Robin became an outlaw when he killed one of the King’s deer. In Sherwood Forest, there gathered around him many others who
were also outlaws.
Some had shot deer to keep their families live, some had been thrown off thier lands, yet others had been cheated of their money by dishonest barons. They agreed that they would rob only the rich and powerful (who cheated the poor), and that they would give to the poor in times of need. They were rough men, but good of heart, and they wore green garments that blended with the forest. The poor loved him, for they felt he was one of them. In time, they became known as Robin Hood and his merry men.
The Sheriff
decided to hold an archery match to tempt Robin Hood out of Sherwood Forest. Robin Hood and his merry men decided to go in disguise, but armed nonetheless in case of trouble. The very best archers of England came to the shooting match. Never before had the people of Nottingham seen such skill in archery. All stared in amazement as Robin Hood won the contest, and with it the prize.
The angry Sheriff gathered his men together, and sent them to Sherwood Forest to bring back Robin Hood. But they had to return empty handed. Robin Hood decided to give the Sherriff a woodland feast before taking his gold. He put on butcher’s clothes and started off for Nottingham Town. The Sherriff heard tht he was a rich young man, and hoped to trick him out of his money. So they journeyed together till Sherwood Forest. When they had finished their feast, the unwilling guest was made to part with all his money.
Along the way, Robin Hood gathered around him many loyal and trusted comrades.
Among them there was John Little (who became known as Little John), there was Midge the Miller, there was Allan a Dale, and then there was Friar Tuck. They loved to go in search of adventure, and their search for adventure lead them upon different paths.
One fine day, Robin Hood spied a
stranger in the woods. The stranger was Guy of Gisbourne, whom the Sheriff of Nottingham had promised rich rewards for Robin Hood, dead or alive. Robin Hood drewhis sword and a fierce fight followed. Robin Hood thrust his sword at the stranger, who fell down dead.
Robin Hood would rather roam the forest in springtime than be King of all England.
For what palace in the world was as fair as the forest glades of the woodland, what King had such an appetite as he? They soaked in the warm sun and enjoyed the singing of the birds. They had neither care nor want, but passed their time in games of archery. Robin Hood and his band led a merry life – this was the life for them.
Howard Pyle began his career as an illustrator, but soon he began writing books for children. The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood has charmed and delighted readers, both young and old, for generations. Through his books, he has brought to life the adventures of long ago.