Thrice in age , and thrice in wisdom , and thrice in knowledge . And when three days and three nights had passed they were twelve years in age , twenty-four in strength , and thirty-six in wisdom . ` Now take us to our father , ' said they . So the fisherman gave them each a lambskin cap which half covered their faces , and completely hid their golden hair and the stars on their foreheads , and led them to the court . By the time they arrived there it was midday , and the fisherman and his charges went up to an official who was standing about . ` 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 XXXXX ?
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