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Page 66
Walter thought that Richard was going too far. He assumed that the earl's bitterness was owing to his problems with his wife, which washed over onto Marie. Walter believed there was no harm in Marie, barring a bit of foolish pride and an overgreat love of scandalbut that was common in women. And then Walter thought, But not in all women. Sybelle might amuse herself with a wicked jest now and again, but she spread no evil nor wished to hear of it. The thought of her slipped out into speed.
"No, I am all but sworn to" Walter stopped short, remembering that he had no direct approval from Lord Geoffrey and had no right to any claim on Sybelle.
Indeed, to make such a claim could have very serious consequences if for some reason Lord Geoffrey decided to make a contract for Sybelle elsewhere. A claim of prior betrothal could be used to invalidate a marriage. Walter was suddenly aware of a shocking desire to make his claim and, thereby, have a lever with which to force Sybelle's father to accept him. He flushed slightly with shame at the thought and shook his head.
"That is an exaggeration," he went on hastily, his voice uneven. "I have an alliance in mind, but it is in my mind only. I have made no offer as yet, and I have no . . . no assurance that the offer will be accepted when I make it."
"If there is something I can do," Richard suggested, "you have only to tell me."
Walter made a poor attempt at a smile. The fact that so dishonorable a notion had entered his mind, together with the sick sensation that had churned his vitals at the thought of Sybelle being given to someone else, had made painfully clear how much he wanted her.
"You may be sure," he said, "that I will call on your good offices if necessary. I hope . . ." He left that unfinished.
Richard nodded. "You mean I might do more harm than good"
"God in heaven, no!" Walter exclaimed. "That was not what I meant at all. I"
"Well, just do not take Marie as second best," Richard interrupted, smiling at Walter's vehemence, although he was not sure it was justified. "Believe me, she would not make a suitable wife for you. If I ever have the time, I will find her a

 
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