Chapter 56

Partnership

Those who have come together, whether artisans or traders, the fruit obtained there is equal for all, if they have not divided it and separated. // K_624 //

They should conduct the transport, capital, expenses, recovery, and inspection of goods and profits, being bound by an agreement, without deviation. // K_625 //

Those who engage in business with gold, grain, liquids, and so on, with equal, lesser, or greater shares, their profit shall be of the same kind. // K_626 //

When one man, with the consent of many, gives money or incurs a debt, it is considered done by all. // K_627 //

A loan to kinsmen, relatives, and friends should be given with a pledge. To others, it should be with a guarantor, and also with a written document and witnesses. // K_628 //

Gold may be given at will, but liquids and grain with a time limit. It should be given and received according to the custom of the region. // K_629 //

What is given by the partners together must be demanded back in the same way. He who does not demand it is deprived of the profit. // K_630 //

He who saves property from thieves, water, or fire, a tenth part should be given to him; this is the rule in all disputes. // K_631 //

Instructors, the knowledgeable, the skilled, and the master artisan—these artisans shall take one, two, three, and four shares respectively, in ascending order. // K_632 //

Whatever wealth is brought from another kingdom by thieves with their master's permission, having set aside a tenth part for the king, they shall divide it according to the rule. // K_633 //

The chief of the thieves shall then take four shares; the brave, three shares; the capable, two; and the rest, one share each. // K_634 //

If any of them, while on an expedition, is captured, what is given for his release shall be borne by them according to their shares. // K_635 //

This same law has been declared by the good for dancers. The one who knows the rhythm gets half, while the singers get equal shares. The leaders are entitled to two shares; this is for those who perform together. // K_636 //

For traders, farmers, thieves, and artisans, and for all those who do not have fixed shares, this is the determination. // K_637 //