King Solomon’s Ring

Skeleton

To humble a proud minister, king sets him a task: within a month must find something which will make a happy man sad, and a sad man happy. If he fails, will lose his head.

Final day of month, minister still hasn’t found anything to meet king’s condition. Returning sadly through bazaar, sees a merchant who asks why such a long face.

“Must find something which will make a happy man sad, and a sad man happy. If not, will lose head.”

“I can save you. Read what is engraved in this ring: This too shall pass.”

Takes ring to King Solomon.

Minister keeps his head, but is no longer proud.