"My friend," it is written there, "I have promised to give you the key to the Caballah, if I ever find the opportunity to do so.

Although I am not always in the habit of fulfilling my vows, I am ready to fulfil this one, if you will wait for me in the evening of October 8, in Prague, on the old Moldau bridge, under the statue of Nepomucenus." Then follows your name.' "'Yes, that is correct.

Have you not yet given up your desire ?' "'Less than ever before! You would render science an invaluable service.' "'Listen, doctor, bend down a little over the rail; that of which we speak must not be heard even by the waves of the Moldau, if we wish to remain alive.' "The young scientist looked in astonishment at his comrade, but did as he desired.
"'Three years ago, in Rome, when I promised to acquaint you with the mysteries of the Caballah, I did it more for the sake of boasting of a power and authority which, in reality, I did not possess.

Although I had studied for some time the traditions of my nation, rather out of curiosity than because of the love of knowledge, I knew very well that I could hardly penetrate the corridor of those mysteries which I am still regarding as the sophistry and roguishness of exalted minds, invented for the purpose of holding fools in fear and subordination.

But several accidental discoveries, made by me since then, have changed my views and have aroused in me a sense of curiosity.
"'You know, notwithstanding our brief acquaintance, that I am not the type of man who would abandon a clue or a conceived plan.