"You told me that you had Robin Hood!" Scarlett all but shouted.

"I thought I did! Maybe I do! Did you ever stop to think that either of them could be lying?"

Scarlett's harsh breathing slowed slightly. "Actually, I didn't. It is quite possible, isn't it?"

Alfred nodded. "I expect that we have Robin and that his band is trying to get him back by belittling his importance."

"Oh, Alfie! Do you really think so?" His pet name slid easily from her lips.

"I do. But then both could be telling the truth. Maybe we could get information from this man if he is who he claims to be."

"But what about Hood? He said that if we tortured his man... if he is his man, I mean, he would... do something to us!"

"Who said anything about torturing? You know the saying; 'You get more flies with honey than with vinegar.'"