Yes, promises made to poor children are often rarely kept. They give false hope of a better and a problem-free life. Most tend to make false promises as they do not have the heart to shatter a child’s dream.

In the story narrated by the author, he gives his word to Saheb to build a school for him but doesn’t realize at the time, that he is making promises he doesn't intend to keep. Only later does he realize his mistake and feels embarrassed by it.