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Robin : That sounds fair to me.

(He makes a cross out of two small twigs and places it on a tree, a hundred

paces away, and hands John Little his bow and arrows).

The winner is the one who shoots right at the centre of the cross. You can try
first.

(John Little takes aim. His arrow hits the centre of the target.)

John Little : Can you better that?
Robin : Better, I can’t. But worse, I can.

(Robin’s arrow finds its mark–John Little’s arrow–and splits it through the centre.)

John Little : I can’t believe my eyes! From today, I’ll do whatever you say.

Robin : Welcome to my band of Merry Men! We have plenty to eat and drink

and we share equally what we earn. The work we do is to right the wrong. If
there is a tyrant anywhere about, or if a man robs the poor, he has to settle with

us. There will be plenty of fighting. It is a hard life, but it offers fine sport. What
do you say?

John Little (looking pleased and extending his hand) : I will serve you with all
my heart. (Robin Hood and John Little shake hands while the Merry Men cheer.)

John Little became a favourite of everyone in the forest. He remained Robin’s

loyal friend for the rest of his life.

paces — steps; tyrant — a cruel leader; settle with us — deal with us by fighting;
offers fine sport — refers to a life that provides opportunities for exciting adventures.

ASSESS YOURSELF
ASSESS YOURSELF

Let's Read and Reflect Comprehension

A. Tick (3) the correct option.

1. Who stands at the other end of the bridge?
a. Henry Men b. John Little c. None of these

2. John Little has only :
a. staff b. sword c. bow and arrow

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