Once upon a time there lived three billy goats, all bearing the name Gruff, who dwelt in a poor valley where the grass had grown thin and scant. Across a rushing river, however, rose a green hillside rich with sweet herbs and flowers, and thither the three brothers resolved to go and fatten themselves. But beneath the wooden bridge that crossed the stream lived a dreadful troll, huge, ugly, and ill-tempered, who devoured all travellers foolish enough to pass above his lair. The smallest Billy Goat Gruff went first. No sooner did his little hooves trip-trap upon the boards than the troll roared that he would eat him. Yet the little goat begged to be spared, promising that his larger brother would soon follow and make a finer meal. The greedy troll agreed. Presently came the second goat. Again the troll sprang forth, and again he was persuaded to wait for the greatest and fattest of the three. At last the largest Billy Goat Gruff thundered onto the bridge. When the troll rose to threaten him, expecting an easy feast, the great goat did not plead. Lowering his mighty horns, he charged straight at the monster. With a tremendous blow he hurled the troll from the bridge and down into the roaring waters below. Thus the three brothers reached the green meadow beyond, where they ate until they were round and contented. And never again did the troll trouble travellers upon that bridge. So greed deceived the troll, while courage carried the goats safely to their reward.