Story 38

  A company of philosophers were discussing a subject in the palace of

Kesra and Barzachumihr, having remained silent, they asked him why

he took no share in the debate. He replied: 'Veziers are like

physicians and the latter give medicine to the sick only but, as I

perceive that your opinions are in conformity with propriety, I have

nothing to say about them.'

        When an affair succeeds without my idle talk

        It is not meet for me to speak thereon.

        But if I see a blind man near a well

        It is a crime for me to remain silent.