Page:Shen of the Sea.pdf/210

 water rose, the island grew smaller—and the number of ants grew smaller, many being swept away to their death. Han Hsin raised a bridge from island to mainland. The ants quickly discovered his bridge and crossed to safety. "It is a sign," said the old astrologer, "Chi li (a good omen). He has befriended the ants. The ants will remember. Some day they will do him an equal service—helping him to become great."

Han Hsin discovered in the King's paved road a hatchet of better than fair metal. None of the villagers could prove ownership. Little Han was permitted to keep his treasure. Quite soon a spirited chopping was heard—steel ringing upon stone. A foolish villager said: "Look. Han Hsin uses his fine hatchet to chop the old millstone—thus demonstrating his great genius. Ho. Ho. Ho. He uses valuable edged steel to chip stone."

The old astrologer said, "Hush, Sha Tzu (Imbecile), come with me, and behold." A wornout millstone lay at the edge of the road. Through the hole in its center grew