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Page 182
his men into my hand, and go into prison wherever Henry desired. You can imagine what happened. Ian is greatly beloved. Ferrars said that if Ian were doubted, then he could not be trusted either and he would go where Ian went. Then Cornwall pulled off his sword belt and threw it on the ground by Henry's feet. He said he would not violate his blood by rebellion, but he, too, would go into prison with Ian."
"And Winchester?" Simon growled.
"I thought the bishop would faint or burst with rage. There can be no doubt that he had not expected what happened. Perhaps he did not intend Henry to make his demand before the whole court. I cannot decide whether he intended that you should be confined secretly first and Ian told later, or that Ian should be asked privately to order you to give your parole to the king. I think the first. Winchester wanted a whip, I think, after that talk Ian had with him. But Henry wanted to show his power."
Simon snorted. "So he learned what little strength he has against an honest man. The king backed down, no doubt."
"Yes," Geoffrey sighed, "but that is nothing to be glad of. You know how Henry holds a hurt and remembers it. Still, no harm may come of itI hope. I made it easy by pointing out that he already had two of Ian's grandsons in his service. Henry made a great to-do over that, clapping his hand to his forehead and calling himself a fool. He even came down and took Ian's hand and kissed him."
"Do you think he will try to hurt Papa some other time?"
For a moment Geoffrey's tired face lightened. "No, because Ian is Ian, thank God. He was not angry; he was hurt. You know he does not see Henry as a man, but loves him as he loved youspoiled brat that you were. Henry saw the love. He is neither stupid nor unfeeling, only impulsive and unwise. The king cast

 
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