THE KNAPSACK
HERE was once a soldier who had served his country faithfully for eight years, and staked his life many times both on land and water, both in war and in peace. At the end of the eight years he was to receive wages for his faithful service. But the war had caused the king so much expense that at the time when the soldier asked for his pay there remained only a few copper pennies in the treasury.
"Now, my friend," said the king—mark, he called the soldier his friend!—"you see how it is. There is nothing in the treasury."
"There is a little left, your majesty," answered the soldier, "give me three pennies, that is enough!"
"Take them," returned the king; "then I have five left, and those I will save. We may need them some day."
"Yes, indeed," observed the soldier, "and good-bye to your majesty."
"Good-bye, and take good care of yourself," cried the king; "if I can ever do anything for you, let me know of it!"
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