Chapter VII - ON THE EFFECTS OF EDUCATION

Story 1

  A vezier who had a stupid son gave him in charge of a scholar to

instruct him and if possible to make him intelligent. Having been some

time under instruction but ineffectually, the learned man sent one

to his father with the words: 'The boy is not becoming intelligent and

has made a fool of me.'

        When a nature is originally receptive

        Instruction will take effect thereon.

        No kind of polishing will improve iron

        Whose essence is originally bad.

        Wash a dog in the seven oceans,

        He will be only dirtier when he gets wet.

        If the ass of Jesus be taken to Mekkah

        He will on his return still be an ass.