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''Remember that Sir Léon has been ill. Whenever he dismounts, Knud and Sir Guy will help him down and 'support' his faltering footsteps. And should he say anythingerout of the ordinary, his poor 'sister' will burst into tears and beg him to recognize her and cease from raving." |
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Adam began to laugh again. "Oh, Jo, let me come. I will be far better than Sir Guy at comforting Sir Léon's poor distracted sister." |
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Joanna giggled but shook her head at him. "No, someone from Roselynde with authority must be in England to watch over the lands. Besides, you would only make me laugh and spoil everything." |
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The planning had been done in private, but at dinner that day Sir Léon was informed of the excuse that would be used to cover Joanna's trip to France. He acceded with great willingness to all except the need for the precautions against his escape. |
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"I may be only a simple knight," he protested, "but I am a man of honor. In any case, why should I wish to escape? You are taking me where I wish to go and you are also paying ransom for my wife's prisoner." |
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The men looked rather self-conscious. All were in sympathy with his feeling. Even Adam rubbed his nose in embarrassment. "You know, Joanna," he said softly, "I would not like it if my word was not good enough. Perhaps" |
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"I," Joanna pointed out icily, "am not a man and have no honor. Poor weak woman that I am, I must protect myself. If Sir Léon breaks his word, can I go and demand that he meet me body to body to make good his promise? Either he goes as I say or he goes bound hand and foot and loaded with chains in England and drugged into sleep, a sick man, in a horse litter in France." She stared at Sir Léon, her eyes pale, brilliant stars in her angry face. |
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"Say yes," Sir Guy, next to Sir Léon, whispered urgently. "She will do itor worse." |
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Thus urged, Sir Léon agreed quickly. Actually, he did not much care and had protested for form's sake. What he had said was perfectly true. He had no intention of escap- |
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