Page:The queen's museum, and other fanciful tales.djvu/50

 Never before was there such a museum. With all my power I strove to educate my people up to an appreciation of button-holes; but, with the exception of a few tailors and seamstresses, nobody took the slightest interest in what I had provided for their benefit. I am glad that my people are happy, but I cannot restrain a sigh for the failure of my efforts.'

'The longer your Majesty lives,' said the Stranger, 'the better you will understand that we cannot make other people like a thing simply because we like it ourselves.' 'Stranger,' said the Queen, gazing upon him with admiration, 'are you a king in disguise?'

'I am,' he replied.

'I thought I perceived it,' said the Queen, 'and I wish to add that I believe you are far better able to govern this kingdom than I am. If you choose I will resign it to you.'