hree Wishes

ome time ago Baron Von Lodge was the head of a small country near Switzerland known as Lilliland.

Ernest, a university roommate of the Baron’s from his college days would visit Lilliland for a short time every summer. But a few summers went by and no visit from Ernest. Ernest had fallen on hard times and rationalized that it was inevitable because he was the black sheep of the family.

A note by special currier from Ernest explained that on his way to Lilliland, he was kidnapped by a band of gypsies. The gypsy leader began to like Ernest and hoped that he would become member of the troupe. Shortly afterward, the gypsies disbanded and the leader gave Ernest a precious stone that had the power to grant him three wishes.

After wandering the mountains aimlessly for several weeks, Ernest decided to test the wishing stone with the first wish, which was for health and wealth, the second wish, for a lovely wife, and the third wish for a large, finely decorated manor house in which to enjoy everything.

Ernest then proceeded to Lilliland to visit the Baron to tell him about the unusual experience with the band of gypsies. Ernest also added that he didn’t believe that the three wishes would be granted.

But the Baron said that the mountain air must agree with him because he looked very healthy. A messenger from a London bank told Ernest that he had inherited a fortune and the messenger was a very beautiful single girl who Ernest thought was very nice. Part of the inheritance was a large family manor house, complete with just about everything anyone could want.

Ernest now had everything he had wished for: health, wealth, a beautiful wife, and a lovely manor house.

The Baron asked Professor Hamblin, his chief advisor, if it was just a coincidence or did the gypsy wishing stone have some secret power? The Professor said that it was a rare coincidence but we should all be happy for the couple, no matter what.