“Ten shillings, just.”
“Then take here my working-bag and my good hammer too; and if I light upon that knave I will soon come back after them.”
“Give me your leathern coat as well,” said mine host; “the hammer and bag of tools are as naught to me.”
“Gramercy!” cried Master Middle, losing what was left of his temper. “It seems that I have escaped one thief only to fall into the hands of another. If you will but walk with me out into the middle of the road, I’ll give you such a crack as shall drive some honesty into your thick skull.”
“You are wasting your breath and my time,” retorted the landlord.
“Give me your things, and get you gone after your man, speedily.”
Middle thought this to be good advice; so he strode forth from the “Seven Does” in a black mood.
Ere he had gone half a mile, he saw Robin Hood walking demurely among the trees a little in front of him.
“Ho there, you villain!” roared the tinker. “Stay your steps! I am desperately in need of you this day!”
Robin turned about with a surprised face.