The aged philosopher was seated before a group of his disciples. Renowned for his ability at telling stories that so clearly illustrated the most obscure and technical ideas, a question was put to the old man:
"How do you manage," one disciple asked, "to find a story to illustrate every point?"
"Let me explain," said the philosopher, "with a story. Once a certain landholder was riding through a small village, when he saw that in a certain grove of trees several dozen targets were painted, each with an arrow exactly in the center. Having never seen such skill, he at once stopped and ordered a search for the marksman, for he badly needed that kind of talent in his service.
"A humble tailor, shaking with fear, was brought before him.
The landholder stared, then asked,
" 'Was that your shooting?'
" 'Yes,' said the tailor, 'but I meant no harm.'
" 'You are an expert marksman then?'
" 'No, it was the first time I ever took up the bow.'
" 'How does it happen that you hit the target every time?'
" 'I didn't, sir. I simply shot the arrows and painted targets around each one where it rested.'
"And so," concluded the philosopher, "I have stories ready. When I think of another, I wait until I see an occasion where I can apply it ..."