The Emperor was notorious for his dexterity at horse riding, passed by Abbot's abode. Seeing that he was much at ease decided to unsettle him by a prank.
The Emperor posses three strange questions which are punishable by disgrace should he fail to answer them and may result in the loss of his life should he attempt to answer them as their answer may be demeaning to the King. For instance, the Kings in this third question/sentence asks Abbot to prove that he is wrong.