Ep. 1131 - The Blue Fairy Book - The Story of the Youth Who Went Forth to Learn What Fear Was, Pt. 5

Then a man entered, of more than ordinary size and of a very fearful appearance; but he was old and had a white beard. ‘Oh! you miserable creature, now you will soon know what it is to shudder,’ he cried, ‘for you must die.’ ‘Not so quickly,’ answered the youth. ‘If I am to die, you must catch me first.’ ‘I shall soon lay hold of you,’ spoke the monster. ‘Gently, gently; don’t boast too much, I’m as strong as you, and stronger too.’ ‘We’ll soon see,’ said the old man; ‘if you are stronger than I, then I’ll let you off; come, let’s have a try.’ Then he led him through some dark passages to a forge, and grasping an axe he drove one of the anvils with a blow into the earth. ‘I can do better than that,’ cried the youth, and went to the other anvil. The old man drew near him in order to watch closely, and his white beard hung right down. Then the youth seized the axe, cleft the anvil open, and jammed in the old man’s beard. Now I have you,’ said the youth; ‘this time it’s your turn to die.’ Then he seized an iron rod and belaboured the old man till he, whimpering, begged him to leave off, and he would give him great riches.