“No, never,” said one, “they are indeed snow white.”
“Yes,” said another, “they are whiter than snow. It hurts my eyes to look at them, they are so white.”
The Emperor knew now that they were not telling the truth, and he decided to punish them.
“Come here,” he called to some peasants who were plowing in the next field.
“There is nothing so pleasant as plowing,” he said to his attendants.
“It is a great pleasure,” said one.
“I enjoy it more than anything in the world,” said another.
“I would rather plow than dance,” said a third.
“I am very glad you think so, my lords,” said the Emperor. “These peasants will be glad to have you plow for them. This is my command. Begin at once!”