Omar. But not a soul will lend money now. There's mistrust on all sides; not that I am mistrustful, heaven knows, but every one would guess that I want the money for you; and you know best on what frail threads one's confidence in a merchant often hangs.
Mah. Dear Omar, I must confess I didn't expect these demurs from you. If we were to change sides, you would not find me so suspicious and dilatory.
Omar. So you say. I am not suspicious either; I wish I could help you. I call God to witness, how glad I should be.
Mah. You can, if you like.
Omar. All I have would not make the sum you require.
Mah. O heavens! I had reproached myself for not making my brother the first of whom I asked assistance; and I am truly sorry that I have burdened him with a single word.
Omar. You are angry; you are wrong in being so.
Mah. Wrong? which of us neglects his duty? Ah, brother, I don't know you!
Omar. I have just lost a hundred sequins to-day; another three hundred are not at all safe, and I must make up my mind to the loss of them. If you had but come to me last week,—oh, yes, then most heartily.
Mah. Must I then remind you of our former friendship? Ah! how low can misfortune degrade us!