The Bronze Ring (11)

The Bronze Ring (11)

Presently he arrived at a great town and established himself in a wonderful palace.

After several days he met his rival, the minister's son, who had spent all his money and was reduced to the disagreeable employment of carrier of dust and rubbish.

The gardener's son said to him :
" What is your name, what is your family, and from what country do you come ? "

" I am the son of the prime minister of a great nation, and yet see what a degrading occupation I am reduced to. "

" Listen to me ; though I don't know anything more about you, I am willing to help you. I will give you a ship to take you back to your own country upon one condition. "

" whatever it may be, I accept it willingly. "

" Follow me to my palace. "

The minister's son followed the rich stranger, whom he had not recognized.

When they reached the palace the gardener's son made a sign to his slaves, who completely undresses the new-comer.

" Make this ring red hot, " commanded the master, " and mark the man with it upon his back. "

The slaves obeyed him.

(11/22)