Simple Tom- There was, upon a time, a young rube of rural upbringing and lowly intellect. This young farmer, Thomas by name, was of such grand ignorance, such simplicity, that he became well known among the small farming community in which he resided for this very aspect of his character, even earning himself the nickname "Simple Tom".             Simple Tom was of the kind who, upon finalizing a business transaction, invariably walked away with the short end of the bargain, completely unaware of his being a rube. In the affairs of love poor, Simple Tom was equally naïve. Oftentimes Tom, as was his want, upon the arrival of midday would hurry home from his fields to find, much to his delight, a strange horse tethered to his front porch. Being an amiable and sociable fellow, ever delighted to play the host, Tom would spring eagerly 'cross the threshold of his mean farm house and halloo loudly, "Halloo, Beloved! I see we have a visitor yet again! How blessed we are to so oft' receive good fellowship!