For both of these fain would I know.
I am a tanner, bold Arthur reply’d,
In Nottingham long have I wrought ;
And if thou’lt come there, I vow and swear,
I will tan thy hide for ‘nought.’
God-a-mercy, good fellow, said jolly Robìn,
Since thou art so kind and free ;
And if thou wilt tan my hide for ‘nought,’
I will do as much for thee. {186}
And if thou’lt forsake thy tanners trade,