A friend in need is friend indeed. This is old proverb.
To me, friendship is nothing but intimate emotional and intellectual ties between two persons. Friends may not be able to help each other at time of need but they must have no hesitation among themselves. This is real test of friendship. So, if you need something from your friend, say this unhesitatingly. Then hesitation to refuse is also unfriendly. If you cannot accept the demand, unhesitatingly deny. The friend will not feel ill if his demand is not accepted. In short, frankness and openness is key to friendship.