“After some time thus spent, the outlaw rose. ‘Now, my brethren,’ quoth he, ‘let us see what money has been sent us—we will all share alike;’ and putting his hand in his pocket he pulled forth twenty pieces of gold, and laid them on the grass. The monks fumbled a long time amid their garments, but could find nothing.
“‘Let me search,’ cried the friar; ‘perchance ye have not hit upon the right pocket.’ The monks reluctantly consented, and presently the outlaw drew forth two purses, and counted out five hundred golden crowns.
“‘Here is a brave show,’ said Robin Hood,
‘Such store of gold to see;
And ye shall each of ye have a part
’Cause you prayed so heartily.’
“He then gave them back each fifty pieces, which the monks eagerly seized, and running to the side of their mules they were about to ride off. ‘Stay,’ cried the outlaw; ‘two things ye must swear: first—that ye will never tell lies again; and secondly—that ye will be charitable to the poor.’ The priests fell on their knees and gave the required promise to Robin Hood, and then
“‘He set them on their beasts again,
And away then they did ride;
And he returned to the merry green-wood