Chapter 106: Mendicancy

1051.
When those you find from whom 'tis meet to ask, — for aid apply;
Theirs is the sin, not yours, if they the gift deny.

1052.
Even to ask an alms may pleasure give,
If what you ask without annoyance you receive.

1053.
The men who nought deny, but know what's due, before their face
To stand as suppliants affords especial grace.

1054.
Like giving alms, may even asking pleasant seem,
From men who of denial never even dream.

1055.
Because on earth the men exist, who never say them nay,
Men bear to stand before their eyes for help to pray.

1056.
If those you find from evil of ' denial ' free,
At once all plague of poverty will flee.

1057.
If men are found who give and no harsh words of scorn employ,
The minds of askers, through and through, will thrill with joy.

1058.
If askers cease, the mighty earth, where cooling fountains flow,
Will be a stage where wooden puppets come and go.

1059.
What glory will there be to men of generous soul,
When none are found to love the askers' role?

1060.
Askers refused from wrath must stand aloof;
The plague of poverty itself is ample proof.