The Last Rap
Tangen had studied with Senshai since childhood. When he turned 20, he wanted to leave his teacher and visit others for comparative study, but Senshai would not permit this. Every time Tangen suggested it, Senshai would give him a rap on the head.
Finally Tangen asked an elder brother to coax permission from Senshai. This the brother did and then reported to Tangen: "It is arranged. I have fixed it for you to start on your pilgrimage at once."
Tangen went to Senshai to thank him for his permission. The master answered by giving him another rap.
When Tangen related this to his elder brother the other said: "What is the matter? Senshai has no business giving permission and then changing his mind. I will tell him so." And off he went to see the teacher.
"I did not cancel my permission," said Senshai. "I just wished to give him one last smack over the head, for when he returns he will be enlightened and I will not be able to reprimand him again."