I have but one regret--that the seas will divide us."
"Not so," the baron said; "William's court will be held in London, and for
years he will reside here far more than in Normandy, and will expect his
nobles to be frequently with him. I certainly shall not come alone, and you
will therefore have as many opportunities of seeing Agnes as if she were
married to a Norman whose estates did not lie near our own."
"I thank you most deeply, Lady de Burg, for the confidence which you show
in intrusting your daughter's happiness to me. I swear that with all my
might and power I will strive to make her happy, and will spare her to
visit you in Normandy whensoever you may wish it."
Guy came forward now and grasped Wulf's hand.
"How I have longed for this time, my brother," he said. "How I have hoped
that I might at least live long enough to know that the dearest wish of my
heart would be gratified. I can go hence now right willingly when God calls
me, knowing that my father and mother have another son to fill my place,
and that the happiness of my sister is secured."
"And now, wife, will you fetch Agnes from her chamber," the baron said.
In two or three minutes the baroness returned, leading Agnes, to whom she
had told the reason of her summons. The baron stepped forward and took her
hand.
"My daughter," he said, "the Thane of Steyning has asked for your hand in
marriage, and your mother and I have given our free and full consent, but
he would fain know from your own lips that you will come to him willingly.
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