and a day hence will return it
safe either to thee or to the Lord Bishop of Hereford. For this I pledge
my most solemn knightly word. I feel free to borrow, for I know no man
that should be more bound to aid me than one so high in that church that
hath driven such a hard bargain." "Truly, Sir Knight," quoth Robin, "I
do not understand those fine scruples that weigh with those of thy kind;
but, nevertheless, it shall all be as thou dost wish. But thou hadst
best bring the money to me at the end of the year, for mayhap I may make
better use of it than the Bishop." Thereupon, turning to those near him,
he gave his orders, and five hundred pounds were counted out and tied up
in a leathern bag for Sir Richard. The rest of the treasure was divided,
and part taken to the treasurehouse of the band, and part put by with
the other things for the Bishop.

Then Sir Richard arose. "I cannot stay later, good friends," said he,
"for my lady will wax anxious if I come not home; so I crave leave to
depart."

Then Robin Hood and all his merry men arose, and Robin said, "We cannot
let thee go hence unattended, Sir Richard."

Then up spake Little John, "Good master, let me choose a score of stout
fellows from the band, and let us arm ourselves in a seemly manner
and so serve as retainers to Sir Richard till he can get others in our
stead."

"Thou hast spoken well, Little John, and it shall be done," said Robin.

Then up spake Will Scarlet, "Let us give him a golden chain to hang
about his neck, such as befits one of his blood, and also golden spurs
to wear at his heels."

Then Robin Hood said, "Thou hast spoken well, Will Scarlet, and it shall
be done."

Then up spake Will Stutely, "Let us give him yon bale of rich velvet
and yon roll of cloth of gold to take home to his noble lady wife as a
present from Robin Hood and his merry men all."

At this all clapped their hands for joy, and Robin said: "Thou hast well
spoken, Will Stutely, and it shall be done."

Then Sir Richard of the Lea looked all around and strove to speak, but
could scarcely do so for the feelings that choked him; at last he said
in a husky, trembling voice, "Ye shall all see, good friends, that Sir
Richard o' the Lea will ever remember your kindness this day. And if ye
be at any time in dire need or trouble, come to me and my lady, and the
walls of Castle Lea shall be battered down ere harm shall befall you.
I--" He could say nothing further, but turned hastily