They are proud, and look down upon us traders, but that does not hurt us; and, if they were to take to trading themselves, there would be no place for us here.

But this has nothing to do with our present purpose.
"Certainly, if it was a question of Polish affairs, neither the foreign nor the Jewish merchants here would move a finger one way or the other.

We have everything to lose, and nothing to gain.
Suppose we took sides with one of the parties, and the other got the upper hand.

Why, they might make ordinances hampering us in every way, laying heavy taxes on us, forbidding the export of cattle or horses, and making our lives burdensome.

True, if they drove us out they would soon have to repeal the law, for all trade would be at an end.