"Why, master, thou dost bestow buffets from thy strapping nephew as though they were love taps from some bouncing lass.

I warrant thou art safe to hit the garland thyself, or thou wouldst not be so free of his cuffing." First David of Doncaster shot, and lodged all three of his arrows within the garland.

"Well done, David!" cried Robin, "thou hast saved thine ears from a warming this day." Next Midge, the Miller, shot, and he, also, lodged his arrows in the garland.

Then followed Wat, the Tinker, but alas for him! For one of his shafts missed the mark by the breadth of two fingers.
"Come hither, fellow," said Will Scarlet, in his soft, gentle voice, "I owe thee somewhat that I would pay forthwith." Then Wat, the Tinker, came forward and stood in front of Will Scarlet, screwing up his face and shutting his eyes tightly, as though he already felt his ears ringing with the buffet.

Will Scarlet rolled up his sleeve, and, standing on tiptoe to give the greater swing to his arm, he struck with might and main.