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Page 19
"That Henry and this are not to be comparedunfortunately." Geoffrey sighed. "The one was a mansometimes overhasty, greedy, and unjust, from what I have heard, but a real man in every sense. This one is a spoiled child who never grew up."
"Such a man is not fit to be king," Simon said, lifting his head. "Richard of Cornwall, however"
"Do not let Cornwall hear you say that," Ian ordered sharply, "or he will kill you where you stand. Henry has many faults, but lack of love for his brother and sisters is not one of them, and they return that love full measure. Richard of Cornwall may stand up in full council and roar at the top of his lungs that his brother is a coward and a fool, but he loves Henry dear, very dear. He will never rebel against him. That door is closed, Simon."
"Yes, it is," Geoffrey agreed forcibly. "I tell you that if Henry died in battle against rebels, Richard would pursue them until the last man was dead. He will not take the throne while Henry lives, and he would never forget or pardon any man who had even the remotest connection with those who caused his brother's death."
"I know it," Simon said ruefully. "I do not know why my tongue is running at odds with my head today. I just feel that if I cannot do something, I will burst."
"The only thing you could do in the mood you are in is harm," Ian remarked wryly. "Why do you not go back to Wales? This is a most beautiful season in the hills. No doubt Llewelyn can find a nice little war for you if you feel you must break heads."
"No!" Simon exclaimed, and stood up abruptly.
Ian looked very much surprised. He had, with his overlord's approval, ceded the Welsh lands Llewelyn had bestowed upon him to his son as soon as Simon had won his spurs. It was a happy arrangement for everyone. The Welsh lands needed closer attention than Ian had been able to give them since he had

 
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