The desire of a man is his kindness — i.e., what makes a man desired or beloved is his kindness. Or, the kindness of a man consists in — is shewn by — his good-will, even though he cannot carry it out.
And a poor man (who would do a kindness if he could) is better than a liar. — Than a rich man who could help another, but professes to be unable to do so.