A Brother’s Share

The King of Dharampur regularly announced during the annual conference of his subjects, “I am doing my best to serve you and to improve your lot. I do this because I consider you my brothers!”

One day, one of his subjects stepped forward and said, “My lord! I challenge you to prove that you are not merely showing false modesty. If you truly see me as your brother, I ask you to generously provide me a brother’s share of your wealth.”

“Why not!” replied the king. He immediately summoned his treasurer and ordered, “Determine how much money is in the treasury and calculate how much each citizen would receive if the amount were equally distributed among all.”

After a short while, the treasurer reported, “Each citizen will receive a paisa, my lord!”

“Then, without delay, hand over a paisa to this brother of mine!” commanded the king.