the old woman had a good and simple nature, and could not think badly of any one. much less did she think that the badger was only deceiving her in order to get away. she felt sorry, too, for the animal as she turned to look at him. he looked in such a sad plight hanging downwards from the ceiling by his legs, which were all tied together so tightly that the rope and the knots were cutting into the skin. so in the kindness of her heart, and believing the creature's promise that he would not run away, she untied the cord and let him down.