He went straight to the Giant’s house. The Giant’s wife was again at the door, but she did not know him. He begged for food and a place to sleep. She told him about the Giant, and then she said:—
“There was once a boy who came just as you have come. I let him in, and he stole the Giant’s hen and ran away. Ever since the Giant has been very cruel to me. No, I cannot let you come in.”
But Jack begged so hard that at last she let him in. She led him through the house, and he saw just what he had seen before. She gave him something to eat, and then she hid him in a closet. The Giant came along in his heavy boots. He was so big, that the house shook. He sat by the fire for a time. Then he looked about and said:—
“Wife, I smell fresh meat.”
“Yes,” she said. “The crows have been flying about. They left some raw meat on top of the house.”
Then she made haste and got some supper for the giant.
He was very cross. So it went on as before. The Giant ate and drank. Then he called to his wife:—
“Bring me something. I want to be amused. You let that rascal steal my hen. Bring me something.”
“What shall I bring?” she asked meekly.
“Bring me my money-bags; they are as heavy as anything.” So she tugged two great bags to the table. One was full of silver and one was full of gold. The Giant sent his wife to bed. Then he untied the strings, emptied his bags, and counted his money. Jack watched him, and said to himself:—