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Page 192
resentment did not last. Simon would have had to go in any case and, recalling what her grandfather had told her about Welsh campaigns, it occurred to her that Simon might well be safer leading his own force than being bound instead to obey a glory-hungry leader.
Richard meanwhile had been watching his Marcher lords' faces and was satisfied with what he saw. They were somewhat disappointed that he had not left the matter completely in their hands, but there was no sign of anger or rebellion. Apparently they knew Simon well of old and were willing to accept his leadership. If the campaign was successful, some suitable reward must be found for Simon. He had been shamefully treated by Henry, Richard thought.
A discussion of the levy to be made ensued, and here Richard found himself at odds with his gentlemen again. A knightly force was useless, they insisted, and the stronger the more useless. Enthusiastically and repeatedly interrupting each other, they described the terrain and the need for archers and light-armed footmen. Richard began to feel that he had done well to yield the leadership of this campaignif it could be called that. It would be an ignominious, hole-and-corner affair with no glorious charges, no noble ransoms to be collected, no honor to accrue to anyone's name. Sordid little sorties against sordid, unkempt hillmen.
Losing interest in the type of army necessary to fight such an inglorious action, Richard suggested that it was high time they all returned to the dance. The bride would rightfully take it ill that many of her honorable guests, and even her husband, were missing. An early hour was appointed for the council to meet the next day. As soon as the Queen went forward on her son's arm, Alinor moved to Simon. He glanced down at her warily, not sure whether she would resent the King's use of the man who wasin her opinion

 
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