s behind those bushes; and wait to see his perplexity1 when he cannot find them。”
“My young friend;” answered the professor;“we should never amuse2 ourselves at the expense of the poor。 But you are rich; and may give yourself a much greater pleasure by means of the poor man。 Put a coin into each shoe; and then we will hide ourselves and watch how the discovery affects him。”
The student did so; and they both placed themselves behind the bushes close by。
The poor man soon finished his work; and came across the field to the path where he had left his coat and shoes。 While putting on his coat he slipped his foot into one of his shoes; but feeling something hard; he stooped down3 to feel what it was; and found the coin。
Astonishment4 and wonder were seen upon his countenance。 He gazed upon5 the coin; turned it round; and looked at it again and again。 He then looked around him on all sides; but no person was to be seen。 He now put the money into his pocket; and proceeded to put on the other shoe; but his surprise was doubled on finding the other coin。
His feelings overcame him; he fell upon his knees; looked up to heaven and uttered aloud a fervent6 thanksgiving; in which he spoke of his wife; sick and helpless; and his children without bread; whom the timely bounty7; from some unknown hand; would save from perishing。
The student stood there deeply affected; and his eyes filled with tears。 “Now;” said the professor; “are you not much better