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Having got that far in her thinking, Alinor smiled. In his anxiety to show his love and trust. Simon had forgotten to say what should be done about his property. Admittedly it was nothing in comparison with hers, but it could not be overlooked. Simon had never been married, Alinor knew, but that did not mean he did not have children to provide for. Another delay in going to Berengaria could be obtained by writing to Simon. Alinor promptly went for ink, quill, and a funny, flimsy stuff they used here instead of parchment, called papy-rus. |
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When her letter had been written and Beorn summoned, informed of her betrothal, and told to dispatch a messenger, there was no way to put off the evil any longer. Of course Beorn's open and avowed joy at the news was strengthening to the spirit. Alinor thought for a moment more, and then went to Joanna. With her, Simon's letter could be used. |
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"You mean you will accept him as a husband?" Joanna asked incredulously. "Your estate could have brought you an earl or a duke!" |
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Alinor's lip curled slightly with scorn; her head was as proudly held as any queen's. "My father was Lord of Roselynde. I am the Lady of Roselynde. No title could add honor to that. Nor would I sell my birthright for an empty word. When I share Simon's bed, I will still be the Lady of Roselynde, not any mere countess or duchess of this or that." |
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Joanna looked slightly stunned, then began to laugh. She remembered an old story of a duke in France who had been attacked and went to the French King for help. After some thought, that long-ago King had replied, "My dear duke, I will do what I can for you. I will pray the Sire of Courcy to leave you in peace." The Sire of Courcy also had no title, but he had had more power than that old King of France. |
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"Very well," Joanna said, "you may be right. What do you desire that I do?" |
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