Chapter 32

Early next morning the freed prisoners and their rescuers, the outlaws, meet in the forest. Robin of Locksley places Cedric on his left and the Black Knight on his right. The booty plundered from the castle is shared equally. Cedric refuses his share, saying that Rowena and he are grateful to Locksley for his help. He offers his share to the Black Knight, who also refuses to take any of the plunder. In gratitude to him for his help, Cedric frees his slave Gurth.

De Bracy, now a prisoner, attempts to speak to Rowena but is insulted by Cedric. Athelstane's body is carried in on a stretcher. Then Friar Tuck arrives, leading Isaac by a rope that is tied around his neck. He and the Black Knight engage in a friendly fight over Isaac. The Black Knight wins, and Isaac is set free. Two other men bring in another prisoner, the Prior of Jorvaulx.

This scene is largely narrative and is used to highlight certain important characters and reinforce the directions the plot is taking. Most evident is the reinforcement of King Richard's noble qualities. He refuses his share of the plunder, as well as that offered by Cedric. He has proven his ability in combat, and easily overcomes Friar Tuck to win the prisoner Isaac for himself. He then quickly sets Isaac free. He also frees the prisoner De Bracy, for he judges this knight to be a brave soldier, with none of the petty qualities of Front-de-Boeuf or de Bois-Guilbert.

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