with something in his hand and says, “This is from my father,” “This is from my mother,” and the like, you are entitled to accept it—even though the child himself has no right to dispose of his own property. If he comes as a messenger and says, “This is from my father,” bringing you, for example, dates, a melon, a garment, or anything else, then take it and do not object, saying, “He is only a child; perhaps he stole it,” and so on. Act on what is outwardly apparent.

Fifth: Consideration for one’s mother and family. When a person intends to run an errand and fears he may be delayed, he should tell them, provided that doing so will not jeopardize the errand. In other words, when you leave your household you ought to say, “I am going to such-and-such a place,” so that they are reassured and not left worrying. One never knows: he might head to that place and suffer an accident, fall ill, or the like, and if no one knows where he went his family will be left in confusion. Therefore, if you plan to go somewhere out of the ordinary, inform them of your destination. As for routine outings—such as going to the mosque and the like—there is no problem. For instance, if you intend to travel to your hometown, say, “Today I am going to such-and-such a place,” or if you wish to go on an excursion, let them know so that their hearts may be at ease.

Sixth: It is not permissible for a person to