Reading Notes
a small flute with six finger holes
flageolet
Sir Peter's cousin and neighbor; called upon to help defend Sir Peter's castle
Sir Hugh Fitzhugh
pantry; room where food was stored
larder (n.)
Why does Brother Luke think "a fine and beautiful life" lies before Robin even if he never gets better?
Brother Luke thinks Robin will have a good life because he has a strong mind and a cheerful spirit, which are more important than physical strength.
Why doesn't the Welsh strategy of catapulting stones work?
The stones don't reach their intended target; they mostly fall in the courtyard and moat.
a person who shoes horses
farrier
the person in charge of the contents of a church
sacristan
plunging
dousing (v.)
When the town is invaded by the Welsh, where do the women and children go? Where do the men go?
The women and children escape to the keep, and the men go to the inner bailey to gather weapons.
Why is Alan-at-Gate concerned about the fog?
The fog makes him anxious because it could give the Welsh a chance to surround and attack the town.
the outer wall or court of a castle
bailey
a private room above the great hall reserved for the owner of the castle and his family
solar
very hungry
famished (adj.)
How does Robin encourage himself as he swims across the river?
He repeats the words that John had previously said: "Anyone can not do it."
Why is Alan-at-Gate gruff?
He seems gruff because he has to stand watch at the gate for long hours each day. He is responsible for the safety of everyone in the castle.
the gatekeeper at Lindsay
Alan-at-Gate
a raised platform at one end of the great hall
dais
a device used to raise objects, similar to a pulley
windlass (n.)
How do Robin's father and mother react to Robin's crippled legs?
His father is so proud of his courage, craftsmanship, and spirit that he doesn't notice Robin's legs. His mother is thankful that he will never be called away to war.
Swimming will strengthen Robin's arms and make his spirit strong too. It feels good to have done something that is difficult.
Sir Peter's dog who favored Robin
D'Ath
hawking
delay; dawdle
linger (v.)
"'Tis the feast of Christmas, and thou hast found the door in thy wall."
Who said this? To whom?
Brother Luke to Robin
What do Brother Luke and Robin do before Robin leaves on his mission?
They wake up early in the morning to pray before Robin leaves.
torches
flambeaux
a gift
largess (n.)
iron gate of a city or castle
portcullis (n.)
How does the king thank Robin for his heroic deed? Why is Robin so glad to receive honor?
The king makes Robin "Sir Robin" and gives him a medallion. Robin is thankful for the honor because he knows that his father will be proud of him.
Why do John and Robin climb the belfry and ring the church tower bell?
They climb the tower to ring the bell as a signal for Sir Fitzhugh's army to surround and attack the enemy.
soldiers stationed in a fortified place
garrison
deceptive; dangerous
treacherous (adj.)
a circular container used to hold water for washing
Why does Sir Peter call Robin "Conquerer"?
Robin, by his act of bravery, had saved the castle and conquered the Welsh. Sir Peter gives Robin a title of nobility, like dubbing him knight, for his act of courage.
John receives land, sheep, and hunting and fishing rights.
Sir Peter's blacksmith
William Wise
broken through
breached (v.)
shy; fearful
timid (adj.)
How does John signal to the shoemaker that he and Robin need to get in? Why do they need to get inside his house?
John plays a tune on his harp that the shoemaker recognizes. The shoemaker's house is their avenue of getting inside the castle.
Why is Robin afraid to face his parents?
Robin's parents have not seen him since he became crippled, and he is afraid that they will be displeased.