Proverbs 12:9 [He that is] despised, and hath a servant, [is] better than he that honoureth himself, and lacketh bread.
Ver. 9. Better is he that is despised.] Viz., Of others, and hath no extraordinary opinion of himself, but sticks close to his business, and hath help at hand when he pleases, a servant at his beck and check. This was the case of Galleacius Caracciolus, that noble marquis, in his exile at Geneva for conscience' sake. See his life set forth in English by Mr Crashaw.
Than he that honoureth himself and lacketh bread.] That standing upon his slippers, and boasting of his gentility - as those Spanish Hidalgoes ruffle it out in brave apparel - but hath not a penny in his purse, yea, not sometime food sufficient to put in his belly. Spaniards are said to be impudent braggers, and extremely proud in the lowest ebb of fortune. If a Spaniard have but a capon, or the like good dish to his supper, you shall find the feathers scattered before his door the next morning. a
a Heyl., Geog.