THE MERMAID POSES A QUESTION

ALEXANDER the Great, the legendary Greek king, had, according to legend, a mermaid sister! Again according to legend, the mermaid sister is immortal and you can still meet her in the open sea.

When she encounters a human boat or ship, the mermaid poses a question. "Is King Alexander still alive"? If the sailors or captain reply, "Yes, he lives, prospers and is still King," (ζει και βασιλεύει), the mermaid will make a calm sea and the journey will be safe. If the sailors or captain reply, "King Alexander? He's dead," the mermaid will cause a terrible storm, and everyone will drown.

I read this story years ago, and I don't remember now very well how Alexander ended up with a mermaid for a sister. However, the most important thing, I believe, is to know the right answer to the question. It's not at all improbable to meet the mermaid one day on the high seas!

Have a good afternoon and be well! xxx