Page:Hans Andersen's fairy tales (Robinson).djvu/280

HANS ANDERSEN'S FAIRY TALES nothing at all on, when dressed in it; that, however, is the great virtue of this delicate cloth.'

'Yes, indeed!' said all the courtiers, although not one of them could see anything of this exquisite manufacture.

'If your Imperial Majesty will be graciously pleased to take off your clothes, we will fit on the new suit in front of the looking-glass.'

The Emperor was accordingly undressed, and the rogues



pretended to array him in his new suit; the Emperor turning round, from side to side, before the looking-glass.

'How splendid his Majesty looks in his new clothes! and how well they fit!' every one cried out. 'What a design! what colours! these are indeed royal robes!'

'The canopy which is to be borne over your Majesty in the procession is waiting,' announced the chief master of the ceremonies.

'I am quite ready,' answered the Emperor. 'Do my new clothes fit well?' asked he, turning himself round again before 234