And overhead sat Halfman , laughing heartily . But the ogre 's wife was still alive , for she had taken no part in kindling the fire . ` Oh , ' she shrieked with rage , ` you have killed my daughters and my husband , and all the men belonging to me ; how can I get at you to avenge myself ? ' ` Oh , that is easy enough , ' said Halfman . ' I will let down a rope , and if you tie it tightly round you , I will draw it up . ' ` All right , ' returned the ogress , fastening the rope which Halfman let down . ` Now pull me up . ' ` Are you sure it is secure ? ' ` Yes , quite sure . ' ` Do n't be afraid . ' ` Oh , I am not afraid at all ! ' So Halfman slowly drew her up , and when she was near the top he let go the rope , and she fell down and broke her neck . Then Halfman heaved a great sigh and said , ` That was hard work ; the rope has hurt my hands badly , but now I am rid of her for ever . ' So Halfman came down from the tower , and went on , till he got to a desert place , and as he was very tired , he lay down to sleep . While it was still dark , an ogress passed by , and she woke him and said , ` Halfman , to-morrow your brother is to marry your wife . ' ` Oh , how can I stop it ? ' asked he . ` Will you help me ? ' ` Yes , I will , ' replied the ogress . ` Thank you , thank you ! '
cried Halfman , kissing her XXXXX the forehead .
While as at by for if in near on to