A poor scholar was searching for a place to teach. After a long journey, he felt exhausted and only had a few coins left in his pocket. To ease his hunger, he stopped at a small eatery and ordered some sweet potatoes. While he ate and drank water, he tried to appear relaxed. After finishing the first potato and then the second, he craved for another but was worried about running out of money. His mouth still watered for more. Taking advantage of the moment when the shopkeeper went into the kitchen, he quickly grabbed a handful of sweet potatoes and stuffed them into his mouth. To his surprise, the shopkeeper returned and caught him in the act. Trying to maintain his composure, he casually remarked:
– I’m just having some more sticky rice with beans.
The shopkeeper understood perfectly but pretended not to know, responding:
– Then please give me the money for the sticky rice with beans.
Reluctantly, he handed over his last coin.
