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was well suited to Geoffrey's very straight, fine, light brown hair. |
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All in all, there was nothing to displease a young woman in Geoffrey's appearance. Salisbury suffered another qualm of doubt. There was also nothing in particular to attract a girl who was accustomed to looking at Ian de Vipont. But that was ridiculous. There was not another man in the country with a face to match Ian's. Joanna must be well aware of that. Perhaps she would be glad of a more ordinary-looking husband. She could not have failed to notice how the ladies of the court clustered around her stepfather like ants around a honey pot. |
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For the first time, Salisbury himself wondered what Joanna felt about the proposed marriage. He had said he knew her well, and in one sense that was true; however, Joanna was a singularly reserved girl. She was not given to idle chatter and almost never spoke of her own feelings about any subject, even those in which she was obviously interested. Salisbury suppressed still another qualm. He was sure that Alinor and Ian would not force Joanna into anything. She must then at least be willing. |
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"There is sense in what you say," Salisbury repeated, "but I assure you a poor, ugly wife is no greater guarantee of happiness. Joanna is a good and dutiful girl. I do not believe she will play you false." He paused. "Geoffrey, what are we talking about? You know I desire this, yet I will not press you to do what you hate. Only let me say one thing more. You know the situation in which Ian finds himself?" Salisbury hardly waited for Geoffrey's nod before he continued. "The reason for offering Joanna to you at this time is partly so that she will be protected if the Welsh war should spread unrest in this country and partly so that a responsible man with a blood-bond to the family can lead Ian's and Alinor's and Adam's vassals.'' |
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"Lead" Geoffrey's face paled a little. "Ian wants me to lead his menall his men? Oh, papa, I am not sure" |
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"I will help you, my son, in every way I can, yet the burden will be a heavy one. Still, what can he do? He must |
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