I

The first commandment's easy, quite:

The majority is always right.



II

Always think what folk will say.

Side with the strongest, day by day.



III

When in doubt, just shut your trap

Until you see for whom they clap.



IV

Think what opinions you should hold.

Alone, you'll be out in the cold.



V

Don't give your lofty instincts rein,

But stick to what will bring you gain.



VI

Tell people what they want to hear;

Move quietly through every sphere.

(For truth brings sorrow on your head,

While daily lies earn daily bread.)



VII

Never walk upright. Sidle forth

And warm yourself at every hearth.



VIII

Praise everybody to the skies;

A flock of friends will be your prize.

(This in-group paradise will be

Your best insurance policy.)



IX

Of gossip save up every bit

For your superiors' benefit.

(But not a hint from the consumer

Should reach the subject of the rumor.)



X

If you this last commandment heed,

Then your future's guaranteed:

Boldly espouse each cause in season,

But always act with prudent reason.

Stride bravely forward in life's war

One hour before your timeno more!