Part 85 (1/2)

NATHAN.

I know it well.

DERVISE.

Ah! 'tis an evil case When kings are vultures amid carcases, But ten times worse when they're the carcases Amid the vultures.

NATHAN.

Dervise, 'tis not so.

DERVISE.

Is that your thought? But, come, what will you give If I resign my office in your favour?

NATHAN.

What are your profits?

DERVISE.

Mine? not much; but you Would soon grow rich; for when, as oft occurs, The Sultan's treasury is at an ebb, You might unlock your sluices, pour in gold, And take in form of interest what you please.

NATHAN.

And interest on the interest of the interest.

DERVISE.

Of course.

NATHAN.

Until my capital becomes All interest.

DERVISE.

Well! is not the offer tempting?

Farewell for ever to our friends.h.i.+p then, For I had counted on you.

NATHAN.

How so, Hafi?

DERVISE.

I thought you would have helped me to discharge My task with credit; that I should have found Your treasury ready. Ha! you shake your head.

NATHAN.

Let us explain. We must distinguish here.

To you, Dervise Al-Hafi, all I have Is welcome; but to you, the Defterdar Of Saladin--to that Al-Hafi, who----

DERVISE.