Note the paradox. The poor man, of whom one might expect roughness, supplicates; the rich, well nurtured, from whom one might look for courtesy, answers harshly and brusquely.
SDA Bible Commentary (limited)
Volume 1-7
23. The poor. The rich man can answer as he feels, men will take no open offense, because he is rich and they desire his friendship, but the poor man must measure his words lest he offend those upon whom his livelihood depends (see chs.14:21; 17:5).