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The Morals of Dervishes

STORY LXIX

A man had a friend, who held the office of Devân[1] to the Pâdshâh, but whom he had not seen for a long time; and, a man having asked him for the reason, he replied: "I do not want to see him." A dependent, however, of the Devân, who also happened to be present, queried: "What fault has he committed that thou art unwilling to meet him?" He replied: "There is no fault in the matter, but a friend who is a Devân may be seen when he is removed from office."

Whilst in greatness and in the turmoil of business, they do not like to be troubled by neighbors; but when they are depressed and removed from office, they will lay open their heart's grief to friends.

  1. Minister of State, or Premier.

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