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sanctuary, he not only visited her and bespoke her most kindly but returned to her eight of the manors belonging to de Burgh that he had previously confiscated. He cannot pardon de Burgh until peace is made, but to regrant the manors at this time is surely all but a promise to do so. And you know how in the past he would not even allow anyone to say de Burgh's name." |
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"That is true," Geoffrey agreed, "but I confess that part of my haste to see you and Sybelle married is so that I can return to the king." |
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Walter laughed again. "You cannot be in more haste than I, although my reasons are more private than public. And if you asked me whether I expected guests in order to know how long we must waitI expect none, and I am willing to be married right now if Sybelle will agree to it." |
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"But the child must have a chance to prepare," Ian protested. "She will be disappointed if she does not have a fine new gown and some special festivities for so important a day." |
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The eager expression faded from Walter's face. "You are quite right, Lord Ian. What is worse, I do not have so much as a brass pin with me to give her as a wedding gift. Dolt that I am, I never thought to send to Goldcliff for my strongbox." |
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Adam's bass rumble of laughter rolled out. "Ask Sybelle," he suggested, remembering that Gilliane had not even waited long enough to change her dress, much less tarry for a new one to be sewn, but had married him on five minutes' notice with no more than two vassals as witnesses. |
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"It is not fair." Walter's voice was uncertain. |
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"No!" Geoffrey exclaimed, appalled. He was afraid Sybelle would not be willing to forgo every special privilege of a bride and that Walter would be hurt. |
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But Simon was laughing, too. "Faint hearts!" he cried. "If you will not ask her, I will." |
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And he was away toward the women grouped around Alinor before either Walter or Geoffrey could catch him. They hastened after him, but it would have taken force to stop him and that would have raised questions, the answers to which would have exposed his purpose in a way more embarrassing to all. |
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"Sybelle," Simon said, "are you willing to marry Walter today, right now, without more ado than calling Father Edgar and walking into the chapel?" |
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"Simon!" Joanna cried. "Whatever has got into your head? |
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