Part 5/10:
Mayon emphasizes that loans are not just transfers of gold but are tied to trust, security, and the potential for repayment. He reveals that every loan he makes involves tokens—each representing a pledge or guarantee—stored in a special chest. These tokens range from valuable jewels to promises of property, each telling stories of reliability and risk.
Importantly, Mayon explains that safe loans are based on the borrower's possessions—like land, jewels, or other assets—which can be sold if needed. Conversely, loans to individuals with no collateral, or those in dire circumstances, are much riskier. He recounts loans made to merchants and traders, illustrating that trusting honest, responsible individuals helps safeguard his wealth.