Once the Bodhisatta was born as minister to Dalhadhamma, king of Benares. The king possessed a she-elephant who was of great service to him and whom he greatly honoured.
When she grew old, however, all her honours were withdrawn and she was given to the king's potter to drag his cow-dung cart. One day she saw the Bodhisatta and fell at his feet. He interceded with the king on her behalf and all her honours were restored.
The story was told in reference to Udāna's she-elephant Bhaddavatikā. In her old age the king neglected her, but one day she complained to the Buddha, who admonished the king on the duty of gratitude to those who had once been of great service. The elephant was the same in both stories. J.iii.384ff.