"In Palestine," said Sir Richard, "battling like a brave Christian
soldier for the cross and the holy sepulcher. Truly, England was an ill
place for him because of Sir Walter's death and the hate of the
Lancastrian's kinsmen."
"Truly," said Robin, much moved, "thine is a hard lot. But tell me, what
is owing to Emmet for thine estates?"
"Only four hundred pounds," said Sir Richard.
At this, Robin smote his thigh in anger. "O the bloodsuckers!" cried
he. "A noble estate to be forfeit for four hundred pounds! But what
will befall thee if thou dost lose thy lands, Sir Richard?"
"It is not mine own lot that doth trouble me in that case," said the
Knight, "but my dear lady's; for should I lose my land she will have to
betake herself to some kinsman and there abide in charity, which,
methinks, would break her proud heart. As for me, I will over the salt
sea, and so to Palestine to join my son in fight for the holy
sepulcher."
Then up spake Will Scarlet. "But hast thou no friend that will help
thee in thy dire need?"
"Never a man," said Sir Richard.
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