The customs officer smiled politely and asked, “Father, do you have anything to declare?” The priest nodded calmly and replied, “From the top of my head down to my waist, I have absolutely nothing to declare.” The officer looked puzzled but, seeing the priest’s sincere expression, decided to ask another question.

“And from your waist down?” the customs officer continued. Without missing a beat, the priest answered, “Down there, I have a marvelous little device designed especially for ladies that has never been used.” The officer stared at him in complete silence before bursting into laughter.

Several nearby travelers turned to see what was happening. Trying to keep a straight face, the customs officer asked, “Father, are you certain that’s your final answer?” The priest smiled warmly and replied, “My son, I promised I would not lie. I simply answered exactly what you asked.”

The distinguished lady standing a few steps behind him could barely contain her laughter. She realized the priest had kept his promise perfectly. He had protected her belongings without telling a single lie, relying only on carefully chosen words and a quick wit.

The customs officer shook his head, laughed once more, and waved both of them through. As they walked away, the lady thanked the priest for his help. He simply smiled and said, “Honesty and a little wisdom can solve more problems than most people imagine.”