The rabbi remained silent for a moment; then, “Do you think it was exactly honorable, the way you acted?” he inquired.
“What way?”
“Telling me an untruth, and then stealing out of the house?”
“I didn't mean to tell you an untruth. It was an inspiration, after I had left you. Any how, all's fair in love and war, you know.”
Elias chuckled softly to himself.
“What are you laughing at?” the rabbi asked. “I'm not laughing.”
“Well, nothing has happened? You're all right?”
“Yes; I haven't been struck by lightning yet.”
“Don't talk like that, Elias. It's blasphemous.” Elias made no answer.
Presently the rabbi said, “Well, aren't you ready to let me in yet?”