Ecclesiastes 4:8

There is one alone] The avaricious has none to share his wealth or to succeed him; yet his toil is insatiable.

9-12. The advantages of companionship are shown by four illustrations, three of which are such as have special fitness in the mouth of an Oriental writer. Two companions in travel find their partnership of value, whether (a) they are walking upon a rough and steep path, or (b) sleeping at the end of the day in a narrow chamber with unglazed windows, or (c) in a sudden encounter with thieves, who have availed themselves of the darkness of the night to dig through the earthen walls in search of valuables. Lastly, (d) a threefold cord is strong to resist.