"That can't be done," one of the lackeys answered.
"Indeed! We'll see whether it can be done or not," cried the other prince, pushing the men aside right and left.
But there were a great many lackeys, and only two princes. A tumult and uproar arose outside, that resounded through the palace.
"What is going on out there?" asked the emperor angrily.
The princes stopped when they heard their father's voice.
"Two boys are trying to enter by force," said an attendant, approaching the emperor.
"By force? Who seeks to enter my palace by force? Who are these boys?" cried the emperor in the same breath.
"We know not, your majesty," replied the lackey, "but there must be something uncommon about them, for the lads are as strong as young lions, they overpowered the guard at the gate, and have given us plenty to do. Besides, they are proud, they don't lift their caps from their heads."
The emperor flushed scarlet with rage.
"Throw them out!" he cried. "Set the dogs on them."