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Page 51
To refuse such an offer was both unkind to the helpless girl and uncivil to the generous Queen. Still something in Simon shrank from a close association with the lovely Lady Alinor. Something told him that pain and heartache would be his portion from this wardship. Yet when the Queen said she would find another to guard that prize, he could not endure the idea. His heart had answered before reason could control his tongue.
"I desire that you will forgive me, Madam," he said huskily. "I will accept this ward, and thank you for the appointmentmost humbly."

 
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