Our Custom

A Meeting of Cultures

Once, the Nawab of Arcot called on an officer of the East India Company. While the two were deep in conversation, the Englishman noticed a sparkling diamond on the Nawab’s little finger.

An Envious Admiration

“That’s a nice jewel you’ve got on,” he remarked.

The Nawab replied, “Sir, try it on your finger and see.”

So, the Englishman wore the ring and admired it greatly. When the time came for him to depart, the Nawab requested the return of the ring, which was still on the officer’s finger. With a sly grin, the officer replied, “We never give back what has come to our hands.”

A Silent Departure

The Nawab stood up without a word and returned to Arcot.

A Visit to Arcot

Sometime later, the Englishman paid a visit to Arcot, accompanied by his wife. The Nawab welcomed him courteously, while the officer’s wife was taken inside the palace. After some time, the officer prepared to leave, noticing his wife had not yet returned. He said to the Nawab, “Send word to my wife that I am ready to leave.”

A Harsh Lesson

The Nawab replied with a smile, “We never send back the woman who has been taken into our harem. This is our custom.” The taunt landed deeply.

A Moment of Reflection

The Englishman flushed with shame at his conduct. Quickly, he slipped the ring off his finger and handed it to the Nawab. Immediately, the Englishman’s wife was escorted into his presence, and they left the palace.