Once upon a time there was a rich merchant who had four wives. He loved the fourth wife the most and adorned her with rich robes and treated her to delicacies. He took great care of her and gave her nothing but the best.He also loved the third wife very much. He was very proud of her and always wanted to show her off to his friends. However, the merchant is always in great fear that she might run away with some other man.He also, loved his second wife. She is a very considerate person, always patient and in fact is the merchant’s confidante.

Whenever the merchant faced some problems,

he always turned to his second wife and she would always help him out

and tide him through difficult times.

Now, the merchant’s first wife is a very loyal partner and has made great contributions in maintaining

his wealth and business as well as taking care of the household.

However, the merchant did not love the first wife and although she loved

him deeply, he hardly took notice of her.

One day, the merchant fell ill. Before long, he knew that he was going to die soon. He thought of his luxurious life and told himself, “Now I have four wives with me. But when I die, I’ll be alone. How lonely I’ll be!” Thus, he asked the fourth wife, “I loved you most, endowed you with the finest clothing and showered great care over you. Now that I’m dying, will you follow me and keep me company?”

“No way!” replied the fourth wife and she walked away without another word.

The answer cut like a sharp knife right into the merchant’s heart.

He couldn’t believe himself that such a reply would be forthcoming at such a critical moment of his life.

Yet, a ray of hope still remained.