Page:Celebrated history of the renowned Robin Hood (2).pdf/15

 Soon after King Richard’s return from Palestine, he proclaimed a grand shooting match to take place in the palace grounds, and prizes were to be awarded to the best marks- men. Queen Eleanor, thinking this a favourable opportunity to execute her design in favour of Robin Hood, told the king, that she could bring one hundred men who would beat the most skilful of his archers. The king requested her to bring forward her champions, and if they were victorious, he would not only bestow on them the prizes, but grant her any boon she asked. The queen immediately despatched the following message to Robin Hood: - "Queen Eleanor greets you well, requesting that you will take one hundred of your bowmen with you, and hasten to London; for a great match at the bow is to take place there, and she has chosen you and your men to be her cham- pions.”

On the appointed day, in presence of the whole court, the king’s archers, who were thought to be the best in the kingdom ranged themselves on one side; while the queen’s champions, all clad in green, with Robin Hood at their head, took their station on the other; but the queen was the only person there who knew them. After sounding the trumpets, King Richard announced the prizes which were to be bestowed on the best marks-