The Outlaws’ Feast
Robin Hood doffed his cap and greeted his guest with all courtesy, but the monk would not reply, and Little John’s account of their meeting made it evident that he was a churlish and unwilling guest. However, he was obliged to celebrate the three usual Masses, was given water for his ablutions before the banquet, and then when the whole fellowship was assembled he was set in the place of honour at the feast, and reverently served by Robin himself. “Be of good cheer, Sir Monk,” said Robin. “Where is your abbey when you are at home, and who is your patron saint?” “I am of St. Mary’s Abbey, in York, and, simple though I be, I am the high cellarer.”