At that moment he would gladly have gone home without asking further question, but that would have looked as if he were afraid.
He tried a chance remark.

'It is a fine night,' he said, as lightly as might be.
'Yes,' said the other, and moved his arms from the arms of the cross.

It was only one word, but the curate recognised the soft voice at once.

It was the Jewish rabbi.
'I was at one of your services the other day,' he said, advancing nearer.
'Yes.' 'I felt sorry your people did not turn out better.' There was no answer.
'It is a very cold wind,' said the curate.

'I hardly know why I came out so far.' 'Shall I tell you ?' asked the Jew softly.