Mice That Ate Iron

Mice That Ate Iron Story

Once upon a time there was a wealthy merchant named Naduk. Naduk however suffered a heavy loss in his business and lost a lot of money. He decided to move to another city and try his luck there. Before leaving, Naduk went to meet his friend Laxman. He wanted to leave an iron beam with Laxman because transporting the beam to another town would be very difficult. “My dear friend, your beam would be safe with me and you can take it whenever you want!” Laxman said, Naduk thanked Laxman for his kindness and left. A few years passed and Naduk’s business flourished. He became rich again and decided to return to his old town. He bought a huge mansion there and hired several servants to take care of his house. After a few days, Naduk decided to go meet Laxman. Laxman was very happy to see his friend.

He was also happy with the success of Naduk’s business. The two discussed various matters for quite a while. Finally, before leaving, Naduk asked Laxman, “Before leaving, I gave you an iron beam. Now when I get back can I have it? Hearing this, Laxman turned red and looked very worried. He planned to sell the beam because it would fetch a good price in the market. Laxman said, “I’ve had mice in the basement this year. It’s very unfortunate, but those mice ate your iron beam until it disappeared. Hearing this, Naduk was not convinced. But, he told Laxman, “I’m sorry to hear that! Anyway, could you please send your son, Ramu to my house? I would like him to get back the gift I brought him. Naduk took Ramu with him and locked him in the basement of his house.

After a few hours, Laxman worried that his son hadn’t returned yet. He too went to Naduk. “Where is my son?” Laxman asked. “On the way, a falcon took him away,” says Naduk. The two got into a heated argument. Ever since Laxman said it was impossible for a hawk to kidnap his son. Finally, they went to see the local magistrate. The magistrate also said that it was impossible for a falcon to carry off a young boy. Clever Naduk then said, “If the mice in Laxman’s house can gnaw at my iron beam, of course a hawk can carry his son!” Hearing this, the magistrate demanded the whole story. He eventually ordered Laxman to return the iron beam and Naduk to return Laxman’s son. Laxman apologized to Naduk for trying to cheat on him and the two quickly became friends again!