Story 3

  An intelligent youth possessed an abundant share of

accomplishments and discreet behaviour so that he was allowed to sit

in assemblies of learned men but he refrained from conversing with

them. His father once asked him why he did not likewise speak on

subjects he was acquainted with. He replied: 'I fear I may be asked

what I do not know and be put to shame.'

        Hast thou heard how a Sufi drove

        A few nails under his sandals

        And an officer taking him by the sleeve

        Said to him: 'Come and shoe my horse.'

     For what thou hast not said no one will trouble thee

     But when thou hast spoken bring the proof.