True it is that covetousness is rich, modesty starves.

Though we take from a covetous man all his treasure, he has yet one jewel left; you cannot bereave him of his covetousness.

When workmen strive to do better than well, They do confound their skill in covetousness, And oftentimes excusing of a fault Doth make the fault the worse by the excuse, As patches set upon a little breach Discredit more in hiding of the fault Than did the fault before it was so patched.

We covet what is guarded; the very care invokes the thief. Few love what they may have. [Lat., Quicquid servatur, cupimus magis: ipsaque furem Cura vocat. Pauci, quod sinit alter, amant.]

By Jove, I am not covetous for gold, Nor care I who doth feed upon my cost; It yearns me not if me my garments wear; Such outward things dwell not in my desires: But if it be a sin to covet honor, I am the most offending soul alive.

True it is that covetousness is rich, modesty starves. [Lat., Verum est aviditas dives, et pauper pudor.]