One day a poor teacher of law brought a former student of his to the court of Emperor Akbar.
“This boy promised to pay me as soon as he won his first case,” he said. “And as he was poor I agreed and taught him law. Now, through an inheritance, he has become rich but he refuses to pay me.”
“We agreed I would pay him as soon as I won my first case, your Majesty,” said the young man. “If one day I take up a case and win it, I’ll surely pay him.” “All right,” said the emperor. “You may go.”
The young man flashed a mocking smile at his teacher and turned to go, but Birbal who was standing there, stopped him.
“Wait,” he said. “You promised to pay on winning the first case and you have won, in this court. So please pay your teacher.”
The young man sullenly took out his purse and paid.