Ali’s Wit and the Sultan’s Award
Long ago in Arabia, there lived a man named Ali renowned for his ability to tell jokes and entertain his friends. His specialty was mimicking the sultan and the ministers of the land, which made him quite famous. One day, word of Ali’s jests reached the sultan’s ears. Learning that a common man was making fun of him, the sultan was incensed. He ordered his soldiers, “Bring Ali to the court immediately. I will teach him a lesson he won’t forget.” The soldiers wasted no time and apprehended Ali, presenting him before the sultan. Ali, before the sultan could speak, bowed respectfully and greeted him. “Sultan, I am deeply honored to be in your presence. I have longed to meet you. Your wisdom and charisma have left a profound impression on me. In fact, I have composed a poem in your honor. Would you permit me to recite it for
