How a goldsmith discerned the end of the affair and spoke in accordance with the end to one who wished to borrow his scales.

A certain man came to a goldsmith, saying, “Give me the scales, that I may weigh some gold.”

The master (goldsmith) said, “Go, I have no sieve.” “Give me the scales,” he replied, “and don't stop to jest like this.”

He said, “I have no broom in the shop.” “Enough, enough!” cried the other; “leave these jokes.

Give (me) the scales which I am asking for; don't make yourself out to be deaf, don't jump in every direction.”

He (the goldsmith) said, “I heard what you said, I am not deaf; you must not think that I am nonsensical.

I heard this (request), but you are a shaky old man: your hand is trembling and your body is not erect;

And moreover that gold of yours consists of little tiny filings: your hand trembles, so the fragments of gold will drop (from it);

Then you will say, ‘Sir, fetch a broom, that I may look in the dust for my gold.’

When you sweep (with the broom), you will gather dust (along with the gold); you will say to me, ‘I want the sieve, O gallant man.’

I from the beginning discerned the end complete. Go from here to some other place, and farewell!”