A Dream of Maid Marian (Sherwood Forest #4)

248.174 - 271.095 Thomas Jones

Now, I'm not all that good at taking compliments, especially when they come out of the blue like that. But wow, did it mean a lot to hear it from someone I still don't really know all that well. And of course, we all present ourselves to others in certain ways that don't always tell a full story of how we might be feeling.

272.912 - 294.646 Thomas Jones

there are definitely days when I find it harder to be my usual positive self but it really did feel nice to know that I come across that way to others and that hopefully it rubs off on them as well so apologies enough of blowing one's own trumpet here but my point is this

296.351 - 323.301 Thomas Jones

The way we act towards others, and particularly the words we share with those people we come into contact with, really can be impactful. Just think about how it feels when someone says something genuine and complimentary about you. Those are the things that we typically hold on to and maybe use to boost ourselves when we need it.

326.218 - 359.471 Thomas Jones

And whether he meant to or not, that little interaction this morning really did make my day. It reminded me that it's so important to show others our appreciation for who they are. So tomorrow or in the coming days, I encourage you to share some words of positivity to your friends, family, loved ones, or even strangers you might have a short interaction with.

363.064 - 397.808 Thomas Jones

It's almost certain to make them feel good, and it'll make you feel good in return, knowing that you've probably just made a positive impact and improved their day. For now, my friends, let me remind you that you are special in so many ways. and that you are appreciated, admired, and loved for who you are.

1860.134 - 1903.854 Thomas Jones

He says he must recount the aforementioned tale of how Marion was the May Queen not so long ago, at the Gamwell estate. When he says this, he nods at Will Scarlet. You cannot predict what role Will is going to play in this tale, but you see that he is part of the story. It all started on a May Day a few years ago, Tuck offers in a dramatic voice, leaning in your direction.

1906.076 - 1948.25 Thomas Jones

At that time, young Will here was known as William Gamwell, and his father hosted one of the finest May Day celebrations in these parts. Friar Tuck stops here and takes a large swig of ale for dramatic effect. Then, he continues. Lady Marian was well known to be the kindest and most beautiful young woman in any nearby noble family, and she was crowned May Queen.

1950.507 - 1996.162 Thomas Jones

As was traditional for the celebration, she was draped in flowers and seated to preside over the festivities. There was dancing, there was feasting, there was drinking. At this, Tuck and Scarlet both raise their eyebrows at each other and laugh raucously. There was much revelry, Tuck says when he's regained his composure. But most importantly, there was an archery contest.

1999.444 - 2035.858 Thomas Jones

Tuck and Will Scarlet nod at each other. This must be an important plot point, and you have a feeling you know why. The friar goes on. Men from far and wide entered themselves into this competition, for the prize was to sit on the dais with Lady Marian for the afternoon. Naturally, every unmarried man present desired such a thing.

2038.732 - 2081.908 Thomas Jones

Everyone sitting within earshot nods as if this is the most obvious thing in the world, and you have to agree. Tuck continues, Young Gamwell here, now our young Will Scarlet. He was a good shot, but he was no competition for a certain mischievous archer who appeared, unrecognized by any man. At this, Tuck raises his eyebrows suggestively, and Will laughs into his mug.

2278.201 - 2318.724 Thomas Jones

You have the feeling that the action in the tale is about to pick up. so you lean in to make sure you can hear everything. As you do this, you are dimly aware of the camp springing to life in the background. You hear the twang of instruments being casually tuned somewhere nearby, and a peal of feminine laughter rolling through the glen. and the whinny of a horse drifts on the air.

2322.585 - 2371.529 Thomas Jones

You are filled with a sense of well-being and happy anticipation of what is still to come. And then, Friar Tuck resumes his story. As I was saying, Robin, Will, and some of the men were headed home with Lady Marian, and all seemed well after a fine May Day celebration. However, a surprise lay in wait for them. The assembled company grins with delight. They appear to know what the surprise was.

2373.7 - 2412.671 Thomas Jones

Tuck continues, Along the way, who should meet with them but the Sheriff of Nottingham and his worthless men. The group listening to the story all mutter at each other and shake their heads with disapproval. You know well what their opinion of the Sheriff is. Having allowed them the appropriate commentary, Friar Tuck resumes the story.

2415.732 - 2458.301 Thomas Jones

Naturally, the Sheriff demanded that Robin Hood surrender himself, but of course, none of his company would have it. In fact, not the least of the resistance came from the Good Lady Marian herself. Her eyes flashed with defiance, and she told the sheriff that he would not be seizing Robin that day, or any other. A small cheer goes up around the fire as the listeners rejoice in her bravery.

2460.423 - 2497.741 Thomas Jones

You can see from their reaction that they respect the lady greatly. Will Scarlet picks up the tale here, as Friar Tuck takes a long drink from his mug. I will attest myself, as Tuck was not present, that Lady Marion directed her own spectacular archery at the sheriff's men. She halted one of them by shooting an arrow straight in his shoulder.