kins. But where is your authority?"

The knight produced the King's seal from under his abbot's gown. Robin
looked at it, and fell at once upon his knees. "I love a true man,"
cried he, "and by all hearing my King is such an one. Now that he is
come to take sovereignty over us we may hope for justice, even in
Nottingham town. I thank you for your tidings, Sir Abbot; and for the
love I have of valor and all true kingly virtues, I bid you and your
fellows to sup freely with us under my trystal tree." He then offered to
lead them into Barnesdale; and the pretended monks, after a short
discussion, agreed to accept his offer.

They soon were come before the caves of Barnesdale, and were presented
to those of the band already there. Presently Robin blew two blasts upon
his horn, and the rest of the greenwood men made their appearance. All
were dressed in their new livery, and carried new bows in their left
hands. Each one knelt for a moment before Robin, as leader of them, ere
taking his place.

A handsome, dark-haired page stood at Robin's right hand, to hold his
cup for him and pour him wine. The signal was given, Robin graciously
placed the abbot in the place of honor; and under the cool fresh
evening, bright still with the aftermath of the day, the banquet was
begun.

The Black Knight was struck with astonishment. "By all the saints,"
thought he, "this is a wondrous sight. There is more obedience shown to
this outlaw man than my fellows have shown to me."

CHAPTER XXXIII

After supper Robin signalled to his men to bend their bows. The knight
was startled, for he thought they intended to choose him for their
target.

He was quickly undeceived, however, for two arrows were set up as butts
for these archers. The knight marvelled indeed to see so small a mark
given in this waning light. A garland of leaves was balanced on the top
of each arrow, and Robin laid down the rules. Whoever failed to speed
his shaft through this garland--and it was to be done without knocking
it off the arrow--was to yield up his own shaft to Robin, and receive
also buffet from the hand of Friar Tuck.

"Master," said Stuteley, "that may not be, for the good friar is not yet
come to confess us this day." He winked his eyes at Robin, well knowing
that the friar sat near to the other monks.

"Doubtless he will be here ere the game be ended," replied Robin,
smiling. "I prithee commence soon as I clap my hands."

Little John, limping,