After leaving the plum tree, the Zemindar went into a thick jungle, and in the midst of it found an old Fakir fast asleep. He did not know that this holy man had slept for twelve years, and was just about to awake. While he stood there the old Fakir opened his eyes, and saw him.
“Son, you have looked after me while I was asleep; who are you and where are you going?”
“I am going to seek my fortune, for I am a poor man.”
“Go no further, but return the same way that you have come,” said the old Fakir.
“Before I go, will you tell me, O holy Fakir, why a certain Rajah’s house is always falling down, though he is constantly rebuilding it.”
“The Rajah has a daughter who is grown up but unmarried; when she is married the trouble will cease.”
“A turtle is troubled with burning sensations inwardly, and would be glad to know the cause.”
“The turtle is full of wisdom, but selfishly keeps all its knowledge to itself. Let it tell half it knows to another, and it will become quite well.”
“There is a beautiful plum tree whose fruits are bitter to the taste. What is the cause of this?”
“There is hidden treasure at the root of the tree, and when this is removed, the fruit will be sweet,” said the old Fakir.