The hall resounded with applause.
"'Twas a brilliant thought," said the Emperor. "Not only will we decorate him for intelligence, but for valour."
"The last is for chivalry, Sire," said the master of the ceremonies, indicating the remaining award.
An officer stood forth.
"This warrior," said the Vizier, "ordered his men to trample down some public flower-beds in the enemy's capital."
"Bravely done," said the Emperor. "A great and imaginative lesson. We'll learn them to resist invasion!"
Amid renewed demonstrations of loyalty and fervour the Emperor brought the proceedings to a close.
"Among so many deeds of valour," he said, "I find it impossible to say which is the most splendid. All are glorious. I am in a position to assure you that Heaven is proud of you. The Fatherland also is proud of you, and, above all, I am proud of you. May the blessings of Heaven continue to fall upon our great and merciful campaign for the right!"
With these words the proceedings terminated and the heroes hurried back to the fighting line, eager to win more laurels by similar feats of culture.