broke--not to say backs--ere you and I win sound from where we're going

to; and if any fall, I would our fellowship should come by the credit

on't. A black arrow, Master Dick, is the seal of our abbey; it showeth

you who writ the bill."

"An ye prepare so carefully," said Dick, "I have here some papers that,

for mine own sake, and the interest of those that trusted me, were better

left behind than found upon my body. Where shall I conceal them, Will?"

"Nay," replied Lawless, "I will go forth into the wood and whistle me

three verses of a song; meanwhile, do you bury them where ye please, and

smooth the sand upon the place."

"Never!" cried Richard. "I trust you, man. I were base indeed if I not

trusted you."

"Brother, y' are but a child," replied the old outlaw, pausing and

turning his face upon Dick from the threshold of the den. "I am a kind

old Christian, and no traitor to men's blood, and no sparer of mine own

in a friend's jeopardy. But, fool, child, I am a thief by trade and

birth and habit. If my bottle were empty and my mouth dry, I would rob

you, dear child, as sure as I love, honour, and admire your parts and

person! Can it be clearer spoken? No."

And he stumped forth through the bushes with a snap of his big fingers.

Dick, thus left alone, after a wondering thought upon the inconsistencies

The Black Arrow