“Master, we will do well enough, for I have an uncle who lives within
two miles of this place. He is a huge and monstrous giant, having three
heads. He will beat five hundred men in armour, and make them fly
before him.”
“Alas!” said the king’s son, “what shall we do there? He will eat us up
at a mouthful—nay, we are scarce sufficient to fill one hollow tooth.”
“It is no matter for that,” says Jack. “I myself will go before and
prepare the way for you. Tarry here, and wait my return.”
He waited, and Jack rode full speed. Coming to the castle gate, he
immediately began to knock with such force that all the neighbouring
hills resounded. The giant, roaring with a voice like thunder, called—
“Who is there?”
“None, but your poor cousin Jack.”
“And what news,” said he, “with my cousin Jack?”