HERE was once a wise man. His knowledge was so profound that he might have invented powder or discovered America if he had cared to, for neither was known in his day. His thoughts were, however, far from the welfare of others, and all that he cared about was to be left alone with his studies, by which means he hoped to gain perfect happiness. He was well aware that Fortune was neither a bag of money nor good eating and drinking. By his ardent and diligent studies he had discovered that Fortune was, indeed, a great power of nature, like lightning or magnetism, and he declared that it should be his one day or another.

Early and late he pursued his studies in nature, and in old, curious books, with which his rooms were filled. But he was often disturbed by persons who wished to consult him on important matters, and who sought his help. As he was wealthy a great many poor persons came to his door, asking for a kind word and a penny. He could spare neither, however. Whenever a poor widow or