Sirach 18:15-17

Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

¹⁵ My son, do not mix reproach with your good deeds,
    nor cause grief by your words when you present a gift.
¹⁶ Does not the dew assuage the scorching heat?
    So a word is better than a gift.
¹⁷ Indeed, does not a word surpass a good gift?
    Both are to be found in a gracious man.