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scribed how, past the sentry posts, less care was taken to avoid making trails. |
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"Moreover, it cannot be avoided," he pointed out. "The convergence of many men and horses on one place can be spread only so much, especially over such rough ground. Odo will go now with foreriders and mark the trail to the cabin, but do not go past it." |
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Quick nods of comprehension. There was enough danger that even the few sent to mark the more distant trail would be seen and the Welsh have warning that their lair was known. Simon's men knew they would attack in any case, but the fight would be far more bitter if they had to ride against an armed and prepared camp. If the raid took place as Simon hoped, they would be attacking a disordered camp with half its men straggling back and already weary. |
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When the order of fighting, the place where the horses were to be held ready saddled, and all other matters had been arranged, Simon hurried back. Now the light was beginning to fade. He hoped Odo would be able to find the hut before it grew dark. He hoped with almost equal passion that the Welsh raid would not come before he had time to eat what the two boys had left him for dinner. |
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There was an honest third still warm in the pot, and it disappeared in remarkably short order. When it was gone, Simon lay back by the fire watching Llewelyn's face in the uncertain light of the flames. It was a handsome face, dark and fine-boned. The body was fine too, slight but hinting of a wiry strength that might outlast a more brutish force. |
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"What will you do with me?" the young man asked suddenly. |
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"I have been thinking of that," Simon replied, "but it is really more for you to say what you desire than for me to order. If you desire to be ransomed, you must tell me to whom to send word. However, I will not urge you, if you do not wish it." |
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