18. Likewise, they lie in ambush against their own blood, and they undertake deceits against their own souls.
19. Thus, the ways of all those who are greedy seize the souls of those who possess.
20. Wisdom forewarns far and wide; she bestows her voice in the streets.
21. She cries out at the head of crowds; at the entrance of the gates of the city, she offers her words, saying:
22. "Little ones, how long will you choose to be childish, and how long will the foolish desire what is harmful to themselves, and how long will the imprudent hate knowledge?
23. Be converted by my correction. Lo, I will offer my spirit to you, and I will reveal my words to you.
24. For I called, and you refused. I extended my hand, and there was no one who watched.
25. You have despised all my counsels, and you have neglected my rebukes.
26. Similarly, I will ridicule you at your demise, and I will mock you, when that which you feared shall overcome you.
27. When sudden calamity rushes upon you, and your demise advances like a tempest, when tribulation and anguish overcome you,
28. then they will call to me, and I will not heed, they will arise in the morning, and not find me.
29. For they held hatred for discipline, and they would not accept the fear of the Lord;