Robert Christy, comp. Proverbs, Maxims and Phrases of All Ages. 1887.

Self-depreciation

He that makes himself a sheep shall be eaten by the wolf.

He that makes himself dirt is trod on by the swine.

He who lies down in the wash will be eaten by the swine.Dutch, Danish.

He who lies on the ground must expect to be trodden on.German.

He who makes a mouse of himself will be eaten by the cats.German.

He who makes himself a dove is eaten by the hawk.Italian.

He who makes himself a servant is expected to remain a servant.Italian.

He who makes himself honey will be eaten by the bees.German, Dutch.

He who makes himself nothing is nothing.German.

He who throws himself under the bench will be left to lie there.Danish.

Who lets another sit on his shoulder will soon have him on his head.German.

Who makes himself mutton the wolf eats.(Barbary States) Joel Barlow.

Who would not have feet set on his neck, let him not stoop.Italian.