Page:History of Jack and the bean stalk.pdf/22

 &c. much as it was on the two former times; he arrived at the giant’s mansion in the evening and found his wife standing, as usual, at the door. Jack had disguised himself so completely, that she did not appear to have the least recollection of him: however, when he pleaded hunger and poverty in order to gain admittance, he found it very difficult indeed to persuade her. At last he prevailed, and was concealed in the copper. When the giant returned, he said, “I smell fresh meat!” But Jack felt quite composed, as he had said so before, and had been.' soon satisfied ; however the giant started up suddenly, and, notwithstanding all his wife could say, he searched all around the room. Whilst this was going forward, Jack was exceedingly terrified, and ready to die with fear, wishing himself at home a thousand times; but when the giant approached the copper, and put his hand upon the lid, Jack thought his death was certain. The giant ended his search there, without moving the lid, and seated himself quietly by the fireside. The giant at last ate a hearty supper; when he had finished, he commanded his wife to fetch down his harp. Jack peeped under the copper-lid, and soon saw the most beautiful harp that could be imagined; it was placed by