As Robin Hood was walking one day in the Forest, he took notice of a handsome young man, dressed in very fine clothes, frisking over the plain, and singing. When Robin Hood passed the same spot the next morning, he saw this same young man come drooping along: his fine dress was laid aside, his hair was loose about his shoulders, and at every step he sighed deeply, saying, “Alas! and well-a-day!” Robin Hood sent one of his company, to bring the young man to him. “What is the distress,” said Robin Hood, “that hangs so heavy on your heart? Why were you so merry yesterday, and why are you so sad to-day?” The young man now pulled out his purse. “Look at this ring,” said he; “I bought it yesterday; I was to have married a young maiden whom I have courted for seven long years, and this morning she is gone to church to be married to another.” “Do you think she loves you?” said Robin Hood. “She has told me so,” said Allen-a-Dale, for that was his name, “a hundred times.” “Then she is not worth caring about,” said Robin Hood, “for changing in her love.” “She does not love him,” replied Allen-a-Dale. “Why do you think so?” said Robin Hood. “He is a poor crippled old fellow,” said Allen-a-Dale, “and quite unfit for such a young and lovely lass.” “Then why does she marry him?” said Robin Hood. “Because the old knight is rich,” replied Allen: “and her father and mother insist upon it, and have scolded and stormed at her till she is as gentle as a lamb.” “Where is the wedding to take place?” said Robin Hood. “At our parish,” replied Allen, “only five miles from this place; and the bishop of Hereford, who is the knight’s brother, is to read the service.” Robin Hood said no more, but put off his scarlet suit, and dressed himself like a harper, with a harp in his hand. He told twenty-four of his company to follow at a little distance; and then went alone into the church, and found the bishop putting on his robes. “What do you want here?” said the bishop. “I am a harper,” said Robin Hood; “the best in four counties round; I heard there was to be a wedding, and I am come to offer my service.” “You are welcome,” said the bishop: “I shall be glad to hear your music.” Soon after this, the bride and bridegroom came in. The old knight hobbled along, and was hardly able to walk up to the altar; and after him came a maiden, as fair as the day, and blushing like the summer’s morning. “This is not a fit match,” said Robin Hood, “and I cannot agree to its taking place; but, since we are come to the church, the bride shall choose for herself.” Then Robin Hood put his horn to his mouth, and blew into it; when straight four-and-twenty archers were seen leaping along the church-yard path, and came in at the porch. The first man was Allen-a-Dale, to give Robin Hood his bow.