The Mulla Pleads Poverty

Mulla Nasruddin was once brought before a judge by a man to whom he owed some money. The creditor said to the judge: This man owes me 500 dinars which are long overdue. I request your Excellency to order him to pay me immediately, without further delay. I do owe him money, said the Mulla, and I intend to pay him. I'll sell my cow and horse if necessary, but it'll take time. He is lying, said the other man. He doesn't have a cow or horse or anything of value for that matter. I am told he doesn't even have food in his house! When he knows I am so poor, O Judge, said the Mulla, ask him how he expects me to pay him immediately. The judge dismissed the case.