Once upon a time there lived a poor man who was a great master of composing fables. One day a rich man called him and said:
“I heard that you’re great at fooling everyone.” But I bet you can't fool me. Well, if you cheat, you will get ten gold.
“I’m very grateful,” the poor man rejoiced, “these ten gold coins come in handy for me.” Only here's the problem...
- What is it?
- Yes, I didn’t know why you were calling me to your place... I didn’t know, so I didn’t take the box with fables, I left it at home.
- What kind of box is this? - the rich man was surprised.
- Wonderful box! There are so many lies in it. Without her, how can I compete with you! Send the servants to my house, let them quickly bring the box, then we will fight.
The rich man sent servants to the poor man's home. The servants came running, searched the whole house, but did not find the box. So they returned with nothing.
- You are such a klutz, you didn’t look well! - the rich man got angry. And the poor man was silent and silent until he wanted:
“It’s not that hard to deceive you!”
The poor man took his ten gold pieces and went home.
Translated from Russian · original on wisdomlib.ru