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of the family to run Alinor's house on the northwest bank of the Thames and see to their comfort. |
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They had barely settled into the house on the ninth of July when Walter de Clare rode in. He had had a man watching to notify him of Geoffrey's arrival, and it was clear that he was surprised to see the male contingent in full force. He was even more surprised to see Sybelle, and after his first sensation of pleasure, he was not pleased. |
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"I do not know whether it is wise for you to be here, any of youexcept Lord Geoffrey," Walter said, "and especially not you, Lady Sybelle." |
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Sybelle started to ask why not her especially, but her father gestured abruptly for her to be silent and she acquiesced, realizing this was no time to discuss the right of a woman to share her menfolk's danger. |
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"What do you mean?" Ian asked. "We were summoned to the council for July eleventh. Is it not to be?" |
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"Most likely not," Walter replied. "Had you not heard that nearly all the lords have refused to come unless Henry dismisses the Bishop of Winchester and Peter of Rivaulx?" |
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"Again?" Geoffrey asked. "But this was the same message they sent on the Feast of Saint John, when they refused to come to Oxford. All that happened was that the king grew so furious he was about to issue a decree compelling attendance and cry outlawry on those who failed to comply. Who is here?" |
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"Cornwall, Norfolk, Ferrars. . . . It is said Pembroke is on his way." |
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"Fools!" Geoffrey exclaimed. "If they are to be declared outlaw, at least they should have their say for it. Henry will" |
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"I told you I should have sent word to my vassals to shut themselves into their keeps," Adam growled. |
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"Gilliane will see to it if it is necessary," Sybelle soothed. |
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