Larger context for LACK in Corpus USbrown_UKbncw/UK_bncw.txt
"But such heaviness of heart is bitter-sweet, in that it pines for the absence of the beloved whilst looking to the joy of reunion.
Now, all that has changed, alas!"
Seated together on a bench seat by a warm hearth, it seemed to Joan that they were isolated from the intrigue and controversy that were presently raging around the royal family.
They were together -- happily and companionably together, separated for a time from the outside world and its evil influences.
"Changed?" she asked in pretended alarm.
"The joys of reunion are no longer of consequence -- is that your meaning, my lord?"
He shook his head.
"Nay, such was not my meaning -- as you know full well!
I fell in love with you several moons ago.
lack > Before that, I was heart-free, a somewhat studious fellow, I suppose, who lack ed the merry nature of his younger brother.
You are aware of my continuing regard for you -- tell me, I pray you, that you yet return my regard."
"You need not the telling, my lord," she dimpled.
"We both recognize methinks that, young though we be in years, we are all in all to each other."
"In truth, Joan, you are as far removed from myself as ever.