“A story?” whispered the Talking Chair.
“Yes, if you please,” replied Ray, and he sat very still while the Talking Chair began:—
Once upon a time in a distant land there lived two brothers whose names were Mansur and Elrick. When they reached a certain age they wanted to travel and see the world, so they went to their father, who was the king, and asked him if they could go.
“No doubt you would like to reach King Fortune’s country,” said their father.
“That we would, Sire,” replied Mansur; “will you please tell us how to get there?”
“Before I do that,” returned the king, “let me tell you that many have started for King Fortune’s country who have never reached it.”
“And why?” questioned the brothers.
“Because the road is long and beset with dangers.”
“We are not afraid to try it,” said Mansur, bravely.
“Then, my boys, take the road straight ahead, keep going forward, and remember these words: Be brave, honest, and never give up.”