thing is that we have remained Jews, and that as Jews we shall
return home to our parents. It is clear to me now that the Holy
One, blessed by He, will not consider all that a sin on our part!"

I felt as if a heavy load had been taken off my shoulders. My eyes
began to flow with tears of gladness. Then, having once started my
confession, I decided to confess to my second sin also. Meanwhile
Simeon had pulled the bread and the meat out of my bag.

"Glutton!" exclaimed Yekil, angrily. "Have you forgotten that it is
the night of the Fast of the Ninth of Av?"

The boy, ashamed, returned the things to the bag, and moved away a
few steps. Then I told Yekil all that had passed between me and
Marusya, and tried unconsciously to defend her in every way. I
think I exaggerated a good deal when I tried to show that Marusya
liked the Jews very much, indeed.

"And what was the end of it?" asked Yekil, with some fear. "Did she
really kiss you?" The other boys echoed the question. I looked
down, and said nothing.

"Is she good-looking?"

I still gave no answer.

"I have forgotten your name. What is it?"

"Samuel."