Why the Serbian People are Poor
The nations of the world met together one day on the middle of the earth to divide between themselves the good things in life. First they deliberated upon the methods of procedure. Some recommended a lottery, but the Christians, well knowing that they, as the cleverest, would be able to obtain the most desirable gifts, and not wishing to be at the mercy of fortune, suggested (and the idea was instantly adopted by all) that each should express a wish for some good thing and it would be granted to him. The men of Italy were allowed to express their wish first, and they desired Wisdom. The Britons said: “We will take the sea.” The Turks: “And we will take fields.” The Russians: “We will take the forests and mines.” The French: “And we will have money and war.” “And what about you Serbians?” asked the nations, “What do you wish for?” “Wait till we make up our mind!” answered the Serbians; and they have not yet agreed upon their reply.