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Page 395
from Clifford and the nearby farms and manors. He did not wish to wait another day to collect more horses or to rest those brought from farther afield for fear the king would move."
"So Simon's men reported," Geoffrey agreed. "That is, they said there was only a large troop at the manor itself and a few groups of three or four men each, burning shepherds' huts and driving the flocks and herds southward. As you know, Henry is no cowardat least, not for things of the body. He has fought well the few times he had the chance. But, Walter, you do not seem at all surprised by this news. Were you there? Simon's men said nothingbut perhaps he told them to hold their tongues."
Walter had nodded when Geoffrey mentioned that Henry was no coward. It was true the king was willing and even eager to fight, but his skill was less than his courage because of lack of training and opportunity. Moreover, being so surrounded by his nobles on the field, Henry seldom was given any chance to engage. But the nod also served as preliminary to his answer to the question of whether he had been at Almondbury.
"I was there," Walter admitted, the confession somewhat muffled by a huge yawn. "But Bassett and Siward suggested I change my shieldand so I did. With a closed helmet, even Simon's men would not know me."
Geoffrey laughed and shook his head at Walter's admission but he did not comment on it. "Thus," he continued, "when he heard the truth, Henry laughed immoderately at Seagrave's timidity, but he was disgusted. Later, when we were in private, he said to me that he would be glad to be rid of such cowardly counselors and officers."
"That is good news," Sir John said with enthusiasm.
"Yes." Geoffrey smiled with satisfaction and relief. "I do not believe there is any longer any chance of influencing the king to change his mind. He spoke to me also of going east again to ask Edmund of Abingdon and the Bishop of Chester to arrange peace terms with Richard."
"Chester is a good choice," Walter began, and was interrupted by another jaw-cracking yawn. "I am sorry," he said, smiling. "I assure you I do not find the subject dull."
That raised a laugh. "Go to bed," Geoffrey suggested. "You have had a busy day."

 
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