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much of a child. She is all of sixteen, and should have been wedded and bedded two years since, like any other girl. But she saw no man who took her fancy and my lordwell, aside from the fact that he could never bring himself to say her nay, I think he could not bear the thought of any man touching her." |
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"There is little wisdom in such indulgence," Simon growled. "See what she has come to through his doting." |
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"Has she come to ill?" Sir Andre asked, laughing. "I will say no more, for I am in some way kin to her. It will be better if you answer this question for yourself." |
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When Simon finally had seen what he felt was enough of the coast, they stopped in a village. Most of the men were at sea, but a graybeard came from a hut readily to greet them and to offer refreshment. Simon controlled a shudder with some difficulty and, having mastered his tendency to choke in the overpowering stench of fish, refused with considerable courtesy. |
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"I am the King's warden, set to oversee this land," he said then. "How many boats go out from this village?" |
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"How many?" the old man repeated. "I cannot tell numbers, master. How can I know?" |
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"As many as the houses?" Simon prompted. |
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"Oh no, not so many as thatat least, I think not." |
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It was fortunate that Simon's attention was given to the old man. Had he seen the expression of blank surprise on Sir Andre's face, he would have realized that there was more here than the usual reluctance of the serf to answer any question. |
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"You mean you would not know if a boat did not return?" Simon asked more sharply. He was experienced in trapping liars. |
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The old man met Simon's eyes steadily. "I know every man and boy in this village. I would know if some of them did not return." |
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