The Pity
A drunkard borrowed a certain amount of money from a money-lender but failed to repay it as promised. Each time the money-lender visited his home, the drunkard’s servant would tell him, “My master is not at home!”
One day, during yet another visit, the money-lender saw the drunkard standing at his doorstep. He rushed forward before the man could retreat into his house.
“At last, gentleman, I have found you!” exclaimed the money-lender. “Every time your servant informs me that you are not at home!”
“I am not home!” replied the drunkard, attempting to sound sober.
“What! Can’t I see you right here?” shouted the money-lender.
“This is the pity,” howled the drunkard, beating his hand against his forehead. “You believe what my servant says about me, but you don’t believe me when I say it myself!”