" I want to see the king," I said, after explaining who I was." Wonderful," said the ancient Nkumai who sat on a cushion near the corner pole of the house. " I'm glad for you." That was all, and apparently he meant to say no more. " Why are you so glad?" I asked." Because it's good for every human being to have an unfulfilled wish. It makes all of life so poignant. "