Will you lend me a horse?
I was riding in the forest when my horse fell over a root and lamed himself.

I found I was only three miles from Osterno, so I came.

My misfortune must be my excuse for this--intrusion." Paul performed graciously enough that which charity and politeness demanded of him.

There are plenty of people who trade unscrupulously upon these demands, but it is probable that they mostly have their reward.

Love and friendship are stronger than charity and politeness, and those who trade upon the latter are rarely accorded the former.
So Paul ignored the probability that De Chauxville had lamed his horse on purpose, and offered him refreshment while his saddle was being transferred to the back of a fresh mount.