Pay it Forward
“A man of pride. There is always work to be found in a new and growing city; good luck. When you have found employment come back and we can arrange an advance against your wages.” The banker reached into the folds of his gown, pulled out a single credit note. “But eat first–a full belly steadies the judgment. Do me the honor of accepting this as our welcome to the newcomer.”
His pride said no; his stomach said YES! Don took it and said, “Uh, thanks! That’s awfully kind of you. I’ll pay it back, first chance.”
“Instead, pay it forward to some other brother who needs it.” The banker touched a button on his desk, then stood up.
Don said goodbye and left.
Robert Heinlein/Between Planets (1951)
page 78 of SFBC’s new To The Stars omnibus reprint.
Offered without comment.
Revision History:
- April 1, 2012 at 12:32 am by joel (displayed above)
- January 5, 2012 at 9:23 pm by joel
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- February 3, 2011 at 4:51 am by joel
- June 25, 2004 at 4:26 am by joel
Posted by
joel
Posted on
Thursday June 24th 2004
Filed under
Bookworm Alley
