The Two Lamps

A King’s Concern

Once, the king of Padmapur received complaints about some of his high-ranking officers. However, there was one officer against whom no complaint had been lodged: Mallikarjun, the king’s treasurer.

A Disguise for Truth

Curious to assess Mallikarjun’s character, the king decided to put him to the test. Donning a disguise, he paid a visit to Mallikarjun at his office.

A Personal Conversation

“I wish to talk to you about some personal and private matters,” the disguised king informed Mallikarjun.

Engrossed in his accounts, Mallikarjun replied, “Please wait for a while.”

The Lamp’s Symbolism

After approximately half an hour, Mallikarjun closed his account book, extinguished the lamp before him, and lit another lamp that was kept behind. “Now, let me hear what you have to say,” he said.

A Curious Inquiry

“But tell me first, why did you extinguish one lamp and light another?” asked the surprised king.
“Well, the first lamp and the oil in it belong to the Government. I used that lamp for official work. Since you say that you wish to have a personal conversation with me, I needed to light my own lamp. I have no right to use the official lamp for any personal business,” explained Mallikarjun.