1. The Real Hundredth Tiger
The Maharaja believed he had shot and killed the 100th tiger in the forest. However, he had actually missed his mark. The tiger had only fainted from the shock of the bullet. It was later killed by the King's hunters because they feared losing their jobs if they told the King he had missed. Thus, the "true" hundredth tiger remained alive in the King's records, but he was unaware of it.
2. The Wooden Tiger
A few days later, it was the third birthday of the Maharaja’s son. The King wanted to give him a special gift. He found a wooden tiger in a toyshop. It was carved by an unskilled carpenter, and its surface was rough, with tiny slivers of wood (like needles) standing up all over it.
3. The Accident
While the King was playing with his son and the wooden tiger, one of those sharp slivers pierced the Maharaja’s right hand. He simply pulled it out with his left hand and continued to play, ignoring the tiny wound.
4. The Infection
The next day, the wound became infected. Within four days, the infection (suppuration) spread all over his arm. It developed into a sore, and his condition became critical.
5. The Final Outcome
Three famous surgeons were brought from Madras. After deliberating, they decided to operate. However, the King died during the surgery. The surgeons came out of the theatre and announced: "The operation was successful. The Maharaja is dead."