The Manners of Kings
courier was overtaken and deprived of the letter, the contents of which were found on perusal to be as follows:
'The good opinion of high personages is more than their servant's merit deserves, who is unable to comply with the honour of reception which they have offered him, because having been nourished by the bounty of this dynasty, he cannot become unthankful towards his benefactor in consequence of a slight change of sentiments of the latter, since it is said: "He, who bestowed every moment favours upon thee, is to be pardoned by thee, if once in his life he injures thee."'
The King approved of his gratitude, bestowed upon him a robe of honour, gave him presents, and asked his pardon, saying: "I committed a mistake."
He replied: "My lord! It was the decree of God the Most High that a misfortune should befall this servant; but it was best that it should come from thy hands, which had formerly bestowed favours upon him, and placed him under obligations."
If people injure thee, give not; because neither rest nor grief come from the people. Be aware that the contrasts of friend and foe are from God, because the hearts of both are in his keeping. Although the arrow is show from the bow, wise men look at the archer!
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