THE STORY OF THE SIX-FINGERED CHINAMEN A wise old man of ancient China was known far and wide for his wisdom and ability to solve difficult problems. Many men came to him asking for advice. One day, a merchant brought him this problem:- "I have six men, each skilled with the Abacus. In a short time, I am going to need more such men to deal with an increase in my business which will amount to one-fifth more than I now have. But, I cannot afford the capital investment of another man and another Abacus and even if I could, one man would not be enough, and two men would be too much. After three moons have come and gone, I will no longer need any extra men, for my business will then return to normal." "O Wise One, what shall I do?" The wise mad pondered the problem for several days, and finally summoned the merchant. "The solution to your problem is simple. You must insist that each of the Abacus men who work for you now must grow another finger on each hand - and henceforth you must hire only twelve-finged men to replace them. By doing this, your Abacus Department will be increased by EXACTLY one-fifth, and you will not have to hire any extra men." The merchant smiled - his problem was now solved. He thanked the old man a thousand times and bowed out of his presence. As he was leaving, he hesitated, and turned to speak to the old man once more:- "O Wise One, you have truly given me the solution to my problem. But,"....he paused..."how do I get my Abacus men to grow extra fingers?" The Wise Man looked at the merchant, puffed on his pipe for a moment, and said: "That is a good question my son, and you are to be commended for asking it. But, alas, I only make policy recommendations, the details are up to you!"