Do you wish to fight a second time with that old witch ? ' He marked her words , though she knew it not , and they taught him where his brother was , and what had befallen him . So before sunrise he stole out early , saddled his horse , and rode off to the mountain . But the way was further than he thought , and on the road he met a little old man who asked him whither he was going . Then the young man told him his story , and added . ` Somehow or other I must free my brother , who has fallen into the power of an old witch . ' ' I will tell you what you must do , ' said the old man . ` The witch 's power lies in her hair ; so when you see her spring on her and seize her by the hair , and then she can not harm you . Be very careful never to let her hair go , bid her lead you to your brother , and force her to bring him back to life . For she has an ointment that will heal all wounds , and even wake the dead . And when your brother stands safe and well before you , then cut off her head , for she is a wicked woman . ' The young man was grateful for these words , and promised to obey them . Then he rode on , and soon reached the castle . He walked boldly up the steps and entered the hall , where the hideous old witch came to meet him . She grinned horribly at him , and cried out , ` With one hair of my head I can change you into stone . ' ` Can you , indeed ? ' said the young man , seizing her by the hair . ` You old wretch ! tell me what you have done with my brother , or I will cut your head off this very instant . ' Now the witch 's strength was all gone from her , and she had to obey . '
I will take you to your brother , ' she XXXXX , hoping to get the better of him by cunning , ` but leave me alone .
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