But, standing still, he pretty soon began to realize that a wet skin is not after all an unmitigated luxury. He began to feel cold. It occurred to him for the first time that he had perhaps been imprudent, that at any rate he had better go home now, and get into dry clothes. Yet, if he went home, he would have to meet the rabbi again; and, by the by, the rabbi doubtless supposed that he had deliberately deceived him--had slipped out of the room on the pretext of wanting a glass of water, with the deliberate intention of not coming back. But during his outing he had gained considerable fortitude; his repugnance for the notion of the rabbi's society had abated a good deal; and, looking forward, he thought that he should not find it half so objectionable as he had done a while ago. For the matter of deception, the rabbi was at liberty to believe whatever he chose. Such deception would have been justifiable, any how--would have been practiced in self-defense. He looked at his watch, and saw with astonishment that it was three o'clock. He had taken no note of time, but he was surprised to learn that so much had glided by. He would have to go home, any way, before long now, to make ready for the evening. Without further delay, he turned his face toward the outlet of the park, and marched off at a rapid gait. He let himself into the house as noiselessly as he could, mounted directly to his bedroom, shot the bolt, and at once set about changing his clothes. But in a very few minutes there came a tap at the door. He knew perfectly well who it was: nevertheless, he called out, “Who's there?” “I,” answered the rabbi. “Well, what do you want?” “I want to see you, You know what I want.” “Well, I can't let you in just now. I'm undressed.” “That makes no difference. I sha'n't mind that.” “Oh, but I should mind it.” 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?” “No.” “How soon will you be?” “I don't know.” “Five minutes?” “No, I guess not. I guess not at all.” “Why not?” “Because, frankly, your presence is irksome to me.” “How so?” “Oh, I can't analyze it. You make me feel uncomfortable. Put yourself in my place, and you'll understand.” “You're mistaken, Elias. It isn't I that makes you feel uncomfortable.” “Who, then?” “Nobody. It's your guilty conscience.”