` It is the only way that I can free myself from the spells that were laid by the giants on me and the raven ; for I was a girl and he was a youth wooing me ! So have no fears , but do as I have said . ' Then Ian drew his sword as she bade him , and cut off her head , and went on his way without looking backwards . As he walked he saw a woman standing at her house door . She asked him whence he had come , and he answered as the raven had told him , that he came from behind . Next she inquired whither he was going , and this time he made reply that he was going on before him , but that he was thirsty and would like a drink . ` You are an impudent fellow , ' said the woman ; ` but you shall have a drink . ' And she gave him some milk , which was all she had till her husband came home . ` Where is your husband ? ' asked Ian , and the woman answered him : ` He is at the knight 's castle trying to fashion gold and silver into a cap for the youngest daughter , like unto the caps that her sisters wear , such as are not to be found in all this land . But , see , he is returning ; and now we shall hear how he has sped . ' At that the man entered the gate , and beholding a strange youth , he said to him : ` What is your trade , boy ? ' ' I am a smith , ' replied Ian . And the man answered : ` Good luck has befallen me , then , for you can help me to make a cap for the knight 's daughter . ' ` You can not make that cap , and you know it , ' said Ian . ` Well , I must try , ' replied the man , ` or I shall be hanged on a tree ; so it were a good deed to help me . ' ' I will help you if I can , ' said Ian ; ` but keep the gold and silver for yourself , and lock me into the smithy to-night , and I will work my spells . ' So the man , wondering to himself , locked him in . As soon as the key was turned in the lock Ian wished for the raven , and the raven came to him , carrying the cap in his mouth . ` Now take my head off , ' said the raven .
But XXXXX answered : ` Poor thanks were that for all the help you have given me . '
Ian deed girl gold milk raven spells sword to-night whither