As he was entering a forest, he saw a bear walking along a narrow path. The cobbler was frightened. There was no way of escape. He waited to see what would happen.
The bear growled and ran toward him. The cobbler stood with his girdle in sight.
The bear read the words on the girdle:
Ha, ha! Ho, ho!
Ten at one blow.
"Is it possible that this little man can kill TEN BEARS at one blow?" thought the bear, "I will be careful not to offend him."
So the bear stood still and said, "Where are you going, my friend?"
"Around the world to seek my fortune," proudly replied the cobbler.
"Stay here for a time and dine with me. I know where there is some choice honey," said the bear, and he led the way to a hollow tree where the bees had stored their honey.
But a hunter had set a trap in the tree, and as the bear reached for the honey--snap! His paw was caught fast in the trap. And that was the end of Mr. Bear!
The cobbler quickly stripped off the skin of the animal, saying, "This will make a fine, warm blanket."