Page:Jewish Fairy Book (Gerald Friedlander).djvu/35

Rh I do not desire to accept all you offer. I ask for a small gift, and that is—give me the right of owning the small town, not very far from your capital, where my uncle and aunt live, where my home is.&quot;

&quot;Most gladly will I do this.&quot;

The King caused letters-patent to be issued declaring Jacob to be the Prince of that town. He also gave him a valuable gold chain as a mark of his royal favor.

&quot;Now, Sire! pray let me go,&quot; said Jacob, &quot;and take possession of my town.&quot;

&quot;Go, and twenty knights of my retinue shall accompany you.&quot;

Away they went, a fine procession to behold. News spread far and wide that the new Prince of the town was about to enter his new territory. The inhabitants came forth to greet him. When he came to his castle he was met by a deputation consisting of the most respected of the citizens. Jacob was dressed in splendid attire with the golden chain about his neck. He had changed considerably since he had left home and he was not recognized. Among the members of the deputation was Jacob's uncle, the Rabbi.

Jacob began to speak: &quot;I am right glad to see you all here in my castle. As the Prince of this town I will henceforth take up my abode within these walls. Your lives and mine must be identified. Your joys shall be mine and I will share your