Chapter 16 A FAIR OFFER.

"We be content," the keepers said,

"We three and you no less,

Then why should we of you be afraid,

As we never did transgress."

ROBIN HOOD BALLAD.

Steadfast was busy weeding the little patch of barley that lay near the ruins of the old farm house with little Ben basking round him. The great carefulness as to keeping the ground clear