Page:History of Jack and the bean stalk.pdf/8

 he could spare to relieve the sufferers. “Every one was instantly despatched, except the porter and your nurse; the giant then joined your father in the study, and appeared to be delighted — he really was so. Your father recommended a favourite book, and was handing it down: the giant took the opportunity, and stabbed him ; he instantly fell down dead. The giant left the body, found the porter and nurse, and presently despatched them, being determined to have no living witnesses of his crimes. “You were then only three months old; your mother had you in her arms in a remote part of the house, and was ignorant of what was going on; she went into the study, but how was she shocked, on discovering your father a corpse, and weltering in his blood! She was stupified with horror and grief, and was motionless. The giant, who was seeking her, found her in that state, and hastened to serve her and you as he had done your father, but she fell at his feet, and in a pathetic manner besought him to spare your life and hers. "Remorse, for a moment, seemed to touch the barbarian’s heart: he granted your lives; but first he made her take a most solemn oath, never to inform you who your father was, or to answer any questions concerning him;