This story comes from the first volume in T. H. White's The Once and Future King, "The Sword in the Stone." This volume tells of the childhood of King Arthur (also known as Wart), growing up with Kay and Sir Ector.

The adventure Wart has with Robin Hood comes just after Wart and Kay have a fistfight. Kay is an obnoxious boy who is always trying to prove that he is better than Wart, and Merlyn's attention to Wart has made Kay jealous. Wart has a very kind heart, and even after all the selfish things Kay has done, he still wants to show him kindness. During this adventure with Robin Hood, Wart works hard to repair his relationship with Kay, further developing his good character.

Wart is unhappy when put under Marian's authority but is soon amazed by her skill in navigating the forest. He learns that it is not only the men of Robin's company whom he must learn from, but he must also be willing to learn from this incredible woman.

This adventure gives Wart the opportunity to spend time with strong role models who exemplify the leadership traits Wart will need to be king, including Robin, Little John, and Marian. Robin Hood enlists Wart to help rescue people whom Morgan le Fay has taken prisoner. To rescue them, they must sneak into Morgan le Fay's castle, which is made of delicious foods they are warned not to eat. They discover the enchantress is a humongous, fat woman. This nemesis is contrasted with Robin and Marian, who are disciplined, hardworking, and courageous.