StageAppearanceOutcomeDebateNoble principles of friendshipAl-Ḥārith is impressedMeetingPoor clothes, brilliant languageHospitality is offeredPermissionA short visit for a bathSwift return is promisedOutcomeFather and son do not returnDeparture is inferredFinal poemPraise and an ingenious excuseThe ironic self-revelation
The lesson is not that good speaking must be dishonest. Its point is narrower and sharper: eloquence alone does not prove good conduct. The distinction produces the maqāmah’s humour and criticism.