Over the sound of the rain, Lao did not hear the knock on the door and went to open it only when the whole house shook from strong blows. At the gate, holding a loaded mule by the reins, stood a strangely dressed man. He spoke, at first God knows what, but then, seeing a misunderstanding, he switched to a language similar to the local one.
- I crossed the mountains. I'm tired and hungry. Is it possible for a foreigner to spend the night with you?
“We are glad for the one who goes in peace.” Come into the house, you will get food and bed.
The sleep was sound, and the next morning the traveler saw the blue sky, the sun and the peaks of the mountains. Time to get ready for the road.
- Goodbye, master. Thank you for the overnight stay. Here you go.
- What is this?
- This? Money.
- Sorry, but there is nothing like this in our area. Explain why you are giving me these items?
“You let me into the house, fed me, gave me new clothes and food for the road.” I'm giving you money for this.
The one who has a lot of money is the most respected person.
- Thank you, I understand. We do not have such a custom, but I see that it is wise.
- Goodbye!
- May the gods help you!
An hour later Lao was at the blacksmith's house.
- Make me, master, a hundred disks with the sign of my family. My son will help you. The fact is that last night a stranger came to me, and he told me...
And some time later, a custom spread throughout this small country: if someone did something nice to another person, he would give him a silver disc with the sign of his family. These discs are kept at home or made into necklaces.
And the person who has a lot of money is the most respected person.
Translated from Russian · original on wisdomlib.ru