Simon the Coldheart · Chapter
X: How He Brought Order Into His Lands explained
Simon consolidates his rule over Beauvallet by dismissing Nicholas, appointing Basil of Mordaunt, and enforcing discipline.
What happens
Simon consolidates his rule over Beauvallet by dismissing Nicholas, appointing Basil of Mordaunt, and enforcing discipline. He reforms his men-at-arms and archers, wins the loyalty of his people through fairness and skill, and receives visits from Fulk of Montlice and his father Geoffrey of Malvallet, who brings a letter urging Simon to join the campaign against Owen Glyndourdy.
Themes in this chapter
Ambition and Self-Making
Simon actively builds his authority and estate through decisive actions, reforms, and personal engagement, fulfilling his earlier vow to gain lands by his own endeavor.
Coldness vs. Passion
Simon's stern, cold exterior contrasts with his hidden fondness for children, as seen in his relationship with his pages, especially Cedric.
Honor and Loyalty
Simon earns the loyalty of his men through just rule and personal example, while characters like Maurice of Gountray demonstrate steadfast allegiance.
Characters to notice
- Simon the Coldheart
Dismisses Nicholas, appoints Basil, reforms his lands, and shows a fondness for children, especially his page Cedric.
- Fulk of Montlice
Visits Simon at Beauvallet, observes his rule, and teases him about his pages and aversion to marriage.
- Alan of Montlice
Accompanies Fulk to Beauvallet, questions Simon about his men's loyalty, and returns to Montlice after a week.
- Maurice of Gountray
Appointed marshal, enforces Simon's orders by dismissing Nicholas, and proves loyal and hardworking.
- Nicholas
Dismissed by Simon, attempts to stir rebellion but fails and is forced to leave Beauvallet.
- Basil of Mordaunt
Succeeds Nicholas as captain of the guards, described as easygoing and respected.
- Walter of Santoy
Appointed captain of the men-at-arms, drills them effectively under Simon's orders.
- Geoffrey of Malvallet
Visits Simon at Beauvallet, bringing a letter from his half-brother urging aid against Owen Glyndourdy.
Key passages
“The next thing Simon did was to dismiss Nicholas of the Guards. At the same time he made it known that Basil of Mordaunt was to succeed him.”
Simon immediately fired Nicholas and appointed Basil as his replacement.
Simon's first act of consolidation.
“I have orders to see ye leave this place within the space of seven hours, he said coldly.”
Maurice coldly ordered Nicholas to be gone within seven hours.
Maurice enforces Simon's command.
“Simon, thou canst not deceive me, Fulk told him. Thou hast a love for children, and shouldst breed thine own.”
Fulk accused Simon of loving children and advised him to marry and have his own.
Fulk teases Simon about his fondness for pages.
“I am the bearer of a letter to thee from thy half-brother, Malvallet answered. Will ye read it?”
Geoffrey handed Simon a letter from his half-brother.
Geoffrey delivers a message urging military aid.
