Work round, you three,
Behind him! Drive him out from that damned oak!
ROBIN
Oh, that's a princely speech! Have at you, sir!
[He strikes Prince John's sword out of his hand and turns suddenly to confront the others. John picks up a dagger and makes as if to stab Robin in the back. At the same instant, bugles are heard in the distance. The red-cross knight flashes between the trees and seizing John's arm in his gauntleted hand, disarms him, then turns to help Robin.]
KNIGHT
What, four on one! Down with your blades, you curs,
Or, by Mahound!—
[The three men take to flight. John stands staring at the newcomer. The Foresters appear, surrounding the glade.]
JOHN
[Muttering.]
What? Thou? Thou? Or his ghost?
No—no—it cannot be.