"There is no possibility of going back for someone who starts with me. He remains with me to the end of his life." He then said: "And do not think you can accept and give your word today, then leave later if you get fed up or for any other reason, because the governor of Van is my close friend. I could have you brought back here through him. Tonight you are my guests. Stay here and think it over, then make your decision in the morning."

We were bewildered and did not know what to say to the proposal. We consulted with Molla Habib. We asked him: "Do you stay with the Hoja under these conditions?" "Yes," he replied. "We gave our words once and undertook the matter. It is true it is not all that easy, but his learning is truly extraordinary. But you know best, do whatever seems right for you." We bowed our heads in shame, and saying we could not accept, left. [^246]

[^246]:Ibid., 156-8.