| On retirement form the army, Santa and Banta settled in adjoining villages on the Kalka-Simla highway. One day Santa invited Banta to dinner to meet his visiting relations from London. Banta thought that as the path was steep it would be useful for him to take a lantern with him for use on the return journey. The party went on very well till about midnight, with a lot of wining and dining. Banta left in a jolly mood and reached home safely in the early hours. The next morning there was a knock on the door. "Santa Sahib sent me to enquired whether you reached home safe and sound last night," Santa`s servant said. With a smile, Banta replied, "Oh yes. There was no problem," The servant then said, "Sir, you left your lantern at our place; instead you brought along the cage of our parrot with you. I have come to return you lantern and take back the cage." |