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it? Or Montferrat? As soon as the King sets foot aboard ship, it will fall again. If Philip attacks Normandy, and it is there his eyes look, I am sure, the King will go home. Then, beloved, we too can go home." |
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"Not before I have the promise of you," Simon growled. "I thought I would have it when we took the city by storm, but they yielded. And now is no time to ask for favors. You are right, Alinor, but I wish I knew what was happening in England. I spoke to Robert of Leicester when he came, although not long because the King was still sick then, but even his news is four months old." |
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"I spoke with him also. You were right when you said the Bishop of Rouen would draw in Lord John, and he has. Simon, will there be war?" |
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"How can I know?" Simon snarled, snatching the unoffending head off a flower and crushing it in his hand. |
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No one's temper improved. Philip left Acre on July 31 and a week later sailed for France from Tyre. On August 11 the Saracen hostages were brought to the agreed-upon meeting place, but neither the relics of the Cross nor the noble Christian prisoners were offered in exchange. Richard raged. Saladin sent soothing messages. Richard agreed to wait a few days more. On the night of August 13, Richard came to his wife's chamber and stood in the doorway. |
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"It is a sin," he thundered. |
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Berengaria turned white. "What? What have I done?" she faltered. "I will amend it. Only tell me, and I will amend it." |
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The King's eyes bulged so with fury that Alinor, withdrawn into a shadowy corner, thought they would fall out onto the floor. Joanna rose from her chair, but before she could move Richard turned on her. |
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"Sit you down and bite your tongue!" he shrieked. "All we have failed in since we have come to this |
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