`` 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 of his companion 's character , hastily produced , reviewed , and buried his papers . One only he reserved to carry along with him , since it in nowise compromised his friends , and yet might serve him , in a pinch , against Sir Daniel . That was the knight 's own letter to Lord Wensleydale , sent by Throgmorton , on the morrow of the defeat at Risingham , and found next day by Dick upon the body of the messenger . Then , treading down the embers of the fire , Dick left the den , and rejoined the old outlaw , who stood awaiting him under the leafless oaks , and was already beginning to be powdered by the falling snow . Each looked upon the other , and each laughed , so thorough and so droll was the disguise . `` Yet I would it were but summer and a clear day , '' grumbled the outlaw , `` that I might see myself in the mirror of a pool .
There be many of Sir XXXXX 's men that know me ; and if we fell to be recognised , there might be two words for you , brother , but as for me , in a paternoster while , I should be kicking in a rope 's - end . ''
Brother Christian Daniel Dick Richard Risingham Throgmorton day fire sparer