The Travelers and the Purse

Two friends once were walking in sociable chat,
When a purse one espied on the ground;
“Oh, see!” said he, (thank my fortune for that,)
“What a large sum of money I’ve found!”

“Nay, do not say I” said his friend, “for you know
‘Tis but friendship to share it with me;”
“I share it with you,” said the other. “How so?
He who found it the owner should be.”

“Be it so,” said his friend, “but what sound do I hear?
‘Stop thief!’ one is calling to you;
He comes with a constable close in the rear!”
Said the other, “Oh, what shall we do?”

“Nay, do not say we,” said his friend, “for you know
You claimed the sole right to the prize!
And since all the money was taken by you,
With you the dishonesty lies.”

MORAL

When people are selfish, dishonest, and mean,
Their nature, in dealing, will quickly be seen.