Part 134 (1/2)

Indeed!

RECHA.

I speak, in veriest truth.

My father hates book-learning, which he says, Makes an impression only on the brain With lifeless letters.

SITTAH.

Well, he's right in that.

And so the greater part of what you know----

RECHA.

I've learnt from his own mouth, and I can tell The when, the where, and why he taught it me.

SITTAH.

So it clings closer, and the soul drinks in The full instruction.

RECHA.

Yes, and Sittah, too, Has not read much.

SITTAH.

How so? I am not vain Of having read, and yet why say you so?

Speak boldly. Tell the reason.

RECHA.

She's so plain-- So free from artifice--so like herself.

SITTAH.

Well!

RECHA.

And my father says 'tis rarely books Work that effect.

SITTAH.

Oh, what a man he is, Dear Recha!

RECHA.

Is he not?

SITTAH.

He never fails To hit the mark.