Falsehood and Wickedness
After good old father Noah had completed the building of the ark, the animals were gathered together near it by the angels appointed over them. They came in pairs, and Noah stood at the door of the ark to see that each one entered with its mate. As soon as the waters of the flood rose upon the surface of the earth, the children of men hid themselves in their homes for safety. All traffic and business ceased, for the angel of death was abroad. This state of affairs caused Falsehood to realize that henceforth there was no chance of her plying her trade. Was it not quite evident that the ever-increasing waters of the flood would soon sweep away the wicked folk [[20]]who had rebelled against their Heavenly Creator? Where should Falsehood betake herself for safety?
Forthwith she hastened to the ark, but its door was shut. What was to be done?
Falsehood knocked at the door with trembling hand. Noah opened the window of the ark, and put out his head to see who was knocking. It was a strange creature before his door. Noah had never seen her before, because he was a righteous man who never told lies.
“What dost thou want?” he cried.
“Let me come in, please,” she replied.
“Gladly,” cried Noah, “would I admit thee if thy mate were with thee, for only pairs are admitted here.”
In grief and disappointment Falsehood went away. She had not gone a few yards before she met her old friend Wickedness, who was now out of employment.