So his servants planned that Emelyán should be ordered to make a river round the palace, with ships sailing on it. And the King sent for Emelyán and set him this new task.

“If,” said he, “you could build a cathedral in one night, you can also do this. Tomorrow all must be ready. If not, I will have your head off.”

Emelyán was more downcast than before, and returned to his wife sad at heart.

“Why are you so sad?” said his wife. “Has the King set you a fresh task?”

Emelyán told her about it. “We must fly,” said he.

But his wife replied: “There is no escaping the soldiers; they will catch us wherever we go. There is nothing for it but to obey.”

“How can I do it?” groaned Emelyán.