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On the Effects of Education

a man in the form, but not with the character, of a Dervish, sitting in an assembly, who had begun a quarrel; and, having opened the record of complaints, reviled wealthy men, alleging at last that the hand of power of Dervishes [to do good] was tied, and that the foot of the intention of wealthy men [to do good] was broken,

I, who had been cherished by the wealth of great men, considered these words offensive, and said: "My good friend! The rich are the income of the destitute and the hoarded store of recluses; the objects of pilgrims, the refuge of travellers, the bearers of heavy loads for the relief of others; they give repasts and partake of them to feed their dependants and servants, the surplus of their liberalities being extended to widows, aged persons, relatives, and neighbours. The rich must spend for pious uses, vows and hospitality, tithes, offerings, manumissions, gifts, and sacrifices. How canst thou attain their power [of doing good] who art able to perform only the prayer-flections, and these with a hundred distractions?

"If there be efficacy in the power to be liberal and in the ability of performing religious duties, the rich can attain it better, because they possess money to give alms, their garments are pure, their reputation is guarded, their hearts are at leisure. Inasmuch as the power of obedience depends upon nice morsels, and correct worship upon elegant clothes, it is evident that