Page:Jewish Fairy Book (Gerald Friedlander).djvu/28

12 &quot;I did, honored Rabbi!&quot;

&quot;Why did you come here?&quot;

&quot;To learn, good master! I wish to stay here three months and then to return to my home.&quot;

&quot;You are most welcome, but not as a disciple.&quot;

&quot;Why not, may I ask?&quot;

&quot;You are wise enough to teach these my pupils. If you care to stay with us we shall be not only thankful but also honored. As long as you remain you will please do me the favor of being my guest.

"These kind words, great master! touch my heart, but I have really journeyed here in order to sit at your feet and learn. I left home nearly four months ago and I must be back within one year. Pray accede to my wish and accept me as a pupil.&quot;

&quot;Your extreme modesty is very becoming. You are a master in Israel, and there is nothing that I can teach you. I shall yet find that you are able to teach me. To-morrow you will begin your duties as a new teacher in our college.&quot;

That day the Rabbi took Jacob home with him to live.

Next day Jacob began to teach. The disciples were greatly surprised at his vast knowledge and admired his marked ability as a teacher. He was soon beloved by all who knew him. At the end of three months he told his good friend, the Rabbi, that, much to his regret, he would have to take his leave and return home.