< previous page page_527 next page >

Page 527
cause Alinor was in the north again. Ian had no hope of bringing men to the king, but he was making a last-ditch effort to keep them neutral.
The summons did not come, however. Joanna had a half-hopeful letter from Geoffrey to say that John had taken no notice of the hostile act beyond announcing that he was ready to accept the pope as arbiter of all the differences between his lords and himself. In addition he promised, without urging or pressure, not to take those who had declared against him as enemies, not to disseise them, nor attack them, except as allowed by law or by a court of their own peers.
This nearly took the wind from the rebels' sails. A number of lukewarm adherents deserted and, what made the rebels look ridiculous, they could not take Northampton. To save face, they abandoned that siege and moved upon Bedford. That stronghold fell to them, but it was known to be held by a sympathizer who had put up only a token resistance. It seemed as if John had the kingdom in his hand again and that it was time to close his iron fist upon the rebels.
Again, Joanna prepared to summon men and gather supplies. Geoffrey's next letter stopped her, asking her to send money instead. "I do not know whether the king is right or wrong, but he has bought troops of mercenaries instead of summoning an army out of his own realm. There is some reason for this, as you know, John having little reason to trust armies made up of those who owe service, yet I fear that it will work ill, breeding resentment in the people. The rebels are all, whatever else can be said of them, men of this land."
"As to the news you wrote me that our hope of a child was over, your flux having begun again," he continued, "I can truly say I am sorry only for your sake, as I know you desire a little one. We are young yet, and there is time in plenty. Also, I take too much pleasure in the effort to get a babe on you to grieve much over the need for continued effort. Mayhap I should not jest, knowing that you are disappointed, but if I do not I must say to you that I shudder with

 
< previous page page_527 next page >