The Honest Man (A Middle Eastern Folktale) Once upon a time there lived a young man named Ali who never told a lie. Everyone had heard of Ali, even those who lived in villages and cities far from his. This talent of his was unusual. Most people lied, at least once in a while. Some people told whopping tales, and some people simply told white lies. But Ali swore that he had never once told a lie. When the king learned of Ali's boast, he wished to see him, of course. He ordered his servants to bring Ali to the palace. "It is impossible that there is a man who has never lied," the king said. When Ali appeared before him, the king looked him up and down, and he saw only an ordinary man. He had no star upon his forehead. He did not have a faraway look in his eyes. He did not appear to be particularly special in any way. After the king had studied him thoroughly, he said, "Is it true what they say about you?" "I'm not sure I know what you mean,...