The boy clapped his horn to his lips and blew a few cheery notes
which ran echoing down the forest glades, and the men assembled
gave a hearty cheer.

"You're welcome to the woodlands, Master Sheriff," said Robin Hood,
advancing now with extended hand. "Do not take this as the
outlaw's hand, nor extend yours as the Sheriff; but let it be the
grasp of two Englishmen, one of whom receives a guest."

"I thank you, sir," said the Sheriff slowly. "I can give you
nothing but thanks, for after a year of sorrow I find my child is
after all alive and well."

"And I hope not worse than when accident brought him into our
hands. What do you say? Do you find him changed?"

"Bigger and stronger," said the Sheriff, drawing the boy closer to
him, while the little fellow clung to his hand.

"Our woodland life; and I warrant you, Master Sheriff, that he is
none the worse, for he is the truest, most gracious little fellow I
ever met. Here, Little Namesake, speak out, and let your father
know you have been a good boy ever since you came here to stay."

Young Robin was silent, and looked from one to the other in a
curiously abashed fashion.

"Well, boy, why don't you speak?" cried Robin Hood merrily. "I
want Master Sheriff to hear that we have not spoiled you. Come,