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We are in haste, yes, but not such haste as this. A few days cannot make any difference." |
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But Sybelle was not looking at her mother. Her eyes had gone to Walter as soon as Simon said "marry," and she had seen the real anxiety behind the surface irritation with Simon's mischief. "Of course I am willing," she said, smiling calmly at her betrothed and stretching a hand toward him. |
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Walter came over to take her hand and lifted it to his lips. His color was higher than usual. "It is only Simon's jest," he said. "I am unready, for I have no bride gift for you nor a decent gown with which to do you honor." |
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"As to the bride gift"Sybelle's face and voice were grave, but her eyes glittered with laughter"we had some talk of gifts at Christmastide, if you remember. I do not think I will need to complain of any lack." Walter emitted a strangled choke, but Sybelle ignored it and continued, ''And, as to the gown, I am sure Adam will have one grand enough that will fit you. You can borrow a gown, if such a thing troubles you." |
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"Oh, by all means," Adam agreed. "We can wait long enough for you to change from your travel dress." Then his deep chuckle rumbled out. "Only I suspect that Sybelle would just as soon take you naked." |
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"Adam!" Gilliane protested, but her lips were twitching to restrain a smile. |
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"It is ridiculous!" Joanna exclaimed. |
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"No," Alinor said, "it is not ridiculous. You know that the king's intention is balanced on a knife-edge. On the one hand, he sees disaster looming and is nearly convinced that the archbishop spoke the truth. On the other, it is very hard to give up the notion of being all-powerful and even harder, no doubt, to remember his rash words about how Pembroke must crave mercy on his knees. He must feel that all his vassals are laughing behind their hands. I believe that all of us who have previously avoided the court should now attend on the king, showing him that we honor and respect him the more for his decisionand the sooner we come to court, even by hours, the better." |
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Geoffrey uttered a sigh of relief and put his arm around Sybelle. "Dearling," he said, "we do not wish to take from you any of the joy of being a bride, but your grandmother does speak the truth. If you are willing to delay until peace is |
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