A rich old farmer, feeling that his days were numbered, called his sons to his bedside.

"My sons," he said, "heed what I have to say to you. Never part with the estate that has belonged to our family for so many generations. Somewhere on it is hidden a rich treasure. I do not know the exact spot, but it is there, and you will surely find it. Spare no energy and leave no spot unturned in your search."

The father died, and no sooner was he in his grave than the sons set to work, digging with all their might. They turned up every foot of ground with their spades, going over the whole farm two or three times.

No hidden gold did they find. But at harvest time, when they settled their accounts and pocketed a rich profit—far greater than that of any of their neighbors—they finally understood. The treasure their father had told them about was the wealth of a bountiful crop, and they had found that treasure through their industry.