The Only Man

The villagers resolved to build a school. Everyone contributed to the best of their capacity. However, the richest man in the village, Raoji, was left out of the effort. Nobody was prepared to approach him because he had never contributed a single paise to any cause.

Prabhat, a young man who spent most of his time in town, volunteered to meet Raoji for this purpose, even though everyone discouraged him from doing so. Undeterred, he approached Raoji and explained the reason for his visit.

“How do you approach me? Don’t you know that I am never influenced by any soft words or praise?” asked Raoji. Prabhat responded confidently, “Ah! You have just confirmed what I told all the villagers. They believe that I know only one man in the world who can never be influenced by flattery—the only man—and he is Raoji. You will do whatever you think is best based on your wisdom.”

“Right. I’m the only man who can never be won over by flattery. How much do you need?” asked Raoji, as he advanced towards his steel chest.