• The Prouds 58

Chapter Eight

A merchant asked to meet King Matthew, who used to
meet people all the time and listen to their complaints,
requests, and sometimes praise. The king agreed to meet
the merchant. He came in and stood before the king who sat
in his chair.
He bowed to the king, and then stood up.
“Greetings, My Lord.”
“Welcome,” replied the king.
“I am your loyal servant Baldwin, My Lord,” said
the merchant. “I am a merchant in your kingdom. I started
trading when I was still young. I have been visiting several
distant lands, and I always collect thoroughbred horses
from all those lands.”
He smiled and added, “I have learned of your
generosity, My Lord, as you reduced taxes and made
people happy, which was just what we expected from a
noble man of such descent. I want to give you a modest
gift, My Lord. Please, consider it a gift from your loyal
people.”
The king looked coldly at him. “But it is I who
gives gifts to people and not the other way around.”
The merchant begged, “Please, My Lord, accept my
gift and do not turn me down. You have given your people
so many gifts, and this is only a fraction of what you