The Wise King And The Bee
: Nature Myths And Stories For Little ChildrenLong ago there lived in the East the greatest king in the world.
It was believed that no one could ask him a question which he could not
answer.
Wise men came from far and near, but they were never able to puzzle King
Solomon.
He knew all the trees and plants.
He understood the beasts, fowls and creeping things almost as well as he
did people.
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The fame of his knowledge spread into all lands. In the south, the great
Queen of Sheba heard of the wonderful wisdom of Solomon and said, "I
shall test his power for myself."
She picked some clover blossoms from the field and bade a great artist
make for her, in wax, flowers, buds and leaves exactly like them.
She was much pleased when they were finished, for she herself could see
no difference in the two bunches.
She carried them to the king and said, "Choose, Oh wise king, which are
the real flowers?"
At first King Solomon was puzzled, but soon he saw a bee buzzing at the
window.
"Ah," said he, "here is one come to help me in my choice. Throw open the
window for my friend."
Then the Queen of Sheba bowed her head and said:
"You are indeed a wise king, but I begin to understand your wisdom. I
thank you for this lesson."
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