|
|
|
|
|
|
continually thrust him into Sybelle's company. Not that Walter would not have sought her company on his own. She drew him as a flame draws a moth, and like the moth, he found what he sought a very painful pleasure. He strangled words and gestures of love, not because he was more interested in the lands that would come to him with Sybelle or because he wished to test the capability her father had claimed for her, but because he could not bear her eager response. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
This restraint was of little help, either. Sybelle seemed to know what he was feeling while he spoke soberly of practical affairs. She, too, confined herself to the most impersonal conversation possible, but she could not completely control her complexion or the way her eyes caressed him. Never in Walter's life, not even when scarcely more than a boy pursuing his first highborn mistress, had his feelings been such a turmoil of joy and misery. He chided himself for being a fool, telling himself that when Sybelle returned to England with her family he would be free to enjoy whatsoever other woman or women he chose. It was cold comfort. Walter wanted Sybelle. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The day after the melee, the family met in council in Prince Llewelyn's chambers. In spite of all assurances that they would come to quick and easy agreement, Walter found himself nervous, oppressed by the feeling that he was one against many. At last he asked Richard to accompany him, to which the earl readily agreed. Although Pembroke's support was pleasant, Walter realized in minutes that it was totally unnecessary. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Hardly were they all seated when Lady Alinor said, "Sybelle tells me that you believe Clyro and the manor and farms of Braydon would be most suitable to match with your own lands." |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Walter flushed slightly. "I did believe so, but, of course" |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"That will suit us very well," Alinor interrupted kindly, aware of Walter's embarrassment and eager to assuage it. "I had thought to give somewhat more with her. All of Mersea went with Joanna. Is there not some other manor or keep you would like to take in charge?" |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Although he had never previously partaken in any discussion of a marriage contract, Walter had the feeling that it was most unusual for the bride's family to press more on the groom when there was no question of matching the dowry. |
|
|
|
|
|