THE MAN WITH MANY TROUBLES. He was MANY centuries ago, there dwelt in the city of Memphis an Egyptian nobleman, in high favour with the King and all the people. His name was Hophara. possessed of great riches and of great influence; moreover, he was exceedingly learned and pious. He knew all the records of the past, and the secrets of the holy books; and it was the common practice of the people of Memphis, when they wished to express their love and good will towards their friends, to say, "May you be as happy as Hophara!" Notwithstanding all this, however, there were times when he was far from being happy, and, while all the world was envying him, he was envying all the world. Sometimes he would retire from the royal presence, fearing that there was a change in the King's mind towards him, and that some more successful courtier than himself was about to supplant him in the councils and confidence of his sovereign. If the King looked more than usually grave, then was afraid of his anger; but if there were Hophara unusual symptoms of gaiety and cheerfulness, then would he speculate on the evanescence of smiles, and B |