< previous page page_39 next page >

Page 39
were more interested in the Queen's probable influence on her son than in aberrations in Simon's vision. Had they asked a single question about what he had seen, it would have been clear that the "maid" was Alinor herselfgoing into the chamber where she did her accountsand there would have been comments and explanations. As it was, Sir Andrew drew Simon back to what he had been saying.
"Richard will not leave the realm openly in her hands," Simon said positively, "partly because he truly believes that a ruler must be ready and able to lead an army."
"She is old, but aside from that more able than most menif what I have heard of her is true," Sir Andre said wryly.
"It is true," Simon concurred, "but not in Lord Richard's mind. Also," he shrugged, "he fears it will be said of him that he still takes suck. He will name a man and, since he does not know the men here, he will name one of his own Poitevins.''
There was another silence. Sir John passed a hand across his face. "When I am free of my duty here," he said, "I will go back to Mersea. I will look to my account books and to my walls and I will stuff and garnish my keeps. I will obey the King, but there will be hard times after he leaves us."

 
< previous page page_39 next page >