“ In Hopkinson's MS. "Pedigrees of the North Riding of Yorkshire" (fol. 483) , is a notice of him which states that "he was of such strength and valour that he was a reputed giant, and in old scrips [writings,] is often called 'Elias Gigas.' He fought many duels, combats, &c., for the love of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, and obtained many victories." These undoubtedly gave rise to the legend; the serpent being probably selected to typify the crafty dealings by which some rapacious landowner sought to enrich himself at the expense of others. ”