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that Ian's presence was really necessary to him in Ireland and the earl of Salisbury had pleaded, almost in tears, that he should leave England. Joanna, however, would believe that Ian was endangering himself to gratify her whim. |
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"You do not understand," Joanna replied firmly, gently freeing herself so that she could look up at her stepfather. "It will be a great relief to me to have the matter settled. I have thought of marriage. Every girl who does not wish to give herself to God must do so. I just do not prefer any particular man. I trust you and mother to choose well for me, and I will be a good and faithful wifeI swear it." |
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That was settled, Alinor thought. If Joanna could have named someone, she would have done so to ease Ian's heart. "Then we come to the meat of the matter. Sit down, Ian. And you too, Joanna, take a stool." When the girl was settled, Alinor said to her seriously, "It is your whole life, child. I beg you, if you have the smallest, faintest doubt, that you speak out at once. Perhaps you have guessed that Ian and I do have a preference for your husband. Nonetheless, there are many other men, equally suitable. If you feel a shadow of distasteno matter how vague, no matter how foolish it seems to youtell me at once. Above all and beyond allimmeasurably above and beyond allI desire that you be content. Now I say this. More grief can come upon me, and upon Ian too, by your unhappiness than by anything else." |
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"I will try to be honest, but mama" |
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"You do not need to answer now," Ian suggested. "Let us suggest a few" |
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"No," Alinor objected, "to name more than one would make the problem worse. But Ian is right on the other matter. You do not have to answer now. We will suggest one man. You may refuse outright. If you have a doubt as to your ability to share a whole life with him, do so. You may accept outright. Or you may think it over and tell me later, or tomorrow. Remember, there are others. That we name Lord Geoffrey Fitz William to you now does not mean there is any need for you to take him." |
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