The Wise Son 聪明的儿子

A rich landowner who was well known for his wealth decided to leave his possession to his two sons. As he lay on his deathbed, he called the lads to him；at the break of dawn and even before the cock could crow.He then said，“I will leave all my wealth to the one who can best fill this room.It was in this room that I made plans on how to build up my fortune.Not an inch must be left uncovered.As I am getting weaker by the hour you both must come back by the stroke of midnight, not a minute late.”He handed each son a small piece of silver and an empty gunnysack to put in their purchases.

They both went out and hurriedly came back with their purchases.

The eldest who had brought straw proceeded to spread it about the floor, but far from filling the room, it did not even cover half the space.“This is no use, son，”said the father，“and let us see how your brother fills the room.”

The younger son took from his bag a large candle and, setting it on table in the center of the room, lighted it. A brilliant bright radiance filled up the whole room.The father was delighted and exclaimed，“Son, you're worthy to be my successor and I am sure you will use the wealth well.”

一个以财富而闻名的地主决定将所有的财富都留给两个儿子。临终前，他把孩子们叫到跟前，此时天刚蒙蒙亮，雄鸡尚未报晓。他说：“就是在这间房子里，我制订出了如何积累财富的计划。你们谁能够更好地填满这个房间，不留一英寸空间，谁就能得到我所有的财富。我越来越虚弱了，你们必须在午夜之前回来，一分钟也不能耽搁。”他给了两个儿子一人一些银子和一个空麻袋，让他们装买来的东西。

他们都出去了，很快又带着货物回来了。

大儿子买来稻草，在地板上铺开来。但他连一半的空间都没有填满。父亲说：“儿子，这是没有用的，让我们看看你弟弟怎么填吧！”

小儿子从包里拿出一支大蜡烛，在房子中间的桌子上固定下来，点亮了。蜡烛明亮的光芒充满了整个房间。父亲高兴地称赞道：“儿子，你有资格成为我的继承人，我相信你一定会合理地使用这笔财富。”