5
Till they receive, they kiss the hands of the lender, and in promises they humble their voice:
6
But when they should repay, they will ask time, and will return tedious and murmuring words, and will complain of the time:
7
And if he be able to pay, he will stand off, he will scarce pay one half, and will count it as if he had found it:
8
But if not, he will defraud him of his money, and he shall get him for an enemy without cause:
9
And he will pay him with reproaches and curses, and instead of honour and good turn will repay him injuries.
10
Many have refused to lend, not out of wickedness, but they were afraid to be defrauded without cause.
11
But yet towards the poor be thou more hearty, and delay not to shew him mercy.
12
Help the poor because of the commandment: and send him not away empty handed because of his poverty.
13
Lose thy money for thy brother and thy friend: and hide it not under a stone to be lost.
14
Place thy treasure in the commandments of the most High, and it shall bring thee more profit than gold.
15
Shut up alms in the heart of the poor, and it shall obtain help for thee against all evil.