He also loved the third wife very much. He’s very proud of her and always wanted to show off her to his friends. However, the merchant is always in great fear that she might run away with some other men.

He too loved his second wife. She is a very considerate person (2), always patient and in fact is the merchant’s confidant (3). Whenever the merchant faced some problems, he always turned to his second wife and she would always help him out and guide him through difficult times.

Now, the merchant’s first wife is a very loyal partner and has made great contributions in maintaining his wealth and business as well as (4) taking care of the household (5). However, the merchant did not love the first wife and although she loved him deeply, he hardly took notice of her.

One day, the merchant fell ill. Before long, he knew that he was going to die soon. He thought of his luxurious life and told himself, “Now I have four wives with me. But when I die, I’ll be alone. How lonely I’ll be!“

Thus, he asked the fourth wife, “I loved you most, endowed you with the finest clothing and showered great care over you. Now that I’m dying, will you follow me and keep me company?” “No way!” replied the fourth wife and she walked away without another word. The answer cut like sharp knife right into the merchant’s heart