One day two rogues disguised as weavers convinced the emperor that they could create the most beautiful and elaborate clothes but which would have the wonderful property of being invisible to all who where unfit for the office he held or who was extraordinarily simple in character. “These must, indeed, be splendid clothes!” thought the Emperor.
The 2 rogues pretended to set up looms and asked for the most delicate silk and purest gold thread which they immediately put in their knapsacks but continued to pretend to work late into the night. Occasionally the emperor would check on their progress and although he could not see anything he remembered that only those who were unfit for office would be unable to see the manufacture.
The Emperor sent his most trusted and faithful minister but even he afraid that he would be called a simpleton or unfit for office did not express his thoughts. More riches were poured into the non existent garment.. Successive court officials were sent and returned with the same message - the rogues were creating a “wonderful garment”. Although even the Emperor could not see the clothes that were suppose to being made for him, the thought of him being an “unfit” Emperor was too much for him to bear.
One day the rogues announced that the Emperor’s New Clothes were ready. The rogues pretended to dress the Emperor. “How splendid His Majesty looks” they proclaimed. “What colours, what a design!” the Emperors courtiers agreed, ever fearing that they would be told they were unfit for office should they tell the truth : “That the emperor has no clothes.”
The charade continued and the Emperor so full himself decided to show his citizenry. In an attempt to please the emperor the citizens poured adoration on him. None of the Emperor’s various suits had made such an impression as these invisible ones. “But the Emperor has nothing on” said a little child. “Listen to the voice of innocence” exclaimed his father. “But he has nothing on at all” the citizens cried out. The Emperor was vexed, he knew the people were right but he thought the procession must go on. The Lords and bedchamber took greater pains than ever to appear to be holding up a trail that in reality did not exist.
