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32
THE WAY OF LIFE
Ayyu entrusted the woman to Gulla. At that time, Gulla said to his wife. ...
AYYU'S HEART CHANGES
"I would not have felt sad if you had died but I am sad that this wicked fellow has saved your life". Gulla returned home with his wife but Gulla's words made a deep impression on the mind of Ayyu. Ayyu thought, “Why did Gulla speak thus ? Why is Gulla embittered against me ? My father committed many atrocities against him and his father. My father committed enormities against all villagers. Always hostilities used to prevail between my father and the people. The abhorrence of people increased. Now, I should not quarrel with anyone. I should live in amity with all. The tradition of hostility should not continue. I have lakhs of rupees with me; and I should not receive rent from the farmers”. All the villagers came to know that the landlord Ayyu had decided not to take rent from them. They were supremely happy.
The next day, the lawyer appeared before Gulla's house, with policemen. He threatened to auction his house. Many villagers gathered there. Ayyu also came to know of it. He thought calmly for a few moments; and then went to Gulla's house. Ayyu asked the lawyer, “What is the matter? Why have you come here ?" The lawyer explained to Ayyu why he had come. Ayyu paid the lawyer the money that was due to him. Gulla of course, firmly refused Ayyu's help. He said, "I will not accept any charity from you. I do not mind if I lose my house. I will not accept any help from you”.
Ayyu said, “I am not helping you. I am not also giving you any charity. In return for this amount, you work in my house".
Gulla became a worker in Ayyu's house. He worked honestly and conscientiously. Working thus, he cleared his debt to Ayyu.
The atmosphere in the village changed to one of amity and cordiality. No villager was angry with Ayyu anymore. Ayyu also adopted an attitude of sympathy towards the villagers.
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