‘Marian!’ exclaimed Robin when he saw them.

Friar Tuck explained:

‘Marian’s father wanted his daughter to marry a rich old man. But Marian was in tears and said that she could not marry this man because she loved another. Her true love is Robin of Locksley. I knew that Robin was hiding in Sherwood Forest so I rescued Marian and brought her here so that she can marry her true love.’

Marion and Robin hugged in delight and Friar Tuck and Marian joined the Merry Men.

Alas, one day terrible news was brought to Robin Hood:

‘King Richard has been captured in a far-off land. His captor will only release the king if a ransom of gold and silver is paid,’ the messenger said, ‘but, Prince John has announced that he will pay not one bronze penny to save his brother’s life and he certainly won’t pay gold or silver for his brother’s freedom.’

‘That’s because he wants to be king of England himself!’ Robin Hood exclaimed in disgust.

However, the Merry Men had an excellent idea. ‘All the poor people we know have been given enough money for everything they need, so the money we still have in our treasure chest can buy King Richard’s freedom.’

So without telling Prince John of their plan, Robin and his men paid the ransom in gold and silver.

Several weeks later an unknown knight rode into Sherwood Forest. He was dressed all in black saying that he was looking for Robin Hood.

‘Who are you?’ Robin demanded.

‘I am the Black Knight,’ came the answer.

But when the knight removed his helmet, Robin recognised the man.

‘King Richard!’ he gasped. Robin bowed low to honour his king. The Merry Men bowed too and Maid Marian curtseyed.

‘I have come to thank you for paying the ransom which earned my freedom,’ said the king. ‘I have heard how my brother, John, failed to rule my kingdom justly. I have learned of his greed and know that he stole people’s lands and homes. I shall deal with him and punish him, but to all of you who lost homes and land, I return those homes and land so that you and your families can live there once again.’

Robin, Marian and all the Merry Men promised their loyalty to their king, the sovereign who was called Richard the Lionheart.