After the close of the lesson, the teacher said:
"Come, Mendel; it is quite a while since we have walked together. Let us go into the fields."
Mendel, who adored his preceptor, was well pleased to have an opportunity of relieving his heart of its burden, and gladly accepted the invitation. For a while the two strolled in silence. The air was balmy and nature was in her most radiant dress.
"Tell me," at length began the Rabbi; "tell me why you appear so dejected?"
"You will reproach me if I confess the cause," answered the boy, tearfully.
"You should know me better," answered the Rabbi. "You ought to be aware that I am interested in your welfare."
"Well, then," sobbed Mendel, no longer able to repress his feelings, "I am unhappy because of my ignorance. I wish to become wise."
"And then?" asked the Rabbi.
The boy opened his eyes to their full extent. He did not comprehend the question.
"After you have acquired great wisdom, what then?" repeated the Rabbi.