When he was in the Emperor’s presence he gave him back the parrot as gallantly as he could. The Emperor was overjoyed to have his favourite bird again, and gave orders that the promised reward should be given to the peasant. But our hero said, “May I be allowed to make a suggestion?”
“Certainly,” said the Emperor; “ask what you will.”
“Very well, instead of giving me money, I beg you to give me a couple of blows.”
At first the Emperor and his courtiers were much astonished, and then they burst out laughing.
They naturally thought the man was joking, but seeing that he was quite serious and insisted, the Emperor gave him the two blows he desired.
The little peasant bowed respectfully and left the hall with a smile on his face. When a good distance away he could still hear the courtiers laughing. With an indifferent air he passed the gateway, having apparently quite forgotten his promise to the captain of the guard.
“Hallo! my good man,” cried the captain, “where are you off to in such a hurry?”
“I am going home,” he replied.
“Yes, but do you not remember that in order to gain an entrance you promised me half your reward?”
“It is true, you are right,” said the peasant, and turning round quite close to the captain, he gave him such a blow in the face that he saw stars. I leave you to imagine the captain’s anger.