[70]
Your man
of slender means, on the other hand, feels that whatever is done for him is done out of regard for himself and not for his outward circumstances. Hence1
he strives to show himself grateful not only to the
one who has obliged him in the past but also to those
from whom he expects similar favours in the future
—and he needs the help of many; and his own
service, if he happens to render any in return, he does
not exaggerate, but he actually depreciates it. This
fact, furthermore, should not be overlooked—that, if
one defends a wealthy favourite of fortune, the
favour does not extend further than to the man himself or, possibly, to his children. But, if one defends
a man who is poor but honest and upright, all the
lowly who are not dishonest—and there is a large
proportion of that sort among the people—look upon
such an advocate as a tower of defence raised up for
them.
1 The poor man's gratitude.
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