Page:Eminent Authors of Contemporary Japan.pdf/133

Rh might be a poor man hereafter, do you intend to live a quiet and simple life?” [sic]

Tu Tzuchun hesitated a little, then quickly lifting up his face, which bore a resolute expression, he looked steadily at the old man and began imploringly:

“Just now I do not wish to live in that way, but I would like to become one of your pupils and study magic…. O, do not hide your learning from me. I am sure that you are a hermit of high virtue, otherwise how would you have been able to make me the richest man in the world in a single night? I implore you, become my teacher, and explain to me your wonderful art of magic.”

The old man thought for some time in silence, and a frown crossed his brows. Then with a pleasant smile he again began to speak:

“Yes, I am a hermit as you supposed. My name is Tiehkuantzu, and I live among the mountains of Emeishan. When I first saw you, I thought that you possessed some wisdom, so twice I tried to make you rich … If you wish to be one of my pupils, and if you are truly earnest in what you say, you shall have your wish.”

The old man gladly consented to take him as his pupil, and Tu Tzuchun was beside himself with joy. Before waiting for the old man to finish his words, he prostrated himself and bowed to the ground at his feet. But the old man bade him rise, saying:

“No, no, do not thank me so much yet. Even though I have consented to take you as a pupil, it