Honesty Is The Best Policy

Once, there was a very poor boy named James. He lived with his family in a small town. Next to his town, was a kingdom ruled by a very wealthy Emperor. They had many sleepless nights to earn their living. His parents very worked hard to raise him. Despite not being rich, he was a very good and obedient child and always spoke the truth. His parents had always taught him that “Honesty is the best policy!”

One day, the King visited James' small town and all the villagers came out to greet the King. The King was giving away cookies and candy. He and the villagers gathered near the King’s carriage to try to get some of the gifts from the King. The King came to James and gave him a box full of cookies and candy. He was so excited that he immediately rushed home to share the candy with his family. When he returned home, he noticed that there was a beautiful ring among all the candy.

He thought to himself that this ring could make him rich and he and his family no longer had to worry about having enough food to eat. Despite this, he couldn't be dishonest with himself and after thinking about what to do all day, he decided to return the ring to the King.

James went to the palace and returned to the King’s ring. The King was very happy and thankful to him and said to him, “Son, this is my favorite ring! You are an honest and diligent boy and I want to reward you with lots and lots of gold coins and would like to invite you and your family members to our royal dinner next week. I would personally like to thank you and your parents." When he returned home again, he told his parents about the invitation to the palace. His parents were very proud of him and agreed to go to the royal dinner. 

The King applauded him for his honesty and told all the other children to aspire to be like James and never lie or steal from anyone whether you are poor or rich and always be true to yourself and others.