But as you are in the highest place you shall make a more dignified exit , and follow them through the window ! ' With these words he began to climb the ladder , in order to take the little man from the bell and carry out his threat . At this the dwarf cried out imploringly , ` Oh , brother ! spare my life , and I promise that neither I nor my comrades will ever trouble you any more . I am small and weak , but who knows whether some day I shall not be able to reward you . ' ` You wretched little shrimp , ' replied Hans , ' a great deal of good your gratitude is likely to do me ! But as I happen to be feeling in a cheerful mood to-night I will let you have your life . But take care how you come across me again , or you may not escape so easily ! ' The headless man thanked him humbly , slid hastily down the bell rope , and ran down the steps of the tower as if he had left a fire behind him . Then Hans began to ring lustily . When the minister heard the sound of the midnight bells he wondered greatly , but rejoiced that he had at last found some one to whom he could trust this duty . Hans rang the bells for some time , then went to the hay-loft , and fell fast asleep . Now it was the custom of the minister to get up very early , and to go round to make sure that the men were all at their work . This morning everyone was in his place except Hans , and no one knew anything about him . Nine o'clock came , and no Hans , but when eleven struck the minister began to fear that he had vanished like the ringers who had gone before him . When , however , the servants all gathered round the table for dinner , Hans at last made his appearance stretching himself and yawning . ` Where have you been all this time ? ' asked the minister . ` Asleep , ' said Hans . ` Asleep ! '
exclaimed the minister XXXXX astonishment .
With about across as at except for in of to