Once upon a time there was a good king who ruled wisely and well over his people, who loved him very much. This king had four beautiful daughters who were all well respected by the people. One day he called them together and told them, "I am going to a far-off monastery to spend time in prayer with God. Therefore, I am leaving you in charge of the kingdom." While all the girls, one after the other, told their father not to leave, he insisted that it was necessary. Before he left on his journey, however, he gave each one a small gift, one single grain of rice. Then, after hugging and kissing his daughters, he set off on his journey.

Each of the daughters used the gift in different ways. The eldest thought the gift was special and wanted to display it. She went to her room, tied a long, gol…