"I am not afraid, Robin," announced Master Gilbert of Blois, courageously. "You know I am no coward."
"Take my hand then," said Robin; "I like to feel that you are with me."
"Yet you have but known me a day," said Marian, trying to peep at him. Her tone was questioning and full of pretty malice.
He had a mind then to take her in his arms, but again forebore. "Be silent now," whispered he; "I must proclaim myself. I have scarce knowledge of the servants here, my chief friend being old Warrenton, and he is in the greenwood."
"Let us go back there," suggested his companion; "I am willing to risk the wild beasts and the Sheriffs wrath."
"'Tis no place for you," said Robin. "Here you will be both safe and comfortable."
"I do not like the shape of this house," argued Marian. "I do not feel that I will be happy in it."
"It is a home worthy to be your sister's, let alone yours, Master Gilbert. Now be done with your grumbling, for here you shall stay until your father's return."
At this she made a grimace, but obeyed him meekly, notwithstanding. As they drew near to the courtyard, Robin bade her follow him cautiously until they had made a full circle of it, and crept round to the front of the hall.
By good fortune the bridge was down. Old Gamewell had no fear of the world, it would seem. They might pretend now that they had crossed to the hall from the road. Robin wound his horn suddenly and confidently.