when the captain and lieutenant got home with the princesses you may be sure there were great rejoicings at the palace. the king was so glad he didn't know which leg to stand on; he brought out his best wine from his cupboard and wished the two officers welcome. if they had never been honoured before they were honoured now in full measure, and no mistake. they walked and strutted about the whole of the day, as if they were the cocks of the walk, since they were now going to have the king for father-in-law. for it was understood they should each have whichever of the princesses they liked and half the kingdom between them. they both wanted the youngest princess, but for all they prayed and threatened her it was of no use; she would not hear or listen to either.