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freely. But this I will do: I will take the money and pay my
debts, and in a year and a day hence will return it safe either
to thee or to the Lord Bishop of Hereford. For this I pledge
my most solemn knightly word. I feel free to borrow, for I
know no man that should be more bound to aid me than
one so high in that church that hath driven such a hard bar-
gain.’ ‘Truly, Sir Knight,’ quoth Robin, ‘I do not understand
those fine scruples that weigh with those of thy kind; but,
nevertheless, it shall all be as thou dost wish. But thou hadst
best bring the money to me at the end of the year, for may-
hap I may make better use of it than the Bishop.’ Thereupon,
turning to those near him, he gave his orders, and five hun-
dred pounds were counted out and tied up in a leathern bag
for Sir Richard. The rest of the treasure was divided, and
part taken to the treasurehouse of the band, and part put by
with the other things for the Bishop.
Then Sir Richard arose. ‘I cannot stay later, good friends,’
said he, ‘for my lady will wax anxious if I come not home;
so I crave leave to depart.’
Then Robin Hood and all his merry men arose, and
Robin said, ‘We cannot let thee go hence unattended, Sir
Richard.’
Then up spake Little John, ‘Good master, let me choose
a score of stout fellows from the band, and let us arm our-
selves in a seemly manner and so serve as retainers to Sir
Richard till he can get others in our stead.’
‘Thou hast spoken well, Little John, and it shall be done,’
said Robin.
Then up spake Will Scarlet, ‘Let us give him a golden

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