The old Devil waited and waited for news from the imps of their having ruined the three brothers. But no news came. So he went himself to inquire about it. He searched and searched, but instead of finding the three imps he found only the three holes.
“Evidently they have failed,” thought he. “I shall have to tackle it myself.”
So he went to look for the brothers, but they were no longer in their old places. He found them in three different kingdoms. All three were living and reigning. This annoyed the old Devil very much.
“Well,” said he, “I must try my own hand at the job.”
First he went to King Simon. He did not go to him in his own shape, but disguised himself as a general, and drove to Simon’s palace.
“I hear, King Simon,” said he, “that you are a great warrior, and as I know that business well, I desire to serve you.”