- Laith Taher 39
“What did you say, My Lord?” Albert asked.
The king insisted, “I want to abolish the taxes
imposed on my population.”
Still amazed, the three men looked at one another.
Albert said, “That is impossible, My Lord.”
Willard said, “My Lord, since the time of your
father King Kendrick, we have never invaded anyone.
Hence, we have no resources but these taxes. People farm,
manufacture, sell, and buy, and we collect taxes in return
for protecting their security, lives, and stability.”
“But, people are poor and their lives are miserable,”
Mathew insisted. “As a king, my first priority should be
ensuring their welfare and happiness.”
Albert said, “If we abolish taxes, My Lord, we will
not be able to pay soldiers and state employees. The
kingdom will collapse and become vulnerable in the eyes
of our enemies.”
“But—” said the king as Irwin interrupted him with
his harsh, stubborn, and decisive voice, “We shall not
abolish taxes... this is out of the question.”
The king looked into Irwin’s scary grey eyes and
fear silenced him. He felt very angry, but could not reply.
“Let us go back to our discussion,” said Albert and
the sound of the waterfall resumed as the king watched in
silence.
Their words were like catapult rocks bringing down
the walls of a castle.