While sitting, one of them said, "Well, all the King's army was not able
to take us, but I fear an old woman with a rope's end would be too much
for us now."

"If that be so," said Johnny Gloke, as he sprang, bold as a lion, from
his hiding-place, "What do you say to Johnny Gloke with his old roosty
sword?" So saying he fell upon them, cut off their heads, and returned
in triumph. He received the King's daughter in marriage and for a time
lived in peace and happiness. He never told the mode he followed in his
dealing with the giants.

Some time after a rebellion broke out among the subjects of his
father-in-law. John, on the strength of his former valiant deed, was
chosen to quell the rebellion. His heart sank within him, but he could
not refuse, and so lose his great name. He was mounted on the fiercest
horse that ever saw sun or wind, and set out on his desperate task. He
was not accustomed to ride on horseback, and he soon lost all control of
his steed. It galloped off at full speed, in the direction of the rebel
army. In its wild career it passed under the gallows that stood by the
wayside. The gallows was somewhat old and frail, and down it fell on the
horse's neck. Still the horse made no stop, but always forward at
furious speed towards the rebels. On seeing this strange sight
approaching towards them at such a speed they were seized with terror,
and cried out to one another, "There comes Johnny Gloke that killed the
two giants with the gallows on his horse's neck to hang us all." They
broke their ranks, fled in dismay, and never stopped till they reached
their homes. Thus was Johnny Gloke a second time victorious. So in due
time he came to the throne and lived a long, happy, and good life as
king.