Читать книгу Famous Legends Adapted for Children - Emeline G. Crommelin - Страница 8

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Little John was second to Robin Hood in command. His real name was John Little, some people said; but he was called Little John because he was so tall, being over seven feet high.

One day, Robin went hunting with his men; but, finding the sport poor, he thought he would try it alone, and said:

“If I am in danger and cannot escape, I will blow my horn that you may come and help me.”

He had not gone far when he came to a stream at the foot of a hill. In the middle of the bridge over it, which was a single tree lying across the stream, he met a monstrous big man, and neither would let the other pass. After some angry words, Robin said:

“Let us fight this matter out on the bridge. The one who is able to push the other into the water shall be the victor.”

The stranger agreed to this, and the matter was settled very quickly. They fought with great fury, and neither would give in. Finally, the stranger succeeded in throwing poor Robin into the water, and exclaimed:

“Where are you now, my good fellow?”

“Our battle is ended,” cried Robin, as he waded to the bank of the stream, “and you are the victor.”

Then Robin, who was wet to the skin, blew a loud blast on his horn. At once there appeared fifty of his men, all dressed in Lincoln green, who wanted to know what had befallen their leader.

Robin explained to them that the stranger had tumbled him into the water. At these words, the men were going to seize the stranger, who was quite ready and willing to fight them all; but Robin stopped them, saying:

“My friend, no harm shall come to you. These are my men, and, if you like, you shall be one of them. Will you join our band?”

“I will, with all my heart,” answered the stranger, whose strength and courage had pleased Robin greatly.

When he told them his name, one of the number said he should be called Little John, by which name he was known ever after.