We should give as we would receive, cheerfully, quickly, and without hesitation; for there is no grace in a benefit that sticks to the fingers.

Speed is most of what makes help feel like help. A yes that arrives after three days of visible deliberation has already communicated that it was a burden, and the person asking has spent those days feeling like one. Think about what you want when you are the one asking: an answer, quickly, without having to be grateful twice. It costs nothing extra and changes the character of the thing.

When somebody asks you for something small, answer the same day. If you are going to do it, do it now rather than perfectly. And if the answer is no, say so early so they can ask someone else.