DUBLIN: 
 
 PRINTED BY C. M. WARREN 
 21, UPPER ORMOND QUAY. 
 
 ROBIN HOOD’S GARLAND, 
 
 coM«yaisG a selection of 
 
 THIRTY-ONE r HOlCE SONGS. 
 
^ 9 s . J. 
 
 C ‘/'/ / ea/^i+of.'rt £ cffio 
 tSuf'fo'n-. 
 
 ou&e-, 
 
THE LIi-E 
 
 03 
 
 ROBIN HOOD: 
 
 TO WHICH IS ANNEXED 
 
 ROBIN HOOD’S GARLAND, 
 
 COMPRISING A SELECTION OP 
 
 THIRTY-ONE CHOICE SONUS. 
 
 UNIVERSITY UHRARY 
 
 UNiVHRSl'i’Y OF NORTH CAROLINA . 
 AT CHAPEL HILL 
 
PREFACE. 
 
 Tuksk is scarcely any story so little known, for on( 
 so popular, as that of Robin Hood and Tuttle John, 
 Numbers there are, who look upon them (like the he. 
 roes aud gods of Homer and Ovid) to have existed 
 no where but in the fertile brain of an inventing po- 
 et. Nor is this the opinion of unthinking people; [ 
 have often heard it asserted by men of good sense 
 but that they are grossly mistaken, is very certain - 
 for King Richard I., transported with zeal, blindly 
 sacrificed every thing to it, and ruined himself, and 
 almost his whole nation, to carry on a war against the 
 infidels in the Holy Land, where he went in person. 
 The intestine troubles in England were very great at 
 that time; and even John, the King’s brother, caball¬ 
 ed to dethrone him, and take possession of his king¬ 
 dom. This was an opportunity which the outlaws 
 and banditti would bv no means neglect, and Eng¬ 
 land was every where infested with thieves and rob¬ 
 bers. But amongst those, none made so considerable 
 a figure as Robin Hood, who as historians assure us, 
 chiefly resided in Yorkshire ; but who, if we may 
 give any credit to most of our old songs, was conver¬ 
 sant in the county of Nottingham. Besides Little 
 John, he had an hundred bowmen in his retinne; 
 none but the rich stood in awe of him ; so far from 
 spoiling the poor, he did them all the good that lav 
 in his power. Of the rich he seldom abused those he 
 robbed; and he nevpr offered to stop or rifle any wo¬ 
 man. It is not positively known who he was; but 
 Ibe general opinion oi the historians is—that he was 
 a nobleman, by birth noble, and created au earl for 
 
vi 
 
 soinv considerable service done to his country in war; 
 but having riotously spent his estate, he took that w.ty 
 of living, rather choosing to venture his life for every 
 thing he got, than to live in a dependant state, ami 
 be beholden to any for his bread. Hubert, Archbishop 
 of Canterbury, and chief Justiciary of England, en¬ 
 deavoured all he could to suppress these robbers and 
 outlaws, set a considerable price on the head of Robin 
 Hood, and several stratagems were used to apprehend 
 aim—but all their attempts proved fruitless. Force 
 ne repelled by force, and art by cunning; till at lengti 
 (ailing ill, he went (in order to be better taken cart 
 of) to Kirkly, a nunnery in Yorkshire, where he de¬ 
 sired to be let blood; but the reward set upon his 
 head being very considerable, it proved a great temp¬ 
 tation to some who knew him, by whom he was be¬ 
 trayed ; and instead of bleeding, as he desired, he 
 was blooded to death, about the latter end of 1395 
 As to the first song, with which we shall begin this 
 collection, nothing need be said in commendation ol 
 it; being the most beautiful, and one of the oldest, 
 extant on the subject. One thing we must observe in 
 reading it, is, that between some of the stanzas we 
 must suppose a considerable time to pass. Clorinda 
 might be a very froward girl, if between Robin Hood’s 
 question, and her answer, we did not suppose two or 
 three hours to have been spent in courtship ; and be¬ 
 tween Robin Hold’s being entertained at Gam well 
 hall, and his having ninety-three bowmen in Sher¬ 
 wood, we must allow some years. I know not how 
 our critics will relish this, but I would have them re- 
 member, that poets of old scorned to damp their p<>. 
 etic fire to give way to dull rule. They had no te¬ 
 dious comment on Aristotle to consult—no Besus ->. 
 Dennis to guide them; or, at least, they had too mud: 
 spirit to be guided by them. Their works were the 
 first flight of a lively imagination; and poets w<r; 
 looked upon like other Englishmen—born to live did 
 write with freedom. 
 
THE LIFE 
 
 or 
 
 T> A t» I ■ r / T < 
 
 xv \j i> i jn I I \ ) \j i *, 
 
 Subin Hood was born in Nottmgnamsnire. Hit 
 father was made head ranger of the North of Eng¬ 
 land, and afterwards created Earl of Huntingdon. 
 His mother was the only daughter of Richard, Earl 
 of Warwick; and he had a rich old uncle named 
 Gamwell, of Gamwell hall, a noted sportsman of 
 ‘.hose times in and about Yorkshire. The usual fa¬ 
 mily residence was at a village named Loxley, near 
 Sherwood Forest. 
 
 His acquaintance with Little John commenced on 
 a merry-making night in tne Christmas holidays, 
 when the ale went merrily round at his uncle’s. Lit¬ 
 tle John, alias John Little, was a proper tall archer, 
 who had been long in his uncle’s service, and, for his 
 faithful attendance, he left him an estate near Rip- 
 pon, in Yorkshire, where he lived in so hospitable a 
 manner, that he was a blessing to the poor, and very 
 hospitable to all who came to see him, which gained 
 him the esteem of all around him. 
 
 Robin and Little John became sworn brothers; 
 they were together in all parties of pleasure, robbing 
 or otherwise. And the first adventure of theirs was 
 performed by them and fifteen more, on the Bishop 
 of Carlisle, who had fifteen men in his retinue. Robi*’ 
 having intelligence that the prelate was on his -way tt 
 London, met him near Ferry-bridge, in Yorkshire^ 
 
6 THE LIFE OF ROBIN HOOD. 
 
 and, notwithstanding his retinue, attacked him, took 
 from him eight hundred marks, and tying him to a 
 /roe, made him sing mass; after which he untied 
 him, set him on his horse again, with his face to the 
 tail, and in that condition obliged him to ride to 
 London. * 
 
 The Lord Mayor of London having proposed to 
 the citizens a shooting match in Finsbury fields, in¬ 
 vited the king to assist at the sport. Robin and the 
 principals of his gang, notwithstanding their late in¬ 
 sult to the bishop, had a mind to be parties in it; 
 and, accordingly, having disguised themselves,’ they 
 came up to London, where they mixed, incognito, 
 among the company assembled on this occasion. 
 
 Great commendations were given to the king’s ar¬ 
 chers, who shot exceedingly well; and large bets 
 moving about, Robin stepped up, and offered to lay 
 one hundred marks, that he singled out three men 
 lhat should shoot better than any other three that 
 could be produced to them. The king took up our 
 adventurer; and the queen, admiring the resolution 
 of the strangers, was incited to lay a thousand pounds 
 on their heads against the king, which was followed 
 by several of the nobility. Robin bent his how', and 
 shot almost into the middle of the clout, beating his 
 adversary about u span ; Little John hit the blacir 
 mark in it, and overcame his antagonist; but Midge,, 
 the miller, pinned up the basket, by cleaving with 
 his arrow the pin in two which was in the black ; so 
 that the queen, and all who were on her side, won 
 the bets. 
 
 But when the king come to know that it was Ro¬ 
 bin Hood ami part of his gang that had beaten his 
 archers, he swore that he should be hanged whenever 
 he was caught; and sent out several detachments oi 
 soldiers into the forest of Sherwood after him; hut 
 Robin having notice of this, withdrew into York* 
 shire, thence to Cheshire, and last of all to London, 
 till the hue and cry was over, whan he returned to 
 
THE LIFE Uf rcuBlN HOOD. 7 
 
 Sis rendezvous, to the no small enjoyment of hi* 
 eompanions, who had been from him full eighteen 
 months. 
 
 Robin happening to be out one morning by him 
 self, observed a young man, of genteel appearance^ 
 isiiting under the shade of a tree, in a very melan. 
 choly and dejected mood; the sight of which pre¬ 
 sently made our adventurer step up to him and ask 
 the reason of his sit.tin so desolate there. The young 
 man broke out very fervently against women, who, 
 he said, were the most perfidious wretches in the 
 world! “ I, this morning,” said he, “ was to be mar¬ 
 red to a gentleman’s daughter of that house; but 
 iffoney being a stronger persuasive than the truest 
 love, another person in the neighbourhood has sup¬ 
 planted me by the young woman’s own appointment.’ 1 / 
 “Ay, ay ! ” says Robin, “is your case so? Never Iw; 
 afraid man, but put on a more cheerful look, and I’ll f 
 warrant you success; you shall not only have the wo. 
 mail, but her fortune too.” 
 
 Robin immediately goes back to the church, and 
 meeting the bishop, began to discourse with him on 
 religion, till a wealthy knight and the young man’s 
 mistress came in to be married. Upon which B.obi.j 
 said, “ ’Tis a great, shame that such a beautiful young 
 woman should be married to a fumbling old man 
 like this, to lie grunting by her side, and to make a 
 nurse of her all the days of her life! No, no, she 
 shall have her own bridegroom, and be bis own mis- 
 tress.” With that he blew a blast, and straightway ap 
 peared the young man and twenty yeomen. “Now, 
 said Robin, “ you shall enjoy the woman you lor^ 
 this very day. “ No, hold,” said the Bishop, “ that’ 
 against the law of our church, to marry any pers.^'- 
 hint has not been asked three times.” Robin hearing 
 this, immediately pulled off the Bishop’s robes, and 
 put them on Little John, who went up directly into 
 the choir, and asked them seven times before all the 
 people; bin the young g.nt.lw»«man refused to malm 
 
6 THE LIFE OF RT1 rf!N' HOOD. 
 
 'espouse, till menaces forced her into a. compliance; 
 when away they carried her to Sherwood, where they 
 Vept the wedding;. 
 
 Robin was an indefatigable fellow in his profession, 
 jnd left no turn untried to carry it on with success. 
 Happening to be once at Coventry, and having some 
 tiind to play a prank; and understanding that a cer¬ 
 tain lord w as to set out for London the next day on 
 horseback, with a great retinue, he put himself in 
 woman’s apparel, and having a tolerable good face 
 and shape, the noble peer was pleased to scrape ac¬ 
 quaintance with this young damsel, as he supposed 
 her; so, after a great deal of chat together, his lord- 
 ship, being humorously inclined, was for fulfilling the 
 piinary command, “increase and multiply.” Putting 
 the question to her, this masculine-feminine creature 
 pretending great modesty, said, “ it became her sex 
 never to permit dishonesty to come nearer than her 
 ears.” However his lordship pursuing his inclina¬ 
 tions very close, she told his lordship, that if they had 
 been in any place of privacy, she would have been 
 ready to gratify his desire; but to expose herself to 
 \11 his men, she would not for the world. They had 
 rot rode above half a mile farther, before a wood 
 presented itselt to their sight; he ordered his Ser¬ 
 vians to go on till he came to them; so he and his 
 mistress rode into the wood, and there alighted, with 
 an intention of having a full enjoyment of his sup¬ 
 posed lady ; but what was his surprise, when instead 
 of the caresses of his fair one, he met with a good 
 beating from our hero, who robbed him of a hundred 
 marks, and tied him to a tree, to cool his courage, and 
 so bid my lord farewell till the next morning. TI 12 
 servants, mean time, waiting the return of their mas¬ 
 ter, wondered at his long absence; but at last thev 
 determined to seek him out, and entering the wood, 
 they heard a voice crying out for help; they followed 
 the sound, till at length they found his lordship fast. 
 He bid them untie him, aim said, that the villain he 
 
TUK LIFE OF IIOI51N HOOD. 0 
 
 had taken for a woman, had proved to he no other 
 than an highwayman and a robber, and bad taken all 
 that he had from him; but that for the future, he 
 would be hanged if ever he trusted himself alone 
 with any thing in the shape of a woman. 
 
 Soon after this, Robin disguised himself in a friar’s 
 habit, and had not gone far before he met a couple oi 
 priests; he, making a pitiful moan to them, beggea 
 their charity, and that they would relieve one of their 
 function for the Virgin Mary’s sake. “ That we 
 would willingly do,” said they; but we have lately 
 met with a gang of villains, who robbed us of all our 
 money, and left us nothing to relieve ourselves.” “I 
 am atraid,” said Robin, “ you are addicted to lying, 
 that an honest man cannot take your word ; therefore 
 let us all go down on our knees, and pray to the Vir¬ 
 gin Mary to send us some money to defray our char¬ 
 ges. Upon which they offered to run away; but Ro¬ 
 bin soon put an end to their eareer, and made them 
 go to prayers. 
 
 They had not been long at their supplications, be¬ 
 fore Robin bid one of the priests feel in his pockets 
 what the Virgin Mary had sent; upon which thev 
 both put their hands in their pockets, and pulled out 
 nothing. Robin upon this fell into a great passion 
 and told them, that he believed that they were nothing 
 but a parcel of lying deceitful knaves, to make him 
 believe the Virgin had sent them nothing. So Robin 
 searched their pockets, and found five hundred pieces 
 of gold. When he saw this sight, he could not for- 
 oear calling them lying and deceitful knaves. Soon 
 after they rose up to go, but Robin stopped them, and 
 made them take an oath never 10 tell lies to a friai 
 again, nor tempt young virgins, nor to lay with other 
 men’s wives. After which he returned to Sherwood, 
 where he made all his companions merry. 
 
 A gentleman riding from Coventry to London, me 
 with Rubin Hood, and thinking him to be an hones 
 gentleman, desired him t« turn back and gq mm 
 
fO THIS LIFE OF ROBIN HOOIJ. 
 
 other way, or else lie would certainly meet with sotn* 
 highwaymen, for he had narrowly escaped them him 
 self, and so advised him if he had any charge about 
 him, not to venture that way. “I have no charge 
 about me, sir,” said Robin ; “ however. I’ll take your 
 advice for fear of the worst.” So, as they were riding 
 along, said Robin, “perhaps we may meet with some 
 rogues of the gang by the way, for this is an ugly 
 robbing road; therefore I’ll secure what little I have, 
 by putting it into my mouth.” Now the gentleman, 
 not in the least suspecting him to be of that profes¬ 
 sion, told him that in case he should be set upon, he 
 had secured his gold in the feet of his stockings, 
 which he had received that day of bis tenants for 
 rent. They bad not gone above half a mile further, 
 before they came to a very bye-place, where Robin 
 bid the gentleman stand and delivei bis money. The 
 gentleman was in a great surprise, and told him he 
 look him for a very honest worthy person. However, 
 there was no remedy for the loss of his money, which 
 was about ninety marks. So Robin left the gentle¬ 
 man, cursing his folly for telling him where he had 
 hid his money. 
 
 Robin Hood’s adventure with the Sheriff of Not¬ 
 tingham, displays in a humorous manner, the spirit 
 of those times, and clearly shows las robberies were 
 «11 performed for the good of the poor. 
 
 One day, Robin meeting with a butcher going to 
 
 e market to sell his meat, bought his whole cargo, 
 and his mare with it, which came together to about 
 twenty pounds. With these Robin g-oes to market, 
 and sells his bargain presently, making such good 
 pennyworths, that all the people thought he stole it 
 which having converted into money, he puts into art 
 inn in Nottingham, and treats all the customers to 
 the value of live pounds, which coming to the Sheri It's 
 ears, who was at the same time in the same inn, and 
 rasing nun to ne some prodigal spark, of whom .* 
 m-iyb* make a peuuj’, intrudes into his company, ana 
 
THE LITE OP- S«G2» **<}&& 
 
 dfter some discourse, asked liim if he had nny more 
 meat to sell P “ Not ready dressed,” said Psbin ; “ bur 
 l have two or three hundred head of cat t .c at home, 
 and n hundred acres of land to keep them on, which 
 H you will buy, I’ll sell you or them a pennyworth.’ 1 
 The Sheriff snapped at the profiler, and took four hun¬ 
 dred pounds in gold with him. Away they rode toge. 
 ther- lmt he was very much surprised at the melan¬ 
 choly place that Robin had brought him to, and be- 
 gan to wish himself hack again, but it was then to« 
 late ; for Robin winding his horn, presently came 
 Tittle John, with fifty ot his companions, who were 
 commanded by Robin to take the Sheriff to dinner 
 with them, assuring them he had money enough to 
 pay his share. Accordingly, after dinner was over, 
 they led him into the forest, and there took ad his 
 gold from him. 
 
 Robin Hood, another time, was riding towards 
 London, and being on Dunsmore Heath, met with 
 William Longehamp, who was then Bishop of E.h, 
 with a small retiuue of about four or five iu number. 
 Immediately he rides up to one of the Bishop’s ser¬ 
 vants, whom he pretended to know. The discourse 
 which Robin had with the man, made his lordshb 
 and his retinue think him to be an honest man, am: 
 they held a great deal of chat with him on the road, 
 till at last an opportunity favouring his intention— 
 says he to the Bishop’s attendants, “I am very dry. 
 and since you are pleased to give me protection from 
 danger as far as I shall go your way, I’ll ride before 
 you, and see if I cau get any good liquor to treat you 
 for your civility, and shall be glad to lind any worth 
 your aceeplance.” So Robin sets spurs to his he'Je, 
 and rode away as if it had ^een for some wagers : 
 when, being out of sight, he quickly tied his horse 
 to a tree in a thick wood, which was on the side of 
 the road through which the bishop was to pass; and 
 Robin making what haste he could hack to the com¬ 
 pany, says, “0, gentlemen! I am mined and urn 
 
J2 THK LIFE OF ROBI n H <JOtV 
 
 done; for, by yonder lane, meeting with two rogues, 
 they have robbed me of all I had; they have takei 
 above forty marks from me; but the villains being 
 badly mounted, I don’t doubt but if you .vere to pur¬ 
 sue them, you’d soon take them.” 
 
 The bishop, pitying Robin’s loss, said to his ser¬ 
 vants, “let the poor fellow show you which way the 
 togues took, and go all of you after themand when 
 they came into a narrow lane, he gave them the di¬ 
 rections for pursuing the men; and away they rode 
 as fast as their horses could carry them to catch the 
 rogues. 
 
 But Robin’s business was with the bishop; and 
 Sack he goes immediately, and says to him, “sir, my 
 lime is but very short, and precious too, therefore you 
 must deliver the money you have, or expect the worst 
 of usage.” The bishop was very much surprised, but 
 not knowing how to help himself, was forced to give 
 him two hundred and fifty marks; and Robin, ma- 
 idng all expedition to the wood, there mounted his 
 norse, and rode off. Soon after, the bishop being met 
 by his servants, they told him they could not hear of 
 the rogues high or low. “ Ah! ” answered the bishop, 
 “the greatest rogue has been with me; for he that 
 pretended to be robbed of forty marks, has just now 
 made up the loss by robbing me of six times the 
 money. 
 
 In the road through Dunclmrch, where both roads 
 •oin the Chester road, he met with the parson of Fer¬ 
 ry-bridge, with a fat buck across his saddle, and dw 
 guised in a frock liice a countryman. Tin* divine d& 
 | J 2 ot know Robin now, who was on foot, with a short 
 quarter staff only ; and observed him to be well 
 mounted, resolved to rob him, and take his horse al¬ 
 io. Robin laid hold of the bridle of his horse, de¬ 
 manding him to dismount and deliver his money, 
 fie then, with a heavy whip he had in his hand, 
 struck at Robin such a blow as would have settled 
 but fre received it with his stuffy tybeo again 
 
fills, LIFE OF ROBIN fVOdt). 13 
 
 ■matching tlie bridle, with a stroke of his stick brought 
 the disguised parson down, notwithstanding which he 
 resisted, and a tough bout ensued ; but Robin being 
 jesolute, and swearing he must have his money, he 
 after a long encounter, surrendered both money and 
 horse, but begged hard for the latter, which was the 
 principal thing our hero wanted; so he mounted, and 
 as he rode off he told the priest he might do without 
 as he would not be wanted till Sunday, when he migh. 
 remember him in his orisons, matins, and vespers. 
 
 At Stratford, he met with a country dealer travel¬ 
 ling into Lancashire to buy goods. Robin and this 
 rider afterwards got acquainted together on the road. 
 At night they put up together at the Horse Shoe Inn, 
 at Daventry, where they supped off a quarter of veni¬ 
 son and a roasted goose. After supper, Robin pro¬ 
 posed a game of all-fours, on which they drank seve¬ 
 ral bottles of wine; when Robin wanted to sound the 
 depth of his pockets, which he was too close to let 
 him do that night, though he went to bed very drunk. 
 
 The next morning they breakfasted together, ami 
 agreed to travel towards Coventry; where, at the 
 White Bear they dined, and afterwards refreshed 
 .hemselves with the landlord, and had some excellent 
 wine and ale. After dinner, Robin told his fellow 
 traveller, that it was a dangerous road they had to 
 pass that evening, and therefore thought it advise- 
 able to conceal their money in their boots, or some 
 other secure place about them. The traveller at first 
 refused; but upon seeing Robin put a bag of gold 
 down, be drew out his and did the same. This revi¬ 
 ved Robin’s spirits much. In this manner, they tra¬ 
 velled several miles before an opportunity of place 
 presented, entertaining themselves with the valiant 
 exploits of bold archers and their men. 
 
 They rode very lovingly along, the traveller in¬ 
 tending that right to reach Litchfield; but when they 
 came to a place called Cuckoo’s Corner, which parts 
 the roads, Rubin told his companion that he vva? at 
 
THE LIFE OF ROBIN HOOD. 
 
 M 
 
 his journey’s end, he must instantly draw his boots off. 
 for there was no time to dispute. Upon which the tra ¬ 
 veller replied, “ I really thought as much, and suspected 
 it from the firsi hour I came into your company ” How¬ 
 ever, it was no time to hesitate or regret ; K b n took his 
 bag, in which were 'wo hundred pieces ofgold,dismounted 
 him, and took his horse With this booty, and being 
 alone, fearing also that his companions would blame Ins 
 absence, lie made directly for Sherwood Forest, tiding 
 through Warwickshire disguised as a page, and passed 
 the sheriff and his men in this disguise, without the ieast 
 molestation. 
 
 He is mentioned as having legal pretentions to the 
 Earldom of Huntingdon; but all agreed that he was once 
 a substantial yeoman, as well as most of his hundred 
 ^cherts. 
 
ROBIN HOOD'S 
 
 GARLAND. 
 
 Hie Pedigree , Education , and Marriage of Ro¬ 
 bin Hood , with Clorinda , Queen of Titbury- 
 Forest , supposed to be related to the Fiddlei 
 who played at his Wedding. 
 
 Kind gentlemen will you be patient awhile, 
 
 Aye, and then you shall hear, anon, 
 
 A very good ballad of bold Robin Hood, 
 
 A nd his brave man, Little John. 
 
 In Locksley town, in fair Nottinghamshire, 
 
 In merry sweet Locksley town, 
 
 There bold Robin Hood was born and bred, 
 
 Bold Robin of fame and renown. 
 
 The father of Robin a forester was, 
 
 And he shot with a lusty strong how, 
 
 Two North-country miles and an inch at a shot. 
 
 As the Finder of Wakefield does know. 
 
 Fo-r he brought Adam Bell, and Clim of ik* 
 C rough, 
 
 And William of Cloudeslie, 
 
 To shoot with our forester for forty marks, 
 
 And he manfully beat them all three. 
 
 His mother was niece to the Coventry knignt. 
 That Warwickshire man called Sir Guy, 
 
 Who stew tlte great boar that Lanas up at the gat* 
 Ur mum oust at tire Bull toils a uu. 
 
ROBm HOODS GARLAND. 
 
 Her brother was Gam well, of greai v Ganwcll-hall, 
 A noble house-keeper was he, 
 
 Aye—as ever broke bread in Nottinghamshire, 
 
 And a ’squire of famous degree. 
 
 The mother of Robin said to her husband, 
 ply honey, my love, and my dear, 
 
 «^et Robin and I ride this morning to Gamwell, 
 
 To taste my brother’s good cheer. 
 
 L An<5 be I grant thee thy boon gentle Joan ; 
 Take ane of my horses straightway, 
 
 The sun it is risen, therefore make thou haste, 
 
 For to-morrow is Christmas-day. 
 
 Then Robin Hood’s father’s grey gelding was bro’t, 
 And saddled and bridled was he, 
 
 Good wot, a blue bonnet and new suit of clothes, 
 
 And a cloak that reached down to his knee. 
 
 She got on her holiday girdle and gown, 
 
 They were of Lincoln green; 
 
 pirn cloth was home spun, but for colour and make, 
 Wight well have beseemed our queen. 
 
 And then Robin got on his basket-hilt sword 
 His dagger on the other side, 
 
 Lid said, my dear mother, let us haste to be gone, 
 
 A e have forty long miles for to ride. 
 
 When Robin had mounted his gelding so grey 
 His father without any trouble, 
 let her up behind him, and bid him not fear, 
 
 'or his gelding had oft carried double. 
 
 And when she was fix’d they rode to their neighbour's, 
 md drank and shook hands with them all; ° 
 hid then Robin gallop’d, and ne’er gave o’er 
 Till they ’lighted at Gamwell-hull. 
 
 ;*am now you may think, the right worshipful squire 
 Vas joytul his sister to gee, 
 
 ]or he kiss’d her, and press’d her, and swore by Lis troth, 
 -htJH m flsieproo deaf sister to me. 
 
HOIS IN HOOD'S OART,*ND. 17 
 
 Next morning when mass had been said in fhe chapel, 
 Six tables were set in the hall, 
 
 And in comes the squire and makes a short speech, 
 
 It was—Neighbours, you’re welcome all ; 
 
 But not a man here shall taste my March beer, 
 Till a Christmas carol be sung, 
 
 Then all clapp’d their hands, and they chorus’d with joy, 
 Till the whole house with echoes rung. 
 
 Now plenty of brawn, roast beef and plumb pies 
 Were sat upon every table, 
 
 And noble George Gainwell said. Eat and be merry 
 And drink too as long as you’re able. 
 
 When dinner was ended, his chaplain said grace, 
 And be merry my friends, said the squire, 
 
 It rains and it blows—but call for more ale, 
 
 And lay some more wood on the lire. 
 
 And now call up Little John hither to me, 
 
 For Little John is a line lad, 
 
 At gambols and juggling, and twenty such tricks, 
 
 As shall make you all merry and glad: 
 
 When Little John came, to gambols they went, 
 Both gentlemen, yeormn, and clown, 
 
 And what do you think?—why as true as I live, 
 
 Bjld Robin Hood put them all down. 
 
 And now you may think, the right worshipful squire, 
 Was joyful the sight for to see, 
 
 For he said, Cousin Robin, thou goest no more home, 
 But tarry and dwell here with me. 
 
 Thou shalt have my land when I die, and till then, 
 Thou shalt be the staff of my age; 
 
 Then grant me a boon, dear uncle, said Robin, 
 
 That Little John may be my page. 
 
 He said, Cousin Robin, 1 t thee I hy boon, 
 With all my heart, so let it be; 
 
 Then, come hither Little John, said Robin Hood, 
 Come hither my page unto me. , 
 
fH ROBIN HOOD’S GARLAND. 
 
 Go fetch me my bow, fetch my longest bow, 
 
 And broad arrows, one, two, and three; 
 
 For when ’tis fair weather, we’ll into Sherwood, 
 home merry pastime for to see. 
 
 When Robin Hood came aito merry Sherwood 
 He winded his horn so clear, 
 
 And twice five-aud-twenty good yeomen and bold. 
 Before Robin Hood did appear. 
 
 Where are yonr companions all? said Robin Flood, 
 For still 1 want forty and three ; 
 
 Then said a bold yeoman, lo! yonder they stand, 
 
 All under the greenwood tree. 
 
 When these words were spoken Clorinda came by, 
 The Queen of the Shepherds was she; 
 
 Her gown was of velvet as green as the grass, 
 
 And her buskin did reach to her knee. 
 
 Her gait it was graceful, her body was straight, 
 Her countenance free from all pride: 
 
 A bow in her hand, and a quiver of arrows, 
 
 Hung carelessly down at her side. 
 
 Her eyebrows were black, aye and so was her hair, 
 And her skin was as smooth as the glass. 
 
 Her visage spoke wisdom and modesty too. 
 
 Says Robin Hood, O such a lass ! 
 
 Says bold Robin Hood, fair lady whither away, 
 
 3)! whither fair iady away ? 
 
 And she made him answer, to kill a fat buck, 
 for. to-morrow is Titbury day. 
 
 Says Robin, fair lady, wilt thou wander with me, 
 A little to yonder green bower, 
 
 There sit down and rest you, and you will be sure. 
 Of a brace or a leash in an hour. 
 
 And as they were going towards the green bower, 
 Two hundred good bucks they espy’d; 
 
 She chose out the fattest that was in the herd, 
 
 Aau she shot b.r.cn quite thro’ side 
 
nOBitt HOOD'S GAKLAXD 
 
 ! 0 
 
 By the life of my body, then said liobiti Hat , 
 
 I never saw woman like thee, 
 
 fom’st thou from the east, or coru’st thou from the w est 
 Thou need’st not beg venison of me. 
 
 However, along if my bower you shall go, 
 
 And taste of the Forester’s meat; 
 
 And when they came there, tliey found very good cheer 
 Befitting such guests for to eat. 
 
 For there was hot venison and cold warden pies, 
 Cream clouted, and honey-comb plenty; 
 
 And there were serviteurs, besides Little John, 
 
 (food yeomen, at least four-and-tvventy. 
 
 Clorinda said, tell me your name gentle sir? 
 
 He answered, ’tis bold Robin Hood, 
 
 ’Squire Gamwell’s my uncle, but ail my delight, 
 
 Is to dwell iu merry Sherwood, 
 
 For it is a hue life, and void of all strife, 
 
 It is, sir, Clorinda replied ; 
 
 But Oh! said bold Robin, how blessed would 1 be 
 if Clorinda would be my sweet bride. 
 
 She blush’d at the motion, yet after a pause. 
 
 She said, Yes sir, with all my heart; 
 
 Then said Robin Hood, we will send fot a priest, 
 
 And be married before we do part: 
 
 But she answered, no sir, that may not be so, 
 
 For I must be at Titbury feast, 
 
 And if bold Robin will go thither with me, 
 
 I’ll make him the most welcome guest. 
 
 Said Robin Hood, reach me that buck, Littlejohn, 
 For I’ll go along with my dear ; 
 
 And bid my good yeomen kill six brace of bucks. 
 
 And meet me to-morrow just here. 
 
 Before they bad ridden five Staffordshire miles, 
 Eight yeomen that were too bold, 
 
 Bid Robin Hood stand and deliver his buck— 
 
 A truer tale never was told. 
 
20 
 
 ROBIN HOOD’? GARLAND. 
 
 No, faith I will not, said bold Robin; come John 
 Stand by me, and we will beat them all; 
 
 Then both drew their swords, and they cut and slash'd 
 Until five of the eight did fall. 
 
 The three that remain’d call’d to Robin for quarter 
 And pitiful John begg’d their lives; 
 
 His boon being granted, he gave them counsel, 
 
 And so they went home to their wives. 
 
 This battle was fought near Titbury town, 
 
 When bagpipers baited the bull; 
 
 I’m king of the fiddlers, and swear it is truth, 
 
 And calls him that doubts it a gull; 
 
 For 1 saw them fighting, and fiddled the while, 
 And Clorinda sung, Hey derry down, 
 l'he bumpkins are beaten—put up thy sword Bob. 
 And now let us dance into town. 
 
 When we came to it, strange shouting we heard, 
 And all that were in it looked madly; 
 l* or some were on bullback, some dancing a morice 
 And some singing Artliur-a-Bradley. 
 
 And there we saw Thomas, our Justice’s clerk, 
 
 And Mary, to whom he was kind; 
 
 For Tom rode before her, and call’d her madam, 
 
 And kiss’d her most sweetly behind. 
 
 And so may your worships—but we went to dinner, 
 With Thomas, and Mary, and Nan, 
 
 Who all drank a health to Clorinda, and told her, 
 Bold Robin Hood was a fine man. 
 
 When dinner was ended, Sir Roger, the parson, 
 Of Dunbridg** was sent for in haste ; 
 
 He brought his mass-book, and bid them take hands. 
 And joined them iu wedlock full fast. 
 
 Then bold Robin Hood, and his beautiful bride, 
 Went hand iu hand to the green bow’r; 
 
 The birds sung with pleasure in mer" v Sherwood, 
 
 At this their blest nuptial hour. 
 
 ■' ,, . • m ■' 
 
21 
 
 KOKIN HOOD’S GARLAND 
 
 When Robin came within sight of his bower, 
 Where are my good yeomen? said he— 
 
 Then Little John answered—Lo, yonder they stau& 4 
 All under the green-wood tree. 
 
 Then a garland they brought of lilies so fair, 
 
 And plac’d it upon the bride s head; 
 
 The music struck up, and they all went to dance, 
 
 Till the bride and the groom were in bed. 
 
 And what they did there, must be secret for me. 
 But yet they lay long the next day: 
 i drank ul the best, and I got a good piece 
 Of the bride’s cake, and so came away. 
 
 Alack! I’d forgotten to tell you a truth, 
 
 They were lawfully wed with a ring; 
 
 And I hope that they may many children beget. 
 
 And in Sherwood their praises i’ll sing. 
 
 [I .—Robin Hood's Progress to Nottingham. 
 
 Robin Hood was a tall young man, 
 
 Derry, demy down 
 
 And but fifteen winters old ; 
 
 And Robin was a comely lad, 
 
 Of courage stout and hold. Hey down , demy down 
 
 Robin Hood would unto fair Nottingham, 
 
 With the general for to dine; 
 
 Of fifteen foresters he was aware, 
 
 Drinking beer, ale and wine. 
 
 What news r—what news ?—said Robin Hood, 
 What news fain woulds’t thou know ? 
 
 If our king had appointed a shooting match. 
 
 I’m ready with my bow. 
 
 We hold it in scorn, the forester said. 
 
 That you before our King 
 Should bear a bow, that is so young, 
 
 And not able to draw one st ag. 
 
Ni&v . 
 
 22 ROBIN HOOD’S GARLAND. 
 
 I’ll hold twenty marks, said bold Robin Hoed, 
 By the leave of our lady— 
 
 That I’ll hit the mask an hundred rod, 
 
 And cause an hart to die. 
 
 We’ll hold twenty marks, the foresters said, 
 
 By the leave of our lady— 
 
 I'iiat thou hit not the mark an hundred rod. 
 
 And caused an hart to die. 
 
 Then Robin Hood bent a noble long bow, 
 
 And a broad arrow he let fly, 
 
 He hit the mark an hundred rod, 
 
 And caused an hart to die. 
 
 Some says he broke ribs one or two, 
 
 And some says he broke three; 
 
 In the hart the arrow would not abide, 
 
 But glanc’d against a tree. 
 
 The hart did skip, and the hart did leap, 
 
 And the hart lay on the ground; 
 
 The wager is mine, said Robin Hood, 
 
 If it were for a thousand pound. 
 
 The wager is not thirte, the forester said 
 Although thou be’st in haste, 
 
 Take up thy bow, and get thee hence, 
 
 Lest we thy sides do baste. 
 
 Then Robin Hood took up his noble long bow, 
 And his broad arrows all amain; 
 
 He said nought but smiled, and prepared to he go 
 And went whistling over the plain. 
 
 Then Robin Hood bent his noble long bow 
 And his broad arrows he let fly, 
 
 Till fourteen of the fifteen foresters, 
 
 On the grass did lie. 
 
 He that the quarrel first began 
 Prepared to run away; 
 
 But Robin quickly bent his bow. 
 
 Wbfob caused him to stav. 
 
■23 
 
 IN' HOOL)’s ARLAVD. 
 
 Quoth Robin, you said 1 no archer was, 
 
 But you’ll not say so again; 
 
 Another arrow then he sent. 
 
 Which split his heart in twain. 
 
 Thou’ve found me an archer, says Robin Hood, 
 Which will make your wives to ring; 
 
 But if you had been all honest men, 
 
 I had not done this thing. 
 
 The people that lived in fair Nottingham, 
 
 Came running out a pace, 
 
 Intending to take bold Robin ffcca 
 But they met with foul disgrace. 
 
 Some lost their legs, ai d some their arms, 
 
 And many lost their blood ; 
 
 But Robin Hood without jontrol, 
 
 Marched out of the green vood. 
 
 The bodies of these fort sters, 
 
 Which Robin’s arm laid 1 >w, 
 
 To Nottingham churck-yai i were convey’d 
 And buried all in a row. 
 
 111 —Robin Hood and the jolly Hindar oj 
 
 Wakefield. 
 
 In Wakelield there liv’d a jolly Finder, 
 
 In Wakefield all on the green. 
 
 In Wakefield, Ac. 
 
 Said this Pinder, there is neither knight nor squ.: 
 Nor baron that is so bold, Nor baron, Ac 
 
 Dare make a trespass on the town of Wakefield, 
 
 But his pledge goes to the pinfold. Bat his, v 
 
 Now, all this heard three gallant young men, 
 Twas Robin Hood, Scarlet, and John, 
 
 They enanceu to espy this jolly Pinder, 
 
 As he under a thorn. 
 
ROBIN HOOD’S GARLAND. 
 
 M 
 
 Now turn again, turn again, bumpkins, be s?.id, 
 How dare you tread down the corn ? 
 
 For you have foisaken the king’s highway, 
 
 And a wrong path you have gone. 
 
 Quoth Robin Hood, that were a very great shame. 
 We being three, and thou but one. 
 
 The Pincler then drew his rusty sword, 
 
 Though backing he had none. 
 
 He leaned his back unto a thorn, 
 
 And his foot against a stone, 
 
 And there he fought a long summer’s day, 
 
 With courage stout and true; 
 
 Until their swords and broad bucklers 
 All into pieces flew* 
 
 Hold thy hand, hold thy hand, said Robin Hooa 
 And my merry men all forbear; 
 
 For this is the stoutest Pinder by fur, 
 
 That I encountered e’er. 
 
 0! will thou forsake the Pinder's craft, 
 
 And live in the greenwood with me ? 
 
 At Michaelmas next, my covenant comes out, 
 
 " hen every man gathers his fee. 
 
 Then I will the bow and arrows take, 
 
 And plod to the green wood- 
 
 Taste mv bread and beef, and good brown ale 
 Quoth Robin I like such food. 
 
 If thou wilt forsake the Pinder’s craft, 
 
 To live on the Forester’s cheer, 
 
 A livery of brown, and another of green, 
 
 I will give thee twice in a year. 
 
 If Michaelmas day was hut come and gene. 
 
 And my master had paid me my fee, 
 
 Then would I care as little for him, 
 
 As my master doth for me. 
 
aOBIN uoort 9 OAKLAND. 
 
 « 
 
 IV .—Robin Hood aud the Bishop 
 
 Come gentlemen, and listen awhile, 
 
 With a hey down down, and a dc ti r. 
 And a story to you I’ll unfold, 
 
 How bold Robin Hood did the Bishop serve, 
 
 When he robbed his grace of his gold. 
 
 As it fell out on a sunshine day, 
 
 When Phoebus was in his prime— 
 
 Then bold Robin Hood, that archer so good, 
 
 In mirth would spend some time. 
 
 And as he ranged the forest so w ide, 
 
 Some pastime for tc espy, 
 
 There was he aware of a Bishop so proud, 
 
 And all his fat company. 
 
 Then Robin considered what he should do, 
 
 Not one of his men being near ; 
 
 Uuoth he, I’m afraid that I taken will be, 
 
 And the B.shop will hang me I fear. 
 
 i hen quickly he turned himself round about, 
 
 And a little house he did espy, 
 
 Where he ran with all speed, and to the old wife 
 He loudly began for to cry. 
 
 What stranger art thou, then the old woman saio 
 Or come thou for bad or for good? 
 
 1 am an outlaw, but I mean you no harm, 
 
 And . u y name it is bold Robin Hood. 
 
 Co! yonder’s the Bishop and all his tribe, 
 
 And if that I taken shall be, 
 
 No mercy he’ll have, but without more ado, 
 
 I i e’ll tie me fast up to a tree. 
 
 Then if vou be Robin Hood, said the oi i wil© 
 
 As thou dost appear unto me, 
 
 [’ll for i hoe provide, &rd safely hide, 
 
 Froir tire Bishop and his company. 
 
 c 
 
KOBlN HOOP'S RARI.AIVP 
 
 26 
 
 For I well remember on Saturday nigbt, 
 
 Thou broughtest to me shoes and hose, 
 
 Therefore, to oblige thee, I’m certainly bound, 
 And will hide thee safe from thy foes. 
 
 Then give to me quickly thy old coat of grey. 
 And take thou my mantle of green; 
 
 Thy spindle and twine unto me resign, 
 
 Take my bow and arrows so keen. 
 
 Now when bold Robin ITood was thus array'd 
 lie went his companions to see: 
 
 With his spindle and twine he oft look’d behind, 
 For the Bishop and Ms company. 
 
 When Little John saw him, he cried who is that 
 That yonder comes over the lee? 
 
 An arrow I quickly will at her let fly, 
 
 So like an old witch looks she. 
 
 Hold thy hand, Little John, said Robin Hood, 
 And shoot not thy arrows at me, 
 
 For I am Robin Hood, thy master so good, 
 
 As thou sluut presently see. 
 
 The Bishop came to the old woman’s house, 
 
 .And call’d with a furious mood; 
 
 Come make no delay, but bring unto me. 
 
 The hold traitor called Room Hood. 
 
 The old wife was set on a milk-white steed, 
 
 His grace upon a dapple grey, 
 
 And for joy Chat be had got bold Robin Hood, 
 
 He merrily galloped away. 
 
 But as they were riding the forest along, 
 
 The Bishop lie chanced to see, 
 
 An hundred hrave yeomen all gallant and gay 
 Stand under the green-wood tree. 
 
 0! who are those yonder, the Bishop he sai ; 
 That are ranged within the wood ? 
 
 Marry, qnoth the old wife, I take it to lie 
 A man called hold Robin Hood. 
 
21 
 
 ROilW FOOD’S GARLAND. 
 
 And pray vho ar. .sou, the Bishop reply 5 *!, 
 
 ^Vhich I have now ure with me P 
 i am an old woman .hou sooth-coloured rogue, 
 it you lift up my leg you may see. 
 
 Then wo is me, said the Bishop, that e’er 
 1 lived to travel this way— 
 
 Then turned to depart, but Robin cried out, 
 
 Good Bishop for company stay. 
 
 Then Robin Hood seiz’d the Bishop’s grev horse, 
 And tied him fast to a tree: 
 
 hittle John leap’d for joy at the Bishop’s sad case, 
 And danced and sung merrily. 
 
 Then Robin Hood took off the cloak from his back 
 And spread it upon the ground, 
 fhen out of the Bishop’s portmanteau he took 
 fhe sum of five hundred pounds. 
 
 ^ So now, Mr. Bishop, said Robin, depart; 
 
 Said Little John, that may not be, 
 
 for I vow and protest he shall sing us a mass, 
 
 Before that he goes from me. 
 
 Mien Robin took hold of his grace by the hand, 
 And bound him quite fast to a tree, 
 
 And made him sing mass, but the joke of ft was, 
 They laughed at his divinity. 
 
 And then they unbound him, and set him astride 
 Once more upon his dapple grey; 
 
 With his face to the a—, and the tail in his hand, 
 And thus he went jogging away. 
 
 V .—Pohin Hood and the Batcher. 
 
 Come all you brave gallants, and listen awhile, 
 
 i \ itfi (i hey doiCH^ down , ahd d down. 
 To the song [ intend for to sing; 
 
 ’Tis of bold Robin Hood, that archer so good, 
 
 W ho often has made ‘he woods ring. 
 
ja ROBIN hood's GAR LANK 
 
 11. happened once on a time to be so. 
 
 Bold Robin be chanc’d to espy 
 A jolly Butcher on a bonny fine mare, 
 
 With his flesh to the market did hie. 
 
 Good morrow, good fellow, to him Robin sals' 
 What geer hast thou got? tell to me; 
 
 Thy trade also tell, and where thou dost dwell. 
 
 For methinks thou art good company. 
 
 The Butcher then gave him to understand, 
 
 That his flesh he was going to sell; 
 
 To Nottingham town he was bound hastily, 
 
 But would not tell where he did dwell. 
 
 Quoth Robin I fain would a butcher appear, 
 Then if thou wilt sell unto me. 
 
 Thy flesh and thy mare, be they ever so dear, 
 f will instantly pay thee thy fe 7 
 
 For four marks the Butcher to Robin Hood sole 
 His flesh, and his honny grey are; 
 
 Then Robin away, without more delay, 
 
 To Nottingham town did repair. 
 
 In the mn where the Sheriff himself did put uo 
 Bold Robin his quarters bespoke; 
 
 But bow for to sell he did not know well, 
 
 So now you shall hear a fine joke. 
 
 When he open’d his shop, great business he gi 
 Insomuch that no other could thrive; 
 
 For more meat he did sell for one penny, 
 
 Than the others could do for five. 
 
 The butchers of Nottingham wondered how 
 This stranger such thrift could stand; 
 
 Which made them declare he must he some heir, 
 That has sold off his father’s land. 
 
 And now of his cattle he means to dispose, 
 Acquainted with him let us be; 
 
 A bargain we may purchase of him to-day, 
 
 He serims to be gallant a.n 1 free. 
 
RUBIN HOOD’S GARLAND. 
 
 Says one of them quickly I’ll up to lain g ; >, 
 
 And ask him to dinner and wine; 
 
 Then to him he said, we be all of a trade, 
 
 Come brother with me will you dine? 
 
 Then Robin consented, and thus to him said, 
 
 My brethren I will not denv ; 
 
 I’ll sell off my meat, and follow you straight, 
 
 As quickly as e’er I can hie. 
 
 Then Robin Hood followed without more ado. 
 Where the High Sheriff happened to be; 
 
 To him Robin said, I am a butcher to trade, 
 
 And am proud of thy company. 
 
 They sat down to dinner, and when they had done, 
 Bold Robin began for to roar : 
 
 Come let us be gay, for the reck’ning I’ll pay 
 though it cost me live pounds or more. 
 
 Then call’d for more wine, and be merry, he saia 
 ays tiie Sheriff'—he’s some prodigal, 
 
 And now I’ll try a good bargain to buy; 
 
 Hast thou horned beasts for to sell? 
 
 Y es, good Master Sheriff, says Robin, I have 
 Some hundreds which soon you may see, 
 
 Of which I will make you an assurance as true. 
 
 As ever my father made me. 
 
 The Sheriff then saddled his palfry so good, 
 
 And with three hundred pounds in gold, 
 
 He with Robin went to merry Sherwood, 
 
 His horned beasts to behold. 
 
 They had not rode far, when came tripping by,. 
 
 An hundred of good red deer; 
 
 Then Robin averr’d, that this was his lietd, 
 
 And swore they were both fat and fair. 
 
 Then Robin Hood set his horn to his mouth, 
 
 And blew out strong blasts three ; 
 
 The Sheriff' then said, of thet Tin afraid, 
 
 Tor I like not tuv uoinuany. 
 
 
■^P ftO'ttlN HOOD'S GAR t.A V t). 
 
 Then came Little John, and the re&i of his mer^, 
 drying master, you’re welcome here: 
 
 From Nottingham town the Sheriff came down. 
 
 To taste of the forester’s cheer. 
 
 If so, he is welcome to me T declare. 
 
 And I think he will honestly pay, 
 
 rie has store of gold, if it were hut well told. 
 
 Would serve us to drink a whole day. 
 
 His mantle then Robin took from his back, 
 t ud spread it upon the green grass, 
 
 ud into it told the Sheriff’s bright gold, 
 then told him he homeward might pass. 
 
 VI.— Robui Hood and the Tanner. 
 
 In Nottingham liv’d a jolly tanner, 
 
 With a hey down, doom and a door.. 
 His name it was Arthur-a-Bland ; 
 
 There’s not a squire in Nottinghamshire, 
 
 Dare bid bold Arthur to stand. 
 
 A long pike staff on his shoulder he bore, 
 
 With which he oft clear’d his way; 
 
 For two or three he would make for to flee, 
 
 And never would show them foul play. 
 
 One fair summer’s morning as he walked out. 
 
 To the forest of merry Sherwood, 
 
 To view the red deer that range here and there. 
 There he met with bold Robin Hood. 
 
 Then Robin resolved some sport for to make. 
 
 And said, fellow, what brings you here '( 
 
 In sooth to be brief, thou look’st like a thieJ 
 That’s come for to steal our king’s deer, 
 
 For l am a keeper within this wqq4, 
 
 Pur king hath put mu in trust. 
 
(to HI N HOOPS GARLaN’D 
 
 If thou be a keeper within this wood, 
 
 And has such a great command, 
 
 rikt thou must have more partakers in store, 
 
 Before thou shalt make me to stand. 
 
 I have no partakers, nor help do I need. 
 
 But I have a good oaken staff, 
 
 Which when thou wilt feel, ’twill make thee to reel 
 ’Twill tickle, but not make thee laugh. 
 
 Thy sword, how, and arrow, and stafl I despise, 
 And all thy fine armour to boot, 
 
 If I but come down with a crack on thy crown, 
 ’Twill teach thee a new way to shoot. 
 
 We’ll measure our weapons, said hold Robin, 
 Quoth Arthur, 1 will not agree ; 
 
 Eight feet of a stafl would knock down a calf, 
 
 And I hope it will level thee 
 
 So then they prepared without more delay, 
 
 And fell to each other to ding; 
 
 At every bang, the oak it went twang, 
 
 And made the whole forest to ring. 
 
 The battle it lasted for two hours, ave, more. 
 
 And the strokes did so heavily fall, 
 
 Thai the blood ran down from each other’s crown; 
 Then Robin to Arthur did call— 
 
 Enough of this work honest friend, hold thy bane. 
 And deal not so roughly with me, 
 
 For I swear by the rood in merry Sherwood, 
 Henceforth thou shalt ever be free. 
 
 Much thanks to my staff for that favour I owe, 
 Since with it my freedom I’ve bought: 
 
 Quoth Robin, what trade art thou honest blade, 
 That so well my hide hast wrought.'* 
 
 Quoth Arthur, I’ll answer you that in a trice, 
 
 For a stout hearty blade you appear; 
 
 A Tauuer I am, and in fair Nottingham 
 l Jwe $if wans a pai, 
 
ROBIN HOoO'S GAR/.ANiW 
 
 
 Said liobin, if thou wilt forsake thy trade. 
 
 And in the greenwood live with me; 
 
 Vty name’s Robin Hood, and I swear by the rood, 
 fhou shait have gold plenteously-. 
 
 Bold Arthur replied, if thou be Robin Hood, 
 
 As I do believe thou art, 
 
 Then here is my hand, my name’s Arthur-a-Bland, 
 And I hope we two never will part. 
 
 But tell, 0 tell me, where is Little John ? 
 
 Df that young man fain would I hear, 
 
 For we are allied by the mother’s side, 
 
 So that he is my kinsman near. 
 
 Then Robin Hood blew on his bugle horn-, 
 
 A blast both loud and shrill, 
 
 When quickly anon, appeared Little John, 
 
 Come tripping it down a green hill. 
 
 Oh! what is the matter? then Said Little John, 
 
 1 pray to me hastily tell ? 
 
 W by thus do you stand with your staff in your basin, 
 
 I fear with you all is not well. 
 
 A stout hearty fellow had made me to stand. 
 
 This Tanner that stands by my side, 
 
 He is a bonny blade, and expert at his trade. 
 
 For he soundly hath tanned my hide. 
 
 He is much to be praised, then said Little John, 
 
 If a feat such as that he can do; 
 
 Altho’ he’s so stout, with him I’ll have a bout, 
 
 And try if he’ll tan mine too. 
 
 Hold thy hand, Little John, then said Robin Rood, 
 i For as I do understand, 
 j He’s a yeoman bold, and of thy own blood, 
 
 His name is Arthur-a-Blaud. 
 
 They flew to each other, and kindly etuhr.s.-M, 
 
 They were neither nice nor coy ; 
 
 , Of loving respect there was no neglect, 
 i kind buih uf then* wept ioTjqVt 
 
ROBIN HOOD S GARLAND. 
 
 3? 
 
 Tlien Robin took them each by the hand, 
 
 ' nd they danc’d about an oak tree, 
 
 Singing three merry men as there be in the land, 
 
 And jolly good fellows are we. 
 
 And ever hereafter as long as we live, 
 
 We will be united as one; 
 
 The woods will ring, and the old wives shall sing, 
 
 Jf Robin Hood, Arthur, and John. 
 
 VII .—Robin Hood and the jovial Tinker. 
 
 In summer time when leaves are green, 
 
 Down , a down, a down 
 
 And birds chaunt melody, 
 
 Robin Hood went to Nottingham 
 Some pastime for to see. 
 
 Hey down , a doivn, a down 
 
 And as became towards Nottingham, 
 
 A Tinker he did meet; 
 
 And seeing him a lusty blade, 
 
 He kindly did him greet. 
 
 What trade art thou? quoth Robin Hood, 
 
 Where dost thou live, tell me? 
 
 I am a Tinker to my trade, 
 
 And live at Banbury. 
 
 There's news aoroad, quoth Robin Ho d, 
 
 And it is as 1 do hear : 
 
 Two tinkers that were put in stocks, 
 
 For drinking ale and beer. 
 
 If that be all, the Tinker said, 
 
 Then I may say to you— 
 
 Tour news is not worth a f-1, 
 
 Albeit it was true. 
 
 What news abroad? quoth Robin Hood, 
 
 You have news 1 know full well; 
 
 For one what goe9 from town to town, 
 
 Must uecds have some to tell. 
 
34 ROBIN HOODS r, S HJ.a i* t». 
 
 The news I hear, the Tinker said, 
 
 I know is meant for good; 
 
 It is to seek a bold outlaw, 
 
 Whom they call Robin Hood. 
 
 I have a warrant from the king 
 T o take him where I can ; 
 
 [f you can tell me wheie he is, 
 
 I will make you a man. 
 
 Then Robin Hood unto him said* 
 Let me the warrant see; 
 
 Perhaps it is not rightly drawn, 
 
 Which thou hast got with thee. 
 
 That I will not, the Tinker said. 
 None with it I will trust; 
 
 And where is he ? if you’ll not tell, 
 lake him by force I must. 
 
 Now Robin Hood perceiving well. 
 How that the game would go, 
 
 Said let us haste to Nottingham, 
 i We’ll find him there I know. 
 
 The Tinker had a crab-tree staff, 
 Which was both stout and strong * 
 [And Robin had a trusty blade, 
 jSo they both jogg’d along. 
 
 And when they came to N9ttingh«g& 
 There they took up their inn, 
 find loudly called for ale and wine, 
 And did to drink begin. 
 
 But then they drank so very fast, 
 The Tinker he forgot 
 What thing he was about to do— 
 
 J3ut Robin Hood did not. 
 
 For when the Tinker fell asleep, 
 flobin made haste away, 
 
 And laid his comrade in the lurch, 
 l'he reck’uing for to pav. 
 
3 
 
 ROBIN' TTnoo’s OARLyNP. 
 
 But when the Tinker lie awoke, 
 
 And found that all was gone, 
 
 He then enquired for his host. 
 
 And thus lie made his moan— 
 
 I had a warrant from the king, 
 
 That might have done me good, 
 
 It was to seize a hold outlaw, 
 
 Whom they call Robin Hood. 
 
 My warrant now, and money’s gene, 
 I’ve nought wherewith to pay ; 
 
 For he that seemed to he my friend, 
 
 Has taken all away. 
 
 This friend you speak of, said the hos t 
 Is that same Robin Hood; 
 
 Far better when you met with him, 
 
 You had left him where he stood. 
 
 Had T but known that it was he. 
 
 \V}ule he remained here, 
 
 My crab-tree staff had been employ’d, 
 
 To give him other cheer. 
 
 In the meanwhile I must away, 
 
 No longer here I’ll abide. 
 
 For I will go and seek him out, 
 
 Whatever shall betide. 
 
 But first the reck'mng I must know. 
 Before I go away: 
 
 Ten shillings, answered the host, 
 
 Is what there is to pay. 
 
 Then keep you here this working bag 
 And my good hammer loo. 
 
 And if I light upon that knave, 
 
 You soon shall have your due. 
 
 The only way then, said the host, 
 h not to stand in fear, 
 
 But seek him out among the wood? 
 Slaying the king’s fat deer. 
 
36 
 
 VtOHSN BOOB’S WARI.ANB. 
 
 The Timte? then set off with speed 
 And made no more delay, 
 
 Until he found outRjbin Hood, 
 
 All in the green wood gay. 
 
 He there espy’d this yeoman bold, 
 
 A hunting of the deer; 
 
 What knave art thou? quoth Robin Hood, 
 That dare approach me here ? 
 
 No knave am I, the Tinker said 
 And that you soon shall know, 
 
 Which of us twain had done the most w?cn<' 
 My crab-tree staff shall show. 
 
 Then Robin drew his shining blade, 
 
 Made of the trusty steel; 
 
 So well the Tinker played his part, 
 
 He soon made Robin reel. 
 
 Then Robin’s anger did arise, 
 
 He fought right manfully. 
 
 Until he nearly had oblig’d 
 The Tinker for to flee. 
 
 More furious now they laid about. 
 
 And ply’d their weapons fast; 
 
 13 ut Robin to the Tinker was, 
 
 Obliged to yield at last. 
 
 A boon, a boon, then Robin crie 3 , 
 
 \ T pmv thou grant to me— 
 
 Bexore I do, the Tinker said, 
 
 I’ll hang thee on this tree. 
 
 Then Robin Hood with might and rnairu 
 His horn he loudly blew, 
 
 Then came unto him Little John, 
 
 And brave Will Scarlet too, 
 
 Now master tell quoth Little John, 
 
 What is the matter here 
 
 This Tinker, answered Robin Ilood, 
 
 11 '' made me pay tuff dear. 
 
3? 
 
 ROBIN HOOD’S GARLAND. 
 
 Then I will try, quoth Little John, 
 (Vhat he can do with me, 
 
 For sure he must he wond’rovs brave, 
 That thus could conquer thee. 
 
 That must not be, said Robin Hood, 
 Here let the quarrel cease; 
 
 The Tinker’s friend I’ll ever prove. 
 
 And live with him in peace. 
 
 A hundred pounds I’ll freely give, 
 
 For he hath earned it well; 
 
 He shall have more if here with us. 
 
 He shall consent to dwell 
 
 The Tinker straightway did agree, 
 With them to go along, 
 
 Resolving for to share their fate, 
 
 And thus I end my song. 
 
 VIII .—Robin Hood and Allen-a-Ih3$f. 
 
 Come listen to me you gallants so free, 
 
 And you that love mirth for to hear, 
 
 And I will tell you of a bold outlaw, 
 
 That liv’d in Nottinghamshire. 
 
 As Robin Hood in the greenwood stood, 
 
 All under the green-wood tree; 
 
 There was be aware of a brisk young man, 
 
 As line as fine may be. 
 
 This youth was clothed in a scarlet coat. 
 
 All laced fine and gay; 
 
 ind he did frisk it o’er the plain, 
 
 And chaunted a round-de-lay. 
 
 As Robin Hood next morning stood, 
 
 Among the leaves so green, 
 
 This same young man came drooping by 
 Which he before had sc-m. 
 
<8 ' * .^SSS« 6A«L»r«t#. 
 
 Tiro stasa*} the iiaj before, 
 
 Was changed sow to grey, 
 
 And every step he fetched a sigh, 
 
 Alack! and a well-a-day. 
 
 Then stepped forth brave Litfle Jchfit 
 And Midge the miller’s son, 
 
 Which made the young man bend his bow. 
 When forth he saw them come. 
 
 Stand off, stand off, the young man said, 
 What is your will with me ? 
 
 You must before our master come, 
 
 Under yon green-wood tree. 
 
 And when he came before Robin Hood, 
 Bold Robin asked him then, 
 
 Oh! hast thou any money to spare, 
 
 For me and my merry men? 
 
 I have no money, the young man said, 
 
 But five shillings and a ring, 
 
 Which I have kept these seven long years, 
 i’o have at my wedding. 
 
 Yestreen I should have married a maid, 
 
 But she was from me ta.en, 
 
 And chosen to be an old knight’s wife, 
 
 By which my heart is slain. 
 
 What is thy name ? then Robin said, 
 
 Come tell me without fail, 
 
 By the faith of my body, then said the youth. 
 My name is Allen-a-Daie. 
 
 What wilt thou give? said Robin Hood, 
 
 In ready gold to me, 
 
 fo bring thee to thy own true love. 
 
 And gbm her unto thee. 
 
 1 have no gold, the young man said, 
 
 Or I would freely give ; 
 
 But I will swear upon the bonk, 
 
 Thy servant true to live. 
 
ROBIN’ HOOD’S GABLANb. ' 
 
 How far is it to thy true love;’ 
 
 Come tell me without guile; 
 
 Believe me, sir, the young man said) 
 
 It is but live short miles. 
 
 Then Robin hasted o’er the plain, 
 
 And no where did abide, 
 t ntil he came unto the church 
 And searched for the bride. 
 
 ^ What dost thou here, the Bishop said, 
 Come quickly tell to me, 
 
 I’m a harper bold, quoth Robin Hood, 
 
 And the best in this country. 
 
 O then thou’rt welcome, the Bishop said. 
 Such music pleaseth me; 
 
 You shall have no music, quoth Robin Hoes 
 Till the bride and the bridegroom I see. 
 
 With that came in a noble knight. 
 
 Who was both grave and old. 
 
 And after him a smiling lass, 
 
 She shone like glittering gold 
 
 This is a wrong match, Robin said, 
 
 Which you’ve contrived bcre, 
 
 And since we are come into church, 
 
 The bride shall choose ner dear. 
 
 Then Robin Hood took out his horn, 
 
 Cid blew blasts two or three, 
 
 Yhen four and twenty bowmen bold, 
 
 Came leaping o’er the lea. 
 
 And when they came to the church-yard* 
 Ail marching in a row, 
 
 The first man was Allan-a-Dale, 
 
 Who held bold Robin’s how. 
 
 This is thy love, quoth Robin Hood. 
 
 Young Allen as you say, 
 
 Therefore you shall be married straight, 
 
 Kre we do part this day. 
 
«0 
 
 ROBIN HOOD’S GARLAND. 
 
 Thiit may not be, the Bishop said, 
 for thy words will not stand, 
 
 They must be thrice proclaimed in church, 
 / Tis the law of the land. 
 
 Robin pulled off the Bishop’s coat. 
 
 And put it on Little John, 
 
 Look big, quoth Robin, for by my faith, 
 j'his cloak makes thee a man. 
 
 When Little John went to the choir, 
 
 All laugh’d that did him view, 
 
 lie call’d them seven times in the church. 
 
 Lest three times should not do. 
 
 Who gives this maid, quoth Little John, 
 liuoth Robin Hood, ’tis I, 
 
 And he that takes her from Allen-a-Da!e, 
 i I c must her dearly buy. 
 
 Now having joined this youthful pair, 
 
 I'he bride look’d like a queen; 
 
 &o they returned to the green wood, 
 
 Among the leaves so green. 
 
 IX.— Robin Hood, Little John , and tkt 
 
 Shepherd. 
 
 All gentlemen and yeomen bold, 
 
 Doumy a down, a doivn. 
 
 I wish you to draw near, 
 
 And a story of bold Robin Hood, 
 
 To you I will declare. 
 
 Doivn , a down, a down 
 
 As Robin Hood the forest ranged, 
 
 Some pastime to espy, 
 
 There was he aware of a Shepherd swain, 
 
 That on the ground did lie. 
 
41 
 
 ROBIN HOOD’S CARIANQ. 
 
 Arise, arise, bold llohin said, 
 
 And straightway tell to me, 
 
 What’s in thy bottle and thy bag 
 Coine quickly let me see? 
 
 What’s that to thee, thou saucy blade, 
 That does before me stand ? 
 hire thou dost know what they Ciitain, 
 
 1 must see thy command. 
 
 My sword that hangeth by my side, 
 
 Is the command I’ll show ; 
 
 Come, let me of thy bottle taste. 
 
 Or it may breed thee woe. 
 
 The devil a drop, thou proud fellow 
 Of it I will give thee, 
 
 Until thy valour first be tried, 
 
 Whether thou’lt fight or flee. 
 
 Then let us fight, bold Robin said, 
 
 For what my purse contains ; 
 
 Here’s twenty pounds in sterling gold, 
 
 And win it for thy pains. 
 
 The Shepherd stood all in amaze, 
 
 And knew not what to say; 
 
 I have no coin thou proud fellow, 
 
 But bottle and bag I’ll lay. 
 
 I am content, thou Shepherd swain. 
 
 Fling them down on the ground; 
 
 I’m sure ’twill breed thee mickle pain, 
 
 To win my twenty pound. 
 
 Come, draw thy sword, the Shepherd said. 
 Thou standest too long to prate ; 
 
 This hook of mine shall let thee know, 
 
 A coward I do hate. 
 
 So they fell to it hard and sore, 
 
 'Twas on a summer’s day : 
 
 From ten till four in the afternoon, 
 
 They at this work did play. 
 
4 3 
 
 ItOblN HOOD'S CA.IU.AW0. 
 
 Cold Robin’s buckler proved bis I'ncud 
 And sav’d him many a blow j 
 Vor every stroke the Shepherd gave, 
 
 Poor Robin cried out—Oh ! 
 
 For many a sturdy stroke he dealt, 
 
 Ancl that bold Robin found, 
 
 Until the blood ran trinkling down, 
 
 I'iien he fell to the ground. 
 
 Arise, arise, thou proud fellow. 
 
 And thou shalt have fair play, 
 j)r thou must yield before I go, 
 
 That J have win the day. 
 
 A boon, a boon, cried Robin Hood, 
 
 If that a man thou be, 
 
 And let me lake my bugle horn, 
 
 Until I blow blasts three. 
 
 Unto him then, the Shepherd said — 
 Vo that I will agree, 
 for if thou blow until the morn, 
 
 seoru one foot to llee. 
 
 Then Robin set his horn to his mouth, 
 And blew with might and main, 
 
 Until he spied Little John 
 dome tripping o’er the plain. 
 
 O! who is that! the Shepherd said* 
 That comes down yonder hill: 
 
 That’s Little John, Robin Hood’s man 
 He’ll fight with thee thy fill. 
 
 Says John—what is the matter here,, 
 Pray Master now with thee? 
 
 My ease is bad, cries Robin Hood, 
 
 This Shepherd conquers me. 
 
 If that’s the case, said Little John, 
 He must be brave I know, 
 
 Cut a bout with him I mean to have, 
 Before that he does go. 
 
rWith all my heart, the Shepherd cried 
 for it shall ne’er be said, 
 
 A Shepherd swain by thy big words 
 Will one jot be dismayed. 
 
 So they fell to it hard and fast, 
 Contending eagerly ; 
 
 Says John, we’ll know, e’er we give o’®, 
 Who’ll gain the victory. 
 
 The Shepherd he gave John a blow, 
 
 With his hook on the chin, 
 
 Beshrew my heart, said Little John, 
 
 Thou roughly does begin. 
 
 That nothing is, the Shepherd said, 
 
 Field thou to me this day, 
 
 3r rougher treatment thou wilt get. 
 
 Before thou go away. 
 
 'What! dost thou think, thou proud fel«o < ® 
 That thou vanst conquer me ? 
 
 Nay, thou shalt know that I will fight, 
 Before that 1 will Hee. 
 
 With that they did begin again. 
 
 And would have fought still on; 
 
 But Robin Hood cried—hold thy hand, 
 
 1 yield, the wager’s won. 
 
 With all my heart, said Little John, 
 
 To that I will agree, 
 
 For lie’s the dower of shepherd swains, 
 
 IT is like I ne’er did see. 
 
 Thus have you heard of Robin Hood, 
 
 Also of Little John— 
 
 How that a Shepherd fought with them. 
 
 And conquered them anon. 
 
44 
 
 ROBIN aoni)’? OART.ANb. 
 
 X.— The famous battle between Robin Ilooil axe 
 the Courtal Friar of Fountain-Dale. 
 
 In summer time when leaves are green. 
 
 4.nd flowers fresh and gay, 
 
 Robin Hood and his merry men, 
 
 Disposed were to play. 
 
 And some would leap, and some would run, 
 
 Some use artillery: 
 
 Quoth Robin, which can shoot the best 
 In all my company. 
 
 Which of you here can kill a buck i 
 Or who can kill a doe ? 
 
 Or who can kill a hart of Greece 
 Five hundred feet him fro’ ? 
 
 Will Scarlet he did kill a buck, 
 
 And Midge lie kill’d a doe, 
 
 And Little John a hart of Greece, 
 
 Five hundred feet him fro’. 
 
 Joy on thy heart, said Robin Hood 
 That you can shoot so true; 
 
 I’d ride my horse an hundred miles. 
 
 To And out one like you. 
 
 This caused Will Scarlet for to laugh 
 Which he did heartily : 
 
 And said—I know a Courtal Friar, 
 
 Will beat both him and thee: 
 
 The Courtal Friar of Fountain-Daio, 
 
 Can draw ^ ongbew; 
 
 He’ll bea' f;oini and your yeomen. 
 
 Set them w. 
 
 Robin Hood swore a solemn oath. 
 
 It was by our lady ; 
 
 That he would neither eat nor drink 
 Until this Friar he’d see. 
 
ROBIN HOOD'.-) GARLAN& 
 
 He then put on his harness good, 
 And cap of steel also, 
 
 Broad sword and buckler by his side, 
 He made a gallant show. 
 
 His bow he carried in his hand, 
 Made of a trusty tree ; 
 
 And sheaf of arrows on his hack. 
 
 To Fountain-Dale went he. 
 
 And coming to fair Fountain-Dale, 
 Hs shortly there espy’d, 
 
 The Courtal Friar that he did seek, 
 Near to a river’s side. 
 
 The Friar he was harness’d too, 
 
 And no way seem’d afraid ; 
 
 Broad sword and buckler by his side, 
 
 A stout and gallant blade. 
 
 Robin thpn ’lighted off his horse, 
 And ty’d him to a thorn ; 
 
 Carry me over thou Courtal Friar, 
 
 Or else thy life’s forlorn. 
 
 The Friar stoop’d to Robin Hood, 
 Robin did him bestride; 
 
 The Friar spoke neither bad nor good. 
 But swam to the other side. 
 
 Robin leaped off the Friar’s back, 
 Who to him thus did speak— 
 
 Carry me over as I did thee, 
 
 Or soon thy heart shall ake. 
 
 Then Robin stoop’d as he had dona. 
 To let the Friar ride 
 And did not speak one single word, 
 
 Till at the other side. 
 
 The Friar leap’d off Robin’s back, 
 Says Robin once again, 
 
 Carry me o’er, thou Courtal Friar, 
 
 Ur it sduUJ breed thee ^uiiu, 
 
ROBIN HOOD’S GARLAK& 
 
 16 
 
 The Friar once more took him up, 
 
 But soon as e’er he came, 
 
 Into the midst, he instantly, 
 
 Threw .Robin in the stream. 
 
 Now take thy choice, the Friar saifl, 
 I’ll carry thee no more; 
 
 So either to the bottom sink, 
 
 Or safely swim to shore. 
 
 Soon Robin reach’d a bush of broom, 
 The Friar a willow wand: 
 
 Bold Robin Hood without delay, 
 
 Did leap upon the land. 
 
 And then an arrow at the Friar, 
 
 He in a rage let fly; » 
 
 The Friar with his buckler straight, 
 
 Did put the arrow by. 
 
 .Shoot on, shoot on, thou fine fellow. 
 Shoot as thou hast begun; 
 
 If thou shoot a whole summer’s day, 
 
 Thy mark I will not shun. 
 
 Robin Hood shot so very fast, 
 
 His arrows all were spent. 
 
 With sword and buckler instantly 
 To cut und slash they went. 
 
 From ten o’clock till it was four, 
 
 From morn till afternoon, 
 
 They bravely fouglit, when Robin 
 Kneel’ddown to ask a boon. 
 
 A boon I ask, thou Courlal Friar, 
 
 I beg it on my knee— 
 
 To set my horn up to my mouth. 
 
 And blow out strong blasts three. 
 
 That I will grant, the Friar said, 
 
 I value not a blast; 
 
 I hope thou’lt blow so passing well, 
 Thou’lt break thy wind at lust. 
 
ROBi* IMWtt <9 tiMui-Xuaym 
 
 Then Robin took his bugle-horn, 
 
 And blew out strong blasts three, 
 
 When fifty yeomen stout and bold 
 Came running o’er the lea. 
 
 Whose men are these? the Friar said, 
 That comes so hastily; 
 
 These are my men, said Robin Hoo</ 
 Prepared to fight for me. 
 
 I ask a boon, then said the Friar, 
 
 The like i gave to thee, 
 
 To set my list up to my mouth, 
 
 And let me sound whutes three. 
 
 That I will grant, said Robin Hou4, 
 Else I were much to blame, 
 
 Kor as thou granted my request, 
 
 By thee I’ll do the same. 
 
 The Friar then set up Ids fist, 
 
 And loudly gave whutes three • 
 
 When half a hundred grea bay dogs, 
 Came to him o’er the lea. 
 
 Here is for every man i dog, 
 
 And I myself for thee; 
 
 May, by my faith, said Robin Hood, 
 l'o that I’ll ne’er agree. 
 
 Two dogs then flew at Robin Hood, 
 Behind him and before; 
 
 ! I is mantle line, of Lincoln green, 
 
 Off from his hack they tore. 
 
 And though his men shot east and west*. 
 Though they shot north and south, 
 
 The Courtal dogs, so taught were they, 
 Caught the arrows in their mouth. 
 
 Call off thy dogs, said Litle John, 
 
 Lest thou repent it soon: 
 
 Whose man art thou? replied the Ftiaa 
 That dares to ask that bom? 
 
<s§ ROBIN hood’s GARLAND. 
 
 I’m Little John, Robin Hood’s man, 
 
 And scorn to tell a lie; 
 
 If thou wilt not call off thy dogs. 
 
 Thou soon shall see them die. 
 
 Then little John did bend his bow, 
 
 And shot with might and main, 
 
 When half a score of these great dogs, 
 
 Lay dead upon the plain. 
 
 Oh! hold thy hand, the Friar said, 
 
 And I will straight agree, 
 
 For to call off my mastiff dogs, 
 
 With all haste that may be. 
 
 Quoth Robin Hood, leave Fountain-Dale. 
 And Fountain-Abbey too, 
 
 And live with me in Nottinghamshire, 
 
 A yeoman good and true. 
 
 Thou shalt a gay green garment have, 
 besides a golden fee; 
 
 And feast each day on venison, 
 
 Under the green-wood tree. 
 
 This Friar had kept Fountain-Dale, 
 
 For seven long years and more, 
 
 And neither earl, lord, knight, nor soulre, 
 Could make him yield before. 
 
 XI .—Robin Hood's Meeting , and Bloody Fig & 
 with his Cousin , Will Scarlet. 
 
 Come listen ail you gentlemen, 
 
 With a hey down , and a dorm. 
 
 Who dwell in the bower within; 
 
 For a story of bold Robin Hood, 
 
 1 purpose to bc<jiu. 
 
 
AOBIN HOOD'S OAKLAND. 
 
 49 
 
 What time of day? quoth Robin Hood, 
 Quoth Little John, ’tis prime, 
 
 Why then we will to the green wood, 
 
 And choose our food in time. 
 
 As Robin ranged the forest wide, 
 
 In the midst of the day, 
 
 He there espy’d a gay young man, 
 
 As ever walked that way. 
 
 His doublet was of finest silk, 
 
 His stockings scarlet shone, 
 
 With cap and feather nice aud gay, 
 
 To Robin then unknown. 
 
 A herd of aeer was in the bend. 
 
 Feeding before his face, 
 
 The best of you to my dinner. 
 
 I’ll have in little space. 
 
 The styanger made no more ado, 
 
 But bends a good strong bow ; 
 
 The best buck in the herd he slew, 
 
 Full forty yards him fro’. 
 
 Well shot, well shot, said Robin Hood, 
 That’s a good bow of thine, 
 
 And if thou wilt accept the place, 
 
 Thou shalt be a yeoman of mine. 
 
 Go play thee, sir, the stranger said. 
 Make haste and prate no more, 
 
 Jr, with my fist, be sure of it, 
 
 I’ll give thee buffets sore, 
 
 Buflet n-ot me, quoth Robin Hood, 
 Although I am forlorn, 
 
 Vet I have them that will take my part, 
 
 If I but sound my horn. 
 
 To wiud thy horn, the stranger said 
 I pray be not so fast; 
 
 For I can draw a good broad sword, 
 
 And quickly cut thy hhist 
 
 S 
 
50 
 
 rtwhi* «,UGOS GA lit A ?<SV 
 
 Then Robin, bent a tine long bow 
 And he to shoot was fain, 
 
 But that the Stranger bent one too. 
 
 To shoot at him again. 
 
 Oh! hold thy hand, said Robin Hood, 
 
 To tight it thus were vain; 
 
 For it we at each other shoot, 
 
 One of us must be slain. 
 
 Let’s take our swords and buckler’s broad. 
 And fight under yon tree, 
 
 With all my heart, the stranger said, 
 
 I’ll quickly go with thee. 
 
 Soon Robin lent him such a stroke, 
 is almost laid him low; 
 
 The Stranger cried, I am in thy debt. 
 
 And soon returned the blow. 
 
 Which bitting Robin with full force, 
 Upon the very crown, 
 
 That from each hair the crimson Rood, 
 
 Full fast ran trinkling down. 
 
 Mercy I crave, quoth Robin Hood, 
 
 I yield, the battle’s won ; 
 
 Then, pry time, tell me who thou art, 
 
 For, fellow thou hast none. 
 
 The Stranger answered Robin then. 
 
 That to thee will I tell; 
 
 In Max wed. I was born and bred, 
 
 My name is young Gamwell. 
 
 For killing of my father’s steward, 
 
 ’m forc’d to the green-wood, 
 
 Hi re .trc to see an uncle dear, 
 
 Who they cull Robin Hood. 
 
 A ne hew thou of Robin Hoodr 
 Pn. glad ur Quarrel’s done, 
 
 Indeed I a , trio,Stranger said,. 
 
 His sister’s o 'y son 
 
Ruins HOOD S GARLAND, 
 
 What joy was thou between them both, 
 they did each other greet; 
 
 And then went forth without delay, 
 
 With Little John to meet. 
 
 And when they met with Little John, 
 He to his Master said— 
 
 O ! Master, pray where have you been? 
 You have so long delay’d. 
 
 This Stranger here, said Robin 
 Had fought with me full sore; 
 
 To him I was obliged to yield, 
 find forced to give it o’er. 
 
 Quoth Little John, then I with him 
 Will quickly have a bout, 
 
 And try if he can conquer me, 
 
 And force me to give out. 
 
 0 no—0 no—said Robin Hood, 
 
 That shall not be the case, 
 
 For he’s my sister’s only son, 
 
 And we will live in peace. 
 
 He shall a yeoman be of mine, 
 
 And chief one next to thee ; 
 
 And we will be as brave outlaws, 
 
 As any in the North-country. 
 
 PART IL 
 
 Bold Robin he would northward 
 With valour aud with might, 
 
 With sword by which he often nan 
 Recovered his right. 
 
 The first he met, a bonny Scot, 
 His servant fain would be: 
 
 No, Robin said, thou can’t he 
 
 Thou wUt grove fabw *** 
 
 
2 
 
 *0B (V HUOU'S GARLAND. 
 
 I Thou’st noi been true to sire ot cuz ; 
 lay, Sir, the Scotchman said, 
 
 ’m true of heart, believe iny word, 
 rood Master, why afraid? 
 
 Then Robin spied a Scottish clan, 
 
 Lnd cried, iny yeomen stout, 
 
 [rght on, fight on, our cause is good, 
 yVll not be beaten out. 
 
 I They soon engaged the Scottish clan, 
 Lnd so well play’d their part, 
 
 The Scotchmen lost their philibegs. 
 Their brawny buttocks smart. 
 
 Quo Jock, guid troth, were I awa, 
 Tis lang e’er I’d appear 
 In sic a fray again—for I 
 lae got enough o’t here. 
 
 Then helter, skelter, off they went, 
 b Robin and his friends, 
 
 Lemained masters of the field, 
 lnd thus the battle ends. 
 
 XII .—Robin Hood and Queen Catherine* 
 
 Iold taken from the King’s harbingers, 
 
 Down , a down a down. 
 
 |y Robin Hood had been, 
 lnd earned by him and his men 
 £ a present to the Queen. 
 
 If that I live another year, 
 
 Thus did Queen Catherine say,) 
 will befriend bold Robin Hood, 
 
 |nd all his yeomen gay. 
 
 The Queen into her chamber went 
 nd when she thither came, 
 he called for her favourite page, 
 lick Farrington by name. 
 
ftenTN Boon's GARLANh. 
 
 Come liere to me, thou lovely page, 
 Come hither straight to mo, 
 
 For thou must post to Nottingham, 
 
 As fast at thou canst flee : 
 
 And as thou goest to Nottingham, 
 
 Look into every wood, 
 
 And ask each yeoman that you meet. 
 
 To tell thee of Robin Hood. 
 
 And when you see him, hid him hast*. 
 Not fearing any thing—• 
 
 Into my presence, and as a pledge, 
 Deliver him this ring. 
 
 The page he chose the swiftest horse, 
 And then without delay, 
 
 He straight set off for Nottingham, 
 
 By dawning of the day. 
 
 Soon as he came to Nottingham, 
 
 He halted for to dine— 
 
 And drank a health unto the Queen, 
 
 In a bottle of Rhenish wine. 
 
 He there espy’d a yeoman hold. 
 
 And asked him if he could 
 Direct him to that fam’d outlaw, 
 
 The gallant Robin Hood. 
 
 Yes, says the yeoman, that I can. 
 
 If you’ll but come with me, 
 
 You shall see gallant Robin Hood, 
 
 And all his company. 
 
 When that he came to Robin Hood, 
 
 He fell upon his knee—‘ 
 
 Queen Catherine she does greet thee wc 
 She greets you thus by me. 
 
 She bids you haste to London C mr*. 
 Not fearing any tiling— 
 
 And there be present at the sports, 
 
 And sends you this gold ring. 
 
54 
 
 ROBIN HGOD’CS OAkLANfi. 
 
 Then Robin Lck his mantle line, 
 ft was of Lincoln green— 
 
 And sent it by this favourite page, 
 
 A present to the Queen. 
 
 Himself he oloatli’d in scarlet gay, 
 flis yeomen all in green, 
 
 Black hats, while feathers, all alike, 
 
 Most gaudy to he seen. 
 
 And when he came to London Court, 
 
 He fell down on k.s knee; 
 
 Thou art welcome Locksly, Said the Queefi, 
 And all thy company. 
 
 To Finsbury the King is gone 
 find all his yeomanry, 
 
 There for to have a shooting match, 
 
 And thou must shoot for me. 
 
 Come hither, Tempus, said the King, 
 /low-hearer unto me— 
 
 And measure staight five hundred feet, 
 
 'The length our mark must be. 
 
 What is the wager? said the Queen, 
 
 Come quickly let me hear— 
 
 Three hundred tuns of Rhenish wine. 
 
 Three hundred tuns of beer. 
 
 Three hundred of the fattest harts, 
 
 That runs i/allan-Lee, 
 
 A princtay wager, said the King, 
 
 Let me tel 1 thee. 
 
 With that bespoke one Clifton than 
 We’ll shoe*, a,(, sun and moon ; 
 
 Full fifteen score our mark shall be, 
 
 Let it be measured soon. 
 
 And I will lav this bow of mine. 
 
 Gainst in the land, 
 
 That at at this distance I will slmot, 
 
 And cleave the willow wand. 
 
KOrtiW hood’s garland. 
 
 Both sides began v ithout delay 
 Till it was three to one—- 
 When all the company cried out, 
 
 Queen Catherine’s game is gone. 
 
 A boon, a boon, Queen Catherine cries, 
 / crave it on my knee, 
 
 To choose a Knight that will consent 
 hi my side for to be. 
 
 Come hither good Sir Richard Lee, 
 
 (So she called Robin Hood,) 
 
 For I do know thy pedigree, 
 
 Thou’rt sprung from Gower’s blood. 
 
 She called the Bishop of Hertfordshire, 
 On her side for to be; 
 
 By my silver mitre, he did say. 
 
 I’ll not bet one penny. 
 
 The King lias archers of his cwn, 
 
 All ready in your sight; 
 
 And these be strangers every one. 
 
 There’s no one knows their height. 
 
 Then bet with me, says Robin IIo,o.d, 
 riiou see’st our game’s the worst; 
 
 By my troth, said the Bishop, I will lay 
 All the money in my purse. 
 
 What’s in thy purse ? said Robin Hoosi 
 Throw it down on the ground: 
 
 Ninety-nine angels, the Bishop said, 
 
 Tis near an hundred pounds. 
 
 Bold Robin Hood the wager laid. 
 
 And with such skill shot he. 
 
 That all the nobles were amazed, 
 
 When it was three to three. 
 
 ’Tis three to three now, said the King, 
 The next three pays for all : 
 
 Then Robin whisper’d to the Qnecm — 
 
 The Kimr’s p rt shall be sn ail. 
 
 5 } 
 
rotun hood’s Oakland. 
 
 Then Clifton clove the willow wanu, 
 But Midge, the miller’s son, 
 
 He hit the mark so right in front, 
 
 That he the wager won. 
 
 A boon, I ask, Queen Catherine criet, 
 1 crave it on my knee; 
 
 That you will angry be with none, 
 
 That is of my company. 
 
 They shall have forty days allow’d, 
 That they may homeward go, 
 
 And thrice that time to sport and play. 
 Let them be friend or foe. 
 
 That boon I grant, the King reply’d; 
 Queen Catherine answer’d then, 
 
 ’Tis for Robin Hood that bold outlaw, 
 And all his merry men. 
 
 Can this be so ? the King reply’d, 
 
 For it was told to me, 
 
 That he was slain by Scottish men, 
 
 Far in the North-country. 
 
 And then bespoke the Bishop straight 
 Had 1 but kuown ’twas thee, 
 
 I had not ventur’d thus my purse. 
 
 Nor wager’d one penny: 
 
 I do remember on a time, 
 
 You would not let me pass: 
 
 But ty’d me fast unto a tree. 
 
 And made me sing a mass. 
 
 Well, if I did, quoth Robin H rfMt, 
 You would have taken me; 
 
 But for to recompence the same, 
 
 Here’s half the gold to thee. 
 
 Good Master, nay, quoth Little John, 
 *. pray that may not be; 
 
 We must give gifts to the King’s officers, 
 The rest will serve thee and ne. 
 
ROUIN HOOD’S GARLANfr. 
 
 Kill.— Robin Hood chased by King lieu y. 
 
 Come gallants all to you I call. 
 
 With a down, a down, a down. 
 That are witliin this place, 
 
 Tor a song i’ll sing of Henry our King, 
 
 .low he did Robin Hood chase. 
 
 Queen Catherine she a wager laid 
 As I have told it to you, 
 
 Jf wine and beer, and good fat deer, 
 
 And won the wager too. 
 
 All by the means of Robin Hood, 
 
 And his good company, 
 
 Who won the game, and for the same, 
 
 They got their pardon free. 
 
 But yet the King repented sore 
 That Robin he had been, 
 
 With all his men let go again, 
 
 Through favour of the Queen. 
 
 The King called forth his nobles all, 
 
 And in a furious mood, 
 
 Most angrily declared that he 
 Would chase bold Robin Hood. 
 
 When the King came to Nottingham, 
 
 There was bold Robin Hood, 
 
 Who flew straight way without delay, 
 
 And came to merry Sherwood. 
 
 Then into Yorkshire he did hie, 
 
 Newcastle and Berwick too; 
 
 The King was vex’d and much perplex’d. 
 
 And in a passion flew. 
 
 Here have I followed night and day 
 With hoop and loud halloo! 
 
 And cannot yet hold of him get: 
 
 Til not much farther go. 
 
hob in iioud’s garland. 
 
 Here Robin made not a long stay, 
 l'o Carlisle town went lie, 
 
 To Lancaster, and then to Chester, 
 
 Still followed by King Henry. 
 
 Bold Robin fearing some deceit. 
 
 Said, let’s go to the Queen; 
 
 Perhaps she may the reason say 
 Why we’ve so hunted been. 
 
 1 hen Robin to Queen Catherine came, 
 Tad fell down on his knee, 
 
 Wiy’t please your grace within this place* 
 I’d speak with King Henry. 
 
 Queen Catherine then ui to him said— 
 Hie King’s gone to Sherwood, 
 
 ‘.ml going away, he thus did say- 
 11 seek bold Robin Hood. 
 
 1 hen Robin said to her again, 
 
 '« Sherwood I will go; 
 
 Vhat his Majesty would have of me, 
 willingly would know. 
 
 So when King Henry he came home, 
 
 Veary and vexed sore, 
 le understood that Robin Hood, 
 lad been there just before. 
 
 Queen Catherine tnus unto hiui said— 
 lay it please your Majesty, 
 
 Lobin Hood has been with your Queen, 
 uquiring after thee. 
 
 And when King Henry this did hear 
 le flew in angry mood; 
 nd said—(his slave’s an arrant knave, 
 hree weeks I’ve him pursued. 
 
 \ boon T ask, Queen Catherine said, 
 beg it of your Grace, 
 o pardon his lile, ami seek no more strife 
 ml thus ends Rohm Hood’& chase. 
 
ROEtN HOOD r S CjAtlLAND. 
 
 XIV.— Robin Hood’s Golden Prize * 
 
 'have heard talk of Robin Hood. 
 
 Derry , dory 
 
 Aul of brave Little John, 
 
 t)f Friar Tuck, and Will Scarlet, 
 
 Locksley, and Maid Marion, 
 
 But such a tale as this before., 
 
 I think was never known— 
 
 For Robin Hood disguised himself, 
 
 And from the greenwood’s gone. 
 
 Like to a Friar, Robin Hood 
 Made choice of his array— 
 
 With hood, gown, beads, and crucifix. 
 
 He pass’d along the way. 
 
 He had not got miles two or thrd 
 When he chanc’d to espy 
 Two lusty Priests clad all in black. 
 
 Who then came riding by. 
 
 Benedict(e- said Robin Hood, 
 
 Some pity on me take; 
 
 'Jross mv han't with a single grua*, 
 
 Tor our dear y v sake. 
 
 For I’ve been wandering ail i&'U&i '; 
 
 \nd nothint could r get • 
 
 Nut even on„ pcop drink. 
 
 Nor hit of br e ad :o ea*. 
 
 By our H 0 ]y y.se Priests reprise 
 
 We not one penr . have ; 
 
 For we this morning have been roob'a. 
 
 And could ao money save. 
 
 Pm much g b MU Aobin H 
 That you bo | j tell ?.lie; 
 
 It ml now bet pyo »0'\ °v a*®#* 
 
 i atu resolv’d 
 
ROBIW ItOou s GARLAND, 
 
 60 
 
 When that the Priests heard him say so. 
 They gallop’d off amain; 
 hut Robin Hood pursued them fast, 
 dud overtook them again. 
 
 Then instantly he seiz’d them both, 
 ind pull’d each off his horse; 
 
 h! spare us, Friar, the Priests cried out, 
 
 01 us have some remorse. 
 
 Quoth Robin, you said you no money ha^ 
 Therefore without delay, 
 
 We three will fall down on our knees, 
 
 And for some money pray. 
 
 The priests they could not now refuse. 
 
 But down they kneel’d with speed— 
 
 Send us, O heaven, then cried they, 
 
 Some money in our need. 
 
 The Priests they prayed in woeful wise, 
 Sometimes their hands they wrung; 
 Sometimes wept, and sometimes groan’d. 
 Whilst merrily Robin sung. 
 
 When they had pray’d an hour’s space, 
 Robin did them relent; 
 
 And said unto them—Let us see 
 What money heaven has sent. 
 
 We will be sharers all alike, 
 ff as much as we have. 
 
 And there’s not one of us three, 
 
 His fellow shall deceive. 
 
 The Priests did then their pockets search 
 But swore they had got none; 
 
 W ell, I myself, said Robin Hood, 
 
 Will try you one by one. 
 
 Then Robin did them closely search, 
 
 And found good store of gold: 
 hive hundred pieces presently, 
 
 Upon the grass he told. 
 
ftOni.V HOOD’S GARUN?*, 
 
 Here is a shrew, said Robin H 
 Most glorious for to see: 
 
 Ut which you each shall have a part, 
 t r ou pray’d so heartily. 
 
 Then gave them fifty pounds a piec®. 
 
 The rest himself did keep— 
 
 The Priests they did not speak a word. 
 
 But sighed wond’rous deep. 
 
 They then arose from oft their knees. 
 Thinking to go away— 
 
 Nay, nay, said Robin, stay a while 
 Vou must not part me so. 
 
 _ Ton shall be sworn most solemnly, 
 
 1 pon this holy grass, 
 
 • hat you will ne’er tell lies again, 
 
 Which way so e’er you pass. 
 
 The second oath that you here must take,— 
 That in your future lives, 
 
 Tou ne’er will tempt maids unto sin, 
 
 Nor lie with other men’s wives. 
 
 The last oath you shall take is this, 
 
 To give alms to the poor, 
 
 For meeting here an holy Friar, 
 
 And I desire no more. 
 
 When they had sworn what he requir’d, 
 Away he let them ride, 
 
 And then return’d to the green wood, 
 
 Content and satisfy’d. 
 
 XV. — Robin Hood rescues Will Stately frora 
 being Hanged. 
 
 As Robin Hood in the green wood stood, 
 
 Derry, derry down 
 
(j‘2 ROBIN HOOD'S OAKLAND, 
 
 Under the green-wood tree, 
 
 Tidings tiiere came to him with speed, 
 
 Of woeful certainty. 
 
 Hey down. tyc. 
 
 That Will Stutely surprised was 
 And eke in prison lay: 
 
 Three valets which the king had hir’d, 
 
 Did basely aim betray. 
 
 Before that they could conquer him. 
 
 He two of tnem did slay, 
 
 And for the same he sentenced was, 
 
 For to be bang’d next day. 
 
 When Robin this sad news did hear, 
 lie grieved was full sore, 
 
 And also his brave yeomanry, 
 
 Who altogether swore— 
 
 That Stutely straight should reseu d be. 
 And to the woods again. 
 
 Return with them to hunt the deer, 
 
 Ur in his cause be slain. 
 
 Then Robin dress’d himself iu red. 
 
 His merry men all in green, 
 
 With swords and bucklers and long bow a. 
 Most warlike to be seen. 
 
 Soon as they near the castle came 
 Where Stutely prisoner lay, 
 
 1 hold it good, said Robin Hood, 
 
 We here in ambush stay. 
 
 And send one forth the news to hear, 
 
 Of yonder Packer mere. 
 
 Whose cell is near the castle wall, 
 
 So. e news he may declare. 
 
 With ’bat went forth a brisk young mart, 
 Who was 0 , cr rage bold, 
 
 Ami thus tint Palmer said 
 1 pray thee Pa* 01 md. 
 
63 
 
 RORIV HOOD’S OARIAtfD, 
 
 Tell ine, if thou dost rightly ken, 
 When must Will Stutelj die, 
 
 Who was one of Robin Hood’s men, 
 
 And here doth prisoner lie: 
 
 Alas! alas! the Palmer said, 
 
 For ever woe is me! 
 
 Ahll Stutely must this day be hang’d 
 Du yonder gallows tree. 
 
 Oh ! had his noble master known, 
 lie would some succour send; 
 
 A few of his brave yeomanry, 
 
 Would save him from that end. 
 
 Aye, that is true, the young man said 
 They soon would set him free; 
 
 11 ut fare thee well, my good olu man, 
 Farewell, and thanks to thee. 
 
 Soon after this young man was gone, 
 The gates were open’d wide, 
 
 And from the castle Stutely came, 
 Guarded on every side. 
 
 When he forth from the castle came, 
 And saw no help was nigli; 
 
 He thus unto the Sheriff said— 
 
 Seeing I now must die, 
 
 Grant me, I pray, but one small boon. 
 Before I hanged be : 
 
 My master ne’er a yeoman had, 
 
 'That suffer’d on a tree. 
 
 Give me a broad sword in my hand, 
 And let me be unbound,' 
 
 And with thee and thy men I’ll fight, 
 
 Till I drop on the ground. 
 
 But this, the Sheriff would not grant. 
 His wishes were in vain ; 
 for he had sworn he should he hang’d, 
 And not by swovd be slain. 
 
A ! ROBIN liOOD'S UARl.ANto 
 
 Du bill unbind my bauds, he said 
 I will no weapons crave; 
 
 And if I hanged be this day, 
 
 Damnation let me have. 
 
 I’ll not consent, the Sheriff said, 
 
 For hanged thou must be; 
 
 And so shall thy vile master too. 
 
 When in my custody. 
 
 0 peasant coward, Stutely said, 
 Faint-hearted and unkind, 
 
 If e’er my master does thee meet, 
 
 Thou shall thy payment lind. 
 
 My noble master does thee scorn, 
 
 And all thy slavish crew ; 
 
 Such puny imps unable are, 
 
 Bold Robin to subdue. 
 
 But when he to the gallows came. 
 Appeared Little John, 
 
 YVho straight up to the Sheriff went. 
 
 And to him said anon— 
 
 Good master Sheriff, with your leave. 
 
 I’d speak with him awhile; 
 
 No, said the Sheriff, I’ll thee seize, 
 
 Thou art an outlaw vile. 
 
 With that did Little John in haste, 
 Away cut Stutely’s bands; 
 
 And then a sword he twisted soon. 
 
 From out one of their hands. 
 
 Here Will, take thou this sword a wkils 
 Thou canst it better sway; 
 
 And now defend thyself from harm, 
 
 For aid will come straightway. 
 
 And then they turn’d ’em back to back, 
 And fought with valour good, 
 
 Until at length approached near, 
 
 The gallant Rohiu Iluod. 
 
Ronrv ft god's gari.anh. 
 
 An arrow quickly Robin sent, 
 
 Which near the Sheriff flew, 
 
 That soon obliged him to run, 
 
 With all his cowardly crew. 
 
 O stay awhile, Will Stutely cried, 
 
 And do not from us start; 
 
 I pray thee hang up Robin Hood, 
 
 Before thou do depart. 
 
 Oh! curse thy heart, said Robin Hood, 
 That thou so soon art gone; 
 
 My sword may in its scabbard rest, 
 
 The work’s already done. 
 
 I little thought, Will Stutely said, 
 
 When I came to this place, 
 
 For to have met with Little John, 
 
 Or seen my master’s face.' 
 
 O thanks! O thanks! my master dear, 
 We’ll in the green wood meet, 
 
 Where we will make our bow-strings twang, 
 Music for us most sweet. 
 
 XVI .—Robin Rood turned Fisherman « 
 
 H summer time when leaves are green, 
 
 An 1 days are clear and long; 
 
 Wl en flowers bloom, and woods do ring 
 With thrush and linnet’s song. 
 
 Buld Robin Hood was weary grown, 
 
 Witl chasing of the deer; 
 
 Quoth he, a fisherman I’ll turn, 
 
 For tl ey have better cheer. 
 
 Therefore to Scarborough I’ll go, 
 
 A fisherman to be *. 
 
 Thou called forth his merry men, 
 
 Uutlet the $t'g£ii.woud tree. 
 
SiOBTN HOOD’S aARlLA^ffc, 
 
 And said to them- my men v men, 
 
 A fisherman J ’ll go; 
 
 Bat will return to you again, 
 
 Farewell—it mist be so. 
 
 They wept full sore to part with him 5 
 To Scarborough he went— 
 
 And there he at a widow’s house, 
 
 Took up his tenement. 
 
 She said to him—what craft art lliou f 
 Come tell thy name to me ? 
 
 1 am a fisherman—my name 
 Is Simon o’er-tlie-lea. 
 
 Then Simon, said the good old wife, 
 Well may’st thou brook thy name j 
 The Outlaw lik’d her courtesy, 
 
 And thanked the kind dame. - 
 
 Good Simon, wilt thou be my man? 
 Round wages I’ll give thee; 
 
 I have a good ship of my own, 
 
 As any sails the sea. 
 
 Simon consented then with joy 
 Next morning they set sail; 
 
 The other fishermen began, 
 
 At Simon for to rail. 
 
 They call’d him lazy lubber 
 Not worthy of Iris fee; 
 
 And said no wages he should hafst 
 For none deserved he. 
 
 Oh! woe is me, said Simon tbsa. 
 
 That ever I came here; 
 
 I wish I were at Plumpton par*. 
 Chasing the fallow deer. 
 
 Here every clown laughs rat to «***&, 
 But had I them on shore, 
 
 I’d teach them better mnm ers thera, 
 
ROBIN HOOD’S GAV.uAND 
 
 
 They had not sailed many days, 
 
 >Vhen they espy’d afar, 
 
 Dome sailing towards them vig’rously 
 A large French ship of war. 
 
 Oh! woe is me, the master said, 
 
 The lislv that I have ta’en, 
 
 Will by these robbers be secur’d, 
 
 And we perhaps be slain. 
 
 For these French pirates none will scar®! 
 Or, if they should, e’er long, 
 rhey’ll carry us to France, and there 
 Lay us in prison strong. 
 
 Then Simon said, be not afraid, 
 
 N or take you any care ; 
 
 Give me my broad sword and my bow, 
 
 No Frenchman will 1 spare. 
 
 Now hold thy peace, the master said, 
 Thou’rt nought but brag and boast; 
 
 If I should cast thee over board, 
 
 There’s but a lubber lost. 
 
 Simon grew angry at these words, 
 
 But notice took not he: 
 
 He took his bent bow in liis hand, 
 
 And shot most dext’rously. 
 
 He drew his arrows to the head, 
 
 And shot with might and main, 
 
 When in a twinkling of an eye, 
 
 Ten Frenchmen there were slain. 
 
 Their bodies fell upon the deck. 
 
 Most shocking to behold: 
 
 Then Simon went on board, and fount! 
 Twelve thousand pounds in gold. 
 
 One-half of this my dame shall hav® 
 And her poor children small \ 
 
 The other half T equally. 
 
 Will share among you all , 
 
 ,,/ k ' 
 
ROBkW HOOD’S GARLANS. 
 
 The master then unto him said— 
 Simon that shall not he, 
 
 Vs you have won it all yourself, 
 
 The owner of it be. 
 
 It shall he so as you have said, 
 With this, for the oppress’d, 
 
 An habitation I will huild, 
 
 To live in peace and rest. 
 
 XVII.— Robin Hood, Will Scarlet , and Li’tle- Jo 
 Combat with three Keepers of Sherwood Forest. 
 
 Some will talk of knights and squires, 
 
 Down, a dot on, a down. 
 
 And lords of nohle hlood ; 
 
 But I will sing of Will Scarlet, 
 
 Little John, and Robin Hood. 
 
 They were outlaws, as is well known, 
 
 \ nd men of high degree; 
 
 And in the forest of Sherwood, 
 
 Were fam’d for archery. 
 
 Upon a time, as Rohin Hood 
 Would have it to be so; 
 
 They all three, for to have some sport, 
 
 Would out a walking go. 
 
 And as they w-alk’d the forest vide, 
 i )u a midsummer’s day, 
 i'here they espy’d tluee Foresters, 
 
 Vnd cloath’d iu green were they. 
 
 Witn good long falchions by their sides, 
 forest oills in their hands ; 
 
 1 'hey call’d aloud to these outlaws, 
 
 Vud hid them for to stand. 
 
 Why, who are you, said Robin Hood, 
 
 That speaks so boldly here ? 
 
 We are, said they, King Henry’s ine» f 
 Wd keepers of his deer. 
 
ROBIN HOo h .< OAKLAND 
 
 The devil you are, cry’d Robin, then 
 I’m sure it is not so ; 
 
 For we’ie the keepers of this wood, 
 
 And that you soon shall know. 
 
 Your coats of green lay on the ground, 
 And so will we all three; 
 
 And take our swords and buckler’s broatl 
 And strive for victory. 
 
 We are content, the keepers said, 
 
 We will require no less; 
 
 For why should we be now afraid, 
 
 We never did transgress. 
 
 If you be keepers in this place, 
 
 Then said brave Robin Hood, 
 
 We’ll make ye know before ye go, 
 
 That we be three as good. 
 
 Come draw your swords, ye bold outlaw®, 
 No longer stand to prate; 
 
 But let us try it out with blows. 
 
 For cowards we do hate. 
 
 Then they fell to it hard and sore, f , 
 (’Twas a midsummer’s day,) 
 
 From eight o’clock till it was two, 
 
 They all show'd gallant play. 
 
 There Robin, Will, and Little John, 
 
 All fought most manfully, 
 
 Until their wind was almost spent, 
 
 Then Robin he did cry— 
 
 O hold, I pray ye to give o’er, 
 
 Ye be all gallant men ; 
 
 Let me but sound my bugle horn, 
 
 We’ll fight with you again. 
 
 That bargain is to make, id they 
 Therefore we it deny; 
 
 Though a blast upon thy bugle borii 
 Can’t make as fight at fin 
 
 €9 
 
F?OOD , « OAvRffiA'NIX 
 
 Therefore fall on, ot else begone, 
 
 4ml yield to us this day; 
 
 For we ne’er will submit to thee, 
 
 With all thy yeomen gay. 
 
 If that be so, said Robin Hood 
 Then let me know your name, 
 
 That in the forest of Sherwood, 
 
 1 may extol thy fame. 
 
 And with our names, said one of t hem* 
 Pray what hast thou to do? 
 
 Except that ye shall fight it out, 
 field we have conquer’d you. 
 
 We’ll fight no more, said Robin then,, 
 Te’re men of valour stout; 
 dome with us to Nottingham, 
 
 And there we’ll fight it out. 
 
 With sack and beer we will contend, 
 
 To see who wins the day ; 
 
 And for the cost make you no doubt, 
 
 I’ve gold enough to pay. 
 
 And ever after while we live, 
 
 We will all brethren be; 
 
 For I love (Lose with all my heart, 
 
 Will fight and fiee. 
 
 Away they went to Nottingham, 
 
 With sack to make amends; 
 
 For three days space'they fought with wine, 
 And drank themselves good friends. 
 
 XVIII .—Robin Hood and the Beggar; and his 
 mg three Brethren from being hinged. 
 
 doME listen to me ye gentlemen all, 
 
 With a hci/ down, and down. 
 That love mirth fur to hear, 
 
ROBISf HOOD’S GARUV.MD. 
 
 Tt's true I’ll tell to you, 
 
 It you will draw near. 
 
 Plesant times when mirth did pass, 
 
 Memory was held good, 
 
 -An outlaw as we are told, 
 
 'Whom men call Robin Hood. 
 
 IViioin men call Robin Hood. 
 
 Upon a time it chanced so, 
 
 Bold Robin was inclin’d, 
 
 And did intend some time to spend 
 .Villi Lhose of mirthful mind. 
 
 Then lie got on a gallant steed. 
 
 Which was worth angels ten; 
 
 His mantle green, rare to be seen, 
 
 And took leave of bis merry men. 
 
 And riding towards fair Nottingham, 
 
 In search of merry glee, 
 
 He met on his way a beggar gay, 
 
 As ever be did see. 
 
 The beggar had on an old patch’d coat, 
 Which he did daily wear, 
 
 And many a bag about did wag, 
 
 Which made bold Room stare. 
 
 Good day—good day—said Robin then, 
 What countryman art thou? 
 
 I’m Yorkshire, sir—and pray don’t stir, 
 
 But give me a charity now. 
 
 Then Robin to the beggar said, 
 
 What wouldst thou have from me? 
 
 Neither living nor land from thee I demand. 
 But a penny for charity. 
 
 No money I have thou beggarinau, 
 
 I’m ranger in this wood; 
 
 As an outlaw too they me pursue— 
 
 My name is Robin Hood. 
 
 But yet bold Beggar, I’m inclin’d 
 A bout with thee to try; 
 
7\i HOOO S 
 
 Thy coat of grey throve «*ff straightway. 
 
 &s my mantle of green will I. 
 
 I am content, the Beggar cried. 
 
 Thy part shall be the worse, 
 
 For 1 hope this bout to give thee the rent* 
 And then to have at thy purse. 
 
 The 8 -ggar had a good long staff, 
 
 And Robin a brave broad sword; 
 
 1’he Beggar drew near without dread or less 
 'Vhich show’d him as good as his word. 
 
 Fight on, fight on, said Robin then, 
 
 This sport well pleaseth me, 
 
 For every blow Robin did bestow, 
 fhe Beggar gave him buffets three. 
 
 And there they fought full hard and sot<^ 
 Jot far from Nottingham town, 
 
 Ind never fled till from Robin’s head 
 The blood ran trinkling down. 
 
 Oh! hold thy hand, said Robin then, 
 
 \iul make an exchange with me; 
 
 These bags of thine, and coat resign, 
 fake my cloak and horse with thee. 
 
 Then Robin got on the Beggar’s clothes, 
 And turning round about, 
 oMe thinks, savs he, I seem to be 
 i A Beggar brave and stout. 
 
 For now I have a bag for my bread, 
 i And another for my corn, 
 
 1 have one for salt, and one lor malt, 
 
 And one for iny bugle horn. 
 
 Then as he went towards Nottingham, 
 
 He heard a mournful cry, 
 
 Three brethren dear, as he did hear, 
 Condemned were to die. 
 
 - Then Robin to the Sheriff went, 
 
 To seek for charity* 
 
ROBIN HOOU*S GARLAND. 
 
 The Sheriff said—my sturdy blade, 
 
 What woul’dst thou have from me? 
 
 No meat nor drink, said Robin then, 
 Did I come here to crave, 
 
 Bnt to Deg of tiiee the lives of three 
 Bold yeomen for to save. 
 
 That cannot be, thou Beggar bold, 
 
 Their fact it is so clear; 
 
 So I tell thee they hanged must he, 
 
 For stealing the king’s deer. 
 
 When they unto the gallows came, 
 There was many a weeping eye ; 
 
 Said Robin, cease, pray hold your peac^ 
 For now they shall not die. 
 
 Robin took his bugle horn, 
 
 Amd blew loud blasts three, 
 
 An hundred men, all archers then. 
 
 Came kneeling on their knee. 
 
 What is your will, master ? tney 
 We have come at your call— 
 
 Shoot east, shoot west, 1 hold it btst. 
 
 You spare no man at all. 
 
 Then they shot east, and they shot wess. 
 Their arrows were so keeu, 
 
 The sheriff flew, with all his crew, 
 
 Aud could no more be seen. 
 
 Then lie approach’d the brethren threes 
 And quickly them unboumt- 
 9f the Sheriff’s men, the chief of tnera. 
 Lay dead upon the ground. 
 
 Then they all went to the green wood. 
 And sung with merry glee, 
 
 When Robin lie'-did choose the three. 
 
 To be in his company. 
 
 /6 
 
 o 
 
74 
 
 robin neon's garland. 
 
 XIX.— ~Rohin Hood's Victory over the Prince of 
 Arrogan , and turn Giants. 
 
 Robin Hood, Will Scarlet, and Little Jolm, 
 
 Hey dozen, down, and a down. 
 Were walking over the plain, 
 
 With a good fat buck, which Will Scarlet 
 With his strong how had slain. 
 
 Jog on my lads, brave Robin cry’d, 
 
 The day will soon be past, 
 
 Tho’ my nephew to me a breakfast gave, 
 
 I’ve not yet broke my fast. 
 
 Then to yon lodge let’s take our w T ay, 
 
 Where I do think it good, 
 
 That my nephew may, bv my merry men, 
 
 Be welcom’d to the green wood. 
 
 With that he took his bugle horn, 
 
 Which loud and shrill he blows, 
 
 Then from the woods came marching down, 
 
 An hundred stout fellows. 
 
 Now stand to your arms, Will Scarlet cries, 
 
 Lo! the enemy is in ken ; 
 
 Then Robin laugh’d aloud, and said, 
 
 These are my merry men. 
 
 Who, when that they saw Robin Hood, 
 
 They said—Sir, what’s you? will ? 
 
 We thought you had in danger been 
 Your horn did ^mid so shrill. 
 
 Nay, nay, my friends, Robin reply’d, 
 
 The danger’s past and gone, 
 
 I’d have you welcome my nephew her% 
 
 And pay him two for one. 
 
 In feastihig and sport they pass’d the da$a 
 ’Till Phoebus sunk to sleep: 
 
 Then each man to his quarters 
 His guard there for to keep. 
 
ROBIN HOOD’S GARLAND. 
 
 They had not long in the forest been. 
 When Robin he espy’d 
 A lovely damsel all alone, 
 
 That on a black palfrey did ride. 
 
 Her riding suit was of sable hue, 
 
 A gauze veil o’er her face \ 
 
 Through which her rosy cheeks did blush. 
 With a most lovely grace. 
 
 Said Robin—Tell me, pretty one, 
 
 From whence thou hast ta’en flight? 
 
 Thy grief also tell, and if thou’rt wrong’d 
 My sword shall do thee right. 
 
 From London I came, the Damsel said. 
 Where Thames do sweetly flow, 
 
 Which is besieg’d, oh ! grief to tell, 
 lly a vile foreign foe. 
 
 ’Tis the proud Prince of Arrogan 
 Who swears by his martial band, 
 
 To have the Princess to his spouse, 
 
 Or else to waste the land : 
 
 Except the champions can be found, 
 
 hat dare fight three to three, 
 
 ainst the Prince and Giants twain, 
 
 st frightful for to see. 
 
 V hose grisly looks, and eyes like fire, 
 ’.ce of hell assumes, 
 
 >erpents hissing on their helms, 
 of feather’d plumes. 
 
 cess will be the victor’s prize, 
 shall betide: 
 does the conquest gain, 
 erto his bride. 
 
 four maidens sent abroad, 
 west, south and north., 
 fortune it may prove 
 champions forth. 
 
76 ROBIN hood’s garland. 
 
 But all in vain, we’re sought them out 
 For none so brave there are, 
 
 That will adventure heart’s biooo, 
 
 To free a lady fair. 
 
 Tell me the dav ? said Robin Hood, 
 
 And I will venture forth; 
 
 On Midsummer next, tire Damsel said, 
 
 Tis June the twenty-fourth. 
 
 With that tears trinkled down her face. 
 
 And silent was her tongue; 
 
 With sighs and sobs she took her leave. 
 
 And ofi her palfry sprung. 
 
 This news struck Robin to the heart, 
 
 He sighed o’er and o’er; 
 
 His actions and his troubled mind, 
 
 Show’d he was vexed soro. 
 
 Where lies your grief? said Will Scarlet, 
 Oh! master, tell to me; 
 
 If the Damsel’s eyes have pierc’d your heart 
 I’ll bring her hack to thee. 
 
 That’s not the case, Robin reply’c 
 jhe doth not cause my smal t ; 
 
 But, ’tis the Princess’s sore distress, 
 
 That wounds me to the aeart. 
 
 I will go fight the Giants all, 
 
 To set the lady free: 
 
 !’heu by my soul, said Little John, 
 
 I’ll go along with thee. 
 
 Must I stay behind? said Will Scarle!, 
 
 No, No, that ne’er saaA be; 
 
 I’ll make the third man in the fight, 
 
 Then we’ll be three to three. 
 
 These words did cheer brave Robin’s hrart 
 Joy shone within his face, 
 
 He in his arms did them enfold., 
 
 All ill a kind embrace 
 
robin hood’s GARLAN!». 
 
 Said he, like pilgrims we’ll appear^ 
 
 And put on motley grey, 
 
 With scrip and bottle by our side, 
 
 Then we’ll pass on our way. 
 
 Now they are on their journey gon©. 
 
 As fast as they can speed, 
 
 Determin’d all to lose their lives. 
 
 Dr have the Princess freed. 
 
 When they arrived, they saw the Prince, 
 With the Giants at his side; 
 
 Bring forth, said he, your champions now 
 Or bring me forth my bride. 
 
 This is the four-and-twentieth day, 
 
 The day affixed on ; 
 
 Bring forth my bride, or London burns, 
 
 I swear by Acheron. 
 
 The King and Queen appeared then. 
 Both weeping as they spoke ; 
 
 Lo! we have brought our daughter dear, 
 Whom we must now forsake. 
 
 With that stept forth brave Robin linos' 
 And said—my liege, not so; 
 
 Such beauty as the Princess fair. 
 
 Shall not so tamely go. 
 
 The Prince he then began to stor.’U, 
 Crying fool, fanatic clo«^, 
 
 How dare you stop my valour's prize 
 I’ll kill you with a frown. 
 
 Thou tyrant Turk, thou infidel, 
 
 Then Robin did reply, 
 
 Thy frowns I scorn—behold my sword 
 And thus I thee defy. 
 
 As for these Goliahs here. 
 
 That stand on either stile, 
 
 There are two little Davids here. 
 
 That soon will tame their pride. 
 
 17 
 
73 
 
 ROBIN TIOOB’S GAKLAND, 
 
 Then did the King for armour send, 
 
 For lances, swords and shields; 
 
 And thus all three, in armour bright, 
 
 Came marching to the field. 
 
 The trumpets then did sound a charge, 
 
 Each singled out his man; 
 
 Like fountains out the blood did spring 
 Soon as the fight began. 
 
 The Prince gave Robin such a blow, 
 
 Which struck with might and nain, 
 
 Forc’d him to reel about the field, 
 
 As though he had been slain. 
 
 That blow hath made, said Robin Rood, 
 
 A wound both deep and wide; 
 
 But this shall prove thou ne’er shall ha c v 
 The Princess for thy bride. 
 
 Then Robin gave him such a cut, 
 
 As shiver’d off his head, 
 
 Which made the Giants rage full sore, 
 
 To see their Prince lie dead. 
 
 Then Little John his falchion drew. 
 
 With a swing both keen and smart,— 
 
 It clove the Giant to the belt, 
 
 And cut in twain his heart. 
 
 Will Scarlet he behaved so well, 
 
 That down upon his knee, 
 
 The other Giant soon he brought, 
 
 Saying—Hell now gapes for thee. 
 
 Then with his falchion ran him through, 
 
 A deep aud ghastly wound; 
 
 Who damn’d and foam’d, curs’d and blasphem <L 
 And then fell on the ground. 
 
 Now all the lists with shouts were fill’d, 
 
 Loud echoes rent the skies: 
 
 The Princess’s spirits soon reviv’d, 
 
 Joy spudded in her eyes. 
 
7‘J 
 
 KOKIN HOOD’S GARLAND. 
 
 The King and Queen with gratitude 
 Came walking to the place. 
 
 And gave the champions many thanks, 
 
 4nd did them further grace. 
 
 Tell me then, said the King, I pray, 
 
 Why thus disguis’d you came, 
 
 Whose valour speaks thee noble blood, 
 
 I fain would know thy name. 
 
 A boon, my liege, said Robin Hood, 
 
 * on my knee do crave ; 
 
 By my crown, then said the King, I’ll grant-=- 
 Ask it, and thou shalt have. 
 
 Pardon for all my merry men, 
 
 That are in the green wood, 
 
 For Little John, and Will Scarlet, 
 
 And for me, Robin Hood. 
 
 Said the King, if thou’rt Robin Hood 
 For the valour you have shown, 
 
 Your pardons all I freely grant, 
 
 No strife shall here be known. 
 
 The Princess is the victor’s prize. 
 
 She cannot have all three ; 
 
 Then let her choose, said brave Robin, 
 
 For she is now made free. 
 
 The Princess then did view them all. 
 
 With modesty and love, 
 
 And took Will Scarlet by the hand, 
 
 Saying, I do thee approve 
 
 With that, stepp’d forth a noble Lord 
 Of Maxfield Earl was he, 
 
 Who look’d Will Scarlet in the face, 
 
 And wept most bitterly. 
 
 Said he, I had a son like thee, 
 
 Whom I lov’d wond’rous well, 
 
 But he’s away, os rather dead, 
 
 His name was ^ouug Gamwell. 
 
80 
 
 ROb 
 
 -•>,0 0 'S GARlANn 
 
 TJ 
 
 Will Scarlet then lell on his kuee, 
 
 And cried, dear father, here, 
 
 Here kneels your son, your young Gamwell, 
 Whom you did love so dear. 
 
 What kind embracing then was there, 
 What joy and what delight! 
 
 But they are to the wedding gone, 
 
 And so I bid good night. 
 
 XX .—Little John and the four Beggars. 
 
 All you that choose to spend some time, 
 
 With a down, fcc. 
 
 A merry song for to hear, 
 
 Vou shall have one, of Little John, 
 
 If that you will draw near. 
 
 As Robin Hood the forest ranged, 
 
 With all his merry men, 
 
 It was agreed, Little John with speed. 
 
 Should go a begging then. 
 
 Says John, if [ a begging go. 
 
 I’ll have a palmer’s weed. 
 
 With staff and coat, scarce worth a groat, 
 
 That better he might speed. 
 
 Give me a bag for bread and cheese, 
 
 And a bottle for my booze, 
 
 A bag for pence ere I go hence, 
 
 That I may nothing loose. 
 
 Then I will straight a begging go, 
 
 And seek for some relief; 
 
 Now Little John has a begging gone. 
 
 Of beggarmen the chief. 
 
 And as he walked along the way, 
 
 Four beggars he did see, 
 
 Some blind, some lame, who towards him came 
 A jolly company. 
 
81 
 
 kobin noon’s garianp. 
 
 Saul lie—good morrow, brethren all 
 Pm glad to meet you here; 
 
 Which way do you go, pray let me know. 
 For I love company dear. 
 
 What noise is this? quoth Little John, 
 What bells are those that ring ? 
 
 Methinks these rags, and these full bags, 
 5 Tis them that 1 hear ding. 
 
 You saucy dog, one of them said, 
 
 No beggar sure thou art; 
 
 Behold here's what will knock thee flat, 
 Therefore in haste depart. 
 
 For we have brethren in London town. 
 Also in Coventry, 
 
 Berwick and Dover, and all the world ovei, 
 But none that’s like to thee. 
 
 Therefore stand off thou silly carle, 
 
 For we know nought of thee; 
 
 Nay, said Little John, I’ll not begone, 
 
 But I’ll fight your whole company. 
 
 He nipt the dumb, and made him roar. 
 And the blind he made to see, 
 
 The cripple also that on crutches did go, 
 lie made to run hastily. 
 
 But first of all he seiz’d their hags, 
 
 Twas that he chiefly sought; 
 
 5t made him sing, to hear the cash ring, 
 Which he so cheaply bought. 
 
 Three hundred pounds in gold he found. 
 Within the Beggars’ bags,— 
 
 Which made him cry, no longer T, 
 
 Will wear these dirty rags. 
 
 The begging trade I will give o’e? ? 
 
 My luck has been so good; 
 
 So I’ll away, without delay, 
 
 To the forest of merry Sherwood 
 
t 
 
 i 
 
 I 
 
 [ 
 
 62 Robin hooos garland. 
 
 When he to Sherwood forest came, 
 Under the green-wood tree, 
 
 His master stood, bold Robin Hood, 
 With all his company. 
 
 What news, my lad? said Robin Hood, 
 Come quickly tell to me; 
 
 What luck you’ve had, my bonny lad. 
 
 By your late beggary ? 
 
 No news but good, said Little John, 
 Now have I for to tell; 
 
 Three hun red pounds in gold so round, 
 Thus have I fared well. 
 
 Then they all danc’d round an oak tree. 
 And cried when we are dry, 
 
 If water we drink, while we’ve the chink, 
 An ill death may we die. 
 
 L : 
 
 XXI .—Robin Hood and the Forester. 
 
 When Phoebus had dissolved the ioe. 
 
 With a hey down, a down. 
 And melted the mountains of snow, 
 
 ■ Bold Robin Hood in the green wood. 
 
 Would frolic with his bow. 
 
 He left his merry men behind, 
 
 Whilst through the grove he past? 
 
 Where he did behold a Forester bold, 
 
 Who cried'—Friend, whither so fast? 
 
 I am come, said Robin, to kill a fat buck, 
 
 For me and my merry men all; 
 
 And ere that I go. I’ll have a fat doe, 
 
 Or else it shall cost me a fall. 
 
 You’d best have a care, the Forester sale!. 
 
 For these are Vis Makar’s deer. 
 
83 
 
 Before you shall sliooi.I will end the lispute, 
 For I am head Forester Here. 
 
 This forest, said Robin, I think is mine, 
 
 And so is the nimble deer too; 
 
 Therefore I declare, and solemnly swear, 
 
 1 ’ll not he affronted by you. 
 
 The Forester he had a long quarter stall, 
 Besides a broad sword by his side, 
 
 Which quickly lv drew, without more ado, 
 Declaring the truth should be try’d. 
 
 Bold Robin he had a sword of the best, 
 
 And ere he would take any wrong, 
 
 He’d venture a brush—his courage was ilitsli, 
 And so they fell to it ding dong. 
 
 Bold Robin he gave him many hard blows, 
 Which the other return’d as fast; 
 
 At every stroke, their jackets did smoke, 
 
 Three hours the combat did last. 
 
 At length, In a rage the Forester grew, 
 
 And cudgsll’d poor Robin so sore, 
 
 That he could not stand, so shaking his hand, 
 He cry’d, let us freely give o’er. 
 
 Thou art a brave fellow, I needs must confess- 
 [ never knew any so good ; 
 riiou’rt fitting to be a yeoman to me, 
 
 And range in the merry green wood. 
 
 I’ll give thee this ring as a tok en of lo^e, 
 
 For bravely thou hast acted thy part ; 
 
 That man that will fight, in him I dclig it, 
 
 And love him with all my heart. 
 
 Then Robin set his horn to his mouth, 
 
 And with a loud blast he blows ; 
 
 His yeomen heard, and soou they appear d* 
 
 An hundred with good long bows. 
 
 Now Little John came at their head* 
 
 Iu a rich roan tie of green* 
 
ROBIN hood’s GARUN?). 
 
 knd also'the rest were gloriously dress’d, 
 
 A beautiful siglit to be seen. 
 
 Lo ! theso are my men, said Robin Hood, 
 And tliou shalt be one of the train ; 
 
 A mantle and bow, and quiver also, 
 
 I give those whom I entertain. 
 
 The Forester willingly enter’d the list. 
 
 They were such an elegant sight; 
 i Then with a long bow they shot a fat doe. 
 
 And made a good supper that night. 
 
 What singing and dg.ncing then had thej. 
 For joy of this new mate: 
 
 - They spent the night in mirthful delight, 
 
 I And liv’d at a plentiful rate. 
 
 The Forester ne’er was so merry before, 
 
 As now with these jovial souls, 
 
 Who never would fail, in wine, beer, and al@, 
 I To take off their cherishing bowls. 
 
 Then Robin gave him a mantle of green, 
 Broad arrows, and a long bow; 
 
 And the next day so fine and so gay, 
 
 He march’d them all in a row. 
 
 Said he, my lads, be true to your trust, 
 
 And we may range the woods wide: 
 
 They all did agree, and swore solemnly, 
 
 They’d conquer or die by his side. 
 
 yXXIT.— Robin flood's first meeting with Little John. 
 
 When Robin Hood was about twenty years old, 
 
 With a hey dozen, dozen and a dozen. 
 He happen’d to meet Little John,* 
 
 I * This is not Little John, Robin Hood’s page and favourite compa¬ 
 nion ; but so called from his extraordinary stature, It is also a trsnsc 
 |08itjqn of his proper .name, JOHN LITTLli, 
 
85 
 
 ItOBIfJ hood’s garland. 
 
 A jolly brisk blade, right fit for the trade, 
 
 For he was a lusty young man. 
 
 Bold Robin he said to his jolly bowmen 
 Pray tarry you here in this grove, 
 
 And see that you all observe well my call. 
 
 Whilst I through the forest do rove 
 
 Then did he shake hands with his merry men all 
 And bid them at present good bye; 
 
 Then as near the brook, his journey he took, 
 
 A stranger he chanc’d to espy. 
 
 They happen’d to meet on a long narrow bridge, 
 And neither of them would give way; 
 
 Said brave Robin Hood, and sturdily stood, 
 
 I’ll show you right Nottingham play. 
 
 With that from his quiver an arrow he drew, 
 
 A broad arrow with a goose wing; 
 
 The Stranger he cried, I’ll liquor thy hide, 
 
 If thou oiler to touch one string. 
 
 Said bold Robin Hood, thou dost prate like an ass, 
 For, were I to bend but my bow, 
 
 I could send a dart quite thro’ thy proud heart, 
 Before thou could’st strike me one blow. 
 
 Thou talk’st like a coward, the stranger reply’ll. 
 Well arm’d with a long bow you stand, 
 
 To shoot at my breast, while I, I protest, 
 
 Have nought but a staff in my hand. 
 
 The name of a coward, said Robin, I scorn, 
 Therefore my long bow I’ll lay by ; 
 
 And now 7 for thy sake, a staff I will take, 
 
 The truth of thy manhood to try. 
 
 Then Robin steptto a thicket of trees, 
 
 And chose him a stall of ground oak— 
 
 Now this being done, away he did run 
 To the stranger, and thus to him spoke ; 
 
 Lo! see my staff is lusty and tough, 
 
 $ew hers. ■ « \W \ TO 
 
86 ROBIN HOOIj’S GARLAND. 
 
 Whoever falls in, the oilier shall win 
 The battle, and so we ll away. 
 
 With all taj wnole heart, the Stranger rep.ly’d 
 I scorn m the least to give out; 
 
 This said, they fell to it, without more dispute, 
 And tlreir staves they did flourish about. 
 
 At first, Robin gave the stranger a bang, 
 
 So hard that he made his bones ring : 
 
 The stranger he said, this must be repaid. 
 
 I’ll give you as good as you bring. 
 
 With that he gave Robin a crack on the crown. 
 Which caused the blood to appear— 
 
 Then Robin enraged more fiercely engaged, 
 
 And followed his blows more severe. 
 
 Oh! then in a fury the Stranger he grew, 
 
 And gave him a damnable look; 
 
 And with a blow which laid him full low, 
 
 And tumbled him into the brook. 
 
 I prithee, my good fellow, where art thou now ? 
 The Stranger, in laughter, hecry’d: 
 
 Said bold Robin Hood, good faith, in a flood, 
 
 And floating along with the tide. 
 
 I needs must confess thou art a brave soul, 
 With thee I’ll no longer contend ; 
 
 For needs must I say, thou hast got the day, 
 
 Our battle shall be at an end. 
 
 Then unto the bank he did presently wade, 
 
 And pull’d himself out by a thorn ; 
 
 Which done, at the last, he blew a loud blast, 
 Straightway on his fine bugle horn. 
 
 The echo of which, thro’ the vallies did ring, 
 
 At which his stout bowmen appear’d; 
 
 All clothed in green, most gay to be seen, 
 
 So up to their master they steer’d. 
 
 0 what is the matter, said Will Stutely 
 ood master yuu’^wet to the skin \ 
 
ROBIN HOOD’S GlRLANR. 8? 
 
 No matter, said lie, the marfthat you see, 
 lu fighting, hath tumbled me in. 
 
 He shall not go foot free, the others reply’d, 
 
 So straight they were seizing him there, 
 
 To duck him likewise, but Rohm Hood cries— 
 
 He is a stout fellow, forbear. 
 
 There’s no one will wrong thee, friend be not afraid 
 These bowmen on me do wait; 
 
 There’s three score and nine, and if tliou’lt be mine, 
 Thou shalt have a livery straight. 
 
 ^ O here’s my hand, the Stranger reply’d, 
 
 I’ll serve you with all my whole heart; 
 
 My name is John Little, a man of good mettle, 
 
 Ne’er doubt me, for I’ll play my part. 
 
 His name shall be chang’d, said Will Stutelv, 
 
 And I his godfather will be; 
 
 Prepare then a feast, and none of the least, 
 
 For we will be merry, quoth he. 
 
 They presently fetch’d him a pair of fat does, 
 
 With humming strong liquor likewise; 
 
 They lov’d what was good, so iu the green wood, 
 
 This pretty sweet babe they baptiz’d. 
 
 He was, I must tell you, but seven feet high, 
 
 And may be an ell in the waist; 
 
 He was a sweet lad, much feasting they had, 
 
 Bold Robin the christening grac’d. 
 
 Said Stutely, this infant was call’d John Little, 
 Which name shall be changed anon ; 
 
 The words we’ll transpose, so wherever he goes, 
 
 His came shall be call’d Little John. 
 
 with a shout made the elements ring, 
 the office was o’er; 
 they went, with true merriment, 
 strong liquor galore. 
 
 usic and dancing did finish the day; 
 ttUen the sun waxed low 
 
gs ROBIN hood’s GARIAND. 
 
 Then all the whole train, the grove did return. 
 And unto their caves they did go. 
 
 And for ever after as long as they liv’d, 
 Although he was proper and tall; 
 
 Vet nevertheless, the truth to express, 
 
 Little still they did him call. 
 
 XXIII .—Robin Hood and the Bishop of Herdford. 
 
 Some will talk of bold Robin Hood, 
 
 And some of barons bold ; 
 
 But I’ll tell how he serv’d the Bishop of Herdford, 
 When he robb’d him of his gold. 
 
 As it befel in merry Barnsdale, 
 
 And under the green-wood tree, 
 
 The Bishop of Herdford was to come by, 
 
 With all his company. 
 
 Come kill me a venison, said Robin Hood, 
 
 Come kill me a good fat deer ; 
 
 The Bishop of Herdford dines with me to-day. 
 
 And he shall pay well for his cheer. 
 
 Then he dress’d himself in shepherd’s attire. 
 
 With five of his men also*, 
 
 Ami when the Bishop of Herdford came by, 
 
 They about the fire did go. 
 
 O! and what is the matter, the Bishop, he said 
 Or for whom do you make this ado_ J 
 Dr why do you kill the king’s venison, 
 
 ■#hen your company is so few ? 
 
 We are shepherds, said bold Robin Flo id, 
 me keep sheep all the year ; 
 we are disposed to be merry this day, 
 
 Auci to kill of the king’s fat deer. 
 
 tfou are brave fallows, the Bishop said, 
 turn the king of your doings shall know: 
 
 Therefore make haste and come with me, 
 ifor before the king you shall got 
 
89 
 
 ROBIN HOODS GARLAND. 
 
 O! pardon, said Robin Hood, 
 
 O pardon, I thee pray; 
 
 For it becomes not your lordship’s coat, 
 
 To take so many lives away. 
 
 No pardon, no pardon, the Bishop be said. 
 No pardon I thee owe; 
 
 1 herefore make haste, and come with me. 
 
 For before the king you shall go. 
 
 Then Robin set his back against a iree, 
 
 And his foot against a thorn ; 
 
 dud from Underneath his shepherd’s coat, 
 
 He pull’d out his bugle horn. 
 
 He blew a blast most loud and shrill 
 When forth came his merry men all; 
 
 What’s the matter, master, said Little John, 
 That you so loudly call ? 
 
 t O here is the Bishop of Ilerdford, 
 
 No pardon we shall have : 
 
 Cut off his head, master, said Little John, 
 
 And throw him into his grave. 
 
 O pardon, O pardon, the Bishop said, 
 
 O pardon, I thee pray ; 
 
 For if 1 had known it had been you, 
 
 I’d have gone some other way 
 
 No pardon, no pardon, said Robin then, 
 
 No pardon I thee owe; 
 
 I herefore make haste and come with me, 
 
 For to merry Barnsdale you shall go. 
 
 Then Robin caught the Bishop’s hand, 
 
 And led him to merry Barnsdale ; 
 
 He made him stay and sup with him that night, 
 And to drink beer, wine, and ale. 
 
 Now good master Bishop, said Little John* 
 The reck’ning we will call in, 
 
 And as we’re but poor, I’m very sure, 
 
 To make us pay would be a sin. 
 
 H 
 
90 
 
 ROBIN HOOD S GARLAN0- 
 
 Then Little JoLui took the Bishop’s cloak, 
 And spread it upon the ground, 
 
 And out of the Bishop’s pormanteau 
 He told three hundred pounds. 
 
 Then Robin took the Bishop by the hand, 
 And he caused the music to play, 
 j And he made the Bishop dance in liis boots, 
 1 And glad he could get so away. 
 
 XXIV .—Robin Hood’s rescuing the three Squirts 
 
 There are twelve mouths in the year. 
 And I’ll be bound to say, 
 
 The merriest of all the twelve, 
 
 Is in the sweet month of May. 
 
 Now Robin Hood went to Nottingham, 
 | Singing down and a day; 
 
 Where he did a gay lady meet, 
 
 Weeping along the way. 
 
 What news, what news, thou gay lady. 
 What news hast thou for me? 
 
 Said she—three squires in Nottingham, 
 This day must hanged be. 
 
 Have they any parish burnt, he said, 
 
 Or have they pilgrims slain, 
 
 Or have they ravish’d married wives, 
 
 Or with young virgins lain P 
 
 They have no parish burnt, she said, 
 
 Nor have they pilgrims slain ; 
 
 Nor have they ravish’d married wives, 
 
 Nor with young virgins lain. 
 
 What have they done ? said Robin Reod, 
 I pray thee tell to me ? 
 
 Then ’tis for stealing the king’s deew 
 The truth I tell to thee 
 
R'JBIN hood’s garlapj®. 
 
 Now Robin went to Nottingham, 
 
 Singing down and a day; 
 
 And there a Palmer he did meet, 
 
 Walking along the way. 
 
 Palmer, said he, if thou’lt consent, 
 
 To change thy apparel with mine, 
 
 Here’s forty shilling? I’ll give thee, 
 
 To drink in ale and wine. 
 
 Then Robin went to Nottingham, 
 
 Singing down and a day, 
 
 And there he met the proud Sheriff, 
 Walking along the way. 
 
 Oh, bless you sir, Robin Hood said, 
 
 All happiness to thee— 
 
 What wil-t thou give a poor old man, 
 
 That will thy hangman be P 
 
 A suit of clothes, the Sheriff said, 
 
 I will give unto thee; 
 
 Besides, I’ll give thee pence fourteen, 
 
 Which is a hangman’s fee 
 
 I ne’er w-as hangman in my life, 
 
 Nor yet intend the trade; 
 
 But curs’d be he, said Robin Hood, 
 
 That first the bargain made. 
 
 Then Robin put his horn to his mouth, 
 And blew both loud and shrill, 
 
 When an hundred and ten of bold yeomen, 
 Came riding down the green hill. 
 
 O who are these? the Sheriff said, 
 
 I pray now tell to me ? 
 
 These are mine, quoth Robin Hood, 
 
 And are come for the Squires all three. 
 
 O take them, O take them, said the Sheri3 
 0 take them along with thee ; 
 
 For there’s never a man in fair Nottingham, 
 Can do the like %d thee. 
 
9? a'ouin noon's garuawB 
 
 They took the gallows from the. hill, 
 And set it in the glen; 
 
 Then hanged the proud Sheriff thereon, 
 ncl freed their own three men. 
 
 XXV.— The King's disguise and friendship 
 with Robin Hood . 
 
 so Richard hearing of the pranks, 
 
 Uf Robin Hood and his men, 
 
 He much admir’d, and more desir’d, 
 
 To see both him and them. 
 
 Disguis’d with twenty of his lords, 
 
 He rode to Barnsdale; 
 
 Where Robin Hood prepared stood, 
 
 All passengers to assail. 
 
 Now we are messengers from the King, 
 
 The King himself did say ; 
 
 Near to this place, his Royal Grace, 
 
 To speak with thee does stay. 
 
 God save the King, said Robin Hood, 
 
 And all that wish him w ell; 
 
 He that does deny his sovereignty, 
 
 I wish he were in hell. 
 
 Thyself thou curseth, said the King, 
 
 For thou a traitor art; 
 
 Nay—but that you are his messenger, 
 
 I’d swear you lie at heart. 
 
 For I never yet hurt any man, 
 
 That honest is and true; 
 
 But those who give their minds to live. 
 
 Upon other men’s due. 
 
 I never hurt the husbandman, 
 
 That use to till the ground; 
 
 Nor spill their blood, who range the wood, 
 
 To follow hawk or hound. 
 
93 
 
 ROBIN HOOD’S GARLANB. 
 
 My greatest spite to clergy is, 
 
 Who in these days bear great sway, 
 
 Of friars and monks, with their tine sprunks* 
 
 I make my chiefest prey. 
 
 Then he took the King’s horse hv the head.. 
 Aad led him to his tent; 
 
 Thou would’st not be so us’d, said he, 
 
 But that my King thee sent. 
 
 Nay, more than that, quoth Robin Hood 
 For good King Richard’s sake, 
 
 \f thou had as much gold as e’er was told, 
 
 /’d not one penny take. 
 
 Then Robin set his horn to his mouth, 
 
 And a loud blast be did blow, 
 
 Till a hundred and ten of Robin Hood’s men* 
 Came marching all in a row. 
 
 And when they came bold Robin before, 
 Each man did bend hie knee : 
 
 O ! thought the King, ’tis a gallant thing, 
 And a comely sigV ‘o see. 
 
 Within himself the King did say— > 
 
 These men of Robin Hood’s, 
 
 More humble he than mine to me, 
 
 So the court may learn of the woods. 
 
 So then they all to dinner went, 
 
 Upon a carpet green ; 
 
 Sweet flowers mingled of yellow and red, 
 
 A lovely sight to be seen. 
 
 Venison and fowls were plenty there, 
 
 With fish out of the river; 
 
 King Richard swore, on sea or shore, 
 
 Better he was feasted never. 
 
 Then Robin took a cann ol ale, 
 
 Come now let us begin, 
 
 And every man shall have liis cann* 
 
 Here’s a health unto the King. 
 
91 
 
 ROBIN hood’s GARLAND. 
 
 The King himself drank to the King, 
 
 So round about it went; 
 
 Two barrels of ale, both stout and stale, 
 
 To pledge that health were spent. 
 
 Well, Robin Hood, then said the King 
 If I could thy pardon get, 
 
 To serve the King in every thing, 
 
 Would’st thou thy mind firm set. 
 
 Yes, with all my heart, brave Robin said, 
 As sure as I am in this wood. 
 
 To serve the King in every thing, 
 
 I’d freely shed my blood. 
 
 Then I’m thy King, thy sovereign King, 
 That appears before you all; 
 
 When Robin saw that it was he, 
 
 He on his knees did fall. 
 
 Stand up again, then said the King, 
 
 I’ll thee thy pardon give ; 
 
 Stand up my friend, who dare contend, 
 
 When I give leave to live. 
 
 Then they all set off for Nottingham, 
 
 With much joy, mirth, and glee, 
 i’he people all, both great and small, 
 
 Ran out them for to see. 
 
 The ploughman left the plough in the fields 
 1’he smith ran from his shop; 
 
 Old wives also, that scarce could go. 
 
 Over their sticks did hop. 
 
 The King soon let them understand, 
 
 He had been in the green wood, 
 
 And from that day for evermore, 
 
 He had forgiven Robin Hood. 
 
 Now they’re all gone to London court, 
 Robin, with all his train; 
 
 He once was there a noble peer, 
 
 And now he’s there again. 
 
ROBIN HOOD’S GARLAND. 
 
 95 
 
 XXVI .—Robin Hood and the Golden Arr<m\ 
 
 When as the Sheriff of Nottingham, 
 
 Was come with mickle grief; 
 
 He talked no good of Robin Hood, 
 
 That strong and sturdy thief. 
 
 So unto London court he pass’d, 
 
 His losses to unfold ; 
 
 To King Richard, who did regard, 
 
 The tale that he had told. 
 
 Go, get thee gone, then said the King, 
 
 Devise some tricking game, 
 
 For to enthrall these rebels all, 
 
 Go take thy course with them. 
 
 So back the Sheriff did return, 
 
 And by the way he thought 
 
 Of the words of the King, and how the thing 
 
 To pass might well be brought. 
 
 So an arrow with a golden head. 
 
 And a shaft of silver white, 
 
 Who on that day, should bear away. 
 
 For his own proper right. 
 
 Tidings came to brave Robin Hood, 
 
 Under the green-wood tree; 
 
 Come prepare you then my merry men, 
 
 We’ll go the sport to see. 
 
 O then bespoke brave Little John, 
 
 If that we thither go, 
 
 Listen to me, how it shall be, 
 
 That they may not us know. 
 
 Our mantles all of Lincoln green, 
 
 Behind us we will leave; 
 
 We’ll dress ourselves so several, 
 
 They shall not us perceive. 
 
yt> KOBiN HOOD’S GARJUANB. 
 
 One shall wear white, another red. 
 
 One yellow, another blue; 
 
 Thus in disguise to the exercise, 
 
 We’ll gang vvhate’er eusue. 
 
 Forth from the green wood they are anna 
 With hearts all firm and stout. 
 
 Resolving with the Sheriffs men, 
 
 To have a hearty bout. 
 
 Some cry’d blue jacket, some cry hi brows 
 Amd a third cried brave vellow; 
 
 3tit the fourth man said, you man m rea, 
 r this place has no fellow. 
 
 For that was Robin Hood himself, 
 
 Who thus was clothed in red, 
 
 At every shot the prize lie got, 
 
 For lie was sure and dead. 
 
 So the arrow with the golden head, 
 
 And shaft of silver white, 
 
 Brave Robin wiu and bore with him., 
 
 As his own proper right. 
 
 And when they all assembled were, 
 
 Under the green wood shade, 
 l'hey did relate what pleasure great. 
 
 What brave pastime they made. 
 
 Said Robin Hood, all my care is 
 How that yon Sheriff may 
 Know certainly that it was I, 
 
 That bore his arrow away. 
 
 Said Little John, my counsel good, 
 
 Did lake effect before; 
 
 And therefore now, if you allow, 
 
 I will advise once move. 
 
 Speak on my lad, said brave Robs®. 
 
 Thy counsel won the prise; 
 
 And I am now resolv’d to do. 
 
 Whatever you devise. 
 
97 
 
 Then I advise, said Little John, 
 
 That a letter straight he penn’d ; 
 
 And when that is done, to Nottinghaia, 
 fo the Sheriff we will it send. 
 
 To an arrow’s point it shall be tied, 
 And shot into the town : 
 
 By the life of iny body, Robin said. 
 This adds to thy renown. 
 
 The project it was well performed, 
 The Sheriff the letter had ; 
 
 By which he perceiv’d he was deceiv’d, 
 And rav’d like one that’s mad. 
 
 XXVII.— Robin Hood ancl the valiant Knvjh% 
 
 When Robin Hood and his merry mm, 
 
 Down , a down, a 
 
 Had reigned many years, 
 
 The King was told they had been bold, 
 
 Tn Bishops and to peers. 
 
 Therefore a trusty valiant Knight, 
 
 The King call’d forth straightway, 
 
 Sir William his name, who 'hen he came, 
 
 Unto him, he did say : 
 
 Go hence, and tell bold Robin Hood, 
 
 That without more ado, 
 
 He must surrender, else the offender. 
 
 Shall suffer with his crew. 
 
 An hundred men were chosen straight, 
 
 As stout as e’er man saw; 
 
 On midsummer day they marched away 
 To take the brave Outlaw. 
 
 With long yew bows and shining spears. 
 
 They march’d with mickle pride, 
 
 And ne’er delay’d until they made 
 Up to the green wood side* 
 
nobis; hood's oaru/sbi, 
 
 ^ Sir William said, now tarry here, 
 
 I’our bows make ready all, 
 
 /bat if need be, you folic>vv me, 
 
 Whenever I do call. 
 
 He sought about until he came 
 Where was bold Robin Hood; 
 
 The letter he shows, bold Robin arose, 
 
 And on his guard he stood. 
 
 They’d have me yield, quoth Robin thee, 
 And at their mercy lie ; 
 
 Believe thou me that f ;e’o,r shall be, 
 
 While three score bsavs men have I. 
 
 Then Robin tool, his bugle horn, 
 
 Which loud and shrill he blew; 
 
 So did the Knight, when arm’d for fight. 
 Their archers came in view. 
 
 Sir William straight drew up his men, 
 Plac’d them in battle array; 
 
 Bold Robin, we find, was not behind, 
 
 To begin the bloody fray. 
 
 The archers on both sides bent their how* 
 And clouds of arrows (lew ; 
 
 At the first flight, the honour’d Knight, 
 
 Did bid the world adieu. 
 
 Aud yet the battle it did last, 
 
 From m ruing till near night; 
 
 Both s. ios were stout, loth to give it ouU 
 Or basely take to flight. 
 
 To London the Knight’s men did rotors 
 They having fought their fill, 
 
 And Robin Hood to the green wood, 
 
- BIN HOOD’S GARjLAWR, 
 
 XXVIII .—Robin Hoo£s Distress 
 
 Kino Richard as he had before, 
 
 Did now again proclaim, 
 
 That whosoever would take upon 
 fo bring to Nottingham, 
 
 Or any place within the bind, 
 
 Rebellious Robin Hood. 
 
 Should be preferred for to stand, 
 
 With those of noble blood. 
 
 The King he would have portioned him 
 But that some Lords did say, 
 
 This precedent will much condemn 
 Your Grace another day. 
 
 Robin Ilood finding that the King, 
 Resolv’d to work his fall, 
 
 He underneath the green-wood tree, 
 
 His men assembled all. 
 
 Quoth he—My gallant yeomen bold, 
 
 That oft with right good will, 
 
 Have fought and conquered by my side 
 With valour and with skill 5 
 
 The King hath set a high reward, 
 
 Upon your master’s head; 
 
 But whilst that ye maintain his trust, 
 
 His wrath I need not dread. 
 
 But lest that any fear to fall 
 A sacrifice with me, 
 
 Let him depart, whilst that he may. 
 
 For now ye all are free. 
 
 But none, I trust, will be so bua*% 
 
 Whilst he can draw a string, 
 
 As coward-like, to submit to those 
 WiD U1 advise the King. 
 
/OO gOBl* UOrtD'S GaRLA&f* 
 
 But mark, what sad reverse was here, 
 When this they heard him say; 
 
 They all did one by one depart. 
 
 And left the green wood gay. 
 
 All but Will Scarlet and LUtte John, 
 Who with him did remain, 
 
 And swore they’d spend tlreir dearest blood. 
 E’er the green-wood they’d refram. 
 
 Robin Hood sore vex’d, to think upon, 
 His follower’s perfidy, 
 
 He in these u'ords upbraided them, 
 
 With their vile treachery. 
 
 Perfidious traitors, ami unkind. 
 
 In all your dangers past, 
 
 Have I nut guarded you vile men, 
 
 To leave me thus at last! 
 
 Then Robin Hood and Little John,. 
 
 And brave Will Scarlet too, 
 
 Remained in the gay green wood. 
 
 Their pastime to pursue. 
 
 XXIX.— Rnhii i Hood , Will Scarlet, and Littlejohn 
 
 As blithe as the linnets sing in the green woods, 
 
 So blithe we’ll wake, we’ll wake the morn, 
 
 And thro’ the wide forest of merry Sherwood, 
 
 We’ll wind the bugle horn. 
 
 The Sheriff attempts to take bold Robin Hood, 
 Bold Robin disdains for to fly; 
 
 Let him come when he will, we’ll in merry Sherwood 
 Or vanquish boys, or die. 
 
 Our hearts they’re stout, and our bows they’re good 
 And well their masters know, 
 
 They’re cull’d in the forest of merry Sherwood, 
 ftud never will spare a foe„ 
 
gOBLN HD^'TS GARLAND "Ol 
 
 <7ur arrows shall dm of the fallow deers’ blooa, 
 VN'e’ll hunt them all over the plain. 
 
 And thro’ the wide forest of merry Sherwood, 
 
 No shaft shall 8y in vain. 
 
 Brave Scarlet and John, who ne’er was sabdn’d 
 Gave each his hand so bold; 
 
 We’il range the forest of merry Sherwood, 
 
 For we are hearts of gold. 
 
 XXXI .—Robin Hood 1 $ Death and Buried 
 
 WiiEs Robin Hood and Little John, 
 
 Doa n, a doirn, a daf^ 
 Went over yon brook of broom, 
 
 Said Robin Hood to Little John, 
 
 I fear approaching doom. 
 
 For tho’ I’ve shot for many a poand, 
 
 My arrows will not ‘lee; 
 
 So I’ll to my cousin of Kirkly-ha.il, 
 
 To seek for remedy. 
 
 Then he set off for Kirkly.hail, 
 
 As fast as he coaid hie; 
 
 And ere that he could reach the place, 
 
 He was near like to die. 
 
 And when he came to Kirklv hall. 
 
 He knocked at the ring; 
 
 And none so free as his cousin was, 
 
 To give him welcoming. 
 
 Will you sit down, cousin Rubin, she said. 
 
 And drink some wine with me? 
 
 No, I will neither e-at nor drink, 
 
 Until I blooded be. 
 
IQv ROOD’S GAR La i 
 
 Ani then she led him by the hand, 
 £Jnto a private room; 
 
 And blooded him there in the arm, 
 While that one drop would ronie, 
 
 When he perceiv’d her treachery. 
 Away he strove to fly; 
 
 From the window he could not leap 
 It was so very high. 
 
 His bugle horn then he took out. 
 Which hung down by his knee, 
 
 And strove with all his might and m&2K 
 Until he blew blasts three. 
 
 1 Little John heard his master’s call, 
 
 As he sat under a tree, 
 
 I fear my master is not well, 
 
 He blows so wearily. 
 
 Then Little John set off with speed, 
 ’Till he caine to Kirkly-hall, 
 
 And there with all his might and mats, 
 For Robin Hood did call. 
 
 And when he could , not enter in, 
 
 The doors broke open wide, 
 
 And when he came to Robin Hood, 
 
 He kneel’d down by his side. 
 
 What shall I do, master, he said. 
 
 That thou reveng’d may be ? 
 
 1 fain would burn Kirkly-hall, 
 
 And all its nunnery. 
 
 That shall not be, said Robin Hood, 
 f ne’er in ail my life, 
 
 Buru’d church, nor nun, nor holy prits® 
 Nor child, widow, nor wife. 
 
 Nor shall it now be said of me, 
 
 That at my dying hour, < 
 
 Upon the heads of Christian 
 Destruction I d»d pour 
 
But give me my bent bow in my liana 
 An arrow I’ll let fly, 
 
 And wheresoe’er the arrow lights, 
 
 1 here let my body lie. 
 
 Let green grass grow upon my grave. 
 By my side my bow so good, 
 
 At my head a stone that all may read, 
 
 “ Here lies bold Robin Hood.” 
 
 And this request they promis’d him, 
 Which pleased Robin well, 
 
 They buried him in Kirkly-hall, 
 
 And rung his dying bell. 
 
 And thus you have the story heard, 
 
 Of that most fam’d outlaw, 
 
 Who died by woman’s treachery, 
 
 Whom man could never awe. 
 
 EPITAPH, 
 
 , Underneath this little stone, 
 
 Lies Robert, Earl of Huntingdon $ 
 si No Archer was like him so good, 
 
 | His wildness nam'd him ROBIN HOOD. 
 | Full thirteen years, and somewhat more, 
 
 I These Northern parts he vexed sore ; 
 
 ’’ Such outlaws as he and his men, 
 
 ^ May England never know again. 
 
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