was there, however, as Robin's good angel, as we are
to see, although Sir Guy had, in truth, no very merciful feelings
towards the outlaw.

Robin perceived upon the highroad a very strange figure coming towards
him. It seemed to be a three-legged monster at first sight, but on
coming nearer one might see that 'twas really a poorly clad man, who for
a freak had covered up his rags with a capul-hide, nothing more nor less
than the sun-dried skin of a horse, complete with head and tail and
mane.

The skin of the horse's head made a helmet for the man; and the tail
gave him the three-legged appearance.

"Good morrow, gossip," said Robin, cheerily; "by my bow and by my
arrows, I could believe you to be a good archer--you have the shape of
one."

The man took no offence at this greeting, but told Robin that he had
lost his way and was anxious to find it again.

"By my faith, I could have believed that you had lost your wits,"
thought Robin, laughing quietly to himself. "What is your business,
friend?" he asked, aloud; "you are dressed in strange clothes and yet
seem by your speech to be of gentle blood."

"And who are you, forester, to ask me who I am?"

"I am one of the King's rangers," replied Robin; "and 'tis my part to
look after the King's deer and save them from the wicked arrows of Robin
Hood."

"Do you know Robin Hood?" asked the man, shrewdly eyeing him.

"That do I; and last night I heard that he would be coming alone in a
certain part of this wood to meet a maid."

"Is that so indeed?" cried the man, eagerly.

"'Tis very truth," answered Robin. "And I, knowing this, am going to
take him, and carry off both the girl and the reward upon his head."

"Tell me, friend, is this girl a little creature, royal looking and very
beautiful?"

"Marry, she appeared to me a very Princess," cried Robin, with
enthusiasm.

"We are well met," remarked the yeoman, presently, and speaking as if
come to a decision. "Now I will tell you, friend, that I am in search of
Robin Hood myself, and will help you to take him. I am Sir Guy of
Gisborne, and can make your fortune for you."

"And I am Robin Hood, so, prithee, make it quickly for me!" cried Robin,
imprudently.

Sir Guy was not taken so much aback as Robin had hoped. Quickly he drew
his sword from underneath the capul-hide, and he smote at Robin full and
foul.

Robin parried the thrust with his own true blade, and soon they were at
a fierce contest. They fought