imprisoned, and that unless a satisfactory explanation of their negligence could be given before this evening they should be beheaded. I have here, in my wallet, the whole of the viands which yesterday were placed before the Emperor for his consumption, and I propose at the audience to present them to him, and inform him what really happened. He will undoubtedly pardon me when he hears the story, and I shall earn the undying gratitude of all the disgraced officials by procuring their release."
The other two Thieves, on hearing this story, congratulated their comrade warmly upon his daring and success, and the three entered the Emperor's antechamber together, and awaited the time for public audience.
A few minutes later the great doors leading to the audience chamber were thrown open, and a herald appearing upon the threshold proclaimed "Silence." He then gave notice that, on the previous day, the eggs had all been stolen from under the Emperor's favourite pea-hen, and that any person who could find the eggs or give any information concerning their loss should receive a reward; secondly, that for a breach of etiquette the Prime Minister had been imprisoned, and that unless he could explain his offence before six o'clock that evening he was to be beheaded, and that any person who could offer assistance in the matter would be well paid and otherwise rewarded by the Emperor; thirdly, that owing to bad attendance during the Emperor's repast the previous day, all the domestic officials of the palace had been imprisoned, and would be beheaded
