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throw as King's justiciar. More than one tried to rid himself of me in those ways. Yet I am here." |
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That was little comfort to Alinor. There was always a first time for success, and in assassination it was the last time for the victim. She knew it was useless to argue with Simon about that, and she was reminded of the Queen's constant reiteration of taking the bitter with the better. If you chose a brave man, you could not expect him to be overcautious¦. It was useless to worry either. Simon was no fool. She had laid a hand on his arm before and, under the velvet sleeve, felt the fine mesh of a mail shirt. |
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"There are also letters full of lies," Alinor pointed out. |
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"Do you think they would be fewer or more loving no matter what I did?" Simon asked cynically. |
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"Not unless you yielded all, and licked his spittle too. I did but wish to remind you that worms are often venomous." |
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"That is true, although I have no need of reminders. Now I must remind you of something. You must hold your tongue. If all goes well, your lands will be well shielded from Longchamp in that you and I and Sir Andre will have the King's word from his own mouth before many witnesses. Longchamp may still try to encroach, but Sir Andre can wage war if he must with a clear heart and mind. Since he is armed and stocked for war, owing to your overardent suitors, I do not think Longchamp will attempt him seriously. |
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"Why should I hold my tongue? Do you think it would be wrong to thank Lord Richard for his kindness?" |
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"You may say what you will if we gain our point. If we do not, then you must hold your tongue. No, Alinor, listen!" Simon said urgently as he saw the mulish jut of her little round chin. "If we both drown together, as we nearly did once because of your stubbornness, all will be lost." |
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