Robin Hood and the King

Robin Hood and the King

Introduction Robin Hood and his Merry Men lived in hiding in Sherwood Forest. Even though Robin and his band were outlaws, they stole only from the rich and gave the money to the poor. Robin thought the corrupt lords were the real thieves. They ruled the land unjustly while good King Richard was off at war. The wicked lords wanted to hang Robin Hood, but they could never catch him. When King Richard finally returned from war, even he could not help respecting this outlaw who fought to protect the common people.

King Richard King Richard loved all sports and those who were good at them. “ I wish I could see Robin Hood, " said King Richard in his castle. " I wish I could see him and his men shoot and wrestle and show off all their skills. But if they heard the king was coming, they would think that I wanted only to arrest them. They would run and hide deep in the forest, and I would never see them. "

" I'll tell you how you can see him, " laughed one of the king's trusty companions. " Put on the robes of a fat abbot and ride through Sherwood Forest with gold in your pouch. Robin will be sure to offer you a feast so he can steal your money. " " I'll do it! " said King Richard, slapping his knee. " It will be a great jest. "

The Feast So the king and seven of his followers dressed themselves as an abbot and seven friars. They rode out along the road toward Sherwood Forest. Sure enough, Robin Hood and his men stopped them after they entered the forest and took the king's pouch of gold. But Robin returned one-third of the gold to the pretend abbot because he never left any man in need. Robin Hood was pleased with these churchmen because they seemed happy to be in his company.

" Now we shall give you a feast that will be worth all your money, " said Robin Hood. " I love a feast, " said the pretend abbot. " But even more, I would like to see the archery I have heard you are so good at. " " You will see the very best we can do, " answered Robin. “ But, Holy Father, why don't you take off your hood so you can enjoy this sweet evening air?" " Nay, I cannot, " answered the pretend abbot. “ My brothers and I have vowed not to let our faces be seen during this journey. " " Very well, then, " said Robin Hood. “ I interfere with no man's vows. " And he never once thought that he was feeding the king.