Volume II Part 66 (1/2)

We must away from here And quickly.

LITTLE JOHN

Where did you sight them?

SECOND FORESTER

From the old elm, Our watch-tower. They were not five miles away!

FIRST FORESTER

Five, about five. We saw the sunlight flash Along, at least five hundred men at arms; And, to the north, along another line, Bigger, I think; but not so near.

SECOND FORESTER

Where's Robin?

We must away at once!

FIRST FORESTER

No time to lose!

LITTLE JOHN

His wound is bitter--I know not if we dare Move him!

FIRST FORESTER

His wound?

LITTLE JOHN

Ay, some d.a.m.ned arrow pierced him When he escaped last night from the Dark Tower.

He never spoke of it when first he reached us; And, suddenly, he swooned. He is asleep Now. He must not be wakened. They will take Some time yet ere they thread our forest-maze.

FIRST FORESTER

Not long, by G.o.d, not long. They are moving fast.

[_MARIAN appears at the mouth of the cave. All turn to look at her, expectantly. She seems in distress._]

MARIAN

He is tossing to and fro. I think his wound Has taken fever! What can we do?

FRIAR TUCK

I've sent A messenger to Kirklee Priory, Where my old friend the Prioress hath store Of balms and simples, and hath often helped A wounded forester. Could we take him there, Her skill would quickly heal him.

LITTLE JOHN