מכתב: T-S 8J28.7

Translated by Amir Ashur and Benjamin M. Outhwaite.

What I have to inform my lord is that I have been defeated in educating this young man, Abū Manṣūr. Perhaps you might be in a position to help me with this. For whenever I beat him, I overdo the beating, and when I do so, it happens that the schoolmistress suddenly appears and saves him, after she deals him four or five blows of her own. Were it not for his illness, I might have beaten him to death, because he has barely enough to cover his nakedness, and he is in a state of poverty. He lacks understanding and isn’t quiet. From the moment he arrives, he doesn’t stop fighting and throwing insults—he and his sister—especially if I am away from the house. So perhaps you could threaten him with a little bit of beating and impress on him some understanding, good manners, and calmness. And whatever you deem necessary, don’t do anything that might disturb your mother and your father. Kissing your hands, wishing you well-being, and asking after you. Greetings.

Verso

A good and blessed morning! I have to inform you, my lord, that I have not been successful in educating this boy, Abū Manṣūr. Perhaps you can help me in this. Whenever I spank him, I do so excessively; but as soon as I begin, the mistress rushes along and, after having smacked him four or five times, releases him. Had it not been for his illness, I would have killed him with beating, although as a poorly clothed newcomer, he is entitled to some consideration. He is impervious to argument and not at all quiet. As soon as he comes in, he starts fighting with his sister and cursing her incessantly, especially if I am not present. Perhaps you could threaten him with a little spanking and tell him to be reasonable, well-behaved and quiet. Whatever you decide, don't do anything which might anger your mother and father. 

I kiss your hands and greet you and inquire about your well-being. And peace.