` We wish to speak with the emperor , ' said one of the boys . ` You must wait until he has finished his dinner , ' replied the porter . ` No , while he is eating it , ' said the second boy , stepping across the threshold . The attendants all ran forward to thrust such impudent youngsters outside the palace , but the boys slipped through their fingers like quicksilver , and entered a large hall , where the emperor was dining , surrounded by his whole court . ` We desire to enter , ' said one of the princes sharply to a servant who stood near the door . ` That is quite impossible , ' replied the servant . ` Is it ? let us see ! ' said the second prince , pushing the servants to right and left . But the servants were many , and the princes only two . There was the noise of a struggle , which reached the emperor 's ears . ` What is the matter ? ' asked he angrily . The princes stopped at the sound of their father 's voice . ` Two boys who want to force their way in , ' replied one of the servants , approaching the emperor . ` To FORCE their way in ? Who dares to use force in my palace ? What boys are they ? ' said the emperor all in one breath . ` We know not , O mighty emperor , ' answered the servant , ` but they must surely be akin to you , for they have the strength of lions , and have scattered the guards at the gate .
And they are as proud as they are strong , XXXXX they will not take their caps from their heads . '
To across at for in like near of through while