Page:History of Jack and the bean stalk.pdf/18

 severely for staying so long; she replied trembling with fear, that they were so heavy, that she could scarcely lift them; and concluded at last, that she would never again bring them down stairs; adding, that she had nearly fainted, owing to their weight. This so exasperated the giant,’ that he raised his hand to strike her; she, however, escaped, and went to bed, leaving him to count over his treasure by way of amusement. The giant took his bags, and after turning them over and over, to see they were in the same state he left them, began to count their contents. First the bag which contained the silver was emptied, and the contents placed upon the table. Jack viewed the glittering heaps with delight, and most heartily wished the contents in his own possession. The giant (little thinking he was so narrowly watched) reckoned the silver over several times: and then, having satisfied himself that ail was safe put it into the bags again, which he made very secure. The other bag was opened next, and the guineas placed upon the table. If Jack was pleased at the sight of the silver, how much more delighted must he have felt when he saw such a heap of glittering gold. He even had the boldness to think of gaining both bags;