Page:Tales from the Gulistan (1928).pdf/290

The Gulistân

resembles a violent blow, the scar of which remains, though the wound may be healed. Seest thou not how the brothers of Joseph became noted for falsehood, and no trust in their veracity remained, as Allah the Most High has said: 'Nay, but ye yourselves have contrived the thing for your own sake.'

One habitually speaking the truth is pardoned when he once makes a slip; but if he becomes noted for lying, people do not believe him even when speaking truth.

noblest of beings is evidently man, and the meanest a dog; but intelligent persons agree that a grateful dog is better than an ungrateful man.

A dog never forgets a morsel received, though thou throwest a stone at him a hundred times. But if thou cherishest a base fellow a lifetime, he will for a trifle suddenly fight with thee.

panders to his passions will not cultivate accomplishments, and who possesses none is not suitable for a high position.