` What is the matter ? ' asked they . ` If we can not reach our sister to-night , to-morrow she will be the prey of the man-eater . ' And without more words they sprang on their horses , and rode like the wind . The gate of the castle was thrown down , and they entered the court and called loudly to their sister . But the poor girl was so ill with fear and anxiety that she could not even speak . Then the brothers dismounted and passed through the six open doors , till they stood before the iron one , which was still shut . ` Udea , open ! ' they cried , ` it is only your brothers ! ' And she arose and unlocked the door , and throwing herself on the neck of the eldest burst into tears . ` Tell us what has happened , ' he said , ` and how the man-eater traced you here . ' ` It is all the cat 's fault , ' replied Udea . ` She put out my fire so that I could not cook . All about a bean ! I ate one and forgot to give her any of it . ' ` But we told you so particularly , ' said the eldest brother , ` never to eat anything without sharing it with the cat . ' ` Yes , but I tell you I forgot , ' answered Udea . ` Does the man-eater come here every night ? ' asked the brothers . ` Every night , ' said Udea , ` and he breaks one door in and then goes away . '
Then all the brothers cried together , ` We will dig a great hole , and fill it XXXXX burning wood , and spread a covering over the top ; and when the man-eater arrives we will push him into it . '
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