` Or what is it you are always turning round for ? ' ' I turn round because I have no eyes in the back of my neck , ' said Hans . ` Cease talking nonsense , ' replied the minister , ` and give all your mind to getting us to the town before nightfall . ' Hans did not answer , but rode on steadily , though every now and then he cast a glance over his shoulder . When they arrived in the middle of the wood the sun sank altogether . Then Hans reined up his horse , took his knapsack , and jumped out of the sledge . ` What are you doing ? Are you mad ? ' asked the minister , but Hans answered quietly , ` The sun is set and my work is over , and I am going to camp here for the night . ' In vain the master prayed and threatened , and promised Hans a large reward if he would only drive him on . The young man was not to be moved . ` Are you not ashamed to urge me to break my word ? ' said he . ` If you want to reach the town to-night you must go alone . The hour of my freedom has struck , and I can not go with you . ' ` My good Hans , ' entreated the minister , ' I really ought not to leave you here . Consider what danger you would be in ! Yonder , as you see , a gallows is set up , and two evil-doers are hanging on it . You could not possibly sleep with such ghastly neighbours . ' ` Why not ? '
asked XXXXX .
Hans evil-doers glance horse knapsack middle night sledge sun to-night