Declining a Request Letter: Of a Loan

Dear (Name),


Thank you for the kindness you expressed in your recent letter.  I am very sympathetic to your request to borrow (amount/item), but I must decline.


As much as I would like to help, and feel honored that you have asked, I simple cannot afford to part with the (amount/item) you need, even though I know that I can trust you to (repay/return) it.


I am hoping there is some other way I can be of service.  If you ever need to borrow (alternate item/money at another time when I am on firmer footing), please feel free to ask.


Sincerely,
(your name)