Blue Rose

Chinese princess, refused to marry. At last said would only marry man who could give her a blue rose.

A warrior, a merchant, a scholar set out to try.

Warrior invaded neighbouring land where rich king possessed famous blue jewel - sapphire. Held king to ransom for sapphire. Had this carved into a rose.

Merchant used all his money to have finest porcelain vase made, with blue rose motif.

Scholar discovered in old books a dye, put white rose into this and it turned blue.

Princess declared:

• Sapphire is not a rose - have plenty of jewels.
• Vase - will use it for a blue rose when I am given one.
• Dyed rose - as she held it a butterfly landed on it - died. "This is poison."

"I said I would only marry man who brought a blue rose - and the word of a princess is law."

She strolled in garden, heard song of such beauty from other side of wall. Saw wandering musician, singing of love. Their eyes met, and they fell in love.

"But how can I marry you - said would only marry man who brought a blue rose - and the word of a princess is law."

"I shall bring you a blue rose tomorrow!"

Next day he walked to court. From side of road picked an ordinary white rose.

In front of king, princess and all courtiers he gave this to her.

"Ah, a blue rose! Just such a blue rose is the rose I wanted, and promised to marry the man who brought it!"

King: "The word of a princess is law - it is a blue rose."

And married they were.