"Either Enoch or I would have permission to leave home if we explained the reason for going, and, therefore, are as much entitled to the position of messenger as you," Seth interrupted.
"Then how shall it be decided?"
"We will draw lots. Here is a straw; will you hold it, Jacob?"
"Not I, for I want the chance to make my choice."
"Then I will do it," and Seth turned his back to his companions an instant, saying, as he faced them once more, "I have broken the straw into one long and two short pieces. He who draws the longest shall start at once."
Jacob insisted on making his choice first, arguing that such advantage should be his because he was the eldest, and, after considerable study, drew one of the fragments from Seth's hand.
It was so short that he knew the position of messenger was not for him, and stepped back with an expression of bitter disappointment on his face.
Enoch was no more successful, and Seth said triumphantly, as he held up the piece remaining in in his hand:
"It is for me! If you two will tell mother where I've gone I'll start at once."
"That part of the work shall be done properly," Jacob replied, all traces of ill-humor vanishing from his face. "If she allows it, I'll take your place till you get back."