Page:Celebrated history of the renowned Robin Hood (2).pdf/4

 up and played all the tricks after him, and in a better style. The Squire was so de- lighted with his nephew, that he promised to make him his heir, if he would remain at Gamewell Hall. Robin consented to stay provided he got little John to attend him for a great intimacy had taken place between them.

Robin Hood, to a very handsome person added a courageous and enterprising spirit and a disposition noble and generous; but his uncle’s indulgence obscured his better qualities. Except an occasional visit to his parents, Robin lived always at Gamewell Hall, where he passed his time agreeably away in wrestling, quarter-staff, archery and other athletic diversions, in all of which he excelled; and was attended by Little John, who was a ready assistant in every mischievous prank.

Robin had gone to pay his father a visit when the Squire being suddenly taken ill a messenger was despatched to hasten him home; but the dangerous state of his mother's health prevented him from leaving her till a late hour on the following’ day. In the meantime, the Squire finding himself dying sent for a monk in order that he might make his peace with Heaven, and who pre- vailed on the dying man to sign a deed conveying all he had to the church, as