He wished all his people to be happy.

In order that justice might be done to every one, he ordered a great
bell to be hung in a tower.

Tied to the bell was a strong rope, so long that it reached nearly to
the ground.

"I have placed the bell in the center of my city," said the king, "so
that it will be near all the people. The rope I have made long, so that
even a little child can reach it."

Then the king gave out this order:

"If there be any one among my people who feels that he has not been
justly treated, let him ring this bell.

Then, whether he be old or young, rich or poor, his story shall be
heard."

The bell of justice had hung in its place for many years.

Many times it had been rung by the poor and needy, and justice had been
done.

At length the old rope became worn with use and age.

When it was taken down, another rope, long enough and strong enough,
could not be found. So the king had to send away for one.