Vocabulary in Context

A Queen's Wish

   One gray winter day the elderly queen summoned all her grandchildren to the castle.  "I have been fortunate to have lived a long life," she said.  "But in time your generation will rule the country.  You must work persistently to help the people and take care of the land."

   "We will always work hard," the children replied.

   "You must also be faithful to your brothers and sisters, no matter what," the queen said.

   "We will be true friends to one another," the children answered.

   "If you follow those rules, your future will be bright," said the queen.  Just then the sun broke through the clouds and illuminated the room, the castle, and all the lands around.  When the children became rulers of the country, they did as they had promised.  The sun continued to shine, and they enjoyed long and happy lives.