Page:Celebrated history of the renowned Robin Hood (2).pdf/8

 desired one of his bowmen to bring the young man to him; and when he came, Robin in- quired the cause of his sadness. The young man taking a ring from his pocket, said, "I was to have been married yesterday to a young lady whom I have long courted, and I bought this ring for the occasion. but the Bishop of Hereford, her uncle, has rejected me, and means to give her to an old wealthy knight.” Robin inquired whether the young lady had consented to her uncle’s choice or not, and when and where the cere- mony was to take place. Alan-a-dale (for that was the name of the young man) told him that the lady was forced to comply much against her inclinations, and that the marriage was to take place that day in the parish chapel, about five miles from the forest.  When Robin heard the Bishop’s name, who was his great enemy, and the time and place, he told Alan-a-dale to put on a cheerful look, and he would ensure him of getting his mistress.  “If you incline to join our bowmen,” said Robin, “bring your bride to the forest, and let her live with us; but if you do not like our merry life, you are at liberty to carry her wherever you please.” Alan-a-dale agreed to join the bow- men, as with them he felt himself sure of pro- tection; and then, seeing there was no time to lose, Robin disguised himself as a harper,