Volume 5 / Book 5 — BOOK V. (continued 3)

O Rose the Red, and White Lilly, Their mother deir was dead; And their father has married an ill woman, Wish'd them twa little guid. But she had twa as gallant sons5 As ever brake mans bread; And the tane o' them lo'ed her, White Lilly, And the tother Rose the Red. O bigged hae they a bigly bour, Fast by the roaring strand;10 And there was mair mirth in the ladyes bour, Nor in a' their fathers land. But out and spak their step-mother, As she stood a little forebye— "I hope to live and play the prank15 Sall gar your loud sang lie." She's call'd upon her eldest son, "Cum here, my son, to me: It fears me sair, my Bauld Arthur, That ye maun sail the sea."20 "Gin sae it maun be, my deir mother, Your bidding I maun dee; But, be never waur to Rose the Red, Than ye hae been to me." She's called upon her youngest son,25 "Cum here, my son, to me: It fears me sair, my Brown Robin, That ye maun sail the sea." "Gin it fear ye sair, my mother deir, Your bidding I shall dee;30 But, be never waur to White Lilly, Than ye hae been to me." "Now haud your tongues, ye foolish boys, For small sall be their part: They ne'er again sall see your face,35 Gin their very hearts suld break." Sae Bauld Arthur's gane to our king's court, His hie chamberlain to be; But Brown Robin, he has slain a knight, And to grene-woode he did flee.40 When Rose the Red, and White Lilly, Saw their twa loves were gane, Sune did they drop the loud loud sang, Took up the still mourning. And out then spake her White Lilly;45 "My sister, we'll be gane: Why suld we stay in Barnisdale, To mourn our bour within?" O cutted hae they their green cloathing, A little abune their knee,50 And sae hae they their yellow hair, A little abune their bree. And left hae they that bonny bour, To cross the raging sea; And they hae ta'en to a holy chapel,55 Was christened by Our Ladye. And they hae changed their twa names, Sae far frae ony toun; And the tane o' them's hight Sweet Willie, And the tother's Rouge the Rounde.60 Between the twa a promise is, And they hae sworn it to fulfil; Whenever the tane blew a bugle-horn, The tother suld cum her till. Sweet Willie's gane to the kings court,65 Her true love for to see; And Rouge the Rounde to gude grene-wood, Brown Robin's man to be. O it fell anes, upon a time, They putted at the stane;70 And seven foot ayont them a', Brown Robin's gar'd it gang. She lifted the heavy putting-stane, And gave a sad "Ohon!" Then out bespake him, Brown Robin,75 "But that's a woman's moan!" "O kent ye by my rosy lips? Or by my yellow hair? Or kent ye by my milk-white breast, Ye never yet saw bare?"80 "I kent na by your rosy lips; Nor by your yellow hair; But, cum to your bour whaever likes, They'll find a ladye there." "O gin ye come my bour within,85 Through fraud, deceit, or guile, Wi' this same brand, that's in my hand, I vow I will thee kill." "Yet durst I cum into your bour, And ask nae leave," quo' he;90 "And wi' this same brand, that's in my hand, Wave danger back on thee." About the dead hour o' the night, The ladye's bour was broken; And, about the first hour o' the day,95 The fair knave bairn was gotten. When days were gane, and months were come, The ladye was sad and wan; And aye she cried for a bour woman, For to wait her upon.100 Then up and spake him, Brown Robin, "And what needs this?" quo' he; "Or what can woman do for you, That canna be done by me?" "'Twas never my mothers fashion," she said,105 "Nor shall it e'er be mine, That belted knights should e're remain While ladyes dree'd their pain. "But gin ye take that bugle-horn, And wind a blast sae shrill,110 I hae a brother in yonder court, Will come me quickly till." "O gin ye hae a brother on earth, That ye lo'e mair than me, Ye may blow the horn yoursell," he says,115 "For a blast I winna gie." She's ta'en the bugle in her hand, And blawn baith loud and shrill; Sweet William started at the sound, And came her quickly till.120 O up and starts him, Brown Robin, And swore by Our Ladye, "No man shall come into this bour, But first maun fight wi' me." O they hae fought the wood within,125 Till the sun was going down; And drops o' blood frae Rose the Red Came pouring to the ground. She leant her back against an aik, Said, "Robin, let me be;130 For it is a ladye, bred and born, That has fought this day wi' thee." O seven foot he started back, Cried, "Alas and woe is me! For I wished never, in all my life,135 A woman's bluid to see: "And that all for the knightly vow I swore to Our Ladye; But mair for the sake o' ae fair maid, Whose name was White Lilly."140 Then out and spake her Rouge the Rounde, And leugh right hertilie, "She has been wi' ye this year and mair, Though ye wistna it was she." Now word is gane through all the land,145 Before a month was gane, That a foresters page, in gude grene-wood, Had born a bonny son. The marvel gaed to the kings court, And to the king himsell;150 "Now, by my fae," the king did say, "The like was never heard tell!" Then out and spake him Bauld Arthur, And laugh'd right loud and hie— "I trow some may has plaid the lown,155 And fled her ain countrie." "Bring me my steid," the King can say, "My bow and arrows keen; And I'll gae hunt in yonder wood, And see what's to be seen."160 "Gin it please your grace," quo' Bauld Arthur, "My liege, I'll gang you wi', And see gin I can meet a bonny page, That's stray'd awa frae me." And they hae chased in gude green-wood,165 The buck but and the rae, Till they drew near Brown Robin's bour, About the close o' day. Then out an' spake the king himsell, Says, "Arthur, look and see,170 Gin yon be not your favourite page, That leans against yon tree." O Arthur's ta'en a bugle-horn, And blawn a blast sae shrill; Sweet Willie started to her feet,175 And ran him quickly till. "O wanted ye your meat, Willie, Or wanted ye your fee? Or gat ye e'er an angry word, That ye ran awa frae me?"180 "I wanted nought, my master dear; To me ye aye was good: I cam to see my ae brother, That wons in this grene-wood." Then out bespake the King again,—185 "My boy, now tell to me, Who dwells into yon bigly bour, Beneath yon green aik tree?" "O pardon me," said sweet Willy, "My liege, I darena tell;190 And gangna near yon outlaw's bour, For fear they suld you kill." "O haud your tongue, my bonny boy, For I winna be said nay; But I will gang yon bour within,195 Betide me weal or wae." They have lighted frae their milk-white steids, And saftlie entered in; And there they saw her, White Lilly, Nursing her bonny young son.200 "Now, by the mass," the King he said, "This is a comely sight; I trow, instead of a forester's man, This is a ladye bright!" O out and spake her, Rose the Red,205 And fell low on her knee:— "O pardon us, my gracious liege, And our story I'll tell thee. "Our father is a wealthy lord, Lives into Barnisdale;210 But we had a wicked step-mother, That wrought us meikle bale. "Yet had she twa as fu' fair sons As e'er the sun did see; And the tane o' them lo'ed my sister deir,215 And the tother said he lo'ed me." Then out and cried him Bauld Arthur, As by the King he stood,— "Now, by the faith of my body, This suld be Rose the Red!"220 The king has sent for robes o' green, And girdles o' shining gold; And sae sune have the ladyes busked themselves, Sae glorious to behold. Then in and came him, Brown Robin,225 Fra hunting o' the King's deer, But when he saw the King himsell, He started back for fear. The King has ta'en Robin by the hand, And bade him nothing dread,230 But quit for aye the gude grene-wood, And come to the court wi' speed. The King has ta'en White Lilly's son, And set him on his knee; Says, "Gin ye live to wield a brand,235 My bowman thou sall be." Then they have ta'en them to the holy chapelle, And there had fair wedding; And when they cam to the King's court, For joy the bells did ring.240

The King has wedded an ill woman, Into some foreign land; His daughters twa, that stood in awe, They bravely sat and sang. Then in be-came their step-mother,5 Sae stately steppin' ben; "O gin I live and bruik my life, I'll gar ye change your tune." "O we sang ne'er that sang, ladie, But we will sing again;10 And ye ne'er boor that son, ladie, We wad lay our love on. "But we will cow our yellow locks, A little abune our bree; And we will on to gude green-wud,15 And serve for meat and fee. "And we will kilt our gay claithing A little below the knee; And we will on the gude green-wud, Gif Robin Hood we see.20 "And we will change our ain twa names, When we gae frae the toun,— The tane we will call Nicholas, The tither Rogee Roun." Then they hae cow'd their yellow locks,25 A little abune their bree; And they are on to gude green-wud To serve for meat and fee. And they hae kilt their gay claithing A little below their knee,30 And they are on to gud green-wud, Gif Robin Hood they see. And they hae chang'd thair ain twa names, When they gaed frae the toun;— The tane they've called Nicholas,35 The tither Rogee Roun. And they hae staid in gude green-wud, And never a day thoucht long, Till it fell ance upon a day, That Rogee sang a sang.40 "When we were in our fathers bouer, We sew'd the silken seam; But now we walk the gude green-wud, And bear anither name. "When we were in our fathers ha',45 We wore the beaten gold; But now we wear the shield sae sharp, Alas! we'll die with cold!" Then up bespake him Robin Hood, As he to them drew near;50 "Instead of boys to carry the bow, Twa ladies we've got here." So they had not been in gud green-wud, A twalmonth and a day, Till Rogee Roun was as big wi' bairn55 As onie lady could gae. "O wae be to my stepmother, That garr'd me leave my hame, For I'm wi' bairn to Robin Hood, And near nine month is gane.60 "O wha will be my bouer-woman? Na bouer-woman is here! O wha will be my bouer-woman, Whan that sad time draws near? * * * * * * * The tane was wedded to Robin Hood,65 And the tither to Little John; And it was a' owing to their step-mother That garr'd them leave their hame.

Lyth and listen, gentlemen, That's come of high born blood, I'll tell you of a brave booting That befel Robin Hood. Robin Hood upon a day,5 He went forth alone; And as he came from Barnesdale Into fair evening, He met a beggar on the way, Who sturdily could gang;10 He had a pike-staff in his hand That was baith stark and strang. A clouted cloak about him was, That held him frae the cold; The thinnest bit of it, I guess,15 Was more then twenty fold. His meal-pock hang about his neck, Into a leathern fang, Well fasten'd with a broad buckle, That was baith stark and strang.20 He had three hats upon his head, Together stickèd fast, He car'd neither for wind nor weet, In lands where'er he past. Good Robin coost him in his way,25 To see what he might be, If any beggar had monèy, He thought some part had he. "Tarry, tarry," good Robin says, "Tarry, and speak with me;"30 He heard him as he heard him not, And fast on his way can hie. "It be's not so," says good Robin, "Nay, thou must tarry still;" "By my troth," said the bold beggar,35 "Of that I have no will. "It is far to my lodging house, And it is growing late; If they have supt e'er I come in I will look wondrous blate."40 "Now, by my truth," says good Robin, "I see well by thy fare, If thou chear well to thy supper, Of mine thou takes no care; "Who wants my dinner all this day,45 And wots not where to lie, And should I to the tavern go, I want money to buy. "Sir, thou must lend me some money Till we two meet again:"50 The beggar answer'd cankerdly, "I have no money to lend. "Thou art as young a man as I, And seems to be as sweir; If thou fast till thou get from me,55 Thou shalt eat none this year." "Now, by my truth," says good Robin, "Since we are 'sembled so, If thou have but a small farthing, I'll have it e'er thou go.60 "Therefore, lay down thy clouted cloak, And do no longer stand, And loose the strings of all thy pocks, I'll ripe them with my hand. "And now to thee I make a vow,65 If thou make any din, I shall see if a broad arrow, Can pierce a beggar's skin." The beggar smil'd, and answer made, "Far better let me be;70 Think not that I will be afraid For thy nip crooked tree. "Or that I fear thee any whit For thy curn nips of sticks; I know no use for them so meet75 As to be pudding-pricks. "Here I defy thee to do me ill, For all thy boisterous fare; Thou'st get nothing from me but ill, Would'st thou seek evermair."80 Good Robin bent his noble bow, He was an angery man, And in it set a broad arròw; Yet erst was drawn a span, The beggar, with his noble tree,85 Reach'd him so round a rout, That his bow and his broad arròw In flinders flew about. Good Robin bound him to his brand, But that prov'd likewise vain, The beggar lighted on his hand With his pike-staff again. I wot he might not draw a sword For forty days and mair; Good Robin could not speak a word,95 His heart was never so sair. He could not fight, he could not flee, He wist not what to do; The beggar with his noble tree Laid lusty flaps him to.100 He paid good Robin back and side, And beft him up and down, And with his pike-staff still laid on hard, Till he fell in a swoon. "Fy, stand up, man," the beggar said,105 "'Tis shame to go to rest; Stay still till thou get my money, I think it were the best. "And syne go to the tavern house, And buy both wine and ale;110 Hereat thy friends will crack full crouse, Thou hast been at a dale." Good Robin answer'd never a word, But lay still as a stane; His cheeks were white as any clay,115 And closed were his eyen. The beggar thought him dead but fail, And boldly bown'd away;— I would you had been at the dale, And gotten part of the play.120

Now three of Robin's men, by chance, Came walking by the way, And found their master in a trance, On ground where he did lay. Up have they taken good Robin,5 Making a piteous beir, Yet saw they no man there at whom They might the matter speir. They lookèd him all round about, But wounds on him saw none,10 Yet at his mouth came bocking out The blood of a good vein. Cold water they have taken syne, And cast into his face; Then he began to lift his eyne,15 And spake within short space. "Tell us, dear master," said his men, "How with you stands the case?" Good Robin sigh'd e'er he began To tell of his disgrace.20 "I have been watchman in this wood Near hand this forty year, Yet I was never so hard bestead As you have found me here. "A beggar with a clouted cloak,25 In whom I fear'd no ill, Hath with his pike-staff claw'd my back, I fear 'twill never be well. See, where he goes o'er yonder hill, With hat upon his head;30 If e'er you lov'd your master well, Go now revenge this deed. "And bring him back again to me, If it lie in your might, That I may see, before I die,35 Him punisht in my sight. "And if you may not bring him back, Let him not go loose on; For to us all it were great shame If he escap't again."40 "One of us shall with you remain, Because you're ill at ease, The other two shall bring him back, To use him as you please." "Now, by my troth," says good Robin,45 "I trow there's enough said; If he get scouth to wield his tree, I fear you'll both be paid." "Be ye not fear'd, our good master, That we two can be dung50 With any blutter base beggar, That has nought but a rung. "His staff shall stand him in no stead; That you shall shortly see; But back again he shall be led,55 And fast bound shall he be, To see if ye will have him slain, Or hangèd on a tree." "But cast you slily in his way, Before he be aware,60 And on his pike-staff first hands lay, You'll speed the better far." Now leave we Robin with his man, Again to play the child, And learn himself to stand and gang65 By haulds, for all his eild. Now pass we to the bold beggàr That rakèd o'er the hill, Who never mended his pace no more Nor he had done no ill.70 The young men knew the country well, So soon where he would be, And they have taken another way, Was nearer by miles three. They rudely ran with all their might,75 Spared neither dub nor mire, They started neither at laigh nor hight, No travel made them tire. Till they before the beggar wan, And coost them in his way;80 A little wood lay in a glen, And there they both did stay. They stood up closely by a tree, In ilk side of the gate, Until the beggar came them to,85 That thought not of such fate. And as he was betwixt them past, They leapt upon him baith; The one his pike-staff grippèd fast, They fearèd for its scaith.90 The other he held in his sight A drawen dirk to his breast, And said, "False carl, quit thy staff, Or I shall be thy priest." His pike-staff they have taken him frae,95 And stuck it in the green, He was full loath to let gae, If better might have been. The beggar was the feardest man Of one that ever might be;100 To win away no way he can, Nor help him with his tree. He wist not wherefore he was tane, Nor how many was there; He thought his life-days had been gane,105 He grew into despair. "Grant me my life," the beggar said, "For him that died on tree, And take away that ugly knife, Or then for fear I'll die.110 "I griev'd you never in all my life, Nor late nor yet by ayre, Ye have great sin, if ye would slay A silly poor beggàr." "Thou lies, false lown," they said again,115 "By all that may be sworn; Thou hast near slain the gentlest man That ever yet was born. "And back again thou shalt be led, And fast bound shalt thou be,120 To see if he will have thee slain, Or hangèd on a tree." The beggar then thought all was wrong; They were set for his wrack; He saw nothing appearing then,125 But ill upon worse back. Were he out of their hands, he thought, And had again his tree, He should not be had back for nought, With such as he did see.130 Then he bethought him on a wile, If it could take effect, How he the young men might beguile, And give them a begeck. Thus for to do them shame or ill,135 His beastly breast was bent; He found the wind grew something shril, To further his intent. He said, "Brave gentlemen, be good, And let the poor man be;140 When ye have taken a beggar's blood, It helps you not a flea. "It was but in my own defence, If he hath gotten skaith; But I will make a recompense,145 Much better for you baith. "If ye will set me safe and free, And do me no dangèr, An hundred pounds I will you give, And much more good silvèr,150 "That I have gather'd this many years, Under this clouted cloak, And hid up [wonder] privately, In bottom of my pock." The young men to a council yeed,155 And let the beggar gae; They wist full well he had no speed From them to run away. They thought they would the money take, Come after what so may;160 And then they would not bring him back, But in that place him slay. By that good Robin would not know That they had gotten coin; It would content him for to show165 That there they had him slain. They said, "False carl, soon have done, And tell forth thy monèy; For the ill turn that thou hast done 'Tis but a simple fee.170 "And yet we will not have thee back, Come after what so may, If thou will do that which thou spake, And make us present pay." O then he loos'd his clouted cloak,175 And spread it on the ground, And thereon laid he many a pock, Betwixt them and the wind. He took a great bag from his hase, It was near full of meal,180 Two pecks in it at least there was, And more I wot full well. Upon his cloak he laid it down, The mouth he open'd wide, To turn the same he made him bown,185 The young men ready spy'd. In every hand he took a nook Of that great leathern meal, And with a fling the meal he shook, Into their faces hail:190 Wherewith he blinded them so close, A stime they could not see; And then in heart he did rejoice, And clapt his lusty tree. He thought if he had done them wrong,195 In mealing of their cloaths, For to strike off the meal again With his pike-staff he goes. Or any of them could red their eyne, Or could a glimm'ring see,200 Ilk one of them a dozen had Well laid on with the tree. The young men were right swift of foot, And boldly ran away, The beggar could them no more hit,205 For all the haste he may. "What ails this haste?" the beggar said, "May ye not tarry still, Until your money be received? I'll pay you with good will.210 "The shaking of my pocks, I fear, Hath blown into your eyne; But I have a good pike-staff here Can ripe them out full clean." The young men answer'd never a word,215 They were dumb as a stane; In the thick wood the beggar fled, E'er they riped their eyne. And syne the night became so late, To seek him was in vain:220 But judge ye, if they lookèd blate, When they came home again. Good Robin spear'd how they had sped; They answer'd him, "Full ill:" "That cannot be," good Robin says,225 "Ye have been at the mill. "The mill it is a meatrif place, They may lick what they please; Most like ye have been at that art, Who would look to your cloaths."230 They hang'd their heads, they dropèd down, A word they could not speak: Robin said, "Because I fell a-swoon, I think you'll do the like. "Tell on the matter, less or more,235 And tell me what and how Ye have done with the bold beggàr, I sent you for right now." And when they told him to an end, As I have said before,240 How that the beggar did them blind, What misters process more, And how he lin'd their shoulders broad With his great trenchen tree, And how in the thick wood he fled,245 E'er they a stime could see, And how they scarcely could win home, Their bones were beft so sore, Good Robin cry'd, "Fy! out, for shame! We're sham'd for evermore."250 Altho' good Robin would full fain Of his wrong revengèd be, He smil'd to see his merry young men Had gotten a taste of the tree.

In Wakefield there lives a jolly pindèr, In Wakefield all on a green, In Wakefield all on a green. * * * * * * * * * * "There is neither knight nor squire," said the pinder, "Nor baron that is so bold,5 Nor baron that is so bold, Dare make a trespàss to the town of Wakefield, But his pledge goes to the pinfold," &c. All this beheard three wighty yeomen, 'Twas Robin Hood, Scarlet and John;10 With that they espy'd the jolly pindèr, As he sat under a thorn. "Now turn again, turn again," said the pindèr, "For a wrong way you have gone; For you have forsaken the kings highway,15 And made a path over the corn." "O that were a shame," said jolly Robìn, "We being three, and thou but one:" The pinder leapt back then thirty good foot, 'Twas thirty good foot and one.20 He leaned his back fast unto a thorn, And his foot against a stone, And there he fought a long summers day, A summers day so long, Till that their swords on their broad bucklèrs,25 Were broke fast into their hands. "Hold thy hand, hold thy hand," said bold Robin Hood, "And my merry men stand aside; For this is one of the best pindèrs, That with sword ever I tryed.30 "And wilt thou forsake thy pinders craft, And go to the greenwood with me? Thou shalt have a livery twice in the year, Th' one greene, 'tither brown shall be." "At Michaelmas next my cov'nant comes out,35 When every man gathers his fee, Then I'le take my blew blade all in my hand, And plod to the green-wood with thee." "Hast thou either meat or drink," said Robin Hood, "For my merry men and me?"40 * * * * * * * * * * "I have both bread and beef," said the pinder, "And good ale of the best:" "And that is meat good enough," said Robin Hood, For such unbidden 'guest.' "O wilt thou forsake the pinder his craft,45 And go to the green-wood with me? Thou shalt have a livery twice in the year, The one green, the other brown [shall be]." "If Michaelmas day was come and gone, And my master had paid me my fee,50 Then would I set as little by him, As my master doth by me."

"For this is one of the best pinders That ever I tried with sword."—Gutch.

When Phœbus had melted the 'sickles' of ice, With a hey down, &c. And likewise the mountains of snow, Bold Robin Hood he would ramble away, To frolick abroad with his bow. He left all his merry men waiting behind,5 Whilst through the green vallies he pass'd, Where he did behold a forester bold, Who cry'd out, "Friend, whither so fast?" "I am going," quoth Robin, "to kill a fat buck, For me and my merry men all;10 Besides, ere I go, I'll have a fat doe, Or else it shall cost me a fall." "You'd best have a care," said the forester then, "For these are his majesty's deer; Before you shall shoot, the thing I'll dispute,15 For I am head forester here." "These thirteen long summers," quoth Robin, "I'm sure, My arrows I here have let fly, Where freely I range; methinks it is strange, You should have more power than I.20 "This forest," quoth Robin, "I think is my own, And so are the nimble deer too; Therefore I declare, and solemnly swear, I'll not be affronted by you." The forester he had a long quarter staff,25 Likewise a broad sword by his side; Without more ado, he presently drew, Declaring the truth should be try'd. Bold Robin Hood had a sword of the best, Thus, ere he would take any wrong,30 His courage was flush, he'd venture a brush, And thus they fell to it ding dong. The very first blow that the forester gave, He made his broad weapon cry twang; 'Twas over the head, he fell down for dead,35 O that was a damnable bang! But Robin he soon recovered himself, And bravely fell to it again; The very next stroke their weapons they broke. Yet never a man there was slain.40 At quarter staff then they resolvèd to play, Because they would have the other bout; And brave Robin Hood right valiantly stood, Unwilling he was to give out. Bold Robin he gave him very hard blows,45 The other return'd them as fast; At every stroke their jackets did smoke, Three hours the combat did last. At length in a rage the forester grew, And cudgell'd bold Robin so sore,50 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, I never knew any so good; Thou art fitting to be a yeoman for me,55 And range in the merry green-wood. "Ill give thee this ring as a token of love, For bravely thou hast acted thy part; That man that can fight, in him I delight, And love him with all my whole heart.60 Robin Hood set his bugle-horn to his mouth, A blast then he merrily blows; His yeomen did hear, and strait did appear, A hundred with trusty long bows. Now Little John came at the head of them all,65 Cloath'd in a rich mantle of green; And likewise the rest were gloriously drest, A delicate sight to be seen. "Lo, these are my yeomen," said bold Robin Hood, "And thou shalt be one of the train;70 A mantle and bow, and quiver also, I give them whom I entertain." The forester willingly enter'd the list, They were such a beautiful sight; Then with a long bow they shot a fat doe,75 And made a rich supper that night. What singing and dancing was in the green wood, For joy of another new mate! With might and delight they spent all the night, And liv'd at a plentiful rate.80 The forester ne'er was so merry before, As then he was with these brave souls, Who never would fail, in wine, beer, or ale, To take off their cherishing bowls. Then Robin Hood gave him a mantle of green,85 Broad arrows, and curious long bow: This done, the next day, so gallant and gay, He marchèd them all on a row. Quoth he, "My brave yeomen, be true to your trust, And then we may range the woods wide:"90 They all did declare, and solemnly swear, They would conquer, or die by his side.

Robin was valiant and stout, So was Scarelock and John in the field, But these keepers stout did give them rout, And make them all for to yield. But after the battel ended was, Bold Robin did make them amends, For claret and sack they did not lack, So drank themselves good friends.

There's some will talk of lords and knights, Doun, a doun, a doun, And some of yeomen good, But I will tell you of Will Scarlock, Little John, and Robin Hood. Doun, a doun, a doun, a doun. They were outlaws, 'tis well known,5 And men of a noble blood; And many a time was their valour shown In the forrest of merry Sheerwood. Upon a time it chanced so, As Robin Hood would have it be,10 They all three would a walking go, The pastime for to see. And as they walked the forest along, Upon a Midsummer day, There was they aware of three keepèrs,15 Clad all in green aray. With brave long faucheons by their sides, And forrest-bills in hand, They call'd aloud to those bold outlàws, And charged them to stand.20 "Why, who are you," cry'd bold Robìn, "That speak so boldly here?" "We three belong to King Henry, And are keepers of his deer." "The devil you are!" sayes Robin Hood,25 "I am sure that it is not so; We be the keepers of this forrèst, And that you soon shall know. "Come, your coats of green lay on the ground, And so will we all three,30 And take your swords and bucklers round, And try the victory." "We be content," the keepers said, "We be three, and you no less, Then why should we be of you afraid,35 As we never did transgress?" "Why, if you be three keepers in this forrèst, Then we be three rangers good, And will make you know before you do go, You meet with bold Robin Hood."40 "We be content, thou bold outlàw, Our valour here to try, And will make you know, before we do go, We will fight before we will fly. "Then, come draw your swords, you bold outlàws,45 No longer stand to prate, But let us try it out with blows, For cowards we do hate. "Here is one of us for Will Scarlock, And another for Little John,50 And I myself for Robin Hood, Because he is stout and strong." So they fell to it hard and sore, It was on a Midsummers day; From eight of the clock till two and past,55 They all shewed gallant play. There Robin, and Will, and Little John, They fought most manfully, Till all their winde was spent and gone, Then Robin aloud did cry:60 "O hold, O hold," cries bold Robin, "I see you be stout men; Let me blow one blast on my bugle horn, Then Ile fight with you again." "That bargain's to make, bold Robin Hood,65 Therefore we it deny; Thy blast upon the bugle horn Cannot make us fight or fly. "Therefore fall on, or else be gone, And yield to us the day:70 It never shall be said that we are afraid Of thee, nor thy yeomen gay." "If that be so," cries bold Robin, "Let me but know your names, And in the forrest of merry Sheerwood,75 I shall extol your fames." "And with our names," one of them said, "What hast thou here to do? Except that thou wilt fight it out, Our names thou shalt not know."80 "We will fight no more," sayes bold Robin, "You be men of valour stout; Come and go with me to Nottingham, And there we will fight it out. "With a but of sack we will bang it about,85 To see who wins the day; And for the cost, make you no doubt I have gold enough to pay. "And ever hereafter, so long as we live, We all will brethren be;90 For I love these men with heart and hand, That will fight and never flee." So away they went to Nottingham, With sack to make amends; For three days they the wine did chase,95 And drank themselves good friends.

When Robin Hood was about twenty years old, With a hey down, down, and a down, He happen'd to meet Little John, A jolly brisk blade, right fit for the trade, For he was a lusty young man. Tho' he was call'd Little, his limbs they were large,5 And his stature was seven foot high; Where-ever he came, they quak'd at his name, For soon he would make them to fly. How they came acquainted, I'll tell you in brief, If you will but listen awhile;10 For this very jest, amongst all the rest, I think it may cause you to smile. Bold Robin Hood said to his jolly bowmèn, "Pray tarry you here in this grove; And see that you all observe well my call,15 While thorough the forest I rove. "We have had no sport for these fourteen long days, Therefore now abroad will I go; Now should I be beat, and cannot retreat, My horn I will presently blow."20 Then did he shake hands with his merry men all, And bid them at present good b'w'ye; Then, as near a brook his journey he took, A stranger he chanc'd to espy. They happen'd to meet on a long narrow bridge,25 And neither of them would give way; Quoth bold 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.30 The stranger reply'd, "I'll liquor thy hide, If thou offer'st to touch the string." Quoth 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,35 Before thou couldst strike me one blow." "Thou talk'st like a coward," the stranger reply'd; "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."40 "The name of a coward," quoth Robin, "I scorn, Wherefore my long bow I'll lay by; And now, for thy sake, a staff will I take, The truth of thy manhood to try." Then Robin Hood stept to a thicket of trees,45 And chose him a staff of ground oak; Now this being done, away he did run To the stranger, and merrily spoke: "Lo! see my staff, it is lusty and tough, Now here on the bridge we will play;50 Whoever falls in, the other shall win The battel, and so we'll away." "With all my whole heart," the stranger reply'd; "I scorn in the least to give out;" This said, they fell to't without more dispute,55 And their staffs they did flourish about. And first Robin he gave the stranger a bang, So hard that it made his bones ring: The stranger he said, "This must be repaid, I'll give you as good as you bring.60 "So long as I'm able to handle my staff To die in your debt, friend, I scorn:" Then to it each goes, and follow'd their blows, As if they had been threshing of corn. The stranger gave Robin a crack on the crown,65 Which caused the blood to appear; Then Robin enrag'd, more fiercely engag'd, And follow'd his blows more severe. So thick and so fast did he lay it on him, With a passionate fury and ire,70 At every stroke he made him to smoke, As if he had been all on fire. O then into fury the stranger he grew, And gave him a damnable look, And with it a blow that laid him full low,75 And tumbl'd him into the brook. "I prithee, good fellow, O where art thou now?" The stranger, in laughter, he cry'd. Quoth bold Robin Hood, "Good faith, in the flood, And floating along with the tide.80 "I needs must acknowledge thou art a brave soul; With thee I'll no longer contend; For needs must I say, thou hast got the day, Our battel shall be at an end." Then unto the bank he did presently wade,85 And pull'd himself out by a thorn; Which done, at the last, he blow'd a loud blast Straitway on his fine bugle-horn: The eccho of which through the vallies did fly, At which his stout bowmen appear'd,90 All cloathed in green, most gay to be seen, So up to their master they steer'd. "O what's the matter?" quoth William Stutely; "Good master, you are wet to the skin." "No matter," quoth he; "the lad which you see95 In fighting hath tumbl'd me in." "He shall not go scot-free," the others reply'd; So strait they were seizing him there, To duck him likewise; but Robin Hood cries, "He is a stout fellow, forbear.100 "There's no one shall wrong thee, friend, be not afraid; These bowmen upon me do wait; There's threescore and nine; if thou wilt be mine, Thou shalt have my livery strait: "And other accoutrements fit for a man;105 Speak up, jolly blade, never fear. I'll teach you also the use of the bow, To shoot at the fat fallow-deer." "O here is my hand," the stranger reply'd, "I'll serve you with all my whole heart;110 My name is John Little, a man of good mettle; Ne'er doubt me, for I'll play my part." "His name shall be alter'd," quoth William Stutely, "And I will his godfather be; Prepare then a feast, and none of the least,115 For we will be merry," quoth he. They presently fetch'd in a brace of fat does, With humming strong liquor likewise; They lov'd what was good; so, in the green-wood, This pretty sweet babe they baptize.120 He was, I must tell you, but seven foot high, And, may be, an ell in the waste; A pretty sweet lad; much feasting they had; Bold Robin the christ'ning grac'd, With all his bowmèn, which stood in a ring,125 And were of the Nottingham breed; Brave Stutely comes then, with seven yeomèn, And did in this manner proceed. "This infant was called John Little," quoth he; "Which name shall be changed anon;130 The words we'll transpose, so whereever he goes, His name shall be call'd Little John." They all with a shout made the elements ring, So soon as the office was o'er; To feasting they went, with true merriment,135 And tippl'd strong liquor gillore. Then Robin he took the pretty sweet babe, And cloath'd him from top to the toe In garments of green, most gay to be seen, And gave him a curious long bow.140 "Thou shalt be an archer as well as the best, And range in the green-wood with us; "Where we'll not want gold nor silver, behold, While bishops have ought in their purse. "We live here like 'squires, or lords of renown,145 Without e'er a foot of free land; We feast on good cheer, with wine, ale, and beer, And ev'ry thing at our command." Then music and dancing did finish the day; At length, when the sun waxed low,150 Then all the whole train the grove did refrain, And unto their caves they did go. And so ever after, as long as he liv'd, Altho' he was proper and tall, Yet, nevertheless, the truth to express,155 Still Little John they did him call.

In Nottingham there lives a jolly tannèr, With a hey down, down, a down, down, His name is Arthur-a-Bland; There is nere a squire in Nottinghamshire, Dare bid bold Arthur stand. With a long pike-staff upon his shouldèr,5 So well he can clear his way; By two and by three he makes them to flee, For he hath no list to stay. And as he went forth, in a summers morning, Into the forrest of merry Sherwood,10 To view the red deer, that range here and there, There met he with bold Robin Hood. As soon as bold Robin he did espy, He thought some sport he would make, Therefore out of hand he bid him to stand,15 And thus to him he spake: "Why, what art thou, thou bold fellow, That ranges so boldly here? In sooth, to be brief, thou lookst like a thief, That comes to steal our kings deer.20 "For I am keeper in this forrest; The king puts me in trust To look to his deer, that range here and there; Therefore stay thee I must." "If thou beest a keeper in this forrest,25 And hast such a great command, Yet thou must have more partakers in store, Before thou make me to stand." "Nay, I have no more partakers in store, Or any that I do not need;30 But I have a staff of another oke graff, I know it will do the deed. "For thy sword and thy bow I care not a straw, Nor all thine arrows to boot; If thou get'st a knop upon the bare scop,35 Thou canst as well sh—e as shoote." "Speak cleanly, good fellow," said jolly Robin, "And give better terms to me; Else Ile thee correct for thy neglect, And make thee more mannerly.40 "Marry gep with a wenion!" quod Arthur-a-Bland, "Art thou such a goodly man? I care not a fig for thy looking so big; Mend thou thyself where thou can." Then Robin Hood he unbuckled his belt,45 And laid down his bow so long; He took up a staff of another oke graff, That was both stiff and strong. "I'le yield to thy weapon," said jolly Robin, "Since thou wilt not yield to mine;50 For I have a staff of another oke graff, Not half a foot longer then thine. "But let me measure," said jolly Robin, "Before we begin our fray; For I'le not have mine to be longer than thine,55 For that will be counted foul play." "I pass not for length," bold Arthur reply'd, "My staff is of oke so free; Eight foot and a half, it will knock down a calf, And I hope it will knock down thee."60 Then Robin could no longer forbear; He gave him such a knock, Quickly and soon the blood came down, Before it was ten a clock. Then Arthur he soon recovered himself,65 And gave him such a knock on the crown, That from every side of bold Robin Hoods head, The blood came trickling down. Then Robin raged like a wild boar, As soon as he saw his own blood;70 Then Bland was in hast, he laid on so fast, As though he had been cleaving of wood. And about, and about, and about they went, Like two wild bores in a chase; Striving to aim each other to maim,75 Leg, arm, or any other place. And knock for knock they lustily dealt, Which held for two hours and more; That all the wood rang at every bang, They ply'd their work so sore.80 "Hold thy hand, hold thy hand," said Robin Hood, "And let thy quarrel fall; For here we may thrash our bones all to mesh, And get no coyn at all. "And in the forrest of merry Sherwood85 Hereafter thou shalt be free:" "God-a-mercy for nought, my freedom I bought; I may thank my staff, and not thee." "What tradesman art thou?" said jolly Robìn, "Good fellow, I prethee me show:90 And also me tell in what place thou dost dwell, For both of these fain would I know." "I am a tanner," bold Arthur reply'd, "In Nottingham long have I wrought; And if thou'lt come there, I vow and swear,95 I will tan thy hide for nought." "God-a-mercy, good fellow," said jolly Robin, "Since thou art so kind and free; And if thou wilt tan my hide for nought, I will do as much for thee.100 "And if thou'lt forsake thy tanners trade, And live in the green wood with me, My name's Robin Hood, I swear by the rood, I will give thee both gold and fee." "If thou be Robin Hood," bold Arthur reply'd,105 "As I think well thou art, Then here's my hand, my name's Arthur-a-Bland, We two will never depart. "But tell me, O tell me, where is Little John? Of him fain would I hear;110 For we are alide by the mothers side, And he is my kinsman dear." Then Robin Hood blew on the beaugle horn, He blew full lowd and shrill, And quickly anon appear'd Little John,115 Come tripping down a green hill. "O what is the matter?" then said Little John, "Master, I pray you tell; "Why do you stand with your staff in your hand? I fear all is not well."120 "O man I do stand, and he makes me stand, The tanner that stands thee beside; He is a bonny blade, and master of his trade, For soundly he hath tan'd my hide." "He is to be commended," then said Little John, "If such a feat he can do;125 If he be so stout, we will have a bout, And he shall tan my hide too." "Hold thy hand, hold thy hand," said Robin Hood, "For as I do understand,130 He's a yeoman good of thine own blood, For his name is Arthur-a-Bland." Then Little John threw his staff away, As far as he could it fling, And ran out of hand to Arthur-a-Bland,135 And about his neck did cling. With loving respect, there was no neglect, They were neither nice nor coy, Each other did face with a lovely grace, And both did weep for joy.140 Then Robin Hood took them both by the hands, And danc'd round about the oke tree; "For three merry men, and three merry men, And three merry men we be. "And ever hereafter as long as we live,145 We three will be as one; The wood it shall ring, and the old wife sing, Of Robin Hood, Arthur, and John.

How Robin by a wile The Tinker he did cheat; But at the length, as you shall hear, The Tinker did him beat, Whereby the same they did then so agree, They after liv'd in love and unity.

In summer time, when leaves grow green, Down, a down, a down, And birds singing on every tree, Hey down, a down, a down, Robin Hood went to Nottingham, Down, a down, a down, As fast as hee could dree. Hey down, a down, a down. And as hee came to Nottingham,5 A tinker he did meet, And seeing him a lusty blade, He did him kindly greet. "Where dost thou live?" quoth Robin Hood, "I pray thee now mee tell:10 Sad news I hear there is abroad, I fear all is not well." "What is that news?" the tinker said; "Tell mee without delay; I am a tinker by my trade,15 And do live in Banburà." "As for the news," quoth Robin Hood, "It is but as I hear, Two tinkers were set i'th' stocks, For drinking ale and beer."20 "If that be all," the tinker said, "As I may say to you, Your news is not worth a f—t, Since that they all bee true. "For drinking of good ale and beer,25 You will not lose your part:" "No, by my faith," quoth Robin Hood, "I love it with all my heart. "What news abroad?" quoth Robin Hood, "Tell me what thou dost hear:30 Seeing thou goest from town to town, Some news thou need not fear." "All the news I have," the tinker said, "I hear it is for good, It is to seek a bold outlàw,35 Which they call Robin Hood. "I have a warrant from the king, To take him where I can; If you can tell me where hee is, I will make you a man.40 "The king would give a hundred pound That he could but him see; And if wee can but now him get, It will serve thee and mee." "Let me see that warrant," said Robin Hood,45 "Ile see if it bee right; And I will do the best I can For to take him this night. "That will I not," the tinker said, "None with it I will trust;50 And where hee is if you'll not tell, Take him by force I must." But Robin Hood perceiving well How then the game would go, "If you would go to Nottingham,55 We shall find him I know." The tinker had a crab-tree staff, Which was both good and strong; Robin hee had a good strong blade, So they went both along.60 And when they came to Nottingham, There they both tooke their inn; And there they called for ale and wine, To drink it was no sin. But ale and wine they drank so fast,65 That the tinker hee forgot What thing he was about to do; It fell so to his lot, That while the tinker fell asleep, Robin made then haste away,70 And left the tinker in the lurch, For the great shot to pay. But when the tinker wakenèd, And saw that he was gone, He call'd then even for his host,75 And thus he made his moan: "I had a warrant from the king. Which might have done me good, That is to take a bold outlaw, Some call him Robin Hood.80 "But now my warrant and mony's gone, Nothing I have to pay; But he that promis'd to be my friend, He is gone and fled away." "That friend you tell on," said the host,85 "They call him Robin Hood; And when that first hee met with you, He ment you little good." "Had I but known it had been hee, "When that I had him here,90 Th' one of us should have tri'd our might Which should have paid full dear. "In the mean time I will away, No longer here Ile bide, But I will go and seek him out,95 Whatever do me betide. "But one thing I would gladly know, What here I have to pay;" "Ten shillings just," then said the host; "Ile pay without delay;100 "Or elce take here my working-bag, And my good hammer too; And if that I light but on the knave. I will then soon pay you." "The onely way," then said the host,105 "And not to stand in fear, Is to seek him among the parks, Killing of the kings deer." The tinker hee then went with speed, And made then no delay,110 Till he had found bold Robin Hood, That they might have a fray. At last hee spy'd him in a park, Hunting then of the deer; "What knave is that," quoth Robin Hood,115 "That doth come mee so near?" "No knave, no knave," the tinker said, "And that you soon shall know; "Whether of us hath done any wrong, My crab-tree staff shall show."120 Then Robin drew his gallant blade, Made then of trusty steel; But the tinker he laid on so fast, That he made Robin reel. Then Robins anger did arise;125 He fought right manfully, Until he had made the tinkèr Almost then fit to fly. With that they had a bout again, They ply'd their weapons fast;130 The tinker threshed his bones so sore, He made him yeeld at last. "A boon, a boon," Robin hee cryes, "If thou will grant it mee;" "Before I do it," the tinker said,135 "Ile hang thee on this tree." But the tinker looking him about, Robin his horn did blow; Then came unto him Little John, And William Scadlock too.140 "What is the matter," quoth Little John, "You sit on th' highway side?" "Here is a tinker that stands by, That hath paid well my hide." "That tinker then," said Little John,145 "Fain that blade I would see, And I would try what I could do, If hee'l do as much for me." But Robin hee then wish'd them both They should the quarrel cease,150 "That henceforth wee may bee as one, And ever live in peace. "And for the jovial tinkers part, A hundred pounds Ile give In th' year to maintain him on,155 As long as he doth live. "In manhood he is a mettled man, And a mettle-man by trade; Never thought I that any man Should have made mee so afraid.160 "And if hee will bee one of us, "We will take all one fare; And whatsoever wee do get, He shall have his full share." So the tinker was content165 With them to go along, And with them a part to take: And so I end my song.

The shepherd fought for twenty pound, and Robin for bottle and bag, But the shepherd stout gave them the rout, so sore they could not wag.

All gentlemen and yeomen good, Down, a down, a down, a down, I wish you to draw near; For a story of gallant bold Robin Hood Unto you I will declare. Down, &c. As Robin Hood walkt the forrest along,5 Some pastime for to spie, There he was aware of a jolly shephèrd, That on the ground did lie. "Arise, arise," cried jolly Robin, "And now come let me see10 What's in thy bag and bottle, I say, Come tell it unto me." "What's that to thee, thou proud fellòw? Tell me as I do stand; What hast thou to do with my bag and bottle?15 Let me see thy command." "My sword, which hangeth by my side, Is my command I know; Come, and let me taste of thy bottle, Or it may breed thy woe."20 "The devil a drop, thou proud fellòw, Of my bottle thou shalt see, Until thy valour here be tried, Whether thou wilt fight or flee." "What shall we fight for?" cries Robin Hood,25 "Come tell it unto me; Here is twenty pound in good red gold, Win it, and take it thee." The shepherd stood all in a maze, And knew not what to say;30 "I have no money, thou proud fellow, But bag and bottle I'le lay." "I am content, thou shepherd swain, Fling them down on the ground; But it will breed thee mickle pain,35 To win my twenty pound." "Come draw thy sword, thou proud fellow, Thou standest too long to prate; This hook of mine shall let thee know, A coward I do hate."40 So they fell to it, full hard and sore; It was on a summers day; From ten till four in the afternoon The shepherd held him play. Robin's buckler proved his chiefest defence,45 And saved him many a bang, For every blow the shepherd gave Made Robins sword cry twang. Many a sturdie blow the shepherd gave, And that bold Robin found,50 Till the blood ran trickling from his head, Then he fell to the ground. "Arise, arise, thou proud fellow, And thou shalt have fair play, If thou wilt yield, before thou go,55 That I have won the day." "A boon, a boon," cry'd bold Robin, "If that a man thou be, Then let me take my beugle horn, And blow out blasts three."60 Then said the shepherd to bold Robin, "To that will I agree; For if thou shouldst blow till to-morrow morn, I scorn one foot to flee." Then Robin he set his horn to his mouth,65 And he blew with mickle main, Until he espied Little John Come tripping over the plain. "O who is yonder, thou proud fellow, That comes down yonder hill?"70 "Yonder is John, bold Robin Hoods man, Shall fight with thee thy fill." "What is the matter?" saies Little John, "Master, come tell unto me:" "My case is bad," cries Robin Hood,75 "For the shepherd hath conquered me." "I am glad of that," cries Little John, "Shepherd turn thou to me; For a bout with thee I mean to have, Either come fight or flee."80 "With all my heart, thou proud fellòw, For it never shall be said That a shepherds hook at thy sturdy look Will one jot be dismaied." So they fell to it, full hardy and sore,85 Striving for victorie; "I will know," says John, "ere we give o'er, Whether thou wilt fight or flee." The shepherd gave John a sturdie blow, With his hook under the chin;90 "Beshrew thy heart," said Little John, "Thou basely dost begin." "Nay, that is nothing," said the shepherd; "Either yield to me the daie, Or I will bang thy back and sides,95 Before thou goest thy way. "What, dost thou think, thou proud fellow, That thou canst conquer me? Nay, thou shalt know, before thou go, I'll fight before I'le flee."100 Again the shepherd laid on him, 'Just as he first begun;' "Hold thy hand," cry'd bold Robin, "I will yield the wager won." "With all my heart," said Little John,105 "To that I will agree; For he is the flower of shepherd swains, The like I did never see." Thus have you heard of Robin Hood, Also of Little John,110 How a shepherd swain did conquer them; The like was never known.

Will you heare a tale of Robin Hood, Will Scarlett, and Little John? Now listen awhile, it will make you smile, As before it hath many a one. They were archers three, of hie degree,5 As good as ever drewe bowe; Their arrowes were long and their armes were strong, As most had cause to knowe. But one sommers day, as they toke their way Through the forrest of greene Sherwood,10 To kill the kings deare, you shall presently heare What befell these archers good. They were ware on the roade of three peddlers with loade, For each one had his packe, Full of all wares for countrie faires,15 Trust up upon his backe. A good oke staffe, a yard and a halfe, Each one had in his hande; And they were all boune to Nottingham toune, As you shall understand.20 "Yonder I see bolde peddlers three," Said Robin to Scarlett and John; "Wele search their packes upon their backes Before that they be gone. "Holla, good fellowes!" quod Robin Hood,25 "Whether is it ye doe goe? Now stay and rest, for that is the best, 'Tis well you should doe so." "Noe rest we neede, on our roade we speede, Till to Nottingham we get:"30 "Thou tellst a lowde lye," said Robin, "for I Can see that ye swinke and swet." The peddlers three crosst over the lee, They did not list to fight: "I charge ye tarrie," quod Robin, "for marry,35 This is my owne land by right. "This is my mannor and this is my parke, I would have ye for to knowe; Ye are bolde outlawes, I see by cause Ye are so prest to goe.40 The peddlers three turned round to see, Who it might be they herd; Then again went on as they list to be gone, And never answered word. Then tooke Robin Hood an arrow so good,45 Which he did never lacke, And drewe his bowe, and the swift arrowe Went through the last peddlers packe. For him it was well on the packe it fell, Or his life had found an end;50 And it pierct the skin of his backe within, Though the packe did stand his friend. Then downe they flung their packes each one, And stayde till Robin came. Quod Robin, "I saide ye had better stayde;55 Good sooth, ye were to blame." "And who art thou? by S. Crispin, I vowe, Ile quickly cracke thy head!" Cried Robin, "Come on, all three, or one; It is not so soone done as said.60 "My name, by the roode, is Robin Hood, And this is Scarlett and John; It is three to three, ye may plainelie see, Soe now, brave fellowes, laye on." The first peddlers blowe brake Robins bowe,65 That he had in his hand; And Scarlett and John, they eche had one That they unneath could stand. "Now holde your handes," cried Robin Hood, "For ye have oken staves;70 But tarie till wee can get but three, And a fig for all your braves." Of the peddlers the first, his name Kit o Thirske, Said, "We are well content;" So eche tooke a stake for his weapon, to make75 The peddlers to repent. Soe to it they fell, and their blowes did ring well Uppon the others backes; And gave the peddlers cause to wish They had not cast their packes.80 Yet the peddlers three of their blowes were so free, That Robin began for to rue; And Scarlett, and John, had such loade laide on, It made the sunne looke blue. At last Kits oke caught Robin a stroke,85 That made his head to sound; He staggerd, and reelde, till he fell on the fielde, And the trees with him went round. "Now holde your handes," cried Little John, And soe said Scarlett eke;90 "Our maister is slaine, I tell you plaine, He never more will speake." "Now, heaven forefend he come to that end," Said Kit, "I love him well; But let him learne to be wise in turne,95 And not with poore peddlers mell. "In my packe, God wot, I a balsame have got, That soone his hurts will heale;" And into Robin Hoods gaping mouth He presentlie powrde some deale.100 "Now fare ye well, tis best not to tell, How ye three peddlers met; Or if that ye doe, prithee tell alsoe, How they made ye swinke and swett." Poor Robin in sound they left on the ground,105 And hied them to Nottingham, Whilst Scarlett and John, Robin tended on, Till at length his senses came. No sooner, in haste, did Robin Hood taste The balsame he had tane,110 Then he gan to spewe, and up he threwe The balsame all againe. And Scarlett, and John, who were looking on Their master as he did lie, Had their faces besmeared, both eies and beard,115 Therewith most piteouslie. Thus ended that fray; soe beware alwaye How ye doe challenge foes; Looke well aboute they are not to stoute, Or you may have worst of the blowes.120

There chanced to be a pedlar bold, A pedlar bold he chanced to be, He rolled his pack all on his back, And he came tripping o'er the lee. Down, a down, a down, a down, Down, a down, a down. By chance he met two troublesome blades,5 Two troublesome blades they chanced to be; The one of them was bold Robin Hood, And the other was Little John so free. "Oh! pedlar, pedlar, what is in thy pack, Come speedilie and tell to me?"10 "I've several suits of the gay green silks, And silken bow-strings two or three." "If you have several suits of the gay green silk, And silken bow-strings two or three, Then it's by my body," cries Little John,15 "One half your pack shall belong to me." "O nay, o nay," says the pedlar bold, "O nay, o nay, that never can be; For there's never a man from fair Nottingham Can take one half my pack from me."20 Then the pedlar he pulled off his pack, And put it a little below his knee, Saying, "If you do move me one perch from this, My pack and all shall gang with thee." Then Little John he drew his sword;25 The pedlar by his pack did stand; They fought until they both did sweat, Till he cried, "Pedlar, pray hold your hand." Then Robin Hood he was standing by, And he did laugh most heartilie;30 Saying, "I could find a man of a smaller scale, Could thrash the pedlar and also thee." "Go you try, master," says Little John, "Go you try, master, most speedilie, Or by my body," says Little John,35 "I am sure this night you will not know me." Then Robin Hood he drew his sword, And the pedlar by his pack did stand, They fought till the blood in streams did flow, Till he cried, "Pedlar, pray hold your hand!40 "Pedlar, pedlar, what is thy name? Come speedilie and tell to me:" "My name! my name I ne'er will tell, Till both your names you have told to me." "The one of us is bold Robin Hood,45 And the other Little John so free:" "Now," says the pedlar, "it lays to my good will, Whether my name I chuse to tell to thee. "I am Gamble Gold of the gay green woods, And travelled far beyond the sea;50 For killing a man in my father's land, rom my country I was forced to flee." "If you are Gamble Gold of the gay green woods, And travelled far beyond the sea, You are my mother's own sister's son;55 What nearer cousins then can we be?" They sheathed their swords with friendly words, So merrilie they did agree, They went to a tavern and there they dined, And bottles cracked most merrilie.60

Come and listen, you gentlemen all, Hey down, down, an a down, That mirth do love for to hear, And a story true Ile tell unto you, If that you will but draw near. In elder times, when merriment was,5 And archery was holden good, There was an outlaw, as many do know Which men called Robin Hood. Upon a time it chanced so Bold Robin was merry disposed,10 His time to spend he did intend, Either with friend or foes. Then he got upon a gallant brave steed, The which was worth angels ten, With a mantle of green, most brave to be seen,15 He left all his merry men. And riding towards Nottingham, Some pastime for to 'spy, There was he aware of a jolly beggàr, As ere he beheld with his eye.20 An old patcht coat the beggar had on, Which he daily did use to wear; And many a bag about him did wag, Which made Robin to him repair. "God speed, God speed," said Robin Hood,25 "What countryman? tell to me:" "I am Yorkshire, sir; but, ere you go far, Some charity give unto me." "Why, what wouldst thou have?" said Robin Hood, "I pray thee tell unto me:"30 "No lands nor livings," the beggar he said, "But a penny for charitie." "I have no money," said Robin Hood then, "But [am] a ranger within the wood; I am an outlaw, as many do know,35 My name it is Robin Hood. "But yet I must tell thee, bonny beggàr, That a bout with [thee] I must try; Thy coat of gray, lay down I say, And my mantle of green shall lye by."40 "Content, content," the beggar he cry'd, "Thy part it will be the worse; For I hope this bout to give thee the rout, And then have at thy purse." So the beggar he had a mickle long staffe,45 And Robin had a nut-brown sword; So the beggar drew nigh, and at Robin let fly, But gave him never a word. "Fight on, fight on," said Robin Hood then, "This game well pleaseth me;"50 For every blow that Robin gave, The beggar gave buffets three. And fighting there full hard and sore, Not far from Nottingham town, They never fled, till from Robin Hoods head55 The blood came trickling down. "O hold thy hand," said Robin Hood then, "And thou and I will agree;" "If that be true," the beggar he said, "Thy mantle come give unto me."60 "Now a change, a change," cri'd Robin Hood, "Thy bags and coat give me; And this mantle of mine Ile to thee resign, My horse and my braverie." When Robin Hood had got the beggars clothes,65 He lookèd round about; "Methinks," said he, "I seem to be A beggar brave and stout. "For now I have a bag for my bread, So have I another for corn;70 I have one for salt, and another for malt, And one for my little horn. "And now I will a begging goe, Some charitie for to find:" And if any more of Robin you'll know,75 In the second part 'tis behind.

Now Robin he is to Nottingham bound, With his bag hanging down to his knee, His staff, and his coat, scarce worth a groat, Yet merrilie passed he.80 As Robin he passed the streets along, He heard a pittiful cry; Three brethren dear, as he did hear, Condemned were to dye. Then Robin he highed to the sheriffs,85 Some reliefe for to seek; He skipt, and leapt, and capered full high, As he went along the street. But when to the sheriffs doore he came, There a gentleman fine and brave,90 "Thou beggar," said he, "come tell unto me What it is thou wouldest have." "No meat, nor drink," said Robin Hood then, "That I come here to crave; But to get the lives of yeomen three,95 And that I fain would have." "That cannot be, thou bold beggàr, Their fact it is so cleer; I tell to thee, they hanged must be, For stealing of our kings deer."100 But when to the gallows they did come, There was many a weeping eye: "O hold your peace," said Robin Hood then, "For certainly they shall not dye." Then Robin he set his horn to his mouth,105 And he blew out blastès three, Till a hundred bold archers brave Came kneeling down to his knee. "What is your will, mastèr?" they said, "We are here at your command:"110 "Shoot east, shoot west," said Robin Hood then, "And see you spare no man." Then they shot east, then they shot west, Their arrows were so keen, The sheriffe he, and his companie,115 No longer could be seen. Then he stept to those brethren three, And away he has them tane; The sheriffe was crost, and many a man lost, That dead lay on the plain.120 And away they went into the merry green wood, And sung with a merry glee; Then Robin Hood took those brethren good To be of his yeomandrie.

* * * * * * * In faith, thou shalt have mine, And 20s. in thy purse, To spend at ale and wine." "Though your clothes are of light Lincolne green, And mine gray russet, and torne,5 Yet it doth not you beseme To doe an old man scorne." "I scorne thee not, old man," says Robin, "By the faith of my body; Doe of thy clothes, thou shalt have mine,10 For it may noe better be." But Robin did on the old mans hose, The were torn in the wrist; "When I looke on my leggs," said Robin, "Then for to laugh I list."15 But Robin did on the old mans shoes, And the were chitt full cleane; "Now by my faith," says Little John, "These are good for thornes keene." But Robin did on the old mans cloake,20 And it was torne in the necke; "Now by my faith," said William Scarlett, "Heere shold be set a specke." But Robin did on the old mans hood, Itt goggled on his crowne;25 "When I come into Nottingham," said Robin, "My hood it will lightly downe. "But yonder is an outwood," said Robin, "An outwood all and a shade, And thither I reede you, my merrymen all,30 The ready way to take. "And when you heare my little horne blow, Come raking all on a rowte, * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * horne to his mouth, A loud blast cold he blow,35 Full three hundred bold yeomen Came raking all on a row. But Robin cast downe his baggs of bread, Soe did he his staffe with a face, And in a doublet of red velvett40 This yeoman stood in his place. But Robin he lope, and Robin he threw, He lope over stocke and stone, But those that saw Robin Hood run Said he was a liver old man.45 "But bend your bowes, and stroke your strings, Set the gallow tree aboute, And Christes curse on his head," said Robin, "That spares the sheriff and the sergeant. When the sheriffe see gentle Robin wold shoote,50 He held up both his hands, Says, "Aske, good Robin, and thou shalt have, Whether it be house or land." "I will neither have house nor land," said Robin, "Nor gold, nor none of thy fee,55 But I will have those 3 squires, To greene forest with mee." "Now marry, gods forbott," said the sheriffe, "That ever that shold be, Ffor why, they be the kings felons;60 They are all condemned to dye." "But grant me my askynge," said Robin, "Or by the faith of my body, Thou shalt be the first man Shall flower this gallow tree."65 But I will * * 3 squires * * * * * *

There are twelve months in all the year, As I hear many say, But the merriest month in all the year Is the merry month of May. Now Robin Hood is to Nottingham gone,5 With a link a down and a day, And there he met a silly old woman, Was weeping on the way. "What news? what news, thou silly old woman? What news hast thou for me?"10 Said she, "There's three squires in Nottingham town, To-day is condemned to die." "O have they parishes burnt?" he said, "Or have they ministers slain? Or have they robbèd any virgin,15 Or with other men's wives have lain?" "They have no parishes burnt, good sir, Nor yet have ministers slain, Nor have they robbèd any virgin, Nor with other men's wives have lain."20 "O what have they done?" said Robin Hood, "I pray thee tell to me:" "It's for slaying of the king's fallow deer, Bearing their long bows with thee." "Dost thou not mind, old woman," he said,25 "Since thou made me sup and dine? By the truth of my body," quoth bold Robin Hood, "You could not tell it in better time." Now Robin Hood is to Nottingham gone, With a link a down and a day,30 And there he met with a silly old palmer, Was walking along the highway. "What news? what news, thou silly old man? What news, I do thee pray?" Said he, "Three squires in Nottingham town35 Are condemn'd to die this day." "Come change thy apparel with me, old man, Come change thy apparel for mine; Here is forty shillings in good silvèr, Go drink it in beer or wine."40 "O thine apparel is good," he said, "And mine is ragged and torn; "Wherever you go, wherever you ride, Laugh ne'er an old man to scorn." "Come change thy apparel with me, old churl,45 Come change thy apparel with mine; Here are twenty pieces of good broad gold, Go feast thy brethren with wine." Then he put on the old man's hat, It stood full high on the crown:50 "The first bold bargain that I come at, It shall make thee come down." Then he put on the old man's cloak, Was patch'd black, blew, and red; He thought it no shame all the day long55 To wear the bags of bread. Then he put on the old man's breeks, Was patch'd from ballup to side: "By the truth of my body," bold Robin can say, "This man lov'd little pride,"60 Then he put on the old man's hose, Were patch'd from knee to wrist: "By the truth of my body," said bold Robin Hood, "I'd laugh if I had any list." Then he put on the old man's shoes,65 Were patch'd both beneath and aboon; Then Robin Hood swore a solemn oath, It's good habit that makes a man. Now Robin Hood is to Nottingham gone, With a link a down and a down,70 And there he met with the proud sheriff, Was walking along the town. "O Christ you save, O sheriff," he said, "O Christ you save and see; And what will you give to a silly old man75 To-day will your hangman be?" "Some suits, some suits," the sheriff he said, "Some suits I'll give to thee: Some suits, some suits, and pence thirteen, To-day's a hangman's fee."80 Then Robin he turns him round about, And jumps from stock to stone: "By the truth of my body," the sheriff he said, "That's well jumpt, thou nimble old man." "I was ne'er a hangman in all my life,85 Nor yet intends to trade; But curst be he," said bold Robìn, "That first a hangman was made. "I've a bag for meal, and a bag for malt, And a bag for barley and corn;90 A bag for bread, and a bag for beef, And a bag for my little small horn. "I have a horn in my pockèt, I got it from Robin Hood, And still when I set it to my mouth,95 For thee it blows little good." "O wind thy horn, thou proud fellòw, Of thee I have no doubt: I wish that thou give such a blast Till both thy eyes fall out."100 The first loud blast that he did blow, He blew both loud and shrill; A hundred and fifty of Robin Hood's men Came riding over the hill. The next loud blast that he did give,105 He blew both loud and amain, And quickly sixty of Robin Hood's men Came shining over the plain. "O who are those," the sheriff he said, "Come tripping over the lee?"110 "They're my attendants," brave Robin did say, "They'll pay a visit to thee." They took the gallows from the slack, They set it in the glen, They hang'd the proud sheriff on that,115 Releas'd their own three men.

Bold Robin Hood ranging the forrest all round, The forrest all round ranged he, O there did he meet with a gay lady, She came weeping along the highway. "Why weep you, why weep you?" bold Robin he said,5 "What, weep you for gold or fee? Or do you weep for your maidenhead, That is taken from your body?" "I weep not for gold," the lady reply'd, "Neither do I weep for fee;10 Nor do I weep for my maidenhead, That is taken from my body." "What weep you for then?" said jolly Robìn, "I prithee come tell unto me;" "Oh! I do weep for my three sons,15 For they are all condemned to die." "What church have they robbed?" said jolly Robìn, "Or parish-priest have they slain? What maids have they forced against their will? Or with other mens wives have lain?"20 "No church have they robbed," this lady reply'd, "Nor parish-priest have they slain; No maids have they forced against their will, Nor with other mens wives have lain." "What have they done then?" said jolly Robìn,25 "Come tell me most speedily:" "Oh! it is for killing the kings fallow deer, That they are all condemned to die." "Get you home, get you home," said jolly Robìn, "Get you home most speedily,30 And I will unto fair Nottingham go, For the sake of the squires all three." Then bold Robin Hood for Nottingham goes, For Nottingham town goes he, O there did he meet with a poor beggar-man,35 He came creeping along the highway. "What news, what news, thou old beggar-man? What news, come tell unto me:" "O there's weeping and wailing in Nottingham, For the death of the squires all three."40 This beggar-man had a coat on his back, 'Twas neither green, yellow, nor red; Bold Robin Hood thought 'twas no disgrace To be in the beggar-mans stead. "Come, pull off thy coat, thou old beggar-man,45 And thou shalt put on mine; And forty good shillings I'll give thee to boot, Besides brandy, good beer, ale and wine." Bold Robin Hood then unto Nottingham came, Unto Nottingham town came he;50 O there did he meet with great master sheriff, And likewise the squires all three. "One boon, one boon," says jolly Robín, "One boon I beg on my knee; That, as for the death of these three squires,55 Their hangman I may be." "Soon granted, soon granted," says master sheriff, "Soon granted unto thee; And you shalt have all their gay cloathìng, Aye, and all their white monèy."60 "O I will have none of their gay cloathìng, Nor none of their white monèy, But I'll have three blasts on my bugle-horn, That their souls to heaven may flee." Then Robin Hood mounted the gallows so high,65 Where he blew loud and shrill, Till an hundred and ten of Robin Hoods men Came marching down the green hill. "Whose men are these?" says master sherìff, "Whose men are they? come tell unto me:"70 "O they are mine, but none of thine, And are come for the squires all three." "O take them, O take them," says great master sheriff, "O take them along with thee; For there's never a man in fair Nottinghàm75 Can do the like of thee.

In summer time, when leaves grow green, And flowers are fresh and gay, Robin Hood and his merry men Were disposed to play. Then some would leape, and some would runne,5 And some would use artillery; "Which of you can a good bow draw, A good archer for to be? "Which of you can kill a bucke, Or who can kill a doe?10 Or who can kill a hart of greece Five hundreth foot him fro?" Will Scadlocke he kild a bucke, And Midge he kild a doe, And Little John kild a hart of greece,15 Five hundreth foot him fro. "Gods blessing on thy heart," said Robin Hood, "That hath such a shot for me; I would ride my horse a hundred miles, To find one could match thee."20 This caused Will Scadlocke to laugh, He laught full heartily: "There lives a curtall fryer in Fountaines Abbey Will beate both him and thee. "The curtall fryer in Fountaines Abbey25 Well can a strong bow draw; He will beat you and your yeomèn, Set them all on a row." Robin Hood he tooke a solemne oath, It was by Mary free,30 That he would neither eate nor drinke Till the fryer he did see. Robin Hood put on his harnesse good, On his head a cap of steel, Broad sword and buckler by his side,35 And they became him weele. He tooke his bow into his hand, It was made of a trusty tree, With a sheafe of arrowes at his belt, And to Fountaine Dale went he.40 And comming unto Fountaine Dale, No farther would he ride; There he was aware of the curtall fryer, Walking by the water side. The fryer had on a harnesse good,45 On his head a cap of steel, Broad sword and buckler by his side, And they became him weele. Robin Hood lighted off his horse, And tyed him to a thorne:50 "Carry me over the water, thou curtall fryer, Or else thy life's forlorne." The fryer tooke Robin Hood on his backe, Deepe water he did bestride, And spake neither good word nor bad,55 Till he came at the other side. Lightly leapt Robin offe the fryers backe; The fryer said to him againe, "Carry me over this water, [thou] fine fellow, Or it shall breed thy paine."60 Robin Hood took the fryer on his backe, Deepe water he did bestride, And spake neither good word nor bad, Till he came at the other side. Lightly leapt the fryer off Robin Hoods backe;65 Robin Hood said to him againe, "Carry me over this water, thou curtall fryer, Or it shall breede thy pain." The fryer tooke Robin on's backe againe, And stept in to the knee;70 Till he came at the middle streame Neither good nor bad spake he. And comming to the middle streame, There he threw Robin in; "And chuse thee, chuse thee, fine fellow,75 Whether thou wilt sink or swim." Robin Hood swam to a bush of broome, The fryer to a wigger wand; Bold Robin Hood is gone to shore, And took his bow in his hand.80 One of his best arrowes under his belt To the fryer he let fly; The curtall fryer with his steel buckler Did put that arrow by. "Shoot on, shoot on, thou fine fellow,85 Shoot as thou hast begun, If thou shoot here a summers day, Thy marke I will not shun." Robin Hood shot passing well, Till his arrows all were gane;90 They tooke their swords and steele bucklers, They fought with might and maine; From ten o'th' clock that [very] day, Till four i'th' afternoon; Then Robin Hood came to his knees,95 Of the fryer to beg a boone. "A boone, a boone, thou curtall fryer, I beg it on my knee: Give me leave to set my horne to my mouth, And to blow blasts three."100 "That I will do," said the curtall fryer, "Of thy blasts I have no doubt; I hope thou'lt blow so passing well, Till both thy eyes fall out." Robin Hood set his home to his mouth,105 He blew out blasts three; Halfe a hundreth yeomen, with bowes bent, Came raking over the lee. "Whose men are these," said the fryer, "That come so hastily?"110 "These men are mine," said Robin Hood; "Fryer, what is that to thee?" "A boone, a boone," said the curtall fryer, "The like I gave to thee; Give me leave to set my fist to my mouth,115 And to whute whues three." "That will I doe," said Robin Hood, "Or else I were to blame; Three whues in a fryers fist Would make me glad and faine."120 The fryer set his fist to his mouth, And whuted whues three; Half a hundred good band-dogs Came running over the lee. "Here's for every man a dog,125 And I myselfe for thee:" "Nay, by my faith," said Robin Hood, "Fryer, that may not be." Two dogs at once to Robin Hood did goe, The one behind, the other before;130 Robin Hoods mantle of Lincolne greene Off from his backe they tore. And whether his men shot east or west, Or they shot north or south, The curtall dogs, so taught they were,135 They kept the arrows in their mouth. "Take up thy dogs," said Little John, "Fryer, at my bidding be;" "Whose man art thou," said the curtall fryer, "Comes here to prate with me?"140 "I am Little John, Robin Hoods man, Fryer, I will not lie; If thou take not up thy dogs soone, I'le take up them and thee." Little John had a bow in his hand,145 He shot with might and main; Soon halfe a score of the fryers dogs Lay dead upon the plain. "Hold thy hand, good fellow," said the curtal fryer, "Thy master and I will agree;150 And we will have new orders taken, With all the hast may be." "If thou wilt forsake fair Fountaines Dale, And Fountaines Abbey free, Every Sunday throwout the yeere,155 A noble shall be thy fee: "And every holliday through the yeere, Changed shall thy garment be, If thou wilt goe to faire Nottingham, And there remaine with me."160 This curtal fryer had kept Fountaines Dale Seven long yeeres and more; There was neither knight, lord, nor earle, Could make him yeeld before.