Page:Jewish Fairy Book (Gerald Friedlander).djvu/54

36 "Where is the little ant that gave the command to all the other ants saying: 'Take cover' lest ye be crushed by my army?" The little black ant came a few inches forward and said,— "I am the one that gave this command."

"Who art thou?"

"I am the queen of the ants."

"What is thy name?"

"Machashamah."

"Now tell me, little queen, why didst thou give thy command to the other ants?"

"I was afraid that the ants might venture to gaze at thy magic carpet and thereby they would interrupt our service of praise with which we glorify God all day long. If we cease to praise our Creator we deserve to die, for then we are of no use in the world."

"Is it not true that ants also work?"

"It is true, but our work is also prayer. Idleness leads to pride and vanity, whereas toil makes one humble and meek. Dost thou not think likewise, wise King?"

"Never mind what I think, but let me rather ask thee a simple question."

"Dost thou not know, King Solomon, that it is not seemly for the one who asks a question to be on high, whilst the one who has to reply is down below?"

"What dost thou wish me to do, Machashamah?"