Getting the Sentries Whipped
Once there came to the Rayar’s court certain Bhagavata dancers from the Telugu country. The Rayar ordered a dance in the palace and gave orders to the sentries at the two gates not to let in Tennalirama. When the dance was going on inside, Tennalirama went to the first sentry and said: “Only allow me to go in. I shall give you half of what I get.” He allowed him. And he said the same to the second sentry and thus went in. Then, taking out a churn-dasher, which he had brought with him concealed, he struck the dancer who was playing the part of God Krishna. The actor set up a cry of pain – “Aiyo!” And Tennalirama remarked “Fie! Is this man Krishna? He is said to have received several blows from the churn-dashers of many near-herd maids. But how is it that you are not able to bear one single blow from my dasher? On seeing him, the Rayar said: “How did he come in? Give him 24 stripes with a whip.” Thus ordered he; and when the jester was being led out to receive the stripes he asked the second sentry, “Have you not consented to receive half of what I get?” And he said “True. So I have.” “I have received for present 24 stripes. And half of it – 12 stripes – you should receive.” Thus saying, he had the second sentry whipped, and also saw that the first sentry received the other 12, himself escaping without one.