Robin H●●●Garlan●▪  
Containing his Merry Exploits, and the several Fights which he, Little John, and Will. Scarlet had, upon several occasions. Some of them never before Printed.  
Entered according to Order.  
  

CONTENTS.  
〈…〉 ●●ods progress to Nottingham, 〈…〉 he slew fifteen Foresters.  
〈…〉 ●ood newly revived, or his meeting 〈…〉 with his Cousin Scarlet.  
●●●in Hood & the jolly Pinner of Wake▪ 〈◊〉 showing how he fought with Rob. Hood, 〈◊〉, and john, a long Summer's day.  
●obin Hood and the Bishop, showing how 〈◊〉 rob him, and made him sing Mass.  
Robin Hood and the Butcher, showing how he rob the Sherriff of Nottingham.  
Robin Hoods▪ rescuing Will Stutly from the Sheriff, which was going to hang him.  
Robin Hood and the Beggar, showing how he rescued three brethren that were going to be hanged for stealing Deer.  
Robin Hood and Queen Ratherine.  
Robin Hood and the Tanner, showing how the Tanner was kin to little john.  
A famous battle between Robin Hood and a Curtal Friar, near Fountaindale.  
Robin Hoods preferment, showing how he took a Ship at Sea with 12000 pound in her▪  
Robin Hood and the Shepherd, showing how the Shepherd beat him and little john.  
Robin Hoods Golden prize, showing how he robbed two Priests of five hundred pound.  
Robin Hoods Chase, or a merry progress between him and King Henry.  
Little john and the Four Beggars.  
Robin Hoods Delight.   

ROBIN HOOD'S Garland.  

Robin Hood's Progress to Nottingham, where he slew Fifteen Foresters.  
To the Tune of, Bold Robin Hood.  

RObin Hood he was a tall youngman,  
derry derry down,  
And fifteen Winters old,  
And Robin Hood he was a proper youngman  
Of courage stout and bold:  
hay down, derry derry down.   

Robin hood he would unto fair Nottingham,  
derry derry down,  
With the General for to dine,  
There was he ware of fifteen Foresters,  
And a drinking Beer, Ale, and Wine:  
hay down, derry, derry, down.   

What news? what news? said bold Rob. Hood,  
derry, derry, down,  
What news fain wouldst thou know?  
Our King hath provided a Shooting match,  
And i'm ready with my Bow:  
hay down, etc.   

We hold it in scorn, than said the Foresters,  
derry derry down,  
That ever a Boy so young,  
Should bear a Bow before our King,  
That's not able to draw one string:  
hay down, etc.   

I'll hold you 20 mark, siad bold Robin Hood,  
derry derry down,  
By the leave of our Lady,  
That i'll hit a Mark a hundred Rod,  
And i'll cause a Hart to die:  
hay down, etc.   

We'll hold you 20 Mark, than said the Foresters,  
derry derry down,  
By the leave of our Lady,  
Thou hittest not the Mark an hundred Rod,  
Nor causest an Hart to die:  
hay down, etc.   

Robin Hood he bend up a Noble Bow,  
derry derry down,  
And a Broad Arrow he let fly,  
He hit the Mark an hundred Rod,  
And he caused an Hart to die:  
hay down, etc.   

Some said he broke Ribs one or two,  
derry derry down,  
And some said he broke three,  
The Arrow in the Hart would not abide,  
But it glanced in two or three:  
hay down, derry, derry, down.   

The Hart did skip, and the Hart did leap,  
derry, derry down,  
And the Hart lay on the ground,  
The Wager is mine, said bold Robin Hood,  
If it were for a thousand pound:  
hay down, derry, derry, down.   

The Wager's none of thine, than said the Foresters,  
derry, derry, down,  
Although thou beest in haste,  
Take up thy Bow and get thee hence,  
Lest we thy sides do baste:  
hay down, etc.   

Robin Hood he took up his Noble Bow,  
derry, derry, down,  
And his Broad Arrows all amain,  
And Robin he laughed and began to smile,  
As he went over the plain:  
hay down, etc.   

Then Robin Hood he bend his Noble Bow,  
derry, derry, down,  
And his Broad Arrows he let fly,  
Till fourteen of these fifteen Foresters  
Upon the ground did lie:  
hay down, etc.   

He that did this quarrel first begin,  
derry, derry, down,  
Went tripping over the Plain,  
But Robin Hood he bend his Noble Bow,  
And he fetched him back again:  
hay down, etc.   

You said I was no archer, said bold Ro. hood,  
derry derry down,  
But say so now again,  
With that he sent another arrow,  
Which split his head in twain:  
hay down, etc.   

You have found me an archer, said Ro. Hood▪  
derry derry down,  
Which will make your Wives for to wring,  
And wish that you had never spoke the word,  
That I could not draw one string:  
hay down, etc.   

The People that lived in fair Nottingham,  
derry derry down,  
Came running out amain,  
Supposing to have taken bold Robin hood,  
With the Foresters that were slain:  
hay down, etc.   

Some lost Legs, and some lost arms,  
derry derry down,  
And some did lose their blood,  
But Robin hood he took up his Noble Bow  
And is gone to the merry green-wood:  
hay down, etc.   

They carried these foresters to fair Nottingham,  
derry derry down,  
As many there did know,  
They digged them Graves in their Churchyard,  
And they buried them all on a row:  
hay down, derry derry down.    

Robin Hood newly Revived: Or, His Meeting and Fight with his Cousin Scarlet.  
To a delightful new Tune.  

COme listen a while you Gentlemen all,  
with a hay down down a down down,  
That are in this Bower within:  
for a story of gailant Robin Hood,  
I purpose now to begin.   

What time of the day, qd. Robin hood then,  
with a hay, etc.  
Quoth little John, 'tis in the prime,  
why then we will to the green-wood gang,  
For we have no Victuals to dine.   

As Robin hood walked the Forest along,  
with a hay, etc.  
It was in the midst of the day,  
there was he beware of a deft youngman,  
As ever walked on the way.   

His Doublet it was of silk, he said,  
with a hay, etc.  
His Stockings like Scarlet shone,  
and he walked on along the way,  
To Robin Hood then unknown.   

A Herd of Deer was in the Bend,  
with a hay, etc.  
All feeding before his face,  
now the best of you i'll have for my Dinner,  
And that in a little space.   

Now the Stranger made no much ado,  
with a hay, etc.  
But he bends and a right good Bow,  
and the best Buck in the Herd he slew,  
Forty yards him full fro.   

Well shot, well shot, quoth Robin hood then,  
with a hay, etc.  
That shot it was in time,  
and if thou wilt accept of the place,  
Thou shalt be a bold Yeoman of mine.   

Go play the Chiven, the Stranger said,  
with a hay, etc.  
Make haste and quickly go,  
or with my fist, be sure of this,  
I'll give thee buffets store.   

Thou hadst not best buffet me, qd. Robin hood  
with a hay, etc.  
For although I am forlorn,  
yet I have those will take my part,  
If I but blow my Horn.   

Thou wast not best wind thy horn the stranger said,  
with a hay, etc.  
Be'st thou never so much in haste,  
for I can draw a good broad Sword,  
And quickly cut the blast.   

Then Robin hood he bend a very good Bow,  
with a hay, etc.  
To shoot, and that he would fain,  
the stranger he bent a very good Bow,  
To shoot at bold Robin again.   

O hold thy hand, hold thy hand, qd. Ro. hood,  
with a hay, etc.  
To shoot it would be in vain, for if we should shoot the one at the other,  
The one of us must be slain.   

But let's take our swords and our broad Bucklers,  
hay down, etc.  
And gang under yonder Tree,  
as I hope to be saved, the stranger he said,  
One foot I will not flee.   

Then Robin hood lent the stranger a blow,  
with a hay, etc.  
Most scared him out of his wit,  
thou never felt blow, the stranger he said,  
That shall be better quit.   

The stranger he drew out a good broad sword,  
with a hay, etc.  
And hit Robin on the crown,  
that from every hair of bold Robin's head,  
The blood ran trickling down.   

God a mercy good fellow, qd. Rob. hood then,  
with a hay, etc.  
And for this thou hast done,  
tell me good fellow what thou art,  
Tell me where thou dost won.   

The stranger than answered bold Rob. hood,  
with a hay, etc.  
I'll tell thee where I did dwell,  
in Maxfield was I bred and born,  
My name is young Gamwel.   

For killing of my Father's Steward,  
with a hay, etc.  
I am forced to this English Wood,  
and for to seek an Uncle of mine,  
Some call him Robin hood.   

But art thou a Cousin of Robin hoods then?  
with a hay, etc.  
The sooner we should have done,  
as I hope to be saved, the stranger than said,  
I am his own Sisters Son.   

But Lord what a kissing and courting was there,  
with a hoy, etc.  
When these two Cousins did greet,  
and they went all that Summer's day,  
And little john did meet.   

But when they met with little john,  
with a hay, etc.  
He there unto him did say,  
O Master where have you been,  
You have tarried so long away?   

I met with a stranger, qd. Robin hood then,  
with a hay, etc.  
Full sore he hath beaten me,  
then i'll have about with him, qd. little john,  
And try if he can beat me.   

Oh no, oh no, quoth Robin hood then,  
with a hay, etc.  
Little john it may not be so:  
for he's my own dear Sister's Son,  
And Cousins I have no more.   

But he shall be a bold Yeoman of mine,  
with a hay, etc.  
My chief man next to thee:  
and I Robin hood, and thou little john,  
And Scarlet he shall be.   

And we'll be three of the bravest Outlaws,  
with a hay, etc.  
That is in the North-Country,  
if thou wilt have any more of bold Ro. hood  
In the second part it will be.   

Then bold Robin hood to the North he would go,  
with a hay, etc.  
With valour and much might,  
with Sword by his side, which oft had been tried,  
To fight and recover his right.   

The first that he met was a bonny bold Scot,  
with a hay, etc.  
His servant he said he would be,  
no, quoth Robin hood, it cannot be good,  
For thou wilt prove false unto me.   

Thou hast not been true to Sire nor Cousin,  
with a hay, etc.  
Nay, marry the Scot he said,  
as true as your heart, i'll never part,  
Good Master be not afraid.   

Then Robin hood turned his face to the East,  
with a hay, etc.  
Fight on my merry men stout,  
our case is good, qd. brave Robin hood,  
And we shall not be beaten out.   

The Battle grows hot on every side,  
with a hay, etc.  
The Scothman made great moan,  
qd. Jockey, good faith they fight on each side  
Would I were with my Wife Joan.   

The Enemy compassed brave Robin about,  
with a hay, etc.  
'Tis long  the Battle ends,  
there's neither will yield, nor give up the field,  
For both are supplied with friends.   

This song it was made in Robin hoods days,  
with a hay, etc.  
Let's pray unto jove above,  
to give us true peace, that mischief may cease  
And War may give place unto love.    

Robin Hood and the jolly Pinner of Wake-field, showing how he fought with Robin Hood, Scarlet, and John, a long Summer's day.  
To a Northern Tune.  

IN Wakefield there lives a jolly Pinder,  
in Wakefield all on a Green,  
in Wakefield all on a Green,  
There's neither Knight nor Squire, said the Pinner,  
nor Baron that is so bold,  
nor Baron that is so bold.  
Dare make a trespass to the town of Wakefield,  
but his Pledge goes to the Pinfold,  
but his Pledge goes to the Pinfold.   

All this beheard three witty youngmen,  
'twas Robin Hood, Scarlet, and john, etc.  
With that they spied the jolly Pinner,  
as he sat under a Thorn, etc.  
Now turn again, turn again, said the Pinner,  
for a wrong way have you gone, etc.   

For you have forsaken the King's Highway,  
and made a path over the Corn, etc.  
O that were great shame, said jolly Robin,  
we being three, and thou but one, etc.  
The Pinner leapt back then thirty good foot,  
'twas thirty good foot and one, etc.   

He leaned his back fast unto a Thorn,  
and his foot against a Stone, etc.  
And there he fought a long Summer's day,  
and a Summer's day so long, etc.  
Till their Swords on their broad bucklers,  
were broken fast unto their hands, etc.   

Hold thy hand, hold thy hand (said Rob. hood)  
and my merry men every one, etc.  
For this is one of the best Pinders  
that ever I tried with sword, etc.  
And wilt thou forsake the Pinner his craft,  
and live in green-wood with me, etc.   

At Michaelmas next my Covenant comes out  
when every man gathers his fee, etc.  
I'll take my blue blade in my hand,  
and plod to the green-wood with thee, etc.  
Hast either meat or drink, said Robin hood,  
for my meery men and me, etc.   

I have both bread and beef, said the Pinner,  
and good Ale of the best, etc.  
And that's meat good enough, said Ro. hood,  
for such unbidden guest, etc.  
O wilt thou forsake the Pinner his craft,  
and go to the green-wood with me, etc.   

Thou shalt have a Livery twice in the year,  
the one green, the other brown, etc.  
If Michaelmas day were once come and gone,  
and my Master had paid me my fee, etc.  
Then would I ●et as little by him,  
as my Master doth by me,  
as my Master doth by me.    

Robin Hood and the Bishop Showing how Robin Hood went to an Old Woman's house, and changed  with her to scape from the Bishop, and how he robbed the Bishop of all his Gold, and made him sing a Mass.  
To the Tune of, Robin Hood and the Stranger.  

COme Gentlemen all, and listen a while,  
with a hay down down an a down,  
And a Story i'll to you unfold;  
i'll tell you how Robin Hood served the Bishop,  
When he robbed him of his Gold.   

As it fell out on a Sun shining day,  
with a hay, etc.  
When Phoebus was in his prime,  
than Robin Hood, that ●●cher good,  
In mirth would spend some time.   

As he walked the Forest along,  
with a hay,▪ c.  
Some pastime for to spy,  
there was he ware of a proud Bishop,  
And all his company.   

O what shall I do, said Robin hood then?  
with a hay, etc.  
If the Bishop he doth take me,  
no mercy he'll show, unto me I know.   

Then Robin was stout, and turned him about,  
with a hay, etc.  
And a little house there he did spy,  
And to an old Wife to save his life,  
He loud began to cry.   

Why who art thou, said the old Woman,  
with a hay, etc.  
Come tell it to me for good,  
I am an Outlaw, as many do know,  
My name it is Robin Hood.   

And yonder's the Bishop and all his Men,  
with a hay, etc.  
And if that I taken be,  
Then day and night, he'll work me spite,  
And hanged I shall be.   

If thou be Robin Hood, said the old Wife,  
with a hay, etc.  
As thou dost seem to be,  
I'll for thee provide, and thee I will hid  
From the Bishop and his Company.   

For I well remember on Saturday-night,  
with a hay, etc.  
Thou bought me both shoes and hose,  
Therefore i'll provide, thy person to hid,  
and keep thee from thy foes.   

Then give me soon thy Coat of Grace,  
with a hay, etc.  
And take thou my Mantle of Green,  
Thy Spindle and Twine, unto me resign,  
and take thou my Arrows so keen.   

And when that Robin hood was so arrayed,  
with a hay, etc.  
He went strait to his company,  
With his Spindle and Twine, he oft loo● behind  
for the Bishop and his company.   

O who is yonder, quoth little john,  
with a hay, etc.  
That now comes over the Lee,  
An Arrow I will at her let fly,  
so like an old Witch looks she.   

O hold thy hand, hold thy hand, said Rob●● the  
with a hay, etc.  
And shoot not thy Arrows so keen,  
I am Robin hood, thy Master good,  
and quickly it shall be seen.   

The Bishop he came to the old Woman's  
hou●● with a hay, etc.  
And he called with furious mood,  
Come let me soon see, and bring unto me  
that traitor Robin Hood.   

The old woman he set on a milk-white steed,  
with a hay, etc.  
Himself on a Dapple Grace,  
And for joy he had got Robin Hood,  
he went laughing all the way.   

But as they were riding the Forest along,  
with a hay, etc.  
The Bishop he chanced to see,  
A hundred bra●e Bowmen bold,  
stand under the Green-wood-tree.   

O who is yonder? the Bishop he said,  
with a hay, etc.  
That's ranging within yonder wood▪  
Marry, says the old woman, I think it to be,  
a Man called Robin Hood.   

Why who art thou, the Bishop he said?  
with a hay, etc.  
Which I have here with me,  
Why I am an old Woman, thou Cuckold●g Bishop▪  
lift up my Leg and see.   

Then woe to me, the Bishop he said,  
with a hay, etc.  
That ever I saw this day:  
He turned him about, ●ut Robin hood so stout  
called to him and bid him stay.   

Then Robin took hold of the Bishop's horse,  
with a hay, etc.  
And tied him fast to a tree,  
Then Little john s●●ised his Master upon,  
for joy of that company.   

Robin Hood took his Mantle from's back,  
with a hay, etc.  
And spread it upon the ground.  
And out of the Bishops Portmantle, he  
soon told five hundred pound.   

So now ●et him go, said Robin Hood,  
with a hay, etc.  
Said little john that may not ●e;  
For I vow and prote●●, he shall sing as a Mass  
before that he go from me.   

Then Robin Hood took the Bishop by the hand  
with a hay, etc.  
And bond him fast to a tree,  
And made him sing a Mass God-wot,  
●● him and his Yeomandree.   

And then they brought him through the wood,  
with a hay, etc.  
And set him on his Dapple Grace,  
And gave the tail within his hand,  
and bid him for Robin Hood pray.    

Robin Hood and the Butcher. Showing how he rob the Sherriff of Nottingham.  
Tune of, Robin Hood and the Beggar.  

COme all ye brave gallants, & listen a while  
with a hay down, down, a a down,  
that are in this Bower within,  
For of Robin Hood, that Archer good,  
a Song I intent to sing.   

Upon a time it chanced so,  
with a hay, etc.  
bold Robin in the Forest did spy,  
A jolly Butcher, with a bonny fine Mare,  
with his flesh to the Market did hie.   

Good morrow, good fellow, said jolly Robin,  
with a hay, etc.  
what food hast, tell unto me,  
And thy trade to me tell, and where thou dost dwest,  
for I like well thy company.   

The Butcher he answered jolly Robin,  
with a hay, etc.  
no matter where I dwell,  
For a Butcher I am, and to Nottingham,  
I am going my flesh to sell.   

What's the price of thy flesh, said jolly Robin,  
with a hay, etc.  
come tell it soon unto me,  
And the price of my Mare, be she never so dear  
for a Butcher fain would I be.   

The price of my flesh, the Butcher replied,  
with a hay, etc.  
I soon will tell unto thee,  
With my bonny Mare, & they are not dear,  
four Mark thou must give unto me.   

Four Mark I will give thee, said jolly Robin,  
with a hay, etc.  
four Mark it shall be thy Fee,  
Thy money come count, and let me mount,  
for a Butcher I fain would be.   

Now Robin he is to Nottingham gone,  
with a hay, etc.  
his Butcher's trade for to begin,  
With a good intent, to the Sheriff he went,  
and there he took up his Inn.   

When other Butchers did open their shop, with a hay, etc.  
bold Robin he then begun;  
But how for to sell, he knew not well,  
for a butcher he was but young.   

When other butchers no meat could sell,  
with a hay, etc.  
Robin got both Gold and Fee,  
For he sold more meat for one Penny,  
than others could do for three.   

But when he sold his Meat so fast,  
with a hay, etc.  
no butcher by him could thrive,  
For he sold more meat for one penny,  
than others could do for five.   

Which made the butchers of Nottingham,  
with a hay, etc.  
to study as they did stand,  
Saying, surely he was some Prodigal,  
that had sold his Fathers Land.   

The butchers they stepped to jolly Robin,  
with a hay, etc.  
acquainted with him for to be,  
Come brother, one said, we be all of one trade▪  
come will you go dine with me?   

Accursed of his heart, said jolly Robin,  
with a hay, etc.  
That a Butcher will deny:  
I will go with you my Brethren true,  
and as fast as I can hie.   

But when to the Sheriff's house they came,  
with a hay, etc.  
to Dinner they hied apace,  
And Robin he the man must be,  
before them all to say Grace.   

Pray God bless us all, said jolly Robin,  
with a hay, etc.  
and our Meat within this place,  
A cup of Sack so good, will nourish our blood,  
and so I end my Grace.   

Come fill us more Wine, said jolly Robin,  
with a hay, etc.  
let us be merry while we do stay,  
For Wine and good cheer, be it never so dear  
I vow I the reckoning will pay.   

Come Brothers be merry, said jolly Robin,  
with a hay, etc.  
let us drink and never give o'er,  
For the shot I will pay,  I go my way,  
if it cost me five pound or more.   

This is a mad blade, the Butchers then said,  
with a hay, etc.  
says the Sherriff, he is some Prodigal,  
That some Land has sold, for silver and gold,  
and now he doth mean to spend all.   

Hast thou any horned Beasts, the Sheriff then said,  
with a hay, etc.  
good fellow, to sell unto me:  
Yes that I have, good Master Sheriff,  
I have hundreds two or three.   

A hundred Acres of good free Land,  
with a hay, etc.  
if you please it to see,  
And i'll make you as good assurance of it  
as ever my Father made me.   

The Sheriff he saddled a good Palfrey,  
with a hay, etc.  
And with three hundred pound in Gold,  
Away he went with bold Robin Hood,  
his horned-beasts to behold.   

Away than the Sheriff and Robin did rids,  
with a hay, etc.  
to the Forest of merry Sherwood,  
Then the Sheriff did say, God bless us this day,  
from a man they call Robin Hood.   

But when that a little further they came,  
with a hay, etc.  
bold Robin he chanced to spy,  
A hundred Head of good Red Deer,  
come tripping the Sheriff full nigh.   

How like you my Horn'd-beasts, good Master Sheriff,  
with a hay, etc.  
they be fat and fair for to see,  
I tell thee good fellow, I would I were gone,  
for I like not thy company.   

Then Robin he set his Horn to his mouth,  
with a hay, etc.  
and blue but blasts three,  
Then quickly anon, there came little john,  
and all his company.   

What is your will master, said Little john,  
with a hay, etc.  
I pray you come tell it to me,  
I have brought hither the Sheriff of Nottingham.  
this day to dine with thee.   

He is welcome to me, than said little john,  
with a hay, etc.  
I hope he will honestly pay;  
I know he has gold, if it were but well told,  
will serve us to drink a whole day.   

Then Robin took his mantle from his back,  
with a hay, etc.  
and laid it upon the ground:  
And out of the Sheriffs Portmantle,  
he told three hundred pound.   

Then Robin brought him thorough the wood,  
with a hay down down an a down,  
and set him on his dapple grey:  
O have me commended to your wife at home,  
so Robin went laughing away.    

Robin Hood his rescuing Will Stutly from the Sheriff and his Men, who had taken him Prisoner, and were going to hang him.  
To the Tune of, Robin Hood and Queen Katherine.  

WHen Robin hood in the green wood lived,  
derry derry down,  
Under the green-wood-tree;  
Tidings there came to him with speed,  
Tidings for certainty,  
hay down, derry derry down.   

That Will Sutly surprised was,  
derry derry down,  
And eke in Prison lay,  
Three Varlets that the Sheriff had hired,  
Did likely him betray.   

I, and to morrow hanged must be,  
derry derry down,  
To morrow as soon as it is day,  
But before they could this victory get,  
Two of them did Stutly slay.   

When Robin Hood he heard this News,  
derry derry down,  
Lord he was grieved sore,  
I and unto his merry men said,  
(Who altogether swore)   

That Will Stutly should rescued be,  
derry, derry, down,  
And be brought safe again,  
Or else should many a gallant wight  
For his sake there he slain.   

He clothed himself in Scarlet then,  
derry, derry, down,  
His men were all in green,  
A fairer show throughout the World,  
In no part could be seen.   

Good Lord it was a gallant sight,  
derry derry down,  
To see them all on a row,  
With every man a good broad Sword,  
And eke a good Yew Bow.   

Forth of the green-wood are they gone,  
derry derry down,  
Yea all courageously,  
Resolving to bring Stutly home,  
Or every man to die.   

And when they came the Castle near,  
derry derry down,  
Whereas Will Stutly lay:  
I hold it good, says Robin Hood,  
We here in ambush stay.   

And send one forth some news to hear,  
derry derry down,  
To yonder Palmer fair,  
That stands under the Castlewall,  
Some news he may declare.   

With that steps forth a brave youngman,  
derry derry down,  
Which was of courage bold,  
Thus he did to the old man say,  
I pray thee Palmer old.   

Tell me if that thou rightly ●en,  
derry derry down,  
When must Will Stutly die?  
Who is one of bold Robin hoods men,  
And here doth Prisoner lie.   

Alas, alas, the Palmer said,  
derry derry down,  
And for ever woe is me,  
Will Stutly hanged must be this day,  
On yonder Gallows-tree.   

O had his noble Master known,  
derry derry down,  
He would some succour send,  
A few of his bold Yeomandree,  
Full soon would fetch him hence.   

I that is true the Youngman said,  
derry derry down,  
I that is true, said he,  
Or if they were near to this place,  
They soon would set him free.   

But far thou well thou good old man,  
derry derry down▪  
Farewell, and thanks to thee:  
If Stutly hanged be this day,  
Revenged his death will be.   

He was no sooner from the Palmer gone, derry derry down,  
But the Gates was opened wide,  
And out of the Castle Will Stutly came,  
Guarded on every side.   

When he was forth of the Castle come,  
derry derry down,  
And saw no help was nigh,  
Thus he did say unto the Sheriff,  
Thus he said gallantly.   

Now seeing that I needs must die,  
derry derry down,  
Grant me one boon, says he,  
For my noble Master ne'er had Man  
That yet was hanged on the tree.   

Give me a Sword all in my hand,  
derry derry down,  
And let me be unbound:  
And with thee and thy men i'll fight,  
Until I lie dead on the ground.   

But his desire he would not grant,  
derry derry down,  
His wishes were in vain,  
For the Sheriff had sworn he hanged should be  
And not by the Sword be slain.   

Do but unbind my hands he says,  
derry derry down,  
I will no weapons crave,  
And if I hanged be this day,  
Damnation let me have.   

O no, O no, the Sheriff he said,  
derry derry down,  
Thou shalt on the Gallows die:  
I, and so shall thy Master too,  
If ever in me it lie.   

O dastard Coward Stutly cries,  
derry derry down,  
Thou faint-hearted Peasant slave,  
If ever my Master do thee meet,  
Thou shalt thy payment have.   

My noble Master thee doth scorn,  
derry derry down,  
And all thy ●owardly crew,  
Such silly imps unable are,  
Bold Robin to subdue.   

But when he was to the Gallows come,  
derry derry down,  
And ready to bid adieu:  
Out of a Bush leaps Little John,  
And steps Will Stutly too.   

I pray thee Will before thou die,  
derry derry down,  
Of thy dear friends take leave,  
I needs must borrow him a while,  
How say you Master Sheriff?   

Now as I live the Sheriff he said,  
derry derry down,  
That Varlet well I know,  
Some sturdy Rebel is that same,  
Therefore let him not go.   

With that Little John so hastily,  
derry derry down,  
Away cut Stutly's bands,  
And from one of the Sheriff his men,  
A sword twitched from his hands.   

Here Will, here take thou this same,  
derry derry down,  
Thou canst it better sway,  
And here defend thyself a while,  
For aid will come straightway.   

And there they turned them back to back,  
derry derry down,  
In the middle of them that day,  
Till Robin hood approached near,  
With many an Archer gay.   

With that an Arrow by them flew,  
derry derry down,  
I witted from Robin hood,  
Make haste, make haste, the Sheriff he said,  
Make haste, for it is good.   

The Sheriff is gone, his doubtless men,  
derry, derry, down,  
Thought it no boot to stay:  
But as their Master had them taught,  
They ran full fast away.   

O stay, O stay, Will Stutly said,  
derry, derry, down,  
Take leave  you depart,  
You ne'er will catch hold Robin Hood,  
Unless you dare him start.   

O ill betid you, quoth Robin Hood,  
derry, derry, down,  
That you so soon are gone,  
My Sword may in the Scabbard rest,  
For here our work is done.   

I little thought when I came here,  
derry, derry, down,  
When I came here to this place,  
For to have met with Little John,  
Or seen my Master's face.   

Thus Stutly was at liberty set,  
derry, derry, down,  
And safe brought from his foe,  
O thanks, O thanks to my Master,  
Since here it was not so.   

And once again my fellows all,  
derry, derry, down,  
We shall in the green Woods meet:  
Where we will make our bowstrings twang  
Music for us most sweet,  
hay down, derry derry down.    

Robin Hood and the Beggar. Showing how Robin Hood and the Beggar fought: and how he changed  with the Beggar; and how he went a begging to Nottingham: and how he saved three brethren from hanging for stealing of Deer.  
To the T●ne of, Robin Hood and the stranger.  

COme light and listen you Gentlemen all,  
hey down down and a down,  
That mirth do love for to hear,  
and a story true, i'll tell unto you,  
If that you will draw near.   

In elder times when merriment was,  
with a hay, etc.  
And Archery was holden good,  
there was an Outlaw, as many did know,  
Which men called Robin Hood.   

Upon a time it chanced so,  
with a hay, etc.  
Bold Robin was merry disposed:  
his time to spend, he did intent,  
Either with friends or foes.   

Then he got up on a gallant brave Steed,  
with a hay, etc.  
The which was worth Angels ten,  
with a mantle of green, most brave to be seen  
He left all his merry men.   

●ndriding towards fair Nottingham,  
with a hay, etc.  
Some pastime for to spy,  
There was he ware of a jolly Beggar,  
As e'er he beheld with his eye.   

An old patched Coat the Beggar had on,  
with a hay, etc.  
Which he daily did use for to wear,  
and many a bag about him did wag,  
Which made Robin Hood to him repair.   

God-speed, God-speed, said Robin hood then,  
with a hay, etc.  
What Countryman, tell unto me,  
I am Yorkshire Sir, but  you go far,  
Some charity give unto me.   

Why what wouldst thou have, said Rob. hood,  
with a hay, etc.  
I pray tell unto me,  
no lands nor living, the beggar he said,  
But a penny for charity.   

I have no money, said Robin hood then,  
with a hay, etc.  
But a Ranger within the wood,  
I am an Outlaw, as many do know,  
My Name it is Robin hood.   

But yet I must tell thee bonny beggar,  
with a hay, etc.  
That about with thee I must try,  
thy coat of grey, lay down I say,  
And my mantle of green shall lie by.   

Content, content, the beggar he cried,  
with a hay, etc.  
Thy part it will be the worse;  
for I hope this bout to give thee the rout,  
And then have at thy Purse.   

The beggar he had a much long staff, with a hay, etc.  
And Robin had a nut-brown sword,  
so the beggar drew nigh, & at Robin let fly,  
But gave him never a Word.   

Fight on, fight on, said Robin Hood then,  
with a hay, etc.  
This Game well pleaseth me,  
For every blow that Robin did give,  
The Beggar gave buffets three.   

And fight there full hard and sore,  
with a hay, etc.  
Not far from Nottingham town,  
they never fled, till from Robin's head  
The blood ran trickling down.   

O hold thy hand, said Robin hood then,  
with a hay, etc.  
And thou and I will agree,  
if that be true the beggar he said,  
Thy Mantle come give unto me.   

Now a change, a change, cried Robin hood,  
with a hay, etc.  
Thy bags and Coat give me,  
& this Mantle of mine, i'll to thee resign,  
My Horse and my bravery.   

When Robin had got the beggar's ,  
with a hay, etc.  
He looked round about,  
methinks said he, I seem to be,  
A beggar brave and stout.   

For now I have a bag for my bread,  
with a hay, etc.  
So have I another for Corn,  
I have one for Salt, and another for malt,  
And one for my little Horn.   

And now I will a begging go,  
with a hay, etc.  
Some charity for to find,  
and if any more of Robin you'll know,  
In this second part it's behind.   

Now Robin he is to Nottingham bound,  
with a hay, etc.  
With his bags hanging down to his knee,  
his stuff and his coat, scarce worth a groat,  
Yet merrily passed he.   

As Robin he passed the streets along,  
with a hay, etc.  
He heard a pitiful cry,  
three brethren dear, as he did hear,  
Condemned were for to die.   

Then Robin he hied to the Sheriff's house,  
with a hay, etc.  
Some relief for to seek,  
he skipped and leapt, and capered full high,  
As he went along the street.   

But when to the Sheriff's house he came,  
with a hay, etc.  
There a Gentleman fine and brave,  
thou beggar said he, come tell unto me,  
What is it that thou wouldst have?   

No meat nor drink, said Robin hood then,  
with a hay, etc.  
That I come here to crave,  
but to beg the lives of Yeomen three,  
And that I fain would have.   

That cannot be thou bold beggar,  
with a hay, etc.  
Their fact it is so clear,  
I tell to thee, they hanged must be,  
For stealing of our King's Deer.   

But when to the Gallows they did come,  
with a hay, etc.  
There was many a weeping eye,  
O hold your peace, said Robin then,  
For certainly they shall not die.   

Then Robin he set his Horn to his mouth,  
with a hay, etc.  
And blew but blasts three,  
till a hundred bold Archers brave  
Came kneeling down to his knee.   

What is your will Master? they said,  
with a hay, etc.  
We are here at your command,  
shoot East, shoot West, said Robin then,  
And look that you spare not man.   

Then they shot, East, and thy shot West,  
with a hay, etc.  
Their Arrows were so keen,  
the Sheriff he, and his company,  
No longer could be seen.   

Then he stepped to these brethren three,  
with a hay, etc.  
And away he them had ta'en,  
the Sheriff was crossed, and many a man lost  
That dead lay on the plain.   

And away they went into the merry green-wood,  
with a hay, etc.  
And sung with a merry glee,  
And Robin took these brethren good  
To be of his Yeomandree.    

Renowned Robin Hood: Or, His Famous Archery truly related, with the Worthy Exploits he acted before Queen Katherine, he being an Out-law-Man, and how she for the same obtained of the King his own, and his fellows pardon.  
To a new Tune.  

GOld ta'en from the King's Harbingers,  
down a down a down,  
As seldom hath been seen,  
down a down a down,  
And carried by bold Robin Hood,  
for a present to the Queen;  
down a down a down.   

If that I live one year to an end,  
thus 'gan Queen Katherine say,  
Bold Robin Hood I will be thy friend,  
and all thy Yeomen gay.   

The Queen is to her Chamber gone,  
as fast as she can wen,  
She calls unto her lovely Page,  
his name was Richard Patrington.   

Come hither to me thou lovely Page,  
come thou hither to me:  
For thou must Post to Nottingham,  
as fast as thou canst dree.   

And as thou goest to Nottingham,  
search all those English Woods,  
Inquire of one good Yeoman or another,  
that can tell thee of Robin hood.   

Sometimes he went, sometimes he ran,  
as fast as he could wen:  
And when he came to Nottingham,  
there he took up his Inn.   

And when he came to Nottingham,  
and had took up his Inn,  
He calls for a pottle of Rhenish Wine,  
and drinks a health to his Queen.   

There sat a Yeoman by his side,  
tell me sweet Page, said he,  
What is thy business, or thy cause,  
so far in the North Country.   

This is my business,  
and my cause,  
Sir, i'll tell it you for good,  
To inquire of one good Yeoman, or another,  
to tell me of Robin Hood.   

I'll get my horse betimes in the morn, by it be break of day,  
And I will show thee bold Robin hood,  
and all his Yeomen gay.   

When that he came at Robin Hoods place,  
he fell down on his knee;  
Queen Katherine she doth greet you well,  
she greets you well▪ by me.   

She bids you post to fair London Court,  
not fearing any thing,  
For there shall be a little sport,  
and she hath sent you her Ring.   

Robin took his Mantle from his back,  
it was of the Lincoln green,  
And sent it by this lovely Page,  
for a present to the Queen.   

In Summer time when leaves grow green,  
it is a seemly sight to see,  
How Robin hood himself had dressed,  
and all his Yeomandree.   

He clothed his men in Lincoln green,  
and himself in Scarlet red,  
Black hats, white feathers all alike,  
now bold Robin hood is rid.   

And when he came at London's Court,  
he fell down on his knee,  
Thou art welcome Locksly, said the Queen,  
and all thy Yeomandree.   

The King's gone into Finsbury field,  
marching in battle ray;  
And after follows bold Robin hood,  
and all his Yeomen gay:   

Come hither Tepus,  
said the King,  
Bow-bearer after me,  
Come measure me out with this Line,  
how long our mark shall be.   

What is the Wager, said the Queen,  
that must I now know here,  
Three hundred Tun of Rhenish Wine,  
three hundred Tun of Beer.   

Three hundred of the fattest Hearts  
that run on Dallom Lee:  
That's a Princely wager, said the King,  
that needs must I tell thee.   

With that bespoke one Clifton then,  
full quickly and full soon;  
Measure no mark for us most Sovereign Liege,  
we'll shoot at Sun and Moon.   

Full fifteen score your mark shall be,  
full fifteen score shall stand:  
I'll lay my Bow, said Clifton then,  
i'll cleave the Willow Wand.   

With that the King's Archers led about,  
while it was three and none,  
With that the Ladies began to shout,  
Madam, your Game is gone.   

A boon, a boon, Queen Katherine cries,  
I crave on my bare knee:  
Is there ever a ●t. of your Privy-Counsel,  
on Queen Katherine's part will be?   

Come hither to me Sir Richard Lee,  
thou art a Knight full good:  
For I do know by thy Pedigree,  
thou sprang'st from gower's blood.   

Come hither to me thou Bishop of Herefordshire,  
for a Noble Priest was he,  
By my Silver Mitre, said the Bishop then,  
I'll not bet one penny.   

The King hath Archers of his own,  
full ready and full light,  
And these be strangers every one,  
no man knows what they height.   

What wilt thou bet? said Robin hood,  
thou seest our Games the worse:  
By my silver Mitre, said the Bishop then,  
all the money within my purse.   

What is in thy purse, said Robin hood,  
throw it ●own on the ground:  
Fifteenscore Nobles, said the Bishop then,  
it's near an hundred pound.   

Robin hood took his bag from his side,  
and threw it down on the Green:  
Will Scadlock went smiling away,  
I know who this money must win.   

With that the King's Archers led about,  
while it was three and three,  
With that the Ladies gave a shout,  
Woodcock beware thy knee.   

It is three, and three, now said the King,  
the next three pays for all:  
Robin hood went & whispered to the Queen,  
the King's part shall be but small.   

Robin hood he led about,  
he shot it underhand,  
And Clifton with a bearing-Arrow,  
he clavae the Willow-wand.   

And little Midge the Miller's Son,  
he shot not much the worse,  
He shot within a finger of the Prick,  
now Bishop beware thy Purse.   

A boon, a boon, Queen Katherine tries,  
I crave that on my bare knee,  
That you will angry he with none,  
that is of my party.   

They shall have forty days to come,  
and forty days to go,  
And three times forty to sport and play,  
then welcome every one.   

Then thou art welcome Robin Hood said the Queen,  
and so is little john,  
So is Midge the Miller's Son,  
thrice welcome every one.   

Is this Robin hood the King now said?  
for it was told to me,  
That he was slain in the Palace gate,  
so far in the North Country.   

Is this Robin hood? quoth the Bishop then,  
as it seems well to be,  
Had I known he had been that bold Outlaw  
I would not a bet one penny.   

He took me late one Saturday-night,  
and bound me fast to a tree;  
And made me sing a Mass, God wots,  
to him and his Yeomen three.   

What and if I did, says Robin hood,  
of that Mass I was full fain:  
For recompense to thee, he says,  
here's half thy Gold again.   

Now nay, now nay, says little John,  
down, a down, a down,  
Master that may not be,  
down, a down, a down,  
We must give gifts to the King's Officers,  
that Gold will serve thee and me:  
down, a down, a down.    

Robin Hood and the Tanner: Or, Robin Hood met with his match. A merry and pleasant Song, relating the gallant and fierce Combat fought between Arthur Bland a Tanner of Nottingham, and Robin Hood the greatest and most noblest Archer of England.  
The Tune is, Robin Hood and the Stranger.  

IN Nottingham there lives a jolly Tinker,  
with a hay down, down a down down,  
His name is Ar●hur a Bland,  
There is never a Squire in Nottinghamshire,  
dare bid bold Arthur stand.   

With a long Pikestaff upon his shoulder,  
with a hay, etc.  
So well he can clear his way:  
By two and by three, he makes them to ●lee,  
for he hath no list to stay.   

And as he went forth in a summer's morning with a hay,  
etc.  
Into the Forest of merry Sherwood,  
To view the red Deer, that range here & there,  
there met he with bold Robin hood.   

As soon as hold Robin hood did him espy,  
with a hay, etc.  
He thought some s●ort he would make:  
Therefore out of hand he did him to stand,  
and thus unto him he spoke.   

Why, what art thou, thou bold fellow,  
with a hay, etc.  
That ranges so boldly here,  
In sooth to be brief, thou look'st like a thief,  
that comes to steal our King's Deer.   

For I am a Keeper in this Forest, with a hay, etc.  
The King puts me in trust,  
To look to his Deer, that range here and ther●  
therefore stay thee I must.   

If thou be'st a Keeper in this Forest,  
with a hay, etc.  
And hath such a great command,  
Yet thou must have more partakers in store,  
before that you make me stand.   

No, I have no more partakers in store,  
with a hay, etc.  
Or any that I do need;  
But I have a staff of another Oak grafted,  
I know it will do the deed.   

For thy sword and thy bow, I care not a straw  
with a hay, etc.  
Nor all thine Arrows to boot,  
If thou gettest a knock, upon thy bare scop,  
you canst as well shit as shoot.   

Speak cleanly, good fellow, said jolly Robin,  
with a hay, etc.  
And give better terms to me:  
Else i'll thee correct for thy neglect,  
and make thee more mannerly.   

Marry gap with a wenion, qd. Arthur Bland,  
with a hay, etc.  
Art thou such a goodly man?  
I care not a fig for thy looking so big,  
mend thou thyself how thou can.   

Then Robin hood he unbuckled his belt,  
with a hay, etc.  
And laid down his bow so long,  
He took up a Staff of another Oak-graft,  
that was both stiff and strong.   

I yield to thy weapon, said jolly Robin,  
with a hay, etc.  
Since thou wilt not yield to mine,  
For I have a Staff of another Oak-graft,  
not half a foot longer than thine.   

But let me measure, said jolly Robin,  
with a hay, etc.  
Before we begin our fray,  
For i'll not have mine to be longer than thine,  
for that will be counted foul play.   

I pass not for length, bold Arthur replied,  
with a hay, etc.  
My Staff is of Oak so free,  
Eight foot & a half, it will knock down a Calf,  
and I hope it will knock down thee.   

Then Robin he could no longer forbear,  
with a hay, etc.  
He gave him such a knock,  
Quickly and soon the blood ran down,  
before it was ten a clock.   

Then Arthur he soon recovered himself,  
with a hay, etc.  
And gave him such a knock on the crown,  
That from every hair on Robin's head,  
the blood it ran trickling down.   

Then Robin hood raged like a wild Boar,  
with a hay, etc.  
As soon as he saw his own blood,  
Then Bland was in hast he laid on so fast,  
as though he had been cleaving of wood.   

And about, and about, and about they went,  
with a hay, etc.  
Like two wild Boars in a chase,  
Striving to aim, each other to maim,  
leg, arm, or any other place.   

And knock for knock they lustily dealt,  
with a hay, etc.  
Which held for two hours and more,  
That all the wood rang at every bang,  
they plied their work so sore.   

But if thou wilt forsake thy Tanner's trade,  
with a hay, etc.  
And live in green Wood with me,  
My Name's Robin hood, I swear by the wood  
I will give thee both gold and fee.   

If thou be Robin hood, bold Arthur replied,  
with a hay, etc.  
As I think well thou art,  
then here's my hand, my names Arthur Bland  
we two will never departed.   

But tell me, O tell me, where is little john,  
with a hay, etc.  
Of him fain would I hear,  
For we are allied by the Mother's side,  
and he is my Rinsman near.   

Then Robin hood he blew on the beagle horn  
with a hay, etc.  
He blew both loud and shrill,  
But quickly anon, appeared little john,  
come tripping down a green hill.   

O what is the matter, than said little john,  
with a hay, etc.  
Master I pray you tell,  
Why do you stand with your staff in hand,  
I fear all is not well.   

Hold thy hand, hold thy hand, said Robin hood  
with a hay, etc.  
And let our quarrel fall,  
For here we may thresh our bones to mash,  
and get no coin at all.   

And in the Forest of merry Sherwood,  
with a hay, etc.  
Hereafter thou shalt be free,  
Godamercy for nought, my freedom I bought  
I may thank my good staff, and not thee.   

What tradesman art thou, said jolly Robin,  
with a hay, etc.  
Good fellow I prithee me show,  
And also me tell, in what place you do dwell,  
for both these fain would I know.   

I am a Tanner bold Arthur replied,  
with a hay, etc.  
In Nottingham long have I wrought,  
And if thou come there, I vow and do swear,  
I will tan thy hide for naught.   

Godamercy goodfellow, said jolly Robin,  
with a hay, etc.  
Since thou art so kind and free,  
And if thou wilt tan my hide for naught,  
I will do as much for thee.   

O man I do stand, and he makes me to stand,  
with a hay, etc.  
The Tanner that stands me beside,  
He is a bonny blade, and Master of his trade,  
for sound he hath tanned my hide.   

He is to be commended, then said little John,  
with a hay, etc.  
If such a feat he can do:  
If he be so stout, we will have a bout,  
and he shall tan my hide too.   

Hold thy hand, hold thy hand, said Robin hood  
with a hay, etc.  
For as I do understand,  
He's a Yeoman good, and of thine own blood for his name is  
Arthur a Bland.   

Then little john threw his staff away,  
with a hay, etc.  
As far as he could it fling:  
And ran out of hand to Arthur a Bland,  
and about his neck did cling.   

With loving respect, there was no neglect,  
with a hay, etc.  
They were neither nice nor coy,  
Each other did face with a lovely grace,  
they both did weep for joy.   

Then Robin hood took him by the hand,  
with a hay, etc.  
And danced about the Oak-tree:  
For three merry men, and three merry men,  
and three merry men we be.   

And ever hereafter so long as we live,  
with a hay, etc.  
We three will be all one:  
The wood it shall ring, and the old wife sing,  
of Robin hood, Arthur, and john.    

The famous Battle between Robin Hood and the Curtal Friar, near Fountain Dale.  
To a new Northern Tune.  

IN Summer time when leaves grow green,  
and flowers are fresh and gay,  
Robin hood and his merry men,  
were disposed to play.   

Then some would leap, and some would run,  
and some would use Artissery:  
Which of you can a good Bow draw,  
a good Archer to be?   

Which of you can kill a Buck,  
or who can kill a do?  
Or who can kill a Hart of Greece,  
five hundred foot him fro.   

Will Scadlock he killed a Buck,  
and Midge he killed a do,  
And little John killed a Hart of Greece,  
five hundred foot him fro.   

God's blessing on thy heart, said Robin Hood  
that shot such a shot for me,  
I would ride my horse an hundred miles,  
to find one could match thee.   

That caused Will Scadlock to laugh,  
he laughed full hearty;  
There lives a Friar in Fountain-Abby,  
will beat both him and thee.   

That Curtall Friar in Fountain-Abby,  
well can a strong Bow draw,  
He will beat you and your Yeomen,  
set them all on a row.   

Robin Hood took a solemn Oath,  
it was by Mary free,  
That he would neither eat nor drink,  
till the Friar he did see.   

Robin Hood put on his Harness good,  
and on his head a Cap of Steel,  
Then ●oad Sword and Buckler by his side,  
and they became him we'll.   

〈◊〉 took his Bow into his hand,  
it was made of a trusty Tree,  
●ith a sheaf of Arrows at his Belt,  
to the Fountains-Dale went he.   

●nd coming to the Fountaindale,  
no further would he ride,  
●here was he beware of a Curtal Fry●r,  
walking by the water side.   

●he Friar had on a harness good,  
and on his head a Cap of Steel,  
●road Sword and Buckler by his side,  
and they became him we'll.   

●obin Hood lighted off from his horse,  
and tied him to a Thorn,  
●arry me over the water, thou Curtal Friar,  
or else thy life's forlorn.   

●he Friar took Robin Hood on his back,  
deep water he did bestride,  
●nd spoke neither good word nor bad,  
till he came at the other side.   

●ightly stepped Robin off the Friar's back, the Friar said to him again:  
Carry me over this water, fine fellow,  
or it shall breed thy pain.   

Robin hood took the Friar on's back,  
deep water he did bestride,  
And spoke neither good word nor bad,  
till he came at the other side.   

Lightly leapt the Friar off Robin hoods ba●  
Robin hood said to him again:  
Carry me over this water thou curtal Frye●  
or it shall breed thy pain.   

The Friar took Robin hood on's back aga●  
and stepped up to the knee,  
Till he came to the middle stream,  
neither good nor bad spoke he.   

And coming to the middle stream,  
there he threw Robin in:  
And choose thee, choose thee fine fellow,  
whether thou wilt sink or swim.   

Robin hood swum to a bush of Broom,  
the Friar to a wigger-wand:  
Bold Robin hood is gone to shore,  
and took his Low in hand.   

●●e of the best Arrows under his Belt,  
to the Friar he let fly:  
●●e Curtall Friar with his steel buckler  
he put that Arrow by.   

●oot on, shoot on, thou fine fellow,  
shoot as thou hast begun;  
● thou shoot here a Summer's day,  
thy mark I will not shun.   

●obin hood shot so passing well,  
till his Arrows all were gone:  
●hey took their Swords and Steel bucklers,  
and fought with might and main.   

●●om ten o'th' clock that day,  
till four i'th' afternoon:  
●●en Robin hood came to knees  
of Friar to beg a boon.   

● boon, a boon, thou Curtal Friar,  
I beg it on my knee,  
●ive me leave to set my Horn to my mouth,  
and to blow blasts three.   

●hat will I do, said the Curtal Friar,  
of thy blasts I have no doubt,  
● hope thou'lt blow so passing well,  
till both thy eyes fall out.   

Robin Hood set his Hom to his mouth,  
he blew but blasts three;  
Half a hundred Yeomen with Bows bend,  
came ranging over the Lee.   

Whose men are these, said the Friar,  
that come so hastily?  
These are mine, said Robin Hood,  
Friar what's that to thee?   

A boon, a boon, said the Curtal Friar,  
the like I gave to thee,  
Give me leave to set my Fist to my mouth,  
and to whute whutes three.   

That will I do, said Robin Hood,  
or else I were to blame,  
Three whutes in a Friar's Fist,  
would make glad and fain.   

The Friar he set his Fist to his mouth,  
and whuted whutes three,  
Half a hundred good Bay Dogs,  
came running the Friar unto.   

Here's for every man a Dog,  
and I myself for thee,  
Nay, by my faith, quoth Robin Hood,  
Friar that may not be.   

Two Dogs at on●e ●o Robin Hood did go,  
the one behind the other b●●●e;  
Robin Hoods Mantle of Lincoln green,  
off from his back they ●ore.   

And whether his men shot East or West,  
or they shot North or South;  
The Curtal Dogs so taught they were,  
they caught the Arrows in their mouth.   

Take up thy Dogs said Little John,  
Friar at my bidding be;  
Whose man art thou, said the Curtal Friar,  
comes here to prate to me?   

I am little John, Robin Hoods man,  
Friar I will not lie,  
If thou take not up thy Dogs soon,  
i'll take up them and thee.   

Little John had a Bow in his hand,  
he shot with might and main,  
Soon half a score of the Friar's Dogs,  
lay dead upon the plain.   

Hold thy hand, good fellow, said the Curtal Friar,  
thy Master and I will agree,  
And we will have new orders taken,  
with all the haste that may be.   

If thou wilt forsake fair fountains-Dale,  
and fountains-Abby free:  
Every Sunday throughout the year,  
a Noble shall be thy fee.   

And every holiday throughout the Year,  
changed shall thy garments be,  
If thou wilt go to fair Nottingham,  
and there remain with me.   

This curtal Friar had kept Fountains-dale,  
seven long years and more:  
There was neither Knight, Lord, nor Earl,  
could make him yield before.    

The Noble Fisherman: Or; Robin Hood's Preferment: Showing how he won a prize on the Sea, and how he gave one half to his Dame, and the other to the building of Almshouses.  
The Tune is, In Summer time.  

IN Summer time when leaves grow green,  
when they do grow both green and long,  
Of a bold Outlaw called Robin hood,  
it is of him I sing this song.   

When the Lilly-leaf and the Cowslip sweet  
doth bud and spring with a merry cheer,  
This Outlaw was weary of the wood-side,  
and chase of the Fallow Deer.   

The Fishermen brave more money have  
then any Merchant two or three:  
Therefore I will to Scarborough go,  
that I a Fisherman brave may be.   

This Outlaw called his merry men all,  
as they sat under the green-wood-tree,  
If any of you have gold to spend,  
I pray you hearty spend it with me.   

Now, quoth Robin, i'll to Scarborough go,  
it seems to be a very fair day,  
Who took up his Inn at a Widdow-womans' house,  
hard by upon the waters grey.   

Who asked of him where wert thou born,  
or tell to me where dost thou far?  
I am a poor Fisherman said he then,  
this day entrapped all in care.   

What is thy name thou fine fellow,  
I pray thee hearty tell to me:  
In mine own Country where I was born,  
men call me Simon over the Lee.   

Simon, Simon, said the good wife, I wish thou mayst well brook thy name,  
The Outlaw was ware of her courtesy,  
and rejoiced he had got such a Dame.   

Simon, wilt thou be my man?  
and good round wages i'll give thee,  
I have as good a Ship of mine own,  
as any sails upon the Sea.   

Anchors and Planks thou shalt want none,  
Masts and Ropes that are so long,  
And if that you thus furnish me,  
said Simon, nothing shall go wrong.   

They plucked up Anchor and away did sail,  
more of a day than two or three,  
When others cast in their baited hooks,  
the bare lines into the Sea cast he.   

It will be long, said the Master then,  
 this great Lubber do thrive on the Sea,  
He shall have no part of our Fish,  
for in truth he is no part worthy.   

O woe is me, said Simon then,  
this day that ever I came here,  
I wish I were in Plumpton Park,  
in chase of the Fallow Deer.   

For every Clown laughs me to scorn,  
and by me set noting at all,  
If I had them in Plumpton Park,  
I would set as little by them all.   

They plucked up Anchor and away did sail,  
more of a day than two or three,  
But Simon espied a Shi● of War,  
that sailed towards them valorously.   

O woe is me, said the Master then,  
this day that ever I was born,  
For all the Fish that we have got,  
is every bit lost and forlorn.   

For you French Robber on the Sea,  
they will not spare of us one man,  
But carry us to the Coast of France,  
and lay us in the Prison strong.   

But Simon said, do not fear them,  
neither Master take you any care,  
Give me my bend Bow in my hand,  
and never a Frenchman will I spare.   

Hold thy peace thou long Lubber,  
for thou art naught but brags and boast,  
If I should cast thee overboard,  
there's but a simple Lubber lost.   

Simon grew angry at these words,  
and so angry than was he,  
That he took his bend bow in his hand,  
and to the ship hatch go doth he.   

Master tie me to the Mast he said,  
that at my mark I may stand fair,  
And give me my bend bow in my hand,  
and never a Frenchman will I spare.   

He drew his Arrow to the very head,  
and drew it with all might and main,  
And straightway in the twinkling of an eye,  
doth the Frenchman's heart the arrow gain.   

The Frenchman fell down on the ship-hatch,  
and under the hatches down below,  
Another Frenchman that him espied,  
the dead corpse into the Sea doth throw.   

O Master lose me from the Mast he said,  
and for them all take you no care,  
And give me my bend bow in my hand,  
and never a Frenchman will I spare.   

Then strait they boarded the French ship,  
they lying all dead in their sight,  
They found within the Ship of War,  
twelve thousand pound in money bright.   

The one half of the Ship, said Simon then,  
i'll give to my Dame and children small,  
The other half of my Ship i'll give  
to you that are my fellows all.   

But now bespoke the Master then,  
for so Simon it shall not be,  
For you have won it with your own hands,  
and the owner of it you must be.   

It shall be so as I have said,  
and with this gold for the oppressed,  
An habitation I will build,  
where they shall live in peace and rest.    

Robin Hood and the Shepherd. Showing how Robin Hood, little john, and the Shepherd, sought a sore Combat.  
Tune is, Robin Hood and Queen Ratherine.  

ALL Gentlemen and Yeomen good,  
down, a down down,  
I wish you to draw near:  
for a story of gallant bold Robin hood,  
Unto you I will declare. down, a down down.   

As Robin hood walked the Forest along,  
down, a down down,  
Some pastime for to spy,  
there was he beware of a jolly Shepherd,  
That on the ground did lie, down a, etc.   

Arise, arise, said josly Robin,  
down a, etc.  
And now come let me see,  
what is in thy bag and bottle I say,  
Come tell it unto me:  
down a, etc.   

What's that to thee, thou proud fellow,  
down a, etc.  
Tell me as I do stand,  
what thou hast to do with my bag & bottle?  
Let me see thy command:  
down a, etc.   

My Sword that hangeth by my side,  
down a, etc.  
Is my command I know,  
come and let me taste of thy Bottle,  
Or it may breed thee woe:  
down a, etc.   

The Devil a drop thou proud fellow,  
down a, etc.  
Of my bottle thou shalt see,  
until thy valour here be tried,  
Whether thou wilt fight or flee:  
down a, etc.   

What shall we fight for, cries Robin Hood,  
down a, etc.  
Come tell it soon to me,  
here's twenty pound in good red Gold,  
Win it and take it thee:  
down a, etc.   

The Shepherd stood all in a maze,  
down a etc.  
And knew not what to say,  
I have no money thou proud fellow,  
But bag and bottle i'll lay:  
down a, etc.   

I am content thou Shepherd swain,  
down a, etc.  
Fling them down on the ground,  
but it will breed thee much pain,  
To win my twenty pound:  
down a, etc.   

Come draw thy Sword thou proud fellow,  
down a, etc.  
Thou standest too long to prate,  
this Hook of mine shall let thee know,  
A Coward I do hate:  
down a, etc.   

So they fell to it full hardy and sore, down a, etc.  
It was on a Summer's day,  
from ten till four in the afternoon,  
The Shepherd held him play,  
down a, etc.   

Robin's Buckler proved his thiefest defence,  
down a, etc.  
And saved him many a bang,  
for every blow the Shepherd gave,  
Made Robin's sword cry twang:  
down a, etc.   

Many a sturdy blow the Shepherd gave,  
down a, etc.  
And that bold Robin found,  
till the blood ran trickling from his head,  
Then he fell to the ground:  
down a, etc.   

Arise, arise, thou proud fellow,  
down a, etc.  
And thou shalt have fair play,  
if thou wilt yield before thou go,  
That I have won the day:  
down a, etc.   

A boon, a boon, cried bold Robin,  
down a, etc.  
If that a man thou be,  
then let me take my beagle-horn,  
And blow but blasts three:  
down a, etc.   

Then said the Shepherd to bold Robin,  
down a, etc.  
To that I will agree:  
for if thou shouldst blow till to morrow morn  
I scorn one foot to flee:  
down a, etc.   

Then Robin he set his horn to his mouth,  
down a, etc.  
And he blew with might and main,  
until he espied little john,  
Come tripping over the Plain:  
down a, etc.   

O who is yonder thou proud fellow,  
down a, etc.  
That comes down yonder hill?  
yonder is john, bold Robin hoods man,  
Shall fight with thee thy fill. down a, etc.   

What is the matter, says little john,  
down a, etc.  
Master come tell to me:  
my case is bad, cries Robin hood,  
For the Shepherd hath conquered me:  
down a, etc.   

I am glad of that, cries little John,  
down a, etc.  
Shepherd turn thou to me,  
for about with thee I mean to have,  
Either come fight or flee:  
down a, etc.   

With all my heart thou proud fellow,  
down a, etc.  
For it shall never be said,  
that a Shepherd's hook, of thy sturdy look,  
Will one jot be dismayed:  
down a, etc.   

So they fell to it full hardy and sore,  
down a, etc.  
Striving for victory;  
I will know (says john)  we give o'er,  
Whether thou wilt fight or flee:  
down a, etc.   

The Shepherd gave john a sturdy blow,  
down a, etc.  
With his hook under the Chin,  
beshrew thy heart, said little john,  
Thou basely dost begin:  
down a, etc.   

Nay, that is nothing, said the Shepherd,  
down a, etc.  
Either yield to me the day, or I will bang thy back and sides,  
Before thou goest thy way:  
down a, etc.   

What dost thou think thou proud fellow,  
down a, etc.  
That thou canst conquer me,  
nay, thou shalt know before thou go,  
I'll fight before i'll flee:  
down a, etc.   

Again the Shepherd laid on him,  
down a, etc.  
The Shepherd he begun;  
hold, hold, cried bold Robin,  
I will yield the wager won:  
down a, etc.   

With all my heart, said little john,  
down a, etc.  
To that I will agree,  
for he is the flower of Shepherd Swains,  
The like I did never see:  
down a, etc.   

Thus have you heard of Robin Hood,  
down a, etc.  
Also of little john;  
●ow ●●hepherd-Swain did conquer them,  
The like 〈◊〉 never know:  
down, a down, a down, a down.    

Robin Hood's Golden Priests. Showing how he rob two Priests of Five hundred pound.  
Tune is, Robin Hood was a tall youngman.  

I Have heard talk of bold Robin hood,  
derry derry down,  
And of brave little john,  
Of Friar Tuck, and Will Scarlet,  
Loxsly and Maid Marrion,  
hay down, derry derry down.   

But such a tale as this before,  
derry derry down,  
I think there was never known,  
For Robin hood disguised himself,  
and to the Wood he is gone:  
hay down, etc.   

Like to a Friar bold Robin hood,  
derry derry down,  
Was accountred in his array,  
With Hood, Gown, Beads, and Cru●isi●,  
he passed upon the way,  
hey down, etc.   

He had not gone past miles two or three,  
derry derry down,  
But it was his chance to spy,  
Two lusty Priests clad all in black,  
come riding gallantly,  
hay down, etc.   

Benedicite, then said Robin hood,  
derry derry down,  
Some pity on me take,  
Cross you my hand with a silver groat,  
for our dear Lady's sake,  
hay down, etc.   

For I have been wand'ring all this day,  
derry derry down,  
And nothing could I get:  
Not so much as one poor cup of drink,  
nor bit of bread to eat:  
hay down, etc.   

Now by my Holidame, the Priests replied,  
derry derry down,  
We never a penny have,  
For we this morning have been robbed,  
and could no money save:  
hay down, etc.   

I am much afraid, said bold Robin hood,  
derry derry down,  
That you both do tell a lie,  
And now before that you go hence,  
I am resolved to try:  
hay down, etc.   

When as the Priests heard him say so,  
derry, derry, down,  
than they road away amain,  
But Robin Hood betook him to his heels,  
and soon overtook them again:  
hay down, etc.   

Then Robin Hood laid hold on them both,  
derry, derry, down,  
and pulled them down from their horse,  
O spare us Friar, the Priests cried out,  
on us have some remorse:  
hay down, etc.   

You said you had no money, quoth Robin hood  
derry, derry, down,  
wherefore without delay,  
We three will fall down on our knees,  
and for money we will pray:  
hay down, etc.   

The Priests they could not him gainsay,  
derry, derry, down,  
but down they kneel with speed,  
Send us, O send us, than quoth they, some money to serve our need:  
hay down, etc.   

The Priests did pray with a mournful cheer,  
derry, derry, down,  
sometimes their hands did wring,  
Sometimes they wept and cried aloud,  
whilst Robin did merrily sing:  
hay down, etc.   

When they had been praying an hours space,  
derry, derry, down,  
the Priests did still lament,  
Then quoth bold Robin, now let us see,  
what money heaven hath us sent:  
hay down, etc.   

We will be sharers all alike,  
derry, derry, down,  
of the money that we have,  
And there is never a one of us,  
that his fellow shall deceive:  
hay down, etc.   

The Priests their hands in their pockets put,  
derry, derry, down,  
but money would find none,  
We'll search ourselves, said Robin Hood,  
each other one by one:  
hay down, etc.   

Then Robin hood took pain to search them,  
derry derry down,  
And he found good store of gold:  
Five hundred pieces presently upon the grass he told,  
hay down, etc.   

Here is a brave show, said Robin hood,  
derry derry down,  
Such store of gold to see,  
And you each one shall have a part,  
'cause you prayed so hearty:  
hay down, etc.   

He gave them fifty pounds a piece,  
derry derry down,  
And the rest for himself did keep,  
The Priests durst not speak one word,  
but they sighed wondrous deep, hay down, etc.   

With that the Priests risen up from their knees  
derry derry down,  
Thinking to have parted so:  
Nay stay, said Robin hood, one thing more  
I have to say e'er you go,  
hey down, etc.   

You shall be sworn, said bold Robin hood,  
derry, derry, down,  
Upon this Holy Grass,  
That you will never tell lies again,  
which way soever you pass,  
hey down, etc.   

The second Oath that you here must take,  
derry, derry, down,  
All the days of your lives,  
You never shall tempt Maids to sin,  
nor lie with other men's Wives:  
hay down, etc.   

The last Oath you shall take, is this,  
derry, derry, down,  
Be charitable to the poor,  
Say you have met a Holy Friar,  
and I desire no more:  
hay down, etc.   

He set them on their horses again,  
derry, derry, down,  
And away then they did ride,  
And he returned to the merry green-wood,  
with great joy, mirth, and pride:  
hay down, etc.    

Robin Hood's Chase: Or; A merry Progress between Robin Hood and King Henry : showing how Robin Hood led the King his Chase, from London to London; and when he had taken his leave of the Queen, he returned to merry Sherwood.  
To the Tune of, Robin Hood and the Beggar.  

COme you Gallants all, to you I do call,  
with a hay down, down a down,  
that now is within this place,  
For a Song I will sing, of Henry the King,  
how he did Robin hood chase.   

Queen Katherine she then a match did make,  
with a hay, etc.  
as plainly doth appear,  
For three hundred Tun of good red Wine,  
and three hundred Tun of Beer.   

But yet she had her Archers to seek,  
with a hay, etc.  
with their Bows and Arrows so good,  
But her mind it was bend, with a good intent,  
to send for bold Robin hood.   

But when bold Robin hood he came there,  
with a hay, etc.  
Queen Katherine she did say,  
Thou art welcome Loxsly said the Queen,  
and all thy Yeomen gay.   

For a match of shooting I have made,  
with a hay, etc.  
and thou on my part must be,  
Rob. If I miss the mark, be it light or dark,  
then hanged will I be.   

But when the Game it came to be played,  
with a hay, etc.  
bold Robin then drew nigh;  
With his mantle of green, most brave to be seen,  
he let his arrows fly.   

And when the Game it ended was,  
with a hay, etc.  
bold Robin won it with grace;  
But after the King was angry with him,  
and vowed he would him chase.   

What though his pardon granted was,  
with a hay, etc.  
while he with them did stay,  
But yet the King was vexed at him,  
when as he was gone his way.   

Soon after the King from the Court did high, with a hay, etc.  
in a furious angry mood,  
And often inquire both far and near,  
after bold Robin Hood.   

But when the King to Nottingham came,  
with a hay, etc.  
bold Robin was in the wood;  
O come said he, and let me see,  
who can find me bold Robin Hood.   

But when bold Robin Hood he did hear,  
with a hay, etc.  
the King had him in chase;  
Then said little John 'tis time to be gone,  
and go to some other place.   

Then away they went from merry Sherwood  
with a hay, etc.  
and into Yorkshire he did hie;  
And the King did follow with a hoop & a hallow,  
but could not come him nigh.   

Yet jolly Robin he passed along,  
with a hay, etc.  
and went strait to Newcastle town,  
And there stayed he hours two or three,  
and then he for Barwick was gone.   

When the King he did see how Robin did flee,  
with a hay, etc.  
he was vexed wondrous sore;  
With a hoop & a hollow he vowed to follow,  
and take him or never give o'er.   

Come now let's away, then cried little John,  
with a hay, etc.  
let any man follow that dare,  
To Carlisle we'll hie with our company,  
and so then to Lancaster.   

From Lancaster then to Chester they went,  
with a hay, etc.  
and so did good King Henry:  
But Robin away, for he durst not stay,  
for fear of some treachery.   

Says Robin, come let us to London go,  
with a hay, etc.  
to see our noble Queen's face,  
It may be she wants our company,  
which makes the King so us Chase.   

When Robin he came Q. Katherine before,  
with hay, etc.  
he fell upon his knee,  
If it please our Grace, I am come to this place,  
for to speak with King Henry.   

Queen Katherine she answered bold Robin again,  
with a hay, etc.  
the King he is gone to merry Sherwood,  
And when he went he to me did say,  
he would go to seek Robin hood.   

Then far you well my gracious Queen,  
with a hay, etc.  
for to Sherwood I will hie apace,  
For fain would I see, what he would with me,  
if I could but meet with his grace.   

But when King Henry he came home,  
with a hay, etc.  
full weary and vexed in mind;  
And that he did here Robin had been there,  
he blamed Dame fortune unkind.   

You are Welcome home, Queen Katherine cried,  
with a hay, etc.  
Henry my Sovereign Liege:  
Bold Robin hood, that Archer good,  
your person hath been to seek.   

But when King Henry he ●id hear,  
with a hay, etc.  
that Robin had been him to seek,  
This answer he gave, he's a cunning Knave,  
for I have sought him this whole 3 week.   

A boon, a boon, Queen Katherine cried,  
with a hay, etc.  
I beg it here of your Grace,  
To pardon his life, and seek no more strife,  
and so endeth Robin Hood's Chase.    

Little john and the four Beggars. A new merry Song of Robin Hood, and little john; showing how little john went a begging; and how he fought with four Beggars, and what a Prize he got from these beggars.  
To the tune of, Robin Hood and the Beggar.  

ALL you that delight to spend some time,  
with a hay down, down a down,  
A merry song for to sing,  
Unto me draw near, and you shall hear,  
how little john went a begging.   

As Robin hood walked the Forest along,  
with a hay, etc.  
And all his Yeomandree:  
Says Robin, some of you must a begging go,  
and little john it must be thee.   

Says john, if I must a begging go,  
with a hay, etc.  
I will have a Palmer's Weed,  
With a staff and a coat, and bags of all sort,  
the better than I shall speed.   

Come give me now a bag for my bread,  
with a hay, etc.  
And another for my cheese,  
And one for a penny if I get any,  
that nothing I may lose.   

Now little John is a begging gone,  
with a hay, etc.  
Seeking for some relief,  
But of all the Beggars he met on the way,  
little john he was the chief.   

But as he was walking himself alone,  
with a hay, etc.  
Four Beggars he chanced to spy,  
Some deaf, and some blind, and some came behind,  
says john here's brave company.   

Good morrow (said john) my brethren dear,  
with a hay, etc.  
Good fortune I had you to see,  
Which way do you go? pray let me know,  
for I want some company.   

O what is here to do? then said little john,  
with a hay, etc.  
Why rings all these Bells, said he,  
what dog is hanging? come let us be ganging  
that we the truth may see.   

Here is no dog hanging, one of them said,  
with a hay, etc.  
Good fellow I tell unto thee,  
But here is one dead will give us Cheese and bread,  
and it may be one single Penny.   

We have brethren in London, another said,  
with a hay, etc.  
So have we in Coventry,  
In Berwick and Dover, & all the world over,  
but ne'er a crooked Carl like thee.   

Therefore stand thee back thou crooked carl,  
with a hay, etc.  
And take that knock on the crown,  
Nay, said little john, i'll not yet be gone,  
for a bout will I have with you round.   

Now have at you all, then said little john,  
with a hay, etc.  
If you be so full of your blows,  
Fight on all four, and never give o'er,  
whether you be friends or foes.   

john nipped the dumb, and made him to roar▪ with a hay, etc.  
And the blind that could not see,  
And he that a Cripple had been seven years,  
he made him run faster than he.   

And flinging them all against the wall,  
with a hay, etc.  
With many a sturdy bang,  
It made john sing to hear the gold ring,  
which against the walls cried twang.   

Then he got out of the beggar's cloak,  
with a hay, etc.  
Three hundred pound in gold:  
Good fortune had I, then said little john,  
such a good sight to behold.   

But what found be in a Beggar's bag,  
with a hay, etc.  
But three hundred pound and three?  
If I drink water while this doth last,  
than an ill death may I die.   

And my begging trade I will now give o'er,  
with a hay, etc.  
My fortune it hath been so good:  
Therefore i'll not stay, but I will away,  
to the Forest of merry Sherwood.   

But when to the Forest of Sherwood he came  
with a hay, etc.  
He quickly there did see,  
His Master good, bold Robin hood,  
and all his company.   

What news, what news, than said Robin,  
with a hay, etc.  
Come little john tell unto me,  
How hast thou sped with thy beggar's trade?  
for that I would fain see.   

No news but good, said little john,  
with a hay, etc.  
With begging full well I have sped,  
Three hundred and three, I have here for thee,  
in silver and gold so red.   

Then Robin hood took little john by the hand  
with a hay, etc.  
And danced about the Oak-tree,  
If we drink water whilst this day doth last,  
than an ill death may we die.   

So to conclude my merry new song,  
with a hay, etc.  
All you that delight to sing,  
▪ 'tis of Robin hood that Archer good,  
and how little john went a begging.    

Robin Hood's Delight: Or, A merry combat fought between Ro. Hood, Little john, and Will. Scaret, and three stout Keepers in Sherwood Forrest.  
To the Tune of, Robin Hood and Queen Katherine: or, Robin Hood and the Shepherd.  

THere is some will talk of Lords & Kts.  
down a down down,  
And some of Yeomen good,  
But I will tell you of Will. Scarlet,  
Little john, and Robin Hood.   

They were Outlaws as it is west known,  
down a down down,  
And men of a noble blood;  
And many a time was their valour shown,  
In the Forest of merry Sherwood.   

Upon a time it chanced so,  
down a down down,  
As Robin would ●ave it be,  
They all three would a walking go,  
Some pastime for to see.   

And as they walked the Forest along,  
down a down down,  
Upon a Midsummer day.  
There was he ware of three Foresters,  
Clad all in green array.   

With brave long Falchions by their sides,  
down a, etc.  
And Forrest-Bills in hand,  
They called aloud to those Outlaws,  
And charged them to stand.   

Why who are you, cried bold Robin,  
down a, etc.  
That speaks so boldly here?  
We three belong to King Henry,  
And are Keepers of his Deer.   

The Devil thou art, said Robin Hood,  
down a, etc.  
I am sure it is not so:  
We be the Keepers of this Forest,  
And that you soon shall know.   

Your Coats of green lay on the ground,  
down a, etc.  
And so will we all three,  
And take your swords and bucklers▪ round,  
And try the victory.   

We be content the Keepers said,  
down a, etc.  
We be three and no less,  
Then why should we of you be afraid,  
And we never did transgress.  
Why, if you be the Keepers in this Forest,  
down a, etc.   

Then we be three Rangers good,  
And we'll make you to know before you do go,  
You met with bold Robin hood, etc.  
We be content thou bold Outlaw,  
down a, etc.   

Our valour here to try,  
And will make you know before we go,  
We will fight before we will fly, etc.  
Then come draw your swords, you bold Outlaws,  
down a, etc.   

And no longer stand to prate,  
But let us try it out with blows,  
For Cowards we do hate, etc.  
Here is one of us for Will Scarlet;  
down a, etc.   

And another for little john,  
And I myself for Robin hood,  
Because he is stout and strong, etc.   

So they fell to it full hard and sore,  
down a, etc.  
It was on a Midsummers day,  
From eight a clock till two and past,  
They all showed gallant play, etc.   

There Robin, and Will, and little john,  
down a, etc.  
They fought most manfully,  
Till all their wind was spent and gone,  
Then Robin aloud did cry, etc.   

O hold, O hold, cries bold Robin,  
down a, etc.  
I see you be stout men:  
Let me blow one blast on my beagle-horn,  
Then I'll fight with you again, etc.   

That bargain is to make, bold Robin hood,  
down a, etc.  
Therefore we it deny:  
Though a blast upon thy beagle-horn,  
Cannot make us fight nor fly, etc.   

Therefore fall on, or else be gone,  
down a, etc.  
And yield to ●s the day,  
It shall never be said that we were afraid  
Of thee, nor thy Yeamen gay, etc.   

If that it he so, cries bold Robin,  
down a, etc.  
Let me but know your names,  
And in the Forest of merry Sherwood,  
I shall extol your Fames, etc.   

And with our names, one of them said,  
down, etc.  
What hast thou here to do?   

Except that thou will fight it out,  
Our names thou shalt not know.   

We will fight no more, says bold Robin,  
down a, etc.  
You be men of valour stout,  
Come and go with me to Nottingham,  
And there we will fight it out.   

With a Butt of Sack we will bang it out,  
down a, etc.  
To see who wins the day,  
And for the cost make you no doubt,  
I have gold and money to pay.   

And ever hereafter so long as we live,  
down a, etc.  
We all will brethren be,  
For I love those men with heart and hand,  
That will fight and never flee.   

So away they went to Nottingham,  
down a, etc.  
With Sack ●o make amends,  
For three days space they wine did chase,  
And drank themselves good friends:  
down, a down, a down, a down.   
FINIS.