Page:History of Jack the giant killer.pdf/11

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11

The King s son replied, ‘ It is a pity that creditors should be so cruel ; go bury the dead, and let his creditors come to my lodging, and their debts shall be discharged. Accordingly they came in great numbers, so that he left himself moneyless.

Now, Jack the Giant Killer being there, and seeing the generosity of the King’s son, he was taken with him, and desired to be his servant ; it was agreed upon the next morning, when riding out at the town-end, the King’s son turning to Jack, said, I cannot tell how I will subsist in my intended journey. For that, quoth Jack, take you no care, let me alone, I warrant you we will not want.

Now Jack, having a spell in his pocket, which served at noon for a refreshment, when done, they had not one penny left betwixt them , the afternoon they spent in travel and discourse, till the sun began to grow low, at which time the King's sou said, Jack, since we have no money where can we think to lodge this night ? Jack replied, we'll do well enough, for I have an uncle living within two miles of this, he is a monstrous Giant with three heads ; he will fight 500 men in armour, and make them to fly before him. Alas ! saith the King’s son, what shall we do there ; he will certainly chop us both up at one mouthful ! it is no matter for that, quoth Jack, I will go before and prepare the way for you : tarry here.

He waits, and Jack rides full speed, when he