THE BELL OF ATRI
Even the dumb animals deserve justice from those whom they have served.
There once lived a king in Atri, Italy, who wanted all his people to be happy. In order to be happy he knew that every one should be kind to those dependent upon him and above all things, be just.
In order that justice be done to every one, he had a large bell hung in the market place. It was to be known as the bell of Justice. Many people came to see it hung. When the men finished their work, the king came before the people and said:
“I have placed this bell in the center of my city so that every one will be near it. I have put a long rope on it. Even a child can reach it. If any one of you feels that you have been unjustly treated, I want you to ring the bell. Whether you be old or young, rich or poor, your story shall be heard, and justice shall be done you.”
The bell hung many years and was rung many times. Every time the bell rang the king came and heard what the person had to say and then did justice to his cause. At last the rope wore off and became short.
“If a child should need to ring, it could not reach the bell. We must get another rope,” said the king. He had to send across the mountains to get one for there was none in Atri.