When they were seated at the table the servants of the shah stood by
to serve the meal. They brought in what seemed to be fruits, nuts,
cakes, and other delicacies; but when Alexander would eat he found
that everything was made of gold.

"What!" said he, "do you eat gold in this country?"

"We ourselves eat only common food," answered the shah. "But we have
heard that it was the desire for gold which caused you to leave your
own country; and so, we wish to satisfy your appetite."

"It was not for gold that I came here," said Alexander. "I came to
learn the customs of your people."

"Very well, then," said the shah, "stay with me a little while and
observe what you can."

While the shah and the king were talking, two countrymen came in. "My
lord," said one, "we have had a disagreement, and wish you to settle
the matter."

"Tell me about it," said the shah.

"Well, it is this way," answered the man: "I bought a piece of ground
from this neighbor of mine, and paid him a fair price for it.
Yesterday, when I was digging in it, I found a box full of gold and
jewels. This treasure does not belong to me, for I bought only the
ground; but when I offered it to my neighbor he refused it."