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"Everyone is either packing to leave or having conferences to which I am not invited." Simon grinned impishly. "I thought it would be a good day to ride down to Cwm-du or Llwyncrwn. In one village or the other there will be a man sent by Siorl, and we can hear the latest news from Monmouth keep." |
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Walter smiled so broadly that he thought his face would split. His spirits lifted mercurially. To his mind, this was a clear sign that he was forgiven. He was sure that the Holy Mother herself must have listened to his contrition, for only she was so merciful and kind as to provide him with this respite. |
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"Done," he agreed, but then doubt assailed him. He was no longer completely free to do as he chose. Surely it was his duty to leave word for Sybelle, and there was another problem. "But I am not armed," he said, "and Sybelle" |
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"I told Rhiannon I would go and that I intended to have your company if I could," Simon assured him. "Rhiannon will tell Sybelle. As to being armed, how could you be with your arm strapped that way? I do not think we will find trouble. I intend to go by safe ways." |
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Flicked for a moment by past guilt, Walter felt it was too easy. "Will Sybelle not be offended if I do not leave word myself?" he asked. |
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"Not Sybelle," Simon said confidently, laughing. "She is no grande dame sans merci. Do you think you are living in the pages of a romance?" |
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At that moment, William came trotting down the aisle, calling somewhat breathlessly, "I could not find Oh, there you are, sir. Shall I see to the saddling of the horses, Simon?" |
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"We will see to it," Walter said. "As soon as you catch your breath, run back and tell your sister that I am going with Simon and will not be at dinner." |
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Simon burst out laughing. "You will make a model husband, Walter. I see Sybelle already has you well trained." |
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"It is not Sybelle," Walter said defensively. "My mother used to worry so. . . ." |
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Simon clapped him merrily on his good shoulder. "So much the better for both of you, and you are quite right. It is a fool's trick to ride out without telling your wife when you expect to be back. How could she come to your assistance if she did not know you were missing and needed aid?" |
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