With that , Lawless returned to the big chest , and was soon similarly disguised ; but , below his gown , Dick wondered to observe him conceal a sheaf of black arrows . `` Wherefore do ye that ? '' asked the lad . `` Wherefore arrows , when ye take no bow ? '' `` Nay , '' replied Lawless , lightly , '' 't is like there will be heads broke -- not to say backs -- ere you and I win sound from where we 're going to ; and if any fall , I would our fellowship should come by the credit o n't . A black arrow , Master Dick , is the seal of our abbey ; it showeth you who writ the bill . '' `` 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 XXXXX alone , after a wondering thought upon the inconsistencies of his companion 's character , hastily produced , reviewed , and buried his papers .
't Brother Christian Dick Lawless Richard gown heads left sparer