"How many months or years did it take to convince Josef Borlinski of his error?" asked Aaron. "Nearly two years." "During which time you supported him." "We could do no less. He was desperately poor, almost starving when he came to us. Then, he was a foreigner, and the only trade--if it can be called one--to which he could turn his hand was that of an itinerant glazier, at which he could not earn more than three or four shillings a week, sometimes not so much. In any circumstances, it would have been a dangerous occupation for him to follow; he would have had to be out the whole of the day exposed to the weather, and the poor fellow is consumptive." "So that you first adopted, and then converted him. How did you get hold of Izak Borlinski?" "He is Josef's cousin, and Josef brought him to us." "Zealous Josef! Izak also had doubts, and wished to be convinced through his reason?" "That is so." "And you adopted and converted him as well as Josef?" "Yes." "Clever Josef! Poor, consumptive Josef! It would not surprise me if he presently introduces another of his countrymen to you who has had doubts since childhood, and wishes to be convinced--through his reason and your pocket. Him, also, you can adopt and convert. Ah, what a loss to the stage is Josef Borlinski! Only that he lacks industry, for in him are united a fox's cunning and a sloth's love of idleness. The rogue! He imposed upon me for months, until at length, my suspicions aroused, I unmasked the rascal." "Do you mean to say that we have been imposed upon?" asked the gentleman, in an excited tone.