The problem only worsened as he grew older.He now was not only an annoyance but he was flirting with the criminal justice system. He was guilty of several offences but always evaded justice by trickery, deception, a technicality or a loophole. He took advantage of anything and everything he could to get away with what he knew was definitely wrong .He thought he was cute and too clever for any policeman or judge.In fact, he considered it a badge of honor that he could outsmart any judge.
One evening Jack committed a crime which had consequences of him being put away for a very, very long time. He was apprehended by the law and was surprised to find himself face to face with a new judge.
“ This would be a new challenge and should be fun,” he thought.
The judge explained to Jack that a new law had been passed and was now enforced. It involved the process of determining someone’s guilt or innocence.
The judge carefully explained to Jack that he would enter the room next to them. The room was dark and contained a donkey.Jack was to find the donkey and pull its tail. If the donkey brayed Jack would be found guilty. Should the donkey remain silent he would be considered innocent.
Jack headed for the room as his mind began calculating how he would get out of this dilemma. The door closed behind him and he realized what he had to do……. absolutely nothing.
“ By not pulling the tail of the donkey would ensure no braying. He only had to wait a few moments in the dark then he could reemerge in the next room with that stupid judge and be ptonounced innocent. He could then go on his merry way and think about his next crime/” he thought, “ This is way too easy.”
Jack walked back in the courtroom, wearing a defiant smirk.
“Did you do exactly as I instructed you to do?” questioned the judge.
“Yes your honor. I did everything you said,” lied Jack.
“Jack, approach the bench and let me see both of your hands,” demanded the judge.
Jack walked forward as he wondered what in the world was going on. He showed the judge his clean , well manicured hands.
“Jack,” the judge declared,” I find you guilty as charged and sentence you to a life sentence!”
Jack was totally shocked and he had just barely opened his mouth to let the judge have it when the bailiff walked the donkey out of the room and by Jack. There it was. The explanation of it all. When the donkey turned Jack could see the donkey’s behind. There it was. It explained everything.The entire tail had been coated with soot and coal dust.