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Page 159
proof of this wrongdoing. Someone with the power to hold me and hide me planned it. If there were proof, the Queen would be constrained to act. This way she may drop a hint of reproof or not as it seems best to her. Thus, she must know of it, and she may scold me or punish me for being a fool so easily taken in. I have well deserved it."
Simon shook his head. "The trick was well played. If it had not been for Ian's quick eyes to see you were missing I doubt if wiser heads than yours would have seen the trap. But, indeed, it is well that the Queen should know. Thus, I can set a watch upon you"
"And I will keep that watch," Beorn burst out, his respect for Simon overwhelmed by his wrath. "And I will pray that another attempt be made. You need not fear, my lady. The Queen will not be embarrassed by it. There will be such small pieces remaining of the men that try that none will know them."
"I am sure I will be safe," Alinor soothed her outraged master-at-arms, then turned toward Ian. "So I have your quick eyes to thank for my rescue," she said. "If I have a gift in my power that would be to your liking, I wish you would name it."
Stricken mute, the young man shook his head. Simon watched his squire's face, then lowered his eyes. He had not been mistaken. The only question now remaining was whether it would do the boy more harm to keep him where he would see Alinor or send him away where he could only dream of her. I am better off than he, Simon thought wryly. At least I am "hers, to her!" He is nothing, a passing glance and smile, a gift of armor or a horse. Thank God she did not offer me a reward.

 
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