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Og Mandino, The Greatest Salesman in the World: I will persist until I succeed. I was not brought into this world to fail. In my veins flows the blood of a winner, not a loser. I am not a sheep waiting to be led by a shepherd; I am a lion, and I refuse to talk, walk, or sleep with sheep. The slaughterhouse of failure is not my destiny. I will persist until I succeed.

The Greatest Salesman in the World, Scroll 3: This book is dedicated with great respect to the great merchant, Clement Stone. He succeeded in combining love, compassion, and a unique system—the art of trading, the philosophy of success—that motivates and inspires thousands of people who find happiness, wonderful mental and physical health, peace of mind, power, and wealth every year.

Chapter 1

Sofit stopped in front of a mirror in a bronze frame, intently gazing at his reflection in the polished metal. Only his eyes retained their youth, he muttered, turning away and slowly trudging across the marble floor past the columns of black onyx supporting the ceiling, adorned with gold and silver. With a heavy, elderly gait, he passed intricately carved tables made of cypress and ivory. On the couches and walls, decorations made of tortoiseshell shimmered, and those inlaid with precious stones sparkled. The brocade, with its tedious patterns, flowed gracefully, while the serene, towering palms in bronze pots framed a fountain with marble nymphs. The floral vases, covered in gemstones, could rival the beauty of their contents. No visitor to the palaces of Afeedo could doubt the wealth of the owner. The old man crossed the enclosed garden and entered the...

The storage extended behind the palace for five hundred steps. Erasmus, the chief treasurer, hesitated as he awaited him at the entrance. Welcome, sir, he said, nodding. The other man silently proceeded further. Erasmus followed him, his face clearly showing the anxiety caused by the unusual request of his host to meet here, by the loading area. The Hasid stopped, observing how goods were unloaded from the carts, arranged in separate tents, and counted. There were fine canvases, wool yarn, parchment, honey, carpets, and oil from Asia Minor, glass, figs, nuts, and balm from his homeland, fabrics, medicinal supplies from Palmyra, ginger, cinnamon, and precious metals from Arabia, wheat, paper, granite, alabaster, and basalt from Egypt, tapestries from Babylon, paintings from Rome, and statues from Greece. The air was thick with the aroma of balm, and the keen sense of smell of the Hasid allowed him to recognize the scent.

Sweet plums, apples, cheese, ginger. Finally, he turned to Erasmus. Old man, how much money do we have in our treasury now? The treasurer turned pale. Sir, I haven't conducted the latest calculations, but I believe it's over seven million gold talents. And if I were to convert all my goods from all the deposits and shops into gold, how much would that be? The inventory for this season isn't finished yet, sir, but I would add at least another three million talents. Hofer nodded. Don't buy anything else. Immediately take all necessary measures to sell all goods and convert them into gold. The treasurer, in silent astonishment, opened his mouth. He recoiled as if struck, finally regaining his speech with difficulty. But, sir, I don't understand. This year has been our most profitable. Each shop reported an increase in sales compared to the previous season. Even the Roman legionaries have become our customers, for didn't you sell...

Prosecutor of Jerusalem, two hundred Arab steeds, forgive my boldness, for I rarely question your orders. However, I am unable to comprehend this decree. Smiling, Sofit gently squeezed my hand, and Erasmus, my faithful friend, is your memory strong enough to recall my first command given when you joined my service many years ago? Erasmus furrowed his brow for a moment, but his face quickly cleared. You, sir, commanded me to give half of our income to the poor every year. Did you not think me a fool then? Dark premonitions troubled me. Sir, he fitly nodded and pointed to the loading docks, now you acknowledge that your fears were unfounded? Yes, sir. Then trust my decision. Until I clarify my plans, I am already old, and my needs are modest, since my dearly beloved has only just left me.

After so many happy years, I want to give away all my wealth to the poor of this city, leaving myself just enough to live the rest of my life without needing anything. I also want you, in addition to managing our property, to prepare all the necessary documents to transfer the shop to those who currently manage it. Allocate five thousand golden talents to each manager as a reward for their years of devoted service. Let them fill the shelves with whatever they wish. Erasmus began to say something, but Haffen raised his hand, calling for silence. 

This task goes against you, treasurer, he said, shaking his head and smiling weakly. 

No, my lord, I simply cannot understand the course of your thoughts. You speak like a man whose days are numbered. 

It is so like you, Erasmus, to worry about me rather than yourself. Doesn't your own future trouble you when the end comes for our trading empire? We have been many years...

Friends, how can I think only of myself? Hofitol, an old friend, replied, No need. I will ask you to immediately transfer 50,000 gold talents to your name, and I beg you to stay with me until I fulfill this long-promised vow. When will it be fulfilled? I bequeath this palace and warehouse to you, and then I will be ready to reunite. The old treasurer could not believe his ears. He looked at his master: Fifty thousand gold talents, a palace, a warehouse? I am unworthy. Hofitol nodded. Your friendship, I have always considered my most valuable treasure. My gifts are insignificant compared to your boundless loyalty. You have mastered the art of living not for yourself but for others, and your kindness sets you apart from other people. Now, hurry to fulfill my requests; time is priceless for me, and the sand in the hourglass of my life is almost gone. Erasmus turned away, hiding his tears. With a trembling voice, he asked.

What promise do you have left to keep? Although we were like brothers, I don't remember you ever mentioning anything like that. With my arms crossed, I smiled and said, I will meet you again after you fulfill my morning orders and reveal the secret that you have not shared with anyone in 30 years, except for your beloved wife. Don't forget to subscribe to the channel so you don't miss the updates. 

Chapter 2: And so, a carefully guarded caravan departed from Damascus, carrying property deeds and gold for the managers of the shops in Hafez. All ten managers, feeling hurt, were in a stunned silence upon receiving the news of Hasid's departure and the gifts. Finally, after making a last stop in Anti, the caravan completed its mission. The most powerful trading empire of its time ceased to exist. With a heavy heart, Erasmus sent a messenger to the master to inform him that the warehouse was empty and there were no more goods in the shops.

Proudly, the signs with the name X Fito displayed themselves. The messenger returned with a request for Erasmus to meet immediately with the master at the fountain in the peristyle. X Fito intently gazed into the treasurer's face and asked, Is everything done? It is done, my good friend. Now follow me. As X Fito led Erasmus to the marble staircase at the back of the palace, the sound of their sandals echoed in the vast hall. Approaching the Murinsky vase, which stood on a high orange wood pedestal, he paused, watching how the color of the glass changed from white to purple in the sunlight. The old man's face lit up with a smile. The two old friends began to climb the inner staircase leading to the room beneath the dome of the palace. Erasmus noted the absence of armed guards who always stood at the foot of the stairs. Finally, they reached the landing and stopped to catch their breath after the steep ascent.

Both of them found it difficult. Then they climbed to the next level where H Fit pulled a small key for the heavy oak door from his belt. He pushed against it with all his strength until it gave way and creaked open. Hasi invited Erasmus, who was hesitating at the entrance, inside, and the treasurer timidly stepped into the room where no living soul had been allowed for the past thirty years. A gray, dim light seeped through the windows of the towers, and Erasmus grabbed Hafi's hand until his eyes adjusted to the half-light. With a barely noticeable smile, H Fit watched as Erasmus slowly surveyed the room, which contained nothing but a cedar chest standing in a patch of sunlight in the corner. You are not disappointed, Erasmus? I don't even know what to say, sir. The decor did not disappoint you? Undoubtedly, the contents of this room had been the subject of numerous rumors. Have you never wondered...?

the question of what is hidden here that I have guarded so jealously for many years. Erasmus nodded. Indeed, for many years, numerous rumors and gossip circulated about what the master keeps in this tower. My friend, most of them reached my ears. They said that mountains of diamonds, bars of gold, wild animals, or exotic birds were hidden here. One Persian carpet trader hinted that I kept a little Harry here. I just laughed, imagining myself surrounded by concubines. But as you have already seen, there is nothing here except for a small chest. Come closer. Two men leaned over the chest, and their friend began to carefully unfasten the leather straps that bound it. He took a deep breath of the cedar wood scent and gently lifted the lid of the chest, leaning in. Erasmus peered over the shoulder of his friend, staring at its contents. Then...

He turned his gaze to the owner and shook his head in complete astonishment. Inside the chest lay only leather scrolls. Hafiz carefully took one of the scrolls, pressed it to his chest for a moment, and closed his eyes. A sense of peace spread across his face; the wrinkles smoothed out. He stood up and pointed to the chest. If this room were filled to the brim with diamonds, their value would not even compare to what your eyes have beheld in this simple wooden box. Success, happiness, love, inner peace, and wealth that accompany me in life are inextricably linked to these few scrolls. I am in irrevocable debt to them and to the sage who entrusted them to me for safekeeping. Frightened by the words, Erasmus stepped back and asked, Is this the secret you mentioned? Is the chest somehow connected to the promises you made? I will answer yes to both of your questions. Erasmus wiped the sweat from his brow and looked skeptically at the Hasid.

What is written in these scrolls that makes their value surpass that of diamonds? In all of them, except for one, there is a principle, a universal truth presented in a special form, helping the reader grasp its meaning. To succeed in the art of sales, one must study and implement the secret of each scroll. Whoever understands all the principles will acquire any wealth they desire. Rasmus, in confusion, examined the old scrolls, even more so than you. If he wishes, you mentioned that all the scrolls except for one describe sales principles. What does the last scroll say? The last scroll, as you called it, should be read first, since they are all numbered, and it is necessary to familiarize oneself with them in a specific order. The first scroll reveals a secret that has been entrusted throughout history to only a small handful of wise individuals. The first scroll indicates the most direct path to understanding.

According to what is written in the rest, this task is within the power of anyone. Yes, it is indeed simple, provided that a person is willing to sacrifice their time and persist until each of the principles becomes a part of their personality and turns into a habit. Erasmus took the scroll out of the box, carefully holding it with his fingers. He extended the scroll to Phitus. Forgive me, master, but why didn't you share these principles with the other people, especially with those who have been working for you for a long time? You have always shown remarkable generosity in other matters. How is it that those who traded for you were deprived of the opportunity to embrace the words of wisdom and become wealthy with such valuable knowledge? At the very least, they would have learned to sell even better. Why have you kept the principles a secret all these years? I had no choice. Many years ago, when I was entrusted with the storage of the scrolls, I had to vow that I would reveal their contents.

Only one person still remains unknown to me regarding the meaning of the entire unusual request. However, I was instructed to apply the laws described in the scrolls to my own life until someone appears who will need help and guidance much more than I did in my youth. I was told that by certain signs, I would recognize the person to whom I should pass on the scrolls, although it is quite possible that he himself will not even realize that he is searching for them. I patiently waited and used these laws as I was permitted. Thanks to the knowledge I gained, I became, as many call me, the greatest merchant in the world, just as the one who bequeathed the scrolls to me was the greatest merchant of his time. Now, Rasmus, I hope you understand why some of my actions seemed strange and unfeasible to you. Nevertheless, they turned out to be correct. In all my actions and decisions, I was guided by these principles, not because of my wisdom, but because we accumulated...

So many golden talents; I was merely an instrument of execution. Do you still believe that after so many years, there will appear one destined to receive these scrolls from your hands? Hafez carefully folded the scrolls and closed the chest. Kneeling, he quietly said, You will stay with me until that day. Erasmus extended his hand through the soft light and clasped Hafez's hand. Hafez nodded once and left the room, as if obeying an unheard command from his master. Sofit tightened the leather straps and, rising to his feet, approached a small tower. Through it, he exited onto the scaffolding surrounding the enormous dome. An eastern wind blew in the old man's face, carrying with it the scent of lakes and deserts. Standing high above the roofs of Damascus, Hafez smiled, mentally transporting himself to a distant past. Chapter 3: It was deep winter, and a fierce cold reigned on the Mount of Olives. From the Jerusalem temple, through a narrow gorge...

Кедрон, небо и долина, тянулись густые запахи дыма ладана и горящей плоти, смешиваясь с вязким ароматом деревьев терпентина, растущих на горе. На открытом склоне, в непосредственной близости от селения Вифания, остановился для отдыха огромный торговый караван по трассе из Пальмиры. Час был поздний, и даже любимый жеребец великого торговца прекратил обгрызать нижние ветки фисташковых деревьев и устроился под мягкой лавровой изгородью. За длинной вереницей притихших палаток густые конопляные заросли обвивали четыре старых оливковых дерева, образуя загон, где едва можно было различить сбившихся в кучу ослов и верблюдов. За исключением двух стражей, охранявших повозки с товаром, единственное движение исходило от длинной тени, отпечатавшейся на большом шатре из козьего волоса. Сам хозяин палатки в негодовании расхаживал взад и вперед, периодически...

Stopping, I frown and shake my head while looking at the young man who shyly kneels at the entrance of the tent. Finally, shaken, he lowers his frail body onto the carpet made of golden threads and beckons the youth closer. You have always been like a son to me, I say, surprised and puzzled by your request. Perhaps you are dissatisfied with your work? The young man stares at the carpet. I am satisfied, sir. Perhaps the ever-growing caravans complicate the care of the animals? No, sir. Then please repeat your request, explaining what specifically prompted you to approach me with such unusual words. I want to become your merchant. They are just camel herders. I want to be like Hadad, Simon, and others, with carts loaded with goods. The animals can barely pull them, and who returns carrying gold for you and earning gold for himself? I want to rise above my current status. While I am just an ordinary shepherd, I am a nobody, but if I become your...

As a merchant, I will be able to attain wealth and success. How do you know this? I have often heard you say that no other profession or activity opens up as many opportunities for a person to escape poverty as trading does. I was stunned and began to nod in agreement, but after thinking it over, I continued to bombard the young man with questions. Are you sure you can manage just as well as Khod and the others? Huffy looked decisively into the old man's eyes and replied, Many times I have heard how the caliph complained to you about the hardships that explain his low sales, and just as many times you reminded him that anyone can sell absolutely all the goods in their warehouse in a short time if they only work hard to learn the principles and laws of trading. If you believe that the caliph, who is known to be a fool, can grasp these principles, then why can't I possess special knowledge? If you master these principles, what will your goal in life be? Hesitating, H fit replied, Everything is in these...

На краях называют вас великим торговцем. Мир никогда не видел такой торговой империи, какую удалось построить вам. Я намерен превзойти вас, величайшего купца, богатейшего человека и самого великого торговца в мире. Откинувшись назад, я принялся внимательно изучать смуглое лицо юноши. Одежда молодого человека все еще пахла животными, однако в его манерах не чувствовалось смиренности. 

«А что ж ты будешь делать со всем этим богатством, с этой безграничной властью, которая ему сопутствует?» 

«Я последую вашему примеру. Моя семья будет обеспечена только самым лучшим, остальным я поделюсь с нуждающимися». 

Матрас покачал головой. «Богатство, сынок, никогда не должно служить целью». 

«Говоришь ты красиво, но это лишь пустые слова. Истинное богатство в сердце, а не в кошельках». 

Но Хафид не унимался. «А вы, господин, разве не богаты?» 

Старик улыбнулся. «Дерзости, Хафид, если говорить о материальном».

The only difference between me and the poorest beggar by Herod's palace is that the beggar thinks about his next meal, while I think about the meal that will be my last. Do not strive for wealth, and do not work only to become rich. Strive for happiness, to love and be loved, and most importantly, for peace of mind and balance. 

However, it continued to insist that all of this is unthinkable without gold. Who can maintain peace of mind in poverty? Can one be happy on an empty stomach? How can you express your love for your family without the means to feed, clothe, and provide a roof over their heads? You yourself said that wealth should bring joy to others, so why is my desire to become rich unworthy? 

Poverty can be considered a virtue and even a model of life for a monk in the desert, as he should only care for himself and please his God. But in my opinion...

In my opinion, being poor indicates either a lack of abilities or ambitions. I am not lacking in either. Why did you frown, what caused such a burst of ambition? You talk about providing for a family, but you have no family except for me. Adopt me after the bubonic plague took the lives of your parents. The dark tan on Hafi's face could not hide the sudden blush that colored his cheeks. While we were camped in Hebron before moving here, I met the daughter of Call Mecha, Anna. And here is the truth coming to light: love and noble ideals turned my camel driver into a mighty warrior ready to fight the whole world. Call is a very wealthy man; his daughter and the driver never... but his daughter is a rich, young, and attractive trader. This fundamentally changes things. So be it, my young soldier, I will help you.

To start a career as a merchant, the young man fell to his knees and grasped the edge of the robe. Sir, sir, what words can possibly express my gratitude? The astonished Hasid stepped back. I would advise you to hold off on your thanks for now. Whatever help I provide you will be but a grain of sand compared to the mountains you will have to move on your own. The joy of the Hasid instantly evaporated. Will you not teach me the principles and laws by which I can become a great merchant? No, I haven't exactly pampered you, so your youth cannot be called easy and carefree. I was often criticized for bringing my adopted son into the life of camel drivers, but I believed that if there is a fire burning inside, it will find a way out. And when that happens, after years of hard work, you will be rewarded manifold. Your request today has pleased me because I see the fire in your eyes.

ambition, and your face is illuminated by passionate desire. This is good, and you have honorably passed my exam. But now you must prove that your words are not empty. Huffy kept silent, so the old man continued: First of all, you will have to prove to me, as well as to yourself, that the life of a merchant is within your reach, for you have chosen a difficult fate. Indeed, I have said more than once that great rewards await those who succeed, but the reward is great precisely because few achieve success. Many fall into despair and fail, not realizing that they already possess all the means necessary to attain great wealth. Many others encounter any obstacles on their path with fear and doubt, perceiving them as evil, when in reality all obstacles are our friends and helpers. Without obstacles, success is impossible, for in trade, as in any other important field, victory is achieved only after...

In the multitude of struggles and countless defeats, with each struggle and each defeat, your mastery, strength, courage, resilience, talent, and confidence grow. Therefore, every obstacle is your ally, urging you to either become better or leave the battlefield. With every failure, you gain the opportunity to take a step forward. If you miss it and brush it off, you will ruin your future. The young man nodded and opened his mouth to say something, but the old man raised his hand and continued. Moreover, no existing profession condemns one to loneliness more than this. Even the despised tax collectors return home at sunset, and Roman legionaries have barracks they call home. You, however, face many sunsets far from friends and loved ones. The pain of loneliness is never felt more acutely than when you walk in the dark past a stranger's home and see, by the light of a lamp, a family.

Breaking the evening bread, it is in such moments of loneliness that temptations will overwhelm you, continued Potter. The ability to resist them will largely determine your career. When you are on the road and your animal is your only companion, you are engulfed by a terrifying and sometimes frightening feeling. Often, we forget our aspirations and values and, like children, we need protection and love. What we choose as a substitute has ended the careers of many, including thousands of very gifted and talented merchants. If you have not sold a single item, there will be no one to comfort and encourage you except those who are eager to part you from your wallet. I will be careful and remember your warnings. Well then, let's begin. You will not receive any other advice now; you are like unripe figs; until they ripen, they cannot be called figs. Until you master it...

With knowledge and without experience, you cannot be considered a merchant. Where should I start? In the morning, near the carts, you will find Silviy. He will assign you one of our best seamless cloaks. They are woven through his hair, withstand even the strongest rains, and are dyed exclusively with a durable red dye obtained from madder roots. Inside the hem, there is a small star; this is the sign of Tula, whose guild produces top-quality cloaks, the best in the world. Next to the star is my mark, a circle within a square. Both symbols are well-known and respected throughout the country, and we have sold countless such cloaks. I have been dealing with the Jews for so long that I only know their name for this type of clothing: abaya. Take the cloak of the donkey and head to Bethlehem, the settlement that our caravan passed on the way here. None of my traders go there; according to them, it is a waste of time.

It's a waste of time since its residents are very poor. Nevertheless, many years ago, I sold hundreds of such cloaks to the shepherds there. Stay in Bethlehem until you sell the cloak. You can set the price yourself. 

He nodded, unable to hide the joy that had overwhelmed him. At what price should I sell it, sir? 

I will write it in my ledger under your name: a debt of one silver denarius upon your return. You will return one denarius to me, and everything you receive above that, you can keep as a reward. So, you can decide the price of the cloak yourself. You can visit the market at the southern entrance of the city, or you can go into every household. I’m sure there are more than a thousand. Without a doubt, you can sell at least one cloak there. What do you think? 

He nodded again, already thinking about the next day. Gently, he placed his hand on the young man's shoulder. Your place will remain open until your return. If you decide that this profession is not for you, I will understand, and you don’t have to.

Never be ashamed of your unsuccessful attempts, for those who do not try will never make mistakes. When you return, I ask you to share your impressions in detail, and then I will decide how to help you further in realizing your amazing dreams. 

The old man bowed and turned as if to leave, but he continued, Son, there is one more piece of advice that you must remember. As you start a new life, do not forget it, and you will be able to overcome any obstacles that seem insurmountable. They will undoubtedly come your way, as they do for all ambitious people. 

Failure will not break you if your desire for success is strong. The young man approached. You understood the meaning of my words well, sir. Then repeat it: failure will not break you if your desire for success is strong.

Chapter 4. The spotlight strongly pushed away the unfinished loaf of bread and began to ponder his sad fate. Tomorrow will be the fourth day of his stay in Bethlehem. The only red cloak he wore with such pride from the caravan lay in the bag on the back of the donkey tied up in the cave not far from the inn. Sitting in the crowded dining hall and wistfully looking at the leftover food, he was completely unaware of the noise around him. Doubts raced through his mind, overwhelming all merchants since the beginning of time: Why do people refuse to listen to me? How can I attract their attention? Why do they close the door before I can say at least five words? Why do they lose interest in my speech and leave? Is it true that only poor people live in this city? What should I say when they tell me they can't pay for the cloak, even though they like it? Why do many ask me to come back later?

They manage to sell the rest. Where does the fear that overwhelms me come from? As soon as I approach a closed door, I wonder how to overcome it. Maybe I'm asking too much compared to other sellers. He shook his head, despising himself for his failures. Perhaps this life is not for him; maybe he should have stayed a camel driver and continued earning money. He would be lucky if he returned to the caravan with at least some profit. How did he refer to him? A young warrior. For a moment, he wanted to return to his statue, but then his thoughts turned to clichés and his stern father, and all doubts immediately vanished. Today, he would sleep among the hills to save money, and tomorrow he would definitely sell the cloak. Moreover, he would speak so eloquently that he would get a great price for it. He would have to get up early, right at dawn, and settle closer to the city. He would start addressing everyone passing by and head towards the olive mountain.

He would return with silver in his wallet, having taken on the leftover bread. Sofit pondered his master, who would be proud and, after all, had not succumbed to despair and returned empty-handed. To be honest, four days for a single cloak is quite a lot, but if he manages to sell it in four days, he will teach him to sell it in three, and then in two days. Over time, he will reach such heights of skill that he will be able to sell many, many cloaks in just one hour, and then he will become a truly respected merchant. Leaving the noisy inn, Hasid headed to the cave, and the donkey, due to the frosty air, found the grass covered with a thin crust, and each blade of grass crunched pitifully under the weight of his sandals. Hasid decided not to go to the hills today but to spend the night in the cave with the donkey. Tomorrow, he knew, everything would go well, although he now understood why other merchants...

They bypassed the poor village, claiming that nothing could be sold there. He remembered their words with each refusal. But many years ago, they sold hundreds of cloaks here. Times must have been different before the iPad 1. What more can I say? He had always been a great salesman. The flickering light in the cave made X. Fido quicken his pace, as a thief could slip in. He rushed into the cave, ready to confront the uninvited guest and protect his belongings. However, upon seeing the scene before him, all tension left him. A small candle stuck in a crevice in the cave barely illuminated a bearded man and a young woman, who were closely pressed against each other. At their feet, on the stones typically used to feed animals, lay a small child. I know little about children, but this infant was clearly a newborn, its wrinkled skin shimmering crimson.

color to protect the baby from the cold, the man and woman wrapped him in their cloaks, leaving only his little head outside. The man nodded towards Hafi, and the woman leaned closer to the infant. No one spoke a word. The woman shivered; she realized that her thin garment offered little protection against the cave's dampness. Sofit glanced at the child again, enchanted. He watched as the tiny mouth opened and closed, forming what resembled a smile. Suddenly, the young man was pierced by a strange sensation. For some inexplicable reason, he thought of Alys, and the woman shivered again from the cold. A sharp movement brought Hafi back to reality. After a moment of painful contemplation, the future merchant approached the donkey, carefully untied the knots, and, opening the travel bag, took out a cloak. As he unfolded it, the young man smoothed the fabric with his hands; the red dye shimmered in the light.

the path, feeling a mix of emotions. The candlelight flickered, and on the inside, one could discern a sign: a cross, a circle within a square, and a star. How many times in the last three days had he held this cloak in his weary hands? It seemed he had studied every pattern and thread; the fabric was indeed of the highest quality. With proper care, it would last a lifetime. Hafiz closed his eyes and sighed, then quickly approached the small family, kneeling down beside the infant. He gently removed the worn-out coverings of the father and mother, handing them over in deep astonishment at his own boldness. The shadows said not a word. The young man opened the luxurious red cloak and carefully wrapped it around the sleeping child, leading the donkey out of the cave. Hafiz still felt the young mother’s moist kiss on his cheek. Above him, a star sparkled brighter than any he had ever seen in his life. He gazed at the sky until his eyes began to fill with tears, after which he moved forward with the donkey.

Тропой в сторону большой дороги, ведущей к Иерусалиму, Гарри, где стоял Короба, глава 5. Софит медленно ехал, низко опустив голову, и уже не замечал звезды, освещающей его путь. Зачем он только так сглупил? Ведь он не знал этих людей в пещере. Почему не попытался продать им плащ? Что ж, теперь сказать по труду остальным? Они животы надорвут со смеху, узнав, что он просто так отдал плащ, полученный на продажу, да еще какому-то странному младенцу в пещере. Он принялся сочинять историю для по трасса. Может, сказать, что плащ украли, когда он сидел в постоялом дворе? Поверят ли? С такой выдумкой, в конце концов, бандитов на дорогах хватает, и если поверят, не осудят ли его за беспечность? Вскоре он достиг тропы, ведущей через Гефсиманский сад. Спешившись, он понуро побрел впереди осла, пока не добрался до каравана. Левший ся сверху свет превратил ночь в день и встречу, которую он так боялся.

He immediately saw by the road, near the tent, a young man raising his head to the sky. Haffen froze in place, but the old man instantly noticed him. Approaching the young man, the excited Potro asked, Are you coming straight from Bethlehem? Yes, sir, he replied, and were you not surprised that the star is following you? I did not notice it, sir. I couldn't move from the spot since I saw that star entering over Bethlehem almost two hours ago. I've never seen a star of such color and brightness. Then it began to move across the sky towards our caravan, and when it was right above us, you appeared. I swear by the gods, it stopped. Potro began to scrutinize his face closely. Something incredible happened to you in Bethlehem. No, sir, the old man frowned, as if lost in deep thought. Never before...

I have never experienced anything like this night, Hafiz shuddered, and I will never forget this night. Sir, something did happen today. How is it that you returned at such a late hour? H fit remained silent while turning along the road, patting the empty sack that hung on the back of the donkey. She smiled at you, luck is on your side. Let’s go to the tent; you will tell me about your adventures. Since the gods have turned night into day, I cannot sleep, and your story may shed light on why the star follows the camel driver. He settled onto the camp bed and, with closed eyes, listened to Hafiz’s long tale about endless refusals and insults he faced in Bethlehem. From time to time, he did smile when Hasid described the pot dealer who threw him out of the shop and then the soldier who hurled his cloak in the young man's face.

For refusing to lower the price, finally, the Hasid, with a hoarse voice, shared the doubts that had overwhelmed him that evening at the inn. The mattress interrupted the young driver. Remember all the thoughts, down to the last one, that visited you while you were grieving for yourself. After the spotlight carefully listed everything he could remember, the old man asked another question: Which thought finally dispelled all doubts and gave you the courage and determination to make another attempt to sell the cloak the next day? The young man paused for a moment and replied, I only thought of my daughter. Even in that stinky inn, I knew I would never see her again if I didn’t complete the task. His voice broke, But I didn’t complete it, just as I haven’t completed anything. I don’t understand; you didn’t bring the cloak back. His voice was so quiet that he had to lean in close to the young man's face. He recounted the incident in the cave, and the babies and cloaks were still there.

Potter spoke, and casting a glance over the tilted shelf of the shuttle at the dazzling light flooding the camp, the confusion on his face turned into a smile. He didn't even notice that his young pupil had finished the story and was now just sobbing. Soon, the weeping subsided, and silence reigned in the cave. He did not dare to lift his eyes to his master; he had failed and was only good for herding camels. At that moment, he felt the hand of his adoptive father on his shoulder and forced himself to look him straight in the face. 

My son, this trip did not bring you any benefit. 

No, my lord, but it brought me something: the star that accompanied you on your journey has healed me from the blindness I did not want to acknowledge. I will explain everything to you only after we return to Palmyra. But for now, I have a question for you. 

I'm listening, my lord. 

Our merchants are returning to the caravan tomorrow, and their animals need to be looked after. Are you ready to take on this task for now?

For previous duties, Haffen quietly rose and bowed to his benefactor. Whatever you ask, I regret having let you down. Go now and prepare for the return of our people. We will meet in the watering place. He stepped over the threshold of the tent, blinded by the bright light. He rubbed his eyes and heard a young man calling him. He returned to the tent, waiting for new orders. The young man reached out his hand and said, Sleep peacefully, for you have lost nothing. The bright star did not move from its place all night. 

Chapter 6. Almost two weeks had passed since the caravans returned to Palmyra, and one day, Hasida was lifted from the straw mattress and ordered to appear before Potras. He hurried to the master’s bedroom and hesitated, frozen in front of the huge bed on which the old man practically disappeared. Potras opened his eyes and, tangled in the covers, sat up. His face was emaciated, and the blue veins bulged on his arms.

I couldn't believe that just twelve days ago he had spoken to the very same person. The old man gestured towards the bed, and the young man cautiously sat on the edge, waiting for the elder to speak. Even the voice had changed beyond recognition since their last meeting. 

My son, you have had many days to reconsider your ambitious desires. Do you still wish to become a great merchant? 

Yes, sir, the old man nodded. So be it. I had hoped to spend more time with you, but as you can see, I am destined for another fate. Although I consider myself an excellent merchant, I cannot persuade death to leave my doorstep. It waits for me many days, like a hungry dog at the kitchen door. Like a dog, it knows that sooner or later, the door will be left unattended. 

He was interrupted by a cough, and their servant remained still while the old man gasped for air. Finally, he shook himself, coughed again, and smiled weakly. We have little time left, so...

Let's get down to business. First of all, take out from under the bed a small cedar chest. Kneeling, I pulled out the chest, which was bound with leather straps, and placed it on the bed at my feet. Many years ago, when my status was even lower than that of camel drivers, I had the misfortune of saving a traveler from the East from two bandits. He claimed that I saved his life and wished to reward me, although when I came to his aid, I did not think of any reward, since I had no family. He invited me to accompany him home, where he welcomed me as one of his own. Once, when I had already gotten used to my new life, he showed me this chest. Inside were ten parchment scrolls, each numbered. The first contained the secret of knowledge, while the others held the secrets and principles necessary for achieving great success in the art of trade. For the following year, I delved into the wisdom hidden in the scrolls, and thanks to them...

I managed to memorize all the secrets of knowledge from the first scroll word for word until they firmly became part of my life, turning into a habit. Eventually, I was handed a chest along with ten scrolls, a sealed envelope, and a pouch containing fifty golden coins. The letter was to be opened no earlier than when the traveler's home disappeared from sight. I said goodbye to him and his entire family and opened the letter, which directed me to the trade route leading to Palmyra. It instructed me to take the golden coins for myself, apply everything I had learned from the scrolls, and start a new life. I was also given the charge to share half of the acquired wealth with those who were less fortunate, but to keep the parchment scrolls in the strictest secrecy until I received a special sign indicating the successor. I don't understand, I said, shaking my head. I will explain. For many years, I continued to wait for this person.

Marked by a sign and in the process of waiting, I applied the knowledge gleaned from scrolls, accumulating a vast fortune. I had almost given up hope of meeting him until you returned from Bethlehem. I first suspected you were the chosen one when you appeared under the bright star that guided you from Bethlehem. In my heart, I tried to grasp the meaning of what was happening, but I did not dare to test the will of the gods. When you confessed that you had given away the cloak that meant so much to you, my heart whispered that the long search had come to an end. I had found the one destined to possess the casket. Strangely enough, as soon as I realized that the right person had been found, my life force began to slowly leave me. I stand on the brink of death, but the long wait is over, and I can leave this world with a peaceful soul. The voice of the old man is very weak, but he clenches his bony fists and leans toward you.

Listen carefully, my son, for I do not have the strength to repeat myself twice. Tears filled Fido's eyes as he moved closer to his master; their hands touched, and the great merchant struggled to breathe. Now, I pass this chest with its priceless contents to you, but first, you must agree to a number of conditions. Inside the chest lies a wallet containing one hundred golden talents. This amount will be enough for you to live on and to purchase a small batch of carpets to start your business. I could grant you a vast fortune, but that would be a disservice. It is far better if you become the greatest and wealthiest merchant in the world on your own. You see, I have not forgotten your goal. Without delay, set off for Damascus; there, limitless opportunities will open up for you to apply the wisdom of the scrolls. Only the scroll marked with the number will reveal a safe dwelling.

Read until you grasp the secret method through which you will become acquainted with the principles of successful trading described in the other scrolls. Once you have studied all the scrolls, you can begin selling the carpets you have purchased. If you combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience and continue to study the scrolls according to the instructions, your sales volumes will grow daily. My first condition is that you swear to follow the teachings outlined in the first scroll. Do you agree, sir? By applying the principles described in the scrolls, you will become fabulously wealthy. My second condition is that you must always give half of your earnings to those who are less fortunate than you. This condition must be adhered to strictly. Do you promise? Yes, sir. And now, the most important condition: you are forbidden to share the scrolls or the wisdom contained within them with anyone. One day, a person will appear, and you will receive a sign, just like a star, and your selfless act will be recognized.

I served as the sign I had been waiting for so long. When it happens, you will immediately recognize the sign given to you, even if the person embodying it does not suspect their chosen status. When your heart convinces you of the correctness of the choice made, you will pass on to him or her the chest along with its contents. After that, there will be no need to impose any conditions like those that were placed upon me or now upon you. In a letter I received a long time ago, it was said that the third owner of the scrolls could share their wisdom with the world if they wished. Do you promise to fulfill the third condition? I promise. He sighed with relief as if a heavy stone had fallen from his shoulders. He smiled weakly and took the face of the Hasidim in his bony hands. Take the chest and go. I will not see you again. May my love and wishes for success be with you, and may your Alyosha share a happy future with you. The spotlight did not shy away from the rain rolling down.

Он взял ларец и вышел из спальни. Остановившись на пороге, он поставил ларец на пол и обернулся к хозяину. Неудача не сломит меня, если мое стремление к успеху сильно, - сказал он. Старик слабо улыбнулся, кивнул и махнул на прощание рукой. 

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Самый великий торговец в мире. Ог Мандино. [Аудиокнига]

Самый великий торговец в мире. Ог Мандино. [Аудиокнига]

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