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easily she had fallen into love for that silly animal and how strong she held to it. And Joanna was no fool. She knew Brian would not live long. Dogs did not, and a dog that size more especially had a short life. The knowledge of grief to come cannot defend the heart. Then there was no reason to wait. Joanna had a strong sense of right and duty. If the man were well chosen, if he treated her well, entreated her softly, and, above all, loved her, she would tumble into love with him as she had into love for Brian. |
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Perhaps the love was already there. Perhaps Brian was a safe substitute for the young man who had given the dog to Joanna. Alinor stared at Joanna's slightly downcast face. There was both good and ill in that chance. On the one hand, the seeds of love already planted might more easily grow into a blooming tree; on the other, half aware of their presence and fearing their growth, Joanna might more fiercely resist. Between the two chances there was no way to judge. Such things were truly in the hands of God. |
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"It is because the only honorable path is to give exact due and favor neither side that Ian has chosen to go to Ireland," Alinor said at last, ignoring the personal note and resuming the conversation on the political level. "For his lands in Wales, Ian has done Llewelyn homage. He owes him the service of the Welsh vassals and their men. For his northern properties, Ian has done King John homage and also as Adam's guardian he has sworn the service of Adam's men. I, too, have sworn fealty for my lands and, as I cannot lead men to war, it is my husband's duty to do so for me." |
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A fine red brow quirked upward. "Perhaps Ian would not need to split himself in half. Perhaps, since the due to the king is so much greater, only one leg or one arm would content Llewelyn." |
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"I will murder you, Joanna," Alinor exclaimed, half-irritated, half-laughing. "This is a serious matter." |
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"Oh mother, I know that, but I do not see what it has to do with me or my marriage." |
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"It has this to do with your marriage. The Welsh vassals are no problem. Ian has ordered them to obey Lord Llew- |
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