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some signs of stirring, but he had not broken the peace. |
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I wish I knew the answer to that," Simon replied. "I know that Lord Richard is one of the finest soldiers in the world. I know, too, he can charm the birds out of the treeswhen he will take the trouble. But with his heart set on this Crusade, whether he will trouble about aught in this land, I do not know." Unconsciously Simon flexed his arms as if preparing for action. "Does Bigod covet the honor of Mersea?" |
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"Is there anything Hugh Bigod does not covet?" Alinor asked, half smiling but with serious eyes. "He does not specially look to Mersea. He knew my grandfather well, and toward the end of my grandfather's life they grew to be good friends." |
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"I trusted enough to that to come in full force to my lady's aid," Sir John said, "but I do not think Norfolk's memory is overly long, and it might seem to him my lady's dower is great enough without Mersea." |
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"Certainly," Simon agreed, frowning, "it would be unwise to extend an invitation to him by your overlong absence." |
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"I do not wish to pry into your doings, my lord," Alinor put in modestly and quite falsely, for she did, indeed, want to know what Simon's future movements would be, "but if I am in the King's care and you and your men are here, might not Sir John return to his own lands?" |
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"Yes, assuredly," Simon said. "I did not wish to suggest it myself, Lady Alinor, lest you think I wished to strip you of your protectors. If you are willing to trust me, however, it would be wise that Sir John be gone as soon as is convenient to you and to him." |
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"I trust the Queen's good intentions toward me." Alinor lowered her eyes for a moment, wondering how many pater nosters she would have to say in penance for all this lying. "And, I am sure you will do the |
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