A tourist stranded in the desert asked a passing merchant for water. "Sorry," replied the passerby, "I have no water. Only neckties which I am taking to market."
The traveler staggered on through the burning sands and met another native.
"Please, sir! Can you give me some water?"
"I have no water," replied the second man, "Only these ties which I am taking to market."
Half dead, he met a third native, but it was the same story no water, only ties. But to his relief he spotted a hotel in the distance. He crawled into the lobby on his hands and knees and croaked out, "Please, please, give me water!"
"Sorry, sir," said the desk clerk. "We don't allow anyone in without a tie." |