Thirukkural Chapter 70 - Conduct in the Presence of the King

Couplet 691 
Who warm them at the fire draw not too near, nor keep too much aloof;
Thus let them act who dwell beneath of warlike kings the palace-roof
Explanation
Thus let them act who dwell beneath of warlike kings the palace-roof

Couplet 692 
To those who prize not state that kings are wont to prize,
The king himself abundant wealth supplies
Explanation
For ministers not to cover the things desired by their kings will through the kings themselves yield them everlasting wealth

Couplet 693 
Who would walk warily, let him of greater faults beware;
To clear suspicions once aroused is an achievement rare
Explanation
Ministers who would save themselves should avoid (the commission of) serious errors for if the king's suspicion is once roused, no one can remove it

Couplet 694 
All whispered words and interchange of smiles repress,
In presence of the men who kingly power possess
Explanation
While in the presence of the sovereign, ministers should neither whisper to nor smile at others

Couplet 695 
Seek not, ask not, the secret of the king to hear;
But if he lets the matter forth, give ear
Explanation
(When the king is engaged) in secret counsel (with others), ministers should neither over-hear anything whatever nor pry into it with inquisitive questions, but (wait to) listen when it is divulged (by the king himself).

Couplet 696 
Knowing the signs, waiting for fitting time, with courteous care,
Things not displeasing, needful things, declare
Explanation
Knowing the (king's disposition and seeking the right time, (the minister) should in a pleasing manner suggest things such as are desirable and not disagreeable

Couplet 697 
Speak pleasant things, but never utter idle word;
Not though by monarch's ears with pleasure heard
Explanation
Ministers should (always) give agreeable advice but on no occasion recommend useless actions, though requested (to do so)

Couplet 698 
Say not, 'He's young, my kinsman,' despising thus your king;
But reverence the glory kingly state doth bring
Explanation
Ministers should behave in accordance with the (Divine) light in the person of kings and not despise them saying, "He is our junior (in age) and connected with our family!"

Couplet 699 
'We've gained his grace, boots nought what graceless acts we do',
So deem not sages who the changeless vision view
Explanation
Those whose judgement is firm will not do what is disagreeable (to the sovereign) saying (within themselves) "We are esteemed by the king".

Couplet 700 
Who think 'We're ancient friends' and do unseemly things;
To these familiarity sure ruin brings
Explanation
The (foolish) claim with which a minister does unbecoming acts because of his (long) familiarity (with the king) will ensure his ruin