Now, it's time to go.
Mr. Kleinman says, "This was a delightful Shabbos. Thank
you so much. What can I do to repay you?"
"Attend to this," says Putterman, handing over a bit of paper
where it was written:
"You're charging me?" asked the incredulous Mr. Kleinman.
"Certainly."
"But you invited me! I was your Shabbos guest! I've
never heard of such a thing! This is outrageous!"
"Nevertheless, if you could just settle up...."
"I will do no such thing!"
"Alright," sighed Mr. Putterman. "Let's not argue.
Let's take this case to the rabbi and let him decide."
"That suits me fine," said Kleinman and off they went to the
local rabbi.
In the Rabbi's study Kleinman laid out his case. The rabbi
listened and stroked his beard. When Kleinman finished he asked Putterman,
"Do you have anything to add?"
"No," said Putterman, "It happened exactly as Mr. Kleinman described."
"In that case," said the rabbi, "based on numerous Talmudic precedents
and on similar cases found in the response, it is my decision that Mr.
Kleinman should pay Mr. Putterman."
Kleinman was dumbfounded. Still a rabbi had heard, a rabbi had
considered and a rabbi had reached a decision. The two men thanked
the rabbi and left.
Outside, Mr. Kleinman began counting out his money.
"What are you doing?" asked Putterman.
"I'm going to pay you."
"Don't be meshugah. You were my guest. I was honored
to have you spend Shabbos with me. I hope you'll come again."
"But you gave me a bill, we had a dispute, a decision was rendered."
"Oh, that!" said Putterman. "I just wanted you to see what
kind of schmuck we have for a rabbi."