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 he came and whither he was going for that was no highway. But the tinker being a sturdy fellow, bid him go, what was that to him, for fools would be meddling. No, says Tom, but I'll make you know before you and I part, it is to me. Aye says tinker, I have been these three years and have had no combat with  man, and none durst make me ; I think they be all cowards in  country except it be a man called Tom Hickathrift who killed a giant,  I would fain see to have a combat with him. Aye, said Tom, but methinks I might be master in your mouth; I am the man, what have you say to me? Why, said the tinker. I am glad we have met so happily together, that we may have one combat. Sure, said Tom, you but jest. Merry, said the tinker, am in earnest. A match, said Tom, you give me leave to get a twig. , says the tinker, I scorn to fight man unarmed.

Tom steps to the gate, and takes one