Page:Famous exploits of Robin Hood, Little John, and his merry men all.pdf/7

Rh forest, a strong and secret bower, so artfully contrived and hidden among the woods, that none but themselves could ever find them out, and to which they retreated in cases of need. Here Robin once continued fourteen days with his merry bowmen, and then he said to them: 'Tarry awhile in this grove, my brave men; we have had no sport for these many long days, therefore I will wander abroad a short way, to seek some amusement. But do you be attentive, and hear whenever I blow an alarm with my loud bugle-horn, for by this means I will let you know if I want your assistance.'

After he had strayed for some time near a brook, he espied a tall and lusty stranger coming towards him. They happened to meet on a long narrow wooden bridge, and neither of them would give way to let the other pass. Robin Hood at length being enraged, drew an arrow from his quiver, and threatened to shoot at the stranger's breast. 'You dare not,' said the other, 'for if you offer to touch the string, I'll beat out your teeth, and tumble you into the brook. You see I have nothing but a staff in my hand, and none but a coward would offer to fight with weapons so different.' 'The name of a coward,' said Robin, 'I scorn: I will therefore lay aside