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THE TREES CHOOSING A KING

HE Trees once met in council to decide which one of them was best fitted to reign over the others. Some proposed the Date, because it was tall and its fruit was sweet. The Vine objected, saying: "It is I, with my wine, that give joy to the world, and for that reason I deserve to be King." In like manner each Tree was found to consider itself superior to the rest, and unwilling to accept any other for King. The Date, upon reflecting, understood that the reason why none of the Trees would agree to another reigning was because none was willing to share the honours with the rest. Accordingly, he said: "You admit that I have a better claim to be King than any of the rest of you?" They all admitted this, saying: "Yes, for you are tall, and your fruit is sweet. You lack only two things: you do not give your fruit at the same season that we give ours; and your wood is not good for building. Besides, you are so tall that there are many who cannot enjoy your fruit." The Date answered: "If you choose me for your King I will make each and all of you Princes; and in the fullness of time I will reign over your children and your children's children." Hearing this promise, the Trees all hailed the Date as their King, and he forthwith proclaimed the order of the Kingdom, appointing each Tree to its separate post of honour: The Vine, Chief Toastmaster; the Fig, Prime Minister; the Thorn, Chief Executioner; the Pomegranate, Court Physician; and so to each and every Tree and Plant its special post and task.

This fable teaches that no one can reign without the help of the humble, nor rise in the world unless aided by those below him. Also favours received give hope of greater favours to come.

(Fables de Mkhithar Goch, Journal Asiatique, Ser. 9, Vol. 19.)