Page:Hebrew tales; selected and translated from the writings of the ancient Hebrew sages (1917).djvu/42

38 wretched hovel in which he lived, into a very fine house; repurchased the lands and possessions which his ancestors had left him, and which his former distress had obliged him to sell; and added greatly to them. Nor did he neglect the poor. He again became a father to the fatherless, and a blessing to the unfortunate. The time arrived, when the before-mentioned Rabbis came, as usual, to make their collection. Not finding their generous contributor in the place where he had resided the year before, they addressed themselves to some of the inhabitants of the village, and asked them whether they could tell them what had become of Abba Judan, and how he was. "Abba Judan!" exclaimed they, "the good and generous Abba Judan! who is like him in riches, charity, and goodness?—See you yonder flocks and herds? they belong to Abba Judan. Those vast fields, flourishing vineyards, and beautiful gardens? they belong to Abba Judan. Those fine buildings? they also belong to Abba Judan." Whilst they were thus discoursing, the good man happened to pass that way. The wise men greeted him, and asked him how he did. "Masters," said he, "your prayers have produced plenty of fruit,—come to my house and partake of it. I will make up the deficiency of last year's subscription." They followed him to his house, where, after