The Ultimate Investment

These 5 small principals bring wealth, fulfillment and happiness. It’s not about money, but that comes too.

They’re the result of 20 years’ research, experience and consulting with over 250 businesses.

Written in parable form, it follows a young man as he learns the “Secrets of Success” from a unique mentor. In the process he gets much more than he bargained for.

Below is the entire ebook for free!

These ’secrets’ will arm you with the tools you need to find success in any area you choose.

Enjoy . . .

5 Small Things; Principals of Prosperity

By
Robert J. Adams

Copyright 2001 by Buckaroo Press, all rights reserved. No part if this book may be reproduced in any form or by electronic or mechanical means including information storage and retrieval systems without permission in writing from the publisher. Published by Buckaroo Press, P.O. Box 338, St. George, Utah 84771

Chapter 1

Joshua plodded up the last steps to the palace entrance. It was the home of the great Merchant Prince Jairus, the most successful person in all Galatia. He was amazed at its magnificence. He’d walked in from the street, and to his surprise, the gate had been open. There was no one on guard. It looked as if the gate was rarely attended. It didn’t even have a locking mechanism. That was strange.

He’d wandered up the meandering path to the doorway, overhung with exotic plants and covering shrubbery. Small statuettes and fountains sat away in the grounds. He realized there was much more he couldn’t see, hidden by the huge house and shrubs. The palace sat enclosed by a high wall that took in a full city block. People he’d met in the city had cheerfully given him directions. He’d thought someone as rich as the Merchant Prince surely would bring animosity and envy from the poorer people of the city, after all, that was the way of it where he was from. Yet, he didn’t feel that from the people he’d spoken too.

Of course, he wasn’t in any frame of mind now to judge. He was excited, apprehensive, unsure. His long journey was finished. He’d traveled here to see the Merchant Prince. Now he was finally standing at his door.

He knocked on the huge, intricately carved doors, his knuckles went numb from pounding on the solid surface. No one answered for a time, so he pounded again, this time harder, making sure his presence would be known. While he waited, he turned and looked back down the path. His mind drifted back over the long journey traveling this long way to persuade the Merchant Prince to teach him his secrets of success.

Now that he was here, seeing the massive wealth the man possessed, just standing in his entryway, he began to feel small.

Why did I ever think I could do this? I’m but a boy, standing out here with nothing to offer. I must look foolish.

He’d first heard of the Merchant Prince in the marketplace of his home city. Amazing tales were told of his wondrous wealth and great works. Anyone who knew of him spoke with reverence and awe. Joshua had been intrigued. Then he happened to overhear a discussion between two traveling merchants. They were talking of the Merchant Prince while waiting to meet with Joshua’s employer, a small retail merchant in the city. This really had gotten him thinking.

“I tell you Farhad,” one of the merchants had begun. “I wouldn’t have believed it if I hadn’t witnessed it myself. The Merchant Prince actually brought a beggar in off the street, fed him, gave him a bed for the night, and sent him out the next morning for employment at one of his shops. He sent with him a note to his man there — and gave the beggar a month’s wages in advance!”

“Surely this isn’t true,” replied his companion. “He’ll lose all his wealth. Every beggar in the city will be at his doorstep. The man’s riches must be driving him crazy, as to throw it away like that. Everyone knows beggars are no more than common thieves anyway. They bring poverty upon themselves. They’re sinful or just plain lazy. It is God’s punishment.”

“Yes . . . ” answered the first merchant, nodding agreement. “Yet, it happens all the time. I hear the Merchant Prince has some power he uses to convert these men into his best bondsmen. One of his most able lieutenants, I know for myself, was once a homeless man he took in not five years ago.”

“That can’t be!” said the second merchant. “I work hard to find good bondsmen. Even then I have to watch them like a hawk or they steal me blind. The Merchant Prince must possess some dark power. I can’t imagine any man being as successful as he without something going on — especially after hearing of his crazy ideas.”

“That isn’t the half of it,” the first merchant continued, shaking his head. “I know for a fact, each year the Merchant Prince chooses one, among all the common folk, whom he teaches his secrets.”

The second merchant’s mouth dropped open. The first continued to speak. “Many a man, after learning these secrets, has grown very prosperous. There must be something to them, or they wouldn’t work as well as they have.”

“I don’t understand how,” the second merchant responded. “I mean, what does he know that we don’t?”

Joshua, who’d been listening discreetly at a distance, felt a sudden flash of inspiration. Although quite young, he’d thought much about how to achieve success for himself. It wasn’t that he needed to be rich or anything. But he felt he was headed nowhere now. He wanted that to change, to grow. To become . . . Well . . . Better!

His desire had been so strong. He’d often lain awake at night wondering how he could make it all come to pass. Now, in listening to these merchants talk, the seeds of an idea began to grow.

“Forgive my interruption kind sirs,” Joshua began. He was grateful now for the flowery words his master always used. It helped him form just the right words. “I could not help but overhear your talk of the Merchant Prince. Please tell me, in what city does the Merchant Prince live?”

“What is it to you?” replied the second merchant, his dark eyes scowling.

Barely containing his excitement, Joshua answered, “I want to go and ask of the Merchant Prince to teach me his secrets.”

Both men burst out laughing. “You’re nothing but an apprentice shopkeeper. What would the Merchant Prince have to do with the likes of you?” the first merchant said through his laughter.

Then the second merchant turned on him. “Yes, you’re nothing but a shopkeeper’s apprentice whom we sent with a message to your master some time ago. Have you told him we’re here, or have you been sitting around eavesdropping like some ill-mannered waif?”

Joshua gathered himself up to make an angry reply when his master came walking into the front of the shop.

“I’m sorry to have kept you waiting, my friends. Please excuse my apprentice. He’s still young and full of hopes.” The shopkeeper abruptly motioned for Joshua to get back to work.

“Come,” the shopkeeper said, indicating a small table and chairs in a corner of his shop. “Let’s have a look at what you’ve brought.”

With business at hand, Joshua was quickly forgotten and left to finish his work –”as a shopkeeper’s apprentice,” he mumbled sourly to himself.

But it didn’t stop there. Joshua had felt an impulsive draw to learn more. Over the next few days, he’d spent all his spare time in the marketplace learning all he could of the Merchant Prince Jairus. The more he learned, the more he wanted to see him. Finally the desire became so intense he couldn’t hold back. He had to see the Merchant Prince!

In the marketplace he sold his meager possessions to raise enough money for the journey; the words of his former master still echoing in his mind, . . .”He’s still young and full of hopes.” Joshua got angry even thinking about it.

“I am full of hopes!” Joshua mumbled to himself. “Is that such a crime?” He couldn’t explain it. He just knew if he could meet the Merchant Prince and ask, he’d agree to teach him his secrets.

For as long as he could remember, Joshua had wondered what made some successful, while others barely survived from day to day. Why were some efforts rewarded much more than others? It had troubled him. Maybe now, he’d learn the answers.

In spite of much ridicule by friends and against the vehement protests of his former master, he’d set out on the long journey. He bought passage on a caravan by working as a beast handler. The work had been hard and dirty, but enabled him to travel and still have a little money on which to survive once he arrived.

Despite the hard work, the journey had been filled with anticipation of his upcoming audience with the Merchant Prince. He was often so deep in thought he didn’t even realize whole days had passed without noticing how hard he had worked or how far the caravan had traveled.

“At last,” Joshua said to himself as he stood at the Merchant Prince’s doorstep, “I’m going to learn the Merchant Prince’s secrets, and achieve all I ever wanted.”

The large doors opened with a whooshing sound, telling of their weight and cost. Behind the opening doors, Joshua was greeted by a distinguished and primly dressed elderly servant. Upon catching sight of Joshua, he raised his eyebrows in surprise.

Joshua noticed this, and suddenly realized, in his eagerness to meet the Merchant Prince, he’d forgotten how dirty the long journey through the desert, handling the beasts of the caravan had made him.

“What may I do for you?” the servant inquired in a polite and polished voice.

Joshua was now extremely self conscious. Yet he was determined, and proceeded with the speech he had practiced every day of his long journey.

“I have come to seek audience with the Merchant Prince,” he began. “I’ve heard each year he chooses one from among the common people with whom he shares his secrets. After many days travel, I have come to speak with him and convince him I’m worthy of this great privilege.”

The servant was surprised again by the bluntness of Joshua’s request, yet with the skill of many years’ service he quickly regained his composure and looked at him intently. Joshua grew more nervous, waiting, and wished he’d have cooled his enthusiasm just long enough to think about making himself presentable. What a sight he must appear to this representative of the man he needed so much to meet.

Still, he didn’t give up hope. He’d traveled far, and his feeling persisted. If he could just talk with the Merchant Prince, he would be granted his desire.

After what seemed like an eternity, but in reality only a few seconds, the servant spoke.

“Yours is not an unusual request, but the Merchant Prince himself chooses whom he will teach. I will convey your message. If he would like to speak with you, he will grant an audience. Come back tomorrow at this same time and I will give you his answer.”

The doors closed before Joshua could say anything. He hadn’t thought it would happen so quickly, being turned away without an audience. It was stupid to think he would be invited in with open arms as soon as his request was made — especially the way he looked.

“At least,” he consoled himself, “I’ve not been told no.” Tomorrow, he would return. This time he would be better prepared.

Chapter 2

Right on time, Joshua again presented himself at the palace entrance. He was much better prepared. Much of the money he’d saved over the long journey went to purchase new clothing and to get cleaned up. Writing material and parchment was cheap enough, and he’d penned a message to the Merchant Prince, just in case his audience wasn’t granted.

After knocking, the door opened to reveal the same servant he had spoken with the day before. Upon seeing the change in Joshua, the servant was taken aback.

Before the servant could speak, Joshua began.

“I have returned as you requested. I apologize for my appearance during my last visit. In my excitement to meet with the Merchant Prince, I did not think upon my appearance and the great disrespect it must have showed. I appreciate the time you have afforded me to better prepare.”

Joshua had lain awake most of the night finding the right words to say. When Joshua finally spoke, they came out nervous and fast, but the servant was clearly impressed at the change a day had made.

“My master has instructed me to inform you that since you have made such a long journey to visit with him, you are invited to share in some of his humble hospitality this evening. He has asked that you join he and his family for the evening meal, and stay the night at the palace while the Merchant Prince considers your request. You may gather your belongings and return here shortly before the dinner hour, at which time I will help you get settled.”

Joshua was so excited he could barely stammer out a reply.

“My most gracious thanks to your master — and you kind sir!” Joshua was almost bursting with the good fortune that seemed to be smiling on him.
“And please, I pray, give him also this message. It is a letter of introduction and an explanation of my request.”

Bowing repeatedly in his exuberance, Joshua backed away from the entryway. “Once again, my thanks to you and your master. I will return at the appointed time.” With that, Joshua turned and strode down the pathway to the palace gate. It seemed as if he were walking on air.

He remembered how nervous he had been. Now he walked with a purposeful stride; a stride telling of happiness and confidence. Now he had a chance!

Chapter 3

Joshua glanced at the sun. There was still half a day before he needed to return to the palace. He had just reached the huge marketplace of the city. People were thronging about, hawking their wares to anyone who came close enough to be within earshot. Joshua wandered around, amazed at the sight.

The marketplace back home was an empty street compared to this. Such an assortment of fine merchandise and goods he had never seen. He meandered from booth to booth, drinking in the experience.

Merchants would often run up and push merchandise into his hands or hold clothing up to his body for him to see how fine it looked. After a short time, an idea sprang into Joshua’s mind. He wanted desperately to make a good impression on the Merchant Prince and his family. It would help in being found worthy to be taught the secrets. Coming this far, he didn’t want to fail now.

With what money he had left (which wasn’t much), he would buy a gift. It might not be much to the Merchant Prince or his family, considering their great wealth, but surely it would make some difference — especially if he could find just the right gift.

With renewed excitement, Joshua began looking earnestly. After a time of fruitless searching, he grew discouraged. There were many fine things he would have liked to purchase, but each was too expensive, even for the best of bargainers ““ which he wasn’t.

Just when Joshua was about to give up, he came upon a small booth off in a side street. It had the perfect gift. A small vase beautifully sculpted and painted. What’s more, it was from his hometown. He recognized the mark from one of the finest craftsmen in his country. He eagerly counted his money yet again. Yes. Just enough if he could bargain closely.

Hastily, Joshua tried to get the merchant’s attention, praying that none of the other customers would purchase the vase before he could make a bargain.

He began to picture in his mind just how he would present it. Then something caught his attention.

Over against a building, off in a hidden part of the street, a small girl, not more than ten or twelve years of age, sat. A ragged display of frail flowers spread close around.

Joshua’s heart went out to her. It was plain that selling flowers was a desperate means of support. And she wasn’t having much success. People passed by as she held out a small handful of flowers, hoping someone stop.

Joshua could see she hadn’t had much to eat. She was thin, and her clothing, although it appeared she had tried to keep it clean, was worn.

Joshua hesitated. The merchant was becoming nervous. Others were waiting impatiently for his attention. Joshua looked back at the vase, but couldn’t erase the sight of the girl.

He’d never been rich by any stretch of imagination, yet compared to the girl, he felt blessed.

Joshua turned from the booth. He wandered over to the girl. She looked up with bright blue eyes. The color mesmerized him. Pulling out his money Joshua gave it to her.

The little girl was overwhelmed at making such a sale. She pulled Joshua down close and kissed him on the cheek, tears filled her eyes. She gathered all the flowers close. “This is enough, sir. You’ve purchased them all.” With that she stood, hugging him again, and sped off down the street.

Joshua, by all counts thought he should feel downtrodden. Now he would not be able to bring a gift to the Merchant Prince’s house. He had the flowers, but they were small and wilted, hardly a suitable gift for someone surrounded by incredible finery. It would seem an insult.

Joshua, though, was not downtrodden. Instead, he had a great swelling deep in his heart telling him he had done the right thing. It was a feeling money could never purchase.

Joshua gathered the flowers and began to wander down the street, occasionally giving away some to an older woman he passed, enjoying the surprise and delight it caused. He no longer worried about a gift for the Merchant Prince.

There would be another way to impress the Merchant Prince. For now, he still had time to see the amazing sights of the city, and cherish the warm feeling still burning in his heart.

Back at the end of the street where Joshua had purchased the flowers, bargaining and hawking of wares continued without interruption. No one had noticed the kind deed he had done. That is, except for one elegantly dressed woman. Seeing such generosity had touched her heart.

She dabbed tears with a deep colored scarf, hesitated a moment, and then proceeded with the bargaining she had interrupted to watch. She glanced back again just long enough to watch the little girl, still clutching the money to her breast, skip joyously down the street to her humble home.

Chapter 4

Joshua, for the third time in two days, presented himself at the palace entrance. He was still nervous, but not near so as he had been on the first two occasions. Again, he was greeted by the distinguished looking servant, this time with recognition and welcome. He was immediately invited in and shown to his room.

As the servant finished helping Joshua settle in, he left with the assurance he would come back shortly before dinner to escort Joshua to the dining room. Joshua began to survey his surroundings, and was amazed at the richly trapped vases, plants, linens, and art displayed throughout the room. It was hard to believe a guest room was so richly appointed. Off to one corner, he noticed a large sunken bath made of marble. It was full of warm water fed by an ornately sculpted fountain. Although he could not see where the water drained, he could tell it was continually being circulated, always keeping the water fresh.

He continued to take note of the huge room as he quickly undressed and brushed his clothing to rid it of the dust from the street. He went over and climbed into the bath and discovered soap and sponges sitting in a lip of the bath previously hidden from view. “Never in my wildest dreams . . .” Joshua said to himself.

After washing, he sat back and began to soak in the warm waters. His mind reflected over all that had happened in the last few weeks of his life. He closed his eyes and said a silent prayer of thanks for his blessings.

Joshua’s mind then turned back to the present. There had to be a way he could impress the Merchant Prince. With no gift, he needed something. Thinking intently on this problem, he leaned back further into the warm waters and closed his eyes to concentrate.

The combination of warm water, the nervous excitement of the last few days, and fatigue from the long journey overcame Joshua and he fell fast asleep.
He was startled awake by the entrance of the servant come to summon him for dinner. He hurried and rose from the water, frantically dried himself, and dressed, all the while apologizing for his falling asleep.

On the way to the dining room, Joshua remembered he had wanted to think of some way to impress the Merchant Prince and his family. Now it was too late!

Joshua wondered whether it had been wise to purchase flowers from the girl instead of bringing a gift for the Merchant Prince. Then he quickly dismissed the thought. Memory of the little girl pulling him down to plant a kiss on his cheek renewed the warmth in his heart, and brought a ready smile to his lips.

Joshua marveled upon entering the dining room; not from the ornate decorations and luxurious surroundings, but more at the sight of the Merchant Prince. He really didn’t have a picture of what he expected the Merchant Prince to be, but what he saw dashed whatever image he might have had.

The man, who obviously was the Merchant Prince, sat at the head of a long table. He was much younger than Joshua expected, appearing to be in his late thirties, handsome and slim. His dark eyes seemed full of life and vigor. His face radiated kindness, and his black hair added to an obvious air of easy confidence, which unaccountably made Joshua feel at ease. He couldn’t explain it, but he felt immediate acceptance from this man, who, to his surprise, got up from his place at the table and came around to personally welcome him.

“Greetings my young friend,” the Merchant Prince began. “I am told you have journeyed far to see me. I have also received and read the message you gave my servant. Come, join with us now, and we will discuss your request later. I’m pleased you would join us.”

Joshua, dumfounded at such a warm welcome, stammered.

“My greatest thanks to you and your family for sharing this meal and lodging with me. I have heard of your wondrous hospitality even in my distant land. Now I discover its truth for myself, I still find it hard to believe.”

At that, the Merchant Prince laughed. “Come my friend, I want you to meet my family.” Through another entrance on the far side of the room, two women entered, talking together as they walked. Joshua noticed one was older than the other, but both were attractive. They each had dark hair, fair skin and walked with easy grace, which spoke of high breeding.

Joshua particularly took note of the younger, appearing to be about his same age. He hadn’t given much thought about women or marriage before. His life had allowed no time other than simply surviving day to day. Now, as he looked upon the great beauty of the younger woman, something inside stirred.

As the young woman came forward with her mother, her eyes met Joshua’s briefly. At that, she blushed slightly before turning to look at her father, the Merchant Prince.

“This is my beautiful wife, Allisa,” the Merchant Prince began, presenting his wife lovingly to Joshua.

As she extended her hand to Joshua, she looked at him closely . . . She’d seen him somewhere . . . yet couldn’t place where.

Recovering quickly, she smiled and said, “We are glad you would join us. It is often that we have visitors from far places, but none so young and handsome.”

Now it was Joshua’s turn to blush.

The Merchant Prince’s wife stepped aside and motioned her daughter forward, which she did shyly.

“This is our only daughter, Fahni.” She held out her hand to Joshua, who nervously took it in his. She gave him a shy, but radiant smile. “Welcome to our home Joshua. My Father tells me you have traveled from a far country. I look forward to hearing of it, and your family.”

At mention of his family, Joshua became uncomfortable. He had never gotten over their loss.

Perhaps taking note of his discomfiture, the Merchant Prince interrupted. “Come” motioning to the well-spread table before them all. “Let us sit and eat while we talk. The food will turn cold before we will have tasted it.”

Joshua, to his amazement, was seated on the Merchant Prince’s right, the position of honor. To the Merchant Prince’s left sat his wife, and to Joshua’s right (to his great pleasure), sat Fahni. He couldn’t remember when he’d seen a more beautiful girl.

To Allisa’s left sat a person whom the Merchant Prince introduced as the house steward. The remaining two people were introduced by name as friends, but Joshua recognized one as a beggar he had seen earlier outside in the city.
So, it was indeed true. The Merchant Prince fed and clothed the homeless and downtrodden. The more Joshua learned of the Merchant Prince , the more his awe of him grew.

“Before we begin,” the Merchant Prince said. “We always give thanks for that which has been so bountifully given us.” With that, he bowed his head and offered a simple prayer, giving thanks and asking a blessing to be upon his family and guests.

Joshua, again, wondered at the humble but assured bearing of the Merchant Prince. It was not at all what he had expected. Certainly he wasn’t anything like the rich men of his city. Those men were arrogant, and often took advantage of others, boasting of their guile and deceit. Joshua fervently hoped the message he had penned earlier had impressed the Merchant Prince enough to be taught his secrets.

As the food was passed around the table, the Merchant Prince again took up the conversation. “It has long been a custom in our household for the guests to tell us a bit about themselves. To help you to feel comfortable in doing so, I will begin by telling you a little bit about myself.”

“I was born here, in Galatia, but at a young age my family moved to Jerusalem where my father was a merchant, providing goods to the Roman Legions occupying that area. For a time, I worked in my Father’s employ, but later left to follow other things of great importance to me. My Father and Mother never really did understand my leaving my Father’s business.

“After certain . . . events, I left Jerusalem to return here to Galatia. I started out in a small street stand such as you see in the marketplace now. Shortly after I met my lovely wife Allisa and we were soon married; somewhat against her Father’s wishes I might add,” the Merchant Prince said with a gleam in his eyes.

“You see, I was young and quite poor at the time. With Allisa’s great beauty, her Father had many offers for her hand. Some had quite luxurious gifts to offer. However, after much persuasion and hard work on both our parts, we finally received her Father’s consent. To this day, the day of our marriage is the happiest of my life.”

The Merchant Prince glanced at his wife who reached over and grasped his hand.

Joshua glanced over at Fahni, who was also watching her parents. She had a warm smile as she looked from her father, to her mother. It was obvious great love bound this family together. Joshua’s heart began to ache anew, missing his own family.

Not only is the Merchant Prince rich in material possessions, but in the love he shares with his family. It’s a treasure I don’t have. And no amount of money will ever buy it for me. He began to wonder if he was really seeking after the right thing. If Joshua could only find such love as the Merchant Prince and his family shared, he would be happy never to have money. At least he would have the love he missed so much since the loss of his family.

After a brief pause, the Merchant Prince composed himself and continued. “The second happiest day of my life was the day my young Fahni was born. She was a small and homely creature at birth, but look at her now. She has become as the prettiest of jewels.” The Merchant Prince smiled at her.

“Father!” Fahni complained, embarrassed. Joshua wanted to think some of her embarrassment was caused because of her desire to impress him. He had noticed her sneaking glances his way a few times while her father was speaking.

At one point, Joshua happened to be looking at her when she glanced at him. When their eyes met, she immediately averted her eyes and bowed her head slightly while Joshua noted a slight flush come to her cheeks. This pleased Joshua, but before he could dwell on it further, the Merchant Prince turned to him and spoke.

“Now for the young and honored guest on my right. Joshua has traveled a great a distance to see me. Tell us about yourself.”

Joshua was nervous, but took a deep breath and began with a little hesitation.

“I was born in Egypt, but my family did not have any certain home. We raised sheep, traveling much, always in search of fresh grazing.” As Joshua began describing his past, the images began to flow. He couldn’t explain it. For the first time since . . . he felt like talking about what had happened. Indeed, he felt relief he could talk of it to the Merchant Prince and his family. Perhaps it was because the Merchant Prince cared so much for his own family. Perhaps it was because, for some reason, he felt the Merchant Prince really cared, even though they had just met.

Joshua continued, now remembering more easily than before. The memories came back into his mind as if they’d been waiting to be unlocked and only now could come forth.

“One day, when I was about twelve years of age, I was returning from the fields where I had been taking my night-turn at watering and tending our flocks. As I neared our camp, from a small rise some distance away, I could see something was wrong. Columns of smoke were rising and it was entirely deserted. No movement where there should have been quite a bit of activity.

“You see, my family was large and our camp included my three older brothers and their families as well as my younger brother and two sisters. It being the custom of my people to always remain together.

“When I saw the lack of activity, and smoke rising in places I knew no campfires had been set, immediately my heart set to pounding. I was filled with fear. We had heard of raids on other, smaller camps by a group of bandits who’d been roving the wilderness for some time. Our camp was sufficiently large, though, that we had felt little danger from such attacks. Yet the sight that met my eyes . . .

“I hurriedly made my way down to camp. In my speed and recklessness, I suffered cuts and bruises from many falls traveling across the rough terrain. Despite my haste, it still took me another hour to reach the campsite. The sight that met my eyes was so painful for my young eyes to behold the image has burned itself into my memory. It is as clear today as it was then, six years ago.

“The camp was in shambles. Bandits had indeed attacked. Several of their bodies were laying about the ground. Our tents had been burned. Our possessions stolen.

“Still, I had hope for finding my family. None of them were among the bodies. I had made a hasty search of the camp with no results. Next I began to search the surrounding areas where my family could have taken refuge and defend themselves more easily against attack. At last, in my desperation, I stumbled upon a low ravine about 100 rods across the plain from our campsite. Toward the end of the ravine, I noticed a large opening that went back into the bank about fifteen feet, and an opening of about ten feet wide, and six high. Faint whisps of smoke were drifting lazily out of the mouth of the embankment. That’s how I had found it. My heart filled with hope. Perhaps my family had found this place of hiding and avoided the sure death of being found by the bandits.

“I crept slowly up to the opening, keeping as quiet as I could so as not to draw attention to myself if perhaps the smoke came from a leftover group of bandits instead of my family. As I neared the edge and peered carefully around the corner, the sight that met my eyes broke my young heart and filled it with horror.
Inside, I found without exception, all the members of my family, laying where they had been horribly slain.

“That day, seeing my family dead, something within me also died. It was not until this day that I have been able to talk of it without great difficulty.

“Now,” Joshua lifted his eyes to the Merchant Prince, “seeing the love you have in your family, the part of me that died that day has been restored. It is a debt I don’t know how I can repay.”

Silence reigned in the room as the sadness of Joshua’s story settled into the hearts of the listeners. The Merchant Prince’s eyes were full of compassion and sorrow, and Allisa’s head was bowed in respectful silence. Fahni, started to reach out to Joshua, as if to try and comfort him in his grief, but then withdrew it and bowed her head, wiping moisture from her eyes.

The silence was broken by Joshua’s deep breath as he continued his story.

“I buried my family, then headed back to the mountains to gather the remainder of our flocks — those which hadn’t been scattered by the wild predators of the desert. I could no longer live in the wilderness as I had done all my life. For safety’s sake, I would have to move into the nearest town and seek my living there.

“The journey was hard, and I lost many of my flock along the way. Finally, I reached a town.

“Upon arriving, I found a merchant willing to give a price for the remainder of my flocks. I used the money for clothing and shelter while I looked for employment.

“Luckily, I quickly found a job as a merchant’s apprentice in a small shop along the town’s main street. My wages were food and shelter. I considered this to be exactly what I needed at the time and worked very hard. Eventually I received more wages and more responsibility as I proved myself capable.

“Over the course of the last six years, my responsibilities, and my wages, have been steadily increased, yet the shop is still small.

“I had begun to get a taste of being successful and saw there was more to life than just getting by, as the merchant had done all his life.

“One day, in the shop, I overheard traveling merchants speak concerning a mysterious Merchant Prince, who was the most successful person in all of Galatia. The tales they told were, to me, quite unbelievable. They told of someone completely opposite of the rich men in my small town. After that day, I became changed. I did all I could to learn of you. And finally determined to seek you out. If half of what I had heard about you was true, then I was determined to be your next student.”

Joshua hesitated. He was prompted by something deep within to continue in boldness and speak the words now in his heart. They were different from what he had originally hoped to say, but now, this new desire prompting his words was more important to Joshua than anything else.

Taking another deep breath, and feeling his chest constrict with nervousness, he glanced around the table quickly to try and measure the reaction of what he was about to say.

“Now I have seen your family, I know the love you share is truly the greater wealth. After this, I care nothing for learning your secrets, but, I do beg of you. Teach me how to have this love for myself. I was sure I had lost it forever, but now, the thing I want most is to have it back again. I know you can teach me. I am willing to pay any price you ask if you will but consent to teach me!”

Joshua wanted this more than anything. If he could feel such love again, he would never want for anything. He may never be wealthy, but he didn’t care. As long as could find a way to belong again: to truly belong. The last six years had been so lonely.

The Merchant Prince had a look of humorous mischief in his eyes Joshua didn’t understand. He angrily looked around the table to see if he’d missed some cruel joke. All eyes were directed toward the Merchant Prince, waiting for him to answer Joshua’s plea.

After an uncomfortable silence, Joshua began to feel that he’d made a grave mistake. His fears surfaced again. He’d poured out his heart on deaf ears. Why did he think this was going to be any different? Then the Merchant Prince held up his hand as if to forestall anyone speaking.

“My young friend,” the Merchant Prince began. “Your request is well made, and in light of your hard life, I am almost ready to grant your request immediately. There is one problem, however. You see, my secrets, as you refer to them, are the reason I have the love of my family as well as the material wealth most people make a great deal of. If I were to share with you how I can obtain the love of such wonderful people as my family, I would also have to share with you my secrets.”

The Merchant Prince then became serious. He paused to drink from his glass and clear his throat before continuing.

“It has been told you correctly that each year I choose someone from among all the people, with whom I share these secrets. Many people have come as you have, and promised many gifts and large amounts of money in return. I turn them all away.

“You see, the person to whom I teach must be a special type of person; one I spend most of the year looking for. That person is made known to me only in special ways which I cannot predict until I see it occur.

“At this point, I’m afraid . . . ”

“One moment, my husband,” Allisa interrupted with a gentle touch to the Merchant Prince’s arm. “Before you turn this young man away, you should know, he is the one I saw in the marketplace .”

Allisa’s gaze rested upon Joshua with a warm and tender smile. Joshua was lost as to what was happening until Allisa explained.

“I saw your wonderfully unselfish act of purchasing the little girl’s flowers. Of course you didn’t know I was watching, but I could tell by the way you counted your money, you were spending the last of your resources in helping someone worse off than yourself.

“It touched me deeply to see someone who would have such compassion for a total stranger. When I returned home, I shared the story with my husband.”

The Merchant Prince nodded. “When Allisa told me of what you had done, I too, was moved by your compassion for the little girl. In our world, there are many, many people who are so greedy they never stop to help anyone in need. This type of life destroys the soul. Even if such people do obtain riches, they cannot enjoy them. Their hearts are set so much upon material things, they never learn from whence true joy and happiness are found — within your family, and the relationships you share with all people.

“As you yourself stated,” the Merchant Prince continued, emotion rising in his voice. “He who has the love and loyalty of family and friends are the richest of all, regardless of how much wealth he possesses.”

The Merchant Prince hesitated and cast a loving glance at his wife, and then gave a short playful little wink at Fahni before he continued.

“Joshua, you appear to be a little perplexed as to what we are talking about.”

Indeed, Joshua was. He remembered buying the flowers from the little girl, but he was somewhat startled that anyone had noticed, especially the Merchant Prince’s own wife. Still, he couldn’t have passed by the small girl who seemed to be in much more need than he, and still feel comfortable with himself.

One thing Joshua did follow however, was the fact that the Merchant Prince had been about to turn him away after all his hopes and dreams had been focused on this meeting. It seemed that all was lost. The Merchant Prince had commended him on his helping the little girl. But he didn’t need any reward for that. It was probably some way to make him feel better about being turned down.

“Joshua,” the Merchant Prince said kindly, snapping Joshua out of his silent reflections. “Without realizing it, you have brought us a great gift tonight. It is not often when we are able to have such a noble person share our meal. What you have done is much greater than anything I have ever done, even with all my riches.”

Joshua couldn’t believe his ears. Was the Merchant Prince actually saying that he, Joshua, as poor as he was, was actually greater than the Merchant Prince, the most successful man in all Galatia? He opened his mouth to proclaim that this surely was not so, but the Merchant Prince again motioned him still.

“My friend, I do many things for the poor, it is true, but I do this out of my vast riches. You, however, have done much more than I have ever done. In your simple act of charity, you gave of everything you had to help another in need.

“Your act reminds me of another unselfish act of a man for whom I had great love.”

Turning to his wife the Merchant Prince said tenderly, “Thank you, my dear, for not allowing me to make such a gross mistake.”

Allisa squeezed his hand again and turned toward Joshua with glowing eyes. “Let me also thank you this night, Joshua, for sharing a meal and your story with us.

“Especially, I thank you for being the type of person you are. It gives me great joy to know there are still people such as you. Your Mother must have been a great woman to teach you such values that they would last with you throughout your lonely life.”

At the mention of his mother, Joshua suddenly felt hot tears come into his eyes. It seemed that all the emotions he had buried for long years were now rushing forth for all to see. He tried to fight the tears, but the mention of his mother, whom he missed most of all, made the tears flow even more readily. Joshua bowed his head and wept uncontrollably.

Fahni, reached over to rest her hand on his, trying to comfort him. Allisa quickly got up from her seat and came around the table to wrap Joshua in a comforting embrace much like his mother had done many times in his youth. The Merchant Prince got up from his cushion, lifted Joshua to his feet, and to his surprise also embraced him. Joshua cried all the more from the love he felt. He couldn’t believe these people, who barely knew him, could feel such love and compassion for him.

After the embrace, the Merchant Prince gently held Joshua back at arm’s length so he could look into his eyes.

“My son, my son.” Great emotion filled the Merchant Prince’s voice. “Please allow my family to replace the family you have lost. With us, you will always feel you belong. We want you to stay with us — as a part of our family. Although we can never replace the family you have lost, allow us to share with you our love — the love you have missed for so long.”

Then with a little shake to emphasize his words, he said, “Welcome home . . . My son.”

Casting a playful glance over to Allisa, then back to Joshua, the Merchant Prince continued, “I guess that means I’m going to teach you my secrets of success after all!”

Chapter 5

Joshua was awakened the next morning by a servant opening the draperies to let the early morning sun light the room. As Joshua wearily made his way to the tub, the servant informed him that the Merchant Prince would meet with him this morning for breakfast.

Joshua quickly recalled the events of the last evening. He never would have dreamed such good fortune could come his way. In coming to seek audience with the Merchant Prince to learn only of his secrets of success, he had not only been given his wish, but had also been taken in as one of the Merchant Prince’s own family.

Recalling the great love he’d felt from the Merchant Prince and his family caused the tears to well up once again in his eyes.

Joshua climbed into the tub and began to wash the sleep and fatigue from his body. The rest of the evening, he couldn’t really recall with any great detail. He’d been too stunned and drained by the strong emotions he had experienced.

One thing he did remember, however, was the short time he’d spent talking with Fahni quietly as she’d continued to ask him questions about his hometown. It probably wasn’t anything, but to him, it was amazing someone so beautiful would be so caring, and freely welcome him as a new part of her family.

A short time later, Joshua was shown into a large room on the second floor of the Palace. On the far side of the room, he quickly saw it had a large balcony overlooking the palace gardens. The room was richly decorated with large trappings and wall murals. Along the walls were large ornate vases and other sculptures that added to the overall beauty of the room. Joshua crossed the marble floor over to the balcony where he could look out and see the gardens. Over the tall wall that surrounded the palace, he could see the hustle and bustle of the city beginning the business of the day.

Joshua was just in the process of pinching himself to make sure that he wasn’t dreaming, when the Merchant Prince swung open the wide doors and strode into the room. He was followed by a servant bearing a large tray of fruit, rolls and drinks. The Merchant Prince stepped down into a sunken section of the room that was filled with cushions and quilts for sitting in comfort. He beckoned Joshua to join him as the servant deposited the tray on a nearby table and left the room, closing the doors behind him.

As Joshua stepped down and found a large cushion from which he could reach the fruit, the Merchant Prince said, “My son, I trust that you are well rested. The items we will discuss today require a keen and alert mind.”

Taking a piece of fruit off the tray, and beckoning Joshua to help himself, he continued. “I have read again the message that you penned to me before I invited you to become a member of my family. In it you offered to work for me three years without any pay except room and board, if I would but teach you my secrets of success.

“In times past, when I have chosen one to whom I taught my principles of success, I have done so without obligation and without cost. I now make the same offer to you. You have no need to pay me, nor feel any obligation to me in any way. The payment I will receive from helping you, will be the joy that comes into my heart when you have succeeded in what your heart desires.

“Also,” the Merchant Prince continued, “As a member of my family, you shall share in the bounties of what my family has. You may stay in the room you are in now. You will get some new clothing, for I see that you have but the one set you are wearing.

“I also invite you to share all our meals, and gatherings as a member of my family. It is as I said last night. You are now my son, and will be treated as such . . . ”

The Merchant Prince hesitated a moment, then continued, “That is, if you wish to be part of my family. In my haste to make you one of my own, I didn’t think that you may not wish to be a member of my family.”

Joshua wasn’t sure of what to say, but when one is speechless, it is best to speak honestly what is felt. “Oh Merchant Prince, I am very much in your debt for the many kindnesses which you have shown me since my arrival. Your invitation does me great honor, and I can think of nothing which would bring me greater happiness than to be considered a member of your family. Until last night, I did not realize how much I missed being part of a loving family. I only hope that I may be able to be worthy of the love and trust you and your family has placed in me.”

Still a little bit uncertain of his words, and wishing earnestly not to offend the generosity of the Merchant Prince Joshua continued, “I do have but one request.”

Smiling warmly, the Merchant Prince said, “Go ahead my son, tell me what it is that you wish.”

He began pouring drinks and handed one to Joshua and kept one for himself which he began sipping gently.

Joshua leaned a little forward on his cushion and spoke, “As I was growing up, I was expected to take my place and work alongside my brothers and sisters for the family’s benefit. I would request that you let me work for you, as I did for my family while they were yet alive. This would help me to know that I was in some small way adding to the hand that gives me clothing, food and shelter.”

The Merchant Prince put down his chalice and said, “I expected no less from one such as you, my son. It will be so. Now, from here on, you are to consider me as a father, and join in as part of the family in all that we do.”

The Merchant Prince picked up a piece of fruit and threw it to Joshua, who easily caught it in one hand. He bit into it, sucking the juices into his mouth to prevent them from dripping down his chin.

With a grin, the Merchant Prince also bit into a large ripened fruit and spoke as he chewed, “My wife and Fahni are also excited to have you as a part of the family. Fahni especially,” he said with a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. “She now has the brother she has always wanted — and a handsome one at that.”

Joshua blushed at the mention of Fahni. Had the Merchant Prince noticed the two together last night? He wondered.

“Besides,” the Merchant Prince continued, laughing, “I will need another man around the house to keep the girls from ganging up on me.” With that, both the Merchant Prince and Joshua smiled, and the Merchant Prince reached over and gave Joshua an affectionate slap on the back.

The Merchant Prince stood up and began to pace back and forth across the marble floor as he gathered his thoughts. “Come now,” he said suddenly with much enthusiasm. “Let us begin to teach you the so-called secrets of success, as I have promised.”

Joshua started to rise to his feet, but the Merchant Prince motioned for him to stay seated. “I am only thinking, and I think best as I pace back and forth.

“Before I begin in teaching you, you must first understand some principles upon which my secrets of success are based. These truths I learned while I was yet in Jerusalem with my own parents.

“I left my Father’s employ, much to his consternation, to follow a great teacher whom I very much admired and loved. It was he, from whom I learned these things.

My Father felt I was wasting my time, but I was searching for something that would give my life more meaning and happiness than just the continual pursuit of riches.” The Merchant Prince stopped pacing and sat again on a cushion next to Joshua. He leaned back and closed his eyes as if reliving those times past.

“Many of the teachings of this man were considered revolutionary and heretical by the leaders of that day, and because of this, he was put to death.” The Merchant Prince opened his eyes, and Joshua could see that it pained him to remember those troubled times.

“Shortly after his death, I came here to put into practice the teachings of this man. Even though I was always encouraged by my Teacher to spread what I’d learned with others, I found out quickly that the principles were so simple that people tended to laugh at my words and walk away. I found only a few, such as you, were humble enough to listen to the simple principles, and recognize the great power that they contain. They go contrary to what much of the wisdom of today teaches. But as you can see by the success I have enjoyed, these principles clearly work. They’ve worked for me, and for those few who have learned from me with the proper heart and mind.”

The Merchant Prince turned and looked Joshua squarely in the eyes and continued, “Listen carefully to my words, ponder over their meaning, and you too will be able to see the power they contain.

“Don’t discount their simplicity, but instead analyze them. Look within them and their meanings, and you will be able to see their great worth. As you implement these principles into your life, you will be able to benefit, as I have, from the principles of this great Teacher.”

Again, the Merchant Prince got up from his cushion and walked over to the balcony. He stood gazing out over the city as he spoke.

“Many people make the mistake of thinking that success is measured only in terms of the wealth they acquire. As you realized last night, having great wealth is an empty happiness if there are no loved ones to share your life with.

“In fact, wealth has nothing to do with success.”

Joshua was taken aback by the Merchant Prince’s statement.

The Merchant Prince, seeing Joshua’s reaction, smiled knowingly before continuing.

“Wealth comes only after you have already become successful at something. And then, only if wealth is what you have been seeking. Do not ever make the mistake of measuring someone’s success by the amount of wealth they possess.”

The Merchant Prince turned around and rested his hand upon a vase as he continued speaking. “Again, I refer to my teacher. He died a very poor man, but his success was counted in the people that he touched with his powerful life.”

“As you can see,” the Merchant Prince said, gesturing around the room with his hands, “judging by the effect his teachings had upon me, his teachings could have made him a very wealthy man indeed. Yet he spurned wealth for a greater mission. His success was, and will continue to be measured by the love and devotion to his teachings by a great many people. I know his success will continue to be felt down through all generations to come.

“Joshua, as you seek after success, in whatever form, see that you place first in importance, your love for your family — your spouse, your children, and those nearest around you. Then, as you grow close to your family, and have their love and trust, you will already possess more wealth than many people now living. Success will come to you in forms that you can then enjoy and share with your family. If you try to do this in any other order, you risk losing not only your family, but also any riches that you may acquire along the way. “Riches are fleeting and cannot be taken past the grave, but the love of your family is Eternal.”

Joshua considered what the Merchant Prince had said very carefully. It was in fact, somewhat different from what he had supposed, but to him, the Merchant Prince’s words had the ring and feel of truth to them.

“Another falsehood I have found in the wisdom of men,” the Merchant Prince continued, “is that success depends upon the methods or techniques you employ in your business in order to give you an advantage over your peers.” The Merchant Prince chuckled softly to himself.

“I have found over the years that although these things have their place, true success depends more upon the type of person that you are, than on the techniques you employ.

“The Teachings you will learn from me concentrate more upon building the person, rather than building any business. You will find that success of every kind will follow, after you have built yourself as a person.”

The Merchant Prince then turned to Joshua and said, “I believe that is all we shall discuss for today. I can see by the look on your face that you have much to absorb and ponder over before we continue. Think hard on what we have discussed, and you will begin to see the truth of my words.”

Going to the wide doors of the room, he swung them open and gestured to one of the servants standing without. “Please contact the steward of my fields and ask him if could use another hand for the harvest.” Motioning for Joshua to join him, the Merchant Prince then continued, “Ask him to teach my new son all that he knows about growing and harvesting rich crops.”

Then turning to Joshua, the Merchant Prince said, “The work is hard, and the hours are long, but there is a purpose for which I am sending you to labor in the fields. You will begin tomorrow morning, but for the rest of the day, please go into the marketplace and secure some clothing and other essentials that you will need to get settled. Then, I will see you again at dinner. Next week we will continue with the teaching, but pay great heed to my steward. You will learn some principles from him that go far beyond the fields.”

Gripping his shoulders between his hands, the Merchant Prince then smiled warmly at Joshua and said, “Welcome once again to the family, my son. We are glad that you have joined us.”

With that, the Merchant Prince gave a parting squeeze to his shoulders and excused himself to listen to a messenger that had just arrived with some business that needed his attention.

Joshua was taken by the servant back into his room where he found some fresh clothes that were apparently from the Merchant Prince’s own closet sitting upon his couch. He quickly donned them while the servant waited outside his door. As he stepped back into the hallway, he was surprised to see Fahni and Allisa waiting for him with large smiles on their faces.

Fahni was the first to speak out. “We have the honor of escorting you to the market today to insure that you are properly clothed and outfitted.”

Allisa interrupted her daughter with a little mock scowl. “Men usually cannot decide what types, or how much clothing they will ever need. I am ever having to get after my husband to buy new clothes when his old clothing wears out. I want to make sure that before you catch this disease all men seem to possess, you will at least get started with some decent clothing.”

Allisa and Fahni then looped their arms through Joshua’s on either side and proceeded to escort him to the marketplace.

Chapter 6

Joshua was very tired at the end of the day. He had never done so much shopping in his life. The women seemed to thrive on it, but he couldn’t see where they got all their energy. He was quite embarrassed at all the attention that was paid to him, and many of the merchants were laughing at his discomfiture. They did so under their breaths of course; for what merchant in his right mind would want to lose a customer because of ridicule, no matter how harmless.

One person’s attention he didn’t mind, however, was the attention paid to him by Fahni. He knew it was only because of her politeness, but still, he really enjoyed her company; and he liked to think that she sort of enjoyed his as well.

Joshua easily grew to love Allisa, although he knew she could never replace the feelings he had for his own mother. But she was kind and caring, and Joshua felt she truly did welcome him as a member of the family. Just the thought of all that was being shared with him was overwhelming.

He made a silent vow to himself then and there, that he would never do anything to betray the love and trust they had placed in him, and committing silently to never knowingly do anything to hurt or disappoint these great people who had taken him in and given him a new home.

Later that night, after a quiet and satisfying meal with his new family, he found himself walking around the beautiful palace gardens. Fragrant blossoming flowers and lush greenery filled his senses and swished peacefully in the evening breeze.

Joshua found his mind drifting to the teachings the Merchant Prince had given him. He had taught that he must place his highest priority upon his family and being worthy of their love and respect. This, he already knew to be true.

As he pondered over this teaching, he realized that if he had the love and companionship of people such as the Merchant Prince and his family, he would be very happy — whether he had any riches or not. Thinking back on his own youth, he realized his family had no great riches, yet no one seemed to notice, because they had each other.

The greatest form of wealth, Joshua decided, was exactly as the Merchant Prince had said: The love and loyalty of family and friends.

Joshua’s mind then went to some of the great and wealthy people he had known as a shopkeeper’s apprentice. They had been very wealthy, but they were despised because of the way they had obtained their riches. It seemed they had all the finery that money could purchase, but they still were bitter and unhappy. They always were suspicious of and never trusted anyone. Even their own family.

Yes, thought Joshua. The Merchant Prince has great wisdom. I would much sooner have happiness with my family, than all the wealth in the world.

Now Joshua was in somewhat of a quandary. How can one devote so much time to his family, and still be successful in things of the world? He had heard many say you must choose what you want out of life and then devote your whole life to it, regardless of the cost, in order to obtain it. If this is true, thought Joshua, how can the Merchant Prince be so successful in all the different areas of his life?

Perhaps this is what he meant when he said conventional wisdom was off the mark from the way success is really obtained. Joshua began to be impatient; he wished he could learn all that the Merchant Prince had to teach him in one day. Even though he had said very little that morning, it seemed his words carried great meaning going far beyond the words themselves.

Even though Joshua was sure he didn’t fully understand all the meaning behind such words, he knew they felt true to him. He knew if he trusted in the Merchant Prince’s words, even though he may not understand them fully, or if they didn’t agree with what others taught, he would still become successful — in the truest sense of the word.

Joshua meandered into a small clearing in the gardens, still deep in thought. He was startled by a soft voice.

“You look very deep in thought.” Fahni said.

She was seated on a small bench facing one of the many trickling fountains situated in a small grass covered clearing. She looked very beautiful seated there in the evening’s dim glow.

“I’m sorry to intrude,” Joshua began. “I was deep in thought and didn’t really pay attention to where I was walking. I’m sorry. I will leave and return to my room.”

“Don’t be silly Joshua,” Fahni said. “Come sit with me and tell me what causes you to frown so when you are deep in thought.”

Joshua was a bit nervous at the invitation, but went ahead and walked over to sit stiffly on the bench beside her.

Fahni reached over and touched his arm gently. With a look of concern on her face she asked, “Is everything all right?”

“Oh yes,” Joshua said. “I was just pondering over some of the things your father told me this morning. He has great wisdom, and the words he taught me seem to make sense, but I was trying to sort out all the meaning in the few words he spoke.”

“He’s your father now too Joshua.” Fahni said with laughter in her eyes. “I know it may take some getting used to, but Mother and Father, I know, are proud to have a new son such as you.”

And then bowing her head shyly, she continued, “And I’m glad you will be staying with us too.” She began to blush, and then quickly changed the subject to dispel the awkward feeling.

“Father does have great wisdom. Many people have criticized his methods and teachings, but none can argue with his success. As you said yourself, people think Father is a little bit strange in his methods, but he succeeds easily where other people struggle greatly to achieve even half of what he has been able to accomplish.

“People have even gone so far as to accuse him of having some strange power over men so that they do his bidding willingly, and serve him devotedly. This is true, but they would be surprised to find that the power he has over people stems from his great love for those people. These people willingly place themselves in his service because of his fairness, kindness, and compassion in dealing with them.

“These same people also prosper a great deal as they work for Father. More so than they could by doing any other thing. And, most of all, these people have their freedom. They can leave whenever they choose without any further commitment or obligation.

“In fact, some of the shopkeepers who have left to start their own businesses have been supported in their start up capital and supplies by Father.

“Many of Father’s friends thought him crazy when he did this, but all of Father’s good deeds have a way of returning to him in one way or another. He tells this to his friends, but they cannot conceive of this ever happening, and they tell him so.”

“I can see,” Fahni continued. “Even though I have known you for only a short while, you will not be like others. You will be able to comprehend and trust in the wisdom of Father’s words. They are true. And even though many people disagree that what you are being taught, are in fact, words of wisdom, you will recognize and feel the truths they contain.”

“Now!” Fahni said, rising swiftly to her feet and beckoning Joshua to do likewise, “Enough of discussing business. That is Father’s job.” She looped her arm through his and started to lead him out of the clearing. “Let us continue to walk together so we can talk. I have much to learn about my new brother.”

Joshua couldn’t have been more happy at any other suggestion.

Chapter 7

The Steward of the Fields welcomed Joshua with a hearty handshake and a warm smile. He was a pleasant looking man in his early thirties. He had a strong grip and calloused hands that told of much hard labor, but his face reflected a contentment and happiness he had seen in few others.

On the way to the fields the Steward began telling Joshua of his craft of farming. He could tell it was a subject the Steward loved, and devoted his life to.

“Before a farmer even begins to plant his field,” the steward began, “he must know all he can about the soil and the crops he wishes to plant. If he has soil that is not good for growing barley, he would be foolish to plant barley. In the same vein, if the soil is good for planting corn, and he plants some other crop, he is equally foolish. To get the most yield from a field, you must work with what you have and then seek to maximize your return, utilizing the field’s strengths to your advantage and seek to minimize its weaknesses.”

Remembering the Merchant Prince’s counsel, to pay heed to words of the steward, Joshua listened intently. The Merchant Prince had said his teachings would have value to him beyond the fields. He couldn’t imagine what, but he knew better than to not follow closely what the Merchant Prince had asked him to do.

Joshua worked beside the steward all that week. He worked hard and grew to love the earth and the bounties it could provide. He grew to enjoy the steward’s company and to greatly respect his great knowledge of the earth, which the steward regarded as sacred, and of growing, which he did with great skill and success. Often, as they worked together, the steward would begin to teach him a principle regarding the growth of crops, the time of planting, harvesting, etc. When he did, Joshua would listen intently, still not quite understanding how it could benefit him later on, but still listening nonetheless.

“In order to get the most yield from any given field,” the steward would say, “you must understand all of the characteristics of the field and the crops you wish to plant. You must determine what is needed to produce the highest possible level of harvest. Sometimes this requires many hours of careful study before any seed is even laid to the field. If you are careful to be complete in your study, however, you will benefit far more than the foolish farmer who is anxious to get his seed planted so he may get on to other concerns.

“After you have determined what you must do to bring about the maximum yield, the farmer’s job then becomes simple. All he need do is follow what he has learned by his careful study of the field, and soon, a large and bounteous harvest is assured. If he requires more manpower to help him, he knows how many he will need, and for how long, and what they must do. If he requires large amounts of water, he will have determined this, and will have made sure that water could be obtained; even if a famine should come.

“The successful farmer will think through all the possible things which could possibly destroy his yield, and make plans against these occurrences to the best of his ability.

“The hard part is in planning before hand what is required to bring the best yield with what he has to work with. After this point the Farmer’s job is to follow through closely with that plan.

“I do not mean however to give you the impression that following such a plan does not entail hard work, however,” the steward said as he stood up and wiped the sweat from his brow. “As you can see, from our labors, the work is still hard. The field must be nurtured, cared for, and maintained free of weeds constantly.

“Weeds, if allowed to grow, can come into the field and quickly overtake your crops and sap strength for themselves. You have seen for yourself that clearing the field of weeds and caring for it must be done every day. You cannot leave your labors and still expect to get the same result without doing the work.”

Bending back down to the ground and scooping a handful of dirt, which he studied carefully, he looked up at Joshua and said with a smile, “The ironic thing, however, is that the farmer who does not take the time to determine what he needs to do to be successful to begin with, spends much more effort than I, but often fails.” With that, the steward let the clump of dirt slip through his fingers and motioned Joshua to another part of the field.

The week seemed to go by quickly. The work had indeed been hard, but working with the steward, who seemed to love his work, made it enjoyable.

Each evening, he would return from the fields, clean up and then spend the rest of the evening with his new family. Joshua had quickly grown to love the Merchant Prince and his wife, and he felt that they loved him as well. Evenings were spent in laughter and fun activities that helped him feel close with each member of the family — especially Fahni.

Toward the end of each evening, he would excuse himself for a nightly walk around the gardens to ponder over the things he had been learning through the week. He was beginning, he felt, to understand the reason why the Merchant Prince had wanted him to spend time working in the fields. The lessons he was learning applied to success in many other areas.

Often, in his quiet walks, he would be joined by Fahni, whose company he had grown to enjoy immensely. He looked forward to any time he could spend with her, and felt that she might also feel the same way. They were growing very close.

At least he hoped so.

Chapter 8

Exactly one week from his last meeting with the Merchant Prince, Joshua was shown early into the same room he had met with the Merchant Prince previously.

Just as before, shortly after he arrived, the Merchant Prince came into the room followed by the servant bearing a tray of fruit and drinks. The Merchant Prince seemed to be in a very good mood. He acted very pleased to see Joshua and continue the lessons began a week earlier.

“Ah, Joshua, my son, It is so heartening for me to continue with your lessons. I so look forward to taking this time with you. It means much more to me than anything else I could be doing at this time.

“Before we begin,” the Merchant Prince said, as he picked out a large cushion on which to sit and motioned for Joshua to sit next to him. “I have just spoken with the steward of the fields. He is much disappointed that you will not be joining him today. He said that you were a very hard worker and an apt pupil.”

The Merchant Prince looked warmly at Joshua. “You bring me great pride. You indeed have lived up to all that we had expected from you. We love you very much and are glad that you are now a part of our family. I could wish no more of a son that was my own flesh and blood.”

At these words Joshua blushed. He was unused to so much praise, having received very little from his old master — even when he had done an exceptional job. Joshua opened his mouth to protest and say that he really did not deserve such praise, but the Merchant Prince held a finger to his lips to quiet him.

“Accept praise when it is earned my son, for you have indeed earned it. No one has ever pleased the steward of the field as much as you. It is a great compliment that he wants you back to work with him. And you may, if that is your desire, later on. Now, we have work to do.”

The Merchant Prince grabbed a piece of fruit and got up and started pacing the room as was his custom. Joshua poured a fruit drink for himself and the Merchant Prince, and grabbed a piece of fruit and began to eat.

“Now, Joshua, before we begin with the teachings, let us review what you learned from the steward of the fields. Tell me what you learned.” With that, the Merchant Prince stopped pacing and folded his arms across his chest and leaned against the wall, looking at Joshua, waiting for his response.

Joshua was nervous. He hoped he got out of the teachings of the steward what he was supposed to get out of them. He hastily finished chewing the fruit in his mouth, cleared his throat and began to think quickly about how to best state his thoughts.

“The steward of the fields is a wise man, and a very hard laborer. He also has a great love for that which he does, which of course is reflected in the intensity in which he approaches his work.

“As I pondered over the value of what he taught me, and how it would have value to me in other areas, my mind was enlightened as to how similar to life, and being successful in your work, farming is. The same principles that the steward applied to being successful in farming apply to being successful in all areas of life, no matter what it is.”

Joshua glanced over at the Merchant Prince to see if he was on the right track. He was smiling proudly with a bright gleam in his eyes. Nodding his head, he motioned for Joshua to continue.

“The steward taught me that if you want to have the most successful yield of crops possible, you must first study out what is needed to make it so. Only after you have determined what is needed to insure a successful harvest, do you then plan for its accomplishment. Knowing all the elements needed for success, given the materials you have available or can gather, you then simply follow strictly the plan which you have developed.”

Joshua now got up and started pacing as he spoke, much like the Merchant Prince had done earlier. The Merchant Prince noticed this and muffled a laugh with the back of his hand.

Joshua continued, deep in thought and unaware of the Merchant Prince’s amusement at his apparently unconscious mimicking of his pacing. “In pondering over his words, it became apparent to me that this same procedure would be applicable to obtaining success in any area. If I desire to have success in a certain area, before I begin, I must first learn what is needed to be successful in that area. If I learn what is required, plan out my actions to do those things, and then follow this plan, making sure that I do all those things that bring success, then success will be assured!”

With those last words, Joshua spun around and faced the Merchant Prince with excitement. He had an inkling of understanding these principles before, but as he had been speaking (and unconsciously pacing), it all opened up to him as it had never done before.

Instantly Joshua remembered where he was, and in whose presence he was standing, and immediately felt embarrassed at his outburst. Instead of getting the scowl he thought he deserved, the Merchant Prince came over, laughing, and slapped Joshua on the back.

“I see you have learned your lessons well; not only from the Steward, but from me too.” At first, Joshua was puzzled until the Merchant Prince gestured at his pacing.

Joshua was mortified, he had not realized what he had been doing. He didn’t want the Merchant Prince to think that he’d been mocking him.

“I’m very sorry,” Joshua began, “I did not even realize what I was doing. I certainly did not intend to offend . . . ”

The Merchant Prince cut him off and gestured for him to have a seat and eat more of the delicious fruit. “Oh, I know that it was not intended to mock me. I just did not realize until now how silly I must look to many people.” He then seated himself next to Joshua and picked up his cup to drink. “But,” he continued, “it is an excellent way to sort through your thoughts — as you have found out.”

Joshua nodded knowingly and they shared another laugh.

The Merchant Prince put the cup back down on the table after taking a long drink, then turned to Joshua, a more serious look in his eyes. “Joshua, my son, you have proven to have great wisdom. The lessons that you have learned are indeed what I had hoped you would find; yet you have already applied the lessons to what I was hoping to teach you today. You have much about you that I admire.”

Joshua bowed his head, feeling a little nervous again about the praise being given him. The Merchant Prince started to rise again from the cushion to commence his pacing, but then caught himself and looked over at Joshua. He smiled with a silly grin, and then eased himself back onto his cushion.

“I will, however,” the Merchant Prince began as he leaned back on the cushion, clasping his hands in back of his head and closing his eyes to think, “proceed and give you some of the deeper insights I have gained over the years; in addition to the teachings I gained from my Master.”

Joshua leaned forward intently to hear the words of the Merchant Prince. He had been waiting eagerly to continue his lessons. He was proud of himself that he had been on target with what he had learned, but he didn’t want to miss a single thing.

“My Master taught,” the Merchant Prince began in lower tones, as if remembering a certain time he had spent with his master, “that obedience is one of the most powerful principles in the universe.”

Joshua was a little bit confused. What did obedience have to do with success? Yet he knew better than to doubt the Merchant Prince, so he continued to listen, hoping it would be made clear to him as the discussion continued.

The Merchant Prince continued. “At first, I questioned my Master for I couldn’t see how obedience could be a great power. And I, being somewhat of an independent spirit, felt that obedience meant restrictions, which I blanched at in my youth. My Master explained that all things in the universe are governed by laws. When we are obedient to those laws, we receive blessings resulting from such obedience. But, when we are not obedient to these laws, we do not receive such blessings. Indeed, many times we are punished for our disobedience.

“Obedience is one of these governing laws. Many people, as I did in my youth, shy at that word, for they feel it brings restrictions and limitations, but in fact it is just the opposite. Obedience brings great freedom.”

The Merchant Prince opened his eyes and looked over at Joshua. He could see the confused look on his face and smiled in sympathy. With a sigh, he got up, and with a wink in Joshua’s direction, started pacing again.

“Let me illustrate in your own words, my son,” the Merchant Prince continued. “As you stated, the thing you needed to do to be successful in a given area, was to first find activities that cause success in that particular area. After you have established these factors, then you need only follow what you have learned and success would be assured.”

Turning back to look at Joshua, who was now beginning to grasp the connection, the Merchant Prince continued. “Stated another way, if you want to be successful in any given area, you must first identify the principles that bring success in that area; and then, if you are obedient to those principles, you are blessed with success. Can you now see how obedience can be a tremendous power?”

Joshua did. He saw the wisdom in the Merchant Prince’s words. They, once again, had the ring and feel of truth to them. Immediately, there flooded into his mind all the possibilities that the simple principle of obedience afforded him. If he wanted to be successful in any given area, all he need do is find the principles of success which govern that area, and then be strictly obedient to them. As he was obedient to these principles, he knew that by the laws governing the universe, success would be sent to him.

Joshua felt like he would burst with excitement, wanting to run right out of the room right then and begin his search for success. Now he would find it, because it now seemed easily within his grasp, all because of the simple principle of obedience.

The Merchant Prince came back over to his cushion and seated himself once again. He reached over and took a ripe fruit from the tray and bit into it, collecting his thoughts as he chewed.

“Many men have been hard hearted and very stubborn, they are not willing to discipline themselves to be obedient to the principles that bring success in the area in which they labor. Because of this, they fail. Then they blame their failure on outside factors, such as luck or some other totally meaningless thing. No, they simply do not realize it is they, and only they, who are responsible for their success or failure. They want the blessings without the obedience, the reward, without the work.

“Even the simplest of minds realizes that when you go into the marketplace, you must pay a price for any bauble you buy. Success, as well, must be paid for. Yet, many men want the results without paying the price — being obedient to the principles which bring success. And they would be surprised to know how relatively small the price of success is — as you, my son, will learn.

“My Master summed all these powerful teachings up in one simple sentence, Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. It was because of this simple sentence that I sent you out into the fields. I myself, taught the steward of the fields those teachings, which he has passed on to you. He is now the most prosperous farmer in the land. He is a great example of the power in that simple sentence; Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”

The Merchant Prince refilled their cups and continued. “If a man sows those things which he knows will bring success, success is undoubtedly what he will reap. If a man does not pay great heed to that which he sows, he cannot expect to reap success where he has not sown it.

“Suppose you wanted to become a successful camel merchant. You would first need to learn all that you could about what makes a camel merchant successful. You can do this through observation, by meeting with camel merchants from all around, by offering to work for them for a time to learn from them, and in many things, you can use your common sense to guide you in what you must do to be successful.

“After you have determined what is required to be successful, you must choose the level of success that you want to have, and evaluate the rate at which you want to grow.

“You must then compare this with the means that are at your disposal. If you haven’t enough means, you must plan to find the means; whether it be through your own work and savings, or whether it be through some lender, or perhaps a partner, who is a wealthy man who is looking for a profitable place to put his money, so it will continue to grow.

“Do not allow yourself to be discouraged. If you have planned out well the principles which will bring you success, you can use this plan to convince people to back you. It will show them you have specifically thought out what you must do to bring success. If you have done your work well, these people will see investing with you would be a wise thing to do.

“Perhaps you would not like to go to others for resources. You can still be successful. All you have to do is utilize the same principles of success for being a camel merchant you have learned, and start on a much smaller scale. As you gain profits from your small venture, invest some of that money back into building the business. In a short time, you will be growing rapidly and profitably.”

The Merchant Prince leaned back on his cushion. “I myself started out that way. I began, as I mentioned on the first night you spent with us, as a small street merchant like the ones you now see in the marketplace. It took me a little while to fully grasp all the meaning within that simple teaching we have been discussing. I was not as quick as you, and I had to learn the application of such by trial and error. But once I got started, and was strictly obedient to the principles which bring success to merchants, success began to flow rapidly . . . Nor has it stopped.

“Joshua, my son, if you will but remember this simple sentence, Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap, and follow the wisdom and power it contains, you will always be successful.

“Here is something else you should know. Sometimes, you are set back in your plans by things which are beyond your control. Do not let these set backs discourage you. If you persist, you will always come out on top.

“Since you have worked in the fields with my steward, you will be able to understand a tragedy which happened only two years ago. That year the crops were destroyed by fire, caused by a lighting storm. The steward had to start all over again with his work, yet he was still successful even in that.

“You see, he knew and had planned against any events he could not control. Of the bounteous harvest of each year, he sets aside enough goods to keep his family and workers comfortable if just such an event occurs. He was successful, even in the face of disaster. Many people suffered greatly that year, for the fire was not limited to my fields alone.”

Looking at Joshua intently the Merchant Prince said, “You must be persistent, and be able to weather setbacks which you cannot control. But know this. If you have planned well, and have been obedient to the principles of success you have found through your careful study of a given area. If you are persistent and continue to press forward, prepared for any possible setbacks, you will eventually obtain great success where all others have failed. And once you have started, success will come easier and easier.

“It must come, for you are being obedient to the principles which bring success. According to the great and eternal law of obedience, as you are obedient, you are blessed. If you are not obedient, you will suffer the consequences. It is all very simple, yet many wish to make attaining success a very complicated mess. It is not really that way at all, as you have seen.”

The Merchant Prince then stood up and stretched his body until Joshua could hear his joints popping. “Come, I have taken too long preaching to you. You must be very weary of my murmuring. Take the rest of the day to relax a little for yourself. We will continue your education tomorrow. You have earned a rest.”

On the contrary, Joshua was full of enthusiasm regarding how he might put, as he coined it, the Law of the Harvest to use for himself. He was surprised at the inspiration for the new name he had given this wonderful idea. The Law of the Harvest seemed to fit perfectly.

He realized now that he was, and forever would be, a farmer. And his field would be whatever he chose it to be.

As he walked down the hallway, Joshua rolled the words through his mind. Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.

Chapter 9

Joshua arose early the following day in anticipation of the continued sessions with the Merchant Prince. He had lain awake much of the night thinking about what he had learned the previous day. Joshua was excited and could hardly wait to get started with what he saw now, as his new life. Armed now with a powerful principle which, although it would require hard work, would virtually guarantee him success.

As he sat musing these thoughts to himself, the servant entered to wake him. Since he found him already awake, he simply smiled and said that he would return shortly to convey him to the room where he would meet with the Merchant Prince.

On the way to meet with the Merchant Prince, Joshua noticed they would be meeting in a different room today. Somewhat puzzled, but he didn’t say anything as they made their way down the steps into a storage area of the house. As he entered one of the storage rooms, he was surprised to find the Merchant Prince already there, rummaging through the stacks of apparently discarded merchandise.

The Merchant Prince glanced up with a welcoming smile, dismissed the servant, and beckoned Joshua over to where he was standing. He had just finished pulling out an old chest with intricate carvings and markings. From the apparent strain the Merchant Prince was using to pull it away from the wall, it must be very heavy. Joshua lent a hand, and they were finally able to pull the chest away from the wall and into the center of the dusty room.

“I seldom come down here anymore,” the Merchant Prince began by way of greeting. “Here is where I have stored many of the things my merchants have told me would not sell.” There was a mischievous glint in his eyes. He then motioned Joshua over to a low bench situated on the far side of the room. Next to it, he noticed a tray of fruit and drinks sitting on a stand next to the bench. The Merchant Prince poured drinks. “I hope you don’t mind the setting for today’s lesson, my son. I felt it would be an appropriate place for us to meet since it has a great deal to do with a new assignment I would like to give you.”

Sitting next to Joshua, with drink in hand, he began to gaze around the room with a distant look in his eyes. “You know,” he said, catching Joshua’s attention. “The merchandise in this room brought me my first fortune. My shopkeepers now tell me that there is no demand for these things any more.”

Joshua paid close attention for he knew the Merchant Prince rarely said anything such as this without good purpose. He looked around at the merchandise the room contained. All of the items, both large and small, were very valuable and of fine workmanship. Each was very intricately worked, and finely carved. Never had he seen such fine goods all in one place — except in the Merchant Prince’s palace. The contents within the small storeroom were worth a small fortune.

“When I first started out,” the Merchant Prince said, reaching over and taking a ripe fruit of the tray and biting into it. “I believed that people weren’t as concerned about price as much as they were about getting a good value, and quality products. I worked hard on this assumption, and you know what I found out?”

Joshua looked over somewhat nervously, he wasn’t sure which way he should answer. The Merchant Prince took the burden from him by answering his own question. “I found that I was right! Now my merchants are trying to tell me that all people are concerned about are getting goods at the lowest possible price. They have stopped trying to sell this type of merchandise.”

He took a drink from his cup, cleared his throat, and once again turned toward Joshua. “What do you think my son? Are people now only concerned about the lowest price for their goods?”

Joshua had just caught his breath from not having to answer the last question, now he found himself having to answer another that he was completely unsure of. The Merchant Prince caught his uneasiness and laughed.

“I’m sorry to drill you with such hard questions so early in the morning. I am asking questions that, as I can see from the look on your face, you are unsure of the answers. Don’t worry, the answers have to do with the principle we are going to discuss today.”

The Merchant Prince got up from the bench and walked over to one of the many shelves and picked up a small ornately carved ivory jewel box. He held it thoughtfully in his hands for a moment, then began to pace. Joshua knew that the learning would now commence.

“The time we spend together, today, will be short. Most of your learning will occur at another place, and with your own pondering and experience.”

The Merchant Prince hesitated from his pacing and tossed the jewelry box over to Joshua who nervously grasped at it so it wouldn’t fall on the floor and be damaged.

“This,” the Merchant Prince said gesturing to the small jewelry box. “And all of these other items,” sweeping his hand at the rest of the room, “were imported from many different places of the world. Each item is of the finest craftsmanship and of the best materials. Look closely at the small product you hold; wouldn’t you like to have such a fine gift?” Joshua nodded his head immediately.

The Merchant Prince also nodded his head. “So would many other people out in the marketplace. There are many people who would love to possess such a fine product as this, yet my merchants tell me they no longer can sell them. They are too high priced, they say.”

The Merchant Prince once again laughed and came over and sat by Joshua, retrieving another piece of fruit from the tray. “I happened to know that there is still a tremendous market for these goods. It is just that many of my merchants have not learned well enough the lesson I am going to teach to you today, a fundamental law of success in selling — but not only in selling, but in leadership, and in communicating with others. It is essential to happiness in life. All encompassing, and I believe I have yet, myself, to fully grasp the enormous power it contains. Listen closely Joshua, for I will but say it but once.”

With that the Merchant Prince stood up and faced Joshua, looked directly into his eyes and said, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” The Merchant Prince walked over to the door and called aloud for a man who apparently had been waiting down the hall to join them. “What I have just told you, I would call the fundamental law of human relations. There is definite power in this, and if you will follow the message it proclaims, you will never be led astray. Many people I have taught this, do not believe in its power. I want you to experience its power for yourself.”

As the Merchant Prince finished speaking, a man, who appeared to be in his mid fifties, walked through the door. He was slight of build, and his hair was grey and thinning, yet it added to his look of wisdom and kindness. He bowed slightly to Joshua, and then turned to the Merchant Prince for his instructions.

“Joshua,” the Merchant Prince began. “I want you to meet Gamielle. He is the keeper of my merchandise, and director of my network of merchants across the land.”

Joshua quickly rose to his feet and walked over to grasp Gamielle’s proffered hand. His grip, Joshua noticed, was firm and confident. There was something about the man he immediately liked, although Joshua could not put his finger on why.

“Gamielle,” the Merchant Prince continued, “is going to assist you with the next phase of your assignment.” The Merchant Prince then gestured to the merchandise in the room. “This, my son, is to help you learn and experience the truth of what I have just taught you. You are now a member of my ranks of merchants, and you have been picked to show the rest of my organization that the items contained in this room are still in great demand. All you need to know to accomplish this task has already been taught to you. Pay great heed to your heart, and to what you have learned, and you will have no problem in being successful.”

Joshua was caught short of breath. If none of the Merchant Prince’s skilled and experienced merchants felt they could sell this merchandise, then how could he? Yet he could not refuse. I must do as the Merchant Prince has bidden me, and do as best I can, Joshua thought.

The Merchant Prince then turned again to Gamielle and said, “Gamielle, please see that my son is outfitted with whatever he thinks he will need. Then deliver the merchandise in this room to wherever Joshua asks, at the time he asks for it.”

Gamielle bowed, and the Merchant Prince started walking out of the room. He then turned, as an after thought, and said, smiling broadly, “Don’t worry Joshua, I know you will succeed. Just remember what you have learned, and do it. It is really that simple!”

With that the Merchant Prince was gone.

Joshua was incredulous. He almost ran after the Merchant Prince to plead for another assignment, to say he was not ready, that he needed to learn more first. He started for the door, but was interrupted by Gamielle clearing his throat to get Joshua’s attention.

“My young friend,” Gamielle began. “I know that some of the Merchant Prince’s teachings can be a little abrupt, but they are effective nonetheless. Take heart. Do not be discouraged. Pay heed to what he has taught you, and you will definitely succeed. That I know from experience.” He smiled a smile of one who knew of which he spoke.

“I, like the Merchant Prince, know there is great demand for the goods within this room. One only needs to present them in the right way, and they will be overwhelmingly accepted.”

Joshua looked at Gamielle in a new light. He had not been left completely to himself after all. Had he gone through the same thing that Joshua was about to undergo? If so, he appeared to have succeeded.

Joshua began to gather his wits about him, trying to recall the things he had learned thus far. The first principle he had learned was, As a man soweth, that shall he also reap. He thought he had a pretty good understanding of that, but this new principle, Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. How does that fit in?

His thoughts were interrupted by Gamielle again clearing his throat to attract Joshua’s attention. “What would you like me to do for you at this point my young friend?”

Joshua thought quickly. “Nothing right now, Gamielle. I guess the first thing I need to do is go and study my field, before I begin to plant any seed.”

Gamielle looked somewhat surprised at Joshua’s answer. His brows furrowed a little at trying to grasp what Joshua meant. At last he quickly understood, and smiled approvingly. “I will be at the warehouses when you need me. I will do as the Merchant Prince has asked, and deliver this merchandise to you wherever and whenever you desire. For anything else you require, you have but to ask.

“Good luck my young friend. You have quite an adventure ahead of you.” Gamielle turned and strode out of the room.

Joshua took another look around the small storeroom. He was again amazed at the precious merchandise it contained. He stood there, silent, hesitating for but a moment, then he also left the room, heading for the marketplace.

Chapter 10

As Joshua arrived at the marketplace, he already had a partially formed plan in mind. From the first principle he’d learned, he needed to know all he could about how the market functioned, and what it was that brought a merchant success.

As he wandered around, closely watching those who appeared to be successful, his mind was pondering over the second principle, and how it fit in with the first; and, how to combine the two to bring him success in something the Merchant Prince’s own merchants didn’t want to do.

Watching the flow of the people, he discovered those merchants who had the most visibility to all the people as they walked down the street, seemed to do better overall, than those who had a less visible location. Joshua made a note of this.

The next thing which stood out in his mind was the fact that the merchants who had the booths most pleasing to the eye also did very well. Two booths side by side, sold the same merchandise. Yet the one who was sloppily adorned, and didn’t have the merchandise easily accessible, only sold about half of what the other merchant did.

Joshua also made a note of this.

He continued to watch and take notes throughout the day. He spent the majority of his time observing those who seemed to have many people constantly stopping. Joshua definitely wanted to identify what those merchants were doing differently from the others.

When he began, he thought the reason why many people stopped at certain booths was because of particularly good bargains, but as the day went on, he noticed this wasn’t necessarily the case. Some merchants had very low prices, but almost no customers. These booths, Joshua noticed were almost always hidden away, sloppily merchandised, or the merchant looked dirty, unkempt, or unpleasant to deal with. As the day drew on, Joshua’s eye was caught by a little gift he would like to purchase for Fahni. He went over to the booth to see how much it cost.

The merchant was very attentive to Joshua as he came up, even though there were many others looking at his merchandise as well. “Hello, good sir.” The merchant began. “Please feel free to look for what you would like while I help these others. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.”

Joshua was impressed. He had noticed at some of the other booths, the merchants were sour, and sometimes rude in their bargaining. He looked around the stand. Everything seemed well displayed and easily accessible so he could pick it up and look at it more carefully.

The merchant finished helping his other customers and then turned his attention to Joshua. “Have you found anything you would like?” Joshua shook his head. “Perhaps I may offer some suggestions if you would like,” the merchant replied.

“I am looking for a gift for a very special person,” Joshua said, “but I’m not sure what to get her.” The merchant shook his head knowingly. “It is hard when you must have just the right gift. Is that person about your age?”

The merchant continued to ask questions helping Joshua narrow down the type of gift he was looking for. Several times, other people came up to the stand while Joshua was looking at different gifts, and each time the merchant would politely excuse himself, and let the others know that he would be with them shortly.

A few times, the merchant asked Joshua if he could wait on other customers while he continued to look. He was never rude, but politely excused himself, and then, after helping the other customers, came right back to assisting Joshua.

Joshua didn’t realize how long he’d been at the booth deciding on a gift for Fahni, but at last he’d narrowed the possibilities down to two different gifts. The items were not very expensive, and Joshua felt quite embarrassed about taking so much of the merchant’s time for such a small amount, but the merchant never showed any impatience or anger at the time Joshua was taking. Joshua never felt rushed, or even felt he had to buy something. The merchant, it seemed to Joshua, was not concerned about making a sale as much as he was concerned about Joshua finding the right gift.

After he had made his selection, the merchant carefully wrapped it for him and gave him his change. Upon leaving the merchant smiled warmly and said, “I think you have chosen well. But, if she does not like it, please bring it back to me, and I will exchange it for something else. Thank you for stopping at my humble stand. If I can ever help you again, please allow me to do so.”

Joshua walked away from the booth feeling very sure that he would return to the stand again, should he ever be looking for another gift. He now also realized what the Merchant Prince had meant when he said, Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. The merchant had treated him kindly and politely, and had been willing to help him with anything he needed. He didn’t rush him or push him into buying something, even when other customers were waiting.

This must be a key, Joshua thought to himself. Treating others the way I would like to be treated. People like to be treated well and fairly; the same as I enjoyed the way the merchant treated me. I felt good about how he served me, and felt I would return and gladly patronize him in the future. This must be at least part of what the Merchant Prince meant for me to learn.

Immediately he looked at the marketplace with new eyes. There were many merchants who were selling this type of merchandise, but none had as many customers as this merchant. Joshua could see why. He treated people the way they wanted to be treated. He may not make a sale every time someone came to his booth, but surely, most of them would leave with a good feeling about the merchant and probably return again and again when occasion permitted.

Yes, there seemed to be a difference in the way other stalls were being patronized. He noticed those who were polite and attentive to the customers needs, regardless of how the customers treated them, were always visited by many people wanting to buy.

These booths also seemed to be merchandised well, and organized in such a way the customer could have easy access to most of the merchandise.

Joshua’s excitement began to grow as he continued down the street again, continuing to take note of differences in the ways merchants treated their customers. Each time he saw a transaction with a customer, he would think to himself how he would like to be treated in similar circumstances. Very few times did he see the customer ever really get treated the way he would have wanted to be treated.

And the customers would react in various ways to how they were treated, but Joshua could tell many times, they were not very happy with the merchant, or the outcome of the bargaining.

But, Joshua noticed, on the few times the customers were treated very well — even when the customer was obviously wrong about something, those stands invariably conducted much more business than all the others.

Yes, thought Joshua, I now believe I can sell the merchandise the Merchant Prince has entrusted to me. He hurried back to the palace to begin formulating his plans.

Chapter 11

That evening at dinner, Joshua wanted very much to talk with the Merchant Prince and ask him questions about what he’d seen in the marketplace during the day. He wanted to make sure he’d really discovered what was meant by the teaching, Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. But, since the Merchant Prince did not ask him about it, and Joshua did not want to seem rude by pressing his conversation into the dinner conversation, he was not able to ask.

The Merchant Prince did, however, notice that Joshua did seem filled with nervous excitement at the dinner table. He realized what it was and smiled to himself in amusement.

Yes, he thought to himself. Joshua reminds me very much of my younger days. I see in his face, the mirror of myself, and the excitement I felt as I began to understand the teachings of my Master.

He was tempted several times to ask Joshua what he had learned in the marketplace, but then fought back the urge. He realized it was better for Joshua that he experience these things for himself rather than providing all the answers. In this way, Joshua would gain a much better insight into the teachings; not to mention the tremendous confidence and growth which comes from being self reliant.

The Merchant Prince continued to bite his tongue, but he was very proud of his new son. He had never had such a dedicated and quick student. It seemed as if Joshua already knew these teachings deep down, but had forgotten them as if in a light sleep, waiting to emerge. Once he’d been shown a principle, he not only grasped it, but saw the inherent power it contained. Perhaps it had something to do with Joshua’s childlike faith. It was the kind of faith his Master had cherished.

Yes, the Merchant Prince was very proud of Joshua.

After dinner, Joshua excused himself politely and took a pile of papers he’d brought down from his room, and proceeded out into the garden for his nightly walk.

It wasn’t long until he found himself entering the clearing where he often met Fahni and talked of many things. He enjoyed her company very much, and wished that he could truly express his feelings for her.

On this occasion, to his delight, he saw Fahni, already there, as if waiting for him to arrive. She glanced up at him and smiled.

“What took you so long, my brother?” She gestured for him to come and sit on the bench beside her.

Joshua wished she didn’t always refer to him as a brother. He wanted against all possible hope, that someday he would be worthy of being more than just a brother.

“Father must have taught you something very hard to understand today, for you to be this long in the gardens.”

“Indeed, he has,” Joshua replied. “Yet I believe I am beginning to comprehend what he meant by his teachings. My concern now lies with applying what I think I understand, to the task he has set before me.”

“What task is that?” Fahni asked, turning toward Joshua with a very distracting smile and rapt attention.

“I have been asked to take some of the merchandise in one of the palace storerooms down to the marketplace and prove it can be sold.”

“That shouldn’t be so hard for someone like you.”

“You don’t understand,” Joshua continued. “The merchandise I have been given, is merchandise which none of the other merchants will market any longer. They say it is too expensive, and that people no longer want such fine merchandise.”

“And you feel the same after spending a day in the marketplace?” Fahni asked.

“Father, and Gamielle, the steward over the warehouses and merchants, seems to think I will do fine; if, I heed the teachings which have been given to me. They have told me they wish for me to show Father’s other merchants they have been wrong, and that the merchandise is indeed in demand. It is the same merchandise Father said he began with.”

With a smile of mischief on her face, Fahni put her hand on Joshua’s knee to get his attention. “That is not what I asked. I asked, how you feel you will do.”

Joshua, at the feel of Fahni’s hand upon his knee became jittery and a bit nervous, but thrilled at her soft touch. He concentrated very hard and was able to continue.

“I believe I may be able to do well. The key to my success lies in following the teachings of success I have been given. The first teaching, I feel I understand well. I’ve been to the marketplace and have observed what successful merchants are doing to make them so. I recorded what I have seen makes them successful, then I have planned out what I should do to emulate their successful activities and thus, I should have success also.

“What concerns me, however, is that none of the merchandise I saw in the marketplace is as fine or expensive as mine will be. It worries me somewhat that Father’s other merchants may be right, about people only wanting a good bargain.

“Yet,” Joshua continued as he stood up and began to pace around the small clearing as he spoke. Fahni hid a small giggle at the characteristic pacing, and once again devoted her attention to what Joshua was saying. “I believe my strength will lie in the second teaching Father gave me just this morning. He gave it to me but once, and it was very short and simple, but both he, and the steward assured me it would bring great success.

“As I have been out in the marketplace, watching all the different merchants, I think I may have found the power within this teaching, or at least a beginning of its power, that may make all the difference between my success and failure.”

“What teaching was this, Joshua?” Fahni asked as she went over and stood looking into the fountain, running her hands through the ripples of water as they cascaded down the granite statue.

Joshua came over and stood at her side, also staring into the fountain as if it would provide him with the reassurance and answers he was seeking. “Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you,” he said.

Turning to Joshua, Fahni then asked, “And how do you think this teaching will make a difference in the marketplace?” She was not belligerent, nor scornful in her question. It was sincere, as if Fahni knew Joshua needed to talk through his thoughts with someone and help him clarify his thinking.

Joshua thought a minute. All night, he had been aching to talk with someone about that very thing, yet now he had his chance, he didn’t know where to begin.

Sensing his quandary, Fahni took Joshua by the hand and led him over to the bench, had him sit, and then sat at his feet to listen. At the feel of Fahni’s hand in his, Joshua knew he was in heaven. He had often dreamed of holding her hand in his, but had never dared. Now with her sitting at his feet patiently waiting for him to continue his explanation, he couldn’t think or speak.

With a tremendous act of will, he broke through his short-lived ecstasy and quickly compose his thoughts in order to continue.

“It seemed that the merchants who were most successful, treated all who came to their booth with respect and dignity. They did not push nor bargain angrily, as the majority of merchants did, yet they always seemed to make a fair profit, and make their customer’s feel good about bargaining with them.

“Indeed, one particular merchant whom I visited, was very polite and never pushed me into making a decision. I felt good about coming to his booth. I felt welcome whether I made a purchase or not. Because of this fine treatment, I felt that I would always want to do business with him.”

Jumping to his feet as if hit by lightning, Joshua slapped himself on the forehead as a stroke of inspiration came to him.

“You know Fahni,” Joshua began excitedly. “I didn’t even think about the price of the item I bought. It was a fair price and didn’t worry about it any further. The attention and courtesy given me, meant much more to me than getting the lowest price.” Again Joshua began to pace as thoughts rapidly went through his mind.

“Do you think it is the same with others as it was with me?” Joshua asked. Before Fahni could answer, he answered himself, “I’m sure it is.” Joshua was very intent upon all the new thoughts running through his mind.

Fahni giggled, unnoticed by Joshua, who was oblivious to anything but his thoughts and excitement. Fahni had seen her Father this excited on many occasions, and Joshua reminded her of him more all the time.

“Of course they must!” Joshua repeated. “That is why those merchants who treated their customers the best, were not always the best priced goods, but almost always, they were the busiest.

“People, like myself, must place great value in the way they are treated and served. When patrons choose the merchant from whom they will buy, if they are offered a fair price, then they are more apt to purchase from those merchants who treat them the way they want to be treated, whether they get the absolute lowest price or not.”

“That’s the key I’ve been searching for!” Joshua announced as he turned and looked down at Fahni with great relief and happiness. “I’ll have the finest merchandise in the marketplace. If I treat people the way I would wish to be treated, then price will not be as large an issue; so long as my price is fair.

“If I then combine this principle with the other things I have observed which bring merchants their success, then I am surely bound to succeed!”

With that, Joshua forgot himself and swooped Fahni to her feet and swung her around in his arms with joy. Then in a flash he remembered he was holding in his arms the daughter of the Merchant Prince, who had adopted him into his family.

He quickly came to his senses and set Fahni down on her feet.

“I’m sorry,” Joshua began. “I was caught up in the excitement of my newfound understanding.” Fahni smiled, looking up into his eyes, and then blushed slightly. Joshua was pleased she seemed to be somewhat embarrassed, but he did get the slight impression that she hadn’t minded being in his arms. At least he hoped that he wasn’t imagining things.

Joshua, still full of excitement, but somewhat toned down now from being so close to Fahni, lead her over to the bench and had her be seated. “I now feel that I have a firm direction in which I can work and be successful in competing with all the other merchants in the marketplace. Father does have much wisdom in his teachings. They truly are simple in words, but those words carry such a power as to almost defy description.”

Fahni, now regaining her composure interrupted Joshua with a slight touch. “Yet there are other meanings to these teachings than just what is applied in the marketplace. Each of these teachings has great significance in our lives going far beyond the marketplace.”

Joshua sat beside her, eager to hear what she had to say. At his brief nod of the head, and attentive posture, Fahni continued. “As you may have realized, Father has taught me the same teachings he is now teaching you, yet he has done so throughout my life and with many different lessons.”

Fahni got up and strode over to the fountain and sat with her back facing it, turned toward Joshua. “Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you. Indeed, that is a very powerful principle in the marketplace, but it has even greater meaning for how we should always live our lives. It brings great blessings in hidden and mysterious ways.”

Joshua’s interest was focused. He realized he had been so intent upon success in the marketplace, he had failed to even think about the value of these lessons for all the other areas of one’s life. He bowed his head, a little bit embarrassed at how he’d probably made a fool of himself with his intense focusing only on a narrow aspect of what he’d been learning. Seeing this, Fahni came over and again sat down next to Joshua.

“Joshua, you have learned and understood a great deal of Father’s teachings. More so than anyone ever has in such a short time. You are focusing on the marketplace, because that is the direction Father has been using to illustrate these lessons with you. Don’t forget. I’ve had a lifetime of such teachings, and in all different aspects of life. Do not feel bad that you don’t know everything now. It will come with time and experience.”

Fahni broke out in a warm smile as she realized she had just used a phrase her Father often used with her — to her exasperation. It seemed ironic that she should be teaching someone else what her Father was always trying to express to her.

“Yes,” she repeated with a wistful sound to her voice, “As Father is always reminding me, it will come with time and experience.”

Joshua, heartened by her words looked at Fahni a little hesitantly, but with a big smile on his face which Fahni couldn’t resist he asked, “Would you help me learn?”

Fahni slapped Joshua playfully on the shoulder and teasingly replied, “Of course I’ll help you learn. We are family, are we not? Let us begin right away with your instruction.” Joshua could tell she was playfully mocking the instruction he was receiving from her father. They both shared a laugh.

“But seriously,” Fahni continued. “What Father has been teaching you will fit into every area of your life if you let it. For example, as I stated earlier, the principle you have just been learning, Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you has blessings which will flow to you in many different ways.”

Setting herself more comfortably on the bench, Fahni continued. “When I was a little girl, Father would always teach me that if I wanted people to treat me in a certain way, I should treat others that way first. Then, over time, I would begin to be treated the way I had treated others — which I had wanted in the first place.

“As I grew older, Father expanded this principle. He said if I wanted to get something, or develop a particular talent, according to this principle, if I first concentrated on helping others achieve what they desired, the things I wanted would be brought to me. At first I didn’t understand how this could be so, but as I had faith in these teachings and helped others achieve their goals, I found the ways were opened that I could achieve my goals as well. I cannot explain it, but I know it has always worked for me.”

Fahni stood up and walked over to the fountain again while she thought of how to say next the thing she wanted to say. She didn’t know how to begin. Joshua was still attentive, thinking about the words Fahni had spoken.

After a moment, Fahni turned around and continued. “About a year ago, Father taught me a little more about this principle. He knew I was fast approaching the age at which I would be looking for someone with whom I would share my life.”

Fahni hesitated more. Joshua could tell that she was nervous talking about this subject, but he was especially interested to hear what she had to say.

“Father reminded me of this principle, and how it had brought me many things in the past. He then taught me how this principle would bring me the person with whom I would share my life.”

Joshua was listening very closely. Fahni continued. “Father said that for me to find the type of person I would want to share my life with, I must first decide what type of person I wanted in a mate. He and I sat and listed the qualities I felt would be important for me to have in a husband, and father to our children.” At mention of children, Fahni blushed slightly but continued.

“After we had finished the list of qualities I wanted in my future husband, Father then took the list and held it before me. He said, ‘If this is the type of person you would like to find in a mate, then you must first, concentrate on making your life such that you would be a worthy compliment to him. When you have done so,’ Father continued, ‘he will be brought into your life, and you will recognize him when he comes.’”

There was silence between Fahni and Joshua for some time while the import of what she said imbedded itself. Joshua wanted desperately to ask if she had recognized that man yet. He wanted to know, but was afraid of what the answer might be.

At last, Joshua gave up. This was not the time, nor the place, and he didn’t want to put her in an uncomfortable position. Although a member of the family, he was still a guest who had been shown great kindness and love. He didn’t want Fahni to feel awkward in any way towards him.

Breaking the silence, Joshua said quietly. “Fahni, I appreciate your teachings. They reflect great wisdom, and I shall pay great heed.”

Indeed he would, for he was, from what Fahni had shared with him, beginning to understand that the principles he’d been learning held far greater powers than those which pertained to the marketplace. He knew now he would be spending a great deal of time pondering over these messages and how they could apply in all areas of his life — but especially those dealing with Fahni.

Joshua motioned Fahni to join him once again on the bench. At first she seemed to hesitate, but then came over and sat next to him, afraid to have her eyes meet his.

To try and lighten the atmosphere, Joshua spoke brightly. “I brought you a gift from the marketplace. Had I known you would also become my teacher, I would have brought something a little better, as befitting your new position.” Joshua spoke with mock importance, causing Fahni to laugh and place the atmosphere between them back on a casual footing. She smiled warmly at him as he held up the small package the merchant had carefully wrapped.

She opened it cautiously, and as she recognized the gift, her eyes grew wide in astonishment.

“It is a crystal dove!” She exclaimed.

“It was a symbol of peace, love, and trust within my family,” Joshua said, his head bowed slightly. “I wanted to share it with you, for although it is but a simple gift, it has great meaning for me.”

Fahni looked flushed and tears started to well in the corners of her eyes. “This symbol also has great meaning for my family as well!” Fahni replied. “The symbol of the Dove reminds us of Father’s Master and his teachings. It carries much the same meaning for us as it did for your family.”

Fahni then lowered her eyes and spoke softly, her voice filled with suppressed emotion. “It may be that this is a sign that you were meant to be with us.”

Joshua gently put his hand to her chin, lifting her head so he could look into her eyes. “For whatever providence that has allowed me to be here with you, it is the greatest blessing I have ever been given.” Joshua took Fahni into his arms.

Fahni drew close to him, and looked up into his eyes. The look Joshua saw in Fahni’s eyes, told him of feelings he’d longed to see from her, but had never even dared to hope for.

For a brief moment, they looked at each other, and then their embrace closed slowly into a tender kiss.

Up on one of the upper balconies of the palace, the Merchant Prince’s wife had been sitting, gazing upon the garden and the city beyond. It had been her normal custom for many years, but especially since she had noticed Fahni and Joshua spending time together. After all, what mother would not want to keep a close eye upon her daughter; especially when she could see how the two young people were beginning to feel about each other. Neither had confided their feelings to her, but as a mother can tell, she knew that the mutual attraction had been growing since the day Joshua had come into their home.

She watched as the two young people separated from their embrace. They were both feeling a little awkward at the new turn their relationship had taken. Fahni got up and excused herself and came into the palace rather hurriedly, leaving Joshua scratching his head in consternation at her rapid departure.

The situation seemed comical, yet typical of young people falling in love. Yet, being a mother, she was also concerned at what the outcome of such a relationship would be.

She left the balcony and walked back into the private chambers she and her husband shared. The Merchant Prince was reading some scrolls by the light of a nearby lamp. He looked up as she entered.

“It would appear as if our daughter has taken a much stronger interest in Joshua tonight,” she said with a smile.

Even though her words had the ring of slight amusement, the Merchant Prince knew by her expression and tone of voice she was concerned. He quickly put aside the scrolls and sat silently, waiting for his wife to continue, as he knew she would.

“Fahni has never found someone in whom she was interested before, although she has had many young men very interested in her.” The Merchant Prince’s wife moved over and sat gracefully on a cushion next to her husband. She leaned over and placed her head on his shoulder while he encircled his arms about her as if to lend her comfort as they spoke softly together. He now could clearly see the shadow of concern she felt over the situation.

She looked back into the Merchant Prince’s eyes as she continued speaking. “For some time, I had been worried because she had not shown any interest in some of the young men who have come to call. I thought perhaps we may have been unrealistic in our teachings to her, or too critical of the young men. Yet, she certainly has strived to live a life that would be deserving of the kind of husband we hoped she would someday find.”

The Merchant Prince began to stroke her hair. “You were worried that Fahni had not shown interest in any of the young men, but now she has, you are also worried.” A touch of humor sounded in his voice.

“It’s not just that,” Allisa shifted to a more comfortable position. “I’m glad she’s interested in Joshua, but I’m also worried because she’s interested in him. I know it may not make sense to you, my husband, but they have only known each other for such a short time. It’s hardly been long enough for them to know each other well enough to have such feelings for one another.”

The Merchant Prince laughed softly as he hugged his wife, taking the sting out of his laughter. “How long did it take for us to fall in love?” At that, the Merchant Prince’s wife joined in his quiet laughter.

“I also remember your parents being nervous about me. After all, I came into town by myself, having nothing but dreams, ambition, and strange teachings.” The Merchant Prince stopped for a minute, as if pondering. His wife looked up at him and he continued with a teasing smile. “In fact, Joshua is much like I was when I was his age. He has amazed me by his understanding and eagerness to learn.”

The Merchant Prince squeezed his wife again in reassurance. “I have also seen the unspoken feelings which have passed between the young ones as of late. Believe it or not, I share your concern, my love. Yet, we have both felt that Joshua has been sent to us for some great purpose. Perhaps this is part of that purpose.”

“Do not worry,” he continued. “They are both smart young people. All will work out as it should.”

The Merchant Prince leaned over and blew out the lamp, leaving them both in the darkness together. “Remember, when we were younger?” The Merchant Prince then drew his wife closer, becoming more romantic.

She pushed away from him playfully, “That’s what worries me!”

Chapter 12

For the next few days, Joshua spent most of his time in the marketplace finishing his observations and plans. The more he learned and planned, the more excited he became. He realized this would be hard work, but at the same time, he would be able to test what he had learned from the Merchant Prince.

Aside from being excited, he was also quite nervous about this new challenge. What if he failed? What if he’d spent his time looking at the wrong things? Doubts and fears threatened to overwhelm him, until he decided that he must push them aside. He was doing his best to follow what he’d learned. Worrying about whether he would succeed or not wouldn’t help; so he set his mind upon what he’d learned, and concentrated his efforts on making sure he would succeed.

In the evenings, after dinner, he and Fahni would spend time together in the gardens. At first, it had been a little uncomfortable as their relationship had taken a deeper turn, but they quickly overcame this obstacle. They often discussed what Joshua had been learning in the marketplace. Fahni also kept her promise, and taught him how the principles he’d learned from the Merchant Prince applied to all areas of life, and not just the marketplace.

Joshua enjoyed this most of all. In their discussions, they not only learned of the Merchant Prince’s principles of success, but they also learned more about each other. They discussed their hopes and dreams for the future, and . . . Their feelings about each other. They continued to grow very close.

One particular morning, soon after Joshua had left for the marketplace, Fahni knocked on the door to her Father’s private study.

“Come in,” the Merchant Prince’s voice echoed through the heavy wooden door. As Fahni swung open the door and walked in, the Merchant Prince looked up from his work. Seeing it was his daughter, a pleasant and knowing smile came across his face. Getting up from his desk, he gestured for her to have a seat on some cushions arranged in a small, but richly decorated seating area.

He beckoned for a servant, sending him to call Allisa, then left word they were not to be disturbed until he so indicated.

“Well, my daughter,” the Merchant Prince began as he strode over and eased himself onto a cushion next to Fahni. “It may be presumptuous of me, but I believe I know why you are here.” With that, Fahni blushed a deep shade of red and hid her eyes in embarrassment.

“You have always been able to read me as an open scroll,” Fahni said. “I am glad that you have called Mother, for I am in need of both of your counsel and advice.”

The Merchant Prince noticed the very serious look that came across Fahni’s face and had to work hard to control his amusement, realizing now how silly he must have appeared in his younger days. Yet, at the time, matters of this kind had been very serious for him too.

Quickly getting himself under control, he lifted himself out of his cushion, went over to a cabinet and pulled out three goblets. He lifted out a flask of fruit drink and filled each of the goblets.

At that point, Allisa came into the room, closing the door shut behind her with a dull thud. She saw Fahni seated over on the cushions, then cast a questioning look at the Merchant Prince. With a large grin on his face, and the light of mischief dancing in his eyes, he winked and gestured with a nod of his head to go ahead and be seated on one of the cushions. Comprehending now why she had been summoned, she crossed over and seated herself next to Fahni. The Merchant Prince carried the drinks over and served them before seating himself. Then he and Allisa then turned their full attention upon their daughter.

Quickly taking a large drink and swallowing it, she came right to the point of her visit.

“Father, is he the one?”

Both the abruptness of the question, and the pleading look in Fahni’s eyes left the Merchant Prince and Allisa speechless.

Fahni continued.

“Is Joshua the one that you said would be sent to me?”

This second question snapped the Merchant Prince out of his momentary stupor. Trying to regain his composure, he spoke softly. “What do you feel, Fahni?”

Fahni took another quick drink from her goblet and thought to herself for a moment.

“I remember that when I was younger, you taught me that if I would decide what I wanted in a husband, and then try to live my life to be worthy of such a husband, then such a one would be sent. I have really strived to do so, and now Joshua has come into our lives.”

Allisa sat up, entering into the conversation. “Does Joshua fit what you have decided you want in a mate?”

Fahni again thought carefully to herself for a moment before replying.

“Although we have known each other for only a short time, he is the first I have known that really does fit what I have been looking for. That is what scares me, and why I have come to you for your advice.” She slunked back down onto the cushion as if pressed down by a heavy weight. “We have grown very close.” With a slight blush on her cheeks she continued, looking at her mother and then her father. “I am scared at the speed at which my feelings for him are growing. Yet if it is right, then I should feel happy, and not scared . . . I am happy, and want to be with him all the time, but . . . I am scared too, of what is happening.

“Oh!” Fahni groaned. “I’m so confused about my feelings. What should I do?”

Allisa smiled, reaching out and resting her hand on Fahni’s. “It is a very big step. One that should not be taken lightly.”

“It is not a decision that you must make right away either,” the Merchant Prince added. “It is something only you can answer for yourself. But know that your Mother and I have noticed you both together.” Again Fahni blushed. “We approve of Joshua and love him as our own son. We have felt since the night he first came to us that he was sent to us for great purpose, and this may be part of it.

“One thing I do know, however,” the Merchant Prince continued. “If you continue to live your life such that you would be worthy of the type of mate you desire, and not rush into any commitment, you will know, and be at peace with your decision.”

“Joshua reminds me a great deal of your father when we first met.” A warm smile passed between Allisa and the Merchant Prince. “We both feel good about Joshua, but you don’t need to decide right away. Do as your Father has said, and in time you will know; as I did when your Father asked me to marry him.”

Fahni appeared a little more relieved as she listened, but she was still worried, and quite nervous at what the future might bring.

“Joshua is new to our city,” Fahni continued. “He is not established, how would we live? What if he couldn’t obtain employment? What if we . . . ”

“Wait a minute,” the Merchant Prince interrupted. “Joshua is a hard worker. Many times, the steward of the fields has asked to have Joshua come back and work with him in the fields. This is no small compliment of his abilities to work and provide a good living for his future family. Besides, haven’t we taught you that it isn’t important what one does, but that it is more important who one is.”

The Merchant Prince sat up and clasped each of Fahni’s hands in his. “The type of person you marry is far more important than what he does for a living. Success is not really measured by where a man works, but more by the type of person he is . . . ”

At that, Allisa burst out laughing. Both the Merchant Prince and Fahni stared, dumfounded.

Still laughing, Allisa explained, reaching over to pat her husband’s hand reassuringly. “Forgive my laughter. I could not help myself.” Then turning toward Fahni, her eyes still gleaming with humor, she continued.

“Your Father used those same words to convince me — and my parents– that I should marry him, even though he was a penniless, yet very eager and ambitious young merchant.”

The Merchant Prince smiled widely at the memory of a similar scene so many years ago. Fahni cast an astonished glance at her father.

Allisa continued. “I know well the feelings you are having my daughter, for I had them myself. But, your Father is right. If you find someone who is honest, hard working, and who has integrity within his very nature, then you can rest assured that you will always be taken care of. It is really what’s inside a person that makes them successful, not necessarily where they labor.”

“After all,” Allisa continued, rising to her feet. “I took a chance with your Father, and look how he turned out.” She cast a teasing glance at the Merchant Prince. “If you choose wisely the right type of person; and more importantly, perhaps, continue to be the right type of person yourself, there is nothing that the two of you, working together, cannot overcome. You will know in time what is right for you to do.”

“Come now. Let us go and begin preparing lunch for this hungry, penniless merchant.” Allisa said, gesturing at the Merchant Prince, who affected a look of shock. Allisa then reached down and pulled Fahni to her feet.

She hugged her mom, and then reached down and kissed her father on the cheek.

“Thank you for listening,” she said. “I really care for Joshua, and it scares me.”

The Merchant Prince got up from his cushion and walked them to the door. “All will work out as it should, my daughter. Be patient and you will see that this is true.” He closed the door to his study behind him and went down to the kitchen with Allisa and Fahni for the mid-day meal.

Chapter 13

The sun was just breaking out over the distant mountains, beginning to cast rays of light dimly over the city and Joshua was already in the marketplace. Today he was beginning his first day as a new merchant. He had spent over two weeks in the marketplace observing carefully what the keys for success appeared to be for the most successful merchants. Joshua knew from working with the steward of the fields that Whatsoever ye sow, that shall ye also reap. In his time with the steward of the fields, he had learned that before he even began, he needed to know what brought success in any given field. And then if he would concentrate on doing those things, he would reap the success of those efforts.

In those two weeks, Joshua had identified as best as he was able, the things that appeared to bring success to merchants in the marketplace. Now confident that he was following the first principle of success that the Merchant Prince had shared with him, concentrating on what he must sow in order to reap the rewards of success in this venture. Also, he knew that even if he’d not identified everything that brought those other merchants success, he had the majority of techniques they employed. The rest, he knew that he would discover through experience, and be able to learn along the way.

Gamielle would be delivering his goods soon so he could set up his little shop.

He had arrived early in order to insure that he would receive an excellent location for his stand. He knew from his observations that one of the critical elements to success in merchandising was location. His stand must be where it could be seen easily by any passers by.

Joshua had also recognized that the appearance of one’s shop was one of the points critical to success as a merchant, so he’d constructed a small stand that he believed was ideally suited to display his merchandise. The rigging made it so all his customers could easily see and obtain merchandise without too much trouble. Also, he designed it so he wouldn’t be behind a counter, as he felt that it would be more personable to his customers if he were right there talking with them.

To the wooden frame and shelving of his stand, he affixed some of the fine linen that was part of the merchandise he was to sell. In addition to giving his stand a very rich and elegant look, it helped him to display effectively the linens that are best displayed in a flowing manner.

None in the marketplace would have as fine a stand. Joshua felt that this was absolutely essential, for he had such fine merchandise that he felt he had to have the stand reflect the quality of what he was selling.

As he stood back and gazed upon the assembled stand, complete with the linen and the merchandise arrayed upon it, he could not help but be proud. His stand had the appearance of a richly decorated room in the Merchant Prince’s own palace. It was sure to attract a great deal of attention because of the elegant and rich atmosphere that it conveyed, especially when contrasted with the normal chaos of the marketplace. He hoped this contrast would draw people who were interested in the merchandise he had to offer.

Because of this rich appearance, however, he knew only too well that he could possibly be plagued by some of the many thieves which were found in any marketplace. In planning for this, he had arranged for one of the Merchant Prince’s servants to accompany him, and for a percent of the profit, he would help him to watch for any such thievery, as well as help customers if Joshua was busy with someone else.

He remembered well, the principles he had learned from the steward of the fields. He had been taught that one must always try to plan against any possible thing that could cause one to fail, or even hinder one’s chances for success. Joshua had spent a great deal of time thinking of anything he could imagine that could cause him to fail, or even hinder in the slightest way his ability to succeed. Whenever he would think of something that could cause this to happen, he would plan what he could do to avoid that occurrence. He was amazed at some of the simple details that he would have missed had he not taken the time to do this.

For example, he thought, “What would happen if it rained?” It would ruin all of his linens, and much of his fine merchandise could be soiled or stained. It did not rain very often in this dry, desert land, but the desert winds often blew with a harsh ferocity. He planned against either occurrence by fashioning a sturdy canvas which could be quickly draped over the stand and anchored to the ground, to protect the stand and its merchandise from the weather.

He thought of many other things that could possibly hinder his success. One by one, he painstakingly did what he could to avoid these occurrences. Thus, by doing all that he could to incorporate those things that brought success to the other merchants, and then eliminating all the possible things he could imagine which could cause him to fail, Joshua felt that he was insuring himself the greatest possible chance to succeed. It had required a great deal of hard work and painstaking planning, but he felt assured because of the great power he recognized in the first principle of success — Whatsoever ye sow, that shall ye also reap. He felt sure his success would be well worth the effort.

Now that Joshua had set up his preliminary work, he realized that the real test of his success was yet to come; actually meeting with the people and persuading them to buy. He was more than a little nervous about this portion of his challenge, for indeed his merchandise was the highest priced in the marketplace. Yet, he also knew without a doubt, that it was also the finest quality merchandise in the marketplace. For this portion of his challenge, he would have to rely upon the second principle the Merchant Prince had only briefly introduced him to. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. The rest he’d had to figure out for himself — with the help of Fahni.

Perhaps learning this way is best, Joshua thought to himself. You do not rely upon the opinions of others. You are then forced to really look deep within yourself to see how others should be treated.

“Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you.” Joshua echoed softly to himself. From his observations in the marketplace, he had recognized easily that those merchants who treated their customers with great respect were always the busiest. He believed that this was the key to what this phrase meant, but as he had pondered over the full extent of what it could mean (with Fahni’s help), he thought that he could do even better than those merchants he had observed.

Joshua was of the opinion, after much pondering on the subject, that he must sincerely want to help others get what they wanted, rather than trying to get them to do what he wanted them to do. After all, this is how he would want to be treated if he were shopping in the marketplace — especially for such fine merchandise as he would be carrying.

Indeed, Joshua had spent almost the entire last week thinking about how he would like to be treated if he were out shopping in the marketplace. He especially tried to put himself in the position of one who would be looking for the fine types of merchandise such as he would sell. It had been a little difficult at first, but then as he got started and made notes as he pondered, he became more and more aware of how he felt, and henceforth, how many others must feel as they are searching for merchandise out in the marketplace.

Now, at last, it was time to put all his preparation to the test. He was very nervous, but at the same time filled with a subdued excitement. This was something that he had never thought could ever happen to him, but here he was. As the other merchants slowly began to arrive and began setting up their own stands, Joshua said a silent, yet fervent prayer of gratitude for the many blessings that had been bounteously bestowed upon him as of late.

It wasn’t very long before many of the other merchants took note of the strange sight that Joshua’s new stand represented to them. Many came by his booth to see what he was up to. Many were silent, but others were openly scornful of this newcomer.

Joshua recognized several of the merchants and inclined his head to them in greeting. They looked at him curiously, and continued on their way. He heard one whisper to the other, “He won’t survive the day. His prices are much too high. With his stand decorated so richly, people will not even stop because they will be afraid of such great expense.”

These merchants were not alone in their negative comments, and Joshua became a little disconcerted at their reactions. Could he have been so off base as to create something that would be a dismal failure?

Joshua was about ready to surrender to his fear when one of the merchants whom Joshua had noted for his particular success came up to him and spoke.

“You have a very fine stand here my friend,” he began. “My name is Mehdi. Let me be the first to welcome you to the marketplace.” With that, he extended his hand, which Joshua gratefully accepted.

Mehdi continued. “I couldn’t help noticing that you are the same young man that I have seen in the marketplace these past two weeks. You were studying us all very intently.”

Joshua was a bit surprised that someone had noticed what he had been doing. “Yes,” he said rather softly. “I studied those in the marketplace who appeared to be successful, so I could learn from their successes.”

Mehdi bowed his head knowingly. “I had guessed that you were probably doing something of the sort.” He watched as a couple more merchants made their way past Joshua’s stand shaking their heads in wonder.

Mehdi’s eyes glowed with laughter. “Don’t mind them, my young friend. They are negative out of jealousy more than any particular knowledge they possess.”

At that, Joshua laughed weakly. He wished he could be more confident. “I have admired your stand further down the street,” Joshua said. “I have learned much from watching you, and would consider myself lucky indeed to have even half the success I have seen you have.”

Mehdi nodded his head humbly. “It is much harder to succeed in the marketplace than many people suppose.” Seeing the worried look in Joshua’s eyes, and interpreting it correctly, said, “Don’t worry, my young friend, you will be successful. I can tell from the effort you have gone to in your preparation. If you have any questions, feel free to ask at any time.”

Mehdi started to head back down the road to his own stand when he hesitated a moment, and then turned back.

“Incidentally,” he said. “Rarely have I seen such fine merchandise in the marketplace. If it makes you feel any better, I remember one other that had such fine goods to sell. He did quite well. As a matter of fact, you may have heard of him. He lives in a palace at the center of the city. To many he is known as the Merchant Prince Jairus.”

At the mention of the Merchant Prince’s name, Joshua started. Mehdi, seeing Joshua’s reaction said, “I see that you have heard of the Merchant Prince. His fame has spread far and wide. He began obtaining his great wealth right here in this very marketplace.”

Mehdi chuckled softly as he reminisced. “Yes, I remember him well. He was young, eager and very energetic, much as you are.”

Pausing in thought as he turned to return to his own stand, he said, “You may be interested to know that your stand looks much like his did, so many years ago. I looked up to him a great deal. Much of what brings me success even today, I learned from watching him — just as you have watched me.” With a sparkle of humor in his eyes he turned and strode back down the street, waiving at some of the other merchants as he passed.

Joshua turned and looked at his stand in wonder, musing. Had the Merchant Prince’s stand really looked like his? He was certainly glad that Mehdi had stopped and talked with him. It buoyed his spirits significantly. He made a mental note to thank Mehdi, and get to know him better. It would be well to have such a friend as he in the marketplace, where each would be willing to help the other. Now, noticing patrons beginning to wander through the marketplace, Joshua hurriedly turned his efforts to completing the finishing touches to his stand.

At first, Joshua’s business started very slowly, but as people started to take notice of his stand, they browsed by to see just what he was selling.

He had decided not to use the hawking type sales approach used by many of the other merchants to draw attention to their merchandise. Joshua had thought that his merchandise needed the dignity of having people come to him without being harassed. His display would draw all the dignified attention he needed.

He also had some refreshments at the stand that were complimentary to all who came. He figured that if he were out in the marketplace, he would get tired and thirsty walking around in the hot sun. Since he knew he would appreciate such a service, he figured others would as well.

As the morning went on, he had more people come to his shop. Each person, he tried to treat as he himself would like to be treated. In some instances, it was quite hard. Some people insisted upon being rude to him, no matter how polite he was to them.

It was drawing close to noon now and Joshua was beginning to become a little worried. Although he had a great number of people come by his booth, he had not sold anything yet. He was starting to wonder whether he had really done the right things, or if he was really cut out to be a merchant. These thoughts threatened to overwhelm him, but then he caught himself.

“I will not surrender to discouragement,” Joshua said softly to himself. “It takes many days before the crops in the fields start to show themselves. I must be patient and not give up too soon.”

Sure enough, as a couple of more hours passed, he began to have some of the people that had visited him in the morning return. They had been through the marketplace to compare all the different merchandise and had returned. Joshua became very excited, but remembered his manners and concentrated his efforts once again on treating these people how he would like to be treated.

He offered them some refreshment, which they gladly accepted, and then began to ask Joshua about certain items, and their prices.

Before Joshua had even set up shop, he’d had a hard time figuring out what price he should charge for each item. He had approached Gamielle with his quandary and learned that most merchants priced their wares quite high, and then lowered the price according to the skill of the person they bargained with. This enabled them to make more money from those that weren’t skilled bargainers and then get what price they needed from those who were.

Joshua didn’t really like this system for he thought that it was unfair to those who didn’t spend much time in the marketplace. Although he himself liked a good bargain, he didn’t necessarily like the bargaining process. He always came away wondering if he had gotten cheated.

If he felt this way, then others must feel the same, especially if they were looking to buy more expensive merchandise. He had thought long and hard about his feelings and then came to a conclusion. If he were going to spend more money in order to get the finest goods possible, he would want to get the best price he could, but he wasn’t opposed to the merchant making a fair profit from the transaction.

Using this as his guide, Joshua had priced all of his merchandise as low as he could, but still give him a fair return. When he quoted the price to some of the people, they were amazed at how low the prices when dealing with such fine merchandise. These people began to buy merchandise without any bargaining at all. It seemed, to Joshua, that they had been relieved that they didn’t have to go through the stress of trying to obtain a fair price by arguing with a merchant.

Others tried to bargain with Joshua to obtain a lower price. To these people, Joshua remained very polite, but explained to them that he had set the prices low enough that he could give them an excellent value on his merchandise, but retain a fair profit from himself. He also explained that he wanted to be fair to all he dealt with and so offered the same price to all, regardless.

Almost all of the people that had sought to bargain accepted this explanation readily, and could see that he was indeed being fair in his pricing. For those very few that continued to prod to see if Joshua would lower his prices, there were none that seemed to be upset when Joshua would not budge, and then went ahead and bought anyway.

Joshua noticed that most of the merchandise he was selling at this point was his lower priced goods, but many of the people had looked at some of his higher priced goods. Many of them said that they wanted to bring their spouse back to see his fine merchandise before deciding whether to buy or not. A few women even asked Joshua how late he was going to be there that night. They wanted to return later, when their husbands could come with them.

To these Joshua readily agreed that he would remain late that night in order for them to bring back their spouses. Joshua had not planned on this occurrence, but he realized that if he were married (immediately his thoughts turned fondly to Fahni), he would want to discuss such large purchases with his wife before buying.

Throughout the day, Joshua’s stand became busier and busier. Many of the people who actually bought merchandise, Joshua recognized as people he had spoken with earlier in the day. They often told him that they had come to look at his merchandise earlier, but then wandered through the marketplace to see if some of his merchandise could be obtained for a better price.

Many of them told him, when they returned, that they had found other merchandise, far cheaper in price, but not nearly as fine a goods as those Joshua carried. Besides, nowhere in the marketplace, were they treated as politely and fairly as here at Joshua’s booth.

These comments made Joshua’s eyes well up with tears of joy and relief. He had been right after all! Then Joshua quickly caught himself. The Merchant Prince had been right.

Toward the end of the day, Joshua was beginning to become very tired. He had promised many of his customers that he would stay late for them to return, so he sent Abihu, the servant who had agreed to work with him, home with word that he would not be home until later that evening. He then sent over to one of the food vendors for a quick meal that would build his strength.

It was tiring work, but Joshua didn’t mind, comparing this work, with the work he had done out in the field. It wasn’t as physical a labor, but he was just as tired, maybe even more so, than if he had spent a full day out in the fields.

When he had a lull in the amount of customers that he was serving at his booth (for he likened himself to a servant, helping people to obtain what they wanted), he would ponder over the principles the Merchant Prince had taught him. Yes, they were simple, but as Joshua was finding out for himself, they were very powerful.

Chapter 14

That night, when he returned to the palace, it was quite late. He had stayed until all his customers had been served, regardless of how late they stayed. It was well past dark, and the last few transactions had been done by lamplight.

But it had been well worth it. Those last few transactions brought him almost as much money as the entire rest of the day combined.

Finally, he was able to close his booth, store his merchandise in a secure area, and pay the guard to watch it during the night. He could not remember when he had been so tired. He could also not remember when he had been so satisfied with his life.

When he arrived back at the palace, he found everyone eagerly awaiting his return; the Merchant Prince being the most eager of all. Abihu, in his excitement, had spread the news of their great success not only to his family, but to all the servants as well.

Fahni dragged him over to a cushion and insisted on serving him a hot meal, while he relived the events of the day. It felt very good to Joshua to see the concern Fahni was showing over him. His heart grew warm over the thought of it. Would the good events of this day never end?

He quickly recounted the day, every once in a while being interrupted by Abihu who could not resist embellishing upon his account. As he spoke, Joshua paid particular attention to the Merchant Prince, however, for he recognized in the Merchant Prince’s face, the proud glint that he had longed to see.

After he finished telling his story, he belatedly remembered he had sold enough merchandise that he needed to see Gamielle about getting more delivered to him in the morning. He also had some requests for merchandise from some of his customers that he didn’t have at his booth, but did have in the storage room.

The servants filtered by, congratulating Joshua and Abihu on their successful first day, and then filtered off to bed. All that remained in the spacious living room was Joshua and his new family.

As Joshua started to get up, the Merchant Prince anticipated his actions and gently pressed him back down onto the cushion. “I have already informed Gamielle you will need to see him early in the morning,” he said. “I had anticipated your success.”

Rising to his feet, the Merchant Prince continued. “Right now, you need your rest,” and turning and looking at Allisa, he continued, “and so do we.”

He walked over and took Allisa by the hand and lifted her out of the cushion she had been reclining on. Once helped to her feet, Allisa came over and gave Joshua a hug and kiss on the cheek. “We are very proud of you, my son.”

The Merchant Prince then came over and put his hand on Joshua’s shoulder, squeezing it in affection. “I too, am very proud. You are, without a doubt, the best student I have ever trained.” The Merchant Prince gave him a playful wink, and swat on the shoulder, then strode out of the room with Allisa.

Pleased that they could finally be alone, Joshua turned his attention to Fahni, who was sitting next to him on the cushion. He thought of an excuse and threw his arm around her shoulders and drew her to him in an affectionate hug. “Thank you for such a wonderful meal after such a long day.”

To Joshua’s pleasant surprise, and to his extreme gratification, Fahni leaned her head on Joshua’s shoulder and rested her hand on his chest, eagerly allowing herself to be drawn into his embrace. “I am very proud of you too” she said softly, but Joshua detected in her voice a slight hesitancy. He had gotten to know her well enough over time to tell when something was bothering her.

“What is the matter,” he asked, turning so he could look into her eyes.

“Nothing. Really,” was Fahni’s quick reply, as she turned her head slightly away from Joshua’s gaze.

“Come now, I know you better than that,” Joshua replied. Remember how you have always told me I should share my feelings with you, so you might help? I believe you should begin to follow your own advice.”

Fahni looked back at Joshua with a resigned smile on her face. “I am just worried about our relationship and where it is heading.”

Joshua’s heart sunk. He just knew it had been foolish for him to hope she could ever care for him. After all, she was the daughter of one of the most powerful men in the country, and he was a poor, simple orphan with hardly anything to his name. What kind of life could he give her anyway?

Sensing the direction of Joshua’s thoughts, Fahni softly put a hand upon his and squeezed it gently. “It is not that I do not care for you Joshua, but, it is because I do care for you that I am worried. Things have happened so fast for us . . . For me since you have arrived. I have feelings for you that I have never had for anyone else. I am glad I have them, yet I am still scared.”

Joshua pulled Fahni closer to him in order to lend her comfort. The words she had said seemed like music to his ears. She really did care for him!

“Don’t be troubled,” Joshua said. “We don’t have to rush into anything neither one of us is prepared for. We have time to continue to grow, and if we are right for one another, then in time, we will know it.” Joshua already knew what was right for him, yet he wanted with all his heart for Fahni to be sure about him.

At Joshua’s words, Fahni was taken aback. Weren’t those almost the same words of counsel her Father had given her earlier? Somehow, it seemed to relax her worries, and she was drawn even closer to Joshua. The more she learned of him, the more she was sure he was the one that she had been waiting for.

Joshua broke into her thoughts by getting up slowly to his feet, pulling her up with him. “Once again, my thanks for your kindness in preparing me such a wonderful meal.” Joshua said. “I would love to stay with you longer, for I have truly missed our time together, but it is late, and I am extremely tired. I didn’t know that being a merchant was going to be such hard work.”

Fahni laughed, her good humor quickly returning. I will see that you are awakened early, for I see once you hit your pillow, you will be dead to the world.” Fahni wrapped her arms around Joshua in a playful hug. “I’m proud of you.”

Feeling the closeness of their bodies, an electrical charge seemed to go through them both, and the playful hug turned into an intimate embrace. For the second time, their lips met in a kiss; only this time Fahni did not run away. Instead she felt comfortable and secure in Joshua’s arms; and she didn’t have a worry in the world.

That night, notwithstanding his immense fatigue, Joshua was so happy, he could not sleep. He realized more fully than ever before, what the Merchant Prince meant when he said that there were many things a great deal more important than material wealth. His love for Fahni was just such a thing.

Chapter 15

After his first full week as a merchant, Joshua had gained quite a bit of fame and notoriety for his extraordinary success. It seemed he became both the friend and enemy of all other merchants in the marketplace; save a very few who were as successful and good natured as he. He really didn’t mind, however, for he knew from where these emotions stemmed. He knew them to be envy and resentment for such seemingly easy success. If only he could explain so they would understand how hard it had actually been. Indeed, most of the work contributing to his success had come in his preparation. Then in the way he treated his patrons. All of this type of work was mostly unseen by those who complained against him the loudest.

At first, this type of talk disturbed him, for he very much wanted to be accepted by all in the marketplace. After talking with Mehdi, who constantly encouraged him, and reminded him that the only people who needed to approve of him were his customers, did he pass it off. Indeed, he reasoned. Being a successful merchant is not a popularity contest. He noticed those who murmured against him the most were those who cared little about the appearance of their display. They had shoddy merchandise, and often tried to push people into buying it.

“It is a wonder these people remain in business,” Joshua said one day to Mehdi.

“Yes,” Mehdi agreed. “But you will notice as I have, many of these merchants come and go each year. They begin business with dreams of easy wealth, and become disillusioned when it doesn’t come pouring in. Invariably, after a few years, they will turn their attentions to some other dream of vast wealth and leave the marketplace — only to be replaced by someone just like them.”

During the second week in the marketplace, Joshua was still putting in the long hours in order to fully serve his patrons; many of whom came back each week to continue purchasing. He was becoming extremely successful, yet he felt his success was not all he had supposed it would be. Something was missing.

After pondering over this problem at length, he began to realize, that although he was successful in the marketplace, he was missing very much the time he had been able to spend with Fahni and her family.

His mind was called back instantly to the counsel the Merchant Prince had given him during his early days of instruction. “Having material wealth does not mean you are successful. You are not truly successful unless you have the love and devotion of your family and friends.”

At once Joshua understood what he was missing. Although he was quickly accumulating wealth, he was trading it for the times he had cherished with Fahni.

What the Merchant Prince had said became very poignant in his life. He realized it would be well worth sacrificing a few talents a day to be able to share time with those he loved.

The question now was how to free himself some time that he might spend it with Fahni and his new family, while at the same time not diminish from serving his customers (for which he was gaining an excellent reputation). Joshua’s thoughts were interrupted by the first of the day’s customers.

He kept quite busy during the day, but always in the back of his mind he was pondering over the problem. At last, toward the end of the day, he had reached a solution. He immediately sent word that he would like to meet with the Merchant Prince early the next morning if his schedule permitted.

Having resolved his problem, at least for now, Joshua set to work in earnest, having his best day yet in the marketplace.

Chapter 16

Early the next morning, Joshua was ushered into the room where he had spent much time receiving instruction from the Merchant Prince. It seemed that each time he entered this room he emerged with new knowledge which literally transformed his life. He hoped it would be the same today.

As he entered the room, the Merchant Prince quickly got up from his cushion where he had been intently studying some scrolls and went over to greet Joshua.

“Good morning my son,” the Merchant Prince said as he gestured over to the fruit tray. “I was beginning to wonder if I would be able to see you again. I’ve grown fond of our early morning meetings, and missed your company as work has required your presence in the marketplace.”

Joshua nodded his head knowingly as he poured two drinks and handed one to the Merchant Prince.

“I too missed these meetings. I can’t begin to thank you for the great knowledge you have bestowed upon me. My life has completely changed.”

“Our’s too,” the Merchant Prince replied with a wry wink.

Joshua sensed his wink had a meaning he didn’t quite understand, but he proceeded to the point of his asking for this meeting.

“I am also grateful you would consent to meet with me on such short notice. I have noticed over the past two weeks a problem. The solution of which I would like to discuss with you.”

“By all means,” the Merchant Prince replied. “But come, let us enjoy breakfast as we talk.”

The Merchant Prince gestured for Joshua to be seated on a cushion and held out a tray of fruit for Joshua to choose from. This accomplished, the Merchant Prince picked himself a ripe fruit and biting into it, sat back down on the cushion he had previously occupied.

“Before we begin,” the Merchant Prince continued. “Tell me how you feel about what you are doing. Do you feel like you are becoming as successful as you had hoped?”

Joshua was caught a little off guard by his question. It threw him off from the words he had prepared so carefully to say. Looking over at the warm smile on the Merchant Prince’s face he couldn’t help but return the smile.

He began to feel more at ease. Joshua had been worried about what the Merchant Prince would think about his supposed problem and the solution he’d arrived at. He didn’t want the Merchant Prince to think he was just being lazy, not wanting to work long hours, or to work hard at selling his merchandise.

Taking another bite of his delicious fruit, and a sip of his drink to wash it down, he began.

“I have enjoyed the work immensely. I have learned so much and come so far that if I hadn’t experienced it for myself, I would hardly have believed it could happen.”

The Merchant Prince nodded his head knowingly, but he held up his hand to interrupt Joshua from continuing.

“I too, am pleased at how much you have learned, and how far you have come. But, tell me how you feel about what you are doing, and if you feel you are becoming as successful as you had wanted.”

Joshua stopped and realized he had been missing the point of what the Merchant Prince had asked. He was directing him right to the topic he had originally wanted to discuss.

Joshua sensed, as he had before, he was about to be taught some powerful principles.

Sitting back on his cushion he shrugged his shoulders, took a deep breath and plunged into his feelings.

“As I have said,” he began. “I have enjoyed what I have been doing, and I feel I have been successful up to a point, yet something is missing.”

The Merchant Prince nodded, encouraging him to continue.

Joshua couldn’t tell what the Merchant Prince was thinking, which made him a little nervous, but he continued.

“I have enjoyed my work, and I don’t mind the labor, nor the long hours, yet I have missed spending time with you, your good wife, . . . and Fahni.”

At that, Joshua blushed, for he couldn’t help but reveal in his words the deep feelings he had for Fahni.

Much to Joshua’s surprise, the Merchant Prince burst out laughing, reached over and clouted Joshua on the shoulder.

“You make it seem like a sin to spend time with us,” the Merchant Prince chuckled. “I had a clue this might be the problem you wished to discuss.”

Partly to defend himself, and partly to regain his thoughts which had been scattered with the Merchant Prince’s laughter, Joshua spoke.

“I don’t wish to seem lazy, nor ungrateful, but you did teach me that having wealth, without time to enjoy it with those I loved, was an empty success!”

“Indeed I did,” the Merchant Prince replied with fervor. “And I consider you a man of great wisdom to have recognized this so soon.”

“But,” the Merchant Prince continued as he pulled himself up off the cushion to refill his drink, “maybe you had a beautiful young distraction who you missed spending time with which brought on this realization more quickly than another could have seen.”

With that he sat back down on a cushion, flashing Joshua a playful wink which said he indeed had noticed the great amount of time he and Fahni used to spend together. And that he had noticed how, as he was working late, Fahni would always wait for him and insist on serving him a hot meal before sending him off to bed.

Joshua ducked his head a little nervously and blushed once again.

“Don’t worry my son,” the Merchant Prince continued with a wave of his hand. “Allisa and I approve.”

Joshua was left to wonder momentarily what the Merchant Prince meant by that statement; but before he could find an answer, the Merchant Prince spoke again.

“As I said, you are to be commended for realizing you have a problem standing in your way to true success. Many, after coming as far as you have, devoted themselves solely to their work. They sacrificed all else for the lure of material wealth.”

The Merchant Prince reached up for the fruit tray and offered it to Joshua. Then, taking a piece of fruit for himself, he stood up and began his characteristic pacing.

“Many have fallen into this trap,” the Merchant Prince began. “You have learned well what I have taught you about true success. Indeed, as I have said many times, success cannot be measured in how much gold a man has in his purse, but more by the type of man his is . . . ”

The Merchant Prince hesitated for a moment, and then turning to face Joshua he said, holding out his hands in apology, “I am sorry to be rambling on. What I was about to share with you is the next secret of success I have agreed to teach you. Before we continue the teaching, you must first solve your problem.”

Coming back to his cushion, the Merchant Prince seated himself once more, lifting his cup for a quick drink before turning his grinning eyes back upon Joshua.

“Now you have recognized the problem, my son, what do you propose is the solution?”

Once again, Joshua was a little startled. He came wanting to talk about this very thing with the Merchant Prince, but none of the meeting had gone as he had thought it would.

He didn’t know what he expected, but he had been afraid the Merchant Prince would be disappointed in his lack of desire to spend all his time in the marketplace. Instead, the Merchant Prince was actually glad he didn’t. And still there was the comment about Fahni and him he had to think about.

Taking a deep breath, Joshua would at least be able to discuss the solution he wanted to propose. He quickly recited his plan of having three different shifts of people running the stand in the marketplace. One to open early and make the stand ready for the day’s activity, receiving new merchandise, and installing it properly so it was attractive and functional.

The second person would come in as the market began to get busy and help with all of the customers’ needs. Those two would work together until early afternoon, when the first person, who had started early, would be relieved by the third person.

Then those two would work together until later in the afternoon. When the main press of people started going home for the evening meal, the second person could then leave.

The third person served the customers who came later, and then close up. In this way, no one person would be overworked, and the shifts could be rotated occasionally so each would have experience in all phases of the business.

Having explained his plan, Joshua turned from pacing the floor (he hadn’t even realized he had been pacing, so imbedded now was this unconscious habit) to look for the Merchant Prince’s reaction.

The Merchant Prince had been sitting on his cushion, listening quietly while Joshua had spoken. He took a swallow from his cup, paused in thought for a moment, and then spoke.

“It is a good plan.”

Joshua was relieved!

He exhaled the breath he had been holding in anticipation of the Merchant Prince’s response.

“However,” the Merchant Prince continued, raising his hand causing Joshua to silently gulp back air he had just exhaled, “have you planned who these other people are to be, and how you will pay them?”

Joshua relaxed and felt confident in his reply. “I would like to ask if you would allow me to hire Abihu, who you know, has proven to be of invaluable help. If this is allowable, I will then work with him until we can find another to hire, and fill our complement of three persons.”

The Merchant Prince stood and came over to Joshua, and said, his voice taking a serious tone. “You must not ask me if you can hire Abihu. You must ask him. I own no slaves. I pay him wages for his service to me, but only he can decide if he wants to serve another.”

“Come, sit, and let us discuss your plan and how you will implement it,” the Merchant Prince said as he gestured for Joshua to again be seated on his cushion.

Joshua hesitated somewhat, knowing it to be late and that he must get to the marketplace.

The Merchant Prince, seeing and recognizing Joshua’s hesitation said, “Do not worry about the marketplace. I have already asked Abihu if he would run the stand until you arrive . . . You see, I had anticipated our conversation. I hope you don’t mind.”

Joshua certainly didn’t. He very much wanted to stay and talk with the Merchant Prince, for he had raised some questions he had not addressed yet — namely how he was going to pay those whom he hired. He was also a bit surprised the Merchant Prince had anticipated this discussion. By now he should be getting used to it.

Joshua went back over to his cushion and sat down. He picked up his cup and drained the remains of its contents.

The Merchant Prince brought the pitcher over and filled their cups again before seating himself back on his cushion.

After making himself comfortable, he looked back over to Joshua with a smile.

“Now,” the Merchant Prince began. “We can continue without any worry of interruption.

“As we agreed when you opened your stand in the marketplace, I have charged you a price for each item you have at your stand. I collect this price from you when you have sold the merchandise. Other than this, I have not added in the least to your merchandising efforts.”

The Merchant Prince looked closer at Joshua and smiled warmly, a mischievous glint coming to his eyes.

“When you began, I asked you to sell the merchandise I kept in the storage room. You may be interested to know that you have sold enough merchandise to fill five such rooms.

“I have had Gamielle fill your orders from our warehouses. He has informed me that he has had to place more orders with the artisans and craftsmen to continue filling your orders . . . And the many other orders coming in from my other merchantmen. They have heard of your great success.”

Joshua was surprised to hear all of this. He knew that he’d sold quite a bit of merchandise, but he certainly didn’t think he had sold that much. What surprised him more was that word of his success had traveled so far already.

Joshua’s thoughts were interrupted as the Merchant Prince continued.

“I bring this up not necessarily to give you added praise, which you surely deserve, but to ask you a question.”

Joshua picked up and listened intently as the Merchant Prince asked, “Did you feel that you were working for me, or did you feel that you were working for yourself?”

Joshua thought a minute on his feelings before he made his reply.

“At first,” he began. “I felt that I was working for you — to sell the merchandise you had kept in your store room. After I began, however, I began to think of it as being my business. I knew my own success depended upon me, and none other. Also, my success would be limited only by what I could physically do with the time allotted me each day.”

The Merchant Prince nodded his head in approval. “Do you feel you would have worked harder if you felt you were working for me, rather than working for yourself?”

Joshua was beginning to see a certain line of reasoning in the Merchant Prince’s questions. “I believe I would make much greater sacrifices feeling that I worked for myself than for another.”

Once again the Merchant Prince nodded. He took a drink from his cup and stood up to begin pacing.

“Every man ultimately works for himself. Even though a man may be working in the service of another, he works in order to provide food for his table. He also realizes deep down, that his own success is dependent upon how well he performs his labors.”

The Merchant Prince stopped by the tray of fruit and picked one up for himself, and tossed another to Joshua, who caught it and bit into it.

“Now that you are looking to hire two more people, consider now the secrets of success you have thus far learned. How do they apply in this action you propose?”

Joshua thought deeply for a moment while the Merchant Prince stood patiently waiting. Finally he spoke.

“The first secret of success — Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap — means I should provide a plan where a man is rewarded based upon his own labors?”

The Merchant Prince nodded at Joshua’s response.

As Joshua continued to think, other ideas flowed into his mind, relating to the first secret of success. Once again he was amazed by the depth and power of this seemingly, simple principle.

He continued to voice these ideas as the recognition of the importance of their previous discussion hit him.

“It seems that if I set up a system whereby a man is able to earn directly according to the effectiveness of his own labor, he will feel he is working more for himself than for me. Feeling this way, that man will be willing to make greater sacrifices in order to make himself — and hence the business more successful.”

The Merchant Prince started to chuckle softly to himself as he saw the excitement showing in Joshua’s face continue to rise.

“He also then,” Joshua continued, “will be working according to the first secret of success — Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”

“That is correct,” the Merchant Prince answered. “This system gives one a chance to grow. You must always help people grow — for that is how you would want someone to treat you isn’t it?”

Joshua gasped with new understanding as he saw how the second secret of success — Do unto others as you would have them do unto you — was also made a part of the system he was discussing with the Merchant Prince.

“Is that why people love you so much and are so loyal to you?” Joshua asked.

“I don’t know if that is the cause of it,” the Merchant Prince replied. “All I know is that following the teaching of my Master, which people have chosen to call my Secrets of Success, has this effect on people. They appreciate being treated well, and given the opportunity to grow as they desire.

I give people the training they need in order for them to become successful. This is how I sow success, in my own way, for these people. I then stay out of their way — unless they need me.”

“After all,” continued the Merchant Prince rising to his feet again. “Look at what you have been able to accomplish under those conditions.”

Joshua quickly comprehended what had just transpired. It was true. He had been given the training he needed and had been given room to work things out for himself. Then was able to apply the principles at his own pace and according to his own ability.

It was also true that the Merchant Prince had always been there if he had ever needed anything.

Joshua’s mind quickly went back to the week he’d spent in the Merchant Prince’s fields. The Merchant Prince had treated him as tenderly as the steward over the fields had treated each plant.

He had been given a great amount of nourishment and training before he began, much like the great amount of preparation each field required before planting. Then he, like the plants in the fields, had been allowed to grow at his own pace, with attendants constantly watching over him, to make sure he would grow successfully.

“I see by the look on your face, you have caught on to these principles and how they apply to your new situation,” the Merchant Prince said, interrupting Joshua’s rapid thoughts.

“Now,” the Merchant Prince continued. “Tell me in detail, how you propose to set up your new business arrangement.”

Joshua calmed and organized the flood of thoughts pouring through his mind before he proceeded.

“First,” Joshua began. “I must consider expanding my current stand so it will have enough merchandise and variety to support three people well.”

The Merchant Prince nodded his head in approval. Joshua continued. “Secondly, I must find one other, along with Abihu, whom I can train, as you have trained me, and whose motivation is sufficient to make him successful.

“In this way, I am sowing the seeds of my success, as well as their success; by making sure those who work with me are adequately prepared. As I help those who work with me become successful, then I, in turn, will also be more successful.”

“Yes,” the Merchant Prince said. “I can see you have caught on well. Now, tell me. How will you pay such men?” The Merchant Prince asked.

Joshua thought hard for a moment, then got up to pace the room in order to organize his thinking.

“In order to determine this,” Joshua began after a while of intense concentration. “I must first decide what I would want if I were in the same situation.”

Joshua glanced over at the Merchant Prince who was sitting back on his cushion, smiling in approval of Joshua’s planning.

Receiving this encouragement, Joshua continued.

“I want to find the best person I can, so I must make the opportunity such that it would attract the best.”

Again the Merchant Prince nodded.

“Now, if I were to be seeking such an opportunity, I would want to be compensated in one of two ways,” Joshua continued as he resumed his pacing. “In the first case, I would want to be paid a set amount so I would not starve while I was learning and growing. In the second case, I would want to be paid according to my efforts, because I would expect to do well — For as a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”

“Why not a combination of both?” the Merchant Prince asked as he rose from his cushion with the scrolls he’d been studying earlier in his hand. He came over and stood beside Joshua.

“I see it!” Joshua exclaimed in excitement. “I’ll start out paying them a set amount while they learn, and keep track of how much they sell, setting aside a certain amount of everything they produce. Then I’ll then pay them whichever is higher, the set amount, or the amount based upon their sales.”

Joshua recognized how he’d received this same type of treatment. He had been given a home and food so he didn’t starve while he was learning and growing, yet he also earned according to how hard he worked, and how effective he was.

The Merchant Prince then put his hand on Joshua’s shoulder and guided him to the balcony where they could stand in the morning sunshine and see beyond the walled enclosure, into the city.

The Merchant Prince arranged himself comfortably on a bench looking out across the view, gesturing for Joshua to be seated beside him, and then spoke.

“You have now set up a complete system of how you are going to run your business, and how you are going to pay your merchantmen, but now you must decide how much.”

Joshua’s rapid thinking had already addressed that point, however.

“I know, as one who was employed by another, I readily expect for the owner of the shop to profit from my labors. It is only fair since the owner has undertaken the risk and expense of setting up and maintaining a business, as well as providing useful employment to others. At the same time, I would want to be paid well for my contribution to my employer’s success.”

The Merchant Prince agreed it was fair.

“Therefore,” Joshua continued. “I will pay each seven parts out of ten on the profit I receive from each item. The other three parts I shall retain for myself for the purpose of expanding my business, and to reward myself.”

“For the base daily wages, I will give them an amount equal to what a good man can make in three quarters of a day. This way, my merchantmen will not starve, they will have an incentive to work hard, and yet they will not be held back in how much they can earn when they start to become successful.

“Your plan is a good one,” the Merchant Prince said grinning broadly. “I believe it is fair and will bring you much success.”

With that, the Merchant Prince unrolled one of the scrolls and gave it to Joshua to see.

Joshua was startled to see an organizational diagram, having many levels and branches. On each level, he noticed inscriptions showing an organization almost identical to what he had just discussed with the Merchant Prince — right down to the amount of pay for each merchantman!

The Merchant Prince laughed at the astonished look on Joshua’s face. “We are much alike, you and I,” the Merchant Prince said.

“Let me now show you how I have made it possible for you — and your merchantmen to grow even further.”

The Merchant Prince retrieved the scroll and unrolled another.

“This shows you the current price you are charged for each item of merchandise. You will see,” the Merchant Prince said pointing to some figures on the scroll. “As you reach certain levels of volume that you sell, you get an added discount off the price.”

“The reason I do this,” the Merchant Prince said as he looked up at Joshua, “Inevitably Abihu, or whomever else you take on, may eventually grow to a point where they want their own shop. At that point, you may help them set up their own shop and provide them with merchandise — much as I have done with you. The added volume you purchase from me allows you to buy at a lower price. This lower price you get from me allows you to earn money on the goods you provide to the new shop. The price of the merchandise you pass on will still be low enough that the new shop owner will be able to make a fair profit as he, in turn, sells the merchandise to his customers.”

Joshua now understood why the Merchant Prince’s chart had been so broad and contained so many levels.

“One thing you must always remember,” the Merchant Prince cautioned. “If you begin to be greedy and withhold too much profit for yourself, your merchants will go elsewhere to buy their goods. However, if you are always fair and treat others as you would like to be treated, they will remain loyal and purchase from you.”

“If you have taught them well, they will help others expand more shops in different areas, the same way you did for them, and your volume will again increase — a thing which causes your price to go down even more. This price is then passed on as before, down to the new level of merchants.”

“As you may be able to surmise,” the Merchant Prince continued, “there will be a point to which you will be able to expand without the price being prohibitive. When you reach this point, you must find other creative ways to expand.

“One way in which you can continue your expansion would be to increase the variety of products you carry rather than expand the number of shops you have. There are many diverse needs in a city such as this one. There is an almost endless supply of what you can do to meet those needs, and do it successfully.”

Looking out over the city, the Merchant Prince said, “As you can see, as you help others become successful, you, in turn, are brought success — only greatly magnified.”

The Merchant Prince stood and went back into the room.

“I have detained you long enough,” the Merchant Prince said. “I can see you are anxious to get to the marketplace to put your plan into effect.”

The Merchant Prince embraced Joshua warmly and exited the room on his way to other concerns. Over his shoulder he called back to Joshua, “Please inform me when we can continue your instruction. I hope it won’t be long.”

With a smile and a wink, the Merchant Prince turned and was gone down an intersecting hallway.

Joshua was eager to get to the marketplace. He wanted to put the plan quickly into effect. He wanted to continue his climb to success. He wanted to continue his instructions with the Merchant Prince . . . and his time with Fahni.

Chapter 17

Joshua worked very hard over the next four weeks getting the plan he had discussed with the Merchant Prince up and running. Everything went quite smoothly, and Joshua was quite impressed by the success of the plan.

He started out by extending the offer of work to Abihu and explained his plans. Abihu had eagerly accepted Joshua’s offer and had gone to work with a passion. Abihu had discovered within himself a love of the marketplace and the work it contained. It showed up in his work. Joshua was amazed at how well his plan was received.

Within two weeks, Abihu was constantly surpassing his base wages and earning more than double its amount through sales of merchandise. Abihu, it turned out, became a much better salesperson than even Joshua, so they both set to work on expanding the size of the shop by more than three times. They anticipated much more sales to be generated with the addition of a new merchantman and the expansion of the product line, as suggested by Abihu.

Joshua could now easily see the value of helping people work for themselves. He could see how Abihu had taken a great deal of interest in the success of the stand, for he could see it meant his success as well. In turn, as Abihu had become successful, Joshua’s success also increased. Rather than being threatened by this, as some might, Joshua continued doing all he could to make Abihu successful. He knew from the principle of the second secret of success, he would benefit far more from his help of Abihu than he could ever lose.

As their sales volumes increased, true to his plan, the Merchant Prince’s prices on merchandise dropped. Joshua found himself earning more money with less time spent working. His plan (and he chuckled at how the Merchant Prince had helped him discover that plan), seemed to be working very well so far.

Now with the extra time Joshua had through having Abihu working with him, Joshua begin his search for a third merchantman. The third person would fill the remaining time on his booth, and allow them all to have time for family or other matters as well as being successful in the marketplace.

After Joshua let it be known he was looking for someone, the word quickly spread. Many people began to stop by the booth and present themselves to him for the position. Joshua met with each one of them. He considered each one with a very critical eye, for he wanted to find the best. He knew the qualities of such a person could be varied, but the person he chose must have the critical ingredients of being teachable, and have a strong desire to succeed.

Toward the beginning of the second week, he met just the person he was looking for. He was a little surprised at how it turned out, and even somewhat resistant at first. The person he found was a woman.

There was something about Sallah which caught Joshua’s attention right off. Small and slight of build, not richly dressed, but neat and kept, which showed she had pride in her appearance. The thing which impressed Joshua most was her confidence in her abilities; yet she wasn’t arrogant, as others had been.

She had little experience in the marketplace, but she appeared to be highly teachable and willing to work hard and learn. There was a look in her eye that told a person she was genuine and knew what she wanted out of life, along with the persistence to obtain it.

Joshua remembered his first conversation with her. She came up to the stand early in the morning, as Joshua was setting up for the day’s trade.

“Good morning,” she said, startling Joshua, who almost fell off the ladder he was standing on.

“Good morning,” Joshua replied pleasantly. He thought she was a customer who had come early for some special assistance.

“What may I do for you,” he asked.

“It is not what you can do for me,” Sallah responded, “but what I may be able to do for you. I have come to offer myself as the merchantman you are seeking. I am told you are a fair man and one who does things in unique ways.”

At that description, Joshua chuckled. Many people still thought him crazy operating as he did. But then again, many thought the Merchant Prince to be crazy as well. He was in good company.

“Many consider that the marketplace is a bad place for a woman merchant to be,” Sallah continued interrupting Joshua’s thoughts. “It is said a woman should become a merchant only in times of need or extreme hardship.”

Joshua noted she wasn’t bitter or resentful as she spoke of men who undoubtedly had told her this.

“I believe that although I have little experience as a merchant,” she said. “I know I can learn . . .

“I also have one qualification, looking at your merchandise, a man cannot have.”

“And what is that,” Joshua asked, becoming more intrigued.

“A woman’s point of view,” Sallah replied with a bright smile crossing her face.

She was correct, Joshua realized. Much of the fine merchandise he sold was purchased either by, or for a woman.

Their brief conversation broke the ice. In talking with her more, Joshua learned her father had been killed in an accident some years ago. Her mother had become ill with grief and had never recovered. Out of necessity, Sallah had gone to work at a young age to provide for herself and her mother. Only recently, her mother had passed away, and Sallah was by herself. She had worked hard and had achieved a small measure of success, but always seemed barred from growing further because she was a woman.

Joshua was quickly convinced Sallah was the one he had been looking for. He had Sallah meet with Abihu to see if he agreed. Joshua felt Abihu should share in the decision of a third merchantman, since they would all be working closely together.

Abihu was also surprised by Sallah, but greatly impressed. He heartily encouraged Joshua to extend an offer to her.

Shortly afterwards, Sallah was eagerly learning from Joshua and Abihu, while at the same time sharing with them the woman’s perspective on buying their merchandise. She helped adjust the display slightly to make it more attractive to women.

In almost no time at all, Sallah was also, far outstripping her base wages through her selling efforts. As a result of their combined work, the sales increased more than five fold. Again the price of goods from the Merchant Prince went down.

From the increased profits, Joshua passed some to Sallah and Abihu, to reward them. He also did a completely unheard of thing in the marketplace — he lowered his prices even more. This action was met with much surprise and joy from customers, who in turn, bought more. Of course, Joshua benefitted greatly from this. The other merchants in the marketplace just shook their heads in wonder.

At the end of the four weeks, the new plan was in effect, the stand was doing better than ever, all the merchantmen were prospering greatly, and best of all, Joshua was able to resume his instruction with the Merchant Prince — and his time with Fahni.

Chapter 18

That evening, as Joshua made his report, the Merchant Prince was greatly pleased that Joshua was doing so well, and that his instruction could now continue. Joshua’s heart was warmed by the Merchant Prince’s excitement for him. He could tell he was doing well in the Merchant Prince’s eyes. This meant more to Joshua than any success he had yet achieved in the marketplace.

The Merchant Prince made arrangements to meet with him early the next morning in the usual place, and then he and his wife excused themselves to retire for the evening.

Before going, however, Joshua noticed a funny sort of discreet exchange going on between Fahni and Allisa. It was as if Fahni were receiving some last minute instructions for some secret event going to take place. Fahni grinned as her mother gave her a hug and ascended the steps with the Merchant Prince.

“Joshua, I’m so proud of you!” Fahni said as she came to sit beside him. Joshua was surprised, but a little wary as he continued to eat the meal she had prepared for him. He could sense that something was up, and that he was part of it.

“Father and Mother are also very proud — but none so much as Father,” she continued. “He truly considers you the son he never had, making himself look silly boasting of your great success to everyone.”

Laughing softly, Fahni continued, “Mother finally had to talk with him, so he would allow others to speak.”

At that, they both laughed. Joshua blushed from the attention. He really hadn’t known all this was going on while he was gone, regretting even more the time that he’d missed with his adopted family.

Joshua and Fahni then started to speak at the same time, interrupting each other.

Laughing, Joshua said, “Go ahead Fahni. I didn’t mean to interrupt. I’m just glad to finally have some time to be with you again.”

“That is what I was going to say,” Fahni protested. And then bashfully, “I hadn’t realized how much I cherished our time together until I lost it.”

“And I,” Joshua agreed. “It has been as if a part of my life, which I cared deeply for, had been removed to where I could not reach it.”

Joshua reached over and took Fahni’s hands tenderly. Fahni responded by squeezing his hand and sliding closer to him on the cushions. He noticed as their eyes met, that Fahni’s face seemed more radiant than he’d ever seen it before. This beautiful sight stirred within Joshua something he no longer could control.

“Fahni,” he began, not really sure of what he was going to say, yet needing to express what he felt in his heart. “I had told myself that I did not wish to place you in an embarrassing situation by me sharing how I felt, but my heart will contain itself no longer.”

“Yes?” Fahni answered, leaning forward as if hoping to hear certain words from Joshua.

“My heart has been drawn to you ever since I came to your home,” Joshua continued. “At first I thought it only because of your extreme beauty.”

Fahni looked down abashedly, a little color coming to her cheeks.

“But as I came to know you,” Joshua continued. “I found that your beauty radiated throughout your whole person. As hard as it was for me to believe, in the times we spent together, I found you as beautiful within, as without.

“I came to rely upon your companionship — as we talked, and as I learned from you. I felt with you as I have felt with no other . . . Yet, I could not tell you of my feelings, for I did not want you to feel as if you had to accept me because I was a new member to your family.

“Also I didn’t tell you of my feelings, for I did not feel worthy of you. I had nothing to offer you. After all, I was but a poor orphaned lad with nothing to his credit . . . And you are the daughter of a great Merchant Prince.

Fahni began to protest, but Joshua raised his finger to her lips to quiet her.

“Even if you were not the daughter of the Merchant Prince, you are worthy of far more than me.”

Again Fahni began to protest, but with raised hand to forestall any reply, Joshua continued.

“I have tried too still my feelings for you, but I cannot. I feel that I would burst if I do not tell you that . . . ”

“I love you too!” Fahni blurted out. “For some time now, I too, have wanted to tell you of my feelings, but I didn’t want you to feel obligated, because my parents and I made you a member of the family.

“And even if you were the poorest man on earth, I would still love you. You have within you the seeds of tremendous greatness, which are now just bursting forth. I don’t care what you have, only that you are the person I have been waiting for.

“For years,” Fahni continued while Joshua sat silently in astonishment. “I have waited for someone such as you. Many have come to me, but I have never felt as if they were right for me.

“And don’t talk to me about worthiness, for it is I that am worried about being worthy for such a one as you!

“The first night you came to our home and Mother recognized you as the one whose kind act she had witnessed in the marketplace, I felt an odd peaceful feeling that you might be the one. Now since you have been with us, and I have grown to know you — the real you — I know that you are the one for me . . .

“That is, if you will have me.”

Joshua was flabbergasted. For a moment all he could do was sit and stare with incredulity. Finally Fahni broke the silence with a worried voice.

“Aren’t you going to say anything?”

Joshua opened his mouth to speak a few times but nothing came out. At last, all he could do was reach out to Fahni and take her into his arms.

Chapter 19

Early the next morning Joshua entered the room where the Merchant Prince, as usual, was waiting for him with breakfast sitting on a nearby tray.

As Joshua came into the room, he was nervous that the Merchant Prince had heard of Fahni’s and his conversation the night before. Thoughts of that momentous time came easily back into his mind and brought an unconscious smile to his lips. Still, he was apprehensive at what the Merchant Prince might think. It was one thing to take a young stranger into one’s home. It was quite another to consent to the marriage of one’s daughter to that same stranger.

As the Merchant Prince noticed Joshua’s entrance he quickly crossed over to him and wrapped him in a hearty embrace.

“I am glad we can finally continue our sessions.”

Joshua was surprised at his greeting. Joshua kept waiting, but no mention was made of the previous evening. Maybe he didn’t know yet that he and Fahni had decided to wed.

The Merchant Prince lead Joshua over to the breakfast tray, where they gathered fruits and drink, and then settled themselves on cushions before beginning their work.

In sitting, Joshua caught sight of an intricately molded bust of a man sitting on a pedestal near the open window. He had never seen it before. Its distinctive and curious qualities caught Joshua’s attention and held it.

The Merchant Prince, noticing how Joshua’s attention had been drawn by the statuette, spoke.

“It is a special work I had commissioned shortly after you joined our family. I have waited for this time to present it to you as a gift.”

Joshua quickly got up and strode over to examine it more closely.

“You cannot do this,” Joshua complained. “It is I that has need to be giving you such gifts!”

“I have had this made for a special reason,” the Merchant Prince said, raising his hand to forestall any further argument.

He got up and came over to stand by Joshua.

“It seems so familiar to me,” Joshua said, his brow knit in consternation. “I can’t seem to place where I have seen that face before.”

Indeed Joshua seemed oddly drawn to the finely formed face sculpted in the clay. The features seemed familiar to him, but he couldn’t quite place its familiarity.

The Merchant Prince broke into Joshua’s intent study of bust, saying, “It should be quite familiar to you . . . ” The Merchant Prince said as he drew closer and looked closely at Joshua to catch his reaction.

“It is a bust of you . . . As you are soon to become.”

Startled, Joshua quickly lifted his eyes to meet the Merchant Prince’s even gaze. His eyes were filled with warmth and understanding of Joshua’s puzzlement.

“Yes,” the Merchant Prince continued, knowing he now had Joshua’s complete attention. “It is a representation of what you are soon to become; a man of great wisdom, prosperity, and renown.”

The Merchant Prince laughed at Joshua’s expression. “Indeed, you are already well along on this path.”

The Merchant Prince’s eyes were filled with pride and happiness. Despite his best efforts not to be rude, Joshua’s eyes were drawn back to the bust. He could recognize now, that his face was indeed represented, but with subtle changes. He appeared older in the clay bust. The eyes reflected a strange inner serenity, and as the Merchant Prince had described them, Joshua could see the attributes he had mentioned, distinctly reflected in the image.

“The artisan who crafted it has a special gift. He has the ability of reflecting in his work what a person has the potential to become.”

Joshua thought hard about this. He felt oddly drawn to this statuette. Now as he glanced at it again, more closely, a feeling came over him he couldn’t describe. It was almost as if this bust was a window to his future self. And he very much wanted to become the person he saw through that window.

It reflected happiness, prosperity, love, companionship, all the things he felt success was.

It was such a brief glimpse, it was over an instant after it began, but even in that instant, he saw and felt all that he could become. It staggered him, yet it made him desire it all the more.

“You are now at a time, my son, where you have the choice over any future you want. You have, and have always had, complete power over the person you are to become.

“You have been given the keys which can make you very wealthy and famous, if you choose. Yet, as I have taught you, there are things infinitely more important than these. What is most important is the person you are, when all else is stripped away.

“A man’s true wealth,” the Merchant Prince continued, “is his wealth of character. If he has this, he will never be poor. Neither can it be stripped away without his consent.”

“Come, let us eat,” the Merchant Prince said, breaking the spell, and gesturing for Joshua to proceed him back over to the cushions.

Joshua reluctantly tore his eyes from the bust, the feelings of his great future possibilities still lingering in his heart.

As they settled themselves back on the cushions, the Merchant Prince began a story, into which Joshua quickly felt himself willingly drawn . . .

“Many years ago, in a faraway land, there was a small town situated at the base of a large and rocky mountain.

On one sheer cliff toward the top of the mountain overlooking the town, nature had etched the features of a face into the rock. This face, the townsfolk called the Guardian.

Legend had it that some day a person would come into the small town who would have the same face as that of the Guardian, and save the town from great disaster.

One small boy of the town was greatly touched by the legend. As he tended sheep for his family along a hillside overlooking the town, he would sit and study the features of the Guardian over and over.

He wondered when the guardian would come. What would the guardian would be like? What disaster might occur where they would need the presence of the Guardian?

The young man grew, and he continued to wonder about the mystical guardian that would someday come. He studied the cliff’s face and imagined the virtues the guardian must possess, which would enable him to save a whole town from disaster.

As he imagined what these virtues might be, the young man strived, year after year, to incorporate the virtues he found in the features of the Guardian into his own life. Of all people, the young man most wanted to be like the Guardian.

One day the lad, now nearly grown to manhood, sat staring at the Guardian wondering, as he had throughout his youth, when he would come. Suddenly, his attention was distracted by a great commotion in the town below.

He was quite a way up the mountainside, as he usually was, but he could see the distant gathering of all the townspeople in the main square. He wondered over this occurrence. To his knowledge, the only time the town gathered was on certain holidays. He searched his mind and knew that today was not one of those holidays. Perhaps something great was happening; a cause for a gathering celebration. Or perhaps . . . The young man’s thoughts rapidly calculated and arrived at another possible reason.

There was trouble! Fires in places where there shouldn’t be, and there were none of the movements of any celebrating. Even from this distance, he could see the movements of people in fear!

The Lad hastily got his things together, making sure he had all the weapons he used in protecting his sheep from the wild predators of the mountainside, then headed down the hill as rapidly as he could.

Instead of taking a direct route, he moved down the mountainside, taking advantage of all the natural protection he could. He decided it would be better to come up on any situation unseen and see what could be done before blundering headlong into a potentially hopeless situation.

Long before he reached the town, as he had drawn near, he had seen and recognized the situation. A large group of bandits; probably about ten men from what he could make out, had come upon the town swiftly and had beaten down all opposition so swift was their attack. They had rounded up all the townspeople, who they hadn’t killed or beaten unconscious, in the square so only a few men could stand guard over them while the rest of the bandits rifled through the homes and places of business for anything of value.

When the Lad finally approached the outskirts of town unnoticed by the bandits, he already had a plan formulated to help his people fight back. For his plan to work, however, he needed absolute stealth to insure that none of the bandits knew of his presence.

His plan was simple, but effective. He must use his weapons to take out as many of the bandits as possible, one at a time, so they wouldn’t be appraised of his presence. His greatest advantage was that the bandits thought they had subdued all opposition, so they were not expecting his single assault.

The bandits were careless, going into the houses alone, no one keeping watch for any hidden menace. The Young man quickly, but quietly crept to the nearest home which had a bandit noisily going through its contents, destroying anything he couldn’t take and place out in the square with the other loot they planned to steal. He slipped into an open window from the opposite side of the square, after making sure the bandit was in another room. He crept quietly through the house until he found the bandit from the sounds he made as he threw things around. He silently un slung his bow and put an arrow to the nock. He stepped into the hallway in plain sight to get a clear shot of the bandit. The bandit, noticing the movement stood up, but already an arrow was speeding its way into his heart. Silently, he fell in a heap upon the floor. Dead.

Not waiting to catch his breath, he hadn’t ever killed anyone before, but he couldn’t pause to think about his action. The whole town depended upon his swift and decisive actions. If he delayed too long, the bandits in the other areas of the small town would be finished with their work and gathering back in the central square. If they were together, there would be no chance for one man to save the town.

Swiftly, but silently, the young man went from building to building, cutting down the number of bandits who remained. Sometimes he used his bow, sometimes his sword. On a few occasions, he was drawn into such close quarters with a bandit that he had to rely upon his dagger. It was during these times that the Lad was most nervous. He had to creep very close to the bandit and dispatch him without giving him time to raise an alarm to his fellows.

Finally, from his count, he had only one bandit left alone, while the remaining three still stood guard over the townspeople, menacing swords in hand. Several of the women surrounded a few of the men who had tried to struggle earlier, and who had been wounded severely by a superior force, and by their surprise attack. Many of the children were crying in fear. Occasionally they were joined in their crying by the wail of a women for the loss of her husband. The young man understood what would happen to these women after the bandits were done with their work of robbing their homes. He became more determined than ever to put a stop to their brutality.

It took him a while, but he finally found the last lone bandit struggling with a large piece of precious furniture, trying to get it out of a door and into the square. He was in sight of all the others, but he must be taken care of.

The young man got as close as he could and remain unseen to the others in the square. The angle was bad, but he wouldn’t be able to do any better. He had to take a chance and make sure his one shot would reach its mark. If he missed, the rest of the bandits would be alerted to his presence. It would be four against one, and he knew his chances of surviving such uneven conflict were not great.

Taking a deep breath and drawing careful aim, he let the arrow fly.

It went true to its mark, yet the angle of the shot did not kill the man, but wounded him severely. He would not be able to fight. Yet he could still scream in pain and alarm; which he did with great vigor.

Instantly, the remaining bandits in the square began searching for his presence. The Lad, knowing his surprise advantage no longer existed, cast aside his bow and stepped out into the street. He did it intentionally, to draw the bandits to him and away from the women and children who could have easily been used as hostages.

As the bandits caught sight of the Lad and noticed he was now unarmed, wicked smiles crept across their faces. They would teach a severe lesson to this boy who dared fight against them.

Not realizing what was in the young man’s mind, the bandits hastily moved down the street to what they supposed would be an easy capture.

Noticing the bandits moving toward him, the young man stopped cold in the middle of the street. He wanted to make sure they had committed themselves to him, and were far enough away from the hostages in the square before he attempted anything.

The women, finally noticing that he was the reason the bandits were leaving them, cried out to the Lad, “Run! Get away! They mean to kill you!”

The Lad only smiled grimly. Of course they wanted to kill him; but they would have to reach him first.

As the bandits drew nearer, the young man drew a sling from about his waist, and carefully chose from his pouch smooth stones which would fly true.

In the hills tending sheep, he had spent countless hours whiling away time practicing with his sling. He had become quite good, but never before had his life depended upon his accuracy.

The bandits, seeing what the Lad was preparing to do, hesitated briefly, glanced at one another, then continued to move forward, more cautiously.

The first stone struck a bandit squarely between the eyes. He fell in a heap. Seeing their companion fall only served to anger the two remaining bandits, and they sprang forward at a run.

The second stone missed its mark, but a third following swiftly after, caught a second bandit again in the head. He too went down.

The third and final bandit, visibly shaken, knelt at the side of his fallen comrade. He now glanced back to the former hostages still huddled together in the square, but they were too far away, he realized. He’d never make it back to them without the Lad also catching him with a stone from his sling, and he couldn’t afford to take his eyes off the young man for a second.

Pausing, as if considering what to do, then he rose up and with a blood curdling cry, charged toward the young man.

By now, the bandit was too close for another good cast with the sling. The Lad also realized he would be no match for the bandit with a sword, so he gambled his life on what he figured was his only remaining chance.

The Lad quickly turned his back on the charging bandit. Carefully he concealed drawing his dagger from a breast scabbard inside his tunic. He acted as if he were preparing to run away, yet was so frightened he couldn’t make his feet move.

The bandit, supposing the Lad frozen with fear, continued his headlong charge.

Bringing his sword in a high sweeping arc, he recklessly covered the remaining distance to the young man to deliver the fatal blow.

At the last possible moment, the young man spun around, and with all his might, threw his dagger. Taken by surprise, the bandit tried to swerve out of its path, but his momentum carried him ever forward until the dagger buried itself deeply into his chest.

Eyes wide in shock, the last bandit sprawled forward; dead at the young man’s feet.

For a long moment there was silence as the young man stared down at the man lying at his feet. The silence was broken by the moans of pain and panic from the bandit the Lad had wounded with the arrow. He was trying vainly to raise to his feet and escape, but he hadn’t the strength.

A piercing cry of a young child added to the cries of the bandit, and broke the Lad of his shocked stupor. He stared numbly up the street toward the women and children, hardly daring to believe the crisis was over. He walked up the road toward them, always glancing at each doorway, half expecting an angry bandit to charge him at any moment.

He knelt to help an injured man, aware of the eyes of the women upon him in awed silence. Then he went over to try and comfort a small child clinging to the body of his father. The child was light in his arms as handed him to a woman who approached to help. Slowly the frozen silence lifted and the women in the square came to life and began helping the wounded, and comforting those who had lost loved ones.

Seeing that his efforts could now be spared, the young man slumped, exhausted from the tension, onto the dirt in the middle of the square. He didn’t care what happened next, nor did he notice the flurry of activity going on around him as the remaining townspeople sought to the needs of those most badly injured.

After the excitement had died down, the young man wondered why the Guardian, whom he’d waited so long to meet, had not come to the aid of their town. If there ever was to be a need for the Guardian to appear, this would have been the time.

The young man’s thoughts were interrupted by the townspeople gathering close about him. Some grasped his hands and raised them to their lips. Others fell on their knees before him, and wept in gratitude for his bravery and succor. People pressed close against him, embracing him in their joy and relief.

Finally, a small boy slipped through the press and stood before the young man. He looked up into his face and the eyes of the boy went wide in surprise.

“It’s the Guardian!” the young boy exclaimed in awed reverence.

“He’s the Guardian! The Guardian!” The young boy now cried, shouting in exclamation.

A hushed awe came over the crowd. Eyes darted to the face etched in the cliff and then back to the young man.

“It’s true!” someone said softly, but with voice full of emotion.

“It’s the Legend!” exclaimed another.

Voices of exclamation and surprise continued to rise until the collective voice of the crowd pressing about the young man rose out in shouts.

“It’s the Guardian! The Guardian has come! The Guardian!”

Shocked by this, the young man wondered. How could he be the Guardian? Hadn’t he lived among them all his life? Wasn’t he still the simple shepherd who worked above the town with his flocks? He didn’t feel deserving of the praise he was receiving — especially comparing him with the Guardian.

He tried to still the crowd. But they only continued cheering him the more.

Finally, someone noticing his confusion, placed a small mirror in his hand, so he could see his reflection.

Holding the mirror to his face, he was shocked to discover that the image he beheld was that of the Guardian.

He glanced quickly to the cliff, then back to his own face in the mirror. The resemblance was indeed amazing.

Through years of his emulating the virtues he imagined the Guardian to posses, he had literally transformed himself into becoming that person he so much wanted to be.

A simple shepherd had become the Guardian.

Joshua was amazed at the story. It was so simple, yet he could already see the powerful principle it taught. He opened his mouth to speak, yet he could think of nothing to say.

The Merchant Prince took a drink from his cup, easing the dryness in his throat before speaking.

“I heard of this story long ago. It explains well the power of the principle we will discuss today.

“When I was being taught by my Master,” the Merchant Prince continued. “He taught this same principle very simply.”

“He taught, As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he.”

Joshua considered this statement carefully. Not quite sure he understood, but he carefully instilled it into his memory all the same. From his experience, he knew he’d find it to be a powerful principle, once he understood it.

“As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he,” Joshua said quietly to himself, trying to fathom its meaning.

“Our minds are powerful; much more powerful than anyone supposes,” the Merchant Prince said, continuing with his teaching. “Wherever our minds direct, our bodies follow. There is no limit. If your mind is stronger than the desires of your body, your only limit to achievement is in what the mind can conceive.

“In the same way, my son, you become the person you see with your mind’s eye. All of your thoughts and beliefs about yourself and others become mirrored in your actions.”

Joshua saw the truth of this. He thought back over his life and could see how his thoughts and beliefs about himself and others had indeed directed his actions.

“As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he,” the Merchant Prince repeated, as he stood up and began to pace the room as he spoke. “Mankind has instinctively known this throughout his history. Philosophers have discussed it, poets have written verse concerning it, musicians have sung about it, and scientists have studied it. There are few, however, who understand the great depth and power our mind actually has.

“Our minds,” the Merchant Prince continued, stopping just long enough to take a quick drink from his cup as he paced, “and the beliefs we have concerning ourselves and our limits dictate what we can accomplish. If we do not believe within ourselves that we can become successful, this belief about ourselves causes it to become a reality. Our minds direct our actions to conform with the inner vision we have of ourselves, and the world around us.”

The principle suddenly became clear. The look on his face made the Merchant Prince smile. Joshua leaned forward on his cushion excitedly as he began to speak.

“Before I came here, I worked for a merchant in my home city. I often wondered why he did not grow or prosper more than he did.

“His business would begin to start growing,” Joshua continued excitedly. “Then he would make simple mistakes I could not understand. These simple mistakes would cause his business to drop back off.”

The Merchant Prince nodded as Joshua continued.

“They would be obvious. He would forget to reorder his most popular merchandise, he would close during the busiest part of the day, or forget an important meeting with a customer who would have ordered a great amount of goods.

“Then,” Joshua said, shaking his head in bewilderment and disgust’ “he would complain endlessly about how small merchants could never hope to compete with the rich merchants who controlled everything.

“I can see now why he did not grow or prosper as I always felt he could,” Joshua said. “He did not believe he could do any better than he was. When he began to prosper, he would become fearful of the change. His mind would cause him to unconsciously make mistakes and bring the level of his business back to a comfortable level — one that matched his inner vision of what he believed he could accomplish.”

The Merchant Prince nodded his head knowingly, and said, “That is correct. Whatever you honestly believe you can become, if you can overcome the desires of the flesh and discipline yourself to reach for it, you will achieve it. The key is that you honestly believe you can achieve it.

“Many people work very hard, and are able to discipline themselves, but they do not believe they can actually become what they would most like to become. Even though they work hard towards it, they still are not able to reach it, for they believe it is unreachable.”

The Merchant Prince drained the remains of his cup and hesitated, organizing his thoughts before continuing.

“Many people set out to accomplish great things, yet they fall short. They do not believe within themselves that they can ever achieve what they want. The reason they do not believe they can attain their desires, is because their desires are so different from what they now possess, they cannot comprehend that they will ever make it.

” Like everything else you have done, my son, it is a gradual process of learning and growing, not an overnight achievement. Yet these people don’t understand why it cannot be so.”

The Merchant Prince continued his pacing, taking only long enough to fill his cup again before continuing.

“The secret to making your mind believe you can accomplish a great task, and hence be able to achieve it, is to break that great task up into smaller bits, which are more believable to the mind. As you work towards, and achieve, the smaller bits, you begin to build the inner belief that you will eventually attain the great goal.”

The Merchant Prince now paused to look directly at Joshua. “When you first began learning of my secrets of success, did you think that you would ever be successful?”

Joshua thought quickly to himself before answering. As he did so, he realized he had felt severe doubts as he first began. He felt that the Merchant Prince had been good enough to achieve great success, but was he?

Joshua then realized in a burst of inspiration that the Merchant Prince had caused him to overcome those doubts by having him concentrate on one secret of success at a time. He realized that by doing so, it had eliminated any doubts about his eventual success by concentrating his efforts on only parts at a time. As he became successful in those parts, he realized those parts made up the whole of what his success had become — and was still yet to be.

Joshua looked up at the Merchant Prince in admiration of his great wisdom.

“It is even as you have said,” Joshua began. “At first, I had doubts, for you are a great man, and I was but a poor, humble orphan. I didn’t really think I was worthy to become as successful as you. Yet, as I began learning the secrets of success, my doubts and fears were drowned out by the efforts and concentration of learning and using each secret as it was taught to me.”

A wry smile crossed Joshua’s face as he drank from his cup before continuing.

“I can see now the great wisdom of teaching me as you have. I have been concentrating so much on each smaller piece of becoming successful that I have forgotten my doubts and fears concerning the whole.”

The Merchant Prince nodded, a smile coming to his lips also.

“As I have been successful in the smaller portions,” Joshua continued, “the doubts of my becoming successful overall, no longer remain.” His eyes moved to rest upon the bust of himself by the window.

The Merchant Prince’s eyes followed Joshua’s, and he said, “As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he.” He knew what was going through Joshua’s mind as he gazed upon the statuette.

“All people, deep down within themselves, have a vision of what they really have the potential to become. Most people don’t achieve it, however, because their fear and unbelief causes them to bury this vision deep within themselves. They end up becoming much less than they really could be.

“Now that you have an image of what you have the potential to become,” the Merchant Prince said as he walked over and rested his hand on the bust of Joshua, “you must not allow this image to be starved by your fear or unbelief.”
He turned to look intently at Joshua.

“Remember, As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he.

“Lack of patience and perseverance, as well as fear, cause people to stray. Always hold this image of what you can become deep within your heart. If you do this, the image you hold of yourself, will be what you will become.

“Looking at this statue,” the Merchant Prince continued, gesturing at the bust, “you see what you may become — just as all people know deep down what they can become. If what you have seen is too great for you to comprehend and truly believe, break it down into smaller parts. Then work on becoming this person bit by bit. After having successes in the smaller portions, you will come to accept and believe you will become the person you have discovered within. “Once you firmly believe this . . . ”

“As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he,” Joshua finished for him.

“You are beginning to see,” the Merchant Prince said as he strode back over to sit back down on his cushion next to Joshua. “If a man wants to control the type of person he will become, he need only to control his thoughts and beliefs about himself. Each man must seek out his own inner vision of what he can truly be. He must then work toward it little by little, until he is convinced he will achieve it. Once he believes, there remains only time and hard work between he and his ideal self.

“I do not propose to understand how this works,” the Merchant Prince continued. “I only know that the marvelous power of our mind causes us to become, over time, the person we truly believe ourselves to be.”

“As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he,” Joshua repeated, now starting to see some of the deeper meanings this simple phrase could convey.

“Our lesson is finished for today,” the Merchant Prince said abruptly, rising out of his cushion. “The bust will be delivered to your room, where you may see it and ponder over what it is you may become.”

“I cannot thank you enough for such a marvelous gift,” Joshua began, but was stopped from further thanks, by the Merchant Prince as he drew Joshua in a warm, fatherly embrace.

“It is I who thanks you for such a wonderful gift,” the Merchant Prince said.

Joshua was puzzled. He hadn’t given any gift to the Merchant Prince.

Seeing the perplexed look on Joshua’s face, the Merchant Prince continued, with a twinkle in his eye. “For the gift of love you have given to Fahni . . . And to us.”

Joshua was startled. So the Merchant Prince had heard about he and Fahni. He began to speak, to try and explain, but the Merchant Prince held up his hand to stop him from saying anything.

“I really do welcome you into the family, now,” the Merchant Prince continued. “Not as a son, as before, but now as a future son-in-law.”

With that, the Merchant Prince gripped Joshua’s shoulders affectionately again before walking with him to the door.

Joshua was extremely happy. His worries were allayed. The Merchant Prince knew, and was happy! Would his good fortune ever cease?

“Just be sure to let us know when the wedding date is so we may plan for it,” the Merchant Prince said, winking playfully at Joshua.

Joshua nodded in agreement as they left their meeting room and went to attend their separate duties.

Joshua had the late shift in the marketplace, so he went to the garden to ponder over the things he had learned. He sat near the fountain, watching its cascading action as he, with some difficulty, cleared his mind and drew back into his memory the teachings he had just received.

As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he, Joshua thought to himself. The truth of that statement went deep. Back over the course of his life, he could see how his beliefs about himself had dictated the person he had become. It seemed so clear now that the way had been shown to him. He had often wondered why he was the person he was. Why he did the things he did, or why he believed what he believed.

Even though he had been orphaned when very young, he still remembered and cherished the teachings of his parents. They had taught him that he had come from a special lineage, one destined for greatness. Joshua, being so young had not fully understood what that meant, but he knew from the carriage and pride of his family, that they must be a special people, set apart from others.

Whether this was true or not, Joshua didn’t know. He did, however, see how that belief was instilled in him. Now understanding, he was able to maintain his honesty and integrity without any real example to follow, and much enticement to be otherwise.

His belief in himself as being worthy of more than fate had dealt him, directed his actions, reflecting his belief in his own inherent worth.

He now saw why he would not allow himself to settle for what life had given him; as so many had encouraged him to do.

His inner, almost forgotten belief, that he was destined for greatness had caused him to seek out that greatness he felt within himself.

This inner belief had brought him to the house of the Merchant Prince, and gave him success where others of lesser belief and persistence would have failed.

Joshua now, could see why some were more prosperous and happy than others, seemingly with the same amount of work. He could see now that the difference was a combination of belief and knowledge. If those poorer people believed they could achieve more with the same efforts, it would lead them to seek after the knowledge they needed. Then armed with that knowledge and belief, they would be much more prosperous.

Again, Joshua’s thoughts were brought back to the bust of himself the Merchant Prince had given him. He remembered distinctly the image of all he could become as the memories flowed back into his mind. He was amazed and overwhelmed by all that he saw. It had a profound affect upon him.

The Merchant Prince had said each man had deep within himself, the image of what he could really become. If this was true, it must mean that all people have great potential within, if they will but allow it to come forth, and not suppress it by fear or unbelief.

At that point, Joshua’s thoughts were interrupted by a servant bringing parchment and writing materials.

“The Merchant Prince said you would need these materials,” the servant said as he deposited them on the bench next to Joshua. The servant then bowed and left back the way he had come.

Joshua was again amazed at the way the Merchant Prince was always anticipating him. He was just about to request such materials, something on which he could record his inner vision that was beginning to surface. Once he had it written down, he could break it down into its smaller parts and work on it bit by bit, until, like the Guardian, he became the person he most wanted to be.

He picked up the materials and began writing in earnest. He tried to describe in detail the picture he had of his ideal self. It was truly overwhelming. He fought back the desire to disbelieve, understanding now how so many people kept this vision submerged deep within. It was scary to look at what you could be, and yet see how far from it you were.

Joshua continued writing, throwing off all fears and inhibitions, knowing that later he would go back and divide into smaller segments this vision. Then be able to master it, and hence himself, a little at a time.

As Joshua continued writing, the time passed without his noticing.

He thought of Fahni as he wrote. His vision must be shared with her, and they should, together, find the vision of what they could be as husband and wife, recording it in the same fashion. There were no doubts Fahni had already done this for herself, for it was evident in the way she lived her life, that she knew where she was going and had a set destination for which she was striving.

Joshua knew that through mapping out his own life, and combining it with Fahni’s, it would unify them into working toward the same great vision they would have of themselves together. It would provide a tremendous amount of support and strength for them both, as they helped each other reach their full potential.

Just as Joshua finished writing, he noticed from the position of the sun overhead, it was time for him to relieve Sallah at the marketplace. He hurriedly cleaned up the materials and took them to his room. He allowed himself to gaze only briefly at the bust that had been placed in his room as the Merchant Prince had ordered.

On his way to the marketplace, Joshua was happier than he had ever remembered being. He recognized that the steps he was now taking, represented steps taken as a new man. One who knew the vision of what he could become, and was working purposefully toward it.

Chapter 20

“Ahh, Joshua, my son. Come in.”

The early morning sun shone bright through the balcony opening as Joshua stepped into the room where they normally met. But this time it was a little different. Instead of cushions and rugs strewn about the sunken portion of the room, there was placed a medium sized table. On the table sat a set of solid brass scales at which the Merchant Prince was standing, moving coins back and forth, and making small notations on a parchment. Joshua stepped down to the level and moved up to the table, but stopped short. The Merchant Prince was not simply moving coins about on the scales, but solid gold coins.

Joshua stepped reverently up to the table, afraid of bumping anything. The Merchant Prince had a sparkle in his eyes as he dropped another handful of gold coins onto the scales.

“I can see you recognize gold,” the Merchant Prince began, laughing at Joshua’s incredulous stare. “Don’t be so awed. You will see much more of this if you so desire.”

Joshua nodded his head.

“Come,” the Merchant Prince motioned to a corner of the sunken area where the usual tray of juice and rolls was set. “Let us begin our breakfast before I begin the teaching.”

Joshua tore his eyes away from the gold and followed to where the Merchant Prince was pouring drinks. He handed one to Joshua and took a deep drink of his own.

“Ahh!” The Merchant Prince smacked his lips and tilted his head back to the table stacked with gold coin. “Gold is not that beautiful a color, but it surely has the power to beguile mens’ souls.”

Joshua turned to the Merchant Prince realizing the teaching had begun.

“My son. You must decide now, before you have amassed much of it –” he gestured to the table again — “which of you will be master.”

Joshua looked confused.

The Merchant Prince smiled and continued. “You must decide now whether you will be the ruler of your gold, or whether you will let it rule you.” He set his goblet on the tray, picked up a roll and motioned for Joshua to follow him back over to the table.

At the table, the Merchant Prince took up a handful of the gold coin and placed it in Joshua’s shaking hand.

“Many men want this so much that they risk everything they hold dear in order to get more. It is the saddest thing I have ever seen. Men of such high potential have allowed gold to canker and bind their souls so much that the gold becomes their ruler and their god.” The Merchant Prince’s dark eyes were flashing. “I’ve seen men forsake their wife, their children, leave their home, and everything else they hold dear, in a futile search to lay their greedy hands on this filthy colored metal!”

Joshua was surprised at the vehemence of the Merchant Prince. He dropped the coins on the table and stepped back. He started feeling guilty for the way he’d acted earlier, when he first came into the room. Then he thought of his own search, traveling far across the country to meet the Merchant Prince and learn his secrets of success. Was the Merchant Prince referring to him?

“Don’t worry my son.” The sparkle returned to the Merchant Prince’s eyes. He’d seen Joshua’s thoughts playing across his face. “You are not yet afflicted with the disease. But today I would like to apply some preventive medicine to insure you never contract it.

“Come. Sit. I have a story to tell you.” The Merchant Prince motioned for Joshua to sit on the step while he began to pace.

“Once there were three servants who had a very wealthy lord. He was a hard man, very gruff, but also very shrewd in money matters.

“One day the lord announced he was going on a long journey. He called his three servants to him and entrusted some of his funds to each. To the first servant he gave five talents, to the second servant two talents, and to the third servant one talent; giving to each servant according to their several abilities. Then the lord departed on his journey.

“The first servant went into the marketplace and invested his five talents. While his Lord was away, he gained beside them another five talents. The second servant likewise went into the marketplace and invested his two talents. He also gained him another two talents besides the two already given him. The third servant was fearful of losing his one talent and therefore went out into a field and buried his talent.

“The Lord was gone a long time, but when he returned he called his servants to him and demanded an accounting of that of which he had entrusted to them. The first servant came forward and said ‘Behold, my Lord, here are the five talents which you gave me. And besides these I have gained another five talents.’ The Lord said unto the first servant, ‘Well done, thou good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.’

“The second servant came forward. ‘Behold Master, these two talents thou gavest me, I have gained another two besides.’ And the Lord said, ‘Well done, thou good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.’

“The third servant came forward. ‘My Lord, I know thee, that thou art an hard man and that thou reapest where thou hast not sown, nor gatherest where thou hast not strawed: therefore I was fearful that I should lose the talent which thou entrusted to me, so I went and buried it, to preserve it safely upon thy return. Here now is that which is thine.’ And the servant returned the one talent.

“The anger of the Lord was kindled and he said, ‘Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gathered where I had not strawed: thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.’

“‘Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. For unto everyone that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath.’”

Joshua listened intently as the Merchant Prince finished the parable.

“What do you think this parable means?” the Merchant Prince asked.

Joshua’s brow furrowed.

“Let me help you out on this one,” the Merchant Prince continued. “Come here, my son.” The Merchant Prince stepped back up to the table with the gold coin. He gathered the coins and began stacking them into three separate piles. The first pile had ten gold coins, the second four, and the third, one. He stacked them one on top of the other. Then the Merchant Prince lightly tapped each stack with his finger. “Now Joshua, which was the better steward of what his lord had given him?” Joshua said nothing, but pointed to the larger stack. “Herein is another key principal you must learn,” the Merchant Prince said, turning squarely to face Joshua. On this earth we are but stewards of what the Lord, the Creator of us all, has given us, and like the Lord in the parable, the time will come when our God and Creator will demand an accounting of each of us. It matters very little, I believe, how much we are given to begin with, for as the parable says, we are given according to our abilities — and some have more ability than others. As long as we are earnestly striving to add upon what has been entrusted to us, God will bless us, and give us more to be stewards over. But if we are slothful, and don’t seek to increase our talents while here in this life, the talents we do have will be taken from us and given to those who have many.”

The Merchant Prince picked up the single coin and placed it on top of the stack of ten gold coins. “We fool ourselves when we believe we have possessions in this life. In truth we have nothing but what has been given to us by God. We came into this world with nothing, and that is the way we leave it. During the time of our mortal lives we are merely stewards over that which we have. The important thing is that we are wise stewards, seeking to honestly increase what has been given.

“But then,” the Merchant Prince held up a finger for emphasis. “We must always remember that whenever God demands, we must be willing to give it all back to him if He so commands. This attitude, my son, is the first way in which you can prevent the deadly disease of greed from festering within your soul.

“Remember, all of this is a gift.” The Merchant Prince gestured around the room. “I do not own it, I am merely its steward and responsible for its increase and management.”

The Merchant Prince began gathering up all the gold coins once again and placing them on one side of the table. He then sat on one edge of the table and gestured for Joshua to sit next to him. “You must always learn from the servant who only had one talent given to him but was afraid to invest it. It shows that if you clutch something so tightly, it will inevitably slip from your grasp. There is also another thing you should learn, which will protect you from greed, and will always assure that you are the ruler, and not your gold. Come, let me show you.” He hopped off the table and went to the end where he had stacked the gold coins. Pulling up the sack containing other gold coins, he opened the top and poured it all out on the table. Then began counting until he had gone through 50 gold coins. Joshua’s eyes grew wide at the treasure that lay before him on the table. The Merchant Prince then again made three stacks. In the first stack there were five coins; in another stack another five coins; the remaining 40 coins were grouped in a pile between.

“Now, my son, tell me what you see.” Joshua thought for a minute, unsure of what the Merchant Prince meant, then stammered, “I see three piles of coins.”

“Yes, very good, my son, but in what proportions do you see them? That is the key.” Again Joshua thought, unsure of what the Merchant Prince was getting at. “I see you have taken ten percent of the total in one pile, ten percent in another pile, and left the remaining 80 percent in the middle.”

“Yes, that is right,” the Merchant Prince nodded, then pointed to the first stack. “The first ten percent of whatever you make you must return to God, who is your Lord.”

Joshua was puzzled. “How can I do that?” he asked.

“Ah, that is easy,” replied the Merchant Prince. “You may simply give it to one of God’s representatives, such as a priest or a rabbi. They will use it to build synagogues or places of worship. Or you may take a more direct approach and give it to the poor, the needy, the downtrodden.” The Merchant Prince rested his hand on Joshua’s shoulder. “My son, I promise that if you will always return to God his tenth first, God will then insure that your coffers will never be empty. This is something I can prove from my own experience. It works, my son. I encourage you to try it for yourself and see if I am not telling you the truth.”

Joshua nodded, committing to himself that he would do so. The Merchant Prince then pointed to the second stack of five. “To whom does this stack belong?”

Joshua shrugged his shoulders, uncertain. The Merchant Prince laughed and slapped him on the shoulder. “It’s yours, my son. Haven’t you worked hard for it?” Joshua flashed a big smile. “Yes, my son, you have worked hard for your money. Not that this stack is yours, mind you,” the Merchant Prince said with a wink, “but the second tenth of whatever you earn should be invested and continue to increase. This is the portion you will never let sit idle. Just like in the parable of the talents, you must immediately put it to work, that it may continue to grow and increase. If you do not do so, like in the parable, it will soon slip from your grasp.”

The Merchant Prince took a deep breath, pursing his lips, thinking, then spoke. “It is more important how you take care of your money than how much money you actually make. There are many, many people who make a great amount of money but never seem to have enough to provide even the necessities of life. But there are also many people who do not make near what these others make yet still manage their resources well enough that they always have plenty. Which will you be, my son?”

Joshua didn’t answer, but he could see from the Merchant Prince’s face, he didn’t expect an answer. He expected that Joshua would make an inner decision and discipline himself accordingly.

“I have a question, Father,” Joshua asked. “Where will I invest this money? I’m not sophisticated in the ways of the market.”

“Ah, that is a good question, my son. But don’t make the mistake of many people and think that investing is a difficult process. Indeed, if you know two key points, investing is not difficult at all. The first point,” the merchant said, holding up one finger, “is to invest in what you know. Joshua, you have spent a great deal of time in the marketplace. You have learned its ins and outs, you know what will sell and what will not sell. Would you feel comfortable in investing your excess proceeds into, perhaps, more inventory and expanding your stock?”

Joshua’s eyes widened. He’d never thought of this as investing, but that’s exactly what it was. In a way, expanding his shop would be increasing his talents. “I see it,” Joshua said. “I could invest the ten percent back into building my business. It is something that I know and something I have control over.”

“You are very quick, my son,” the Merchant Prince smiled. “Now, for the second principal.” He held up two fingers. “The second place to invest is in someone you trust. As you begin to amass wealth and continually put it to work, there will come a time when you will not be able to reinvest all of it, nor would it be prudent to reinvest all of it, back into your business. At that time, you will need to look further than just yourself, and invest it with a person or persons with whom you have a great deal of trust.”

The Merchant Prince nodded toward Joshua. Continuing, “For myself, I happen to like investing in young men who are ambitious and anxious to work hard.”

Joshua smiled. He was again catching on.

“You see, my son,” the Merchant Prince continued, “my investing in your education has brought me a return which goes far beyond the markets.” He winked at Joshua. “And I expect the returns will keep coming in for many years to come.” Joshua blushed, clearing his throat.

Seeing Joshua’s nervousness, the Merchant Prince slapped him on the back. “There is also another side to investing in someone you trust. I do not have time nor can I afford the time to be an expert in all financial matters, but I certainly can afford, and do take the time, to find the best advisors I can. I make sure they are reputable and honorable in all of their dealings. To such I entrust my investments that go beyond what I can do for myself; and hence magnify my efforts once again through working with others.”

The Merchant Prince turned back to the stacks of coins on the table. “As you begin your own personal investments, and putting your capital back to work for you, you will learn how simple it is to investing in what you know and who you trust. The more you get involved in this you will come to develop your own philosophy and invest so as to meet your own desires and objectives. That is the way with all successful investors.

“But now let us return to the remaining pile of coins.” The Merchant Prince gestured to the stack of coins in front of him on the table. What do you think you should do with this remaining 80 percent?”

Joshua thought hard. Finally he could voice the things he was thinking about. “Well what about living expenses,” he said, ticking them off on his fingers. “There are living expenses such as food, clothing, shelter, perhaps other obligations that are incurred.”

“That is correct, my son,” the Merchant Prince said. “The remaining 80 percent is used for the rest of your living expenses. However, if you live frugally you can perhaps set aside more than just the ten percent to increase, as a good steward. So here is another key I wish you to learn.”

The Merchant Prince spoke somberly, holding up his finger for emphasis. “The 20 percent you set aside for God, and then yourself will be the most important of all the money you ever make. The first 10 percent you are returning unto God, which will always help you to remember you are but a steward of all of the worldly possession you may accumulate. You will own nothing but merely be a steward while you are here upon this earth. None of us takes any of this . . . “ the Merchant Prince gestured around the rich trappings of the room. “We never take any of this beyond the grave.

“You must also remember that there may be times when, just like in the parable, the Lord may demand an accounting of you, at which time God may require you to give more than the ten percent, even to everything you possess. You must commit to yourself that whenever God calls, and you will realize the time when it comes, that you will give whatever is required.”

Joshua nodded, making an inward commitment that he would do even as the Merchant Prince had said.

“The second tenth,” the Merchant Prince held up two fingers, “you must always make it work as hard for you, as you worked in obtaining it. The second tenth will be the basis of all the future wealth you will ever accumulate. Never let anyone or anything dissuade you from setting this aside, and seeking with it to increase what you currently have. You will find in your old age you will not be able to work nearly as hard as you do now. And you will need that wealth in times to come, in case of sickness, or some other calamity, which may make it so you can no longer work. Or perhaps you will just grow old and wish to retire. At that time you will be able to enjoy more quiet time with your family and children.” The Merchant Prince raised his eyebrows. Again Joshua blushed.

“Be that as it may,” the Merchant Prince continued, smiling at Joshua’s discomfiture. “You must make the commitment now that you will always set aside that second tenth.”

Again Joshua nodded, making the inner commitment to follow as the Merchant Prince had said.

“And then,” the Merchant Prince gestured to the middle pile of coins on the table, “you can use the remaining eighty percent for normal living expenses, and to enjoy and acquire possibly some of the finer things in life– such as you see in my household.”

Joshua again looked around the room, thinking the Merchant Prince indeed must have a great amount of that remaining 80 percent in which to furnish a palace this grand.

The Merchant Prince, seeming to realize what Joshua was thinking, said, “My son, if you will work as hard as you are doing, perhaps God may bless you as much as he has blessed me. Of that I have no doubt. But now,” the Merchant Prince turned somber. “I have spoken with Gamielle. He has given me an accounting of the merchandise you have used in the marketplace.”

Joshua’s attention was riveted now upon what the Merchant Prince was saying.

“You have done extremely well, selling the merchandise which we have allotted to you. He also said that you are current in your payments.”

Joshua began to feel relieved. He had made it a point to always pay for the merchandise he had taken rather than just take it on consignment, as he did with the first shipment of goods. Something inside would not allow him to take what he had taken on credit as before. Now he was glad that he had operated in this manner.

“I am proud of you, my son, for always paying promptly for that which you have obtained from Gamielle. He has developed quite a respect for you. Not all of our merchant men are as good at handling money as you.” The Merchant Prince had a quirky smile cross his face. “Joshua, you have accounted for what I have given to you, but now, as the Lord in the parable, I now demand an accounting of your increase.”

Joshua caught his breath.

“My son, what have you done with your earnings?”

Joshua hesitated before answering. “I’m sorry, Father, I have not been a wise servant.”

The Merchant Prince pursed his lips as Joshua continued. “I have kept the earnings which I have saved out of my profits and even now they are sitting up in my room.”

The Merchant Prince nodded his head slowly. “I’m sorry, my son, but I must ask that you bring them to me.”

Joshua ducked his head and turned, leaving the room and going directly to his room. He went to the far corner where a large fern stood and reached down into the pot and pulled from beneath the soil a pouch filled with silver. He shook off the dirt and clutched it to his breast as he returned to the room where the Merchant Prince was waiting. Joshua pulled the door shut behind him and moved down to where the Merchant Prince was gathering the gold coins into his pouch. He waited silently until the Merchant Prince had finished, then handed his purse into the Merchant Prince’s outstretched hand.

“We all must learn hard lessons,” the Merchant Prince said, and then smiled slightly. “And I dare say this will not be the last money you lose — even when doing your best to invest it wisely. I don’t even have a perfect record at that.”

The Merchant Prince’s smile grew wider. “But perhaps this will be a lesson to you. A lesson to help you remember that whatever you hold so tightly will surely slip from your grasp.”

With that the Merchant Prince drew Joshua into a hug. “Don’t worry, my son, it is a hard lesson to learn, but more importantly, not one you will soon forget, eh?”

“That I promise,” Joshua said.

Chapter 21

Joshua had some time before he was due in the marketplace. He knew he would be late this evening so he decided he would take some time and walk around the palace grounds, to ponder over what he had just learned. The Merchant Prince had been unusually harsh in his teachings. But in thinking about it, Joshua realized he’d been so in order that Joshua would firmly remember the lesson. To him that hath shall be given, and to him who hath not, the same shall be taken away and given to him who hath. Joshua thought about this, recalling the parable of the talents, and once again made the firm commitment within himself to follow everything the Merchant Prince had said. Although he didn’t understand it fully, he knew that once he put it into practice, in time, he would understand all he needed to in order for it to work for his good. After all, it had been that way with all the other Merchant Prince’s teaching.

He wandered around the grounds, deep in thought. As was his habit he ended up in the clearing near the fountain. The heat of the day was just beginning and the sun high overhead. He was half way into the clearing when he looked up and saw Allisa and Fahni were already in the clearing. Fahni was leaning over the fountain, scrubbing vigorously, cleaning its polished surface, and Allisa was kneeling at its base, pulling weeds and taller strands of grass. Joshua was taken aback. He just assumed that the Merchant Prince had servants to do things like that.

“May I help?” Joshua said, striding up.

“Oh,” Fahni turned and put her hand to her breast. “Joshua, you started me! Is your teaching over so soon?” Then discerning something in Joshua’s countenance, her brows furrowed. “Is there something wrong?”

Joshua’s eyebrows raised and his face brightened. “Does it look that bad?”

“It doesn’t look bad to me,” Allisa said, getting up from where she had been kneeling, “but Fahni has this talent of detecting even the slightest bit of change.” She looked over at Fahni with mischief in her eyes. “Especially when it affects someone she cares about.”

Fahni playfully swatted at her mother. “Actually,” Fahni began, “you look as though you’ve taken a little reproof.”

“Uh, well, no, not really,” Joshua stammered. “But I did learn some very important lessons today. I’m constantly amazed at the way Father teaches such simple concepts in the most dramatic ways.”

Allisa laughed. “Ah, let me guess. He just taught you the lesson of the talents, didn’t he?”

“How did you know?” Joshua asked.

“Mother!” Fahni sighed deeply for effect. “She makes sure Father reports all that he’s taught you — to make sure he gets it right. Isn’t that right, Mother?”

“Well, you know the saying,” Allisa broke into a big smile. “Behind every good man . . .” She left the sentence dangling, but they both knew what she meant. “Come, sit down,” she continued, gesturing to the bench at the edge of the clearing. “I’m about due for a rest, anyway. This is hard work.

“But I want to help,” Joshua said, gesturing to the fountain. “Why don’t you two go rest and I’ll finish cleaning the fountain.”

“Oh no,” Allisa said. “These are chores Fahni and I do. The work is good for us. Besides, you have to be in the marketplace in a while, don’t you?”

“Yes,” Joshua said, “but it’s the least I can do after all you’ve done for me.”

“Oh no,” Allisa said again holding up her hand. “Come, sit. Like I said, these are chores that Fahni and I do.”

They walked over to the bench. “I would think you would have servants do something like this,” Joshua said as he waited for Fahni and Allisa to sit on the bench before sitting himself. Fahni snuggled up beside him, which felt really good.

“Yes, that surprises most people,” Allisa said. “Yet, like I said, the work is good for us. I do not wish Fahni or I to get lazy and become slothful servants.” She winked at Joshua, knowing what he’d recently been taught.

“Ouch,” Joshua put his hand over his heart in exaggerated fashion. “That strikes to the core.”

“Come now, mother,” Fahni said. “I’m sure Joshua has learned his lesson. There’s no reason to tease him about it.”

“How do you know I’ve learned my lesson,” Joshua turned to Fahni.

“It’s simply because no one has gotten through that part of the teaching yet without failing ““ myself and mother included!” Fahni looked meaningfully at her mother.

“That is true,” Allisa agreed sheepishly. “I promise not to rub any more salt into the wound.”

“That’s OK,” Joshua said. “I was just teasing, too. I was just walking around the grounds thinking about what I’ve been taught; trying to understand it better.”

“That is good,” Allisa said. “And if you’ll permit us, maybe we can shed more light on the principle, to help you further understand it. After all, knowing you men, you confine the parable of the talents mostly to the marketplace, am I correct?”

Joshua shrugged his shoulders and nodded.

“It’s just like men,” Allisa continued, “who can only concentrate on one or two things at a time and leave it to the women to see the broader picture.”

Joshua looked at Allisa and could tell she was teasing, but he also knew what she said held a great deal of truth.

“My son, you must see,” Allisa began, “that the talents my husband referred to do not mean just money, but they also represent actual talents a person may possess, whether physical, spiritual, musical, whatever. You must realize that if you see the beginnings of a talent within you, you must work with it, press yourself, and seek to expand that talent. For if you seek to bury, or hide the talent, through its misuse you will soon find you have lost it. And then someone else who is also striving with that same talent, will take the place you could have held had you pushed forward.”

Joshua was silent, thinking through what he had just heard. Then Fahni broke in.

“You see, Joshua, it was sort of what we were talking about before. I’m sure Father told you that true wealth and happiness depends more on who you are rather than what you possess. And if you build your talents and seek to better the type of person you are through them, you’re adding to your inner wealth. Then, no matter what happens to your worldly possessions, you will always be successful because of who you are and what you have made of yourself.”

Joshua nodded. What these two were saying made a great deal of sense. “I wish you two were in my teaching sessions with Father; it would make it so much easier for me to get all of this at once.”

They all laughed. Then Fahni touched a hand to Joshua’s knee. “I’m sure Father talked with you about handling your money, and how you should first give a tenth to God, then invest a tenth for yourself, then use the remaining 80 percent for whatever else is required of you?” “Yes,” Joshua said, “and that is the part that has been occupying most of my thoughts before I came into the clearing.”

“You should realize,” Fahni continued, “that this principle also goes far beyond just monetary concerns. Think about this Joshua. What do you have that you can give to God other than money?”

Joshua paused. He’d never thought about this. Then items began to spring into his mind. He ticked them off on his fingers as he spoke. “First, there is my time.”

Allisa smiled. “He is quick!”

“Next,” Joshua ticked off one more on his fingers, “there is my energy, and strength.” Fahni began to smile. “There are also my talents as I begin to develop them.” Then Joshua stopped. He could think of no more.

“Let me help you, Joshua,” Fahni said slowly. “Most people never think of these areas. How about your thoughts?” Joshua’s eyebrows raised. “Thoughts are things which are true possessions, for they are so personal only you and God know them. Think of the great blessings which would come into your life if you would render ten percent of your thoughts unto God.”

Joshua was amazed at this simple principle, yet could see the great benefit it would add to his spirit and closeness with God. He could also see why the Merchant Prince was so happy and content with himself. He and all of his family must be giving daily devotions to God in their thoughts and in their hearts.

At the thought of the word heart Joshua could see something else. “How about my feelings?” Joshua said. “That is something else I possess which is personal only to me.”

“Yes,” Allisa beamed with pride. “If you would tithe ten percent of your feelings always towards God you certainly will be blessed in that also.

“And then,” she continued, very serious. “As my husband has told you, there will also be times when God will demand more of you than just ten percent. At these times, if you give freely of things other than money, which we have listed, and give of all things — including your money — as fully and completely as God demands, then you will surely be blessed. You will be blessed many fold above and beyond what God has already granted you.

“My son,” Allisa continued. “I know from my own experience that God is the best paymaster anyone could want.”

Joshua was silent, then suddenly remembered back over how he had come to be with the Merchant Prince and his family. He remembered how it had stemmed from a small charitable gift to a young girl in the marketplace. Yes, he knew for himself that Allisa was right. Truly, God was the best paymaster.

“You have both given me many things to think over,” Joshua said. Fahni looped her arm in his, hugging him close. “I appreciate your teachings, as always.” He winked at Fahni. “And you have given me much to put into practice. It makes me feel like I must be constantly working or I will be shirking.” He stood from the bench, looking up at the sun.

“And speaking of shirking, I must be on my way to the marketplace.”

“Remember there are more important things than the marketplace,” Fahni stood beside him, giving him a hug.

Joshua was in heaven. “I shall remember it well,” he said.

“Speaking of shirking,” Allisa also stood, placing an arm around Fahni’s shoulders, “I believe it is time for us to get back to our chores, while Joshua gets to his.” She reached forward and also gave Joshua a hug, then turned him around and pushed him to the edge of the clearing.

“We will see you later tonight, my son. Now daughter . . . back to work.”

Chapter 22

During the next week, Joshua spent a great deal of time with Fahni and her mother, planning for their upcoming wedding. It was scheduled to be a little over a month away — on the Merchant Prince’s birthday.

On the rare occasions he and Fahni were able to spend time alone, they talked quietly of the future and what it would bring. As Joshua had recently done, and as Fahni had done previously, they sat and mapped out their life together and what they felt it could be like. They talked about the principles they had each learned and how they would incorporate each one into their lives together. They both understood and revered the great powers within such simple principles.

As they dreamed together of all they would like to do and be, they were both amazed at the seeming inspiration they received. It was almost as if an unseen hand was prodding them, hinting at things they hadn’t dared to dream about, yet both wanted to attain together.

When they were finished, they broke their plans for the future down into smaller segments to work toward a bit at a time. When they were finished, they felt a sense of love and unity they had never even thought possible between two people. They had become as one, working toward a common future they both greatly wanted.

On the very day, one week from the time he had last met with the Merchant Prince, Joshua was ushered into the Merchant Prince’s presence for what he knew to be the last day of his formal instruction.

Instead of meeting in their usual room for breakfast, Joshua was lead into a rather plain room in the basement. As he entered, he noticed the Merchant Prince kneeling in the center of the room, facing away from him.

He was kneeling in prayer.

On the far wall, there was a small brass rack containing four large scrolls placed in a reverent fashion. On the other side of the room rested a small pedestal with a bust, similar to his, resting on it. Joshua recognized it as a bust of the Merchant Prince. Undoubtedly it had been sculpted by the same artisan who had molded Joshua’s.

There was an old, rather small table with a chair set under it as a desk with meager writing instruments on top against one sparse wall.

Other than this, the room was barren.

Joshua wondered at such starkness. As he pulled the door shut behind him with a soft click of the latch, the Merchant Prince stirred.

He got up and turned toward Joshua, inviting him into the room. As he did so, Joshua noticed tears in the corner of the Merchant Prince’s eyes. He had been crying as he prayed.

“I’m glad we can be together again,” the Merchant Prince said. “It saddens me that this is our last formal session, but my heart has consolation that it won’t be the last time we are together.”

The Merchant Prince gestured for Joshua to come in and be seated next to him on the floor.

“Perhaps you are wondering why we are not meeting in our normal room,” the Merchant Prince said. “I wanted you to see my favorite room of the entire palace.” The Merchant Prince gestured around the room for Joshua to once again, see how barren the room was.

Joshua was surprised. Out of all the beautiful rooms in the palace, the Merchant Prince had chosen this as his favorite.

“You are probably wondering why this is my favorite room,” the Merchant Prince said in answer to Joshua’s unvoiced question.

“The reason, is because this room, for all its emptiness of worldly trappings, reminds me the most from whence I came.”

Joshua still didn’t understand.

He sat beside Joshua on the floor with his legs crossed in front of him with his knees against his chest and his arms clasped about his legs, bowed his head and began to relate his story, while Joshua listened intently.

“Many years ago, when I was in my middle teen years, I lived with my parents in the faraway city of Jerusalem. My father was a very successful and influential man, and my family had great wealth.

“We had been there some years when a certain man came among the people. He taught strange doctrines and performed many miracles. Most of the people, including the church and government authorities spurned and derided him. Some of the church even charged that he was possessed by demons, by which he was able to perform all his wondrous works.

“Many thought him to be crazy. Others felt he was a prophet. Still others, a few intensely loyal people, felt he was the promised Messiah, the Son of God, sent to deliver them.

“My youthful curiosity caused me to seek him out and listen to some of his teachings. I was amazed at his wisdom and learning. He taught not as the other Rabbis, but taught as if he knew and had experienced the truth of his words. Others taught and quoted the old sayings of the prophets, yet they lacked the sincerity and deep understanding of this teacher.

“I soon was enthralled by what he taught, but more than that, I was captured by the wonderful spirit I felt when I was with him, or even pondering over his teachings. I could sense and feel the truth of what he taught.

One day, as he was walking through the streets, I got up my courage and stopped him to ask a question. There wasn’t really a burning question that I needed to ask him. I think I did it more so I could speak with him and he would notice me.

“I asked, ‘Master, what must I do to gain Eternal Life?’

“The crowd around him stood silently, listening to what he might say to such an all encompassing question.

“He looked at me as if he saw all the way into the depths of my soul, then answered, naming the Ten Commandments of the Jewish belief, saying I should be obedient to them.

“I, having been raised in a family that followed after these beliefs, had obeyed these commandments since my youth, and I replied as much.

“He knew my answer before I gave it, for his immediate response was, ‘Then go and sell all your possessions, give the money to the poor, and come and follow me.’

“I was devastated. As I said, my family was quite wealthy and I had many possessions. He was asking me to take a leap of faith, to leave behind everything I had, including the old person I was, and follow him.

“As soon as he had said this, I knew it was what I must do — yet I hadn’t the courage. In disgrace I lowered my head and left . . .

“At that time, my faith was not sufficiently strong for me to make such a sacrifice.

“I pondered over his challenge for many days, becoming more miserable each time I went out to hear him teach. What he taught was truth, yet in order to follow him and gain Eternal Life, I had to make the sacrifice. I had to leave my past behind and trust my future to him.

“I began discussing this man and his teachings with my family. They only laughed at me and scorned the teachings I tried to discuss. My father then angrily forbade me to have anything further to do with this man or his followers. He said the man was a wild radical who was seeking to undermine the authority of the church and government.

“He said he knew the Elders had met and were going to arrest him, and deliver him up to the local Roman governor on charges of treason.

“When my father said this, my heart skipped. I must warn him, I thought. He must not be harmed, for his words carried the truth. His words were of peace and of no threat to the government.

“I didn’t realize it at the time, but as I hurried out of my house, it was the last time I would ever be allowed to return. Through my love and fear for this man’s safety, I had reached the point where my faith was sufficiently strong I could make this sacrifice, not worrying about what the future might contain, trusting only in what I knew to be right.

“I found my new Master in a home surrounded by followers, and warned him about what my father had said. Listening quietly to my words, he nodded as I warned him of the danger he was in.

‘Be at peace,’ he said. ‘I am here to feed my flock. They who know my voice will hear my words. I will not be taken before my work is finished.’

“Such courage. I wanted to warn him further — to make him leave for his own safety, but I could feel he knew all that was happening. My new found faith increased as I realized he was willing to make a much greater sacrifice than he had asked even of me.

“I stayed with him for another five days, traveling with him and listening as he taught, recording on scrolls what he taught, that I might savor his words.

“After those five days, I returned home to gather my things so that I might sell them, give the money to the poor, and be with my Master. I was not really surprised that I was not allowed into the house. Instead, I was met by my father who, in his rage, said I was no longer his son, disowned and cast out into the streets.

“It was painful for me to bear, but my faith buoyed me up. I knew I was doing the right thing, and that I would be watched over.

“Later that evening, I returned to where my Master had been staying. I found no one there. Continuing out into the city to look, still none knew of his whereabouts.

“It was not until very late that night that I heard a commotion concerning my Master. It was said that he had been seized by the elders of the church. They were trying him before their council and then were going to deliver him up to Pilate, the Roman governor, for sentencing.

“My heart almost stopped. I went to the place of trial, but was barred from entry by the guards. At last in frustration, I settled myself down and waited.

“After what seemed like an eternity, I heard sounds from inside. I quickly stood up only to be pushed roughly out of the way as guards escorting my Master, bound and beaten, walked quickly past. He was being taken privily to Pilate for sentencing.

“I tried to break through, to reach him and help him escape. As our eyes met, he said to me, ‘Hold your peace. The time has come. I do as my Father would have me do.’

“My Master was then quickly marched off with me left standing alone, wondering what I should do.

“The next two days were a blur to my senses. My Master, after receiving his death sentence, was paraded, staggering through the streets, bearing the weight of the cross on which he was to be hung. He had been flogged to near death already. As he walked along the pathway to the hill Golgotha, people would spit upon him and deride him with mocking comments.

“My Master bore it all in silence.

“He was hung upon the cross in cruel Roman fashion. A fashion designed to induce great pain while prolonging the life of their victim. I could see the great pain in his eyes, yet his voice did not betray it. As he hung there upon the cross, I stood nearby, powerless to help or even offer comfort. All around him, people stood mocking and shouting at him to save himself.

“He was placed between two thieves, and even one of the thieves mocked him from his own cross.

“Later, I heard him say, of those crucifying him, ‘Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.’ Shortly after, he said, ‘It is finished! Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.’ Then he was gone . . .

“He died much faster than one normally did on the cross. I knew he had not been killed, but that he had given up his life . . . willingly . . . For us. He had finished what he had been sent to do. The rest was now up to us — his followers.

“When he died, the earth shook horribly, and a great storm raged, as if the heavens were angered at my Master’s passing. Many who previously doubted, doubted no longer.

The Merchant Prince took a long deep breath, his head still bowed. “Shortly after, I left Jerusalem and came here to this city. The rest you know.”

The Merchant Prince solemnly lifted his head and turned sober eyes toward Joshua.

“My Master was the Son of God. He was delivered up to be crucified by his own people!” Deep emotion filled his voice, then he was silent for a time.

When he spoke again he said, “He has left a few of us to carry on his words. What you have learned, my son, are His words, taught to me by my Master — and now who I hope will become your Master.

“These teachings are the same that people call my Secrets of Success. More of his teachings I keep here in these scrolls you see.”

Joshua was silent. The story about his Master seemed familiar, yet he couldn’t place why it was familiar. It was like an itching in the back of his mind — from his past.

Joshua’s thoughts were interrupted by the Merchant Prince who regaining his composure, spoke again.

“This room reminds me a great deal of my Master. It is barren to remind me that there is a power much greater than wealth or position.

“This lesson was taught to me through my sacrifice to follow my Master, and I shall now, hopefully, help you find that same lesson for yourself. It is the power of Faith.”

Joshua was somewhat afraid of what he suspected might be coming, yet he knew the Merchant Prince to be a wise and gentle man. He had agreed to learn the secrets of success and serve the Merchant Prince if he would teach him. The Merchant Prince was doing his part. Joshua silently committed to himself to finish what he had started even though he was fearful of what lay ahead.

“Faith,” the Merchant Prince began as he got up and wandered around the room, “is an actual power. It is a tangible power as real as any other power in existence. Most do not believe in this power, yet I know from valuable experience that it is real. That it exists. That it is perhaps the most powerful of any you could ever possess.”

The Merchant Prince paused and looked at Joshua who was concentrating intently on what was being said. Having satisfied himself that Joshua was listening closely, he continued.

“My Master said, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. This is verily true, my son. If you have faith in what you are doing and that you will succeed, all things truly will be possible to you. The power of faith literally causes events to happen which will bring about your successes.”

The Merchant Prince paused a moment, thinking, then continued.

“It was through the power of faith that my Master performed many miracles. It was also through the power of the people’s faith that they, having diverse maladies and diseases were healed.

“Faith is a real power.”

“If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.

“Before you can become successful, you must first believe deeply that you can be. Then, if you believe, all things are possible.

“If you are following closely the secrets of success you have previously learned, and combine them with faith in yourself, and faith in what you are doing, then success is already yours. Only the evidence of your faith remains to be seen. This evidence will shortly begin to show itself by pouring into your coffers.”

Joshua was somewhat confused. He still did not see how faith could be a real power which actually caused success to come his way. This principle seemed much like the one he had learned only a week ago, but it was still different. And the Merchant Prince himself attributed great power to this principle of faith, so it must be as he says. He knew that by following the other secrets of success, he had attained quite a measure of success already, but how could faith add to that?

Seeing the look of consternation on Joshua’s face, the Merchant Prince smiled. He came over and sat across from Joshua so he could look directly into his eyes as he spoke.

“The power of faith is real. As you work in following what I have taught you, then add to it the power of faith, your success will be multiplied tenfold.

“The power of your faith, knowing beyond believing, that you will be successful, will literally draw success to you.

“It is a power I cannot explain,” the Merchant Prince continued. “But it is there, and it is real. I could not see it either until I experienced it.

“When I finally decided to follow my Master, leaving my past and all security behind, I was scared and uncertain of the future. Yet, I had faith. I knew I would survive, and prosper.

“And look at how I’ve survived.” The Merchant Prince said gesturing broadly.

“The power of my faith, and following the teachings of my Master, has rewarded my efforts. It was taking that first step, relying on my own efforts and having faith I would succeed, that brought me what I have today.

“It is through the blessings of the God whom I worship, and through faith, that I have received what I now possess.

“Yet this room,” the Merchant Prince said. “This room is my favorite for it reminds me from whence I came, and the power faith has had in bringing me to where I am. I started out with nothing except the teachings of my Master. So that is all this room contains — the Teachings of my Master — as I recorded them long ago — and that bust,” he pointed to the statuette Joshua had noticed earlier, “reminding me of what I could become.”

“This room constantly reminds me there are many things more meaningful to life and happiness than wealth. My Master had no real material wealth, yet he was the richest man I have ever known, though he was scorned, ridiculed, and even killed for what he was, and what he taught.”

Joshua looked wonderingly around the small room. He was beginning to more fully understand what the Merchant Prince was saying.

“When you first came to us,” the Merchant Prince continued. “It was through a great act of faith, yet you did not know it at the time. It was through your faith that you were blessed with the object of your desire. You had no doubts but that I would teach you the secrets of success. And here you are.

“Some may call this luck or coincidence, but I know better.”

Joshua saw now what the Merchant Prince meant. If you believe, beyond simple wishing, that you will be successful at any activity, and as long as you are following the other principles of success, then faith will act in your behalf, and bring success to you.

Knowing the mechanics of it didn’t make it easier. Joshua knew he might have a hard time actually putting the power of faith into practice. It was a hard principle to understand, much less know how to really apply.

“One caution I would give you, my son,” the Merchant Prince continued. “My Master said to me on one occasion, that only after the trial of your faith, will you receive the witness.

“Your faith will be severely tested. But if you do not give up, you truly will receive the reward.”

Joshua could feel now that what he most feared was coming. He didn’t know how he knew, but he sensed it all the same.

Looking deeply into Joshua’s eyes, the Merchant Prince took a deep breath and spoke.

“What I do now, requires as much faith of me as it does of you.” The Merchant Prince produced a small bell from his belt pouch and rang it. Immediately the door opened and Fahni walked into the room. She came over and sat next to Joshua, taking his hand in hers, needing reassurance.

“I have taught Fahni as she grew up, the same principles I have taught you. She has learned all things well and knew that this time was coming. That is why she has chosen so carefully her mate.”

Fahni looked over to Joshua, blushing slightly. She squeezed his hand for support. The Merchant Prince seeing this exchange smiled as he continued.

“As I have said, faith is a hard thing to teach or understand without experiencing it for one’s self.”

He paused and took another deep and fateful breath.

“As I was taught by my Master, so I must teach you. After you are married, you must both give away all that you possess and leave here, to make a new life for yourselves. You will have only what you have learned and the power of your faith to see you through.” The Merchant Prince had a pained look on his face that told Joshua this was extremely hard for him to do.

“Always remember,” the Merchant Prince said as tears started streaming down his eyes. “If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.”

The Merchant Prince got up and quickly left the room. He could no longer bear the fact he had just cast his children out into the streets with nothing. Even though he had it in his power to provide everything for them, he could not, and still have them become all their great potential would allow them to be. They must learn to draw upon this potential to survive. In doing so, they would find a priceless gift. The gift of faith — and its power.

Although it pained him greatly, the Merchant Prince knew he was giving his children a gift worth more than all the wealth he could ever bestow upon them — their independence, their self reliance, their full potential, to become whatever they chose to become. They would find they would have power over their own destiny forever, never to be dependent upon anyone or anything for whatever they wanted to achieve.

Joshua and Fahni sat closely together for a moment in silence. Joshua, strangely, was not shocked at the Merchant Prince’s actions. He was not fearful or worried as earlier. Instead he felt a resolute desire to learn first hand of the power of faith.

“If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.” Joshua said quietly, disturbing the peace of the room. He believed — no, knew they would be successful. He also realized that it was best that he and Fahni learn this lesson together. It would serve as a bond that would be unbreakable, as they faced the future with only themselves to lean on for comfort and support.

Finally Fahni broke the silence while drawing closer to Joshua.

“My Father forgot to mention one other thing we have that is of infinitely great worth.”

Joshua looked at Fahni searchingly.

“We have each other!” She said with fierce determination.

With that, Joshua took her into his arms. He knew that with Fahni’s faith and determination, they couldn’t help but be successful.

Chapter 23

As their wedding day approached, Joshua and Fahni spent much time discussing their plans and hopes for the future. They reviewed the plans they had made and became very excited about the adventure that lay ahead.

Occasionally, one or both would become fearful, for they were leaving everything behind, relying only on what they had learned, their faith in themselves, each other, and their potential. It was always a great comfort to recall their inner visions of what they could become. By focusing on the great things they felt they could be achieve, a little at a time, they soon forgot their fears, and their excitement would return. They clung to those inner visions, for they realized those visions would shortly be all they possessed. The visions, and the knowledge of how to make them a reality.

Perhaps this was what the Merchant Prince had meant regarding a trial of faith before receiving the blessings.

Joshua made arrangements with the Merchant Prince to turn his stand’s ownership over to Abihu and Sallah. They both thanked him with tears in their eyes. He gave them the same chance for success the Merchant Prince had given him. Joshua knew they deserved this chance and that they would become very successful on their own.

He also knew that he would be blessed in some way for this gift of kindness, for so goes the principle, Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. But he really didn’t care right now about the blessings, for he felt glad in his heart for what he had been able to do for Abihu and Sallah.

Perhaps the feeling is its own reward, Joshua thought to himself. He shrugged his shoulders and left the marketplace behind.

In the next few days, Joshua arranged for a job and lodging in a nearby city for he and Fahni, for after they were married. Joshua would be working as an assistant to a metal worker, and Fahni had been able to obtain work in tending the children of a well known merchant in that same city. She would trade her labors for linens and material in which to make them clothing, and items for decorating their humble apartment.

Joshua had taken the job as an assistant to a metal worker rather than becoming a merchant again because he had always had a desire to create things which would make people’s lives better. He wanted to become an inventor.

Joshua wanted to study and discover ways to build things better and stronger than they were. To make new tools that would help people in their tasks so they could accomplish more with less time and effort. He wanted to learn, create, and build. This much his inner vision had revealed to him, and so he was now starting along that path. He was using faith along with the other secrets of success to achieve it.

As their wedding date approached, their fear of leaving such a secure environment grew. They both understood this as a lesson in faith. So rather than worrying about the future, they spent their time in preparation and strengthening their beliefs in themselves and their abilities.

Joshua was often bolstered by the fact that he had come so far since leaving his home city. He recognized how his belief that learning the secrets of success was possible, had actually made it become a reality. Also he recognized he’d had to work hard to make that belief become a reality. He recalled the tiresome trek across the desert doing menial work with the animals to earn his fare. He also recalled how he might have given up when he was turned away from the Merchant Prince’s door the first time. It was a combination of his belief and his perseverance which brought him what he most desired.

He recalled learning the secrets of success and becoming more successful with each successive lesson. This success, achieved one step at a time, had seemed to bolster his belief, or faith, that he could be successful under any circumstances. Yet, he realized that, as before, it would take time. It would not happen overnight. The course he and Fahni had embarked upon would take time and hard work, yet they knew they would succeed.

Their expectations were great, yet so was their belief in what they could achieve — together.

The day before their wedding, Joshua and Fahni went out into the city, sold their remaining possessions, and gave the money to the poor. The only things they kept were the clothes they were wearing, their wedding garments, and, at the Merchant Prince’s insistence, the busts reflecting their potential, the Merchant Prince had given them.

Joshua and Fahni were grateful for this, for the statuettes continually strengthened the inner visions of what they could become. They both knew there would be times when these visions would be all they had to keep them striving for what they knew they could achieve.

After selling their possessions and giving the money to the poor, Joshua and Fahni stood, hand in hand, together, in a large and seemingly unfriendly city. They were stripped of all that they were, and had only their future, together, that they could hold on to.

To their surprise, they felt strangely . . . Free.

Chapter 24

On their wedding day, they both dressed in their wedding robes and went out to be among the friends and family who had come to celebrate with them. There was much laughter and happiness. There was also a feeling of great joy and love which awed Joshua. Only in the distant and fleeting memories of his own family had he felt such love and acceptance.

Finally came the time for the actual wedding ceremony. Joshua was moved with emotion at all he’d been given in such a short time. He had a new family, he had learned the secrets of success, and he now had the most beautiful woman in the world for his wife and mate. It was too much for Joshua, who wept openly for joy.

Joshua was not alone in his joy, however, for the Merchant Prince also had tears running down his cheeks. Every once in a while, his tears were dabbed by Allisa, his sweet wife, who also dabbed her own occasionally.

Next came the festivities where he and Fahni were congratulated and hugged by what seemed an endless amount of people. To Joshua, it felt like the reception went on forever.

When it was finally over, Joshua and Fahni went up and changed into their one set of clothes. When they came down, they found the Merchant Prince and Allisa there to bid them goodbye, and wish them well on their new life together.

Fahni ran to embrace them both. Tears finally came to her eyes as she realized she was really leaving the home of her childhood.

As Joshua came forward, he embraced his new mother-in-law, and then turned to the Merchant Prince. Words couldn’t express what he felt, nor were they adequate to thank the Merchant Prince for all he had done for him.

Rather than speaking, the tears once again welling up in his eyes, the Merchant Prince bid Joshua to kneel before him.

Joshua knelt, and bowed his head, the Merchant Prince placed his hands on Joshua’s head and proceeded to give him a blessing.

A feeling such as Joshua had never experienced came over him. It was as if he would be overwhelmed by the feeling of love and comfort. His bosom burned like a consuming fire within, ignited by the inspired and powerful words the Merchant Prince spoke in blessing him.

All at once, Joshua’s memory was opened and he vividly remembered, as a very young boy, his father standing over him, blessing him exactly as the Merchant Prince was now doing.

Great racking sobs were torn from Joshua as he remembered this time. He felt a presence in the room, a spiritual presence that he knew at once. It was the presence of his mother, father and entire family within the room although they were dead.

Joshua knew in his mind that the Merchant Prince was standing over him, yet he heard his father’s voice and felt his father’s gentle touch in the Merchant Prince’s.

Joshua’s memory continued to expand, opening like a floodgate, and somehow he knew and remembered, in detail, all that he had shared with his family. He remembered every touch and caress of his mother. He remembered every word of instruction from his father. Remembered every shared memory with his brothers and sisters, even though they were long dead.

Joshua knew, now, that they would always be with him, to watch over he and Fahni, as they began their new life together. He would never again be alone.

Joshua also understood now, why the story of the Merchant Prince’s master had been familiar to him. The same God the Merchant Prince worshiped was the very same his mother had taught him of, so long ago, and so far away.

After the Merchant Prince finished the blessing and removed his hands, Joshua remained on his knees, crying and savoring the feelings and memories of his family. He realized now that they only awaited him to join them, after he’d passed on to where they waited for him.

As the tears slowly subsided, Joshua raised his head and saw everyone was crying with him. He knew instinctively they had shared in the great outpouring of the spirit, and it had touched them as deeply as he.

Rising to his feet he took Fahni into his arms, in a strong and comforting embrace. Joshua then reached his hand out and grasped tightly to the hand of Allisa, who brought his hand up to hold against her wet cheek.

Finally releasing Fahni and Allisa, he stood to face the Merchant Prince. Joshua’s eyes sought those of the Merchant Prince, but found them instead gazing at the family emblem he wore in a chain about his neck, which had come from beneath his shirt as he kneeled. It was the only physical thing which remained of his family heritage. He had decided to wear it for the wedding as a symbol of having what remained of his family there with him.

Joshua, seeing the Merchant Prince’s intense concentration upon this charm, removed it from around his neck and placed it reverently into the Merchant Prince’s outstretched hand.

The Merchant Prince very carefully raised it to his lips and then asked, “Where did you get this, my son?”

Joshua, somewhat confused, said, “It was given to me by my mother shortly before she died. I remember her telling me that it was a symbol of my family and lineage. She told me that it was a special lineage; one that I should be proud of for it was the lineage of kings.”

Great tears began to well up in the Merchant Prince’s eyes. He drew Joshua into his arms in a great embrace. Joshua still confused at the charm’s importance, nevertheless returned the embrace.

The Merchant Prince drew back, the tears still flowing. Allisa came up to stand next to him to look closely at the charm. Upon seeing it, she gasped in surprise.

The Merchant Prince opened up his shirt and drew out a charm, an exact replica of Joshua’s.

Now it was Joshua’s turn to be surprised.

“This was given to me by my Master,” the Merchant Prince began, now crying openly as he spoke.

“He gave this to me when I left my family to join him and warn him of the danger he was in. He said, like you, that it was a symbol of his lineage, being from the House of David, of the Tribe of Judah. Since I had left my family for him, he was adopting me into his.”

Great Tears continued flowing forth until the Merchant Prince dropped to his knees.

“For many years since my Master was killed, I have been seeking some sign that I had served him well. The last thing my Master said to me, as he hung on the cross — when I had asked in my anguish, how I could possibly help him. He had stared down upon me with love and said simply, ‘Inasmuch as ye have done it unto the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.’

“From that day forth, I strived to serve my Master by helping those in need, however I could. For these many years I have been working and searching for some assurance that I was really doing as he would have me do.”

The Merchant Prince bowed his head and sobbed aloud, “Now I know . . . with this charm as evidence . . . I truly know!”

Joshua, Fahni, and Allisa all fell to their knees and joined with the Merchant Prince in his emotional prayer of thanks.

Epilogue

Five years passed since that last night in the Merchant Prince’s palace. Joshua recalled the evening with warm fondness. Much had happened since that eventful night. Joshua’s mind quickly spanned the years, recapping them swiftly as each event swept past.

During those years, Joshua had used the secrets of success to grow and prosper. He had worked hard, and he now owned his own successful manufacturing plant. In this plant, he made and then sold to many merchantmen several of his inventions. Each invention was of the nature that it eased the burden of something that previously had been done by hand. They were much in demand for they magnified the efforts of one man into those of ten. Joshua had become quite wealthy and famous from his inventions.

Joshua’s greatest customer was the Merchant Prince, who distributed these products throughout his vast network.

Joshua and Fahni had been blessed with two very bright and active sons. They were growing up swiftly and Joshua was a very proud father.

He was beginning to be known as one of the most inventive and innovative people in the country. People from all over would travel to Joshua to gain help in solving their problems of labor and materials.

Whenever people would ask him how he was able to think of all of his innovative solutions, he would simply smile and say, “It is easy. All I need to do is place myself in place of the average person, see his problems, and then invent something that solves his problems.”

People would usually shake their head at such a simple reply. It was as if they expected some complicated formula that showed him what to invent.

Joshua knew better. He remembered his lessons from the Merchant Prince well.

“Out of small and simple things are great things brought to pass,” He said softly to himself.

Joshua had followed the simple principles he’d been taught, and had discovered for himself the great power they contained. Joshua was not as wealthy as the Merchant Prince but he was wealthy in his own right. He doubted that he would ever be as rich as the Merchant Prince, but then again, he really didn’t want to be. He was very happy at what he was doing and lived comfortably. He had a loving wife and family, and he thanked God daily for all these things.

Most of all, Joshua was grateful for that last secret of success the Merchant Prince had helped him learn. It was of more value than all the other secrets combined.

If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.

Joshua put aside the scroll he had been studying. It was a copy of one of the scrolls the Merchant Prince had made of his Master’s teachings — now his master as well — both from his childhood teachings, and from what he had learned from the Merchant Prince.

He blew out the lamp, exited the sparsely decorated room (his favorite room in the palace), and walked down the hall to be with his greatest source of wealth and happiness . . .

His family.

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