Wang the PeddlerThe tale of a forgetful peddler who buys the perfect gift for his wife, but does not even know what it is!
Once upon a time, in the early Han days, a humble man named Wang lived in a village. Because there was only a narrow, rugged trail leading to this village, merchants, bureaucrats, and travellers rarely visited. Wang understood he had to become a traveller and make the voyage to the city to sell his charcoal.
Wang carried his long carrying pole. Swung large bamboo baskets stacked high with charcoal at each end.
"What gift do you want me to bring you?" he inquired of his lovely young bride.
"A comb!" she exclaimed. "A lovely comb, like those used by the imperial court!" Wooden combs were often used in the country at the time. "A comb like that!" she exclaimed, pointing to the golden moon's crescent.
Wang arrived safely at the city gates after a long journey. He got a decent price for his charcoal. He glanced around the city for his wife's present, made bold by the string of cash he now carried. The city was stunning, with banners in red, yellow, green, and blue adorning shopfronts and balconies. The cacophony of shoppers and shouting customers made for a highly noisy environment.
Wang stroked his chin. What had his wife desired? He had completely forgotten! What about a pair of leather slippers? Or perhaps a cosy fur coat? It was starting to get dark. The stores would be closing soon. He had to return to the village early in the morning. He became aware of the moon. It was round, round, round. He reasoned that she preferred something round. He went from store to store looking for something to make his young bride happy.
Suddenly, he noticed the ideal gift. He raced away, wrapping his purchase in a cotton cloth, and bowing once to the shopkeeper. Wang had purchased a mirror. He had no idea what a mirror was. He simply knew it was round.
