The Wily Farmer: A Story Poem by sreelekha premjit

once a wily farmer went to a lawyer
a dispute of land to have it settled
at the court he nudged the lawyer
shall I take care of the gentleman?

The lawyer, familiar with the honest judge
admonished him and replied
never commit such a folly
god-willing I shall win the case for you.

The wily farmer kept quiet
heard the lawyer's advice
but resolved to do as he pleased
and sent two goats to the judge's home.

The case was won and the lawyer asked
had I not told you of the truth
never bribe an honest judge to win the case.
The wily farmer just laughed aloud.

Well! he said, I had sent the goats
as gift to the judge inspite of your advice
but in the name of my opponent.
The clever lawyer held his head
thank god! the farmer stuck to his field! ! !