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Page 137
That was not completely true, but Walter was certainly not going to confess to Marie that the decision was Sybelle's to make. Actually, the written contract was irrelevant. Once words of honor were exchanged, the thing would be certain and settled. The only purpose of the written contract, in Walter's opinion, was for a case at lawif, in future years, someone outside the families should challenge the ownership of property of children or grandchildren. Then the naming and disposition of the lands could be proven from the written contract, which would be deposited in the strong rooms of Roselynde, Goldcliff, and the Church. Between himself and Lord Geoffrey, or himself and Sybelle, Walter was sure no more than the exchange of kisses of peace was necessary.
"But I do not understand." Marie sounded puzzled. "How has the political situation changed? Is the war over?"
"You know it is not," Walter answered, smiling uneasily.
It had occurred to him suddenly, shockingly, that the first time he had approached Lord Geoffrey, the king had had the upper hand in the struggle; it had not even been known whether Lord Pembroke would escape the traps laid for him. Now, however, the opposite was true. Soon Richard and Llewelyn would move on the offensive.
"But you cannot marry until the war is over," Marie said, "unless you plan to shift your allegiance."
"Shift my allegiance!" Walter echoed. "Of course not. The matter was never mentioned."
His voice was a little louder than necessary, as if to stress his certainty. He remembered that he himself had suspected that might be a condition of acceptance of his suit, but Geoffrey had waved the subject away. Then common sense reminded him that he was of small significance on either side, a single knight with a small troop of men-at-arms. Of course, once he took hold of the other lands, Walter would have far greater power. Could that be Lord Geoffrey's purpose? Could he wish to secure the lands, arrange the marriage, and then urge his son-by-marriage into the king's party? Nonsense. Lord Geoffrey was a man of honor, and Walter had already stated his unalterable attachment to Pembroke.
"Then your marriage may be long delayed."
Walter knew there had been a longish pause between his rejection of the notion that he would change sides and Marie's comment. He must have been looking at her steadily all the

 
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