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 , for they will not take their caps from their heads . ' The emperor , as he listened , grew red with anger . ` Thrust them out , ' cried he . ` Set the dogs after them . ' ` Leave us alone , and we will go quietly , ' said the princes , and stepped backwards , weeping silently at the harsh words . They had almost reached the gates when a servant ran up to them . ` The emperor commands you to return , ' panted he : ` the empress wishes to see you . ' The princes thought a moment : then they went back the way they had come , and walked straight up to the emperor , their caps still on their heads .
He sat XXXXX the top of a long table covered with flowers and filled with guests .
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