Is it not written that the fat ribs of the herd shall be fed
upon by the mighty in the land? And have not they withal my
blessing? my orthodox, canonical, and archiepiscopal blessing?
Do I not give thanks for them when they are well roasted and smoking
under my nose? What title had William of Normandy to England,
that Robin of Locksley has not to merry Sherwood? William fought
for his claim. So does Robin. With whom, both? With any
that would or will dispute it. William raised contributions.
So does Robin. From whom, both? From all that they could
or can make pay them. Why did any pay them to William? Why do
any pay them to Robin? For the same reason to both:
because they could not or cannot help it. They differ indeed,
in this, that William took from the poor and gave to the rich,
and Robin takes from the rich and gives to the poor: and therein
is Robin illegitimate; though in all else he is true prince.
Scarlet and John, are they not peers of the forest? lords temporal
of Sherwood? And am not I lord spiritual? Am I not archbishop?
Am I not pope? Do I not consecrate their banner and absolve
their sins? Are not they state, and am not I church?
Are not they state monarchical, and am not I church militant?
Do I not excommunicate our enemies from venison and brawn,
and by 'r Lady, when need calls, beat them down under my feet?
The state levies tax, and the church levies tithe.
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