And now there was only one more day before the close of the seven years . Then there arrived on the scene a mere schoolboy -- a merry , happy-hearted youth , but at the same time strong and well-grown . He saw how many knights had broken their necks in vain , but undaunted he approached the steep mountain on foot and began the ascent . For long he had heard his parents speak of the beautiful Princess who sat in the golden castle at the top of the Glass Mountain . He listened to all he heard , and determined that he too would try his luck . But first he went to the forest and caught a lynx , and cutting off the creature 's sharp claws , he fastened them on to his own hands and feet . Armed with these weapons he boldly started up the Glass Mountain . The sun was nearly going down , and the youth had not got more than half-way up . He could hardly draw breath he was so worn out , and his mouth was parched by thirst . A huge black cloud passed over his head , but in vain did he beg and beseech her to let a drop of water fall on him . He opened his mouth , but the black cloud sailed past and not as much as a drop of dew moistened his dry lips . His feet were torn and bleeding , and he could only hold on now with his hands . Evening closed in , and he strained his eyes to see if he could behold the top of the mountain . Then he gazed beneath him , and what a sight met his eyes ! A yawning abyss , with certain and terrible death at the bottom , reeking with half-decayed bodies of horses and riders ! And this had been the end of all the other brave men who like himself had attempted the ascent . It was almost pitch dark now , and only the stars lit up the Glass Mountain . The poor boy still clung on as if glued to the glass by his blood-stained hands . He made no struggle to get higher , for all his strength had left him , and seeing no hope he calmly awaited death . Then all of a sudden he fell into a deep sleep , and forgetful of his dangerous position , he slumbered sweetly .
But all the same , although he slept , he had stuck his sharp claws so firmly XXXXX the glass that he was quite safe not to fall .
For as at beneath into on than that to with