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than Simon's. Alinor had heard the tale direct from William. Once Isobel had carried him the news of Alinor's purchase of the Sussex appointment for Simon, William had been very much Alinor's friend. |
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"Simon did not believe me," he had said, his voice shaking with indignation as he relived the incident. "Well, I did not believe it myself when the King told me what I was to say. However pretty the words, it was an insult that will make Rhys fight to the last drop of blood he can command. Alinor, I went down on my knees to Richard, and it was not only for Simon's labor. I am Sheriff of Gloucestershire. Isobel's property is spread all over Wales. When I consider the burdens the King has laid upon me in the governance of England, it must be plain I cannot spare the time continually to be fighting in Wales." |
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"William, do not shout at Alinor," Isobel remonstrated. "It is not her fault." |
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"I beg your pardon," William said, lowering his voice. |
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"Never mind that," Alinor exclaimed. "You can bring the roof down for all I care if you will only tell me why! Why? Did the King do it to shame Simon?" |
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"Oh no. Of that I am sure enough. I am sure also that Simon has his respect and gratitude for a work well done. Nor did he do it to hurt me. He even looked troubled when I pointed out what this would mean in Pembroke and Carmarthen and Glamorgan, where Isobel's lands mostly lie." William's face grew congested with blood, although this time his voice remained low. |
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"He said that John was overlord of those lands and would keep the peace. John!" he bellowed so suddenly that both Alinor and Isobel jumped. "John could not, even if he wouldand, i fear me greatly that he would not even if he could." |
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"Hush, William!" Isobel cried. "They will hear you in the Hall." |
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