Friday, July 29, 2011

Alexander the Great and the Beggar

The story is told that one day a beggar by the roadside asked for alms from Alexander the Great as he passed by. 

The man was poor and wretched and had no claim upon the ruler, no right even to lift a solicitous hand. Yet the Emperor threw him several gold coins. 

A courtier was astonished at his generosity and commented, "Sir, copper coins would adequately meet a beggar's need. Why give him gold?" 

Alexander responded in royal fashion, "Cooper coins would suit the beggar's need, but gold coins suit Alexander's giving."

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