So the youth went to the King and spoke : `` If I were allowed , I should much like to watch for three nights in the castle . '' The King looked at him , and because he pleased him , he said : `` You can ask for three things , none of them living , and those you may take with you into the castle . '' Then he answered : `` Well , I shall beg for a fire , a turning lathe , and a carving bench with the knife attached . '' On the following day the King had everything put into the castle ; and when night drew on the youth took up his position there , lit a bright fire in one of the rooms , placed the carving bench with the knife close to it , and sat himself down on the turning lathe . `` Oh ! if I could only shudder ! '' he said : `` but I sha 'n' t learn it here either . '' Toward midnight he wanted to make up the fire , and as he was blowing up a blaze he heard a shriek from a corner . `` Ou , miou ! how cold we are ! '' `` You fools ! '' he cried ; `` why do you scream ? If you are cold , come and sit at the fire and warm yourselves . '' And as he spoke two huge black cats sprang fiercely forward and sat down , one on each side of him , and gazed wildly at him with their fiery eyes . After a time , when they had warmed themselves , they said : `` Friend , shall we play a little game of cards ? '' `` Why not ? '' he replied ; `` but first let me see your paws . '' Then they stretched out their claws . `` Ha ! '' said he ; `` what long nails you 've got !
Wait a minute : I must XXXXX cut them off . ''
Friend King Ou corner fire first midnight miou night nights