by his best exertions (in this life), is no better than an ignorant beast that has no power over its pain or pleasure. 27. He who thinks of going to heaven or hell by the will of the Maker, is also a slave to destiny and no better than a beast. 28. The man of a noble mind and one employed in acts of goodness, breaks off from the errors of the world as a lion from its cage. 29. Those who vainly imagine themselves to be led about by some (supernatural power), and so slight their necessary duties, are to be shunned at a distance as the mean and base. 30. There are thousands of acts that are attended with gain or loss to their doers; but it is the duty of man to do what is right whether they are pleasant or painful. 31. He who does not transgress the bounds of law, nor forsake the duties (of his race), is attended by every blessing abundant as the pearls in the sea. 32. Devoted diligence in acts leading to one’s object, is termed to be his manliness by the wise; and that being guided by the Sástra leads to his success. 33. An act accompanied by exertion, is of itself the accomplisher of one’s object, and the company of the wise and study of good books serve to raise a man by brightening his understanding. 34. The infinite happiness or a tranquil spirit is known as the _Summum bonum_ by the wise; and those good works are fit for study which lead to that state. 35. The acts of our former lives constitute what we call our destiny, and they return to us from the region of the gods, for our good in both worlds. 36. We blame the fate which is a creation of the fancy of the ignorant, who by their adoration of the same come to meet their destruction. 37. One benefits himself always by his activity in both worlds, as his good acts of to-day gives a grace to those of yesterday. 38. Whoso therefore applies himself with diligence to his acts, reaps their fruits like that of an _Amalaki_ in his palm, which though it is within his grasp, yet it could not be obtained without the cost of some labour: 39. It is the ignorant only that depart from the beaten path, and fall into the error of fatalism. Therefore give up that false faith in an unreal fate, which is a mere creation of the imagination and devoid of any cause or effect; and apply to your manly exertions.