Tenali Raman short story - Tricksters humbled

Tenali Raman short story - Tricksters humbled

Four travellers once asked an old woman to keep a little bundle for them and told her to give it back only when all four were present.

One of them, however, returned alone and tricked her into giving him the bundle.

Later the other three came to collect the bundle. She explained she had given it to the man who had come earlier. They were very angry and took her to court. Maryada Raman, the judge listened to their complaint.

"So, you see, Sir, she has to pay us compensation now!" the three cried. "But she will give you the bundle itself," said Maryada Raman, and pausing a little, he added, "provided all four of you are present."

There was laughter in the court and the three men realised that they had lost the case.