means he supported his magnificence. He explained the virtues of the ring; and she begged that he would be careful of so invaluable a treasure. "But," added she, "in your daily intercourse with men you may lose it: place it in my custody, I beseech you." Overcome by her entreaties he gave up the ring; and when his necessities came upon him, she refused to relinquish it. He lamented bitterly, but now he had not any means of subsistence; and hastening to his mother, stated how he had lost his ring. "My son," said she, "I forewarned you of what would happen, but you have paid no attention to my advice. Here is the necklace, preserve it more carefully. If it be lost, you will for ever want a thing of the greatest honour and profit." Jonathan took the necklace, and returned to his studies. At the gate of the city his concubine met him, and received him with the appearance of great joy. He remained with her, wearing the necklace upon his breast; and whatever he thought he possessed. As before, he lived so gloriously, that the lady wondered, well knowing that
