Versions of this story are current throughout Europe; but in general, the magical properties (of which there are usually two or three) are stolen or exchanged by a designing innkeeper, or other person, without the knowledge of the owner.
The next story, that of the Devil being pounded in a sack, is current in various forms throughout Northern Europe.
THE SOLDIER AND THE DEVIL.
(Jannsen.)
The Devil encountered a soldier outside the town, and said to him, "Good friend, please help me to get through the town. I can't go alone, though I should be very glad to do so, for the two-eyed dogs[33] would surround me in every street. They attack me as soon as I enter the town."
"I'd be glad to help you," said the soldier, "but one can't do any business without money."