Page:Famous exploits of Robin Hood, Little John, and his merry men all.pdf/20

20 they killed? or have they in treason been caught against the rightful king?' 'Woe is me!' said the lady,' 'for my brothers must die, and only for killing the king's fallow deer.' 'They shall not die,' said bold Robin Hood; 'therefore go your way quickly home, and I will hasten to Nottingham for the sake of your three hapless brothers.'

Robin Hood then set out to Nottingham, and in his way met with a poor beggar-man, who came walking slowly and mournfully along the highway. 'What news, my old man?' said Robin, 'what news dost thou bring from the town?' 'Oh! there is weeping and wailing in Nottingham town,' cried the old beggar-man, 'for the sake of three yeomen who are condemned to die, for they are greatly beloved.'

The beggar had a tattered old coat upon his back, which was neither green, yellow, nor red, but some of every colour; and Robin Hood thought it would be no disgrace for once, to be in the beggar's dress. 'Come, pull off thy coat, my old beggar,' said he, 'and thou shalt put on mine, and 30 shillings beside, I will give thee to buy bread and beer.' When Robin was thus arrayed, away he went to the town, and soon found the sheriff and his men, and likewise the three sorrowful yeomen, who were going to die, 'One favour I humbly beg,' said bold Robin Hood to the sheriff, 'that I may be