Put down thy bow, man! We mean thee no harm." But Will Scarlet, seeing how the stranger, who had a young and boyish look, was stung by the words that Stutely had spoken, came to him and put his hand upon the youth's shoulder.

"Nay, thou art in trouble, poor boy!" said he kindly.

"Mind not what these fellows have said.

They are rough, but they mean thee well.

Mayhap they do not understand a lad like thee.