the Liar and the Truthful
The Diminishing Forest
To the south of the kingdom of Sompur lay a vast forest that had shaped the climate of the region for centuries. This forest brought rain and ensured bountiful harvests. However, it was observed that the forest was steadily shrinking, primarily because human settlements had encroached upon its boundaries. The villagers relied heavily on the forest, not only for firewood but also for timber to build houses and boats. Unfortunately, instead of planting new trees, they continued to destroy the existing ones.
The King’s Decree
In response to this alarming situation, the king issued a strict prohibition against felling trees in the forest. This decree was announced in the village repeatedly, yet the villagers showed little regard for the law and continued their harmful practices.
The king then appointed an officer to enforce the law, instructing him to arrest anyone caught destroying trees. The officer set up camp near the forest, ready to uphold the king’s decree.
Encounter with the Officer
One day, the officer spotted a young man raising his axe to chop down a tree. “You daredevil! Are you unaware of the law against felling trees?” shouted the officer.
One day, the officer informed the young man, “From now on, you must pay two rupees for every tree!”
“But how can I do that, sir? I only earn two rupees for each tree I sell. If I give you everything, how will I survive?” asked the young man.
“I don’t care if you live or die. Either accept my demand, or prepare to meet the king!” said the officer.
Growing suspicious, the young man replied, “Very well, take me to the king!”
In the king’s presence, the officer reported, “My lord, this young man was felling trees illegally.”
Immediately, the young man pleaded, “My lord, this is my first offense. Please grant me forgiveness.”
“Silence, you liar! Have you not been cutting trees for the past fortnight?” the officer accused, visibly excited.
The young man smiled and replied to the king, “My lord, kindly ask this officer why he did not arrest me for the last fifteen days!”
The officer was taken aback, unable to fathom the young man’s audacity. The king, intrigued, sent sepoys to the forest. They captured several woodcutters who admitted to bribing the officer. Consequently, the officer was imprisoned, while the young man was assigned the important responsibility of looking after the forest.
