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On the Excellence of Contentment

of the Ullemma had many eaters [to provide for] and only a slender income. This fact he communicated to a great man, of whose character he entertained a very favourable opinion; but his expectations were disappointed, because the man made a wry face, and averred that according to his opinion applications from respectable persons [for aid] are unbecoming.

With a face made sad by misfortune, to a dear friend do not go, because thou wilt embitter his life also. The needful for which thou applies, go [do so] with a fresh and smiling face; the man of joyful countenance will not be unsuccessful in his affairs.

It is related that the great man augmented his stipend a little, but considerably diminished his familiarity towards him; and when he perceived, after some days, that it was not [cordial] as usual, he recited:

"Evil is the food which the time of degradation acquires; The kettle is indeed placed, but the dignity is lowered.

"He increased my bread, but diminished my honour. Poverty is better than the degradation of asking."