A Test of Loyalty
“Dharmadutta’s Loyalty: A Moment of Wit and Wisdom in the Royal Court of Kambaj”
The wise minister of the King of Kambaj once contemplated, “I must choose a deputy who can shoulder the burden of my office when I retire.” He announced his decision to recruit a deputy and asked the candidates to meet him at a location far from the capital.
After interviewing hundreds, he finally selected two candidates: Dharmadutta and Sumitra. He decided to further test them before appointing one to the post. He handed them a letter addressed to the King, instructing that one of them carry it for the first half of the journey, and the other for the remaining half.
While carrying the letter for the first half of the journey, Sumitra couldn’t resist the temptation to read it. He hurriedly passed it on to Dharmadutta, declaring that he had no desire for the position and departed for home.
Dharmadutta reached the court and handed the letter over to the court jester for presentation to the King. Curious, they asked Dharmadutta, “Do you know the contents of the letter?”
“No, my lord, I was not meant to know it!” replied Dharmadutta.
“The letter states that the one who delivers it to me deserves to be hanged!” the King informed him.
“My lord, I’m sorry for your jester. It was he who delivered it to you!” said Dharmadutta.
Everyone laughed, and Dharmadutta, having demonstrated his loyalty and quick thinking, was instantly appointed to the post.