Once upon a time…

An old man came to visit a fakir..

Although dressed as modestly as could be, he had a sharp look, a proud bearing and a straight gaze as lively as a young man’s.

The fakir stood up and approached this unusual visitor, which was not in his habits… even for the most affluent!
Before the fakir could say a single word, the visitor announced:
– I have something to ask you!

The fakir, taken aback: – What do you want?
– Will you do what I’m about to ask of you? The visitor retorted.
– If I wish…, replied the fakir, or… if I can…
– Yes, you can, the old man went on. I know it. I’ve already seen you at work, but not for free…