ON THE EFFECTS OF EDUCATION

TALE I

A certain Vizier had a stupid son, whom he sent to a learned man, desiring him to instruct him, in hopes that his capacity might improve. After having instructed him for some time without any effect, he sent a person to the father with this message: “Your son has no capacity, and has

almost distracted me. When nature has given capacity, instruction will make impression; but if iron is not of a proper temper, no polishing will make it good. Wash not a dog in the seven seas, for when he is wetted he will only be dirtier. If the ass that carried Jesus was to be taken to Mecca, at his return he would still be an ass.”

TALE II

A philosopher was thus exhorting his sons: “My dear children, acquire knowledge, for on worldly riches and possessions no reliance can be placed;

rank will be of no use out of your own country, and on a journey money is in danger of being lost; for either the thief may carry it off all at once, or the possessor may consume it by degrees. But knowledge is a perennial spring of wealth; and if a man of education ceases to be opulent, yet he need not be sorrowful, for knowledge of itself is riches. A man of learning wherever he goes, is treated with respect and sits in the uppermost seat; whilst the ignorant man gets only a scanty fare, and encounters distress. After enjoying power, it is distressing to be obliged to obey; and he who has been used to caresses, cannot bear rough usage from the world.”

There once happened an insurrection in Damascus, where every one deserted his habitation. The wise sons of a peasant became the King’s ministers, and the stupid sons of the Vizier were reduced to ask charity in the village. If you want a paternal inheritance, acquire from your father knowledge, for his wealth may be spent in ten days.