Story 34

  One of the sons of Harun-ur-Rashid went to his father and angrily

informed him that the son of an official had used insulting

expressions towards him whereon Harun asked his courtiers what

requital he deserved. One of them proposed capital punishment, another

the amputation of the tongue whilst a third recommended fine and

imprisonment. Then Harun said: 'Oh my son, it would be generous to

pardon him but, if thou art unable to do so, use likewise insulting

expressions concerning his mother; not however to such a degree as

to exceed the bounds of vengeance because in that case the wrong

will be on thy side.'

        He is not reputed a man by the wise

        Who contends with a furious elephant

        But he is a man in reality

        Who when angry speaks not idle words.

        An ill-humoured fellow insulted a man

        Who patiently bore it saying: 'O hopeful youth,

        I am worse than thou speakest of me

        For I am more conscious of my faults than thou.'