When it became known that Number Two was going to step down, the Pohottuwa high-ups held council to discuss who should succeed him.

At this meeting, several Pohottuwa seniors proposed the name of their most senior stalwart as the most suitable successor to the outgoing Number Two. 

The descendant from the Boralugoda clan whose name was proposed was present at the meeting but did not react to the proposal. He just remained silent. Later, when his colleagues insisted that he make his response, the senior stalwart said with a smile: “ The incumbent is an old friend of mine. Our friendship counts more than forty years! Therefore, it goes against my conscience to accept this office my friend is going to be relieved of…This decision is a gesture of my tribute to our long friendship!”

His colleagues silently accepted his explanation, they say.