When at last the merchant returned from the distant city where he had been to collect money he was delighted to find his house and his three daughters safe.
"I see that no harm befell you in my absence," he said as he embraced them fondly. "All my worries about you were foolish."
The eldest daughter blushed and hung her head. "Great danger threatened us while you were away," she said. "Thanks to our youngest sister, we are safe."
"Our little sister was wiser than we were," said the middle daughter.
When the merchant had heard the whole story, he said: "After this we must all give ear to the wisdom of this little maid. She is wise beyond her years."
MANOEL LITTLEBEAN
The Story of How He Helped His Father
Long ago there lived a man and his wife who had no children.
"I wish I had a little boy," said the man.