Part 6: Story of the faithful Brāhman

When in the past Brahman’s son was wandering alone, there was a Brāhman, a companion, sharing pleasures and pains. “When you have heard that I have obtained the realm, you must come quickly, reverend sir.” Invited in these words, he (the Brāhman) came to his neighborhood at that time. Owing to the obstacle of the royal coronation, he did not gain admittance; (but) he began to serve the king, just as a doorkeeper.

At the end of the coronation, the king went outside and the Brāhman made a banner of worn-out shoes to make himself known. Seeing this banner different from other banners, the king asked the door-keeper, “Who is the bearer of this unusual banner?” He said, “For twelve years he has done service to Your Majesty.” The king summoned him and said, “What is this?” He said: “While I was wandering with you, so many shoes of mine were worn out. You did not make me even that gift, lord.” Then he recognized him and laughed. He appointed him to service and saw that he was not barred by the door-keepers.

The king, occupying his audience-hall, summoned him and said, “Reverend sir, what can be given you?” He said, “Give me food.” The king said, “That is very little. Ask for a district or something like that.” He, who had a greedy tongue, said: “Even in the case of royalty, food is compensation. So, have food given me everywhere in Bharatakṣetra and a dinar for a fee, beginning with your house.” The king thought, “Certainly so much is his due,” and gave him food in his house and a dinar cash. At the king’s command the Brāhman began to cat in Bharata; and he thought, “Since I have eaten everywhere, I shall eat in the palace.” But the Brāhman did not obtain royal food even after a long time. Passing time uselessly, he died at some time or other.