¶ Tabula. HEre beginneth a short and abreve table on the chronicles/ and ye must understand that in every leef of the book above is the title wherein is Pars prima. two. iii.iiii.u.vi. and. vii· till ye come at the books end & thereby shall ye know what matters contain in the table between part & part/ And so shall ye find above between pars and pars in the margin written. ¶ The Prologue. The work of the first vi days. Adam the first man Eva the first woman Seth sone to Adam Delbora sister to Abel Abel sone to Adam Cayn and Calmana sister & wife to cain Eenos Chanam Malaleel. jareth. Enoch. of the line of christ Matusale. Lameth. of Crystes line Tubal the first graver Jabe found the first pavilions jubal found the first craft to play Neoma fond first giving Neo/ the ship/ the rainbow Cham. Sem. & japher noah's sons Arpharat & his children Chus and his children Sale and his sone Heber and his childer Phaleg jacten. Nemroch. and Sulphen. the builders of the tour of Babylon How gentleman began Saruk of Crystes line Belus king of Babylon Nynuns king of Babylon There of the line of christ ¶ Here beginneth the history of the holy patriarchs & continued to Brute. Abraham and his brethren with their progeny Abraham's wives Melchisedech king of Salem Semiramis king of Babylon Ninus king of Babylon Arius king of Babylon isaac of che line of christ & of his wives and his sons Of Gomorrah and of the wife of Loth jacob of the line of christ & his wives and their progenyezers king of Babylon Armaviccre after him Belocus king of Babylon Inachus the first king of Grece Phoromius was king after him judas of the line of christ Belus king of assuriorum Athlas Astronomyer Sarapis king of Greyes' Argus' king of Greeks Omogires put first oxen to the plongh Belus king of Babylon Pharaoh king of Egypte Amithus king of Babylon Pharaoh king of Egypte Aram of Crystes line job the holy man Moses the judge of Israel Aron the bishop Dafrus king of Babylon Cycrops king of Athenes Amynadab of Crystes line Moses the first judge Aron the first bishop Phorao king of Egypte Nasonsone to Amynadab when the law of god was given in the hill of Synay Salmen of the line of christ joshua the judge Eleazar byssop Othonyell judge Aoth Iuge jonas the first king of ytaly Amictus king of Babylon Boos of the line of christ Sanger judge Delbora Iuge Phenies bishop Saturnus king of italy Picus king of italy Gedeon Iuge Bocci bishop Abimalech judge Tola Iuge Bocci bishop jayr judge Fanus king of italy Latinus king of italy Tauranus king of Babylon Lamydon king of Troy The new sins of Israel Ozy bishop Ebassam judge Abialoo Iuge Abdon judge Athamam king of assuriarum Agamenon king of Grece Aeneas king of italy Vlixes an eloquent man Obeth of the line of christ Samson judge jesse of the line of christ saul king of Israel Ascanius king of italy Silvius king of ytaly Venes and Padua were builded Homer the great poet ¶ Here beginneth the second part and of the kyngdme of britain Albyon the first woman that was of England Bruce king of Bryytane Lotrin king of britain Madan king of britain david king of Isra●ll M●●pris king of britain Solomon king of peak Sadoch bishop Roboas king of peace Achimias bishop jeroboas king of Israel Abdias king of jews Asa king of jews Azarias bishop Basa king of Israel Hela king of Israel Amri king of Israel Archa king of Israel Ebrack king of britain Brute Greneshelde king of britain Leyll king of britain josaphat king of jews Helyas the great prophet Macheas & Abdias prophets Ochosias' king of Israel Lududibras king of britain Bladud king of britain joram king of jews when Helyas was ravished in to Paradyse Ochosias' or Asarias' king of jews joram king of Israel jehen king of Israel Athalia mother to Azari king of jews joathas king of Israel joam king of Israel Liar king of britain Amasias king of Jews jeroboam king of Israel Ozias king of jews Ozee bishop and prophet joel Ananias and Adias' prophets zacharias king of Israel Phascia king of Israel Phase king of Israel Morgan and Conedag kings of britain reynold Borbodian Ferres & Porres kings of britain How four kings held all britain & of their names Scatter & Dawalier kings Rudac and Clo●en kings Donebant king britain Brenne and Belin kings of britain Cormbratus king of britain joathan king of Jews Amarias' bishop Olympias were seat in Grece Acham king of jews Achitob bishop Ozee king of Israel ¶ Here beginneth the third part and continued to the nativity of christ. Rome was builded by Romulus Ezechias king of jews Sadoch bishop Manasses king of jews Sellum & Echias bishops Numa king of Rome Amon king of jews josias king of jews Azastas bishop Tobias the holy man Tu●ius king of Rome Nabugonodonosor king of Babylon Ancus king of Rome Danyell the prophet joathas king of jews jachim king of jews Damias bishop joachim king of jews Sedechias king of jews josedeth bishop Abacuk prophet The transmygration Priscus Torquinus king of Rome Nabugodonosor & Enylmedach kings of babylon How the play of Chess was found salathiel of the line of christ Servius Tulyus' king of Rome Reguses Sabusardach and Balchasar kings of Babylon. Monarchia Persarum Daryus king of Babylon Cyrus Emperor of Perses Babylon was destroyed Tarquinus Superbus king of Rone Lucres a wy● How the governance of Rome was changed after the kings Hystoria libri Esdre zorobabel the duke Esdras priest Cambyses king of Perses Enereydes and Darius kings of Perses Ab●uch of the line of christ joachim bishop Senators of Rome were ordained Arthararse and zerses kings of pierce Segdianus kings of pierce Elyac of the line of christ Esdras an holy man Neemias the butelere Permenides. Socrates. D●mocritus and hippocras philosophers Azor of the line of christ Elyasyb bishop Camillus' dictator of Rome Darius king of pierce Plato a philosopher Titus dictator of Rome Gaius a Senator Marcus Valertus a senator Arthararses Arsamus and Darius kings of Perses jodas and johannes bishops Aristotiles and Socrate philosophers Guentolen. Saysell. Kymor Howan. Morwith kings of britain Grandobodiam. Artogaill. and Hesyder kings of britain How xxxiii kings reigned in peace each after other in britain Lud kings of britain Sadoche of the line of chest judas bishop Aeneas' bishop Manipus and Fablius Consulers of Rome Monarchia Grecorum Alexander king Achym of the line of christ Simon and Elcazarus bishops Dolobela Emilius Marcus Curius Genutius consuls of Rome Ptholomeus king of egypt Elyud of the line of christ Omias and Simon bishops Sempronius. Apptus Claudius. and many moo Senators of Rome Ptholomias king of Egypte. Hanyball king of Penorum Lu●acius. Simp●onius Valerius &c. were Consuys at Rome Ep●phanes king of Egypte Autrochus king of Sir Ouias' and Simon bishops Eleazar of the line of christ Adrianus and Eustachius Onias bishop Paulus Scipio Senatoves at Rome Philometor king of Egypte. Mathathyas an holy man judas Machabeus and jonathas his brother bishops Antiochus king of Surry Quintus Marchus and Tiberius were Senators of Rome Mathon of the line of christ Simon and johannes bishops Publus. Lucius. Lucius and Lucius Senators of Rome Petholomeus king of Egypte Aristobolus king & priest Alexander bishop Saruius. Lucius. Fabius' Senators of Rome Ptholomeus king of egypt jacob of the line of christ Alexandra wife and bishop Hircanus king of jews Virgil the great poet Oracius and Salustius hystoricus Quinte and Gaius consuls of Rome Pompeius. Marcus. and julyus were dictators of Rome Cathon philosopher Cassybolon king of englodde Andragen king of england Ihoshep of the line of christ Anthigonus bishop Titus Livius and Ovidius hystoricus Octavian emperor The husbands of saint Anna Herode Ascolonyca king of jews Kymbalyn king of england ¶ Here beginneth the fourth part and continued to the coming of the Saxons. The nativity of christ Anninus Rufus and Valeri Graccus bishops Pylatus the jege Of Pylatus nativity ovidius Naso Tiberius emperor Mathias the apostle judas scaryoth The making of the credo The four evangelists Peter the first pope Gaius emperor Gyder king of england Armager king of england westmer king of England coil king of England Claudius Emperor james the more the apostle Nero Emperor Seneca Nero's master Iwenalis' and Lucanus poets Jame the less the apostle Linus a martyr and pope Galba Emperor Otho Emperor Vitellus Emperor Vespasianus Emperor Cletus a martyr and pope Titus Emperor Domician Emperor Clemens a martyr pope Nerua Emperor Traianus Emperor Anacle●us a martyr & pope Plinius Orator Euristus a murtyr and pope Alexander a martyr & pope Sixtus a martyr and pope Emperors Thelesphorus a martyr and pope Ignius a martyr and pope Antonius' Emperor Pompoius hystoryograph Pius a martyr and pope Anicetus martyr and pope Galienus aleche Marcus and Lucius Emperors Lucy king of england Astelepades king of england coil king of england Constance king of england Constantyn king of england Octavian king of england. Maximian king of england Of the xi thousand maidens gracian king of england Constanitne king of England Constance king of england Sother a martyr and pope Elentherius a Martyr and pope Marcus Antonius and Lucius Comodius were Emperors Helius Emperor Victor martyr and pope zepherius a martyr & pope Origenes the noble clerk Calistus a martyr and pope Antonius' Emperor Antonius Marcus Empeour Alexander Emperor Vrbanus a martyr & pope Ponsianus a martyr & pope Anteros a martyr and pope Maximianus Emperor Gordian Emperor Phylyp Emperor Decius Emperor Fabianus martyr and pope Conelius a martyr & pope Lucius pope Gallus and Volucianus emperors Valerian emperor Stephanus a martyr pop Sixtus a martyr & pope Dyonisius a martyr pope Feler a martyr and pope Claudius' Emperor Eu●icianus a martyr & pope Aurelius emperor Tacitus emperor Probus emperor Carus and his two sons Emperors Dyoclesian emperor Maximian emperor Gaius pope and martyr Arcellinus a martyr & pope Marcellus a martyr & pope Eusebius a martyr & pope Melchiades a martyr & pope Galerius emperor Silvester pope Constantyne emperor Saint Nicholas Anastasius bishop/ & he made Qecunque vult saluus esse Mercus pope julius pope Constantinus emperor Liberius pope Felix pope julianus apostata emperor jominianus emperor Valentinian emperover Damacian pope Vales emperor Aagustinus rethoricus siritius pope Theodosius emperor Claudius poeta Archadius emperor Honorius emperor jerom the doctor Sanctus Heracides johannes Crysestomus Anastasius pope Innocencius pope zozimus pope Bonifacius pope Celestinus pope Theodosius emperor Sextus and Leo pope's Marcianus & valentinianus were emperors ¶ Here beginneth the fifth part and continued to the coming of the Danies. Engist Vortiger king of england Vortimer king of england Aurilambros king of england Vterpendragon king of england Arthur king of englongde Constaneyne Adelbright edel Curan Conan Cortyf Gurmonde all king of enlonde Adelbrigeth Sic with elfride Brecinal all kings of england Cadewan oswald Oswy Edwin Cadwalin all kings of England Cadwaldre king of england Offa Osbryght Elle all king of England Saint edmonde eddelf Edred all kings of england ¶ Here beginneth the pope's and emperor and other notable things in the time of the Saxons being in England. Leo the first Emperor Leo pope Hellarius pope Simpicius pope zeno emperor Felix pope Gelasius pope Anastasius emperor Anastasius pope Simachus pope Clodianus king of France Hornusda pope justinus emperor Priscinans grammaticus johannes pope Felix the fourth pope justintanus emperor Bonifacius pope johannes the second pope Agapitus a confessor pope Silverius a martyr pope Virgilius pope Sinodus quarta Pelagius pope johannes the third pope justinus the second emperor Tiberius the second emperor Benedictus pope Pelagius emperor Mauricius emperor What time saint Austen c●me in to England Focas Emperor Gregorius the first pope Saninianus pope Bonifacius the third pope Bonifacius the fourth pope Heraclius Emperor Deus dedit pope Bonifacius the fifth pope Machomite the duke of sarazens Constantyne the third Emperor Martinus the first pope Eugenius pope Vitellianus pope Adeodatus pope Constantyne the fourth Emperor Demusa Roman pope Bonifacius pope Agatho pope Leo pope Senedictus the second pope justinianus the second emperor Hohannes the fifth pope zeno pope Sergius pope saint Beda Leo the second pope Tiberius' Emperor Leo the third pope johannes the sixth pope johannes the vii pope justinianus Emperor Sisinus pope Constantyne pope Philip the second Emperor Anastasius the second Emperor Gregorius the second pope Theodosius Emperor Leo and Constantyne Emperors Gregorius the third pope Constantinus Emperor zacharias pope Stephanus the second pope Paulus a Roman pope Constantyne the second pope Karolus magnus Stephanus the third pope Adrianus pope Leo the fourth pope Constantinus Emperor Nychoferus Emperor Michael Emperor Karolus magnus the first a saint Leo pope Ludoucius Emperor Stephanus the fourth pope paschal pope Eugenius the fourth pope Valentinus pope Gregorius the fourth pope Lotherius pope Sergius the second pope Leo pope Benedictus Roman pope Ludovicus Emperor johannes a woman pope Nicholaus pope Adrianus pope ¶ Her begynnete the vi part & continued to the coming of the Normans. Alured king of England johannes the viii pope Karolus the second Emperor Martynus pope Adryanus the. third. pope Stephanus the .v. pope Karolus the third Emperor Arnulphus Emperor Formosus pope Bonyfacyus pope Stephanus the vi pope johannes the ix & ten pope's Theodorus pope johannes the. xi· pope Benedictus the fourth pope Leo pope ●pristoforus the first pope Ludovicus the third Emperor Beryngaryus & Conradus Emperors. Edward king of England. Sergius the third pope Anastasius pope Laudo and johannes pope's Henrycus Emperor Adelstone king of england Edmonde king of england Eldred king of England Edwin king of England Leo the .v. pope Stephanus the vii & viii pope's Martinus the third pope Agapytus pope johannes the xii pope Edger king of England Beringarius the third Emperor Lotharyous Emperor Beryngaryus the fourth Emperor Leo the viii pope johannes the xiii pope Benedictus the vi pope Otto the first Emperor Otto the second Emperor Of saint Edward martyr and king of England▪ Eldred king of England Swine king of England and of denmark Bonus pope Bonifacius pope Benedictus pope johannes the. xiiii.xv. and xvi. pope's Gregorius the .v. pope Otto the third Emperor Silvester the second pope johannes the xviii and xix pope's Henrycus the first Emperor Benedictus pope johannes the twenty pope Knoght king of England Edmonde Irensyde king of England Knoght king of England Benedictus the ix pope Conradus Emperor Harode king of England Hardiknoght king of England Of the villainy that the Danies died to the englishmen Of Bodewin the false traitor Alured martyr Siluestre the third pope Damasius the second pope Saint Edward king of England and confessor Victor the second pope Henry the sconde Emperor Stephanus the ix pope Benedictus pope Henricus the third Emperor Nicholaus the second pope Alexander the second pope harold king of England ¶ Here beginneth the vii part & continued unto our days/ that is to say/ king Edward's reign the fourth the xxiii year wyllyam conqueror Gregorius the vii pope Victor the third pope Vrbanus pope wyllyam Rous king of England Henricus the fourth Emperor Gelasius pope Colixtus pope Honorius pope Lotharius Emperor Hugo de sancto victore The order of Suynt johan baptist Innocencius pope Stephen king of England Celehinus the second pope Lucius pope Eugenius the second pope Petrus Lombardus bishop Petrus Cummestor Fredericus the first Emperor Anastasius pope Henry the second king of England Adrianus the fourth pope Alexander the third pope Lucius the third pope Vrban the third pope Gregorius the vii pope Clemens the third pope richard the first king of England Henrycus the fifth Emperor Celestinus the third pope Innocencius the third pope wyllyam of Paris Franciscus an ytalyon johan king of England Frederucus the second Emperor Honorius the third pope Henry the third king of Englode Gregorius the ix pope Celestinus the frouth pope Innocencius the fourth pope Thomas de Aquine Albertus magnus Eustacius Bonaventure Alexander and Vrbanus pope's Rychardus Emeperour Clemens the fourth pope Gregorius the ten pope Innocencius the .v. pope Adrianus pope johannes the xxi pope Nicholaus the third pope Radulphus Emperor Murtinus the fourth pope Nicholaus de lyra Honorius the fourth pope Nicholaus the fourth pope Edward the fist king of Englode Celestinus pope Bonifacius pope Benedictus the xi pope Adulphus Emperor Albertus' Emperor Clemens pope johannes the xxii pope Henry the vi Emperor Edward the second king of England Lodowicus Emperor johan Mundevyl a doctor of physic and knight Benedictus pope Edward the third king of England Clemeus the vi pope Karolus the four the Emperor Innocencius the vi hope Vrbanus the .v. pope Gregorius the ix pope wenselaus Emperor Vrbanus pope Bonifacius the ix pope richard the second king of England Innocencius the vii pope Robert Emperor johannes the xxiii pope Sygysmundus Emperor Henry the fourth king of England Martin the .v. pope Eugenius pope Henry the fifth king of England Felix the fifth pope Albert Emperor Fredericus the third Emperor Nicholaus the .v. pope Henry the vi king of England Calixtus the third pope printers of books pius the second pope Paulus a Vene●yan pope Sixitus the pope ¶ The description of England wales. Scotlond and ireland/ In the later end of this present chronicles. ¶ Thus ' endeth the Table The Prologue IN so much that it is necessary to all creatures of crimson religion/ or of false religion/ or gentiles/ & machomytes to know their prince/ or princes/ that regne upon them & them to obey. So it is comodydus to know their noble acts & deeds/ & the cyrcunstaunce of their lives. Therefore in the year of our lord. M. CCCC.lxxxiii. the year of the reign of king Edward the fourth at saint Aldons/ so that all men may know the acts namely of our noble kings of England/ is compiled together in this book/ & moreover is translated out of latin in to english/ fro the beginning of the world the lineage of christ/ from Adam till it be comen to david/ & from david the kings of Israel & of Jews the high bishops in their days with the judges & prophets. The four principal reams of the world/ that is to say of Babylon. of Percees. of Greeks. & of romans. And all the Emperors of Rome/ or Pope's/ by order/ & their names. And many a notable father with certain of their acts As more plainly is declared in the chapter next after. ¶ And here been rehearsed the names of the auctors/ of whom these chronicles been translated most namely. ¶ Galfridus Nunmoth monk in his book of Brute Saint Bede in the acts of england. I● Bede in his book of times. Gyldas in the acts of britain. william Malmesbury monk in the acts of kings of England & bishops. Cassiderus of the acts of Emperors & bishops. Saint Austyn de cidei. Titus Livius de gestis Romanorum. Martin Penytencyary to the pope in his chronicles of Emperors & bishops. And namely Theobaldus Cartusien● & containing in his book the progress of all notable faders from the beginning of the world unto our time with the notable acts of the same. ¶ In this new translation are contained many notable & marvelous things. And those been alleged by authority of many famous clerks. And that every man may know how these chronicles been ordered▪ ye shall understand/ that this book is divided in vii parts. Of the which the first part contained from Adam till Bru●e came in to britain. The second part containeth from Brute came first in to England. unto the city of Rome was builded by Romolus'. The third part containeth sith room was builded/ unto C●yste was borne of over lady Mary. The fourth from thence unto the coming of Sa●dus in to England. The fy●●● part from thence unto the coming of the Danies. The sixth part from thene/ unto the coming of the Normans. The seventh part fro the Normans/ unto our tyme. which is under the reign of Edward the fourth xxiii year/ whose noble chronicles by custom may not 〈◊〉 seen. ¶ And so in every part of these vii parts been showed the most & necessary acts of all the kings of england & their names written above in the margene/ that every man may find them soon. And afore the king of Englondes acts been written/ there is written the lineage of christ from Adam till that christ was borne of our lady/ with the high bishop & the Iu●e that were in that time/ & certain of their acts necessary/ till it be common till cryst was borne. And after that christ was borne/ & Peter was Pope of rome/ is showed by order the names of all the pope's & emperors of Rome/ afore/ & after/ with certeynt of their acts breviately/ & many other divers things & marvels in those men's days falling. And it is showed every thing in his place/ how many year it fell after the beginning of the world & how long afore that christ was borne. And when that I come to christ was borne than it is written/ how long any thing fell after the nativity of christ/ And this is the order of this book & the things that been spoken of. ANd as to men's desiring to have a very knowledge/ of these chronicles or of any other/ it is necessary: to know vi things. ¶ The first is the states of things/ and those been two One is fro the beginning of the world unto christ/ the which is called the state of Diviation. The second is from christ to the end of the world/ the which is called the state of Reconsiliation. ¶ The second thing is the division of times & those been three. One is afore the law of moyses/ & an other is under the law of Moses'/ an other is under the law of grace after cryst died. ¶ The third is the governing of kingdoms. And as for that ye must know: that all though there were four principal kingdoms/ that is to say. Of Babylon/ of Persces/ of Grekis/ and romans. nevertheless: as to the course of the world: & the order of holy scripture: the first governing was under faders: from Adam unto moyses. The second under judges from Moses unto Saul. The third under kings: from Saul unto zorobabel. The fourth under bishops from zorobabel unto christ. ¶ The fourth is the diversity of laws & those were five. The first was the law of nature: and that was comen of all men. The second is the law or the custom of gentiles: when that under king Nyon the people began to worship falls gods. The third is under the law written: rose the law of jews: when the Circuncisyon divided the Jews from other people The fourth is under Cryst/ rose the law of christian men/ when faith and grace of the sacraments/ informed the life of men. The fifth under Machomete/ rose the law of Sarrasyns & Turks. ¶ The fifth is/ the nobleness or unnobleness in deeds ¶ And as to these/ it is to know that vii persons been red of/ whom the deeds many times are had in mind in histories. That is to wite/ of a prince in his ream/ of a knight in battle. of a judge in his place/ of a bishop in the clergy/ of a politic man in the people of an husband man in the house/ & of an abbot in his church. And of these are written many times the lauds of good men/ & the punishments of the cursed men. ¶ The sixth is the true counting of the years and as to that it is to be know/ that there were viii manner of numbering or counting of the years. Three after the Hebrews. Three after the greeks. One after the Ramayns· And one now after the christian men. The Hebrews three manner of wise beginneth their year. After the Hebrews there is the year usual/ beginning at january/ the which they use in covenants & bargains making. And the year leeful beginning at March/ the which they use in their ceremonies. And the year Emergens from May beginning when they went from Egypt. they use in their chronicles & calculations. ¶ The greeks numbereth their year three manner of wise. first to the glory & joy of their victory/ counteth their years from the destruction of Troy The first/ the second/ the third/ the fourth etc. ¶ Thenne after the chyvalry began at the hill of Olympus/ they notefyed the years after the same Olympyadun. And what Olympyades is/ ye shall know after in the book. The third/ when they begun to have lordship of all the world they notefyed their years these manner of wise In the year of the reign of greeks the four the ten the: xv. etc. As it is open in the book of Machabeorum ¶ Thenne after the romans governing the world/ counted & numbered their years (ab ur be condita) ¶ The last of all christian men counteth their years from the incarnation of christ And because we been christian men we use most to number/ from the beginning of the world/ unto christ was borne. And fro christ was borne unto our tyme. And this order is observed and kept in all the book/ of every thing in his place as it is said before. ¶ Explicit Prologus. ¶ Hic incipit Fructus temporum. Because of this books made/ to tell what time of any thing notable was. Therefore the beginning of all times shortly shall be touched. For the which after doctors it is to be known/ that four things were made first/ & in one time: & of one age. That is to wite/ the heaven Imperial/ angels nature: the matter of the four elements: & tyme. And that doctors call: the work of the creation: the which was made afore any day or night of the mighty power of god. And was made of nothing. ¶ Thenne after followeth the work of the division: the which was made in three of the first days in which is showed the high wisdom of the maker. ¶ Thenne after followeth the arayenge of this work in the which is showed the goodness of the creature the which was made iii of the next days following (Vt patꝪ clare in te●●u gen. primo) ¶ The first day god made/ & divided the light from the darkness. ¶ The second day god made: & ordained the firmament: & divided the water from the water. ¶ The third day god made in the● which he gathered the waters in to one place: 〈◊〉 earth than appeared. ¶ The fourth day god made: in the which he ordained the son: the moan & the stars & put them in the firmament. ¶ The fifth day god made: in the which he ordained fishes and fowls: and great whales in the water. ¶ The sixth day god ordained: in the which he made be'st and man. ¶ The seventh day god made: and in that day he rested of all works that he had ordained/ not as in working being weary. But he ●eased to make more new creatures (Vide plura gen i) BE it known/ that Adam the first man/ of whom it is written in this first age next lowing/ lived ix C. year & xxx And he gate xxxii sons/ & as many daughters. ¶ Anno mundi i Et ante xpi nativitatem v. M. C.lxxxxix· ¶ Here beginneth the first age during unto the flood of Noy Adam Eva depiction of Adam and Eve, the Tree, and the Serpent IN the first year of the world the sixth day/ god made Adam in the field. Damasc●n̄ & eva of one of his rib/ putting them in paradise. And bade them to keep his commandment that they should not eat of the fruit of life under the pain of death. And the same day that they had sinned: anon he cast them out of paradise in to the land of cursedness that they should live there with seating & sorrow till they died (Vide plura gen i) ¶ This Adam was an holy man all the days of his life/ & great penance daily he did. And he commanded his children to live rightwisely. And namely that they should avoid in all wise from the company of Cayn and his children. Nor that they should not mary with none of them. ¶ This man Adam was our first father. And for one sin he put us out of paradies. But through his holy conversation & penance/ he gave us ensample to come to the kingdom of heaven. And he that will not follow his holy conversation & example/ for one sin rightwisely/ he can not complain on him/ as we do many. ¶ Seth son to Adam was borne after the beginning of the world. C. & xxx years/ & lived ix C. & xii But Moses overskipped an hundredth of those/ in the which Abel wept in the vale of Ploration nigh Ebron This Seth for the oil of mercy to be go●en/ went to paradies. Delbora was sister to Abel Abel was slain of cain his broad. This Abel the first martyr began the church of god. This man after Austyn made the city of god/ & he was the first cytezyn of that city. And because that he was rightwise our lord received his offering. ¶ Calmana was sister & wife to cain. This cain was a cursed man/ & he made the first earthly city that ever in this world was in the which he put his people for dread in so much as he used caryn & violence. For he trusteth such thing to be done to him as he did to other/ therefore he put him & his in to a syker place. This man slew his brother Abel for envy/ & he was punished of god/ and wandered about in a despair. And after was slain of Lamath a blind man. ¶ Anno mundi four C.xxxv. Et ante xpi nativitatem four M.ix. C.lxxiiii. ENos of the line of christ lived ix C. year & .v. This Enos began to call the name of our lord. It might hap be found some words of prayer/ or made some images for god to be worshipped/ as now is in the church ¶ Chanam lived after ix C. year and ten ¶ Anno mundi vii C. lxxxxv. Et ante nativitatem four M.iiii. C.iiii MAlaleel of the line of christ lived viii C. lxxxxv. year ¶ ●areth of the same line lived ix C.lxii ¶ Enoch of the same line lived four C. year .lxv. This Enoch was a rightwise man/ & pleased god. And for his great holiness our lord translated him in to paradise where he liveth with Hely/ in great rest of body and soul/ till the coming of antichrist Than they shall go forth for the comfortation of good men. And they shall be crowned with the crown of martyrdom. MAtusalem of Crysties line: lived ix C. lxix. years. This matusale was the oldest man that ever any scrypturs hath mind of For when he had lived nigh five hundred year: our lord said to him Build the an house & thou wile: for yet thou shalt live .v. hundred year. And he answered & said. For so little a time as .v. hundred year. I will build no house But rested under trees and hedges: and there slept/ as he was wont to do for a tyme. ¶ Anno mundi. M.iiii. C.liiii. Et ante xpi nativitatem iii M.vii. C.xlv. LAmeth was of age seven. hundred lxxvii This Lameth the first against nature & good manners ordained that a man might have two wives/ in doing his adultery. And he was sore punished of them/ for they gave him many a gripe For it is so that by what thing a man seneth/ by the same he is punished. This Lameth slew cain wilfully not. But when he was old & blind/ he was lad of a child the which trowed that he had seen a wild best & said to his master that he should shoot & so he slew cain. wherefore he beat the child so sore that the child also was deed ¶ And it is to be known that all crafts/ or sciences liberal or hand crafts/ or of physic serving to the curiosity of man are red that they were fostden of the children of Lameth and for they dread the peril to come of the flood & of the fire therefore Tubal graved the same crafts in two pilers. The one was of marble/ the other of ●yle or brick. ¶ Tubal found first the craft to work gold & silver/ & iron. And was the first graver that ever was ¶ jabe found first Tē●oria for shepherds/ and pavilions for other men. ¶ jubal found first the craft to play upon an harp and organs and other musical Instruments he used. ¶ Nocma found first the craft for to weave linen & woollen cloth/ and to drawathredes of wulle and flax. And afore that time/ the people used the skins of beasts for their clothes. ¶ Anno mundi. M.vi. C.xlii Et ante xpi nativitatem iii M.u. C.lvii. THe ship of Noah had in length iii hundred cubytes/ in breed l in altytue●. (Vide plura genesis vi ¶ Know ye after ●uctours that a convenient pain this time was ordained to the world. For thenne lechery habunded the which defouled man's body. And there by water the earth was washed & cleansed in sign of the promise that god made to man that there should never be such a flood again ¶ And the rainbow hath two principal colours the which represent the two jugementꝭ The water colour representeth the flood that is passed the fire colour betokeneth the judgement to come/ & fire/ by that which we certainly abyme in the end of this world by cause covetise shall abound by fire it shall be brent Gold & silver by the fire is wont to be cleansed. ¶ Here beginneth the second age of the world during to Abram depiction of Noah's ark THis Noah was a rightwise man & found grace against god when Noah was five hundred year of age he had gotten Cham. Sem. & japheth that time by the commandment of god he began to make a ship. & he made it perfit in an. C. year. And the. C. year complete/ our lord god appeared again to him/ & commanded him that he with his wife & his children & the wives of them should enter the ship with all manner of beasts/ & all manner of fowls also. &c. ¶ And anon the flood came/ & stood above all hills xv. cubit (Vide plura gen .viiº) ¶ After the flood a great drunkenness betide unto Noe. & through occasion of that dronkesse he blessed his two sons. Sem & japhet/ for the faders honour that they had to him & for the honest shame that they covered meekly there father membres when he was sleeping. & his son Cham/ for his scorning & his unreverence/ he cursed. ¶ And here after saint Austyn is made/ the first mention of bondage/ & of nobleness contrary to it· For Noah said that Cham should be servant in bondage to Sem & japhet/ for his unreverence. Nevertheless ye shall not trow/ that all that descended of Cham were unnoble men & of no power. For they began first to be mighty men of the earth. As it is open of Nembroth & the king of Canaan & Ascorum. Nor all of Sem & japhet were virtuous & noble & mighty men when almost everche one fell in to the crime of idolatry/ and were oft times oppressed of other men. But this blessing & this cursing hath a respect to virtue & vice/ for the which a man is called truly a noble man or an unnoble man. For he that is virtuous is a noble man & he that is unvirtuous is not noble. the same manner of wise though that followeth the faith of abraham rathar were called his children than the Jews the which carnally descended from him. Nevertheless they had a spiritual prevelege of god/ for the faders merytis & his blessing. & these iii sons oe No he being alive after thy story of Phil●īs were born xxiiii M. & vii C. men without women & children. And they had on them three princes Nembroth. jactan. & Suphen. ¶ Anno mundi ii M.ii C.xlii Et ante xpi nativitatem ii M.vi. C.lvii. SEm sone to No/ the second year after the flood gate Arpharat/ & other while he is called Melchisedeth The which first after the flood made the city of Salem/ & now it is called jerusalem ¶ Cham his brother obtained Affricam/ & gate sons twain. Chus and Mesrayam. And the two gate sons & daughters/ & many a region was of them & many of them to us been unknown. For they inhabit & have their mansions in the occydentall ynde. ¶ japhet was brother unto Cham/ & was blessed of his father/ & this japhet had vii sons. as Gomor. magog. Maday. janam· Tubal. Masog. & Iras. And these vii gate sons & daughters/ & of them came many a region (Vide p●●a Gen. xu) ¶ Arpharat son to s●m lived. CCCC. & xxx year. And gate Elam. Assure. Ludde/ & Aram/ & they gate many a son & daughter (ut pꝪ gen) ¶ This Assur/ by cause he would not rebel against god. in the edifying & building of the tour of Babylon/ as Nembroth did therefore he was driven unto the land of Sennaars' land/ which was right strange to him & was not afore inhabited/ The which was called after his name Assuria. And there he edified & builded a city afterward named Ninive/ the which was Metropolon of all the kingdom of Assurium. ¶ Chus son to Cham was father to Nembroth. This Nembroth was a giant of ten cubytes long. & he began to be mighty in the world & he is called a boisterous hunter afore god This man begun that wretched vice of covetousness by his tyranny/ with the which vice evermore after this world is fulfyled. And the pryncypalest kingdom that he had was Babylon. & he had Archade. Edissa. Selencia/ & the land of Sennaar. ¶ Sale son to Arpharat lived. cccc. & xxxiii years. & of him in scripture is no thing written but that Moses numbered him in the line that cometh of christ. this Sale gate a son that was named Heber The which after the Hebrews had the spirit of prophecy. And of this Heber the Hebrews been named. For the Hebrews tongue bode alone in his house in the confusion of the language And that language was called man's language/ the which every man used afore the tour of Babyloa was builded ¶ This Heber had two sons/ and one was called jectan through ensample of Nembroth decensending from Cham took the princehood upon the children of Sem. And he had xiii sons. But these people after jerom are not known of us/ for fernesse of the country/ or muta●yon & changing of the people/ or else of some other manner cause. ¶ Anno mund. M. vi·C.xliii Et ante xpi nativitatem ii M.u. C.lvi ¶ Turris Babylonis. PHaleg lived two. C. & xxxix years this phaleg was the younger son of Heber/ & in his days was made the confusion of languages For in his house abode the old tongue all owl/ & that was Hebrew. wherefore after Saint Austyn/ in him appeared a great steadfastness of right wysnes For this house was free of that pain/ As not consenting to the building of the tour. (●t secundum Aug) there was lxxii generations/ & so there were lxxii language. ¶ Iacta● oder to Phaleg Sem Nembroth prince of Cham Sulphen of japhet/ these three princes with there people gathered them to guider in the field of Sennaar/ dreading ye●●ood to come again said. Let us build a tour/ of the which: the height shall reach to heaven etc. Gen. xii. Our lord saw the foolishness of the people. Maruayllously for the pain of their sin/ he confounded the tongue of them. in so much that none understood what an other said. And so they were dispurpled & asondred by all the world. ¶ Of the malice of this Nembroth books been written full ¶ And after the confusion of the language he went to the land of Pertees/ & there he enstrocte & taught them to dour & worship the fire as god. And he left his son Belus in Babylon/ the which Belus succeeded him. And so from thence his progeny obtained the kingdom/ unto the time of many a year after. ¶ In this time began many kingdoms. & the most of those kingdoms was the kingdom of Scitarum. But there were so many rude & boisterous people in it/ that city was never had in worship. And it was a strong and a mighty region of distance. ¶ And about this time began the kingdom of Egept/ the which with divers and many alterations often times was chaunged· also it is spoken of many times in scripture ¶ nobleness or gentlemen about this said time began. And this nobleness or gentlemen was ordained for many causes. ¶ The first cause was necessity. For when makend drew sore & men were prompt & ready to do evil. it was very necessary/ to withstand the great malice of the cursed people/ against good men There of a man is called a gentleman or a nobleman/ as before other in virtues notable. ¶ where of jerom saith. I see no thing else in noblesse or in gentlemen bute that they are bounden in a creteyn necessity/ that they shall not recede fro the virtue/ and the gentleness of their noble ancestors. ¶ The second was the divers worshipping of the people. For no man worshypt then/ but as his natural reason gaaf. And they knew not rightwisely what they should worship/ all though they lived peaceable among themselves For they were so dull of wit/ that they could ponder no great thing/ but the was published by the common people. wherefore it was expedient for their peas be kept that they should have princes of noble birth. ¶ The third cause proceedeth of some singular strength. Many times the commonalty were grieved through enemies coming upon them. And then they said the who somever would defend & keep them from these perils/ he should have the right of nobleness for him & his heyers for ever more & in this manner of wise many are radde to be noble men ¶ The fourth cause of nobleness/ was great abundance of goods. Sometime the people we held with great penury of meet & drink. And then they took them and theirs to some rich man/ that through that covenant/ they s●old tempre the great straightness of their hungres/ and after that they should know him as their lord and a noble man. ¶ Also there be found certain noble men by the provision of god/ though they were but few of the which some abode in virtue/ as david: and some failed anon: as saul and Jeroboam. Also it is radde: that many were noble men by tyranny and violence. Of the which some were destroyed anon. And some abode in stableness/ as paynims might. ¶ Anno mundi ii M.ix. C. & .v. Et ante xpi nativitatem ii M.ii C.lxxxiiii. SAruk lynelly descended from our forn father Adam to Abraham And Nachor was son/ & he lived an houndred and xlviii year. ¶ And about this time idolatry began to increase mightily. And if ye revolve & look the histories/ ye shall find that three things principally brought men to the sin of ydoly. That is to understand. the affection which theg had to deed men. dread & flattering against their princes. And the diligence of artificers & crafty men about scultures or gravings. wicked fiends then entered in to the idols/ and gave answers to the people And these wicked spirits confirmed the error of the people mightily. In so much/ that what some ever manner of person/ would not conform him to the reason/ he should grievously suffer the pain of death. Also there was added and put to these things the dysceyving laud and praising of poets/ the which wretches and also dampened men in to heaven with all their gay adorned writings exalted/ And that same time/ when devils began for to speak/ so fayrly and so meekly to man The good lord of his great and abundant merry/ sent his angels/ That they should speak to his elected men in visibly/ least that all man kind should perish with this mischievous error. BElus soon to Nembroth this time was king of Babylon. And he was the first king of this world/ & this man was he whom the error of the people first trowed/ should be a god/ wherefore divers people named him diversly. And some called him Bell/ some Baal some Baalim/ some Beelphagor/ & some Beelzebub And this unhappy error stood in man kind more than two. M. years. ¶ Ninus son to Belus the second king of Babylon of assuriorun/ reigned liiii years. And this Ninus desired for to have lordship & worship and to that intent that he might be lord of all the country about him/ he gave battle to all that dwelled nigh about him. And by cause that time the people were rude and had not the coming of yght king nor armour/ anon he subdued unto him all Asiam. And there was made the first Monarch in the east party. And when his heart was sorry for the death of his father Belus/ he made to be made to him for his comfort an image of his father. to whom he gave so mighty reverence that what somever guilty man had fled to that image there should no man do unto him no hurt/ and he pardonned him of all his trespasse· And through his ensample many a man began to worship the deed image/ of their dear friends. then these malicious spirits saying the curiosity of the people/ hid them within them/ and gave answers unto the people/ and said they were gods. And commanded them to do reverence unto them as goddess Thus that unhappy sin of idolatry was brought in/ the which repugned mightily to gods majesty. And in so much this madness grew. that he should suffer the pain of death that said/ they were men but gods. ¶ Anno mund. M.C.xiiii. Et ante xpi nativitatem two. M.lxxv. There soon to Nachor lived ii C. & .v. year. this There after the death of Aram went from Vr of Called/ & passed in to Chartam with his children & his nephews And it is said/ by cause he would not worship the 〈◊〉 as Nembroth had taught he was banysshe● 〈◊〉 country. And the common opinion of the Hebrews is Nembroth reigned there the which was called an other name Amraphel the king of Sennar/ whom long time after this Abraham overcame Vt dicitur Gen. xiiii. ¶ Anno mund. M. C.lxx●●iii. Et ante xpi nativitatem ii M.xv. ¶ Here beginneth the third arge of the wrolde during to david. HEre beginneth the devout & holy story of holy patriarchs the which worship the very god/ & in their worshipping they caught it (vide pla gen. xii. usque ad finē● ¶ This Abraham a faithful lover of god was born the xliii. year of Ninus king of Babylon. & know ye that the lxxiu year of Abraham thorough the mighty glory of the high god. The word of mercy descended upon mankind/ for than he 'gan appear the oraculus of the promise of god guide Au. xvi. de ci. dei. Itm̄ gen. xv. For this time holy angels appeared to us in form of mankind. ¶ This Abraham had two brethren. Aram & Nachor. and Aram gate Loth a rightwise man & an holy. & he deserved to be visited with aungles depiction of Abraham as his uncle Abraham was· And for this Loath abraham smote four kings/ for they took Loath (gen. xiiii. Of whom one was said to be Nembroth but he is called here amraphel. And Abraham had many wives/ as Sara & Agar. & his children & his brethren had many children But for us that writ chronicles it is not necessary/ to speak of all men/ but of the noble faders (sed vide pla ●ine gen) ¶ Melchisedech this time was king of Salem. This man was called a rightwise king/ for his exceeding holiness And he offered bred & wine to Abraham in sign of a great mystery. He was also the priest of the high god. ¶ Semiramis the third king of Babylon/ he ordained an army/ & went into ynde & obtained that country. And so by all Asyan/ the kingdom of Assuriorum was dilated. & he multiplied the city of Babylon mightily. & made walls about it. This Semiramis had a wife & he forsook her & it is written that she was slain of her son Ninus/ by cause she provoked him to the unleeful concupisbence (sic di. Au. viii. dcci. dei.) & the master in his stories saith that she wedded her own son & he gate a child on her/ the which ordained babylon/ to be the heed of all his ream. ¶ Ninus the fourth king of Babylon was son to great Ninus. Of this man little is written but that he slew his own mother as is said afore ¶ Arrius was the fifth king of Babylon. And under him was borne isaac. ALso isaac son of Abraham/ of the line of christ/ lived. C.lxxx. year. this isaac had a wife called Rebecca & on her he gate two sons Esau & jacob. This Esau sold his he rytaunce to his brother jacob. & he was the father of Idumeorum/ & he had in possession the hill of Seyr/ & put first mares to asses where of was engendered mules. ¶ About this time xxx lord ships & Gomorra for their horrible sin were overthrown. the wife of Loath/ looking backward turned in to a salt stone/ showeth the no man in the way of delyberation should desire thing past (hec Augus de civitate dei) ¶ Anno mundi iii M.iii C.xliiii. Et ante xpinativitatem. M.viii. C.lvi Jacob lived. C.xlvii. year. This jacob had four wives or some concubines that is to wite. Lyam Balam▪ zelphan & Rachel Lyam was the first wife/ & she was bler●eyed. And she bore him vi sons judas. Reuben. Syme●n. Levy· ysachar. zabulon/ & a daughter the height dyna. Bala servant to Lya & concubine to jacob/ bare him two sons. Dan & neptalim ¶ Rachel the second wife to jacob was barren long time/ & at the last she bore him two sons. joseph & Beniamyn zelphas servant to rachel bare jacob two sons. Gad & Aser/ & everich of these made a tribe/ of whom in this place it is not necessary to speak (vide plura gen) ¶ joseph son to jacob was borne lxxxx. year of his fads age/ & he lived. C.i. year. ¶ zerses this time was king of babylon under whom was borne jacob/ & was the vii king of Babylon. ¶ Armavirre was king after him. & after saint austin in that man's days our lord appeared to isaac/ promising him those things the which he promised to his father. ¶ Belocus the xi king of Babylon was after this man. And under Belocus/ or in this time our lord spoke with jacob/ promising him/ that he had promised to his father/ the which were two. The possession of the land of promission & Canaan/ & the benediction of all the people in his seed/ the which is our lord Ihesu christ. Abraham about this time deceased/ & was buried in hebron. ¶ Inachus the first king that ever was in Grece was this time: for them the kingdom begun. ¶ Phoromius was the king after him/ & he ordained laws to the greeks. & c ¶ Anno mundi iii M.iii C.iiii Et ante xpi nativitatem. M.vii. C. lxxxxix. IVdas son of jacob descended of him/ & of this tribe of judas came the kings progeny/ & at last Cryst our lord. judas gate Phares/ & Phares Esron/ & of these men little is had inscrypture/ but Math rehearseth them. ¶ Beleus in this Pares days was king of Assuriorum/ or of Babylon & he was the ten king under whom isaac decessed. ¶ Atlas the great astronymyer was also the which is said to bear up heaven on his shoulder/ for the very knowledge of the stars. ¶ Sarapis was the third king of Arguiorum or of Grecorum & this Sarapꝭ was called otherwise Apis/ & he came in to Egypte with a mighty navy/ & there decessed & was made of the blind gentiles the egyptians the greatest god among them. And that time began a marvelous superstition in idolatry of a calf of two colour which they called Apen/ & that calf died/ the devils procured a like calf to that/ for to be made/ that they might deceive the rude people/ & after that it came that the children of Israel did on the same wise (ut pꝪ) And what thing could be more wretched or foolish in man having reason. ¶ Argus was the fourth king of Grekis/ after whom the noble city of Argus took his name. Cyeropis edified Athenes in Grecia/ & this ●●te was the nou●yssher of liberal science ● & of many philosophers/ yet they were deceived by devils/ & great superstycyosyte in the city was made (vide augus et mirabilem fabulam reperies (¶ Omogires the first man put oxen to the plough. ¶ Belus this time was king of Babylon/ & he was the ten king of the region/ & under him died isaac: ¶ Pharaoh was king of Egypt which received joseph/ & exalted him for the interpretation of his dreams (vide scientiam palcherrimanque historiam. gen. xlii. etc. ¶ Amithus was the xii king of Babylon/ under whom died joseph a blessed man in chastity. ¶ Pharaoh Emonophis about Esdroms' days was king of Egypt/ & this Pharaoh know not joseph ne none of his lineage & he commanded the chyldn of Israel to be drowned/ as it is had (Exodi i) ye clerks may look that book and we lay will look to chronicles/ but about this time the story of Exodi began. ¶ Anno mundi iii M.u. C.xliiii. Et ante xpi nativitatem. M. uc.lx. ARam son to Esrom of the line of christ was about this time & he gate Aminadab. Naason/ of these men letell is written in scripture & therefore I proceed to other matters ¶ job that holy man & of all patience ensample about this time was borne/ of the line of Nachor the brother of Abraham/ & he lived many years: & after that god had visited him: & had assayed his pacyens/ he lived an. C. & xl year ꝑ ang. greg. & lix) ¶ Moses' about this time was borne/ & the children of Israel were in great tribulation & bondage. & Moses was put in the water to be drowned. ¶ Aron about this time was borne. ¶ Dafrus was king of Babylon & was the xiiii king/ and Moses was borne under him in Egypt. ¶ Cycrops was the first king of Athenes. And after saint austin/ that time many lesyng● were written/ in the histories of the Grekis the which comynly were less than the common fame fa●the/ of a little thing they wrote a great ma●ere/ because to show their cunning for there was the university of greeks. ¶ Anno mund. M.vi. C.lxxviii. Et ante xpi nativitatem M.u. C.xi AMynadab son to Aron/ of crystes line was this tyme. This Amynadab first after moyses with a full faith/ entered in to the reed see/ & dread not when many a hundreth were feared lest they should be drowned/ and therefore he deserved to bring forth the kings lineage/ of whom descended our lord Ihesu christ. Moses' was the first of Israel that ever was/ & he was judge xl year. This Moses was the most excellent prophet that ever god made/ and the most notable writer of stories/ & of his loving heaven & earth speaketh. For he saw almighty god clearly face to face which in this frail life was never founden in scripture but of him & Paul th'apostle ¶ Aron the first bishop lived a. C.xxiii. year/ this Aron was called of god in to the dignity of the high priest or of a bishop & was ordained the eternal testament to himself & to all that come after him for the great power of priesthood. when he was a. C.xxiii. year of age/ he decessed and was buried in the hill of Hor. And his son Heleazarus succeeded him in the bishopric. ¶ Pharaoh Boccaris this time was king of Egypt/ & this Pharaoh would not here the commandment of god/ ne deliver the children of Israel/ wherefore he was punished with ten plagues (Vt patꝪ exo) And after he with all his host were drowned in the red see. Nason son to Amynadab was prince of the tribe of judas in the desert/ and about this time the law of god was given in the hill of Synay/ & the book of Levicici was write/ and another book was called Numerun/ & the tabernacle was ordained. The book of Deuteromanun was made. Balaam was prophet and was slain. ¶ Anno mundi iii M.vii. C.xxxv. Et ante xpi nativitatem. M.iiii. C.lxxiiii. SAlmen of the line of christ was about this time/ & had a wife that height Reab Moses' about this time decessed/ the water of from jordan was dry. Jerico was take/ the son stood in the firmament Inmevable (Historia li. joshua incipit. et judicum) joshua second judge of Israel was a mighty man in battle/ & the first in desert he overcame Amalech/ & after Moses of god he was ordained judge of Israel/ of whom the battles the works & the religious life/ ye may see in the book of joshua written. ¶ Eleazar was the second bishop And he & joshua divided the land of promyssy on to the children of Israel. And of him descended the bishops unto christ/ a few excepted. ¶ Othonyell of the tribe of juda/ was the third judge. And this man delivered the children of Israel from the oppression of the ream of mesopotamie/ the which he overcame in battle This man took Axam to his wife/ the which asked the vale lands above & beneath of her father Calepth (ut pꝪ judicum i) ¶ Aoth was the four the judge of Israel· This man subdued Eglon the king of Moab & delivered the children of Israel. This was a mighty man in battle: & he used the one as well as tother for his right hand. ¶ About this time the king of italy began. And many times their names been changed: of the which progenyte of the romans more clearly is showed. ¶ Ian●s was the first king of italy: & after ward of the rude gentiles he was worshipped as god: & they feigned him to have two faces. for they worshipped his feast in the beginning of the year: as he were the end of the last year. And the beginning of the first. And of him the moveth of january hath his name. ¶ Amictus was the. viii· king of Babylon under whom joshua decessed. ¶ Anno mund. M.vii. C.lxxv. Et ante xpi nativitatem. M. iiii.xxiiii BOos soon to Salmon of the line of christ was this time: but of him is little written/ but that Ma●he. numbered him in the Genology. As doctors say/ there was made skipping of names betwixt Boos & Obeth. For at the lest betwixt them were ii C.lxxii. year/ the which time to one man may not be referred and therefore here many things is spoken of or I come to the line of christ again) Nicholaus de lyra dicit qd sunc iii boos unus post alium) ¶ Sangar was the .v. judge of Israel/ but he lived no years. ¶ Dolbara was the vi Iuge/ this Dolbora was a woman/ & for the grace of her prophecy/ was given to her honour that she judged Israel. She by the commandment of god called Baruch that he should go fight with the enemies of Israel/ & the children of Israel gate the victory against jabyn the king of Chanaan & Cizaram the prince of his chyvalry & he destroyed them (ut ptꝪ judicum iiii) ¶ Phenies was bishop/ & this Phenies yet a young man for god's sake slew many lecherous men/ & therefore our lord was pleased with him. ¶ Saturnus this time was king of yealy & he was the second king there/ this Saturnus is said/ to come fro the land of cretens in to italy/ who by idolatry & through a marvelous blindness they said he was no man but a god. & yet they said that he reigned upon them as their king And he taught men to dung their fields. And of Saturnus the romans were called Saturniani. Picus was son to saturnus & or he was king in italy he was king in larentin/ & after his death/ he was worshipped of the gentiles for a god Anno mundi iii M.viii. C.lxxv. Et ante xpi nativitatem. M. iii.xliiii. GEdeon the vii judge of Israel was this time/ this Gedeon subdued four kings. Oreb. zebe●. zeb. and Salmana. And he subdued Madean to Israel. (Vide plura judicum. vi.vii. et viii BOcci was bishop in Israel then. ¶ Abimalech the viii judge in Israel was natural son to gedeon. & he was not called of god/ but maliciously took on him the princehood of Israel. And he slew lxx of his brethren/ wherefore he ended his life mischievously (Vt pꝪ judicum) ¶ Tola was the ix judge in Israel. And this man guided him after the old governance of judges/ by the manner of direction & counsel/ more than by domination ¶ Bocci was bishop about this time/ but of him little is written. ¶ jayr the ten judge of Israel had xxx sons whom he made princes of xxx cities. And by cause they were good men and ruled to the pleasure of god. Therefore in the days of these two men. Israel drew to our lord. And therefore all thing came and was in prosperity and wealth. FAnus was the four king in italy & he was king of larentin both. ¶ Latinus was king in italy after Fanus/ & of this Latinus was called the kingdom of Latinorum. And Carmentꝭ daughter of Euandris found first latin letters. Tauranus about this time was king of Babylon or of Assiriorum/ & under this man Troy was destroyed first. The occasion of the battle of Troy began for a little thing In so much as Lamydon king of Troy received not Hercules & jason with due honour/ as they should have received/ & of so little a trespaas/ how many harms & hurts grew. ¶ Sibilla delphica afore the battle of Troy prophe●yed/ how a child should be borne of a virgin without man's seed. ¶ Lamydom king of Troy was slain/ & his daughter Roxoma was taken in to Grekys' land. For the which followeth mighty battle & most fearful mischiefs (vide hystoria troianam) Hercules with jason destroyed Ilium or Troy the which anon after was builded of Priamus son to Lamydon. This Hercules did many marvelous things & many mighty battles. And infinite leasings been feigned on him. At the last when he had overcome moche people/ he was sore hurt in war. And when he might not suffer the pain of his sore with the which he was grieved. Himself he ran in to the fire/ and when he was deed/ he was worshipped among the goods of the gentiles mightily. ¶ Circa annum mund. M.ix. C.lxxv. Et ante xpi nativitatem. M.ii C.xxiiii. AFter the death of jayr judge of Israel the people of Israel added new sins to their old. And our lord took them in to the power of Philistiens & to the children of Amon xviii. year. And they were greatly oppressed/ & then they cried to our lord. Thenne Repte was espied with almighty god/ and fought against Amon & seditious people of the hill of Effraym. And for an unprudent voys he show his own daughter foolishly/ & did sacrifice to god with her (judicum xi et xii ¶ Ozy this time was bishop in Israel/ & he was of the seed of Aron/ by the lyn● of Eleazari the which died/ through the provision of god the bishopric turned to the line of ythamar an. C & twenty year/ in the which line He y was the first high bishop. And Ab●achar was the last. ¶ Ebassam was judge in Israel vii year & he was the xii Iuge/ & he was named other wise Boos the which wedded Ruth. ¶ Abialon the xii●. judge of Israel was judge ten year. And under these times the children of Israel were quiet. And therefore none notable things were done in these days. ¶ Abdon the xiiii judge governed in Israel viii years. And about this time the history of Ruth was written. ¶ Authamanis this time was king of Asseri● & Priamus king of troy son to Lamido● the builded his city again marvelously strong. And began battle with the Greeks unto his own hurt. And he had a son was called Hector a leeful gentle son by his wife Eccuba. This man was faithful & wise & Incomparable of strength & nobleness. This Priamus had an other son that was called paris the which took away fro the land of greeks helena wife to me nelaius the king. ¶ Agamenon the king brother to Menelaius the leader of all the Greeks host fought against Troy/ and at the last he wan the city falsely/ and to the Greeks most shame and slander that might be. For certainly that might be called an unhappy battle where no man giveth loving to the Greeks/ but every man reporteth shame. ¶ Aeneas was king of italy three year. And this Aeneas after Troy was destroyed of the Greeks/ that came into italy with twenty ships & died mighty battles there. And this man had wedded Priamus' daughter Elinsaram. And he was made a god through the error of the common people/ & of this man came julius cezar & octavianus augustus. ¶ Vlixes an eloquent man among all the Greeks/ after many perils on the see went home to his Penelopem. the most faithful & the most chaste woman that is radde of. And the Greeks perished wretchedly after that they had destroyed Troy/ both on the water & on the land as they went home ward again. ¶ And that was the pryncypal date of their writing after that victory. For they wrote their histories and other writings (sic anno primo. vel secundo. &c. post Troiam captam) And that was the third year of abdon judge of Israel. ¶ Circa annum mundi four M.xxu Et ante xpi nativitatem. M.C.lxxiiii. OBeth of crystes line son to Boosis rehearsed in Ma. ¶ Samson the xu judge reigned twenty year/ this sampson was the most strongest man that ever was/ & he delivered Israel from the Philistiens/ & fro his marvelous strength men trowed he had been Hercules (et rius mirabilia opera vide judicum xiii) ¶ Anno mundi ·iiii. M. lx●v. Et ante xpi nativitatem. M.C.xiiii. IEsse sone to Obeth of the line of christ otherwise called ysay father to david this time lived a notable man in honest. No king negrete governor. But of him many times is made mention in holy scripture. For of him descended cryst our saviour. ¶ This time Ely was judge & bishop of Israel the which had two sons Ophni & Phinees. & for he corrected them not sufficiently/ he & they were punished both of our lord. For they were slain of the Philistiens. And Ely fell of his seat & broke his neck. This Ely was judge next after sampson & not of the lineage of Aran: that was first bishop of god elect/ but of ythamar/ the lineage dured an hundred & twenty year. In the which lineage Ely was first bishop/ and Abiathar the last (Vide plura primo regum) This time Saul was king in Israel after the master in his histories/ & josephus in his ·viii. book. This Saul was first king in Israel/ & reigned twenty year/ the which or he was king was a good man & elect of god but after ward wretchedly he failed: & he was slain & his three sons in the hills of Gylboy ¶ In the time of saul Samuel was judge & prophet in Israel/ a holy man/ & borne of a barren mother many a day. And he ministered afore our lord from a child to his age. And was not high bishop/ but he judged Israel all the days of his life. And was the very prophet of god. Two kings he anointed. Saul first/ & after david. This samuel alone/ & Moses are radde. that they prayed for their enemies in all the old testament. Of this samuel & Saul be divers opinions. ¶ Isyder saith/ that Samuel & Saul ruled Israel xl year. ¶ And josepus in his viii book/ & the master in his stories saith. Samuel to be judge xii year alone. And after him Saul to regne twenty year (Plura vide primo regum) Ascanius' the vii king of italy was son to Aeneas/ & builded the city of Alby●n. And he was called the king of Albanorum. This ascanius gate Silvius the viii king of italy/ the which Silvius was father unto Brute king of britain/ now called england. And I leave of the kings of italy: for they did but little noble things/ till it be comen to Romulus & Remus that builded Rome. And then shall those kings come again/ & now to proceed to the chronicles of England/ for the which namely this book is made. ¶ And Venes & Padua were builded about this time/ of the residue of the Trojans. ¶ Homer the great poet about this time was/ the which wrote & feigned gloriously many a losing. ¶ Incipit regnum Brittany. nunc dicitur Anglia. ¶ Here may ye see how London first began at Albyon Albyon ¶ Afore that I will speak of Brute/ it shall be showed how the land of England was first named albion/ and by what encheason it was so named. OF the noble land of Sirrie/ there was a ryal king & mighty & a man of great renown/ that was called Dyoclesyan that well & worthily him governed & ruled through his noble chivalry. So that he conquered all the lands about him/ so that almost all the kings of the world to him were attendant. ¶ It befell thus that this Dyoclesyan spoused a gentle damosel that was wonder fair/ that was his uncles daughter Labana. & she loved him as reason would/ so that he gate upon her xxxiii daughters/ of the which the eldest was called. A been. And these damoiselles when they came unto age became so fair that it was wonder whereof dioclesian anon let make a somoning/ & commanded by his letters that all the kings that held of him should come at a certain day/ as in his letters were contained to make a feast rial. At which day thither they came/ & brought with them admirals princes and dukes/ and noble chyvalry. The feast was rially arrayed/ and there they lived in joy & mirth enough/ that it was wonder to wite. And it befell thus/ that dioclesian thought to marry his daughters among all though kings that were at that solemnity. ¶ And so they spoke & did/ that Albine his eldest daughter & all her sisters richly were married unto xxxiii. kings/ that were lords of great honour & of power at this solemnity. And when the solemnity was done/ every king took his wife & lad them in to their own country & there made them queens. And it befell thus afterward that this dame Albine became so stout & so stern/ that she told little price of her lord/ and of him had scorn & despite & would not do his will/ but she would have her own will in divers matters. And all her other sisters every eachone bore them so evil against their lords that it was wonder to wite. And for as much that then thought that their husbands were not of so high parentage come as their father But those kings that were their lords/ would have chastysen them with fair manner upon all love & friendship that they should amend their self-willed conditions. But all was for nought/ for they did their own will in all thing that then liked. & had of power. wherefore those xxxiii kings upon a time and oft times beat their wives. For they wend that they would amend their tatches. And their wickedness. But of such conditions they were/ that for fair speech & warning/ they did all the worse/ & for betings oft times much the worse. Wherefore the king that had wedded Albine wrote the tatches and conditions of his wife Albine/ and sent the letter to dioclesian his father. And when the other kings herd that Albines lord had sent a letter to dioclesian. anon they sent letters sealed with their seals the conditions & tatches of their wives. when the king dioclesian saw & heard so many plaints of his daughters. He was sore ashamed ● & became wonder angry and wroth toward his daughters and thought. how he thenne might amend it that they so mysdyde. And anon sent his letters unto the xxxiii kings that they should come to him: & bring with them their wives everichone at a certain day. For he would there chastise them of their wickedness/ if he might in any manner wise. So the kings came all at that time & day that then was set between him and the kings. dioclesian received them with moche honour/ and made a solemn feast to all that were underneath his lordship. And the third day after that solemnity/ the king dioclesian scent after his xxxiii daughters that they should come & speak with him in his chamber. And when they were come/ he spoke to them of their wickedness & of their cruelty and spitefully them reproved & blamed/ & to them he said. That if they would not be chastised/ they should his love lose for evermore. And when the ladies heard all this/ they became abashed & greatly ashamed. And to their father they said/ that they would make all amends and so they departed out of their faders chamber. And dame Albine that was the eldest sister lad them alto her chambre/ & then made to void all that were therein so that no person was among them but she and her sisters together. ¶ Then said Albine. My fair sisters well we know that the king our father us hath reproved shame and despised/ for because to make us obedyen● unto our husbands. But certes that shall I never whiles that I live/ sith that I am come of a more higher kings blood than mine husband. And when she had thus said/ all her sisters said the same. And then said Albine well I wot fair sisters that our husbands have complained unto our father upon us wherefore he hath us thus foul reproved & despised wherefore sister my counsel is/ that this night when our husbands been abede/ all we with one assent for to kit their throats and then we may be in peace of them And better we now do this thing under our faders power than other where else. And anon all the ladies consented and granted to this counsel. And when night was comen/ the lords and ladies went to bed/ And anon as their lords were a sleep/ they kette all their husbands throats/ and so they slew them all. when that dioclesian their father herd of this thing/ he became furiously wroth against his daughters/ And anon would them all have brent. But all the barons and lords of Sirrie counseled not so for to do such streytnesse to his own daughters/ but only should void the land of them for ever more so that they never should come again/ and so he died. And dioclesian that was their father anon commanded them to go in to a ship/ & delivered to them victuals for half a yere· And when this was done/ all the sisters went in to the ship and sailed forth in the see/ & betook all their friends to Apolin that was their god. And so long they sailed in the see/ till at the last they came and arrived in an isle/ that was all wilderness. And when dame Albion was come to that land & all her sisters. This Albyne went first forth out of the ship/ & said to her other sisters. For as moche said she as I am the eldest sister of all this company/ & first this land hath taken/ and for as much as mine name is Albine. I will that this land be called Albion/ after mine own name. And anon all her sisters granted to her with a good will though went out all the sisters of the ship & took the land Albyon as their sister called it. And there they went up & down/ and found neither man woman/ ne child/ but wild beasts of diverse kinds. And when the victual were dispended & they failed/ they fed them with herbs and fruits in the season of the year/ and so they lived as they best might. And after that they took flesh of diverse beasts & became wonder fat. And so they desired man's company/ and man's kind that then failed. And for heat they waxed wonder courageous of kind/ so that they desired more man's company than any other solace and mirth when the devil that perceived went by diverse countries and took a body of the air & liking natures shed of men/ & came in to the land of albion/ & lay by though women & shed though natures upon them & they conceived/ & after brought forth giants. Of the which one was called Gogmagog/ and an other Longherigam And so they were named by divers names/ & in this manner they came forth and were borne horrible giants in Albyon And they dwelled in caves and in hills at there will And had the land of albion as them liked/ unto the time that Brute arrived and came to Tornes that was in the isle of Albyon. And there this Brute conquered and discomfited the giants abovesaid. ¶ Explicit prima pars. ¶ Here beginneth now how Brute was gotten/ & how he slew first his mother/ & after his father. And how he conquered Albyon/ that after he named britain after his own name that now is called England after the name of Engyst of Saxony. ¶ This Brute came in to britain about the xviii year of Hely. BE it known that in the noble city of great Troy/ there was a noble knight & a man of great power that was called Aeneas. And when the city of Troy was lost & destroyed through them of Grece. This Aeneas with all his main fled thence & came to Lombardy. That then was lord & governor of the land a king that was called Latin. And an other king there was that was called Turocelyne/ that strongly warred upon this king Latin/ that oftentimes died him much harm And when this king Latin herd that Aeneas was come/ he received him with moche honour/ & him with held for as much as he had herd of him/ & wist well that he was a noble knight & a worthy of his body & of his deeds. This Aeneas helped king Latin in his war/ And shortly for to tell/ so well and so worthily he died that he slew Turocelyne/ and discomfited him and all his people. And when all this was done/ king Latin gaaf all that land that was Turocelynes/ to this noble man Aeneas in marriage with Lavine his daughter the most fairest creatue that any man wist. And so they lived together in yoy● & mirth all the days of their lyftyme ¶ And after Ascanius son to Aeneas wedded a wife/ & upon her he gate a son that was called Silueyne. And this Silueyne when he could some reason of man/ unweting his father and aenst his will aqueyted him with a damosel that was cousin to Lavine that was king Latynes daughter the queen that was Aeneas wife/ and brought the damaysell with child. And when Ascanius his father it wist/ anon let enqueyre of the wisest masters & of the greatest clerks/ what child the domoysell should bring forth/ & they answered & said/ that she should bring forth a son that shalde kill both his father & also his mother. And so he died. For his mother died in bearing of him. And when this child was borne/ his father let call him Brute And the masters said that he should do moche harm & sorrow in many divers places/ and after he should come to great honour and worship. This king Ascanius died when god would/ and Silueyne his son received the land/ & made him wonderly well beloved among his people. And so when Brute that was Silueynes son was xu year old/ he went upon a day with his father for to play & solace. And as Brute should have shot unto an heart/ his arrow mishap and glanced/ and so there Brute slew his father. ¶ How Brute was driven out of the land/ and how he held him in Grece. ANd when this mischance was befall all the people of the land made sorrow enough & were sore an angered. And for enche son there of they drove brute out of the land/ & would not suffer him among them. And when he saw that he might not there abide/ he went from thence in to Grece/ and there he found vii thousand men that were of the lineage and kindred of Troy that were come of great blood as the story telleth/ as of men and women and children/ the which were all hollde in thraldom and bondage of the king Pandras of Grece/ for the death of Achilles that was betrayed and slain at troy. This brute was a wonder fair man and a strong and a huge of his age and of glad there and semblant/ and also worthy of body/ & was well beloved among his people. This king Pandras heard speak of his goodness & his conditions/ and anon made him dwell with him so that brute became wonder privy & moche beloved with the king/ so that long time brute dwelled with the king So at the last they of Troy and brute spoke togethers of kindred and of lineage & of acquaintance/ & there plained them unto Brute of their sorrow & of their bondage/ & of many other shames that the king Pandras had them done. And unto brute they said upon a tyme. ye be a lord of our lineage & a strong man & a mighty ● ye be our capitain & lord/ and governor/ & we will become your men/ & your commandments do in all manner of things/ & bring us out of this wretchedness and bondage/ & we will fight with the king for truth with the grace of the great god/ we shall him overcome and we shall make you king of the land and to you do homage/ and of you we shall hold ever more. Brute had tho great pity of their bondage that they were brought in. And preu●ly went then from the kings court and though them that were of Troy/ went and put them in to woods and in to mountains and them there held. And sent unto king Pandras'/ that he should give them leave safely for to wend out of the land/ for they would no l●nger dwell in his bondage. The king Pandras waxed tho sore annoyed and though swore that he should slay them everichone/ and ordained a great power and went to ward them all for to fight. But Brute and his men manly them defended and fyerfly fought and slew all the kings men that none of them escaped/ and took the king and held him in prison/ and ordained counsel between them what they might done And some said that he should be put to death/ and some said that he should be exiled out of the land And some said/ that he should be brent. And though spoke a wise knight that was called Mempris/ and said to Brute and to all though of Troy. if king Pandras would yield him and have his life. I counsel that he give unto Brute that is our duke & our sovereign/ his daughter Gennogen to a wife/ and in marriage with her an hundred ships well arrayed/ and all his treasure of gold & silver of corn & of wine/ & as much as we need to have of ●o thing & other. & thenne go we out of this land/ & ordained us a land else where. For we nenone of our kindred that come after us shall never have peace in this land among them of Grece. For we have slain so many of their knights and of other friends that ever more war and contake should be among us Brute tho and all his folk consented well to that counsel. And this thing they told to king Pandras. And he for to have his life granted as much as they axed/ and anon gave unto Brute Gennogen his daughter to wife/ & an hundred ships with asmuch/ as them needed of all victuals/ as afore was ordained Brute though took his wife and all his men/ that forsook the land of Grece and went them unto the see and had wind & weather at their will and came the third day in to an isle that was called Lorgers. This Brute anon sent of his men a land for to espy the manner of the country. And they found an old city all wasted and forlet that was there in neither man ne woman/ ne no thing dwelling/ and in the mydeell of this city they found an old temple of a fair lady that was called Dyana the goddess. And they came again unto Brute & told him what they had seen and found. And they counseled him to go and do sacrifice unto dame Dyana/ for she was wont to give answer of what ever men prayed her and namely unto them that her honoured with sacrifice. Brute went unto that yamge and said Dyana noble goddess that all thing haste in thy might and power/ winds/ waters. woods/ field/ and all thing of the world/ and all manner of beasts that therein been. To you I make my prayer/ that ye me counsel and tell/ where/ and in what place: I shall have a covenable dwelling for me and for my people and there I shall make in honour of you a well fair temple and a noble/ wherein ye shall alway be honoured/ when he had done his prayer. Dyana answered in this manner Brute said she go even forth thy way over the see in io France to ward the west/ and there ye shall find an isle that is called albion/ & that isle is be compassed all with the see/ and no man may come there in but it be by ships and in that land were wont to dwell giants/ but now it is not so/ but all wilderness. And that land is destenyed and ordained for you and for your people. ¶ How Corin became Brutus' man/ and how king Goffar was discomfited. then when Brute had this answer of Dyana the gods. Anon he let the anchors wind up & sailed in to the high see. And when he & his men had sailed twenty days and moo/ they found fast busied a cost of the see a thousand men of the lineage & kindred of Troy. And there sovereign & their master of all was called Corin· And when Brute wist whence they were/ he though took them with moche joy in to his ships/ and lad them forth uviht him this Corin there be came brutes man & to him died homage. And so long they sailed forth in the see till they came unto Gascoigne. And anon they arrived in the haven of Lyegers & there they dwlled viii days them for to rest. & their sails to amend there that it was need. tidings soon came to king Goffar that was lord of that land how that moche people of strange land were arrived in to his land in the haven of Lyegres wherefore he was sore angreged & annoyed/ that they came and arrived in his land without his licence and his leave. And anon ordained him a great power for to drive out brute & to destroy him & all his people. But it was so that king Goffar was discomfited & all his people. And himself fled in to France/ there for help & succour. And in that time reigned in France ·xii. kings/ & an xi of them assembled a great power for to help Goffar & for to fight ayest Brute. This Goffar dwelled with them of france half a year & more. And in the mean time when Goffar was in France. Brute and his company destroyed all the land of Gascoigne and let take all the treasure that king Goffar had/ & there let bring it all in to his ships And this Brute found in that land a fairy place and covenable/ & there brute made a fair castle and a strong. ¶ when that this was done/ king Goffar came from France and xi kings with him and brought with him twenty M. men for to fight with Brute and his company and Brute had but vii M. &. CCC men. And nevertheless when the two hosts met together. Brute folk thorough help of himself: & of Turin his cozen: and of Corin the well and manly him defended: and fought so till that in little time they had slain of the frenchmen two thousand & more. Anon all that were alive fled away. And in this battle Turin Brutus' cousin was slain. And Brute let entere him worthily when he had space & leisure in the castle that he had made: & though let call that same castle Toures: For by cause of the name of Turin that there was entered. And yet unto this day there is a noble city that is called Towers. And king Goffar wist that Turin was deed he came again with his men: & after gave a strong battle unto Brute. But brute & his men were so weary for fighting: that they might no longer endure: but to megre him & all his. And then Brute go in to his castle with his men: and made the gates fast for to save them: and for to take counsel amoage them what were best for to do. Brute and Corin gave counsel and ordained privily: that Corin should go out & bush him in a wood till on the morn so that in the morning when that Brute should fight with his enemies: then Corin should come with his folk in the one side: and slay and do all the harm that he might. And in a morning in the dawning of the day Brute went out of the castle: and fiercely fought with his enemies: and they manly deffended them. But within a little time Brute and his folk slew viii hundred of king Goffars men. Then came Corin with the bushment and smote to ground he & his company all those that would stand or abide. So that the king Goffar & his company were discomfited: & fast they began to flee And brute & Corin with their company fiercely them pursued & slew more of them in the fleeing than they did in the battle. And in this manner Brute had the victory. and nevertheless brute made much sorrow for his cousin Turin that there was slain & other also that he haded lost of his men. That is to say. vii·s hundred and xu The which nobly he entered in the same castle of Toures/ there where he had entered Turin his cousin. ¶ How Brute arrived at Totnesse in the isle then called Albyon/ and of the battle that was betwixt Corin and Gogmagog. SO when all this was done Brute would no longer there dwell/ for to fight/ nor for to lose no moo of his people. For king Goffars people might every day increase/ more and moo. And Brutes lossened. And therefore he took all his men and went unto the see and had wend and weather at their will. And the fifth day after they arrived in an haven at Totnesse/ and came in to the isle of albion And there neither man nor woman as the story telleth they found but Giants. And they dwelled in hills & in caves. And Brute saw the land was fair and at his liking. And was good also for him and for his people/ as Diana a the goddess had him behyght. And therefore was Brute wonder glad and let assembled upon a day all his ●ol●e to make a solemn sacrifice and a great feast in honour & reverence of Dyana the goddess of the which he had counsel first for to come in to this land. And thenne when that they had there solemnity done/ as they upon a day sat at there meet/ there came in upon them xxx giants & slew of Brutus' men xxx Brute and his men anon street up and fought with the giants and slew them everichone except one that was called Gogmagog. & he was master of all the Giants. And he was stronger and higher than any of other. And Brute kept him for by cause that he should wrestyll with Corin that was Brutus' man. Foyes he was greater & higher than any of bruces men from the gyrdelstede up ward. ¶ Gogmagog and Corin undertook there for to wrestell. And so togethers they went/ and wrestled a long time/ but at the last Gogmagog Held Corin so fast that he broke two rib of h● side wherefore Corin was sore angry. And there he took Gogmagog betwixt his arms and cast him down upon aroche/ so that Gogmagog broke all to pieces/ and so he died an evil death. And therefore the place is called unto this daythe saute of Gogmagog. ¶ And then after Brute gave all that country unto Corin. And there Corin called it after his name Cornewayl●. And his men he called Cornewaylles/ and so should men of tha country be called for evermore/ And in that country dwelled Corin and his men. And they made towns and houses/ and inhabited the land by their own will ¶ How Brute builded London and called this land britain/ and scotland Albyne/ and wales Camber. ¶ London. depiction of London BRute and his men went forth/ and saw about in divers places/ where that they might find a good place and covenable that they might make a city for him and his folk. And so at the last they came by a fair river that is called Thames and/ there Brute began to build a fair city/ and let call it new Troy/ in mind and remembrance of the great Troy/ from the which place all their lineage was comen. And this Brute let fell down woods/ and let ear and sow lands And also let maw down meadows for sustenance of him and of his people. And then he departed the land to them/ so that euery●he of them had a part/ and a certain place for to dwell in. ¶ And then Brute let call this land britain after his own name and his folk he let call Brytons. And this Brute had gotten on his wife Gennogen three sons/ that were worthy of deeds. The first was called Lotrin/ the second Albanak and the third Cambar. And brute bare crown in the city of Troy twenty year after the time that the city was made. And there he made the laws that the Brytons hold/ and this brute was wonderly well beloved among all men. And Brutus' sons also loved wonderly well togyder· And when Brute had sought all the land in length and also in breed he found a land that joined to britain/ that was in the north and that land Brute gave to Albanak his son. And let call it Albany after his name/ that now is called scotland. And Brute found an other country toward the west/ and gave that to Cambar his other son/ and let call it Cambar after his name/ & now is called wales. And when Brute hadne reigned twenty year as before is said/ thenne he died in the city of new Troy. ¶ How Lotrin that was Brutes soon entered with moche honour/ & governed the land well and worthily. AFter Brute reigned Lotrin his son/ that was the second king in britain. The which began to regne the second year of Samuel. And this Lotrin was crowned king with moche solemnity and glory of all the land of britain. And after when he was crowned king. Albanak and Cambar his two brethren went again into their own country & there they lived with moche honour/ & worship. And Lotrin their brother reigned/ & was king & governed it well & wisely for he was a good man & wonderly well beloved of all his land. And it befell so that Albanak dwelled in his own land with moche honour and worship. And then came king Humbar of Hunlonde with a grate power & arrived in Albyne/ & would have conquered the land/ & began to war upon king Albanak was slain/ the people of that land fled unto Lotrin & told him for he was king of britain/ how that his brother was slain/ & prayed him of his help and of his succour for to avenge his brothers death. Lotrin there anon let assemble all the Brytons of Kente/ of Dover in to Dear went of Norfolk and Southfolke/ of Keftefen/ and Lyndessey. And when they were assembled they sped them fast toward there enemies for to give them battle And Lotrin had sent to Cambar his brother that he should come unto him with all the power that he might make him for to help/ & to he died with a good will. And so they came togethers/ & took their way privily for to go and seek Humbar where they might him find. And so it befell that this Humbar was beside a water that was a great river with his folk / him for to disport. And there came Lotrin and Cambar his brother with all their people suddenly or that any of that other wist. And when Humber saw them come he was sore adradde/ for as much as his men wist it not afore/ and also they were unarmed. And anon Humbar for dread leapt in too the water/ and drowned himself/ and so he died/ and his men were all slain so that none of them escaped. And therefore is that water called Humbar/ and ever more shallbe for by cause that this king Humbar therein was drowned. ¶ And after that Lotrin went to his ships & took there gold and silver as much as he found unto himself. And all that other pylfre he gave unto other foke of the host. And they found in one of the ships a fair damosel/ that was king Humbars daughter/ & she was called Estrylde· And when Lotrin saw her/ he took her with him for her fairness/ And for her he was overtaken in love, and would have wedded her. This tidings came to Corin/ & anne thought to avenge him upon Lotrin. For as much as Lotrin had made couenaū● for to spouse Corins' daughter/ that was called Guentolin. And Corin in haste went unto him unto new Troy/ and thus he said to Lotrin. Now certes said he/ ye reward me full evil/ for the pains that I have suffered & had many times for Brute your father. And therefore sith it is so I will avenge me now upon you. And he drew his falcon on high & would have slain this Lotrin the king. But the damosel went between tho & made them to be accorded in this manner. That Lotrin should wed or spouse Guentolin that was Corins' daughter/ & so Lotrin did. And nevertheless when that he had spoused Guentolin Corins' daughter/ privily he came to Estrylde/ & brought her with child/ & gate upon her a daughter/ the which was called Abram. And it be fell so that anon after Corin died/ and after when he was deed. Lotrin forsook Guentolin that was his wife/ and made Estrelde queen. And there Guentolin that was his wife went from thence all in great ire and wrath unto cornwall/ & there seized all the land in to her own hand/ for as much as she was her faders heir she undetoke feautes and homages of all the men of the land. And after ward assembled a great host and a great power of men/ for to be avenged upon Lotrin that was her lord/ and to him came & give him a strong battle and there was Lotrin her husband slain and his men discomfited in the v. year of his regne. Guentolin let take Estrylde and Abram her daughter/ and bound them bo●he hand and foot/ and cast them both in to a water/ and so they were drowned wherefore that water was evermore after called. Abram/ after the name of the dammoyseyll that was Estryldes doughter· And english men call that water Severne/ And walsshtmen call it Abram unto this day to. And when this was done Guentolin let crown her queen of all the land/ and governed the land full well and wisely unto the time that Madan her son that Lotrin had gotten upon her was of twenty year of age that he might be king and so the queen regnd xu year. And then let she crown her son king/ and he reigned and governed the land well and worthily. And she went in to Cornewaylle/ and there she dwelled all her lives tyme. ¶ How Madan reigned in peace all his life. MAdan sone to Lotrin reigned on the Brytons xl year/ the which began to regne the xu year of saul. And this Madan lived in peace all his day/ and got two sons. Mempris and Maulyn. Thenne he died and lieth at new Troy. ¶ Anno mundi four M.C.xxii. Et ante xpi nativitatem. M.lxxxiiii▪ ¶ Here beginneth the fourth age during to the transfiguration. depicion of King David David the second king in. Israel reigned this time a man chosen after the desire of god. And he was anointed in his young age by Samuel and after the death of Saul reigned xl year This david was a marvel in all mankind In whom ever was found so moche power and so much humility/ so moche noblynes & so much meekness so great a charge of seculary things/ and so pure & devout a contemplation of spiritual things/ so many men to kill/ & so many tears to weep for his trespaas. (Plura vide i regum) ¶ Abiathar this time was bishop/ & he fled from saul unto david/ and he was glorious with him all his days. Gad. Nathan/ and Asoph were prophets then. And Nathan was brother son to david ¶ How Mempris slew his brother Maulyn. THis Mempris and his brother Maulyn strove fast for the land And Memprin began to regne the xxxv year of david. And for by cause that he was the eldest son/ he would have had all the land/ and Maulyn would not suffer him so that they took a day of love and accorde· And at this day Mempris let kill his brother thorough treason and himself after ward held the land. And anon let crown him king and reigned. And after be came so lyther a man that he destroyed within a while all the men of his land. And at the last he be came so wicked and so leche●nus/ that he forsook his own wife and used the sin of Sodomy. wherefore almighty god was greatly displeased and sore wroth with him. And upon him took vengeance for by cause of his weckednesse. For on a day as he went forth on hunting in a forest/ there he lost all his men that were with him and wist not what he should do/ and so he went up and down himself alone/ and cried after his men but they were gone. And there camen wolfs anon and all to drew him in pieces when he had reigned. xxiiii· year. when his people heard that he was so deed/ they made joy and mirth enough and anon made Ebrac his son king and he reigned with moche honour. ¶ Anno mund. M.C.lxv. Et ante xpi nativitatem. M.xxxiiii. SAlomon the king of peace of the gift of our lord/ had a singular exceging above all men that ever was in this world/ but alonely god in wisdom and in riches/ in deyntees and in glory & famylyaryte with god And all though Moses and david. Peter & Poul· jerom and Austyn & other more/ exceeded him in holiness but yet they exceeded him not in glory and ryches·s And this man so exceeding all men wretchedly fell. Of this Solomon is red in a pistle of saint jerom that he got a child on the daughter of Pharaoh at xi year of his age (Vide plura regum) ¶ Sadoch this time was bishop/ and for he declined not to the part of Adonie david son but was with Nathan for Solomon/ and Abyathar on the other part was deposed. ¶ Anno mundi four M.ii C.u. Et ante xpi nativitatem ix C. lxxxxiiii. ROboas succeeded Solomon his father in his kingdom/ but not in wisdom. He was deceived thorughe the counsell of young men. And lost ten trybus in so much as he answered not wasely the people/ as it is open (iii. regum.) ¶ Achimias was bishop/ and was the son of Sadoch (Vt patet. primo parali) ¶ Reges Israel incipiunt. IHeroboas reigned king in Israel. xx.ii year/ and he was first of the house of Solomon and a good mad/ But when he was made king he was a mychevous man in idolatry/ and made Israel to sin in idolatry/ and many greeate Inconuyences were done/ almost to the destruction of Israel. For he was the figure of Machomete (Plura vide iii regum) ¶ Abdias the son of Roboas reigned in the jury three year/ And other while a good man and helped by god/ and other while wretchedly disposed in idolatry/ and therefore our lord suffered him to regne little time (Vt pꝪ. iii regum et ii parali.) ¶ Anno mundi ·iiii. M.ii C.xxv. Et ante xpi nativitatem ix C.lxxiiii. ASa the son of Abdias reigned xvi year. In the beginning of his reign he was a rightwise man and walked as david died. And he overcame the Ethyopes/ and destroyed idols/ but after that he was sworn to the king of Syrie Benedab For Baasa king of Israel/ thenne began to fight against him thee/ which disposed god. wherefore he send to him the prophet Anani/ whom he put in prison/ and therefore he had the gout strongly & died there of (Vt pꝪ. iii regum ii para) ¶ Azarias son to Achomas was bishop. Nadab king of Israel reigned to year/ the which began to regne the second year of Asa king of jews/ and died not as his father. And Baasa overthrew him and reigned for him (Vt pꝪ. iii regum ¶ Baasa king of Israel reigned xxiiii year/ the which began to regne the third year of Asa king of jews/ and he walked in the sins of Jeroboam and slew jehen the prophet ¶ Hela thesone of Baasa reigned in Israel two year \ & zamri slew him & reigned vii days. ¶ Amri reigned xii year/ & died not as his predecessors did. ¶ Archa son to Amri reigned on Israel xxii year/ and above all that were afore him he was cursed for wicked jesabel ruled more than he/ & moved him to follow her (ut pꝪ. iii regum) ¶ Of king Ebrac/ the which began to regne the xu year of david/ and how he conquered France. This Ebrac reigned lx year/ & a strong man he was & a myghey And this Ebrac thorough his might & help of his Brytons conquered all France. And wan there so moche gold & silver that when he came again in to this land he made a city/ and after his own name he lere call it Ebrac that is called Euerywyk. And this king made the castle of Maidens/ that now is called Edenbrugh. This kyngehad. xx sons and xxiiii daughters by divers women gotten/ & these sons were called as ye shall here Brute greneschelde de. Margāde. jakyn. Kymbar. Roselm. Spadogh. Godeherl. Thormnan. Gldaugh. jorkaughut. Haibor. Ketyn. Rother. Kaier/ & Assaruth. And all the dougters' height as ye shall here after. Eligene. ymogen. Oghdas. Guenbran. Guardith. Auganrel. Guenthold Tangustell. Gorghon. Michael. Medhan. Mailour Ondre. Cambredan. Ragan. Renthely. Neest Cheghan. Skaldud. Gladus. Herherhen. Abalaghe and Blandan. And these were though xxiiii doutghters And the brethren became good knights and worthy in many countries ¶ Of king Brute Greneschelde the first son of Ebracking. AFter the death of king Ebrac/ reigned brute Greneschelde his. son xxx year that was Ebracs first son/ that well and nobly reigned. And when time came he died/ and lieth at york. ¶ Of king Leyl that was Brute. Grenescheldes sone. ANd when Brute Greneschelde was deed/ reigned his son Leyl. xxii· year. And he made a fair town and let call it Karleyl after his own name. And he was a worthy man and well beloved of his people. And so when he bad reigned. xxii· year he died/ and lieth at Karlyll. ¶ And in his time reigned king Solomon in Iherusalem/ and made the noble Temple. And to him came queen Sibylle queen of Saba/ for to here and see if it were sooth that men spoke of the great and noble wit and wisdom of king Salemon And she found it soothe that men had her told. ¶ Anno mund. M.ii C.li vi. Et ante xpi nativitatem ix C.xlii IOsaphat king of jew/ was a good man and a ●ycke and a devout in the way of our lord: and reigned. x●v. year: and died none ill: but to the cursed king of Israel gave help: and other little thing. And therefore our lord was with him (ut pꝪ. ii● para) ¶ Helyas the great prophet was this time an holy man: that was lifted up in to paradise with great solace ● a charre. ¶ Macheas and Abdias prophesied with him. ¶ Ochosyas son of Achab reigned in Israel ii year. And send to Beelzebub god of Acharam to be healed. For. the which he died: after the saying of Hely (Vt pꝪ. four Regum) ¶ Of king Lud Ludibras that was king Leyles sone. LVd Ludibras this king: made the city of Caunterbury & wynchester. And he reigned xxxix year and then he died and lieth at wynchester. ¶ Of king Bladud that was Ludibras son how he reigned and was a god man/ and a necromancer. SO after this Ludibras reigned bladud his son/ a great necromancer. And thorough his craft of Nygroman●y/ he made the marvelous hot bathe/ As the geste kelleth. And he reigned xxi year/ and he lyeeh at the new Troy. ¶ Anno mundi ·iiii. M.ii C. lxxxxi. Et ante xpi nativitatem ix C.viii IOram king of jews son to/ josaphat reigned viii year/ this joram was a cursed man & had a good father/ & slew his brother/ & wickedly lived/ as died the king of Israel· Therefore he was sore correcetd & died unhappily (ut pʐ .iiº para) ¶ This time he lyas was ravished in the Paradyse ¶ Ochosias' or Asarias' king of jews reigned oo year & lived not as his father did & anon was slain with all the house of Achab. ¶ Athalia mother to Asarias' took the kingdom/ & slew all the kings blood: & reigned ten year. And the vii year of joiada bishop she was slain (iiii. regum) This Asarias' & his son joas: & his neve we Amasia. Matheus the gospeler putteth not in the line of christ for their offences. joram king of Israel reigned xii years: the which began to regne the xviii year of josaphat for his brother Ochosie: & cursedly he lived: and was slain of jehen with all his faders household (ut pꝪ) ¶ Jehen anointed of the child of Helyse: upon Israel slew Achariam the king of jews: & joram the king of Israel and Isabella mother to joram: and lxx childn of Achab: and ·xlii. brethren of Azari: & all the priests of Baal. And he reigned xviii year. ¶ Athalia mother to Azari king of jews daughter to Achab reigned on the Jews vi year & flew the king's blood of joram: except joas the son of Azari/ the which was kept among shepherds/ and afshe was slain. Anno mundi four M.iii C·ix. Et ante xpi nativitatem viii C. lxxxxiii. IOam sone to Achazie reigned in the jury xl year/ whom joiada the bishop crowned king at vii year of age. And helyved well as long as he was ruled by joiada/ but after he forsook god and martyred Azrias that time bishop son to joiada/ for he blamed him that he forsook his god (Vide plura ii para) ¶ joathas son to jehen/ reigned in Israel xvii year/ in whose days Helyse the prophet died. And he began to regne the twenty year of joas (Vide plura iiii. regum) ¶ joam son of joathas reigned in Israel xvii year/ and he troubled Amazia (Plura vide four regum xiii) ¶ Of king Leyr son to Bladud and of the answer of his youngest daughter/ that graciously was married to the king of France. AFter king Bladud reigned Leyr his son. And this Leyr made the town of leicester/ and let call the town after his name/ and governed the town well and nobly. This king Leyr had three daughters. The first was called Goneril. The second Rigan. And the third Cordeill/ and the youngest daughter was fairest and best of conditions. The king their father became an old man/ and would that his daughters were married or that he died. But first he thought to assay which of them loved him most and best. For she that loved him best should best be married And he axed of the first daughter how well she loved him. And she answered and said/ better than her own life. Now certes said her father/ that is great love: Then he axed the second daughter: how much she loved him. And she said more and passing all the creatures of the world. Per ma foy said her father I may no more axe. And though axed he of the third daughter how moche she loved him Certes father said she: my sisters have told you glozing words: but I shall tell you the crouth for I love you as I ought to love my father. And for to bring you more in certain how I love you. I shall tell you. As much as ye be wroth: so shall ye be loved The king her father wend that she had scorned him & be came wonder wroth: & swore by heaven & earth she should never have good of him but his doughts that loved him so moche should be well advanced & married. And the first daughter he married to Mangles king of scotland. And the second he married to hanemos earl of cornwall & they ordained & spoke between them that the should depart the ream between them two after the death of king Leyr their father. So that Cordeill his youngest daughter should nothing have of his land. But this Cordeill was wonder fair & of good conditions & manners That the king of France Agampe heard of her fame/ & sent to the king Leyr her father for to have her unto his wife/ and prayed him thereof. And king Leyr her father sent him word that he had departed his land & given it all unto his two daughters before said: & he said he had no more land wherewith her to mary. And when Agampe the king of france heard this answer/ he sent anon again to Leyr & said. That he axed nothing with her but only her clothing and her body. And anon king Leyr sent her over see to the king of france. And he received her with moche worship/ and with solemnity he spoused her/ & made her queen of France. ¶ How king Leyr was driven out of his land through his folk. And how Cordeill his youngest daughter holp him in his need. THus it befell afterward/ that though two eldest daughters would not abide till Leyr their father was deed. But warred upon him whiles that he was on live & died him much sorrow and shame/ wherefore they took from him holy the realm/ & between them had ordained/ that one of them should have king Leyr to sojourn all his life time with lx knights & squires/ that he might worshipfully ride & go whether that he would & in to what country that him liked to play & to solace. So that Maugles king of scotland had king Leyr with him in the manner as is above said And or the other half year were passed. Gonoril that was his eldest dought & queen of scotland/ was so annoyed of him & of his people that anon she & her lord spoke together wherefore his knights half & his squires fro him were gone/ & no moo left with him but only xxx And when this was done/ Leyr began to make moche sorrow for because that his state was impaired. And men had of him more scorn & despite than ever they had before. wherefore he wist not what to done. And at the last he thought he would go in to cornwall to Rigan his other daughter. And when he was come/ the earl and his wife that was Leyrs daughter him welcomed/ and with him made moche joy. And there he dwelled with thirty. knights & squires. And he had not dwelled scarcely xii months there/ that his daughter was weary of him and his company. And her lord & she of him had great scorn & despite/ so that from xxx knights they brought unto ten And afterward he had but five/ & so they left him no moo. Then made he sorrow enough. and said sore weeping. Alas that ever I came in to this land & said. yet had ye be better to have dwelled with my first daughter. And anon he went thence to his first daughter again/ but anon as she saw him come/ she swore by god & by his holy name/ & by as much as she might: that he should have no moo with him but one knight \ if he would there abide. Then began Leyr to weep. and made moche sorrow: and said then. Alas now have I to long lived/ that this sorrow & mischief is to me now fallen. For now I am poor: that sometime was rich. But now have I no friend ne kin that to me will do any good. But when I was rich all men me honoured & worshipped & now every man ●athe of me scorn & despite. And now I well wot that Cordeill my youngest daughter said me troth/ when she said. As much as I had so moche should I be loved. And all the while that I had good: so long was I loved & honoured for my riches. But my two daughters glossed me then: & now of me they set little price. and soothe told me Cordeil: but I would not believe it ne understand. & therefore I let her go from as a thing that I set little price of: and now wot I never what for to do sith my two daughters have me thus deceived: that I so much loved: & now must I needs seek her that is in an other land: that lightly I let her go from me without any reward of gifts. And she said/ that she loved me as much as she ought to love her father by all manner of reason And then I should have a●ed her no more. And those that me otherwise behoteth through their false speech: now have me deceived. In this manner Leyr long time begun to make his moon: & at the last he shipped him to the see & passed over in to France: and axed & espied where the queen might be found. And men told him where she was▪ & when he came to the city that she was in privily he sent his squire unto the queen/ for to tell her that her father was come to her for great need. And when the squire came to the queen/ he told her every deal of her sisters from the beginning unto the end. Cordeil the queen anon took gold and silver plenty/ & took it to the squire in counsel that he should go & bear it to her father/ & that he should go in to a certain city/ & him array & wash/ & then come again to her. And bring with him an honest company of knights xl at the least with their many. And then he should send to her lord the king/ & feign that he were come for to speak with his daughter/ & him for to see & so he died. And when the king and the queen herd that they came: with moche honour they him received. And the king of france then let lend through all the realm/ & commanded that all men should be as entendaunt to king Leyr the queens father in all manner of things as it were unto himself. when king leyr had dwelled there a month & more/ he told to the king & to the queen his daughter/ how his two eldest daughters had him served. Agampe anon let ordain a great host of frenchmen & sent in to britain with Leyr the queens father for to conquer his land again & his kingdom. And Cordeill also came with her father in to britain/ for to have the realm after her faders death. And anon they went to ship & passed the see & came in to britain & fought with the felons/ & then discomfited & slew/ & then had he his land again/ & after lived iii year & held his realm in peace & after ward died. & so Cordeill his daughter then let enter him with moche honour at leicester ¶ Anno mund. M.iii C.xlix. Et ante xpi nativitatem viii C liii. AMasius son to Ioam reigned on the jews xxix year/ after the which the kingdom of jews was without king xiii year. This man worshipped the gods of Seyr (ut pꝪ. ii para xu ¶ Jeroboam son to Ioam reigned on Israel xli year the which was manly and victorious. For he overcame the king of Sirie/ & restored Israel & Damask after the word of jono the prophet. But he was not good. Therefore saith austin. if good men regne/ they profit many a man. And if ill men regne/ they hurt many men· ¶ Anno mund. M.iii C.lxxxviii. Et ant xpi nativitatem viii C.xi Ozias or Azarias son to Amasie reigned on the jury lii year/ the which lived well afore our lord/ of him is none evil thing written but that he usurped the dignity of priesthood under Azari/ the which he forbade him. For that which cause our lord struck him with a leper (ut pꝪ. ii para) ¶ Ozee bishop & prophet was this time the first of the xii that is send astaynst the xii tribus. ¶ joel the second of the xii prophesied of juda. Ananias the third prophesied against many people. Abdias the fourth of the xii prophesied against Edom ¶ zacharius son to Jeroboam reigned in Israel vi months/ the which began to regne the xxxviii year of Ozias & was nought in his living as his predycessours were. And Sellum slew him/ & reigned a month. And Manahen slew him & took his kingdom (ut pꝪ. four regum) This Manahen reigned ten year/ the which began to regne the xxxix year of Ozias \ & he ruled him mischievously. And our lord took him in the power of the king of Assuriorum. And he paid to him a thousand talentes of silver. (ut pꝪ. four regum) ¶ Phaseia son to Manahen reigned in Israel ii year/ & he began to regne the l year of Ozias: and he was nought in his living. ¶ Phase slew phaseia: & reigned twenty year: & he began to regne the lii year of Ozias: & died as other cursed men died (Plura vide four regum) And after this. Israel was without any king viii year ¶ How Morgan and Conedag that were nephews to Cordeill warred upon her. And put her in prison. NOw as king Leyr was deed Cordeil his youngest daughter reigned the ten year of Ozias king of Iury. And after her reigned Conedag the xu year of Ozias: & Cordeil that was Leyrs' youngest daughter after the death of her father had all the land .v. year. And in the mean time died her lord Agampe/ hat was king of France: & after his death she was widow. And there came Morgan and Conedag that were Cordeils sisters sons & to her had enuyte: for as much as their aunt should have the land. So that between them they ordained a great power: and upon her warred greatly. And never they rested till they had her taken and put her unto death. And though Morgan and Conedag seized all the land/ & departed it between them. And they held it xii years. And when that those xii years were gone there began between them a great beatel/ so that they warred strongly togethers. And everich of them died other moche disease. For Morgan would have all the land from beyond Humbre that Conedag held/ But he came against him with a great power/ so that Morgan durst not abide but fled a way in to wales. And Conedag pursued him/ and took him & slew him. And though came Conedag again and seized all the land in to his hand and held it And reigned after. xxxiii· year. And then he died and lieth at new Troy. ¶ And by cause the matter containeth most comodyously together of the kings of britain/ now called England/ for the time of them is not certainly known/ what time of the wrolde the kings followen reigned. Therefore they shall be together/ till it be comen unto Guentolen king of britain now called england ¶ How reynold that was Conedags son reigned after his father: & in his time it rained blood three days in to kening of great death. ANd after this Conedag reigned reynold his son that was a wise knight & a hardy & curteyes that well & nobly governed the land/ & wonder well made him beloved of all manner of folk. And in his time reigned blood that lasted three days. As god would/ & soon after there came a great death of people/ For hosts without number of people fought till that almighty god there of took mercy and pity & tho 'gan it cease. And this reynold reigned xxii year & died and lieth at york. ¶ How Gorbodian regne in peace that was Reynoldes soon. AFter this reynold that was Conedags son/ reigned Gorbodian that was this Reynoldes son ·xv. year/ and then he died and lieth at york. ¶ How Gorbodian had ii sons & how that one slew the other for to have the heritage/ & how ydoyne their mother slew that other wherefore the land was destroyed. SO when this Gorbodian was deed/ his two sons that he had be came stout and proud and ever warred together for the land. And that one was called Ferres/ and that other Porres. ¶ And this Ferres would have all the land/ but that other would not suffer him. This Ferres had a felonous heart & thought through treason to slay his brother. But privily he went in to France/ and there abode with the king Sywarde till upon a time when he came again/ and fought who his brother Ferres/ But full evil it happened though/ he was slain first. when ydoyne their mother wist that Ports was deed/ she made great sorrow/ for by cause that she loved him more than that other. And thought him for to slay privily. And privily she came to her son upon a night with two knives and there with kit his throat/ and the body in to small pieces who heard ever such a cursed mother/ that slew with her own hands her own son And long time after lasted the repreef & shame to the mother/ that for by cause of the one son she murdered the other/ & so lost them both. ¶ How four kings courteously held all britain/ and what were their names ye shall here after. AS the two brethren were deed they left not behind them neither son ne dougter/ ne none other of the kindred that might have the heritage. And for as much as the strongest men drove & descomfyted the febleit & took all their lands so that in every country they had great ware and strife under them but among all other thing/ there were among them in the counther/ that overcame all the other/ and though there might and strength they took all the lands/ and every of them took a certain country/ & in his country let call him king/ & one of them was called Scatter/ & he was king of Soctlonde/ & that other was called Dawalier/ & he was king of Loegers/ & of all the land that was Lotris/ that was Brutes sone/ the third was called Ruda●/ & he was king of wales/ & the fourth was called / & was called king of cornwall. But this Cloten should have had all the land by reason for by cause that there was no man that wist none so right an heir as he was. But they that we strongest set little by them that were of less estate/ and therefore this Cloten had no more land among them but cornwall ¶ Of king Donebant that was Clotens son wan the land. THis Cloten had a son that was called Donebant: that after the death of his father became an hardy man and a fair and a curteis so that he passed all the other kings of fairness & of worthiness & anon a he was knight he wist well that when his father lived he was most rightful heir of all the land: and should have had by reason. But the other kings that were of a moche more strength than he was: took from him his land. And after ward this Donebant ordained him a great power and conquered first all the land of Loegers & after he would have conquered all the land of Scotland & wales. And Scatter came with his men & gave him battle. And Rudac came again with his walysshmen for to help him▪ but so it befell that Rudac was slain & also scatter in plain battle. And so Donebant had the victory: & conquered all the land: & well maintained it in peace & in quiet/ that never before it was so well maintained. ¶ How Donebant was the first king that ever bare crown of gold in britain. THis Donebant let make him a crown of gold/ & wered the crown upon his heed as never king died before/ and he ordained a statute that & a man had done never so much harm & myghe come in to the Temple/ there should no man him misdo/ but go there in safety & in peace/ and after go in to what land or country that him pleased without any harm/ and if any man set any hand upon him He thenne should lose his life And this Donebant made the town of Malmesbury/ and the town also of the Vyse. And when he had reigned well and worthily xl year/ thenne he died and lieth at new Troy. ¶ How Brenne and Belin departed between them the land after the death of Donebant their father. And of the war betwixt them. ANd after that this Donebant was deed/ his sons that he had departed the land between them/ as their father had ordained so that Belin his eldest son had the all the land of britain/ from Humber South ward. And his brother Brenne had all the land from Humber unto Scotlond. ¶ But for as much that Belin had the better part. Brenne therefore waxed wroth/ and would have had more of the land/ & belin his brother would grant him no more/ wherefore contake & war arose among them two But Brenne the younger brother had no might ne strength against Belin/ & therefore Brenne rhrugh counsel of his folk went from thence in to Norwaeye to the king Olsynges/ & prayed him of help & succour for to conquer all the land upon Belin his brother upon that covenant that he would have his daughter to wife and the king Olsynges him granted/ And Belin anon as his broad was gone to Norweye he seized in to his hand all the land of Northoumberlonde/ and took all the castles & let them be arrayed & kept the costs of the see/ that Brenne should not arrive in no side/ but that he were taken· ❀ ¶ The king Olsynges let assembel a great host/ and delivered his daughter to Brenne and all the people that he had assembled. And this damosel Samie had long time loved a king that was called Gutlagh and to him she told all her counsel/ how that Brene should her have/ and her lead with him for ever more and so he should lose her but that she might for sake Brenne. And when Gutlagh had heard this tidings/ he lay for to aspye Brene with as many ships as he might have. So the two fletes met together and long time they fought/ so that Brennes men turned again were discomfited. And king Gutlagh took Samie & put her in to his ship. And Brenne shamefully fled thence as a man discomfited. And this king Gutlagh would have gone in to his owene country/ but there came upon him such a great tempest that five days lasted/ so that thorough that tempest he was driven in to britain with three ships and no moo/ and though that kept the costs of the see took Gutlagh and Samie and all his folk and them presented to Belin And Belin put them in prison. ¶ How Belin drove out of his land king Gutlagh of Denmerk and Samie. IT was not long after that burn came again with a great navy/ & sent to his brother Belin/ that he should yield again his land to his wife and his folk/ and his castles also. Or else he would destroy his land. ¶ Belin dread no thing his malice/ & would no thing do after that he had said. wherefore Brenne came with his folk and fought with Beline. And then Brenne was discomfited and his folk slain/ & himself fled wi●h xii men in to France. And this Belin that was Brenne brother went thenue to. york/ and took counsel what he should do with king Gutlagh. For king Gutlagh proferde to become his man/ & for to hold his land for him yielding yearly. M.li of silver for evermore/ and for sureness of this covenant to be kept Gutlagh shonde bring him good hostage/ & to him should do homage & his folk/ & yet he should swear upon a book that it should never be broke ne failed. Belin though by counsel of his folk granted him his axenge/ & so Gutlagh be came his man & Belin undertook of him his homage by an oath & by writing the same covenants. And upon these covenants king Gutlagh took Samie & his folk & went thence/ & turned again to Denmak. Ever more after were the covenants holden & the trevage paid till the time that Honelus was king of Denmark & also of his land thorough his wife Gildebu●h that he had spoused for she was ryghe heir of his land. ¶ This Belin dwelled tho in peace/ & worship fully him held among his barons/ and he made four rial ways/ one from the east in to the weest & that was called watling street/ and an other from the north unto the south/ and that is callen Ikelme street. And two other ways he made in bossing through out the land that one is called fosse & that other Fosse dyke. And he maintained well the good laws that Donebant his father had made. & ordained in his time/ as before is said. ¶ How acordement was made between Brenne & Belin thorough Cornewen their mother. BRenne that was Belin's brother had long time dwelled in France/ & there had conquered a great lordship through marriage. For he was duke of Bourgoyne through the dought of the duke fewyn that he had spoused that was right heir of the land. And this Brenne ordained a great power of his folk/ & also of France/ & came in to this land for to fight with Belin his brother. And belin came against him with a great power of Brytons/ and would tho have yeven him battle. But their mother Cornewen that though lived had that one brother would have destroyed that other and went between her sons and them made accord with moche pain So that at the last the two brethren with moche bliss went together in to new Troy/ that now is called London/ and there they dwelled a year. And after they took their counsel for to go & conquer all France. And so they did/ and brent town & destroyed the land both in length and in breed. And the king of France gave them battle with his power/ but he was overcome/ & gave trauge unto Belin & to his brother. And after that they went forth unto Rome ● conquered Rome & all Lombardy & Garmany/ & took humage & feaute of earls bacons & of all other. And after they came in to this land of britain/ and dwelled there with brytons in joy and rest. And though made burn the twone of bristol/ and after he went over to his own lordship/ and their dwelled he all his life And belin dwelled at new Troy and there he made a fair gate that is called belynges gate after his own name. And when this belin had reigned nobly xi year he died and lieth at new Troy. ¶ How king Cormbratus slew the king Cenmark/ for by cause that he would not pay his truage as he should ANd after this belin reigned his son Cormbratus a good man and a worthy. And the king of Denmark would not pay to him his truage that is to say a thousand pound as he had sworn by oath for to pay it/ and also by writing record to belin his father. wherefore he was evil appayed & wroth/ and assembled a great host of bry●ons & went in to Denmark & slew the king Gutlagh/ and brought the land in subgec●ion all new. And took of the folk feautes and homage/ and after went again in to his own land. And as he came fothe by Orkeney/ he found xxx ships full of men and women beside the cost of the see. & the king ar what they were. And an Earl that was master of them all courteously answered unto the king & said. That they were exieled out of Spane/ & so that they had travailed half an year and more in the see/ to wite if they might find any king in any land that of them would have pity or mercy to give them any land in any country where in they might dwuell and haverest/ and become his lyege men/ and to him would do homage and fevate while that he lived/ & to his heyers after him/ and of him & of his heirs hold that land. And when the king this herd/ he had pity of him/ & gave them an yell all wilderness/ there that no man was dwelling safe only wild bestis. And the Earl thanked much the king and became his man & died him homage and feaute and took all his folk and went in to the same isle. And the Earl was called Irlamall/ and therefore he let call the land ireland after his own name. This king Cormbratus came again in to his land and reigned xxv year/ and after he died and lieth at new Troy. ¶ Anno mund. iiii·M.iiii. C.xl Et ante xpi nativitatem vii C.lvi IOathan sone to Osias reigned in the jury xvi year/ of this joathan no thing is written of/ but that he took not away excelsa as other died) ut pꝪ. ii para) ¶ Amarias' was bishop. And ysayas the noble prophet was in his days. ¶ Olympias with the Greeks began the first year of joathan after josephus. And after Beda Troy was destroyed four hundred year afore the first Olympias began under Esalo a judge of Athens. In which Coribus gate the chyvalry amongis all men Olympus is the name of an hill in Grecia/ the which for his precyousnesse is called the hill of god· And after jerom one Olympias containeth fully four year/ in the which four year/ four yearly princes are made. And these Olympiades' are places ordained tooth worship of jupater under the hill of Olympo. And the law of this. That who somever is best in any chyvalry/ what somever he desireth he shall have. ¶ Anno mund. M.iiii. C.lvi Et ante xpi nativitetem vii C.xliii. ACham the son of joathan reigned on the jews xvi year of this Acham no thing that is good is written for he forsook our lord. And our lord struck him with his own people strongly/ and with the kings of Tirri (ut pꝪ. ii para. xx viii.) ¶ Achicob this time was bishop. Ozee king of Israel reigned ·ix. year the which began to regne the xii year of Acham king of jews. This Ozee dread not god/ for he lived nought. And he was the last king of Israell· And in the ix year of his reign he was taken of Salmanasar. And Israel was translated in to Assirias (ut habetur four regum xvii) ¶ Anno mundi four M.iiii. C.lxii Et ante xpi nativitatem vii C.xl ¶ Rome. depiction of Rome AFter Euseby Rome was made in the hill of Palatin the fourth year of Achan king of jews of two brethren Romulus and Remus xi Kal. Man. the vii Olympiades' beginning. josephus & Beda say the vi Olympiades'/ & so they defferre a year. Nevertheless it is red other men to have reigned about that place mightily in italy. That is to wite janus. Picus Famus. Latinuses/ the which unto Aeneas reigned about two hundred year. And then after ward from this Aeneas to Romulus/ it was reigned under xu governors four C.xxxii. year. After that fro the city was made unto the last year of Tarquyne that proud/ it was reigned under vii kings about two hundred and xliii yere· Thenne after ward under Senators and Counsullers/ unto julius Cezar Emperor/ by four hundred lxiiii year. Romulus the first of romans/ of whom they been called in latin Romans/ made the city to be named Rome after his name. The which gathered together the people on every side an. C. of the sage men and wisest he chose/ the counsel of whom all thing he disposed/ the which he named Senators for the time of their age. And he made their names to be written in golden letters/ wherefore we write noble faders and things so yet. Also he called. M. men of arms the which he named Milites (a numero mi●i●to) But these were noble blood. Therefore as saint Austyn saith (de civets. dei) And also there was long war betwixt the Sabyns and them. For Romulis took many women of the noble blood of Sabyns/ & married them to that unnoble blood. Of this Romulus Orosyus writeth much evil (Vt patet in libro suo) ¶ About this time Merodach the king of Babylon send great gifts to Ezechie the kyge of jews (ut pꝪ. four regum twenty) And thenne the kingdom of Babylon begun. ¶ Anno mundi four M.lxxii. Et ante xpi nativitatem vii C·xxvii. Ezechias the xiiii king of jews a good child of a cursed father reigned with a partyte heart to our lord. And he restored the house of god/ & there was none like him afore nor after among the kings of jews/ therefore our lord god gloriyed him. For when Senancheryb the king of Assuriorum came against Ezechias with a mighty host/ our lord struck his people and slew an ·C. lxxxv. of fighting men/ & Sennacheryb fled shamefully (ut pꝪ. four regum ix et ii para xxxii) ¶ Sadoch this time was high bishop there. ¶ Anno mundi four M.u. C.i. Et ante xpi nativitotem vi C·lxxxxviii. MAnasses king of jews reigned lu year/ & he was an evil child of a good father/ for he did more cursedly than any that was afore him. For he slew the prophets of god/ that the streets in jerusalem were all bloody. And he made ysai the prophet to be sawen the pieces with a saw of tree. wherefore the king of Assuriorum wasted the jury/ and took Manasses ● put him in prison. And after Manasses repented his trespaas & cried for mercy to our lord/ & was herd. Then he was restored to his kingdom/ & he amended his life) ut pꝪ. four regum xxi et ii para. xxxiii) ¶ Sel●um was bishop/ and Echias after him This time the vii wise men had worship in Grece. ●. Tale. Solon. Chilon Poreandus Eldobolus Bias. Pitacus. This Talus found first the default of the son and the moon) Vide plura. august viii deci. dei) ¶ Numa the second king this time reigned in Rome xlii year/ the which was a great worshipper of false goods. He fulfilled Rome so full/ that he might have no place for himself to dwele in. This man put january and February to the beginning of the year (Vide plura in august. de civi. dei.) ¶ Above all reason it is marvel that such men so exteding in wit in all things that was ill receded fro the knowledge of very god. Amon king of jews reigned two year/ the which was nought in his living. And he was strykyn of his servants/ and he died without any repentances. ¶ Anno mundi four M.u. C.lviii. Et ante xpi nativitatem. vi.xli. IOsias the son of Amon ac viii year of his age began to regne & reigned xxxi year/ a good child of a perverse father. in his young age he sought the grace of god. And in that grace laudably abode unto his end. His religious life and his works ye may see. (iiii. regum xxii et ii para. xxxiiii) ¶ Azastas the son of Elchie was bishop. ¶ Tobyas about this time died. And he was a very holy man. And he prophesied the destruction of jerusalem· ¶ Tulius Hostilius was the third king in Rome. And saint Austyn saith in his book decivitate dei. that from Rome was made unto August the Emperor/ there was too continual battle/ that it was take for a marvel/ and they were one year without battle/ except ·xlii. in Nun days in the which was continual peaas. And that Tulius by cause he had rest/ he did cursedly to his neyghburs and then he was slain and all his household with a stroke of lightening. ¶ Nabugodonosor this time was king of Babylon/ a manly man and a victorious. For he was the scourge of our lord/ to punish the sins of many people. This man was king of Babylon/ and after he conquered the kingdom of Assuriorum and made it one monarch. But many ways scripture speaketh of this man/ now good and now evil. And for by cause scripture concludeth that he ended his life in the loving of god/ by the prayer of Danyell/ and in the knowledge of one very god/ some doctors say. He is saved/ and some say it is doubt. ¶ Ancus Marcius the fourth king of Rome reigned xxiii year This man for grace and trust that he had to Tarquinus Preiscus made him the governor of his children And Airs and he ill rewarded him. ¶ Danyell yet a child delivered saint Susan/ and stood in the conceit of the king with his fellows/ and after ward he discussed the dreams of the king and was made a man of great honest/ (Vt pꝪ Danielis prio.) ¶ jonathas the second son of josie reigned on the jews three months/ and was made king by the people/ and he was not good. And Pharaoh took him and lad him in to Egypte/ and made his elder brother king. (ut pꝪ. four regum xxiii) ¶ Anno mund. M.u. C.lxxxviii. Et ante xpi nativitatem .v. C.xi IOachim or jeconyas the son of josie was made king of jews by pharaoh/ reigned xi year. And by cause he lived nought ne heard not the prophets. Nabudonosor took him and made him his servant three year. And he rebelled against him after ward/ and he took him & was about to have lad him unto Babylon/ but his counsel was changed and so Nabugodonosor slew him in Iherusalem and cast his body over the walls after the prophecy of jeremy/ and took with him the vessels of our lord Ihesu (ut pꝪ. ii para. ult) ¶ Samias was bishop vrias prophet was slain of jecony the king/ and jeremis was present. ¶ joachim son to jeconias reigned in the jury three months & lived nought/ & therefore anon he was moved that he should regne no longer/ and was bound and translated in to Babylon/ and many with him were translated (ut pꝪ. four regum xxiiii ¶ Daniel. Anamas. Azarias. Mysaell. Ezechiel & Mardocheus/ all these with joachim the king were lad in to Babylon/ young children/ for by cause they were of the noble blood. ¶ Anno mundi four M.vi. C. Et ante xpi nativitatem vi C. SEdechias the third son of josie reigned on the jews xi year/ this Sede●hias was a mischievous man in his living And he would not here jeremy the prophet/ therefore he perished wretchedly/ and all the jury with him And his eyen were put out/ & his children were slain (ut pꝪ. four regum.) ¶ josedech the son of Azarie was bishop/ & was translated fro Iherusalem by Nabugodonosor in to Babylon. ¶ Abacuk prophesied against Nabuch at Babylon. And there be opinions what time this Abacuk ●as. This Abacuk brought meet to Danyel when he was put to the lions after jerom And here endeth the fourth Aege/ & the hystore of Regum. ¶ Here beginneth the fifth age of the world during to the nativity of christ. This time the Temple of Solomon was brent of the Caldes & jerusalem was destroyed/ this Temple stood. cccc. & xlii year that is to wite/ fro the first making/ the which was made the fourth year of Solomon. And fro the destruction/ the which was made by Titus that is to wit xlii years after the passion of christ. ¶ Priscus Torquinus the fifth king of Rome reigned. And he made Capitolium (quasi caput solum) For in the ground work was found an heed without any body/ as for prophecy of things to come. For there after ward the Senators sat as one heed of all the world. ¶ This time three children were cast in to a furnaces brenning/ & with a miracle they were delyvern/ as it is said (in dan. pri ᵒ) ¶ Nabugodonosor the son of Nabugodondsor the mighty reigned in Babylon/ this man an hynging garden with mighty costs for his wife (& many marvelous things he died. So that he would be named to exceed Hercules in his greatness & strength. Enilmerodach brother to the later Nabugodonosor/ reigned in Babylon. This man took joachim out of prison. and worshipped him. his father deed body after the counsel of this man/ he divided to an hundred gripes least that he should rise from death to live. ¶ Nota This play of the chess was found of Xerse a Philosopher. For the correctonn of Eniimerodach this time the king of Baby a great tyrant. the which was wont to kill his own masters and wise men And for he durst not rebuke him openly/ with such a witty game/ he procured him to be meek. Anno mund. M.vi. C.xxxiiii. Et ante xpi nativitatem .v. C.lxv. SAlathiel of the line of christ was son to jecony the king of jews. the which he gate after the transmigration of Babylon. as Mark the evangelist saith ¶ Servius Tulius the sixth king of Rome was of a bond condition on the maders' side. For she was a captive maid. but she was of the noble blood/ This man had great loving & nobly he bore him in every place/ Three hills to the city he put· & dyched the walls round about. ¶ Regusar Sabusardach & Balthasar were brethren the which reigned one after another & were kings in Babylon. And Balthasar was the last king of Babylon/ the which was slain of Darius & Cirus (Plura vide daniel .v. ¶ Incipit monarchia Persarum. Darius' uncle to Ciro. fellow in the kingdom with Ciro translated the kingdoms of Babylon Caldees in to the kingdom of Persarum & Medorum Cirus was emperor xxx year This Cyrus held the monarch hole at Perses. Of this man prophesied ysayas/ & he destroyed Babylon: & slew Balthasar king of Babylon/ & he worshipped greatly danyel the Jews he send home again that they should build the Temple of god (Vt pꝪ Esdre pri o) ¶ Babylon that strong castle was destroyed & his power was take from him as it was prophesied. This was the first city & the greatest of all the world/ of the which Incredyble things are written/ & this that was so strong in one night was destroyed/ that it might be showed to the power of god/ to the which power all other been but a sperke & dust. For it is said forsooth: that it was incredible to be made with man's hand or to be destroyed with man's strength whereof all the world might take an ensample & it would or might be informed. ¶ Tarquinus Superbus was the vii king of Rome/ & he reigned xxxv year. This man concyved first all the torments which are ordryned for malefactors. As exile/ prison/ wells/ & gallows feters and manacles/ chains & colous and such other▪ And for his great pride and cruelness god suffered him to mischief and in what manner of wise it shall be showed. He had a son of the same name/ the which defoiled a worthy man's wife/ they called him Collatine & his wife was called Lucres. This Tarquinus that was this vii kings son aforesaid came unto the ladies house absent her husband to supper and to lodging And when all were a sleep he a rose with a sword in his hand and with strength and fere he ravished the woman. And when he was gone the near day after/ she send unto her father and to her husband/ for she was of great kin/ and thus she said to them. The kings son came hither & as friend/ of whom▪ I had no mistrust and thus he hath defoiled my chastise & lost my name for evermore. Then her friends saw her weep and piteously complained and they comforted her as well as they could and said it was no villainy unto her for it was against her will. She answered & said yet shall there never woman excuse her by Lucre's/ For though she consented not to this died yet shall she not die without pain for that deed. And with that word she had a knife ready under her mantel/ with the which she smote herself to the here & for this cruelness & this piteous death the people of rome arose & exiled the king for ever more & all his progeny. And thus seized these kings of Rome & never was none after. Of the governance of Rome till the Emperors began. AFter this tyrant was deed the romans ordained that their shonde never be king more in Rome. But they would be governed fro that forth by consuls. So when the kings had reigned ii hundred year and xl they made this statute that two consuls should be chosen: & they should govern the city & the people. & for this cause these two were chosen that any of them would make any if excess: the other should govern him. For their was no thing obeyed: but if they consented both. Also they should not stand in their dignity passing one year: for this cause. That for domination of long time: they should not usurp upon them more than was right In all this time the Empire of Rome was not dilated possynge xii mile. The first consuls that were made: they called Lucium and the other Brutum/ and these two men died great things in their time But yet the people bare heavy of their domination/ wherefore they chose an other man/ the which should have more authority than they/ & they called him Dictator ¶ In this same time their was a great dissension betwixt the people and the Senate wherefore they chose Trybunas with their judges over the people/ and defended them fro wrong as saith ysyder. For the Dictator when he was chose he lasted .v. year/ and the Trybunas were removed every year. ¶ But ye must understand that ye shall not have here after all the consuls named that governed Rome between the sessing of kings/ & the beginning of th emperours. For it were to long to write/ specially when every year were new sin/ that one man might be chosen so oftentimes as we read/ and also for the enduring of their governance. For they were governors of Rome .v. C. year lxvii So the most famous men of these shall be rehearsed/ after the form of chronicles/ and as they stand in the book was eachone after other. ¶ Incipit historia libri Esdre. ¶ Anno mund. M.vi. C.lix. Et ante xpi nativitatem .v. C.xl zOorobabell after the commandment of god founded the Temple and made it perfit/ but it was long after (Vt pꝪ Esdre vi) After the people of jerusalem came fro Babylon/ these two ruled Jesus' the high priest as governor/ and zorobabelas duke. And this manner of guiding was kept unto Herodes time that the high priests should be prayncypall/ and the dukes under them. But the dukes were ever of the tribe of juda/ after the prophecy of jacob. And under that good guiding of priests it is not red the people to have receded fro the very true faith/ as they died afore in the time of jews/ & of kings. For then many times they ra●e to idolatry. ¶ Esdras the priest of the kindred of Aron this time exceeded men in hoolynes/ thorough whose great wisdom all the jews state was hopen. ¶ Cambyses the son of S●ri reigned oon the kingdom of Persarum/ the which commanded mygtely the Temple of jerusalem should not be builded again. Hy● faders commanded it should be builded. This Cambyses made a cursed judge to be●leyed or helte a live and made his son to sit on his faders skin/ that through that dread he should dread falsehood and judge ryghtwysely. This Cambyses had many names in holy scripture in the book of Esdre. Arthaxerse● or Assures in history judith/ that was done under him he called Nabugodonoscor/ or Olyfernes the prince of his chyvalry subdued many lands to his lord. And at the last he came unto Bethuleem/ and there was slain of judith a woman/ (ut pꝪ judith ii et xlii) ¶ Enereydes reigned in Perses half a year. ¶ Darius reigned at the Persees/ the which by the motion of zorobabel commanded the work of the Temple to be taken again. And commanded his princes that on nowise they should let it/ but should help it in all that they could. (Vide plura in Esore. vode. vº tempore ambiguum propter diversitatem doctorum) ¶ Circa annum mund. M.vii. C.xxxiiii. Et ante xpi nativitatem four C·lxv. ABiuth sone to zorobabel of the line of christ was about this tyme. For of him and of other following unto joseph/ nothing is had in scripture/ but tha● Mathe thevangelyst numbereth them in the genealogy/ and therefore the certain time of them duly can net be know. ¶ joachim this time bishop after josephus was called josedech under whom jerusalem was builded again (ut dicit. et hoc idempatet Neemie xii) ¶ In the ii hundred and xliiii year after that Rome was made/ the romans ordained two consuls in the stead of their king/ the which should govern one year alone/ least that by tarrying they should be proud: and that the one should correct the other if he exceeded or erred ¶ Brutus was the first Consul: and Lucius the second. And then was there a man that was called Dictator/ the name of an office: the which should go with the people against their enemies. ¶ Titus Puphis. Marcus consuls. ¶ Thenne after the romans complained greatly on the conditions of the consuls. And then the power was put to ten men to an exceeding cost to the common people. For everich one of them went like a king) and need caused them to leave that dignity. And they trusted never to rest the war was so strong against them. ¶ Arthaxeses was king of Persarum/ under whom Esdras came to jerusalem. And Neemias was buteler to the same king. whom after ward he sent to build the walls of jerusalem. ¶ zerses reigned after him two months. Segdianus vii months/ and little they died. ¶ Circa annum mundi four M seven. C.lix. Et ante xpi nativitatem four C.xl ELyac is rehearsed in the line of christ in Mathee. pri ᵒ & more of him is not had in ●crypture. Esdras a holy man a cunning and worshipfully was had among the people this man came from Babylon with other/ & he moved with very charity went again to babylon/ that he might win moo of Israel/ & save the souls & bring them home with him In this time he repeyred the law and the holy books the which the Caldees had brent/ & an happy witness to all the world he left in scripture. He found new letters/ and lighter in faction/ the which thorough the holy ghost fulfilled he came again to Iherusalem with a great multitude/ and with the kings privilege/ that he should teach the people the law that he had repaired. And there he died in a good age. ¶ Neemias an Hebrew butelere of king Arthaxerses/ at his lords commandment went from Babylon in to jerusalem. where of he had xii year the leading of the people/ And the .v. year he began to repair the yates and the walls of jerusalem/ the which work he ended in two year and four months/ & that whit grieve impediments. For the half of the people stood armed without the city to withstod the people of other nation. intending destroy them/ & the other part laboured in arms holding in the one hand stones for walls/ and in the notable other hand answered/ or nigh by it (Vide pluralio. suo) ¶ Permenides a philosopher/ and namely in mortal things was abute this tyme. ¶ Socrates a phylosophar which understood moche of the power of god/ and he was Plato's master. Democritus hippocras/ and other/ of whom the noble works abode were also. ¶ Circa annum mund. M.viii. C. Et ante xpi nativitatem iii C·lxxxx. Azor is rehearsed in the line of christ in Mathe .io. but no thing of his deeds is written in the scripture. ¶ Elyasyb or Elysaphat succeeded joachim in the bisshopryche (ut dicit Eusebius et magister histo) ¶ Camillus' was Dictator at Rome/ in whose days mischievous plays were ordained/ that pestilence should cease at Rome. Of the plays saint Austyn treateth diligently in reproving the falsehood of the gods/ the which desired to be pleased with such wretched plays. So shamefully these plays were used with naked men and women/ that honest men & women would not ●e at those plays/ ne yet behold them (Vide plura in Aug. de civitate dei.) ¶ Darius' Notus reigned at the Persees xix year. ¶ Plato the divine philosopher and Arystotle his disciple were this time noble and famous clerks. ¶ Titus Quintus was dictator at Rome/ and he was a covetous man whom Austyn de civitatem dei. bringeth in against covetous and proud christian men. ¶ Gaius was a Senator under whom was a great battle against the king of Turcorum And viii thousand men of them were taken ¶ Marcus Valerius was also a noble senator of Rome/ the which with lx thousand romans fought with the frenchmen & had the better and slew many of them. ¶ Arthaxereses king of Persees called again to his Empire Egypte. And he put Nacranabo the king in Ethyopia: & many jews in to transmygration. Also he send Vagosum a prince over Flom jordan to ask again to the tribute that was forget: to Eldra that was the vii year rent (propter subbam terre) ¶ A●samus succeeded him: and reigned a year. ¶ Darius the son of Arsamus reigned with the Persees xxiiii. year. This Darius was a mighty man and a bold: the which asked of the Greeks a tribute: & that was the cause of the destruction of the monarch of Persarun: For it was translyted to the Greeks: after the prophecy of Danyll. For it is said: that Darius brought xu hundred thousand fighting men: whom all Alexander slew. ¶ jodas the son of Elysaphat was high bishop in jerusalem in time of Mardachin. johannes his son succeeded him. ¶ Arystotiles the most subtle and famous philosopher learned this tyme. Senocrate the most chaste philosopher was this time: with diverse other moo. ¶ by cause the kings of britain next after lived in peace most part/ & little of them is written/ therefore they shall be set together/ till it be comen to Cassibolon king of britain the which was brother to Lud. ANd when Cormbratus was deed reigned Guentholen/ that was his son a man of good conditions and well beloved/ and he governed the land well and wisely. And he reigned xxv year/ and after he died lieth at new Troy. ¶ How king Seysell reigned and well governed the land after Guentholen. ANd after Guentholen reigned his son Seysell well and worthily governed the land as his father had done before. And he reigned xu year/ and died and lieth at new Troy. ¶ How Kymor reigned after Sysell his father/ and he begat Howan that reigned after his father in peace. ANd after Seysell reigned his son Kymor well & nobly xix year in peace & thenne after him reigned Howan his son ten year/ and then he died/ & lieth at Ikaldowne· ¶ How king Mor with died thorough myschaund●e/ thorough a be'st. AFter this Howan reigned Morwith/ and he became so wicked & so stern: till at the last a great vengeance came upon him. For when as he went upon a time by the see side hemette with a great be'st: that was black and horrible & hideous. & he wend that it had be a whale of the see: & bent an arblast & would have slain that be'st with his quarrel but he might not smite him. & when he had shot all his quarlles that be'st anon came to him in a great haste: & him devoured a live: & so he died for his wickedness: thorough vengeance of god: after that he had reigned ix year. ¶ Of Grandobodiam that was Morwith son that made cambridge. AFter that this Mor with was deed: the brytons crowned Brandobodian his son/ & this Grandobodiam long time reigned in goodness: & made temples and towns this Grandobodiam made the twone of cambridge: & the town of Grauntham was well beloved of rich & poor/ for he honoured the rich/ and helped the poor. This Grandobodiam had four sons. Artogaill. Hesyder. Higamus & Petitur· And when he had reigned xi year/ he died/ and lieth at new Troy. ¶ Of Artogaill that was Grandobodians son/ how he was made king/ and sith put down for his wickedness. AFter Grandobodiam reigned his son Artogaill .v. year/ & he became so wicked & so stern that the brytons would not suffer him to be king/ but put him down & made Hesyder his brother king/ & he be came so good & mercy able that men him called king of pity. And when he had reigned .v. year he had so great pity of his brother Artogaill that was king before· And anon he forsook his dignity & took his brother the crown again & made him king against all the brytons will. ¶ And after Artogaill became so good of conditions/ that he was well beloved of the land for he came so debonayr and free/ and died right & reason to all manner of men. And he reigned vi year and died/ and lieth at Grauntham. ¶ How Hesyder was made king after the death of his brother. AFter the death of Artogail/ the brytons crowned an other time Hesyder/ but his two brethren Hygamus & Petitur had of him great spite & scorn/ & ordained them for help to war upon the king there brother/ & so they took him & put him in prison the second year of his regne. And they departed all the land betwixt them both but Higamus lived but vii year/ and though had Petitur all the land and he made the town of Pickering. ¶ How the brytons came and took Hesyder out of prison/ and made him king the third tyme. ANd when this Petitur was deed the brytons took Hesyder anon and made him king the third time/ And though reigned he in peace xiiii year. And after he died and lieth at Karleyll. ¶ How xxxiii kings reigned in peace each after other after Hesyder. AFter the death of Hesyder reigned xxxiii kings each after other in peace & with out any long tarrying. I shall tell them all & how long each reigned as the story telleth. the first king of the xxxiii was called gerbodia he reigned xii year after him reigned morgan. year. And after him reigned Cighnus vi year And after him reigned jowalan viii year. And after him reigned on Rohugo xi year/ And after reigned Voghen xiii year/ And after him reigned Catyll xu year/ And after him reigned Porrex ii year/ & after him reigned Cherin xvii year & after him reigned coil xii year/ & after him reigned Sulgenis xiiii year/ & after him reigned Esdad twenty year/ & after him reigned Andragie xvii year/ & after him reigned urian, v. year/ and after him reigned Eliud ii year/ And after he reigned Eldadan xu year/ And after him reigned Claten xii year/ & after him reigned Ouirgunde viii year/ & after him reigned Mortan vi year/ and after him reigned Bledagh four year/ & after him reigned Caph i year/ & after him reigned Gen. two. year/ and after him reigned Seysel & king Bled xxii year/ & king Tabreth twenty year/ & Archynall xiiii year/ and Croll xxx year/ & Rodyngir xxxii year & Hectir .v. year & Harpir ·vi. year & Carpour vii year/ and Digneyll iii year and Samuel xxiiii year/ and Rede ii year/ & Ely vii months. This Ely had three sons. Lud. Cassiballam/ and Enemion. ¶ How Lud was made king after the death of Ely his father. AFter the death of Ely reigned Lud his son & governed well the land & mo●he honoured good folk/ & tempered & amended wicked folk/ this Lud lived more to dwell at Troy than in any other place of the land. wherefore the name of new Troy was left/ & though was the city called Ludstone. But the name is changed through variance of letters/ and now is called London. And this king made in the city a fair gate/ & called it Ludgate after his name/ And the folk of the city are Lodoners And when he had reigned xi year he died & lieth at London. And he had two young sons that one was called adraghen & that other ●ormace. But they could neither speak ne go for youth/ And therefore the Brytons crowned a strong knight that was called Lud/ that was Cassibalanius brother/ & made him king of britain/ now called Engonde. ¶ Circa annum dm. four M.viii. C. lxxxxiiii. Et ante xpi nativitatem ii C.xv. SAdoch of the line of Crist/ is numbered in Mathe. primo/ but in scryture there is no more mention/ made of him ¶ Iadu● the son of Iohn was high bishop in jerusalem/ this time king Alexander reigned/ the which was wroth with the people of Iherusalem and came to the city. then jadus arrayed in his pontifical ornaments came to meet him. And he suddenly was pleased & worshipped the bishop & with peace & joy entered the city. And he made to be brought to him the book of Daniel \ & the prophecy to be exponed to him the which was spoken of him. & that done he joyed strongly. For all thing the which he had herd by the dream in due order was fulfilled. And it was likely to him that he should be the same person of whom Daniel prophesied: & of that he took more hardiness to fight with Darius king of pierce: died the sacrifice: & bad the jews to ask what they would have he grant that they should keep their own laws at the vii year should be without tribute (vid mg●m in histo) ¶ The host of Alexander as Orosius saith was xxxii M. of foot men and four M. horsemen: & ships C.lxxx. And it is uncertain whether it is more marvel: that he should conquer all the world with so little a power or how that ever he durst go upon them with so little a power. And there was of Alexand & his host slain ye●yng of Persarum (Et ut orosius dicit quinquies decies centena milia) Aeneas the son of jady was bishop after his father. Manilius Papirius & Fabius we●● consulers at rome. This papirius when he was a child he was very wise & he feigned many fair lesinge that he might keep his masters counsel & the Senators. And when he came unto man's state: he was so noble a war●you●● That when the romans dread Alexander he was chosen for to go against hym·s And of the gods charged not but he scorned and reproved the gods: saying afore that unhappy thing should falle· And that to his great loving holy douctours say ¶ Incipit monarchia Grecorum. et cessat monarchia Persaram. King Alexander this time began to be lord of all the world: and he was called great Alisand for his great victory the which he had in so little time It was an evydenc judgement of the wrath of god against sinners of that time certainly some miracle our lord died in helping of his power for him/ for the see of Pamphilicon was divided to him as in old time the reed see to the jews when he persecuted Darius. Also at his prayer the hills of Caspii were shit that certain of the cursed jews mygh never come out. But at last in babylon with venom he was poisoned & died the ·xxxiiis year his of age/ & the fifth year of his monarch the xii year of the kingdom of Macedon. ¶ Know ye that when Alexander was deed those xii to whom he divided his kingdom accord they might not/ & then began infinity batylles/ & at the last four obtained all the kingdom (Vide plura in Orosio) ¶ Anno mundi. iiii·M.ix. C.ix Et ante xpi nativitatem ii C.ix AChym of the line of christ son to Sadoch is numbered in Mathe prio. and of him is no more had in scripture. ¶ Simon was bishop this time an holy man/ & also rightwise he was named of the people. ¶ Eleazarus was bishop after syomon/ this man send to Pretholomeo king of Egypt lxxii learned men of every tribe sex/ to Interpret the law of the jews/ the which translated from Hebrew in to Greek thorough a great miracle that so manimen should in lxxii days translate all holy scripture with one accord (Vide aug. de civi. dei) ¶ Dolobela Emilius. Marcus Curius. Genutus time were consuls at Rome This Dolobela conquered Samnites/ & after many battles had/ and Marcus subdued Epitoras and slew xxiii M. of his men/ & then fled king Pirro/ the which send to him for peace & offering to him greere yefts. And then this Consul answered & said/ there shall no battle cause me to flee/ nor no money corrupt me. For I had liefer command rich men to do this & this than be rich myself. ¶ Tonucius subdued the city of Argivorum/ & a legion of knights of Rome he send to Rome/ & caused them to be beat openly in the mids of the market/ for they had them not leefully to the court of Rome For the law was then kept so straitly at Rome/ that & they had failed to do the due observance in virtue they should be punished. These romans and many afore and after were the most noble men of the worlds honest that might be: and in all manner of virtue circumspect: As holy doctors say that they put their examples to christian men but not the intention: for they lacken the key of faith ¶ Incipiunt reges Egyti or alr non pt serin continuacon. et intexent reges Sirie. PTholomeus Philodolphus this time was king in Egypt: this Philodolphus was the very worshyper of one god: & full gracious to the jews: of whom twenty M. &. C. he delivered out of captivity: & that he died that he might please the god of Israel: of whom he heard the marvels. And his law he desired to have: nor it might not be translated in to none other longage but of devout men: and that with a due reverence & a solemnity. Certain men attempted to have written it amon the gentle stories: whom the plague of god stroke till they repented. This king send unto Eleazar the bishop: to send to him learned men: The which he died gladly (Vide plura in mgron histo) ¶ Anno mundi four M.ix. C.lix. Et ante xpi nativitatem ii C.xl ELyud of the line of christ: gate Eleazar as it is open in Mathe. io. & more in scripture is not had of him. ¶ Omias bishop was son to Simon simon was bishop after him the which was a very religious man. He reformed the Temple of god in to better and enceraced the city of jerusalem with many other good things. ¶ Sempronius. Appius. Claudius. Gueus. Gaius. Artilius. Rgulus. Emelius Fabius this time were Senators at Rome. This Sempronius fought against the country of Picentes: and almost the chyvalry on both the parties were slain: except a few romans were left a live: & subdued the country. Appius Claudius subdued Siracusanas & the country of Penos: & put great tribute to them. Atilus Regulus a noble senator over came three Kings & lxxiii cities he subdued: & a dragon of a. C.xv. foot he killed. After ward when he was over cruel against his enemies: & denying to give them peace: but if they would pay a might tribute: they almost being in despair & fought against him: & overcame him & his host & took him: & nevertheless yet they would fain have had peas: but this most faithful man had liefer die in pains great/ than to give rest and peace to cursed people. His loving greatly saint Austyn exalteth. ¶ Emelius Fabius and Gaius would have delivered Regulus but they obtained not. ¶ Ptholomias Ever gites this time was king of Egypt a victorious prince and a mighty. This man subdued Siriam & Cirilian/ and the most part of asia/ & took their goods & brought them in to his country. Ptholomeus Philopater/ son to Euergites reigned in Egypte xvii year. This man fought against two brethren. Seneleun & great Antiochum/ & he prostrated many a thousand/ but nevertheless he prevailed not (Vide plura in Iohen super Danielis) ¶ Hanyball the most cursed king of Penorum & of Affricanorum mightily hoted the romans/ for he destroyed them almost to the uttermost end/ & nigh the city of Rome he destroyed. And so many noble men of Rome he slew at one time/ that three bussheles full of gold rings he drew offyngers. Also in a certain water/ of the slain bodies of these romans/ he made as it were a bridge/ that his host might pass. And at the last Cipio the noble senatur direckid his host to him & scomfyted him and almost Cipioes' host of romans was slain. ¶ Lucacius consul. Simpronius Valerius. Fulnius Lutinus staius & Cipio/ ruled at Rome/ this time the romans had peace one year alone/ & it was take for a miracle tha● they had rest so long. For afore this time in four C. & xl year the romans had never rest. These consuls when the year was done gathered all the strength of italy/ & they had in their host viii M. armed men for dread of the frenchmen/ whom they dread strongly/ & after ward the romans subdued them. ¶ Epiphanes the son Philopater reigned in Egypte xxiiii year. Cleopatra daughter to great Antiochus was his wyf·s ¶ Antrochus magnus this time reigned in Syr●y/ the which died moche mischief to the jews (ut pꝪ Mathe) ¶ Onias this time was bishop in Jerusalem. This Onias for the tyranny of Antiochus fled with many jews in to Egypte/ feigning him to fulfil the prophecy isaiah xix that is to wite To build the Temple. But in that he sinned for he said otherwise than he thought. The king of Egypte graciously received him/ & gave him the land of Helipolees/ & there he builded his Temple. ¶ Summon his son was bishop at jerusalem/ after that his father was fled. ¶ Circa annum mundi .v. M.xxxiiii. Et ante xpi nativitatem. C.lxv. ELeazar of the line of christ was about this tyme. Of him no thing written in scripture: but that Mathe numbereth him (ut pʐ pri o) ¶ Onias Pius was to the bishop this time an holy man: & well beloved with god & man And not alonely with good men but evil men also. At the last unright wisely was slain of Adronito (ut pꝪ. ii machabeorum) ¶ Paulus Tereneius Scipio Affricanus: these were Senators at rome. These two erected an host against Hanyba●l: & there almost the romans hope dyed· For there was slain. xl●iii. M. romans. And this noble Scipio affricanus brought again the state of the romans people the which stood in a distpayre ever to have recovered. For he fought with Hanybal manly & discomfited him. All Spain ●e over came All Africa he subdued: gre● Antiochus he brought to be his servant. All asia he made tributary to the romans: this man so noble & so victoryus by his own unkind country was outlawed: & there he died. ¶ Philometor the son Epiphanes of Cleopatra reigned in Egypt xxxv year. This king ye● a child/ noble Antiochus greatly oppressed with many deceits but the Romans sent Legates the which commanded Antiochus that he should cease of his tyranny against him. And Marcus Publius made a circle to Antiochus thus saying. The Senators of rome & the people command that that thou go not out of this circle ●yl thou have answered to this matter This Antiochus saying that he might not contynue●h● tyranny said if it be thus commanded me of the Senators & romans people I must needs turn again & so would angry he was that he lost the siege of Alexandre/ & turned to the poor releves of the Jews/ venging him upon them by cause he might not venge him on a more mighty people (ut pꝪ iii liᵒ Machabeorum ii MAthachias an holy man/ and of all loving most worthy hated in his heart the conversecyon of all sinners/ alonely trusting in our lord god of Israel (ut pꝪ primo macha. two.) And this man had .v. sons of the same love unto god. This man was not bishop in Israel/ but his three sons were. ¶ judas Machabeus was bishop iii year/ & he was son to Mathathias. This Machabeus was the most named man that ever was in Israel/ the which had never none like him afore ne after. He was in battle a mighty man & offered him to die a martyr for the laws of god. ¶ jonatas his brother succeeded him xix year. The which grew in virtue and governed & stood steadfast in the laws of god/ & after falsely was slain of Cryphone & two of his sons (Plura vide Iuda et fremm eius li. macha. Antiochus Epiphanes son to Antiochus the mighty this time was king of Syrry, This man from the heed unto the feet within & without all was cursed/ And therefore he was figured to Antecryst. Many martyrs cruelly he made & falsely he dispose him to enter in to Egypt as his father died/ but he obtained not for the romans letted him. His most unhappy work/ & how he was in hastage at Rome/ and how the prophecy of Danyell was completed in him/ ye may see in the book of Machabeorum. ¶ Quintus Flaminius. Marchus Cato. Thiberius Gracius were Senators of Rome. This time was so continual and so much battle/ that learned men of gentiles and of the true faith both were weary for to write the acts or to have them in mind. In the which battles men marveled greatly on the steadfastness of the romans/ that no tribulation/ no dread no hardness might not fear them/ but ever continued in battle. And certainly these romans after the worlds honest/ they were the most wisest men that were. And therefore the Maccabees desired there company. ¶ Circa annum mundi .v. M.lix. Et ante xpi nativitatem. C.xl MAthon sone to Sadoch of the line of christ gate jacob (ut patet Mathei i) ¶ Simon son to mathias was bishop viii year. This Simon was a very wise man/ & from youth until his age was ever of good conversation/ ever more virtuous. And at the last he was slain of his brother Elay. (ut pꝪ. i macha) ¶ johannes Hircanus son to Simon/ was after his father xxix year/ a noble man as all the kindred was before him. This man after his decease left his wife a very wise woman & his five sons to govern the jury of the eldest was called Aristobolus an unpatient man & an unhappy. His own mother with three of his younger brethren he prisoned & slew them through hunger & so alone he lived king & bishop one year (Vide plaura li. Machabeorum) ¶ Publius Lucimius. Lucius Emilius. Lucius Lucinius. Lucius Consorinus were consuls at Rome. In whose time the Cartagynes & the romans warred strongely· But the romans subdued them/ intending to have destroyed the Cartagynes utterly. But among the romans there was a notable wise man called Scipio Nauta. And among many notable counselors two he ga● specially to be had in mind. The first that Cartago should not be destroyed that through the occasion of for and battles/ a In ward concord should abide among the romans/ & a perpetual strength for continual exercise of battle. The second. That in no wise the other should be builded in Rome. For he said that was the most enemy that might be to the people that used war For that place nourished sloth and provoked lechery ¶ And how wisely this notable man gaaf counsel/ the times following declareth (vide plca in Aug. dei civite dei libro four) ¶ yet for all this counsel that noble city of Carcago was destroyed of Cipio & the Senators. And it brent xvii days continually Many men there were sold/ & many men ran in to the fire wilfully. ¶ Corinthus this same year was destroyed of the romans/ the which was the richest country of the world. ¶ Ptholomeus this time reigned in Egypte/ & was familiar with the romans. And so long he & his predecessors reigned as they kept fydylyte to the romans. And know every man that there was none other cause that the power of the romans increased so strongly abve other people/ but virtue/ the which habundanly rygned in them/ & namely reght wiseness which above all thing they used. And as long as they kept mesures & loved right wiseness/ so long they were never overcome And as soon as they were corrupted/ it is radde/ they were overcomen. ¶ It is had in a certain revelation of god showed to saint Brygyte that our lord god beareth witness to these old romans. That none in this naturel life lived more right wisely. And what lights of faith they showed in the time of christian religion shall be showed after ward. ¶ Regum Jude orum restituitur. ARistobolus was the first king and priest in the jury this man reigned one year alone/ and took to him the diadem of the kingdom. And he held him not content with that his father gave him in his testament. But he put his mother in prison & his brethren. And therefore he perished wretchidly with his brother Antigonus the which was of his counsel and helped him.) Vide magystrum in historiis (¶ Antigonus brother unto the king was slain through the enuytee of the queen. ¶ lexander was bishop after Arstobolus/ & he stood. xxvii· year. And he was all atyraunte/ all though he appeared sober in the beginning. But he made it known what he was in his stomach/ for he slew his own brother. And in xii year he slew l thousand of the old sage faders of great virtue/ by cause they told him his mysgyding. Thenne when he should die/ he left two sons behind him Hircanum and Aristobolum. But certainly he said his wife should regne/ for she stood in the grace of the people. ¶ Servius Flaccus. Lucious. Fabius. Plubius' this time were Senators at Rome This time battles amonste them sif began. Of the which the first cause & the beginning/ was Graceus a myghhy man/ well known with noble romans/ began to seek a cause against them. And by cause that he might do no thing alone to them/ he moved the common people to them saying/ That all the lands & possessions should be divided equally/ and also the money. &c. And for that cause there was an Insurrection/ in the which Graccus was slain/ and many mischiefs fell after (Vide Orosium) ¶ In the time of these men/ there was a child borne at Rome/ having four feet/ four arms/ two faces and four eyen. ¶ The hill of Ethna spetted out flaming fire horrible/ and destroyed the places nigh about it. ¶ And these men bearing rule. Cartago was commanded to be restored. And it was fulfilled of the romans people. And there was mighty battle in the city of Rome. ¶ Fabius with a little host overcame the king of armeny And there were drowned an honyred & four score thousand men in the water of Rome. ¶ Ptholomeus Alexander was king in Egypte. In his time was borne Lucerius a Poet/ the which afterward was mad for love of women & slew himself. ¶ Pthoiomeus son to Cleopatra reigned after him/ under whom Salustius the noble writer of histories was borne. ¶ Ptholomeus Dionysius was after this man And in his time virgyll & Oracius were borne. ¶ Anno mund. M.C.xxxiiii. Et ante xpi nativitatem ix C.u. Jacob naturel father to joseph of the line of crest is reherted in Luke & Mathe & little of him is had in scripture. ¶ Alexandra wife to Alexander was bishop in the jury ix year/ & showed moche tyranny all if she was made bishop by her feigned holy religion. ¶ And Hircanum her son she provoked to the bishopric/ & she ordained that he should regne after. This woman in the line of the bishops is put fro the counting of the years. Not as she used the office of a bishop for it was not leeful to her. ¶ Hircanus son to Alexandra reigned xxxiii year. This Hircanus after the decease of his mother succeeded in the kingdom/ in the which he had little prosperity for percyalte of the people. For anon he was over comen/ & after ward he was restored through the help of the Arabees. And then he was made trybutary to the romans. And so 〈◊〉 was in peace a little tyme. But not in the name of king. At the last he did wretchedly for he was beguiled through the fraud Parthorum the which Antigonus hired against him (vide plene magistrum history) ¶ The heresy of the Pharysees about this time began. And among them were three sects in the Iury. Pharacey. Saducey. & Essey. All these were divided from the common use of the jews/ & were enferme with many errors for they said that they were holier than other men. For they lived streytlyer than other men died (Vide plus alias) ¶ Virgyll the most excellent of Potes was magnified this time/ & marvelous things he did. And among other when that Neopolis was vexed with deadly pain of mighty worms. Virgyll cast a worm of gold in to a pound or a water/ and it lay a certain season there. And when it was take up in to the town/ all the city was made full of worms. And till the worm of gold was put in to the water again/ they had In fyte worms. And when it was in the water all the worms went a way. ¶ Also it is written in the chronicles of Rome/ that Virgyll by cunning condescended or thycked the air/ so that he walled his garden with the air. And he made a bridge of the air/ by the which he might pass every time that he list Also he asked Morcellun Neopolitanun/ nephew unto the Emperor/ if he would have a bird taught to kill all birds or a fly taught to drive all flies out of the city. And this Marcellum told this to the Emperor. And he desired to teach a fly to kill all flies. For the common people were sore annoyed with ●●yes. And many other maruales he died (vide magistrum Rodulfun Cesterun) ¶ Oracius Flaccus/ and Salustius Crispus historicus were at this tyme. Quintus Cipio. Gaius Lucis this time were consuls at Rome. ¶ Pompeius. Marcus Crassus & julius Cezar this time were dictators at Rome. For as it is said/ afore there were many dignities at Rome/ of the which some dured one year/ some two year. And among all the dignities the dictators exceeded/ for it dured five year. But when the common people and the lord shypes of Rome increasing were made three dictators. And this time was pompeius. julius & Marcus Crassus' dictators. And by cause Pompeius was of great honour and aeged/ he bode at Rome to keep the common people of Rome. ¶ Marcus Crassus was send to subdue and fight with the region of Perthus. And through treason he was taken and slain ¶ julius Cezar was send to the west part of the world to subdue them. And he hath with him seven legions of people. And when that he had subdued Lomberdye and France his five year were spended/ the which were assigned to him and no longer. There by his own authority he took other five year upon him/ in the which he subdued Cassybolon king of britain/ and the Frenshmen that rebelled against him ¶ This same julius after he had conquered the countries/ unto Rome he rood again/ for to be received with certain worship as conquerors were before him but it was denied him/ and also the entry of the city/ by the instigation of a lord called Pompey. wherefore this julius Cezar was annoyed/ and with force of might entered the city/ and rob the common treasure and lad it with him/ and departed it among the seven legions that were his servants. Then went he in to Spain to fight against this Pompey. For Pompey had the governance of Cartago. But after that journey in ytale Pompey and he encountered together. ¶ In the which battle Pompey fled unto the king of Egypte/ and that same king for special love that he had unto this julius Cezar smote or Pompeus heed and sent it to julius Cezar. yet for all the enuyte that was betwixt them two julius wept when that he saw this Pompeius heed· This julius was exceeding in wit afore other men/ and he fought in battle lii times. This man alone exceeded Marcus Crassus: the which is said to have fought xxxix times. This man took first the Empire of Rome upon him: when Pompey and other noble men of the romans were slain. ¶ And at the last the fifth year of his Empire: This julius Cezar the ruler of all this world was slain in the counsel house through treason of his lords. ¶ Cathon the most named philosopher: Seeing julius Cezar have the victory: whom he favoured not: at a town called Vticam died slay himself (juxta illud Mawlt cota mari: quam deroget urbis honorari) But for that after Austyn he was not excused of senne. ¶ This time the jury was tributary to the romans for percyalyte of two brethren Aristobolus and Ercanus both of them for envy of other cast them to the romans that they might regne. ¶ This time three sons appeared in heaven to ward the east part of the world: the which by little and little were broghte in to one body. A great sign it was that Africa. Asia: and Europa should be brought in to one monarch and that the lordship of Anthony the senator and Lucius Anthonii should turn in to one lordship. ¶ Marcus Cicerio Tullius the most noble Rethorycen was Counsel of Rheum this tyme. ¶ How that the Brytons granted unto Cassybolon which then tofore that was Lud'S brother the land. In whose time julius Cezar came twice for to conquer the land of britain. AFter the death of king Lud reigned his brother Cassybolon & became a good man & moche beloved of his Britons so that for his goods & corteysy they granted him the ream for ever more to him & to his heirs. & the king of his goodness let nourish worthily both the sons that were Lud his brother. And after made the eldest son earl of cornwall/ and the yngest son he made earl of London. And while this king Cassybolon reigned/ came julius Cezar that was Emperor of Rome in to the land with a power of romans/ & would have had this land through strength/ but Cassybolon over came him in battle through help of the Brytons/ & drove him out of this land. And he went again to Rome & assembled a great power an other time/ & came again in to this land for to give battle to Cassybolon/ but he was discomfited through strength of the Brytons/ & through help of the Earl of cornwall & the Earl of London his brother/ & through help of Gudian king of scotland/ & Corbonde the king of Northwalys/ & of Brytayl king of Southwalys. And in this battle was slain Nennon that was Cassybolons' brother/ wherefore he made moche sorrow/ And so went julius Cezar out of this land with a few of romans that were left a live. And then Cassybolon went again to London and made a feast to all folk that though him had helped. And when that this feast was done/ then every man go in to his own country. ¶ Of the debate that was betwixt Cassybolon and the Earl of London/ and of the truage that was paid to Rome. ANd after it befall thus upon a day/ that the gentlemen of the kings household & the gentlemen of the Earls household of London after meet went together for to play And thorough debate that arose among them Enelin that was the Earls cousin of London slew Irenglas that was the kings cousin. wherefore swore that Enelyn should be hanged. But the Earl of London that was Enelins' lord would not suffer him/ wherefore the king was greatly wroth and vexed toward the Earl/ & thought him destroy. And privily the Earl sent letters to julius Cezar that he should come in to this land for to help him and him avenge upon the king/ and he would help him with all his might. And when th'emperor heard this tidings he was full glade/ and ordained a strong power/ and came again the third time in to this land/ and the Earl of London helped him with viii thousand men/ and at the third time was Cassibolon overcome and discomfited and made peas to the Emperor for three thousand pound of silver yeldinge by year for trauge for this land for evermore. ¶ And then half a year after passed the Emperor julius Cezar went again unto Rome/ and the Earl of London which him. For he durst not abide in this land. And after Cassybolon reigned vii year in peace/ and though he died the xvii year of his reign and lieth at york. ¶ How that the lords of the land after the death of Cassybolon and for by cause he had none heyer made Adragen king. AFter the death of Cassybolon for as much as he had none heir of his 〈◊〉 body begotten/ the lords of land by the comyns assent crowned Andragen earl of cornwall & made him king. And he reigned well and worthily/ & he was a good man & will governed the land. And when he had reigned. v●ii. year then he died/ & lieth at London ¶ Circa annum mundi .v. M.C.lix. Et ante xpi nativitatem. i●. joseph of the line of christ was abou● this time borne/ and after was husband unto our lady. ¶ Anthigonus was bishop this time in the Iury. This Anthigonus was son unto Aristoboly/ and on every side he was false. For he obeyed not to the Romans/ and a great plague he brought unto the land for to destroy Hircanus his uncle that he might regne king/ and so Hircanus was expulsed/ and Flaccus was slain/ and Herod was exiled. But when Herod came unto Rome and told the Senators all these things/ the Emperor cerated him king sending with him an host/ the which took jerusalem. And Anthigonum the bishop taken/ led to Anthony the senator/ the which made him sicker/ and so was Herod confirmed in to his kingdom. And he a stranger reigned on the jews/ & so the kingdom of the jews cessed as jacob had said. ¶ Titus Livius historicus and Quidius were this tyme. ¶ Incipiunt imperatores augusti. et dictus est augustus quia augebat populum Octavian was Emperor of Rome lvii year vi mouths and. ●. days. This octavian nephew to july when he was a young man took the Empire upon him. His flourishing youth he spended in war. five thousand battles he died. And shortly after many battles/ he brought all the world in to one Monarch/ that man had no fellow And in his days peace was in all the world through the provision of the very god. That the temporal peace might glorify the nativity of our saviour christ Ihesu. This octavian was the fairest man that might be/ and high in wit/ the most fortunate in all things. And he lacked not the vice of his fleshly lust. This man made all the world to be measured. And in the lii year of his reign was our lord Ihesu christ born/ the saviour of this world/ the which granteth eternal peace to his lovers. ¶ Hic nota secundum jeronimum) that Anna and Emeria were sisters. ¶ And of Emeria was borne Elyzabeth mother to johan the baptist. And she was first wedded to joachim of whom she took Mary mother of christ. The second husband was Cleophe/ and he gate oon her Maria Cleophe/ the which was wedded to Alphe of whom proceeded james the less Simon Cananeus. judas Tadeus/ and joseph the which is called Barsabas/ The third time Anna was wedded to Salome/ of whom she took Mary Salome the which was wedded to zebede and of them came james the more/ and johan the evangelist ¶ The first Mary wedded joseph brother to Cleophe afore said. This time Sibilla Tiburrina prophesied of christ/ and said to th'emperor August/ that he should not trow that he was not god after the foolishness of the paynims And there she showed him a fair virgin in heaven holdinde a child in her arms/ and said to him/ this child is greater than thou/ and therefore do him worship. ¶ The monarch of Rome about this time mightily increased. And when it was so that by all the world in divers provinces battles were raised suddenly all men merualing/ they were sessed and put them holy to the prince of Rome that openly it might be showed that such an universal peace came never by labour of battle/ but of the power of the very god/ that in his nativity peace should regne in all the world. ¶ Herod Ascolonira was king in the jury xxxv year This Herod ydumeus was the first strange king that reigned on the jews. The master in historiis saith/ he was a noble man and faithful in the beginning/ and in all thing he had him nobly. He wis very gentle unto the romans and to the people that loved peas·s And in his old age/ when he would much please the Romans heard of the birth of christ: dreading to be expulsed of his kingdom as a stranger: wretchedly he fell and slew the Innocentes and diver of his own children. And at the last was hateful to all people: and fell sick & died wretchedly. ¶ Marry the mother of christ was borne afore the nativity of christ xu year or there about. ¶ Of Kymbulyn that was Andragens son reigned after his father AFter the death of Andragen reigned Kymbalyn his son a good man & well governed the land in moche prosperity and peace all his life tyme. And in his time Ihesu Criste was borne of that sweet virgin Mary. This king Kymbalyn had two sons. Gynder and Armager good knights and worthy. And when this Kymbalyn had reigned xxii year: he died and lieth at London. ¶ Cristus natus est ex virgine maria. anno mundi .v. M. C.lxxxxiii. IN the beginning of the xlii year of octavian th'emperor. which began to regne in March: and in xxx year of Herod vii C. and l year after that Rome was builded/ the vi month from the conceiving of johan baptist: the viii Kal. of Apryl: the vi fery at Nazareth of galilee: of the virgin Mary was conceived christ our saviour and the same year was borne· ¶ Here at Crysties nativity beginneth the sixth age during to the final judgement: having years as god knoweth ¶ Here beginneth the sixth age during to the end of the world. THat day our lord Ihesu christ was borne/ a well of oil beyond Tybre by Rome sprang and ran all day. The goldy yamge fell that which Romulus had made: and put it in his palace saying. This image shall not fail unre a maid bear a child. ¶ when Herod disposed him to slay the children of Israel: he was commanded by the letter of th'emperor to come to Rome to Answer to the accusation of his children Alexium. and Aristoboli: And there were three Herodes grely spoken of for their ill deeds The first was called Ascolonita/ and under this man was borne christ/ and the children of Israel were slain. The second was called Antipas son to the first Herode/ under whom Iohn baptist heeded/ and christ suffered death. And the third was called Agrippa son to Aristoboli/ son to the first Herode/ the which slew james & prisoned Peter. The first Herod when he saw his sons Alexium and Aristoboli through the pretense of his letter by the Emperor send/ strive for the succession of his kingdom/ he disposed and made Antipater that was his first begotten son to be before them: and when they were talking of the death of their father he cast them away: & they went to th'emperor to complain of the wrong of therfader. And in the mean time the three kings of Coleyne came by Herod unto jerusalem: & when they came not again by him he thought that they were ashamed for to come again by him for because that they were deceived: and that they found not the child as he denied: therefore in the mean season he cess to slay the children of Israel and so ween unto Rome for the citation of th'emperor. And he took his way by the city of Tarsum where he brent the ships in the which the three kings of Coleyne should have sailed in to their own country. then after a year and certain days: this Herod came from Rome again: accorded with his sons And for the confirmation of his kingdom he was made moche holder: and then he slew all the children of Bethleem that were of two year of age & under that had space of one night of age: and among these was there one of his own chylrden. And Aristoboli & Alerium were had in suspection: in so much as they promised a barber a great reward that he should take & kit their faders throat when that he died him shave. & when this Herod heard this he was grieved & there he slew both his sons. And Herod Agrippa his son he ordained to be kige. wherefore Antipater his oldest son was about to poison his fodder: the which Herod Agrippa understood: & prisoned there his brother that which the Emperor heard and said that he had levee be an hog of Herodes: than for to be one of his sons: for his hogs he spareth and his sons he sleeth. ¶ And when that Herod was lxx year of age he was stricken with a great sickness in his hands and in his feet and in his membres: that no lethe might come to him for stench: and so he died. ¶ So Antipater his son in prison heard tell of this and joyed greatly: and therefore that cause he was slain. ¶ Then strove Archelaus and Herodes for the succession of the first Herode. The Emperor there through counsel of the Senators: the half of the jury and Idumea gaaf to Archelaus under name of tetrarch. And the other part he divided in two. galilee he gave to Herod Antippa. And Ituriam and Traconidem he gaafe to Philype Herodes brother. ¶ And that same year christ came from Egypte/ And Archelaus was accused many times of the jews/ & was exiled in to Vyennam in to france. And in that place were set four Tetrarchees/ to the reproving of the unstableness of the jews. ¶ And that same year octavian the Emperor died. ¶ Anno xyristi. x ᵒ I.N.R.I. ¶ Crux χρristi. stylized depiction of cross Ihesus' christ at xii year of age heard the doctors in the Temple. ¶ Our lord. Ihesu christ at xxx year of Aege was baptysed· ¶ Ihesu christ the lord of all. things at xxx year of age & iii months died far his servants ¶ Anninus Rufus was bishop in the jury about this tyme. ¶ Valerius Geaceus was after him xi year. This man openly sold the bishopric/ & he that most gave had it. And there was money in a little while. ¶ Poncius Pylatus was judge & Proctor in the jury under the Emperor. And under this man Iohn baptist began for to preach. And our load surffred death/ the which was dampened to death unright wisely for dread of th'emperor. ¶ Tyrus a certain king gate a child on Pyla a poor man's daughter/ the which man height Arus/ & this child of his mothers name and his be●syre put togyds was called Pylatus/ This Pylatus the fourth year of his age was sent to his father. The which king of his leeful wife had gotten a child even of the age with pilate/ & by cause this leeful gotten child as they proceeded in age exceeded this bastard Pylatus he was full of envy & slew his brother the leeful gotten child. wherefore forth with his father sent him to Rome for pledge for his tribute that he paid to Rome/ intending he would never redeem him. In the which time the kings son of France was pledge for his tribute/ the which exceeded him in strength & chyvalry also he slew him. Therefore the romans sent pilate as a profitable man for the common weal to the isle of Ponto to tame the cursed people/ the which slew every judge that came to them And he that cursed man governed that unhapy people what with threating & with promise/ & with law & with ieftes that none of them durst contrai do to his pleasure/ wherefore he was called pilate of Ponto. ¶ Herodes Antipa young in his conversations/ with yeftes● and messages drew him to him & made him prince of the jury under him. And this time pilate gathered much money/ & Herod not knowing he went to Rome that he might receive of the Emperor that Herod had given him. Wherefore Hyrode & pilate were enemies together/ unto the passion of our lord/ when that pilate send Jesus' unto Herode clothed in a white cloth/ thenne they were made friends. ¶ Ovidius Naso in ponto above this time died the fourth year of his exile. ¶ Tyburius this time was Emperor at Rome/ & he reigned xxiii. year/ & he lived in the year that our lord Ihesu Cryst died & somewhat after. This man was in all his works greteli advised that there should be nothing suddenly done wise in wars studious in books fair of speech fresh in wite/ save he would of times feign himself to do things that he would never do of other. This Emperor understood & trusted in christ/ & worshipped him for god Some men say at the last he was cruel against people but it was a great reason of pity that he was ever gracious to his subgettes & poor men. And he had peace all his days/ & all the people that said against crysten folk with out oni mercy he destroyed: & he exiled pilate for ever Then he decessed & a worse succeeded him. ¶ After Euseby it is written: our lord at xxx year of his age chose his xii apostles: the which made our Crede: that is believe. and they made it after the resurrection of christ: & after the holy ghost was send unto them. when they had chose Mathias the apostle & each of them made a part as it is showed hereafter. And this mathia was chose between the day of the ascension and whitsunday in the place of judas Scaryot the traytoust/ of the which judas in a history is red thus. ¶ There was a certain man in jeruslem that high Reuben/ & after saint jerom he was of the tribe of isacar. And his wife height Cyborea the which one a certain night when he would lustily know his wife/ she dreamed that she should bear a child of mischief & the child should be a traitor to his king & to all the people of that region & when that child was borne & called judas his father & his mod abhorred as well to slay their child/ as to nourish a traitor to the king & all his people/ there fore they put him in to a pannier/ or a leap in to the see/ & he flowed to the isle of Scaryoth/ where the ladi of that place had no child by her husband & she feigned her to be with child/ but she failed And after in a little season the same laid & queen conceived a chill of her husband & when that he was of age. judas many times angered him & caused him to weep/ the which the queen saw/ & beat judas many times/ and after she knowledged that judas was not the kings snow hers/ wherefore judas slew the kenges son/ & he dread the pain of the law/ & fled with certain exiles to jerusalem. And when he came there: he gate him in to Pylates' court that was judge & by cause that o cursed man draweth to Turrian other: therefore he drew to pilate & stood greatly in his favour. And upon a certain day when pilate looked out of his palace in to an orchard of a that man's was called reuben that was very father to judas. pilate desired to have apples: & judas went to gather apples: & Reuben ran to judas for to let him because he took his apples whithaut any leave & when they had chid this judas smote his fad on the heed with a stone & slew him: & judas fled a way secretly aft that deed but it was said that reuben died suddenly. Then pilate gave to judas all the goods that Reuben had & ciborea Rubens wife that was mother to judas. & he dealt not curcesly with her as a manshold with his wife & for that she wept & wailed for she had put her son to the see & that she was married against her well It was perceived that judas had slain his own father & wed his own mod.. Thenne ciborea his mod & wife moved him to leave his sin/ & than he followed Cryst: & he forgave him his sin & made him his procoure & apostle. And howfals he was to Cryst/ it needeth not to rehearse. And the same year Mathewe was choose/ & the holy ghost was send in to them as it is said afore. ¶ The apostles or they were sparpied in to all the world they gathered them cogyd in to Jerusalem & made the Crede here following that is our believe. Petrus ¶ Credo in deum patrem omnipotentem creatoeem celi e● terre. Andreas ¶ Et in the sum xpm filium eius unicum dominum nost rum. johannes ¶ Qui conceptus● est de spiritu sancto natus ex maria virgine. jacobus ¶ Passus sub poncio pilato cruci firus morews et sepultus. Thomas ¶ Descendit ad inferna tercia die resurrexit amertuis. jacbus ¶ Ascendit ad celos sedet ad dexteram die patris omnipotentis. Phlippus ¶ Ind venturus est judicare vivons etmortuos. Bartho. ¶ Credo in spiritum sanctum Matheus ¶ Sanctam eccleciam catholicam. Semon ¶ Sanctorum communionem remissiom peccatorum. judas ¶ Carnis resurrectionem. Mathias ¶ Et vitam eternam Amen. IHesu christ our saviour rose fro death to life & said to his disciples All the power in heaven and in earth is given unto me. And go ye thus in to all the wrold and preach and teach unto every creature/ and Is all be with you unto the end of the world. ¶ Here he chyse him lxxii disciples. & he had xii apostles the which he send in to all the world to preach. Ne it is not red that there were more ordres among the disciples of christ/ of whom the priests and bishops in the church of god yet keep the form. For to the apostles the bishops succeed/ and to the disciple priests. To the which two ordres/ all the church is given as a goodly jerarche (Vt patet in Decreto Damasie pape) johannes. wrote in Asia in Greek language In principio erat verbum. & cetera. Marcus. wrote in ytalia but in greek language. Innicium evangelu jesu cristi. &c. Lucas. wrote in Grecea in greek language Huic in diebus herodis Jude sacerdos. &c. Matheus. wrote in the jury in Hebrew language. Liber generacionis Ihesu cristi. &c. ¶ Here beginneth the order of Popes of Rome/ and contynneth as the line of christ died afore. For in them god left his power. ¶ Anno domini xxxiiii PEter a jew the first pope was a blessed man & a glorious apostle of christ. ¶ He was heed of the church xxxvii year. And he held his bishopric in the east .v. year & said mass he made our lord/ & alone said the Pater noster. then after he came to Antiochiam & there he abode vii year teaching the way of troth. And Simon Magus he confounded away. That season he preached to the people that were circumcised/ the which were in Ponto of Galati. Capadocia. Asia. Bichinia. then herd he that Simon Magus deluded the romans/ through the love of the faith/ he came to Rome in the fourth year of Claudius the Emperor. And there he preached the word of god/ and showed the falsehood of Simon Magus and turned many a man to the faith/ then he send his preacher by diverse provinces/ by whom christian religion was mightily increased. ¶ He ordained the feast of Lenton afore Easter/ and Aduent and the Emering days to be fasted of all crysten people/ in to the mirror of the first and second coming of our lord Ihesu. ¶ Thenne when he had be pope at Rome xxv year vii months and ·viiis. days/ He was slain of Nero (Eius pla opera vide actibus aplorum) ¶ Baius this time was Emperor at Rome & reigned iii year & ten months. This Gaius was first vicious in living/ for two of his own sesters he misused/ and on one of them he ga●e a daughter/ which child he set betwixt the knees of jupiter in the Temple/ and feigned after ward that jupiter had gotten her. wherefore he died cry through the country that all men should worship her as a goddess/ This man also made an image like himself and sent it to one Patronie president at jerusalem under the romans commanding him that he should compel the jews to do worship thereto. And fore these enormities & many other/ our lord suffered him to be slain at Rome in his own palace. Of king Gynder that was Kymbalyns son/ that would not pay the truage to Rome for the land that Cassybolon had granted/ and how he was slain of a Romyne. ANd after the death of this Kymbalyn reigned Gynder his son a good man and a worthy/ and was of so high heart that he would not pay to Rome that tribute that king Cassybolon had granted unto julius Cezar wherefore th'emperor that was though that was called Claudius Cezar was sore annoyed And ordained a great power of romans/ & came in to this land for to conquer the tribute through strength/ and for to have it on the kynge· But this king Gynder and Armager his brother assembled & gathered a great host together of Brytons & gave battle to the Emperor Claudius'/ and slew of the romans gerte plenty. The Emperor had after ward one that was called Hamon that saw the people there fast slain/ & privily cast a way his own arms & took the arms of a deed Bryton and armed him with his armour/ & came in to the battle to the king & said in this manner. Sir be of a good heart for gods love for the romans that been your enemies anon shall be slain & discomfited everichone. And the king gave no keep to his words/ ne to his speech forbi cause of the arms that he had upon him/ and deemed that he had been a Bryton. But the traitor ever held him next the king And privily under the shoulder of his arms he smote the king/ wherefore the king died and fell down to the earth ¶ when Armager saw his brother so deed herast away his arasmes and took to him his brother's arms/ & come in to the battle amongs the brytons and bad them heartily for to fight/ and fast lay a down the romans. And for the arms they wend it had be king Gynder that afore was slain/ that they wist not. Then began the Brytons fiercely for to fygth/ & slew the romans So at the last the Emperor forsook the field and fled as fast as they might with his folkein to wynchestre. And the falls traitor Hamon that had slain the king/ fast anon began for to flee with all the haste that he might And Amager the kings brother pursued him full fiercely with a fierce heart/ & drove him unto a water & there he took him. And anon smote of both hand and feet & heed/ and hewed the body all to peers/ and then let cast him in to the water wherefore that what was called Hamon's haven. And after there was made a fair town that yet standeth that is called Southampten. And after Armager went to wynchestre for to seek Claudius Cezar the Emperor of Rome. And there Armager him took. And Claudius the emperor thorough counseyl of the romans that were with him left a live/ made peas with Armager in this manner as ye shall here. That is to say. How that Claudius the Emperor should give unto Armager Gennen his fair daughter for to have unto his wife. So that this land from that time for ward should he in the emperors power of Rome upon such covenant/ that never after ward no Emperor of Rome should take none other tribute of this land/ but only feaute And they were accorded. And upon this covenant Claudius Cezar sent to Rome for his daughter Gennen. And as she was come Claudius Cezar give her unto Armager to wife. & Armager spoused her at London with moche solemnity & mirth. And then was Armager crowned & made king of britain. ¶ Of king Armager in whose tyme. saint Peter preached in Anthyoche with other apostles in divers countries. THis Armager reigned well and worthily/ and gourned the land right worshipfully. ¶ And Claudius Cezar in remembrance of this accord/ and for reverence and honour of his daughter made in this land fair town & a castle/ and let call the town after his name Clavestren/ the which now is called Gloucestre▪ & thenne when all this was done the Emperor took his leave & thenne went to Rome again. And Armager then was king/ and governed the land well and worthily all his lives tyme. And this Armager gate a seen on his wife which was called westmer. And while that this Armager reigned saint Peter preached in Antioch And there he made a noble church. In the which he sat first in his chair And there he dewelled vii year. and after he went to Rome: and was made pope: till that Nero the Emperor let martyr him And then preached openly all the apostles in diverse lands the right faith. ¶ And when Armager had reigned xxxiiii year: he died and lieth at the ancient city of London. ¶ How king westmer gaaf to Berynger an island forlet. And there this Berynger made the town of Berwyke. ANd after this Armager reigned his son westmer: that was a good man and a worthy of body: and well governed the land. It befell so that tidings came to him upon a day: that the king Roderyk of Gascoigne was come in to this land with an huge host of people: & was dwelling in Scanies more. & when king westmer heard those tidings he let assemble an huge host of Brytons/ & came to the king Roderyk & gave him battle. And king westmer slew king Rodoryke with his own hands in plain baytaylle. ¶ And when king Roderyks men saw that their lord was slain/ they yielded them all to king westmer/ & became his men for ever more. And he gaf them a country that was forleten wherein they might dwelled. ¶ And thither they went And dwell there all their lives time/ and ix hundred men there were of them & nomoo left at that batayll· Their governor & prince was called Berynger. And anon he began a town that they might there in dwell & have resort and let call the town Berwyk upon tweed. And there they inhabit & became rich. But they had no women among them/ & the Brytons would not give there daughters to the strangers. wherefore they went over see in to ireland/ & brought with them women & there they them spo●wsed. But the men could not understand their language ne the speech of these women/ and therefore they spoke together as Scots. And after ward through changing theridamas language in all France they were called thenne Scots & so should the folk of that country be called for ever more. ¶ How king westmer let arere a stone in the entering of westmerlonde/ there that he slew Roderyk/ & there he began first housing. ANd after this battle that is above said when Roderyke was deed/ king westmer in remembrance of his victory let arere there beside the way a great stone on high/ and yet it standeth & ever more shall stand. And he let grave in the stone let that thus said The king westmer of britain slew in this place Roderyk his enemy. ¶ And this westmer was the first that builded house and town in westmerlonde & at that stone beginneth westmerlonde that westmer let call after his own name. And when westmer had so done he dwelled all his life time in that country of westmerlonde/ for he loved that country more than any other country/ & when he had reigned xxv year/ he died and lieth at Karleyll. ¶ Of king coil that was westmers son that held his land in peace all his lives tyme. AFter this: his son king coil reigned a good man & a worthy: and of good conditions: and well governed his land. And of all men he had love and peace. And in his time was never contake debate: nor war in britain. And he reigned and was king in peace all his lives tyme· And when he had reigned xi year he died & lieth at york. Claudius' was emperor at Rome next after Gaius. And he reigned xiiii year/ and viiii days. This man came in to great britain now called England/ for to challenge the tribute which they died deny unto the romans. And after great battles there was between the Emperor Claudius & Armager king of britain. And after accordment made/ that this armager should wed Claudius' daughter/ & after they two should ever live in peace. In token werof/ this Claudius named the city where they were wedded after him/ and called it Claudicestre/ where we now it call Gloucestre. ¶ This Claudius had three wives. And on Petiva the first wife he gate a daughter that height Antonia/ the first wife decessed/ and he wedded Messalinam/ & gate a son that height Brytanicus & Octavia a daughter. The third he wedded Agrippina having a son that height Nero. Claudius wedded his daughter Octavia to Nero his wives son. This Claudius for love that he had to Agrippina his last wife/ he slew Messalina his first wife/ least she should have holp Britanicus her son & his to Empire. yet Agrippina the last wife of Claudius dread/ least her husband would have proffered Brytanicus and h●●e deposed Nero her son/ therefore she poisoned her husband Claudius/ and Nero was promoted to the Empire. And this same Nero ayve his mother such a reward again. For he poisoned Brytanicus and slew his own mother & his wife Octavia. ¶ james the more the apostle this time was slain of Herod Agrippa/ & Peter was prisoned (Vt pꝪ act xii The body of saint james was brought by miracle in Galeciam of Spyne. ¶ Nero after Claudius was Emperor/ and he reigned xiii year & vii months. This Nero was a cursed man/ & made great waste in the Empire. He would not fish but with nets of gold & ropes of silk. A great part of the lords of Rome he slew He was enemy to no men but to good men. He slew his brother and his wife his mother & his master. He slew also Peter and Poule/ he would never were one cloth two times. all his horse and his mules were should with silver/ & at the last he died set a great part of Rome on fire/ some say the romans complained the streets were to narrow. And as he had brent a great part of Rome. Nero said there is space to build the streets wider. then the Senators with the common people came upon him to sleehim and he fled by night in to the subarbes of the city & hide him/ & he heard karles & beggars saying. And they wist where the Empe●rour were he should never scape them. Nero thought it should be great derogation to his name and he were slain of karles. And on a great stake he ran himself to the heart and died and there was buried. And devils kept his body many a day after/ and died great hurt to the people/ till by a miracle of our lord the body was found and taken away/ and then the devils voided. ¶ Seneca was this time master to Nero. ¶ Iwenalꝭ pota. ¶ Lucanus poeta. ¶ james the less the apostle bishop of jerusalem was slain of the jews the vi year of Nero. Marcus the evaungelyste was martyred the first year of him. ¶ Circa annum xpi lxxiiii LInus ytalicus was pope of Rome ten year and. iii· months and xiii days This Linus and his successor Cletus/ through their holy conversation were made to minister the treasure of the church to the people Peter being a live. And Peter attended to praying & preaching. ¶ It is red of this Cletus/ that he wrote first in his letters (Salutem et apostolicam benedictionem) ¶ Afore this time was many a disciple of Peter slain under Nero. ¶ Galba this time was Emperor/ & he reigned vii months. This man was made Emperor by the power of Spain in the same land Nero living. And after the death of Nero brought to Rome/ & there was slain of a man that came with wheat to Rome. He smote of his heed and bare it to him that was Emperor next/ saying all his men & none of them helping him. ¶ In this man's days came the great Rethoricyen to Rome fro Spain/ & was the first that ever taught the science openly/ his nyme was Quintilian. ¶ Otho reigned after him/ and he reigned but iii months. For one Vitellus that was Precedent of France challenged the Empire. And in italy betwixt these two were three great battles And in the fourth battle Otho saw he should be overcome and in great despair he slew himself. ¶ Vitellus reigned after Otho & he reigned viii months/ for he was follower of Nero most special in gluttony/ & in singing of foul songs: and at festes etynges out of measure that he might not keep it. ¶ Vespasianus reigned next after him ix year and ten months and xii days. ¶ The well governed men of Rome saying the cursed succession of Nero sent after this Vespasian unto palestyn For there he was & his son Titus which had besieged Iherusalem. ¶ And when be herd that Nero was deed: by whom he was sent to jerusalem: & heard of these cursed men reigning. At the Instance of these men: not willingly: took upon him the Empire. And anon as he was come to Rome: he overcame the tyrant Vitellus and let him be draw thorough Rome: & after in to tybre till he was deed: & thenne let him sail without sepulture for this the people desired. This man was cured of waspis in his nose anon as he believed in our lord Ihesu: And that was the cause which went to jerusalem/ to venge Crystis death He fought. x●xii. times with his enemies & died the year of grace. lxiix. ¶ Anno dium lxxxiiii. CLetus a martyr was pope xi year this Cletus was a roman and greatly beloved pilgrimages to saints saying it was more profit to the health of man's soul to visit the place that saint peter was in than ●or to fast two year. He cursed all the men letting such pilgrimages/ or counsellors contrary thereto. At the last he was martyred by Dami●●an the Emperor. ¶ Titus son to Vespasianus was Emperor this time & reigned three year. And he abode still at Jerusalem after the election of his father and destroyed the city. And slew there as the story saith with battle and hunger xi hodred thousand jews And a hundred thousand he took and sold xxx for a penny. By cause they sold christ for xxx pens/ and brought thence all thing that was precious/ and put them in his house at Rome which was called Templum pacis/ But now is that place fall down for the most party/ and all these great jewels been distributed to certain churches in Rome. ¶ This Titus was so full of virtue that all men loved him/ so set forth/ that they called him the most delectable of men. He was full liberal to all men in so much that he said often times/ the there should no man go from an Emperor with an heavy heart/ but he should some what have of his petition. He would be sorry that day in the which he had granted no man no benefit. ¶ when that he was deed every man that was in Rome wept for him/ as that they had lost their father. ¶ Domician brother to Titus reigned after him xxiiii year & .v. months. First he was ●asy/ and after ward full unreasonable For much of the Senate was destroyed by his malice/ and also much of his kindred. He began the second persecution after Nero against christian men/ in the which persecution Iohn the evangelist was exiled in to Pathius after the Emperor had put him in to a ton of oil brenning & hurt him not. So this man was not the follower of his father Vespasian/ ne his brother Titus/ but rathur like Nero & his kindred. And for these wicked conditions he was slain in his own palace at Rome in the xxvii year of his aege· ¶ Clemens a martyr was pope ix year and he succeeded Cletus. This Clemens first of saint Peter was ordained to be successor to him. And for peril he would Linus and Cletus should be pope's & fore him/ lest that through that ensample prelate's should ordain under them who some ever they would. This man made the life of martyrs to be written by regions. And he made many books He ordained that a child should be confirmed as soon as it might/ namely after it was crystened. And at the last he was martyred under trajan. ¶ Nerua was Emperor after Domician oo year & two months. And when he was chosen he moved the Senate to make a law/ that thing which Domician commanded to be kept should be broken/ By the which mean saint johan the evangelist was loosed out of his exyl: & suffrey to come again to Ephase. This man died an other thing right commendable that he assyned so wise a man as trajan was to govern the people after him. ¶ Nota. ¶ Traianus Hispanicus was Emperor xxi year. This Traianus many man said. He was the best among all the Emperors: But in one thing alone he was vicious In so much as he for the love of the false gods was about to destroy the christian faith. judging in himself so most to please god. Some men say not by himself but by other he pursued the christian faith: and in the end of his life he died but few to death. And all his loving Isette at nought. But at saint Gregory moved with pity weeping: & prayed unto our lord for him: that he would have mercy upon him and by his prayer have him out of hell: in to which place he was dampened. And now if that he be saved or not: a great alteration is among doctors. And to us that write Crony eyes: it is no part of our charge to determine. But all the east part of the world. Babylon. Selencia: the utter parts of the ynde. Germayne the second after Alexander held under. In all these things so piteous and so meekly he guided him to every man as a king. He was gentle: and to no man ungentyll: the which is red of few: All his days he lived that men said he was the most worthy man in all his Empire. And thought and said ever more: that no man was more unworthy to be Emperor than he. ¶ Anno dm. C.iiii ANacletus a martyr was pope ·ix year And he. was a Greek. He monished an crysten men: that priests should be worshipped above all other men. saying: that priests doing sacrifice to god should be borne out and not vexed: but be worshipped. And priests when they said mass the should have wyenesse with them and namely bishops Also he decreed that clerks should were no beards nor long here. Also that a bishop should be consecrated of three: and diverse other thing. At the last the xii year of Traianus he was martyred and buried by the body of saint Peter. ¶ Plinius the second Orator and phelosopher wrote much things. This man moved Traianus that he should withdraw the sentence yeven ayeste christian folk: written to him that they should do no ill but take heed to the virtue: But that they should rise afore day and worshoppe their god secretly in the nyght· ¶ Evaristus a Greek & a martyr was pope ten year and vii months after Anacletus. This man ordained that man and woman should be wedded openly: and that they should be blessed openly of the priest and father and mother. And he was martyred the third year of Adrian & buried by saint Peter. ¶ Alexander a roman was pope viii year and .v. months. This Alexander the most part of the Senators he converterd unto our lord And he constytuted and ordained/ that holy water should be spynkled in to christian men's houses. And he ordained that the breed that priests use to sing with should be made of pure and clean breed and that in a little quantity. At the last he was martyred under Adryan that was the Emperor. And many of them he converted to the faith. ¶ Sixtus a roman was pope ten year and iii months. This man ordained (Sanctus Sanctus Sanctus. & c) Should be said in the mass. And that the holy things of the church should not be touched but of ministers of the church. Also that the corporax should not be made of silk/ but of pure linen cloth woven/ and not died and that a woman should not touch the holy/ vessel of the a wter/ ne the pall. Also he ordained/ that yfony bishop were vacant/ that no bishop should be received in to his benefice but with the pope's letters. Also that no mass should be said but upon an a wter/ & at the last he was martyred. ¶ Adrianus was emperor xxi year This Adriani many things is comen deed to christian men/ other will he was gracious/ and certain of them that would not do sacrifice to the falls gods he slew. He was an universal man all most in all science. Peas he had all his days/ but with the jews and many a law he made. And then he commanded that christian men should not be dampened to death but with due process. jerusalem he subduded again/ & forbade that no jew should dwell therein by no wise. christen men he suffered there to dwell. Against his will he came to the Empire/ But he governed him very well. when the senators prayed him to call his son Emperor after him/ He said/ it is not ynoughte to me that against my will I have reigned which I have not deserved. For the emperourus of Rome should go by succession of blood/ but to such men as have deserved it through their merits. Many times he reigned unuertuously that is a king borne/ & virtue should come before his kingdom. ¶ Eustachius other wise called Placidus & Therospita his wife/ & two of their sons/ of whom marvelous things been red/ were martyred by the commandment of Adrian. This Placidus was master of the emperors knights jerusalem was restored by Adrian and made larger/ so that the place where christ died was within th● walls/ the which was without before. And this is the third buyl ding again of that city/ for it was thrice destroyed. Of the Caldees in the time of zedethee/ of Anthyocus in the time of Machabeorum/ and of Titus in the time of Vespacian. ¶ Anno dm. C.xliiii. THelesporus a Roman was pope xi year this man ordained this angels ympne to be song in the mass (Glorya in excelsis deo & c) & the gospel to be red afore the sacring/ and on Crystemasse day three masses to be song. And he ordained there should no mass be song be fore three of the clock. And at the last he was martyred & buried at saint Peters· ¶ Ignyus a Greek was pope four year. This man ordained that a child should have a god father & a god mother at the time of baptizing: & also one at confirmation. Also that no archbishop/ except the pope shalde condemn his Suffrygan but if the cause were showed in the provyncial counsel of bishops. Thenne he was martyred & buried at saint Peter'S. ¶ Anthonius Pius was Emperor xxii year with his sons Aurolio and Lucio This man was mightily wise & naturally fair of speech/ the which lightly in oo man is not found Noto. ¶ exceeding men in wisdom comynly are not fair speched/ nor peasfull namely of nature/ ne contrayous. exceeding men in fair speech commonly are less than wise. This man was moved with both these proprytees. Therefore many kingdoms the which receded from other Emperors wilfully to this man turned again. And to christian men was no ne so gentle. He said through the ensample of Cipio. I had liefer keep one hereof a man/ than slay an hundred of mine enemies. And some martyrs were made under him/ but they were made under the cōmoundemente of the Emperors afore. And the crygen people were so hateful unto the bishops & to the priests of the Temple of the false gods: that they provoked the princes alway against them. For they supposed that the christian faith should destroy they Therefore it was no merualle: all though the price was unpleased: for they said All their gods were deuyllesy● lower judges pursued christian folk & mar●ed: them. This time ten thousand martyrs. were crucified in Arminea/ in an high hill called Arath. ¶ Pompeius trogus isto tempore historias a nino usque ad octavianun deduxit. ¶ Anno dm. C.liiii. PIus ytalicus was pope xi year. & four months and xu days/ This man ordained the feast of Easter ever more should be hallowed on the sunday. And also an heretic coming fro the sect of the jews should be received and baptized. Then he was martyred and buried in saint Peter. ¶ Anicetus was pope after Pius almost ten year/ this man made many decrees of the Canon and for bishops (ut in cause violatores. &c. ¶ Galienus a leech gotten in Pergamo was in great fame at Rome. The which not alonely exponed the books of hippocras but he put many of them to his books. And of this man is said/ for his discrete abstinence the which he used/ he lived an hundred & xl years. He never eat nor drank his fill. ¶ Nota abstinenciam. ¶ He never took raw fruits. Alway he had a sweet breath. He died all only through age & no sickness. ¶ Marcus Antonius the true/ and Lucius Comodus were Empyrours xix year. These took the Empire after Anthony the meek/ and then began two Emperors to regne/ but Lucius Comodus decessed. And Anthom was Emperors alone/ the which was a victorious man and a noble/ but that he made the fourth persecution to kill crysten men. This Marcus was of so great sadness & steadfastness/ the for no chance he lough never/ ne changed no cheer/ neither for gladness ne for sorrow. And when he was a child/ he was of such manhood/ that on a certain time when he looked his treasure/ and had not that which he might give his knights & his men when he went to fight against the germans/ the Sclavous/ and Sarmatus/ he would hurt ne grieve no body/ but had liefer to sell his wives golden vessel and her arrayment/ her beddynge/ & all her rial stuff/ than take tax of the Senators/ or of his province under him But he gate the victory of his enemies/ & recovered all again/ and released the provinces or their tributes. ¶ And those that would sell him his wives treasure again he restored them their money/ and those that would not/ he never grieved them. But the tables of their debts betwixt him and them he brent openly in the market place and thanked them/ that they helped him in his necessity. ¶ How king Luie reigned after his father/ that was a good man/ and after he became christian. AFter this king coil reigned Lucy his son: that was a good man to god and to all the people. He sent to Rome to Eulentre that then was pope: & said. He would become a christian man & receive bap●ym in the name of god & torn to the right faith & believe. Eulentre sent two Legates/ that were called Pagan: an other Elybam in to this land & baptized the king & all his main And after went from town to town & baptized the people till all the land was baptized. And this was in the year an hundred lvi after the incarnation of our lord Ihesu christ. And this king Lucy made tho in this land two Archibysshops: one at Caunterbury an other at york & other many bishops that yet been in this land And when these two Legatꝭ had baptized all this land: they ordained priests for to baptize children: and for to make the sacrament: and after they went again to Rome. And the king dwelled in his land: and reigned with moche honour xii year: and after died and lieth at Gloucestre. ¶ How this land was long without a king: and how Brytons chose a king. THis king Lucy had none heir of his body begotten: that was after ward great harm & sorrow to the land. For after this king Lucy's death: none of the great lords of the land would suffer an other to be king: but lived in war & debate amongs themself l year without king. But it befell after ward that a great prince came from Rome in to this land that was called Severie: not for war but for to save the right of Rome. But never theles he had not dwelled half a year in this land but that the Brytons slew him. And when they of Rome wist that Seueri was so slain: they sent an other great lord in to this land that was called Allec that was a strong man & a mighty of body & dwelled in this land long time & died moche sorrow to the Brytons. So that after for pure malice: they chose a king among them that was called Astelepades. And assembled a gr●aee host of Brytons: & went to London to seek Allec: & there they found him & slew him & all his fellows. And one that was called walon deffended him fiercely: & fought long with the Brytons but at the last he was discomfited and the Brytons took him and bond his hands & feet and cast him in to a water. wherefore that water was called ever more walbroke. though reigned Astelepades in peace: till one of his Earls that was called coil made a fair town against the kings will: & let call the town Colchestre after his own name. wherefore the king was full wroth & thought to destroy him And began to war upon him and brought great power of men and gave the Earl battle. And the Earl defended him fiercely with his power & slew the king himself in that battle. And though was coil crowned & made king of this land. This coil reigned and goverened the land well & nobly/ for he was a noble man and well be loved amonged the Brytons. ¶ when though of Rome heard that Astelepades was slain: they were wonder glad: & sent an other great prince of the romans that was called Constance. And he came to the king coil for to challenge the tribute that was wont to be paid to Rome. And the king answered well & wisely & said: that he would pay to Rome all that right and reason would with good will. And so they accorded tho with good will and without any contake. And so both they dwelled together in love. ¶ King coil yaaf to him his daughter Eleyne for to have her to his spouse/ that was both fair & wise & good & well lettered. & this Constance spoused her there with moche honour. And it befell soon after that this king coil died in the xiii year of his regne/ and lieth at Colchestre entired ¶ Of king Constance that was a Roman that was chosen king after the deeh of coil for as much that he had spwsed Eleyne that was king Coils daughter. AFter this king coil Constance was made king and crowned/ for asmuch as he had spoused king Coils daughter that was heir of that land. The which Constance reigned well and worthily governed the land And he begat on his wife Eleyne a son that was called constantine. And this king bore true faith. And truly died unto them of Rome all his life. And when he had reigned xu year/ he died and lieth at york. ¶ How Constantine that was king Constance son/ & the son of Saint Eleyne governed & ruled the land/ & was Emperor of Rome. AFter king Constance death reigned Constantyne his son and the son of saint Eleyne that found the holy cross in the holy land. And how Constantyne be came Emperor of Rome. ¶ It befell so in the time there was an Emperor at Rome that was a Sarrasy & a tyrant/ that was called Maxence/ that put to death all that believed in god & destroyed holy church by all his power & sleweall christian min that he might find And among all other he let martyr Saint Katherine. And many other christian people that had dread of death fled & came in to this land to king Constantyne. And told him of the sorrow that Maxence died to the Crystyanytee wherefore Constantyne had pity/ & made great sorrow/ & assembled a great host & a great power and went over unto Rome/ and there took the city and slew all that there was in that were of misbelieve that he might there ●ynde/ And though was he made Emperor and was a good man & governed him so well that all ●ondes to him were attendant for to be under his governaunce· ¶ And this devil & ty●aun Maxence that time was in the land of Gre●e/ & heard these tidings/ & suddenly became would/ and suddenly he died and so he ended his life. ¶ when Constantyne went from this land unto Rome: he took with him his mother Eleyne/ for the moche wisdom that she could/ and th●e other great lords that he moche loved/ the one was called hoel an another was called Tavern/ and the third Morhyn And took alhies land to keep unto the Earl of Corn wail that was called octavian. And so anon as this octavian wist that his lord dwelled at Rome. incontinent he seized all the land in to his hand/ & therewith died all his will among high & low & they hellde him for king. ¶ when these tidings came to Constantyne the Emperor: he was wonder worthee toward the Earl octavian And sent Tavern with ·xiis. M. men for to destroy the earl for his falseness. And they arrayved at Por tesmouth. ¶ And when octavian wist that he assembled a great power of Brytons and dyscomfyted Tavern & Tavern fled thence in to scotland. and ordained there a great power/ and came ayne in to this land another time to give battle to Octavian. ¶ when Octavian heard that/ he assembled a grate power & came to ward Tavern as much as he might/ so that those two hosts met togethers upon Stanesmore/ and strongly smote together/ & though was Octavian discomfited/ & fled thence unto Norway. And Tavern seized all the land in his hand/ towns & castles/ and as moche as they there had. And sin Octavian came again from Norway with a great power & seized all the land in his hand & drove out all the romans ● and was though made king and reigned. ¶ How Marimian that was the emperors cousin of rome spoused octavians daughter and was made king of this land. THis Octavian governed the land well and nobly/ but he had none heir save a daughter that was a young child that he loved as much as his life And for as much as he wered sick and was in point of det/ & might no longer regne/ he would have made one of his nephews to have be king/ the which was a noble knight & a strong man that was called Conan Mer●edok● & he should have kypte the kings daughter and have married her when time had been. But the lords of the land would not suffer it/ but gave her counsel to be married to some high man of great honour and then might she have all her lust/ & the counsel of the Emperor Constantyne her lord. And at this counsel they accorded/ & chose though Cador of cornwall for to go to the emperor for to do this message. And he took the way and went to Rome/ and told the Emperor this tidings well and wisely. And the Emperor sent in this land with him his own cousin that was his uncles son a noble knight & a strong/ that was called Maximian. And he spoused octavians daughter/ and was crowned king of this land. ¶ How Maximian that was th'emperors cousin/ conquered the land of Armorycam/ and gave it to Conan Meriedok. THis king Maximian became so rial that he thought to conquer the land of armoury came for the great richesse that he heard tell that was in that land/ so that he ne life man that was of worthiness/ knight/ squere ne none other man/ that he ne took with him to the great damage to all the land. For he left at home behind him no man to keep the land/ but took them with him fro this land xxx thousand knights that were doughty men's bodies/ & went over to the land of. Armorycam and there slew the king that was called Imball/ & conquered all the land. and when he had so done/ he called Conan & said. For as much as king Octavian made you king of britain/ & through me ye were let and dystroubled that ye were not king. I give you this land of Armorycam/ & you there of make king. And for as much as ye be a. Bryton. I well that this land have the same name/ & no more be called Armoricam/ but be called britain. And the land from whence we be comen shall be called moche britain And so shall men know that one britain fro thaes other. Conan Meriedok thanked him greatly/ & so was he made king of little britain. And when all this was done. Maximian went from thence unto Rome/ & though was made Emperor after Constantyne. And Conan dwelled still in little britain with moche honour/ & there let ordain ii thousand ploughmen of the land for to culture the land to harow it & for to sow it & feffed them richly after that they were. & for asmuch as king Conan & none of his knights ne none of his other people would not take wives of the nation of france/ he though sent in to great. britain to the earl of cornwall that men called dionothe that he should these thorough out all this land xi M. of maidens. That is to say viii M. for the mean people/ and. iii·M. for the greatest lords that should them spouse. And when Dyonoth understood this/ he made a commandment thorughout all the land of Brntayne. And as many as the number came to be assembldy together of maidens/ for there was no man that durst withstand his commaundementis/ for as much that all the land was take him to ward and keep/ to do all thing that him good liked. ¶ And when these maidens were assembled/ he let them come a fore him at London. And let ordain for them ships hastily/ and as moche as them needed to that viage. And took his own daughter that was called Ursula that was the fairest creature that any man wist. And he would have sent her to konge Conan/ that should have spoused her and made her queen of the land But she had made privily to god a vow of chastity/ that her father not wist/ ne none other man else that was living upon earth ¶ How Ursula and xi thousand maidens that were in her company went to ward little britain/ and all they were martrde at Colayne. This Ursula chose unto her company xi thousand maidens/ that of all other she was lady and meystresse And all they went to ship at one time in the water that is called Tamyse/ and commanded her kin and her friends to almighty god/ and sailed to ward little britain. But when they were come in to the high see/ a strong tempest arose as it was gods will/ and vrsula with her ships and her compny were drive to Hundlonde through temstpe/ and arrived in the haven of the city of Coleyne And the king of the land that was called Gowan/ was though in the cytee· And when he wist the tidings/ that so many fair maidens were there arrived: He took Elga his broher and other of his household with him & went to the ships to see that fair company. And when he saw them so fair: he and his company would have overlay them & take fro them their mayndehode. But Ursula that good maid coumseylled: prayed: warned: and taught them that were her fellows that they should defend them with all their might: and rather suffer death than suffer their body to be defoiled. So that all though maidens became so steadfast in god: that they defended them through his grace: so that none of them had power to do them shame. wherefore the king Gowan was sore anon that he for wrath slew them everichone anon right: and so were all though maidens martyred for the love of god: and lieth at Coleyne. ¶ How king Gowan came for to destroy this land and how a man of great power that was called Gracian deifended the land. AS all this was done king Gowan that was a Sarrasyn called his brother. Elga and said to him: that he should go conquer the land that all those fair maidens were borne in. And he ordained though a great power of Pehites of denmark of or●e●ay and of Norway· And they came in to this land: and brent towns & slew folk: and cast a down churches & houses/ and ●obbed all the land in length & breed & put to death all though that would not forsake the right believe & christendom/ for as much as there was no sovereign that might them help. For the king Maximian had take with him all the worthy men when he went to conquer little. britain And in the same time the ye here now tell was saint Albon martyred through the wo●d tyr●●● dioclesian/ in the same place where is now● an abbey made of saint Albon whiles that he was a paynim. But he converted him to god through the predication of clerk & a wise man that was called. An●●ble that was ●●rbourghed a night in his house. And this was after thine carnation of Ihesu christ ·ii. hundred xxvi year. And men shall understand that saint. Albon suffered his martyrdom before that saint Edmonde was martyred & therefore is saint. Albon called the first martyr of england. ¶ This Gowans brother and his folk that were sarrasyns went through the land & destroyed all thing that they found & no thing they spared· when these tidings came to rome how the king Gowan had begun for to destroy this land/ the Emperor of come sent a strong man & of great power that was called Gracian with ·xxiiii. M. well fighting men for to cast out those sarrasyns of this land. And all they arrived at Portsmouth. Maximian might not come himself/ for as much. as he was chosen Emperor after the death of Constantyne that was Saint Eleyns' son. when this Gracian was arrived with his host/ he let sapye privily where king Gowan might be found. And he set upon them suddenly as they lay in their beds/ and discomfited him and slew them in their beds everichone/ that none of them scaped/ sauff Gowan that fled in to his own country with moche sorrow and great pain. ¶ Soon after it befell that Maximian was slain at Rome through treason. And when Gracian wist that tiding he let crown him king of this land. ¶ How Gracian made him king when Maximian was slain/ & after ward the Brytons slew him for his wickedness. THis Gracian when he began to regne he became so wicked & so stern/ & so much sorrow died to the Brytons that they slew him among them. ¶ Thomas when king Gowan understood that Gracian was slain & done to death he assembled a great power & came again in to this land. And if he had first done harm though died he much more. For though destroyed he all this land/ & the christian people that were in moche britain so that no man was so hardy for to name god/ & he that so died anon he was put to strange death. ¶ But the bishop of London that was that was called Gosselim scaped/ & went thence to them of Rome to seek succour/ to help to destroy the sarrasyns that had destryed this land. And the romans said/ that they had been so often enoyed for their sending people in to britain all for to help the Britons/ & they would no more so do/ and so the bishop Gosselin went thence without any succour or help. And though went he to the king of little Brytane that was called Aldroye/ & this was the third king after Gowan Meryedok/ as before is said. ¶ The bishop prayed this Aldroye of help & succour/ & the king had pity in his heart when he heard how the bishop fled/ & how that the christian men were so slain in great. britain through the paynims & saracens/ he granted him constantyne his brother him for to help with power of folk. And then died array horse armour & ships & all things that needed to that viage. And when all thing was ready/ he called the bishop/ & to him said I take you here Constantyne my brother upon this couenaū●. That if god give him grace the paynims & that sarrasins to destroy that ye then make him king. And the bishop granted with good will. ¶ Constantyne & the bishop took leave of the king Aldroye & betook him to god & took men xii thousand & went to their ships & sailed to ward great britain & arrived at Totnesse. ¶ when the Brytons heard these tidings that to them came succour/ they were strongly helped/ & ordained them an huge number of people & came to them & received them with moche honour. ¶ Gowan anon as he wist of these tidings/ he assembled all the Sarrasyns & came against them & gave them battle. An● Constantyne slew him with his own hands. And all those other Sarrasyns were discomfited & slain that none of them escaped but those that were converted unto almighty god. ¶ How Constantyne that was the kings brother of little britain was crowned king of great britain/ for his great virtue and his great worthiness. anon after the battle they went to London & crowned there Constantyne & made him king of this land. And the bishop Gosselyn set the crown on his heed & anointed him/ as it befalleth for a king to be. And though began christendom again in this land/ And anon this king Constantyne as he was crowned. Anon after he spoused his wife through counsel of the Britons And he begat three sons on her. The first was called Constance & that other Aurilambros/ & the third Uter. This Constance the elder brother▪ when he came to age he made him a monk at wynchestre. This Constantyne their father through treason was slain ¶ For it befell on a time that a Pehite came to him upon a day in message as it were. And said that he would speak with the king privily in counsel. The king let void his chambre of the men that were there with in/ & there abode no moo but that king & the Pehite. & he made a countenance as though he would have spoken with the king in his ear. And there he slew him with a long knife. And after that he went marvelously out of the chamber in to another chamber so at the last no man wist where he was become. ¶ when the kings men wist that their lord was so deed they made then so moche sorrow that they wist not what to do. For as much as his two sons Aurilambros & Uter were so young/ that they might not be king/ and the third was a monk as is said before. But Vortiger that was Earl of westsex thought privily in his heart thrugt queyntaunce for to be king himself. And went to wynchestre/ where that Constance was monk/ and said unto him. Constance said he/ your father is deed & your two brethren that been with Gosselyn the bishop of London to nourish be so young/ the none of them may be king. wherefore I counsel you/ that ye forsake your habit & come with me. And I shall make such a mean unto the Brytons/ that ye shall be made king. ¶ Of Constance that was king Constantine'S son/ that was a monk at wynchestre and how he was made king after his faders death thorough counsel of Vortyger that was Earl of westsex/ for as much a Aurylmabros and Uter his two brethren were but young of age. And Vortyger let slay him for to be king himself. This Vortyger counseled this Constance so much/ till he forsook his abbot & went with him. And anon after he was crowned king by th'assent of the Brytons. This king Constance when he was crowned and made king/ he wist ne knew but little of the world ne cud nothing what knighthood axed· And he made vortiger his chief master and counselor/ & gave him all his power/ for to-ordeyne & do as much as to the ream aperteyned. So that himself no thing intermeddled but only bore the name of king. when Vortiger saw that he had all the land in his ward & governal/ he thought a privy treason to slay Constance the king/ that he might himself be crowned & made king & regne. And let send after an hundred knights of Pehites the worthiest of all the land/ & them held with him for to dwell \ as to be keepers of his body as he would go thorough the land to ordain things that appertained to a king. And this Vortiger honoured so much the hundred knights & so moche gave them of gold & silver and so rich jewels/ robes horses and other things plenty/ wherefore they held him more lord than they died the king. And Vortyger told them/ if he might be king/ ye as it were through treason/ he would make them richest of the land. So at the last through great gifts that he had given largely they cried through the court that Vortyger were better worthy to be king than Constance. wherefore Vortiger made semblant as he had been wroth. And he departed thence from the court: & said he must go else were for things that he had to do. And so the traitor said for by cause that they should slay him: that is to say Constance. ¶ when this Vortyger was gone: it befell soon after: that though hundred knights of Pehyces broke the doors of the kings chambre and there they him slew: & smote of his heed and bare it to Vortiger there that he dwelled. And so when vortiger saw that heed he wept full tenderly with his eyen: and never theles he was some deal glad in his berte of his deth·s ¶ And anon this vortiger took those hundred kenghtes of Pehytes: and bad his servants bind their hands behind them: and lad them to London: and there they were dampened unto death as false traitors. And anon after all the Brytons of the land by the common assent crowned vortiger and made him king of the land ¶ Anno dm. C.lxxiiii. SOther a martyr was pope after Anycetum ix year the which decreed that a Nun should not touch the pale of the altar: nor put in sense thereto. And that she should were a wimple about her heed. And many perils he saw about matrimony. Therefore he ordained that no woman should be callen a leeful wife: but if she were blessed of the priest. ¶ Elentherus a martyr was pope after Sother xu year: the which ordained that christian men should refuse no meet reasonable that was man's meet (Nota) ¶ Also that no man unaccused in crime: should be put from his dignity or degree till he were convicted: thorough ensample of christ the which kept still judas Scaryoth not accused: and Crist knew him guilty. And what somever he died among the apostles for the dignity of his service abode farm & stable· And he sent also Legates unto Lucy the king of britain: the which baptized him & his people. And Fagus and Domianus legate: the which the pope sent first: preached in England and this christendom dured in britain two hundred year: unto the time of dioclesian the Emperor when saint Albon was martyred. ¶ Marcus Antonius: & Lucius Comodus were emperors/ but Marcus died anon/ & Lucius Comodus reigned. Comodus was called profitable of scorn/ for he was to every man unprofitable. He was yeven utterly to lechery. Many Senators & christian men he made to be slain. He dampened his own wife to death for age. He died a sudden death with struggling among maidens. ¶ Helius Pertinax after this man was Emperor vi months/ and was a man of great discretion/ whom julian the great lawer slew. And he entered the Empire/ & was slain the vii month of Severus. ¶ Victora martyr was pope after Elentherium ten year. & for the discord of the paschal time he called a counsel in Alexand where he was present that time/ & many other/ where he decreed that Eesters' day should be kept on the Sunday but he must kept the change of the moon of Apryll & that was to differ fro jews for many bishops of the east abode that time/ the same day that the yewes did hallow that feast. ¶ Also he ordained that in the time of need/ children mystht be christened in every place/ & in every water. ¶ zepherinus a martyr & a Roman was pope after victor ix year. This man ordained that christian people of xii year of age & above/ should receive his god on Eeester day once oo year. also he ordained that all the vessels of the altar should be glass or tin/ and not tree/ as in old time the consecration of the glorious blood was made in tree vessell· And this time past/ & the worship of the church grew/ & glasen vessel were forbade (Vt patet de conse. de pri. ca) ¶ Origenes the noble clerk was this time/ & he wrote so moche/ that saint Jerome said I have red of Origenes works four thousand volimes without pistles. He translated the Bible from hebrew in to Greek/ & died many other great things. And of this Origenes Samson. Solomon/ and trajan/ is a great question among doctors if that they ben dampened or saved. Therefore those things that with out peril we been not bound to know nor the church is not certified of them. And therefore let them alonely committed unto god. ¶ Calistus a martyr & a Roman was pope after zepherinus ●o. year/ and he ordained the Cimiteri (in via apia) where many a thousand martyr is buried. ¶ Also he ordained the feast of the Eemering days to be kept. ¶ Anthonius Aurelius was Emperor iii year. And this man lacked no kind of lechery/ & at the last he was slain among a great multitude of people/ for his mischievous living. Antonius' Marcus reigned after him vii year. This man lived abstynatly/ & therefore he was slain as was his predecessor. ¶ Alexander was Emperor after Anthonius & reigned xiii year This man at the Instance of his mother a christian woman & the teaching of Origenes/ the which came to Rome to convert her/ was made so good unto christian men that he suffered them to have their counsels & their prayers by themselves/ but nevertheless in this time the cursed officers of him made many martyrs. ¶ Anno dm. CC.xliiii. VRbanus was pope after Calistus viii year/ and old and young he was very virtuous. And all the hallowed vessels of the church he made of gold or silver. This man left his popehede and went to Agryppa and xi thousand virgins with him. And the clergy said he left not his dignity for holiness but for appetite of the virgins/ & wrote him not in the book of pope's. And there he a virgin was martyred with those virgins. ¶ Poncianus a martyr succeeded Vrbanus. And he ordained that psalms should be soyde day & night in the church of god. And that a priest should say Confite or afore the mass. ¶ Anteros a martyr was pope after this man/ this man ordained that a bishop might be removed from one unto an other. And he made the life of martyrs to be written. And he was slain and buried in the Cimitery of saint Calixt ¶ Maximianus was chosen Emperor act Maguncia of the host/ & not by the Senators and reigned three year/ and destroyed the church mightily/ and was slain for Origene. ¶ Gordian reigned after him vi year/ and of him is little written/ but he was slain (Hiis diebus Celus dux Colchestrie in asclepio regnat in britannia annis quasi xxx usque ad adventum Constancii. Lati. M. vacat) ¶ Phylyp was Emperor after him/ & this Phylyp chose to him Phylyp his son/ & they reigned xvii year: & were the first Emperors that were crystend: and after slain of the host: They be queved all their treasure in their death: that it should be disposed to poor men. And saint Laurence at the assignation of his master the pope departed this treasure about Rome/ the which was great cause of his martyrdom (Vt quidem dicunt) ¶ Decius was Emperor three year/ & in all things a tyrant. For he entered th'empire when he & the host had slain the two Philyppes his lords & after that he was slain with his son. ¶ Fabianus a martyr & a Roman was pope after Anteros xii year/ this was a very holy man. For when christian men stood to abide the election of the pope/ suddenly a white dove or a culver descended on his heed/ saying unto him/ thou shalt be pope of Rome. This man ordained every year the Creme should be hallowed upon Sherethursdaye. Also he divided regions to deacons the which should write the life of maetries. And at the last Dicitus slew him. ¶ Cornelius a martyr & Roman was pope after Fabianus iii year. This man took up the bodies of Peter & Paul/ & with great honour put them in worshipful places with beata Lucina· ¶ Lucius was pope after Cornelius three year/ and of him little is written. ¶ Gallus with his son Volucianus were Emperors two year/ & they fought with Emilianus/ & were slain And Emilianus the third month was slain ¶ Valerian was Emperor with his son Galyene xu year. This man was virtuous and manly in the beginning/ but after was given to vice/ & moche wrytchednesse. And so was his son Galiene. This valerian went unto the land of pierce. And therefore the great blood of martyrs which he had shed was taken of the king of pierce. And when he had take him he put out both his eyen & kept him in great bondage. And to this intent he kept him/ that when so ever he should ride/ this Veferian shallbe lie down/ & he should set his leet upon his back when he would take his horse. This heard Galiene his son that was left at Rome. And that caused him that he was not so cruel against christian men. ¶ And here was the viii persecution of the church made by the Emperor. And made the romans to lose their kingdoms/ the which were never recovered again to the emperor/ And general pestilence was through out all the world for their trespass. ¶ Stephanus a martyr after Lucius was pope iii year/ this man ordained that no man should use none hallowed clothes but to the worship of god. ¶ Sixtus a martyr and a Roman was pope after Stephanus two year. This man ordained that the mass should besaid upon an altar the which afore was not/ and then he died. ¶ Dyonisius a Roman was pope after him two year. This man divided parishes and chyrcheyardes/ and assigned to churches certain priests. ¶ Felix a martyr was pope after Dyonisius two year. He ordained that for the memory of martyrs masses should be said. Also he ordained the dedication of the church every year should be said. ¶ Claudius was Emperor after Valerian/ this emperor subdued Gothas nobly/ and then he dessessed. ¶ Anno dm. CC.lxxiiii. EVticianus a martyr was pope after Felix viii year. This man ordained that corn & beans should be blessed on the altar. And he buried. CCC & ·xliiii. martyr's with his own hands. ¶ Aurelius was Emperor after Claudius .v. year this Au●elius 〈◊〉 christian men was gentle wherefore he had the victory in every place gloriously. And when he was deceived by cursed men & purveyed christian men mightily/ and namely in France for there he abode/ & after that he had never good fortune. But was slain. And this was the ninth persecution of the church & c●●sten faith. ¶ Tacitus was Emperor after this man/ And he reigned but three months and was slain in Ponto. ¶ Probus was Emperor after him v year and ·iiii. months. This man recovered France again: the which was occupied with Barbaryk men. And he gave them & Pannonias' licence to have vine yards. And when he had almost a●l things well in peace he said. Knights with in a little time shall not be necessary: and anon after he was slain at Sir●●iū· ¶ Carus and his two sons Carunus & Numerian were emperors after Probus but some were they deed: and their father was drowned: and the two sons were slain: all these three reigned but ii year. ¶ Dyoclesian and Marimian came after these three Emperors the one reigned in the Est: and the other in the west. ¶ The first thing that dioclesian died: he brent all the christian men's books that might be found. The two tyrants died more harm to christian men than ever did any other· For ten year lasted the persecution. And as we read. with in ·xxx. days twenty thousand men were slain for Crystis sake. And in England all faith was almost destroyed in the time of maximian ¶ Gaius was pope after Euticianus/ this man ordained that no man should accause a bishop or an other clerk to any secular judge. And that a pagon or an heretic should not accuse a christian man. Also he ordained that he that was worthy should ascend gree by gree to his order/ fyrsten Benet/ than Colet/ subdeacon/ deacon/ & than priest. And at the last he was martyred under dioclesian. Arcellinus a martyr was pope after Gaius xi year and four months This man was persecuted sore/ for dread of death he of freed three corns of incense to the sacrifice of the idols. And after ward he openly repented/ & suffered the pain of death for the faith of the church of god. His body lay unburied three days for dread of the curse of god. And after thorough avision of saint peter & marcel he was buried at saint Peter's foot. ¶ Marcellus was pope after Marcellinus .v. year. This man ordained that a general counseyl might not be ordained without the authority of the pope (ut pꝪ. xvii di c sinodum) ¶ Also he chose xu Cardynalles in the city to bury christian men. At the last when he had kept beasts long time in a house closed in with them/ by the commandment of Maximian/ he died for fault. ¶ Eusebius a martyr was after this man two months & certain days. This man of a lay man was made pope/ & he ordained that no lay mansholde accuse his bishop but if he went fro his faith (ut pꝪ. ii.ix.vii.c. laicos) Nato. ¶ This time saint Albon was martyred in britain. This Albon when he was a pagan/ he lodged a certain man/ the which converted him to the faith and after was judged unto death. And moche people he turned unto our lord/ that were nigh the water/ the which he made dry through his prayer. And he suffered death nigh the city of verelom (Vide plura in vita sancti Albani) ¶ Melchiades a martyr succeeded Eusebius four year. This man forbade the men should fast on sunday or on Thursday in so much as pagans fast on those days. at the last he was martyred as all his predecessors were. ¶ And understand ye that there were xxxiii pope's of Rome martyred each one after other. Peter was the first/ and this melchiades was the last. And thenne it was laudable after Gregory/ a man to desire a bishopric. ¶ Galerius was Emperor after dioclesian two year/ and an other with him called Constancius So was the Empire in those days divided. This Constancius after he had conquered all spain/ he came in to great britain/ & there he wedded a kings daughter an whom he gate great Constantyne. And this same Constancius died in britain/ & lieth at york/ as Martyne saith in his chronicles/ and left on live Constantyne that was gotten on Eleyne and was king of britain and of France ¶ Circa annum dm. CCC.viii. SIluester was pope after Melchiades. This was a glorious Confessor/ & many ways he worshipped the church of god what in writing/ what in miracles. He received the pratrymony of saint Peter. That is for to say the kingdom of italy with the city of Rome of Constantynople the Emperor/ and to the worship of the hole universal church of god he turned it. He baptized Eeleyne and the jews/ & then he deceased an holy Confessor ¶ Constantyne the mighty was Emperor this tyme. This Constantyne was a glorious man and a victorious in battle. In governing of the common people he was very wise And in the necessity of the believe he was with out compayre. devout. His pity and his holiness been so written in the books of holy doctors/ that without doubt/ he is to be numbered among Saints. And the Greeks say that in the end of his life he was made a amonke. And more ey may here of him in the chronicles of england. For he was king in England. ¶ Helena the queen mother to Constantyne repaired again the holy cross this time. And she made lxx Colleges/ and she glorified the state of all holy church. ¶ Nicholas bishop of Myrree seat an holy man was this tyme. ¶ Athanasius was this time bishop in Alexandre a glorious doctor/ made the (symbalum Quicunque vult saluus esse. &c. ¶ Marcus was pope after Silvester two year and viii months/ this man ordained the Crede should be openly song in the church. And that the bishop of Hostience should consecrate the pope/ & that he should were a pall. ¶ julius was pope after Marcus xi year/ under Constantyne the second. ¶ Constanus this man was exiled ten year & after suffered death under Constantyne the second. ¶ Constantinus with his two brethren redned xxiiii year. And in his last end he was perverted by the heresyet of the Arience by a bishop called Eusebe. And he pursued the church of god strongly. The end of this man was this. as he should go to constantynople unto agret counsel in the which councyl he thought to have condemned the bishop & the clerks of true believe/ he went before unto a chambre to avoid such things as nature required/ & anon suddenly his bowels fell from him/ & thereby was deed as ye now here. ¶ Liberius was pope after julius xix year and vii months. Then was the second discord of the church between Liberyus & Felix/ for the heresy of the Ariens the which favoured Lyberyus. then Constancyus th'emperor called again Liberius from his exile/ by cause he favoured this heresy And the church deycede Liberyus & took Felix for pope/ & the other was expulsed as an heretic of the church. But felix obtained not/ for the Emperor put in Lyberyus & expulsed felix. ¶ Feilix was pope after the death of this Lyberyus. And he declareed Constancyus the Emperor an heretic & anon after he was martyred. ¶ And here was the first that ever the church of Rome had an Infamed pope. For all the predecessors of this Liberyus were saints & gave holy ensamples. ¶ julymus Apostata was after Constancyus Empero ur two year & viii months/ He was called Apostata for he fleede this Constancius/ which slew his brother. And for fere of death was made a christian man & a monk. But after ward by the counsel of Nygromancers/ he asked the devil whether he should be Emperor or not. The devil said that he should be Emperor upon a condition that he should forsake his christian faith and be utter enemy to christian men And so he dode. For he gave leave to the jews that they should build again the Temple in spite of the christian men. And he took all the goods that christian men had and destroyed many of them. ¶ jomynyanus was Emperor after him viii months. For when julyanꝰ was deed the host chose him Emperor. And he was a christian man. And he said it was not lestull to a christian man to be lord over so many heathen people. They answered and said. Rather than he should forsake the Empire they would be crystened. And thus took he the dignity. But soon he was deed/ and in a marvelous manner. For he was laid in a cholse house after his journey made all of stone newly whited with lime/ in the which they made to his comfort as they thought a fire of charcoole· And of the air of these two in the morrow he was found deed. ¶ Valentinian with his brother Valent was Emperor after jominianꝰ xi year For he departed the Empire & gave his brother the east/ and keep himself the west part/ This Valentinian was a lord with julyanus Apostata. And it happened him on a time for to go in a Temple of false gods for to do satcrefyce. And mynystres stood there with water hallowed after the guise with the which they strynkled the lords. This valentinian smote the minister that cast the water upon him & said. He was rather defoiled by it than cleansed. For this julianus died exile him. But our lord god for his open confession of his name rewarded him with the Empire. His brother Valent fell in to the opinion of the Ariens and died in that heresy. This same Valent lived four year after Valentinian with Gracian th'emperor. ●Thys time lived saint Ambrose. ¶ Anno dm. CCC.xliiii. Damacias' was pope after. 〈◊〉 lix. xviii. year and two months this was an eloquent man in metre. And he wrote many stories of pope's & martyrs· He ordained that. G●oria patri should be said in the ends of the psalms. And that was at the prayer of saint. jerom. And through the motion of this pope. Jerome translated the. Bible from Hebrew in to Latyn/ and then he decessed a confessor. ¶ Valence with Gracian & Valentinian were Emperors four year/ In this time were churches opened again and christian men had leave to renew the service of god that was defended afore with Emperors enfected with heresy as was Valens & other/ wherefore the church had no liberty when valens was on live. ¶ A Synodus of a hundred & l bishops were gathered under Damasius pope at constantinople against Macedonium an heretic/ the which denied the holy ghost to be very god. And thenne was the Crede made/ that is song on holy days in the church. ¶ Augustynus a Cartaginen of Africa was this time He was as noble a Rethoricien as might be. And in. all philosophy and poetry in comparable And all thing that any philosopher found in his youth he understood with little labour And about this time he was sent to Mediolanum where he was turned anon of saint Ambrose & baptized. This man grew unto anoble doctor of the church. And not long after that he was bishop of yponen. And there he lived four year/ and moche divinity he wrote (ut patet in librissu is) ¶ Siritus was pope ofter Damasius xu year/ he dampened heretics & little else is written of him. ¶ Thodosyus son to Gracian with valentyne his uncle were Emperors. ●xvii. year/ This man was a christian man & gracious/ & in governance like to Trayanus/ soon wroth & anon reconciled. This man on a day when he would have gone to have herd mass/ saint Ambrose forbade him the entry of the church/ till he had penance & made satisfaction for the sleenge of xxx knights the which he slew in anger at Constantynople. wherefore they made a law that the sentence of a prince should be deferred xxx days of those that should do execusoon if they might fall in the grace of the prince within the xxx days. ¶ About this time was a child borne in the castle of Emons/ from the navel & above divided in two bodies/ having two heeds and two wits/ so the the one sleeping or eating/ the other slept not neete not. And when they were two year of a egg/ the one deceased & the other lived three days after. ¶ Claudius poeta was this tyme. ¶ Arcadius and Honorius reigned xxx year. And in their time Rome was near destroyed by a king called Alaticus. Of the which destruction rose a great blasphemy of the romans. For they said they fared never well sithen christ came to Rome/ and bereeved them their goods by the preaching of Peter & Paul And yet this Arcadyus subdued all his enemies by the power of god/ & shed no blood. against this blasphemy saint Austyn made that solemn work/ the which they call (de cyvytate dei) Honorius was Emperor with Theodosius his brothers son xu year & he was a man of holy life. For two wives he had/ & yet with both he died mayden· He loved specially the church & hated heretics. ¶ Ierom died this time at Bethleem the year of his age lxxxi ¶ Sanctus Heracides the which wrote Vitas patrum to lapsn episcopum was this time. ¶ johonnes Crysostomus was exiled of Endochia the wife of Arcadius/ & through heat of the son he was deed. ¶ Anastasius was pope after Siritius three year. This man or deigned that everyman should stand at the reading of the holy gospel. & that he that was a maimed man should not be priest. ¶ Innocencius was pope after Anastasius/ this man ordained the sick men should be anointed with holy oil. And at mass the kiss of peace to be yeven And he dampened Pelagyen an heretic & many other things died (ut patet xxvi q. i.) ¶ Anno dm. CCCC. xiiii. zOzimus was pope after innocentius two year & viii months/ This man ordained that clerks should be no taverners ne sell no wine/ & that a bound man should be made no priest 〈…〉 the licence of his lord. ¶ Bo● 〈…〉 roman was pope after zozimus four year. This man ordained that a woman should not touch the pall of the water ne should not was the altar. ¶ Celestimus a Roman was pope after Bonifacius viii year & ix days/ the which ordained the psalm afore mass. (judica medeus. &c.) And at the beginning of the mass should be said a verse of a psalm/ and at the grail/ and that the offertory should be said afore the sacring. This same man sent saint patrick to ireland to convert the land and Palladius deaken of. Rome to the. Scots to be converted. ¶ And in the fourth year of this man there was a general. sinody at Ephysima of three hundred bishops against Nestorium an heretic. ¶ Theodosius the younger with valentinian his nephew reigned xxvii year. In his time was the feast ordained/ which is called Aduincula sancti petri. And in his time died saint Austyn/ in the year of his age lxxvi And this time was raised the vii slepers'/ the which sleeped two hundred years. This man died at Constantynople & there was buried. ¶ This time the. Saxons entered England/ and anon by little and little they grew up mightily. And at the last they obtained all the land. ¶ Sixtus a Romanyne was pope after Celestinus viii year. This was a holy man & a meek And little of him is written but the he builded Sancta manria maior. ¶ Leo Tuscus a Confessor was pope after Sixtus. This man was as holy as any man. five times in a day or more he would say mass. And on a tyme. After it befell when a cretayne woman kissed his hand/ he was tempted with her/ And for the trespaas that he had done/ unto his penance he made his hood to be stricken of. And when the noise rose upon him that he might not say mass as he was wont to do/ then he was right sorry. And all only betook him in prayer to our lady to help him. And our lady restored him his hand again and thenne he said mass as he was wont for to do. And so that miracle was openly show to all people. And in the time of this pope. Marcian the Emperor being there/ was congregate at. Calcedony the fourth universal. sinody of vi ❀ hundred and xxx bishops against. Eugicem the abbot of. Constantynopolyton. & (Alexandrum episcopum. qui negaverunt in chrysto veram carnem fuisse. et etiam negabant carnis nostre resurrectionem.) ¶ And after he had made many notable sermons and epistles he deceased. ¶ Marcianus and valentianus were Emperors this time vii year. In whose time was the great. sinody afore rehearsed/ when Eusticem and Dyoscorus were condemned. IN the time that Macianus was Emperor vortyger was king in britain now called. england. In whose time ye. Saxons came in to Brytoyne & made many kings. That is to wite as is plain by the Cronyeles vii And by cause it is tedious to man's reason to rehearse many divers names to guider as vii kings of England and in one time/ the Emperors and Popes. Therefore the chronicles of England shall be set together till that we shall treat of Alured. In whose time the Danes came in to England. And the Popes and the Emperors and other kings deed the same time shall be se●●● together. ¶ Circa annum dm. CCCC. xlix. ¶ How the wardens that had those children to keep that were Constanstynes/ lad them to little britain/ for the treason and the falseness of vortiger. Hire beginneth the fifth part during to the coming of the Danes. This time came the Saxons that were pagans first in to Brytane now called. England under vortiger the which was crowned king of this land. This time those that had these two children in keeping the which were Constantine'S sons. That is to say Aurilambros and vter/ through ordinance of Gosselin that was bishop of. London after the faders death that is to say. Constantyne durst not dwell in this land with those children/ but conveyed them unto the king of little britain. For as much as he though witted the treason of vortiger that though was made king. thorough who me. Constance the elder brother was slain/ wherefore the hundred knights of Pehites were put to death and bore all the blame as that vortiger had not wist there of ne consented. And so the keepers of those two children dread lest vortiger should put them to death through his treason and falseness/ As he had done the brother before. And therefore they were lad over in to little. britain/ and the king them received with moche honour and let them to nourish. And there they dwelled till they became fair knights & strong and fierce. And thourght to be avenged upon constance their brother when they saw their time and so they died as ye shall here tell after ward. ¶ It was not long after ward that the tidings came oversee to the kindred of the hundred knights of Pehites that were dampened & put to death through Vortiger in this land/ therefore they were wonderly wroth and swore that they would be avenged of their kins men's death. And came in to this land with a great power/ and rob in many places/ & slew & died all the sorrow that they might. when Vortiger it wist/ he made moche sorrow and was sore annoyed/ And in an other place also tidings came to him that Aurilambros and Uter his brother assembled a great host to came in to moche britain/ that is to say in to this land/ for to be avenged upon Constance their brother's death. So in that one half and in that other/ he was brougho in to so moche sorrow that he ne wist whether to go. ¶ How Engist and an xi thousand men came in to this land/ to whom vortiger gave a place that is called Thongcastell. ANd soon after this sorrow/ tidings came to vortyger that a great navy of strangers were arrived in the country of Cent/ he wist not whence they were ne wherefore they were come in to this land. ¶ The king sent anon a messenger thither/ that some of should come and speak with him/ for to wite what folk they wert and what they axed/ and in to what country they would. ¶ There were two brethren masters and princes of that strong company/ that one was called Engist and that other Horn. Engist went to the king and told him the cause wherefore/ they were come in to this land and said. Syrewe been of a country that is called Saxonne/ that is the land of Germayne/ wherein is so moche sorrow/ That of the people been so many that the land may not them susteynes. And the masters and princes that have the land to govern and rule. They made to come before them men and women that boldest been among them for to fight/ and that best may travail in to diverse lands. And so they should them give horse and harness/ armour/ and all thing that they needeth. And after they shall say to them/ that they go in to an other country where that they mowelyve/ as their And cetrees died them before. ¶ And therefore sir king/ if ye have aught to do with our company: we ben comen in to your land: And with good will you would serve your land keep help and defend from your enemies if that ye need. ¶ when vortyger heard these tidings: he said gladly he would them with hold: upon such covenanuce: if they might deliver his land of his enemies: he would give them reasonable lands where they should dwell for ever more. ¶ Engyst thanked him goodly: and in this manner he and his company a xi thousand should dwell with the king vortiger. And much they died through their boldness: they delivered his land of his enemies clean. ¶ though prayed Engyst the king of so much land that he might make to him a city and for his main. ¶ The king answered/ it was not to do without the coancell of Brytons. ¶ Engist prayed him eftsoons of as much plyce as he might compace with a thong of a skin whereupon he might make a. Mancer for him to dwell in. And the king him granted freely. ¶ though took Engist a bulls skin/ and kit it as sma●e as he might all in to oo thong all a round. And there with compaced he as much land as he might thenne make upon a fair castle. And so when this castle was made/ he let call it Thongcastell for as much as the place was marked with a thong. ¶ Of Ronowen that was Engistes' douhter/ and how the king Voreiger spoused her for her beauty. SO when this castle was made/ & full well arrayed. Engist privily did send by letter in to the country where he came fro/ after a. C. ships filled with men the were strong & also well fighting in all battles/ & the they should also bring with them. Ronowen his daughter that the fairest creature that a man might see. ¶ And when those people were. come that he had sent after/ he took them in to the castle with moche. joy. And himself upon a day went unto the king/ & prayed him there worthily that he would come and see his new maneer that he had made in the place that he had compassed with the thong of the skin. The king anon granted him freely. And with him went thither/ & was well apaid with the castle & with the fair work and together they eat and drank with moche joy. And when night came that the king- Vortiger should go in to his chambre to take there his nights rest. Ronowen that was Engistes' daughter came with cup of gold in her hand/ and kneeled before the king & said to him (wassaylle) And the king knew not what it was for to mean ne what he should answer there upon/ for as much as himself/ ne none of all his Brytons could no english speses ne understand it/ but he spoke in the same language that. Brytons done yet. Nevertheless a latiner told it to the king the full understanding thereof (wassayll) and that other should drink (hail) And that was the first time that (wasshayll) and (drynkhall) came up in this land. And from the time unto this time/ it is well used in this land. ¶ The king Vortiger saw the fairness of Ronowen/ & his arms laid about her neck/ & thrice sweetly kissed her/ & anon right he was enamoured upon her that he desired to have her to wife & asked of Engist her father. And Engist granted him upon this covenant/ that the king should give him all the country of kent/ that he there might dwell in and his people. The king him granted privily with a good will. And anon he spoused the damosel/ and that was much confusion to himself. And therefore all the. Brytons became so wroth/ for by cause he spoused a woman of misbelieve. wherefore they went all from him/ and no thing to him took/ ne halpe him in thing that he had to done. ¶ How Vortimer that was Vortigers son was made king/ & Engist driven out. And how Vortimer was slain. THis Engist went in to Kente and seized all the land in to his hand for him and for his men/ & became with a little while of so great power and so much people had/ that men wist not little time which were the kings men and which were Engistes' men. wherefore all the Brytons had of him dread/ and said amongs them. But if that they ne took other counsel between them all the land should be betrayed through Engist & his people. ¶ Vortiger the king had begotten on his first wife three sons. The first was called vortimer. The second Catagien/ and the third Passent. ¶ The Brytons everychont by one assent chose vortimer to be their lord & sovereign/ and counseyler in every battle/ & crowned him and made him king/ & would not suffer vortiger no longer to regne/ for cause of the alliance betwixt Engist and him. ¶ The Brytons ordained a great host to drive out Engist and his company of the land/ and gave him three battles. The first was in Kente there he was lord/ the second was at. Tetforde/ and the third in a shire a this half Colchestre in a more. And in this battle them met. Catagien and. Horn. Engistes' brother/ so that each of thym slew other· but for as much as the country was yeven long before to horn through vortiger though ●e spoused his cousin/ there he made a fair castle that is called Horn castle after his own name. And vortiger was so annoyed for his brothers death/ that anon he let fell down the castle to the ground. And after he ne left night ne day till he had driven out. Engist & his people of the land. And thenne Ronowen his daughter made sorrow ynogh. And quen●ely spoke to them that were next the king wynchester and pryvyest with him. And so much she gave him of gifts/ that he was enpoisoned & died at London the fourth year of his reign and there he lieth ¶ How the. Brytons chose an other time Vortiger to be their king/ &. Engist came in to this land/ and how they fought togethers. AFter vortimers death: the Brytons by their common assent eft sons made vortiger their king upon this covenant: that he should never after suffer. Engist ne none of his eft sons to come in to this land And when all this was done. Ronowen the queen privily sent by letter to. Engist that she had en. poisoned vortimer: and that vortiger her lord bore again the crown and reigned. And that he should come again in to this land well arrayed with moche people for to avenge him upon the Brytons and for to win this land again. ¶ And when Engist heard these tidings/ he made great joy. And appareled him hastily with xu thousand men/ that were deughty in every battle/ & came in to this land And when vortyger heard tell that. Engyst was come again with a great power in to this land/ he assembled his. Brytons/ & though went against Engyst for to give him battle & his folk. But Engist dread him sore of the Brytons for they had driven him before & discomfited him with strength. wherefore this Engist prayed him for a love day/ & said he was not comen in to this land for to fight/ but for to have his land again if he might accord with the. Brytons/ & of them to have love and grace The king Vortiger through counsel of his Brytons granted him a love day. And thus it was ordained through the Brytons/ that the same day should be holden fast beside Salysbury upon a hill. And Engyst should come thither with four hordred kdnghtes without moo And the king with as many of the wisest men of his londe· And at that day the king came with his counsel as it was ordained/ but Engist had warned his knights privily/ & then conmaunded that every one of them should put a long knife in his hose. And when he said Fair sires now is time to speak of love & peace every man Anon should draw out his kynue & slay a Bryton. And so they slew. a M.lxi knights/ & with moche sorrow many of them escaped. And the king vortyger there himself though was taken/ & lad to Thongcastell & put in prison. And some of Engystes men would that the king had be brent all quick And vortiger though for to have his life/ granted them as much as they would are/ & gave up all the land towns/ castles/ cities/ & borughs to Engist and to his folk. And all the Brytons fled thes in to waiys/ and there they held them still. And Engyst went thorough the land and seized all the land/ with fraunchyles And in every place let cast a down churches and houses of religion/ And wasted and destroyed christendom throughout all this land And let ●aunge the nam of this land called britain: that no man of his were so hardy after that time to call this land britain: but call Engist land. And then ne he departed all the land to his men: and there made vii kings for to strength the land that the Brytons should never after come therem. ¶ The first kingdom was Kent: there that Engist himself reigned: and was lord & master over all the other. ¶ The other king had Southsex that now is called chychestre ¶ The thyrdet king had westsex. ¶ The fourth had Eestsex. The fifth had Estangill: that now is called Norfolk Southfolke. Merchemeryk: that is to say th'earldom of Nycholl. ¶ The sixth had Leycheter shire. Northampton shire. Herforde: and Huntyngdon. ¶ The seventh had Ox enforde. Glouchestre. wynchestre. were wykeand Derbyshyre. ¶ How that Vortyger went in to wales & began there castle that would not stand with out mortar tempered with blood. AS Engist had departed all the land in this manner between his men: and in lyverde vortyger out of prison & suffered him freely to go whither that he would. And he took his way and went in to wales there that his Brytons dwelled: for as much as the land was strong & wicked to win. And Engyst ●neuer came therene never knew it before that land. ¶ Vortiger held him there with his Bratons'/ and axed counsel what him was best to do. And they gave him counsel to make a strong castle that him might himself there in keep and defend if need were. Ma●e sons in haste though were fet/ & began to work upon the hill of Breigh/ but certes thus it befell that all the work that the masons made a day down it fell the night/ and they wist not what it might be. There of the king was sore annoyed of that chance & wist not what to do. wherefore he let send after the wisest clerks & also learned men than were thorough out wales that might be foude/ for they should tell wherefore the fundament so failed under the work/ and they should him tell what was best for to do. And when these wise men long time had studied they said to the king/ that he should do seek a child borne of a woman that never had with man to do And that child should be slain/ and tempered with his blood the mortar of the work. And so should the work ever endure withouten end. ¶ How the king let seek. Merlin thorough out all wales/ for to speak with him. AS the king heard this he commanded his messengers anon to go through out wales to seek that child if they might him find/ and that they should him bring forth with them unto him. And in record & in witness of this king he had take them his letters that they ne were distroubled of no▪ man ne let. And though the messengers went thence/ and sped so fast that they came in to a town that was called Carmardyne/ and as they passed for the their way they found two children of. xxiiii· year of age thyding together with hasty words. And one of them said to that other Donebat said he ye do all wrong to chide or strive with me for ye have no wit ne no reason as I have. Certes merlyn said he/ of your wit ne your reason. I make no force. For men tell comynly that ye have no thing of god all mighty sith ye had never father/ But every man knoweth who was your mother. ¶ The messengers of the king vortiger when they heard the strive betwixt the two grooms they axed of them that stood beside them whence that· Marlyn was borne/ and also whom him nourished. And the folk them told/ that a great gentle woman him bare in. Carmadyne that was called Adhanr But never might noth man wite who was his father. ¶ when the kings messengers heard these tidings they went anon to him that was warden of the town & told him the kings will and showed him his letter wherefore they were come thither. ¶ Merlin and his mother were fetched before the warden of the town. And he commanded them that they should go to the king as it was ordained by his messengers. Merlin and his mother went thence and came unto the king and there they were received with moche honour. And the king axed of that lady if the child were her son & whom him be gate. The lady answered full tenderly weeping and said. She never had company of worldly man. But sir said she As I was a young maiden in my faders chambre/ and other of great lineage were in my company/ that oftentimes went to place and solace. I belefte alone in my chambre/ would not go forth for bernning of the son. And on● time there came a fair bachelor and entered in my chambre there that I was alone. But how he came in to me/ and where. I wist it never \ ne yet know I not. For the doors were fast barred and with me he died game of love For I ne had might ne power/ him to defend- from me. And often he came unto me in the foresaid manner/ so that he begat this child. But never might I wite what he was. ¶ Of the answer of Merlin wherefore the king axed why his castle might not stand that he had begun ne prove. SO when Merlin had heard all that his mother had said. He spoke to the king in this manner. ¶ sire how I was begotten axe ye no more For it be falleth not to you ne to none other to wite. But tell me the cause wherefore I am to you brought & wherefore ye have sent after me. ¶ Truly said the king/ my wise couseyllers have done me to understood/ that the mortar of a work that I have begun/ behovety to be thempred with your blood/ or the fundament shall fail for ever more. ¶ Sir said Merlin. will ye slay me for my blood to tempre with your mortar. ye said the king/ or else my castle shall never stand as my counseyllers do me to understand Thomas- answered Merlin to the king. Sir he said he said/ let them come before me those wise counsels & I will prove they say not well ne truly. And when the wise men were comen. Merlin axed if his blood were the cause to make this work to stand & endure. All tho wise men were abashed & could not answer. Merlin though said to the king. Sir I shall tell you the cause wherefore your work thus faileth & may no● stand. There is under the mountain there that ye have builded your tour a great pond of water & in the bottom of the pond under the water there been two dragons/ & the one is white & the other reed/ the fight together against your work do ye mine deep eyll your men come to the pond/ & cause your men to take a way the water all out/ & thenne ye shall see the dragans as I have you told the together fight against your work & this is the cause wherefore your fundament faileth The king anon let dig under that men came to the pond/ And let do a way the water/ and there they found two dragons as Merlin had told that eagerly fought together The white dragon eagerly assailed the reed and lyadde on him so strongly that he might not endure/ but withdrew him and rested in the same cave. And when he had a while rested him/ he went before & assailed the reed dragon angrily/ & held him so sore that he might not against him endure/ but withdrew him & rested And after came again the white dragon and strongly fought with the reed dragon. & boat him evil & overcame. that he fled from thence and no more came again. ¶ Of the signification of those two dragons that were in the bottom of the pond that fought together THis king vortyger and his men that saw this battle had great meruaysle and prayed Merlin to tell him what it might betoken. Sir quod Merlin I shall tell you. The reed dragon betokeneth yourself/ and the white betokeneth the folk of Saxon that first ye took & held in your land that fight against you/ and you have driven & enchased. ¶ But Brytons of ynure lineage overcame them and drove them a way And sithen at the coming again of the Saxons they recovered this land and held it for ever more. And drove out the Brytons and died with this land all they will/ and destroyed crystendom through out this land. ye had first great joy with their coming/ But now it is turned to you great damage and sorrow. For though brethren of Constance that was king the which ye let slay shall come before a quinzeme passed with a great power from little britain/ & shall avenge the death of their brother. And they shall burn you first with sorrow/ and after they shall slay a great part of Saxons/ & shall drive out all the remnant of the land. And therefore abide ye here no longer to make castle nor other work. But anon go else where your lives all for to save. To god I you betake/ truth I have said to you of things that shall befall. ¶ And understand ye well that Aurilambros shall be king But he shall be enpoisoned/ and little time shall he regne ¶ Of king Aurilambros how that he pursued vortiger and Engist and how they died. MErlyn and his mother departed from the king/ and turned again to Carmardyn. And soon after tidings came to the Brytons that Aurilambros and Uther his brother were arrived at Totnesse with a great host/ And anon the Brytons assembled them and went to receive Aurylambros and Uter with great noblesse. And had them unto London/ and crowned Aurylambros & made him king/ and died unto him homage. And anon he axed where. Vortyger that was king might be found/ for he would be avenged on his brothers death/ and after he would war upon paynims. And they told him that Vortyger was in wales/ & so they lad him thither ward. ¶ Vortiger wist well that though brethren came him to conquer/ And fled thence in to a castle that was called. Gerneth that stood upon an height mountain/ and there him held. Aurilambros and Uter his brother and their folk had besieged the castle full long time/ for the cagell was strong and well arrayed. ¶ So at the last they casted wild fire and brent houses and men & all their array: and as much as was within the castle. So that Vortiger was brent among all other: and so he died with moche sorrow. ¶ though was Engist in Kente and reigned there: one heard this tidings: and anon fled and would have gone in to scotland for to have had succour. But Aurilambros and his men met with him in the north country and yane him battle. And Engist and his men defended whiles that they might. But he and his folk were discomfited and slain And Octa his son fled unto york. And Aurilambros him followed eagerly. And. Octa a little while withstood him: But after ward he put him to his mercy. And aurilambros received him: and to him and to his men gaafthe country of Galewaye in. scotland: and there they dwelled. ¶ The king aurilambros went thorough out the land: and put away the name of. England: that. Engist after his name had called it before. though let he it call again great. britain: and let make again cherches: houses of religion: castles: cities and broughs. And towones that the. Saxons had destroyed. And came to London: and let make the walls of the city: which Engist and his folk had castedowne. ¶ The Brytons lad him unto the mount of. Ambrian that sometime was an house of religion: that though was destroyed through the paynims: ¶ whereof a knight that was called Ambri sometime was founder of that house. And therefore the same hill was called the mount of. Ambrian. And after it was called. Ambresbury. And shall be so for euermore●. ¶ How Aurilambros died redress the land of great britain/ that which was destroyed thorough the Saxons before said. HOw the king Aurilambros let amend and redress the house of Ambresbury/ and there in put monks. But now there been nuns a little fro the place that was called Salysbury/ are that the Saxons slew the Brytons/ where Engist and they should have made a lave day. In the which time were slain a thousand knights lxi through treason of Engist· The king thereof had great pity and thought to make in mind of them a monument of stone that might endure to the worlds end. And of this thing they took there counsel what thereof was best for to do. ¶ though spoke to the king the bishop of London that was called Ternekyn that he should require after. Merlin. For he could best tell how this thing might best be made. And merlyn after was sought and found and came to the king. And the king told him his will of the monument that he would have made. Merlin answered to the king & said. There been great stones in ireland and long upon the hill of Kyan that men called. Giants karoll. And if they were in this place as they been there/ they would endure for eurer more in remembrance of those knights that here be entired. ¶ Per may foy said the king as hard stone been in my land as in ireland. ¶ Soothe said Merlin. But in all your land been none such. For gauntes set them for great good of themselves. For at every time that they were wound or in any manner hurt/ they wish the stones with hot water/ And then they wish them there with and anon they were hole. ¶ How the Brytons went for to seek the great stones in ireland. AS soon as the. Brytons had herd of this thing/ they go and swore among them they would go seek those stones. And took with them. Uter the kings brother to be thyef capitain and .v. thousand men/ and Merlin counseled them for to go unto ireland and so thy died/ And when the king of ireland that was culled Guillomer heard tell strangers were arrived in his land/ he assembled a great power & fought against them But he & his folk were discomfited. ¶ The Brytons went before till they came to the mount of Kyan/ and climbed up unto the mount. But when they saw the stones & the manner how they stood/ they had great marvel and said between themselves/ that no man should them remove for no strength ne engine so great they were and so long. But. Merlin through his craft he removed them and brought them in to their ships and came again in to this land. And Merlin set the stones there that the king would have them. And set them in the same manner that they stood in ireland/ and when the king saw that it was made he thanked Merlin/ And richly him rewarded at his own will. And that place let call stonehenge for ever more. ¶ How Passent that was Vortigers son and the king Guillomer came in to this land/ and how a traitor that was called Cappa enpoisoned the king Aurilambros. ANd men shall understand that Passent that was Vortigers son lived the same time/ and came in to this land with a great power/ and arrived in the north country & would be avenged of his faders death Vortiger and strongly trusted upon the company that he had brought with him out of the land of Germayne/ and had conquered all the North country unto york. ¶ And when king Aurilambros heard this he assembled a great power of Brytons & went for to fight with passent & he discomfited Passent & all his people. but Passent escaped thence with some of his men/ & fled thence in to ireland & come to king Guillomer & prayed him of help and succour. The king granted him with good will and said/ that he would help him/ upon that covenant that I myself must go with you with all my power in to britain. And I would me avenge upon the Broytons the rather for they came in to my land & took the stones with strength that is called Giants karoll ¶ The king Guillomer let ordain his ships & went to the see with xu thousand men and arrived in wales & began to rob/ & moche sorrow he died. ¶ It befell so that king Aurilambros lay sick at wynchestre/ & might not help himself. So that he sent in his name Uter his brother with a power to help wales. And thither ward he went as much as he might. ¶ The king of ireland & Passente heard tell that Aurilambros was sick/ & to him there came a Sarrasyn that was called Cappa & said. Sire dwell ye here all in peace with your host & I behyght you thorough my quayntesye the I shall slay the king Aurilambros that is sick. Then said Passent/ if ye do so I shall you richly advance. The traitor Cappa put upon him an habit of religion/ & let shave him a broad crown & came unto the kings court/ and said that he would help● the king of his malady. though said the traitor Cappa unto the king. Sir be of good comfort. For I shall give you such a medicine that ye shall sweet anon right & list to sleep & have good rest. And the traitor yaaf him such poison to sleep anon right/ & died in his sleeping. And the traitor said that he would go out to the field till he were awaked/ & so escaped he away. For no man had to him suspection/ for by cause of his habit that he was clothed in/ & also for his broad shaven crown. But when the kings men wist that he was deed/ they became wonder sorry/ and fast sought the traitor/ but they might not find hym· For the Cappa turned again unto the host frem whes that he came. ¶ when Aurilambbros died a star in the morn was seen with a clear light/ & at the bought of the beeme was seen the heed of an horrible dragon SO when the king Aurilambros was deed & enpoisoned at winchester. On the morn after he was deed about the time of Prime there was seen a star great & clear & the beeme of that star was brygheter than the son. And at the bought of the beeme appeared a dragon's heed/ & out of his mouth came two huge lights/ that were as bright as any fire brenning. & that one beeme to ward France and straight over the see thither ward. And out of that beeme came vii beemes full clear and long as it were the light fire. ¶ This ●●erre was seen of many a man/ But none of them wist what it be tokened. ¶ Uter that was the kings brother/ that was in wales with his host of Brytons/ saw that star & the great light that it gave/ they wondered there of greatly what it might betoken. And let call Merlin and prayed him for to tell what that it myhght betoken. ¶ Of the betokening of the star. MErlyn saw the star/ and beheld it a long tyme. And sithen he quoke and wept tenderly. And sayde· Alas alas that so noble a king & worthy is deed And I do iou to understamnde that Aurilambros your brotherds poisoned/ & that I see well in this star. And yourself is betokened the heed of the dragon that is seen at the bought of the beeme that is yourself that shall be king and regne. And by the beeme that standeth to ward the east is understand that ye shall get a son that shall conquer all France/ and all the lands that belongeth to the crown of France/ that shall be a wrothyer king & of more honour than ever were any of his ancestors. ¶ And by the beeme that stretched toward ireland is betokened that ye shall get a daughter that shall be queen of ireland. ¶ And the seven beemes betoken that ye shall have vii sons. And every one of them shall be king/ and regne with moche honour. And abide ye no longer here/ but go and give battle to your enemies/ and fight with them booldely for ye shall overcome them and have the victory. ¶ Uter thanked heartily Merlin and took his men and went to ward his enemies/ & they fought together mortally/ and so he discomfited his enemies & them destroyed. And himself slew Passent that was vortigers son And his Brytons slew Guillomer that was king of ireland and all his men. ¶ And Uter anon after that battle took his way to ward wynchestre/ for to do entire Aurilambros king that was his brother. But though was the body borne unto. stonehenge with moche honour/ that he had done make in remembrance of the Brytons that there were slain through treason of Engist/ that same day that they should have been accorded. And in the same place they entyered. Aurelambros the second year of his reign with all the worship the might belong to such a king. On whose soul god have mercy. Amen. ¶ Of Uter Pendragon/ and therefore he was called so ye shall here. And how he was overtake with the love of Igreyne that was the Earl of Cornewaylles wife. AFter the death of. Aurilambros. Uter his brother was crowned and reigned well & worthily. And in remembrance of the dragon that he was likened to/ He let make two dragons through counsel of his. Brytons And made that one for to be borne before him when he went in to battle/ and the other for to abide at wynchestre in the bishop church. And for that cause he was called ever after Uther Pendragon. ¶ And Octa that was Engistes son commended Uther but little that was made new king. And against him began to move war. And ordained a great power of his friends & of his kin/ and of. Ossa his brother \ and had taken all the land from Humbre unto york/ But those of york held strongly against them/ and would not suffer them to come in to the city/ neither to yield the city to them. And he besieged the town anon right and gave thereto a strong assault. But they of the city them kept well & strongly. ¶ And when Uther herd thereof/ he came thither with a great strong power for to help & rescue the town & put a way the siege/ & gave a strong battle. And Octa & his company them defended as well as they might. But at the last they were discomfited & the most party of them slain. And. Octa and. Ossa were taken & put in prison at London. ¶ And Uther hymfelf dwelled a while at york/ and after he went to London. And at the Easter after he would vere crown & hold a solemn feast. And let somone all his Earl and Barons/ that they should come to that feast. And all those that had wives should bring them also to that feast. And all the seygnoury came at the kings commandment as they were commanded. ¶ The feast was richly arrayed and holden. And all worthily set to meet after that they were of estate. So that the· earl Gorloys of cornwall and. Igreyne his wife sat next unto the king. And when the king saw the fairness of that lady and the beauty that she had. He was anon ravished for her beauty and often he made to her nice countenance in looking and laughing. So at the last the Earl perceived the privy looking and laughing and the love between them. And roso up from the table in wrath/ and took his wife ●nd called to him his knights and went thence wrath/ without taking leave of the king. ¶ The king anon sent after him that he should come again and go not thence in despite of him. And the earl would not come again in no manner of wise. ¶ wherefore the king was wroth/ and in wrath him defied as his deadly enemy. ¶ And the earl went thence in to Cornewaylle with his wife in the castle of Tyntagyll. ¶ And the king let ordain a great host and came in to Cornewaylle/ for to destroy the earl if that he might. But he had put him in such a castle that was strong and well arrayed called. Tyntagyll/ and wollde not yield him to the king. ¶ And the king anon besieged the called/ & there dwelled xu days that never might speed/ and ever he thought upon Igreyne/ & upon her laid so moche love/ That he wist not what to do. ¶ So at the last he called to him a knight that was called ulfin that was privy with him and told him all his counsel/ and axed him wha● was best for to done ¶ Sir said he/ send after Merlin anon/ for he came tell you the best counsel of any man living Merlin anon was sent after & came to the king. And the king told him all his counsel and his will. Sir said Merlin. I shall do so moche through craft that I can/ that I shall make you come to night 〈◊〉 the castle of. Tyntagyll/ & shall have all yo● will of that lady. How Uther begat on Igreyne/ that ●as the Earls wife of cornwall Arthur. MErlyn through craft that he co● 〈…〉 the kings figure in● 〈…〉 of the Earl/ and Vlfin Garlois 〈…〉 in to the figure of Iorda● 〈…〉 earls chambrelayne/ so that ec● 〈…〉 transfigured in to others lyke● 〈…〉 Merlin had so done/ he said 〈…〉 Sir said he/ now ye may goo● 〈…〉 castle of Tyntagyll & axe ene● 〈…〉 your will. The king took pry● 〈…〉 to govern and lead to a knight that he moche loved/ & took his way toward the castle/ & with him took Vlfin his Chambrelayne and Merlin/ & when they came thither the porter deemed it had been his own lord. And when time came for to go to bed/ the king went to bed with Igreyne the earls wife and died with her all his will. And begat upon her a son that was called Arthur. And upon the more we the king took his leave of the lady & went again to his host. And the same night that the king lay by Igreyne in bed that was the earls wife the kings men gave a great assault unto the castle. And the earl & his men manly them defended. But at the last it befell so/ that in the same assault the earl himself was slain & the castle taken. ¶ And the king anon turned again to Tyntagill and spoused I greyne with moche honour & made her queen ¶ And soon after time came that she should be livered & bore a child a son that was called Arthur. & after gate on her a daughter that was called Amya▪/ And when she came to age/ a noble. Baron that was lord of lions wedded her. ¶ when Uter long time had reigned/ there came upon him a great sickness as it were a sorrow. ¶ And in the mean time those that had to keep Octa that was Engistes son & Ossa his brother/ that thenne were in prison/ they let them go for great yefts that they them gave & went with them. And when though two brethren were escaped & were in to their own country again/ then they ordeynede them a great power of folk and began for to war again upon the king. ¶ How king Uter those A loath to keep the land of. britain/ while that he was seek/ for as much as he might not for his sickness. ANd for as much as king Uter was sick & might not help himself/ he or● Aloth son of Eleyne that though was cho● 〈◊〉 to be warden and chyeftayne of all 〈…〉. And so he anon and all his Bry●●mbled a great host & gave battle to 〈…〉 his folk/ but Octa at the last was 〈◊〉. ¶ It befell thus after ward/ 〈…〉 phytons had dedignation of Aloth 〈…〉 ●othe to him attendant. wherefore 〈…〉 ●as annoyed wonder sore & let put 〈…〉 in the host amongs his folk 〈…〉 ●de him to. Vereloyne that though was a fair city/ there that saint. Albon was martyred. And after was the city destroyed with paynims through warre· & thither they had sent. Octavian and. Ossa & their people. And entered in to the town/ and let make sure the yates/ & there they held them. And the king came & them besieged/ & made a strong assault/ but the that were within manly them deffended/ ¶ The king let ordain his guns and his engines for to break the walls/ & the walls were so strong that no man might them misdo. ¶ Octa & his people had great despite/ that a king dying in a letere had the y besieged. And they took counsel among them for to stand up in the morrow early and come out and give battle to the king/ & so they died. And in that battle were both Octa and Ossa slain/ & all the other the escaped a live fled in to scotland/ & made Colegyn their chyeftayne. & the Saxons that were a live & escaped fro the battle/ brougth again a great strength & among them they said that if king Vt were deed they should well conquer the land and thought to enpoysen the king/ & ordained men for to do this deed/ & gave them of yeft is great plenty this thing to do. And they ordained them thitherward there that the king was dwelling/ and clothed them in poor weed the better all for to speed their false purpose But nevertheless all their falseness & subtlety they might never come to nigh the king. But so at the last they espied that the king drank no other liquor but only water of a clear well tha● was nigh beside & the falls traitors upon a day privily went to the well & put therein poison/ so that all the water was enpoisoned. And anon after as the king had drunk of that water/ he began to sweet/ and soon after he died: and as many as drank of that water died also. And anon as this was espied folk of the town let stop the well of evermore. ¶ when the king was deed his folk bore him to stonehenge with great solemnity of bishops and barons that were there him to bury beside Aurilambros his brother. And after turned again though everichone and sent after his son: and they made him king of the land with moche reverence after his faders death: the xvii year of his regne. ¶ How king Arthur that was the son of Uter was crowned after his faders death: and how he drove Colegryn and the Saxons and Cheldri● of A●mayne out of this land As Arthur was made king of the land/ he was but young of age of xu year/ but he was fair and bold and doughty of body. And to meek folk he was good and courteous/ and large of spending/ & made him well beloved among them there that it was need/ & when he began to regne heswore truly that the Saxons never should have rest ne peace till that he had driven them out of ●he land. And assembled a great host and fought with Colegryn the which after the time that Octa was deed the Saxons maintained. And this Colegryn was discomfited & fled unto york & took the town/ & there him held. And the king besieged him there but he might no thing speed for the city was so strong. And they within the town kept the city well & orpedly. ¶ And in the mean time Colegryn let the town to Bladulf & f●ledde himself to Cheldryk that was king of almain/ for to have of him succour. And the king assembled a great power & came & arrived in scotland with xu hundred ships. And when Arthur wist of these tidings that he had not power & strength enough to fight against. Cheldrik/ he let be the siege & went to London/ & sent anon his letters to the king of little britain that wis called howel his nephew his sisters son/ that he should come to him with all the power that he might. And he assembled a great host and arrived at Southampton. And when king Arthur it wist he was glad enough & went against them/ & them received with moche honour. So that those two hostis met & assembled them/ & took their way even unto. Nycholl that Cheldryk had besieged/ But it was not taken. And they came upon cheldrik & his people or they wist where that they were/ and them eagerly assailed. ¶ The king Cheldrik and his men defended him manly by their power. But king Arthur & his men slew so many Saxons/ hat never was seen such slaughter/ & Cheldrik & his men that were left alive fled a way. And king Arthur them pursued and drove them out in to a wood that they might no ferder pass. ¶ Cheldrik & his men saw well that they were brought in to much disease/ & them yielded to king Arthur in this manner wis. That he should take their horses their armour/ & all that they had/ and they must only go on foot in to their ships. And so they would go home in to their own land/ and never come again in to this land. ¶ And upon assurance of this thing they gave him good hostages. ¶ And Arthur by counsel of his men granted this thing: & received the hostages: & thereupon that other went to their ships. And when they were in the high see the wynnde changed as the devil it would: & they turned their navy & came again in to this land & arrived at Totnesse: & went out of the ships and took the land: and clean rob it: and much people slew: and took all the armour that they might find. And so they went forth till they came unto Bathe. But the men of the town shit fast their yates/ and would not suffer them to come within the towne· And they deffended them well and orpedly against them ¶ How Arthur gave battle unto the Saxons when they came again in to this land: & had besieged the town of Bathe and them overcame. anon as. Artur herd this tidings he let hang the hostages/ & th●u howel of britain his nephew/ for to keep the march to ward scotland with half his people and himself went to help & rescue the town of. Bathe. when he ●●me thither he gave a strong battle to Cheldrik and slew almost all the people that he had· For no man might him withstand ne endure under the stroke of his sword. And there both were slain Colegryn and Bladulf his brother/ and Cheldryk fled thence & would have gone to his ships ¶ But when Arthur it wist/ he took ten thousand knights to Cador that was earl of Corn wail for to let & stop his coming. And Arthur himself went toward the march of scotland. For messengers told him that the Scots had besieged howel of. Brytoyne there that lay sick/ & therefore he hasted him thither ward. ¶ And Cador purse wed after Cheldryk/ & took him ere he might come to his ships & slew Cheldrik and his people. And when Cador had done this viage/ he hasted him again to ward. Arthur as fast as he might/ & found him in scotland there that he had rescued Howel of britain but the Scots were far within Nounref/ & there they held them a while. But Arthur them pursued. And they fled thence in to Limoigne/ that were in that country xl Isles & great plenty of birds/ and great plenty of Eagles that were wont to cry and fight togethers/ and make great noise when folk came to rob that land/ and warn as much as they might/ & so they died. For the Scots were to great raveners/ that they took all that they might find in the land of Lymoygne without any sparing/ and there with charged again the folk in to scotland for to wend. ¶ How king Arthur axed of Merlin the adventures of vi of the last kings that were to regne in England/ & how the land should end Sir said Merlin. In the year of the incarnation Ihesu christ. M·CC. xv. shall come a lamb out of wynchestre/ shall have a white tongue and true lips/ and he shall have written in his heart holiness. This lamb shall make many god's houses/ & he shall have peace the most part of his life. And he shall make one of the fairest places of the world/ that in his time shall not fully ●e made an end of. ¶ And in the end of his life wolf of a strange land shall do him much harm and sorrow through war. But at the end the lamb shall be master through help of a reed fox/ that shall come out of the North west/ & him shall overcome/ and the wolf shall dey● in water. And after that time the lamb shall live no while/ but he shall die. ¶ His heed shall be in a strange land. And the land shall be without a governor a little time ANd after this shall come a dragon meddled with mercy & also with woodness And that shall have aberde as a goat that shall give in England a shade we/ and shall kept the land fro cold & heat/ and his own foo● shall be set in wyke & that other in London. And he shall embrace Inhabitaunces. And he shall open his mouth to ward wales. And the trembling of the hydour of his mouth/ his ●eres shall stretch to ward many habitations and countries. And his breath shall be full sweet in strange land. And in his time shall the rivers run blood and with brain. And he shall make in places of his land walls that shall do moche harm unto his seed after his tyme. ¶ And then shall there come a people out of the North west during his reign that shall be lad throughout a wicked hare/ that the dragon shall do crown king/ that afterward shall flee over the see without coming again for dread of the dragon. ¶ And in that time the son shall be as read as an blood that see thorughout all the world/ that shall betoken great pestilence & death of folk/ thorough dint of sword. And that people shall be fatherless/ till the time that the dragon die through an hare: that shall move against him war unto the end of his life: that shall not fully be ended in his time ¶ This dragon shall be hold in his time the best body of the world. and he shall die beside the marches of a strange land: and the land shall dwell fatherless without a good governor: and men shall weep for his death: from the isle of. Shepey to the haven of Marcyll. ¶ wherefore Alas alas shall be their song of fatherless folk: that shall over live in his land destroyed. ANd after this dragon shall come a goat out of. Kar that shall have horns & a beard of silver/ and there shall come out of his nosethryll a dompe that shall betoken hunger and sorrow and great death of the people. And moche of his land in the beginning of his reign shall be wasted. ¶ This goat shall go over unto France: and shall open the flower of his life and death. ¶ In his time there shall arise an E●●e in Corn way●e that shall have feathers of go●e/ that of pride ●ha● be without peer of the land. And he shall despy●e lords of blood. And a●●er he shall flee shamefully by a beer at Governeth/ and after shall be made bridges of men upon the costs of the ●ee and stones shall fall from castles/ & many other towns shall be made plain. ¶ In his time shall seem that the beer shall bren/ and a battle shall be done upon the arms of the see in a field ordained as a shield And at that battle shall die many white heeds/ wherefore this battle shall be called the white battle. And the foresaid beer shall do this goat moche harm/ & it shall come out of the South west & of his blood. then shall the go●e lose moche/ & of his land/ till that the time that friendship shall him overcome. And then shall he close him in a lions skin/ & then shall he win that he had before lost & more thereto. For a people shall come out of the North west that shall make the goat so sore afeard thet he shall be in great perplexite. And he shall avenge him on his enemies through counsel of two owls that first shall be in peril for to be undone. But the old owl shall wend away a certain time/ & after he shall come again in to this land. These two owls shall do great harm to many one/ and so they shall counsel the goat to arere war against the foresaid beer. And at the last the go●e and the owls shall come at Burton upon Trent/ and shall go over/ and for dread the beer shall ●●ee & a swan with him fro his company to Burton ward the north and there they shall be with an hard shower. And then shall the swan be take & slain wi●h sorrow and the beer taken heeded all there next his ●est/ that shall stand upon broken bridge/ on whom the son shall cast his beemes. And many shall him seek for virtue that from him shall come. ¶ In the same shall die for sorrow ●●are ap●ple of his land/ so that lands shall be upon him the more bo●der after ward. And those two owls shall do moche sorrow to the foresaid flower of life/ & her shall lead in to dystrestre/ so that shall pass over the see into France/ for to make peace between the goat and the flouredelyse/ and there she shall dwell till a time that her seed shall come and set●e her: ● they shall be still till a time: that they shall them cloth with grache. And they shall fethe the owls and shall put them to dispiteous death. And after shall this goat be brought to disease and great anguish: and in sorrow he shall live all his life AFter this goat shall come out of windsor a boor: that shall have an heed o● a white lynons heart: and piteous looking ¶ His visage shall be rest to like men. His breeste shall be staunching of thirst to though that be thrysty: His word shall be gospel. his hearing shall be meek as a lambe· In the first year of his reign he shall have great pain to justify them that been untrue. ¶ And in his time shall his land be multiplied with alients. And this boor thorough fyresnesse of his heart that he shall have: shall make wolves to become lambs. & he shall be called thorough out of the world Boor of holiness/ fyers●esse of nobleness and of meekness. And he shall measurably all that he shall do unto the borough of jerusalem. ¶ And he shall whet his teeth upon the yates of Pards: and upon four lands. Spain shall tremble for dread. Gascoigne shall sweet. In France he shall put his wing. His great tail shall rest in England softly. Almaigne shall quake for dread of him. ¶ This boor shall give bantelles to two towns of England: and shall make the river run with blood & brain. And he shall make many meadows reed: and he shall get as much as his ancestors did. And ere that he died/ he shall bear three crowns/ and he shall put a land in great subjection/ And after it shall be relieved/ but not in his tyme. ¶ This boor after he is deed for his doughtiness/ shall be entired at Coleyne. And his land shall be fulfilled of all good. AFter this boor shall come a lamb: that shall have f●et of lead: and an heed of brass: and heart of lop a swines skin. And an hard. And in his time his land shall be in peace: the first year of his reign he shall do make a city that all the world shall speak there of. ¶ This lamb shall lose in his time a great part of his land through an hideous wolf: but he shall recover it: and give a lordship to an Eagle of his land and this eagle shall well govern it till the time that pride shall him overcome. Alas the sorrow: For he shall die of his brother's sword. And after shall the land fall to the foresaid lamb: that shall govern the land in peace all his lives tyme. And after he shall die/ and the land be fulfilled of all manner of good. AFter this lamb shall come a mould warp/ cursed of god's mouth/ a caitiff/ a coward/ an haare/ He shall have an elderly skin as a goat/ & vengeance shall fall upon him for sin. ¶ In the first year of his reign he shall have of all good great plenty in his land and to ward him also/ And in his land he shall have great praysyge/ till the time that he shall surffre his people live in to much pride without chastising/ wherefore god will be wrothe· ¶ then shall arise up a dragon of the North/ that shall be full fierce/ and shall move war against the foresaid mould warp/ & shall give him battle upon a stone. This dragon shall gather again in to his company a wolf/ that shall roam out of the west to move war against the foresaid mould warp in his side/ so shall the dragon/ and bind their tails to guiders ¶ Thenne shall come a lion out of ireland/ that shall fall in company with them. And then shall tremble the land that shall becalled England as an aspen lief/ And in that time shall castles be felled down upon Tamyse. And ye shall seem that Severne shall be dry/ for the bodies that shall fall deed there in/ The four chief floods in England shall run in blood. And great dread shall he/ & anguish that shall arise. ¶ After the mould warp shall flee and the dragon. The lion and the wolf shall them drive a way/ and the lon shall be without them. And the mould warp shall have no manner of power save only a ship whereto he may wynder ¶ And after that he shall go to land where the see is withdraw. And after that he shall give the third part of his land/ for to have the fourth part in peace and in rest. And after he shall live in sorrow all his lyftyme· ¶ And in his time the h●●r baths shall become cold. And after that shall the mould warp die aventurously and suddenly. Alas for sorrow/ for he shall be drowned in a flood of the see His seed shall be come fatherless in strange loud for ever more. And then shall the land be departed in to three parts/ that is to say/ to the wolf/ to the dragan/ and to the lion. And so shall it be for evermore· And then shall this land be called the ●de of Conquest. And so shall the ryghe heirs of England end ¶ How Arthur overcame Guillomer that was king of ireland. And how the Scots became his men THenne when Guillomer that was king of ireland heard tydyges the king Arthur was entered at Glastenbury: he ordained agrete pewer of irishmen and came to the see with his irish people; & so came in to scotland over the see & arrived fast there by that king. Arthur was with his host: & a none as he wist thereof: he went to ward him and gave him battle & overcame him anon right. And Guillomer fled with his men again in to ireland. And when this was done and discomfited him Arthur turned him again there that he was: in to the place there that he had left the Scots and would have them all slain. But the bishops: abbots and other folk of the country and ladies open heeded came before king. Arthur and cried him mercy and said. Sire gentle king & mighty: have mercy and pity upon us. And as yourself be of the right law to hold and maintain christendom. For full great dyshoudur it should be to slay him that believeth in almighty god as ye do. And for gods love have mercy and pity on us & suffer us. For we have had moche sorrow and pain. For the Saxons have many times passed through our land. But that is not enough to you: for often times they have done us sorrow & disease For our castles they have taken and our beasts slain & eaten: and much harm they have us done And if ye would us now slay: it were none honour to a king to slay them that cry him mercy. For enough ye have done to us & have us overcome. And for the love of god that ye will suffer us for to live: & have mercy on christian people that believe in christ as ye do. ¶ when king. Arthur heard this sorrow: he had pity of them & gave them life & limb without any more harm. And they fell down to his feet & thanked him and became his lyege men: and he took of them homage. ¶ And after the king Arthur turned again with his host the came unto york: and made there his biding during that viage. And though gave he all Logries to Aloth that had spoused his sister and other gifts great plente· And though was Gawen his cousin but of youge ●ege. And to all his other men that him had served in his war/ he gave rich gifts/ and thanked them moche of all their good service ¶ How king Arthur spoused Gunnor that was Gunnors' cousin earl of Corn wail/ and after he conquered of Guillomer all ireland. ANd when Arthur had broughth is land in peace and rest and in good state/ and all was well in every country. though took and wedded a wife that was called Gunnor and made her queen/ a fair lady and a gentle that Cador the Earl of Corn wail had nourished in his chambre that was his cousin. But never they had children together. And nevertheless king Arthur loved her wonder well & deyrly And anon as winter was passed/ he let assemble a great host/ and all his Barons and said that he would go in to. ireland for to conquer the land. And he trayed not long that he passed over in to Irlone. ¶ And Guillomer the king let assemble a great host & gave battle to king Arthur/ but Guyllomer was discomfited and yielded him ot the king and became his man/ and to him died fewte and homage and of him held all that land fro that time for ward. And after peasking. Arthur furthermore & conquered But land and Islonde/ and took homage of the folk and of the land/ and there dwelled xii year in peace & reigned with joy & mirth. And there warred no man ne woman upon him. And he became so curties and large & honourable/ that the emperors court of Rome/ ne none other through out all the world was not accounted to king Arthur's/ that any man wist of/ ne none so well praysed· And therefore the best knights of all manner a lands came unto him there for to dwell. And he them received with good will and reverence. ¶ And all the knygehtes were so good that no man knew the worst. And therefore king Arthur made a round table that when they should sit at their meet/ all should be alike high and evenly served at the table that none of them should make avaunt that one of them were higher than an other. And king Arthur had at that table Brytons & Frenshmen. Normans and flemings. Burgoyns Mausers & Lotherins'/ and of all the lands a this half the mount Goryt: and of his land of britain and of the great Corn wail: of wales and of ireland: and of scotland And shortly to tell of all the lands that woldes worship chyvalry: such came to king Arthur's court. ¶ How king Arthur go into France and conquered that land of. Froll that was a Roman: and how he slew him. sith it befell that through counsel of his barons and lords: king Arthur would conquer all France that though was called Gall through Romans that tho held the land in their power & in their governnunce. And the romans had taken that land to a noble knight and a worthy of body: that was called Froll. And when he wist that Arthur came: he ordeoned an host of a great power & fought with the king. And he & his folk were discomfited and fled unto Paris & entered the city: and closed the yates & there held them. ¶ when Arthur wist that Froll was gone to Paris he pursued after & came thither: & him besieged. But the city was so strong & well arrayed/ & though that were therein deffended them well and manly. ¶ King Arthur dwelled there more than amonethe. And there was so moche people in the city that they dispended all their victual that they had within. and so great hunger became among them/ that they died wenderly thick within the city for hunger. And came unto Froll & prayed him to be accorded with king. Arthur for to have peace & they would yield them unto him & the city also. ¶ Froll saw that he might no longer hold the town against their will \ & trusted greatly upon his own strength/ and sent to the king Arthur that he should come fight with him body for body/ & so should they depart France between them two. ¶ King Arthur anon granted it. And would not that none of his people undertook the battle for him. ¶ And upon the morn both came well arrayed without Paris there that they should fight. & anon they smote togethers so fiercely & so well they fought on both sides that no man deemed the better of them/ and so it befell the Froll gave 〈◊〉 such a stroke that he kneeled to the ground would he nolde he/ And as Froll wounded king Arthur in the forehead that the blood fell down by his eyen & his face. Arthur anon star up heartily when he felt him hurt as a man that seemed almost wood. And he took taburne his good sword/ & drew it upon high and gave Froll such astroke that thyr with he clave his heed down to the shoulders so that his helm might not be his warrant/ & so he fell down deed in the place. And then though of the city made great sorrow for Froll. And everichone yielded them to king. Arthur and the town also & became his men/ & did to him homage and feaute. And he received them & took of them goodly hostages. And king Arthur after that went forth with his host & conquered Augien & Angyers. Gascoigne. Pehito. Naverne and Burgoyne. Berry. Lotherne Turyn and Peythers/ and all the other lands of France he conquered all holy. when he had conquered & taken by homages and feautes/ he turned again to Paris and there he dwelled long time/ & ordained peas long time over all the country/ & through all France. ¶ And when peace was made over all through his noble knighthood that he had/ and also for his own worthiness. And no man were he never so great a lord durst not move war against him neither to arise for to make the land of France inquyete. And in peace he dwelled there ix year/ and died many great wonders/ and reproved many proud men and evil tyrants them chastised after their demerits ¶ How king Arthur advanced all his men that had travailed in his service. ANd after ward it befell thus at Ester there that he held a feast at. Paras/ & richly he 'gan advance his knights for the service that they had him helped in his conquest. He gave to his steward that was called. Kay Augien & Angoers. And he gave to Bed were his. Butler. normandy/ that though was called Neustrye And to Holden in his chambrelayn he gave Flaunders & Mance And to dorel his cousin he gave Bolayne. And to richard his enewe he gave Pountyf/ and to all other he gave large lands and fees after they were of estate/ And when Arthur had thus his knights feoffed/ at Aperyll next after suing he came again in to britain his own land. And after at whitsuntide sewing by counsel of his Barons/ he would be crowned king of Glomergon/ and held a solemn feast. And let somone barons earls and knights/ that they should come thither every eachone. and there was Scatter king of Scotland. God were king of South waylys. Guiliomer king of North wales. Maded king of ireland. Malgamus king of Gutlonde. Achelles king of Islonde. Aloth king of Denmark. Gone was king of Norway/ and Hell his cousin king of Dorkeney. Cador king of little britain. Mor with earl of cornwall. Mauran earl of gloucester. Guerdon earl of wynchestre. Boell earl of Hartford. Vrtegi earl of Oxford. Cuisall earl of Bathe. jonas Earl of Chestre. Enerall earl of Dorchestre. Kymare earl of Salysbury. waloth earl of Caunterbury. jugerne earl of Chechestre. Arall earl of leicester/ and the earl of werwyke/ & many other moo rich lords. Brytons there came moo/ that is to say. Dippon Donande. Gennes/ & many other that be not named here were at the feast. And many a fair feast king arthur had hold before/ but never none such/ ne so solemn/ and that lasted xu days with moche honour and mirth. ¶ Of the letter that was sent fro Rome to pride to king Arthur THe third day as king Arthur sat at his meet among his knights and among them that sat at the feste/ before them came in ·xii. men of age richly arrayed/ and curteusly they salued the king/ and said they came fro Rome sent as messengers fro the Emperor. And took him a letter that thus moche was to understand· ¶ greatly us maruaylleth arthur/ that thou art ones so hardy with thine eyen in thy heed to make open war or contake against us of rome/ that own all the world to redeem/ For thou haste never yet before this time proved ne assayed the strength of the Romans/ and therefore though it shall in a little tyme. For julyus Cezar conquered all the land of britain/ aid took thereof truage/ and our folk have it long I had/ & now through thy pride thou with hold it. wherefore we of Rome command the that thou it yield again/ and yet haste thou more folly done that thou haste slain Froll that was our baron of France with wrong. And therefore all the comens of Rome warneth the & command the upon life & limb that thou in haste be at Rome amends for to make of thy misdeeds that thou haste done. And it so be that thou come not we shall pass the hill of joy with strength/ and we shall the seek where ever thowe may be found/ & thou shalt not have a foot of land of thine own/ that we ne shall destroy it/ & afterward with thy body we shall do all our will. when this letter was red & all men it heard they were annoyed all that were at the solemn feste. And the Brytons would have slain the messengers/ but the king would not suffer them & said/ that the messengers should have no harm/ & may by reason none deserve But commanded them to be worshipfully served And after meet he took counsel of kings/ earls & barons/ what answer he might give again to the messengers and they counseled him at once/ that he should assemble a great power of all the lands of which he had lordship & manly avenge him upon the Emperor of the despite that he had send him such a letter & they swore by god & by all his holy name that they should him pursue & brene as much as they might And said that they would never fail king Arthur/ & rather to be deed. And they let write a letter to send to the Emperor by the same messengers in this manner of wyse· Of the bold answer that king Arthur sent to the Emperor of Rome & to the Romans understandeth among you of Rome that I am king Arthur of britain and freely it hold and shall hold. And at Rome hastily I will be/ not to give you truage/ but for to axe truage. For Constantyne that was Eleyns' son that was Emperor of Rome & of all the honour that there to belongeth. And Maximian king conquered all France and Almaigne/ and mount joy passed and conquered all Lombardy. And these two were mine ancestors/ and that they held and had. I shall have thorught gods will. ¶ Of the reverence that king Arthur died to the emperors messengers. ANd when this letter was made & ensealed/ king Arthur to these messengers & gave great yefts/ and after that the messengers took their leave and went thence/ and came to the court of Rome again. And told the Emperor how worthily they were received And also of such a rial company that he had him for to serve/ and how he was more rially served than the Emperor of Rome or any other king living in all the world. ¶ And when the Emperor had overseen the letter/ and had hard what was therein and saw that Arthur would not be ruled after him. He let assemble and ordain a great host for to destroy king Arthur if that he might. ¶ And king Arthur as touching his power and party/ ordained his power or knights of the table round. How king arthur fought with a giant in spain that was called Dinabus that slew Eleyne that was king Howels cousin of little britain. King Arthur had not dwelled in that country but a little time/ that men him told that there was come a great giant in to Spain/ & had ravished fair. Eleyne that was cousin unto. howel of little britain. And had brought her upon an hill that is called the mount of saint bernard. And there was no man in that country so bold ne so hardy that durst fight with him/ ne come nigh the place there that the giant dwelled tha● was called Dinabus. And moche sorrow he died in the country. ¶ when king Arthur heed this tidings/ he called to him Kay and Bedwere & commanded them to go privily & espy where the giant might be found. And they came to the rivage there that men should go to the mount/ that was all enclosed a bout with water & yet is/ & ever shall be. And they saw a brennyge fire upon the hill. And there was also an other hill nigh that/ and there was upon that an other fire brynnyge. Kay & Bed were came to the next hill/ & found a widow open heeded sitting besides a tomb sore weeping/ & great sorrow made. & oft she said Eleyne eleyne. And Kay & Bed were axed what she was/ & wherefore she made so moche sorrow and who lay in that tomb. ¶ O syyde she what sorrow & misadventure fair lorseke ye here. For if the. Giant may you here find he will you slay anon. ¶ Bestylle good wife said they thereof dysmaye you not but tell us the south why that thou makest so much sorrow & weeping. ¶ Sirs said she For a damosel that I nourished with my breast that was called Eleyne/ that was niece to. howel of britain. And here lieth the body in this tomb that to me was taken to nourish. And so there came a devil a Giant & ravished her and me also/ & lad us both with him a way he would have for lain that maid that was young and tender of age but she might it not suffer so great & so huge as the. Giant was. And for certain if he come now as he is wont to do/ he will you both now slay & therefore go ye hens. Then bespoke these two messengers & said to her/ wherefore go ye not from hens. ¶ Certes said she when that Eleyne deed the. Giant made me to abide and haunt his will/ & I must needs it suffer. And god it wot I do it not with my will/ for I had liefer to be deed than with him to deal/ so moche pain & sorrow I have when he me ●oclyeth. ¶ when Key and. Bed were had all that this woman them told/ they turned again & came to king Arthur and told him all that they had seen and heard. ¶ Arthur anon took them both wit him and went privily by night that none of his host wist and came on the morrow early to the. Giant and fought with him strongly/ and at the last him slew And Arthur bad. Bed were smite of his heed/ and bring it to the host to show it for a wonder/ for it was so great and huge. ¶ when they came again to the host/ they told wherefore they had been out/ and showed to them the heed/ and every man was glad and. joyful of the worthy deed that king. Arthur had done that was their lord. And howel was full sorrowful for his niece that was so lost. And after ward when he had space/ he let make a fair chapel of our lady over Eleyns' tomebe. ¶ How king. Arthur gave battle to the Emperperour/ in the which battle the Emperor himself was slain ARthur and his people heard tidings that the. Emperor had assembled a great power/ as well of saracens as of paynims and christian men. whereof the number was lxxx thousand horse men with foot men. ¶ Arthur and his people ordained fast forth their way toward the. Emperor and passed. Normandy and. France unto. Burgoyne/ and would have gone unto the host. For men told him that the. emperors host would come to Lucy. ¶ The Emperor and his host in the beginning of. August removed from Rome/ and came forth right the way ●o ward the host ¶ Thomas came king Arthur spies and said/ if that. Arthur would he should find the Emperor there fast by put they said. that the emperor had so great power with him of kings of the land of paynims & also christian people that it were but folyt to king Arthur to meet with them For the spies told/ that the emperor had five or six men against one of his. ¶ King Arthur was bloody & hardy/ and for no thing him nysmayed and said. Go we boldly in god's name against the. romans/ that with them lead. saracens and. paynims/ that no manner trust they have in god/ But only upon their strength. Go we now and seek them sharply in the name of almighty god & slay we the▪ paynims and christian men that been against us with them for to destroy. Crysten men. And god shall us help them to overcome For we have the right ●penyon/ and therefore have we trust in god. And we so that the enemies that be to christendom and to god may be destroyed and overcome/ & that men may record the worthiness of knight hood. when king Arthur had thus said/ they cried all with an high voys. ¶ God that is father almighty worshipped be thy name without end. Amen. And grant us grace well for to do and to destroy our enemies that been against christendom. In the name of the father/ the son/ and holy ghost. Amen. And god give him never grace ne worship in the world/ ne mercy of him to have/ that this day shall faint well for to smite and eagerly. And so they road softly/ & ordained his wings well & wisely. ¶ The Emperor heard tell that king. Arthur & his folk were ready appaerylled for to fight with him and how they were coming He let ordain his wings in the best wise that he could And more trusted upon his strength than in god almighty/ & that was seen afterwarde· For when the two hosts met/ the. Emperor lost four of his folk against one of Arthur. And so many were slain \ what on the one party & on that other/ that it was great pity to wite & to be behold. ¶ In this battle were slain through king. Arthur's five kings of the paynims and of other wonder moche people/ and king. Arthur's men fought so well/ that the romans and paynims had no more strength to withstand them/ than twenty sheep against five wolves. ¶ And so it befell that in this battle in the shower/ that was wonder hard & long during in that one side and in that other/ the. Emperor among them there was slain/ but there was no man that wist for very so the who him slew. ¶ How king Arthur let entire his knights that he had lost there in battle/ and how he sent the. emperors body to. Rome that there was slain in battle SO when the. romans wist that the Emperor was deed/ they forsook the field & the paynens also. And king. Arthur after them chased till it was night/ & so many of them slew that it was wonder to tell. And the turned king Arthur again when it was night & thanked god of his victory. And on the morrow he let look and search all the field for his knights that he there lost. That is to say. borel Earl of Maunt. Bed were/ and Kay/ and. Lyegiers earl of. Boleyne. Vortiger Earl of Baac. Aloth earl of wynchestre. Cuisall earl of Chestre/ and after Holden earl of. Flaandres. These were the great lords that king. Arthur lost in that battle/ with other worthy knights them among. And some he let entere in abbeys by the country/ some he let to be borne in to their own country. ¶ And the emperors body he let take & put upon a beyr & sent it to Rome. And said to the romans/ that for britain & France which he held: other truage would hen one pay. ¶ And if they axe● him any other truages: right such truage he would them pain. ¶ The king let bear Kay to Kenen his own castle & there him entered. And Leygier was borne to. Boleyne there he was lord. And Holden was borne to Flaunders: there he was entered: And all the other he let entere with moche honour in abbeys & in houses of relyon in the country that they were slain. ¶ And Arthur himself sojourned that same year in. Bourgoyne with his host & thought the same year following to pass the mount. joy: & have gone to. Rome also to have taken the city and have put the Romoyns in subjection: but the wicked tyrant. Mordred him let: as afterye shall here ¶ How the traitor. Mordred: to whom king. Arthur took his land to keep and his castles: held them against him▪ AS Arthur had taken to. Mordred his ream to keep: & gone against the Emperor of rome: & was passed the see. Mordred anon took homages & feats of all them that were in this land: & would have had this land to his own use: & took castles about: & let them be arrayed. & after this falseness he died an other great wrong: for against the law of crysten te he took his own emies wife as a traitor should: ordained him a great host against arthurs coming: to hold the land against him with strength for ever more: & to slay king Arthur if he might & sent by the see & by land: & let assemble paynims & christian people. And he sent to Saxons & to Danies for to help him. & also. Mordred sent to Cheldrik to send men to hy mour of. Saxon that was a worthy duke/ & promised him if that he brought with him moche people he wild grant him. inheritance for ever/ all the land fro Humbre to scotland/ and all the land that Engist had of. Vortigers year/ when that he spoused his daughter. ¶ And cheldrik came with a great strength and power of people/ and. Mordred had assembled also on his half/ that they had xl thousand of strong knights when that they had need. ¶ How Arthur enchanced Mordred the traitor and how he was slain/ and also king Arthur wounded to the death. AS this tidings came to king. Arthur there that he was in Bourgoyne he was full sore annoyed/ and took all France to howel for to keep with the half deal of his men. And prayed him that he would it keep till he came again. For himself would pass in to britain/ and avenge him upon. Mordred that was his traitor. And forth with Arthur went his way & came to wytsande/ and made his men to go in to ship and would have arrived at sandwich/ & brought with him a grace host of Frenshemen also with his own land men/ But or that he might come to land with his people that were come out of his ships. Mordred was come with all his power/ and gave a strong battle/ so that king Arthur lost many a man are that he might come to land. For there was. Gawayne his nephew slain/ & Anguysshell that held scotland/ and many other whereof king. Arthur was full sorry. But after they were come to land. Mordred might not against them endure. But anon was discomfited & flydde thence the same night with his men/ & upon the morn came to· London. But though of the city would not suffer him to come in. And from thence he fled to wynchestre/ and there he him held with his people that came with him. ¶ King Arthur let take the body of. Gawyne his cofyn/ & the body of. Anguysshell/ and let the one be borne in to scotland/ and the other to Dover & buried Anon after king. Arthur took his way for to destroy mordred/ & he fled thence in to cornwall. ¶ And the quen Gun●or that was king Arthur's wife that thosoiourned 〈◊〉 york/ heard the Mordred was fled thence & that he might not endure against king Arthur she was sore afeard & had great doubt/ & wist not what was best of all for to done. For she understood well that her lord king. Arthur would never of her for to have mercy for the great shame that she had done unto him/ And took her a way privily with four men without moo/ and came to. Karlyon/ & there she dwelled all there live/ and never after was seen amongs the folk her life during. ¶ King Arthur wist that Mordred was fled in to cornwall/ & let send after his men in to. scotland and Northomberlonde unto Humbre/ and let assemble folk without number/ and came fro thence in to. cornwall to seek and pursue after Mordred. ¶ And Mordred had assembled to him all the folk of. cornwall and had people without number 〈◊〉 wist that Arthur was coming/ and had liefer to die and take his chance/ than longer flee & abode and gave an hard battle to king. Arthur & to his people so that moche people was slain what of one side & what of that other/ that noman wist who had the better party. But so it befell at the last that Mordred was slain & all his folk/ & the good chyvalry that king. Arthur had gathered & nourished of diver lands and also the noble knights of the round table/ that so moche were praised thorough out all the world were there slain/ & king Arthur himself was wounded unto death. But he let him to be borne to Auioun to be heeled of his wounds. And yet the. Brytons supposed that he lived in an other land/ and that he shall come yet and conquer all britain. ¶ But certes this is the prophecy of Merlin. He said that his death shall be doubtous/ and said sooth. For thereof yet men have doubt/ and shall have for ever more as men say. For men wot not wither that he is on live or deed. ¶ Arthur was borne at Auioun the xxii year of his reign after the. incarnation of our lord Ihesu christ .v. C.xlvi. year. How king Arthur delivered the ream unto Constantyne the son of Cador his nephew AS king Arthur wist that he might no longer regne/ he let come before him Constantyne that was Cador's son Earl of cornwall his cousin & to him betook all his ream & took him said/ & bade him thereof to be king till that he came again/ for as much as he had none heeyre of his body begotten. And great damage was it/ that so noble a king and so doughty as he was/ had no child of his body begotten. But all thing that god will have done must be done/ whose name be blessed without end ¶ How king Constantyne was vexed of Mordred two sons. THis Constantyne was a noble knight and a worthy of body. And though two sons that. Mordred had begotten had great envy of constantine that though was crowned king. And so it befell that they moved war against him. And assembled a great host of them that were before with Mordred/ & had been driven a way/ & that did much sarowe & anguish throughout all that land. That one brother ordained/ & purposed him toward the ancient city of London for to take the city And that other went to wynchestre. But Constantyne came to London & slew him that was there. And after he went to wychestre & slew him that was there also. So that both his enemies were deed. ¶ And when Constantyne had reigned well & worthily four year/ he died & lieth at London. ¶ Of the kings Adelbryght & of edel. AFter king Constantine'S death there were two kings in britain/ the one was called. Adelbryght that was a danoys. And he held the country of. Norfolk &. Southfolke. That other height edel & was a. Bryton \ and held Nicholl. Lendeser/ and all the land unto. Humbre. These two kings fast warred together/ but after accorded they were and loved together/ as they had been borne of oon body. ¶ The king edel had a sister that was called Orewenne. And he gaf her through great freodshyp to king. Adelbryght to wife. And he begat upon her a daughter that was called. argentil. And in the third year after came upon him a strange sickness that needs he must die. And he sent to king. edel his brother in law that he should come and speak with him/ and he came to him with a good will. ¶ though prayed he the king and conjured him also in the name of god/ That after when he were deed/ he should take his daughter argentil and the land/ and that he kept her well/ and nourish her in his chambre. And when she were of age/ she should be married to the strongest and worthiest man that he might find/ and then he should yield up her land again. ¶ edel it granted and by oath confirmed his prayer. ¶ And when Adelbryght was deed and entered/ edel took the damosel. argentil/ and nourrsshed her in his chambre: and she became as fair as any might be. ¶ How king edel married that damosel to a knave of his kechyne. THis king edel that was uncle to argentil: be thought how that he might falsely have the land fro his nice for ever more: and falsely aynst his oath thought to deceive the damosel: and to mary her to a knave of his kechyne that was called Curan: and he became the worthiest and strongest man of body that any man wist in any land that though lived: and to him he thought her shamefully have married for to have had her land afterward/ but he was clean deceived. For this Curan was Havelockis son that was king of. Kyrkelane in. Denmark: and this. Curan conquered his wives land after ward and slew king Edel that was h● wives uncle and had all her land/ as in an other place it telleth more openly: & he reigned but iii year for Saxons &. Danes him slew & that was great harm to all britain & Srytons bore him to. Sto●henge and entired him honourably. ¶ Of king Conan that was Curans cousin. AFter this Curan reigned his cousin Conan that was a wonder proud knight. And reigned and could have no manner of love/ but ever he was meddling with his people. And took his uncle with war and slew his two children. ¶ The Saxons warred against him oftentimes: but he them over came: and so he was in peace all his life tyme· And he reigned xiiii year: And after he died and lieth at London. ¶ Of king Cortyf & of Gurmonde that came thorough the paynims in to britain. AFter this Conan reigned his cousin cortyf that was behated of all his people & no thing beloved. & this. Cortyf lost all britain through war. And in his time fell the great mischief in britain the christendom was destroyed & all the Brytons were driven out of the land and the land lost with out any recover. But after ward left the land to the Saxons as ye afterward shall here. For in that time there was a paynim that was called Gormonde/ that was the kings son Daufrices of the panems folk that had the ream after his father/ & was king/ safe he bequave & gave it to his brother. And said that he would never be king/ but if that he might get and conquer a ream in a strange country. For he was bold & strong of body. And of him prophesied Merlin & said/ that hesholde be a wolf of the see. And he let assemble paynims without number/ & let appareylle ships/ & went by many lands/ & took homages & fealties of many. And so he went by the see & conquered many diverse lands. So that he came in to ireland/ & conquered that land/ that often times warred upon. Brytons/ and Brytons upon them & oft won & oft lost & gave hostages to Brytons. And so they sent to Gurmonde there that he was in ireland/ that he should come in to britain and help them against the Brytons/ to help them to deliver that land of them/ & they would him hold gladly for their lord. For he was a paynim/ and they were paynims & the Brytons were crystened. well ought he them for to help/ so as they were all of one law. when Gurmonde heard this prayer he hasted him as much as he might & arrived in scotland/ & came in to Northomberlonde there that the Saxons were dwelling and they confirmed the covenants between them that were made by oaths & by hostages/ for to bear him true faith/ & hold him for lord and pay to him truage by the year ¶ Thomas began the. Saxons and the Africans to destroy rob and burn towns/ & destroy all theng● in asmuch as they might & spared neither man woman ne child learned ne lewd/ But all they slew/ & cast down towns castles & churches/ & so put they all the land in great destruction. And as soon as they might flee/ they fled thence as well poor as rich/ bishops/ abbots/ canons/ & all other great & small/ some in to little britain/ & some in to cornwall/ all though the ships myghht have. ¶ How the king. Gurmonde drove king Cortyf to Chechestre/ & slew the Brytons/ & through craft & engine gate the same town. COrtyf the king fled thence in to Chechestre that though was strong/ and there held him twenty days/ & this Gurmonde came and it besieged. But the city was so strong that he might not get it by no manner of wise with engine that they might do. though bethought they upon a subtlety for to bren the town. They made engines with glue of nets/ & took pieces of thunder & of fire & bond it to sparrows feet & than let them flee and they anon flew & lodged them in the town there that their nestis were/ & in stacks & evesynges of houses/ & the fire began to kindle & brent all the town/ And when the. Brytons saw that in every side they hied them out & fought/ but anon they were slain and discomfited/ And while battle dured the king privily hid him and stole away in to wales/ & men wist never where he became/ and so was the town of Chechestre taken and destroyed. And after. Gurmonde went and destroyed towns and cities that never were after made again/ as it is seen yet in many places of this land. ¶ How this land was called England for the name of Engyst/ & how many kings were made after in this land. SO when. Gurmonde had destroyed all the land through out: he gave the land to the Saxons: & anon they took it with good will/ for the Saxons long time had desired it. For asmuch as they whereof. Engistꝭ kindred that first had all the land of. britain & let them be called. englishmen: for by cause of Engistes' name: & the land they let call England in their language: & the folk been called Englishmen: for asmuch as in this time it was called Engistꝭ land when he had conquered it of. Vortiger: that spoused his daughter But fro the time that Brute came first in to England: this land was called. Brytane: and the folk Brytons. But sith the time that this Gurmonde conquered it eftsoons and gave it unto the. Saxons: they anon right changed the name as before is said. And when this was done. Gurmonde passed over in to France: & there conquered many lands: & destroyed all christian people there that he came. And the Saxons dwelled in this land and began fast to inhabit it at their own will. And they would have made new kings & lords: but they might never assent to have only oo king for to be to them attendant/ & therefore they made many kings in diverse shires: as it was in Engistes tyme. The first kingdom was Kente: & that oath. Southsexe: and the third westsex/ the fourth Eestsex/ & the fifth Nothumberlonde/ and the sixth Estangle that is to say Norfolk/ and Southfolke and the seventh Mercheryche/ and that is the Erldoste of Nycholl. Huntyngdon. Herforde. gloucester. wynlchestre. werwyke & Derby/ and so departed all england in to vii parties. ¶ And after that it befell that though kings warred oft times together. And ever he that was strongest took him that was feeblest/ and so it was long time that they had no king crowned among them/ ne no christian man was tho among them/ ne christendom nather. But were paynims till that saint Gregory was pope of: Rome/ that had seen children of the nation of England in the city of Rome/ that were wonder fair creatures/ & had great will and desire them to behold. And axed of the merchants whence they were/ and of what nation. And men told him that they were of England/ and Inglysshe they were called/ but they & all the people of England were paynims: and believed not upon god. ¶ Alas said saint Gregory: well may they be called english: for they have the visages of angels and therefore well ought they to be crystened. And for this cause saint Gregory theresente saint. Austyn in to england & xl good men with him that were of good life & holy men to preach & teach & to comuetre the english people & them to torn to god: & that was in the vi year that saint Gregory had be pope of Rome/ that is to say/ ofter thine carnation of our lord Ihesu christ .v. C.lxxxv. years as the chronicle telleth. ¶ How saint Austyn baptized and converted king Adelbryght and the bishops that he made his fellows. AS saint Austyn came first in to. England/ he arryven in the isle of Tenet and so passed forth & came unto Caunterbury and there soyourned. And king Adelbryght of Kent that was the lineage of Engist goodly received saint Austyn & his fellows with moche honour/ and them found all that them needed. And more over he gave them a fair place/ that now is called the abbey of. Shynt Austyn/ in which place he lieth himself shrined. ¶ This king Adelbryght was a good man & with good will heard saint austyn's predications/ and gave him leave to preach throughout all his land before said of Kente/ to torn and convert to him all the people that he might. ¶ It befall so after thorough gods grace/ that in little time the king himself was converted to god/ and all his peop of his land were baptized. And in the mean while the people turned them to god. ¶ Saint Austyn came to. Rochestre/ & there he preached the word of god. And the paynims therefore him scorned/ and cast upon him reygh tails/ so that all his mantel was hanged full of these reygh tails/ and for more despite/ they cast upon him the guts of reyghes & other fish. wherefore the good man Saint Austyn was sore annoyed and grieved. And prayed to god that all though children of that city that should be borne after ward/ that is for to say in the of Rochestre/ might have tails and so they had And when the kynger heard of this vengeance that was fall through saint austyn's prayer. He let make an house in the honour of almighty god/ wherein women should be delivered of their children at the bryges end/ In the which house yet women of the city been delivered of child. ¶ when that saint Gregory had hrede tell how the english people were turned to god & comuerted he sent unto saint. Austyn his pallyon by a bishop/ that was called Paulin and made him primate & archbishop of England And sent word that he should ordain & make disposing the land. And anon Austyn had the pallyon of the dignity of the Archebysshyp. He made two bishops of his fellows that came with him fro Rome & one was called Mellite & he dwelled at London & that other was called justin that held the dignity at. Rochestre. And this bishop Mellite tho went to preach in to Estsex and erystened the king of the country that was called Sicwith that was king Adlebrytes cousin his sisters son. ¶ This justyn went to preach in Southse● and turned moche of the people to god. And Saint Austyn himself preached thorough out England. ¶ How saint Austyn went in to waels there the Brytons were/ & how they would not beobedyent tooth. archbishop of Caunterbury. SO when all England was crystened and turned to god/ saint Astuyn went in to that land there that the Brytons were for to keep them from englishmen/ that is▪ to say in to ways. And there he found monks & abbeys and vii bishops. For the Brytons alway destroyed the christian people that saint Austyn had converted. And he said to the bishops that he was a Legate of Rome & primate of all. England/ & that they should by all reason to him be obedyenc & they said they nolde/ but to the. archbishop of Carlyon they would. They would never for no manner thing be obedient to the english men For the englishmen they said been our adversaries & our enemies & have driven us out of our country/ & weben christian men & ever have be. And the englishmen have ever be paynims/ but now of late that they been converted. ¶ Saint Austyn of them might have none answer otherwise/ but said pertly that they would never them meek to him/ ne to the pope of Rome. And saint Austyn turned again though to king Adelbryght that was king of Kent and told him that his folk would not be to no man obedient/ but to the. archbishop of Carlyon. And when the king heard this/ he was sore annoyed & said that he would them destroy/ and sent to Elfryde king of Northunberlonde that was his friend/ that he should come to him with all the power that he might and that he would meet him at Leycetre/ and fro thence they would go in to wales/ and there destroy the archbishop of Carlyon/ and all though that had refused saint Austyn ¶ How king Adelbryght and the king Elfryde slew Brecinall that was a king of Brytons that held the country of leicester. IT be tell so that there was a king of Brytons that held the country of leicester and all the country about/ his name was Brecinall. And this Bryton heard tell that though two english kings would meet there at leicester for to go in to wales. He let ordain all the power that he had for to go fight with these two kings/ but little it availed him/ for his folk that he had were slain and himself fled/ & lost his lands for ever more. ¶ And these two kings Adelbryght & Elfryde dwelled a while at Leycetre/ and departed the land among them/ and took homagꝭ and fealties of the folk of the country And after they went to ward wales and that of wales herd tell of thes comfyture that Breic●all had at Leycetre/ and were wonder for adread of though two kyngeꝭ. And took and those among them good men and holy of hemytes monks and priests/ & of other people great plenty that went bare foot and wulwarde for ta have mercy of thes two kings/ but though kings were so stern & so wicked that they would never speak to them but them slew everichone Alas for sorrow/ for they ne spared them noomore than the wolf doth the sheep/ but smote of their heeds everichone/ & so they were all martrd that to them came/ that is to understand .v. C. & xl After they went fro thence to Bangor for to slay all those that there might there find of the Brytons. And when the Brytouns herd that/ they assembled and ordained all their power for to fight with thyem. Two was there a baron in wales that was called. Bledrik of cornwall that some time was lord of devonshire but the king. ¶ Adelbright had driven him out in to wales and after there he gave them battle. And at that battle was king Adelbright slain and Efrydesore wounded & forsook the field/ & the most party of his people slain. And Elfryde fled in to Northumberlonde that was his own londe· ¶ And after that the people of leicester shire made with strength Cadewan that was Brycinals sone king of Leceytre/ And he afterregned nobly and with great honour. ¶ How Cade won king of leicester & Elfryde king of Northumberlonde were friends/ & of the debate that after was between Edwin & God walyn that were both their sons ANd after that this battle was done that Brytons assembled them and went thence and came to leicester/ and made there Caudewan that was Brecinals sone king of leicester and of all the country. Aed he took homages & feautes of all the folk of the country. And after that he assembled a great host and said he would go in to Northumberlonde/ to destroy king Elfryde and slay him if he might. And when he was come thither/ friends went so between them that they accord them in this manner/ that Elfryde should hold all the land fro Northumberlonde to scotland. And Cadewan should have all the land a this side Humbre to the south/ and after they were good friends all their life/ and loved as they had been brethren. ¶ And this Elryde had a son called Edwin that held all● the land of Northumberland after his fathers death as his father had hold all his life time ¶ And Cadewan had another son called Cadwalyn that held his faders land as he it held while he was alive/ and these loved as brethren. And the love lasted betwixt them but only two year/ & after began debat betwixt them through a synple envious cousin of Cadwalins. called Bryens/ so that they assembled a great host in both parties. And at the last it be fell the Cadwalin was dyscunforted/ & Edwen him pursued & drove him fro place to place so at the last he fled in to Irelonde. And the other destroyed & pilled his land/ and cast down castles & brent his manners/ & departed all Cadwalins land among his friends. And long time after came Cadwalen again fro ireland with a strong poor/ and in plain battle slew Edwin & all his friends/ & namely though that with held his lands by Edwyns gift. ¶ How king Oswallde was slain though king Cadwalin and Peanda/ and how Oswy that was saint Oswaldes' brother reigned after him and slew Peanda. AS Edwin was slain. Offris his son undertook that war against Cadwalin his came/ so that this Offris died during the war. And after the death of this Offris though reigned a gentle christian man that much loved god almighty that had all the land of Northumbrelonde by heritage/ that was called oswald & he was king of all the land. But for as much as he was friend to Edwin/ and held a great part of the land of Cadwalin. This same cadwalyn warred upon him & drove him to ward Scotlond. And when Cadwalin saw that he would not abide. Cadwalin would no longer him pursue/ but took some of his folk to Peanda his brother in law & prayed him to pursue after Oswalde/ till that he were taken & slain/ and Cadwalin toruned home again. ¶ when Oswalde herd these tidings that Cadwalin turned home again/ he would no longer flee/ but abode Peanda & gave him battle/ and Peanda was dyscomfort●e & fled & came again to Cadwalyn & said that he would never hold one foot of land of him/ but if so were that he would avenge him of Oswalde. ¶ Cadwalin let assemble a great host for to fight with Oswalde so that he and Peanda came to Northumberlonde & gave battle unto oswald And in the same battle was oswald slain & his heed smitten of/ & after he was entered at the abbey of Berdenay in which place god had wrought for him many a fair miracle/ both there and else where. ¶ And anon Oswy his brother seized all the land in to his hand that was this Oswaldis And the folk of Northumberlonde loved him wonderly well/ and held him for their lord. But he had men of his kin worthy enough that would have departed the land/ and they warred togyed well. And for asmuch as they were not strong enough/ they came to Peanda and prayed him of help & succour. And behyght him of the land largely upon this covenant that he would them govern & help/ & counseyl ¶ Peanda herd their prayer & so spoke with Cadwalyn/ that he should ordain a great host and fast ordained him in to Northumberlonde for teyght with Oswy. And Oswy was a meek man/ & moche loved peace & charity and prayed Peanda of love & peace and profe●ede him of gold and silver great plenty. ¶ And this Peanda was so proud that he nolde grant him peace for no manner thing but for all thing he would with him fight. S●o at the last there was set a day of battle. And Oswy ever trusted upon god and Peanda trusted toomuch upon pride and upon his host that he had. And to guider they smote eagerly but Peanda was anon discomforted and slain. And this was After the incarnation of our lord Ihesu christ .v. C.lu year And this Oswy reigned xxviii year And a king that was called Oswyne/ that was Peandaes' cousin warred upon him and together fought/ But Oswy had the victory of Oswyne. And Oswyn was discomforted and slalyne/ and lieth at Tynnemouth. ¶ How king Cadwaldre that was Cadwalins son reigned after his father/ and was the last king of Brytons. AFter the death of Cadwelin reigned his son Cudwaldre well and nobly. And his mother was the sister of Peanda. And when he had reigned xii year/ he fell in to a great sickness/ & then was there a great discord between the lords of the land/ that every of them warred upon other. And yet in that time there fell so great dearth & scarcity of corn & other viteylles in this land/ that a man might go iii or iiii. days fro town to town that he should not find to buy for gold ne silver breed/ wine ne none other victual where which a man might live. But only the people lived by rotis of herbs/ for other living had they none/ so moche was it failed all about/ fishes/ wild beasts/ & all other thing so that yet to this misadventure/ there fell so great mortality and pestelens among the people by the corruption of the air that the living people sufficed not to bury the deed bodies. For they died so suddenly/ both great and small lord & servant/ in eating going & speaking they fell down and died/ so that never was herd of more sudden death among the people For he that went for to bury the deed body/ with the same deed body was buried. And so they that might flee fled & forsook their lands and houhes/ as well for the great hunger dearth & scarcity of corn & other victual/ as for the great mortality & pestilence in the land/ & went into other lands for to save their lives and left the land all desert & wast/ so that there was noman for to travail & tilth the land So that the land was barren of corn & all other fruits for default of tyllyers/ and this misadventure dured xi year and more that noman might ere ne sow ¶ How Cadwaldre went out of this land in to little britain. CAdwaldre saw great hunger mortality & pestilence/ and the land all poor/ & failing corns and other victuals/ and his folk perished/ & saw also the most party of his land all wasted & void of people. He appareled him and his folk that were left alive/ and passed over in to little britain with a little navy unto king Alayne that he moche loved/ that was his cousin and that his father had much loved in his tyme. And as they sailed in the see/ he made moche lamentation/ and so died all though that were with him and said. (Dedisti nos domine tanquan● oves escarun. et in gentibus dispersisti nos) ANd then began Cadwaldre to complain him to his folk piteously and sayd· Alas said he/ to us wretches & caitiffs is sorrow for our great synnies/ the which we would not amend us while we had space/ & now repentance is comen upon us through misadventure/ which chased us out of our ream and proper soil. And out of the which sometime romans. Becottes. Saxons/ neither Danies might not exile us. ¶ But what availeth it now to us that before time/ oft times have gotten many other lands/ sith it is not the will of god that we abide and dwell in our own land. God that is very judge yat all things knoweth before they been done or made/ he seeth that we would not cease of our sins/ and that our enemies might not us ne our lineage exile fro/ and out of our ream He would that we amend us of our follies and that we see our proper defaults. And therefore hath showed to us wrath/ and will chastise us of our misdeeds. Syche that he doth us with out battle/ or strength of our enemies/ by grace companies/ wretcchedly to leave our ream & proper land. ¶ Torn again ne ye Romanies/ torn again ye Scots torn again ye Saxxons/ torn again ye Fraunsoys. Now seweth to you Brytayne all desert the which your power might never make desert/ ne yet our power hath not put us now in exile But only the power of the king allmyghty whom we have often offended by our follies/ the which we would not leave until he chastyced us by divine power ¶ Among the worlds & lamentation that the king Cadwhldre made to his folk/ they arrived in little britain/ and came to king Alayne before said ¶ And the king received him with great joy/ and made him to be seruede wonder nobly. And there abode they long time after ¶ The Englesshe people that were left a live and were escaped the great hungres and mortality/ lived in the best wise that they might. And moche people sprang and came of them ¶ And they sent in to saxony where that they were borne to their friends for men/ wyemen/ and children/ to restore the cities with people and the towns that were all void of people/ and for to labour/ travail and tilth the earth. ¶ when the Saxons heard these tidings/ they came in to the land wonder thyeke in great companies/ and herborowed therselfe in the country all about where that they would/ for they found no man them for to let ne withstand. And so they waxed & multiplied greatly. And used the manners and customs of the country whereof they were come. And they used also the laws and the languages and speech of their own land that they came fro. And also they changed all the names of cities/ twones/ castles/ & brought/ & gave them names and called as they now been called And they held the Counrees. Baronages & lordships in manner as the Brytons before time had compassed them/ And among other great companies that came from Germayne in to this land/ came the noble queen that was called Se●burga with men & women without nombre· And arrayed in the country of Northumberlonde/ and took the land from Ilbion unto cornwall for her & for her folk. For there was none that might then let/ for all was desolace & void of people/ but it were a few poor Brytons that were left on mountains & woods until that time. ¶ And fro that time forth lost the Brytons this ream for all their days. And the english people began to regne/ and departed the land between them. And they made many kings about by diverse parties of the land as here been divided. The first of westesexe/ The second● Merchenriche/ The third Estangle/ the fourth Kent/ the fifth Southsex. All those reigned in this land after the Cadwaldre was passed out of this land/ & dwelled in little Bryten with king Alayne his cousin and true friend. And when he had long dwelled there/ and had knowing that the mortality and pestilence was overpassed/ & that the land was replenished/ again with people/ he thought to torn again in to his land And prayed king Alayne his cousin of succour & help that he might be restored again to his owoe proper ream and first dignity/ And king Aleyne granted him his asking. ¶ Then died he appareylle him to take his wait and viage in to this land. And prayed god allmyghty devoutly that he would make to him demonstration/ if his prayer to this land were too him pleasant or none/ for against the will of god allmyghty he would no thing do. ¶ when he had thus devoutly made his prayer/ avoys fro heaven to him said. And had him leave the jurney a way in to England/ and that he should go to the pope of Rome for it was not the will of almighty god that the Brytons should regne more in Brytane/ ne never recovered it unto the time of the prophecy that Marlyn said before he fu●fylled. And that should never be unto the time were come/ that the relics of his body shall be brought fro Rome & translated in to britain/ And when the ralykes of other saints that have been head for the persecution of the paynim folk shall be found & openly showed/ thenn shall they recover their land again/ the which they have so long time lost through their deserts. ¶ whane Cadwaldre had heard this answer/ he marveled greatly and told it to the king Aleyne ¶ Thene king Aleyne died send for the clergy of his land/ and made them to bring the stories and prophecies that Merlin and Sybyll had said in their prophcyes. And when he knew that the prophycye that Festom had prophesied of the Egle. And other prophecies accorded to the divine answer that Caddewalldre had herd. He counseled him & right faithfully desired him to leave his people and his navy/ & submit him to the dyspocysyon of god/ and do all that the angel had commanded him. ¶ Thenye Cadwaldre called y●or his son and ymori his cousin that was his sisters son/ & said to them. Taketh said he my folk & my navy that is here all ready/ & pass into wales and be ye lordees of Brytons that no dishonour come to them by interruption of the paynim folk for default of lords. ¶ And thene himself left his ream of britain and his folk for ever more/ and took his way unto the pope of Rome Sergius the which worshypede him moche/ and so he was confessed/ and took penance for his sins. And he had not long dwelled there that he ne died/ the xii Kalendis in may ● the year of grace .v. C.lxxii. ¶ How king Offa was sovereign above all the kings of England/ and how every king warred upon other. IT befell so that all the kings in that time that were in thou land. as they of westsex. Marchenryche. Estangle/ of kente/ and of Southsex and of other costs each warred upon other And he that most might took the land of him that was most feeblest. ¶ But there was a king among them that was called Offa/ that was saint Oswaldes' brother. This Offa conquered all the kings of the land/ and reigned all above them all. ¶ And s●● great was the that war in every there between greeks/ that no man might wite how the land went. But abbottos priors/ & men of religion wrote that lives & deeds of kings/ & how long every of them reigned & in what country & in what manner every king died/ & of bishops also. And thereof made great books and let call them chronicles. And the good king Alured had that book in his ward. And let bring it unto wynchestre/ and let it be fast tacked to a pylar that men should it not remove/ ne bear it thence/ so that every man should it see & thereupon look For therein been the lives of all the kings that ever were in England. ¶ How the king of Northumberlonde Osbryght forlaye the wife of Buerne Bocarde through strength/ and after this Buerne conquered the king with power and strength. ANd thus it befell in the same time/ that there was a king in Northumberlond ●e that was called Osbryght/ and soyourned at york. ¶ And this king went him upon a day in to a wood him for to/ disport. And as he came again/ he went privily in to a good man's house/ that was called Buerne/ and the good man of that place was gone that time to the see. ¶ For oftentimes there he was wont to spy thieves and robbers that oftentimes were wont to come in to the land/ to rob/ bren/ and slay. The lady that was Buernes wife was a wonder fair woman. ¶ And the king came unto her when that herhusbode was absent/ and she trusted none harm unto the king/ and welcomed him with moche honour/ and worthily him served in all thing. ¶ when the king had eaten/ he took the lady by the hand and ●adde her in to a chambre and said. He would speak with her a counsel. And all the folk he made void fro the chambre/ save only the lady and he. But the lady wist not wherefore he it died/ till that he had done all his will. And when he had done this deed/ He turned again to york. And the lady he left there sore weeping for the deed that the king to her had done. ¶ And when he● lord was came home and saw her weep and such sorrow and morning make/ he axed of her what she had done/ and why she made such sorrow. ¶ Sire she said/ subtilely and falsely the king Osbryght● hath do me shame and villainy ayeast my will. And told him all the truth how the king had ●orlayne her with strength/ wherefore she said she had liefer to be deed than tolyve. ¶ Fair love be still said he/ for against strength feebleness is yltell worth/ and therefore of me shalt thou nevertheless beloved and namely for thou hast told me the truth. And if almighty god grant to me my life I shall the avenge. ¶ This Buerne was a great man and a mighty lord/ and was well beloved and great friends had. And let send for the greatest lords of the land/ and to them made his complaint of the despite/ that the king to him had done and said/ he would be avenged how ever it were. And all his friends counseled him that he should go unto york there that the king was him to defy. And Buerne took his main and came to the king. when the king him saw/ he called him courteously Buerne by name. And Buerne him answerred to him said. Sire I you defy/ and yield up feautes homages and lands/ and as moche as I have holden of you/ & fro this time for ward I will never of the nothing hold. And so he departed fro the king without more speech or any abiding and took leave of his friends and went in to Denmark/ and plained to the king Godern/ & told him of the despite of that the king Osbryght to him had done of his wife. And prayed him of succour/ and help him for to avenge. ¶ when king Godern of Denmark and the danies had heard the complaint of this Buerne/ and the prayer that he bad/ they were right wonder glasde in their hearts/ for as much as they might find a cause for to go in to England for to warree upon Englesshe men/ and for to aenge Buerne of the despite that the king Osbryght had done unto his wife. And for as much as Buerne was sib v●to the king of Denmark/ anon they let ordain a great host of men and let ordain them ships/ and as moche as them need for to have to that viage. And when all the host was ready/ the king made his two brethren chief captains/ that were noble knights of body & also bold. That one was called Hunga/ & that other Hubba. ¶ How the Danies took york/ and slew the king Osbrygt/ and soon after slew king Eelle. Sall was ready that two brethren took leave of the king Godrens. and went toward the see for to passe● over in to Inglonde as fast as they might speed Now is Buerne so well comforted and fast hied him with the Danies that they been arrived in the North country & comen through out Holdernes/ and destroyed all the country and burned towns/ & rob folk/ and slew all that they might take till that they came unto york. And when king Osbryght saw them come/ He took all his people that he had with him & came out of the city & fought with them/ but no foison he ne had against them/ and moche of the people that there was were slain on both partyas. And king Osbryght himself there was slain/ and the city anene was take and the Danies went in. ¶ And there was also an other king in Northumberlonde/ that Buernes' friends had those & held him for king/ a man that was called Elle/ for as much as they would not to king Osbryght be attendannt/ for the despite that he had done unto Buerne their cousin. ¶ It befell thus that the king Elle was gone in to the wood him for to dyosporte & of the venison some he had taken. And as he sat in the wood at meet/ to a knight he said. we ha● well sped and moche venison taken. ¶ And with that word came in a man & to him said if yeso moche of venison have won/ an hodred times so much more there against have ye lost. For all this country the Danies have gotten/ and taken the city of york/ and against you shall it hold/ that never ye shalcome therein/ and for so much they have slain king Osbryght. when king Elle herd these words/ he let assemble all the folk of he country and ordained all the power that he might have and would have gotten the town of york with strength. But the Danies came out anon & gave him a strong battle. And selwe the king Elle & the most part of the people that he had brought with him. ¶ And the same place there they were slain/ shall ever more be called Elle croft/ and that place is a little from york. ¶ And the rested the Danies never till that they had conquered all Northumberlonde. And in that country they made wardens/ and went further in to the land/ and took Notyngham. And there they abode all the winter/ and died all the sorrow that they might ¶ And after when Summer time came they removed from Notyngham and came in to Nicholl and lindsay/ and to Holonde. For no man might them withstand/ so moche power and strength they had How saint Edmonde the king was Martyred ¶ How forsooth said he when I was in the castle/ there was the king/ and when I went out of the castle he went out also/ and whether he shall escape or die/ at god's will must it all be. ¶ when saint Edmonde had named god/ by that word wist they well that it was himself· And anon Hubba & Hungar took him & said/ that he should god forsake & all christian laws/ as many other had done him before· ¶ And saint Edmonde said that he would never/ but rather he would suffer death for god's love and his laws to. ¶ though took they king Edmonde and bond him unto a tree/ & made their archers to shoot at him with arrows/ till that his body sty●ked as full of arrows as an orchen is full of pricks. But for all the pain that they him died he would never god for sake. And in the same pain/ and torment he deydd/ and betook his soul unto almighty god. ¶ And when they saw that he was deed/ they smote of his heed. ¶ And of this manner as ye have herd was saint Edmonde martyred. ¶ How Hubba and Hungar took the town of reading SO when Saint Edmonde was martyred. Hunger and Hubba go thence with all the Danies unto reading. & as they went thitherward they brent towns and tyees/ & slew all christian peel that wolden opnote forsake hod/ & cast down church & came to reading & took the town & there held them till that the king Edelf of westsex came thither with all his power for to take the towns though came out the Danies for to give battle to Edelf/ & at that battle was slain an earl of the Danies that was called Sidrak. Upon the morrow came king Eldred and his brother Alured with a strong power and a great host. And the king Edelf came again that had fought the day before to that battle And the Danies though came out for to fight with them/ and the battle was wonder strong For many a man was there slain & the Danies that day had the victory/ & the king Eldred & his brother Alared that day were discomfited. ¶ But the fourth day after ward the Danies & the english fought tohyder an other time upon Elkedene/ & there was slain a king of Denmark that was called Rafin and four earls of great power. And that day had the Danies shame/ for they were driven unto Engilfelde. ¶ And the xu day after the Danies & the english men fought an ather time at Rafing & there were the englishmen discomfited/ & from thence a dane that was called Roynt went to reading with his host and destroyed all that he might take. And king Eldred fought with him/ but he was wounded sore wherefore he died/ and he reigned but .v. year/ and lieth at womborn. ¶ Circa annum dm. iii C.xlix. Lo the first was Emperor after Marcianus xvii year. In his time were the Rogation days ordained afore the Ascensyon of saint Marmer bishop of Vyenne. ¶ The pope of Rome at that time height Leo a noble clerk/ & with him had many clerks. ¶ Hellar us was pope after Leo vii year This man ordained that no bishop should ordain his successary) ut pꝪ. viii.ix.i. ¶ Simplicius was pope after him/ which ordained that no clerk should take no garment to be clothed in after the secular manner of a lay man/ by the reason of his office or of his benefice. ¶ zeno was Emperor after. Leo xu year/ and this man was an heretic and cruel against christen men. And in this man's days the bodies of saint Mathewe the evangelist & saint Barnaby were found/ & with them the gospel that saint Mathewe wrote. ¶ About this time there was a certain common woman bare vii: children at on birth/ of the which one was made after king of lombardy. ¶ Felix the third was pope after Simplicius three year and viii months. This man ordained that respite should be yeven to a man that was accused that he might advise him how heshlode answer And that the judges and the accusers should be such/ and that they should take all suspection and spit. ¶ Gelasius a Roman was pope after Felix .v. year This man ordained the Canon of the mass. with the Preface/ ympnes/ tracts/ orisons/ as saint Ambrose made them/ and that ordres should be yeven four times in the year. ¶ Anastasius was Emperor after zeno xxvii year/ & he was a cursed man & an heretic/ and hateful to god and man. And he was slain with lyghtuynge● And in his time died saint patrick the first bishop of· ireland/ in the. C.xxii year of his age. And his fellow was the abbot of Columba and saint Brygyda whom saint Patryk made a Nun And they were buried in one tomb/ and at divers times and this is the Epitaphi (Hii tres in gelido: cumulo tumulantur in uno. Brigida patricius: atque columba pius) ¶ Anastasius a Roman was pope after Gelasyus two year and three months. The which ordained that no priest for wrath ne hate should leave of to say his divine service in the church/ except the mass. ¶ And he cursed th'emperor Anastasius for he was an heretic/ and it is written of him/ that afterward he turned for dread to the opinion of the emperor. And he is called the second evil famed pope that is in (Catholico pontificum) And afore him was Liberius famed in heresy. ¶ Anno dm. four C.lxxxiiii. SIinachus was pope after him xu year/ and with him was ordained an other pope that was called Laurencius/ and betwixt them was a great dissension. And they both put them to the judgement of Theodoria the king and he judged that he that was first ordained and that most men of the church held with should be pope. And Symachus prevalid the which loned the church and poor men and for Paschalius the deacon Cardynal held against Symachus with the part of Laurence to his death Therefore he was put to the pains of purgatory/ to keep the baths after his death/ as Gregory saith in his book of Dyalogis. This man ordained that) Gloria in excelsis) should be said every sunday and feestes of martyrs. ¶ Nota. ¶ That England was long time Crystened afore France. CLodianus the first christian king of France/ was this same thyme baptized of saint Remigio/ & he had a crystyn woman to his wife/ and she moved him many times to the faith & said. He should be fortunable & victorious if he would torn/ & so he was and never afore. ¶ Hornusda was pope after Synachus ix year. This man was of great mercy and alms to poor men/ & ornamentis he gave many to churches. And here consyled the Greeks/ that which were cursed for their heresy. ¶ justinus was emperor after Anastasasius· And he reigned ix. year & was a very christian man/ & all that ever th'emperor Anastasius had done against the church/ he revoked/ and obeyed the pope Hornusda/ & called again the bishops that were exiled be his prede cessours. ¶ Priscanus gramaticus was this tyme. And this year the which is the lxxi fro the coming of the Saxons/ began the kingdom of west Saxon/ and Cerdico was king ¶ johannes was pope after Hornusda three year & ix montches. & Theodocius the king of italy an heretic took the pope with other Senators & sent them to the Emperor justinus/ determining that & he would not let the heretics be in peace he should slete all christian folk in italy. And after he took pope Iohn & Simachun patricium & Boyclun the Senators & slew them in prison. But Boys defended him by the reason of th'authority of the Senators/ & he sent him to the city of Papy for perpetual exile/ where he made the book De consolatiōe philosophy And at the last the country of Mediolanen he caused Boys throat to be cut/ and so he died. ¶ Felix pope succedded Iohn four year. This man command that sick men should be aneled for the death/ but cryst ordained the first. ¶ justinianus was Emperor xxxviii. year/ this man drew the law of the romans out of almost ii M. books. & iii C. verses over long & according in to oo volumen of xii books & called it justinian. He made also the Digests & divided them in to iii books. ¶ Bonifacius the second was pope after Felix two year/ and little of him is written. ¶ johannes the second was pope after Bonifacius/ & this man had a great strife with justinianus th'emperor/ whether the christ was of ii natures or one. The pope said he had two natures. One of god & an other of man. T●e emperor said/ other consent to us/ or thou ●hat go in to perpetual exile. The pope answered I desire to come to justilianus the most cristen Emperor/ but as me seemeth I have found dioclesian the persecutor of christian man But certainly I dread not thy malice/ Ne I fear not thy threthynges. then the Emperor meked hymslef & fell down to the ground/ and asked mercy and absolution. ¶ Anno dm. v. C.xxxiiii. AGapitus a confessor was pope after Iohn two year/ this Agapitus turned justimanus fro the error fully of the heretics. This man ordained that processions should be done the Sundays and then he died art Constantinople. & Silverius a martyr was pope after this man three year. He was exiled fro christian faith/ and slain by the proctor of Theodory. For he would not restore the bishop of Athenes an heretic to his benefit again. ¶ Virgilius was pope after him xviii year. And he entered evil to his benefit/ but he governed him well. And he suffered his persecution patiently. ¶ And he was exiled fro Rome. And at the last after great passions of Theodory in Constantynople died. ¶ Synodus quatra constantinopolitana contra theodorun & o●●s hereticos alios fuic isto tempore. Ista synodus dampnavit heresim theodori ● Qui dixit alium esse deum verum. & alium cristum. Et qd beata virgo non sit dei genitrix. sed hominis tantum ¶ Pelagius was pope after Vigilius four year and ten months: This man ordained that heretics schismatics & runagates/ should be punished by the secular power. ¶ johannes the third was pope after this man xiii year. Of this man little is written/ but that he restored the chyrcheyerde of the apostles Philip and jacob. ¶ justinus the second after justinian was Emperor xi year. This man despised poor men He rob the Senators. He was yeven to all covetousness/ so that he made chests of iron/ for to keep his moyneye in. Then anon he fell in heresy/ & waxed out of his mind. ¶ And then was chose Tyberyus a good man for to govern the common people. ¶ Tiberius the second was Emperor aftest justinus vii year. This man was a virtuous man. He gave Innumerable good to poor men In so much many times that his wife chid with him and said that he cast away the goods of the Empire as stones. And he answered again & said. I trust in god that our chests shall never lack of money/ and we put treasure in to heaven. ¶ And upon a certain day when he went by his palaces at Constantynople/ he saw in the mar●yll pament a cross graven/ And thought ye should not be trodden upon & commanded that stone to be left up. For the cross ought to be put in the hearts of faithful men and there he found inestimable treasure of gold. This man subdued Hearses/ and died blessedly. ¶ Benedictus was pope after johanes four year: This man suffered great persecution of hunger pestilence and enemies. This man brought many a thousand quarter wheat from Egypte/ when Rome was besieged by king Albanack/ and almost lost for victual. wherefore they wrote on his grave this Epitaphi. ¶ Magna tuis monimenta pater benedycte re iquis: virtutum tintulus et decus atque dolour ¶ Pelagius was Emperor after Benedictus .v. year. In his time Rome was besyged by the lombards/ and little he died in his days. ¶ Mauricius was Emperor after Tyberyus xxi year. This man was a very christian man and subdued Persas and Armenyas/ and in the later end of his days he discorded with saint Gregory and intended to have slain him. And thenne appeared a man in Rome clothed a in religious habit/ holding a naked sword in his hand/ and cried about the city in this wise. The Emperor shall be destroyed. The which the emperor heard/ and he corrected himself of his trespaas and prayed to god to withdraw his sentence. To whom our lord appeared in his sleep & said. will thou that I spare the now or in time to come. And he was a lover of wretches/ and said/ give me here my reward. Thenne was he Emperor after many a die And when he should have corrected his knights for the extortion that they did/ they asked him why that he would not pay them their wages. And so they fell at variance/ and chose Foka for to be Emperor and slew him and his three sons. ¶ This time saint Austyn came in to England and ordained two archbishops that is to say of London/ & of york by the commandment of saint Gregory. ¶ And remember that many times is made mention of divers regions & countries/ that of time they have be turned to the faith For always the faith abode not in them for divers causes So it is of England. France. Persia. jewery. And in this thing Rome was pryveleged/ for the faith of Peter never failed. ¶ Focas was Emperoor after Maurici his master/ whom he and other slew. And by cause he began evil he ended nought. For in his days the romans fought strongly against the Persees/ and the romans were discomfited and lost many a province. And at the last he was overcome & slain of Heraclius. For as he died unto other men/ so he was done unto. ¶ Anno dm. v. C.lxxxiiii. GRegory the first a Roman & amonke was pope after Pelagyus xiii year. This man was called Gregoryus magnus for many things that he exceeded in: He passed other men in power/ in riches/ in virtue/ in nobleness/ in wisdom/ in holiness/ in fame/ & in experience. & under this man the evil things of cursedness passed were sessed. & many a nobled book he wort to the Incomparaple profit of all holy church/ He was one of the principal doctors of all the four doctors of the church/ This man forsooth alone with saint Fabyan after saint Peter/ was chosen of god in all the orders of the pope's of Rome/ Many things he ordained in the church/ as is showed in his register (Deus in adyutoryun) for to be afore the begynnygge of the hours he commanded to be said. He renewed & made all the officers of the church in a fair & a more compendious manner/ the which abideth yet unto this day/ & is called Gregorianum. & shortly for to conclude on this holy man/ man's tongue cannot express lightly the lovings of this man what in writings/ & also in example of virtuous deeds. & Saninianus was pope after Gregory one year & v months This man ordained tynging of bells at the hours of the day/ but this man bachyted saint Gregory for his liberality that he had to poor men & thought he spe saint Gregory rebuked him thrice for it. And the four the time he lay in his bed/ and thought saint Gregory smote him on the heed/ & he waked and died anoe This was the third pope among the pope's the which is noted to die a dreadful death ¶ B●●facyus the third was pope after Saniniamus viii months. He ordained that none but white clothes should be put upon the awter· ¶ Bonifacius the fourth was pope four year and ·viii. months/ this man purchased of the Emperor Focas the church of saint Peter of Rome should be the heed of all the church in the world. For afore Constantynople was the heed church. Also he gate licence that the church called Panton the which was dedy●ate to the honour of Neptunus and other falls god's/ where christian men many times were slain of devils/ might be dedicated to the worship of all saints in heaven. This man ordained that monks might use the office of prething/ crystening/ and confessing. ¶ Heraclius was Emperor after Focas xiii year. And in the third year of his regne. Cosdras the king of pierce brent Iherusalem & other worshipful places. zachary the patriarch with other moche people he took in captivity The part of the holy cross/ the which Eleyne left there he took with him in to his country. But the xii year of Heraclius. Cosdras was slain of Heraclyus and the cross was brought again/ the people were delivered. And when Heraclius would have entered the city proudly/ the yates of the city by power of god shit therself/ and the Emperor meked him to god above & the yates opened. And thenne was the feast of the exaltation of the cross made. ¶ Deus dedit was pope after Bonifacius three year/ this was an holy man. For on a certain day when he kissed a lyppre/ anon the leppre was hole. ¶ This time a Cyteyzin of London through the motion of Ethelbryghte builded a church of saint Peter in the west part of London/ in a place that was called Thorneye. ¶ Circa annum dni vi C.xliiii. BOnyfacyus the fifth was pope after Deus dedit five year. The which ordained that noman should be taken out of the chiccheyarde. And little else of him is wryteu. ¶ Nota Machomitum. ¶ Machomite the duke of Sarrasyns and Turks was this tyme. And he was the dysseyver of all the world/ a false profete/ the messenger of the devil. The forgooer of antichrist the fulfiller of herecye/ & of all falls men the meruayllest· Of whom the domination thus began· ¶ There was a certain famous clerk at Rome and/ could not speed in his matters that desired to have speed in. Thene he recedde from Rome over the see and procured many a man to have gone with him. Among whom was this Machomyte a great man of wit. And this clerk promised him to make him duke of the country if he would be guided after him ¶ There he nouryssed a dove/ and put all the corn that the dove eat in Machom● ee●e and so this dove had never no meet but in his ear The foresaid clerk on a day called the people & moved them to these such a p●●nce as the holy ghost would show to them in likeness of a dove. And anon this clerk secretly let flee this dove/ the which after his old custom that he wont to/ fell anon to the sholdyr of Machomyte & put his bill in his ear. And the people saw this/ anon he was choose duke of that people of Corosame/ he said that he was the very prophet of god ¶ Then he made a book of his law that was called Alcoran. But he died it by information of three of his masters. To whom the devil ministered the authority and the cunning. ¶ The first master was a jew a great Astronomyer & a Nygramancer. The second was Iohn de Anthiochia. The thurde was Sergius an heretic. And these three made an ungracious law and an unhappy. ¶ And what somever was hard of believe and noyous to do/ they left that out of the law/ and they put that thing in the law/ the which the worldly men were prove and ready to do. That is to say. gluttony/ Lethery/ repine/ and such other. And also this Machomyte ordained that a man should have as many wives as he might occupy and find/ and refuse them twice or thrice/ or four times/ and take them agayye/ & many marvelous & false things he made in his law/ the which were to long to rehearse here But they be plain in his book of. Alkaron· And ever he wrote in his book/ that our lord spoke to. Machomyte his prophet/ saying on this wise/ or on this. ¶ Thus by his false means he deceived the people. And when his masters & he had made this that was so delectable. He wrote it in a book with letters of golde· And also he nourished a mighty camel secretly in a prive place/ & alonely with the hands of. Machomyte was alway fed/ & there privily he tied this book of the law that he had made about the camels neck \ and put this camel forth on a time in to the field afore day. And this camel joyed in his liberty for he was never lose afore. And he would suffer no man to come and touch him. And so there was a great fame of such a camel/ and the people ran to see him. Among whom was this Machomyte. But when the camel saw him that had fed him all way. Anon he ran unto him. And he had taught this camel afore time to fall down on his knees & lick his hands. And so he did afore all that people. The people then cried & said/ that there was a very ensample that he was the true prophet of god. ¶ Then they prayed Machomyte to open that holy book with his holy hands/ the which was sent from heaven ever more to be kept. In the which book is showed how the people shall worship god. ¶ And Machomyte said/ this book was written with angels hand/ So by these false means/ he turned to his law all the land of. pierce/ and all the east Imperial against. Heraclium the Emperour· And he occupied unto the end of Ale●dndre and Egypt. Libya. Arabya and Syria. then after he enfected all Affrycam. And but the grace of god withstood him/ He had enfected all Spain and France. And many other things he died which were to much to write in this book. constantine the third/ the son of Heraclii was Empour xxvii year. This Constantyne was a great tyrant & a cursed man/ and an heretic. Falls/ subtle/ and odious to christian men. Ne he gaaf no place to pope. Mertyne/ & he raised a great host against the lombards. And there he lost the field/ & fled unto Rome. And honourably was received of the pope Viteliianus/ & other of the the city. And he rewarded not them like after their merits as a prince should have done. But used forth tyranny and heresy. wherefore at the last he was slain of his own knights in a bath/ the which would no longer suffer his tyraunye. And so he wretchedly lived/ and died unhappily. ¶ Martinus the first was pope after Theodorum vi year. This Martynus was a very holy man/ & ●rongely strove for the faith of god And wh●n ●e ●ge mass oon a certain day a● the 〈◊〉/ there pursued him to slay▪ him a man that was called Spataryus of Olymphe. And when he would have smitten him/ he was blind suddenly. This same man called a sinody in the city of Rome: and dampened Syrum. Alexandrun Sergium. Pyrum: and Paulum heretics. wherefore. Constantyne the Emperor exiled him: and he died a saint. ¶ Eugemus a Roman was pope after Martyne almost three year: and was an holy man: but of him little acts is written. ¶ Vitellianus was pope after him xiiii year. This man made the song that the. romans use: And accorded it also with the orgayns. And he also had the grace of the emperor: the which was worth with his predecessors. Nevertheless after ward he stood not in his concord. Ne hitherto I could not find that ever the church of Rome. had fully after the death of. Constantyne the mighty lordship of the city and of other the which he gave to the church. ¶ Anno dm. vi C.xliiii. ADeodatus a. Roman was pope after Vitellianus four year/ and in his days was translated the body of saint Benedictus/ with the body of saint Scolastica his sister fro the hill of Cassyn unto the monusterye of Floriecens nigh Aurelian. ¶ constantine the fourth was Emperor after his father Constantyne the cursed man. This Constantyne was a good man and hated heretic ● over all thing. The church he repaired/ and grace he recounsyled again to the church ● come & he with the pope gathered together the vi general Synodus in the which was granted to priests of Grece/ for to use their leeful wives/ & to the priests of the east for cause of great he●e/ but not to those of the west party by no means For they 〈…〉 ytted chastity in the time of saint Gregory. And every man may avertyse and prondre how much the goodness of a prince is wroth/ to the quiet state of the church/ & to the promotion of the faith/ and also the contrary/ how much the malice of a prince hurteth that thing. These two Constanyns the father and the son showed openly. For in the faders days the church never had rest and in the sons time it was quiet. yet nevertheless our lord suffered the Sarrasyns and the Bulgars to enter in this land/ that he them might not with stand/ but that he made his peace with them/ & paid to them yearly a truage/ so nyghtely prevailed that cursed sect of Machomyte/ and after he died blessedly. ¶ Nota. ¶ That there were vi general Synodus/ & most principal of the which the authority is equal to the gospel for the truth of the gospel is declared by them against the vi principal heresies the which strongly trowbled the church for the subtyltee of these heretics to deceive simple men. ¶ This time died Saint Cedde of Lytchefelde/ the third year of his bishopric. ¶ Demus a Roman was pope after Adeodatus three year. Of this man little is written. ¶ Bonyfacyus was pope after him/ & little of him is written/ but that he lived ly●e a priest. ¶ Agatho was pope after him/ and he was a very holy man. For on a day when he kissed a leper/ the lepre anon was made hole. ¶ Iste et de consensu princypys jussit celebrari sextum sinodum apud constantinopolin. CC.lxxx. eporum. in qua asseret duas naturas et duas voluntates esse in xpo ¶ Leo the second was pope after Agatho three year/ this Leo was an holy man & sufficiently taught in latin & greek/ this man ordained that the pax should be yeven after agnus dei/ and died a blessed man. ¶ Benedictus the second pope after Leo almost three year. This man above all thing was virtuous and his name accorded with his deeds. And in his time was a great pestilence. ¶ justinianus the second was Emperor this time/ & he was a very good man/ a prudent & a large/ & he increased the Empire of Rome mightily/ But he charged the office of the church over moche. Many laws he made/ and after was not good he intended to have let the dycrees of the vi Synodus/ wherefore the ten year of his. Empire he was taken of Leo the prince of patrici● and Tiberio/ & they cut of his nose & his tongue & exiled him to Crysonan. There was then turbation in the church for strive & heretics. ¶ And know all men when variance falleth betwixt great lords Thenne errors been multiplied/ for there is no man corrected them/ therefore that is often time proved in the cyirche. then after fell a variance betwixt Leo and Tiberio. And Tybereo prevailed/ and he exiled Leo/ & cut of his nose the third year of his regne/ and reigned for hym· justinianus fled to the Sarrasyns and the Bulgars/ the which restored him again to his Empre/ and slew Leo and Tiberio/ the which favoured heretics. then this same justinianus reform himself to the church of god/ and had great repentance But he venged him to cruelly on his adversaries/ so that he would have slain the ●r Innocent children Therefore he was slain with his son/ of Phylyp whom he exiled. ¶ Anno dm. vi C.lxxxiiii. Johannes the fifth was pope after Benedyctus too year/ he was a good man/ but he deceased aone. ¶ zeno was pope after him. And he was a very holy man/ for he would not meddle with secular matters. And in beauty he was an angel/ quiet in virtues/ & meek in soul and very demure in language of his religious life/ this man was chosen at the last with one accord of the church and lay men. But there was a great destruction/ for the clergy intended to have chose Perys the archbishop. And the host of lay men would have had Theodorum a priest. But at the last the holy ghost turned the will of all this people in to this holy man. ¶ Sergius was pope ix year. This man was virtuous & commendable in his life. And in his election a great discord was/ for one party of the clergy chose Theodorum/ and an other party Paschalem. But as our lord would at the last they turned all to this man. This man translated the body of saint Leo. He also found a great part of the holy cross by miracle. And he christened God waldre the last king of britain. He commanded (Agnus dei) to be said or song thrice at mass. And deceased blessedly. ¶ Nota. ¶ Saint Beda the worshipful priest was this time a great man of fame in England/ the which was take the vii year of his age to Benedycte the abbot Gyrwyen monastery to be taught. And thenne after to Colfrido the abbot after the death of benedict. And atte the xix year of his age he was made deacon of the bishop of york. And at xxx year he was made priest/ in the which year he began to write So he continued all the time of his life in that monastery/ in giving his labours to writing and scripture to be exponed. He made. lxxviii· books/ the which he numbereth in the end of his Edglysshe book. This man was ever in labour other in prayer or in singing daily in the church/ or to learn teach or write. For which thing men may judge by reason that he was never at Rome/ all though some say he went to Rome that he might see that his books accordeth with the doctrine of the holy church. But it was certain that he was blind/ and went to preach/ & had a servant that was not good/ and made him to preach to a mighty multitude of stones and said/ that they were men. ¶ And when all his sermon was done/ the stones answered and said Amen. But that he went to Rome thrice/ and found written three arres/ three effes/ and exponed them/ it was never found in no book of authority. There was after the talking of the people such a writing on the yates of Rome (RRR. FFF) And such an exposition (Regna Rome Ruent. Ferro Flama Fame) But it is certain that Beda was desired to come to Rome by the writing of sergius the pope to Colfrido his abbot. And this Beda translated the gospel of saint johan in to english tongue/ and deceased blessedly. The fame saith that now he lieth at Develyn with Saint Curberte/ & there is buried with him the knowledge of the deeds of England almost to the conquest. ¶ Leo the second was Emperor/ and little of him is written. ¶ Liberius was Emperor after him vii year/ he rose against Leo & entered his kingdom/ and kept him in prison as long as he reigned In this time justinianus the second which in old time was exiled to Crysonam openly said/ he would recover his Empire again. wherefore the people of that country/ for the love of Liberius/ were about to slay that justinianus. wherefore he fled to the prince of Thurcorum and wedded his sister. And thorough help of his brother and the Bulgars he recovered his Empire and slew Liberius & Leo the usurper of his ream And as many times almost as he wiped any drop from his nose/ the which they kit of/ so many times he made one of his enemies to be slain ¶ Leo the third was pope after Sergius two year. This man was made pope by the power of the romans and was not put in the number of pope's/ for the evil entered/ but he died none evil. ¶ johannes the vi was pope after him a Greek. And he was a martyr/ but of whom and wherefore the cause is not found in histories. It is said/ that it was of the dukes of Lambardy for they were enemies to the church mightily. ¶ johannes the vii a Roman was pope after him three year/ but no thing of him is written. ¶ justinianas' was Emperor again with his son Tyberius vi years. And this was he the which was reaved the Empire afore by Leo/ And when this man was restored again he took him to the right faith/ and worshipped the pope Constantyne. And certainly he destroyed Creson the place where he was exiled unto/ and all that dwelled in it/ except the children he slew them/ And he came again an other time to have slain the Innocentes. And the men of that country made them a capitain/ a certain man that was called Philip an outlaw/ that which anon went to him in battle/ and slew him for his outrageous cruelness against those children. ¶ Sysinnius was pope twenty days/ and then was great strife/ and he deceased \ but little of him is written. ¶ Constantine was pope after him seven. year. This man was a very meek man & so blessed/ that of all men he was beloved. He went over the see to justinianus the Emperor/ and was received with great honour/ & died a blessed man. ¶ Philip the second was Emperor one year/ the which fled in to Scicilis for the host of the romans And he was an heretic/ and commanded all pictures of saints for to be bestroyed. wherefore the romans cast a way his coin/ ne would not receive no money that his name or image were written upon ¶ Anastasius thseconde after he had slain Philip was Emperor three year. This man was a christian man/ and helyved well. But by cause he put out phylipis eyen/ and slew him after ward. And therefore Theodosius faustht against him and overcame him/ And then he was made a priest/ & lived so quietly. ¶ Anno dm. vii C.xiiii. GRegoryus the second was pope after Constantyne xvii year/ this Gregoryus was a chaste man & a noble man in scripture And about this time the pope's begins to deal more temporally with the Emperors than they were wont for their falseness & their he resye. And also for to remove th'empire fro oo people to an other as the time required/ this man cursed Leo the Emprrour by cause he brent the images of saints. This same Leo commanded/ Gregorius the pope that he should burn churches & destroy them. And he set no thing of his saying/ but commanded the contrary manly. And so it is openly showed/ that the destruction of the Empire of Rome/ was the cause of heresy. For certainly faithful people with the prelate's with one will/ drew to the pope & constrained the Emperors for to leave their tyranny and their heresy. ¶ And this time in the east part of the world strongly failed the very faith/ for that cursed law of the falls Machomete· ¶ Theodosius was Emperor & reigned but one year And he was a very christian man/ & even as he died so was he done unto. For Leo deposed him & made him a priest. ¶ Leo the third with Constantyne his son was Emperor xxv year this Leo when he was mighty he deposed Theodosyus & reigned for him/ & was desceyned by a certain Apostata/ the which bad him that he should take and burn all the images of saints. wherefore he was punished both in battle & in pestilence/ & with other Infortune's. And by cause he was accursed of Gregoryus/ & bode there in three days/ therefore the pope with the common people took for him the best part of his Empire/ commanding that no man should obey him ne succour him/ by cause he lived like an heretic. ¶ Holy men said against him. And many by him were marted & exiled. And at the last in his misbyleve he died wretchedly. and in this manes days/ but that Karolus Marcellus holp the christian faith/ & fought manly nyenst the saracens/ & drove them backward in Spain the which they had subdued else they had entered in to France. And Karolus slew three hundred thousand saracens & moo·s And of his people were slain but xu thousand. ¶ Nota. ¶ This man for the continual battle took to lay men the treasure of the church. wherefore Saint Eucharius the bishop of Aurelian/ as he was in his prayers/ saw that same Karolus in soul and body pained in hell. And the angel that showed the bishop this man said. That that was the judgement of all those that took a way the goods of the church/ or of poor men. And to fortify that/ that the bishop said and ●ue it/ the abbot of saint Devys went to the sepulchre there that Karolus was buryer 〈◊〉 opened the chest that he lay in And there th●● see a great dragon go out but he had no 〈◊〉 ¶ Gregorius the third a Roman 〈◊〉 pope after Gregoryus the second. The 〈…〉 confirmed the woorshyppes of the 〈…〉 saints/ with the counsel almost of a thou●●●de bishops. And he cursed horribly all the despyers of these images. As the Emperor ●nd other that were of the condition. ¶ Constan●nus the fifth was Emperor a●te: his 〈◊〉 Leo xxxv year He was a cursed man & a p●●e heretic/ to that he died sacrifice to the devils He pursued the church. And 〈…〉 is good of him is written. And so by ye●ce of god the church was troubled long t●me. About this time were many maruayl●es & there were marvelous earth quakys. And certain cities that were set on mountains they were removed & borne away with the hills in to the fields vi mile thence as they stood and the cities were not broken ne hurt In the land of Mesopotanian the earth was broken by the space of two mile/ And also there was a mule that spoke in a man's voys. Ashes fell fro heaven And in the see of Poncico there was ice for great frost that was xxx cubytes of thykenesse. And the stars fell fro heaven so mightily that men trowed that the end of the world had be comen. All these betokened meruaylus things for to come. ¶ Anno dm. vii C.xliiii. Acharias was pope after Gregorius. x. year. This zacharis was a noble man & arrayed with all virtue/ with all men he was loved for his mekeneste. And he deposed the king of France Hydery/ and put in his place Puppynus/ for he was more profitable. ¶ Here may ye see what power the thyrche had that time/ the which translated that famous kingdom fro the very heirs/ to the kingdom of Pippinus/ for a leeful cause (Vthab●t xu q. v. alius) ¶ Stephanus the second a Roman was pope after zacharyas .v. year. This man in all thing was profitable unto the church/ as well in word as in doctrine And he governed the spyrytualtee & the temporaltee noble. He was the lover & the defender of poor men. This man anointed Pyppynus the king of France/ & sent him against the lombards/ that he should compel them to restore the church of such goods as they had with hold from them long time vnryghtwys●y the which he died. He also translated the Empire of the Greeks to the Frensshemen. ¶ Paalus a Roman was pope after him ten year. This was a very holy man/ for he died great alms to fadlesse children & prisoners widows/ & other poor men/ that he might be a follower of saint Poule ¶ Constantyne a Roman the second was pope after Paul two year. This Constantyne was a lay man & suddenly was made a priest/ as a tyrant/ & took on him the dignity of the pope. And with a great slander to the church was pope a little tyme. But the faithful men put him out/ and put out his eyen. And this was the fifth Infamed pope/ among so many herd tofore. So the holy ghost the holy apostles seat kepyin all honour & holiness ¶ infinite martyrs were made this time by Constantyne the emperor for he was such an heretic. And men trow that there was never Emperor ne no pagon that slew so many martyrs· And in his time the church was troubled full sore/ & very preciously bought the worshipping of the images of the holy saints/ for the great shedding of blood of martyrs. And certainly the cursed Emperor was not unpunished. For when that he died he cried with an horrible voys & said. I am taken to a fire/ that is unable for to be destroyed. And so he yielded up the ghost to everlasting pain. ¶ The Empire of rome was divided about this time For Stephanus the pope translated italy & other unto Karolus a young man. And Constantyne held the land of Grece with other lands over the see with a great labour and many rebelling. ¶ This time Karolus magnus was a noble young man. And he began for to regne upon France/ & was the son of Pippinus/ & his mother was called Berta· ¶ Stephanus the third was pope after Paulus three year. And he amended all the errors of Constantyne. And he degarded all those the which Constantyne ordained in a general Synodus. ¶ Anno dm. vii C.lxxxiiii. ADrianus a Roman was pope after Stephanus xxiiii year. This man was mightily worshipped of the people/ no man greater afore him in honour/ riches/ and building. This man set two solemn Syno●is. The first of the three hundred and thirty faders The second in Rome with an hundred and thirty faders being present Charles the king of France/ to whom it was granted the liberty of election of the pope's and to ordain the apostles seat. ¶ Leo the fourth reigned Emperor with the Greeks five year This Leo was a cursed man/ but not so much as his father was. And he was a covetous man/ and he took a way a certain crown of a church and put it upon his heed. And anon● he was corrupted with an axes and sore diseased. And he had a cursed wife/ that which reigned after him with her son. ¶ Constantyne was Emperor after Leo/ & he was a meek man/ and put a way his mother fro the kingdom/ that she might take heed unto her wymmens work. But she with a feigned rancour put out his eyen after ward and his children also/ and reigned again three year. And at the last she was about for to have be wedded And when the Greeks perceived that she would be wedded to great Karolus/ they took her & shit her up in a monastery/ and took Nychoferum to be their Emperor. ¶ The .v. unyvershall study the which in old time was translated from Anthenes unto Rome/ about this time was translated to Paris/ by Karolus king of France. ¶ Nychoferus was Emperor after Constantyne. He was a very nygon/ and was exalted to his Empire by the greeks But he profited not/ for in his time all the E●st Imperial was brought to nought. For the romans put them under Karolus magnus ¶ jerusalem about this time was recovered by Karolus/ with all the holy land. And the sect of the Sarrasyns was destroyed strongly· For the struction of wretches came thenne ¶ Michael was Emperor two year/ and he was a very christian man/ and he was well beloved/ and also he was connyge in all sciences. And though that Nychaferus had hurt and drestressyd of their goods by his covetousness/ this Mychaell restored them and made them rich again. ¶ Nota. ¶ Karolus. magnus the first saint was Emperor after Michael. And he was crowned Emperor by Leo the pope/ from the which time the Empire was translated from the Greeks to France and German. And for the translation of that Empire/ the Greeks alway were defective unto the romans And the Greeks strove ever more with them. But it was more with venomous words than with strenghthe/ and more with craft than with batayyll. ¶ For they had so great envy at the romans/ that they would not obey the church of Rome. For certainly when that the pope's would write unto them/ for to obey the church of Rome/ they wrote again & said. ye have taken from our kindred the Empire/ and therefore we would not obey/ And we us take from you/ And for this noble Emperor Rarolus it is to be understand/ this man when he was a young man/ he was anointed king of France by Stephanus the pope. In the year of our lord Ihesu christ vii hundred liiii when his father Pippinus lived. Under whom/ and with whom he reigned ·xv. year unto the death of his father. ¶ Thenne after his father under the year our lord god seven. hundred xlviii This Karolus with his brother Karolomannus reigned two year. And thenne his brother diseased in the second year. And this Karolus there held all the hole kingdom xiiii year/ to the year of our lord vii hundred lxxxiiii In the which year he went to Rome/ that he might be crowned Emperor of the pope Adrianus. And he reigned emperor xvi year/ to the year of our lord viii C. when pope▪ Leo confirmed him again the Emperor. And after that he was Emperor xiiii. year. And he diseased in the year of his age lxxii The which was the year of our lord viii C. and xiiii ¶ if ye will see more of Karolus/ go to the book of Turpinus and Libraminus his master/ for they wrote his noble acts. ¶ Leo the fourth was pope after Adrianus twenty year/ this man when he went on a certain day with the Lentany to saint Peter's church on Saint Marks day/ he was taken with cursed people/ and both his eyen put out & his tongue cut of But our lord marvelously restored him again his sight and his speech/ so that he spoke without tongue and saw by miracle. afterward he went with Karolus in France. And he came with him unto Rome/ and venged the pope on his enemy. And then he crowned Karolus. And he late afore crowned/ confirmed him again. ¶ Lodovicus the meek the first begotten son of Karolus was Emperor after his father xxvi year/ in whose time was put a way that clerks should use no girds with precious stones/ ne strange arrayment. This Ludovicus of his first wife gate two children & both had an evil end. In all thing that went against him he was patient/ & in the last end he ever over came. For against god he abode devout. And his children followed him in conditions/ he deceased a blessed man. ¶ Stephanus the fourth was pope after Leo three year. This Stephanus redeemed many captive men/ & crowned lodovicus the Emperor. And thenne he deceased & was buried at Rome. paschal was pope after Stephanus. This paschal was a great diligence to relics of Saints. And he took up Innumerable bodies of saints/ & buried them worshipfully as in the vision of saint Cecile he was commanded. ¶ Eugenius the fourth was pope after paschal/ and he was a very holy man. And all those things that were for cryst he took heed to. This man was crowned a martyr/ and by the lay men of Rome he was buried in saint Peter's chyrcheyerde. ¶ Circa annum oni viii C.xliiii. VAlentinus was pope after Eugenius xl. days/ and little of him is written. ¶ Gregorius the fourth was pope after him xii. year/ this Gregorius saw many heavy times/ for the plagues among the common people And at this man's petition. Lodovicus the Emperor/ & Marcio the prince of Lombardy exiled all the Sarrasyns fro italy. And at the last he dyssessed after Innumerable good deeds & works that he had done at saint Peter'S. ¶ Lotherius the first son of Ludovicus was Emperor xu year in italy & Rome & the parties of Germayne next to the hills of. Alpy. This Lotherius rose against his brother Ludovicus &. Karolus for the kingdom of Duchelonde/ the which some time Pyppynus their brother held. And they fought at a place called Fomanecum/ where Lotherius was discomfited. And there was such slaughter made oon both the sides/ that they had no men for to resist their adversaries. This understood a falls christian man/ & sent unto Sultan of the saracens that he should come anon. And he took Rome/ & saint Peter's church was made a stable for their horses. But Ludovycus with the Frenshemen & lombards all the infinite numbered destroyed/ & that with great shedding of christian blood. ¶ Sergius the second was pope after Gregorius two year. This man was called first. (os porci) in english/ hoggesmouth. where fore that man & all the pope's names are changed when they are chosen And that for three causes. The first for christ changed the names of those men that which he made pope's. The second/ for as much as they are changed in the name/ should they be changed in perfection of life/ The third least he which is chosen to an exceeding degree should he hurt in name. ¶ Leo was pope after Sergius. viii year. This Leo was an holy man/ and also he was in prudence as sharp as a serpent/ & in his deeds as meek as a dove. ¶ And he was brought forth virtuously in a monastery And when that he was made pope/ he laboured to repair his churches again/ the which false Sarrasyns one after an other had destroyed. This man was a mighty writer & a great preacher/ & mightily laboured in watch & prayer and so died/ & was buried and lieth at saint Peter'S. ¶ Benedictus a Roman was pope after Leo two year. This Benedictus had the name of the thing. For in all thing he was blessed. This man ordained the clerks should go ordinately and honesty. ¶ Ludovicus the son of Lotherius was Emperor this time/ & anointed of Sergius the pope/ & a while reigned with his father/ & after reigned xxi year alone. This man had a son the high Karolus/ in to whom the devil entered & vexed him a fore his father. And thenne he conspired his faders death And in his time many a marvel fell. ¶ Nota. ¶ johannes Anglicus of the nation of Maguncin about this time was pope/ & she was a woman arrayed in man's garments. But she profited so in holy scripture that there was found none like her Thenne she was choose pope/ but after ward she was with child. And when she should have gone openly in procession/ she traveled and deceased. And this is the sixth pope/ the which to this time had the name of holiness/ and were vicious And this person as other pope's were was punyssed of god/ ne she was not numbered in the book of pope's. ¶ Nicholaus a Roman was pope after this woman ix year. This Nicholaus was of great holiness/ that there was no man comparable to him after ● Gregory the pope. And when he was made. Ludovicus the Emperor was present. And after he deceased a very good man & was buried in saynte· Peter's chyrcheyerde. ¶ Adrianus a Romay● was pope after Nicholaus. This Adrianus cursed Lotherius brother to th'emperor the king of Lotharing for his adultery. But when he came to Rome to excuse him of his adultery/ he said that he was cursed wrongfully. And he brought with him all the noble men of his region/ and all were deed within one year and the king died in the way when he came to the ●yte of Placenciam. ¶ Anno dm. viii C.lxxiii. ¶ Of king Alured/ and how the Danies in his time prayed him of mercy that they might go out of the land. ¶ This time came the Danies in to England. AFter the death of this Eldred reigned his brother Alured that Dolfynes was called. ¶ though went the Danies and assembled them/ And went for the to seek Alured that though was king new made of Southsex/ and there they found him at wylton with a little people/ And nevertheless he fought with them/ but at the last he fled thence from the field/ and went in to westsex and ordained so moche people of his own ream/ and also of other till that he had a strong host so that the Danies had no power against him to withstand. And he came to London with his host/ and there were the Danies soionrned. And there he would have fought with them. But the Danies durst not with him fight/ but prayed him of peas/ and that they might go again in to their own country/ and never to come in to England again/ that is to say any harm for to do And upon this covenant they should give him to pledge good hostages and such as the englishmen would are. ¶ How Hubba and Hungar were slain at Chyppenham/ and how the Danies brought their king to our king. ANd the same day that the Danies departed from London/ so fast they road both nigh and day/ and never took rest of going till that they came unto Excestre/ and took though the town/ and there held them. ¶ When king Alured heard these ridings/ anon he let take the hostages/ and went from thence unto Excestre with all the power that he had/ And when the Danies heard tell of his coming/ they went from thence unto westsix/ and came unto Chyppenham/ and there they died much harm in the country/ they rob folk/ and borough them in prison. The king Alured them pursued & came upon them right soon & fiercely them assailed. And there were slain both Hubba and Hungar his brother/ & Buerne Bocader. And in this battle were moche folk slain in that one & in that other. But the gre● of that field bode with the Danies/ for as much as the king came with few folk. ¶ The king hasted him as much as he might for to go again. And when the Danies found Hubba's body lying deed they buried it/ and laid upon it a great log/ and let call it Hubeslowe/ and so it is called unto this day. And that place is in devonshire. The Barons of Somerset· wiltshire and dorset heard tell how that their king was discomfited and ordained all the power that they might have and came to the king there he was/ and thanked god that they him yet found alive/ for they had wend that the Danies had him slain. though took they a counsel the king & his barons/ that would go and seek the Danies with them for to fight. And so they road all & night them for to seek and came on the morrow about Prime to Abyndon there that the Danies were. The king Alured & his barons to assembled & there assailed the Danies eagerly/ & there gave them a stonge battle. And the Danies put them a long time that no man wist whether part more people were slain. But this it befell as god would that the king Alured had the victory with moche honour. For the Danies were so driven that ne wist whither for to torn. And xu days the ●yng them pursued at his will/ that gladly & ●ayne they were for to speak of peace and accord/ and took him good hostage/ & said they would never more upon him war ne no debate arere. ¶ And more over they behyght unto the king Alured/ that they would go & b●ynhe their own king unto him and that their king & they all should be baptized. And upon this condition king Alured grant them life & limb. And said unto them/ that they should gone their king for to seek/ & at a certain day to come again that to them was set. And so they went forth fast & came again at a day that to them was assygned· And all the Danies brought their king with them. ¶ The king Alured anon let them ●e baptized/ & their names changed. And so the king of Denmark was called Athelstone And xxx of his fellows names were changed also/ and the other were baptized to the right believe. ¶ And all this was done at westminster. And after that king Alured held with him king Athelstone and all his Danies xii days at sojourn with moche solemnity/ and gave th●̄ great yefts. And after that they were baptized and so departed. though was king Alured all at ease/ when he had his enemies over comen/ and that they were turned to the right by leave of god almighty. ¶ How the Danies that came in to France with Gurmonde came again in to England/ and of the death of king Alured. ANd thus it befell after ward/ that the Danies of Northumberlonde that were paynims came with a great strength & an huge host of France/ that is to understand \ with them that went in to France with Gurmonde of Affyke/ when he had conquered England & gave it unto the Saxons. And though that came fro France arrived in Kent & sent in to Northumberlonde that they should come to them/ & when those two hostis were come & assembled/ anon they go to destroy all the christian people of England from place to place/ & died moche sorrow. It befall thus as almighty god would an hard chance in to England. For the good king allured that was wont to abate the Danies died ●n the mean tyme. This king Alured reigned xxx year/ & a good king had he & well could chastise his enemies. And also he was a good clerk/ & let make many books & a book he made in english of adventures of kings/ and of battles that had been done in the land/ and many other books of Jests he let them write that were of great wisdom and of good learning/ through which books many a man may him amend/ that will them read and upon them look/ Upon whose soul almighty god have mercy. ¶ And this king Alured lieth at wynchestre. Johannes the viii was pope after Adryan viii year. This johannes anointed Karolus the Emperor. And he suffered great wrong of the romans for he favoured not the said Emperor. And therefore he put the said pope in keeping. Also he degarded the bishop of Portuense/ the which was the occasion of all his sorrow. Karolus the second was Empour after Ludovicus. This Karolus had a brother the which was called Ludovicus/ & he was the king of Germayne/ & he ordained battle against his brother/ but karolus or they fought was poisoned. And he made many a monastery. ¶ Martynus was pope after johannes one year. This Martynus little profited for he lived but little tyme. ¶ Adrianus the third was pope after him oo year. And of him is no thing wrynten. ¶ Stephanus the fifth was pope after him vi year. And no thing of him in written/ but that he translated the body of saint Martin. ¶ Karolus the third was Emperor after the second xii year. This Karolus had in possession peassyble all France & all Germayne/ and was crowned Emperor of johannes the pope. And after this glorious victory/ he turned all Normandye to the faith of god almighty/ and he might no more recyste the Frenshemen but four year he reigned on them/ He was unprofitable to them/ and therefore they put him a way. ¶ Arnulphus was emperor after Karolus xiii year. This Arnulphus utterly constrained the Normans the wyiche destroyed the Frenshemen xl year Then he was sick and had no comfort of no leech/ for he was in a marvelous sickness/ so that he was consumed with life and was deed. ¶ Formosus was pope after Stephanus .v. year/ this man first was bishop of Portuensys. And pope Iohn was deprived for his inobedience/ & was degrated to the lay fee. But by Martin the pope he was restored. And against his oath/ he came not aloonly to Rome but to offer him the dignity of the pope/ for that which there was great alteration. ¶ Bonfacius the vi was pope .v. days. ¶ Stephanus the vi one year and three months. ¶ johannes three months and xii days. ¶ jona also three months and twelve days. ¶ Theodorus the second twenty days. ¶ johannes the eleventh was two year & xu days. ¶ Benedictus the fourth a year and two months. ¶ Leo the fourth was xl days. ¶ Xpristoforus the first vii months. All these viii pope's were but little time/ & therefore we can not tell of them none notable things/ But if we should write slander of them that might be found/ for the unharde strife & contention in that holy apostles seat. For one strove against an other/ and reproved the deeds of an other. And for to tell how they strove/ it were no great honour to show for the holy apostles seat. ¶ Lodovicus the third was emperor after Arnulphus vi year. This man had not the pope's blessing/ for the unstableness of them that which reigned in ytaly· And he was constrained to expulse bearing. And this man was the last Emperor of all the kindred of Karolus king of france. ¶ This time the Empire was removed and translated and divided. For the Frenshemen halpe not the church/ the which their faders had edified and fortified/ but destroyed/ ne halpe not the romans against Lombardes'/ the which vexed the romans right sore. Therefore by the comyns assent they were excluded fro the Empire/ and the italians began to be Emperor in italy/ and the almains in Almaigne/ until Ottanen the which reigned in both the places. The Frenshemen were constrained to abide in their own country/ and no more to be emperor for their myshevous living. ¶ Beringarius the first. ¶ Conradus and Beryngarius the second/ & Hugo were Emperors after Lodovicus But they are not numbered among the Emperors. For some were but in Almaigne/ and some were in yralye. ¶ Of king Edward that was king Alucedes sone. ANd after this Alured reigned his son Edward/ and was a good man & a wise/ that was called Edward/ and was wonder courteous. ¶ The danies did moche sorrow in the land/ and their power increased and began for to were from day to day. For the Danies came often with their companies in to this land. And when the king saw that he might no better do/ then he took peace with them granted them this truce. And nevertheless the truce dured not long that the Danies ne began strongly for to war upon the englishmen and died them moche sorrow. wherefore king Edward did assemble a great host for to fight with them And then this king Edward died when god would. This king Edward reigned xxiiii year/ and lieth at wynchestre beside his father. ¶ Anno dm. ix C.xiiii. SErgius the third was pope after Xpistoforus vii year/ This man was a cardinal of Rome/ and was expulsed by Formosus the pope/ and than he went to the Fernsshemen. And so thorough the help & favour of them he came again to Rome and anon expulsed sed Xpristoforus the pope. ¶ And then was pope himself. And for to avenge and work his exile/ he took out the body of pope Formosus where that he was buried. And arryed him in the pope's arrayment and caused him to be heeded and to be cast in the water of Tybre by Rome/ Then fishers found him and brought him in to the church. And the holy images of saints bowed down to him/ when the body of him was brought in to the church/ that all men might see/ and honourably him halsyd. yet Sergius destroyed all that thing the which the holy man had ordained. ¶ Anastasius was pope after him two year. ¶ Laudo was pope .v. months/ and little they died. ¶ johannes the ten was pope thenne. This johanes was the son of Sergius pope/ doth of nature & of manners And he was pope by mighty. And wretchedly slain of Guidois knights for they put on his mouth a pillow and stopped his breath. And after him was another put in/ but anon he was out/ & therefore he is not named as pope. ¶ Henricus the duke of Saxone was Emperor of Almaigne. xvii· year/ this Henricus was a noble man/ but he is not numbered among th emperours. for he reigned but aloonly in Almaigne. And he had a very holy woman unto his wife/ & her name was Matylda/ on whom he gate two sons/ that is to say. Otto & Harry And Otto succedded him in the Empire And Harry had much land in Almaigne. And he gate an other son that hight Brimen & he was a very holy man/ & was bishop of Coleyne. And he founded the monastery of Panthal●ō. ¶ Of king Adelstone. NOw after this Edward reigned Adelstone his sone· And when he had reigned four year he held battle against the Danies. And drove king Gaufride that was king of the Danies and all his host unto the see/ & ●ested by scotland/ & took strongly all the country an hole year. And after that though of Comberlonde & of Sets of westmerlonde began to war upon king Adelstone. And he gave them so strong battle/ that he slew so many of them that no man conde tell the number of them. And after that he reigned but three year/ and he reigned in all xxv year/ & lieth at Malmesbury. ¶ Of king Edmonde. then after this Adelstone reigned Edmond his brother. For king Adelstone had no son/ and this Edmond was a worthy man and a doughty knight of body/ and a● noble also. And the third year after that he was king/ he went over Homber in to that country in the which country he fonude two kings of Danies. That one was called Enelaf. And that other Renant· This king Edmonde drove them both fro the land/ and after went/ and took a great proye in Comberlonde. This Edmonde reigned but vii year/ and lieth at Glastenbury. ¶ Of king Eldred ANd after this Edmond reigned Eldred his brother that avenged Edward his father of his enemies that died him slay. And after he seized all Northumberlonde in to his hand. And made the Scots for to bow and meek unto his will. And in the second year of his reign came Arnalaf Guyran that was king of Denmark/ and seized all Northumberlonde/ and held that land two year. And after that came king Eldred and drove him out of this land. And this king Eldred was a noble man and a good/ Of whose goodness Saint Dunstane preached. And this king Eldred reigned xi year/ & lieth at whynchester. ¶ Of king Edwin. ANd after this Eldred reigned Edwin the son of Edmonde. And he was a simple man to ward god and the people. For he hated folk of his own land/ and loved & honoured strange men. And set little by holy church. And he took of holy church all the treasure that he might have. That was great shame & villainy to himself/ and peril to his soul. And therefore god would not that he sholne regne no longer than four year and died/ and lieth at wynchestre· LEo the sixth a Roman was pope vi months. ¶ Stephanus the vii was after him two year. ¶ johannes the xi a Roman was pope three year. ¶ Stephanus the viii a germayne was pope after him viii year/ ¶ Martinus the third was pope after him three year/ and of these vi pope's is nothing had in scripture. For what cause I can not tell. ¶ Anno dni ix C.liiii. AGapitus a Roman was pope after Martinus two year and viii months/ & no thing of him is written/ ¶ Iohens the xii a Roman was pope after Agapitus viii. year/ & he had a father that height Albertyke & was a worthy man in the chyte of Rome. He induced the noble men to swear that after the death of Agapytus they should these Ottavianus his son pope/ and so it was done & was named Iohn/ and he was a hunter & a lecherous man so that openly he kept women wherefore certain Cardynalles wrote unto Otto the Emperor of Saxon/ that he should come to Rome for to help to destroy the slander of the church. This the pope perceived/ & the hand that wrote the pistle he made to be cart of And many times he was warned by the Emperor and the clergy that he should correct himself but he nolde for no thing/ then he was deposed/ and Leo was put in to a place. wherefore the Emperor was annoyed/ and came again and besieged Rome so long till they took Benedycte to him/ and restored Leo. ¶ Of king Edgar that reigned above the kings of scotland & of wales/ and how he● was beguiled thrug the taking of his wife. ANd after this edwin reigned Edgar his brother a man that much loved god and peace/ and the right of holy church also. And he was a worthy man/ & a great lord of blood and mighty/ and maycened well this land in peace. And this Edgar was lord and king above all the king of scotland & of wales/ fro the time that Arthur was gone/ & never was sithen king of his power. ¶ And this Edgar was saint Edward's father. And when Edgar's wife was deed that was saint Edward's mother & entered/ he heard speak of the fairness of Estrylde/ that was Orgarus daughter a baron of devonshire that was so fair a woman/ that all men died speak of her. He called one of his knyhhtes that he much loved & trusted upon & told him. Go● said he to the noble baron Orgarus of devonshire/ & see if that his daughter be fair as men speak of/ & if it be sooth I will have her unto my wife. ¶ This knight that was called Edelwolde went forth his way as the king him had said/ & came there that the lady was And when he saw her so fair/ he thought to have her himself to wife. And thereof spoke to Grgarus her father. And her father was an old man and no man children but only her/ & saw that Edelwode was a fair young knight with the king/ & thought his daughter should well be married & be set upon him/ & granted him his daughter if the good lord the king would consent thereto. ¶ And thenne this Edel would came again unto the king & cold him/ that she was fair enough upon to see/ but she was wonder loathly. ¶ Thomas answered the king and said that he took but little charge. Sir said Edelwolde/ she is her faders heir/ and I am not rich of lands/ & if ye would consent and grant that I might her have/ then should I be rich enough. In god's name said the king. I consent thereto. Edel would tho thanked the king right moth/ & went again in to devonshire & spoused the damosel/ and in that country he dwelled. ¶ And thus it befell upon a time/ that he told his counsel & all this thing unto his wife/ how & in what manner he had beguiled his lord the king that would have had her to wife. And anon as she it wist/ she loved him never more after ward as she died before. ¶ This lady conceived by him a son. And when time won that the child should be borne. Edelwolde came to the king and prayed him to have a son of his at the font stone. The king him granted/ And let call him Edgar after his own name. And when this was done he thought that all was siker enough for the king/ that he would not take his wife for as much as his lord was a jolly man and an amorous. ¶ How that king Edgar wedded Estrylde after the death of Edel wolde· THus it befell that all men in king Edgar's court thenne spoke & said/ that Edel would was richly advanced/ through the foresaid marriage of his wife. And yet they said he was advanced an hundred fold more· For he had spoused the most fairest creature that ever seen. And the king heard speak so moche of her beauty/ that he thought he would have him deceived/ & beguiled. And thought privily in his heart/ that he would go into devonshire/ as it were for to hunt for the heart & for the hind & other wild beasts/ & thenne he should see there the lady or he departed thence. And this lady was dwelling at manner place beside the forest/ there that the king would hunt/ And a● that manner he was her borrowed all night. And when time came that the king should sup/ and the son shone/ the king asked after his gossyppe and after his godsone· And Edelwolde made her to come before the king And nevertheless if it other wise might have be she should not have come in his sight by his will. ¶ The lady welcome● the king & sweetly him kissed. And he took her by the hand/ and to next by him her sa●te/ and so souped they together. ¶ And there was a custom and an usage in this land that tyme. That so when on drake to an other/ the drinker should say wassayll. And that other should answer/ and say Drink hail. And this died the king & the lady/ and kissed many times. And after supper when time was for to go to bed/ the king went to bed/ then king heartily on the ●ayrnesse of that lady/ & thenne was over come for her love/ that him thought that he should die/ but if he had his will on her. ¶ Upon the morrow the king aroos and in the foreest went him for to disport with hearts & hinds & all other wild beasts. & of the hearts great plenty he sense to the lady. And thrice he went for to solace and to speak with that lady the whiles he dwelled there in that country. ¶ And after that the king removed thence/ and thought him how he might best deliver Edelwod fro his wife/ as he had him first deceived. And the king anon after viii days ordained a parliament at salisbury of all his baronage counsel to have. And for to ordain how the country of Northumberlonde should best he kept that the Danies came not there/ the land for to destroy. And this Edelwode came unto the kings parliament. And the king sent him to york/ for to be keeper of that country. ¶ And thus it befell that knew him not slew him by the way. ¶ And anon as the king heard tell that he was deed/ he let send after the lady E●●●ylde that he should come unto the city of London and there he wedded to the king with great solemnity and worship. And held a solemn feast. And he ware a crown that was of gold & the queen an other. ¶ And saint Dunstane on the morrow came unto the king in to the chambre/ and found the king in bed an● the queen togethers. And sayn● Dunstane axed the king who she was/ And the king answered and said/ that she was the queen E●●yllde. And the Archebyssop saint Dunstance said that he died great wrong/ and against god's will to take a woman to wife whose child ye had take at font stone. And the queen for that word never loved saint Dunstance after. And the good man warned of that folly to be left/ but it availed but little/ for the love between them was so moche. The king begat upon her a son that was called Eldred· when this child was vi year old/ the king his father died. And about that time he had reigned xvii year/ & lieth at Glastenbury. BEryngarius the third was Emperor after Henrycus ·vii. year/ this Beryngarius was Emperor in italy. In whose time was great division. ¶ And Henricus th'emperor decessed/ and. Otto began to regne in Almaigne. ¶ Lotharius reigned after him two year/ and decessed when. Otto reigned in Almaigne. And had a wife that height Dalnyham. The which after wedded Otto. ¶ Beringarius the fourth was after him/ this man with great tyranny subduedytaly/ wherefore the pope and other romans called Otto that he might deliver them which he died. And he took Beryngaryus by strength/ and twice he outlawed him. And he took Lotharius wife the which the tyrant had prisoned. ¶ Leo the viii was pope after Benedictus one year and four months. This man was chosen with the common voys/ and johannes was deposed. This Leo ordained that no pope should be made without consent of the Emperor For the malice of the romans the which oppressed them. This man granted all the yefts to Otto and his successors/ the which were yeven by justinianus and Karolus to the church/ that he might defend italy from the reberlyons. ¶ johanes the xii was pope after him almost viii year \ this johens suffered great wrong of the romans For he was take and exiled but Otto bore this heavily. For he slew the noble men of Rome/ and certain of them exiled for ever more. Benedyctus the vi was pope after him. vi· year/ this man was take/ and in the castle Angel was strangled. ¶ Nota. ¶ The Empire in this time was translated to the almains. And the same cause is here as was before/ for the ●ycyous living. Ne these unhappy men could not be Informed/ that they should eschew that ●o woyce/ through the which they sa●e so many noble men to perish. ¶ Otto was Emperor after Beryngarius xii year. This Otto was the first Emperor of Almaigne. And he was all virtuous as an other king karolus for he was the defender of the church of god/ and the singular promoter for the which he was worthy to be Emperor Many men of falls believe he converted And he held with him pope Benedictus the usurper of the popeherd in to Soxony. And there he deceased in his exile. And this Emperor deceased a rich man in virtue and goodness. ¶ Otto the second was Emperor after his father. And he was a noble man to the church as his father was. And many a battle he had against the false men of believe. And at the last he almost lost all his host in Kalabur/ yet for sooth with all his mind besought saint Peter to help. And marvelously saint Peter delivered him And his wife was the daughter of the Emperor of Constantynopolytan of the Romans blood And this man was crowned of Benedictus the pope. ¶ Of saint Edward the martyr how Escrylde his stepmother let kill him/ for to make Eldred her own son king. ANd after this Edgar reigned Edward his son/ that he begat upon his first wife/ that will and nobly governed the land. For he was full of all manner of goodness and led a full holy life. And above all thing he loved god & holy church. And the queen Escrylde that was his stepmother let slay him by cause to make her own son Eldred king. And this on a day he was slain/ as ye shall here afterward. ¶ It befell thus upon a day that tha● king Edward went in to a wood for to play/ in the south country be side a town that is called warham. In that which forest was great pleyntye of hearts and hinds. And when he had been while there him for to play he thought upon his brother Eldrede that was with his mother the queen/ for her place waste nigh the forest/ and thought for to go thither and visit and see his brother. And took with him but a little main/ & went him toward his stepmoders' house/ that in that time sojourned in the castle of Corfe. And as he read in the thyckensse of a wood is speye his game/ it befell that he went amiss and lost his main that with him came. And at the last he came out of the wood. And as he lo●d him about/ he saw there there fast besides a ●e that his stepmother dwelled in/ and thither ward he went alone And anon it was told the queen/ how that the king was comen alone with out any company. And therefore she made joy enough/ and thought how that she might do that he were slain as privily as she might/ called to her one of her knights. To whom she had told moche of her counsel between them. And both they came to the king and courteously him received. ¶ And the king told that he was come to visit/ and also for to speak with Eldred his brother The queen many times him thanked. and him prayed for for alight/ and her borugh with her all that night ¶ The king said/ that he might not. But again he would go unto his folk/ if he might them find. ¶ And when the queen saw that he would not abide/ she prayed him that he would once drink/ and he granted her. And anon as the drink was come/ the queen drank unto the king. And the king took the cup and set it to his mouth. And in the mean while that he drank/ the false knight that was with the queen with a knife smote the king unto the heart. & there he fell down deed unto the earth of his palfroy. The queen for this deed gave the knight gold and silver great plenty and of other riches enough And the knight anon as this was done went him over the see. And so escaped he out of this land. ¶ When this king Edward was thus martyred. It was in the year of the incarnation of our lord Ihesu christ ix C.lxxx. And he had reigned xii year and an half/ and lieth at Glastenbury. ¶ Of the king Eldred/ & how the king Swine of Denmake held England. and how Eldred that saint Edward's brother was not beloved in his Realm/ and therefore he fled in to Normandye. SO after this Edward reigned Eldred his brother. And saint Dunstane crowned hym· And this saint Dunstane died soon after that he had forgiven the queen her trespass/ by cause that she was cause of king Edward's death. And saint Dunstane had her assoiled/ and penance had her ●●oyned. And she lived after a chaste life and a clean. ¶ This king Eldred wedded an english woman/ & on her begat Edmonde Irensyde and an other son that was called edwin. And after died the queen their mother. ¶ And in that time came Swine in to England that was king of Denmark/ for to challenge and to conquer all that his auncetrees had before that tyme. And so he conquered & had it all his asking. ¶ For the good earl Cuthberte of Lynd eseye and all the people of Northumberlonde/ and almost all the great of England held with Swine that was king of Denmark/ for so moche as they loved no● king Eldred/ for by cause that his good brother Edward was slain for love of him. And therefore no man set but little by him. wherefore king Swine had all his will/ and took all the land. And Eldred the king fled th● in to Normandye. And so spoke to the duke richard/ that the duke gave him his sister Emme to wife Upon the which he gate two sons that one was called Alured and that other Edward. And when Swine had conquered all the land/ he reigned nobly and lived xu year and then he died and lieth at york. ¶ How king Eldred came again from Normandy/ and how knoght the Dane reigned/ & of the war betwixt him and Edmonde Irensyde. THus after the death of Swine that was a Dane. Knoght his son dwelled in England/ and would have been king. And though came again Eldred out of Normandye with moche number of people/ & with a strong main that Knoght durst not abide/ but fled thence in to Denmark. The king Eldred had again his ream/ and held so great worship/ that he began for to destroy all though that halpe Swine that was a Dane against him. And afterward came again this Knoghte from Denmark with a great power/ so that king Eldred durst not with him fight but fled from thence unto London/ and there he held him. ¶ though came Knoght & him besieged so long/ till that king Eldred died in the city of London/ and lieth at saint Paul's. And he reigned ix year. BOnu● was pope after Benedictus one year. This man abode but a little time ¶ Bonifacius was pope after him five months. ¶ Benedictus was pope after him ten year/ This man crowned Otto the seedde/ & made many romans to be taken And he gathered a counsel against the king of France/ where Gylbert the Nygramancer was deposed. ¶ johannes the ·xiiii. was pope after him viii months. And he was put in the castle Angel/ and was famyned to death. ¶ johannes the xu was pope after him four months. ¶ johannes the xvi was pope after him almost xi year. This man was taught in arms/ & made many books/ & else little of him is written. ¶ Gregorius the .v. was pope after this man almost three year. And this Gregorius was made pope atte the Instance of the Emperor Otto third/ for he was his consyn/ And when he had be a little while pope/ and the Emperor receded from the city of Rome. Placentinus was put in by Crecensius a Counsul for money/ And then was strife a few days. But the Emperor came soon after/ and took Crecensius the Consul/ and stroke of his heed/ & put out the eyen of this man Placencius pope/ the which put out his cousin of the dignity of the pope▪ And maimed him on other membres/ his knights ne his dukes halpe him no thing. For he died that thing that he should not have done. And he suffered that that he deserved. ¶ Nota. This Gregorius with the Emperor Otto ordained the chesers of the Empire/ the which from thence forth hath abode unto this day. For the frenchmen ne none other might not break that ordinance. And those the●ers of the Empire by the pope and Otto were not made for any blame of the Saxons/ but to eschew the evils to come. And their names been written for learned men in latin in these verses. (Maguntinensis Treverensis Coloniensis Quilibe● imperu fit cancellarius horum. Et Palatinus da●ifer Dux Portitorensis. Marchio prepositus camere. Pincerna Bohemus Hustatuunt dominum cuntis persecula summum. Palatinus est comes ren●. Marcio est Brandebur gensis Dux saxorum et rex Bohemorum. verum ut quidam dicunt. ¶ Through this occasion the Eagle hath lost many a feather. And in the end he shall be made naked. ¶ Otto the third was Emperor xviii year. This man was a worthy man all the days of his Empire. And after the wisdom of his father/ he was a very holy faithful man to the church. And in many battles he prospered by cause he was devout unto almighty god and his saints. And gave mighty worshipping to the relics of saints. And oftentimes he visited holy places. ¶ This man was crowned by Gregorius his cousin. And atte the last he deceased at Rome. ¶ Anno dm. M.iiii. SIluester the second was pope after Gregorius four yere· And he was made pope by the help o● the devil/ to whom he died homage/ for he should give him all thing that he desired. And he was called Hylbecte· And his enemy gate him the grace of the king of France/ and he made him the bishop of Remensis/ but anon he was deposed And after he gate the grace of the Emperor/ and was made the bishop of Ravennie/ and after the pope/ But he had an end anon and so have all that put their hope in false devils. ¶ yet men trust in his salvation/ for certain demonstration of his sepulchre/ and for the great penance that he died in his last end. For he made his hand and in his legs to be curte of/ and dismembered in all his body and to be cast out at the door to fowls/ and then his body to be drawn with wild beestis and there to be buried where somever they rested as an hand. And they stood still at saint johan lateranensis/ and there he was buried And that was sign of his saluacon. ¶ johannes the xviii was pope five months. ¶ johannes the xix was pope after him five year. And these two died little things. ¶ Henricus the first was Emperor in Almaigne twenty year/ This henricus was duke of Barry/ and all according he was chosen for his blessed fame and good name the which he had. ¶ And it is red/ that many of these dukes of Barry were holy men/ not all only in abstaining of fleshly dysyres/ but also in virtuous living. And this man had a sister that was as holy as he/ the whom he gave to wife unto the king of Hungry And she brought all Hungry unto the right believe & the christian faith. And his wives name was (sancta Konnogundis) with whom he lived a virgin all his lives days. And also he died many a battle/ as well in italy/ as in Almaigne against the rebellious/ and prospered right wisely. at the last with a blessed end he deceased. And in the life of saytn Laurence he and his wife be put for ensamples. ¶ Benedictus was pope after johannes xi year. This man had great strife in his days/ for he was put out \ and another put in. And this Benedictus after that he was deed was seen of an holy man bishop in a wretched figure/ and he had great pain. And this figure said. He trusted no thing in the mercy of god. And no thing profited him that was done for him/ for it was gotten with extortion & unjustly. then this bishop left his bishopric for dread of this sight & went in to a monastery & lived virtuously all his days. ¶ johannes the ten was pope after him ·xi. year/ and little profited. ¶ Of king Knoght that was a Dane. ANd after the death of Eldred Knoght that was a Dane began to regne. but Edmonde Irensyde that was king eldreds son by his first wife/ ordained a great power of men/ & began for to war on king Knoghte/ And so he died many times and often/ And the war was so strong & hard/ the wonder it was to wyte· ¶ And the queen Emme that dwelled tho in westminster/ had great dread of her two sons of the war Alured & Edward/ lest they should be defoiled & misdone thorough this war. wherefore she sent them over the see in to Normandy to the duke richard their uncle. And there they dwelled in safety and peace long tyme. ¶ This Edmonde Irensyde and Knoght the Dane warred strongly to guider. But at the last they were accorded in this manner/ that they should depart the ream betwixt them both/ and so they died/ & after they became good friends. And so well loved to guider as they had been brethren gotten of one father and of one mother borne. ¶ How king Edmonde Irensyde traitorously was slain thorough a traitor/ that was ralled Eldred of Strotton. ANd after though reigned king Irensyde and Knoght the Dane. But thus it befell afterward/ that in the same year that they were accorded/ and so much loved to guider. wherefore a false traitor had enuytee to the love that was betwixt them and friendship/ whose name was Edrith of Stratton/ that was a great lord/ that was Edmonde Irensydes man/ & of him held all the land that he had. And nevertheless he thought his lord to betray & make Knoght king of the land/ to the intent richly to be advanced/ and with him be well beloved/ wherefore he prayed his lord Edmonde Irensyde upon a day with him for to eat. And the king him courteously granted & to him came at his prayer And at the meet the king rially was served with divers meeteꝭ and drinks. And when the night came that he should go unto bed. The king took his own main & went unto the chambre there that he should take his nights rest. And as he looked him about/ he saw a fair ymyge & well made/ and in semblant as it were an Archer with a boowe/ & in the boowe a fine arrow. ¶ King Edmonde went tho near for to behold it better what it might be. And anon the arrow smote him through the body & there slew the kynge· For that engine was made for to slay his own lord traitorously. ¶ And so when king Edmond was thus deed and slain he had reigned but ten year. And his people for him made moche sorrow. And his body they ba●e unto Glastenbury & there them him en●yred ¶ And this falls traitor Edrith anon went unto the queen/ that was king Edmondes wife/ that wist not of her lords death. Anon he took from her tow sons that were fair & young/ that her lord had upon her gotten that one was called Edward/ & that other Edwin And law them with him to Londen & took them unto king Knoght/ that he should do with them what his will were. And told him how subtilely he had slain king Edmonde/ for by cause & love of him/ so that king Knoght all England in his power holy might have. ¶ O thou falls traitor/ haste thou my true brother that was so true thus slain for me/ man I most loved in the world. Now by my heed I shall for thy travail well reward as thou hast deserved/ & anon let him be take & bound hand & foot in manner of a traitor/ & let cast him there in to Tamyse/ & in this manner the false traitor ended his life. The king took the two children and put them unto the abbot of westminster to ward & to keep till that he wist was best with them to do. ¶ How king Knoght sent king Edmondes' sons both in to Denmark to be slain/ and how they were saved. SO it befell soon after that king Knoghte had all the land in his hand/ and spoused the queen Emme thorughe consent of his baronage. For she was a fair woman the which was eldreds wife and the duke's sister of Normandye/ and they lived together with moche love as reason would. The king axed upon a day counsel of the queen what was best to do with the sons that were Edmonde Irensydes. Sire said she. they been the right heirs of the land/ and if they live they will do moche sorrow with war/ and therefore let send them in to a strange land a far to some man that may them defoil and destroy. The king anon let call a dane that was called walgar/ and commanded him that he should lead though two children/ in Denmark/ and so to do and ordain for them/ that he should never here more of them. Sir said this walgar/ gladly your commandment shall be done & anon though two children he took and lad them in to Denmark. And for as much as he saw that the children were wonder fair and also meek/ he had of them great pity & ruth/ & would them slay/ but lad them to the king of Hungry for to noursshe/ for this walgar was well be known with the king & well beloved. Anon the king axed whence the children were/ & walgar told him and said/ that they were the right heirs of England and therefore men would destroy them/ And therefore sir unto you they be come mercy & help for to seek. And for sooth if they may live/ your men they shall become/ and of you they shall hold all their land. The king of Hungry received them with moche honour/ and let them worthily be kept. ¶ And thus it befell after ward that edwin the younger brother died/ & Edward the elder brother lived/ a fair man & a strong/ & a large of body & gentle/ and courteous of conditions/ so that all men him loved/ And this Edward in the chronicles is called among the englishmen Edward the outlaw. ¶ And when as he was made knight/ the kings daughter of Hungry him much loved for his goodness & his fairness/ that she him called her darling. The king that was her father perceived well the love that was betwixt them two/ and had no heir but only that daughter/ and the king vowche safe his daughter to no man so well/ as he died to him that she loved so well & he her/ & gave her unto him with a good will/ and Edward her spoused with moche honour. The king of hungry scent after all his baronage and made a solemn feast & a rich wedding. And made all men to understand/ that this Edward should be king of that land after the decease of him. And of that tidings they were all full glad. This Edward begat upon his lady a son/ that was called Edgar Heling/ & afterward a daughter that was called Margarete that afterward was queen of scotland. And by the king of scotland that was called Mancolin she had a daughter that was called Maude that was queen afterward of England/ through king Henry that was the first son of the conqueror that her wedded And he begat on her a daughter that was called Maude that afterward was Empress of almain. And of this Maude came the king of England that unto this day is called Henry the Empress son. And yet had this Edward an other daughter by his wife that was called christian and she was a Nun. ¶ How king Knoght that was proud man conquered Normandy/ & how he became afterward meek and mild. NOw have we heard of Edmonde Irensydes sons that king Knoght wend they had been slain as he had commanded walgar before· And this king Knoght had in his hand all the ream of England & denmark. And after that they went unto Norway that land for to conquer. But the king of the land that was called Elat came with his people/ & wend his land to have well kept & defended/ & so there he fought with him till at the last he was slain in that battle. And though this Knoght took all the land in his hand. And when he had conquered Norway and taken feaute & homages there/ he came again into England/ and held himself so great a lord/ that him thought in all the world his peer no man was. And he came so proud & hauteyne that it was great wonder. ¶ And so it befell upon a day as he had herd mass at westmestre/ and would have gone in to his palace/ the ways of the Tamyse so swiftly against him came that almost they touched his feet. though said the king with a proud heart I command the water to torn again/ or else I shall make the \ The wawes for his commandment would not spare/ but flowed ever in height more and more. ¶ The king was so proud of heart that he would not flee the water and beat it with a rod that he had in his hand/ and commanded the water that it should go no ferder. But for all his commandment the water would not cease/ but ever waxed more and more on high/ so that the king was all wete & stood deep in the water. And when he saw that he had abiden there to long/ & the water would no thing do his commandment though soon he with drew him/ and though stood he upon a stone and held his hands on high & said these words hearing all the people. ¶ This god that maketh the see thus arise/ is king of all kings/ and of all mights most. And I am a catyf and a man deadly/ and he may never die/ & all thing doth his commandment/ & to him obedient. ¶ To that god I pray/ that he be my warrant. For I knowledge me a caitiff feeble/ and of no power And therefore I will go unto Rome without any long letting/ and my wickedness for to punish and me to amend. For of god I claim my land for to hold/ and of none other. And anon made ready his heir and himself went to Rome without any letting. And by the way died many alms deeds/ and when he came to Rome also. And when he had be there/ for his sins do penance/ he came again in to England/ and became a good man and a holy. And lived and left all manner pride and stoutness/ lived an holy life after/ and made two abbeys of saint Benet/ one in England and an other in normandy/ for as much as he loved saint Benet more specially than other saints. And much he loved saint Edmonde the king. And oft he gave great yefts to the how see/ wherefore it was made rich. ¶ And when he had reigned twenty year he died/ and lieth at wynchestre. ¶ Anno dm. M.xviii. BEnedictus the ix was pope after johannes/ and he was a great lecher/ & therefore he was dampened/ and he appeared to a certain man under a marvelous figure & an horrible. His heed & his tail was like an ass/ that other part of his body like a bear. And he said to this man to whom he appeared. Be not afeard/ for I was a man as ye now be but I apeyre now/ for I lived unhappily in old time like a be'st when I was pope. In this man's time there was great division & slander to the church for he was put out & in two times. ¶ And here Tholomeus noteth/ that the pride of bishops had ever an evil end. And it was ever the occasion of moche unrest and battle. ¶ Conradu● the first was Emperor after Henricus twenty year. This man made many laws/ and commanded peas to be kept most straightly of any man. But the earl of Ludolf was accused/ & he fled from his land/ & desired more to live like a churl than like a gentle man/ & yet marvelously his son was made Emperor by the commandment of god against the will of Conradus. And at the last they were accorded. And he took Corodis daughter to his wife. ¶ Of king Harold that liefer had go on foot than ride on horse. THis Knoght of whom we have spoken of before/ had two sons by his wife Emme/ & that one was called Hardyknoght/ and that other Harold. And he was so light of foot that men called him most comynly harold Hare foot. And this Harold had no thing the conditions & the manners of king ●noghte that was his father. For he set but little price of chivalry/ ne no courtesy neither worship/ but only by his own will And he became so wicked that he exiled his mother Emme. And she went out of the land in to Flaundres/ & there dwelled with the earl/ wherefore after there was never good love betwixt him & his brother For his brother hated him deadly ● and when he had reigned two year and little more/ he died and lieth at westminster. ¶ Of king Kariknoght that was harold brother. AFter this Harold Hare foot/ reigned his brother Hardiknoght a noble knight and a worthy man/ and moche loved chyvalry/ and all manner of goodness/ And when this Hardiknoght had reigned a little while/ he let uncovere his brother Harold & smote of his heed/ that was his brother at westminster/ & let cast the heed in to a gonge/ & the body in to Tamyse. And after came fishers & took the body with their nets by night/ and bore him to saint Clementes church and there him carried. And in this manner avenged him Hardiknoght of his brother for in none other manner he might be avengeb· This king Hardiknoght was so large a yever of meet & drink/ that his tables were seat every day three times full rial meets & drinks for his own main/ and for all that came unto/ his court to be richly served of rial meets. And this king Hardiknoght sent after Emme his mother/ & made her come again in to England/ for she was driven out of England while that Harold Hare f●ot reigned/ through counsel of the earl Godewin/ that though was the greatest lord of England next the king/ & most might do through out all England what he would his commandment/ for as much as he had his spoused daughter of the good king Knoght/ that was a Dane/ which daughter he had by his first wife. ¶ And when this queen was driven out of England/ and come to the Earl of Flaundres/ that was called Bald wine her cousin/ he found her there all thing that her needed/ unto the time that she went again in to England/ that the king Hardiknoght had sent for her that was her son and made her come again with moche honour. This king Hardyknoght when he had reigned five year he died and lieth at westminster. ¶ Of the villainy that the Dany● died to the Englishmen. wherefore fro the time after was no Dane made king of this land. ANd after the death of this king Hardyknoght/ for as much as he had no thing of his body begotten/ The earls & barons assembled/ & made a counsel/ that never more after no man the was a Dane/ though he were never so great a man amongs them/ he should never be king of England for the despite that the Danes had done to englishmen. For evermoore before & if it were so that the englishmen and the Danies happened for to meet upon a bridge/ the englishmen should not be so hardy to move ne stir a foot/ but stand still till the Dane were passed for the. And more over if the Englishmen had not bowed down their heeds to do reverence unto the Danies/ they should have been beaten & defoiled. And such manner despytes & villainy died the Danies to our englishmen. wherefore they were driven out of the land after time that king Hardyknoght was deed/ for they had no lord the them might maintain. ¶ And in this manner avoided the Danies England that never they came again. ¶ The earls & barons by their common assent & by their counsels sent unto Normandy for to seek those two brethren Alured & Edward that were dwelling with the duke Richharde that was their came in intent for to crown Alured the elder brother/ & him make king of England. And of this king to make an end/ the earls & barons made their oath. But the Earl Godewin of westsex falsely & traitorously thought to slay these two brethren anon as they should come in to England/ in intent/ to make his son Harolde king the which son he had begot up on his wife/ the which was king Knoghtes daughter that was a Dane. And so this Godewin privily him went to South hampton for to meet there the two brethren when that they should come unto london. ¶ And thus it befell the messengers that went in to Normandy/ found but only Alured that was the elder brother For Edward his brother was gone in to hungry for to speak with his cousin Edward the outlaw/ that was Edmonde son with the Irensyde. The messengers told & said Alured/ how that earls & barons of England sent after him/ & that he boldly should come in to England and receive the ream. For king Hardiknoght was deed and all the Danes driven out of the land. ¶ How Godewin the false traitor took Alured upon Gyldesdowne when that he came from Normandy to be king of England and how he caused him to be martyred in the isle of Ely. AS Alured heard these tidings he thanked god. And in ship went with all the haste that he might & passed the see/ & arrived at Southampton there Godewin the false traitor was. And when this traitor saw that he was come/ he welcomed him and received him with moche joy & said/ that he would lead him to London there the all the barons of England him abode to make him king. And so they went on their way to ward London/ And when they came on Gyldesdowne though said the traitor Godewin unto Alured Take keep about you both on the left side & right side/ & of all ye shall be king/ and of such and hundred more Now forsooth said Alured. I behyght you & if I be king. I shall ordain & make such laws/ wherefore god and man shal● 〈◊〉 ●ell pleased. Now had the traitor comm● 〈…〉 all his men that were with him That wh 〈…〉re come upon Gyldesdowne that the 〈…〉 lee all that were Aluredes company/ that ●●re with him fro Normandy/ and after that take Alured & lead him in to the isle of ely & after put out his eyen of his heed & afterward bring him to the death/ & so they died. For they slew all the company that there were/ the number of xii. gentlemen that were come with him fro Normandy/ & after took they Alured & in the isle of Ely they put out his eyen & rend his womb & took the chief of his bowels/ & put a steke in the ground/ & an end of the bowels there to fastened/ & with needles eyeless of iron they pricked the good child/ & so made him to go about the stake till that all his bowels were drawn out of his body/ & so died Alured there through treason of the earl Godewin. ¶ When the lords of england had herd & wist how Alured that should have be their king was put to death through the falls traitor Godewin they were wonder wroth. And swore between god & them that he should die a more worse death/ than died Edrith of Stratton/ that had betrayed his lord Edmonde Irensyde/ & they would have pute him to death/ but the thief traitor fled thence in to Denmark/ & there held him four year and more/ and lost all his land in England. SIluester the third was pope after Benedictus. ¶ This Silvester was chose/ and Benedictus was expulsed. And after ward was he expulsed/ and Benedictus was put up again. And after he was put out/ and Gregorius was made pope. ¶ And he was but a simple lettred man/ and therefore he chose an other man for to be consecrate with him And when many men were disposed with this goding of two pope's/ the third was brought in the which should occupy the place of both the tow. And so they strove among themselves. But Henry the Emperor came then to Rome & deposed them all and made Clement the second pope/ whom he made anon to crown him. And he said to the romans/ they should never cheese pope without his assent. And so five being pope's/ sixth was put in. And many men say/ this Gregorius was an holy man. ¶ Damasius the second was after Clement twenty days. This man was an usurper of the popeheed/ and so he died suddenly. And anon the romans asked to have a pope/ & that the almains should have none. For they were so hard hearted/ that they myhht not incline to the entence of the Emperor/ the which said. There should be no pope chosen but if he would be of counseyl of the election. But for all that the put in this holy man Leo/ and after he had of that conscience and refused. And anon he was chosen by the common assent/ this Leo put christ in the form of a Laser in his own bed/ and in the morrow he found no thing there. ¶ Of saint Edward the confessor/ that was Aluredes brother/ & how he was king of England. ANd when this was done/ all the barons of England sent an other time in to Normandy/ for that Edw●rde should come in to england with moche honour. And this Edward in his childhood loved almighty god & him dread. And in honest and cleanness had his life and hated sin as death. And when he was crowned and anointed with a rial power forgot not his good manners and conditions that he first used. And forgot not all good customs for no manner of honour/ ne for riches/ ne no manner highness. But evermore and more gave him to goodness and loved god and holy church passing all other manner thing. ¶ And poor men also be loved/ and them held as they had been his own brethren. And to them oft he gave great alms with full good will. ¶ Of the first special love that god she 〈…〉 to saint Edward living. IT befell on a day/ as he went from the church of westmestre. And had heard mass of saint johan the evangelist/ for as much as he loved saint Iohn evangelist more specially after god and hour lady than he died any other saint. And so there came to him a pelgryme/ & prayed him for the love of god and our lady and saint johan the evangelist some good him for to give. And the king privily took his ring of his finder/ that no man perceived it and gave it to the pelgryme/ and he it received and went thence. ¶ This king Edward made all the good lawas of England/ that yet been most used and holden. And was so merciable and so full of pity/ that no man might be more. ¶ How the earl Godewyn came again in to England & had again all his land/ and afterward saint Edward wedded his daughter. AS the Earl Godewin that was dwelling in Denmark had moche heard of the goodness of king Edward/ & that he was so full of mercy & of pity. He thought that he would go again in to England/ for to seek & to have grace of the good king Edward that so mercy full was/ that he might have again his land in peace. And arrayed him as much as he might & put him to ward the see & came in to England to London there the king was that time and all the lords of England/ and held a parliament. Godewin sent to him that were his friends/ and were the most greatest lords of the land/ & prayed them to beseech the kings graet for him/ & that he would his peace & his land grant him. The lords led him before the king to seek his grave. And anon as the king him saw/ he apeled him of treason & of the death of Alured his brother and these words unto him said. Traitor Godewin said the king I the appeal/ that thou hast betrayed & slain my brother Alured. Certes sir said Godewin. saving your grace & your peace and your lordship. I him never betrayed/ ne yet him slewe· & therefore I put me in reward of the court. Now fair lords said the king. ye that been my lieges/ earls & barons of the land that here be assembled/ full well ye heard my appeal/ And the answer also of Godewin/ and therefore I will that ye a ward and doth right. The earls & Barones tho gathered them all together for to do this a ward by themselves/ and so they spoke diversely amunge them. For some said/ there was never alliance by homage seriment service ne by lordship between Godewin and Alured/ for which thing they might him draw. And at the last they devised and deemed/ That he should put him in the kings mercy all together. though spoke the earl Leverik of Coventry a good man to god and to all the world/ and told his reason in this manner & said. The earl Godewin is the best fended man of England after the King/ & well it might not be again said/ the without counsel of Godwin Alured was never put to death/ wherefore I a ward as touching my part/ that himself & his son & every of us xii earls that been his friends go before the king/ charged with as much gold & silver as we may bear betwixt our hands/ praying the king to forgive his evil will to the earl Godewin/ & receive his homage/ & his land yield again. And they accorded unto that a ward/ and came in this manner as is abovesaid every of them with hold and silver as much as they might bear between her hands before the king/ & there said the form & the manner of they accord & of their a ward The king would not them again say/ But as much as they ordained/ he granted & confirmed And so was the earl Godewin accorded with the king/ & so he had again all his land. And afterward he bore him so well & so wisely/ that the king loved him wonder much/ & with him he was full privy. And within a little time they loved so moche/ that there the king spoused Godewyns daughter/ & made her queen. And nevertheless though the kyngge had a wife/ yet he lived ever in chastise & cleanness of body without any fleshly deed doing with his wife. And the queen also in her half lad an holy life two year/ and died. And afterward the king lived all his life without any wife. ¶ The king gave the earldom of Oxenford to Harolde that was Godewyns son/ and made him earl. And so well they were beloved/ both the father and he/ and so prive with the king/ both the father and the son that they might do by right what thing that they would For against right would he nothing do for no manner man/ so good and true he was of conscience. And therefore our lord Ihesu christ great special love unto him showed. ¶ How king Edward saw Swine king of Denmark drowned in the see in the time of the Sacrament as he stood & heard mass. IT befall upon whitsunday as king Edward heard his mass in the great church of westmestre nigh at the levation of Ihesu Crystis body/ and as all men were gathered in to the church. and came night the altar for to see the sacring. the king his hands life up on higher and a great laughter took up. Wherefore all that about him stood greatly gan wonder. And after mass/ they axed why the kings laughter was fair lord said king Edward. I saw Swine the younger that was king of Denmark come in to the see with his power for to have come in to England upon us for to war. And I saw him and his folk drowned in the see/ and all this I saw in the levation of Crystis body between the preestes hands and I had therefore so great joy that I might not my laughter withhold. ¶ And the earl Leveryk beside him stood at the levation/ and openly saw the form of breed torn in the likeness of a young child/ and took up his right hand and blessed the king and after the earl and the earl anon turned him to ward the king for to make him see the holy sight. And to said the king ¶ Sire earl said he I see well that ye see/ thanked be god that I have honoured my god my savoyour vysybly Ihesu christ in form of man. whose name he blessed in all worlds. ¶ How the ring that saint Edward had given to a poor pelgryme/ for the love of god & saint johan evangelist came again to king Edward. This noble man Saint Edward reigned xiii year. And thus it befell upon a time are he died/ that two men of England were gone in to holy land/ and had done their pelgrymage/ and were going again in to their own country where they came fro And as they went in the way/ they met a pilgrim that curtely them saluwed/ and axed of them in what land and in what country they were borne. And they said in England. though axed he who was king of England. And they answered & said. the good king Edward. ¶ Fair friends said though the pelgryme/ when that ye come in to your countries again. I pray you that ye will go unto king Edward/ & oftentimes great him in mine name and oftentimes him thank of his great courtesy that he to me hath done & namely for the ring that ye have me when he had heard mass at westminster for saint johans' love evangelist. And took it to the pelgremes & said. I pray you go and bear this ring & take it unto king Edward/ and tell him that I send it him and a full rich gift I will him give. For upon the ten day he shall come unto me/ & evermore dwell in bless without any end. ¶ Sir said the pelgremes/ what men be ye/ & in what country is your dwelling. ¶ Fair friends said he I am Iohn the evangelist/ and I am dwelling with almighty god/ and your king Edward is my friend/ & I love him in special for by chause that he hath evermore lived in cleanness & is a clean maid & I pray you my message fulfil as I have you said. when the saint johan the evangelist had them thus charged suddenly he voided out of their sights both/ The pelgrymes though thanked almighty god & ween forth their way. And when they had gone two or three mile. they begun to wax weary & set them a down for to rest them/ & so they fell one sleep/ And when they had slept well one of them a work & life up his heed & looked about/ & said to his fellow. Arise up & walk we in our way. what said that one fellow unto that other/ where be we now. Certes said that other/ it seemeth me that this is not the same country there we laid us down in for to rest & sleep. For we were from jerusalem but three mile. They took up their hands and blessed them/ & went forth in their way And as they went in their way/ they saw shep● going with their sheep the spoke none other language but english. ¶ Good friends said one of the pelgrymes/ what country is this & who is lord thereof. ¶ And one of the shepherds answered & said. this is the country of kent in England/ of the which the good king Edward is lord of. The pelgrymes ●anked tho almighty god and saint Iohn evangelist & went forth in their way and came to Caunterbury/ and fro thence unto London/ and there they found the king And told him all from the beginning unto the ending asmuch as saint Iohn had them charged & of all things how they hadsped by the way. And took the ring to the king Edward/ & he took it ● & thanked almighty god and saint Iohn evangelist. And though made him ready every day fro day to day to depart out of this life/ when god would for him send. ¶ How saint Edward died the Twelfth day. ANd after it befell thus on christmas even/ as the holy man Edward was at goods service matins for to hereof that high solemn feast. He became full like and in the morrow endured with moche pain the mass for to here. And after mass he let him be lad in to his chambre/ There for to rest him. But in his hall among his barons & his knights might he not come them for to comfort and solace/ as he was wont for to do at the worthy feast. wherefore all their mirth and comfort among all that were in the hall was turned in to care and sorrow/ by cause they dread for to lose the good lord the king. ¶ And upon Saint Iohn day evangelist that came next/ the king received his rights of holy church/ as it befaylleth to every christian man & abode the mercy and the will of god. And the two pilgrims he let before him come and gave them rich yefts and betook them to god. Also the abbot of westemestre he let before him come and took him that ring in the honour of god and saint Mary/ and of Saint johan the evangelist. And the abbot took it & put it among other rekyles/ so that it is at westmestre/ & ever shall be so lay the king sick till the twelfth eve. And though died the good king Edward at wehmestre/ & there he lieth. For whose love god hath showed many a fair miracle. ¶ And this was in the year of the. incarnation of our lord Ihesu christ. M.lxu And after he was translated and put in the shrine by the noble martyr saint Tomas of Caunterbury. VIctor the second was pope after Leo And of him little is written. ¶ Henry the second was Emperor after the first Henry xvii year/ this man was cousin to Conradus/ & he was borne in wood/ & twice taken for to be slain when he was a child/ but god defended him evermore. when he was made Emperor/ many amonastery he made in the same place in the wood where he was borne. This man was a victoryous man/ & he entered in to italy/ & there he took Padulphus the prince of Campany. ¶ Stephanus the ix was pope after Victor ix months. ¶ Benedictus after him/ & he took the dignity of the pope Stephanus by strength & keep it ix months/ & thenne deceased. ¶ Henry the third was Emperor after Henry the second/ This Henry was an Inquyete man/ and many times troubled that holy man Gregorius the vii And first he axed forgiveness & was assoyled· But he persevered not long but brought in to an other pope against him/ & said he was an heretic. And Gregorius cursed him. And the chesers of the Emperor they those the duke of Baxon for to be Emperor/ whom this Henry in battle overcame. And thenne he came to Rome with his pope & pursewed pope Gregorius & the Cardynalles also. ¶ And thenne anon Robert the king of Naples drove him thence & delivered the pope & his Cardynalles. Nevertheless yet he was a man of great alms. & iii times he fought in battle/ & at the last he died wrytchedly/ for he was put there by his own son. For so as he died to other men/ so was he done unto. ¶ Nicholaus the second was pope after Benedictus two year/ this Nicolaus called a counsel against that Archedeken of Turonoseus/ the which was an heretic/ & taught against the faith. For he erred in the sacrament/ & after he was converted & was an holy man but he could never convert his disciples. ¶ Nota ¶ Alexander the second was pope after him xii. year/ this Alexander was an holy man. & he ordained that under pain of cursing that no man should here a priests mass whom men knew had a leman. (Vt pꝪ. xxxii pcer hoc) He had strive with one Codulo/ but he expulsed him as an usurper/ & put him out as a symonyer. ¶ How Harolde that was good wyns son was made king/ and how he escape from the duke of Normandy. AS saint Edward was gone out of this world/ & was passed to god and worthily entered as to such a great lord ought/ the barons of the land would have had Edward Elygus. son to Edward the outlaw that was Edmonde Irensydes son to be king/ For as much as he was most kyndest kings blood of the ream. ¶ But harold son through the earl Godewyn/ & the strength of his father Godewyn/ and through other great lords of the ream/ that were of his kin & unto him sib seized all england in to his hand/ & anon let crown him king after the interment of Saint Edware. This Harolde that was Godewynes son the second year afore that saint Edward was deed/ would have gone in to Flaundres/ but he was driven through tempest in to the country of Pountyse/ and there he was taken brought to duke wyllyam And this harold wend that though this duke wyllyam would have be avenged upon him for by cause that the Earl Godewyn that was roldes father/ had let slay Alured that was saint Edwardis brother/ and principally for by cause that Alured was queen Emmes son/ the was Rychardes mother duke of Normandy/ that was ainenll to the duke wyllyam And nevertheless when the duke wyllyam had harold in prison & under his power/ for asmuch as this Harolde was a noble wise knight & a worthy of body/ & that his father & he was accorded with good king Edward/ & therefore would not misdo him. But all manner things that betwixt them was spoken and ordained. harold by his good will swore upon a book/ & upon ●oly saints that he should spouse & wed duke wyllyams daughter after the death of saint Edward/ & that he should busily do his devour for to keep and save the ream of England unto the profit and advantage of duke wyllyam. ¶ And when harold had thus made his oath unto the duke wyllyam he let him go/ and gave him many a rich yefts. And he though went thence/ and came in to England/ and anon died in this manner when saint Edward was deed/ and as a man falsely for sworn/ He let crown him king of England/ and falsely broke the cove name that he had made before with duke wyllyam/ wherefore he was wonder wroth with him and swore/ that he would upon him be avenged what some ever him befell. ¶ And anon duke wyllyam let assemble a great host and came in to England to avenge him upon harold/ and to conquer the land if that he might. ¶ And in the same year that harold was crowned. harald Heresting king of Denmark arrived in Scotland and thought to have be king of England and he came in England and rob/ and destroyed all that he might/ till that he came to york/ and there he slew many men of arms a thousand and a hundred priests. when this tidings came to the king/ He assembled a great power/ and went for to fight with harald of Denmark/ and with his own hands de him slew/ and the Danes were discomfited/ and though that were left a live with moche sorrow fled to their ships. And thus king harold of England slew king harald of Denmark. ¶ Anno dm. M.lxvi ¶ How wyllyam Bastard duke of Normandy came in to England/ & slew king harold ¶ Here come Normans and expulsed harold a Saxon. And when this battle was done. harold be came so proud/ & would no thing part with his people of the thing that he had gotten/ but held it all to himself. wherefore the most part of his people were wroth and from him departed/ so that only with him abode no moo but his soldyurs. And upon a day as he sat at meet/ a messenger came to him and said/ that wyllyam bastard the duke of Normandy was arrived in England with a great host/ & had take all the land about hasting/ & also mined the castle. when the king had herd this tidings/ he went thither with a little power in all the haste that he might for there but few people with him left. And when he was come thither/ he ordained to give battle to duke wyllyam. But the duke axed him of these three things/ if that he would have his daughter to wife as he made & swore his oath & behyght/ or that he would hold the land of him in truage/ or he would determine this thing in battle. This Harolde was a proud man & a strong and trusted wonder moche upon his strength and fought with duke wyllyam and with his people. But Harolde & his men in this battle were discomfited/ & himself there was slain/ and this battle was ended at Tombryge in the second year of his regne/ upon sanyt Calixtus day/ and so he was buried at waltham. ¶ Of king william bastard & how he governed him well & wisely/ & of the great war between him and the king of France. AS willi●m Bastard duke of Normandy had conquered all the land/ upon christmas day then next let crown him king at westminster and as a worthy king gave unto Englishmen largely lands/ & to his knights And after ward he ween him over the see & came in to Normandy/ & there he dwelled a while. And in the second year of his reign he came again in to England/ and brought with him Maude his wife & let crown her queen of England oon wytsondaye. ¶ And though anon after the king of scotland/ thoe was called Malcolin began to strive & war with the king wylyam. And he ordained him toward scotland with his men both by land and by see/ for to destroy king Malcolin But they were accorded/ & the king of scotland became his man/ and held all his land of him. And king wyllyam received of him is homage and came again in to England. And as king wyllyam had be king xvii year. Maude the queen died/ on whom king wyllyam had begot many fair children/ that is for to say. Robert Curthos wylllyam Rous Richard also that died. Henry· Beauclerke/ and Maude also that was the earls wife of Bleynes/ and other four fair daughters. ¶ And after his wives death/ great debate began betwixt him & the king of France Philip but at the last they were accorded And though dwelled the king of England in Normandy/ & no man him warned/ & he no man long tyme. ¶ And the king of France said upon a day in scorn of king wyllyam had long time lain in child bed/ and long time had rested him there. And this word came to the king of England there that he died lie in Normandye at Rome. And for this word was tho evil apaid/ & also wonder wrath toward the king of France. And swore by god/ that when he were arysyn of his sickness/ he would lighten a thousand condelles to the king of France/ & anon let assemble a great host of Normandy & of english men. And in the beginning of the harvest he came in to France/ and brent all the towns that they came by through the country and rob & died all the sorrow that he might through out all France. And at the last he burned the city of Mandos'/ and commanded his people to bear would/ & as much as he might burn. And himself halpe there to all the he might with good will. And there was a great heat/ what of the fire what was so great/ & of the son that it was wondder hot/ that it stuffed him so that he became & fell in to a great disease & sickness And when he saw that he was so strong sick/ he ordained & assgned all Normandye to Robert Curthos his son/ & all england to wyllyam the Rous/ and bequone to Henry Beaclerke all his treasure. And when he thus had done/ he received all the sacraments of holy church/ and died the twenty year of his reign \ and lieth at Cane in Normandy. ¶ Anno dm. M.lxvi GRegorius the vii was pope after Alexander xii year/ this man ordained in a general Synodus/ that no priest should have a wife ne should dwell with women/ but though that the holy Synodus of Micena and other decrees had suffered. And thenne the priests set nought or little pondered his ordinance. This pope commanded that no man should here mass of a priest that had a concubine And he on ascertain time when he was cardinal and Legate in to France/ proceeded sharply against prelate's and/ that were symomers. And among other was one bishop there that was greatly famed with simony. And those that accused him/ privily hired them to say the country. The which the Legate conceived/ and afore all the people he said. let the judgement of this men cease at this time/ for it is deceivable/ and let god dispose for it. And said/ thus it is certain. That the dignity of a bishop is the yever of the holy ghost. And whosomever buyeth a bishopric/ doth against the holy ghost. Thenne if thou bishop died not against the holy ghost say openly afore all the people (Glori● petri et filio et speritui sancto) And many times he began to say it/ but he could never speak (spiritui sancto) then he was deposed of his bishopric/ and after he could speak it will enough. ¶ Victor the third was pope after him oo year/ & this man was poisoned with venom in the chaly●. ¶ Vrbanus was pope after him two year. This man cursed the king of France for his adu●●●erys. And he called a counsel at Claurum in the which he ordained/ that matins of our lady should be said every day/ and on Saturday her solemn mass. And it is said/ that this was showed unto the freres of Cartusis. ¶ Also he called an other counsel at Turan for the holy land to be won again/ and pryvoked the people to that matere/ and within a little time after that matter/ the holy land was recovered and the sepulchre of our lord/ and Antioch with many other cities taken fro the Sarrasyns. And it is said and believed that. CC.M christian men went to that journey For there went of states old men and young/ and also rich and poor/ and no man compelled them. And this passage was made by the vision of our lady. And the princes of this peaple were diverse One was Godfroy de Boloynt a full noble man of all the world/ and a virtuous man/ and an other was Beemonde the Duke of Neaples. And the third was Hugh the kings brother of France/ and many other/ the which/ died full nobly for the faith of god. ¶ And it were to long in this book to rehearse the glorious acts that they died. ¶ Of king wyllyam Rous that was king williams bastards son the destroyed towns/ & houses of religion for to make the new forest. ANd after this wyllyam bastard reigned his son wyllyam the Rous. ¶ And this wyllyam was a wonder contrarious man to god and holy church/ and let amend & make the town of Cardies'/ that the paynims had destroyed. This king wyllyam destroyed holy church & their possessions in what part he might them find. And their fore there was so moche debate between him and the Archebyssop of Caunterbury Ancelmus. For by cause that he reproved him of his wickedness/ that he destroyed holy church. And for that cause the king bore to him great wrath. And so he exiled him out of this land/ & the archbishop went to the court of Rome/ & there dwelled with the pope/ And this king made the new forest/ & cast down & destroyed xxvi towns. & lxxx houses of religion/ all for to make his forest longer and broder· And became wonder glad & proud of his wood & of his forest. And nourished the wild beasts that were within/ that it was marvel for to wite/ so that men called him keeper of woods & of pastures. And the more longer that he lived/ the more wicked he became both to god & to all holy church & to all his men ¶ And this king let make the great hall of westmestre. So upon a day in the whitsuntide he held therein his first feast/ and he looked him about & said/ that the hall was to little by the half deal. And at the last he became so contrarious/ that all thing that pleased god disposed him/ & all thing that god loved/ he hated deadly. ¶ And so it befell that he dreamed upon a night a little or that he died/ that he was let blood/ and bled a great quantity of blood/ & a stream of blood leapt on high to ward heaven more than a hundred fathom and the clearness of the day was turned unto night and darkness of the firmament also ¶ And when that he a work he had great dread so that he not wist what for to do. And told his dream to men of his counsel and said that he had great dread/ and supposed that to him was some myscaunce to come. ¶ And the second night before a monk dreamed of the household/ that the king went in to a church with moche people/ & he was so proud that he despised all the people that were with him & that he took the image of the Crucefire & shamefully boat it with his teeth. And the Crucefixe meekly suffered all that he died. But yer y● king and as a wood man rent of the arms of the Crucefixe/ & cast it under his feet/ and defoylled it/ and threw it all a broad/ And ● great fire came out of the Crucefixe mouth. Of which dream many a man had great marvel and wonder. ¶ The good man that had dreamed this strange dream/ told it to a knight that was most prive with the king of all men/ & the knight was called Hamondes ¶ Soon the monk and he told the dreams to the king & said. That it should betoken other thing than good/ And nevertheless the king laughed there at twice or thrice/ and little se●te thereby/ & thought that he would go & hunt/ and play in the forest. And men counseled him the he should not go the day for no manner thing ne come in the wood/ so that he abode at home before meet/ But only as he had eaten no man him might let/ but he would go unto the wood for to have his dysporce. ¶ And so it befell that one of his knights that height walter Tyrell/ would have shot to a heart/ and his arrow glanced upon a branch/ & thorough misadventure smote the king to the heart And so he fell down deed to the ground with out any word speaking/ and so ended his life days. And it was no marvel/ for the day that he died he had let to firm the archbishop rich of Caunterbury/ & xabbayes also/ & ever more died great destruction to holy church/ through wrongful taking & axenges/ for no man durst withstand that he would have done. And of his lewdness he would never withdraw/ neither to amend his life. And there fore god would suffer him no longer to regne in his wickedness. And he had be king xiii year and vi weeks/ and lieth at westminster. ¶ Anno dm. M.lxxxviii. paschal was pope after Vrbanus xviii year and .v. months/ the wiche the xiii ye●e of his bishopric with his cardinals was put in prison/ by Henry the fourth Emperor & they might not be delivered until the pope had swore that he should keep peace with him/ and that he should never curse him/ and on that promise/ the pope gave the Emperor a privilege/ and the year after the pope damned that privilege/ & said on this wise. let us comprehend all holy scripture the old testament & the new the laws of the prophecies the gospel & the canons of apostles/ & all the decres of the pope's of Rome/ that all they held I hold/ and that that they dampened ● damn/ and most specya●le that privilege granted to Henry the Emperor/ the which rather is granted to venge his malice than to multiply his paceyence in virtue. For evermore I damn the same privilege ¶ Of king Henry Beauclerk that was william Rous brother/ & of the debate between him & Robert Curthos his brother. ANd when wyllyam Rous was deed. Henry Beauclerk his brother was made king because wyllyam Rous had no child begotten on his body. And this Henry Beauclerk was crowned king at London the fourth day after that his brother was deceased/ that is to say/ the fifth day of August. ¶ And anon as ancelmus that was archbishop of Caunterbury that was at the court of Rome heard tell that wyllyam Rous was deed/ he came again in to England & the king Beauclerk welcomed him with moche onour. And the first year that king Henry reigned & was crowned. He spoused maude the was Margaretes daughter the queen of scotland. And the archbishop Ancelmus of Caunterbury wedded theme And this king begat upon his wife two sons & a daughter/ that is to say. wyllyam and Richard & Maude. And this Maude was after ward the Empress of Almaigne. ¶ And in the second year of his regne/ his brother Robert Curthos/ that was duke of Normandy came with an huge host in to england for to challenge the land. But through counsel of wise men of the land/ they were accorded in this manner. That the king should give his brother the duke a thousand pound every year. And which of them that lived longest should be that others heir and so between them should be no debate ne strife. ¶ And then when they were thus accorded/ the duke went home again in to Normandye· ¶ And when the king had reigned four year. There a rose a great debate between him and the archbishop of Caunterbury Ancelmus. For by cause that the Archebysshoh would not grant to him for calenges of churches at his will. And the reforde persons the archbishop Ancelmus went over the see unto the court of Rome and there he dwelled with the pope. And in the same year the duke of Normandy came in to England to speak with his brother. ¶ And among all other things the duke of Normandye. for gave unto the king his brother the foresaid thousand pound by year that should pay unto the duke. ¶ And with good love the king and the duke departed/ & there the duke went again in to Normundy. And when though two year were agone/ Through the entycement of the devil and of simple men/ a great debate arose between the king and the duke/ so that through counsel the king went over the see in to Normandy/ and when the king of England was come in to Normandy/ all the great lords of Normandye turned unto the king of England and held against the duke their own lord/ and him forsook/ and to the king them held/ and all the good castles and towns of Normandy. And soon after was the duke taken and lad with the king in to England. And the king let put the duke in to prison/ and this was the vengeance of god. ¶ For when the duke was in the holy land god gave him such might and grace that he was chosen for to have be king of Iherusalem/ and he forsook it and would not take it upon him/ And therefore god sent him that shame and despite for to put in his brother's prison/ though seized king Hery all Normandye in to his hand/ and held it all his life time. ¶ And in the same year came the bishop Ancelmus for the court of Rome in to England again. And the king and he were accorded. ¶ And in the next year coming after/ there began a great debar between the king Phylyppe of France and king Henry of Englende/ wherefore king Henry went in to normandy/ and there was strong war between them two. And though deye● the king of France & Louis his son was mad king anon after his death. And though went king Henry again into england/ & married Maude his daughter unto henry the emperor of Almaigne. ¶ Of the debate that was betwixt king Louis of France & king Hery of Eenglonde/ & how kynhe Henry's two snes were lost in the high se●. AS king Henry had be king xvii year/ a great debate arose betwixt king Louis of France and king Henry of England/ for by cause that the king had sent in to Normandy to his men/ that they should be helping unto th'earl of Bloys as much as they might in war against the king of France/ And that they should be as ready to hy● as they were to their own lord/ for by cause that th'earl had spoused his sister dame maude. And for this cause the king of France died much sorrow to Normandy. wherefore the king of England was wonder wroth/ & in haste wen●e over the see with a great power/ & came in to normandy for to defend that land And the war between them lasted two year/ till at the last they two fought together. And the king of France was discomfited/ & unneaths escaped away with moche pain/ & the most party of his men were taken. And the king died with them what him best liked/ And some of them he let go freely/ and some he let be put unto the death. But afterward those two kings were accorded. And when king Henry had only all the land of Normandy/ & dyscomfyted his enemies of France/ he turned again in to England with mochen honour. And his two sons wyllyam and Richard would have come after the father & went to the see with a great company of people. But are that they might come to land/ the ship came against a roche and all were drowned that were there in/ save oo man that was in the same ship that escaped. And this was upon saint Katheryns' day/ and these were the names of them that were drowned. William and Richard the kings sons/ the earl of Chestre Ottonell/ his brotger Geffroy Rydell Walter Emurci. Godefray Archedeken/ the kings daughter/ the countess of Perches the kings niece the countess of Chestre/ & many other. ¶ When king Henry and other lords arrived in England/ and heard these tidings/ they made sorrow enough/ And all their mirth and joy was turned in to morning and sorrow. ¶ How Maude the Empress came again in England/ & how she afterward wedded to Geffroy th'earl of Angoy. ANd when that two year were agone that the Earl had dwelled with the king/ the earl went from the king/ and begun to war upon him & did moche harm in the land of Normandy/ & took there a strong castle & there he dwelled all that year. And though came to him tidings that Henry the Emperor of Almaigne that had spoused Maude his daughter was deed/ and that she dwelled no longer in Almaigne/ & that she would come again in to Normandy to her father And when that she was come unto him/ he took her tho to him & came again in to England/ & made the englishmen to do oath and feaute to the Empress And the first man that made the oath was wyllyam the archbishop of Caunterbury And that other David king of Scotland/ and after him all the barons and earls of England. ¶ Also after that the noble man th'earl of Angoy that was a worthy knight/ sent unto the king of england/ that he would grant him for to have his daughter to spouse/ that is to say Maude the Empress. And for by cause that her father wist that he was a noble man/ the king him granted & consented there to. And though took he his daughter & lad her in to Normandy/ & came to the noble knight Geffroy/ & there he spoused the foresaid Maude with moche honour/ & the Earl begat upon her a son/ that was called Henry the Empress son. ¶ And after when all this was done/ king Henry dwelled all that year in Normandy. & after the long time a grievous sickness took him where thorough he died. And this king Henry reigned xxxv year & four months. And after died as is before said in Normandy. And his heart was entered in the great church of our lady in Roven. & his body was brought with moche honour in to England & entered at reading in the abboye/ of the which abbey he was beginner and founder. HEnrycus the fourth was Emperor in Almaigne after Harry the third xu year. This man put his own father in prison/ & there held him till he died. And took pope paschal with his Cardynalles/ & present them as it is said afore. For the which cause as it is supposed he lacked issue. For he wedded the kings daughter of England Maude. But after ward he came to grace/ and all the laws of the church freely he resyned to Calixtus the pope. And besought him to give him in penance that he should never come again to his Empire/ that he might have remission of his trespaas. And after the opinion of many a man/ he was wilfully exiled and died and his wife both at Chestre in England. ¶ Gelasius was pope after paschal two year. And fled from Henry the Emperor in to Bourgoyne and there deceased. This Emperor those Benedyctus a spaniard to be pope/ the which strove with Calixtus. ¶ Calixtus was pope after him two year and five months. This Calixtus was the son of the duke of Bourgoyne & was chosen in the place of Gelasius/ And when he should come to Rome/ he took the for said Benedictus/ and made him to ride afore him shamefully. For he on a mule turned his face to the tail of the mule/ & held the tail in his hand as a bridle/ till he came through the city/ and there he was put in prison. And this pope made peace with the Emperor. ¶ Honorius was pope after him two year/ and little of him is written. ¶ Nota. ¶ Harry the fourth Emperor of Almaigne deceased this time and was buried with his progenitors/ after some men with such an epitaph (Filius hic: pater hic Auus hic: proauus jacet istis) ¶ But it is likely to be truer that the gerald said (in Itinerario walk) wherefore he saith/ that after he had prisoned his carnal father/ & his sperytuell father the pope with his Cardynalles/ after he was reconciled & wilfully he was exiled. And he left Maude his wife the kings daughter of England privily/ and lived an hermits life at Chestre ten year where he might live as no man knew him. And he called himself Godyscallus/ the which Godysson is called. So the Emperor secretly went away/ & Maude his wife the Empress there/ she went unto her father Henry in to Normandy. where anon after she was wedded unto Geffroy Plantagenet the duke of Andegame upon whom he begat Henry the second afterward king of England. Under whom saint Thomas of Caunterbury reigned & died ¶ Lotharius was Emperor aftey Henry the fourth xii year/ And little of him is wrytem/ but that he was manerely to the church. And that he subdued Roger the usurper of the king of Cycyle. ¶ Hugo de sancto Victory was a noble man this time at Paris/ and a noble doctor/ of the nation of Saxons. ¶ The order of saint johan baptist at Iherusalem began this time/ by the worshipful man Reymonde mightily disposed unto the we●ke of mercy. ¶ All this order make their way to serve poor men. ¶ Anno dm. M.C.xxxiiii. INnocencius was pope after Honorius xiiii. year. and. vii· months. This man was a very devout man/ and with such men he accompanied him and he had strife against▪ Perys of Lion the which named him Anocletus. And by strength he took the popehede. The which innocentius saw/ and with two Galeys he fled in to France/ & was worship fully received of saint bernard the which that time had all the kings and princes in his hand. And he provoked them for to bring this pope Innocencius in to dignity again. And at the last all thing was ceased/ and his enemies were destroyed through the judgement of god. And he was pope again/ & lived profitably/ & was buried at Latranence· ¶ How Stephen that was king Henry's sisters son/ was made king of England. AFter this king Henry that was the first/ was made king his nephews sister son. Stephen earl of Bolonye. For anon as he heard the tidings of his uncles death/ thenne he passed the see and came in to England through counsel & strength of many great lords in England/ against the oath that they had made to Maude the Empress/ took the ream/ & he let crown Stephen king of the land. ¶ And the archbishop wyllyam of Caunterbury/ that first made the oath of feaute to Maude the Empress/ set the crown upon Stephen's heed and him anoynetd. And bishop roger of Salysbury maintained the kings part in as much as he might. ¶ The first year the king Stephen began to regne/ he assembled a great host and went to war scotland/ for to have warred upon the king of scotland. But he came against him in peace and in good manner and to him trusted. But he made to him none homage/ for as much as he had made unto th'empress Maude. ¶ And in the fourth year of his reign Maude the Empress came in to England & though began debate between king Stephen & Maude th'empress. This Maude went unto the city of Nicholl/ & the king her besyged long time and might not speed/ so well the city was kept & defended. And though that were within the city/ marvelously scaped a way without any manner of harm. And though took the king the city/ and dwelled therein till Candelmasse And though came the barons that held with the Empress. That is for to say/ the earl Radulphe of Chestre the earl Robert of Glocestre. Hugh Bygot. Robert of Morley/ and these brought with them a strong power & fought with the king/ and gave him a great battle In the which battle king Stephen was taken/ & set in prison in the castle of Brytowe. ¶ How Maude the Empress went fro wynchestre to Oxenforde/ and after she escaped to walynforde/ and of the sorrow and disease that she had. NOw as the king was taken & brought in to ward in the castle of Bristol/ this Maude the Empress was made lady of England/ & all men held her for lady of the land But those of Kent held with king Stephen's wife/ & also wyllyam of Prece & his retinue halpe them & held war against Maude them press. And anon after the king of scotland came to them with a huge number of people And though went their together to wynchestre/ there that the Empress was/ & would have taken her But the Earl of Glocestre came with his power & fought with them. And the Empress in the mean while that the battle dured scaped from them & went unto Oxenford and there held her. And in that battle was the earl of Glocetre discomfited & taken & with him many other lords. And for his deliverance/ was king Stephen delivered out of prison. And when he was delivered out of prison/ he went thence unto Oxenford & besieged th'empress that was tho at Oxenford. And the siege endured fro michaelmas unto saint Andrews tide. ¶ And the Empress let cloth her though all in white linen cloth 〈◊〉 by cause she would not be known. Fo● 〈◊〉 same time there was moche sorow● and ●●e escaped by the Tamyse from them a way that were her enemies. And from thence ●he w●nte to walyngforde & there held her. And the king would have besieged there/ but he had so moche to do with the earl Radulphe of Ch● and with Hugh Bygot that strongly wa●d upon him in every place ● that he wist whether for to torn. And the earl of Gloucester ●alpe him with his power. ¶ How Gaufryde the earl of Angoy ●au● unto Henry the Empress son all Normandy ANd after this the king went unto wylton/ and would have made a castle there. But though came to him the earl of Glocestre with a strong power & there almost he had taken the king but yet the king escaped with moche pain. And wyllyam Mar●ell there was taken. And for whose delyuera●ce they gave unto the earl of Glocestre the good castle of Shyrborn that he had taken. ¶ And when this was done/ the earl Robert & all the kings enemies went unto Faryngdon and begun there for to make a strong castle/ but the king came thither with a strong power and drove him thence/ And in that same year the earl Radulphe of Chestre was accorded with the king and came to his court at his commandment And the earl deemed safely for to come. And the king anon let take him/ & put him in to prison. And might never for no thing come out till that he had yielded up to the king the castle of Nicholl/ the which he had taken from the king with his strength in the xu year of his regne. ¶ And Gaufride the earl of Angoy gave up unto Henry his son all Normandy. And in the year that next ensued/ died the earl Gaufryde. And Henry his son though anon turned again to Angoy/ & there was made earl wy●h moche honour of all his men of the land. And to him died feaute & homage the most party of the land. And though was this Henry the Empress son earl of Angoy/ & also duke of Normandy. ¶ In the same year was made a divorce bytwnene the king of France/ and the queen his wife that was right heir of Gascoigne. For because that it was known and proved/ that they were sib and nigh of blood. And though spoused her Henry the Empress son earl of Angoy and the duke of Normandy/ and duke of Gascoigne. ¶ In the xviii year of this Stephen this Henry came in to England with a strong power/ & began for to war upon this king Setphen. & took the castle of Malmesbury/ & died moche harm. And the king Stephen had so moche war that he wist not whither for to go. But at the last they were accorded through the archbishop Theobaldus/ & through other worthy lords of England/ upon this condition. that they should depart the Realm of England but ween them two/ so that Henry the Empress son should holy have the half of all the land of England. And thus they were accorded & peace was cried throughout all England. And when the accord was made between though two lords/ king Stephen became so sorry/ for because that he had lost half England/ & fell in to such a malady/ and died in the xix year/ and viii weeks and .v. days of his reign all in war and in contake. And he byeth in the abbey of Feversham/ the which he lets make in the xvi year of his regne. CElestynus the second was pope after innocentius .v. months. And little he died. ¶ Lucius was after him & little proffyted/ for they died both in a pestilence. ¶ Eugenius the second was pope after him .v. year & four months. This man fryst was the disciple of saint bernard/ & after the abbot of saint Anastasius by Rome. And came to the church of saint Cesary and was chosen pope by the Cardynalles/ he no thing knowing thereof/ And for dread of the Senators he was consecrated without this city/ this man was an holy man/ & suffered tribulation. And atte the last he deceased/ and lieth at saint Peter'S And after anon deceased Saint bernard. ¶ Petrus Lombardus the bishop of Paris brother to Graciam/ compiled the four books of the Sentence this tyme. ¶ Petrus Commestor brother to Gracian and to Pyerrs Lombardus/ made Hystoriam Scolasticam/ and other books. ¶ Fredericus primus after Conradus was emperor in Almaigne & in Rome ·xxxiii. year. This man after the death of Adryan the pope the which crowned him/ died cursedly with Alexander to him great prejudice For he did help four that strove against the apostles seat. And he fought mightily against the king of France. through power of the Danies & other nations. But richard the king of England halpe for to expoulse him. And he destroyed medyolanun to the ground/ Of the which city/ the walls were higher than the walls of yny other city/ This man at the last after that he had done many vexations to the pope/ he was recounsyled/ for he dread lest the lombards would have rebelled against him/ he axed for yevenes of the pope. And took the cross upon him/ and went unto the holy land/ and died many marvelous things there/ almost as much as ever died Karolus magnus. And there he came by a town that men call Armeniam and in a little water he was drowned/ and at Tyrum he was buried. ¶ Anastasius was pope after Eugenius four year/ and more. This man was abbot of Rufy/ and then he was chose cardinal/ and after pope. ¶ Of king henry the second that was the Empress son/ in whose time saint Thomas of Caunterbury was chancellor. ANd after this king Stephen reigned Henry the Empress son/ and was crowned of the archbishop Theobaldus the xvii day before christmas. And in the same year Thomas Beket of london archbishop of caunterbury was made the kings chancellor of England. ¶ The second year that he was crowned/ he let caste down all the new castles that were longyngt to the Crown/ the which king Stephen had give unto diverse men/ & them had made earls & barons/ for to hold with him & to help him against Henry th'empress son. ¶ And the fourth year of his reign he put under his own lordship the king of walis. And in the same year the king of Scotlond had in his own hand/ that is to say/ the city of Karleyll the castle of Bambrugh/ and the new castle upon Tyne/ and the earldom of Lancastre. ¶ The same year the king with a great power went in to wales/ & let caste down woods and made ways & made strong the castle of Rutlonde Basyngwark. And among the castles he made an house of the Temple. ¶ And in the same year was richard his son born/ that afterward was earl of Oxford And the fourth year of his regne/ he made Gaufryde earl of britain. And in that year he changed his money. And the vi year of his reign he lad a great host to Tolouse & conquered it. And the vii year of his regne deyed Theobaldus the archbishop of Caunterbury/ and though almost all the city of Caunterbury through mischief was brent. The ix year of his reign Thomas beket that was his chancellor was chosen archbishop of Caunterbury· And upon saint Bernardes' day he was sacred. And in that year was borne the kings daughter Eelenore. ¶ And in the ten year of his reign saint Edward the king was translated with moche honour. ¶ And the xi year of his rgne he held his parliament at Northampton/ and fro thence fled saint Thomas archbishop of Counterbury for the great debate that was betwixt the king & him. For if he had be found on the morrow he had be slain/ & therefore he fled thence with three fellows on foot only/ that no man wist where he was \ & went over the see to the pope of Rome And this was the principal cause. For asmuch as the king would have put clerks to death that were ataynt of felony/ without any prevelegye of holy church. ¶ And the xii year of his reign was johan his son borne. ¶ And the xiii year of his reign died Maude the Empress that was mother. ¶ The xiiii year of his reign the duke of Saxon spoused Maude his daughter. And he begat upon her three sons/ that were called Henry. Othus. and. William ¶ And in the xv. year of his reign died the good Earl Robert of Glocestre/ that founded the abbey of Nun of Eton. And in the same year Mark king of jerusalem conquered Babylon ¶ And the xvi year of his regne/ he let crown his son Henry at westmestre· & him crowned Roger archbishop of york/ in harming of Thonas' archbishop of Caunterbury. wherefore this same Roger was accused of the pope. ¶ How king Henry that was son of king. Henry the Empress son/ and of the debate that was between him and his father while that he was in Normandye. AFter the coronation of king Henry the son of king Henry the Empress lone. That same Henry th'empress son went over to Normandy & there he let marry Elenore his daughter of the dolphin that was king of Almaigne. And in the vii yepe that the archbishop saint▪ Thomas had been our lawed/ the king of France made the king & saint Thomas accorded. And thenne came Thomas the archbishop to Chaunterbury again to his own church. & this accord was made in the beginning of Aduente & afterward he was slain & martyred the fifth day of christmas then following. For king Henry thought upon saint Thomas the archbishop upon christmas day as he sat at his meet & these words said That if he had any good knights with him/ he had be many a day passe● avenged upon the archbishop Thomas· ¶ And anon sir William Breton sir Hugh Moruile/ sir wyllyam Tracy & sir Reygn●l●de Fitz vrse/ beers' son in english privily went unto the see/ & came in to England unto the church of Caunterbury & there they hy● martyred at saint Benet's altar in the mode● church. And that was in the year of the incarnation of Ihesu christ. M.C.lxxii. year. And anon after Henry the new king began for to make war upon Henry his father & upon his brothern wyllyam & Othus. ¶ And so upon a day the king of France & all the kings sons/ and the king of scotland and all the greatest lords of England were risen against king Henry the father. And at the last as god would/ he conquered all his enemies. And the king of France & he were accorded· ¶ And though sent king Henry specially unto the king of France/ & prayed him heartily for his love that he would send to him the names by letters of them that where the beginner's of the war against him. And the king of france sent again to him by letters the names of them that began that war against him. The first was Iohn his son/ & richard his brother/ & Henry the new king his son. though was Henry the king wonder wroth/ & cursed the time the ever he him begat/ & while the war dured. Henry his son the new king died sore repenting his misdeeds & most sorrow made of any man for because of saint Thomas death of Caunterbury. and prayed his father with moche sorrow of heart mercy for his trespaas. And his father forgaaf him/ and had of him great pity. And after he died the xxxvi year of his regne/ & lieth at reading. ¶ How the christian men lost all the holy land in the foresaid kings time by a falls christian man that became a sarrasyne. ANd while this king reigned/ the great battle was in the holy land between the christian men and the sarrasyns but christian men were there slain through great treason of the earl Tyrpe/ that would have had to wife the queen of Iherusalem/ that sometime was Baldewynes wife/ but she forsook him and took to her lord a knight a worthy man/ that was called sir Gnyperches/ wherefore the earl Tyrpe was wroth/ & went anon right to the Sultan that was Sultan of Babylon/ & became his man and forsook his christendom/ and all christian law. And the cerysten men wist not of his deeds/ but wend for to have had great help of him as they were wont to have before. ¶ And when they came to the battle/ this falls Cresten man turned unto the saracens/ & forsook his own nation. And so were the christian men there slain with the Sarrasyns. ¶ And thus were the christian men slain & put to horrible death/ and the city of jerusalem destroyed/ and the holy cross borne a way. ¶ The king of France & all the great lords of the land let them be crossed for to go in to the holy londe· And amongs them went richard king Henry's son/ first after the king of France/ that took the cross of the. archbishop of Toures/ But he took not the viage at that time for cause that he was let by other manner ways/ & needs to be done. ¶ And when king Henry his father had reigned xxxvi year and .v. months and four days/ he died and lieth at Fonntenerad. ¶ Anno dm. M. C·lvi. ADrianus the fourth was pope after Anastasius ·v. year. This pope was an english man & the voys of the common people saith he was a bound man & to the abbot of saint Albon in England. And when he desired to be made a monk there he was expulsed and he went over see and gave him to study and to virtue. And after was made bishop of Albanacens/ then he was made Legate in to the land of wormacian/ and he converted it to the faith. Then he was made pope and for the wounding of a cardinal he enterdyted all the city of Rome/ And he cursed wyllyam the king of Cecyle/ and caused him to submit him. This man the first of all the pope's with his Cardynalles dwelled in the old city. ¶ Alexander the third was pope after him xii year. This Alexander had strife ·xvii. year/ and the four strivers that the Emperor set against him/ he overcame them & cursed them/ and all died an evil death This man also accorded frederic the Emperor and▪ Emanuel of Constantinoble/ & the king of seculorum And this man nourished saint Thomas of Caunterbury in his exile. ¶ Nota. ¶ Saint bernard was canonized by this Alexander/ and his abbot for bode him he should do no miracles/ for there was so mighty concourse of people. And he obeyed to him when he was deed and died no moo. ¶ Lutius the third was pope after Alexander four year and two months. Of him little is written. In his days deceased Henry the first son to Henry the second/ & this is his Epytaphy. Omnis honoris honor decor et decus urbis et orbis. Milicie splendour gloria lumen aper. julius ingenio virtutibus hector. Achellis viribus. Augustus' moribus ore paris. ¶ Vrbanus the third was pope after Lucius two year/ this man deceased for sorrow when he heard tell that jerusalem was taken with the sarrasyns· ¶ Gregorius the viii. was pope after him four months And he practised mightily how jerusalem might be won again/ but anon he deceased. ¶ Clemens the third was pope after him three year/ and lytyell he died. ¶ Of king richard that conquered again all the holy land/ that the christian men had lost. ANd after this king Henry reigned richard his son a stout man & a strong & a worthy/ & also bold. And he was crowned at westminster of the archbishop Baldewyn the third day of Septembre. ¶ And in the second year of his regne/ king richard himself and Baldewyn the archbishop of Caunterbury/ and Hubert bishop of Salysbury/ and Radulf earl of Glocetre/ and other many lords of England/ went in to the holy land/ And in that viage died the archbishop of Caunterbury. And king richard went before in to the holy land & rested not till that he came forth in his way unto Cypress/ and took it with great force. And after that king richard went forth to ward the holy land/ & gate there as much as the christian men had there before lost. And conquered the land again thoruhh great might/ safe only the holy cross. And when king richard came to the city of Acres for to get the city/ theridamas arose a great debate between him & the king of France/ so that the king of France went again in to France & was wroth toward king Richard but yet for all that/ be king richard went again/ he took the city of Acres. & when he had take it/ he dwelled in the city a while. But to him came tidings/ that the earl Iohn of Oxenford his brother would have seized all England in to his hand/ and Normandy also/ and would let crown him king of all the land. ¶ And when king richard heard tell of these tiding/ he went again toward england with all the speed that he might. But the duke of ostrich met with him and took him and brought him unto the Emperor of Almaigne/ And the Emperor him brought unto prison. And afterward he was delivered for an Huge ransom/ that is for to say/ a hundred thousand pound. And for the which ransom to be paid/ each other chalice of England was melted and made in to money. And all the monks of the order of Cysteaux gave all their books through out all England/ for to do them to sell/ and the ransom for to pay. ¶ How king richard came again from the holy land/ & avenged him of his enemies. SO as this king richard was in prison/ the king of France warred upon him strongly in normandy/ and Iohn his brother warred upon him in England. But the bishops and the barons of England with stood him with all their power that they might get/ & took the castle of windsor and other castles. And the foresaid Iohn saw that he had no might ne pour against the barons of england for to fight But anon went him over the see unto the king of France. ¶ And when richard came out of prison/ & was delivered and came in to England/ anon after Candelmasse in great haste/ he went unto Notyngham/ & the castle of Notyngham to him was yoleden/ and though discomfited he his brother johan and though that with him held. And after he went unto the city of wynchestre/ & there he let him crown king of England. And after he went unto Normandy for to war upon the king of France And the king of France came with vi hundred knights to ward guysor's. And king richard met him/ and though would have yeven him battle. But the king of France fled though/ and hundred knights of his were taken and two hundred steeds that were trapped with iron. ¶ And anon after went king richard for to besiege the castle Gaillarde ● And as he road upon a day by the castle for to take a vysement of the castle an arbarlaster somte him with a quarrel that was enuynymmed. And the king drew out the shaft of the quarrel/ but the quarrels heed abode still in his heed. And it began for to rankle/ that he ne might not help himself/ ne move his arms. And though he wist that he had deaths wounded upon him/ that he might not be hole for no manner of thing. ¶ He commanded anon sharply all his men for to assoil the castle. So that the castle was taken or he died. And so manly his men died that all the people that were in the castle were taken/ & the king died with them what he would. And commanded his men that they should bring before▪ him the man that him so hurt & so wounded. And when he came before the king/ the king axed him what was his name. And he said my name is Bertham Gurdon wherefore said the king haste thou me slain/ sith I did the never none harm. Sir said he. Though ye died me never none harm/ ye yourself with your own hand slew my father & my brother. And therefore I have quite now your travail. though said king richard. He that died upon the cross/ to bring man's soul fro pain of hell/ forgive that my death and I also forgive it the. though commanded he that no man should him misdo. But for all the kings defending some of the kings men him followed and privily him slew. And the vi day after the king died shrive him/ & sore repentance having of his misdeeds/ & was houseled and anointed. ¶ Rud this king reigned but ix year and xxx weeks/ and died & lieth beside his father at Fontenerad. HEnyicus the fifth was Emperor viii year This Henricus was son to frederik/ & he wedded constance the kings daughter/ of Cecyle/ & though the occasion of her he subdued all the kingdom of Apulye/ & he drove all the people out the inhabit that land. ¶ Celestinus the third was pope after Clemens almost three year. This man was crowned upon Eester day/ & the day following he crowned Henry the emperor. And he made a palace at saint Peter's/ & deceased. ¶ innocentius the third was pope after him viii year & .v. months. this man was well lettered & he made a book of the wretchydneste of man's condition. & he made speculum miss & he mad many constitutions. This man dampened the book of Iohn joachim/ that which he made against master Peyrs Lombarde/ the maker of the Sentence. This time deceased the Emperor Henry. And the princes of almaigne discorded for some chose Otto/ & some chose Phylyppe broacher to Henry. then Phylyppe was falsely slain/ & Gtto was crowned of innocentius in France/ that which anon afught with the romans/ for they gave him no dew honour. And for that cause/ against the pope's will he took the kingdom of Apulye from frederik/ wherefore the pope cursed him. then after the fourth year of his regne/ the princes of Almaigne made frederik Emperor/ and victoriously he subdued Otto. ¶ wyllyam of Paris this time began the order of the freres Austyn/ the which ben called (fratres mendicantes) Franciscus an ytalyon a man of great perfection & an ensample to many a man/ died many a miracle this tyme. And he ordained the frere Minors. ¶ And the vi year of pope innocentius the third/ the order of the frere preachers began under dominic/ but it might not be confirmed till the first year Honorius. ¶ Of king Iohn/ that in the first year of his reign lost all Normandye. AS king richard was deed/ by cause that he had none heir/ neither son/ ne daughter/ thenne his brother Iohn was made king/ and crowned at westminster of Hubert that though was archbishop of Caunterbury. And when he began for to regne/ he became so marvelous a man/ and went over in to normandy/ and warred upon the king of France. And so long they warred together/ till at the last king johan lost all Normandy & Angoy/ wherefore he was sore annoyed/ & it was no marvel. ¶ though let he assemble before him at London archbishops/ bishops/ abbots/ & pryours'/ Earls & Barons & held there a great parliament & axed there of the clergy/ the tenth of every church of England/ for to conquer and get again Normandy & Angoy that had lost. They would not grant that thing/ wherefore he was wonder wroth. ¶ And in that same time died Hubert. The prior & the covent of Caunterbury chose against the kings will to be archbishop Stephen of Langton a good clerk/ that dwelled at the court of Rome/ & sent to the pope their cleryon/ & the pope confirmed it/ and sacred him at Viterbi· ¶ When the king wist these tidings/ he was wonder wroth/ & drove the prior and the covent fro Counterbury/ and exiled out of England/ & commanded that no letter that come fro Rome/ ne commandment/ should be received ne pleryd in England. When these tidings came to the pope/ he sent king johan his letter/ & prayed him with good will and good heart/ that he would receive Stephen the archbishop of Caunterbury to his church/ & suffer the prior and his monks to come again to their own dwelling. But the king would not grant it for no thing. ¶ How king Iohn would no thing do for the pope's commandment. wherefore all England was interdicted and suspended. ANd at the last the pope sent by his authority/ and enjoined to the bishops of England/ that if the king would not receive the prior of Caunterbury & his monks/ that they should do general enterditinge through out all England. And granted full power to four bishops to pronounce the interditing/ if he it warned· The first was bishop wyllyam of London/ & that other bishop Eustace of Ely/ & the third was bishop Walter of wynchestre/ & the fourth was bishop Gyles of Hertforde. ¶ And these four bishops prayed the king/ kneeling on their knees/ & sore wearing/ that he would do the pope's commandment. And showed him the pope's Bulls of the entertyding/ but for no prayer that they might pray he would not consent thereto. And when the bishops saw this/ they went fro the king. And in the morn after the Annunciation of our lady/ they pronounced the general interditing throughout all England so that the church doors were shit with keys & with other fastings & with walls. And when the interditing was pronounced/ then the king began for to wax all out of measure/ & anon took in to his hand all the possessions of the four bishops/ & of all the clergy through out of all england/ the land he took/ and ordained men for to keep it/ that the clerkis might not have their living. wherefore the bishops cursed all them/ that put/ or should meddle with holy church goods/ against the will of them that ought them. ¶ And when the king would not of his malice cease for no manner thing. These four bishops afore said went over the see/ and came to the bishop of Caunterbury/ & told him all thing. And the archbishop to them said/ that they should go again to Caunterbury/ and he should come thither to them/ or else he would send unto them certain persons in his stead/ that should do as much as of he himself were there. And when the bishops heard this they turned again in to England/ and came unto Caunterbury. The tidings came to the king/ that the bishops were come again to Caunterbury/ and himself might not come thither that time he sent thither bishops Earls/ & abbots/ for to create with them/ that the king should receive th'archbishop Stephen/ & the prior and all the monks of Caunterbury/ that he should never after that time no thing take of holy church against the will of them that oweth the goods. And that the king should make full amends to them/ of whom he had any goods taken. And that holy church should have all franchise/ as farforth as they had in saint Edwardis time the holy Confessor. ¶ How Stphen of Langton came again▪ in to England through the pope's commandment/ and how he went again. SO when the form of accordemente thus was ordained. It was in a payer of indentures/ & their seals to that one par●e and they that came in the kings name put their seals to that other part of the indentures. And four bishops above said took that one part of the indentures to them. And that other part of the indentures \ they bare with them to show to the king. ¶ When the king saw the form and understood/ he held him full well apaid of all manner things as they had ordained/ saving as touching/ restitution of the goods for to make again. To that thing would not accord/ & so he sent word again to the four bishops/ that they should do out and put away that one point of restitution. But they answered/ that they would not do one word out. ¶ though sent the king to the archbishop by the four bishops that he should come to Caunterbury for to speak with him there/ and sent unto him saufcondyte under pledges. that is to say/ his justices Gylbert Peyteum. William de la Brener ● and johan fitz Hugh/ that in their conduit/ safely he should come & go again at his own will And thus in this manner th'archbishop Stephen came to Caunterbury. when the archbishop was come/ the king came to Chill●● For he would no nigh Caynterbury at that tyme. But he sent by his treasurer bishop of wyncester that he should do out of the indentures the clause of restitution/ for to make of the goods ¶ And th'archbishop made his oath that he would never do out oo word thereof ne yet ●● change of that the bishops had spoken & ordained. And though the Archebyssop go again to Rome without any more doing. ¶ King johan was wrother than ever he was before and let make a common cry through out all England/ that all though that had holy church rents/ and went over the see/ that they should come again in to England at a certain day/ or else they should lose their rents for ever more. And that he commanded to every Shyref through out all England/ that they should inquire if any bishop abbot or prior/ or any other Prelate of holy church/ fro the day afterward/ receive any commandment that cometh fro the pope. That they should take the body/ & bring it before him/ and that they should take in to the kings hands all their lands of holy church/ that were give to any man/ by the Archebychop or by the prior of Caunterbury/ from the time of election of the archbishop. And commanded that all the woods that were the archbishops should be cast down unto the ground/ and all sold. ¶ How king Iohn destroyed the order of Cesteaux. ANd in the same year/ the irish men began to war upon king john/ & the king ordained him for to go in to ireland/ & let arere a huge tax throughout all England/ that is for to say xxx thousand mark. And thus he sent through out all England unto monks of the order of Cisteaux that they should help him of ·vi. thousand mark of silver. ¶ And they answered and said/ that they durst no thing do without their chief abbot if Cisteaux. wherefore king johan when he came again from ireland/ died them so much sorrow & care/ that they wist not whether to a bide/ for he took so moche ransom of every house/ & the some amounted to ix thousand & four hundred mark/ so that they were clean lost & destroyed/ & voided cheyr houses & their lands throughout all England. And the abbot of waversaye draded so much his menace/ that he forsook all the abbey & went thence & privily ordained him over the see to the house of Cisteaux. when the tidings came to the pope/ that the king hath done so moche malice/ then he was to ward the king full wroth And sent to Legates unto the king/ that one was called Pandulf/ & the other Duraunt/ that they should warn the king in the pope's name/ that he should cease of his persecution that he died unto holy church/ & amend the wrong & the trespass/ that he had done to the archbishop of Caunterbury/ & to the prior & unto the monks of Caunterbury/ & to all the clergy of England. And that he should rest over all the goods again that he had taken of them against their will & else they should curse him by name/ And to do this thing/ and to confirm the pope took them his letters in bulls patentes. ¶ These two Legates came in to England/ & came to the king to Northampton/ there that he held his parliament/ & full courteously they him salued & said. Sir we come fro the pope of Rome/ the peas of the holy church & the land to amend. And we admonest you first in the pope's half/ that ye make full restitution of the goods that ye have ravished & taken of holy church & of the land. And that y● receive Stephen archbishop of Caunterbury in to his dignity/ & the prior of Caunterbury/ & his monks. And that ye yield again unto the archbishop all his lands & rents/ without any withholding. ¶ And sir yet more over/ that ye shall make restitution/ unto all holy church/ whereof they shall hold them well apaid. though answered the king as touching the prior & his monks of Caunterbury. All that ye have said I will do gladly/ and all thing that ye will ordain. But as touching the archbishop. I shall tell you in my heart as it lieth. That the archbishop leave his archebysshoppryche/ & that the pope thenne for him would pray/ & thenne upon adventure/ me should like some other bishopric to give him in england And upon this condition I will him accept & receive And nevertheless as archbishop in England if he abide/ he shall never have so goods safeconduct/ but that he shall be take. ¶ though said Pandulf unto the king/ Sire holy church was wont never to discharge an archbishop without cause reasonable. But ever it hath be wont to chastise princes/ that to god & holy church were In obedience. ¶ What how now said the king menace ye me. Nay said Pandulf/ But ye now openly have told/ as it standeth in your heart. And to you we will tell what is the pope's will. And thus it standeth/ that he hath you holy interdicted & accursed/ for the wrongs that ye have done to holy church & to the clergy. And for as much as ye dwell/ & beth in will to abide in malice & in wretchedness/ & will not come out thereof/ ne to amend ye shall understand/ that this time after ward the sentence is upon you yeven and holdeth stead and strength/ and upon all though that with you hath communed before this time/ whether they been earls/ barons/ or knights/ or any other what so ever that they be we them assoil/ saufly unto this day· & fro this time after ward of what condition somever that they been we them accurse/ that with you comyne any word/ & do ween sentence upon them openly and specially And we assoil clean/ earls/ barrns/ knights/ and all other men of their homages/ services and feautres/ that they should unto you do/ And this tiding to confirm/ we give plain power/ to the bishop of wynchestre/ and the bishop of Norwhiche. And the same power we give in to Scotland to the bishop of Rochestre and of Salysbury. And in wales we give the same power to the bishop of saint david and of Landaf & of saint Ass. And more over we sent through out all christendom/ that all the bishops beyond the see/ that they do accurse all though that help you/ or any counseyl giveth you in any manner need that ye have to do in any part of the world. And we assoil them also all/ by authority of the pope/ & command them also with you for to fight/ as with him that is enemy to all holy church. ¶ though answered the king. what may ye do more to me ¶ Thomas answered Pandulf. we say to you in the word of god/ that ye ne no heir that ye have/ never after this day may be crowned. though said the kine. By him that is almighty god/ & I had wist this are that ye came in to my land/ that ye had brought me such tidings. I should have made you ready all one year. ¶ though answered Pandulf/ Full well wend we at our first coming/ that ye would have be obedient to god & holy church/ & have fulfilled the pope's commandment/ & now we have showed unto you/ & pronounced the pope's will/ as we were charged therewith/ And as now ye have said/ that if ye had wist the cause of our coming/ that ye would have do us to ride all an hole year. And as well ye might have said/ that ye would have taken an hole year of respite/ by the pope's leave. ¶ But for to suffer what death ye could ordain/ we shall not spare for to tell you holy all the pope's message and his will/ that we were charged with. ¶ How Pandulf delivered a clerk that had falsed & counterfeited the kings money before the king himself. ANd anon though commanded the king the Syrefs & Baylyfs of Northampton/ that were in the kings presence/ that they should bring forth all the prisoners/ that they might be done to death before Pandulf/ for by cause the king weaned that they would have gainsaid their deeds/ for cause of the death all thing that they had spoken afore ¶ When the prisoners were come before the king the king commanded some to be hanged/ and some to be drawn and some to draw out their eyen out of their heed. And among all other/ there was a clerk that had falsed the kings money. And the king commanded that he shoyde be hanged and drawed· And when Pandulf heard this commandment of the king/ he start him up right quickly/ & anon axed a book and a candle/ and would have cursed the king/ & all them that would set upon the clerk any hand. And Pandulf himself went for to seek a cross. And the king followed him/ & delivered him the clerk by the hand that he should do with him what he would. And thus was the clerk delivered & went thence. ¶ And Pandulf and Duraunt his fellow went fro the king/ & came again to the pope of Rome. And told him that king johan would not amended be. But ever abode so accursed ¶ And nevertheless the pope granted that year thorughout all England that priests might sing mass in covenable churches/ and consecrate our lords body ● & give it to sick men which were likely to pass out of this world. And also that men might christian children over all the land. ¶ And when the pope wist and saw that the king would not be under the rule of holy church for no manner thing. The pope thenne sent to the king of France in remysseon of his sins/ that he should take with him all the power that he might/ & go in to england for to destroy the king johan ¶ When these tydyges came to king johan/ then was he sore annoyed & sore dread lest he should lose his ream & himself be done to the death. ¶ then scent he to the pope messengers & said. He would be justified/ & come to amendment in all things/ and would make satisfaction to all manner of men after the pope's ordinance. ¶ Thenne scent the pope again in to England Pandulf and other messenger/ and came to Caunterbury to the king & there abode· And the viii day of May/ the king made another for to stand to the pope's ordinance/ before Pandulf the Legate in all manner of things in which he was accursed. And that he should make full restitution to all men of holy church & of religion/ and of the goods that he had taken of them against their will And all the great lords of England swore upon the book and by their holydom/ that if the king would not hold his oath/ they said the they would by strength make him hold it. ¶ Then put the kymge him to the court of Rome/ and then gaaf he up the ream of England and of ireland for him and for his heyers for ever more that should come after him/ so that king johan and his heyers should take the two reams of the pope's hands And should every year pay farm unto the court of Rome a thousand mark of silver. And though took the king the crown of his heed & seat it upon his knees And these words said he in hearing of all the great lords of England. Here Iresygne up the crown & the ream of England in to the pope innocentius hands the third/ & put me holy in his mercy and in his ordinance. ¶ though received Pandulf the crown of king Iohn and kept it ●yue days as fore seizing/ taking of two realms/ of England & of ireland. And confirmed all manner things by his Chartre that followeth afer. ¶ Of the letetr obligatory the king Iohn made to the court of Rome/ wherefore the Peter's pens been gathered throughout all England. TO all christian people throughout all the world dwelling. johan by the grace of god king of England greeting to your university. And be it known that for as much as we have grieved and offended god and our mother holy church of Rome. And for asmuch as we have need unto the mercy of our lord Ihesu christ. And also we may no thing so worthy offer/ as competent satisfaction to make to god and to holy church/ but if that it were our own body/ as with our reams of England and of ireland. Thenne by the grace of god we desire to meek us/ for the love of him that meked him to the death of the cross thorough counsel of these noble earls and barons/ we offer all freely/ grant to god and to the apostle saint Peter and saint poule/ and to our mother church of Rome/ and to our holy father pope innocentius the third/ and to all the pooes that cometh after him all the ream and patronages of churches of England and of ireland/ with their appertenances/ for remission of our sins/ and for help & health of our kin soul's/ and of all christian soul is So that from this day after ward we will receive/ & hold of our mother church of Rome/ as fee firm/ doing feaute to our holy father pope innocentius the third/ and so to all the pope's that cometh after him/ in the same manner above said. And in presence of the wise man Pandulf the pope's Subdeaken/ we make lieges homage/ as it were in the pope's presence/ and before gym were. And shall do all manner things above said/ And thereto we bind us/ and all that cometh after us/ & our heirs for ever more/ without any again saying to the pope/ and eke the ward of church vacauntzes. And in token for this thing for ever to last/ we will confirm and ordain/ that our special rents of the foresaid r●ame/ saving saint Peter's pens in all thing to the mother church of Rome payenge by year a thousand mark of silver and two terms of the year for all manner customs that we should do for the foresaid reams/ that is to say to michaelmas/ and at Easter. That is to say vii hundred mark for England/ & three hundred mark for ireland Saving to us and to our heirs our justyces/ and other franchise/ & other royalties/ that pertain unto the crown And these things & before been said we will/ that it be firm & stable without end. And to that obligation/ we & our successors & our heirs in this manner be bound/ that if we/ or any of oyr heirs/ thorough any presumption fall/ in any point against any of these things above said/ and he be warned/ and will not right amend/ he shall thenne lose the foresaid ream for evermore. And that is chartre of obligation and our warrant for ever more/ be firm and stable without any gainsaying. we shall front this day afterward be true unto god and to the mother of holy church of Rome \ and to the pope innocentius the third/ and to all that cometh after hym· And the realm of England and of ireland/ we shall maintain truly in all manner points against all manner men by our power through goods help. ¶ How the clerks that were outlawed came again & how king johan was assoiled. SO when this chartre was made and ensealed/ the king received again his crown of Pandulfus hand And seat anon unto the archbishop Stephen/ and to all his other clerks and lewede men/ that he had exiled out of this land/ that they should come again in to England/ and have again their lands and allo their rents. And that he would make restitution of the goods that he had taken of theirs against their will. ¶ The king himself tho and Pandulf and earls and barons went unto wynchestre against the archbishop Stephen. ¶ And when he was come the king went against him and fell adown to his feet/ and thus to him said. Fair sire ye be welcome. And I cry you mercy by cause that I have trespassed against you. ¶ The archbishop took him up tho in his arms/ and kissed him courteously oftentimes/ and after led him to the door of saint Swythunes' church by the hand/ and assoiled him of the sentence/ and him reconciled to god & to holy thyrche. And that was on saint Margaretes' day. And the Archepysshop anon went for to sing mass. And the king offered at the mass a mark of gold. ¶ And when the mass was done/ all they went for to receive their lands/ without any manner gainsaying. ¶ And that day they made all mirth & joy enough. But yet was not the enterdyting released/ by cause the pope had set that the interditing should not be done/ till the king had made full restitution of the goods that he had taken of the holy church. And that himself should do homage to the pope by a certain Legate/ that he should send in to England. ¶ And then took Pandulf his leave of the king and the archbishop/ and went again unto Rome. ¶ And the archbishop anon let come before him prelate's of holy church at reading/ for to treat & counsel how moche/ and what they should axe of the king/ for to make restitution of the goods that he had taken of them. And they ordained & said that the king should give to the archbishop three thousand mark for the wrong that the king had done unto him. And also by portions to other clerks xu thousand mark. ¶ And the same time Nycolaus bishop of Tuscam cardinal Penytenciarius of Rome came in to England through the pope's conmaundement/ the fifth kalends of Octobre and came to London/ the fifth Nonas of Octobre/ for by cause that king johan and all the kings that came after him/ should ever more hold the ream of England and of ireland/ of god and of the pope/ paying to the pope by year as it is above said. ¶ How the interditing was undone in england/ and of the debate that was between king johan and the barons of the ream. AS king johan had done his homage to the Legate that showed him the pope's letter/ that he should pay to julyan & yelne again that was king Rychardes' wife the third part of the land of England and of ireland that he had withhold sith that king richard died. ¶ When king Iohn heard this/ he was wonder wroth. For utterly that enterdyting might not be undone till that he had made gre● and restitution to the foresaid julyan/ of that she asked. The Legate went then again to the pope after christmas. And the king sent over see to julyan that was king Rychardes wife for to have a relate of that she axed of him. ¶ And so it befell that julyan died anon after Eester. And in so much the king was quite of that thing that the axed. ¶ But thenne at the feast of saint johan that came next after/ thorough the pope's commandment/ the interditing was first released throughout all England 〈…〉 day of julii. And vii year was the land ●terdyted. And on the morning m●n rough & said mass thorough out all London and so ●●ter thorough out all Englonde· ¶ And the ne●● year after there began a great debate between king johan and the lords of England ●or by cause that he would not grant the law●● and hold/ the which saint Edward had ordained/ and had been used & holden unto that time that he had them broken. For he would hold no law/ but died all thing that him liked/ and disherited many men without consent of lords and peries of the land. And wo● dysheryte the good earl Radulf of Chestre for by cause that he undertook him of his wickedness/ & for by cause that he died so moche shame and villainy to god and to holy church▪ And also for he held and haunted his own brother's wife/ and lay also by many women great lords daughters. For he spared no woman that him liked for to have. wherefore all the lords of the land were wroth/ & took the city of London. To cease this debate the archbishop and lords of the land assenbled before the feast of saint Iohn Bap●yst in a meadow beside the town of Stanies/ that is called Romney meed. And the king made them there a chartre of franchise/ such as they would axe/ and in such manner they we●e accorded/ and that accordment lasted not full long. For the king himself soon after died against the points of the same chartre that he had made. wherefore the most part of the lords of the land assembled and began to war upon him again/ and burned his towns/ & rob his folk/ and died all the sorrow that they might/ & made them as strong as they might with all the power they had/ and thought to drive him out of England/ and make Louis the kings son of France king of England. ¶ And king Iohn sent tho over see and ordained so moche people of Normans/ & of Pycardes/ & of flemings/ so that the land might not sustain them/ but with moche sorrow. ¶ And among all this people ● there was a man of Normandye that was called Fawkis of Brent/ and this Norman and his company spared neither churches ne houses of religion/ but they brent & ●obbed it/ and bare a way a●l that they might take so that the land was all destroyed/ what one side and other. ¶ The barons & lords of Englonge ordained among them the best spekers and wisest men/ and sent them over the see to king Phylyp of France/ and prayed him/ that he would send Louis his son in to England to be king of England/ and to receive the crown. ¶ How Louis the knges son of France came in to England with a strong power of people ● to be king of Englonde· Anon as king Phylyp of France heard these tidings/ he made certain alliance between them by their common election/ that Louis king Phylyps son of France should go with them in to England/ and drive out king johan of the land. And all that were in presence of allows/ made unto him homage/ & became his men. ¶ And the Barons of England held them still at London/ and abode Louis the kings son of France. And this was the next saturday before the ascension of our lord/ that Louis came into England with a strong power. And that time king Iohn had taken all the castles of England in to aliens hands/ ¶ And though came Lowwys/ and besieged Rochestre castle/ and took it with strength. And the thursday in whitsun week let hang all the aliens that were therein/ And the Thursday next see wing/ he came to London/ and there he was received with moche honour of the lords that abode him there/ & all to him made homage. ¶ And after ward on the Tewysdaye next after the. trinity sunday he took the castle of Reigate. And on the morrow after the castle of Gilforde/ and the friday next after the castle of Farneham. And the monday next after the city of wynchestre to him was yolde/ and the morrow after Saint johans' day the manner of wu●ueseye to him yelden▪ And the Tewysdaye after the Vtas of saint Peter and Poule they took the castle of Odyham. And the monday after saint/ Margaretes' day/ he ordained him to ward Bawmore/ for to siege the castle/ and there he dwelled xu days and might not get the castle/ and then went he thence and came to London and the tour to him was yoleden. How the pope sent in to England a legate that was called Swalo & of the death of king johan. ANd in the same time the pope sent in to england a Legate/ that was called Swalo/ and he was priest cardinal of Rome/ for to maintain king johans' cause/ against the barons of england. But the barons had so huge part & help/ thorough Louis the kings son of France/ that king Iohn wist not to ●orne ne go. And so it befell that he would have gone to Nycholl· And as he went thither ward/ he came by the abbey of swines heed/ & there he abode two days And as he sat at meet/ he axed a monk of the house how moche that a loof was wroth that was set before him upon the table/ And the monk said ●hat the loof was wroth but an half penny. O said the king tho. Here is great cheap of breed. Now said he though/ and I may leave any while such a loof shall be wroth twenty shillings or half a year be gone. And so when he said this word/ moche he thought/ & often he sighed/ & took and eat of the breed/ and said by god/ the word that I have spoken/ it shall be sothe· ¶ The monk that stood before the king was for this word full sorry in his heart/ & thought rather he would himself suffer death/ & thought if he might ordain therefore some manner remedy. And anon the monk went unto his abbot and was shriven of him/ and told the abbot all that the king had said. And prayed his abbot for to assoil him/ for he would give the king such a drink that all england should be glad thereof and joyful Tho go the monk in to a garden/ and found a great toad therein/ and took her up and put her in a cup & pricked the toad thorough with a brooch many times till that the venom came out of every side in the cup And though took the cup & fyllyed it with good ale/ and brought it before the king kneeling saying. Sir said he wassayll/ for ever the days of all your life drunk ye of so good a cup. ¶ Begyne monk said the king. ¶ And the monk drank a great draft/ and took the king the cup/ and the king drank also a great draft/ and set down the cup. The monk anon right went in to farmere & there died anon/ on whose soul god have mercy Amen. And five monks sing for his soul specially/ & shall while that the abbey standeth. The king rose up anon full evil at ease and commanded to remove the table/ and axed after the monk. And men told him that he was deed/ for his womb was broken in sondre. ¶ When the king heard this/ he commanded for to truss/ but it was for nought/ for is belly began to sweet for the drink that he had drunk/ & within two days he died on the morrow after saint Lukys day/ & had many fair children of his body begaten/ that is to say. Henry his son that was king after johan his father/ & richard that was Earl of cornwall/ and ysabell that was Empress of Rome/ & Elenore that was queen of scotland. And this king johan when he had reigned xiiii year & five months & five days/ he died in the castle of ne work. And his body was buried at wynchestre. ¶ Anno dm. M.CC FRedericus the second was Emperor thirty. year/ This man was crowned of Honorius the pope against Otto for by cause that he should fight with him/ the which he died/ and expulsed him. And first he nourished the church/ and afterward he despoiled it/ as a stepmoder· wherefore Honorius cursed him/ and all though that were contrary to his opinion the pope assoiled. And the same sentence Gregorius the ix renewed And this same man put Henry his own son in to prison/ and there murdered him. wherefore when this Emprerour an other season was like/ by an other son of his own he was murdered/ in the time of Innocentius the fourth. ¶ Honorius the third was pope after Innocencius ten year/ & confirmed the order of frere preachers & Mynors·s And made certain decretals. ¶ Of king Henry the third that was crowned at Gloucetree ANd after this king johan reigned his son Henry/ & was crowned at Gloucette when he was ix year old/ on saint Symondes' day & jyde of Swalo the Legate of Rome through counsel of all the great lords that held with king johan his father that is to say/ the earl Radulf of Chestre. wyllyam earl Martial earl of Penbroke. William the Brener earl of Feries. Serle the manly baron. And all other great lords of England held with Louis the kings son of France. And anon after when king Henry was crowned Swalo the Legate held his counsel at bristol at saint martyn's feest. And there were xi. byssops of England & of wales/ and of other prelate's of holy church a great number/ and earls & barons/ & many knights of England. And all though that were at that counsel swore feawte unto Henry the king that was king Iohnns son. ¶ And anon after the Legate interdicted wales/ for cause that they held with the barons of England. Also all though that holp/ or gave any counsel to move war against the new king Henry he accursed them. And at the beginning he put in the sentence the kings son of France Louis. And nevertheless the same Louis would not spare for all that. But went and took the caastell of Barchamstede/ & aleso the castle of Hirtfo● And from that day afterward/ the Barons died there so moche harm throughout all England. And principally the frensshemen that were with king Louis. wherefore the great lords/ and all the common people of England let them dress/ for to drive Louis & his company out of england/ but some of the barons and Frensshemen were gone to the city of Nycholl/ & took the town & held it to king Louis profit. But thither came king Henry's men with a great power/ that is to say the earl Radulf of Chestre/ & William earl Martial/ & William the Brenererle of Feryers & many other lords with them/ & gave battle unto Louis men. And there was slain the earl of perchees & Louis men were fowl discomfited. And there was taken Serle earl of wynchestre/ and Humfroyde. Boon earl of Hertforde/ & Robert the son of walter/ & many other that began war against the king/ there they were taken & lad unto king Henry/ that was king Iohnns son. ¶ And when the tidings came to Louis of the discomfiture/ that was the kings son of France. He removed fro thence & went unto London/ and let shit the yates fast of the city. And anon after the king sent to the Burgeys of London/ that they should yield them unto him/ & the city also. And he would them grant all their franchises that ever they were wont to have before. And would confirm them by his great new chartre under his broad scale. ¶ And in the same time a great lord that was called Eustace the monk came out of France with a great company of Lords/ & would have come in to England/ for to have helped Louis the kings son of France. But Hubert of Brugh/ & the five por●es with viii ships though met with them in the high see ● & assailed them eagerly/ & over came them with strength/ & smote of Eustace the monks heed. And took also ten great lords of France & put them in to prison. And slew almost all the men that came with them/ and anon drowned the ships in the see. ¶ How Louis corned again in to France/ & of the confirmation of king johans' hartre. SO when Louis heard these ridings he dread sore to be deed & lost. And let or●●yne/ & speak between the king & Louis by the Legate Swalo And through the archbishop of Caunterbury/ & through other great lords that all the prisoners on that one half and that other should be delivered & go quite. A●d Louis himself should have for his costs a thousand pound of silver. and should go out of England/ and come neure more there in again. And in this manner was the accord made between king Henry & Louis. And though was Louis assoiled of the pope's Legate/ the was called Swalo of the sentence that he was in/ & the Barons of England also. And after this king Henry & Swalo the Legate & Louis went to Merton & there was the peace confirmed/ & between them ordained. And after Louis went from thence unto London & took his leave & was brought with moche honour unto the see with the archbishop of Caunterbury and with other bishops/ & also with earls and barons/ and so went in to France. ¶ And after ward the king & the archbishop/ and also earls & barons assembled them and came to the city of London at michaelmas that next came though sewing and held there a great parliament at London/ And there were tho reviewed all the franchise the king Iohn had granted/ at Romney meed \ & king Henry though confirmed by his chartre/ the which yet been holden through out all England. ¶ And in that time the king took of every plough land ii shleynge/ & Hubert of Brugh was made though chief justice of england And this was in the fourth year of king Henry's reign ¶ And in the same year was saint Thomas of Caunterbury translated the l year after his martyrdom. And after it was ordained by all the lords of England/ that all aliens sold go out of England/ and come no more therein. And king Henry took though all the castles in to his hand/ the king johan his father had give & take to Alyens for to keep that held with him. ¶ But the proud Fawkies of britain richly let array his castle of bedford/ which he had of king Iohnns gift/ & held that castle against king Henry's will with might and strength. And the king came thither with a strong power/ and besyeged the castle. And the archbishop master Stephen of Langton/ with a fair company of knights came to the king him for to help. And from the ascension of our lord unto the assumption of our lady lasted the siege. And though was the castle won & take. And the kynhe let hang all though that went in to the castle with their good will. for to hold the castle. That is for to say lxxx men. ¶ And though after ward fawkys himself was found and had in a church at Coventre/ & there he forswore all England with moche shame/ and went again in to his own country. ¶ And whiles that king Henry reigned. Edmonde of Abyndon/ that was ●relorer of Salysbury was consecrated archbishop of Caunterbury. And this king Henry sent over the see unto the earl of province/ that he should lend him his daughter in england/ that was called Ellenore/ and he would spouse her. And though she came in to england after christmas. And on the morrow after saint Hylaryes' day/ the archbishop Edmonde spoused them together at westminster with great solemnity. And there was a sweet sight between them. That is to say Edward that was next king after his father/ flower of courtesy and of largeness and Margarete that was after quen of scotland/ and Beautrice that was after countess of britain/ Katherine that died maid in religion. ¶ Of the quinzeme of goods that were granted for the new charter/ and of the purveyance of Oxford. ANd thus it befell that the lords of England would have some addycyous moo in the chartre of franchise that they had of the king/ & spoke thus between them. And the king granted them all their axenge. And made to them two charters/ that one is called the great chartre of franchises/ & that other is callad the chartre of forest. And for the grant of these two charters/ prelate's/ Earls and Barons/ and all the comyns of England/ gave to the king a thousand mark of silver. ¶ When king Henry had be king xliii year the same year he and his lords/ Earls and Barons of the ream went to Oxforde/ and ordained a law in amendment of the ream. And first swore the king himself/ & afterward all the lords of the land/ that they would hold that statute for evermore/ and who that them broke should be deed. But the second year after that the ordinance/ the king through counsel of Edward his son/ and of richard his brother/ that was earl of Cornwaylle/ & also of other repented him of that oath that he made for to hold that law and ordynaunce· And sent to the courtre of Rome to be assoiled of that oath. And in the year next coming after/ was the great dearth of corn in England For a quarter of wheat was worth xxiiii shillings. And the poor people eat nettles and other weeds for hunger. And died many a thousand for default of meet. ¶ And in the xlviii year of king Henry's reign began war & debate between him & his lords/ for by cause he had broken the covenants that were made between them at Oxford. ¶ And the same year was the town of Northampton taken/ & folk slain that were within/ For by cause that they had ordained wild fire for to bren the city of London. ¶ And in the month of may that the next after/ upon saint Pancras day/ was the battle of jews/ that is to say/ the wenesday before Saint Dunstan's day. And there was taken king Henry himself/ and sir Edward his son/ and richard his brother earl of cornwall/ and many other lords. And in the same year nextse wing sir Edward the kings son broke out of the ward of sire Symonde of Mountforth/ earl of leicester at Hertforde/ and went unto the barons of the March/ and they rceeyved him with moche honour. ¶ And the same time Gylbert of Claraunce earl of Glocetre that was in the ward also of the foresaid Simon de thorough the commandment of king Henry/ that went fro him with great heart/ for cause that he said/ that the foresaid Gylbert was a fool/ and held him with king Henry ¶ And on the saturday next after the mids of August/ sire Edward the kings son discomfited sir Symonde de Mountforth ac Kelyngworth/ but the great lords that were there with him were taken/ that is to say. Baldewyne wake. And William de Mouchentye and many other great lords. And the Tewysdaye next after was the battle done at Eusban. And there was slain sir Symonde de Mountforth. Hugh the Spenser/ & Mountforth that was Ralph Bassectes father of Drayton and other many great lords/ And when this battle was done/ all the gentlemen that had been with the earl Symonde were dyshery●ed/ and ordained together and died moche harm to all the land. For they destroyed their enemies in all that they might. ¶ Of the siege of Kenylworth & how the gentlemen were disherited thorough counsel of the lords of the ream of England and how they came again and had their lands. ANd the next year coming in May/ the fourth day before the feast of saint Dunstane/ was the battle & scomfiture are Chestrefelde/ of them that were disherited/ & there was many of them slayne· ¶ And Robert Earl of Feriers there was take/ and also Baldewyne wake/ & johan delahay/ with moche sorrow escaped thence. And oon saint Iohan● the baptist though sewing/ began the siege of the castle Kenylworth/ & the siege lasted to saint Thomas eve the apostle. in which day sir Hugh hasting had the castle for to keep/ that yielded up the castle unto the king in this manner/ that himself & the other that were within the castle/ should have their lives & limb/ & as much thing as they had therein both horse & harness/ & four days of repyte/ for to deliver cleanly the castle/ of themself & of all other manner thing/ as they had within the castle/ & so they went fro the castle. And sir Symonde Nountforth the younger/ & the countess his mo● were gone over the see in to France/ & there held them as people that were exiled out of England for ever. ¶ And soon after it was ordained by the Legate Octobone/ & by other great lords/ the wisest of England that all though that had be against the king and were disherited/ should have again their lands by grievous raunsons/ after that it was ordained. And thus they were accorded with the king & peace cried throughout all England and thus the war was ended. And when it was done the Legate took his leave of the king & of the queen/ of the great lords of England & went tho to Rome the lu year of king Henry's reign ● & Edward king Iohnns son of britain johan Vessi. Thomas of Clare. Rogere of Clyfforde. Oaths of Graunstone Robert le Brus. Iohn of Verdon/ and many other lords of England/ and of beyond the see took their way to ward the holy land. And the king Henry died in the same time at westmestre/ when he had reigned lu year & xix weeks/ on saint edmond's day the archbishop of Caumterbury. And he was entered on saint Edmondes' day the king/ in the year of the incarnation of our lord Ihesu christ. M.CC.lxxii. ¶ prophecy of Merlin of the king Henry the th● exponed that was king Iohans sone. ANd of this Henry prophesied Merlin & said/ that a lamb should come out of wynchestre/ in the year of the incarnation of our lord Ihesu Christ. M.CC & xvi with true lips & holiness written in his heart/ And he said sooth/ for the good Henry the king was borne in wynchestre/ in the year abovesaid/ & he spoke good words & sweet/ & was an holy man & of good conscience. And Merlin said/ that this Henry should make the fairest place of the word/ that in his time should not be fully ended/ & he said sooth. For he made the new work of the abbey of saint Peter's church at westmestre/ that is fairer of sight than any other place that any man knoweth thorough out all christendom. But king Henry died are that work were fully at an end/ & that was great herme. ¶ And yet said Merlin/ that this lamb should have peace the most part of his reign And he said full sooth/ for he was never noyed thorough war/ neither diseased in no manner wise/ a little afore his death/ & Merlin said in his prophecy more/ & in the reign & end of the foresaid lamb/ a wulf of a strange land shall do him much harm thorough his war/ and that he should at the last be master thorough help of a reed fox/ that should come forth of the North west & should him overcome. And that he should drive him out of the water/ & the prophecy full well was known. For within a little time or the king died Symonde of Mountford earl of Leycerre/ that was borne in France/ began against him strong war/ thorough which doing/ many a good bachelor destroyed was and died/ and disherited. ¶ And when king Henry had the victory at Eusham/ & Symonde the earl was slain thorough help & might of Gylbert of clare earl of Glocetre/ that was in keeping & ward of the foresaid Symonde/ through ordinance of king Henry that went again unto the king with moche power. wherefore the foresaid Symonde was destroyed and that was great harm to the comyns of England/ that so good a man was slain for the troth/ and died in thar●y●e/ & for the common profit of the same folk/ & therefore almighty god for him hath sins showed many a fair miracle to divers men & women of the sickness & disease that they have had for the love of him ¶ And Merlyon also said in his prophecy/ that afer that time/ the lame should live no while/ & thenne his seed should be in strange land without any pasture/ and he said sooth/ for king Henry lived no while after that Symonde Mounforde was slain/ that king Henry ne died anon after him. And in the mean time sire Edward his son/ that was the best king of the world of honour/ was though in the holy land and gate there. Acres. And in that country he begat there upon dame Elenore his wife johan of Acres his daughter/ that afterward was countess of Glocetre/ & made such a viage in the holy land/ that all the world spoke of his knighthood/ & every man dread him high & low throughout all christendom/ as the story of him telleth/ as afterward ye shall here more openly. ¶ And from the time that king Henry died/ till that sir Edward was crowned king/ all the great lords of England were as fatherless children without any succour/ that them might maintain & govern/ and defend against their deadly enemies. GRegorius the ix was pope after Honorius/ this man canonized many saints/ & defended mightily the church against frederik/ therefore the took many prelate's & two Cardynalles/ the which went to counsel against him This pope was sieged in the city of Rome by the Emperor/ & he saw the Roman were corrupt by the money of the Emperor. Then he took in his hand the heeds of the apostles Peter & Poule/ and went with procession fro the church of saint Iohn Latranente/ to saint Peter's church. ¶ And so he gate the hertis of the romans/ & the Emperor went fair a way fro the city. This pope made frere janond to compile the five books of Decretales/ of many pistles and decrees. And after with many tribulations of chyptyraunt and other/ he deceased and went to heaven. ¶ Celestinus the fourth was pope after Gregorius almost a month/ and he was in his life and in his cunning laudable. And he was an old man & a feeble & deceased/ & there was no pope after him almost a xii month. ¶ Innocencius the fourth was pope after him almost xi year & vi months/ this man canonized many saints/ & frederic the Emperor he deposed as enemy unto god in the third year that he was made pope/ & he was holp by the januencꝭ. ¶ Then was Henry the sixth chosen & wyllyam/ by the pope's commandment against frederik that one after an other/ but they prevailed not to overcome his tyranny/ for he was overmyghty/ ne these were not crowned/ for they deceased anon. ¶ Thomas de Alquine an holy doctor Albertus magnus the bishop of Ratysponens. Eustacius. Bonoventure a devout doctor were this time/ the which destroyed moche heresy enfected by the Emperor. ¶ Alexander was pope after innocentius viii year/ & little of him is written ¶ Vrbanus was after him three year & three months/ This man drove away the host of the Sarrasyns by men marked with the cross/ the which Maufred had sent against the church/ And the pope took the kingdom of Cecyle to the kings brother of France/ that he should fight with Maufrede/ & then he deceased. And Maufrede after lost his life and his kingdom by Karolus· ¶ Alphonsus' the king of Castle Rychardes' brother to the king of England earl of Corn wail/ were chosen Emperors after the long vacation of the Empire/ for the chesers of the Emperor were divided in sondre and there was great strife many year. At the last deceased richard/ & Alphonsus came again afore Gregorius the ix by the sign of peace ● and utterly renounced all this title of the Empire & he had any/ for he was a very witty man/ and a noble astronemer/ and his tables been very famous the which he made/ for they be compendyons ¶ Clemens the fourth was pope after Vrbanus iii year &. ix· months this Clemens was an holy man/ & said through the spirit of prophecy/ that the enemies of the church should perish as the smoke. And it is to believed that god ceased the tribulations of the church thorough his merits. This man afore had a wife and children/ and when he was priest and after bishop he was sent in to England Legate/ and he no thing knowing was chosen pope/ and after deceased blessedly for his virtuous living. ¶ Gregorias the ten was pope after him four year/ after he was made pope for the desire that he had to the holy land. the which he intended to visit personally/ a●e London in France he made a solemn counsel/ in the wihche the counsel of the Greeks and the Tartars were & there the Grekis promised to be reformed by the unity of the church. And the Tartars were but a little afore baytysed/ & promised the same. And there were gathered vi C. bishops &. M. prelate's/ and therefore a certain man said Gregorius gathered together all kind of people/ & there was decreed/ that all persons & vycaryes should be called priests/ & no prelate's/ & that no man should assign his tithes to what church he would/ and they died afore. But they should be paid to his mother church. And he dampened the plurality of benefices/ and died a blessed man. ¶ innocentius the .v. was after him .v. months/ & little he did. ¶ Adrianus was after him ●o month/ & died lesser ¶ Johannes the. x●i. was after him viii months/ & he was in divers sciences a famous man/ but in manners a fool & deceased anon. ¶ Nicholaus the third was pope after Iohn oo year. This man was in his days in building a noble man. & well governed the city all his days. & the second year he deceased. ¶ Radulphus was Emperor xviii year/ this man was Earl of Hanebrough a wise man in arms/ noble and victorious & was chosen at Basyle· And he took the cross on him for the holy land. Thimperyall blessing he had not/ but the pope allowed the election for favour of the holy land: ¶ Anno dm. M.CC.lxxiiii. MAr●inus the four was pope after Nycholaus four year. this man was a great lover of religious men/ & great attending to virtuous works. This man cursed the Emperor of Constantynople/ in so much as he promised for to torme to the faith in the general counseyl▪ and died not/ for the which he suffered many passions & all holy church. Also he cursed the king of Arragon/ for he expulsed the king of Cecyle fro his kingdom. And after he had done many battles against men of misbelieve & many tribulations suffered/ he deceased & did many miracles. ¶ Nycholaus delira a noble douctour of dyvyte was this time at Paris this man was a jew of nation/ & he was converted & mightily profited in the order of frere minors. & he wrote over all the Bible. Grelles he was in the year of our lord. M·CCC. thirty. & some man say he was a Braban & that his father & his mother were crystne but for poverty he visited the school of the Jews/ & so he learned the Jews language or else this Nycholaus was informed of the jews in his young age. ¶ Honorius the fourth was pope after Martynus two year/ & little of him is written/ but that he was a temperate man & a dyscerte. ¶ Nicholaus the fourth was pope after him four year/ this man was a frere Mynor/ & although he was a good man in himself/ yet many unhappy/ things fell in his time to the church. For many a battle was in the city through his occasion/ for he drew to much to the one part. And after him three was no pope two year and vi months. ¶ How king Edward that was king Henry's sone. ANd after this king Henry reigned Edward his son the worthies knight of the world in honour/ for god's grace was in him/ for he had the victory of his enemies & as soon as his father was deed/ he came to London with a noble company of prelate's/ earls and barons/ and all men did him much honour. For in every place the sir Edward road in London/ the streets were covered over his heed with silk of tapiscery/ and other rich coverings. And for joy of his coming/ the burgeys of the city cast out at their windows gold and silver hands full/ in tokening of love and worship/ service and reverence. And out of conduit of Cheap ran white wine and reed/ as streams both of the water/ and every man drank thereof the would at their own will. & this king Edward was crowned and anointed as right heyer of England with moche honour. And after mass the king went in to his place to hold a rial feast among them that died him honour. And when he was set to meet/ The king Alexander of scotland came to do him honour and reverence/ with a q●eyntesye & an hundred knights with him well horsed & arrayed. And when they were alight of their steeds/ they let them go whether they would/ & who that might take them took at their own will/ without any chalenge·r And after came sire Edmonde king Edward's brother a curteys' knight & a gentle of renown/ & the earl of Corn wayllle/ and the earl of Glocestre. And after then came the earl of Penbroke/ & the earl of Garenne. And each of them by themselves lad in their hand an hundred knights gaily disguised in their arms. And when they were alighted of their horses/ they let them go whether that they weld/ & who that might them catch/ them to have still without any challenge. And when all this was done/ king Edward died his diligence & his might for to amend and dress the wrongs in the best manner that he might to the honour of god & holy church/ & to maintain his honour/ and to amend the noyannce of the common people. ¶ How ydeyne that was Lewelyns daughter of wales/ prince Aymer/ that was the earls brother of Mounforde were taken in the see. THe first afterward the king Edward was crowned Lewelyn prince of wales sent in to Faraunce to the earl Mounforde/ that through counsel of his friends/ the earl should wed his daughter. And the earl though advised him upon this thing/ and sent unto Lewelyn and said. that he would send after his daughter. & so he sent Aymer his brother after the damosel. & Lewelyn arrayed shyphes for his daughter and for Sire Aymer. and for her faare company that should go with her. And this Lewelyn did great wrong. for it was covenanted that he should give his daughter to no manner man/ without counsel & consent of king Edward. And so it befell that a Burgeys of Brystow came in the see with wine laden. and met them & took them with might and power. And anon the Burgeys sent them to the king. And when Jewelly heard this tidings he was very wroth/ and also sorowfull· and 'gan to war upon king Edward and died moche harm unto englishmen/ and beat down the kings castles/ and began for to destroy king Edward's land. And when tidings came unto the king of this thing he went in to wales and so much he died through god's grace and his great power that he drofe Lewelyn unto great myschyef/ that he fled all manner of strength & came & yielded him unto king Edward. & gave him l mark of silver to have peace. And took the damosel & all his heritage. & made an obligation to king Edward to come to his parliament two times of the year And in the second year after that king Edward was crowned/ he held a general parliament at westmestre/ & there he made the statutes for default of law by the common assent of all his baronage/ and at Ester next sewenge/ the king sent by his letter unto Lewelyn prince of wales that he should come to his parliament for his land/ and for his holding in wales/ as the strength of his letter oblygatory witnessed. though Lewelyn had scorn and despite of the kings commandment/ And for pure wrache again began war upon king Edward. and destroyed his land. And though when king Edward herd of these tidings/ he waxed wonder wroth unto Lewelyn & in haste assembled his people/ & went him to ward wales. And warred so upon Lewelyn the prince/ till that he brought him in moche sorrow & disease. And Lewelyn saw that is defence might him not avail/ and came again/ and yielded him to the kings grace/ & cried him mercy. and long time kneeled before the kings foot. The king had of him pity/ & commanded him for to arise. And for his meekness forgive him his wrath/ and to him said/ that if he trespassed to him another time that he would destroy him for evermore. ¶ David that was Lewelyns brother that same time dwelled with king Edward/ and was a fell man and a subtle and envious and also far casting/ and moche treason thoughte· and evermore made good semblame/ and seemed so true that no man might perceive his falseness. ¶ How Lewelyn through egging of his brother david warrayed again upon king Edward IT was not long after that time the king Edward gave to david Lewelyns brother the lordship of Frodesham. & made him a knight and so much honour died he never after to man of wales by cause of him king Edward held his parliament at London when he had do in wales that he would and changed his money/ that was full ill kit/ wherefore the people plained sore. So that the king inquired of the trespassers. And three hundred were attainted of such manner falseness/ wherefore some where hanged and some drawn and after hanged. ¶ And afterward the king ordained/ that the sterling halfpenny should go thorough out all his land/ And commanded that no man fro that day afterward gave ne feoffed house of religion with land/ tenement without special leave of the king. And he that died should be punished at the kings will/ & the yeft shall be for nought. And it was not long after the Lewelyn prince of wales through the tycement of david his brother/ & both their consent/ they thought to disherit king Edward/ in asmuch as they might/ so that thorough them both the kings peace was broken. And when king Edward heard of this/ anon he sent his barons in to Northumberlonde & the Surrey's also/ that they should go & take their viage upon the traitors Lewelyn & david. And wonder heard it was for to war though/ For it is winter in wales/ when in other countries is Summer. And Lewelyn let ordain & well arrayed & victual his good castle of Swandon. and was there in an huge number of people/ & plenty of victuals so that king Edward wist not where for to enter And when the kings men it perceiver and also the strength of wales they let come in the see bargees & botes. and great plankies as many as they might ordain & have: for to go to the said castle of Swandon. with men on foot & also on horse. But the welshmen had so moche people/ & were so strong. that they drove the englishmen again/ so that there was so much press of people at the torning again that the charge & the burden of men made the bargees & the botes to sink & there was drowned many a good knight/ that is to say. sir Robert Clyfford sir wyllyam of Lyndeseye that was· sire Iohnns son Fitz Robert. & sir Richard Tanny and Turrian huge number of other/ & all was through there own folly. For if they had had good espies/ they had not be harmed. when king Edward heard tell that his people were so drowned▪ He made sorrow enough. but though came sir johan of Vessy from the king▪ Arragon. And brought with him moche people of bachelors and of Gascoyne's/ and were souldyurs. And dwelled with the said john of Vessy & received of him wages and with him were withhold. and noble men they were for to fight and brent many towns/ & slew moche people of welshmen. All that they might take. And all though with strength & might made assault unto the castle of Swandon and gate the castle/ And when david the prence brother heard of this tidings he ordained him to flight and Lewelyn the prince saw that his brother was fled/ then he was sore abashed for he had no power to his war for to maintain. And so Lewelyn 'gan for to flee/ and wind well for to have scapedde. But in a morrow sire Roger mortimer met with him only with ten knights. And set him round about. And to him went/ & smote of his heed/ & presented the same heed unto king Edward. And in this manner Lewelyn the prince of wales was taken/ and his heed smitten of/ and also all his heirs disherited for evermore through right full doom of all the lords of the ream. ¶ How david that was Lewelyns brother prince of wales was put to death. David that was the princes brother of wales/ through pride wend to have be prince of wales/ after his brothers death/ and upon this he sent after walsshemen to his parliament at Dynbygh and foolishly made wales to arise against the king and began to move war against king Edward and died all the sorrow and disease that he might by his power. when king Edward heard of this thing/ he ordained men to pursue upon him. And david fiercely him defended/ till the he came to the towned of saint Morice/ and there was david take as he fled. and lad to the king. And the king commanded that he should be hanged & drawn/ & smite of his heed/ & quarter him/ & send his heed to London and the four quarters send to the four chief towns of wales. For they should take ensample thereof and beware. And afterward king Edward let cry his peace through out all walls & seized all the land in to his hand & all the great lords that were left alive came to do feaute & homage to the king Edward as to their kind lord/ And though let king Edward amend the laws of wales that were defective And he sent to all the lords of wales by letter patents/ that they should come all to parliament And when they were come thou king said to them full courteously lordings ye be welcome/ & me behoveth your counsel & your help for to go unto Gascoigne for to amend the trespass that to me was done when I was there And for to entreat of peace between the king of Arragon & the prince of Morrey/ & all the kings lyege men earls & barons consented & granted thereto. And though made him king Edward ready & went in to Gascoigne. & let amend all the trespasses that him was done in Gascoigne. And of the debate that between the king of Arragon & the prince of Morrey he ceased and made them accorded. And while good king Edward and Elynore his wife were in Gascoigne. The good earl of cornwall was made warden of England till that king Edward came again. And though inquired he of his traitors that coniected falseness against him. And each of them all received their doom after that they had deserve. But in the mean time that the good king Edward was beyond the see to do/ them for to make amends that against him had trespassed there was a false the if/ a traitor that was called Rysap Merydok/ began for to make were against king Edward. and that was for cause of sir pain Typtot. wrongfully grieved & deceased the foresaid Rysap meradok. And when king Edward heard all this matter & it well understood anon he sent by his letter prive seal to the foresaid rebellion Rysap Merydok that he should begin in no manner wise for to make & raise were but that he should be in peace for his love/ & when he came again in to England he would under take the quarrel & amend all that was mysdon. This foresaid Rysap Merydok despised the kings commandment and spared not to do all the sorrow that he might to the kings men of england But anon after he was take and lad to york/ and there he was drawn and hanged for his felony. ¶ Of dressing that king Edward made of his justicꝭ and of his clerks that they had done for their falseness and how he drove the jews out of England for their usury and misbelieve. AS king Edward had dwelled three year in Gascoigne a desire came to him for to go in to England again. And when he was come again he found so many plaints made to him of his justyces & of his clerks that had done so many wrongs & falseness that wonder it was to here and for which falseness sire Thomas waylond the kings justice/ for swore England at the tour of London/ for falseness that men put upon him/ wherefore he was attaint/ & proved fals·s And anon after when the king had done his will of the justices though let he inquire & espy how the jews deceived and beguiled his people/ thorough the sin of falseness and of usury. And let ordain a privy parliament among his lords. And they ordained among them/ that all the jews should void out of England for their misbelieve/ and also for their false usury that they died unto christian men. And for to sped and make an end of this thing/ all the common alte of England gave unto the king the xu penny of all their goods movable/ and so were the jews driven out of England. And though went the jews in to France. And there they dwelled/ thorough leave of king Phylyp that tho. was king of France. ¶ How king Edward was seized in all the land of scotland through consent and grant of all the lords of Scotlonde· IT was not long after that Alexandre king of scotland was deed/ and david the earl of Huntyngdon that was the kings brother of scotland axed & claimed the kingdom of Scotlond after his brother was deed for cause that he was rightful heir/ But many great lords said nay. Wherefore great debate arose between them & there friends for asmuch as they would not consent to his coronation/ and the mean time the foresaid david died/ & so it befell that the said david had three daughters that worthily were married/ the first daughter was married to Bayloll/ the second to Brus/ and the third to Hastynges. The foresaid Bayloll & Brus challenged the land of scotland/ & great debate & strife arose between them by cause each of them would have be kynge· And when the lords of scotland saw the debate between them/ came to king Edward of England. & seized him in all the land of Scotlond as chief lord. & when the king was seized of the foresaid lords the foresaid Baylol Brus & hastings came to the kings court axed of the king which of them should be king of scotland And king Edward the full gentle & true/ let inquire by the chronicles of scotland/ and of the greatest lords of scotland/ which of them was of the eldest blood. And it was found that Baylol/ was the eldest. And that the king of Scotlond should hold of the king of England/ & do him france and homage. And after this was done Baylol went in to Scotland/ and there was crowyed king of scotland. ¶ And the same time was upon the see great war between the englishmen and the Normans But upon a time the Normans arrived all at Dover. and there they martyred an holy man that was called Thomas of Dover/ And afterward were the Normans slain. that there escaped not one of them ¶ And so afterward king Edward should let the duchy of Gascoigne through king phylyp of France through his false casting of the Dousepers of the land/ wherefore sir Edmond that was king Edward's brother gave up his damage unto the king of France. ¶ And in the time the clerks of england granted to king Edward half ●eale of holy church goods in helping to recover his land again in gascoyne. And the king sent thither a noble company of his bachelors. And himself would have gone to Portelmouth/ but he was let through one maddok of wales that had seized the castle of Swandon in to his hand & for that cause the king turned to wales at Cristmasse/ & by cause that the noble lord of england that were sent in to Gascoigne had no comforth of there lord the king they were take of sir charles of France/ that is to say/ sir Iohn of britain/ sir Robert Tiptot/ sir Ralph Tanny/ sir Hugh Bardolfe/ and sir Adam of Creting/ And yet at the assensyon was Maddok take in wales & another that was called Morgan And they were sent to the tower of London and there they were beheaded. ¶ How Sire johan Baylol king of scotland with said his homage. ANd when sire Iohn Baylol king of scotland understand the king Edward was warred in Gascoigne/ to whom the ream of Scotlond was delivered/ Falsely though against his oath with said his homage through procuring of his folk & sent unto the court of Rome through a falls suggestion to be assoiled of that oath that he swore unto the king of England & so he was by letter enbulled. ¶ though chose they of scotland dousepers/ for to brnyge Edward of his right. ¶ And in the time came two Cardynalles from the course of Rome fro the pope Celestme/ to treat of accord between the king of england. & as though cardinals spoke of accord. Than as turbeluyll was taken at Lions & made homage to the ward of Paris & put his sons in hostage/ & thought to go in to England aspye the country/ & tell them when he came to england that he had broken the kings prison of France by right & said that he would do that all englishmen & walshemen should about the king for to bring to the end he swore/ & upon this covenant deeds were made between them/ & that he should have by year a thousand pounds worth of land. to byrnge this thing to an end. This false traitor took his leave/ & went thence & came in to England unto the king & said. that he was broke out of prison & that he had put him in such peril for his love wherefore the king could him moche thank & full glad was of his coming. ¶ And the falls traitor fro that day/ espied all the doing of the king & also his counsel/ for the king loved him full well and with him full privy But clerk of England/ that was in the kings house of France: herd of this treason/ and of the falseness/ and wrote to another clerk/ that though was dwelling with Edward king of England. all how Thomas Turbeluyll had done his falls c●niectynge/ and all the counsel of England was write for to have send unto the king of France. ¶ And thoruhhe the foresaid letter that the clerk had sent fro France it was found upon. wherefore he was led to London and hanged and draw there for his treason. And his two sons that he had put in France for hostage. were then beheaded. ¶ Of the Conquest of Berwyke. SO when the two Cardynalles were gone again in to France for to treat of the peace of cambroy the king sent thither of his earls and barons. This is to say sir Edmonde his brother earl of Lancastre and of Lecetre/ sir Henry Lacie earl of Nychol/ & William Vessy Baron/ and of other baronets. about xiii of the best and wisest of England ¶ And in the same time the king Edward took his viage to scotland/ for to were upon Iohn Baylol king of scotland. ¶ And sir Robert Roos of Berwyk fled fro the Englishmen/ & went to the Scots. And king Edward went him toward Berwyk/ and besieged the town. And though that were within manly them defended & set a fire and brent two of King Edward's ships/ and said in despite and reprey● of him (wenyth king Edward with his long shankies/ to have get Berewyk all our unthanks gas pikes him/ and when he was done gas dikes him) when king Edward this scorn/ anon thorough his myghtenesse/ he passed over the dyches and assailed the town/ and came to the yates/ and gate and conquered the town/ and through his gracious power slew xxv thousand and vii hundred scots. and King Edward lost no man of renown safe sir richard of cornwall. and him killed a Fleming out of the red hall with a quarrel as the foresaid richard died of his helm. And commanded them for to yield them/ and put them in the kings grace. And the Scots would not wherefore that hall was brent and cast down. And all though that were therein were brent and king Edward lost no moo men at that viage of simple estate but xxvii englishmen. And the warden of the castle gave up the keys of the castle without any assault And there was taken sire William Douglas Symonde Frysell and the earl patrick yielded them to the peace. But Ingham of Humbresmylle & Robert the Brus that were with king Edward forsook king Edward and held with the Scots. And afterward they were taken and put in to prison And though let kynhe Edward close in Berwyk with walls & with dyches/ and after Robert Rous went to Tyndale/ and set wuyerbrydge a fire and Exham/ and Lamerstok and slew and robbed the folk of the country. And after that he went fro thence to Dunbarre. And the first wenesdaye of March the king sent the earl of Garenne. sir Hugh Percy and sire Hugh Spenser with a fair company for to besiege the castle. But one that was called sire richard Sywarde a traitor and a falls man imagined for to beguile the englishmen/ and sent to the englishmen them for to deseeyve/ and said/ That he would yield to them the castle. if they would grant them viii days of respyce/ that he myhht send and tell to sir johan Bayloll that was king of scotland how is men fared that were within the castle. ¶ And him word but if he would remove the siege of the Englysse men/ that they would yield that castle unto the english men. ¶ The messenger though came to sir johan Baylol that though was king of Scotland where that he was with his host/ and the messenger told him all the caas/ And sir johan took his host and came on the morrow early toward the castle. and sir richard sywarde saw him come that was master of the counsel and keeper of the castle and said unto the Englyssgmen O said he. now I see a fair company and well appareled I will go against them/ and with them to meet/ and them assaylle. And sir Hugh Spenser saw the falseness of hym· and the treson· And said to him O traitor take and prove your falseness shall not avail you. And Hugh Spenser commanded anon to bind him. And all in haste went against their enemies/ and slew of Scots xxii thousand. For the Scots had that time no man with them of honour safe patrick Graham that manly fought/ and long at the last he was slain. And though said the englishmen in reproof of the Scots (these scaterande Scots hold I for sots of wrenches unware. early in a morning in an evil tyming went ye fro Dumbare. ¶ As though that ware within the castle saw the scomfiture they yielded up the castle unto the englishmen. And bound their bodies gods & castles to king Edward. And so there were take in that castle three earls vii barons/ and xxxviii knights & xi. clerks/ and vii Pycardys and all were presented to king Edward And he sent them to the tower of London to be kept. ¶ How king Edward of his great grace delivered again the Scots out of prison that were cheyftayns of that land and they drew them to the Frensshemen through counsel of William waleys. AS king Edward had made though an end of the were. and taken the chey●●eyns of scotland. though came sir johan Baylol and yielded him unto king Edward & put him in his grace and he was led to London and when king Edward was come thither they were borough before him/ And the king axed how they would make amends of the trespaas and loss that they had done to him and they put them in his mercy. lordings said the king I will not of your lands ne your goods/ but I will that ye make to me an oath upon God's body to be true to me and never after this time against me bear arms▪ And all they consented to the kings will and swore upon God's body. That is to say sir Iohn of Comyn. the earl of Scra●hron/ the earl of Carryk/ and also four bishops undertook for all the clergy and so the king delivered them/ and gave them safe conduyce to go in to their own land. And it was not long afterward that they ne arise against king Edward/ for cause that they wist well that king Edward's folk was take/ in Gascoigne/ as before is said But sir Iohn Bayloll king of scotland wist well. that his land should have sorrow and shame/ for their falsnesse· And in haste went him over the see to his own lands and there he held him and came never again wherefore the Scots chose unto their king wyllyam waleys/ a rybaude & an harlot comen up of nought/ and moche harm died to Englishmen and king Edward thought how he might have deliverance of his people that were take in Gascoigne. And in haste went him over the see in to Flaunders for to were upon the king of France. And the earl of Flaunders received him with moche honour and granted him all his lands at his own will. And when the king of France heard tell the king of England was arrived in Flaundres and came with a great power him for to destroy. He prayed him of truce for two year/ so that the english merchants & also French might saufly go and come in both sides. The king Edward granted ●●. so that he must have his men out of prison that were in Gascoigne & the king of France anon granted and so they were delivered. ¶ And in the same time the Scots sent by the bishop of saint andrewes in to France to the king & to sir Charles his brother. the sir Charles should come with his power and they of Scotland would come with their power/ and so they should go in to England/ that loud to destroy from scotland unto they came to ●ente. & the Scots trusted moche upon the Frensshmen but of the thing they had no manner grant & nevertheless the Scots beg to rob & kill in Northumberland/ & did moche harm. ¶ How wyllyam waleys let raise the land of scotland as chief lord. And sir Hugh of Cressynham & of the battle of Fonkyrke. AS tidings was come to king Edward that wyllyam wales had ordained such a strong power. And also that all scotland to him was attendant & ready for to slay Englishmen and to destroy the land he was sore annoyed/ and sent anon by letter to th'earl of Garrenne/ to sir Henry Percy/ & to wyllyam Latomer/ & to sir Hugh of Cressynham his tresoroer. that they should take power/ and go in to Northumberlonde. and so forth in to Scotland. For to keep the countries and when wyllyam waleys heard of their coming. He began to flee and the englishmen him followed & dr●ue him till he came to Stryvelyn & there he held him in the castle. And the welshmen every day them escryed & menacyed/ and died all the despite that they might so that englishmen upon a time in a morning went out fro the castle/ the mountenance of ten miles/ and passed over a bridge & william waleys came with a strong power/ & drove them abak/ for the englishmen had against him no power though but fled. and they that might take the bridge scaped. but sir Hugh the kings treasurer there was slain/ and many other also/ wherefore was made moche sorrow. ¶ though had king Edward sped all his matters in Flaundres/ and was come again in to England/ and in haste took his way in to scotland/ and came thither at the ascension tide. And all that he found he set a fire and brent/ But the poor people of scotland came to him wonder thick and prayed him for God's love/ that he would on them have Mercy & pity though the king commanded that no man should do them harm that were yoleden to him/ ne to no man of order ne to no house of religion/ ne no manner church. but let espy all that he might where that he might find any of his enemies though came a spy unto the king & told where that the Scots were assembled to abide battle. And on saint Mary Mawdelyns day/ the king came to Fonkyrk and gave battle to the Scots and at that battle were slain xxx thousand Scots/ and of englishmen xviii and no more. Of the which was a worthy knight slain that was a knight hospytelere that was called Frery bryan jay. For when William waleys fled from the battle that same Frery bryan him pursued fiercely/ & as his horse ran it start in a mire of a marsh up to the belly And William waleys turned tho again and there slew the foresaid bryan. & that was much harm. ¶ And that while king Edward went thorough scotland/ for to inquire if he might find any of his enemies. And in that land he dwelled/ as long as him liked/ And there was no enemy that durst him abide. ¶ And soon after King Edward went to Southampton for he would not abide/ in scotland in winter season/ for esement of his people And when he came to London/ he let amend many misdeeds that were done against his peace and laws he being in Flaundres. ¶ Of the last marriage of king Edward/ & how he went the third time in to Scotland. ANd after it was ordained through the court of Rome/ that king Edward should wed dame Margarete/ that was king Phylyp sister of France. And the archbishop Robert of wynchelse spoused them to guiders/ through the which Marriage there was made peas·s between king Edward of England and king Phylyp of France. ¶ King Edward went though the third time in to scotland & though within the first year he had enfamined the land/ so that he left not one that he ne came to his mercy. safe such as were in the castle of Estrevelyn that well were victualed and stored for vii year. ¶ How the castle of Estrefelyn was besieged and won. King Edward came to the castle of Estrevelyn with a huge power & besieged the castle/ but it little availed. for he myhht do the Scoctes no harm/ for the castle was so strong & well kept. & king Edward said the & bethought him upon a queyntesy· and let make anon two payr of high gallows before the tower of the castle. & made his oath that as many as were within the castle. Notwithoutstanding were he Earl of Baron/ & he were take with strength but if he would the rather him yield/ he should be hanged upon the same gallows. And when though that were within the castle heard this. they came & yield them all to the kings grace & mercy/ & the king for give them all his male talon & there were all the great lords of Sfotlonde swore to king Edward/ that they should come to London to every parliament & should stand to his ordinance. ¶ How Troylebaston was first ordained. THe king Edward went thence to london & wend to have had rest & peace of his war in which were he was occupied twenty year. that is to say in Gascoigne in wales & in scotland/ and thought how he might recover his treasure that he had spended about his were/ & let inquire through the ream of all the time that he had be out of his ream that men called Troylebaston and ordained thereto justyces/ and in this manner he recovered treasure without number: And his purpose was for to have goon in to the holy land/ to have warred upon gods enemies by cause he was crossed long time before And nevertheless the law that he had ordained did much good through out all England to them that were mysbode For though the trespassed were well chastised. and after more meek & better & the poor comyns were in rest and peace And the same time king Edward prysoned his own son Edward/ by cause that Walter of Lanton bishop of Chestre/ that was the kings treasurer had complained on him & said the foresaid Edward through counsel & enticing of one Ganaston asquyre of Gascoigne had broke the parkꝭ of the foresaid bishop. And this Peers counseled and lad the same Edward and for that cause the king exiled his son out of England. ¶ Of the death of William waleys the false traitor. ANd when this king Edward had his enemies overcome in walys Gascoigne and scotland and destroyed his traitors/ all but only that ribald William ●les/ that never the king would him yield and at the town of saint Dominyk. in the year of king Edward reign xxxiii the falls traitor was take and presented to the king. But the king would not see him/ but sent him to London to receive his judgement: and upon saint Barthylmewes' eve was he hanged and draw/ & his heed smite of & his bowels take out of his body and brent & his body quartered and sent unto four of the best towns of scotland/ and his heed put upon a spear▪ and let upon London bridge. In ensample 〈◊〉 the Scots should have in mind for to do a miss against their lyege lord eftsoons. ¶ How the Scots came to king Edward for to amend their trespass that they had done against him. ANd at michaelmas though nexe coming king Edward held his parliament at westmestre/ & thither came the Scots that is to say the bishop of saint Andreas: Roberte the Brus earl of caryk. Symonde Frysell/ johan the earl of Athell & they were accorded with the king and bound by oath swore that they afterward if any of them mysbare them against king Edward that they should be disherited for evermore. And when their peace was thus made they took their leave privily/ and went home in to scotland. ¶ How Robert Brus challenged scotland. SO after this Robert the Brus earl of Caryk sent by his letters to the earls & barons of Sotlonde that they should come to him to Scone in the morrow after the Conception of our lady for great needs of the land. And the lords came at the day assigned. And the same day sir Robert the Brus said Fair lords full well ye know/ that in my person dwelled the right of the ream of scotland/ & as ye wot well I am rightful heyer sith that sire Iohn baylol that was our king us hath forsake/ & left his land. And though it so be the king Edward of England with wrongful power hath made me to him assent against my will/ if that he will grant that I may be king of scotland I shall keep you against king Edward of england/ & against all manner men/ & with the word the abbot of Scon/ arose up/ & before them all said/ that it was reason for to help him & the land to keep & defend. And though said in presence of them all that he would give him a. M. pound for to maintain the land. & all the other granted the land to him & with their power him for to help/ & defied king Edward of England. & said the Robert Brus/ should be king of England. ¶ How sir Iohn of Comyn against said the crowning of sir Robert Brus. lordings said sir johan of Comyn. think on the truth & oath ye made to king Edward of england & touching myself I will not break mine oath for no man/ & so he went from the company at the tyme. wherefore Robert the brus & all though the to him consented were wroth/ & menaced sir Iohn of common though ordained they another counsel at Dumfrys to which came the for said sir Iohn of Comyn/ for he dwelled but two mile fro Dumfris. there he was wont to sojourn and abide. ¶ How sir Iohn was traitorously slain. SO when Roberte the Brus wist that all the great lords were come of Scotlond to Scon/ safe sir Iohn Comyn the sojourned nigh scon he sent specially after the said sir Iohn to come & speak with him. And upon that he came & spoke with him at the grayfreres in Dumfris & that was the thursday after Candelmasseddy. & sir Iohn granted to go with him. And when he had herd mass/ he took a soup & drank & after ward he bestrode his palfroy & road to Dumfris/ when Roberte the brus saw him come at a window as he was in his chambre made joy ynoygh/ & came against him/ & colled him about the neck/ & made with him good semblant. And when all the earls & barons of scotland were present Robert the Brus said sirs ye wot well thee/ cause of this coming & wherefore it is. if ye will grant that Ibe king of scotlonde as right heir of the land. And all the lords that were there said with one voys that h should be crowned king of Scotlond▪ and that they would him help & maintain against all manner men on live/ & for him if it were need to die/ the gintyll knight though Iohn of Comyn answered certes never form. ne for to have of me asmuch help as the value of a baton. For that oath that I have made unto king Edward of England I shall hold while my life will last. And with that word he went from the company and would a light upon his palfroy. and Roberte the Brus pursued him with a drawenswerde/ & bore him through the body & sir Iohn Comyn fell down unto the earth. But when Roger that was sir Iohn Comyns' brother saw the falseness. He start to sir Robert the Brus & smote him with a knife But the falls traitor was armed under. so that the stroke might do him no harm. and so much help came about sire Robert the Brus so the Robert Comyn was there slain & all to hewn in to pieces. & Robert the Brus turned again there that sir Iohn Comyn the noble baron lay wounded. and pined to ward his death/ beside the high altar in the church of the graey freres/ & said unto sir johan common. O traitor thou shalt be deed/ & never after let mine advancement/ & shaken his sword at the high altar. and smote him on his heed/ that the brain fell down upon the ground. and the blood storte on high upon the walls/ and yet unto this day is that blood seen there that no water may wash it a way. And so died that noble knight in holy church. ANd when this traitor Roberte the Brus saw. that no man would seat his coronation/ he cummaunded all them that were of power should come unto his crowning to saint johans' town in Scotlonde· And so it be fell upon our lady day the annunciation the bishop of Glaston & the bishop of saint Andrew's crowned for their king this Roberte the Brus in saint johans' town/ & made him king And anon after he drove all thenglyssshemen out of scotland. And they fled. & came & complained them unto king Edward/ how that Robert the Brus had drive them out of the land/ and disherited them. ¶ How that king Edward dubbed at westminster xxiiii score knights. ANd when king Edward herd of this mischief/ he swore that he should be ovenged thereof/ and said/ That all the traitors of scotland should be hanged and drawn/ and that they should never be raunsonned. ¶ And king Edward thought upon this falseness that the Scots had to him done And sent after all the bachelors of England/ that they should come unto London at wytsontyde/ & he dubbed at westminster xxiiii score knights. ¶ Them ordained the noble king Edward for to go in to scotland/ to were upon Robert the Brus/ And sent before him in to scotland sir Aymer the valance earl of Penbroge. And sire Henry Perey baron with a fair company/ that pursewed the Scots and brent towns and castles. And afterward came the king himself with earls and barons a fair company. ¶ How Robert Brus was discomfited/ in battle/ & how Symonde fryselly was slain. THe friday next before the Assumption of our lady king Edward met Robert Brus beside saint johans' town in Scotland and with his company/ of the which company king Edward slew vii thousand/ when Robert Brus saw this mischief he began to flee/ and hid him that no man might him find/ But sir Symonde fryseld pursued him sore/ so that he turned again & abode battle/ for he was a worthy knight and a bold of body. And th'Englishmen pursued ever sore in every side and slew the stead that sir Symonde road upon/ and they took him and lad him unto the host. And sir Symonde began for to flatter and speak fair/ and said lords I shall give you four thousand mark of silver/ mine horse/ harneys and all mine armour/ and become a beggar. though answered Theobaude of Pevens that was the kings archers. Now so god me help it is for nought that thou spekeste. For all the gold in England I would. not let the go with out commandment of king Edward/ & though was he had unto king Edward & the king would not see him but commanded to lead him a way/ to have his doom at London. and on our ladies eve nativity he was hanged and drew & his heed smite of. & hanged again with chains of yern upon the gallows. And his heed was seat upon London bridge upod a spear/ and against Crystemasse the body was brent by cause that the men/ that kept the body by night they saw so many devils ramping with great iron hooks renynge upon the gallows and horrible tormented the body. & many that them saw anon after they died for dread/ & some waxed mad●/ fore sickness they had. & in that battle was take the bishop of Baston & the bishop of saint Andrew's/ and the abbot of Sconne all armed with iron as men of arms. as falls traitors and falls prelate's against their oath. And they were brought to the king and the king sent them unto the pope of Rome. that he should do with them what his will were. ¶ How johan th'earl of Alethes was taken and put to death. ANd at that battle fled sire johan earl of Alethes/ and went to a church and there hid him for dread/ but he might have there no refute for cause that the church was interdicted through general sentence/ and in the same church he was taken. And this sir johan went well to have scaped fro the death/ for cause that he claimed kindred of King Edward. & the king would not longer be betrayed of his traitors but sent him to London in haste. And there was hanged & his head smitten of & his body brent all to ashes. But at the prayer of the queen Margerete/ for cause that he claimed of king Edward kindred his drawing was for yeven him. ¶ How johan that was William waleys brother was put to death. AS the greatest master of scotland were thus done to evil death & destroyed for their falseness. johan that was William waleys brother was take & done unto death. as sir johan earl of Alethes was. ¶ How Robert the Brus fled from scotland to Norway. ANd at the same time was robert thee/ brus much hated among the people of scotland/ so that he wist not what he was best to do & for to hide him he went to Norway to the king that had spoused his sister. & there held him succour for to have. & Robert the Brus might not be found in scotland. Soaking Edward though let cry his peas through out all the land/ and his lawas were used/ & his ministries served through out all the land. ¶ How king Edward died. SO as king Edward had abated his enemies turned south ward. and sykened at Burgh upon sand in the march of scotland. and called to him Henry Lacie earl of Nichell. sir guy earl of warwick. sir Aylmer earl of Penbroke/ and sir Robert of Clyfforde baron and prayed them upon the faith that they him ought/ that they should make Edward of Carnarvan king of England assoon as they might. And that they should not suffer Peers of Ganaston come again in to England/ for to make his son to riot/ and they granted him with good will. And the king took his sacrament of holy church as a good christian man should. and died in repentance And when he had been king xxxv year he died/ and was buried at westminster with moche solemnity/ Upon whose soul god have mercy. ¶ Of Merlyns prophecies that were declared of king Edward. That was king Henrys sone. OF this king Edward prophecyce Merlin/ and called him a dragon the second of the vi kings that should regne in England and said/ that he should be meddled with mercy/ and also with strength and fyernesse. That should keep England from cold and heat. And that he should open his mouth toward wales and that he should set his foot in wyk and that he should close with walwes/ that should do moche harm to his seed. And he said sooth. For the good king Edward was meddled with mercy and with fyernesse/ with mercy against his enemies of wales/ and after of scotland with fyernesse/ when he put them to death for their falseness/ and traytourily as they had deserved. And well keeped he england from cold and heat/ sith he kept it from all manner of enemies that ran upon him to do him any wrong. ¶ And well he opened his mouth to ward wales/ and made it quake through hydour of his mouth/ when he conquered it thruoghe dint of sword. For the prince Lewelyn and david his brother. Ris and Morgan. were put to death through their falseness and their folly/ And he set his foot in to wyk/ and conquered Berwyk at the which conquest were slain xxv thousand and vii hundred/ out take such as were brent in the red hall. ¶ And the walls that he let make shall be noyous/ unto his sede. As men shall here after inthe life of sire Edward of Carnarvan his son. And yet said Merlin that he should make rivers ren in blood & with brain. & the seemed well in his wars there as he had the mastery And yet Merlin said that there should come a people out of the nortwest during the reign of the foresaid dragon that should be lad by an ill greyhound/ that should the dragon crown king. that afterward should i'll over the see for dread of the dragon without coming again. & that was proved by sir Iohn Baylol the king Edward made to be king of scotland. the falsely aroyse against him▪ & after he fled to his own lands of France/ & never he came again in to Scotlond for dread of king Edward: And yet said merely: that people that should lead the said greyhound should be fatherless unto a certain time soothe he said. For the people of scotland greatly were diseased after sir johan baylol was fled. And merlyn said the son should become in his time as red as any blood in tokening of great mortality of people And that was know well when the Scots were slain. And sith said Merlin/ the same dragon should nourish a Fox. that should move great were against him/ that should not in his time be ended/ and that seemed well by Robert the Brus. that king Edward nourished in his chambre that sithen stale a way & moved grett were against him/ which were was not ended in his time And yet said merlyn that the dragon should die in the march of an other land/ & that his land should be long without a good keeper. And that men should were for his death from the isle of Shephey unto the isle of Mercyll/ wherefore alas shall be their song among the common people fatherless in the land wasted And that prophecy was know over all full well. For the good King Edward died at Burgh up sandys'/ that is upon the March of scotland the englishmen were dysc●mferced and sorrowed in Northumberlonde/ For cause that king Edwardes son seat by the Scots no force. for the riot of Peers of Ganaston/ wherefore alas was the song through out all england/ for default of their good warden from the isle of Shephey unto the isle of Mercyll/ the people made moche sorrow for good king Edward's/ death. ¶ For they wend that good king Edward should have gone in to the holy land/ For that was holy his purposes. ¶ Upon whose soul god for his high & Inginyte grace have mercy ¶ Anno. dm. M.CC.lxxxiiii. CElestinus was pope after Nicolas five months/ and nothing noble of him is written/ but that he was a virtuous man. Bonefacyus the eight was pope after him viii year. This bonifacius was a man in those things the which pertaineth to court for he was very expert in such matters/ And because he had no peer/ he put no measure to his prudence. And took so great pride upon him that he said/ he was lord of all the world. and many things he died with his might & power· the which failed wretchedly in the end/ He gave an ensample to all prelatis that they should not be have ne proud. But under the form of a very shepherd of god they shod ● more study for to beloved of other subjects: than dread/ This man is he/ of whom it is said that he entered as a fox. He lived as a lion/ & died as a dog. ¶ This time the year of grace was ordained from an houndred year to an hundred year. And the first jubilee was in the year of our lord Ihesu Cryst a thousand three hundred ¶ Benedictus the eleventh was after Bonefacius xi months. This man was an holy man/ of the order of the frere preachers/ and little while lived but deceased anon. ADulphus was Emperor vi year/ This man was earl of Anoxone/ And this Adulphus was not crowned by the pope/ for he was slain in battle. ¶ Albertus was Emperor after him ·x. year. This man was the duke of Astryr & first was reproved of the pope/ & after was confirmed by the same pope for the malices of the king of France/ the which was an enemy unto the chyrche· & to the alberte the same pope gave the kingdom of France as he died other kingdoms. But it proffyted not/ for at the last he was slain of his nephew. ¶ Clemens was pope after Benedictus almost ix year/ and he was a great builder of castles and other things. And he dampened the order of Templaryes/ and he ordained the seven book of the Decretales/ the which be called the questions of Clementyns. ¶ And anon after in a counsel the which he held at Vyenna he revoked the same book the which is successary johan called again in corporyd it and published it. This Clement first of all pope's translated the pope's set fro Rome to Avignon/ and whether it was done by the motion of god. or by the boldness of man divers men marvel. ¶ Iohn the ·xxii. was pope after bym viii yrre. This man was all glorious/ as for those things that were to be used through the active life. And he published the constytutions of the clementines & sent them to all the universities. And many saints he canonized & these fat bishoprics he divided and he ordained many things against the pluralytae of benefices/ & many heretics he dampened/ but whether he was saved or not our lord would not show to those be loved very well. ¶ Henry the vii was Emperor after Albert. u· year/ this Henry was a noble man in war. and he coveted to have peace by land and water. He was a glorious man in battle. And never overcome with enemies and at the last he was poisoned of a frere when that he houseled him by receiving of the sacrament. ¶ Of king Edward that was king Edward'S sone. ANd after this king Edward reigned Edward his son/ that was borne at Carnrivan/ and this Edward went him in though France. and there he spoused Isabella the kings daughter of france. the xxv day. of januari at the church of our Lady at Boloyne in the year of our lord Ihu christ. M. CCC seven. And the twenty day of Feverer the next year that came after/ he was crowned solemnly at westmestre of the archbishop of Caunterbury. And there was so great press of people. that sire johan Bakwell was slain and murdered. And anon as the good king Edward was deed. sir Edward his son king of england. sent after Pers Ganaston in to Gascoigne/ & so moche loved him/ that he called him brother. & anon after he gave unto him the lordship of walyngforde. And it was not long after that he gave him therldom of cornwall against the lords will of england. ¶ And though brought sir walter of langton bishop of Chestre in to prison & durance. in the tour of London. with two knaves alonely him to serve. For the king was wroth with him/ fore by cause that sire water made complaint on him to his father/ wherefore he was put in prison in the time of Troylebaston. & the for said Pers of Ganaston made so great maystreys. that he went in to the kings treasury in the abbey of westminster/ & took the table of gold with the trestls of the same & many other rich jewels/ that sometime were the noble and good king Arthur's/ & took them to a merchant that was called ameri of Friscombande/ for he should bear them over the see in to Gascoigne. & so he went thence & they came never again after wherefore it was a great loss to this land And when this Pers was richly advanced/ he became so proud & so stout. wherefore all the great lords of the ream had him indyspyte for his great bearing/ wherefore sir Henry Lacie earl of Nicholl. & sir Guy earl of warwick the which great lords/ the good king Edward sir Edward's father king of England/ charged that Pers of Ganaston should not come in to England for to bring his son Edward in to riot. And all the lords of England assembled them a certain day at the frere preachers at London: And there they spoke/ of the dishonour the king Edward. died to his ream & to his crown and so they assented all/ both earls and barons/ and all the comyns that the for said Peers of Ganaston should be exiled out of England for ever more/ and so it was done/ For he for swore England and went in to ireland/ and there the king made him cheyfteyne/ & governor of the land by his commission. And there this Pers was cheyfteyne of all the land/ And did there all that him liked▪ and had power what he would/ and that time were the templars exiled through all cristiantee. for by cause that mine put upon them/ that they should do things against the faith and good believe. King Edward loved Peers of Ganaston so much/ that he might not for bear his company. And so much the king gave & behyght to the people of England/ that the exylyge of the foresaid Peers should be revoked at Stamforde/ through them that him had exiled/ wherefore Pers of Ganaston came again into england/ And when he was come again in to his land he despised the greatest lords of this land/ And called sir Robert Clare Earl of Gloucetre horesone. And the Earl of Nycholl sir Henry Lacie brustenbely/ and sir Guy earl of warwick the black hound of Arderne: And also he called the noble earl Thomas of Lancastre churl./ & many other scorns and shamies them said/ and many other great lords of Inglonde/ wherefore they were to ward him full angry and wroth & right sore annoyed. And in the same time died the Earl of Nycholl. But he chargyed or that he was deed/ Thomas of Lancastre earl that was his son in law that he should maintain his quarrel against this same Peers of Ganaston upon his blessing. ¶ And so it befell thorough help of the earl Thomas of Lancastre and all so of the Earl of warwick that the foresaid sir Peers was heeded at gaversich beside warwick in the twenty day of june. in the year of grace. M.CCC. and xii wherefore the king was sore annoyed/ and prayed god that he might see that day to be avenged/ upon the death of the foresaid Peers. ¶ And so it befell afterward as ye shall here Alas the tyme. For the foresaid Earl of Lancastre & many other great barons were put to a piteous death. and martyred for by cause of the foresaid quarrel. The king was to at London. And held a parliament and ordained the laws of Symonde Mountforde/ wherefore the earl of Lancastre/ and the Earls and all clergy of England. made an oath through counsel of Robert of wynchelse for to maintain the ordynauntes for ever. ¶ How Robert Brus came again in to scotland and gathered a great power of/ men for to were upon king Edward. ANd when sire Robert the Brus that made him king of scotland/ that before was fled in to Norway for dread of death of the good king Edward. And also he heard of the debate that though was in england between the kynhe & his lords. he ordained an host & came in to Inglonde in to Northumberlonde/ and clean destroyed the country. ¶ And when king Edward heard this tyynges he let assemble his host and met the Scots at Edstreyelyn in the day of the nativity of saint johan baptist in the third year of his regne/ & in the year of our lord. M.CCC. & xiiii Alas the sorrow & loss that there was done. For there was slain the noble Earl Gylbert of clare sir Robert Clefford baron and the king Edward was discomfited and Edmonde of maul the kings Steward for dread went & drowned himself in a fresh river that is called Bannokysborne wherefore they said in reproof of king Edward for asmuch as he loved to go by water & also for he was discomfited at Bamnosborne/ therefore the maidens made a song thereof in the country of king Edward▪ and in this manner they song Maidens of England sore may ye morn/ for tyȝt have lost your lemans at bamnokysborne/ with hevelogh. what weeneth the king of England to have goat Scotlond with rombylogh. AS king Edmonde was discomfited wonder sore and fast he fled with his folk that were left alive & went unto Berwyk/ & there held him. & after he took hostages ii children of the richesse of the town. And the king went to London. & took counsel of things that were needful to the ream of england ¶ And in the same time it befell/ that though was in England a ribald. that was called johan Tamner. And he go & said that he was the good king Edwardes son and let hem call Edward of Carnariuan. And therefore he was take at Oxford/ And there he challenged frere carmes/ church that king Edward had give them which was the kings hall. And afterward was this johan lad to Northampton/ & drawn & hanged for his falseness & or that he was deed he confessed & said before all though that were there. that the devil beyhyght him that he should be king of England & that he had served the devil three year. ¶ How the town of Berwyk was take through treason/ and how two Cardynales were robbed in England. ANd on mydlente sunday. in the year of our lord. M.CCC.xvi. Berwyke was lost thorough false treason of oon Pers of Spalding. the which Pers the king had put there. For to help that same town with many burgesses of the same town/ wherefore the children that were put in hostage through the burgesses of Berwyk followed the kings marchesse many days fettered in strong yrens And after the time two Cardynalles in to England/ as the pope had them sense for to makepe as between England and scotland. And as they went to ward Durham/ for to have sacred master Louis of Beaumont bishop of Durham they were take & rob upon the moor of wynglesdom/ Of which robbery sir Gylbert of mytton was attaint & take and hanged & drawn at London & his heed smytte of. & put upon a spear/ & set upon new gate/ & the four quarters sent/ to four cities of England. and that same time befell many mischiefs in England/ for the poor people died in England for hunger/ and so moche and so fast died. that uneath men might bury them For a quarter of wheat was at xl shillings▪ and two years & an half a quarter of where was worth ten marck·s and of time the poor people stole children and eat them/ & eat also the hounds that they might take: & also horse and cats And after there fell a great myrreyne among beasts in divers countries of england during king Edward lives tyme. ¶ How the Scots robbed Notumberlonde. ANd in the same time came the Scots again in to England and destroyed Northumberlonde/ and brendt and that land/ and robbed it/ and slew men women & children that lay in there cradyls/ & brent also holy church/ and destroyed christendom/ & took & bore english men's gods as they had been saracens/ or paynims. And of the wickedness that they died/ all the world spoke of it. ¶ How the Scots would not a mend their trespass. and therefore scotland was interdicted. SO pope johan the xxii after saint Peter herd of the great sorrow and m●che y● that the Scots wrought he was wonder sorry/ that christendom was so destroyed through the Scots/ & namely they destroyed so● holy churches wherefore the pope sent a general sentence under his bulls of l●ed unto the archbishop of Caunterbury. And to tharchebysshoppe of york that if Robert the Brus of scotland would not be justified & make amends unto the king of England Edward their lord/ & make amends of his loss/ & of his harms that they/ had done in England. And also restore the goods that they had taked of holy church/ that the sentence should be pronounced thorough out all England. And when the Scots heard this/ they would not leave their malice/ for the pope's commandment wherefore Roberte the Brus. jamys Douglas and Thomas Radulf earl of Moref and all though that with them comyned or them help in word or deed were accursed in every church through out all England every day at mass iii times And no mass should be song in holy church through out all Soctlonde but if the Scots would make restitution of the harms that they had made unto holy church wherefore many a good priest and holy men therefore were slain through the ream of scotland/ because they would not sing mass against the pope's commandment & against his will and to do & fulfil the tyrants will. ¶ How sire Hugh Spensers son was made the kings chamberlain. And of the battle of Mitone. ANd it was not long after ward/ that the king ordained a parliament at york/ And there was sir/ Spensers' son made Chambrelayne. And the mean time while the were lasted/ the king went again in to scotland/ that it was wonder for to wit & besieged the town of Berwyk/ but the scots went over the water at Solewath. that was three mile from the kings host and privily they stole a way by night/ & came in to england/ & robbed & destroyed all that they might/ and spared no manner thing till that they came unto york/ & when the englishmen that were left at home/ heard these tidings/ all though that might traveyll/ as well monkis/ priests freres/ canons/ & seculars came & met with the Scotes at Myton up small the xii day of Octobre. Alas for sorrow/ for the english husband men that could no thing of that were killed & drowned in an arm of the see And the cheyftyenes' sire wyllyam of Melton Archbishop of york & the abbot of selby with there steeds fled/ & came to york/ and that was their own folly/ that they had that mischance. For they passed the water of Small. And the Scots set a fire the starkes of hay and the smote there of was so huge/ that the Englishmen might not see the Scots. And when the englishmen were gone over the water though came the Scots with their wing in manner of a shield/ and came to ward the Englyssmen in array. And the englishmen fled. For ●neth they had any men of arms. For the king had them almost lost at the siege of Berwyk/ and the Scots hobylers went between the bridge and the englishmen/ And when the great host them met/ the englishmen fled between the hobylers & the great host. And the englishmen almost were there slain/ & he that might go over the water were saved/ But many were drowned. Alas for there were slain/ many men of religion/ seculars priests & clerks/ with moche sorrow th'archbishop escaped. & therefore the Scots called that battle the white battle. ¶ How king Edward died all manner thing that sir Hugh Spenser wolde· NOw as king Edward heard this tidings he removed his siege from Berwyk & came again into england. But Sir Hugh Spenser that was the kings Chamberlain. kept so the kings chambre. that no man might speak with the king. But he had made with him a fret for to do all his need. & that over measure. And this Hugh bore him so stout that all men had of him scorn and despite. and the king himself would not be governed/ ne ruled by no manner of man but only by his father & by him. And if any knight of england had woods maneyrs or lands that they would covet anon the King must give it them or else the man that ought it. should be falsely endited of forfeit or felony. And through such doing they disherited many a bachelor/ and so much land he gate that it was great wonder and when the lords of enlonde saw the great covetise & falseness of sir Hugh Spenser the father & of sir Hugh the son/ they come to the gentle earl of lancastre/ & axed him of counsel of the disease. that was in the ream/ though sir Hugh Spenser & his son. & in haste by one assent they made prive assemble. at shirburne● Elmede & they made there an oath for to break & dystouble the doing between the king and sir Hugh Spenser and his son upon their power. And they went in to the march of wales. and destroyed the land of the foresaid sir hughes. ¶ How sir hugh Spenser and his father were exiled out of Englonde· SO when king Edward saw the great harm and destruction that tho Barons of England died unto sire hugh Spensers' land. and to his son in every place that they came upon the king though through his counseyl ill exiled sir Monbraye. sir Roger Clyfforde & sir Gosselyn devil. & many other lords that were to them consent/ wherefore the barons died tho more harm than they died before/ & when the king saw that the barons would not sesse of their cruelty/ the king was sore adread lest they would destroy him & his ream for his maintenance/ but if he assented to them. And so he sent for them by his letters that they should come to London to his parliament at a certain day as in his letters were contained & they came with three battles/ well armed at all points. & every battle had cotarmours of great cloth. And thereof the right quarter was yellow. with white bends/ wherefore the parliament was called the parliament of the white bend. And in the company was sir Hunfrey de bohounes earl of Herford & sire Roger Clyfforde. sir johan Monbray. sir Glosselyn devil. sir Roger mortimer uncle of sir Roger mortimer of wygmore. sir Henry of Trays sir Iohn Gyffarde & sire Barthylmewe of Badelessemore that was the kings steward. that the king had sent to Shyrborne in Elmede to the earl of Lancastre/ and to all that with him were for to treat of accord/ the him allied to the barons/ & came with that company. & sur Roger Dammory & sir Hugh dandale that had spoused the kings neces sister. & sir Gylbert of clare earl of gloucester that was slain in scotland as before is said. And though two lords had tho two parties of the earldom of Gloucerte. & sur Hugh Spenser had third party in his wives half/ the third sister and though two lords went to the barons with all their power against sir Hugh their brother in law. And so there came with them sir Robert Clyfforde sir johan Mombray. sir Goselyn devil. sir Roger mortimer of work. sir Roger mortimer of wykmore his nephew. sir Henry Trays sire johan Gyffarde. sir Barthylmewe of Bardesmore. with all their company. and many other/ that to them were consent. all the great lords came unto westminster to the kings parliament. And so they spoke & died. that both sir Hugh Spenser the father & also the son/ were out lauwed of england for evermore And so sire Hugh the father went unto Dover and made moche sorrow/ & fell down upon the ground by the see bank. a cross with his arms/ and sore weeping said Now fair England and good England to almighty god I the betake And thrice kissed the ground and weened never to have come ayen· And weeping cursed the time that ever he begat sir Hugh his son. & said for him he had lost all england. And though in presence of them all that were about him gave him his curse & went over see to his lands But Hugh the son would not go out of England/ but held him in the see. and his company robbed ii dromedores beside Sandwyth and took and bore a way all the godoes that was in them to the value of lx M.li ¶ How the King exiled earl Thomas of Lancastre and all that held with him and how the mortimer came and yielded him to the king/ & of all the lords. IT was not long after that the king made sir Hugh Spenser the father/ & sir Hugh the son/ come again in to england against the lords will of the ream. And soon after the king with a strong power came and besieged the castle of Ledys. and in the castle was the laby of Bladelesmore for cause that she would not grant that castle to the queen Isabel king Edward's wife but the principal cause was/ for sir Berthylmewe was against the king/ and held with the lords of england. & nevertheless the king by help & succour of men of London/ & also of help of Southerens men gate the castle maugre of them all that were with in/ and took with them all that they might find. And when the barons of England heard these tidings/ sir Roger mortimer & many other lords took the town of Brugge wroth with strength. wherefore the king was wonder wroth/ and let outlaw Thomas of lancaster/ and Vmfroy de Bohounes earl of Herforde and all though that were assenting to the same quarrel. And the king assembled an huge host and came against the lords of england wherefore the Mortymers put them in the kings grace. And anon they were sent to the tour of London and there kept in prison. And when the barons herd this thing they came to poutfert there that the earl Thomas sojourned and told him how that Mortymers both had yield them to the king. & put them in his grace. ¶ Of the siege of Tykhyll. SO when Thomas earl of Lancastre heard this he was wonder wroth & all that were of there company & greatly they were discomfited/ & ordained there power together. and besieged the castle of Tykhyll/ But though that were with in manly defended them/ that the barnos might not get the castle. and when the king heard that his castle was besieged he swore by god & by his names. that the league should be removed. & assembled an huge power of people/ & went thither ward to rescue the castle. & his power increased fro day to day. when the earl of Lancastre & the earl of Herforde & the barons of there company heard of this thing they assembled all their power & went them to Burton upon trent & kept the bridge that the king should not pass over▪ but it befell so on the tenth day of March in the year of grace. M.CCC.xxi. the king & the Spensers' sir Aymer valance earl of Penbroke/ & johan earl of Araundell & their power went over the water & discomfited th'earl Thomas and his company·s And they fled to the castle of Tetbury & from thence they went to Pountfret. And in that wyage died sir Roger Daumore in th'abbey of Thebury. And in that same time the earl thomas had a traitor with him that was called Robert Holonde knight. that the earl had brought up of nought/ & had nourished him in his butrye. & had give him a thousand mark of land by year. And so much the earl loved him that he might do in the earls court all that him liked both among them high & low/ and so craftily the thief bare him against his lord/ that he trusted more upon him than any man on live. and the earl had ordained by his letters for to go in to the earldom of Lancastre/ to make men arise to keep him in that viage/ That is to say .v. hundred men of arms. But the falls traitor came not there: no manner men for to warn ne for to make arayse to help his lord. And when that the falls traitor heard tell that his lord was dycomfyted at Burton upon Trent. as a falls traitor thief. steel a way & robbed in Ravensdele his lords men that came fro the scomfiture. And took of them horse & harness/ and all that they had & slew of them all that they might take/ & came & yielded him to the king. ¶ when the good earl Thomas wist that he was so betrayed. He was so abashed/ & said to himself/ O almighty good how might Robert Holonde find in his herteme to betray/ sith that I loved him so moche O god well may now a man se by him that no man may deceive another rathar than he that he trustyth most upon. He hath full evil yielded me my goodness & the worship that I have to him done and through my kindness have him advanced & made him high where that he was low. And he maketh me go from high unto low/ but yet shall he die an evil death. ¶ Of the scomfiture of Brurbrygge. THe good Earl Thomas of Lancaste. Humfroy de Bohounes ele of Herford and the barons that with them were took counsel between them at the frre preachers in Pountfret. though thought Thomas upon the traitor Roberte Holonde. And said in reproof/ Alas Robert Holonde hath me betrayed/ and is the red of some evil shred. And by the common assent they should go to the castle of Dunstanbrughe/ the which pertained to th'earldom of Lancastre/ & that they should abide there till that the king had for give them his male talent. ¶ But when the good earl Thomas this herd/ he answered in this manner & said. Lords said he/ if we go to wade the North/ the Northern men will say that we go to ward the scots/ so we shall be holden traitors/ for cause of distance that is between king Edward & Robert the Brus that made him king of scotland. And therefore I say as touching myself that I will not go no ferder into the north/ than to mine own castle at Pountfret. ¶ And when sire Roger Clyfford heard this he arose up anon in wrath. and draw his sword on high/ & swore by god almighty & by his holy names/ but if that he would go with them/ he should him slay there. the noble and gentle earl Thomas of Lancastre was sore a feared & said. Fair▪ sires I will go with you whether some ever ye me bid. though went they together in to the North/ & with them they had vii C. men of arms came to Burbryg. And when sir Andrew of Herkela that was in the north country through ordinance of the king. For to keep the country of scotland/ heard tell. how that Thomas of Lancastre was discomfited & his company at Burton upon trent/ he ordained him a strong power/ and sir symonde ward also that was the sheriff of york/ and met the barons at burburgge. and anon they broke the bridge that was made of tree ¶ And when sir Thomas of Lancastre. herd the sir Andrew of Herkela had brought with him such a power he was sore adread. & sent for sir Andrew of herkela/ with him spoke. & said to him in this manner sir Andrew said he. ye may well understand that our lord the king. is lad and misgoverned by moche falls counsel through sir Hugh Spenser the father & sir Hugh is son: sir johan earl of Arundel/ & through master Robert Baldok a falls pilled clerk. that now is in the kings court dwelling wherefore I pray you that ye will come with us with all your power that ye have ordained/ & help to dystroie the venom of england. and the traitors that been therein. & we will give unto you all the best part of five Erldoms/ that we have & hold. & we will make unto you an oath. that we will never do thing without your counsel/ & so ye shallbe left as well with as ever was Robert Holande though answered sir Andrew of Herkela & said sir Thomas that would not I do ne consent thereto for no manner thing without the will & commandment of lord the king/ for them should I be holden a traitor for evermore. And when that the noble earl Thomas of Lancastre saw that he would not consent to him for no manner thing sir Andrew he said will ye not consent to destroy the venom of the ream as we be consent at one word sir Andrew I tell the that are this year began/ that ye shall▪ be take and hold for a traitor. and more than any of you hold us now/ & in worse death ye shall die than ever died any knight of England. And understand well/ that ye did never thing That sorer ye shall you repent. And now go and do what you good lykyth/ & I will put me in to the mercy of god. And so went the false traitor tyraunce a falls forsworn man For through the noble earl Thomas of Lancastre he received the arms of chivalry/ and through him he was made a knight. though might men see archers draw them in that one side and in that other and knights also. And fought though together wonder sore. And also among all other Humfroy de Boughon Earl of Herforde a worthy knight of renown through out all christendom stood a fought with his enemies upon the bridge. and as the noble lord stood & fought upon the bridge a thief rybaude skulked under the bridge/ & fiercely with a spear. smote the noble knight in to the fundament/ so that his bowels came out about his feet ther. Alas for sorrow & pity. For there was slain the flower of solace & of comforth/ & also of curteysye. ¶ And Sir Roger Clyfforde a noble & a worthy knight stood ever & fought/ and well & worthily him defended as a noble baron. But at the last he was sore wounded in his heed/ And sir William of Sullaind. & sir Roger of Benfeelde were slain at that battle. when sir Andrew of Herkela saw that sir thomas men of Lancastre/ lassed & slaked. anon he and his company came unto the gentle knight sir Thomas & laid unto him in an high voice yield the traitor yield the. The gentle earl Thomas of Lancastre answered then and said Nay lords traitors we been none and to you we will never us yield while that our lives last But liefer we had to be slain in our thruth than yield us unto you. And sire Andrew ●en guarded upon sir Thomas and his company/ yelling and crying like a wode wolf yield you traitors taken yield you/ and said with an high voys Beware sires that none of you be so hardy upon life and limb to miss do Thomas body of Lancastre/ And with that word the good earl Thomas go into the castle/ & said kneeling upon his knees and turned his visage to ward the cross and said almighty god to the I yield/ & holy I put me unto thy mercy. and with that the villains and ribalds leapt about him on every side as tyrants & wood tormentors & despoiled him of his armour & clothed him in a ●obe of ray● that was of his squires lyvetay ● and forth lad him unto york by water. though might men see moche sorrow & care For the gentle knights fled on every side & the ribalds and the villains eagerly. them dyscryed/ and cried on high yield traitors yield you. And when they were yelden they were robbed & bounden as thiefs. Alas the shame and despite that the gentle orde of knighthood had there at that battle. And the land was tho without law For holy church had though no more crevereence than it had be a burdell house/ And in that batyall was the father against the son ● and the uncle against the nephew. For so moche unkindness/ was never seen before in England/ as that time among folks of one nation. For one kindred had no more pity of that other. than an hungry wolf hath of a sheep/ And it was no wonder. For the great lords of England were not all of one nation/ But were meddled with other nations/ That is for to say some/ Brytons/ some Saxons/ some Danies/ some Pehypes/ some Frenssemen/ some Normans/ some Spanyerdes'/ some romans/ some Henaude some flemings and other divers nations the which nations accorded not to the kind blood of England. And if so great lords had be only wedded to english people. Then should peas have been and rest among them without any envy. And at that battle was Roger Clyfforde take. sir Iohn Mombray sir wyllyam Tuchy● Sir wyllyam fitz wyllyam/ and many other worthy knights there take at that battle & Sir Hugh Dandell net day after was taken and put in to prison/ and should have be done to death if he had not spoused the kings niece/ that was earl Gylbertes sister of Gloucestre ● and anon after was sir Berthylmewe of Badelesmore taken at Stow park a maneyr of the bishop of Lyncoln that was his nephew & many other barons and baronetters. wherefore was made moche sorrow. ¶ How Thomas of Lancastre was heeded at Pountfret/ and .v. barons hanged and drawn there ANd now I shall tell you of the noble earl Thomas of Lancastre. wha he was take & brought to york/ many of the city were full glade and upon him cried with an height voys O sir traitor ye be welcome. blessed be god for now ye shall have the reward/ that long ye have deserved. And cast upon him many snow balls/ & many other repreves they did him. But the gentle earl all suffered/ & said neither o word nor other. ¶ And at the same time the king heard of this scomfyture/ & was full glad & joyous/ & in great haste came to Pountfret. And sir Hugh Spenser. and sir Hugh his son/ & sir Iohn earl of Arundel and sir Edmonde of woodstock the kings brother earl of Kent. & sir Aymer of valance earl of Penbroke and master Robert Baldoke. a falls pilled clerk/ that was prive/ and dwelled in the kings court/ & all came thither with the king. And the king entered in to the castle and Sir Andrew of Herkela a false tyrant through the kings commandment. took with him the gentle Earl. Thomas to Pountfret and there he was prisoned in his own castle that he had new made that stood against the abbey of king Edward. ¶ And sir Hugh Spenser the father & the son cast and thought how & in what manner the good earl Thomas of Lancastre should be deed/ without judgement of his peries. wherefore it was ordained through the kings justicus that the king should put upon him points of treason. And so it befell that he was led to bar before the kings justices bare heed as a thief/ in a fair hall in his own castle that he had made there in many a fair feste. both to rich & to poor. ¶ And these where is justices sir Hugh Spenser the father. & Aymer of Balance earl of Pembroke/ sir Edmonde of woodstock earl of Kent/ sir johan of britain earl of Rychemonde/ & sir Robert Malemethrop justice and sire Roberte him a couplyd in this manner. ¶ Thomas court excludeth you of all manner answer Thomas our lord the king/ puttyth upon you▪ that ye have in his land riden with banner displayed against his peace. as a traitor. ¶ And with the word the gentle earl Thomas with an high voice said/ Nay lords forsooth and by saint Thomas I was never traitor ¶ The justice said again tho. Thomas our lord the king putteth upon you that ye have robbed his folk/ and murdered his people as a thief. Thomas also the king puttythe upon you that he dyscomfyted you & our people with his folk/ in his own ream/ wherefore. ye went & fled to the wood as an outlaw▪ and thomas as a traitor ye shall be hanged by reason. but the king hath forgiven you that judgement/ for love of queen Isabella. And Thomas reason would that ye should be hanged/ but the king hath foryve you that judgement for by cause & love of your lineage. But for asmuch. Thomas as ye were taken fleeing/ and as an outlaw. the king: will that your heed shall be smitten of/ Anon have him out of prees and bring him to his judgement. ¶ When the gentle knight Thomas had heard all these words/ with an high voice he cried sore weeping and said alas saint Thomas fair father. Alas shall I be deed thus Grant me now blessydful▪ god answer. But all availed him no thing For the cursed gascoins put him hither & thither/ & on him cried with an high voys. O king Arthur most terrible & dreadful / well known & showed now is thine open traitor. And an evil death shalt thou right anon die. Haste thou not right well deserved it. ¶ And then these cruel folk set upon the good knyhht Thomas for very scorn an old chaplet that was all to rent/ that was not worth an half penny. And after that they set him upon a white palfroy full unseemly/ & also all bare/ with an old bridle. And with an horrible noise they drove him out of the castle to ward his death/ and they cast upon him many balls of snow in despite. And as the traitors lad him out of the castle though said he these piteous words. And his hands held up on high to ward heaven Now the king of heaven give us mercy for the earthly king hath us forsaken and a frere preacher went with him out of the castle till he came to the place that he endeth his life. unto whom he shrove him all his life. And the gentle earl held the frere wonder fast by the clothes & said to him Fair father abide with us till that I be deed. for my flesh quakyth for dread of death. ¶ And the sooth for to say/ The gentle earl set him upon his knees/ and turned him to ward the east: but a ribald that was called Hygone of mosston set hand upon the gentle Earl and said in despite of him Sir traitor torn the toward the Scots/ thy fowl death to receive/ & turned to ward the Nosth. The noble earl Thomas answered tho with a mild voys and said now fair lords I shall do your will And with that word the frere went from him sore weeping. And anon a ribald went to him/ & smote of his heed/ the xi Kalendas of Auerell. In the year of grace. M.CCC. & xxi ¶ Alas that ever such a gentle blood should be done to death withouten cause & reason. And traitorously the king was counseled/ when he through the falls counsel of the Spenser suffered sir Thomas his uncles son to be put to such a death/ & so he beheaded against all manner of reason/ And great pity it was also/ that such a noble king should be deceived and misgoverned through counsel of the falls Spensers'/ the which though he maintained through loselry against his honour & also his profit. For after ward there fell great vengeance in England. for by cause of the forsayd· Thomas death. when the gentle earl of his life was passed. the prior & the monks of Pounfret gate the body of sir Thomas of the king & buried it before the high altar on the right side. ¶ That same day that this gentle knight was deed/ were hanged and drawn/ for the same quarrel at Pountfret sir William Tuchet. Sir William. Fitz William. sir werreyn of isel. Sir Henry Bradborn/ & sir William chain barons all/ and Iohn page esquyrer. and soon after at york were drawn & hanged sir Roger Clyfforde/ sire johan of Mambray barons. & sir Goselyne devil knight. ¶ And at Brystowe were drawn and hanged/ Sir Henry of wemyngton/ & sir Henry Moun●torde barons ¶ And at Gloucerre were drawn and hanged sir Iohn Gaffarde and sir William of Elmebrughe barons/ & at London were hanged and drawn Sir henry Ties baron. ¶ And at wynchelse sir thomas Clepepyr knight. And furthermore to tell of this cruel action at wyndsore was draw & hanged sir Fraunc●s waldenham baron/ & at Caunterbury was drawn and handyg sir Berthylmew Badelesmore and sir Berthylmew of ash bourucham barons and at Cardyf in wales sir Wylyam Fleming baron. ¶ How king Edward went into scotland with an hundrde thousand men of arms/ and might not speed. SO when king Edward of England had brought the flower of cheua●▪ unto their death. through counsel & con●ente of sir Hugh Spenser the father/ & sir Hugh the son he became as wood as any lion▪ & what so ever the Spensers would have it was done So well the king loved them that they might do with him all thing that them liked wherefore the king gave unto sir Hugh Spenser the father the earldom of wynchestre and unto sir Andrew of Herkela the earldom of Cardoyll● in prejudice and in harming of his crown. And king Edward though through counsel of the Spensers disherited all them that had be against him in any quarrel with Thomas of L●castre. And many other were disherited also/ by cause that the Spensers coveted for to have their lands. And so they had all that they would desire with wrong/ & against all reason. though made the king Robert Baldok a fal●e pilled clerk Chancellor of england. through counsel of the foresaid Spensers. ¶ And he was a false rybaude/ And a covetous. And so they counseled the king moche/ that the king let take to his own ward all the goods of the lords that were put wrongfully to the death in to his own hand. And aswell they took the goods that were within holy church/ es the goods that were without/ & let them be put in to his tresoury in London/ & let them call his for feytes. And by there counsel the king wrought for ever more he disherited them that the gods ought/ & through their counsel let arer a talegge of all the goods of England/ wherefore he was the richest king that ever was in England. after wyllyam Bastard that comquered England./ And yet through counsel of them him seemed that he had not enough. But made yet every town of England for to find a man of arms upon their own costs/ for to go & were upon the Scots that were his enemies/ wherefore the king went in to scotland with an houndred thousand men of arms at whitsuntide in the year of our lord Ihesu Crist. M.CCC.xxii. But the Scots went/ & hid them in mountains & in woods and carried the englishmen fro day to day/ that the king might for no manner thing find them in plain field/ wherefore many englishmen that had little victuals died there for hungres wonder fast an suddenly in going and coming and namely though that had been against Thomas of Lancastre & robbed his men upon his lands. when king Edward saw that victuals failed him/ he was wonder sore discomfited. because also that his men died. & for he might not speed of his enemies. So at the last he came again in to England/ & anon after came james Douglas and also Thomas Radulph with an huge host into England in to Northumberlonde/ and with them the englishmen that were driven out of England/ and came and rob the country/ and slew the people/ & also brent the twone that was called Northallerton & many other twones to york. And when the king heard this tidings he let so mane all manner men that might travyllee. And so the englishmen met the Scots at the abbey of Beyghelande the xu day after Mygelmas. en the same year above said/ and the englishmen were there discomfited. And at that discomfiture was take sir johan of britain earl of Rychmonde that held the country & the earldom of Lancastre and after he paid an huge ransom & was let go. And after that he went in to France and came never after again. ¶ How sir Andrew of Herkelay was take and put to death/ that was Earl of Cardoil. THen at that time was sir Andrew of Herkela/ the new was made earl of Cardoil/ for cause that he had taken the good earl Thomas of Lancastre. ¶ He had ordained through the kings commandment of England. for to bring him all the power that he might for to help against the Scots as the abbey of Beglonde. And when the falls traitor had gathered all the people that he might & should have come to the king unto the abbey of Beyghelande/ the falls traitor lad them by another country through Copelonde. And through th'earldom of Lancastre/ & went through the country & rob & slew the folk all that he might. And furthermore the false traitor had take a great sum of gold and silver of sir james Douglas for to be against the king of England. & to be helping & holding with the Scots/ through whose treason the king of England was discomfited at Beyghelande or that he came thither. wherefore the king was to ward him wonder wroth. and let privily inquire by the country about how that it was. And some men inquired and aspeyed/ so at the last the truth was found & sought. And he atteynte & take as falls traitor/ as the good earl Thomas of Lancastre him told of that he was pute unto death at his ta●ynge at burbrug. & to him said. Or the that were done he should be take & hold a traitor And so it was as the holy man said. ¶ wherefore the king sent privily to sir Anthony of Lucy/ a knight of the country of Cardoil that he should take sir Andrew of Herkela & put him unto the death. And to bring this thing unto the end. the king sent his commission so that this same Andrew was take at Cardoill and lad unto the bar in the manner of an earl worthily arrayed/ & with answered gird about him/ and hosed and spurred. ¶ though spoke sir Anthoyn in this manner sir Andrew said he the king putteth upon the for asmuch as thou hast be orpyd in thy deeds/ he died to the moche honour/ & made the earl of Cardoil. & than as a traitor to thy lord laddest the people of his counter that should have holp him at the battle of Beyghel and and thou laddest them away by the country of Copelande/ and through the earldom of Lancastre wherefore our lord the king was discomfited there of the Scots through thy treason & falseness and if thou hadst come by times he had had the battle and treason thou didst for the great sum of gold & silver that thou received of james Douglas a Scot the kings enemy And our lord the king will/ that the order of knighthood. by the which thou received all thine honour and worship upon thy body be all brought to nought & thine estate undoyne. that other knights of lower degree mow after beware/ which lord hath the avaunted hugely in diverse countries of England and that all may take ensample by there lord after ward. truly for to serve. ¶ though commanded he anon a knave/ To hue of his spurs of his heels/ and after he let break the serde over his heed. the which the king gave him for to keep and defend his land there with when he/ made him Earl of Cardoyll. And after he let him be unclothed of his furred taberde and of his hood/ and of his furred coats/ and of his girdle. ¶ And when this was done/ Sir Anthony said then unto him. Andrew said he Now art thou no knight But a knave/ and for thy treason the king will that thou shalt be hanged and drawn and thy heed smitten of/ and thy bowels take out of thy body and brent before thee/ and thy body quartered and thy heed sent to London/ and there it shall stand upon London bridge/ and the four quarters shall be sent to four towns of England/ that all other may beware and chastised by that And as Anthony said/ so it was done all manner of thing in the last day of Octobre. in the year of grace. M.iii C.xxii year. And the son turned in to blood as the people it saw/ and that dured from the morn till xi of the cloak. ¶ Of the miracles that god wrought for saint Thomas of lancaster/ wherefore the king let close in the church doors of the priory of Pountfert/ that no man should come therein for to offer ANd soon after that the good earl Thomas of Lancastre was martyred there was a priest that long time had be blind/ dreamed in his sleep/ that he should go to the hill there the good Earl Thomas of Lancastre was done unto death/ and he should have his sight again & so he dreamed three nights sewing. and the priest lead him to the same hill and when he came to the place that he was martyred on devoutly he made there his prayers/ And prayed god and saint Thomas/ that he might have his sight again/ And he was in his prayers he laid his right hand upon the same that the good man was martyred on/ & a drop of dry blood and small sand cleaved on his hand/ & there with striketh his eyen. And anon through the might of god & saint Thomas of lancaster/ he had his sight again. And thanked though almighty god and saint Thomas. And when this miracle was known among men/ the people came thither on every side. and kneeled and made their prayers at his tomb that is in the priory of Pountfret and prayed that holy martyr of succour and of help/ & god heard there prayer. ¶ Also there was a young child drowned in a well in the town of Pountfret and was deed three day and three nights. And men came and laid the deed child the said Thomas tomb the holy martyr/ and the child arose from death to life. as many a man it saw. ¶ And also moche people were out of their mind/ and god sent them their mind again. through virtue of that holy man. And god hath give there also to cryppyls their going/ & the crooked their hands & there feet/ and two blind also their sight. & to many sick folk there ●elthe of divers maladies for the love of this good martyr. ¶ Also there was a rich man in Coundom in Gascoigne and such a malady he had that all his right side rotted & fell a way from him/ that men might see his liver & his heart and so he stank/ that uneath they might come nigh him. wherefore his friends were for him wonder sorry. But at the last as god would. they prayed to saint Thomas of lancaster/ that he would pray almighty god for that prisoner & behyght for to go to Pountfret for to do their pilgrimage/ he thought that the Martyr saint Thomas came to him. and anointed all his sick body/ and therewith the good man a work & was all hole/ & his flesh was restored again that before was rotyd & fallen a way. For which miracle the good man and his friends loved god and saint Thomas evermore after. And this good man came into England And took with him four fellows: and came to Pountfret to the holy martyr. & did their pilgrimage. & the good man that was sick came thither all naked/ safe his privy clothes. And when they had done. they turned home again in to their own country. and told of the miracle where so ever that they came. ¶ And also two men have been heeled there of the mormale through help of the holy martyr/ though that evil be hold in curable. And when the Spensers heard that god died such miracles for this holy man they nolde believe it in no manner wiser/ but said openly that it was great heresy/ such virtue of him to believe. and when sir Hugh Spenser the son saw all this doing/ anon he sent his massager from Pountfret there that he dwelled to king Edward that though was at graven at scypton/ for cause that the king should undo the pilgrimage/ And as the ribald the messenger went to ward the king for to do his message/ he came by the hill the●e the good martyr was done to death. And in the same place he made his ordure/ and when he had done. he road to ward the king and a strong flyre came upon him or that he came to york/ and though he shed all his bowels at his fundment. And when sir Hugh Spenser heard this tygynges/ somdele he was adread and thought for to undo this pilgrimage if he might by any manner a way/ and anon he went to the king/ and said that they should be in great slander through out all christendom/ for the death of Thomas of Lancastre if that he suffered the people to do there pilgrimage at Pountfret & so he counseled the king that he commanded to shut the church doors of Pountfret/ in the which church the holy martyr was entered. and thus they did against all franchises of holy church so the four year after might no pilgrim come to the holy body. & because the monks suffered men to come & honour that holy body of saint Thomas the martyr. through counsel of sir Hugh Spenser the son/ and through counsel of master Roberte Baldok the falls pilled clerk. that was the kings chaunceles. the king consented that they should be let to their wages/ & let make wardens over there own good long time/ & through commandment of the foresaid sir Hugh Spenser xiiii Gascoyne's well armed kept the hill there that the good man saint Thomas was done unto his death so that no pilgrim might come by that way/ Full well went he to have take christ's might & his power & the great boos of miracles/ that he showed for his martyr saint thomas through all christendom And that same time the king made Roberte of Baldok the falls pilled clerk. through prayer of sir Hugh Spenser son. was made Chaunseler of England. And in the same time was the castle of walyngforde holden against the king through prisoners that weren within the castle for saint Thomas love of Lancastre/ wherefore the people of the country came & took the castle of the prisoners wherefore sir Iohn of Goldyngton knight and sir Edmonde of Becche prisoners were taken & sent unto the king to Pountfrete & there they were done in prison. and the foresaid Roger was sent unto york/ and there he was drawn & hanged. And anon after sir Roger mortimer of wygmore broke out of the tower of London in this manner. The foresaid Roger heard that he should be draw & hanged at London in the morrow after say● Laurence day and on the day before he held a fair feast in the tour of London and there was sire Stephen Segrave constable of the tower and many great men with them and when they should soup/ the foresaid Stephen sent for all the officers of the tower. & they came & sowped with him/ and when they should take there leave of him. & squire that was called Stephen▪ that was full privy with the foresaid Roger through his counsel. gave them all such a drink that the least of them all slept two days & two nights. & in the mean time he escaped a way by water/ by the thamies and went over the see and held him in France. wherefore the king was sore annoyed/ and put the same Stephen out of his Constabellary. ¶ How the queen Isabella went in to France/ for to treat of peace between her lord the king of England/ and the king of France her brother. THe king went tho unto London and there through counsel of sir Hugh Spenser the father. & of his son & of master Robert Baldok a falls pilled clerk his Chauncheler. let seize to all the queens lands into his hands. and also all the lands that were sire Edwardes his son. and were so put to their wages/ against all manner of reason. & that was through the falseness of the Spensers. ¶ And when the king of france that was queen Isabelles brother heard of this falseness he was sore annoyed against the king of England & his false counsellors. wherefore he sent a letter to king Edward under his seale· that he should come at a certain day to do his homage/ & thereto he summoned him. & else he should lose all Gascoigne. And so it was ordained in England through the king & his counsel/ that queen Isabel should go into France/ for to treat of peace between her lord and her brother. & that Oliver of yngham should go into Gascoigne/ & have with him vii M. men arms & moo/ to be Seneschal & warden of Gascoigne. & so it was ordained that queen Isabella/ came into France and with her went sir aymer of valance earl of Penbroke that was there murdered suddenly in aprevysege/ but that was through god's vengeance for he was one of the justycys that consented to saint thomas death of Lancastre and would never after repent him of that wicked deed. And all that time sir Oliver of yngham went over into Gascoigne/ & died moche harm to the king of France & though he gate again that king Edward had lost. and moche more thereto. ¶ How king Edward sent sir Edward his son the eldest in to France. THe queen Isabella had but a quater of a year dwelled in France when sir Edward her eldest son axed leave though for to go in to France/ for to speak with his mother/ Isabel the queen/ & his father the king granted him with a good will/ & said to him go my fair son in God's blessing and mine/ and think for to come again as hastily as thou may/ And he went over the see in to France & the king of France his uncle received him with moche honour/ & said unto him/ Fair son ye be welcome/ and for by cause that your father come not to his homage. for the duchy of Guyon/ as his ancestors were wont for to do. I give you that lordship hold it of me in heritage as all manerauncetours did before you wherefore he was called duke of Guyon. ¶ How the king exiled his queen ysabell & Edward her eldest sone. AS king Edward of England heard tell how the king of France had give the ducye of Guyon unto sir Edward his son/ without consent and will of him & that is soon had received the duchy he became wonder wroth. & sent to his son by letter/ that they should come again in to england in all the haste that they might/ And the queen Isabel and sir Edward her son were wonder sore a dread of the kings menaced. & of his wrath/ principally for the falseness of the Spensers/ both of the father/ & also the son. & at his commandment they would not come wherefore king Edward was full sore annoyed/ & let make a cry at London/ that if queen Isabella & Edward his eldest son/ came not in england that they should be hold as our enemies/ both to the ream & also to the crown of England & for that they nolde come into England/ but both were exiled the mother & her son. ¶ When the quen herd these tidings. She was sore adread to be destroyed/ through the falls conyecting of the Spensers/ & went with the knights that were exiled out of England/ for saint Thomas cause of Lancastre that is to say sir Roger of wigmore. sir wyllyam Trusell sir johan Cromwell & many other good knights wherefore they took their counsel & ordained among them/ for to make a marriage between the duke of Guyhenne the kings son of england & the earls daughter of Henaude/ that was a noble knight of name. and doughty in his tyme. & if that thing might be brought a bout thenne stood they trowing with the help of god and with his help to recover their heritage in england/ wherefore they were put out through the falls cocnecting of the Spensers. ¶ How king Edward through counsel of the Spensers sent to the Douzephers of France. that they should help that the queen Isabella & her son sir Edward were exiled out of France. AS king Edward and the Spensers' herd how that queen Isabella & sir Edward her son▪ had allied them to the Earl of Henaude/ & to them that were exiled out of england for cause of thomas of Lancastre they were so sorry that they wist not what for to do/ wherefore sir Hugh Spenser the son said to sir Hugh the father in this manner wise. father cursed by the time & the counsel that ever ye consented that the queen Isabella should go in to France/ for to treat of accord between the king of England & her brother the king of france for that was your counsel. for at that time for such your wit failed/ for I dread me sore/ least through her & her son we shall be destroyed. But if we take the better counsell. ¶ Now fair sires understand/ how marvelous felony & falsehood the Spensers imagined & cast. For privily they let fill five barrels ferrours with silver/ the sum amounted .v. M. pound. & they sent those barrels over ●ee privily by an alliant/ that was called Arnold of Spain/ that was a broker of London That he should go to the Douzepers of France/ that they should procure/ and speak to the king of France/ that queen Isabella & her son Edward were driven & exiled out of France. And among all other things. That there were brought to the death as privily as they might but almighty god would not so/ for when this Arnold was in the high see/ he was take wi●h Selanders that met him in the high see and took him and lad him to the earl of Henaude their lord & moche joy was made for that taking. And at the last this Arnold privily steel a way from thence. And came to London And of this taking & of other things the earl of Henaude said to the queen Isabella. Dame make you merry & be of good there for ye be richer than ye weaned for to be/ & take these five barrels full of silver. that were s●●te to the Dourpers of France for to slay you & your son Edward. and think you hastily for to go in to England/ and take with you Sire johan of Henaude my brother/ and .v. houndred men of arms. For many of them of France in whom ye have had great trust done you for to scorn. and almighty god grant you that grace your enemies to overcome. ¶ The queen Isabella sent tho through Henaude and Flaundres/ for her soldiers/ & ordained her every day for to go in to England again/ & so she had in her company sir Edmonde of woodstock. that was earl of Kent. that was sir Edward's brother of Englde. ¶ How king Edward let keep the costs by the see. and let try all the price men of arms and foot men through England. AS king Edward herd tell the quen Isabella & Edward her son. would come in to England/ with a great power of alyauntes. & with them that were outlawed out of england for there rebellyousnesse. he was sore a dread to be put down/ & for to lose his kingdom wherefore he ordained to keep his castles in wales as well as in england/ with vytayllers & their appa●ylles/ and let keep his rivers & also ye. & at the feast of Decolation of saint Iohn baptist the Cytezyns of London sent to the king to Prochestre an. C. men of arms. & also he commanded by his letters ordeyend/ that every hundred & wepentake ●otrye as well men of arms as men on foot. and that they should be put in twenty some. and in an hundred some/ And commanded the all the men were ready when any shout or cry were made/ for to purpose & take the alyauntiss that came in to england for to been bme him the land for to put him out of his kyngdon/ And more over he let cry thorough his patent in every fair & in every market of England/ that the queen Isabella & sir Edward his eldest son. & the earl of Kent. that they were take. and saufly kept without any manner harm unto them doing/ & all other manner people that come with them. anon smite of their heads. without any manner ransom taking of them. And what man might bring sir Rogeres mortimer heed of wygmore. should have an hundred pound of money for his travall. ¶ And furthermore he ordained by his patrent & commanded to make. a fire upon every hill/ beside the rivers and in low countries. for to make high bekenesse of rymbre. That if it so were that the alyuntes came unto land by night time that thenne the Inhabycaunties there about should endevoyr themself in goodly haste to light & fire the bekenes that the country may be warned & come & meet there enemies. And in the time died sir Roger Mortymyer his ucle in the tour of London. ¶ How the queen Isabella and sir Edward duke of Guyenne her son came in to London at her with/ and how they died. AS queen Isabella and sir Edward her son duke if Guyenne sir Edward of woodstock earl of Kente/ & sir Iohn the earls brother of Henaude & there company. dread not the menace of the king ne of his traitors for they trusted all in God's grace/ & came to Her with in South floke the xxiii day of Septembre/ in the year of grace. M.CCC.xxvi. And the queen & sire Edward her son sent letters to the Mayor & commonalty of London requiring them/ that they should be helping in the quarrel and cause that they had/ that is to say to destroy the traitors of the ream. But none answers were sent again: wherefore the queen and sir Edward her son sent another patent letter under the seizes the tenor of which letter here followeth in this manner. ¶ Isabella by the grace of god queen of england/ lady of ireland/ and countess of Pountyf/ and we Edward the eldest son of the king of england. duke of guyon/ earl of Chestre of Pauntyf/ & of moustroyl. to the Mayor & to all the comynaltee of the city of London sendeth greeting for asmuch as we have before the time/ sent to you by your letters/ how we be come into this land in good array and in good manner/ for the manner/ for the honour & profit of holy church and of our dear lord the king and all the ream with all the ream with all our might and power/ to keep/ and maintain/ as we/ and all the good folk of the foresaid ream are holden to do. And upon that we pray you that ye would be helping to us in as much as ye may in this quarrel that is for the common profit of the foresaid ream/ and we have had to this time none answer of the foresaid letters ● ne know not your mind in that party. wherefore we send to you again and pray & charge you chat ye bear you so against us/ that we have no cause to grieve you/ but the ye been unto us helping by all the ways that ye may or may know/ For wit ye well in certain that we and all that be come with us into this ream/ think not to do any thing. but that thing that shall be for the common profit of all the ream/ but only to destroy Hugh Spenser our enemy and enemy to all the ream as ye it well know. wherefore I pray you/ and charge you in the faith that ye own unto our lyege lord the king & to us/ & upon all that ye shall mow for fair again us. that if the said spenser our enemy come within your power/ that ye do him hastily to be take/ & saufly keep until ye have ordained of him our will & the ye leave it not in no manner wise as ye desire honour & profit of us all & of all the ream. understanding ye right well that if ye do this our prayer and straight commandment/ we think us so much the more beholding unto you. And also ye shall get you worship & also profit. if ye send as hastily answer of all your will again at Baldok the sixth day of Octobre. which letter in the dawning of the day of saint Denys/ was tacked upon the new cross in Cheap/ and many topyes of the same letter were tacked upon windows and doors & upon other places in the city of london/ that all men passing by the way might them read and see/ And in the same time king Edward was at London in the tour at his meet/ And a messenger came in to the hall & said/ that the queen Isabella was come to land at Herewhiche. and hath brought in her company sir johan of Henande & with him men of arms without number. And with that word sir Hugh Spenser the father spoke/ & thus unto the king said. My most worshipful lord & king of england now make good cheer for certainly they been all ours. The king saw this word comfortable. yet he was full sorrowful & pensive in his heart And the king had not fully eaten but there came in to the hall another messenger/ & said that the queen Isabella was arrived at Her which beside ypswytche in Soutfolke Sir Hugh Spenser the father spoke to the messenger & said/ Tell sooth in good faith my fair friends: is she come with a great strength. Now c●●tes the sooth for to say sir said the messenger. She ne hath in her company but v●. hounderd men of arms. And with that word sir Hugh Spenser the father cried with an high voice & said/ Alas alas we been all betrays. Forts with so little power she had never come to land/ but if folk of this land were unto her concent. And therefore after there meet they took counsel. and went to ward wales for to arere the welshmen against the queen Isabella and Edward her son/ all for to right and so they were in purpose every eachone. ¶ How master water Stapylton bishop of exeter that was the kings treasurer was heeded at London ANd in the same time king Edward was sore adread. least that men of london would yield them unto the queen Isabella And to her son Edward/ wherefore he set master walter Stapylton his treasurer for to be warden/ and keeper of the city of London/ with the Mayor/ And so came to the Gyldeha●●e of London: and axed the keys of the yates of the city/ through virtue & strength of his commission & would have had the keeping of the cite And the commoners answered: & said that they would keep the city to the honour of king Edward & of Isabella the queen/ & of the duke the kings son without any more. the bishop though was sore onoyed/ & swore oaths/ they all should abye it anon as the king Edward were come out of walyes. ¶ And the commoners all anon of the city took the bishop & lad him anon amids of the Cheap/ & there they smote of his heed/ & set his heed in his right hand And forth with the same comyns of the city of London by heeded two of his squires that held with the bishop/ and one of them was called wylliam of wail/ that was the bishops nephew And that other was called Iohn of Padynton. And also they took a burgeys of London that was called Iohn Mershall. that was sir Hugh spenser espy the father & smote of his heed also: & in that same time the bishop had in London a fair tour in making in his close/ upon the river Temse that was without temple bar/ & he failed stone to make thereof an end & he commanded his men to go the frere Carmes/ and there they took stone to make there with the tour/ & moche fonde & mortar & old robous that was left. And for the despite the bishop had done unto holy church/ he & his two squires were buried in that sonde. As though they had been hounds/ and there they lay xi weeks till that the queen Isabella sent her letters to the commoners/ & prayed them that they would suffer and grant. that the bishop might be take out of that place/ & be buried at exeter at his own church And so he was/ & his two squires were buried at saint Clementes church without temple bar. And it ● was no wonder though that bishop died an evil death. For he was a covetous man & had with him no mercy/ & evil counseled the king. And soon after was Arnold of Spain take. that assentye to lead the .v. M.li of silver in five barrels feryers unto the douzepers of France/ for to help & haste the queen Isabella to her death. And Edward her son also. and this Arnold was put to death without the cyte· ¶ How king Edward & sir Hugh Spenser and the earl of Arundel were taken. AS king Edward had sent master walter Stapylton/ his treasurer in to London/ for to keep the city unto him against the queen Isabella his wife/ & against Edward his son anon himself took with him sir Hugh Spenser the son. & sir Iohn of Arundel and master Robert Baldok his Chancellor a falls pilled clerk & took their way to ward Brystowe/ And there the king abode a little time/ and made sir Hugh Spenser the father as Constable and keeper of the castle. Ane the king & that other Spenser went to ship/ and sailed to ward wales/ & took no leave of the kings Steward/ ne of none of the king's household/ & went over in to wales for to arere the welshmen against dame Isabella the queen & the duke her son/ And the earl of Kente/ and sir Iohn Henaude/ And he went and pursued after them/ And their power increased every day/ So at the last the king was taken upon an hill in wales/ and Sir Hugh Spenser the son in that otherside of the same hill/ & the false pilled clerk master Robert Baldok there fast beside them. And were brought again in to England/ as almighty god would/ And the king himself was put in safe keeping in the castle of Kenylworth/ and him kept sir Henry that was saint Thomas brother of lancaster/ and sir Hugh the father came & put him in the queens grace & Edward her son duke of Guyon/ but sir Hugh Spenser after the time that he was take. would never eete no more meet ne drink no manner drink/ for he wist to have no mercy/ safe only to be deed. ¶ And the queen & her counsel had ordained/ that he should have be done to death at London. But he was so feeble for his moche fasting that he was nigh deed & therefore it was ordained. that he should have his judgement at her ford. & at a place of the tour his heed was take from his body & also fro Robert Baldok that was a falls pilled clerk & the kings chancellor. And men set upon their heedys' chapletties of sharp nettles/ and two squires blue in their ears/ with two great bugle horns/ upon the two prisoners. that men might here there blown out with horns more than a mile. & one Symond of Riding the kings Marshal bare before them upon a spear their arms reversed/ in token/ that he should be undone for evermore. And upon the morrow was sir Hugh Spenser the son dampened to death & was drawn hanged & heeded. & his bowels taken out of his body. & brent. & after that he was quartered/ & his four quarters were sent to the four towns of England/ & his heed sent to London bridge/ And this Symond for cause that he despised queen Isabella/ he was drawn & hanged in a stage made a mids the foresaid sir Hugh's gallows. And the same day a little from thence was sir johan of Arundel be headed by cause he was one of sir Hugh spensers counsellors. And anon after was sir Hugh Spenser father hanged and drawn/ & heeded at Brystow/ and after hanged again by the arms with two strong ropes. & the fourth day after he was hewn all to pieces/ & hounds eat him. And because that the king had yeven him the earldom of wynchestre his heed was sent thither and put upon a spear/ And the falls Baldok was sent to London & there he died in prison among thieves/ for men did him no more reverence/ than they would do unto an hound. And so died the traitors of england blessed be almighty god. And it was no wonder. for through there counsel the good earl Thomas of Lancastre was done unto death & all that held with Thomas of Lancastre through the traitors were undone & all their heirs disherited. ¶ How king Edward was put down/ and his dignity take from him. ANd anon after as all this was done. the queen Isabella and Edward her son and all the great lords of England at one assent/ sent to king Edward to the castle of Kenylworth/ there as he was in keeping under the ward of sir johan Hachin. that was the bishop of Ely. and of sir johan of Pereye a baron/ for because that he should ordain his parliament at a certain place in england for to redress & amend the state of the ream. And king Edward them answered & said Lords said he ye see full well how it is. Lo here my seal/ & I give to you all my power for to call and ordain a parliament where that ye will. ¶ And then they took their leave of him & came again to the barons of england/ And when they had the kings Patent of this thing/ they showed it to the lords. And though was ordained/ that parliament should be at westmestre. at the Vtas of saint Hylary/ And all the great lords of England let ordained them there against that time that the parliament should be And at which day the parliament was the king would not come there for no manner of thing/ as he had seat him self & assigned. And nevertheless the barons sent unto him oo time and other. And he swore by God's sovie. that he would not come there oo foot wherefore it was ordained by all the great lords of England/ that he should no longer be king/ but be depesed And said/ that they would crown Edward his son/ the elder/ that was the duke of Guyhenne. And sent tidings unto the king there that he was in ward under sir johan earl of Garen. & sir Iohn of Bothun. that was bishop of Ely/ & sir Henry Percy a baron/ & sir william Trusell a knight/ that was with the earl sire Thomas of lancaster ● for to yield up there homages unto him for all them of England. ¶ And sir wyllyam trussell said these words. ¶ Sir Edward for cause that he have trayed your people of England & have undone many great lords of England without any cause/ ye shall be deposed/ & now ye be with stand thanked be god/ And also for cause that ye would not come to the parliament as ye ordained at westminster/ as in your letter patent is contained/ for to treat with your own lyege men as a king should. And therefore through all the comyns assent/ & all the lords of England/ I tell unto you these words▪ ye shal●e understand sir/ that the barons of england at one assent/ will that ye be no more king of England but utterly have put you out of your ryalte for ever more/ And the bishop of Ely said tho to the king sir Edward I yield up feaute & homage for all the archbishops and bishops of England & for all the clergy though said sir johan earl of Garenne sir Edward I yield up here unto you feaute & homage for me and for all the earls of England. ¶ And sir Henry Percy gave up also his homage for him & for all the barons of England. And though said sir wyllyam Cruscell/ I yield up now unto you mine homage for me & also for all the knights of England & for all them that hold by seryauntre. or by any other thing of you so that from this day after ye shall not be claimed king/ neither for king be hold for a singular man of all the people. ¶ And so they went thence to London that the lords of England them abode/ and sire Edward abode in prison in good keeping/ And this was on the day of the conversion of saint Poule in the twenty year of his regne. ¶ Of the prophecy of Merlin declared of king Edward the son of king Edward the first. OF this king Edward prophesied merlyn & said that there should come a goat ●t of Car that should have horns of silver & aberde as white as snow. And a drop should come out of his nostrils/ that should betoken moche harm Hungres/ & death of people & great loss of his land/ And that in the beginning of his reyge should be haunted moche lechery. And he said sooth. alas the time For king Edward that was king Edward son was borne at Carnaryvane in wales for sooth he horns of silver: & a beard as white as snow when he was made prince of wales to moche he gave him to riot. and to folly And so moche Merlin in his prohhecye that there should come out of his nose a drop. For in his time was great hungres among the poor people/ & strong death among the rich/ that died in strange land with moche sorrow/ & in were in Soctlonde. And after he lost scotland & Gascoigne/ and while that himself was king there was moche lechery haunted. ¶ And also Merlin told and said that this goat should seek the flower of life and of death and he said sooth. For he spoused Isabella the kings sister of France And in his time Merlin said/ that there should be made bridges of folk upon dyches of the see/ and that was well seen at Bannockysborne in scotland when he was discomfited there of the Scots/ And Merlin told also that stones should fall from castles. and many towns should be made plain. And he said sooth/ For when that king Edward was discomfited in scotland & came though south ward/ the Scots besieged the castles/ & died them moche harm & brent towns in to the herd earth ¶ And after ward Merlin told that an Eagle should come of Corn wail/ that should have feders of gold/ that of pride should have no peer & he shield despise lords of blood & after he should they through a beer at Gaversych & that prophecy was full well know & fund sooth For by the eagle understand sir Pers of ganaston that though was earl of Corn wail that was a wonder proud man that despised the baronage of England. but after ward he was heeded act Gaversich through the earl of Lancastre and through th'earl of warwick. ¶ And merlyn told/ that in his time it should seem that the beer should burn & that battle should be upon an arm of the see in an field/ arrayed like a shield where should die many white hedes. And he said sooth. For by the burning of the beer it betokened great dread through kytting of swords at that battle of Myton/ for there came the Scots in manner of a shield/ in manner of a wing and slew men of religion priests & seculars/ wherefore the Scots called that battle in dyspyce of the englishmen/ the which battle. And after Merlin said the foresaid beer should do the goat moche harm. and that should be upon the south west. & also upon his blood/ And said also/ that the goat should lose moche deal of his land. till the time the shame should him over come/ & them he should cloth him in a lions skin should win again that he had lost and more through people that should come out of the Northwest/ that should make him to be a feared. And him avenge upon his enemies through counsel of two owls/ the first should be in paryll to be undone. And that though two owls should go over see in to strange land. And there they should dwell unto a certain tyme. and then they should come in to England again/ And though owls should do moche harm unto many one. And that they should counsel the goat to move war against the foresaid beer. And the goat and the owls. should to an arm of the see at Burton Trent/ & should go over/ & that for dread the beer should flee with a swan in company to Bury toward the. North. through an unkind outpulter/ and that the swan thenne shall be slain with sorrow/ and the beer should be slain full nigh his own nest. that should stand upon pounfret/ upon whom the son shall shed his beemes. And many folk him shall seek for virtue. And he said sooth. For the good earl Thomas of Lancastre was borne in the Northwest And cousin to the king. & his uncles son. and by law he made the king lose moche land/ the which he had purchased wilfully. till at the last the king took thereof shame/ & himself slew with cruelty And after he gate again that he had lost/ and moche more through folk that he ●ette assemble out of the Northwest/ tha● made him to be adread. And avenged him on his barons/ through counsel of sir Hugh Spenser the father/ and of sir Hugh the son that before were outlawed for their wyckydnesse· But afterward they came again in to England/ sir ●e wer●● upon Thomas of Lancast●●. So that the king and the Spensers & the earl of Arundel and their power met with Thomas of Lancastre 〈◊〉 Burton upon Trent/ and him there discomfited and sir Vmfroy earl of her ford was in his company. And after fled the foresaid Thomas and Humfroy with their company to burbrug meeting with sir Andrew of Herkela/ that is called the unkind outpulter/ and also sir▪ Symonde ward earl of york came and met with Thomas of Lancastre with an huge power/ and then discomfited & in that scomfiture the earl of Herforde was slain upon the bridge cowardly with spear in the fundament. and the earl Thomas was take & lad unto Pounfret. and though was heeded beside his own castle. But afterward many him sought for miracles that god died for him. ¶ And in that time Merlin said. for sorrow and harm should die a people of his land/ wherefore many lands should be upon him the more bolder/ and he said sooth for because of his barons that were done to death for saint Thomas quarrel of Lancastre. people of many lands became the bolder/ for to move were upon the king/ for their blood was turned to many nations. And afterward Merlin told & said that the foresaid owls should do moche harm unto the flower of life and death/ and they should bring her to much/ disease. So that she should go over see into France. for to make peace to the flower delight. & there should abide till a time her seed should come and fetch her/ and though they should abide both till the time that they should cloth them with grace/ & though two owls she should seek. And put them to piteous death. And that prophecy was full well know. and was full sooth/ for sir Hugh Spenser the father. and sir Hugh the son/ died moche sorrow & persecution unto the queen Isabel through their procurement to her lord the king/ So they ordained among them. that she was wages. That is to say twenty shillings in the day wherefore the king of France her brother was sore annoyed. and sent into England by his letters unto king Edward to come unto his parliament to Paris in France. But king Edward was sore adread to come there/ for he wend to have be arrested till that he had made amends for the trespass the sir Hugh Spenser the father and the son had done and for the harm that they had done unto queen Isabella h●● sister/ wherefore through his ordinance and consent of the. Spensers. the queen Isabella went over see in to France for to make accord between king Edward and the king of France her brother. And there dwelled she in France till Edward her Eldest son came her for to seek/ and so they dwelled there both till that alliance was made between them and the gentle earl of Henaude/ that if they with their virtue might destroy and overcome the venom and the falseness of the Spenser/ that sir Edward should spouse doom Phylyp the worshipful lady/ & the earls daughter of Henaude/ wherefore the queen Isabel and Edward her son/ and sir Edward of woodstock the kings brother of England/ and sir Iohn of Henaude/ and sir Roger mortimer of wygmore/ and sir Thomas Rocelyn and sir johan of Cromwell and sir wyllyam Trussell/ and many other of the alliance of the gentle earl Thomas of lancaster/ that were exiled out of England for his quarrel/ and were disherited of their lands/ ordained/ them a great power/ and arrived at Here with in South folk/ And soon after they pursued the Spense●s till that they were taken & put piteous death as before is said. and their company also for the great falseness that they died to king Edward to his people. ¶ And Merlin said also more that the goat should be put in great distress and in great angusshe and in grte sorrow he should be lead his life/ and he said sooth For after the time that king Edward was take he was put into ward till that the Spensers were put to death/ and also because that he would not come unto his parliament at. London as he had ordained and assigned himself unto his baronage/ and also would not govern. and rule his people/ ne his ream as a king should do. Wherefore some of the barons of England came and yield up there homages unto him/ for them & all the other of the ream. in the day of the conversion of saint Poule in the year of his reign twenty And they put him out of his ryaltee for evermore/ And ever lived afterward in moche sorrow and anguish. LOdowicus was Emperor after Henry four● year. this Lodowicus was duke of Banare and he despised the coronation of the pope wherefore the pope him/ & moche labour & deposed many perils he had aft. & he trowbled greatly the unity of holy church. And then was chosen against him frederik the duke of ostrich. and he over came the duke & abode a rebelyon to his end. and in great peril to his soul/ And at the last Karolus was chosen against him/ the which prevailed/ and suddenly Lodowic fell down of his horse and deceased. ¶ Iohn Mandevyll a douctour of physic & a knight borne was in England about this tyme. And he made a marvelous pilgrimage. For he went almost about all the world And he wrote his deeds in three languages. and decessyd· and was buried at Saint Albon. ¶ Benedictus the xxii was pope after Iohn vii years and more/ this man was a monk/ and in all his ynogthe he was of good conversation/ and a doctor of divinity. And when he was made pope he reformed thorder of saint Benet in that thing that was nescessary/ & he was a hard man to grant benefices/ lest he had granted it to an uncunning man/ he made a decretal/ the which began (Benedictus deus in donis suis) And he was very cruel in faith/ & for that of sommen little loved/ he was so stout a man that almost he would not know his own cousins. ¶ Anno dm. M.CCC.xxii. ¶ Of king Edward the third after the Conquest. ANd after this king Edward Carnarivan reigned sir Edward of wyndsore his son/ the which was crowned king/ & anointed at westminster/ through counsel & consent of all the great lords of the ream. the sunday in Candelmasse eve. in the year of grace. M.CCC.xxvi. that was of age at that time but xu year. And for cause that his father was in ward in the castle of Kenilworth & also was put down of his ryaltee/ the ream of england was without king from the feast of saint Katheryn from the year above said to the feast of Candelmasse. And though were all manner pleas of the kings bynche astente. And though was commanded to all the sheriffs of England through writ to warn the parties to defendaunties/ through summoning again. And also furthermore/ that all prisoners that were in the kings gayolles/ that were attached through sheriffs should be let go quite. ¶ The king Edward after his coronation/ at the prayer/ & beseeching of his lyege of the ream granted them a chartre of steadfast peace to all them that would it axe/ And sir johnn of Henaude. and his company took his leave of the king & of the lords of the ream. & turned home to their own country again. And each of them had full rich yefts. every men as he was of value & estate. ¶ And though was england in rest & peace/ & great love between the king & his lords. And comynly englishmen said amongs them that the devil was deed but the innumerable/ treasure of the king his father/ & the treasure of the Spensers/ both of the father & of the son/ and of the earl of Arundel/ and of master Robert Baldok that was the kings chancellor was departed after the queen Isabelles ordinance & sir Roger Mortymers of wygmore/ so that the king had no thing thereof. but at her will & her delyverraunce/ ne of their lands as afterward ye shall here. ¶ How king Edward went unto stanthop for to meet the scots. ANd yet in the same time was the King in the castle of kenilworth under the keeping of sir Henry/ that was earl Thomas of Lancastres' brother. that though was earl of leicester. And the king granted him the earldom of Lancastre/ that the king his father had seized in to his hand & put out Thomas of Lancaster's brother. & so was he earl of Lancastre & of leicester/ and also steward of England as his brother was in his time But sir Edward that was king Edward's father made sorrow without end/ by cause he might not speak with his wife. ne with his son/ wherefore he was in moche mischief/ For though it was so that he was led & ruled by falls counsel/ yet he was king Edward● son called Edward with the long shankies/ and came out of the worthiest blood of the world. and they to whom he was wont to give great yefts & large. were most prive with the king his own son/ & they were his enemies both night & day/ & procured to make debate & contake between him & his son/ & Isabella his wife But the frere preachers were to him good friends ever more & cast both by night & by day. how they might bring him out of prison. And among their company that the freres had privily brought/ there was a frere that was called/ Dunhened ● and he had ordained & gathered a great company of folk to keep at that need/ but the frere was taken & put in 〈◊〉 of Pountfret/ & there he died in prison/ & sir Henry earl of Lancastre/ that had the kings father in keeping/ through commandment of the king. delivered Edward the kings father by endenture of sir Thomas of Berkelay. And so sir Iohn Matrevas & they lad him from the castle of kenylworth to the castle of Berkelay/ & kept him there saufly. ¶ And at Ester next after his coronation: the king ordained a great huge host/ for to fight against the Scots And sir Iohn the earls brother of Henave came from beyond the see/ for to help king Edward/ & brought with him vii C. men of arms & arrived at Dover/ & they had leave for to go forth till they came to york There the king them abode/ and the Scots came thither to the king/ for to make peace & accord/ but the accordment lasted not between them bat a little time And at that time the Englishmen were clothed all in coats & hodes painted with letters and with flowers full seemly with long beards & therefore the Scots made a bill that was fastened upon the church doors of Saint Petyr toward stangate. & thus said the scripture in despite of englishmen Long beards heartless/ printed hodes witless gay coats graceless/ maketh england thryftles SO in the trinity day next after began the contak in the city of york between the englishmen & the Henaudes: & in the debate were slain of the earldom of Nicholl & murdered lxxx. men. & after they were buried in saint clementis church in Folgate. & for cause that the henaud's came to help the king. there peace was ●ryed upon pain of life & limb. in that other half it was found by an inquest of the city that the englishmen began the debate. ¶ How the englishmen stopped the Scots in the park of Stanope and how they turned again into scotland. This time the Scots had assembled all their power & came into England & slew & robbed all that they might take & brent & destroyed all the North country through out/ till that they came unto the park of S●āhope in weridale/ & there the Scots held them in a bussment/ but when the king had hard through spies where the Scots were anon right host desegyd them within the foresaid park so that the scots wist not where to go out but only unto their harms. And they abode in the park xu days/ & victuals failed them in every side. so that they were greatly peyred of bodies & sith that Bruce came first into britain unto this time/ there was never seen so fair an host/ what of Englishmen/ & of alyances & of men of foot/ the which ordained them for to fight with the Scots/ through egging of sir Henry of Lancastre & of sir johan Henaude. that would have gone over the water of with for to have fought with the ● Scots. But sir Roger mortimer consented not thereto/ for he had privily taken meed of the Scots them to help that they might go away into their own country. ¶ And this same mortimer counseled so much Thomas of brotherton the earl Martial that was king Edward's uncle. that the foresaid Thomas should not assemble at the time unto the Scots. And he assented. but wist not the doing between the Scots & the foresaid mortimer/ And by cause that he was Marshal of England/ as to him pertained ever after ward. he sent hastily to the earl of Lancastre/ & to sir Iohn of Henaude/ that they should not fight with the Scots/ in prejudice and harming of him & his fee/ & if they died that they should stand to their own paryll. And the foresaid earl Martial was all arrayed with his battle. at the reredoos of the earl of Lancastre/ for to have fought with him & with his folk if he had go to fight with the Scots/ & in this manner he was deceived & wist no thing of the treason And thus was the king principally deceived. And when it was night mortimer/ that had the watch for to keep of the host/ that night distrobled the watch that no thing might be done. And in the mean while the Scots steel by night to ward their own country as fast as they might. ¶ And so was the king falsely betrayed that weened that all the traitors of land had been brought to an end as it was said before. ¶ Now here you lords how tratoursly king Edward was deceived. & how marvelously. & boldly the scots died of were/ For james douglas with two hundred men of arms road through out all the host of king Edward/ the same night the Scots escaped toward their own country as is above said/ till that they came to the kings pavilion/ & slew there many men in their beds/ & cried Naward naward/ and neither time a Douglas a Douglas wherefore the king that was in his pavilion & much other ●●lke were wonder sore afraid/ But blyssyd be almighty god the king was not taken/ & in greto peril was tho the ream of England. and that night the moan shone full clear/ and bright. And for all the kings men the Scots scaped harmless. ¶ And oon the morrow when the king wist that the Scots were escaped in to their own country he was wonder sorry/ and full heartily wept with his young eyen/ and yet wist he not who had him done that treason· ¶ But that false treason was full well I known a good while after as the story maketh mention. ¶ though king Edward came again unto york full sorrowful And his host departed/ and every man went in to his own country with full heavy cheer & morning semblant/ And the henaud's took their leave and went in to their own country. And the king for their travail/ hugely reward them. ¶ And for because of that viage/ the king had dispended moche of his treasure and wasted. And in that time were seen two moons in the firmament/ the one was clear/ & that other was dark▪/ as men might see through the world. ¶ And a great debate was that same time against pope johan the xxii after saint Petyr. & the emperor of almain though made him emperor against the pope's will that though held his see at Auinyon. wherefore the emperor made his cry at Rome & ordained another pope/ the height Nycholas/ that was a frere Mynor/ & that was ayeng the right of holy church. wherefore he was cursed. & the power of that other pope soon laid. And for cause that such marvels were seen/ men said that the world was nigh at an end. ¶ Of the death of king Edward of Carnaryvan. ANd now go we again/ to sir Edward of Carnaryvan that was king Edward's father sometime king of England. & put down of his dignity. Alas for his tribulation & sorrow that him befell through false counsel. that he loved & trusted upon to much. that after ward were destroyed through their falseness as god would. ¶ And this Edward of Carnarivan/ was in the castle of Berkelay under the ward & keeping of sir Moryce of Herkelay/ & also of sir Iohn Matreves & to them he made his complaint of his sorrow & of his dysesee. & oft times axyed of his wardens. what he had trespassed against dame Isabella his wife and sir Edward his son. that was made new king/ that they would not visit him. ¶ And though answered one of his wardens and said. My worthy lord dyspleyse you not that I shall tell you the cause is for it is done them to understand/ that if my lady your wife came any thing nigh you· that ye would her strangle and slay/ and also that ye walled do to my lord your son in the same wise. ¶ though answered he with simple there Alas alas am not I in prison/ and all at your own will/ now god it wot I thought it never/ and now I would that I were deed/ so would god that I were. For then were all my sorrow passed. ¶ It was not long after that the king through counsel of Roger mortimer/ granted the ward & keeping of sir Edward his father unto sir thomas Toioursy & to the foresaid sir johan Matrevers through the kings letter/ & put out holy the foresaid sir Moryce of the ward of the king. And they took and lad the king unto the castle of Corf. the which castle the king hated as any death. And they kept him there till it came unto saint/ Mathewes day in Septembre in the year of grace. M.CCC.xxvii. that the foresaid sir Roger mortimer sent the manner of the death/ how & in what wise should be done to death. And anon as the foresaid Thomas & johan had see the letter/ & commandment/ they made king edward Carnarivan good there: and good solace/ as they might at that soupere/ & nothing the king wist of the traytory. And when time was for to go to bed the king went to his bed & lay and slept fast. And as the king lay and slept the trautours falls forsworn against their homage and feaute came privily into the kings chambre/ and their company with them/ and laid an huge take upon his womb/ and with men pressed/ and held fast down the four corners of the table on his body/ wherewith the good mane a work/ and was wonder sore adread to be deed and there slain/ and turned his body up though so down. though took the false traitors/ and tynauntes an horn. And put it in to his fundament as deep as they might/ and a spit of copper brenning/ and put it through the horn in to his body and so they slew their lord/ that no thing was perceived/ And after he was entered at Gloucetree. ¶ How king Edward spoused Phylyp the earls daughter of Henaude at york. ANd after christmas though next sewing sir johan of henaude brought with him Phylyp his brother's daughter/ that was earl of Henaude his niece in to England/ and the king spoused her at york. with moche honour. And sir johan of Bothum bishop of Ely/ & sir wyllyam of Melton archbishop of york/ sang the mass the sunday on the even of the conversion of saint Poule/ In the year of grace. M.CCC.xxvii. But because that the king was but young & tender of age when he was crowned full many wornges were done while that his father lived/ because that he trowed/ the counserllers that were falls about him/ that counsyelled him to do other wise than reason would wherefore great harm was do to the ream & to the king/ & all men directed it the kings deed/ & it was not so almighty god it wot/ wherefore it was ordained at the kings crowning. that the king for his tender age/ should be governed by xii of the greatest lords of England/ without whom no thing should be done. That is to say th'archbishop of Caunterbury/ tarchebysshop of york/ the bishop of wynchestre/ and the bishop of Herforde/ the earl of Lancastre/ th'earl Marchall/ & the earl of kent/ that were the kings uncles. & the earl of Garenne/ sir Thomas wake. Sir Henry Percy. sir Oliver yngham and johan Rous barons/ all these were sworn truly for to counsel the king. And they should answer every year in parliament/ of that that should be done in the time of their governal/ but that ordinance was soon undone/ & that was much harm to all England/ For the king & all the lords that should govern him were governed and ruled after the queen his mother dame Isabella. and by sir Roger mortimer: and as they would all thing was done/ both among high and low. And they took unto them castles towns lands/ and rentis in great harm. And loss to the crown. and of the estate out of all measure. ¶ How the peace was made between the Englysshemen and the Scots and also of justyfyenge of Troylesbaston. King Edward at whitsuntide in the second year of this reign through the counsel of his mother/ & sir Roger mortimer/ ordained a parliament at Northampton. & at that parliament the king through his counsel/ & none other of the land/ within age granted to be accorded with the scots in this manner. that all the f●autees & homages. that the scots should do to the crown of England/ forgive them for evermore/ by his chartre ensealed. And ferder more an endenture was made of the Scots unto king Edward/ that was king Henry's son/ which endenture they call it regman. In the which were contained all the homages & fealties/ first of the king of Scotlond & of the prelate's/ earls barons of the ream of scotland with their seals set thereon & other charters & remembrances that king Edward & his barons had of their right in the foresaid ream of scotland/ it was foryeve again holy church/ & also with the black cross of Scotlond the which the good king Edward conquered in Scotland & brought it out of the abbey of scone that is a full precious relic/ & also furthermore/ he released and fully forgave the land that the noble barons had before that time in the ream of Scotlond/ by old conquest. And furthermore that this peace for to be holden & continually last the Scots were bound unto the king in thirty. thousand pound of silver to be paid within three year/ that is every year ten M. pound by even portions. ¶ And furthermore above all this they spoke between the parties above said. the david Drytonautyer that was king Roberte Brus sone/ the falls tyrant▪ & falls forsworn against his oath that arose against his leyge lord the noble & good king Edward. and falsely made him king of scotland/ that was of age .v. year. And so this cursed counsel David spoused at Berewyk dame Iohn of the tour/ that was king Edward's sister/ as the gests telleth upon Mary Mawdeleyns' day. in the year of grace. M.CCC.xxviii. to great harm & empayring of all the kings blood whereof that gentle lady came. alas the time/ For wonder moche the fair danoysell disparaged/ sith that she was married against all the comyns will and assent of England. And from the time that Brute had conquered Albyon· & named the land after his own name. britain: that now is called England after the name of Engyst And so the ream of scotland was hold of the ream of england/ & of the crown by feaute & homgae. For Brute conquered that land & gave it to Albanak/ that was his second son/ And he called the land Albayn after his own name/ so that his heirs that came after him. should hold of Brute & of his heirs/ that is to say of the kings of britain/ by fealty & homage: And from that time unto this time of king Edward/ the tame of Scotlond was hold of the ream of England by feaute and service/ as above is said in the chronicles of England & of scotland & beareth witness more plainly. And accursed be the time that this parliament was holden at Northampton For there by false councyll. the king was there falsely disherited and yet he was with in age. ¶ And yet when that king Edward was put out of his ryalte of England yet men put not out of the feautes & service scotland. Ne of the franchises disherited him for ever more. ¶ And nevertheless the great lords of england were against to confirm the peace & the ●rwes abovesaid/ sa●f only queen Isabella/ that though was the kings mother Edward/ and the bishop of Ely/ and the lord Mortimer. But reason and law would not that a fynalle peace should be made between them without the common assent of England. ¶ Of the debate that was between queen Isabella & sir Henry earl of Lancastre & of leicester/ and of the riding of bedford. THen as the for said david had spoused dame johann of the tour in the town of Berwyk as before is said/ The Scots in despite of the Englishmen called dame johann the countess make peas/ for the cowardly peace that though was ordained. But the kings person bore all the wite and blame with wrong of making of the accord/ And all was done through the queen/ & Roger mortimer. And it was not long after that the queen Isabella ne took in to her hondis all the lordship of Pountfret almost all the lands that were of any value that appertained to the crown of England/ So the king had not to dyspendede/ but of his uses and of his exchequer/ For the queen Isabella & the mortimer had great main of the retinue that followed the kings court ever more & went and took the kings prices for her penny worths at good chape/ wherefore the country that they came in were/ fullsore addrade/ and almost destroyed of them. ¶ though began the comyna●te of England for to have envy to Isabella the queen. that so much loved her before when she came again for to pursue the falls traitors the Spensers fro France. And in that same time the false traitor Roberte of Holonde/ that betrayed his lord sir Thomas of Lancastre. was tho delivered and out of prison/ & was wonder privy with the queen Isabella/ & also with Roger mortimer. But that avaylld him but little For he was taken at michaelmas that though came next after/ as he road to ward queen Isabella to London/ and sir Thomas whither smote of his heed besides the town of saint Albon And this sir Thomas dwelled with sir Henry earl of Lancastre/ and he put him aside for dread of the queen/ For the queen loved him wonder moche. And prayed unto the king for him that the same Thomas might be exiled out of England. And the noble earl sir Henry of Lancastre had often times heard the common claymore of the Enghysshmen/ of the disease that were done in england/ & also for divers wrongs that were done to the common people. of the which the king bore the blame with wrong For he was but full young & tender of age. & thought as a good man/ for to do away/ & slake the slander of the kings person/ if that he might in any manner a wise/ so as the king was thereof nothing guilty/ wherefore he was inperyll of life & lymme· ¶ And so he assembled all his retenuwe & went & spoke with them of the kings honour/ and also for to amend his estate. And sir Thomas Brotherton earl of Marchall/ and sir Edmond wodstok/ that were the kings uncles/ and also men of London made their oath him fo. to maintain in the same quarrel. And their cause was this/ that the king should hold his house and his main/ as a king ought for to do/ and have all his ryalt●e· And that the queen Isabella should deliver out of her hands in to the kings hand all manner of lordship's rents/ towns and castles that appertaineth unto the crown of England as other queens have done here before/ and meddle with none other thing. ¶ And also that sir Roger mortimer should abide and dwell upon his own● lands/ For moche people/ In so much that the common people were destroyed and greatly domaged/ thorough such wrongfulle taking. ¶ And also the inquire how and by whom that the king was betrayed and falsely deceived at Stanhope/ and through whose counsel that the Scots went away by night from the king/ And also how and through whose counsel the ordinance that were made at the kings coronation/ was put down. That is to say/ that the king for amendment and helping of his ream/ & in honour of him should be governed and ruled by xii of the greatest & wisest lords of the ream/ and without them Should no thing be granted ne done/ as before is said/ which covenants were maliciously put down fro the king/ where many harms. shamies and repreves have fall to the king & his ream/ and that is to understand for asmuch as Edward king of England some time/ was ordained by assent in plain parliament for to be under ward & governance of Henry earl of Lancastre his cousin/ for salvation of his body he was take out of the castle of Kenilworth/ there that he was in ward. & through colour of queen Isabella/ & of the mortimer without consent of any parliament they took & lad him there that never after none of his kindred/ might with him speak ne see. & after tratorursly took & morored him for whose death arose a slander through all christendom when it was done. And also the treasure the sire Edward of Kernaruian left in many places in England and in wales was wasted & borne away/ without the will of king Edward his son/ in destruction of him & of all his folk. ¶ Also through whose counsel/ that the king gave up the kingdom of Scotlond/ for the which ream/ the kings ancestors had full sore travailed/ and so did many a noble man for their right/ & was delivered unto david that was Robert brus son all the right/ that no right had to the ream. as all the world it wist. And also by whom the charters & remembrances that they had of the right Scotlond were take out of the treasury/ taken to the Scots the kings enemies/ to dysheriting of him and of his successors/ & to great harm of his lieges/ & great repreef to all englishmen for ever more. ¶ Also wherefore dame johan of the tour the kings sister Edward/ was disparaged and married unto david that was Robertbrus son. that was a traitor & enemy unto England. & through whose counseyl she was take into our enemies hands out of England. ¶ And in this mean while. the good earl Henry of Lancastre & his company took counseyl how those points above said might be amended to the worship of the king & to his profit & to the profit of his leygꝭ/ and the queen Isabel through conjecting & also of the Mortymers let ordain a parliament at salisbury. And at the same parliament/ the mortimer was made earl of March against all the barons will of England in prejudice of the king & of his crown And sir johan of Eltham the kings brother was gird with a sword of Corn waylle. and though was called earl of Corn waylle. & ever more queen Isabella procured so moche against her son the king/ that she had the ward of the foresaid sir Edward & of his lands. And at that parliament the earl of Lancastre would not come/ But ordained all his power against queen Isabel and the mortimer/ And men of London ordained them with five hundred men of arms. ¶ When queen Isabel witted of the doing 〈◊〉 swore by god and by his names full angrily/ that in an evil time he thought upon the points/ though sent the queen Isabella & the mortimer after their retenwe & after the king's retinue/ so that they had ordained among them an huge host. And they counseled the king/ so that upon a night ● they road xxiii miles to Bedford/ there the earl of Lancastre was with his company/ and thought to have him destroyed/ and that night she road beside the king her son as a knight for dread of death. And it was done the king to understand/ that the earl Henry of Lancastre and his company would have destroyed the king and his counsell for ever more/ wherefore the king was somedeal to wards him heavy and annoys ¶ When the earl Martial and th'earl of Kente the kings brother heard of this tidings/ they road so in message between them/ that the king granted him his peace to th'earl Henry of lancaster/ for a certain ransom of an leaven thousand pound/ But that was never paid afterward. And these were the lords that held with Sir Henry of Lancastre. Sir Beaumond/ sir Fouk fytz waren sir Thomas Rocelyn/ Sir wyllyam Trusdr●● ●ynghtes moo that were to him consented/ and all those were exiled through counsell of the queen Isabella and of mortimer. For the mortimer waited to have their lands if that he might through any manner conjecting/ For he was to covetous & had to much his will and that was great pity. ¶ How king Edward went over the see for to do his homage unto the king of France/ for the duchy of Guyhenne. IT was not long after that the king of France/ through counsel of his Donzepers/ sent to king Edward of Englode that he should come to Paris & do his homage as reason it would/ for the duchy of Guyon/ & so through counsel of the lords of England king Edward went over see. And at the Ascyon tide/ he came unto Paris/ the third year of his regne/ for to do his homage unto the king of france. & the king received his homage/ & made of him moche joy & worship/ but when king Edward had done his homage hastily he was sent for in to England through the quen Isabella his mother & anon hastily he came again in to England/ upon whitsunday without any taking leave of the king of France. wherefore he was wonder wroth. ¶ How sir Roger mortimer bore him proudly and so high. ANd now shall ye here of sir roger mortimer of wygmore that desired and coveted to be at an high estate/ so that the king granted him to be called earl of March thorough out all his lordship. And he became so proud & hauteyn/ that he would lose & forsake the name that his elders had ever be fore/ & for the cause he let him call earl of march. And none of the comnyns of England durst call him by other name/ for he was called so by the king's cry. that men should call him earl of March And mortimer bore him so hauteyn & so proud that wonder it was for to wite. & also disguised him with wonnder rich clothes out of all manner of reason/ both of shaping and of wearing. where of the englishmen had great wonder/ how/ and in what manner he might contrive or find such manner pride. & they s●yd among them comynly/ that his pride should not long endure. ¶ And the same time sir Gyffray mortimer the young/ that was mortymers son. let call him king of folly/ and so it befell after ward in deed/ for he was so full of pride and of wretchedness/ that he held a round table in wales/ to all men that thither came/ and counterfeited the doing and the manner of king Arthur's table/ but openly he failed/ for the noble king Arthur was the most noble lord of renomee/ that was in all the world in his time & yet came never none such after/ For all the noble knights in all crystendom of deeds of arms assayed/ dwelled with king Arthur/ & held him for there lord and sovereign/ And that was well seen/ for he conquered in a battle a Roman that was called Froll. And gate of him the ream of France and slew him with his own hands/ & also he fought with a giant that was called Dynabus/ & slew him that had ravished fair Elayne that was king Howels ne●e/ king of little britain & after he slew in battle the Emperor of rome/ that was called lucy/ that had assembled against Arthur/ for to fight with him so much people of romans and Pebytes & sarazens/ that no man could number them/ and he discomfited them all as the story telleth ¶ And in that same thyme common voice sprung in england through conjecting and ordinance of the frere preachers/ that sir Edward of Carnarivan/ that was king Edward's father of whom the geste telleth/ said that he was alive in the castle of Corf/ whereof all the comyns of England almost were in sorrow and dread/ whether that it were so or not/ For they witted not how traitorously mortimer had him done murdered. ¶ How Edmonde of woodstock that was earl of Kente & the kings brother Edward of Carnaryvan/ was heeded at wynchestre. ANd upon a time it befell so/ that sir Edmonde of woodstock earl of Kent spoke unto pope johan the xxii at Avignon/ & said that almighty god had oft times done for Thomas love of Lancastre many great miracles to many men and women/ that were through divers maladies undone. ¶ As unto the world/ and through his prayer they were brought unto there health. and so sir Edmonde prayed the pope heartily that he would grant him grace/ the foresaid Thomas might be translated. But the pope said nay that he should not be translated/ unto the time that he were better certified of the clergy of england and seen by their obedience what thing god had done for the love of saint Thomas of Lancastre after the suggestion that the foresaid earl of Kent had unto him made And when this Edmonde saw that he might not speed of his purpose: as touching the traunslation He prayed him of counsel. as touching sir Edward of Carnarivan his brother/ & said. that not long agone he was king of England/ what thing might best be done as touching his deliverance/ sith that a common fame was through England that he is alive. hole & safe when the pope heard him tell that sir Edward was alive. He commanded the earl upon his blessing. that he should help with all the power that he might/ that he were delivered out of prison/ & save his body in all manner that he might. And to bring this thing to an end he assoiled him & his company a pena et culpa) & all that to his deliverance. though took Edmond of woodstock his leave of the pope & came again into england/ & when sir Edmonde was come/ some of the frere preachers came & said that sir Edward his brother yet was alive in the castle of Corf/ under the keeping of sir Thomas Gurnay. though sped him the foresaid Edmonde as fast as he might/ till he came to the castle of Corf/ & acquainted him & spoke so fair to Iohn Daverel/ that was constable of the same castle/ & gave him rich yefts for to have acquaintance of him & to know of his counsel. And thus it befell that the foresaid Edmonde prayed specially to tell him privily of his lord his brother sir Edward/ if that he lived or were deed/ & if he were alive he prayed him once to have a sight of him. And this sir Iohn Daveryl was a high hearted man & full of courage/ & answered shortly to sir Edmond & said/ that sir Edward his brother was in health. & under his keeping. & durst not show him unto no man sith it was defended him in the king's half Edward/ that was Edwardes son of Carnuarivan & also by the commandment of queen Isabel the kings mother/ & of sir Roger mortimer/ that he should show his body to no man of the world save only to them upon life & limb & disheryting of his heirs for ever more. But the falls traitor falsely lied. For he was not in his ward/ but was take thence and lad to the castle of Berkeley by sir Thomas of gurney by the commandment of mortimer till he was deed as before is said/ But sir Edmonde of woodstock wist no thing that sir edward his brother was deed/ whereupon he took a letter unto king Edward his brother as to his worthy lord & received the letter of him and behyght him right faithful to do his message without fail. And with that sir Edmonde took leave of the foresaid Iohn/ and go into his own country & lordship in kent that he had there. Anon as this same johan witted. that sir Edmonde was gone into Kent his own lordship. anon he went in all the hast that he might fro the Castle of Corf & came unto sir Roger mortimer and took him the letter that sir Edmond of woodstock earl of Kent had taken him closed and ensealed with his own seal/ And when sir Roger mortimer had received the letter/ he unclosed it/ and saw that was contained therein/ & began it to read. whereof the beginning was this. ¶ worships and reverence with brother alyegaunce & subjection/ sir knight worshipful & dear brother ● if it you please I pray you heartily that ye be in good comforthe/ for I shall so ordain for you that ye shall come out of prison & be delivered of that disease that ye been in/ and understondyth of your great lordship/ that I have to mine assenting all most all the great lords of England with all their apperyll/ that is to say with armour with treasure without number/ for to maintain your quarrel so farforth/ that ye shall be king again as ye were before/ and that they have sworn to me upon a book/ and aswell prelate's as earls and barons. ¶ When sir Roger mortimer saw & understood/ the might and the strength of the letter anon his heart for wrath began to boil and evil heart bare to ward sir Edmond of woodstock that was earl of kent. and with all the haste that he might/ he went unto dame Isabella the queen/ that was the was the kings mother/ & showed her sir edmond's letter/ his will and his purpose and how that he had conjected & ordained to put down king Edward of wyndsore her son. of his ryalte and of his kingdom/ Now certes sir Roger said she hath sir Edmonde done so now by my faders soul said she/ I will be thereof avenged/ if that god grant me life/ and that in a short tyme. And with that queen Isabella went unto king Edward her son/ there he was at the parliament at wynchestre. to have amend the wrongys' and the trespasses that were done among the people of his ream/ & though she took and showed him the letter that sir Edmond of woodstock had made/ and ensealed with his own seal and bad him upon her blessing. that he should be avenged upon sir edmond as upon his deadly enemy. though was the queen sore wroth to ward sir Edmonde earl of Kente. And ceased never to pray until her son/ till that he had sent in all the haste after him. And upon that the king sent by his letters after sir Edmoode of woodstock/ that he should come & speak with him at wynchestre all manner thing left. And when sir edmond saw that the king sent after him with his letters ensealed/ ye hasted him in all that he might till that he came to wynchestre. ¶ But when the queen wist that sir Edmonde was come to wynchestre though anon she prayed and so fast wend unto king edward her son/ that the good earl was arrested anon/ and lad unto the bar before Robert of Hamonde that was Coroner of the kings household. And he assocyed unto him sir Roger mortimer. And though spoke the for said Roger and said sir edmonde earl of Kent/ ye shall understand that it is done us to wite/ and principally unto our lyege lord the king edward of england almighty god him save and keep/ that ye be his deadly enemy/ and a traitor/ and also a common enemy to the ream and that ye have been about many a day. For to make prive deliverance of sir edward sometime king of england your brother/ the which sometime was put down of his ryaltee by the common assent of the lords of england/ in peasing of our lord the kings estate/ and also of his ream. ¶ though answered the good man and said/ For soothe sir understand well that I was never traitor to my king/ ne to the ream/ & that I do me on god/ and on all the world/ & therefore by my kings leave. I shall it prove & defend as a man ought for to do. ¶ though said mortimer. sir Edmonde. it is so ferfor the know that it may not be well gainsaid/ and that in presence of all that here been. it shall be well proved. Now had this false mortimer the same letter that sir edmonde had take to Sir johan daverill in the castle of Corf for to take to king edward his brother that sir Edmonde wist not of ne supposed no thing that sir Iohn daverill had be so falls to deliver his letter in such wise unto mortimer. And thought no manner of thing of that letter. then mortimer said to sir edmonde/ and showed a letter sealed. & axed him if that he knew the letter and the seal. This sir edmonde looked thereon/ & advised him long time on the print of the seal/ for he might not see the letter with in. and wist well that it was his seal/ & thought that it had be some letter that had boar no great charge/ & thought no thing of that other letter. And said openly in hearing of them all/ ye for sooth this is my seal. and I will it not for sake. ¶ Lo said the mortimer/ sires ye here all what he hath said/ & that he knowlegyth him that this is his letter & his seal. And now ye shall here what is contained therein/ & then mortimer opened the letter that he had fold tofore together. & red it openly word by word in hearing of them all/ & when the letter was red/ he said/ Loo sires ye have heard all the herein is written/ and that he hath knowlegyth that this is his letter & his seal. & he may not go therefro/ And then they cried & gave doom/ that he should be hanged & drawn/ & his heed smitten of in a manner of a traitor & he & his heirs disherited for ever more/ & so he was lad forth and put in to prison. and when this was done. & the queen witted that he was dampened by way of law/ both of life and of limb/ & his heirs disherited for evermore. through open knowledging in playncourt/ where them thought that it were good/ that the foresaid sir Edmond were hastily slain/ without witting of the king/ or else the king would lightly foryeve him his death/ & thenne it should torn them so moche sorrow/ so as he was impeached/ And anon the queen through counsel of the mortimer/ and with out any other counsel sent in haste to the bailiff of wynchestre that they should smite of Sir Edmondes' heed earl of Kente without any manner abiding or respite upon pain of life and limb. And that he should have none other execution/ By cause of carrying not withstanding the judgement. though took the Baylyes' sir edmonde out of prison/ and lad him beside the castle of wynchestre/ & there they made a gonfermer smite of his heed/ for none other durst it do/ and so he died there/ alas the while. That is to say the tenth day of Octobre/ the third year of king Edward regne. ¶ And when the king witted thereof/ he was wonder sorry/ and let entyere him at the frere minors at wynchestre. ¶ Of the death of sir Roger mortimer Earl of March. ANd so it befell at that time that sir Roger mortimer earl of the March/ was so proud and so hauteyne that he held no lord of the ream his peer. And though became he so covetous/ that he followed dame Isabella the queens court that was king Edward's mother and beset his penny worth with the officers of the queens house hold in the same manner that the kings officers died. And so he made his taking/ as touching of victual and also of carriages/ and all he died for because of expenses/ and to gather treasure/ And so he died without number in all that he might. ¶ though had he made him wonder privy with the queen Isabella/ And so much lordship and rete we had/ that all the great lords of England of him were adread wherefore the king and his counsell/ to ward him were aggrieved/ And ordained among them to undo him thorough pure reason and law for cause that king Edward that was the kings father traitorously through him was murdered in the castle of Corf as before is said more plainly in some part of his book/ of his death. ¶ And some that were of the kings counsel loved mortimer/ & told him in privity/ how that the king & counsel were about from day to day/ him for to destroy and undo wherefore mortimer was sore annoyed & angry as the devil against them of the kings counsel/ & say he would of them be avenged/ how so ever he took on. ¶ It was not long afterward/ that king Edward & dame Phylyp his wife/ & dame Isabella the kings mother. and sir Roger mortimer/ ne went unto Notyngham there for to sojourn/ And so it befell that queen Isabel through counsel of mortimer/ took to her the keys of the yates of the castle of Notyngham. So that no man might come neither in ne out but through commandment of mortimer/ ne the king/ ne none his counsell. ¶ And that time it fel. that the mortimer as a devil for wrath bolled/ & also for wrath that he had against the kings men Edward/ and principally against them that had him accused to the king/ of the death of sir Edward his father. ¶ And privily a counsel was take between queen Isabella and the mortimer and the bishop of Lyncoln & sire Symonde of Bedford/ and sir Hugh of Trompyngton/ & other privy of their counsel/ for to undo them all that the mortimer had accused unto the king of his faders death/ of treason & of felony. ¶ Wherefore all though that were of the kings counsel/ when they witted of the Mortymers casting: privily came to king Edward and said/ that mortimer would them destroy/ because that they had him accused of king Edwardes death. his father \ And prayed him that he would maintain them in their right. ¶ And these were the lords that pursued this quarrel/ Sir wyllyam of Mountagu/ sir wyllyam de Bohum/ Sir wyllyam his brother/ sir Rauf Stafforde/ sir Robert of Herforde/ sir wyllyam of Clinton/ sir johan Nevell of Hornby and many other of their consent. And all these swore upon a book to maintain the quarrel/ in as moche as they might. And it befell so after· that sir wyllyam Mountagu ne none of the kings friends must not be herberowed in the castle for the Mortyme● but went and took their herberowe in diverse place of the twone of Nothyngham. And though were they sore a feared/ least that mortimer should them destroy. And in haste they came unto king Edward sir wyllyam of Mauntagu and other that were in the castle. And privily him told/ that he ne none of his company. should not take the mortimer. without counsel & help of wyllyam of Elande. constable of the same castle. ¶ Now truly said the king I love you well· & therefore I counseyl you that ye go to the foresaid constable/ & command him in my name/ that he be your friend and your help/ for to take the mortimer/ all thing yleft upon peril of life & limb. ¶ though said Mountagu Sir my lord grant mercy ¶ Thomas went forth the foresaid Mountagu/ and came to the Constable of the castle/ and told him the kings will. ¶ And he answered and sayde· The kings will should be done in as much as he might. and that he would not spare for no manner of death/ And that he swore and made his oath. ¶ though said sir wyllyam of Mountagu to the constable/ in hearing of them all. that were helping to the same quarrel. Now certes dear friend/ us behooveth to work & do by your advice for to take the mortimer/ sith that ye be keeper of the castle. and hath the keys in your ward. ¶ Sir said the Constable/ will ye understand/ that the castle yates been locked with the keys that dame Isabella sent hither. and by night she hath the keys there of and layeth them under the lursell of the bed unto the morrow. and so ye may not come in to the castle by the yates/ by no manner of wise/ But I know an aleye that stretchythoute of the ward under the earth in to the for said castle/ that goeth in to the west. which aleye dame Isabel the queen/ ne none of her men ne the mortimer/ ne none of his company knoweth it not. And so I shall lead you through the alley/ & so ye shall come in to the castle without aspyenge of any man that are your enemies. And the same nigh sir wyllyam Mountagu/ & all the lords of his quarrel/ & the same Constable also went them to horse/ & made semblant as it were for to go out of Mortymers sight But anon as mortimer hard this tidings/ he wend that they would have gone over see for fere of him. ¶ And anon right he & his company took a counsel among them for to let their passage/ & snetelletters anon to the porters so that none of the great lords should go home to their owned countries/ but if they were arrested & take. And among other things wyllyam Elande Constable of the for said castle. privily lad sire wyllyam of Mountagu & his company by the for said way under the earth/ till they came in to the castle & went up in to the tour that mortimer was in. But sir Hugh of Trompynton them escried hideously and said a traitors it is all for nought. that ye been common in to this castle ye shall die yet an evil death everichone. And anon one of them that was in Mountages company up with a mace/ and smote the same Hugh upon the heed/ that the brain burst out and fell on the ground/ and so was he deed of an evil death. ¶ though took they mortimer as he armed him at the towers door/ when he heard the noise of them for dread. ¶ And when the queen Isablell saw that the mortimer was taken she made moche sorrow in heart/ & these words unto them she said/ Now fair sires/ I pray you that ye do no harm to his body a thy knight our well-beloved friend and our dear cousin. ¶ though went they thence/ and came and brought mortimer/ and presented him unto king Edward/ & he commanded to bring him in save ward. ¶ But anon as they that were consenting unto mortymers doing/ heard tell that he was taken they went & hid them/ and privily by night went out of the town each one his way/ with heavy heart and morning cheer & lived upon their lands as well as they might. ¶ And that same year that mortimer was take. He had ix score knights without quyres and sergauntes of arms/ & foot men/ And thenne was mortimer lad to London/ and sir Edmonde of bedford was lad with him/ and was taken to the constable of the tour to keep. ¶ But after ward was the Mortymers life examined at westminster before the king/ and before all the great lords of England/ for peril that might fall to the ream/ And to enquere also which were consenting to sir Edwardes death the kings father/ & also through whom the Scots escaped fro Stanhope in scotland/ without leave of king Edward. And also how the charter of ragman was delivered unto the Scots them the homages and fealties of the lords of Scotland were contained that the Scots should do ever more to the english king for the ream of Scotlond/ wherefore he was judged to be drawn and hanged for his treason/ And this mischief came unto him on saint Andrew's even. In the year of the incarnation of our lord Ihesu christ. M.CCC.xxx. ¶ How king Edward gate again unto him graciously the homages and fealties of scotland/ whereof he was put out through the false counsel of the queen Isabella his mother & sire Roger mortimer. that was newly made Earl of Match. NOw have ye heard how johan Bayllol in the time of peace was chosen to be king of scotland for cause that he came of the eldest daughter of the Earl david of Huntyngton/ that was king Alysanders' brother of Scotlond/ that died without heir of his body begotten/ And how this johan made his feaute and homage to king Edward/ Henry's son the third. for his lands of scotland/ And how he afterward with said his homage/ through counsel of the Scots/ in the year of our lord ·M. CC.lxxiiii. and sent unto the pope through. a falls suggestyon that he made his oath unto the foresaid king Edward over his estate and his will/ of the which oath the pope him assoiled through his bulls to him ysent. ¶ And anon as king Edward wist thereof/ he ordain anon his barons and came unto Berwyk/ and conquered the town. at the which conquest there were slain xxv thousand & vii hundred. & Bayllol that was king of Scotlond came & yielded him to good king Edward/ & the king delivered him out of the tour of London. and all the great lords with him that though were taken at Berwyk & gave them safeconduct/ to go into scotland. And the Scots sith through their falseness/ warred upon the good king Edward. And when sir johan Bayloll king of scotland saw all this/ he went over see unto Dunpier and lived there upon his lands as well as he might. till that the Scots would amend them of their misdeeds and trespaas/ and lad with him sir Edward his son. wherefore the Scots in despite of him called him sir johan Turnlabard/ for because that he would not ne offend ne trespaas against the good king Edward of England. And so he for soak his ream of scotland/ and set thereof but little price. And this sir johan dwelled long time in France/ till that he died there & sir Edward his son received his heritage/ and died homage to the king of France/ for his lands of Dunpier/ And so it befell afterward/ that Edward that was johan Bayllols son/ had with him a squire of england that was in york shire/ that was called johan of Barnaby/ and this Edward Bayllol loved him moche/ and was nigh him/ & full privy. And so this Iohn of Barnaby was in debate with a French man in the town of Dunpier/ & so he slew him and went his way in all the haste that he might in to the castle. For to have succour and help of his lord. And anon came officers of the town. to take Iohn of Barnaby as a fellow. and sir Edward his lord holp him/ and rescued him/ and by night made him go out of the castle/ and so he went his way and came in to England without any harm. ¶ And when the king of france saw that sir Edward had rescued his fellow. He became wonder wroth against sir Edward. & anon let him arrested and took into his hands all his lands. though dwelled sir ● Edward in prison/ unto the time that sir Henry of Beaumount came into france/ the which Henry sometime was earl of anguish in scotland and was put out thereof when chacordement was between England and Scotlond through the queen Isabella and sir Roger mortimer and their company for the moryage that she made between david/ that was Roberte Brus sone and dame johann of Tour king Edward's sister of england/ & well understand this/ that at the end he should come to his right/ but if it were sire Edward baylol/ that was right heir of the ream of scotland. ¶ And the king of france Louis loved much this sir Henry. And he was with him full privy/ and thought for to make a deliverance of sir Edward baylol/ if he might in any manner of wise. ¶ though prayed he the king that he would of his grace gaunt him sire Edward Bayllols' body/ unto the next parliament. that he might live with his own rents in the mean time/ and that he might stand to be judged with his peries at the parliament. And the king granted him his prayer/ and made the foresaid Edward to be delivered out of prison/ in the manner above said And anon as he was out of prison sir Henry took him forth with him & lad him in to England/ and made him dwell privily at the manner of Sandhall upon Ouse in york shire with the lady Vescy. And so he ordained him there an huge retinue of englishmen and also of alyuntes/ for to conquer again his heritage/ and so he gave moche silver unto the soldiers and alients for to help him ● And they behyght for to help him in that they might/ but they failed him at his most need. ¶ And at that time david earl of Moryf heard tell how that sir Edward Bayloll was privily come into england. And came to him and made with him gerte joy of his coming and said unto him and behyght him that all the great lords of England/ should be to him entendaunte/ & should him hold for king as right heir of Scotland/ and did to him feaute· ¶ though came sir Henry of Beaumonte to king edward of England. And prayed him in the way of charity/ that he would grant of his great unto sir Edward baylol that he might saufly go by land from Sandhall/ unto scotland/ to conquer his right & heritance in Scotlond. ¶ The king answered & said/ if that I suffer Bayllol. go through my land in to scotland. then the people would say/ that I should be assenting unto the company. ¶ Now sir I pray you that ye would give him leave to take with him soldiers of englishmen that they might saufly lead him through your land to scotland/ And sir upno this covenant that if it so befall/ as god it for bid that he discomfited in bytayll through the Scots/ that I and also all the lords that hold with Bayllol/ been for ever more out of our rents that we have in england. And there the king upon this covenant/ granted their bone/ as touching him/ and though that were of the same quarrel the which claimed for to have lands and rents in the ream of England And these were the names of the lords that pursued this for said matter and quarrel. ¶ That is to say/ sir Edward Bayllol/ the which challenged the ream of scotland. sir Henry Beaumonte earl of Angusshe/ sir david of Stroboly earl of a theles/ sir Geffray of Mombraye/ walter Comyn and many other that were put out of their heritage in Sctlonde when the peace was made between England and scotland as before is said/ And ye shall understand that these lords took with them five houndred men of arms. and two thousand Archers & of foot men. and though went in to ship at Raven. poor/ & sailed by the see/ till that they came unto Scotlond. and came to land at Kynkehorne xii mile fro saint johannes town/ And anon sent out there ships again/ for that they should not be hurt/ ne empeyred/ neither taht no man should go in to the ships again though that they had need/ but abybe all perils and not flee but stand/ and rather suffer death than flee for to maintain their true quarrel. when the earl of Fyffe. a fierce man & a stern/ hard that Bayllol was come/ for to taste the land of Scotlond/ he came in haste to Kynke horn/ with ·iii. thousand Scots/ for to destroy him/ that he should not come to land/ But sir Edward Bayllol and his company there him discomfited/ at the which discomfiture sir Alysander Seton was there slain/ & many other. The Earl of Fyffe/ was th● sore and full evil ashamed/ that so little a company had him discomfited/ and shamefully put him and all his company that were alive for to flee. ¶ though came sir Edward Bayllol and took the coon tree all about him. till he came unto the abbey of Dunfermlin. and there he found victuals for him and for his folk/ & among all other thing he found in a chambre about five hundred of great staves of ● fine oak with long prykes of iron. and of steel And he took them & delivered them to the most strongest men of his company. And anon after he go fro thence. And lodged him in a field ii miles from saint johannes town. And when the burgeys of the town heard how the earl of Fyffe was discomfited through baylol. broke the bridges that they had made over the water of Erne. so that Bayllol might not go over/ wherefore he lodged him there all that night/ but little heed he took of rest. and said unto his people/ Now dear lords ye know full well. that been now lodged between our enemies/ and they may us hampre/ there is no boat but death. wherefore if we abide still all this nyght· I ween it shall torn us to much harm. For the power of scotland may every wax and increase and we may not so do. And we been but lytylle people against them wherefore I pray you for the love of almighty god make we us bold and hardy and that we may mightily take the Scots this night/ & boldly were upon them. and let us pursue them this night. And if they be travailed thorough us. & see our hardiness. other Scots that see them so traveled and wery· the sorer will they be adread with us to fight and fiercely then shall we fight with them. And on them pursue. So that through the grace of god/ all the world shall speak of the doughtynes of our chyvalry. ¶ And sires understandeth well that all the company that came with sir Robert baylol/ granted well unto that counsel/ and were thereof right glad. and anon pursued upon the Scots. that they became wonder weary. And baylol & his company sore followed them/ and died them moche harm and sorrow/ through their assent. so that thy might not for feblynesse them help and for little people. ¶ But tho said the Scots among them/ what is now befall that so little a people as baylol hath in wing doth us so much travail and sorrow Now certes it seemeth us that he worketh by grace/ for he is wonder gracious in his quarrel and we certes shall be deed or that we may come to him us for to yield Sith that his father seat of us no price. ¶ And among all his other things baylol and his people passed the water of Erne so that Robert Swynerton the son was fierce and angry/ and went forth and they saw people of arms full well arrayed. and forth they went unto them and with them fought And slew and took as many as would abide: And nevertheless at that assewte they wend it had be the great host of Scotlond. And when it came to the morrow. they gathered them together/ and rested them a whyle· ¶ And while the englishmen rested them/ the noble baron Thomas Vescy/ and the noble baron/ Stafforde/ pricked their horse up and down by the hills/ for to keep the estrees of the country/ & as they pricked up and down. they saw a great host of good array ordained in their wing with helms and sheldes shining coming upon them. and thenne came tho two barons again unto Bayllols' folk/ & said. Now for the love of god almighty be of good comforth for ye shall have battle an one right. ¶ And though spoke sir fouk the son of Garenne· a baran of great renown and of deeds of arms/ Sires understand what I will say/ I have seen many divers wings/ as well among saracens and jews/ as among the Scots/ and yet saw I never the fourth part of the wing fight. & therefore if ye will abide our enemies/ we been enough for them. but if we be not of good heart and of good courage we been but lost. And therefore for the love of god. take to us good heart/ and let us be bold/ ad think we never of our wives ne of our children/ but only to conquer our enemies in battle. ¶ And through the help of our lord we shall them overcome And with that came the host of the Scots to ward them full serely/ and against sir Edward baylol in three battles well arrayed in armour. ¶ And wonder fiercely they came to ward the Bayllols company/ But when sir Donald earl of marcel that was with the Scots/ saw all this/ he said unto Roberte Brus the son of Robert the Brus these words/ Sir Robert said he full fore me for thynkyth at my heart/ that these people that baylol hath brought with him should die with dint of Scots swords/ sith that they been christian men as we been. And therefore me thinketh that it were great charity for to send unto them/ for to yield them/ unto our mercy/ and confirm them unto grievous ransom/ for as much as they have taken our lands and done ill. Now certes said sir Roberte the Brus/ I have well rerceyved/ that thou art an enemy and a traitor unto scotland/ sith that thou wilt consent to save our deadly enemies/ that have done us much sorrow and shame & now it seemeth well that ye be of their assent Now certes Robert said sir donald/ falsely ye lie. I am not of their company ne of their consent/ & that hastily ye shall see for I will fyz●e with them rather than any of this company/ & certes sir Robert said he I shall in maugre of thy heed assail they or thou And with that they pricked their steeds fye●sly upon Gaskemore. and their wing them followed on a reng. & though came they & met with baylol & his company at an hanging bough of the more in a straight passage & so fast they hasted them unto the Englishmen the thousand/ fell unto the ground eachone over upon other into an heap horse and man bayllol & his men mightily stood against them/ & fast slew the Scots to the ground/ and many they wounded/ so long/ till that they stood upon them and foyned them with their swords and spears through their bodies/ and full sore they were travailed upon them/ till that they became wonder weary/ and wist not what for too do. And the Scots that were let alive fled away/ for to save themself in the best manner that they might. And though pursued them sire Edward baylloll and his men/ and slew of them till it was night. And fro thence they went to Saint johannes town/ and took it. & held them there and victualed themself at there own will/ for they found enough wherewith to make merry. though made baylol his men that were wounded go to ship/ to sail in to England/ to he'll their wounds. & in the time there was a flēmynge in the see. a stonge thief And a robber that was called crab & this flemminge was driven out of Flaundres for his wickedness & therefore he came into Scotlond to hold with the scots/ & died as much harm to the englishmen as he might do. And this Crab met Bayllols men in the see that were wounded before in battle that were sent again into England. for to hele their wounds. and this crab gave to them a get assault. and would have slain them every eachone. But the englishmen defended them well & manly & discomfit Crabbe & his company & tho 'gan he i'll into Scotlond. ¶ And as he came toward saint johannes town/ he found a great conpany of scots/ that were come again together after the discomfiture at Gaskemore. the which byseyged Bayllol and his men in the same town of saint johan· And anon told told the Scots how that he was discomfited of the englishmen/ that were wounded at Gaskemore/ that went toward England/ forts hele their wounds/ And said to the Scots/ that they should have neither power ne might ne grace against Edward Bayllol/ by cause that he discomfited/ & impaired all the chyvalry of Scotlond with a handfall of men as to ●ōpte against the Scots that were slain. wherefore he counseled to remove the siege from saint johannes town/ & keep them in the best manner that they might. ¶ The Scots understood that crab said sooth/ for soak the siege and went thence by night. ¶ when this thing was know through scotland how that the lords & knights were discomfited at Gaskemore of scotland through sire Edward Bayllol/ ye shall understand that the lords & ladies/ & the gentles of Scotlond came wonder fast to saint johannes town/ & yielded them unto Bayllol. & to him did homage & feaute for their sondes & yield them to his peace & he them received freely/ And fro thence he went to the abbey of Scone. & there he was crowned king of Scotlond/ & after he let cry his peace through out all the land. ¶ And at that same time it befell that king Edward held his parliament among his lieges at the new castle upon Tyne for to amend the trespasses and the wrongs that had been done in his land. And sir Edward Bayllol king of scotland came to him thither/ and died to him homage & feautee/ for the ream of Scotlond And in this manner king Edward of England gathered again his homages & fealties of scotland/ where of he was put out/ through counsel and assent of dame Isabella his mother/ and of sir Roger mortimer earl of March/ Tho took Bayllol king of Scotlond his leave of king Edward of England/ & went thence in to his own land of scotland & set but little by such as had counseled him/ & helped him in his quarrel/ wherefore they went from him & went & lived by their own lands and renttes in Scotlond. ¶ And so it befell after ward not long/ that that the king of scotland ne removed & came to the tour of Anande & there took his dwelling/ and thither came to him a company of knights strong men & worthy/ & yielded them unto the king. And bare them so fair in deed and in countenance/ so that he trusted moche upon them And anon as the traitors saw that he trusted moche upon them/ they ordained among them thirty in a company/ and would have slain their lord the king/ But through the grace of almighty god/ he broke through a wall an hole in his chambre/ & as god would scaped their treachery/ & all his men were slain/ and he escaped with moche dread unto the town of cardoil/ And there he held him sore annoyed. And this befell upon our ladies even the conception. ¶ though sent king Edward baylol to king Edward of. England/ how falsely and tratoursly he was in little time/ put to shame & sorrow through his lyege men/ upon whom he trusted wonder moche. And prayed him for the love of god that he would maintain him & help him against his enemies. the king of england had of him great pity/ & behight to help him & succour him. and sent him word that he should hold him in peace still in the foresaid city of cardoil/ till that he had gathered his power. ¶ though ordained king Edward of England a counsel at London/ & let gather his men in divers shires of england. and when he was all ready/ he went toward the town of Berwyk upon tweed/ and thither came to him king Edward baylol of scotland with his power/ and besieged the town/ And made without the town a fair town of pavilions and dyched them all about/ so that they had no dread of thee▪ Scots/ & made many assault with ●onnes and with other engines to the town. wherewith they destroyed many fair houses/ & churches also were beaten down to the earth with great stones/ the spitously came out of gonnes & other engines. And nevertheless the Scots kept right well the town/ that though two kings might not come therein long tyme. & n●theles the kings abode there so long/ till though that were within the town failed victuals & also they were so weary of waking. that they wist not what for to do. ¶ And ye shall understende that though scots that were within the town of Berwyk/ through common counseyl & their assent. let cry upon the wallys of the twone. that they might have peace of the englishmen and thereof they prayed the king of his grace & mercy & prayed gym of trwes for viii days upon this covenant/ that if they were not rescued in that side of the town toward Scotlond of the Scots within viii days that they would yield them unto the king & the town also/ And to hold this covenant/ they prouffred to the king xii hostages out of the town of Berwyk. ¶ When the hostages were delivered/ unto the king/ anon though of the town sent unto the scots/ & told them of their sorrow & mischief/ And the Scots though came privily over the water of tweed to the bought of the abbey. & sir william Dyket that was though Steward of scotland. & many other that came with him/ put them their in great peril of themselves at that time & of there life/ For they came over a bridge that was to broke & the stones away/ & many of their company were there drowned/ But the foresaid wyllyam went over/ & other of company/ & came by the ships of england/ & slew in a barge of Hull. xvi· men and after they went into the town of Berwyk by the water side/ wherefore the Scots held though the town rescued/ & asked their hostages again of the king of England/ & the king sent them word again that they axed their hostages with wrong sith that they came into the town of Enlonde side/ for covenant was between them that the town should be rescued by the half of scotland and anon though commanded king Edward to yield the town/ or he would have the hostages and the Scots said the town was rescued well enough & thereto they would them hold/ when king Edward saw the Scots break their covenants that they made/ he was wonder wroth. and anon let sir Thomas. Fytz wyllyam and sir Alysander of Feton warden of Berewyk the which Thomas was person of Dunbarre. and let them be take first afore that other hostages for cause that Sir Alysanders' father was keeper of the town. ¶ And though commanded every day two hostages of the town/ till that they were all do to death. But if they yielded the town/ & so he should teach them for to break their covenants. And when they of the town heard these tidings they became wonder sorry and sent to the king that he would grant them other viii days of respite. So that between two hundre men of arms and twenty men of arms might by strength go between them to the town of Berwyk them for to victual/ that the town must be hold for rescowed. And if so were that xxi or xxii or more were slain of the two hundred before said. that the towsholde not be hold for rescowed. And this covenant to be hold. they sent to him other xii of the foresaid town in hostage/ the king of England granted them their prayer & took the hostages. on saint Margaretꝭ eve. in the year of grace. M·CCC. xxxiii. the Scots came fiercely well arrayed in four wings for to meet king Edward of England. and Edward the king of scotland/ with their power/ and came fast and sharply against evensong time/ And the same time was flood at Berwyk in the water of tweed/ that no man might go over on his horse/ nor on foot ● and the water was between though two kings and the ream of England. And that time abode the Scots in that other side for cause that the englyssgmen should have be drowned. ¶ This was the array of the Scots/ how that they came in battle against the two kings of England and of scotland. In the vaunt ward of scotland where these lords. Thearl of Moryf/ jamys Frysell Symond Frysell/ Walter steward reynold Cheyn. patrick of Greham. johan le grant jamys of Cordoyl Patryk Parkeys. Roberte Caldecottes Phylyp of Melledrum Thomas Gylbert Rauf wiseman. Adam gurdon/ jamys Gramat. Roberte Boyd. Huhhe Park. with xl knights new dubbed & vi C. men of arms & iii M. of comyns/ In the first part of thalfe battle were these lords/ the Steward of scotland/ the earl of Mory James his uncle/ william douglas david of lindsay. Marcolyn Fleming/ William of keth Dnnsen Cankok with xxx bachelors new dubbed. ¶ In the second part of the battle were these lords. jamys Steward of Corden. Alein Steward/ wyllyam Abbrehin/ william Morys: jamys Fytz wyllyam. Adam lemost. walter Fytz. Gylbert. Iohn of Cerleton. Robert wallam with vii C. men of arms/ and xvii M. comyns. ¶ In the third part of the battle of scotland were these lords. The earl of Moref. the earl of Ruf/ th'earl of Strahern. the earl of sooth erlonde. william of Kyrkkelay. Iohn Cambron/ Gylbert of hay/ wyllyam ramsey/ wylliam Prendegest. Kyrston Hard/ wyllyam Gurde/ Arnold guard Thomas dolphin/ with xl knights new dubbed ix C. men of arms & xu M. of comyns. ¶ In the fourth ward of the battle of scotland were these lords Archbalde Douglas/ the earl of Lencuax Alysander le Brus. the earl of Fyff. Iohn Canbell earl of Atheles. Roberte Lawether/ wyllyam of Vypovynt/ wyllyam of Lonston. johnn de Labels Groos de Sherenlawe johan de lindsay Alysander de Gray. Ingram de Vmfreville. Patryk de Polesworthe david de wymes. Mychell Scot wyllyam Landy Thomas de Boys. Roger mortimer with xx. bachelors new dubbed ix C. men of arms xviii M. & four C. of comyns. The earl of Dunbar keeper of the castle of Berewyk halpe the Scots with l men of arms. And sir Alysander of Ceton keeper of the for said town of Berwyk with an. C. men of arms. And also the comyns of the town with ·iiiis. C. men of arms/ & with viii C. of foot men. ¶ The some of th'earls & lords above said/ amounteth lxvi ¶ The some of bachelors new dubbed amounteth to an. C.lx ¶ The some of men of arms amounteth iii M.C. ¶ The sum of the comnyns amounteth liii M. and iii C. ¶ The some totalle of the people abovesaid amounteth .lxv. M.vii. C.xlv. And these lx & vi gretate lords/ lad all the other greeste lords abovesaid. Infonre battles/ as it is told beforens alon foot. and king Edward of England/ and Edward Bayllol king of scotland/ had well appareled their folk in four battles/ for to fight on foot against the Scots their enemies. ¶ And the Englys the mynstrels blewe their trumpetes their claryons/ and hideously escried the Scots. And though had every english battle two wings of price archers. The which at that battle shot arrows so fast and so sore: that the Scots might not help themsefle. And they smote the Scots thousands unto the ground. And they began for to flee fro the englishmen for to save their lives: And when the Scots knaves saw the scomfiture and the Scots fall fast to the ground/ they preckyd fast their masters horse with the sporis for to kept them from peril/ & seat their masters at on force And when thenglyssmen saw that they leapt on their horses/ & fast pursued the Scots/ & all that abode they slew down right. ¶ There men might see the doughtiness of the noble king Edward & of his men how manly they pursued the Scots/ that flow for dread. And there men might see many a Scottysshman cast down unto the ground/ & the banners dysplayde hacked in to pieces & many a good haberyoyne of steel in the blood bathe/ And many a time the Scots were gathered in to companies/ but ever more they were discomfited. ¶ And so it befell as god almighty would. that the Scots had that day no more fayson ne might against the englishmen than twenty sheep among .v. wolves. And so were the Scots discomfited/ & yet the scottees was well .v. men against one englishmen And the battle was done on Halydoune hill beside the town of Berwyk. At the which battle were slain of the Scots. xxxu· thousand & vii houndred and xii And of the englishmen but only xiii And this victory befell to the englishmen on saint Margyretes even the holy virgin & martyr in the year of our lord Ihesu christ. M.CCC.xxxii. ¶ And while this doing lasted the english pages took the pylfre of the Scots that were slain/ every man that he might take. without any challenging of any man. And so after this gracious victory. the king turned him again unto the same siege of Berewyk. ¶ And when they be syeged saw and heard how king Edward had speed/ they yielded to him the town with the castle/ on the morrow after saint Margaretes' day. ¶ And thenne the king died ordain sir Edward baylol/ with other noble and worshipful men/ to be keepers and governors of all scotland in his absence. And himself turned again and came into Enlonde after this victory/ with moche joy and also worship and in the next year following after/ that is for to say in the year of the incarnation of our lord Ihesu eryste. M.CCC.xxxiii. And of king Edward. vii· he went again in to scotland/ in winter time Atte the which viage the castle of kylbrygge in scotland/ for him and for his men that were with him he recovered and had against the Scots All at his own lust. ¶ And in that same year sir Edward Bayloll king of scotland/ held his parliament in scotland with many noble lords of England that were at that same parliament/ because of their lands and also lordship's that they had in the ream of scotland. And held all of the same baylol. And in the viii year of his regne/ about the feast of saint johan Baptist sir Edward Bayllol they vere and true king of scotland/ as by heritage & right line/ made his homage and feaute unto king Edward of England for the ream of scotland at new castle upon Tyne. In the present of many a worthy man and also of comyns both of the ream of England/ and also of Scotlonde· ¶ And anon after in the same year king Edward of England/ received of the duke of britain his homage/ for the earldom and lordship of Rychmonde. And so following in the ix year of his reign after michaelmas road into Scotlond And there was fast by saint johannes town almost all the winter time/ And so he held his christmas at the castle of Rokersbourgh ¶ And in the same year trughout all England/ about saint Clementys tide in winter. ¶ Cheer arose such a sprenging and welling up of waters/ and also floods/ both of the see and also of the fresh rivers and sprenges that the see banks/ walls and costs/ broke up/ that men's beasts and houses in many places & namely in low countries/ violently and suddenly were drowned/ and fruit driven away of the earth/ through countenance and abundance of waters of the see/ over more afterward were turned into more saltness and sourness or savour. ¶ The ten year of king Edwardes regne. king Edward entered the Scots see after midsummer. And to many of the Scots he have battle/ and overcame them and many he treated and bowed unto his peace/ through his doughtiness and hardiness. ¶ And after the feast of saint Myghell then next following was the earl of Moryf had and taken at Edenbrugh & brought into England and put into prison. ¶ And in the months of june and julii than next following in the xi. year of his reign was seen and apperyed in the firmament a beam star the which clerks call stella Cometa & that star was seen in divers parts of the firmament. ¶ Where after anon there followed in England good cheap and wonder great plenty of chaffer victuals & merchandise/ & there against hunger scarcity mischief and need of money. ¶ In so much that a quartre of wheat at London was sold for two shilling and a good fat ox at a noble/ and five good doves birds for a penny. In which year deped sir Iohn of ●l●am earl of cornwall that was king Edward's brother and lieth at westminster. ¶ How king Edward made a duchy of the earldom of cornwall and also of six other Earls that were new made/ and of the first challenge of the kyngdodome of France. IN the year of our lord a. M. CCC.xxx.vii. and of king edward xii in the month of march during the parliament at westminster in lente time king Edward made of the earldom of cornwall a duchy and let it call the duchy of cornwall/ the which ducye he gave unto Edward his first son with the earldom of Chestre. And also king Edward made at that same time two other earls/ That is for to say Sir Henry the earl of Lancastres' son earl of leicester/ William of Bughun earl of Northampton/ wyllyam of Mountagu/ earl of Salysbury/ Hugh of Awdell earl of Gloucestre/ Roberte of Word earl of Southfolke/ And wyllyam of Clyton earl of Huntyngeton. ¶ And in that same year it was ordained in the same parliament that no man should were no cloth that was wrought out of england. as cloth of gold ne of silk or velvet or damask or satyne baudkyn ne none such other ne none wild ware ne furs of bind that see. But such as might spend an hundred pound of rent by year. but this ordinance & statute was but of little effect For it was no thing holden. ¶ In the xiii year of his reign king Edward went over see into Braban with queen Phylyp his wife there bearing a child at And warp there he dwelled more than a year for to treat with the duke of Braban and other allied unto him of the challenging of the kingdom of France. to king Edward of england by right and by heritage after the death of Karoll the great king of France brother Gerymayne of queen Isabella king Edward's mother/ the which was holden and occupied unrightful by Phylyp of Valois the emmies of king Karoll/ the wheche duke and all his in the foresaid things & all other longing there to with all his men and goods king Edward found ready unto him and made & behyght him surety by good faith & trust/ and after that the king hath him again into England & lelft there the queen still be hind him in Braban. Than in the xiiii year of his reign when all the lords of his ream & other that oughten to be at his parliament were called & assembled together in the same parliament holden at London after the feast of saint Hylarye/ The kings needs were put forth & promothed as touching the kingdom of France. For which needs to be sped the king axed the fift part of all the movable goods of England & the wools & the ix sheep of every corn/ And all the lords of every town where such things should be taxed & gathered should answer to the king thereof/ & had it and held it at his own lust & will wherefore if I should knowledge the very troth/ the inner love of the people was turned in to hate And the common prayers in to cursing/ for cause that the common people were so strongly grieved. ¶ Also the for said Phylyp Valois of France had gathered unto him a great host & destroyed in his parties & kingdom/ many of the kings friends of England with towns & castles many other of their lordhypoes and many harms shamys & dystytes did unto the queen/ where fore king Edward when he heard this tidings strongly moved therwythe and red. and sent divers letters over see to the queen & to other that were his friends Glaging them certefyenge them that he would be there himself in all the haste that he might. ¶ And anon after Ester when he had sped of all things that him needed to have/ he went over see again. Of whose coming the queen & all his friends were wonder glad & made moche joy And all that were his enemies and held against him made as much sorrow. ¶ In the same time the king through counsel of his true lieges and counsel of his lords that there we represent with him write the kynhe of France's name/ and took and meddled the kings arms of France quartered with th'arms of england and commanded forth with his coyen of gold under description and writing of the name of england and of France be made best that might be/ and that is to say the floreyne that was called the noble price of vi shilling viii pens sterling/ and the half noble the value. iii· shilling and four pens/ and the far things the value of twenty pens. ¶ How king Edward came unto the scuys and discomfited all the power of France in the haven. ANd in the next year after/ that is to say the xu year of his reign he commanded and let write in his charters writs & other letters the date of the reign of france the first And while that he was thus doing and travailing in france through his counsel he wrote to all the prelate's duke's earls and barons and the noble lords of the country/ and also to diverse of the common people divers letters & mandments bearing date at Gandave the viii. day of February. ¶ And anon after within a little time he came again in to england with the queen and her children. ¶ And in the same year on midsummer even he began to sail to ward France again/ and manly and fiercely he fell upon Phylyp of Valois the which long time lay and had gathered to him a full long & boisterous many of divers nations in the haven of Scevys/ & there they fought together the king of france and he with their hosts fro midday to three of the clock in the morn/ in the which battle were slain xxx thousand men of the kings company of france/ and many ships and cogs were taken And so through gods help he had there the victory. and bear thence a glorious chyvalry ¶ And in the same year about saint james tide without the yates of Saint Omers Robert of Arthoys with men of england & Flaun fought against the duke of Burgon & the frenchmen/ at which battle were slain & take of the frenchmen xu barons & lxxx knights & ships & barges were take unto the number of CC. and xxx ¶ The same year the king making & abiding upon the siege of ●ornay the earl of Henaude with english archers made assaults unto the town of Saint A●ande where they slew l knights & many other and also destroyed the town. ¶ And in the xvi year of his reign following in the winter time the king still upon the foresaid siege & sent of time into england unto his treasurer & other purveyors for gold & money that should be sent unto him there in his need but his proctors and messengers cursedly and full slouly served him at his need & deceived him/ on whose default & latches the king took truce between him and the king of france/ And then king Edward full of shame and sorrow in his heart with drew him fro the siege & come into britain and there was so great strive of battle that he lost many of his people. And when he had done there that he come for he dressed him over see in to england ward. ¶ And as he sailed to ward England in the high see the most mishaps storms and tempests thunder & lightning fell to him in the see/ the which was said that it was done & raised through evil spirits made by sore ery & nygro mancye of them of france/ wherefore the kings heart was full of sorrow/ and anguish wellling & sighing & said unto our lady in this wyse· ¶ O blessed lady Saint Mary what is the cause that ever more going into france all things & wethers fallen to me joyful and liking and as I would have them/ but always torning into England ward all things fallen unprofitable and very harmful nevertheless he scaped all perils of the see as god would/ and came to the tower of London by night. ¶ And the same year the king held his christmas at Meneres & sent word to the Scots by his messengers that he was ready & would do fight with them. but the Scots would not abide that but fled over the Scots see & hid them a well as they might. ¶ And in the xvii year of his reign about the feast of the conversion of saint pole king Edward when he had been in Scotlond & saw that the scots were fled though he come again into england. And a little before lent was the tournament at Dunstable/ though the which torment come all the young bachelary & chyvalry of england with many other earls and lords. At the which turnement king Edward himself was there present ¶ And the next year following in the xviii year of his reign at his parliament holden at westminster the avyzeme of paske king Edward the third made Edward his first son prince of wales. ¶ And in the xix year of his reign anon after in january before lente the same king Edward let make full noble justes & great feestes in the place of his birth at wyndsore that there was never none such seen there afore. At which feast & ryalte were two kings & two queens the prince of wales the duke of cornwall ten Earls ix Countess' barons and many burgeys the which might not lightly be numbered/ & of diverse lands beyond the see weren many strangers. And at the same time when the justes were done. king Edward made a great supper in the which he ordained & began his round table & ordained & stedfasted the day of the round table to be holden there at windsor in the wytsone week never more yearly. & this time english men so much haunted and cleaved to the woodness & folly of the strangers/ that from time of coming of henaud's xviii year passed they ordained and changed them every year diverse shapes and disguising of clothing of long large and wide clothes dystytute & dyserte frem all old honest and good usage. And an other time short clothes and straight wasted gagged and kit and on every side slatered and botoned with sleeves and tapytiss of surcotes and hodes over long and overmuch hanging/ that if I the sooth shall say they were more like to tormentors & devils in their clothing & shoking & other array than to men & the women more nicely yet passed the men in array & evouslyer/ for they were so straight clothed that they lief hang fore tails sewed beneath within there clothes for to feel and hide their arsers/ the which dysguysynges & pride peraventure/ afterward brought fourth & caused many mishaps & mischief in the ream of England. ¶ The. x●. year of king Edward he went over in to britain and Gascoigne In whose company went the earl of warwick/ the earl of Souffolke. the earl of Huntyngton and the earl of Arundel/ and many other lords and common people in a great multitude with a great navy of. CC. and xl ships/ anon after midsummer for to avenge him of many wrongs and harms to him done by Phylyp of Valois king of France again the truce before hand granted/ the which the truce he falsely and untrewely by cavelacyons and dysquatter ¶ How king Edward sailed in to Normandy & arrived at hogs with a great host. IN the xxi year of his reign king Edward through counsel of all the great lords of england called & gathered together in his parliament at siluestre before Ester ordained him for to pass over the see again for to disease & dystrobled the rebels of France. And when his navy was come together and made ready he went with a great host the xii day of julii. and sailed in to Normandye & arrived at hogs. ¶ And when he had rested him there vi days for by cause of travailing of the see and for to have out all his men with all their necessaries out of their ships/ he went toward Cadomun brenuing wasting & destroying all the towns that he found in his way. ¶ And the xxvi days of july at the bridge of Cadony manly and nobly strengthened and defended with Normans he had there a strong battle & a long during/ through which a great multitude of people were slain/ And there were taken of prisoners the earl of Ewe/ the lord of Thonkeruyll/ and an hundred of other knights & men of arms/ and vi hundred of foot men numbered & the town and the subbarbes/ unto the bare wall/ and of all things that they might bear & carryen out was robbed & despoiled. After the king passed forth by the country about the breed of twenty mile he wasted all manner thing that he found when Phylyp of Valois perceived this/ all thought he were fast by him with a strong host yet he would not come nigh him but break all the brydgꝭ beyond the water of sayn fro Royn to Paris/ & himself fled unto the same city of Paris with all the haste that he might. ¶ For sooth noble king Edward when he came to Paris bridge & found it broken/ within two days he let make it again/ And in the morrow after the assumption of our lady king Edward passed over the water of sayn goyege to ward Crescy & destroyed by the way towns with the people dwelling there in/ & in the feast of saint Bartholomewe he passed over the water of some unhurt with all his host there as never before fond any manner way ne passage. where ii M. were slain of them that letted their passage. over. ¶ Therefore the xxvi day of August/ king Edward in field fast by Frescy having three battles of Englishmen encountered & met with Phylyp of Valois having with him four battles of which the least passed greatly the number of english people. And when these two hosts met together/ there fell upon him the kyngh of Beme/ the duke of Loreyn. & earls also of Flaunders/ Dalaunson/ bloys harecourt/ Aumarle & Nevors/ & many other Earls barons lords & knights and men of arms the number of a. M.u. C.xlii without foot men & other men armed that were no thing reckoned. And for all this the unglorious Philip with drew him with the residue of his people. wherefore it was said in common among his own people. Neren be all voy retreat. that is to say our fair with draweth him. ¶ Than king Edward & our englishmen thanked almighty god for such a victory after there great labour take to them all thing needful to their sustenance/ & saving of their lives & for dread of their enemies rested them there. And full early in the morning after the Frensshmen with a great passing host come again for to give battle & fight with the englishmen/ with whom met & encountered the earl of warwyke Northampton and Norfolk with their company and slew ii M. & took many prisoners of the gentles of them. And the remnant of the same host fled three mile thence. And the third day after the battle the king went to calais ward destroying all the towns as he road thither/ when that he comen that is to say the third day of September he began to besiege the town with the castle & continued his siege fro the foresaid third day of Septembre to the third day of August the next year after. And in the same year during the siege of calais the king of Scotland with a great multitude of scots came in to england to Nevyles cross/ about saint Lucas day the evangelist hoping and trusting for to have found all the land void of people for as much as the king of england was beyond the see/ safe only priests & men of holy church & women & children/ & plowmen and such other labourers/ & there they come & robbed & did much privy sorrow. But yet found they enough that them withstood by the grace of almighty god/ & so a day of battle was as signed between them and certain lords & men of holy church that were of the country with other common people fast by the city of Duresme. at which day through the grace & help of god almighty the Scots were overcomen and yet were there three times so many of them as of englysshemen· And there was slain all the chyvalry & knighthood of the ream of Scotlond. And there was taken as they would have fled thence david of king of scotland himself and the earl of mentyf Sir wyllyam Douglas and many other great men of Scotland. ¶ And after that our englishmen when they had rested them a few days and had ordained their keepers of the North country. they came to London and brought with them sire david the king of scotland and all the other lords that were taken prisoners unto the tour of London with all the haste that they might. and left them there in safe keeping unto the kings coming and went home again in to their own country. And after ward was the king ransom of Scotlond taxed to an hundred thousand mark of silver to be paid within ten year/ that is to say every year ten thousand mark. ¶ How king Edward besieged calais & how it was won & yolden unto him. IN the. xxii· year of king Edwardes reign went over see in the winter time/ & lay all the winter at the siege of calais/ the which year while the siege lasted & endured Phylyp the king of france cast & purposed traitorously & with fraud to put away the siege & came the ·xxviis. day of evil in the same year with a great host & strong power and neighed to the siege of calais. The which Phylyp the last day of julii. sent to the king Edward word that he would give him plain battle the third day after the about evensong time if he durst come fro the siege and abide. And when king Edward heard that any without long tarrying or long avysentente accept gladly the day & hour of battle that Philip had assigned And when the king of France heard that/ the next night after he set his tents a fire & removed & went his way thence cowardly. Then they that were in the town & in the castle besieged saw all this that they had none other help ne succour of the king of France ne of his men And also that their victuals within them were spended and wasted & for fault of victuals & of refreshing they eaten horses hounds cats & mice for to keep their troth as long as they might And when they saw & was found among them at the last that they had no thing among them for to eat ne live by ne no succour ne rescue of the frensshemen/ of that other side they witted well that they must needs die for default or else yield the town/ & anon they went & took down the banners and the arms of france on every side that were hangen out & went on the walls of the foresaid town on diverse places as naked as ever they were borne safe only their shirts and their prive clothes. & held their swords naked & the point donward in their hands/ and putten ropes & halters about their necks & yielded up the keys of the town & of the castle to king Edward of england with great fere & dread of their lives and goods and dread of heart/ And king Edward saw all this as/ a merciable king and lord receyyed them to grace/ & few of the greatest prisoners of estate and governance of the town he sent into England there for to abide their ransom and the kings grace. And all the comynallte of the town the king let go weather they would in peace and with out any harm/ & let them bear with them all their things that they might bear & carry away keeping the twone & the castle to hymself· then through meditation of Cardynales that were sent from the pope/ truce was take there between France & england for ix months than next following. And about michaelmas king Edward come again into Enlond with a glorious victory. ¶ And in the xxiii year of his regne. in the east parties of the world there arose and began a pestilence & death of saracens and paynims that so great a death was never heard of afore/ that wasted away the people so that uneath the tenth person was left alive. ¶ And the same year about the such countries and also in the west countries there fell so moche rain & so great waters that from christmas to mid summer there was unneaths no day ne night but that it rained some what/ through which waters the pestilence was so enfected & so habundaunte in all countries. & namely about the court of Rome. & other places and see costs that there were left living folk for too bury them that were deed honestly But made great dyches & pyttꝭ that were wonder broad & deep & therein buried them/ & made a renge of deed bodies & cast a little earth to feel them above/ & than cast in another renge of deed bodies/ & an other renge above them/ and thus were they buried & none other wise/ but if it were so that they were men of great estate so that they were buried as honestly as they might. And after all this in the xxiiii year of king Edwardes reign it was done him to wete & understand of a treason that was begun at calais & ordained for to sell that town for a great sum of Florins unto king Phylyp of France through the falseness & or dynaunce of a knight that was called sire Geffrey of Cherney was wonder preny with king Phylyp of France And when king Edward heard this he took with him the noblest and gentlest lord and many other worythy men of arms that were there present with him for the solemnity of that high feast. And well wisely in all the haste that he myghe/ and as privily as he might he went over see to ward calais. And that same year the good king edward held his christmas at Havering. And the morn after new years day the king was in the castle of calais with his men of arms that none of the aliens wist there of. And that fais conspirator and traitor Geffrey of Cherney sith that he might not openly have his purpose of the castle/ privily and stelyngly he come in & held the town with a great host. And when he with his men were comen in/ he paid the for said some of florins as covenant was to a Geneweye in the town that was keeper of the castle and consenting to the same Geffrey in all his falseness and trechorye & bounden the english mynstrels and servants that were in the castle that they might not helep themselves ne let them of their purpose. And than weening that they had been sure enough/ then they spaken all their wickedness & falnesse openly on high that all men might here. & now shall ye here how they were deceived/ for they came in by a privy postern over a little bridge of tree/ & when they were comen in subtly & privily the bridge was drawn up and kept that none of them that came in might go out ne no moo might come to them/ & anon our englishmen went out at privy holes and windows & over the walls of the town and of the castle & went & fought manly with the frenchmen that were without & had the better of them/ the which when they were occupied by themself on their side/ the king that was within the town having scarcely but xxx men of arms drew out his sword & with a loud voys he creyed on high. Osaynt Edward. Osaynt George. And when the people heard that/ they come running to him & gaaf there to their enemies so great assault that there were moo than two hundred men of arms & many more other slain and many fled a way. And so by grace of god almighty the victory fell unto the englishmen. then the king took with him this Geffrey that was finder of this trechory And also many other Frenssh prisoners/ and then within a while after he come again in to England. And in this same year and in the year afore and also in the year next following was so great a pestilence of men from the east in to the west & namely through botches that though that sykened/ as on this day died on the third day after/ to the which men that so died in this pestilence had but little respite of lyssing. ¶ The pope Clement of his goodness and grace gave them full remission and forgiveness of all their sins that they were shriven of/ and this pestilence lasted in London fro michaelmas unto August. next following almost an hole year. ¶ And these days was death without sorrow/ weddings without friendship/ wilful penance/ & dearth without scarcity. And fleeing without refute or succour. for many fled from place to place by cause of pestilence. But they were enfected & might not escape the death/ after that the prophet Isay sith who that fleeth fro the face of dread he shall fall into the dyche. And he that windeth him out of the dyche he shall be hold and eyed with a grenne/ but when this pestilence was ceased as god would unneaths the tenth part of the people was left on live. And in the same year began a wonder thing that all that ever were borne after that pestilence had two cheketh in their heed lass than they had afore. ¶ How king Edward had a great battle with spaniards in the see fast by wynchelse. ANd in the xxv year of his reign about saint johans' day in harvest in the see fast by wynchelse king Edward had a great battle with men of Spain where that their ships and navy lay chained together/ that other they must fight or be drenched. And so when all other worthy men and of the see costs fast by wynchelse & romeny were gathered together/ and our navy & ships all ready to the war/ the englishmen met manly and strongly with their enemies coming fiercely against them. ¶ And when the Spayns vessels & navy were closed all about/ there men might see strong battle on both sides & long during in the which battle was but few that fought but they were rytously hurt. And after the battle there were xxiii ships taken & so the englishmen had the better. And in the next year following of his regne. that is to say the xxvi. year the king through his counsel let ordain and make his new money/ that is to say the penny the groat value of four pens and the half great of ii pens. But it was of less weight than the old sterling was be .v. shells. in the pound. ¶ And in the xxvii year of his reign was the great dearth of victuals that which was called the dear summer. And the xxviii year of his reign in the parliament holden at westminster after Ester. sir Henry earl of Lancastre was made duke of Lancastre and in this year was so great a drought that from the month of March to the month of evil there fell no rain on th'earth/ wherefore all fruits seeds and herbs/ for the most part were lost in default wherefore come so great disease of men and beasts and dearth of victuals in England that this land that ever afore had been plenteous had need that time to seek victuals and refreshing at other out isles & countries. And the xxix year of king Edward it was accorded granted and sworn between the king of France & king Edward of England that he should have again all his londꝭ & lordships that longed to the duchy of guyhen of old time the which had been withdrawn and wrongfully occupied by divers kings of France before hand to have & to hold to king Edward & to his heirs & successors for evermore. freely pesybly and in good quiet upon this covenant that the king of England should leave of and releasen all his right & claim that he had claimed of the kingdom of france and of the title that he took thereof/ upon which speech and covenants it was sent to the court of Rome on both sides of the kings. that the foresaid covenant should de enbulled. but god ordained better for the kings worship of England. for what through fraud & deceit of the frenchmen and what through letting of the pope & of the court of Rome the foresaid covenants were dysquate and left of. ¶ And in the same year the king revoked by his wise and discrete counsel/ the staple of wools out of flanders into England with all the liberties franchises and free customs that longed thereto and ordained it in england in diverse places/ that is for to say at westmestre/ Caunterbury. Chychestre. Brystowe. Lyncoln. And Hulle with all the foresaid things that longen thereto. And that this thing that should thus be done the king swore himself thereto/ and prince Edward his son with other many great witnesses that there where present. ¶ And the xxx· year of his reign anon after whitsuntide in the parliament ordained at westmenstre it was told and certified to the king that Phylyp that held the kingdom of France was deed. And that johan his son was crowned king. And that this johan had given Karoll his son the duchy of Guyhen. of the which thing king Edward when he wist thereof he had great indignation unto him & was wonder wroth & strongly moved. And therefore afore all the wrothy lords that there were assembled at that parliament called Edward his son unto him/ to whom the duchy of Guyhen by right heritage should long to & gave it him there bidding & strengthening him that he should ordain him for to defend him and avenge him upon his enemies and save & maintain his right. And afterward king Edward himself/ & his eldest son Edward went to divers places and saints in England on pilgrimage for to have the more help & grace of god and of his saints. And the ii kal of evil. when all thing was ready to that viage & battle & all his retinue & power assembled & his navy also ready he took with him the earl of warwick the earl of Suffolk the earl of Salysbury and the earl of Oxford & a thousand men of arms & as many archers/ and in the nativity of our lady/ took their ships at plummouth & began to sail. And when he come & was arrived in Guyon/ he was there worshipfully taken & received of the most noblest men and lords of that country. ¶ And anon after king Edward took with him his two sons. that is to say. sir Lionel earl of Vlton & sir Iohn his brother earl of Rychemonde & sir Henry duke of Lancastre with many earls & lords and men of arms & two thousand Archers & sailed toward France & rested him a while at calais & after the king went with his host aforesaid & with other soldiers of beyond the see that there abode the kings coming the second day of Novembre and took his journey toward king Iohn of France there as he trowed to have found him fast by Odomarum as his letters and covenant made mention that he would abide him there with his host. And when king johan of France heard tell of the kings coming of England/ he went away with his men and carriage cowardly and shamefully fleeing and wasting all victuals that Englsshmen should not have there of. ¶ And when king Edward/ heard tell that he fled he pursued him with all his host till Henede/ and than he beholding the scarcity and waiting of victuals and also the cowardice of the king of France he turned again wasting all the country. ¶ And while all these things were a doing/ the scots privily & by night. took the town of Berwyk slaying them that withstood them and no man else. But blessed be god the castle was saved & kept by Englishmen that were therein when the king perceived all this/ he turned again in to England as wroth as he might be/ wherefore in the parliament at westmynstre was granted to the king of every sack of wulle l shellyngꝭ during the term of vi year that he might myghtlyer fight and defend the ream against the Scots and other misdoers. And so when all things were ready the king hasted him to ward the siege. ¶ How king Edward was crowned king of scotland/ and how prince Edward took the king of France and sir Philip his younger son at the battle of Peyters. ANd in the xxxi year of his reign the xiii day of january the king being in the castle of Berwyk with a few men/ but he havynge· there fast by a greote host. The town was yoleden unto him without any manner defence or difficulty. Than the king of Scotlond that is for to say sir Iohn Bayloll considering how that god died many marvels and gracious things for king Edward at his own will fro day to day/ he took & gave up the ream of scotland and the crown of Scotlond at Rokesburgh in the kings hands of England under his patent letter there made. And anon after king Edward in presence of all the prelate's and other worthy men & lords that were there let him crown king of Scotlond. And when all things were done and erdeyned in that countries at his will/ he turned again into england with a great worship. ¶ And while this viage was in doing in scotland/ sire Edward prince of wales as a man inspired in god was in Guyhen in the city of Bordeaux treating and spekyge of the challenge and of the kings right of England that he had to the ream of France/ & that he would be avenged with strong hand/ and to the prelateg peers and might men of that country consented well to him. Than sir Edward the prince with a great host gathered to him the vi day of evil went from Bordeaux going and traveling by many diverse countries/ and he took many prisoners moo than ·vi. thousand man of arms by the country as he went and took the town of Remorantyne in Saloygne and besieged the castle vi dayes·s And at the vi days end they yold the castle unto him/ and there was taken the lord of crown and sir Bursygaude and many other knights and men of arms moo than lxxx And fro thence by Toren and Peten fast by Chyneney his noble men that were with him had a stonge battle with frenchmen/ and an hundred of their men of arms were slain. And the earl of Dance and the steward of/ france were taken with an hundred men of arms In the which year the xix day of Septembre fast by Pyeters the same prince with a thousand and ix hundred men of arms and archers ordained a battle to king johan of france coming the the prince ward with vii thousand chosen men of arms and much other people a great number/ of the which were slain the duke of Bourbon and the duke of Athenes and many other noble men & of the princes men of arms a thousand and of other the true account and reckoning viii C. And there the king of France was taken and sir Phylyp his younger son and many dukes and noble men and worthy knights and men of arms about two. M. and so the victory fell there the prince/ and to the people of England by the grace of god. And many that were taken prisoners were set at their ransom and upon their truth and knighthood were charged and had leave to go. But the prince took with him the king of France and Philip his son with all the reverence that he might & went again to Bordeaux with a glorious victory/ the sum of the men that there were taken prisoners and of them that were slain the day of battle four M.iiii. C.xl and in the xxxii year of king Edward the .v. day of may prince Edward with king Iohn of France and Philip his son & many other worthy prisoners arrived graciously in the haven of plummouth And the xxiiii day of the same month about three after none they came to London by London bridge and so went forth to the kings palace at westmynstre/ and there came so great a multitude & press of people about them to behold and see that wonder and rial sight that unneaths fro maddaye till night might they not come to westminster. And the kings ransom of France was taxed and set to three millions of scutes/ of whom two should be worth a noble. And ye shall understand that a million is a thousand thousand/ and after some men's ransom was set at three thousand thousaind florins and all is one effecte· And this same year were made justꝭ solemn in Smytfende being present the king of England/ the king of France/ and the king of scotland/ and many other worthy and noble lords. ¶ The xxxiii year of his reign the same king Edward at wynsore as well for love of knighthood as for his ownne worship and at reverence of the king of france and other lords that were there at that time/ he held a wonder ryal and costly feast of saint George passing any that ever was holden afore. wherefore the king of france in scorning said that he saw never ne herd such a solemn festes ne ryaltes holden ne done with tails without paying of gold or silver. ¶ And in the xxxiii year of his reign the xiiii kalends of julii. Sire johan earl of Rychmonde king Edwardes son wedded dame blanch duke Henry's daughter of Lancastre cousin to the same johan by dispension of the pope. And in the mean time were ordained justes at London three days of roga●yons/ that is for too say. The Mayer of London with his xxiiii aldermen against all that would come/ in whose name and stead the king privily with his four sons Edward/ Lionel/ johan and Edmonde and other xix great lords helden the field. with worship. ¶ And this same year as it was told and said of them that saw it there come blood out of the comb of Thomas sometime earl of Lancastre as fresh as that day that he was done to death. ¶ And in the same year king Edwade chose this sepulture and his ligging at westmestre fast by the shrine of saint Edward. and anon after the xxvi. day of Octobere. he went over see to calais making protestation that he would never ●●me again into England till he had in ends the war between france and him ¶ And so in the xxvi year of his reign in the winter come king Edward was & travailed in the Ryne costs. And about saint Hyllarye tide he departs his host and went to Burgon ward/ with whom than met peaceably the duke of Bourgon. behyghting him lxx thousand florins that he should spare his men and h●s people/ & the king granted at his request. And dwelled unto the xvii day of March that which time come to king Edward's ear that strong thieves were on the see under the earl of saint Poule the xu day of March jigging a wait upon the towns of Rastynge Rye and other places & villages on the see cost hadden entered as enemies in to the town of wynchelle/ and slew all that ever withstood them and with said their coming. wherefore the king was greatly moved and wratthed and he turned again so ward Paris. and commanded his host to destroy and slay all with strench of sword that he had before hand spared. And the iii day of Apryl the king come to Paris & there departed his host in divers battles with four C. knights new dubbed on that one side of him. And sir Henry duke of Lancastre under peace & truce went unto the yates of the city proffering to them that would abide a battle in the field under such condition that if the king of England were over comen there/ as god forbid it should/ that than he should neved challenge the kingdom of france. And there he had of them but short & scornful answer & came & told it to the king & his lords what he had herd & what they said/ And thenne went forth the new knights with many other making assault to the city & they destroyed the subbarbes of the city. And while all these things were doing the englishmen made them ready for to be avenged upon the shame and despite that was done the year at wynshelse and ordained a navy of. lxxx· ships of men of London and of other merchants & xiii thousand men of arms and archers and went & searched and skummed the see and manly token and held the isle of Caux. wherefore the frenchmen that is for to say the abbot of Cluyn the earl of Tankeruyll & bursygaude that though was steward of France with many other men of the same country by the common assent of the lord Charles that th● was reigned of France they hasted them & went to the king of england asking & beseeching him steadfast peace & everlasting upon certain condyconnes that there were showed written/ The which when the king & his counsel had seen it/ it pleased him never a deal. but sith it would be none other wise the time of better accord & delyberation/ the Frensshemen busily & with great in stance asked truce for the see costs. and the king granted them. ¶ And in the morrow after the utas of Pasche the king turned him with his host to ward orleans destroying & wasting all the country by the way. And as they went thither ward there fell upon them seek a storm & tempest that none of our nation never heard ne saw none such. through the which thousands of over men & thryr horses in their journey as it were through vengeance suddenly were slain & perished. the which tempestꝭ were full great yet feared not the king ne moche of his people but they went forth in their viage that they had begun/ wherefore about the feast of Phylyp & jacob in May fast by in Carnocum the for said lords of France meeting there with the king of Engelonde apsyble accord & a final upon certain condyons & grants artycularly gathered written together evermore for to last dyscertly made & to both the kings profitable & to both their reams of one assent of Charles the regner & governor of France & of Paris of the same ream written & made under dare of carnocum the xu day of May. they offered & ꝓffred to the king of england requiring his grace in all things written that he would benyngl● admit them & hold thē●erme & stable to them & to their heirs for evermore thence for thee/ the which things & articles when king Edward had seen them he granted them so that both parties should be sworn on god's body/ & on the evangelist that the for said covenant should be stablysshe & so they accorded graciously Therefore were ordained and dressed on every side two barons two baronets and two knights to admit and receive that oaths of the lord Charles regent of France & of sir Eeward the first son and heryre of kings Edward of England. And the. x· day of May there was sungen a solemn mass at Paris. and after the Agnus dei said with dona nobies pace● in presence of the for said men that were ordained to Admit & receive the oaths & of all other that there might be. So Charles laid his right. hand on the patent with god's body & his left hand on the myssall & said we. N. sweren on god's body & the holy gospels that we shall truly & steadfastly hold toward us the peace & the accord made between the two kings/ and ● all his lords for more love and strength of witness he deased and departed the relics of the crown of christ to the knights of england & they token courteously their leave/ & the friday next the same oath in presence of the foresaid knights & of other worthy men prince edward made at Lovers. afterward both kings & their sons & the most noble men of both reams. within the same year made the same oath & for to strength all these things afore said the king of england axed the greatest men of france. & had his asking that is to say vi dukes viii earls & xii lords all noble barons & good knights And when the place & time was assigned in which both kings with their counsel should come to guiders. all the foresaid things between them spoken for to retefye & make farm and stable/ the king of england anon went toward the see & at Hountflet began to sail leaving to his hosts that were left behind him by cause of his absence made moche heaviness and after the xix day of may he came in to england & went to his palace at westmynstre of saint Dunston's day & the third day after he visited johan King of/ france that was in the tower of London and delivered him freely from all manner of prison/ safe first they were accorded of three millions of florins for his bosom/ and the king comforted him & cheered him in all places with all solace and mirths that longen to a king in his going home ward. ¶ And the ix day of julii in the same year this same johan king of/ france that afore lay here in hostage went home again/ in too his own land to treat of the things and other that land and fallen to the governance of his ream. ¶ And afterward met and came together at calais both two kings with both their counsel about all Halowen tide. And there were showed the conditions and the points of the peace and of the accord of both sides written/ and there with out any with saying of both sides graciously they were accorded And there was done and sungen a solemn mass and after the third Agnus dei/ upon god's body and also upon the mass book both the kings & their sons and the greatest lords of both reams and of their counsel that there were present & had not sworn before the foresaid oath that they had made and titled between them they behyghten to keep/ and all other covenants that there between them ordeyned· ¶ And in this same year men beasts trees and houses with sudden tempest and strong lightening were perished/ and the devil appeared bodily man's likeness to much people as they went in divers places in the countries/ and spoke to them in that likeness. ¶ How the great company arose in/ france/ and the white company in lombardy and of other marvels. King Edward in the xxxvi year of his reign anon after Crystenmasse in the feast of the conversion of Saint Poule held parliament at westmestre/ in the which parliament was put forth and showed the accord and the treats that was stablished and made between the two kings which accord pleased to much people. And therefore by the kings commandment/ there were gathered and come together in westminster church the first sunday of lente. That is to say the ii kal/ february. the foresaid englishmen and frenchmen where was song a solemn mass of the trinity of the archbishop of Caunterbury master Symonde Issepe. And when Agnus dei was done the king being there with his sons/ And also the kings sons of france. and other noble and great lords/ with candle light and crosses brought forth/ and that were called thereto/ that were not sworn afore swore the same oath that was written upon god's body & on the mass book in this wise/ we/. N. and. N: sweren upon god's body and on the holy gospels steadfastly for to hold and keep toward us the peace. and the accord made between the two kings and never for to do the contrary/ & when they had thus sworn they took their scrowes that their oaths were comprehended into the notaries. And in this same year in the Ascensions even about midday/ was seen the clypses of the son/ And there followed such a drought that for default of rain there was great brenning of corn fruit and hay. ¶ And in the same month the vi kal of june there fell a sanguine rain almost like blood at Burgon. and a sanguyne cross from morn unto prime appeared & was seen at Bolyn in the heir the which many men saw/ and after it moved and fell in the mids of the see. ¶ And in the same time 〈◊〉 france and england and many other lands as they that were in plain countre●s and desert/ baren withnesse suddenly there appeared two castles/ of the which went out two hosts of armed men. And that one host was closed in white and that other in black. and when battle between them was begun the white over came the black took heart though them and over come the white and after that they went again in to their castles: and than the castles and all the host vanished away. ¶ And in this same year was a great and an huge pestilence of people and namely of men/ whose wives as women out of governance took husbands as well strangers as other lewd and simple people. the which forgetting their honour and worship coupled and married them with them that were of low degree and little reputation ¶ In this same year died Henry duke of Lancastre. ¶ And also in this same year Edward prince of wales wedded the countess of Kente that was sir Thomas wife of Holonde that which was departed sometime & divorced fro the earl of Salysbury for cause of the same knight ¶ And about this time begun and rose a great company of diverse nasoyns gathered together of whom their leders & governors were english people & they were called a people with out any heed the which did much harm in the party of fraunce· ¶ And not long after there arose an other company of diverse nations that was called the white company/ the which in the parties and countries of Lombardy died much sorrow. ¶ This same year sir johan of Gaunt the son of king Edward the third was made duke of Lancastre by reason & cause of his wife that was the daughter & the heir of Henry sometime duke of Lancaster. ¶ Of the great wind/ and how prince Edward took the lordship of Guyhen of his father and went theder· ANd in the xxxvii year of king Edward the xu day of january/ that is too say on saint mary's day about evynsonge time there arose & come such a wind out of the south with such a fierceness and strength that it brasted and blewe down to the ground high houses and strong buildings towers churches & steeples and other strong places and all other strong works that stooden still were shaken there with that they been yet & shall evermore be the feebler and weyker while they stand. And this wind lasted without any ceasing vii days contynually· And anon after there followed such waters in the hay time and in the harvest time that all field works were strongly let and left undoyn. ¶ And in the same year prince Edward took the lordship of Guyhen & died to king Edwyrde his father homage and feaute thereof/ & went over see in to Gascoigne with his wife & children. ¶ And anon after king Edward made his son Lionel duke of Clarence. and sir Edmonde his other son/ earl of Cambridge/ & in the xxxviii year of his reign it was ordained in the parliament that men of law both of the church and temporeslawe should fro that time for the plete in their mother tongue. ¶ And in the same year in to england three kings that is to say the king of France the king of Cypress and the king of scotland by cause to visit and for to speak with the king of England. And after that they had be here long time two of them went home in to their own countries and kyngodms'/ but the king of France throughte great sickness and malady that he had abode still in England. And in the xxxix year of his regne. was a strong & a great frost & that lasted long that is to say fro Saint Andrew's tide to the xiii kal of Apryls'/ that the tilth and sowing of the earth and other such field works and hand works were much let and left undoyne for cold & hardness of the earth. And at orray in britain was ordained a great deadly battle between sire Iohn of Mountforde duke of britain and sir charles of Bloys/ but victory fell to the foresaid sir Iohn through help and succour of th'Englishmen. And there were taken many knights & squires & other men that unnumbered/ in the which battle was slain Charles himself with all that stood about him & of englishmen were slain but seven. and in this year died at savoy johan the king of france whose service & exequyes king edward let ordain & did in divers places worhypfully to be done/ and at Dover of worshipful men ordained him worthily tho be led with his own costs and expenses/ & fro thence was brought to france & buried at saint Denys. ¶ In the xl year of king Edward the seven. kal of Februer was borne Edward prince Edward's son the which when he was vii year of-aege he deyed· And in the same year it was ordained that saint Peter's pens fro the time forth should not be paid the which king Yvo sometime king of england of the country of west saxen that began to regne the year of our lord god. vi·s hundred lxxix first granted to Rome for the school of england thereto be continued. ¶ And in this same year there fell a great rain in hay time that it wasted & destroyed both corn & hay. And there was such debate & fighting of sparrows by diverse places in these days that men found innumerable deed in the fields as they went. And there fell also such a pestilence that never seen such in no man's days that than lived/ for men that went to beded hole & in good point suddenly they died. ¶ Also the time a sickness that men call the pocks slew both men & women through their enfectinge. ¶ And in the xli. year of king Edward was borne at Bordeaux richard the second son of prince Edward of england/ the which Richard king richard of Amorycan heveden at the foū● stone after whom he was called Richard. and this same richard when his father was deed & king Edward also/ he was crowned king of England the xi year of his age through right line and heritage/ & also by the com●ne assent and desire of the commonalty of the ream. ¶ About this time at king Edward's commandment of england when all the castles & towns were yoleden to him that long were holden in/ france by a great company assembled together sir Bartram Claykyn a noble knight and a good warrior went and purposed him to put out Pers king of Spain out of his kingdom with help of the most party of the foresaid great company trusting also upon help and favour of the pope for as much as it come to his eeres that the same pers should lead & use a sinful life/ the which Pers smitten with dread of this tiding fled into Gascoigne to prince Edward for to have succour of him. And when he was fled out of Spain Henry his brother that was bastard by assent of the most party of Spain & through help of the fearful company that I spoke of first was crowned king of Spain. & the number of that same company was reckoned & set at the number of xl M. fyting men. ¶ This same year in the month of june there come a great company & a navy of the Danes gathered them together in the north see purposing them to come into England to reave and to rob and also to slay with whom they countred & met in the see. mariners and other good fyting men o● the country & dysperpled them. And they ashamed went home again into their own country/ but among the other there was a boisterous vessel and a strong of their navy that was over sailed by the englishmen & was perished & drenched In the which the Steward & other worthy and great men of Denmark were taken prisoners/ & the king of England & his counsel prisoned them. the which lords the Danes afterward sought them all about for to have had them again with. their goods that they had lost/ & they not well apaid ne pleased of the answer that they had/ & they turned homwardes again leaving behind them in there Inns privily written in scrowes and on walls. yet shall Danes waste the wanes Then happened there an english writer & wrote against the Duke in this manner (here shall Danes fet their banies) ¶ And in this time per the king of Spain with other kings that is to say. the king of Naverne and the king of Malogre being means wenten between and prayed counsel and help of sir Edward the prince whose counsel when he had understanding their articles and desire that he was required of though kings/ loath he was and ashamed to say nay and contrary to them. But nevertheless he was aghast lest it should be any prejudice against the pope and long time tarried them or that he would grant or consent thereto till he had better counseyl ravysement with good delyberation of king Edward his father. But when they were with him every day & continually beseeching of many noble men required & spoken to/ & with many prayers sent & made between them. than prince edward sent to his father both by complaining letters & also by comfortable containing all their suggestions & causes with all the other kings epistles & letters for to have comfort & help of the wrongs not only done to the king Spain. but also for such things as might fall to other kings. Also if it were not the sooner holpen and amended through the done & help of knighthood to them that it asked & desired. ¶ The which letter when the king & his counsel had seen such a king spoiling & robbing with moche merueyll. And sent again comfortable letters to prince Edward his son & to that other kings & warned them for to arm them & ordain them against that misdoer and to withstand them by the help of god that were such enemies to kings. when this noble prince had received this letters/ himself with that other kings before said all there counseyl called together or that he would undertake the quarrel he bound & knit sore the king that was deposed with a great o'th'/ that is to say that he should ever after maintain the right believe & faith of holy church/ and also with all their ministers rights & liberties to defend from all their enemies & all evils. And all that were there against bitterly to punish & destroble & all the ryghtis liberties privileges of holy church increase & maintain/ & amend all things that were wrongfully taken withdrawn and boren a way by him or by any other by cause of him hastily to restore again & to drive and put out saracens & all other misbelieved people out of his kingdom with all his strength & his power and suffer ne admit none such for no manner thing ne cause to dwell therein/ And that when he had taken a christian woman he should never come in to none other woman's bed/ ne none other man's wife to defoil. ¶ All these for said things truly for to keep continue and fulfil as all his life time he was dowden by oath afore notaries in presence & witness of the kings with other princes. ¶ And than that gracious prince Edward undertook the cause & the quarrel of the king that was deposed and behyghte him with the grace of almighty god to restore him again to his kingdom/ & let ordain & gather together forth with in all haste his navy with men of arms for to war and fight in his for said cause. ¶ And in this same year upon the sand of the Scots see that many a man saw it three days together there were seen two Eagles/ of the which the one come out of the south & that other out of the north & cruelly & strongly they fought together & wrestled together/ & the south elge first overcome the north Egle & all to rent him with his bill & his claws that he should not rest ne take no birth & the south Egle flieth home to his own costes·s ¶ And anon after there followed & was seen in the morn after the son rising & after in the last day of Octobre saving one many stars gaddred together on an heap fell down to the earth leaving behind them fire beams in manner of lightening/ was flames brent & consumed men's clothes & men's hair walling on the earth as it was seen & known of many a man. ¶ And yet that northern wind that is ready & destymate to all ill fro saint Katherynes' eve till three days after lost great good without nobre. ¶ And in this same days there fell & also come such lightning thunder snow & hail that it wasted and destroyed men bestetes houses and trees. ¶ Of the battle of Spain beside the water of Naxers that was between prince Edward/ and sir Henry bastard of Spain. IN the year of our lord a. M.CCC.lxvii and of king Edward xlii the third day of Aprylle there was a strong battle & a great in large field called Pryazers fast by the water of Nazers in Spain between sire Edward the prince & sir Henry the bastard of Spain/ but the victory fill to prince Edward by the grace of god. ¶ And this same prince Edward had with him sir Iohn duke of Lancastre his brother & other worthy men of arms about the number of xxx thousand. ¶ And the king of Spain had on his side men of divers nations to the number of an hundred thousand & moo/ wherefore the sharpness and fierceness of his adversary with his fill boisterous and great strength made and drive the rightful party a back a great way but through the grace of almighty god passing any man's strength that great host was dysparpled myghtefully by the noble duke of Lancastre and his host/ or the prince Edward came nigh him. And when Henry bastard saw that/ he turned with his men in so great haste and strength for to flee/ that a great company of them in the for said flood & of the bridge there of fellen dowen & perished. And also there were taken the earl of Dene & sir Bartram Cleykyn that was cheyfmaker and cause of the war & also cheyftayne of the vauntwarde of the battle with many other grease lords and knights to the number of two thousand/ of whom two hundred were of France and many also of scotland. ¶ And there were felled in the field on our enemies side of lords & knights with other meyn people to the number of vi thousand and moo/ and of englishmen but a few. And after this the noble prince Edward restored the same Peers to this kingdom again/ the which Peers afwarde through treachery and falseness of the foresaid bastard of Spain as he sat at his meet he was strangled & died. But after this victory many noble men of england/ & also hardy in Spain thrug the flix & divers other sickness took their death. ¶ And also in the same year in the March was seen stella Cometa between the north costs & the west whose beams stretched toward france. ¶ And in the next year following of king Edwardes reign xliii. in april sir Lionel king Edwardes son that was duke of Clarnece went to ward Melayne with a chosen main of the gentles of England for to wed Galoys daughter & have her to his wife/ by whom he should have half the lordship of Melayne but after that they were solemnly wedded and about the nativity of our lady the same duke of Melayne died. And in the same year/ frenchmen broke the peace & the truce riding on the kings ground & lordship of england in the shire & country of Puuntyfe/ & token & held castle & towns/ & bear the englishmen on hand falsely & subtle that they were cause of breaking of truce. & in this same year died the duchess of Lancastre and is buried worshipfully in saint Paul's church. ¶ The xliiii year of king Edwardes reign was the greatest pestilence of men and of great beasts & by the great falling of waters that fell at that time/ there fell great hindering & destroying of corn in so much that the next year after a bushel of wheat was sold for. xl.d. ¶ And in this same year about the last end of may king Edward held though his parliament at westminster in which parliament was treated & spoken of the oath & truce that was broken between him and the king of/ france & how he might be avenged upon his wrong ¶ In this same year in the assumption of our lady died queen Phylyp of England a full noble & good lady & at westminster full worship fully is buried and entered And about midsummer the duke of Lancastre & the earl of Herforde with a great company of knights went into france where as they gate them but little wroshyp & name/ for there was a great host of the frensshenmen upon Calkhull bridge/ and an other host of Englyssemen fast by the same bridge that long time had lived there And many worthy & great men of England ordained & gave counsel for to fight & gave battle to the frensshemen but the foresaid lords would not consent thereto for no manner thing. ¶ And anon after it happened that the earl of berwick come thitherward for to war/ and when the frenchmen heard of his coming of that he came fully to land they left their tents & pavylyous with all their victuals & fled & went a way privily. And when the earl was comen to land with his men he went in all haste toward Normandy & destroyed the isle of Caux with strength of sword and through fire But alas in his returning to england ward home again at Calys he was taken with sickness of pestilence & died not leaving behind him after his days so noble a knight of arms. ¶ In which time reigned & warred the noble knight sir Iohn Hawkewod that was an Englysshman borne/ having with him at his governance the white company that is a foresaid. that which o time against holy church & an other time against lords warred & ordained great battles and there in that same country he died many marvelous things. ¶ And about the conversion of saint Poule the king when he had ended & done the entering & exequyes with great costs and ryaltes about the sepulture of & burying of queen Phylyp his wife he held a parliament at westminster in which parliament was axed or the clergy a three years dime/ that is for to say a great dime to paid three year during/ & the clergy put it of and would not grant it unto Ester next coming/ & than they granted well that in three year by certain terms that dime should be paid and also of the lay fee was a three year xu granted to the king. ¶ How sir Robert Knolles with other certain lords of the ream went over see in to france and of their governance. ANd in the xlv year of king Edward in the beginning king Edward with unwise counsel & undiscrete borrowed a great sum of gold of the prelate's merchants & other rich men of his ream saying that it should despended in defendyn he of holy church & of his ream nevertheless it profited no thing/ wherefore about midsummer after he made a great host of the worthiest men of his ream amongs whom were some lords that is to say the lord Fytzwater & the lord graunson and other worthy knights of which knights the king ordained sir Robert Knolles a proud kny●t and a well assayed in deeds of arms for too be emperor/ & that through his counseyl & governance all thing should be governed & dressed And when they come into/ france as long as they dwelled & held them hole together that frenshemen durst not fall upon them. And at the last about the beginning of winter for envy & covetise that was among them/ and also discord they sundered & parted them into diverse companies unwisely & folesly. But sir Robert Knolles & his men went & keeped thym safe within a castle in britain. And when the frenchmen saw that our men and fellowship were divided into diverse companies and places not holding ne strengthing thym togethers as they out for to do/ they fell fiercely on our men/ & for the most party took them or slew them. & though that they might take led with them prisoners. ¶ And in the same year pope Vrban● came fro rome to avignon for this cause that he should accord & made peas between the king of France & the king of england for ever more. But alas or he began his treats he died with the sickness the xxi day of Decembre/ and was buried as for the time in the cathedral church of Auynyon fast by the high altar. and the next year after when he had lain so his bones were taken out of the earth & buried new in the abbey of saint victory fast by Marcylle/ of the which abbey he was sometime abbot himself. And in both places that he was baryed in there he many great myrcales done & wrough through the grace of almighty god to many man's help & to the worship of god almighty. ¶ And after whom followed next and was made pope Gregory Cardynalle deacon that before was called Pyers Roger. ¶ In the same year Lymoge rebelled & fought against the prince as other cities died in Guyhem for great taxes cossages & raunsons that they were put and seat to by prince Edward/ which charges were importable/ wherefore they turned fro him and fellen to the king of France. And when prince Edward this he was sore chafed & aggrieved/ and in his torning home ward again in to England with sore scar musshes and fyting and great sautes fought with them and took the foresaid city and destroyed it almost to the ground and slew all that he found in the city. And than for to say the sooth for diverse sickness & maladies that he had and also for default of money that he might not with stand ne tarry on his enemies he hied him again in to England with his wife and meinie leaving behind in Gascoigne the duke of Lancastre & sir Edmond earl of cambridge with other worthy and noble men of arms. ¶ In the xlvi year of king Edward at the ordinance and senging of king Edward/ the king of Naverne come to him to Claryngdon to treat with him of certain things touching his war in Normandye where king/ Edward had left certain syeges in his stead till he come again. But king Edward might not speed of that that he seked him. And so the king of Naverne with great worship & great gifts to his leave & went home again. ¶ And about beginning of March when the parliament at westminster was begun the king asked of the clergy a subsidy of l M. pound the which by a good advisement and by a general convocaonn of the clergy it was granted & ordained that it should be paid and raised of the lay fee. And in this parliament at the request asking of the lords in hatred of men of holy church. the Chancellor & the treasurer that were bishops and the clerk of the prive sale. were removed and put out of office & in their stead were secular men put in. And while this parliament lasted there come somlepne ambassadors fro the pope to treat with the king of peace and said that the pope desired to fulfil his predecessors will but for all their coming they sped not. ¶ Of the besyging of Rochel & how the earl of Penbroke & his company was taken in the haven with spaniards & all his ships brent. THe ix day of june king Edward in the xlvii year of his reign held his parliament at whynchestre & it lasted but viii days/ to the which parliament were sompned by write of men of holy church four bishops & .v. abbots without any moo. This parliament was holden for merchants of London of Norwhiche & of other diverse placis in diverse things and points of trason that they were defamed of/ that is to say that they were rebel & would arise against the king this same year the duke of Lancastre & the earl of cambridge his brother come out of Gascoigne into Enlonde & took & wedded to their wives Peter's daughter sometime king of Spain Of which two daughters the duke had the elder & the earl the younger. & that same time there were sent two cardinal's fro the pope/ that is to say an english cardinal & a cardinal of Paris to treat of peace between these two reams/ that which when they had been both long each in his province & countreees fast by treating of the foresaid peas/ at the last they took with them the lets of procuracye & went again to Rome without any effect of their purpose. ¶ In this year was there a strong battle in the see between Englishmen and flemings and the Englishmen had the victory & took xxv ships with salt and slaying and drenching all the men that were therein unweting they they were of that country. And moche harm should have fallen thereof had not peace & accord soon be made between them. ¶ And in this same year the frenchmen besieged the town of Rochel wherefore the earl Penbroke was sent into gascoyne with a great company of men of arms for to destroy the siege/ which passed the see and came safe to the haven of Rochel/ & when they were there at the haven mouth or that they might enter/ suddenly come upon them a strong navy of spaniards the which overcame the englishmen in moche blemishing hurting and slaying of many people for as much as the englishmen were than not ready for to fight ne were ware of them. And as the spaniards came upon them all the englishmen other they were taken or slain/ and ten of them were sore wounded to the death and all their ships brent/ and there they took the earl with a great treasure of the ream of england and many other noble men also on midsummer even the which is saint Edeldredꝭ day and led them with them into Spain. And of this mischief was no great wonder for this earl was a full ill liver as an open lecher And also in a certain parliament he stood and was against the rights & franchise of holy church And also he counseled the king and counsel that he should axe more of men of holy church than other persons of the lay men. And for the king and other men of his counsel accepted and took rather ill opinions and causes against men of holy church than he did for to defend and maintain the right of holy church/ it was after seen many times for lack of fortune & grace they had not ne bore away so great victory ne power against their enemies as they did before. ¶ This same year the king with a great host entered the see to remove the siege of Rochel/ but the wind was ever contrary unto him and suffered him not long time to go far fro the land/ wherefore he abode a certain time upon the see costs abiding after a good wind for them & yet come in not So at the last he come thence with his men to land ward again. & anon as he was a land that wind began to torn & was in an other cost than he was afore. ¶ How the duke of Lancastre with a great host went into/ flanders & passed by Paris through Burgon & through all france till he come unto Bordeaux. Soon after in the xlviii year of the reign of king Edward the duke of Lancastre with a great power went into/ flanders & passed by Paris through Burgon & through all/ france till he came unto Bordeaux without any manner withstanding of the/ frenchmen \ and he died them but little harm safe he took & ransomed many places & towns & many men & let them go after freely. The same year the king sent certain ambassadors to the pope praying him that he should leave of & meddle not in his court of the keeping and reservations of benefycis in England. And that though that were choose to bishops sees & dignetees freely & with full might joy & have & be confirmed to the same of their metropolytans & archbishops as they were wont to be of old time Of these points and of other touching the king & his ream/ when they had their answer of the pope/ the pope enjoined them that they should certify him again by their letter of the kings will & of his ream or they determined aught of the foresaid articles In this same year died johan the archbishop of york/ johan bishop of Ely/ wyllyam byssop of worcester. In whose steeds followed & were made bishops by authority of pope. master. Alexander nevil to the archbishop of york. Thomas of Arundel to the bishopric of Ely. and sir Henry wakfelde to the bishopric of worcester. In the which time it was ordained in the parliament that all Cathedral churches should joy & have their elecconns' hole & that the king fro that time afterward should not writ against them that were chosen/ but rather help them by his letters to their confirmation & this statute did much profit. ¶ And in this parliament was granted to the king a dime of the clergy & a xu of lay fee. ¶ In the xlix of the reign of king Edward died Master wyllyam wytlesey archbishop of Caunterbury & the monks of the same church asked and desired a cardinal of England to be archbishop. & therefore the king was aggrieved & meant & purposed to have exiled the monks of the same. and they spended much good or they might have the kings grace again & his love but yet would the king not consent ne grant to their election of the cardinal ne of the pope also ne his Cardynalles. ¶ And at the beginning of August it was treated & spoken at Bruges of certain points/ and articles hanging between the pope and the king of england/ this treats lasted almost too year. And at the last it was accorded between them that the pope fro that time forth should not use ne deal with the reservations of benefits in England/ and that the king should not grant ne let no benefices by his writ that is called (Quare impedyt) But as touching the election abovesaid there was no thing touched ne done. And that was wyte and put upon certain clerks the which rather supposed and hoped to be advanced & promoted to bysshhpryches which they desired and coveted by the court of Rome rather than by any other elections/ ¶ This same year about Candelmasse there met together at Bruges many noble & worthy men of both sides and reams to treat of peace between though two kings. And this tretes lasted two year with great costs & large expensens of both parties. And at the last they went & departed thence without any accord or effect. The next year after the l year of king Edward the four Non̄ of May being yet void & vacaunt the Archebysshopryche of Caunterbury master Symonde sudbery bishop of London was made archbishop & master wyllyam courteney that was bishop of Herforde was than made bishop of London/ & the bishop of Bangor was made bishop of Herforde. ¶ And this same time in a certain treats & speaking of peace truce was taken between them of France & England fro midsummer to midsummer come again an hole year & about the beginning of Aprell the duke of britain with many earls barons and worthy lords & men of england went over see in to britain where he hath had all his lust desire & purpose ne had the for said truce be so soon taken the which letted them. ¶ This same time the isle of Constantyne where that the castle of saint savour is in. that long time was fought at & besieged of the frenchmen than yield to the frenchmen with all the apportenauntes in to great harm & hindering of the ream of England And this same year there were so great and so passing hetes & there with all a great pestilence in England & in other diverse parties of ●he world that it destroyed & slew violently & strongly both men & women without number. This same year died sir Edward the lord spencer a worthy knight & a bold & in the minster of Teukesbury worshipfully is buried. And lasting this pestilence the pope at the instance and prayer of an english Cardynale granted to all people that died in England that were sorry & repentant for their sins and also shriven full remission by two bulls under lead vi months than next to last. ¶ In this same year the earl of Penbroke was taken & ransomed by Bartram Clayken between Paris & calais as he come toward england upon saint Atheldredes day that which saint as it was said the earl oftentimes had affended/ and within a little while after he died. ¶ And in Novembre next after there met at Bruges the duke of Lancastre and the duke of Angoy with many other lords and prelate's of both reams for to treat of peace. ¶ Of the death of prince Edward and of the lord Latymer and dame Alyce peers through whom and her maintainers the Ream many a day was misgoverned. NOt long after the li year of King Edwardes reign he let ordain & hold at westminster the greatest parliament that was seen many a year afore. In the which parliament he asked of the comynaltee of the ream as he had done afore a great subsidy to be granted to him for defending of him and of his ream but the comunes answered that they were so oft day by day grieved & charged with so many talag●s & subsidies that they might no longer suffer no such burthons and charges & that they knew & wist well enough that the king had enough for saving of him and of his ream if the ream were well & truly governed/ But that it had be so long evil governed by ill officers/ that the ream might neither be plenteous of chaffre & merchandise ne also with richesse. And in these things they profyred themselves if the King would certainly to prove it and stand by. and if it were founden and proved afterward that the King had need they would gladly every man after his power and state him help and lean. And after this were published & showed in the parliament many plaints and defaults of divers officers of the ream and namely of the Lord Latymer the kings chamberlain both to the King and eke to the ream. ¶ And also at the last there was spoken & treated of dame Alyce Pers for the great wrongs & evil governance that was done by her counseyl in the ream The which dame Alyce per that the king had holden long time to his leman wherefore it was the last wonder though through the frealter of the woman's exciting & her steringe he consented to her lewdness & evil counsel the which dame Alyce & also the lord Latymer & other such the moved the king to evil governance against his profit & the ream also/ all the commonalty asked & desired that they should be removed & put away and in their steeds wise men & worthy that were true & well assayed & proved and of good governance. should be put in their steeds. So among all other there was one among the comunes that a wise knight and a true/ and an eloquent man whose name was Pers delamare. And this same pers was chosen to be speaker for the comunes in the parliament And for this same Pers told and published the truth and rehearsed the wrongs against the foresaid dame Alyce & other certain persons of the kings counsel as he was bid by the comyns. ¶ And also trusting moche to be supported & maintained in this matter by help & favour of the. prince anon as the prince was deed at the instance & request of the foresaid dame Alyce/ this Pers de amare was judged to perpetual prison in the castle of Notyngham. ¶ And in the vi kal. of jule lasting the same parliament died prince Edward king Edward's first son/ that is to say in trinity sunday in worship of which feast he was wont every year where that ever he were in the world to hold and made the most solemnity that he might. whose name & fortune of knighthood but if it had be of an other Ector all men both christian & heathen while that he lived & was in good point wondered moche and dread him wonder sore/ whose body is worshipfully buried in Crychyrche at Caunterbury. And in this same year the men and the earls tenants of warwick arose maliciously against the abbot & covent of Euesham & their tenants. & destroyed th'abbey. & the town & wounded & beat their men & slew many of them/ & went to their manners & places & died moche harm/ and broke down their parks & closes & slew their wild beasts & chased them breaking their fish pounds & hedes & let the water of their ponds stews & rivers run out & took the fish & bare it with them. and died them all the sorrow that they might. in so farforth that forsooth they had destroyed perpetual that abbey with all their membres & apportenaunces but if the king the sooner had not helped it & taken heed thereto. & therefore the king sent his letters to the earl of warwick charging him & commanding him that he should stint redress & amend the evil doers & brekers of his peas. and so by means of lords & other friends the peace was made between them. and for this hurting as it is said the king would not be governed as that time by his lords that there were in the parliament. but he took & made his son the duke of Lancastre his governeur of the ream/ the which stood so still as governor till the time that he died. ¶ The same year after. candelmasse or the parliament was done/ the King asked a subsidy of the clergy & of the lay fee & it was granted him/ that is to say that he should have of every person of the lay fee both man and woman that passed fourteen year of age four pens out taken poor beggars that were known openly for need poor beggars. ¶ And that he should have of every man of the holy church that was beneficed or promoted twelve pens and all other that were not promoted iiii. pens out taken the four ordres of the frere beggars This same year after michaelmas richard prince Edwardes son was made prince of wales to whom the king gave the duchy of cornwall with the earldom of chester. And about this time the Cardynale of england the four day before marry Mawdalenes' day after dinner suddenly was smite with the paslye and lost his speech/ & on marry Mawdalen●s day died. ¶ Of the death of King Edward & how sir johan Monster warch knight. was drawn & hanged for his falseness. Right anon after in the lii year of King Edward in the beginning of Octobre pope Gregory the ix brought & removed his court with him from Auy●yon to come. ¶ And the xii day of Apryl. johan Monsterwarthe. Knight at London was drawn & hanged & than quartered & sent to four chief towns of england & his heed smitten of & seat upon londen bridge/ for this same Iohn was full untrue to the king and to the ream & covetous & unstable/ for he took oft-times great sums of money of the king & his counsel for men of arms wages that he should have paed them & took it to his own use/ & he dread that at the last he should be shent & accused for the same cause and fled privily to the king of France & was sworn to him & become his man and behyghte him a great navy out of Spain in to confusion & destroying of England/ But the rightful god to whom no privity is unknown suffered him first to beshente & spylt or that he so traitorously and falsely betrayed his lyege lord the king of England and his people in his ream in the which ground this same Iohn was borne & wickedly through battle destroyed or he brought about his cursed purpose. In the feast of Saint George though next king Edward gaaf to Richard of Bordeaux his heir that was prince Edward's son at wyndsore th'order of knughthode & made him knight the which king Edward when he had reigned li year the xi kal of june he died at Shene & is buried worshipfully at westminster on whose soul god have mercy. This king Edward was for sooth of a passing goodness & full gracious among all the worthy men of the world for he passed & shone by virtue of grace gaven to him from god above all his predecessors that were noble men & worthy and he was a well hearted man & an hardy/ for he drade never no mishaps ne harms ne evil fortune that might fall a noble warrior & a fortunate/ for both on land & see & in all battles & assembles with a passing glory & joy he had the victory he was meek & benign homely sober & soft to all men as well to strangers as to his own subgettes & to other that were under his govenaunce. He was devout & holy both to god & holy church/ for he worshipped holp & maintained holy church & their mynystres with all manner reverence/ he was treatable & well advised in temporal & worldly needs wise in counsell & discrete & meek to speak with/ in his deeds & manners gentle and well taught/ having pity of them that were in dyseace/ plectevous in giving of been faytes & almoses busy & curious in baylding/ & lightly he bore & suffered wrongs and harms and when he was given to any occupation he left all other thing for the time & tended there to seemly of body and a main stature/ having all way to high & to low a good cheer. And here sprung and shone so moche grace of him that what man had behold his face or had dreamed of him he roged that day that all thing should hap to him joyful and lysing. And he governed his kingdom gloriously unto his age/ he was large in giving and wys in spentes/ he was fulfilled with all his honest of good manners and virtues/ under whom to live it was as for to regne. wherefore his father and his loos sprung so far that it came in to heathens & Barbary showing and telling his worthiness & manhood in all lands/ and that no land under heaven had brought forth so noble a king so gentle and so blessed or might raise such an other when he was deed Nevertheless lechery and moving of his flesh haunted him in his age/ wherefore the rather as it is to suppose for unmeasurable fulfilling of his lust his life shorted the sooner. ¶ And hereof take good hedelyke as his deeds beareth wymesse for as in his beginning all things were joyful & liking to him/ and to all people. And in his middle age he passed all people in high joy worship and blyssydnes. Right so when he drew in to age drawing donwarde through lechery and other sins little and little all the joyful & blessed things and prosperity decreased and mysshcaped and unfortunate things and unprofitable harms with many evils began for to spring and the more harm is it continued long time after. CLemens the vi was pope after Benedict ten year/ this man in name and deed was virtuous/ and many things that Benedict was rygous in/ he made easy/ and certain that he deprived he restored/ and the rygousenes of the faith of Benedict was laudable ● But much more laudable was the meekness of Clement. This man was a noble preacher and many sermons he gathered/ and let no man pass from him but he gaaf him good counsel/ and deceased a blessed man. ¶ Karolus the four was Emperor after Lodewyk xxxi year. Chis' man was king of Beme a wise man and a mighty. And this man was chosen Emperor by the commandment of Clemens Lodewyk being a live in his contemacy/ and because he asked meekly the poops blessing and too be crowned of him as other good kings died. therefore he was protected of god and preveyled over all his enemies. And many favourable laws he made spiritual men/ the which yet are called Karolma/ at the last he deceased a rich man in virtue and gooddes·s ¶ Innocentius the vi was pope after Clement ten year/ and he was a great lover of relygous men and he founded a monestery in France of the order of Cartusyens. and was a great canonyst. ¶ Vrbanus the .v. was pope after Innocent. this man was abbot of Myssolens of the order of Saint Benet a doctor and is taken for a saint. he made the cross too be preached against the Turks/ and he made a passage to the Turks/ And to him saint Brygt was sent from christ for the confirmation of their rule and than he was poisoned and deceased. ¶ Gregory the ix was pope after him viii year This Gregory did little. And after him followed the tribulation the which our lord showed to saint Brygyt for the sin of the clergy ¶ Venselaus son to Karolus a foresaid was Emperor xiiii year. And he was a child and was chosen when his father was on live/ but he took no keep of them pyre/ and when he was warned many times for to take heed unto it and would not. He was deposed/ For he gaaf all his delight and lust to lechery/ and his end was without honour for he went greatly from the manners and the virtues of his noble father. And he was crowned with themperyall diadem. and the wisdom of his father passed into Sygysmonde his brother as after it shall appyre. ¶ Trbanus was pope after Gregory vi year/ this Vrban was chosen in the city of Rome by the strength of the romans but the cardinal's died that fo. dread & not willingly/ Wherefore they fled unto the city of Foundorun And they said that he was not pope/ & chose in his place sir. Robert of Gebennys the same year the which was called Clement thee. vii· ¶ Nota. And here began the xii strife in the church. And it was more worse than ever was any other before/ for it was so subtle/ that the wisest men that were & the best of conscience could not deserve with whom it was best to say & to hold. And this strife dured xl. year with a great slander unto the clergy and great peril unto men's souls for heresies and other evil things the which were brought in than. In so much that there was no doctrine in the church for misdoing and therefore from this day Urban the vi unto Martyne I know not who was pope. ¶ The feast of the visitation of our lady was ordained by Urban the vi after the form of the sacrament of the altar for a peace & an unity to be had among them through the merits of our blessyn lady. ¶ Bonefacias the ·ix. was pope after Urban xv year. ¶ This Boneface was chosen at Rome in the stead of Urban/ & the strife continued For Benedictys was chosen in Auynyon in the place of clement and was call●d Petrus de luna & he dured to the counsel of Constantinus/ & then he would not obey but ever abode obstinate. And at the last he deceased in the kingdom of Arragon. And he commanded his cardinal's to these an other pope the which they died anon. And they seat upon an idol and named him Clement/ but they profited not. ¶ Circa annum dm. M.CCC.lxxx. ¶ And after king Edward the third that was borne in windsor reigned richard of Bordeaux that was prince Edward's son of wales/ the which prince Edward was king Edward's sone. ANd after the good king Edward the third that was borne at windsor reigned richard the second that was the good sir Edwardes son/ prince of wales. the which king richard was borne in the cyree of Bordeaux in Gascoine/ & was crowned at westminster in the xi year of his age. And in the second year of his regne/ for the debate that was between the lord Latymer and sir Rauf Feryers knight that was against Hawell & S●akell squire for the prisoner that was take in Spain/ by these two squires/ and the which prisoner the lord Latymer and sir Rouf Feryers would have had/ the which prisoner was the Earl of Dene that they took in the battle of Spain/ wherefore these two lords come into the church at westminster and they found this one squire to hearing his mass beside saint Edward's shrine & there they saw him that which was called Hawell. ¶ And shackle was arrested & put into the tour of London And there he was long time for he would not deliver the earl of Dene his prisoner unto these two lords/ by sir Aleyn Burhyll constable of the Tower/ and by Sir Ralph Feryes one of his adversaries/ till the king had granted him grace. ¶ In the third year of king richard came the Galays of▪ france into England unto diverse ports and brent and rob and slew moche people of England that is to say/ at wynchelsee/ Rye/ & hasting Portysmouth. and Hamp●on \ Stormore and Grauesende/ and they did much harm and went home again. And in this same/ year was a parliament holden at westminster. And at that same parliament was ordained that every man woman and child that were at the age of xiiii year and above through out all the ream poor folk and other should pay to the tarage/ four pens/ wherefore came and befell after ward great mischief & much disease to all the commonalty of the ream. ¶ And in the four year of king Rychardes reign the comynes arose up in diverse parties of the ream and dieden moche harm/ the which time they called the huring tyme. ¶ And they of Kent & of Estsex made them two cheyftayns for to rule and for govern the company of Kente and of Estsex. That one was called jacke straw and that other watte Tyler/ and they come & assembled them upon black hethes in Kente. And on Corpus chirsti day after they came down South work/ and taken up the prison house/ that is to say the kings bynche & the Marchelsee and delivered out all the prisoners. And so the same day they came in to London and there they rob the people and slew all the aliens that they might find in the city and about the city and despoiled all there good and made avow. And on the fryedaye next following after that was on the morrow and than they came to the tour of London and the king being there in/ they fet out of the tour the archbishop of Caunterbury. sir Symonde Sudbery/ and sir Robet halys hospyteler prior and master of Sayn● johans' house/ and a white frere that was confessor unto king richard & brought them unto the Tower hill and there they smote of their heeds and came again in to London and slew in oath people of the city. ¶ And then they went unto the. Duke's place of Lancastre beyond saint Mary of the strand that was called the Savoy/ and there they devoured and destroyed all the goods that they therein might find and bare them away and than they brent up the place. And than after ward they went to saint Iohn without smith field & destroyed the gods there & brent up the house to the hard ground/ and went to westminster and saint martyn's the grant & made them go out of sent wary all that were with in for any manner of gylthe/ And that come unto the Temple & to all other Inns of men of law and despoil them & rob them of their gods & also took their books of law/ & then they came to London and broke up the prison of Newgate & drofe out all the prisoners felons and other/ & of both countries and all the people that were with in them and destroyed all the books of the counters. And thus they continued both saturday & sunday unto the monday next after in all their malice and wickedness. ¶ And than on mondaye king richard with his lord that were with him that time & with the mayor of London wyllyam walworth that was that time come with the aldermen and the comunes of the city/ & they come in to South work to here and to know the entontion of these rebels & mysgovered pefple. And this jacke straw made a cry in the eld that all the people of accord should come nearer and here his claymours & his cry & his will. And the lords and the mayor and the aldermen with the comynaltee having indignation of his rovetyse & falseness & his foul presumption/ Anon wyllyam walworth that time being mayor drew out his knife & slew jacke straw/ & anon right smote of his heed & seat it upon a spear & so it was borne through London and set upon London bridge. Anon these rysers & misgoverned people were vanished as it had not be they/ & thenne the king of his great goodness & by prayer of his lords made there vi knights of good & worthy men of the city of London/ that is to say wyllyam walworthe art the time mayor & slew jacke straw and the second was Nycholas brembre/ and the third johan Phylipot/ & the fourth Nycholas twyforde/ and the fift Robert lands/ & the sixth Robert gayton. And than the king with his lords and knights returned again to the tower of London and there he rested him till his people were better cessed and set in rest and peace. And than by process of time as they might take and get these rebels and rysers they hung them upon the next galothrugh out every lordship in the ream of england by xl by xxx by ten and by xii ever as they might be gotten and taken in any parties. And in the .v. year of king Rychardes reign was the great earth quake and was general through out the world the wenesbaye after whitsunday in the year of our lord. M. CCC.lxxxxi. wherefore all manner people were sore aghast and afeard long time for dread of vengeaunge that our lord showed and did. ¶ And in the vi year of king Richard/ then sir Henry spenser bishop of Norwiche went with a great company over see into Flaundres and there they get the town of Graving and the town of burbrug Dunkirk and Newport and there they laded and fraughted li ships with pelage for to have comen into england with these ships & goods. And the bishop of Norwiche and his counsel let bren these ships with all the pledge in the same haven all into hard ashes & at Dunkirk was done a great battle between the flemings and the englishmen. And at that battle were slain a great multitude of the flemings and a great number. And than went the bishop with his retinue to sypers and besieged it a long time but it might not be gotten. And so left that siege and came again into England/ for our englishmen were foully destroyed and many died on the flix. & in this year come queen Anne into England for to be spoused to king Richard and her father was Emperor of almain & king of Beme/ & with her come the duke of Tassy her uncle and many other worthy lords & knights of her country of Beme and of other duche tongues to do her reverence and worship. And sir Symonde beuerle a worthy knight of the garter and other knights and squires that were the kings embassatoures brought her in to England and so forth to London· And the people of the city/ that is to say the mayor and the aldermen and all comynes roden against her to welcome her. And every man in good array and every craft with his minstrelsy in the best manner wise and met with her on the black heath in Kente and so brought her unto London through the city & so forth unto westminster unto the kings palace. And there she was spoused unto king richard well and worthily in the abbey of westminster and there she was crowned queen of England. And all her trendes that came with her hadden great gifts and were well cherished & refreshed as long time as they aboden there. ¶ And in this same year there was a battle done in the kings palace at westmester for certain points of treason between sir johan Ansley knight defendant/ & Carton squire the appellaunt. But this sire johan of Ansley overcame this Carton & made him to yield him within the lists. And anon was this Carton despoiled of his harness & drawn out of the lists and so forth unto Tyburn & there he was hanged for his falseness. ¶ And in the viii year/ of the reign of king richard the second/ sir Edmonde of Langley the. earl of Canbrydge king Rychardes' uncle went in to Portyngale with a fair company of men of arms and archers in strengthing and helping the king of Portyngale against the king of Spain & his power/ and there the king of Portyngale had the victory of his enemies through help & comforth of our englishmen. And when that journey was done the earl of Cambridge come home again with his people in too England in haste blessed be god his blessed gifts Amen· ¶ And this same year king richard held his christmas in the manner of Eltam. ¶ And the same year & time the king of armony fled out of his own land and came into england for to have help and succour of our king against his enemies that had driven him out of his own ream. And so he was brought unto the king to Eltham there as the king held his rial feast of christmas. ¶ And there our king welcomed him and did much reverence & worship and commanded all his lords to make him all the cheer that ever they could. And than he besought the king of his grace and of help & of his comforth in his need & that he might be brought again to his kingdom and land. For the Turks had devoured and destroyed the most part of his land ● and how he flede for dread/ and come hither for succour and help. And thenne the king having on him pity and compassion of his great mischief and grievous disease anon he took his counsel and asked what was best to do. And they answered and said if it liked him to give him any good it were weldone. And as touching his people for to travel so far into our lands it were a great jeopardy. And so the king gave him gold and silver and many rich gifts and jewels and betaught him to god/ and so he passed again out of England. ¶ And in this same year king richard with a rial power went into scotland for to war upon the Scots for the falseness and destruction that the Scots had done unto englishmen in the Marches. And than the Scots come down to the king for to treat with him and with his lords for truce as for certain years. And so over king & his counsel gaunted them truce for certain years/ and our king turned him again in to england. And when he was comen unto york there he abode and rested him there sir john Holonde the earl of Kentes brother slew the earls son of Stafforde and his heir with a dagger in the city of york/ wherefore the king was sore annoyed & grieved and removed thence & came to London And the mayor with the aldermen and the comyns with all the solemnity that might be done riden against the king & brought him rially through the city and so for the unto westmynstre to his own palace. ¶ And in the ix year of king Rychardes reign he held a parliament at westminster & there he made two dukes & a marqueys & five earls. The first that mass made duke was the kings uncle sir Edmonde of Langle earl of Cambridge & him he made duke of york/ & his other uncle sir Thomas of woodstock that was earl of Bukyngham him he made duke of Gloucestre. And sir Lyonuer that was earl of Oxford him he made marqueys of Develyne. & Henry of Balyngbrok the dukes son of Lancastre him he made earl of Derby. And sir Edward the dukes son of york him he made earl of Ruttelond/ And sir johan Holonde that was the Earl of Kentes brother & him he died make earl of Huntyngdon· ¶ And Sir Thomas Mombraye/ him he made earl of Notyngham and the earl Marshalle of england. And sir Mychell de lapole knight him he made earl of Southfolke and Chancellor of England. And the Earl of the March at that same parliament holden at westminster in plain parliament amongs all the lords and comyns was proclaimed earl of the March and heir Parent to the trowne of England after king richard/ the which earl of the Macche went over see in to ireland/ unto his lordships and lands/ for the earl of March is earl of Ulster in ireland and by right line & heritage. And there at the castle of his he lay that time/ and there came upon him a great multitude in bushments of wild irishmen for to take him and destroy him. & he come out fiercely of his castle with his people and manly faughte with the man's there he was taken & he wen all to pieces and so he died upon whose soul god have mercy. ¶ And in the ten year of kyge Rychardes reign the earl of Arundel went to the see with a great navy of ships and armed with men of arms and good archers/ And when they come in the broad see they met with the hole fleet that come with wine lad from Rochel the which wine were enemies goods. And there our navy seat upon them & took them all and brought them unto diverse ports and havens of England & some to London/ & there ye might have had a ton of Rochel wine of the best for twenty shillings sterling/ and so we had great cheap of wine in England that time thanked be god almighty. ¶ How the five lord arosen at Rattecote bridge. ANd in the reign of king Richard the xi year then five lords arosen at Rattecote bridge in the destruction of the rebels that were the time in all the ream. ¶ The first of these five lords was sir Thomas of woodstock the kings uncle & duke of Gloucestre/ and the second was sir richard earl of Arundel/ & the third was sir richard earl of warwick/ the fourth was sir Henry Balynbrok earl of Derby/ the fift was sir Thomas Monbray earl of Notyngham. And these .v. lords saw the mischief and misgovernance & the falseness of the kings counsel/ wherefore they that were that time chief of the kings counseyl fled out of his land over see that is to sir say Alysander nevil the archbishop of york/ & sir Robert Lewe marqueys of Develyne & earl of Oxford & sir Mychell de la pole earl of Southfolke and Chancellor of England. And these three lords went over see & came never again for there they died. ¶ And than these five lords above said made a parliament at westminster & there they took sir Robert Tresilyam the justice and sir Nycholl Brembre knight and cytezeyn of London & sir Iohn Salysbury a knight of the kings household & uske sergeant of arms & many moo of other people were taken and judged unto the death by the counsel of these .v. Lords in that parliament at westmester for the treason that they put upon them be drawn from the tower of London through out the city & so fourth unto Tyburn & there they should be hanged & their throats to be cut & thus they were served and died. And after th● in this same parliament at westminster was sir Symonde Beverle that was a knight of the garter & sir Iohn Beauchamp knight that was steward of the kings household/ & sir james berner's werefore judged unto the death and than they were led on foot to the tour hill & there were there heads smitten of and many other moo by these .v. lords. ¶ In this same parliament and in the xii year of king Rychardes reign he let cry & ordain a general justes that is called a tournament of lords & knights. And this justes & tournament were holden at London in smithfield of all manner of strangers of what land or country that ever they were & thither they were right welcome & to them & too all other was holden open household and great festes & also great gifts were given to all manner of stranges. And of the king side were all of one suit their coats their armure sheldes horse trappure and all was white hearts with cownes abbout their necks and chains of gold hanging thereupon and the crown hanging low before the hearts body/ the which heart was the kings leveraye that he gaafe too Lords and ladies knights and squires for to know his household from other people. ¶ And in this feast camen to the justes xxiiii ladies and lad. ● xxiiii. lords of the garter with chains of gold and all the same suits of hearts as it is before said from the tour on horseback through the city of London into smytfelde there that the justes should be holden. ¶ And this feast/ and justes was holden generalle for all though that would come thither of what land and nation that ever they were. And this was holden during xxiiii days of the kings costs and these xxiiii lords too answer all manner people that would come thither. And thither came the earl of saint Poule of france & many other worthy knights with him of diverse parties full worthily arrayed. And out of Holande & Henaude came the lord Ostruaunt that was the dukes son of Holande & many other worthy knights with him of Holland & full well arrayed. And when this feast & jousting was ended the king thanked this strangers and gave them many rich gifts. And so they token their leave of the king and of other lords & ladies & went home again into their own countries with great love and moche thank. ¶ And in the xiii year of king Rychardes reign there was a battle done in the kings palace at westminster between a squire of Naverne that was with king richard/ & an other squire that was called Iohn walssh for points of treason that this Naverne put upon this walsshman. but this Naverne was overcomen & yield him recreant to his adversary. And anon he was despoiled of his armure and drawn out of the palace to Tyburn and there was hanged for his falseness And the xiiii year of king Rychardes reign sir johan of Gaunt duke of Lancastre went over see into Spain for to challenge his right that he had by his wife's title unto the crown of Spain with a great host of people and men of arms and archers. and he had with him ● duchess his wife and his three daughters over see into Spain/ & there they were a great while/ & at the last the king of Spain began to treat with the duke of Lancastre and they were accorded together through their both counsel in this manner/ that the king of Spain should wed the duke's daughter of Lancastre that was the right heir of Spain and should give unto the duke of Lancastre gold & silver that were cast into great wegges and many other jewels as much as viii charyetes might carry. And every year after during the dukes life of Lancastre and of the duchess his wife ten thousand mark of gold Of which gold the adventure & charges should be to them of Spain & yearly bring unto Bayon to the duke's assygnes by surety made. And also the duke married an other of his daughters unto the king of Portyngale the same time▪ and when he had done so he come home again into England and his good lady his wife also/ but many worthy men died upon the flix. ¶ In the xu year of king Rychardꝭ reign he held his crystmasse in the manner of woodstock and there the earl of Penbroke a young lord and tender of age would learn to just with a knight that was called sir Iohn of saint Iohn & roden together in the park of woodstock. and there this worthy earl of Penbroke was slain with that other knights spear as he cast it from him when that they had coupled/ & thus the good earl made there his end/ and therefore the king & the queen made much sorrow for his death. ¶ And in the xvi. year of king Rychardes reign johan hende being that time mayor of London & Iohn wall worth & Henry vanner being shreves of London/ that same time a bakers man bore a basket of horse breed in to Fletstrete to ward an heresy and there came a young man of the bishop of Salysbury that was called roman and he took a bors loaf out of the basket of the bakers/ & he asked him why he died so/ and this roman turned again & broke the bakers heed/ And neighbours came out and would have arrested thes roman & he broke from them & fled to his lords place & the Constable would have him out/ but the bishops men shut fast the yates & kept the place that no man might enter and than much more people gathered thither and said that they would have him out or else they would brenue up the place and all that were with in/ And than came the mayor and shreves with moche other people & ceased the malice of the comyns & made every man to go home to there hoses and keep peace. And this romans lord the bishop of Salysbury master johan waltham that at the time was treasurer of England when sir Thomas Arundel archbishop of york & Chancellor of England/ & there the bishop made his complaint unto the Chancellor on the people of the city of London. And than these two bishops of great malice & vengeance come unto the king at windsor & made a great complaint upon the mayor and shreves. And anon all the city after ward came before the king & his counsel/ and they cast unto the city a grievous heart and a wonder great malice/ And anon suddenly the king sent after the mayor of London and for the two shreves/ & they came to him unto the castle of wyndsore. And the king rebuked the mayor and shreves full foul for the offence that they had done against him & his officers in his chambre at London/ wherefore he deposed and put out the mayor and both shreves/ and this was done the xiiii days afore the feast of saint Iohn baptist. And than the king called to him a knight that was called sire Edward dalyngrygge & made him warden & governor of the city and chambre of London & over all his people there in. And so he kept that office but four weeks because that he was so gentle & tender to the citizens of London/ wherefore the king deposed him & made sir Bunde wine radyngton knight that was Conrtrouller of the kings household warden & governor of his chambre of his people there in/ and chose to him worthy men of the city to be shreves with him to govern & keep the kings laws in the city/ that one was called Gelbert Mawefelde & that other Thomas ne wenton shreves. And than the mayor & the two shreves and all the aldermen with all the worthy crafts of London went on foot unto the tour of London/ & there came out the Constable of the tower & gaaf the mayor and the shreves their oath & charge as they should have taken in the exchequer of westminster in the kings court of his justyces & Barons of the Escheker & than went they home again. And than the king & his counsel for the great malice and despite that they had to the city of London removed all his courts from westminster unto the city of york/ that is to say the Chancellor the Escheker the kings bynche & the common place/ & there they held all these courts of law fro midsummer/ that is to say the feast of saint Iohn baptist unto the feast of christmas next coming. And than the king and his counsel saw it not so proffytale there. as it was at London/ than anon he removed it again to London and so to westminster for great ease of his officers & a vantage to the king & all the comunes of the ream. ¶ And when the people of London saw and knew that these courts were comen again/ and the king and his people also/ than the mayor and the aldermen with the chief Comunes of the city gave a great sum of gold of all the Comunes of the city/ and ordained & made great royalties again his coming too London for to have his grace good lordship and/ also their liberties and Fraunchyses geaunted unto them again as they were wont to have afore tyme. And through great instance and prayer of the queen and of other lords and ladies the King granted them grace. And this was done at Shene in Sutherey. And than the King within two days after came to London/ & the mayor of the city with the shreves aldermen and all the worthy men of the afterward road against him in good array unto the haveth of his side of Shene the mayor submitting them homely and meekly with all manner obeisance unto him as they oughten too do. And thus he brought the king and the queen to London. And when the king came to the gate of London bridge there they presenttd him with a milk white stead saddled and bridled and trapped with cloth of gold and reed partyed to guider. and the queen a palfrey all white in the same ararye trapped with white andreed/ and all the conduits of London ran with wine both white and reed/ for all manner people to drink who would. And between saint Paul's and the cross in cheap there was made a stage a rial standing upon high and theyn were many angels with divers melodies & songs. And than an angel came down from the stage on high by a vice and seat a crown of gold pight with rich pearls & precious stones upon the kings heed and an other upon the queens heed. And so the citizens/ brought the king & the queen to westminster into their palace. And than on the morn after the mayor and the shreves and the aldermen of London camen unto the king to his palace at westminster and present him with two basyns of silver & overgylted full of coined gold the some of twenty hundred pound praying him of his high mercy & grace and lordship and specially grace that they might have his good love with the liberties. And franchises like wise as they were wont for to have before times and by his letters patents and his chartre confirmed. And the queen and other worthy lord and ladies fell on their knees and besought the king of grace to confirm this. Than the king took up the queen & granted her all her askenge. And than they thanked the king & the queen & went home again. ¶ And in. xvi· year of king Rychardes reign certain lords of scotland came into england for to get worship as by feet of arms/ this were the persons. The earls Marre & he challenged the earl Martial of england to just with him certain points on horseback with sharp spears & they road together as two worthy knights & lords certain courses/ but not the full challenge that the Scots earl made/ for he was call both horse and man & two of his rib broken with that fall and so he was borne thence out of smithfield home to his Inn. And within a little time after he was carried home in a horse litter and at york he died. ¶ And sir Wayllyam Darell knight and the kings banerer of scotland than made an other challenge with sir Peres curtain knight and the kings banerer of England of certain courses yet on horseback in the same field/ and when he had riden certain course & assayed he might not have the better he gaaf it over & would no more of his challenge with sir per curtain knight & the kings banerer of England & turned his horse and road home unto his own Inn. And one Cockeborne a squire of scotland challenged sir Nycholl Haberke a knight of certain courses yet with sharp spears and roden five courses together and at every course the Scot was cast down both horse & man/ and thus over english Lords thanked be god had the field. ¶ And in the xvii year of king Rychardes reign died the good gracious queen Anne that was wit to king richard in the manner of Shene in the shire of Surrey upon whitsunday/ & than was she brought to London and so to westminster and there was she buried and worthily entered beside Saint Edward's shrine on whose soul almighty god have pity and in his mercy. Amen. ¶ How king richard spoused dame Isabella the kings daughter of France in the town of calais and brought her in to england and let her be crowned queen in the abbey of saint Peter'S of westmynstre. IN the twenty year of king Rychardes reign he went himself oversee unto calais with dukes earls lords & barons and many other worthy squyes with great array and common people of the ream in good array as longed to such a king and prince of his noble & of his own person to do him reverence and observance as ought to be done to their lyege lord & so mighty a king & Emperor in his own to abide & receive there that worthy and gracious Lady that should be his wife a young creature of xix year of age dame Isabella the kings daughter of France and other worthy lords of great name both barons & knights with moche other people that camen to the town of Gravening & tow dukes of France that one was the duke of Burgoyn and that other the duke of Bar that would no furtherlesse than they had pledges. And than king richard delivered two pledges for them for to go safe and come safe his two worthy uncles the duke of Gloucestre and the duke of york & these two went over the water of Gravening & abode there as for pledge to the time that the marriage was done/ and thatꝭ these two dukes of France were come again unto Gravening water. And than two worthy dukes came over the water at Gravening & so to calais with this worthypfull Lady Dame Isabella that was the kings daughter of France & with her came many worthy lord & eke lady & knights & squires in the be'st array that might be & so brought her in to the t●wne of Calays·s And there she was received with all the sole mpnyte & worship that might be done unto such a lady. And that they brought her unto the king. And the king took her & welcomed her and all her fair company and made there all the solemnity that might be done. ¶ And than the king & his counsel asked of the french lords whether all the covenants & forwards with the composition that were ordained and made on both parties should be truly kept and hold between them. And they say ye/ and there they swore and took their charge upon a book & made their oath well & truly it to hold in all manner of points & covenants without contradiction or delay in any manner wise. And than was she brought to saint Nycholas church in calais and there she was worthily wedded with the most solemnity that any king or queen might be with archbishops & bishops & all the mynystres of holy church. And than they were brought too the castle & set to meet And were served with all delycasye of rial meats & drinks plenteously to all manner of strangers & a● other & no creature warned that feast. but all were welcome/ for there were great halls & tents set upon the green without the castle to receive all manner of people. And every office ready for to serve them all. And thus this worthy marriage was solemnly done and ended with all ryalte. And than these two worthy dukes of Fraun●e with their people token their leave of the king and of the queen and went again unto Gravening water. And there the french lords/ that is to say the two dukes and all their meinie were comen over the water to Gravening & they met with our two dukes/ & every eachone took leave at other and so they departed/ and our lords camen again unto calays/ and the french lords went over the water and so home in to France again. ¶ And anon after the king made him ready with the queen & all his lords and ladies and all their people with them and came over the see in to England & so unto London. And the mayor and the shreves with all the aldermen and worthy commons roden against them unto the black he the in to Kent/ & there they met with the king & the queen and welcomed them and that in good array/ and every men in the clothing of his craft and their mynstrels before them. And so they brought them unto saint George's bar in South work & there they token their leave. And the king & the queen road to Kenyngton & than the people of London turned home again/ And in torning again to London bridge there was so great press of people both on horse and on foot that there were deed on the bridge xi persons of men & women and children on whose souls all mighty god have mercy & pity. Amen. ¶ And than afterward the queen was brought to the tower of London/ & there she was all night & on the morn she was brought thruge the city of London and so forth unto westminster and there she was crowned queen of england/ & than she was brought again unto the kings palace and there was holden open/ and rial feast all her coronation of all manner people that ●heder come/ and this was done the sunday next after the feast of saint Clement. in. the twenty year of king Rychardes regne. And than the xxv day of August/ next after by veyll excitation and false counsel & for great wrath and malice that the king had of old time unto his uncle the good duke of Gloucestre and to the earl of Arundel to the earl of warwick. Anon the king by his ewyll excitation and his evil counsel & malice late in the evening on the same day above said made him ready with his strength & road into Estsex unto the town of Chemesforde & so come to plash suddenly there sir Thomas of woodstock the good duke of Gloucestre lay/ and the good duke came to welcome the king anon. And the king arrested the good duke himself with his own body/ & so he was lad down to the wa●●● and anon put into a ship and anon had too calais & brought in to the captains ward ●o be kept in hold by the kings commandment of England. And the time th'earl Marchall was capitain of calais. And anon after by commandment of the king and by his false counseyl commanded the capitain to put him to death. ¶ And anon certain yeomen that had the good duke in keeping took their counseyl how that they should put him unto death. And this was their appointment that they should comen upon him when he were in his bed and a sleep on a featheren bed/ and anon they bound hand and foot and charged him to lie still. And when that they had done thus they token two small towells and made on them two riding knots & cast the towells about his neck. And than they took the featheren bed that lay under him & cast it about him & than they drew their to wells each ways and some lay upon the featheren bed upon him unto the time that he was deed because that he should make no noys and thus they strangled this worthy duke unto the death/ upon whose soul god for his high pity have mercy. Amen. ¶ And when the king had rested thus this worthy duke and his uncle & sent him to calais he came again to London in all the haste with a wonder great people. And as soon as he was comen he sent for the earl of Aurundell/ and for the good earl of warwick and anon as they came he arrested them himself. And sir johan Cobham and sir Iohn Chine knights he arrested them in the same. manner till he made his parliament. & anon they were put into hold/ but the earl of Arundel went at large unto the parliament time/ for he found soffycyent surety/ to abide the law & to answer to all manner points that the king & his counsel would put upon him ¶ And the. xxi● year of king Rychardes reign he ordained him a parliament at westminster the which was called the great parliament. And this parliament was made for judge this three worthy lords and other moo as they list at that time/ And for that judgement/ the kynhe let make in all the hast a long house and a large of tymbre the which was called an hall and covered with tiles over & it was open all about on both sides that all manner of men might see through out/ and there the doom was holden upon these foresaid lords and judgement given at this foresaid parliament. And for to come unto this parliament the king sent his writs to every lord baron knight & every squire in every shire through out england that every lord should gather and bring his retinue with him in as short & in the best array that they might get in maintening and in the strengthing of the king against them that were his enemies/ and that this were done in all haste & come to him in pain of death. And the king himself sent into Chestreshyre to cheyftayns of that country/ & they gathered & brought a great and an huge company of people both of knights and squires and prencypally of yeomen of Chestreshyre the which yeomen and archers the king took to his own court and gaate them bouge of court and good wages to be keepers of his own body both by night and by day above all other persons and most loved and best trust/ the which soon afterward turned the king to great loss and shame hindering and his utterly undoing and destruction as ye shall here afterward. And that time came sir Henry of Derby with a great meinie of arms and archers/ and the earl of Rutlonde came with strong power of people both of men of mares and archers And the Earl of Kente brought a great power of men of arms and archers. the Earl of Martial came in the same manner. And the lord Spenser in this same manner. The earl of Northumberlonde and sir Henry Percy his son and sire Thomas Percy the earls brother. And all these worthy lords brought a fair meinie and a strong power and each man in his best array. And the duke of Lancastre and the duke of york came in the same manner with men of arms and archers following the king. And sir William strop treasurer of england came in the same manner. And thus in this array came all the worthy men of this land unto our king and these people came to London in one day/ in so much that every street and lane in London and in the subarbes were full of them lodged and ten or xii mylle about London on every way. And these people brought the king too westminster and went home again to their lodging both horse and man/ and than on the monday the xii day of Septembre the parliament began at westminster the which was called the great parliament. ¶ And on the friday next after the earl of Arundel was brought in to the parliament among all the lords/ and that was on saint Mathewas day the apostle and evangelist/ there he was for judged unto the death in this hall that was made in the palace at westminster/ And this was his judgement/ he should go on foot with his hands bound behind him from the place that he was judged in. And so forth through the city of London unto the tour hill and his heed to be smitten of and so it was done in deed in the same place vi of the greatest lords that sat on his judgement roden with him unto the place there he was done to death/ and so to see that the execution were done after the doom. And by the kings commandment/ with them went on foot men of arms and archers a great multitude of Chestreshyre men in strengthening of the lords that brought this earl to his death/ for they dread lest terle should be rescued and taken from them when they come in to London. Thus he passed forth the city unto his death. And there he took it full pacyenly/ on whose soul god have mercy/ Amen. ¶ And than come the frere. austyn's and took up the body and the heed of this good Earl and bore it home to their place and buried him in their choir. And in the morn after was sir richard earl of warwick brought in to the parliament there as the earl of Arundel was for/ judged/ and they gave the earl of warwick the same judgement that the for said earl had/ but the lords had compassion of him by cause he was of more getoer age and released him in to perpetual prison/ and put him in to the island of Man. And then on the monday next after/ the lord johann Cobham of Kent/ & sir johan Cheyn knights were also brought in to the same parliament in the same hall/ and there they were for judged for to be hanged and drawn/ but through the prayers and great Instance of all the lords that judgement was forgiven to them and released in to perpetual prison. ¶ And in this same year was richard wyttyngdon mayor of London/ and johan wodecoke & wyllyam Askam shreves of London. ¶ And they ordained at every gate of London during this same parliament strong watch of men of arms and archers and throughout every ward also And the king made .v. dukes & one markeys and four earls/ and the first of them was the earl of Derby & he was made duke of Herforde And the second also was the earl of Rutlonde and he was made duke of Awemarle. And the third was the earl of Kent & he was made duke of Surre. And the fourth was the earl of Huntyngdon and he was made duke of Excestre/ And the fift was the earl of Notyngham & he was made duke of Norfolk. And the earl of Somerset he was made markeys of Dorseet· And the lord Spenser was made Earl of Gloucestre/ And the lord Levyll of Raby was made earl of westmer land And sir Thomas percy was made earl of worcester. And sir wyllyam scrope that was treasurer of england was made earl of wylteshyre· And sir Iohn Montagu earl of Salysbury. And when the king had thus done he held the parlemet and rial feast unto all his lords and to all manner people that thither would come. ¶ And this same year died sir Iohn of Gaunt the kings uncle and duke of Lancastre in the bishops Inn in Holborn. and was brought fro thence to saint Poule & there the king made & held his interment well and worthily with all his lords in the chyche of saint Poule in London/ and there he was buried beside dame Bounce his wife that was daughter & heir unto the good Henry that was duke of Lancastre. In the same year there fell a dissension bytwne the duke of Herforde & the duke of Norfolk in so moshe that they waged battle & casten down their gloves & than they were take up & ensealed & the battle joined & the day set & the place assigned where & when & this should be at coventry. ¶ And thither come the king with all his lords at that day & was set in the field & than these two worthy lords came into the field well and clean armed & well arrayed with all their weepen & ready to done their battle and were ready in the place for to fight at utterance But the king bade them cease & took the quarrel in to his hand And forth with right there present exiled the duke of Herford for term of ten year and the duke of Norfolk for evermore. And sir Thomas of Arundel archbishop of Caunterbury was exiled the same time for ever & deposed out of his see for malice of the king/ & anon these three worthy lords were commanded & defended the kings ream. And anon they gate them ships at diverse havens and went over see into diverse lands each his way. And the duke of Norfolk went to Venece & there he died on whose soul god haven mercy. Amen. ¶ And than king rychard made a clerk of his sir Roger walden archbishop of Caunterbury. ¶ And in the xxii year of king Rycharbes reign by falls counsel imagination of covetous men that were about him were made & ordained blank chertres and made them to be enseled of all manner rich men throughout the ream. In so much that they compelled diverse people to set their seizes therto· ¶ And this was done for great covetise wherefore all good hearts of the ream were clean turned away fro the king for ever after. And that was utterly his destruction & end to him that was so high and so excellent prince and king & through covetous & falls counsel falsely betrayed. Alas for pity that such a king might not see. ¶ And than king richard set his kingdom & his rial land of England to farm unto four persons/ the which were these. Sire wyllyam strop earl of wiltshire and treasurer of England/ and sir johan bush/ & Henry grieve/ and sir johan Bagot knights that which/ turned them to mischief and death within a little time as ye shall find here afterward written. ¶ And than king richard made great ordinance & went himself over see in to ireland & many great lords with him with a great host for to strength their king with men of arms archers & moche great stuff & right good ordinance as longed unto war. And or he passed over see he ordained & made sir Edmond of Langley his uncle the duke of york/ his lyveteaunte of England in his absence with the governance & counsel of these four knights that had taken england to farm of the king. And than he passed the see and came into ireland and there he was well and worthily received. And these rebels that been called wild irishmen came down to the king and yold them to him both body & goods all at his own will/ and swore unto him to be his lyege men/ and there died to him homage and feaute and good service & thus he conquered the most part of ireland in alytyll time ¶ And while that king richard was thus in ireland/ sir Henry of bolingbroking earl of Derby that the king had made before duke of Herforde/ the which duke the king had exiled out of this land was comen again into Enlonde for to challenge the dukedom of Lancaster as for his right & true heritage/ & he came down out of France by land unto calais And then met him sir Thomas of Arundel that was archbishop of Caunterbury that was exiled out of england. and with him came the earl of Arundel his son & heir the which was in keeping of sir Iohn shelly knight sometime with the earl of Huntindon and with the duke of Excestre the which was tho in the castle of Reygate in Soutsex/ and there he stolen him a way and came to calais and there he was keeped well & worthily till these other two lords were comen/ to calais. ¶ And than this worthy duke & sir Thomas of Arundel archbishop of Caunterbury shipped in the haven of Calais and drew their course norwarde and arrived in york shire at Ravensporne fast by wydlyngton/ and there came and enured first the land and two lords with him and their navy. And so than moche people of the ream that when they heard of his coming and knewen where that he was and anon they drewen unto him and welcomed these lords and so gave them courage in all manner thing and so passed forth into the land and gathered moche people to them. ¶ And when king richard heed and wist that these two lords were comen again in to england & also were londed/ Than the king left his ordinance in ireland and come into england ward in all the haste that he might and come the castle of flint and there he abode to take his counseyl and what might he done. But to him come none. And than sir Thomas Percy earl of worchestre that was the kings steward witted and knew all this/ anon he came into the hall amongs all the people/ & he broke the yard of the rial kings household/ and anon every man was dysparple and went his way & forsook their master and sovereign lord and left him alone. And thus King richard brought down & destroyed and stood himself alone without comforth or succour or if any good counsel of any man/ alas for pity of this rial king. And anon came word that sire Henry of bolingbroking was up with a strong power of people and that all the squires of England reyson up the shires in strengthening of him against king richard. ¶ And thus soon he was come out of the North country to bristol and there he met with sir wyllyam S●rope earl of wiltshire & treasurer of England & with sir Iohn bush and sir Henry green and Iohn Bagot but he escaped from them and went over see in to ireland/ & the sethre knights were taken & their hedes smitten of & thus they died their for false covetoyse. ¶ And than was king richard taken and brought unto the duke/ and anon the duke put him in fast ward and strong hold unto his coming to London. And than was there a rumore in London and a strong noise that king richard came to westminster/ and the people of London ran thither and would have done moche harm and hurt in there woodness had not the myyer and the alder men and other worthy men cessed them with fair words and turned them home again unto London And there was Sir johan slack dene of the kings chapel of westminster taken & brought to London/ and put in prison in Ludgate. And johan Bagot was taken in ireland and so brought to London and put in prison in Newgate there to be kept and abide his answer. ¶ And soon after the duke brought king richard privily unto London and put him in the tour under sure keeping as a prisoner. And than came the lords of the ream with all their counsel unto the tour to king richard and said to him of his mysgouernaun●e and extortion that he had done made and ordained to oppress all the comyne people and also to all the ream. wherefore all the comyne people of the ream would him have deposed of all his kyngdom·s And so he was deposed at that time in the tour of London by all his lords counsel and common assent of all the ream/ And than he was put from the tour unto the castle of Ledes in Kente & there he was kept a while And than he was had from thence unto the castle of Pounfret in the North country to be kept in prison/ & right soon after there made his end. ¶ And than when king richard was deposed and had resigned his crown and his kingdom & was kept fast in hold/ than all the lords of the ream with the comyns assent & by accord chosen this worthy lord sir Henry of bolingbroking earl of Derby duke of Herforde & duke of Lancastre by right line heritage & for his rightful manhood that the people found in him before all other they chose him and made him king of England amonnges them. INnocencyus the vii was chosen at rome and lived but two year & than Gregory xii was after him xii and ever was debate. Than was Alexander chosen in the counsel of Pysan and he was called first Petrus de Candyda and so was put strife to strife everichone of those three said he was pope. Than was there a counseyl at Pysan where they began to make a cuncorde and there they deposed the two and third stood and so was worse division made than before. For that they ordained prevailed not. ¶ Robert was Emperor after wenselaus. i●. year/ this man was duke of Bavary and earl of Palatyn a just man and a good/ and was crowned of Boniface the ix This man entrde italy with a great host of. almains against johan the duke of Galyas/ but with an heavy hoowe he turned again and was had the worthy to suffer for his rightwiseness. ¶ johan the xxiii succeeded Alexander four year and first he began well for an unity/ and he was in the counsell a●te Constantis and offered him to resign the popehode. and after secretly and worthily he feldde away but it profited him not for he was taken and constrained to peace and was made a cardinal and buried at florence. ¶ Sygysmundus was Emperor after Roberte xxvii year/ and he was son too Karolus and king of Vngarye and most christian prince. And was so devout to god that he deserved to be canonized. This man holp the church through his marvelous prudence and wit/ for he spared no labour ne no thying that he had till he had made a full peace among the clergy. ¶ And he had ix battles against the Turk. And ever he had the victory/ and what more all thing that ever was written in loving to Constantyne Theodosio Karolo Otto may truly be written of him. And he was crowned in Vngarye and decessed a blessed man. ¶ Circa Annum dm. M. CCCC.vii. ¶ Of sir Henry of Bolynbroke earl of Derby that reigned after King richard/ which was the fourth Henry after the conquest. ANd after King richard the second was deposed and out of his kingdom the lords and the comynes all with one assent and all other worthy of the ream chosen Henry of Bolyngebroke earl of Derby son and heir of johan the duke of Lancastre for his worthy manhood that oft time had be found in him and in deeds proved. upon Saint Edward's day the confessor he was crowned king of England at westminster by assent of all the ream next after the deposing of kange richard. Than he made Henry his eldest son prince of wales and duke of cornwall & earl of Chestee. And he made sir Thomas of Arundel archbishop of Caunterbury again as he was before. And sir Roger walden that king Richard had made archbishop of Caunterbury be made bishop of London for that time it stood void. And he made the Earls son of Arundel that came with him over the see from calais in to England. He made him earl of Arundel as his father had been and put him in possession of all his lands. and he made homage and feaute unto his liege lord the king as all other lords had done. ¶ And than anon died king richard in the castle of Pounfret in North country/ for there he was enfamed unto death by his keeper/ for he was kept there four or .v. days from meet or drink/ & so he made his end in this world yet moche people in England and in other lands said he was alive many a year after his death. But whether he was alive or deed the people held their false opinion & believe that many had & much people came to great mischief & foul death as ye shall here aftewarde. ¶ And when king Henry wist & knew verily that he was deed he let sere him in the best manner & closed it in a fair chest with diverse spices & balms and closed him in a lynny● cloth all safe his visage and that was left open that all men myghtses his person from all other men. And so he was brought to london with torch light brenning to Saint Paul's church & there he had his mass and dirge with moche reverence & solemnity of service. And when all this was done than he was brought from Saint Poule into the abbey of westminster & there he had his hole service again. And fro westmynster he was brought to Langley and there he was buried upon whose soul god have mercy. Amen. ¶ And in the first year of king Henry's reign he held his christmas in the castle of windsor. And oon the xii even came the duke of Awemarle unto the king & told him that he & the duke of Surri and the duke of Ex●estre and the earl of Salysbury and & earl of Gloucestre and other moo of their affinity were accorded to make a mumling unto the king on xii day at night/ & there they purposed ●ee th● king in the revelling. And thus he the duke of Awemarle warned the king And when the king came the same night to London privily ne all the hast that he might to get him help succour and comforth and counsel/ And anon these other that would have put the king to death fled in all the haste that they might/ for they knew well that their counsel was bewrayed. And than fled the duke of Surrey and the Earl of Salesbury with all their meinie unto the town of Cycestre. And there the people o● the town wodle have arrested them And they would not stand to their arresting but stood at defence & fought manly But at the last they were overcomen & taken. And there they ●mote of the duke's heed of Surrey and the Earls heed of Salybury & many other moo & these they put their quarters in to sacks & their hedes on poles borne on high and so they were brought through he city of London to London bridge and there these hedes were set vpō●●ghe/ and their quarters were sent unto other good towns & cities of England and set up there. ¶ At Oxford was taken Blonde knight and benet Cely knight/ & Thomas wy●tersell squire & the there by heeded and quartered and the knights hedes were set upon pools and brought to London and set upon London bridge. and the quartres sent forth to other good towns. ¶ And in the same year a● Pryetell well in a mylle in Estser there sir Iohn Holonde the duke of Excestre was taken with the comynes of the country/ and they brought him from the mylle to the plash & to the same place that king richard had rested sir Thomas of woodstock the duke of Gloucestre & right there in the same place they smote of the duke's heed of Excestre and brought it unto London upon a pool and it was set upon London bridge. ¶ And in the same year at Brystowe was taken the lord Spenser the king richard had made earl of Gloucestre/ & the comyns of the town of Brystowe took him and brought him into the market place of the town & there they smote of his heed & sent it unto London / and there it was set unto London bridge. ¶ And in this same year was sir Bernard brokeyns knight taken and arrested and put in the Tour of London & sir Iohn shelly knight and sir Iohn Mawdelyn and Sir wyllyam Feryb●●ersones of king Rychardes and they were arrested and put in to the tour of London/ And thither came the kings justices & sat upon them in the Tour of London and there they were dampened all four unto the death. and the doom was given unto Sir bernard Brokeys that he should go on foot from the tour through the city of London unto Tyburn and there to be hanged and after his heed smitten of/ and sir johan Shelly knight and sir johan Mawdelyn and sir wyllyam Fery●e persons were drawn through out the city of London to Tyburn & there they were hanged and their hedes smitten of and set on London bridge. And in this same year king Henry sent queen Isabella home again in to France the which was king Rycharder wife and gaaf her gold & silver & many other jewels and so she was discharged of all her power sent out of england. And in the second year of king Henry the fourth was sir Roger Claryngton knight and two of his men and the prior of land and ·viii. freres mynors & some masters of divinity and other for treason that they wrought against the king were drawn & hanged at Tyburn all xii persons And there began a great dissension and debate in the country of wales between the lord Grey rythen and Owen of Glendere squire of wales & this Owen arreared a great number of welshmen & keep all that councre about right strongly & died moche harm and destroyed the kings towns & lordships through out all wales and rob & slew the kings people both/ english and walesshe and thus he endured a xii year largely. And he took the lord Grey rythen prisoner and kept him fast in hold till he was ransomed of prisoners of the march and kept him long time in hold. And at the last he made him wed one of his daughters & kept him still with his wife and soon after he died. ¶ And than king Henry knowing this mischief destruction and treason the this Owen had wrought And anon he ordained a strong power of men of arms & archers & much other stuff the longed to war for to abate and destroy the malice of this falls welsh man. And than the king came in to wales with his power for to dystrye this Owen & other rebels falls walsshemen. And anon they fled in to the mountains and there might the king do them no harm in no manner wise for the mountains/ & so the king came again in to england for losing of moche of his people/ & thus he sped not there. ¶ In this same year was great scarcity of wheat in England for a quarter of wheat was at xvi shilling. And there was merchandise of England sent in to Prure for wheat/ & anon they had lad & fraughtshypoes Enough and came home in safety thanked be god of all his gifts. ¶ And in the iii year of king Henry's reign there was a star seen in the firmament that showed himself through all the world for diverse tookens that should befall soon after/ the which star was named by clergies Stella cometa/ and on saint Mary Mawdelenes day next following in the same year/ was the battle of Shrowesbury. And thither came sir Henry Percy the earls son of Northumberland with a great multitude of men of arms and archers and gave a battle to King Henry the fourth through the falls and wicked counsel of sir Thomas Percy his uncle earl of worchestre/ and there was sir Henry Percy slain & the most part of his people in the fled/ and sir Thomas Percy taken and kept fast in hold two days till the king had set in rest his people on both sides. And than sir Thomas Percy was judged to the death to be drawn and hanged and his heed smitten of for his false treason at Shrowesbury and his heed brought to london and seat on london bridge. ¶ And the other people that there was slain oon both parties the king let bury. ¶ And there were slain on the kings side in that battle the Earl of Stafforde and sir walter Blunt in the kings cote armour under the kings banner and many moo worthy men upon whose soul god have mercy. Amen. ¶ And in the fourth year of king Henry's reign came the Emperover of Constantynople with many gretee solaes and knights and much other people of his country in to England to king Henry with him to speak and to disport and to see the good governance & conditions of our people & to know the commydytees of England. And our kyngen with all his lords goodly and worshipfully received and welcomed him and all his meinie that came with him and died him all the worship that they could and might. And anon the king commanded all manner officers that he should be served as worthily and rially as it longed to such a worthy lord. And Emperor on his own cost as long as the Emperor was in England and all his men that came with him. ¶ And in this same year camen dame jane the duchess of britain into England and landed at fallemouthe in cornwall/ And from thence she was brought to the city of wynchestre and there she was wedded unto king Henry the fourth in the abbey of saint swithiness of wynchestre with all the solemnity that might be done & made. And soon afterward she was brought from thence to London. And the mayor and the aldermen with the comunes of the city of London road against her & welcomed her and brought her through the city of London to westminster & there she was crowned queen of england & there the king made a rial and solemn feast for her and for all manner of men the thither would come. And in this same year dame Blaunche the eldest daughter of king Henry the fourth was sent over see with the earl of Somerset her uncle & with master Richard Clyfforde than bishop of worcester and with many other lords knights ladies & worthy squires as longed to such a kings daughter and came into Colayn. And thither came the dukes son of Bar with a fair meinie and received this worthy laby and the bishop of worcestre wedded & sacred them together as holy church it would. And there was made a rial feast & a great jousting in the reverence of worship of them & all people the thither came when this marriage and feast was done the earl & the bishop and all their meinie took their leave of the lord & the lady & came home again into england in safety thanked god. ¶ And in the .v. year of king Henry's reign the lord Thomas his son went over see & the earl of Kent & many other lords and knights with men of arms and archers a great number to chastise the rebels that afore had done moche harm to our englishmen & merchants/ & to many towns & ports in England on the see costs. And the lord Thomas the kings son came into Flaundres before a town that is called/ Scluse among all the ships of divers nations that were there/ & after there they roden with their ships among them and went on land & sported them there two days & came again to their ships & took the broad see & there they met with three Carackes' of Iene that were laden with diverse merchandise & well manned. & they fought together long time but the englishmen had the victory & brought the Carackes' into the Cambre before wynchelse & there they cun●ed these goods/ & one of these Carackes' was suddenly brent there. And the lords and their people turned them home again and went no further at that tyme. ¶ And the same time Serle yeoman of king Rychardes robs came in to England out of scotland & told to diverse people that king richard was on live in Scotland & so much people believed in his words wherefore a great part of the people of the ream were in great error & grudging against the king through information of lies and falls leasings that this· Serle had made. For much people trusted & believed in his saving. But at the last he was taken in the north country & there by law judged to be drawn through every city & good brugh towns in england & so he was served & at the last he was brought to london unto the gild hall before the justice and there he was judged for to be brought to the tour of. london and there to be laid on an hurdle and than to be drawn through the city of London to Tyburn & there to be hanged & than quartered and his heed smitten of and set on London bridge & his quartres to be sent to four good towns of England & there set up & thus ended he for his treason and decessed. ¶ And in the vi year of king Henry's reign the fourth the earl of Marre of scotland by cause conduyt come into England to challenge sir Edmonde earl of Kent to certain courses of war on horseback. And so this challenge was accepted & granted and the place taken in smithfield at london. and this earl of Marre the Scot came proudly into the field as his challenge asked. & anon came the earl of Kent & road unto the scot & manly road together with sharp sp●res diverses courses/ but the earl of Kent had the field & gate him moche worship and thank of all manner men of his manful deeds. ¶ And in the vii year of king Henry's reign the four the sir richard Scrop archbishop of york and the Earl Marchall of England gadrede unto them a strong power against king Henry. And the king hearing there of in all the hast that he mighty came with his power Northward and met with them at york/ and there were these two Lords taken and brought to the king. ¶ And anon the judges were set and these two lords brought forth and there they were dampened unto death and both their heeds smitten of and there they made an end on whose souls god for his pity have mercy Amen. ¶ And when this was done the king came to London again and there rested hym· Anon god of his great goodness wrought. & showed many great miracles for thes worthy clerk archbishop of york that thus was done to death. ¶ And in the vii year of king Henry's reign dame Luce the duke's sister of Melayne came in to England & so to London & there was wedded to sir Edmonde earl of Kente in the priory of saint mary oueres in south work with moche solemnity & great worship/ The king was there▪ himself & gafhyr at the church door & when that they were wedded & mass was done the king his own person brought & lad this worthy lady in to the bishops place of wynchestre and there was a wonder grate feast hold on to all manner of people that would come. And the same year sir Robert Knolles knight a worthy warrior died at his manner in Northfolk and from thence he was brought to London on a horse bear with moche torch light & so he was brought unto the white freres in Fletstrete & there was do & made for him a solemn feast & a rial interment for though that thither would come/ both rich & poor & there lieth buried by dame Constance his wife in the mid of the body of the church on whose soul god for his pity have mercy/ Amen. ¶ And thus in this same year sir Thomas Rampston knight & Constable of the Tour of London was drenched at London bridge as he came fro westmyger In wards to the Tour in a barge & all through lewdness. And in the same year dame Phylyp the younger daughter of king Henry was lad over see with sir richard the duke's brother of yolk and sir Edmond Courteney bishop of Norwiche & many other lords knights & squires ladies & gentle women that apparteyned to such a kings dougher and came in to Denmake/ and the king received this worthy lady for his wife/ & welcomed these worthy lords & did unto them moche worship/ and they were brought unto a town that was called London in Denmark/ & there was this lady wedded and sacred to the king of Denmark Norway and Swythen & there was crowned queen of Denmark with moche solemnity & there was made a rial feest. And when this feast and marriage was done and ended these lords and ladies took their leave of the king and the queen and came again in to Enlonde in safety thanked be god. ¶ And in the viii year of king Henrys reign there was a man that was called the welsh clerk/ & he appealed a knight that was called sir Percyvale Snowdone of treason/ & there they were joined to fight unto the utterance with in/ lists & the day and place & time assigned & limited to be done & ended in smithfield/ at the which day though two persons came in to the field and fought sore & mightily togoder/ but at the last the knight over come the clerk & made him yield him as recreant of his false enpechement that he had said on him/ & than was he despoiled of his armure & drawn out of the field to Tybu●ne & there he was hangyed and the knight taken to grace & was a good man./ ¶ And in the same year the Earl of Northumberlonde and the lord Bardolfe came out of scotland in prejudice and destruction of king Henry/ wherefore they of the north country aroson upon them and fought with them and discomfited them and took them & smote of their hedes and quartered their bodies and sent the heed of the earl & a quarter of the lord Bardolfe to London and there they were sets upon London bridge for false treason that they had purposed against the king. ¶ And in the ix. year of king Henry's reign was sire Edmonde Holonde earl of Kente made Amerall of England for to keep the see/ and he went to the see with many rial ships that were full well arrayed and enparelled and enarmed with many a good man of arms and arches and of good defence of war in the kings name of England/ and so he landed at the last in the cost of britain in the isle of Bryak with all his folk/ and he besieged the castle and assaunted it & they withstood him with great defence & strength. And anon he laid his ordinance & in the dying of a gone there come a quarrel & smote the good earl Edmonde in the heed & there he caught his deed wound/ but yet they left not till that they had gotten the castle and all that were therein. ¶ And there this good Lord died on whose soul god have mercy. Amen. ¶ And than this meinie came home again into England with the Earls body and was buried amongs his ancestors' right worthily. ¶ And in the same year was a great frost in england that dured xu weeks. long. ¶ And in the ten year of king Henry's reign the fourth came the Soneschall of Henaude with other meinie in England to seek adventures and to get him worship in deeds of arms both on horseback and on foot at all manner points of war●e. ¶ And the seneschal challenged the earl of Somerset and the earl delivered him full manfully of all his challenges and put his adversary unto the worst in all points and wan him there great worship and the degree of the field. And on the next day after came into the field an other man of arms of Seneschals party. And against him came sir richard of Arundel knight/ & the Henaude had the better of him on foot in on point for he brought him on his knees. And on the third day come in an other man of armer in to the field/ and against him trere came. sir Iohn Corn waylle knight/ and manly and knightly he quite him in all manes points against his adversary and had the better in the field And on the fourth day came another man of arms of Henaude in to the field/ and against him came sir Iohn Chains son and manly quite him against his adversary. For he cast horse and man into the field/ and the king for his manhood at that time dubbed him knight And on the fift day there came an other man of arms of the henaud's party into the field/ and to him came in Sir johan steward knight/ and manfully he quit him in all manner points & had the better. And on the sixth day after came an other Henaunde/ and to him came William porter squire and manfully he quite him and had the better in the field/ and the king dubbed him knight that same tyme. And on the seventh day after came an other man of arms of Henaude in to the field & to him came johan standisshe squire and manfully he quite him on his adversary and had the better of him in the field and there the king dubbed him knight that same day/ And on the same day came an other man of arms of Henaude/ and to him came a squire of Gascoigne/ and proudly and manly he quite him of his adversary & had the better of him in the field/ and anon the king dubbed him knight. ¶ And on the viii day came into the field two other men of arms of Henaude and with them met two soldiers of calais the which were two brethren that were called Burghes/ & they well and manly quite themself upon their adversaries and hadden the better of them in the field. and thus ended these challenges with many great lordships And then the king at the reverence of these worthy strangers made a great feast & gaafe unto them many great and rich gifts and then they took their leave and went home again into their own country. ¶ And in the xi year of king Henry's reign the fourth there was a great battle do in smithfield between two squires/ that one was called Gloucestre that was the parliament. And Arthur was the defendant/ and well & manly they fought together long time/ & the king for their manfulness and of his grace took their quarrel into his hand and made them to go out of the field at ones & so they were divided of the battle and the king gaf them grace. ¶ And in the xii year of king Henry's reign the fourth. Rysdye a squire of wales that was arybelle a ryser & supporter to Omen of Glendre that died moche destruction to the people of wales was taken and brought to London & there he came afore the justices and was dampened for his treason/ and than he was laid on an hurdle & so drawn to Tyburn through the city and there he was hanged and let down again & his heed smitten of and the body quartered & sent unto four towns and his heed seat on London bridge. ¶ And in the xiii year of king Henry's reign though died sire johan Beauforde earl of Somersette. that was capitain of calais and was buried at the abbey of the Tour hill on whose soul god have mercy Amen. And in the same year the lord Thomas king Henry's son wedded the Countess/ of Somersette. ¶ And in this same year came the ambassadors of France in to England from the duke of Burgoyne unto the prince of England king Henry's son & heir for to have help and succour of men of arms and archers against the duke of orleans. And though went over see the earl of Arundel. sir Gylbert Vmfrevyll earl of Keme/ and the lord Cobham sir Iohn Oldecastelle and many other god knights and worthy squires & men of arms and good archers in to France and came to Paris to the duke of Burgoyn And there he received & welecomed these englishmen the lords & all other many. And than it was done him to weet that the duke of Orlyance was comen to Semttlowe fast by Paris with a great number of arms and arbalesters/ & thither went our englishmen & fought with them & gate the bridge of Sem●clowe & there they slew moch● people of frenchmen & arbalesters & the remanant fled & would not longer abide. And than our Englysshmen came again to Paris & there they took their leave of the duke and came again in to England in safety and the duke gaafe them great gifts/ & anon following the duke of orleans sent ambassadors in england to king Henry the fourth bese ching him of his help & socure/ against his deadly enemy the duke of Burgoyn. And than the king made Thomas his son duke of Clarence. And his other son Iohn duke of bedford/ and his other son Humphrey duke of Gloucestre & Sir Thomas Beauferd earl of Dorset & the duke of Awe marvel he made duke of york. And than the king ordained his son sir Thomas the duke of Clarence Thomas Beauforde earl of Dorset & sir Iohn cornwyll with many other lords knights & squires and men of arms archers for to go over see in to France in helping and strengthing of the duke of orleans. And these whothy lords with their retinue shipped at Hampton & sailed over the see in to Normandye & landed at Hogs. And there met with them the lord Hambe at their landing with vii thousand men of arms of frenchmen & three Serge aunts of arms with them and all were put to flight & taken of them ·vii. hundred men of arms and four hundred horses with out though that were slain in the field. And so they road forth through out all France and token castles and towns and slew moche people of frenchmen that with stood them & took many prysoneere as they roden And so they passed forth till they came to Bordeaux & there they rested them a while & set the country in peace & rest till the wind was ready for to sail. ¶ And than the duke with his meinie come home in to England in safety thanked god/ And in the same year was the kings coin changed through out England by the king & his counsel/ that is to say the noble half noble and farthing of gold. ¶ And the xiiii year of king Henry's reign the fourth he let make Galays of war for he had hoped to have passed the great see & so forth to Iherusalem & there to have ended his life/ but god visited him so soon after with infirmities & great sickness that he might no well endure no while so fervently he was taken & brought in bed at westminster in a fair thambre And as he lay in his head he asked his chamberlayll what they called that chambre that he lay in & he answered & said Iherusalem. And than he said that the prophecy said that he should make an end & die in Iherusalem And than he made him did unto god & disposed all his will. And so on after he died & was carried by water from westminster in a barge unto Feversham and from thence he was carried to Caunterbury by land with moche torch light brenning into the abbey of Crechyrche and there he was entered & buried beside saint Thomas of Caunterburyes' shrine & thus ended the worthy king Henry & about mydlente sunday in the year of our lord a. M. CCCC. and xxi upon whose soul god have mercy Amen. MArtyn the .v. was pope after Iohn xiii year/ this man was chosen by the counsel of Constantinople & the other was deposed that strof. and so came peace in the church the which long time afore was desired & necessary for the defence of the faith. This was the mightiest pope that ever was of richesse/ & a great judge. He edified towns walls streets & he destroyed heresies/ & he died much good through the noble prince Sygysmonde. And he gathered moche money for to getten the holy land again/ but death came upon him & letted him & he made a counsel afore his death for the matter & there he deceased. ¶ Eugenius was pope after Martin xvii year/ this Eugenius was chosen peaceable after the death of Martin/ & no man doubted but he was pope/ but soon after he was expulsed from Rome/ for it was so that he fled naked also he was cited to the counsel of Basylyens & deposed/ but he discharged him not/ and for that begun the strife again the which stood to his death. And those that favoured him said he was worth moche loving/ & the contrary said those that were against him but what somever he was after he had taken the dignity upon him afore he was of great obstynaunce & of good fame. & what he died after that I leave to the judgement of god· ¶ Circa Annum dm. M. CCCC.xxi. ¶ Of king Henry the fift that was king Henry's sone. ANd after the death of king Henry the fourth reigned king Henry his son that was borne at Monmouthe in wales that was a worthy king and a gracious man and a great conqueror. ¶ And in the first year of his reign for great love & goodness he sent to the ferres of Langley there as his father had do bury king Richard the second & let take his body out of the earth again and died bring it to westminster in a ryal chare covered with black velvet & banners of diverse arms about & all the horse drawing the char were trapped in black & beaten with diverse arms/ & many a torch brenning by all the way till he came to westminster/ and there he let make for him a rial and solemn enterement and buried him by queen Anne his wife as his own desire was on ferther side of saint Edward's shrine in the abbey of saint Peter'S in westminster on whose soul god have mercy Amen ¶ And in this same year were a certain of lollers taken and false heretics that had purposed through false treason for to have slain our king/ and for to have destroyed all the clergy of the ream and they might have had their false purpose. But our lord god would not suffer it/ for in haste our king had warning thereof and of all their false ordinance and werkinge and came suddenly with his power to Saint Iohans without smithfield and anon they took a certanye of the Lollers and false heretics and brought them to the kings presence/ and there they told all there falls purpose & ordinance how they would have do and wrought if they might have reigned and had their will/ and there they told which were their Capytayens and governors and than the king commanded them to the Tower of London/ and than took moo them both within the city and without and sent them too Newgate and to both/ counteers. And than they were brought in examination before the clergy and the kings justyces and there they were convicted for their false heresy and dampened before the justice for their false treason. ¶ And this was their judgement that they should be drawn from the tower of London to Saint Gelys field and there to be hanged and brent on the gallows. ¶ And there was taken sir Roger Acton knight for heresy and eke for treason against the king and the Ream/ and he came afore the clergy and was conuy●te for his heresy and dampened before the justice too be drawn from the Tower of London through the city to Saint Gelys and to be hanged and brent. ¶ And in the second year of King Henry's reign the fifth he held a counsell of all the lords of the ream at westminster and there he put him this demand and prayed and besought them of their goodness and of their good counsel and will to show him as touching the title of the right that he had to Normande Gascoigne and Guyhen the which the king of France wythelde wrongfully and untyghte fully/ the which his auncestrees before him had by true title of conquest and right heritage/ the which Normandye Gascoyn and Guyhen the good King Edward of windsor and his ancestors' before him had holden all their lives tyme. And his lords gaaf him counseyl to sendde ambassadors unto the king of France and his counsel that he should give up unto him his right heritage/ that is to say Normandye Gascoigne Guyhen the which his predecessors had holden afore him or else he would it win with strength of sword in short time with the help of almighty god. ¶ And than the dolphin of France answered to our ambassadors and said in this manner that the King was over young and to terder of age for comak any war as against him and not like yet to be a good warroure to do and make such aconqueste there upon him. And somewhat in scorn and despite he sent to him a ton full of propos balls because he would have some what for to play with all for him and for his lords/ for that would be come him better then for to● maintain any war. ¶ And then anon our Lords that were ambassadors took their leave and came in to England again & told the king & his counsel of the ungodly answer that they had of the dolphin/ & of the present the which he had sent to our king. ¶ And when the king had heard their words & the answer of the dolphin he was wonder sore aggrieved & right evil apaid toward the frenchmen & toward the king & the dolphin/ & thought to avenge him on them as soon as god would send him grace & might/ & anon let make tennis balls for the dolphin in all the haste that might be/ and they were great gonstones for the Dolphin to play with all/ And than anon the king sent for all his lords & held a great counsel at westminster & told unto them the answer that they had of the dolphin & of the worthy present that he sent to him and to his lords to play with all. And there the king & his lords were accorded that they should be ready in arms with their pow●r in the best array that might be done and get men of arms & archers that might be gotten & all other stuff that longed to war & to be ready with all their retinue to meet at Southampton by Lammasse next following without any delay. wherefore the king ordained his navy of ships was with all manre stuff & victual the longed to such a warrior of all manner of ordinance in the haven of Southampton in to the nombere of. CCC. and twenty sails. And than fell there a great disease & a foul mischief for there were iii lords which that the king trusted much on/ & through falls covetise they had purposed & imagined the kings death & thought to have slain him and all his brethren or he had taken the see the which three lords were named thus sire richard earl of Chambrydge brother to the duke of york/ the second was she lord Scrop treasurer of England/ the third was sir Thomas Gray knight of the North country. And these three lords afore said for lucre of money had made a promise unto the frenchmen for to have slain king Henry the fift & all his brethren by a falls train suddenly or they had be ware. But god almighty held his holy hand over them and saved them from these perilous meinie. And for to have done this they received of the Frensshemen a million of gold/ and that was there openly known/ and for their false treason they were all three judged unto the death/ and this was the judgement that they should be laadde through Hampton & without Northgate there to be heeded/ & thus they ended their lives for thyr false covetise and treason/ And anon as this was done the king and all his men ye made them ready and went to ships and sailed forth with fifteen hundred ships and arrived with in sayn at Kydecause upon our ladies even the assumption in Normandy with all his ordinance. And so went him forth to Harflet & he besieged the town all about by land and eke by water & sent to the capitain of the town & charged him to deliver town. And captain said that he would deliver him none he would him yield/ but bade him do his best. And than our king laid his ordinance unto the twone/ that is to say Gonnes engines & trypgettes & shotten and cast at the walls & eke unto the town/ & cast down both towers & town and laid them unto the earth/ & there he played at the tennis with his hard gone stones. ¶ And they that were within the town when they should play their songs was well away and Alas that ever such tennis balls were made/ and cursed all though that war began and the time that ever they were borne. ¶ And on the morn the king did cry at every gate of the town that every man should be ready on the morn early to make assault unto the town. and wyllyam Boucher & johan Grant with xii other burgeys worthy men came to the king & besought him of his rial princehood & power to withdraw his malice and destruction that he did to them and besought him of viii days of respyce & truce if any rescue might come to them/ & else to yield up the town unto him with all their goods And than the king sent forth the capitain and kept the remnant still with him & the lord Gaucort that was captain of the town went forth to Royn in all the haste unto the dolphin for help & succour but there was none ne no man of rescue/ for the dolphin would not abide. And thus this capitain come again unto the king & yielded up the town and delivered him the keys and bade him go and put out all the frenchmen both men women and children and stuff his town of Har●et with english people. And than the king sent in to England and died cry in every good town of England that what crafty man would come thydes & inhabit him there in that town he should have house and household to him and to his heirs for ever more. ¶ And so though went many diverse merchants and crafty men and inhabit them there to strength the town and were welcome. ¶ And when the king saw that this town was well stuffed both of victuals and of men this worthy prince took his leave & went to calais ward by land/ and the frenchmen herd of his coming they thought for to have stopped him his way that he should not pass that way and in all the haste that they might braken all the bridges where that as any passage was for horse and man in so much that there might no man pass over the river neither on horse ne on foot but if he should have be drowned. And therefore our king with all his people went and sought this way far up to Paris ward and there was all the rial power of France assembled and ready to give him battle & for to destroy all his people. But almyghte god was his guide and saved him & all his meinie & defended him of his enemies power and purpose thanked be god that saved so his own knight & king in his rightful title. ¶ And than our king be holding and saying the great multitude and number of his enemies to withstand his way and give him battle/ than the king with a meek heart & a good spirit life up his hands to almighty god & be souhht him of his help and succour and that day to save his true servants. And than our king gathered all his lords & other people about & bade them all to be of good there/ for they should have a fair day and a gracious victory & the better of all their enemies/ and prayed them all to make them ready unto the battle. For he would rather be deed that day in the field. than to be taken of his enemies for he would never put the ream of England to raumsome for his person. ¶ An the duke of york fell on his knees and besought the king of above that he would grant him that day the avauntwarde in his battle/ and the King granted him his asking and said/ gramercy cousin of york and prayed him to make him ready. And than he had every man to ordain him a stake of tree and sharp both ends that the stake might be pight in the earth a slope that their enemies should not overcome them on horseback for that was there false purpose & arrayed them for to over ride our enemy suddenly at the first coming on of them at the first brunt. And all the night before the battle thee/ frenchmen made many great fierce and moche revyll with howting ● shouting and played our king & his lords at the dice. And archer alway for a blank of their money/ for they wend that all had been theirs the morn arose the day gan sping. And the king by good advice let array his battle and his wings and charged every men to keep them whole together and prayed them all to be of good there. And when they were ready he asked what time of the day it was & they said prime Than said our king now it is good time for all england prayed for us/ and therefore be of good cheer & let us go to our journey. And than he said with high voys in the name of almighty god & saint George advance Banner and saint George this day thine help. ¶ And than this frenchmen came pricking down as they would have over riden all our many. but god and our archers made them right soon to stumble/ for our archers shoot never arrow amiss but it perished & brought unto the ground both horse & man/ for they shoot that day for a wager. And our stakes made them top over terve each one over other that they lay onhepes two heaps length of high. And our king with his meinie and with his men of arms and archers that sthacked on them so thick with arrows and laid on with staves & our king with his hands fought manly that day. And thus god almighty and saint George brought our enemies to ground & gaf us that day the victory. There were slain of Frensshmen the day in the field of Agyngcourt moo than xi thousand with our prisoners that were taken & there were numbered that day of frenchmen in the field moo than sir score thousand. But god that day fought for us. And after came there tidings to our King that there was a new battle of frenchmen ordained ready for to steel on him and came towards him. And anon our King let cry that every man should do slay his prisoners that he had taken / and anon to make them again ready for to fight with the french men/ And when they saw that our men killed down their prisoners than they died withdraw/ them and broke their battle & all their array. and thus our king was a worthy conqueror had that day the victory in the field of Agyngcourte in Pycardye/ And than our king return again there that the battle was for to see what people were slain of englishmen/ & if any were hurt that they might be helped. And there were deed in the field the duke of Barrye the duke of Alaunsome the duke of Braban the Earl of Naverne chief Constable of France/ and viii earls & the archbishop of Sans and of good barons an hundred and more/ & of worthy Knights of great alliance of cote armours a thousand & .v. hundred. And so of Enelysshe men was deed the duke of york and the earl of Southfolke/ & of all other englishmen there were not deed passing xxvi bodies thanked be god. And this battle was on a friday which was saint Cryspyne & Crispymanes day in the month of Octobre/ and anon the king commanded to bury them and the duke of york to be carried forth with him and the earl of Southfolke. And there were prisoners the duke of orleans the duke of Bourbon the earl of Vendome the earl of ewe the earl of Rychemonde & sir Bursygaunt Marchall of France & many other worthy lords were taken there in this battle of Agyngcourte & were brought unto the town of calais & so over the see with the king in to England and landed at Dover in Kente with all prysoneres in safety thanken bo god almighty/ & so came to Caunterbury and offered at saint Thomas shrine & so he road forth through the country of Kente the next way unto Eltham & there he rested till that he would come to London. And than the mayor of London and the aldermen shreves/ with all the worthy commoners and crafts came to the black heath well and worthily arrayed/ for to welcome our king with diver melodies/ and thanked almighty god of his gracious victory that he showed for him And so the king and his prisoners passed forth by them till he came to saint thomas watering/ and there met with him all religious men with procession and welcomed him and so the king came tiding with his prisoners through the city of London where that then was showed many a fair sight at all the conduits and at the cross in cheap as in heavenly array of angels archangels patryarkes prophets and virgins with diverse melodies sensing and synginge to welcome the king and all the conduits running with wine & the king passed forth to saint Paul's and there met with him ·xiiii. bishops all revessed & mitred with sensers to welcome the king/ and there they song for his gracious victory. Tedeum laudamus. And there the king offered and took his horse and road to westminster/ & than the mayor took his leave of the king and road home again. ¶ And in the third year of king Henry's reign the fifth come the Emperor of Almaigne king of Rome and of hungry in to England and so to the city of London. And the mayor & the aldermen with the shreves and worthy crafts of London by the kings commandment met with him on the black heath in the best array that they could ●on horseback. And there they welcomed him and brought him unto London with moche honour and great reverence And at saint Thomas watering there met with him the King with all his lords in good array. And there was a worthy meeting between the Emperor and King Henry the fift and there they kissed together. And embraced each other/ and than the King took the Emperor by the hand and so they came riding through the city of London unto saint Paul's and there they alighted and offered and all the bishops stood revesshed with sensers in their hands senging to them. And than they took their horses and road unto westminster And the King lodged the Emperor in his own palace and there he rested him a great while & all at the Kings cost. ¶ And soon after came the duke of holland into England to come and see there the Emperor and to speak with him and with our King Henry of england. And he was worthily received and lodged in the bishops Inn of Ely and all at the kings cost. ¶ And when the Emperor had well rested him and seen the land in diverse parties and knew the commodities than by the process of time he took his leave of the king/ but or he yode he was made knight of the garter and retained and wered the livery. And than he thanked the king and all his lords. And than the king and he went over the see unto calais and aboden there long time to have an answer of the french king. and at the last it came and pleased him right nought/ and so the Emperor took his leave of the king and passed forth in god's name/ and our king came over again into England in all the haste that he might & that was on saint Lucas even that he came to Lambythe/ and the monday next he came in to the parlement at westminster. ¶ And in this same year was a great dearth of corn in england. but thanked be god it lasted not long. ANd in the fourth year of King Henry's reign the fifth he held his parliament at westminster in the beginning of Octobre and last to the purification of our lady than next after. And there was granted unto him to maintain his wars both of spyrytualtee and of temporalty an hole ●are & a dyeme. And than anon the king prayed all his lords to make them ready to strength him in his right. And anon he let make a new retinue and charged all his men to be ready at Hampton in whitsun week than next after with out any delay. And there the king made the duke of Bedford protector and defender of his ream of england in his absence and charged him to keep his laws & maintain both spiritual and temporal. And when the king had thus do and set all thing in his kind. On saint Marks day he took his horse at westminster and came riding to Paul's and there offered and took his leave/ and so road forth through the city takenge his leave of all manner of people as well poor as rich praying them all in general to pray for him. And so he road forth to saint George's and there offrede & took his leave of the mayor charging him to keep well his chambre. And so he road forth to Hampton and there abode till his retinue were ready and comen for there was all his navy and ships with his ordinance gathered together and well stuffed as longed to such a rial king with all manner of victuals for such a rial people as well for horse as for man as longed for such a warrior. That is to say gonnes trypgytes engines sows bastyles/ bridges letge● sclyning ladders malles and spades shovels picks pavys bows and arrows bows strings and tons chests and pipes full of arrows as needed for such a worthy warrior that no thing was to seche when time come/ thither came to him ships laden with gonnes and gonpoudre. ¶ And when this was ready & his retinue come the king and all his lords with all his rial host went to ship and took the see and sailed into Normandye and landed at Touke upon Lammasse day than next after/ And there he made xlviii knights at his landing. And than the king hearing of many enemies upon the see/ that is for to say ix great Carackes' husks Galays and ships that were coming to destroy his navy. And anon he commanded the earl of March to be chief chyeftayne and many other worthy lords with him and with men of arms and archers to go to the see that none enemies defouled his navy ne entered his viage ne his journey. And anon the earl took his meinie & went to ship & scummed the see & kept the see costs that no manner of enemies durst rout upon the see/ and anon the king sent his heraudes unto the capitain of Touke and charged him for to deliver him his castle and his town and else he would neither leave man ne child alive. And anon the capitain and four other burgesses of the town brought the keys to the King and besought him of grace. And the King delivered the keys to sir johan Kyke●a●e and made him capitain & commanded him for to put out all frenchmen both of castle and of the town. And there beside was the castle of Lovers and thither the king sent the earl Marchall with a fayremenye and assaulted the town/ and anon it was yoleden to the earl and brought him the keys/ and he brought them to the King and the King took them to him again and made him capitain of the castle of Lovers & of all that longed thereto/ and charged him to deliver out all the frenchmen/ and than the king held forth his way to Cane that was a strong town & a fair & a rial castle therein/ and anon he sent his Heraudes to the capitain & charged him to deliver the town & his castle or else he would get them with strength of hand. And they answered & said. that he took them none to keep ne none the would deliver unto him. And so anon he laid his siege unto the town and laid gonnes on every side and cast done both walls & towers and slew moche people in their houses/ & also in streets. And the good duke of Clarence laid down the walls on his side unto the bare groande/ And so with in a while the king by his counsell assaulted the town all about And anon the Duke of Clarence was entered in to the tow and slew down right till he came to the king and spared neither man no child/ and ever they cried a Clarence a Clarence and saint George/ And there was deed on the walls on the kings side a worthy man that was called Springs that which the king commanded to be buried in the abbey of Canefast by wyllyam Conqueror. on whose soul god hwe mercy amen. And than the king came in to the tow with his brother the Duke of Clarence and many other worthy lords with moche solemnity & mirth. And then the king commanded the capitain for to deliver him his Castle. And he besought the king to give him xiiii. days of respite if any rescue would come/ & if none would come to deliver him the keys & the castle at his commandment. And under this comeposytion was the town & the castle of Bayous with other towns fortresses and vyl●ages in to the nobre off xiiii· upon the hill be fore the castle of Cane our king pight all his tents that seemed a town as much as the Cane & by that time came tidings that none resowe would come there And so at the xiiii days end the capitain of the castle came out and delivered the keys of the castle to our king/ & bayous & the other xiiii. towns were delivered unto him also/ & anon the king delivered the keys to the duke of Clarence & made him capitain both of the town and also of the castle/ & made him capitain of Bayorus & of all the other towns also/ And so he entered the town & the castle/ & there he held saint George's feast/ and there he made xv. knights of the bathe/ there was sir allows Robert salyn Chaynye Mougomerye & many other worthy men & the king commanded them for to put out all the frenchmen and women/ & no man so hardy to defoul no woman ne take no manner of good away from them but let them pass in peace on pain of death. And there passed out of the town in one day moo than xv. hundred women/ And than the king let stuff the town and Castle with Englishmen and ordained there two captains that one for the town & an other for the castle. ¶ And charged them upon their lives to keep well the town and the castle. And or that our king went thence he gate Valleys Newelyn and laid asyege to Chyrburgh/ and that siege laid the Duke of Gloucestre with a strong power and a mighty/ and by process of time and made there a capitain of the same town. ¶ And this same time the good Eerle of warwick laid a siege unto Donnfronte and gate it and put therein a captain. And for to speak more of the Eerle of March that the king ordained tho for to scum the see and to keep the costs of England for all manner of enemies. The wind rose upon them that they wend all to have been lost/ but through the grace of almaghty god and good governance they rodden afore the isle of wight all that storm. And there was lost two Carackes' and two Balyngers with merchandise and other great goods/ & all the people that were within them. And an other Carrack broke up before Hampton and threw his mast over the walls of the town and this was on saint Barthelomeus day/ And when all this storm was cessed. This worthy Earl of march took his ships with his meinie and went to the see & landed in Normandye at Hogs and so roden forth to wards the king/ ¶ And ever as he came the frenchmen fled/ & there came to them an Anthony pig and followed the host all the way Till they came to a great water and there they dread to have be drowned or drenched/ For the water closed them so that they might no where get out/ ¶ But at the last god almighty and this Anthony Pygge brought them all in safety out/ And there they caught them a guide that knew the Country about and he brought them through a quick Sande/ And so forth in to an isle. and also they took many prisoners by the way to ward the king in their journey/ and so they to men unto the castle Cane And there the king welcomed him and took his journey at Argentun and anon though ●t was yoleden to the king and they had their lives and went their way. And than our king removed unto a strong town that though was called Cese/ and there was a fair minster and they yield it up anon unto the king. And than the king went from thence to ●laūsome and wan the town & the bridge/ and the king sent the Earl of warwick to a town that was called Belesme with a great & strong power and anon they yield it and put them all to the kings grace & in his mercy/ & so died many strong towns and castles that were in though parties. And from thence they went to Vernyll in perch. & anon it was yoleden unto the king both the town and the castle and bodies and gods to the kings good grace/ and so the King gate and conquered all the towns & castles piles strengths and abbeys unto the city of rone. ¶ And in the fifth year of king Henry's reign the fifth/ sir johan Oldcastell that was the lord cobham was arrested for heresy and brought unto the Tower of London/ & anon after he broke the Tower and went into wales & there he kept him long tyme. And at the last the lord Powies took him/ but he stood at great defence long time and was sore wounded or he would be taken and so the lord Powies men brought him out of wales unto London again in a whyrlcole and so he was brought to westminster and there was examined of certain points that were put upon him. and he said not nay & so he was convyte of the clergy for his heresy/ And dampened before the justyces unto the death for treason. And then he was lad to the tour again/ and there he was laid on an hurdle & drawn through the city to saint Gelys field & there was made a new pair of gallows and strong & a collar of iron for him and there he was hanged and brent on the gallows and all for his lewdness and his false opinions. ANd in the vi year of king Henrye the fifth. He sent his uncle sir Thomas Beauforde duke of Excestre with a fair meinie of men of arms and archers before the city of Rone and there dyspleyed his Banner & scent herod's unto the town and bad them yield that city unto our king their lyege lord & they said he took them none to keep ne none he should have there but if it were dear bought and moved with their hands for other answer would they none give but gonnes. ¶ And there the duke took good any cement of the ground all about. And anon there issued out of the city a great meinie of men of arms both on horseback and on foot and and anon our meinie met with them and over true a great heap of them and there taken and slain thirty. persons of full right good men's bodies and the remnant fled aien in to the town/ and the duke went unto Pountlarge unto the king. and told him all how that he had sped and how that he liked the ground. ¶ And anon as the duke was gone they cast down all the subarbes about the city unto the hard ground. For because the king should there no refusing. And upon the friday before lammasdaye than next following. onre king with his host came before Rone/ and anon he seat his siege round about that city/ and anon he let lay his ordinance unto the town. And the king with his lords were logded within the chartre house and great strength about them and that was in the east party of the city. And than the duke of Clarence lodged him with all his strength and power at the west end in a waste abbey before proce Chanx. And the duke of Exchestre with his meinie in the north side before the port Beawesyn. And between the duke of Clarence and the duke of Excestre was the Earl Marchall lodged with moche people and a strong power before the castle gate. ¶ And than the Earl of Ormonde with the lord Haryngton and also the Lord Talbot with their retinue and company next him ¶ And than Sir johan cornwall with many other noble Knights and Squyres of name with all their retinue lay with the noble duke of Clarence. ¶ And than from the duke of Excestre towards the king were lodged the Lord Roos/ and the lord wylleby with the Lord Phehewe and Sire wyllyam porter knight with their retinue before the port of Saint hylary. And than was the Earl of Mortaye with his retenne lodged in the abbey of saint Katherynes. ¶ And the Earl of Salesbury with his retinue lay on that other side of Saint Katherynes'/ and Sir johan gray knight was lodged at the abbey that is called mount du saint Mychel And sir Phylyp Leche. knight the kings treasurer was lodged between the water of sayn and the abbey and kept the ward under the hill And the baron of Carowe was lodged under the water side for to keep the passage/ and jenyco the squire lay next him on the water side/ and these two squires kept manly the water of said & fought with their enemies oft times. And on that other side of sayn lay the earl of Hontyngdon & master nevil the earls son of westmer london/ and sir Gylbert Vm●reuyll earl of Keme/ and sir richard earl of Arundel & the lord Feryers with their retinue before port du pounte and each of these lords had strong ordinance/ & the king died make at Pountlarge over the water of sayn a strong and amyghty chain of Iron & put it through great pylis fast pight in the ground & that went over the river of sayn that no vessel might pass that in to kind. And above that chain the king let make a bridge over the water of sayn that man & horse & all other carriage might go to and fro at all times when need were. And than came the earl of warwyke and had gotten Dounfronte unto king Henry of England. And anon the king sent the earl of warwick to Cawdebeke for to be siege it/ And when he came before the town he sent his Heraudes unto the capitain and bad him yield up the town upon pain of death and anon he laid his siege. And the capitain besought the earl that he might come unto his presence and it pleased him & speak with him/ and so the good earl granted him for to come. And than he came out and four other burgeys came with him & entreated so with this earl that this same town was under composition to be done as the city of Rome died and the Earl granted and consented tho●to upon this condition that the kings navy of England with his ordinance/ might pass by them in safety with out any manner of let or dysturbaunce. And to his composition they seat to their seals. And the ships passed up by them in safety and came before the city of Rone in to an hundred ships & there they cast their anchors/ and than this city was besieged both by land and by water. And when all this was done and the ships comen up than came the earl of warwyke again to the king and lodged him between the abbey of saint Katherynes and the king till that the abbey enteraced and so was yoleden unto the king. And than he removed him thence and lodged him before the port Martenuylye/ and though was the earl of Salysbury commanded by the King for to make him ready for to ride but there came hasty tidings and made him to abide. And so he returned again and lodged him beside the good Earl of Huntyngdon till that siege was ended. ¶ And then came the good duke of Gloucestre the kings brother from the siege of Chyrbourghe the which he had gotten and stuffid it again unto the kings behove and profit unto the crown of england. And when he was comen to the king before Rone he lodged with great ordinance before the port Saint hylary more nearer the town and his enemies then any other lay by xl rods of lenthe within shoot of quarrel. And with him lay the Earl of Southfolke and the Lord of Bergeyeney with all his retinue and strong ordinance and manly and proudly fought every day with their enemies ever when they issued out of the city. ¶ And than came the prior of Kylmayne of ireland over the see to the king with a fair many of arms of their own country guise the sum of xvi hundred good men's bodies/ and the king welcomed them and made them good there. ¶ And than came thydynges unto the king that the king of France and the dolphin with the duke of Burgoyne would come down and rescue the city of Rone with a strong power of all manner of nations and break the siege And casteth him to enter on the north side of the host by cause that there was the best entering and most plain and there for the king assyned the prior of Kylmayne with his power and lodged him on the north side of the host for to stop their passage and was by the forest of Lions and of this ordinance they were full glad & so they went forth in all haste & kept the ground and the place that the king & his counsel had assigned/ and they quite them as good warryours unto thyer king. ¶ Now will I tell you which were the chief captains & governor of the city of Rome. Monsyr ●uy Boteler was chief capitain both of the city and of the castle. And Mon sire Teymygan he was capitain of port Canx. Mon sir de all Roche he was capitain of the Dysners. Mon sir Anthony he was lieutenant to. Mon sir Guy Botyler/ Henry Chantfyen he was the capitain of the port dela Pounte· johan Materuas' was capitain of the port de la castle/ Monsyr de Preant he was capitain of the port of Saint hylary/ The bastard of Tyne he was captain of the port Martenuylle/ And grant Jakes a worthy warrior he was capitain of all men of war and he wis governor outward both on horseback and on foot of all men of arms when they issued out of the city of all the ports than he arrayed them all they should encounter with our meinie. And each of the captains lad five thousand/ men of arms and some moo. And of the first coming of our King their were numbered by Heroudes in to three hundred thousand of men and women & children what young and old/ & among all these was many a man full man of his hands and so the proved them when they issued out of the city both on horseback and on foot/ for they came never at one gate alone/ but at three or four gates and atten every gate two or three thousand of good men's bodies armed & manfully encountered with our Englyssmen and moche people slain diverse times with guns quarrels and other ordinance. And this siege dured ·xx. weeks and every they of the town trusted to have be rescued but there came none/ so at the last they kept town so lange that there died many a thousands within the town for default of meet of men and children/ for they had eaten their horses dogs and cats that were in the town. And often times the men of arms drofe out the poor people out at the gates of the town for spending of victuals/ and anon our englishmen drofe them into the town again So at the last the capitain of the town saw the mischief and that they were not rescued and also the scarcity of victual and that the people died so for default of meet every day many thousands/ And also saw young children lie and suck their moders paps & were deed. ¶ Than anon they sent to the king beseeching him of his grace and mercy and brought the keys of the town unto the king and delivered the town to him & all the soldiers void the town with their horses and harness and the comunes of the town for to abide and dwell still in the town yearly/ to pay to him & to his successors for all manner customs and see fermes & katerenes. And than the king entered in to the town and rested him in the castle till of the wne was set in rule and in governance. ¶ How the king of england was made enheyrytoure and regent of France and how he wedded queen Katherine. ANd anon after that Rone was gotten Deep and many other towns in the base Normandye gaf them over without stroke or siege when they understood that the king had gotten Rone Also this year had be a peace made & sworn between the duke of Bugoyne and the dolphin which were sworn on god's body that they should love and assysse each other against their enemies. And after this contrary to this oath duke Iohn of burgoyne was slain and piteously murdered in the presence of the dolphin wherefore the frenchmen were greatly devydeb & of very necessity laboured to have a treaty with the king of England. for the king of England wan daily of them towns castles▪ & fortresses. ¶ Also this same year was queen jane arrested & brought unto the castle of Ledes in Kent. And one ●rere Radulfe a doctor of divinity confessor which afterward was slain by the persoone of the tour falling at words and debate. And after ward queen jane was delivered. ¶ And in the vii year both the king of france and of England were accorded and king Henry was made heir and regent of France and wedded dame Katherine the daughter of/ france at Troy's in champagne▪ on trinity sunday. And this was made by the men of Phylyp new made duke of Burgoyne which was sworn to king Henry to avenge his faders death and was become english. ¶ And than the king with his new wife went to Paris where as he was rials received. And from thence he went with his lords And the duke of bourgoyn. and many other lords of/ france and laid siege to diverse towns & castles that held of the Dolphins party and wan them but the town of Milon held long time for therein were good defenders. In the viii year the king and the queen came over see and landed on Landelmasse day on the morn at Dover. And the xiiii day of/ Feverer the king came to London. And the xxi day of the same month the queen came. And the xxiiii of the same she was crowned at westminster. ¶ Also that same year anon after Ester the king held a palement at westminster/ at which parliament it was ordained that that gold in english coin should be weighed & none received but by weight. ●nd anon after whitsuntide the king sailed to calais and passed forth so in to France. And in the xxii day of March before the king came over the duke of Clarence was slain in France and diverse other lords taken prisoners as the earl of Huntyngdon the earl of Somerset with diverse other/ and all was because they would not taken none archers with them but thought to have overcome the frenchmen themselves without archers. And yet when he was slain the archers came & rescued the body of the duke which they would have carried with them/ god have mercy on his soul he was a valiant man. And the same year between christmas and Candlemas the town of Mylon was yoleden unto the king. ¶ In the ii year on saint Nycholas day in Decembre was borne Henry the kings first begotten son at windsor/ whose god faders at the font stone was sir Henry bishop of wynchestre and Iohn duke of Bedford and the duchess of Holonde was godmother/ and Henry chychelay archbishop of Caunterbury was god father at confirming. ¶ And in the ten year the city of Mews in Bry was gotten which had been long besieged And this same year the queen shipped at Hampon and sailed over to the king in France where she was worshipfully received of the king/ and also of the king of Fraynce her father and of her mother. And thus king Henry wan fast France and held great estate and sat at a great feast in Paris crowned & the queen also which had not been seen before/ and all people resorted unto his court/ but as to the king of France he held none estate ne rule but was left almost alone. ¶ Also this year the weather took was seat upon Paul's steeple at London. And this year in the month of August the king waxed seek at Boys devyncynt/ and when he saw he should die he made his testament & ordained many noble things for his soul and devoutly received all the rights of holy church/ in so far for they that when he was anointed he said the service with the priest/ & at the verse of the spalme of Miserere mei deus that was Benign fac dne in bona voluntate tuasyon/ ut edificentur mury Iherusalem/ he bad tarry there and said thus O good lord thou knowest that mine intent hath been and yet is if I might live to redyfye the walls of Iherusalem. And than the priest proceeded forth and made anende. And anon after this most noble prince and dyctoryous king flower in his time of christian chivalry. whom all the world doubted gave his soul in to the hands of god and died and made an end of his natural life at the for said Boys/ de vyncent beside Paris the xxxvi year of his age/ upon whose soul god have mercy. Amen. ¶ Than was the body enbamed and cyred and laid in a rial chare and an image like to him was laid upvon the corpse open with diverse banners and horses covered richly with the arms of England and France/ and also the old arms of saint Edward saint Edmonde and other with great multitude of torches/ with whom went the king of scotland and many other lords which accompanied the body till it came unto westminster by London in England and every town by the way he had solemnly his dirge on the even and mass on the morn and moche alms was given to poor people by the way And the vii day of Novembre after the corpse was brought/ through London with great reverence & solemnity to westminster where as he now lieth/ it was worshipfully buried/ & after was laid on his tomb a ryal image like himself of silver and gild which was made at the cost of queen Katherine. And thus ended and is entered and buried the noble king Henry the fifth/ upon whose soul and all crysten souls god have mercy Amen. ¶ Of the law of king Henry the fifth and what he ordained for king richard & for himself after his death. HEre is to be noted that this king Henry the fifth was a noble prince after he was king and crowned how it before in his yo●gth he had be wild reckless & spared no thing of his lust ne desires but accomplesshed them after his liking/ but as soon as he was crowned anointed & sacred anon suddenly he was changed into a new man & set all his intent to live virtuously in maintaining of holy church/ destroying of heretics/ keeping justice & defending of his ream & subgettes ¶ And for as much as his father had deposed by his labour the good king richard & piteously made him to die/ & for the offence done to him against his legaunce he had sent to rome for to be assoiled thereof For which offence our holy father the pope enyoyned him to make him to be prayed for perpetually. and like as he had done to be taken from him his natural life therefore he should do fyside four tapers to brenne perpetually about his body that for the extinction of his bodily life his soul may ever be remembered and life in heaven in spiritual life. And also that he should every week on the day as come aaboute of his death have a solemn mass of requiem & on the even afore dirge with ix lessons & a doole to poor people alway on that day of a xi. shillings & vii pens to be deled penny meal/ and ones in the year at his annyversary his terment to be holden in the most honest wise/ & ● bedeled the day twenty pound in pens to poor people And to every monk twenty shilling which all these thynhes performed this noble king for his father for king Henry the fourth/ his father performed it not during his life of whom as it is said that god did touch him & was lepreor that he died. ¶ And also this noble prince let do call all the abbots & priors of saint Benet's order in england & had all them into the chapter house of westminster for the reformation of their order wherein he had communication/ and also with bishops and men of the spiritualty/ in so far forth that they doubted sore as that he would have had the temporaltes out of their hands/ wherefore by the advise labours and procuring of the spyrytuallyte encouraged the king for to challenge Normandye and his right in France/ to that intent to set him a work there that he should not seek none occasions for to enter into such matters And than all his life time afterward he laboured & was busy in the war & in conquering a great part of the ream of/ france. and so afterward that by the grement of the King Charles he had the governance & the rule of the ream of/ france and he was proclaimed regnet & heir of/ france. ¶ And so notwithstanding for all this great war that he had/ nevertheless yet he remembered his soul & also thought that he was mortal & needs must die/ for which cause he ordained by his life time the place of his sepulture where as he is buried/ and hath every day three masses perpetually sungen in a chapel our his sepultur of the which the myddyll mass & the first and the last mass shall be as it is assigned by him as it apperyeth by these verses following. Henrici miss quinti sunt hic tabulate. Que successive sunt per monachos celebrate. ¶ De dm̄ca. Prima sit assumpre de festo virginis alme. Poscit postremam christus de morte resurgens ¶ Feria secunda. Prima salute de festo virginis extat. Nunciat angelicis laudem postrema choreis ¶ Feria tercia. Esse deum natum de virgine prima fatetur Commemorat natam sic vicima miss mariam ¶ Feria quarta. Prima celebretur ad honorem neupmatꝭ almi. Vltima conceptam denunciat ●ē mariam ¶ Feria quinta. Semper prima colideber de corpere cristi. Vltima sit facta de virgine purificata ¶ Feria sexta. Concedet ut prima celebretur de truce sanctam. Atque salutate f●et postrema maria ¶ Sabbato. Omnes ad sanctos est prima coleda super nos Vltima de requie pro defunctis petit esse. Semper erit media de proprietate d●ci. ¶ And yet the noble King Henry the fift founded two houses of religion on is called Zion beside Braynforde of the order of Saint Brygf●te both of men and women and on that other side of the river Tamyse an house of monks of Chartrehous/ in which two places he is continually prayed for night & day/ For ever when they of Zion resten than they of the chapter house do their service & in like wise when they of the Chartre house resten the other goeth to/ & by ringing of the bells of either place each knoweth when they have ended their seruyte which be nobly endowed/ & do daily there great alms deeds/ as in Charter house certain children be found to school. & at Zion certain alms given daily. And yet beside all this he found a recluse the which shall be always a priest to pray for him by the said Chartre house which priest is sufficiently endowed for him & a servant Lo here may all princes take ensample by this noble prince that reigned so little time not fully ten year & died so many noble acts as well for his soul to be perpetually remembered & prayed for/ as in his conquests & he being in his most lusty age disposed to eschew sin & was a great justicers in so much that all the princes of christendom dread him & also of hethenes'/ & he had determined in himself if god would have spared him to have warred on the saracens & for to know the aid of other princes & all the passages in the journey he sent a knight of Henaude named Hugh de lanoye unto Iherusalem/ but or he returned he died at Boys de vencence in the xxxvi year of his age. on whose soul god have mercy Amen. felix the .v. was pope when Eugenyus was deposed ix year. This man felix was duke of Sauoyen devout prince an old man. and he saw his ckyldes' child This man when he lived a holy life was chosen pope of the counsel of basil. and eugeny was deposed. and there was strife long tyme. And he had no great obedience for the deposition of eugeny: And at the last eugeny decessed. and than felix ●esygned to Nycholas for favour of puas to be had & he was made legate of France & Cardynal of Sabyanus This was the xxiii. strife betwixt Eugeny and felix & it dured. xvi· year and this was a new cause & never seen before for the counsel of basil deposed Eugeny they vere pope and there was no more for he obeyed not the decrees of the counsel of Constantinople as they said ne he charged not to obey the counsyel of basil: but he said rather the contrary should be done than as they decreed. wherefore there arose a great alteration in the matter/ for some said one way & some an other & could not accord to this day for that one party said that coū●eyll was above the pope. & an other party said the contrary the the pope was about the counsel. But they left it undetermyned. And therefore god must dispose for the best. ¶ Albert was Emperor after Syghysmonde one year. this Albert was the duke of Austre & nephew to Sygysmonde/ and therefore he was king of Beme and of Vngray for his daughter for other heir he left none. This man was chosen Emperor of almain but anon he was poisoned and died/ and he was in allthing a virtuous man that all men said he was a president to all kings. ¶ Fredericus the third was Emperor after him. this frederik was the duke of Osteryk & chosen Emperor of Almaigne but it was long or he was crowned of the pope for division. And at the last there was made an unity/ & he was crowned with a great honour of the pope in the city & was a peaceable man & a quiet & of a singular pity & he hated not the clergy (he wedded the kings daughter of Portyngale/ & in his time whiles that heregned he made a great cunuocation of princes in Ratyspona for the Incours of the Turks/ & showed unto them that now within this ·xx. year christendom was made lass by two hundred mile. and he warned them that they should be ready to resist him. ¶ And the imperial city of Constantynople was take at the same time of the misbelieving Turks & betrayed by a Ianuens whom for his labour the Turk made a king as he promised him. and the fourth day he called him to him and died hang him for his deceit to his master. And there was great sorrow and weeping among the christian people for loss of the noble city/ formany a christian man was slain & innumer able were sold: and the emperor was slain & for envy the Turk caused his heed to be smitten of when he was deed· And almost all the faith in the land of Greek failed. ¶ Nycholaus the .v. a janueus was pohe after felix viii year. This Nycholas was chosen at Rome in the place of Eugenye· and yet the strife hen gestyll/ by a little and a little they obeyed him & all men marveled that a man of so poor a nation should obtain against the duke of Savoy the which was cousin and allied all most to all the princes of crystendoome and everichone left him. Than in the year after there was a peace made/ felix resigned for it pleased our lord his name to be glorified by an object of the world as that Ianuens was in comparison of the duke the pope. This Nycholas was a master indivynyte and an active man & a rich man in conseytes & many things that were fallen he builded again/ and all the walls of Rome he renewed for dread of the Turk And there was a verse made of this unity & published in the city. ¶ Lux fulsit mundo: cessit felix Nychalao. And that in the year of our lord. M CCCC. xlix. The year of grace with a great devotion was confirmed and Innumerable people went to the appostels' setes. ¶ How king Henry the sixth reigned being a child not one year of age/ and of the battle of Vernayll in perch. AFter king Henry the fifth reigned Henry his son but a child & not fully one year of age. whose regnne began the first day of September in the year of our lord. M. CCCC.xxii. This king being in his cradle was moche doubted/ and drade because of the great conquest of his father & also the wisdom & guiding of his uncles the duke of Bedford and the duke of Gloucestre. ¶ This year the xxi day of Octobre died Charles the king of France & lieth buried at saint Denys. And than the duke of Bedford was made regne of France & the duke of Gloucestre was made protector & defender of england. ¶ And the first day of March after was sir wyllyam tailor priest degarded of his priesthood & on the morn after he was brent in smythfeld for heresy. ¶ This year sir james Steward king of Scots married dame jane the duchess daughter of clarence the which she had by her first husband the earl of Somerset at saint Mary overies ¶ Also this year the xxvii. day of August was the battle in perch between the duke of bedford reign of france and the duke of Alounsome which was a full great battle The duke of bedforde had on his side the elre of salisbury mountagu and the lord talbot and all the power that they could make in normandy and the garnisons keep & also many captains with moche people of the duke of Burgoyns. And on that other side was the duke of Ilaunsome. The duke of Turon that was the earl of Doughan and the earl Boughan with many lords of france and a great company of Scots and Armynaxies. And than the earl/ Douglas called the duke of bedford in scorn johan with the leaden sword. And he sent him word again that he should find the day that his sword was of steel. And the batay●le joined on both sides fought and long tymer that. there wist no man who should have the better a great while/ but at the last as god would the victory fell unto the english party. For there where slain the earl Douglas which a little before was made duke of Turon the earl. Boughan the earl Almemere the earl of Tonu at the earl of Vauntedor & the vyscounte of Nerbon which was one of them that slew the duke johan of Burgoyne kneeling before the dolphin & many moo unto the number of ten thousand & more And there was taken presoners and duke of Alaunsome and many other lords and gentiles of/ france. But Scots that day were slain down right the substance of them all. ¶ And the third year of king Henry the sixth the duke of Gloucestre married the duchess of Holland and went over see with her into henaude for to take possession of his wife inheritance where he was honerably received and taken for lord of that land but soon after he was fain to return home again into England. and let his wife and all his treasure that he had brought with him in a town that is called Mounle in Henaude which promised him to be true to him. notwithstanding they delivered the lady to the duke of Burgoyne which sent her to Gaunt. And from thence she escaped in a man's clothing and came into zeland to a town of her own called Syryer And from thence she went to a town in Hollonde called the Gowde and there she was strong enough & withstood the foresaid duke of Burgoyne. ¶ And soon after the duke of Gloucestree sent over see in too zelonde the Lord Fytzwater with certain men of arms and archers for to help and succour the foresaid duchess of holland which landed at a place in zeelande called. Brewer's haven where the lords of the country came down▪ and taught with him/ in conclusion he was feign to withdraw him and his meinie to the see again But yet he slew and killed & hutte diverse lords & moche people of the same country/ & returned home again into england with his many & prevailed no thing. ¶ And also this same ye●e the earl of Salysbury/ the earl of Souffolk● the lord will by and the lord Scales with their retinue laid siege to the city of Manus the which city was yold to them with many other strong towns & castles to the number of xxxvi ¶ This time all Normandye and a great part of/ ●raunce unto orleans was under the obeisance of the King of England/ and all the remanant of/ france was in great tribulation and mischief. ¶ How three was like to have be a great fray between the cardinal and the duke of Gloucestre. And of the coronation of King Henry the sixth both in England and in/ france. IN the fourth year the same night that the mayor of London johan coventry had taken his charge/ was a great watch in London for a fray that was between the bishop of wynchestre. & the duke of Gloucestre protector &c. For the mayor with the people of the city would abide by the duke of Gloucestre as protector & defender of the ream but by labour of lords that went between/ and in especial by the labour of the prince of Portyngale/ there was a poyntement taken that there was no harm done. ¶ And after the battle of Vernayll in perch the duke of bedford came over in to England. And on wytsondaye this same year at leicester he dubbed king Henry knight. And forth with the said king Henry dubbed all these/ knights whose names of lowen/ that is to wite sire richard duke of york/ also the son and heir of the Duke of Nurthfolk/ the earl of Oxford/ the earl of Westmoreland/ the son and heir/ of the earl of Northumberlond/ the son and heir of the earl of Vrmonde/ the lord Roos/ sir jamys bottelar the lord Martrauas/ sir Henry grey of Tankeruyle sir wyllyam nevil/ lord Fawconbrydge/ sir George nevil lord Latymer the lord wells/ the lord Barkle/ the son. & heir of the lord Talbot/ sir Ralph grey of work/ sir Robert veer sir Richard grey/ sir Edmonde hongerforde sire johan bottelar/ sire Raynolde Cobham sir johan passheley/ sire Thomas tunstall. johan Chydyok/ sir Ralph langeforde/ sir wyllyam drury/ sire wyllyam thomas/ richard Carbonell/ sir richard wide wile/ sir Iohn shrydelow sir wyllyam Chain/ sir wyllyam Badyngton. sir johnn june/ and sir Gylbert beauchampe. ¶ Item in the fifth year the duke of Bedford with the duchesshe his wife went over see to Calayes & a little before went over see Henry bishop of wynchestre. And on our ladies day annunciation in our lady thirche at calais the bishop of wyncestre as he had songen mass was made cardinal and he knelyge before the high altar the duke of bedford set the hat upon his heed/ and there were his bulls red as well of his charge as of the rejoicing of his benefices spyrytall and temporal. And this same year was great abundance of rain/ that the substance of hay/ & also of corn was destroyed/ for it rained almost every other day. ¶ And this same yet the good earl of Salesbury sir Thamas of Mountagu laid siege unto orleans at the which siege he was slain with a gone that come out of the town on whose soul god have mercy. Amen. For sith that he was slain english men never gate ne prevailed in France/ but ever after began to lose little till all was lost. ¶ Also this same year a Bryton murdered a good widow in her bed without Algate which widow found him for alms/ and he bore away all that she and. And after this he took the gyrthe of holy church at saint George in Southwark/ & there he took the cross and for swore this land. And as he went it happened that he came by the place where he did this cursed deed in the subarbes of London and the women of the same parish came out with staves and canell dounges and slew & made an end of him there. notwithstanding the constable's & many other men being present for to keep him for there were so many women and had no pity. ¶ Also this same year the duke of Northfolk with many gentlemen and yeomen took his barge/ the vii day of Novembre at Saint Mary oueres for to have gone through London bridge. And through mysgyding of the barge it overthrew on the piles and many men drowned/ but the duke himself with two or three leaped upon piles and so were saved with help of men that were above the bridge with casting down ropes/ by the which pope's they saved themself. ¶ This same year on saint Leonardes' day king Henry being seven. year of age was crowned at westminster/ at whose coronation were made xxxvii knights. ¶ This year on saint George's day he rassed over see to calais to ward France. ¶ About this time and a fore the ream being in great mesery and tribulation. the dolphin with his party begun to make war and gate certain places and made distresses upon the englishmen by the mean of his captains. that is to say lafoy here & poton de sayntraylles/ and espycial. a maid which they named lafoy pucelle de dicu. This maid road like a man and was a valiant capitain. among them and took upon her many great enterprises in so much that they had a believe for to have recovered all their losses by her. notwithstanding at the last after many great f●autes/ by the help of prudence of sir Iohn Lukemburghe the which was a noble capitain of the duke of Burgon & many englishmen Pycardes and burgonions which were of our party before the town of Company the xxiii day of may the for said pucelle was taken in the field armed like a man & many other capitains with her & were all brought to Rone & there she was put in to prison. And there she was judged by the law to be brent. And than she said that she was with child/ whereby she was a while respyted Butt in conclusion it that founden that the was not with child/ & than she was brent in Rone/ and the other captains were put to ransom & entreated as men of war been accustomed. ¶ And this same year about Candemasse richard hunger a wool packer was damned for an heretic & brent at Tourhylle. ¶ And about mydlenten sir Thomas Baggely priest & vycarye of the Maven in Estsex beside walden was dysgraded and dampened for an heretic and brent in smithfield/ ¶ And also in this same year whiles the king was in France there were many heretics and Lollards that had purposed make a rising and cast hills in diverse places but blessed be almighty god the Capytayae of them was taken whose name was wyllaym Manndevyll a weaver of Abendon & bailiff of the same towne· which named himself jack Sharp of wygmoreslonde in wales. And after ward he was beheaded at the foresaid Abendon in the whitsun week in the tuesday. ¶ This same year the vi day of Decembre king Henry the sixth was crowned king of France at Paris in the church of our lady with great solemnity/ there being present the cardinal of England the duke of Bed fordt and many other lords of France and England. And after this coronation & great feast holden at Paris the king returned from thence to Rone and so to ward calais/ and the ix day of Feverer landed at Dover/ whom all the comunes of Kent met at Beramdon between Caunterbury and/ Dover all in reed hodes. and so come forth till he came to the black haveth where he was met with the mayor Iohn wells with all the crafts of London clothed all in which/ & so they brought him unto London the xxi day of the same month. And this same year was a restraint of the wools of Caleys made by the soldiers because they were not pay●d of their wages. wherefore the duke of Bedford reigned of France being than captains came to calais the tewsday in the Easter week. And than on the morn after many soldiers of the town were arrested & put in ward. And in the same week he road to Terewyn/ & by the mean of the bishop of Terewyn he wedded the Earls daughter of Saint Poule & came again to calais/ And than the xi day of june on saint Bernabeys day there were four soldiers of cal●is that were the chief causers of the restraint of the wulles beheaded/ that is to wite Iohn Madeley/ Iohn Launday/ Thomas Palmer/ and Talbot/ & an hundred and x bannysssed out of the town that same time/ and before were banished an hundred and .xx soldiers. And on midsummer even after came the lord regence and his wife to London. ANd than about this time died pope Martin. And after him Eugen●e●he fourth was pope. This man was peaceably chosen in the court of Rome by the cardinal's & was very and indubytate pope. But within a short time after he was put & expulced out of Rome in such amanere that he was fain for to flee naked. ¶ In this same time was the counsel of basil to the which counsel eugeny the pope was cited to come. And because that he came not they deposed him/ but he wrought not ne set not thereby but gate the city of Rome & abode still pope xii year. ¶ This time about wytsontyde the heretics of Praghe were destroyed. for at two journeys were destroyed of them moo than xxii thousand with their capitains that is to weet Procapius Saplico & Lupus prespyter. ¶ Also there was taken on live master Pers clerk an Englysshysshe man & an heretic. ¶ And also this same year was strong frost & a long during the which lasted xi weeks/ for it began upon saint Katherynes' even & lasted unto saint Scolastycus day in Fever year/ in the which time the vintage that came from Bordeaux come over shooters hill. ¶ This year was the counsel of ara● & a great treat between the king of England and the king of France where were assembled many great lords of both parties. at which counsel was ossred to the king of England great things by the mean of a Legate that came fro Rome the which was cardinal of saint Cross/ which of ●res were refused by the cardinal of England and other lords there were for the king. wherefore the duke of Burgoyn that which had been ●onge english sworn forsook our party & returned french by the mean of the foresaid Legate. & made a peace with the french king reteyving of king for recompensing of his faders death the count of Pon●ui/ the lordship of Macon with moche other as is specified in the said treaty. And so our ambassadors came home again in horse case then they went out For they lost there the duke of Burgoyne which had been with his burgoynons and Pycardes a singular help in all the conquest of Normandy & of France/ This same year was a great battle on the see between the Genoese & the king of Arragon of which battle the Genoese had the victory/ for they took the king of Arragon the king of Naverne & the great master of saint james in Galyce with three hundred knights & squires & much other people/ & this was on saint Domynycus' day. And this same year were seen three sons at once/ & anon followed the three fold governance in the church/ that is to weet of eugeny of the counsel and of neutralyte. ¶ Also this same year a. M. CCCC.xxxiiii. was a passing great wind by which steeples houses & trees were overthrown About this time was an holy maid in Hollonde called lid with which lined only by miracle not eating any meet. This year the duke of Burgoyn began his order at Lyle of the gollden Fleys and ordained certain knights of the same order & made statutes & ordinances much according unto the order of the garter. ¶ Also this same year the frenchmen had enter prised to have stolen calais in the fyssing time/ for many botes of France had safecondy●es to come to calais for to take heting. And the soldiers of the town had a custom to come to the church door/ which staves the frenchmen that were arrayed like fishers had purposed for to have stolen their staves and weepen for to have won so the town. but one of them lay with a common woman the night before/ & he told to her their counsel/ and she on the morn told it to the Lyverenaunce which for the with all commanded that every man should keep his weepen in his hand the sakering time & other. And when the frenchmen perceived this that they were myspoynted they sailed steeyghte to Dear & stolen & took the town. & on New years day/ af● they took Harslet· And thus the englishmen begun to lose a little & little in Normandye. ¶ How calais & Guynes were besieged by the duke of Burgoyne & how they were rescued by the duke of Gloucestre. This year was a great noise all England through how the duke of Burgoyne would come & besiege calais/ wherefore the earl of Mortayne with his army that he had to have go with him into france/ was commanded & charged that he should go to calais/ which was at that time well victualed & manned for sir Iohn Ratclyfe was Levenetaunte of the town for the king. And the baron of Dudlay lieutenant of the castle. ¶ And the ix day of julii the duke of Burgoyne. with all the power of Flaundres and moche other people came before calais & seat his siege about the town/ and every town of Flaundres had their tents by themself. And this siege endured there were In the mean while the duke of Gloucestre being protector of England took the most part of all the lords of England and went over the see to calais for to rescue the town or for to fight with the duke & his host if they would have byden The time London and every good town of England sent over the see to his rescue certain people well arrayed of the best and chosen men for the war. ¶ And the second day of August the foresaid duke of gloucester arrived at calais with all his army & .v. hundred ships & moo. ¶ And the duke of Burgoyne & all his host that lay in the siege/ as soon as they espied the sails in the see before they approached calais haven suddenly in a morning departed from the siege/ leaving behind him moche stuff and victual & fled in to Flaundres and Pycardye And in likewise died the siege that lay before Guy●es where as they of Gwenes took gregonne of brass called Dyg●on & many other great gonnes & serpents. And than when the duke of Gloucere was arrived with his host He went in to Flaunders & there he was xii days & died but little harm except that he brent two fair villages Poppering & Bell & other houses which were of no strong building & so he returned home ayen· ¶ And this same year the king of scotland besieged Rokesburgh with moche people. But sir Ralph grey departed from the castle & ordained for a rescue But as soon as the king of Scotland understood his departing suddenly he broke his siege & went his way & left moche ordinance behind him/ where he gate him no worshyp· This same year the second day of janyver queen Katherine the which was the kings mother and wife to king Henry the fift deined & departed out of this would & was brouht rially through London & so to westm. & there she lieth worshipfully buried in our ladies chapel ¶ And also this same year the fourth day of janyver fell down the gate with the tower on it on London bridge to ward South ward with two arches & all the stone thereon ¶ This same year was a great treat held between Gravening calais between the king & the duke of Burgoyne/ where was in the kings name the cardinal of England the duke of Norfolk and many other lords/ & for the duke of Burgoyne was the duchess having full power of her lord as regnette and lady of his lands where was taken by th'advise of both parties an abstinence of war for a certain time in the name of the duchess and not of the duke by cause he had gone from his oath and legaunce that he had made to king Henry the fift therefore the king never would write ne appoint ne have to do with him after. but all in the duchess name. ¶ Also this same year queen jane died the second day of jule which had been wife to King Henry the fourth and was carried from Bermondsey to Caunterbury where she lieth buried by king Henry her husband. This same year died all the Lions in the tour of London. the which had not been seen many years before. ¶ How Owen a squire of wales that had wedded queen Katherine was arrested and of the schism between Eugenie & Felix. IN the xu year of king Henry the sixth died Sygysmondus Emperor of Almaigne and knight of the garter/ whose terment the king kept at saint Paul's in London tyally/ where was made a rial heerse/ and the King in his estate clad in blue was at even at dirge & on the morn at mass. etc. And after him was elect and chosen Albert duke of Osteryk which had wedded Sygysmondus daughter for to be Emperor. This man was taken & received to be King of Beme and Vngary by cause of his wife that was Sygysmondus daughter which left none other heir after him. This Albert was Emperor but one year/ for he was poisoned & so died some saith that he died of flux but he was a virtuous man & pitiful moche that all the people the knew him said that the world was not worthy to havy his presence. ¶ This same year one Owen a squire of wales a men of low birth which had many a day before secretly wedded queen Kateryn/ & had by her iii sons ● one daughter/ & he was taken & commanded to Newgate to prison by my lord of Gloucestre protector of the ream. And this year he broke the prison by the mean of a priest that was his chaplain & after was taken again by my lord Bomonde & brought again to Newgate/ & afterward delivered at large. And one of his sons afterward was ma●e earl of Rychemonde & an other earl of Pembroke & the third a monk of westm which monk dried soon after. ¶ This same year also on New years day at Bernardes' Castle fell down a stake of wood suddenly at after none and slew three men myschyfly & foul hurt other. ¶ And at bedford on a shyresdai were xviii. men murdered without stroke by falling down a stayr as they come out of the common ●alle and manifoule hurt. ¶ In the xviii year sir richard Beauchamp the good earl of warwyke died at Rone he being the time lyvetenate of the king in Normandye and from thence his body was brought to warwyke where he lieth worshipfully in a new chapel on the south side of the quere. ¶ And also this year was a great dearth of corn throughout all England for a bustle of where was worth xl. pens in many places of England. ¶ And yet they might not have enough wherefore Steven Browne that time Mayre of London sent into pruce and brought to London certain ships laden with rye which did much good to the poor people. For corn was so scarce in England that in some places of England poor people made them breed of fern roots. ¶ This year the general counsel of Basylyde posed Eugeny & they chose Felix which was duke of savoy. & than began the schism which endured unto the year of our lord. M. CCCC.xlvii. ¶ This felix was a devout prince & saw his sons son/ And after lived an holy life. and was chosen pope of the counsel of Bysyle & Eugeny deposed. And so the schism was long tyme. & this felix had but lyttll obedience by cause of the naturalyte. for the most part & well nigh all christendom obeyed and reputed Eugeny for very pope of them both. gor both occupied during the life of Eugeny. This same year sir Richard which was vycarye of Hermettelworth was degrated of his priesthood at Paul's & brent at tour hill as for an heretic on saint Botulphus day. how well at his deche he died a good christian man/ wherefore after his death moche people come to the place where he was brent and offered. and made an heap of stones & set up a cross of tree & held him for a saint till the Mayor & shreves by the kings commandment & of bysshappes destroyed it & made there a dung hill. ¶ And also this year the shreves of London set out of saint Martin's the grant of the sent wary five persones which after ward were restored again to the sentwary by the kings justices. ¶ And after Albert the third. frederik was chosen Emperor▪ This frederik duke of Osteryk was long Emperor & differed to be crowned at Rome by cause of the schism. but after that unity was had he was crowned with the Imperial diadem with great glory and triumph of pope Nycholas the iiii. This was a peaceable man. quiet. and of singular patience not hating the church he wedded the kings daughter of portyngale. ¶ How the duchess of Gloucestre was arrested for trason & committed to perpetual prison in the isle of Man. & of the death of master Roger Bolyngbrok. IN this same year Elynoure Cobham duchess of Gloucestre was arrested for certain points of treason laid again her/ whereupon she was examined in Saint Stephen's Chapel at westm afore the Arch bishop of Caunterbury. And there she was enjoined to do open penance to go through the Cheap bearing a taper in her hand & after to perpetual prison in the isle of Man under the keeping of sir thomas stanley. Also that same time was arrested master Thomas southwell a canon of westm master Iohn have a chapelayne off the said lady. master Robert bolyngbroke a clerk using necromancy. and one Margery iouroemayn called the which of Eye belyde westm. there were arrested as for being of connseyl with the said duchess of Gloucestre. and for master Thomas suthwel died in the tower the night before he should have be rained on the morrow. for he himself said that he should die in his bed & not by justyces. ¶ And in the twenty year master Iohn hume & master Roger bolyngbrok were brought to the gild hall in London. & there before the Mayre the lords & chief of England were rained & dampened both to be drawn & hanged & quartered but master Iohn hume had his charter by the king. but master Roger was drawn to tyburn where he confessed that he died guiltless of this matter & never had trespassed in that he died fore notwithstanding he was hanged heeded & quartered whose soul god have mercy Amen. ¶ And margere iurdemayn was brent in smythfylde. & also this year was a great fray in london in fleet street by night time between men of court and men of london. And diverse men slain and some hurt. And one Herbotel was the chief cancer of the misgovernance & affray. ¶ Also this year at the choosing of the mayre of/ londom the commons named Robert Clopton and Raulyn Holande talyor and the aldermen took Robert clopton and brought him at the right hand of the Mayor as custom is. And than certain talyour● and other h●de crafts men cried nay nay not this man but Raulyn holande wherefore the Mayre that was Padyslye sent them that so cried to Newgate where they abode a great while & were punysshed· ¶ In this year were diverse ambassadors sent in to Guyon fro a marriage for the king for the Earls daughter of Armynake that which was concluded. but by the mean of the earl of Suffolk it was let & put a parte· ¶ And after this the said earl of Suffolk went 'em self oversee in France and there he trated the maring between the king of England and the kings daughter of Cycyle and of Iherusalem/ And the next year it was concluded fully that marriage. by which marriage the king should deliver to her father the duke of Angeo and the earldom of Maynen which was the key of Normandye/ Thenne departed the earl of Suffolk with his wyfen & diverse lords and knights in the most ryal estate that might be out of England with new chares & palfreys which went through the cheap and so went over the see and received her and than after in the lenten brought her unto Hamton where she landed & there was rially received. ¶ And upon Candelmas even before by a great tempest of thunder & lyghening at after none. Paul's styple was set on fire on the mydddes of the shaft in the timber. which was quenched by force of labour And specially by the morrow mass priest of the bow in cheap which was thought impossible safe only the grace of god. ¶ This year was the earl of Stafforde made & create Duke of Bukynghm th'earl of werwykd of warwick the earl of Dorset marks of Dorset & the earl was made Markis of Soffolk. ¶ How king Henry wedded queen Margarete. & of her coronation. THis year king henry married at Suthwyk queen Margarete. & she came to london the xxviii day of may. And by the way all the lords of england received her worshipfully in diverse places. And in especial duke of Gloucestre. & on the Black heath the Mayor with all the aldermen. & all the crafts in blue gowns broudred with the devise of his craft. that they might be known met with her with red hodes & brought her to london. where were diverse pagenris & countenance of diverse histories showed in divers places of the City costly. ¶ And the thirty. day of May. the foresaid queen was crowned at westm & there was justes three days during within the Sayntwary before the abbey ¶ This year the prior of Kylmain apeled th'earl of Vrmonde of treason. which had a day to them assygued for to fight in smithfield. And the lists were made & the field dressed But when it came to point. the king commanded that they should not fight. but took the quarrel in to his hand. And this was done at the Instance & labours of certain preachers & doctors of london. as master Gylbert worthyngton person of saint Andrew's in Holbron. & other. ¶ Also this year came a great embassate in to England out of france. for to have concluded a perpetual peace. but in conclusion it turned in to truce for a year ¶ About this time died saint bernardine a grey frere which began the new reformation of the order in many places in so moche. that they. that were reform. been called observants▪ which observants been greatly increased in Italy & in almain. this Bernardyn was canonized by pope Nycholas the .v. in the year of our lord. MCCCC. l. ¶ johannes de Capristrano was his disciple which profited moche to the reformation of that order for god hath showed many a fair miracle. ¶ Also here is to be noted. that from this time forward. king Henry never profited ne went forward. but fortune begun to torn from him on all sides. as well in france Normandye. Guyon. as in England. some men holden opinion that king Henry gave commission prevarly to Sir Edward Hull sir Robert Roos/ Deane of Saint Senerynes and other/ to conclude a marriage for him. with the Earl of armagnacs sister. which was promised as it was said and concluded/ and after broken/ and he wedded queen Margarete as afore is said/ and a full dear marriage for the ream of England/ for it was know verily/ that for to have her delivered was the duchy of Angeo & the earldom of Main which was the key of Normandye for the frenssmen to enter/ ¶ And about this the said marks of Suffolk axed in plain parlement· a fifteen and an half/ for to fetch her out of france. ¶ Loo what a marriage was this as to the comparison of that other marriage. For there should have be delivered. so many castles and Towns in Guyon/ and so much gold should have be yeven with her/ that all England should have be thereby enriched/ but contrary wise fell wherefore every great prince ought to keep his promise/ For because of breaking of this promise/ & for marriage of queen Margarete. what loss hath the ream of england had/ by losing of normandy & Guyon/ by division in the ream/ the rebelling of comyns against their prince and lords/ what division amoge the lords what murder and slaying of them/ what fields fought & made/ in conclusion so many that many a man hath lost his life/ & in conclusion the king deposed. & the queen with her soon fain to i'll into Scotland/ & from thence in to France. & so to Loreyne/ the place that she came first fro. many men dame that the brekyngege of the kings promise to the systyr of the earl of Armynack/ was cause of his great loss & aduersy●e. ¶ How the duke of Gloucestre the kings uncle was arrested at the parliament of Bury/ and of his death/ & how Angeo in Main was delyveredd. IN the xxvi year of king Henry was a parliament at Bury. called Saint Edmondes bury/ about which was commanded all the comyns of the country to be there/ in their most best defensyable array. for to wait upon the king/ To which parliament came the duke of Gloucestre. Vmfry the kings uncle which had be protector of england all the nonage of the king. And anon after as he was in his lodging he was arrested by the Vycounte Beaumond the Constable of England/ whom accompanied the duke of Bukyngham/ and many other lords. ¶ And for the with all his servants were commanded to depart from him And xlii. of the chief of them were arrested. and sent to diverse prisons. And anon after this said arrest the said duke was on the morrow deed. on whose soul god have mercy. but how he died & in what manner the certente is not know. Some say he died for sorrow some said he was murdered between two federbeddꝭ. some said that a spit was put in his fundament. But how he died god knoweth. to whom no thing in hid. & then when he was deed he was laid open that all men might him se· And so both lords & knights of the shire with Burgeys. came & saw him lie deed. but wound ne token could they not perceive how he died Here may men mark what this world is ¶ This duke was a noble man & a great clerk. & ruled worshipfully the ream to the kings behove. and never could be found fault to him. but envy of them that were governors & had promised the duchy of Angeo & the earldom of myan. caused the destruction of this noble man. For they dread that he would empeshed the deliverance. And after they sent his boody to saint Albon with certain lights. for to be buried. And so sir Geravys of Clyfton had then the charge for to convey the corpse. And so it was buried at Saint Albon in the abbey. And five persones of his household were sent to london/ & there were they rained. & jugyd to be drawn. & hanged. & also quarered. Of whom the names were/ sir roger chamberlain knight. & one mydelton a squire. & Richard denham· which v. persones were draw fro the tour of london through Cheap to tyborn· & there let done quick and them striped to have be heeded & quartered & then the marqueys of Suffolk showed there for these the kings pardon under his great seal. & so they were pardoned of the remenaunce of all the other execution & had their lives. & so they were brought again to london. & after freely delivered Thus begun trouble in this ream of England. for the death of this noble duke of Gloucestre. & all the comyns of the ream begun for to murmur for it & were not content· ¶ And after the pope Eugeny was deed Nycholas the fift was elect pope. this Nycholas was chose for eugeny yet hanging these sysmo notwithstanding he gate the Obedience of all crysten reams. For after he was elect & sacred pope certain lords of france & of england/ were sent in to Savoy to pope. felix. for to entreat him to seasse of the papacy. And by the special labour of saint johannes. he ceased the second year after the pope Nycholas was sacred. And the said. felix was made Legate of france and cardinal of Savoye· and he resigned the hole papacy to Nycholas. And after lived an holy life. & died an holy man. And as it is said almighty god showed miracles for him. This was the xxiii schism between Eugeny and felix. & dured xvi year. ¶ The cause was this. the general counsel of basil deposed Eugeny/ which was only pope and Indubytyte. for asmuch as he observed not and kept the decrees and statutes of the counsel of Constance as it is said before. Nether he wrought not to give obedience to the gener all counsel in no manner wise wherefore arose a great alteration among writers of thes matter (pro et contra) which can not accord unto this day/ one party saith/ that the counsel is above the pope. And that other party saith nay. but the pope is above the counsel. God blessed above all thing give and grant his peace in holy church spouse of christ amen. This nycholas was of Iene comen of low degree. a doctor of divinity/ An active man he Reedyfyed many places that were broken/ & ruinous. and did make a wall about the palace. and made the wall new about Rome for dread of the Turquis/ & the people wondered and greatly marveled of the ceasing and resyning of pope Felix to the pope Nycholas/ considering that Nicholas was a man of so homely a birth the other was of affinity to all most party of christian princes wherefore there was a verse published. as is afore said. ¶ How sir ●raunsoys Aragonies took Fogyers in normandy/ and of the loss of constantinople by the Turk. IN the year of king Henry xxvii being truce between france and england A knight of the english party named Sir France's aragony took a town in normandy named Fogyese/ against the truce/ of which taking begun moche sorrow & loss for this was the occasion/ by the which the frenssmmen gate all Normandye. ¶ About this time the city of constantinople/ which was the imperial city in all Grece/ was taken by the turks▪ Infidels which was bytrayde as some hold opinion/ And th'emperor taken & slain. & the rial church of saint Sophya rob & despoiled. and the relics and images and the road drawing about the streets/ which was done in spite of christian faith and soon after all crysten faith in Grece perished and ceased There were many christian men slain. and innumerable sold and put in captivity. ¶ By the taking of this town. the Turk greatly was enhanced in pride. and a great loss to all christendom. ¶ In the xxviii year was a parliament held at westm) & from thence adyourned to the black freres at London/ and after cristmas to westminster again. ¶ And this same year Robert of Cane a man of westcountre with a few ships coming out of the bay. lad with salt which ships were of Pruce flandres holland and zeland/ and brought them to Hampton wherefore the merchants of England being in Flaundres were arrested. in bridges/ Ipre and other places. and might not be delivered/ ne their debts discharged/ till they had made appointment for to ray the hurts of ships/ which was paid by the Merchants of the staple every penny. & in like wise the Merchants and goods being in Dansyke/ were also arrested/ and made great amends This same year the frenchmen in a morning took by a train the town of Pounte all Arch. & there in the lord Fawconbrydge was taken prisoner. And after that in Decembre Rone was taken & lost being therein sir Edmonde Duke of Somerset/ & the Earl of Shrewesbury the which by a poyntement left pledges and lost all Normandye/ and came home into England. And during the said parliament. the duke of Suffolk was arrested. and sent in to the tour & there he was a month. & after the king did do fetch him out. for which cause all the comunes were in a great rumour/ what for the deliverance of Aungeo & Maine & after losing of all normandy & in especcyall for the death of the good duke of Gloucestre/ in so much in some places men gathered & made them captains. as blewberde & other/ which were take & put to death/ And than the said parliament adjourned was to leicester. And thither the king brought with him the duke of Suffolk. And when the comyns understood that he was out of the Tower & comen thither/ they desired for to have execution on them that were cause of the deliverance of normandye/ & had because of the death of the duke of Gloucestre and had sold gascoyne and guyan/ of the which they named too be guilty/ The duke of Suffolk as chief. The lord Say the bishop of salisbury/ davyel & many more. And for to please thou comyns the duke. of Suffolk was exiled out of England for .v. year. ¶ And so during the parlyament he went into Norfolk & there he took his shipping/ for to go out of the ream of England into france/ And this year as he sailed on the see a ship of were called Nycholas of the tour met with his ship and found him therein whom they took out. and brought him in to their ship to the master & the capitain/ and there he was examined and at the last judged to death And so they put him in a cabin and his chapylayne with him for too shrive him/ And that done they brought him into Dover road/ & set him into the boat & smote there of his heed/ And brought the body a land upon the sondes/ and set the heed there by And this was done the first day of May. Lo what availed him now all his deliverance of Normandye/ And here may ye schow he was rewarded for the death of the duke of Gloucestre/ thus began sorrow upon sorrow/ and death for death. ¶ How this year was insurrection in Kente of the comyns/ of whom jack Cade an irish man was capitain THis year of our lord. M·cccc. & l was the great grace of the jubilee at Rome where was greet pardon. in so much that from all places in christendom/ great multitude of people restored thither/ And in this same year was a great assymble and gathering to guider of the comyns of kent in to great number. And made an insurrection. and Rebelled against the king and his laws. And ordained them a capitain called johamn Cade an Iryshman which named himself mortimer/ cousin to the duke of york/ And this capitain held them together/ and made ordinances among them. and brought them to the black haveth where he made a bill of petitions to the king and his counsel and showed what Injuries oppressions the poor comyns suffren & vnd coleur. for to come to his above/ and he had a great maltytude of people. ¶ And the xxvii day of june. the king and many lords Capitayns· and men of were went to ward him to the black hethe· And when the capitain of kent understood the coming of the king with so great puissance. he withdrew him and his people to smok/ a little village. And the xxviii day of june he being withdrawn and gone the king came with his army set in order and enbatayl led to the black heath/ & by advice of his counsel. sir Vmffrey Stafforde squire two valiant captains/ with certain people for to fight with the capitain & to take and bring him and his accessaries to the king/ which went to Senok. ¶ And the captain with his felshyp and met with them. & fought against them. and in conclusion slew them both/ and as many as abode & would not yield them were slain. ¶ During this skirmish. fell a great variance among the lords men and common people being on black hath against their lords & captains/ saying plainly/ that they would go unto the capitain of kent. to assist and help him/ but if they might have execution on the traitors being about the king where to the king said nay. & they said plainly that the lord Say treasurer of england. & the bishop of Salysbury. & the baron of Dubby. the abbot of Gloucestre. Drnyel. & trevilon. & many more were traitors. and worthy to be deed wherefore for to please the lords many & also some of the kings house: the lord Say was arrested & sent to the tour of london. & then the king he ryuge tidings of the death & over throwenge of the Staffordes he withdrew him to london & from thence to keling worth/ For the king ne the lords durst not trust the town housholdemen. ¶ Then after that the capitain had had this victory upon the Staffordes/ anon he took sir Vmfreys fallete &. his bryngantynes smitten full of guilt naples & also his● guilt spo● And arrayed him like a lord & a capitain & resorted with all his many. and also moo than he had before. to the black heath again To whom came the archbishop of Caunterbury & the duke of Buckingham to the black heath & spoke with him. And as it was said they found him witty in his talking & his request. & so they departed. ¶ And the third day of july he came & entered into London with all his people & there did make cries in the Kings name & in his name/ that no man should rob. ne take no manner gods but if he paid for it And came riding thorough the city in great pride. & smote his sword upon london stone in Canwycke street. ¶ And he being in the city/ sent to the tour for to have the lord Say. And so they fet him & brought him to the yield hall before. mayre & chaldermen where that he was examined And he said. he would & ought to be judged by his peties. And the comyns of Kent took him by force from the mayre/ & officers that kept him and took him to a priest to shrew. him. And or he might be half shriven/ they brought him to the standard in the cheap side. and there smote of his heed. on whose soul god have merry. Amen. ¶ And thus died the lord Say treasurer of England. ¶ And this they set his heed upon a spear. & bore it all about the city And the same day about Mile end: Cromere was beheaded. And the day before at after none the capitain with certain of his men went to Philip malpaus house & robbed him. and took a way much good. And from thence he wen to saint. Margaretes' patens to one Gertis' house. and robbed him. and took away from him much good also at which robbing diverse men of London of their neighbours were at· and took part with them/ ¶ For this robbing the peoples hearts fell from hym· And every thrifty men was a feared/ for to be served in like wise. ¶ For there was many a man in London. that a waited & would fain have seen a common robbery which almighty god forbid. For it is to suppose if he had not robbed he might have goon far/ or he had be withstand. for the king and all the lords of the ream of England were departed except the lord. scales that kept the tour of London And the fift day of In● he did do smite of a man's heed in south work. And the night after the mayre of London with the Aldermen & the Comyns of the cited concluded to drive away the capitain. & his host And sent to the lord Scales to the tour & to Mathegough a capitain of normandy that they would that night assail the capitain with them of kente. And so they did come to London bridge in such work or the capitain had any knowledge thereof & they fought with them that kept the bridge And the kē●ysshmē went to harness & came to the bridge & shoot and fought with them & gate the bridge & made them of London to flee & slew many of them. & this endured all the night to & fro/ till one of the clock of the morrow. And at the last they brent the draw bridge. where many of them of london were drowned. In the which night satton and alderman of London was slain Roger heysaunte. Mathegough. & many other. And after this the chaunseler of England sent to the capitain a pardon general for him & an other for his many and then they departed fro such work every man to his own house/ ¶ And when they were all departed & gone there was proclamations made in Kente South sex & other places. that what man could take the captain quick or deed. should have a thousand pound. ¶ And after this one Alexander yden a squire of kent took him in a garden in suthsex And in taken Iohn Cade capitain was slain and beheaded. And his heed set upon London bridge. And anon after the king came in to kente/ and did his justices sit at Caunterbury/ and inquired who was causers & chief cause of this insurrection. And there were viii men judged to the death in one day & in other places more And from thence the king went in to Southsex and in the west country where a little before was slain the bishop of Salysbury. And this same year there were so many judged to death that three hedes stood upon London bridge at ones. ¶ Of the field that the duke of york took at Drenched in kent/ & of the byrch of prince Edward/ & of the first battle at Sayne Albons where the duke of somersault was slain. IN the xxx year of the king/ the duke of york came out of the March of wales with th'earl of devonshire & the lord Cobham and great puissance reformation of certain Iniurys and wrongs/ and also to have justice upon certain lords being about the king & took a field at Brentheth beside Detford in Kente. which was a strong field for which cause the king with all his lords went unto black heth. with a great and a strong multitude of people armed/ and ordained for the war in the best wise. And when they had muster on the haveth/ certain lords were tho sent unto him. for to treat and make appointment with him. which were the bishop of Ely. the bishop of wyncestre/ th'earls of Salysbury & of warwick/ And they concluded that the duke of Somerset should be had to ward. and to answer to such articles as the duke of york should put on him And then the duke of york should break his field/ & come to the king. which was all promised by the king. And so the King commanded. that the duke of Somerset should he had in to ward. And thenne the duke of york broke up his field and came to the king And when he was come contrary to the promise afore made/ the duke of Somerset was present in the field/ awaiting and chief about the king/ And made the duke of york ride before as a prisoner through london. ¶ And after they would have put him in hold. But a noise arose that th'earl of March his son. was coming with ten thousand men to London ward wherefore the king and his counsel feared/ And thenne they concluded that the duke of york should depart at his owen will. ¶ about this time began great dyvylyon ne Spruce between the great master and the Knights of the duchy order which were lords of that country. For the comyns & towns rebelled against the lords and made so great were/ the at the last they called the king of Pole to be their lord/ the which king came and was worshipfully received/ And besieged the castle/ of Mar●engburgh/ which was the chief castle of strength of all the land. An● wa●ne it/ & drove out the master of Dansk ● and all other places of that land & so they that had been lords many years. lost all their signory and possessions in the lands. ¶ And in the year of the incarnation of our lord. M. CCCC.liii. on saint Edward's day. queen. Margarete was delivered of a fair prince which named was Edward. That same day johan Norman was choose for to be Mayer of London. And the day that he should take his oath at westminster/ he went thither by water with all the crafts/ where afore time though mayor/ alderme and the crafts road on horseback the which was never used after. For sin that time they have ever goon by water in botes and barges. ¶ ye have well understand before how that contrary to the promise of the king & also the conclusions take between the king & the duke of york at Brentheth the duke of Somerset went not to ward but abode about the king/ & had great rule/ And anon after he was made capitain of calais. & ruled the king & his ream as he would/ wherefore the great lords of the ream/ & also the comyns were not pleased: For which cause the duke of york/ the earl of warwyke/ the earl of Salysbury with many knights and squires and moche other people came to remove the said duke of Somerset and other fro the king/ And the king hearing of their coming/ thought by his counsel for to have gone westward & not for to have met with them. And had with him the duke of Somerset the duke of Bokyngham the earl of Stafforde the earl of Northumberlonde \ the lord Clyfforde/ & many other. ¶ And what time that the duke of york and his fellowship understand/ that the king was departed with the lords from London/ anon he changed his way/ & costed the country and came to saint Albon the xxiii day of May. & there met with the king to whom the king sent certain lords/ & desired them to keep the peace/ and depart: But in conclusion why●e they treated on that one side/ the earl of warwick with the March men & other entered in to the twone on that other side/ and fought against the king and his party/ and so began the battle and fighting which endured a great while/ But in conclusion the duke of york obtained. and had the victory of the journey/ In which was slain the duke of Somerset/ the earl of Northumberlonde. the lord Clyfforde. and many knights and squires/ and many moo hurt/ And on the morn after they brought the king in great estate to London/ which was lodged in the bishops palace of London. And anon after was a great parliament at London/ in which parliament the duke of yerke. was made protector of england/ & the earl of warwick capitain of calais/ the earl of Salysbury Chancellor of England. And all such persons as had the rule before about the king were set a part/ and might not rule as they did before. ¶ And this same year died pope Nycholas the fift. & after him was Calixt the third. This Calixt was a Catalane/ & the acts of him shall be showed here after folowynge· ¶ In this same year fell a great affray in London against the Lombard's. the cause begun/ because a young man took a dagger from a Lumbarde & broke it. wherefore the young man on the morn was sent fore to come before the Mayer & the aldermen & there for offence He was committed to ward. And thenne the mayor departed fro the yield hall/ for to go home to his dinner But in Cheap the young men Mercerye for the most party prentices. held the Mayor & the sheriffs still in Cheap. And would not suffer them to depart/ unto the time that their fellow/ which was committed to ward/ were delivered/ and so by force they rescued their fellow from prison. And that done the Mayor departed and the Shrefes also. and the prisoner delivered. which if he had be put to prison. He had be in jeopardy of his life. And thene began a rumour in the city against the lombards. And the same evening the hand crafty men of the town arose/ and ran to the Lombard's houses and dyspoyled and rob divers of them. wherefore the Mayor and the Aldermen came with the honest people of the city. And drove them thence/ and sent some of them that had stolen to Newgate. ¶ And the young man was rescued by his fellows/ saw this great rumour. affray & rob/ ensued/ of his first moving to the Lumbarde/ departed and went to westminster to saint wary. Or else it had cost him his life. For anon after came down an Oyer determine. for to do justice on all them that so rebelled in the city against the Lombard's/ On which sat with the Mayor that time wyllyam Marrow/ the duke of Bokyngham And many other lords/ to see execution done/ But the comynes of the city secretly made them ready and died arm them in their houses and were in purpose to have rungen the comyne bell/ which is called bow bell but they let by side men/ which came to the knowledge of the duke of Bokyngham and other lords. ¶ And in continent they arose/ for they durst no longer abide/ for they doubted that the hole city should have risen against them. But yet neverthelesss two or three of the city were judged to death for this robbery/ were hanged at Tyburn ¶ And anon after the king & the queen/ & other lords road to Coventre and withdrew them fro London. for this cause. And a little before the duke of york was sent for to grenewych. And there was discharged of the protectourshyppe. And the earl of Salysbury of his Chaunchelershyppe. And after this they were sent fore by privy seal for to come to Coventre where they were almost deceived & the Earl of warwyke also and should have been destroyed if they had not seen well to. ¶ How the lord Egremond was take by the earl of Salysbury sons/ & of the robbing of Sandwytche THis year were taken four great fishes between Ereth & london that one was called Mors marine/ the second was a sword fish & the other two were whales. In this same year/ for certain affrayes done in the north country between lord Egremond & the earl of Salysbury sons. the said lord Egremond whom they had condemned in a great some of money to the said earl of Salysbury. & therefore he was committed into prison in Newgate in London where when he had be a certain space he broke the prison/ & three prisoners with him/ & escaped & went his way. Also this year the earl of warwick & his wife went to calais with a fair felisshyp & took possession of his office. about this time was great reformation of many monesteryes of religion in diverse parties of the world which were reformed after the first institution and continued in many places ¶ This same year was a great battle in the Marches between the land of Hungry & Turkey. at a place is called Septedrad where Innumerable Turks were slain/ more by miracle than by man's hand/ for only the hand of god smote them/ saint johan of Capystrane was there presence. & provoked the christen people being thenne afeard for to pursue after the turks where an infinite multitude were slain & dystryed & the turks said/ that a great number of armed men followed them that they were afeard to turn again & they were holy angels. This same year the prisoners of Newgate in London broke their prison/ & went upon the seeds and fought against them of the city/ & keep the gate a long while/ But at the last the town gate the prison be them. And thenne they were sore punished in ensample of other. ¶ In this year also there was a great earthquake in Naples/ in so much that there perished xl thousand people that sank there in to the earth. ¶ Also in the xxxvi year saint Osmonde sometime bishop of Salysbury was canonized at Rome by pope Calyst. & the x day of july he was translated at Salysbury by the bishop of Caunterbury & many other bishops. ¶ And in August after sir Pers de brasay seneschal of normandye/ with the capitain of Deep & many other captains/ and men of were went to thee see with a great Navy. and into the downs by night. And on the more early before day they landed at Sandwytche/ both by land and water/ and took the town/ and ryfled & despoiled it/ And took many prisoners. and left the town all bare/ which was a rich place and much good therein/ And lad with them many rich prisoners/ In this same year in many places of France Almaigne/ Flaunders Holonde and zeelonde/ children gathered them together by great companies/ For to go on pilgrimage to saint Michael's mount in normandy/ which came fro far countries whereof the people marveled. And many supposed that some wicked spirit moved them to do so. but it dured not long by cause of the long way and also for lac/ of victual as they went. ¶ In this year Reynolde Pecok bishop of Chestre/ was found an heretic/ and the third day of Decembre was endured at Lambeth in presence of the archbishop of Caunterbury and many other bishops doctors & lords temporal/ and h●s books brent at Paul's cross. ¶ And ye have herd before how certain lords were slain at Saint Albon's/ wherefore was alway a grudging/ & wrath had by the heirs of them that so were slain against the duke of york/ the Earls of wa●wyk and of Salysbury/ wherefore the king by the advice of his counsel sent for them unto London to which place the duke of york came the xxvi day of janueri with four ninety men and lodged him at Baynerdes' castle in his own place. ¶ And the .iv. day of january came the earl of Salysbury with five hundred men and was lodged in therber of his own place. ¶ And thenne came the duke of exeter and of Somerset with viii C. men/ and lay without temple bar. ¶ And the earl of Northumberlonde/ and the lord Egremonde the lord Clyfforde with xu hundred men/ & lodged without the town. ¶ And the Mayer that time Geffraye Boloyne/ kept great watch with the comyns of the city/ & road about the city by Holborn and Fleetstreet/ with a .v. thousand men well arrayed and armed. for to keep the peace/ ¶ And the xiiii day of Feverer the earl of berwick came to London/ fro calais well beseen and worshipfully with v hundred men In red jakettes broudred with a ragged staff behind & before. and was lodged at the grey freres/ ¶ And the xu day of March the king came to London and the queen. And there was accorded and peace made among the lords/ and they were set in peace. And on our lady day the xxv. day of March. in the year of our lord. M. CCCC.lviii· the king & the queen & all the lords went on procession at Paul's in London. & anon after the king & the lords departed. & in this year was a great fray in Fletstrete between men of court & men of the same street. In which fair the queens Attorney was slain ¶ How the kings household made a fray against the Earl of warwyke/ and of the journey at bloreheth. ALso this same year as the Earl of warwick was at counsel at westminster all the kings household many gathered them together/ for to have slain the said earl. But by the help of god & his friends he recovered his barge/ and escaped their evil enterprise/ how well the cooks came running out with spites and pestles ayneh him. And the same day he road to wards werwyk and soon after he gate him a commission/ and went over the see to ward calais. ¶ Soon after this th'earl of Salysbury coming to London/ was encountered at Bloreheth which the lord Audley. And much other people ordained to destroy him But he having knowledge that he should be met with was accompanied with his two sons sir Thomas & sir Iohn Nevell/ & a great fellowship of goodmen. And so they fought together/ where the earl of Salysbury wan the field/ And the lord Audley was slain/ & many gentlemen of Cheshire. & moche people hurt And the earls two sons were hurt. & going homeward afterward they were taken/ and had to Chestre by the queens meinie. ¶ After Calixt Pius was pope/ & was chase this year. M. Cccc.lulii· & he was called before Aeneas an eloquent man/ & a poet laureate. He was ambassador of the Emperors before tyme. And he wrote in the counsel of basil a noble treatise for thactoryte of the same/ Also he canonized saint Katherine of Senys/ This pope ordained great Indulgence & pardon to them that would go & were against the Turk/ & wrote a pistle to the great Turk/ exhorting him to become christian. And in th'end he ordained a passage against the Turk at Ankon. to which moche people drew out all parties of Christendom/ of the which people he sent many home again by cause they sufficed not/ & anon after he died at the said Ankon/ the year of our lord. M. CCCC.lxiii. the xiiii day of August. ¶ How Andrew Trollop & the soldiers of calais forsook the duke of york & their master th'earl of warwick in the west country. THe duke of york/ the earls of warwick and of Salysbury/ saw the governance of the ream stood most by the queen & her counsel/ & how the great princes of the land were not called to counseyl but set a part. and not only so/ but it was said through the ream though said lords should be destroyed as it openly was showed at Blorehethe by them that would have slain the earl of Salysbury. then for salvation of their lives/ & also for the comynwele of the ream thought for to remedy these things assembled them together with moche people/ and took a field in the west country to which the earl of warwick came fro calais/ with many of the old Souldeyours as Andrenwe Trollop and other/ in whose wisdom/ as for the were he trusted moche upon And when they were thus assembled and made their field. the king sent out commissions & privy seals unto all the lords of his ream to come and wait on him in their most best defensable array/ And so every man came in such wise. that the king was stronger/ and had more▪ people than the duke of york and th'earls of warwick & of Salysbury. for it is here to be noted that every lord in England at this time/ durst not disobey the queen/ so she ruled peaceably all that was done about the king which was a good and a well disposed man. And then when the king was come to the place where they were/ the duke of york & his fellowship made their field in the strongest wise / & purposed verily to abide & have fought/ But in the night Andrew Trollop & all the old soldiers of calais with a great fellowship/ suddenly departed out of the duke's host. And went straight unto the kings field/ where they were received joyously. for they knew th'intent of tother lords/ & also the manner of their field. And then the duke of york with the other lords. saying them dysceved/ took a counsell shortly in that same night. & departed from the field leaving behind them the most party of their people too keep the field till on the morrow/ Then the duke of york with his second son departed through wales toward ireland/ leaving his eldest son the earl of March with the earls of werwyk & of Salysbury. which road together with three or four persons straight into devonshire. & there by help & aid of one Denham/ gate a ship which cost a xi score nobles/ & with the same ship sailed fro thence in to Gernesey & there refreshed them/ & from thence sailed to calais. where they were received in to the castle by the postern/ or they of the town wist of it/ And the duke of york took shyping in wales. & sailed over in to ireland where he was well received. ¶ How the earls of March warwick & of Salysbury entered in to calais & how the earl of warwick went in to ireland. THen king Henry with his host in the field/ not knowing of this sudden departing/ on the morrow found none in the field of the said lords. sent out in all the hast men for to follow and pursue after to take them/ but they met not with them as god would. And then the king went to Ludlowe & despoiled the castle & the town. And sent the duchess of york and her children to the duchess of Bokyngham her sister/ where she was kept long time after/ And forth with the king ordained the duke of Somerset/ to be capitain of calais & these of other lords so departed/ as afore is said. were proclaimed rebels & great traitors. Then the duke of Somerset took to him all the soldiers that departed fro the field and made him ready in all the haste/ for to go to calais. & take possession of his office/ And when he came he found th'earl of warwick therein as capitain & the earls of March & of Salysbury also/ and thenne he landed by scales & went to gives and there he was received/ And it fortuned that some of the ships that came over with him. came in to calais haven by their fire will/ for the shipmen ought more favour to the earl of warwick than to the duke of Somerset/ & in which ships were take diverse men/ as jenyn Fynkyll johan fellow Kaylles & Purser/ which were beheaded soon after in calais. and after this came men daily over the see to these lords to calays/ & began for to wax stronger. & they borrowed much good of the Staple/ & on that other side the duke of Somerset being in Gynes' gate people to him which came out and scarmysshed with them of calais/ & they of calais with the which endured many days ●ucyng moche people came over daily unto these lords ¶ Then on a time by thaduys and counsell of the lords at calais sent over master Denham with a great fellowship to Sandwhyche/ which took the town & therein the lord Rivers & the lord S●alys his son/ & took many ships in the haven/ and brought them all to calays with which ships many mariners of their fire will/ came to calays/ to serve the Earl of warwick. And after the Earl of warwyke by the advice of the lords. took all his ships and manned them well and sailed himself in to ireland. for to speak with the duke of york/ and took his advice how they should enter in to England. And when that he had be there and done his erandes/ he returned again towards calais/ and brought with him his mother the countess of Salysbury. And coming in the west country on the see the duke of exeter admiral of england being in the grace of du. accompanied with many shyppis of war met with the earl of warwick & his fleet. but they fought not for the substance of the people being with the duke of exeter. aught better will & favour to the earl of warwick than to him/ & they departed and came to calays in sauf●e. ¶ Then the kings counsel saying that these lord had gotten those ships fro Sandwytche. & taken the lord Rivers & his son ordained a garrison at Sandwytche to abide & keep the town. & made one mountforde captain of the town/ & that no man victual/ ne merchant. that should go to flanders/ should go to calays. Then they of calays saying this made Denham/ & many other to go to Sandwytche & assailed the town by land & by water & gate ix. And brought the capitain over see and smote of his heed/ And yet daylymen came over to them fro all parties. ¶ How the Earl of March & of warwyke and of Salysbury entered in to england & of the field of Northampton where diverse lords were slain. ANd after this the foresaid earls of march warwyke & Salysbury came over to Dover with moche people & there landed to whom all the country drew & came to London all armed/ and for to let lords of the kings counsel know their truth & also their intent/ assembled them. and told them/ that they intended no harm to the kings person/ safe that they would put from him such persons as were about him. And so departed from London with a great puissance toward Northampton/ where the king was accompanied with many lords/ and made a strong field without the town/ And there both parties met. and was fought a great battle In which battle were slain the duke of bokyngham & th'earl of Shrewesbury/ the vycount Beamonde/ the lord Egremonde/ and many other knights and squires/ and other also/ and the king himself was taken in the field And after ward brought to London/ And anon after was a parliament at westm̄. during which parliament the duke of york came out of ireland. with the Earl of Rutland. riding with a great fellowship in to the palace/ & come in to the parliament chambre & there took the kings place/ and claimed the crown as his proper inheritance and right and Cast forth in writing his tytele. and also how he was rightful heir/ wherefore was moche to do/ but in conclusion it was appointed/ and concluded. that king Henry should regne and be king/ during his natural life For as much as he had be king so long/ & was possessed & aft his death the duke of york should be king/ and his heyers kings after him \ and forth with should be ꝓclamed heir apparent and should also be protector and regence of england during the kings life with many other things ordained in the same parliament and if king Henry during his life/ wence from this poyntement or any article concluded in the said paylyament he should be deposed/ and the duke should take the crown/ and be king all which things were enacted by th'authority of the same/ at which parliament the comyn● of the ream being assembled in the common hons/ commyning and treating upon the title of the foresaid duke of york/ suddenly feldone the crown. which hinge then in the mids of the said house which is the frayter of the abbey of westm̄. which was taken for a prodice or token. that the reign of king Henry was ended ¶ And also the crown which stood on the highest tour of the styple in the castle of dover/ fell down this same year. ¶ How the duke of york was slain and of the field of wakefield. & of the second journey at saint albons by the queen & the prince. Because the queen with the Prince her son/ was in the north and absent her fro the king. and obeyed not such things concluded in the parliament/ was ordained that the duke of york as ꝓtector/ should go north ward to bring in the queen/ & subdue such as wolne not obey/ with whom went the earl of salisbury. Sir Thomas nevil his son with moche people/ And at wakefield in christmas week. they were overthrow and slain by lords of the queens party that is to wite/ the duke of york was slain. the earl of Rotlonde sir Thomas nevil. and many moo/ & the Eerle of Salysbury was take and other· As johan horowe of london capitain and Ruler of the fotmen and Haunson of hull which were brought to pounfret. and there be heeded/ & there heeds sent to york/ & set upon the yates/ And thus was the noble prince slain/ the duke off york/ on whose soul god have Mercy/ & this time th'earl of March being in Shorwesbury/ hearing the death of his father/ desired aid of the town to avenge his faders death/ & frothens went to wales. and at Candelmasse after he had a battle at Martymers Cross. against th'earl of Penbroke & of wilshire where the earl of march had the victory/ Then the queen with those lords of the north after that they had distressed and slain the duke of york and his fellowship. came south ward with a great multitude of people/ for too come to the king and defect such conclusions as had be take before by the parliament/ against whose coming the duke of Norfolk. the earl of warwyeke. with moche people & ordinance/ went to saint albons. & lad king Henry with them/ & there encountered to guider in such wise, and fought so that the duke of Norfolk & th'earl of werwyke/ with many other of their party ●●edde & lost that journey. where that king Henry was taken with the queen & prince Edward his son. which two had got on that field. The queen & her party being at her above. sent anon to London/ which was on an ash wenesdaye the first day of lente for victual. ¶ For which the Mayor ordained by thaduys of the aldermen the certain carts lad with victual should be sent to saint Albon to them. & when the carts came to Crepell gate/ the commons of the city that kept the gate. took the victuals fro the carts and would not suffer it to pass. Thenne were there certain Aldermen & comyns appointed too go unto bernet/ to speak with the queens conseyll to entreat thou the northern men should be sent home again/ in to their country. for the city of London dread to be despoiled if they had come. And during this treatise/ tidings came. that the earl of warwick had met with the Earl of March on Cotteswolde coming out of wales with a great meinie of welsshemen and that they both were coming unto London ward/ Anon as these tytynges were know. the tratyse was broke for the king/ Queen Prince/ & the other lords that were with them departed fro saint Albons north ward with all their people/ yet or they departed thence they beheaded that lord Bonuyll & Sir Thomas Kryell. which were taken in the journey done on shrew toursdaye. ¶ Thenne the Duchess of york being at london. hearing of the loss of the field of saint Albon. sent oversee her two young sons George & richard/ which went to Vtrech. and Phylyp malpas a rich merchant of London Thomas vaughan Squire. master wyllyam Ha●clyf and many other/ fearing of the coming of the queen to London/ took a ship at Antwerp to have gone in to zeland/ & on that other cost/ were taken of one Colompne a Fransshman/ a ship of were. And he took them prisoners & broughte● them in to france/ where they paid great good for their ransom/ and there was great good & richesse in that ship. ¶ Of the deposing of king Henry the sixth & how king Edward the fourth took possession▪ and of the battle on Palm sunday. and how he was crowned. THen when the Earl of berwick had wet to gather on Cot●yswolde/ in continent they concluded to go to london. and sent word anon te the Mayre & to the City that they would come/ & anon the city was glad of their coming/ hoping to be relieved by them & so they came too/ london/ & when they were come & had spoke with the lords & estates being there. concluded for as much as king Henry was gone with them north ward. that he had forfeited his crown & aught to be deposed according unto the acts made passed in the last parliament And so by the advice of the lords spiritual & temporal/ then being at london. the oer of March Edward by the grace of god/ eldest son of the duke Richard of york. As rightful heir. and next inheritor to his father the fourth day of March/ the year of our Lord god. M. CCCC.lix. took possession of the Ream/ at westm. in the church of the abbey and offered as a king with the sceptre rial. To whom all the lords spiritual and temporal did homage. as to their sovereign lord and King And forth with it was proclaimed through the city king Edward the fourth by name/ & anon after the King road in his ryalle estate north ward with all his lords to subdue his subyectis that time being in the north. & for to avenge his faders death. And on Palm sunday after he had a great battle in the north country at a place called Towcon not fer from york/ where with the help of god he gate the field and had the victory where were slain of his adversaries xxx thousand men and moo as it was said by them that were there● In which battle was slain the Earl of North thumberlande. the lord Cly●●orde sir johan nevil the Earl of westmerlondes brother Andrew Trollop. and many knights & squers ¶ then King Henry that had be king ● being with the queen and the prince at york hearing the loss of that field. And so moche people slain and overthrow/ anon forth with departed all three with the duke of Somerset the lord Roos. and other toward Scotland And the next day after king Edward with all his army entered in to york/ and was their proclaimed king and obeyed as he ought too be. And the Mayor and comyns swore to be his lyegemen. and when they had tarried a while in the north & that all the north and that all the north country had turned to him he returned south ward. leaving behind him the earl of werwyk in the parties to govern & rule that country And about midsummer after/ the year of our lord. M. cccc.lx. & the first year of his reign he was crowned at westm/ & anointed king of england having possession of all the ream CAlyxtus the third was pope after Nycholas three year & v. months. this Calyxte was an old man when he was chose pope. & was continually seek/ ne he might not fulfil his desire. which he intended to do against the turkys/ for death came upon him. & he was chose in the year of our lord. M. cccc.lv. & he died the vi day & he made the refiguration. also he canonized saint vincent/ a frere preacher/ & there was a great reformation of many monasteries of the world/ & those reformations were made many times. but all most none abode. but the returned again home. by succession of time/ after the death of the worshipful faders·s the feast of the Transfiguration was ordained of Calyxt for the gift of grace of the marvelous victory done against the Turk in Hungary on saint Syxtus day. M. CCCC.lvii. For there was a marvelous victory give to the Crysten men in Hungary against the great Turk & there he lost many a man & fled shamefully for dread of enemies. & noman followed him/ but alone the hand of god feared the Turk & his host on saint Calyxte day saint Iohn de Caprystrano was there seen present. & he provoked the people that were afeard to follow the mysbelevinge Turks & there fell a great vengeance on them for the Turks said/ that there was so great a number of knights that followed them. That uneath they durst look bacwarde. & therefore they fled. & left all their treasure behind them. & they were angels that caused them to flee. Nota printers of books were mightily multiplied in Maguncie. & thrughoute the world & there began fyrste· & there held their crafts. & this time myny men begun to be more subtle in crafts & swyterf than ever they were afore PIus the second was pope after Calyxt vi year. This pius was chose in the year of our lord. M. CCCC.lviii. & he was called Aeneas an eloquent man a great orator a laureate poet. and in the counsel of basil he wrote a noble treatise for thattoryte of the same This man desired to have a passage to the Turk & moche people of diverse countries came to Rome. & he gave them his blessing and sent them home again for they were not sufficient for the Turks host & anon after he deceased. Poules' a venetian was pope after Pyus seven. year. This paul was chose in the ye year of our lord. M. cccc.lxiiii. And anon he hallowed the feast of the presentation of our lady. as pius did This man was a toughman in right wysnes & he said it was bet to make few things. and make them steadfastly than for to make many. & soon revoke them. And he mad a great palace at saint marks and he decessed or he had ended it in the year of our lord M. cccc.lxxi. ¶ Leodin the land of luke was oppressed with many tribulations. & after in the year of our lord. M. cccc.lxviii. utterly it was destroyed by Carolun the duke of Bourgoyn. that which wedded dame Margarete sister to king Edward the forth of England. Also the same karolun entered in the land of Gelder. and conquyred it holy. The year of grace also was changed by pope Poule for favour of man's soul from xxv year to xxv year. And by case the cursedness abounded so sore. grea●e abounded also sore. SIxtus the fourth a johannes. & a frere minor was pope after paul. This man was genial in the order of the frere minors or he was cardinal. And he was choose in the year of our lord. M. cccc.lxxi. And was called Franciscus de Sanona. of good fame and vertuost He was choose cardinal without his Knowledge till he was made. & the same year that he was choose pope. The turk had taken fro me christen men two empires. & four kingdoms twenty provinces. and two hundred cytyes·s & had destroyed men & women without number. And the moved the pope that he should dispose him to go to withstand him. And for an army to be made against the Turk the pope gave great Indulgentes of pardon of the tresori of the cyrche unto all crysten reams. that he might ordain some treasure. to withstand the misbelieved Turk. And in the land of England/ Iohn abbot of Abyngdon was the pope's legate. to dispose this goodly treasure. of the church to every faithful man. that was disposed and that would able him to receive it. ¶ Here endeth this present chronicle of England with the fruit of times. compiled in A book. And also newly imprinted in the year of our lord god. M. CCCCC. & xu by me julyan Notary dwelling in Paul'S church yard beside the westedore by my lords palyes ¶ Here followeth a little treatise the which treateth of the description of this land which of old thyme was named albion. And after britain And now is called England and speaketh of the noblesse & worthiness of the same. ¶ It is so that in many and diverse places the common chronicles of England/ been had and also now late imprinted And for as much as the discretion of this land which of old time was named: Albyon/ and after britain/ Is not described ne comynly had/ ne the nobleness and worthiness of the same is not known: Therefore I intend to set in this book the description of this said isle of britain and with the commodities of the same. ¶ In the first shall be told the name of the island. Capitulo primo. ¶ Of the setting bounding lenthe and breed. ca two. ¶ Of the worthiness & perogaciones. ca iii. ¶ Of the marvels & of the wonders. ca iiii. ¶ Of the chief parties of the same londe· Capitulo· v. ¶ Of the islands that been thereto adiacente. Capitulo. vi. ¶ Of the kings high ways & streets. ca: seven ¶ Of the famous Rivers & streams. ca viii. ¶ Of ancient cities and towns. ca ix. ¶ Of provinces and shires. ca x. ¶ Of the laws & names of the laws. ca: xi. ¶ Of kingdoms of bounds and marks between them. ca xii. ¶ Of bishoprics & their sees. ca xiii. ¶ Of how many manner people. have dwelled therein. ca xiiii. ¶ Of the languages of manners and usage of the people of that land. ca xv. ¶ Of the land of wales. ca xvi. ¶ Of the name and why it is named: walls Capitulo xvii ¶ Of the commodities of the land of wales. Capitulo xviii ¶ Of the manners and rites of the walsshmen. Capitulo xix ¶ Of the marvels wonders of wales. ca xx. ¶ Of the description of scotland sometime named Albanya. ca xxi. ¶ Of the discretion of ireland. ca xxii. ¶ Of the bounding of ireland ca xxiii. ¶ Of the greatness and quantity of that Land. Capitulo xxiiii ¶ Of the defaults of the land. ca xxv. ¶ Of them that first inhabited ireland. Capitulo xxvi ¶ Of the conditions and manners of Iryssh men. ca xxvii. ¶ Of the marvels and wonders of ireland. ca xxviii. ¶ Of the marvels of saints of ireland. Capitula xxix ¶ Explicit tabula. ¶ The names of this island. Ca primo first as Galfrydus saith this land was called Albyne the oldest daughter of dioclesian and had xxxii sisters. And they were first inhabited this land. And because she was the oldest sister she named this land albion after her own name as the chronicle reherseth. Other say that this Land was named albion as it were the white land of white rocks about the clives of the see that were seen fro far. After ward Brute conquered this land and called it britain after his own name. And then Saxons or englishmen conquered this land and called it Anglia that is england Or it is called Anglia of a queen that owed this land/ that was named Angla and was a noble duke's daughter of the Saxons. Or as ysad scyth Ethy xu anglia hath that name as it were an angle and a corner of the world. Or else as Beda saith lii.: Saint Gregory saw english children to sell at Rome and he accorded to the name of the land. And said they been southely Angle's/ for her face chyned as angels/ for the noblyte of the land shone in the children's faces. ¶ Alfre. The Bryteysshe Anglia is called the other world/ and for great plenty of all good the great Charles called in his own Chambre. ¶ Solinus The edge of Frensshee clyfe should be the end of the world/ if the island of britain ne were not/ which is worthy to have the name of an other world. ¶ Alfry this island is called insula for it is in salo/ that is the see/ And is beaten of with diverse course of waters with streams and with wawes of the see. ¶ Of the setting bounding lenthe and breed of this land. THis britain is accounted a noble land both in our stories & also in the stories of Greeks. and is set against Germania. Gallia. France & Spain between the north and the west & the see between. This land is thirty mile from the cliff of the men that be called morini gessiorico. ¶ Bedali i And for this island lieth under the north heed of the world. And it hath light and bright night's in the summer tyme. So that of tentyme at midnight men have quastyons & doubt whether it be enyntyte or dawynge/ that is for the time of the year that the son goeth not far under the earth by night but passeth by the north side and cometh soon in to the east again. And therefore in the summer been their days full long of xviii hours & the nights of vi hours. And after in the winter been long nights of xviii hours and short days of vi houres·s Also in Armenia. Macedonia. Italya & in other lands of the same line the longest day & longest night also is of xu hours. and the shortest day or night is of. ●x. hours. ¶ Plinius in meroe. That island is chief of black men/ there is the longest day xii hours. In Alexandre in Egypt of. xiii· ours in ytalya of. xu· hours. In britain of. xviii· hours. In the island named tile all the vi summer months is day & all the vi winter months in night. ¶ Isyd li. xiii. britain is set within Occian as it were without the world/ & is set against France & Spain. ¶ Giraldus. britain in endlong and larger in the middle than in the ends. ¶ Orosius. britain stretcheth in length out of the south in to the north and in the south east it hath France/ in the south Spain the north/ Nowaye. & in the west Hybernia/ that Is scotlonde. when shipmen passen the next cliff of that land they see a city that heat Rupty mouth. ¶ Beda. li.i·s That city is now called shortly of Englishmen Reptacestre/ ¶ Solinus/ britain is viii hundreth mile of lenthe & it be moten fro the cliff of Totenesse to the angle of Colydon. ¶ Alfre That is from penwith street xu mile be yond Mychels' stowe in cornwall unto catenesse that is beyond Scotland & britain is more than ·ii. C. mile broad from Menevia that is the utermest place in wales unto yarmoth in nothfolke. ¶ Beda Only out take the longest out shearing of diverse for lands with the which britain is all about xlviii sith lxx thousand paas. ¶ Of the worthiness & perogations. ca iii. AS France passeth britain so britain passeth ireland in fair weather and noblyte but not in health. ¶ Beda li For this island is best. to bring for't three and fruit Rutherne & beasts And wine groweth therein in some place. The land hath plenty of fowls & of beasts of diverse manner of kind The land is plenteous & the see also. The land is noble copious & rich of noble wells & Rivers with plenty of fysthe. There is great plenty of small fish of salmon & of eels. ¶ wilhel. de. 'pon. li.iii. So that the people in some place feed their swine with fish. ¶ Beda li. i. there been of ten-times taken Dolphins. See calves/ and Balayne great fishes/ as whales kind. ¶ And diverse manner shelfysshe among the which/ shelfysshe been muscles That within them have Margery peerless of all manner of colour & hew of rody & red purpur & of blue/ & specially & most of white there with fine read/ the redness there of is wonder fair \ & stable/ & staineth never with c●ode ne with heat▪ with wet ne with dry but ever the older the colour is the fairer ● There been also salt wells & hot wells/ there of running streams of hot baths departed in to diverse places according. For man & woman of all manner age old or young. ¶ Basilius saith. That the water that runneth & passeth by veins of certain metal taketh in his course great heat. This island is plenteous of veins of metalles·s Bras of iron of lead of tin/ & of silver also. ¶ Plinius li. vi. ca vi. In this island under the curfe of the land is found good merle the thrifty of the fatness drieth himself therein/ So that ever the thick the field in merled the better corn it will bear/ There is also another manner white merle/ that the land is the better fourscore year that therewith is merled. ¶ Solinus In this island groweth a stone that is called Gagates/ if ye will know his fairness/ it is black as gems been/ if ye will know his kind/ It brenneth water & quencheth in oil & as to his might/ if the stone befroted & chaffed It holdeth what him negheth as succū● a stone that is so named. ¶ ysydorus. li.xv. There was sheep that bearen good wule There been many hearts and wild beasts and few wolves. therefore sheep been the surer without keking left in the field. ¶ R. In this island also been many cities and towns fair and noble and rich. many great Rivers & streams with great plenty of fish/ many fair woods and great. with right many beasts tame and wild. ¶ The earth of that land is copious of metal oor/ And of salt wells of quareyes of marble of diverse manner stones/ of reed of white of soft and of hard/ chalk & of white lime. There is also white clay and red for to make pots. crockes/ stenes/ & other vessel and brent tile to cover the houses and churches as it were in the other samya that is named samos also. ¶ Flanddres loveth well the wool of this land. And Holland the skins and fells of all manner of beasts. guian the iron and the lead. ireland the oor and the salt. Al Europe loveth and desireth the wheat metal of this land/ Alfredus britain hath enough of matter that there needeth to buy and sell or is nedelull to man's use/ there lacketh neither salt ne iron/ Therefore a versifier in his metre praiseth this land in to this manner/ England is a good land fruitful of wu●. but it is a corner England is full of play free men well worthy to play/ free men/ free tongues. free hearts/ and free been all their things. their hand is more free. and better than their tongue. Also England is beauteous of land flower of lands all about/ that land is full payede with fruit and good of his own. that land revealeth strange men that hath need thereto/ And when hunger grieveth other loondes that land feedeth them. That land beareth fruit & corn great plenty enough/ That land is well at ease as long as men live in peace eeste & west in each land been known well the havens of England/ Her ships foundes and oft helpeth many lands Their meet and money men hather more common always And for to learn men gladly give gyftos/ In land and strong wide speak men of England. Land honey milk these this island thereof shall bear the price. ¶ This island hath no need of other lands. all londoes must seek help at this alone/ Of the liking of their woun/ might wonder king Solomon The riches that there is an. would desire octavyan/ ¶ Of the marvels & wondered ca iiii. IN britain been hot wells well arrayed and addressed to the use of manhood/ masters of thilk wells is the great spirit Minerva In her house the fire endureth alway that never changeth into asshen/ but there the fire slaketh. it changeth into stone clothes·s Alfre. In britain been many wonders Nevertheless four been most wonderful/ the first is at Peton there bloweth so strong wind out of the chines of the earth that it casteth up again ●lothes that men cast therein. The second is at stonehenge besides Salesbury there been great stones & wonder huge. and been teten on high as it were yates set upon other yates Nevertheless it is not konwen clearly ne apperceived how and wherefore they been so arreared and so wonderful hanged. The third is at Cherdboke there is a great hollowness under the earth often many men have seen· Rivers and streams But no where can they find none end The fourth is that rain is seen raised upon hills and none sprung about in the fields. Also there is a great pound that contained lx islands covenable for men to dwell in that pond is beclipped about with six score Roches & upon every roche an eagles nest and th●e score Rivers rennen into that pond. And none of them all run into the see but one/ There is a pond closed about with wall of tile and of stone. ¶ In that pond men wash and bathe right oft. and every man feeleth the water hoot or cold right as he will himself. There been salt wells far from the see and been salt all the week long unto saturday at none unto monday The water of these wells when it is sudden turneth into small salt fair and white ¶ Aso there is a pond the water there of hath wonder working. For though all an host stood by the pond and turned their face thither ward the water would draw him violently toward the pond and wet all their clothes/ So should horse be drawn in the same wise. And if the facebe turned a way fro the water the water noyeth not. There is a well that no stream runneth fro ne neither thereto and yet four manner of fish be taken there in. the well is but xx. foot long and xx. foot broad ¶ And beareth no great depte but to the knee/ And closeth with high banks on every side. In the country about wynchestre is a den or a cave/ out of the cave bloweth all way a strong wind/ so that no man may endure to stand tofore yt. den or cave. There also is a pond that turneth tree in to iron if it be there in a year. And so trees been shapen in to whestones. Also there is in the top of an hill buryels every man that cometh & meeteth that buryell/ he shall find it even of his own length & mesure· And if a pilgrim kneel thereto anonr he shall be all fresh & feel no grief of weariness. ¶ Get in· top. Fast be the minster of wynburney that is not far fro bathe is a wood that beareth moche fruit/ if the trees of that wood fall in to water or ground that is nigh & lie there all a year. the trees tornen in to stones. ¶ Giritenere. Under the city of Chestre runneth the rivet Dee● now departeth England & wales. That river changed every month his lords as men of the country tell & leaveth often the channel/ but whether the water draw more to ward england or to ward wales to what side that it be. that year men of that side have the worst end & over set. And men of the other side shall have better end & be at their above when the water so changeth his course it bodeth such haps. This river Dee runneth & cometh out of a lake that heat. Pymblemere. in this river is great plenty of salmon/ nevertheless in the lake is never salmon founden. ¶ will held re le two. Take heed how great light and brightness hath been showed upon Englysshmen sith they first turned to right believe. So that of no men in any province been founden so many hole bodies of men after her death in sickness of everlastingness that shall be after the day of doom/ as it well seemeth in these holy Saints as Edeldrede/ Edmonde/ the king Elphege: Edgar Cutberde & saint Edward & many other I trow that it bedoo by a special grace of god almighty for the nation that is set as it were without the world take heed to buryenge of bodies without corruption and rotynge/ and been the more bold & steadfast for to trust on the final arising of deed dodyes for to last evermore after the day of doom. ¶ Of the chief parties of the same land. ca v. AFter the first Brutes time the island of britain began for to have the principal parties/ that been Loegria Cambria that is that wales. And Albania that is now scotland Loegria hath that name of Locrinus that was Brutus' oldest son/ and heat/ loegria as it were. Locrine's land/ but now Loegrin is called england. The bounds and Marks were there of sometime the french see both by east & by south. ¶ Beda. li.i. ca two. And by north two arms of the see that breaketh far in to the land either against other But they reach not together/ The east arm of thilk twain beginneth about a two little mile fro the minster of Ebburcuring. In the west side of Penulton in that arm is a town/ that is called Guydy. the west arm of thilk twain hath in the right side a strong city that heat Alclyved which in their language is called Clint stone & standeth upon a river that is called Clynt also. ¶ R. Some men would mean that Loegria endeth at Humbre & stretcheth no ferther north ward. The second party of britain is caleo Albinia that is scotland & hath that name of Albinactus' Brutes sone & stretcheth fro the foresaid two arms of the see north ward unto these of Norway. Nevertheless the south parties of Albania where as pyetes dwelled sometime that lieth from the water of tweed unto the scottish see. All that longed sometime to the kingdom of Northumberlonde Brenycorne the north sade of Northumberlonde fro the first time of english king to that time when Kynadius king of scotland that was Alpinus son did a way the Pyctes and so joined that country to the kingdom of scotland. Then third party of britain is wales walias that heat Cambria also/ & hath that name Cambria of Cambre Brutes sone/ for he was prince of wales. In the east side Seurnee departed some time between England & wales. But in the north side the river of Dee atchestre and in the south the river that is named Vaga at the castle of Srygelyn departeth England and wales. All so king Offa for to have a distinction for evermore between the kings of england and of wales made a long dyche that dretched for the out of the south side by Brystowe under the hills of wales Severne and Dee almost to the heeds and unto the mouth of the river of Dee beyond Chestre fast by the castle it reenneth between Colehyll and the minster of Basyngwercke into the see. This dytthe is yet in many places seen In saint Edward's time walsshmen should not pass that was at earl harold procuring as it shall be said here after. but now in either sides both ayonde half & a this half the dyche and specially in the shires of Chestre of Shrowesbury and of Herforde in many places been englishmen and welshmen meddled togethers. ¶ Of the islands that been thereto adjacent. Capitulo. vi. britain hath three islands that been night and longing thereto all without the islands Orcades/ as it were answering to the three chief parties of britain. For the isle of wight longeth & lieth to Leogrya that is England. The island Man that is called Angleseya also longeth to wales/ and the island Enbonia that hath two other names and is called Menevia and Man also which longeth to scotland. And all these three islands wight Mon and Man been almost alike much and the quantity/ of the which three all arrow followeth our speech. ¶ Beda. li.i. ca iii· Claudius sent Vespasianus. and Vespasianus wan wight/ And wight stretcheth out of the east in to the west xxx mile long. And out of the south in to the north xii mile/ and is in the east side vi mile fro the south clyfe of britain. And three mile fro the west side. ¶ Beda. li.iiii ca v. The measure of this island as englishmen guess is a thousand heusholders and two hundred. ¶ Gir. in itinere. mon that is called. Angleseya also his departed from north wales by a short arm of the see as it were two mile broad. In Mon been three hundred towns. lx.iii. And been accounted for Candredes that been iii hundreds. The island is as it were xxx my●e long and xii mile broad Candredus is so moche land as containeth an hundred towns/ that name candredus is made out of two languages of Brytysshe and of irish In praising of this island welshmen were wont to say a proverb and an old saw. Mon Mankembri/ that is to say in english that land is so good that it seemeth that it would find corn enough for all the men of wales. Therefore Virglys verses may be according thereto/ as moche as guawes/ beasts long Inneth daws So much eft bringeth cold dew in a night ¶ In that arm of the see that departed this land and north wales/ is a swallow that that draweth ships to it that saileth by and swoloweth them in ryyght as doth. Scylla and Carybdis that been two perilous places in the see of middle earth. Therefore men may not sail by this swallow but slily at full see. ¶ R. Of the marvels and wonders of the island of Mon thou shalt find in the chapter of wales. Gir. in itinere. The third island that is called both Eubonia & Meneuia that is Manstondeth in the middle between the irish ulstere and the Scottesshe gall way as it were in the navel of the see. ¶ Beda four ca ix. This islands. The first is south ward the more condtree. And the better corn land and containeth ix hundred and. ●x. housholdes·s The secon●e containeth the space of. CCC. & moo as englishmen guess. Gir. in ●op: Sometime was strife whether this island Man should long to britain or to ireland and for as much as venomous worms that were brought thither ly●ed there/ It was judged that the island of Man should long to britain. ¶ R. In that island is ●ortylege and which craft used. Fer women there sell to shipmen wind as it were closed under three knots of thread. So that more wind he will have the moo knots he must undo. Cheer often by day time men of that land seen men that been deed tofore hand beheaded or hole and what death they died. Alyens' set their feet upon foots of the men of that land for to see such sights as the men of that land done. ¶ Beda. li.ii. Scots dwelled first in this island ¶ Thanatos that is Tenet and is an island besides Kente o and hath that name Thanatos of death of serpents for there been none. And the earth thereof sleeth serpents yborn in other lands. There is noble corn land & fruyt●u●. It is supposed that this island was hallowed & blessed of saint Austen the first doctor of englishmen for there he arrived fryste. ¶ Of the kenges high ways & streets. ca seven. Molyuncyus' king of Brytons· was the/ xiii. of them and the first that ga● them law. He ordained that plowmen follows/ goods laws and high ways that let den men to cities and towns should have the freedom of colour so that every man that went to any of them for succour or for trespaas that he hath should be safe for poursute of all his enemies. But afterward for the ways were uncertain & strife was had· Therefore Belinus the king that was the foresaid Moliuncius son for to put a way all strife and doubt/ made four high kings ways privileged with all preveylege and freedom And the ways stretch through the island. The first and greatest of all the four ways is called Fosse & stretcheth out of the south in to the north and beginneth from the corner of cornwall & passeth forth by devonshire by Somersete & forth be sides Tetbury upon Cotteswolde beside coventry unto leicester/ & so forth by wild plains toward Newarke and endeth at Lyncoln. The second chief kings high way is named watlyngstrete and stretcheth thwart over Fosse out of the southeast in to the norwest and beginneth at Dover and passeth by the middle of Kente over Temse beside London by westminster and so forth by saint Albon in the west side by donstaple by Scratforde by Towcetre by wedom by south Lylleborn by Atheryston unto gylbertes hill that now is called wrekene and forth by Severn and passeth besides wrokcestre/ and thenne forth to Stratton and so forth ay the middle of wales unto Cardykan and endeth at irish see. The third way is called Erynnugestrete and stretcheth out of the west nor west in to the east southeast/ and beginneth in Menevia that is saint david's land in west wales and stretcheth forth unto Southampton: The fourth is called. Rykenylstrete and stretcheth forth by worochestre by wycombe and by Brymyngeham by Lechefelde by Derby by Chestrefelde by york and forth unto Tynmouthe. ¶ Of the famous Rivers & streams. ca viii. THere been three famous Rivers renayn●e through britain by the which three Rivers merchants of beyond the see coumen in ships into britain wellnygh out of all manner of nations and lands. These three Rivers been Temse. Severn and Humbre The see ebbeth and floweth at these three Rivers & departeth the provinces of the island as it were the three kingdoms asunder. The three parties been Loegria. Cambria/ and Northumbri● That been middle england: wales. and Northumberlonde. ¶ R. These name Temse seemeth made one name of two names of two rivers that been Tame & ice for the river of T●me runneth besides Dorchestre and falleth in ice/ therefore all the river fro the first heed unto the east see is named Tamyse or Temse beginneth besides Tetbury that is three mile by north Malmesbury. There the Temse springeth of a well that runneth east ward & passeth the Fosse and departeth Glocestre shire and wilshire/ and draweth with him many other wells and streams and waxeth great at grecestre and passeth forth than toward Hampton & so forth by Oxenford by wallynforde by Riding and by London. ¶ Wilhelmus de 'pon. ca two. at haven of Sandwhyche it fas●eth in to the east see/ and holdeth his name xl mile beyond London/ and departeth in some place Kente & Essex westsex and Mercia that is as it were a great deal of middle England. ¶ R. Severn is A river of britain & is called Habern in brytons/ and hath that name Habern of Habern that was Estryldes' daughter Guendolon the queen drenched this Habern therein/ therefore the Brytons called the river Habern after the woman that was drowned therein/ by corrupt latin it is called Sabria Severn in english. Severn beginneth in the middle of wales and passeth first to ward the east unto Shrowesbury/ and thenne turned south ward unto Bryggenorthe wyrcestre & gloucester & falleth in to the west see besides Brystow & departeth in some place england & wales. ¶ wilhel de 'pon. li.iii. Sauerne is swift of stream/ fish carft is therein/ woodness of the swolowing & of the whirling water casteth up & gather to heap great heaps of gravel Severn oft ariseth & overfloweth the banks ¶ R: Humbre hath the name of Humbre king of. hunes. for he was drowned there in. & runneth first a croak out of the southside of york/ & thenne it departed the province of Lyndese ye the longed sometime to the merces from the other country northumberlonde Trent & Ous rennen in to Humbre and maken the river full grete· ¶ Treuisa The merces were men as ii were of middle England as it shall be said here after. ¶ Of ancient cities & towns. ca ix. THe kingdom of britain was sometime made fair with xxviii noble cities without right many castles that were walled with towers with yates and with bars strongly builded. ¶ After these were the names of the cyteis. Caerlud that is London Caerbrank that is york/ Caerkent that is Caunterbury Taergoraukon that is worchestre. Caerlyryon that is/ leicester. Caerclon that is Gloucestre Caercolden that is Colcestre Carray that is/ chichestre. Saxons called it sometime Cyssoncestre: carcery that is Cyrcerre/ caergunt that is wynchestre. Caergraunt that is/ cambrygge caerleyll that is/ lugibalia and Karlylle. Caerporis that is Porchestre. caerdrom that is Dorchestre. Caerludcoyt that is/ lyncoln and. Lyndecolyn. Caermarthyn that is Merlyns city/ cersegent that is Sicestre & his upon tense not fer from reading leon that is/ caerlegeon also and hight first Legecestre and now is named Chestre Caerbathon that is bathe. and height sometime Athamanus city Caerpaladour that is Septon that now height Shaftesbury. ¶ R. Other cities been found in chronicles for understanding of stories/ of whom it shall follow. ¶ Will de 'pon. London is a ryal and a rich city upon. Tamyse. of burgeysses of riches of merchants of chaffer and of merchandise. Therefore it is that some time when dearth of victuals is in all England comuly at London it is best cheap because of the buyers and sells that been at London. ¶ Gaufre Brute the first kying of Brytons build & edefyted this city of London the first city of London the fyryste city in remembrance of the city of Troy that was destroyed & called it Troy newich & trivantum that is new Troy After ward king Lud called it Caerlud after his own name. Therefore the Brytons had indignation as Gyldas/ telleth afterward Englishmen called the city London/ & yet after the Normans called it Londers ●nd is named in latin londonia Rudhudybras king/ leyles son. was the viii king of Brytons/ & he builded Caunterbury the chyefeyte of Kent called it Caerkent. afterward Englishmen called it Dorobernia/ but that is not Dover that standeth upon the cliff of the french see & from shiss dover xxii english mile. After ward this Dorobernia was & is called Caunterbury. The same king. Rudhudibrys' builded wynchestre. and called it Caerguent & after Englysshmen called it went and wynchestre after the name of one an english man that was bishop there All westsaxon was subject to him the same king builded paladour that is Septon that now is called Shaftesbury Brytons tellen that an Eagle prophesied there sometime. Bladud. Leyle'S son a Nygramancer was the ix king of Britons/ he builded Bathe and called it Caerbathon. englishmen called it after Athamannus city. But at the last men called it Bathonia that is Bath. ¶ Wilhell. depon. li.ii. in this city welleth up & springeth hot Baths & men ween that julius Cezar made there such baths. ¶ R. But Gaufre ● monutēsis in his Brytons book/ saith that Bladud made thilk baths because wyllyam hath not seen that brytysshe book wrote so by telling of other men/ or by his own guessing as he wrote other things not best avysedly. Therefore it seemeth more soothly that Bladud made not the hot baths Ne julius Cezar did such a deed though bladud builded & made the city. but it accordeth better to kindly reason that the water run the in the earth by veins of brimstone & sulphur & so it is kindly made hoot in that course and springeth up in diverse places of the city. And so there been hoot baths that washeth of ●e●es soores scabs/ ¶ Treuisa. Though men might by craft make hoot bathe for to endure long enough/ this accordeth well to reason & to philosophy that treateth of hot wells and baths that been in diverse lands though the water of this bathe be more trobly & soruer of savour & of smell than other hot baths been that I have seen at Akon in Almaigne. And eyges in Savoy/ which been fair & clear as any well stream I have been bathed therein and assayed them. ¶ R. Claudius'/ cezar married his daughter to arviragus king of Brytons. This Claudyus Cezar builded Gloucestre in the wedding of his doughter· Brytons called this city frist after Claudius' name but afterward it was called Gloucestre after one gloria which was duke of the country & standeth upon Severn in the march of england & wales. Shrowesbury a city upon Savarne in the march of England & wales set upon the top of an hill/ & it is called/ Shrowesburye of shrobbes & fruit that grew there sometime on the hill/ Brytons called it sometime Pengre ween that is the heed of a fair tree Shrowesbury was sometime the heed of powesye ● stretcheth forth thwarde over the middle of wales unto the irish see Notyngam standeth upon Trence & sometime heat Notyngham that is the woning of dens/ for the Danes dwelled there sometime & digged dens & caves under hard stones & rooks & dwelled there. ¶ R. Lyncolyn is chief of the province of Lyndeseye & was called sometime Caerlud coit and afterward Lyndecoln. It is uncertain who builded first this city but if it were king Lud/ & so it seemeth by meaning of the name/ for the Caer is brytysshe & is to say a city & a coit is a wood & so it seemeth the Caerlud coit is to say Lud'S wood town King leyr● was Bladuddes son & builded Leybestre/ as it were in the middle of england upon the river Sos & upon Fosse the kings buy wyye. ¶ wylhel. de 'pon. li.iii. YOrke is a street city in either side of the water of Ouse that seemed as fair as Rome unto the tgme that the king wy●liam had with brenning & fire defoulde it & the coōtre about. So that a pilgrim would now weep & h● saw it/ if he had known it tofore. ¶ Gaufre. Ebraneus the .v. king of brytons builded york & called it after his own name Caerbranck he baylded also two other cities one in scotland & is called Edinburgh & an other toward Scotlond in th'end of england & called Edinburgh/ & an other toward Scotlond in th'end of England & is called Alcliud. ¶ R. Edenburth is a city in the land of Pictes between the river of tweed & the scottish see & hee● sometime the castle of Maidens & was called afterward Edinburgh of Edan king of Pictes the reigned there in eg●ridus time king of Northūber●ond. Alcliud was sometime a noble city/ & is now well nigh vnknowe to all englishmen. for under the Brytons & pyctes & englishmen it was a noble city to the coming of the Danes. But after ward about the year of our lord ·viii. c.lxx. it was destroyed when the danes destryed the countries of Northumberlond. but in what place of britain the city Alcliud was builded. Ductours tellen diversely ¶ Beda. li.i. saith that it was builded by west the arm of the see that departed between the Britons & the Pyctes sometime there Soverꝰ ●amous wall endeth westward/ & so it seemeth by him that it is not fer from Caerleyl for the city is set at the end of that wall. Other writers of stories written that the city of Alcliud is the city that now is called Alomburgh/ that is to say an old town/ & standeth upon the river Ous not far fro barghbrydge/ that is xu mile westward out of york/ & it seemeth that he proveth that by Gaufride in his book of deeds of Brytons/ he writeth that Elidurus king of Britons was lodged at the city Alcliud because of solace & hunting/ & found his brode● Argalon masking in a wood nigh there beside that height Calatery/ but that wood Calatery which is caltres in english reacheth almost to york & stretcheth toward the north by Aldburgh in length by space of twenty mile/ the most deal of that wood is now drawn down & the land ytylled other men would suppose that Alcliud was the city that now is called Burgham in the north country of westmerlonde fast by Comberlond/ & stadeth upon the river Eden/ the city is there wonderly seen. deem ye now where it is builded. ¶ Trevysa. It is not hard to assoil if men take heed/ the many towns bear one name/ as Cartage/ in Africa & Cartago in spain. new port in wales & Newporte in the parish of Barkeleye/ wottonne under/ egg and wotton passeth/ wyk warwick pain. & wyk in the parish of Barkelye. And two shire town either is called Hampton/ as Southampton & Northehampton so it seemeth by the stories the one Alcliud was in yorkshyre/ an other in westmerlonde/ & one fast by the right side of the west arm of the see that departeth England & scotland/ but the Alcliud was a right strong city as Beda saith. & the city standeth fast by a river that is called Cliud. & there is no such river in yorkshyre in westmer land as of the country tell me. Some men say that the river Cliud is now named sulwach. Sulwa●che is but .v. mile fro Caerleyl which is a city in the country of nor●h Enlonde toward the north west & hath an other name which is Luguball. Leyil the vii king of Britons builded caerleyll. ¶ R. In this city is somewhat of the famous wall that passeth northumberlonde. ¶ wilhel. de 'pon. in this city is yet a the● chambered house made of vawt stones that never might be destroyed with tempest of weder ne with brenning of fire/ also in the country fast by westmerlonde in the front of a three chanbre place is written in this manner/ Marii. victory/ what this writing is to say I doubt somewhat but if it were some of the Combres lay here some time when the counsel Marius had put him out of italy/ But it seemeth better that it is written in mind of Marius' king of brytons that was arviragus son/ This marius overcome in that place Roderyke king of pyctes So saith Gaufre in his brytysshe book/ William malmesbury saw never that book at Hagustaldes church is a place lxxx mile/ out of york Nor westewarde the place is as. were destroyed/ so saith wylhel/ li.iii. de pony. That place longed sometime to the bishopric of york/ there were sometime houses with vice arches and voutes in the manner of Rome/ Now that place is called Hestoldeshame and heglesham also/ ¶ Beda. li.iii. ca i. saith Than that place is fast by the long wall of the work of Rome in the north half/ ¶ R/ There is difference between the pryvynce of Lyndeffare and the church Lyndefarne/ For the province of Lyndeffare & Lyndeseye is all one/ and lieth by east lincoln and lyncolne is the heed thereof/ of the which saith Beda. li.iiii. ca xi. that Sex wulfus was first bishop there/ but Beda. li.iiii. ca xiii saith/ That lyndeffar church is an island that is called holy island in the river of tweed next Barwyke And so it is gathered of Bedaes' saws that tweed runneth in to the famous arm of the see that now departed Englysshmen and Scots in the east half and in that arm been three islands. that one is Maylros that now is called menros/ Thenne about toward the west is Lyndeffarn church that is called holy island/ then the church is above upward & his the Ilondefarn and is called also ferny island. then up ward about that two mile is a rial city upon the brink of tweed/ that sometime height Bebanburgh that is Bobs city and now is called Bamburgh and hath a right strong castle. ¶ Gir. initenere/ two cities there been either is called Charlegyon and caerleon also one is Demycia in south wales that is named caeruske/ also there the river of uske falyeth into Severne fast by glamorgan Bellynus king of Brytons sometime buyled the city and was sometime the chief city of Demecya in south wales. afterward in Claudius cezar● time it was called the city legions when at prayer of Genius the queen Vespiciaws and arviragus were accorded and/ legyons' of Rome were sent in to ireland. though was Caerleon a noble city and a great authority/ & by the romans rially builded and walled about with walls of brent tile. great nobley that was there in old time is there yet in many places seen as the great palaces giants towers noble baths/ relief of the temples places high and ryall to stand and site in/ and to behold about the places were rially closed with rial walls that yet somedeal standeth right nigh close/ And within the walls and without is great building under earth/ water conduits and ways under earth and stews ¶ Also thou shalt see wonderly made. with straight side ways of breathing that wonderly cast up heat. In this City were sometime three noble churches. one was of saint julius the martyr & therein a great company of virgins that other was of saint Aaron that was of the order of black Cannon that church was right nobly adorned/ The third church was the chyf mother church of all wales and the chief see. But afterward the chief see was turned out of the city into menevya that is saint david's land in west wales. In this Caerleon was amphybalus born thought saint Albon There the messengers of Rome come to great Arthur's court. if it is leeful to trow. Trevisa. if Giraldus was in doubt whether it w●re leeful for to trow or not ● it were a wonder showing as men would went for too have evermore in mind & ever be in doubt if all his books were such what lord were therein & namely while he maketh none evidence for in neither side he telleth what moveth him so to ¶ R. There is another city of legions there his chronicles were by travailed as it is clearly known by the first chapter of this book ¶ Trevysa. That is to understanding in the latin writing. For he that made it in latin turned it not into english ne it was turned into english in the same place that it was first in latyn· The understanding of him that made this chronicles is thus the begnning of this book. ¶ Presentem cronicam compliavit frater Ranulphus Cestrensis monachus. That is to say in english. Brother Ranuiphe monk of Chestre conpyled and made this Book of the chronicles/ ¶ R. The of legions that is chestre standeth in the march of England toward wales between two arms of the see that been namedde and Mersee \ This City in time of Brytons was heed and chief city of all Venedocia/ that is North wales The founder of this city is unknowen· For who that seeth the fundaments of the great stones would rather ween that it were romans work or work off Giants/ than it were set by working of Brytons. This city sometime in brytysshe speech heat Caerthleon Legecestria in latin And Chestre in english and the cite of legions also/ ¶ Forther delay a winter the legions of knyghten that julius Cezar sent for to win ireland. And after Claudius' cezar sent legions out of that city for to win the island that be called Orcades/ what ever wyllyam Malmeshury by telling of other men mente of this city. This city hath plenty of livelihood of corn of flesh of fish/ and specially of price of salmon/ This city receiveth moche merchandise and sendeth out also. Also nigh this city been salt wells. metell and oor/ Nor thumbres destroyed this city sometime/ But after ward Elfleda lady of Marcia builded it again and made it much more. ¶ In this same city been ways under the earth with vowtes and stone work wonderly ywrought. there chabre works/ great stones ygraven with old men's names there in/ There is also julius Cezar name wonderly in stones ygrave/ and other men's also with the wryteing about This is the city that Edelfryde king of northumberlonde. destroyed/ and slew there fast by nigh two thusande monks of the mynst of Bangor/ This is the city that king Edgar come thither sometime with vii kings that were subject to him/ Ametre breaketh out in this manner in praising this city/ Chestre castle town as it were. name taketh of a castle It is known what man builded this city new though Lengecestria these heat now town of legyones Now welsh & english hold this city of great price/ stones on wall. seemeth work Hercules' al. There long with might todure that heap is a height. Saxon small stones/ set upon great been atones. There under ground. loting double voute is fond/ that helpeth with sondes. many men of western lands/ fish flesh and corn low. This city town hath yonwe ships and chaffer. see water bringeth enough there. Godestall there is that was emperourer this. And forth Henry king/ Earth is there right dwelling/ Off king harald. poudre is there yet halde/ Bacchus and marcurious. Mers and venus also Laverna Protheus and plura. regnen therein the town. ¶ Trevysa. God wot what this is to mean/ dut poets in their manner speech feign as though every kind craft & living had diverse god everich from other/ And so they feigned a god of battle and of fighting called him Mars and a god of covetise and richesse and merchandise and called him mercurius/ And so Bacchus is called god of wine Venus' goddess of love and beauty. Lauerna god of theft and of robberyf Protheus god of falsehood and of guile and Pluto god of hell. & so it seemeth that these verses would mean that these foresaid gods reign and been served in Chestre/ Mars with fighting and stocking/ Marcurius with covetise and richesse/ Bacchus with great drinking. Venus with love lewdly. Lauerna with theft and robbery Procheus with falsehood and guile. Then is pluto not unserved that is god of hell. ¶ R. There babylon lore more might hath troth the more/ ¶ Of provinces and shires ca x. TAke heed the englonde contained xxxii. shires & ꝓuincꝭ that now been called Erldoms reserved Cernewale & the island Alfre. these been the names of the erldoms & shires. Kent sothsex. sothery. hampshyre barkshyre that hath his name of a bare oak that is in the forest of windsor further wont they to take their counsel. Also wylshyre that heat sometime the province of semeran somersault. dorset. deynshyre that now is called Devonia in latin/ ¶ These ix: Sourhshyres the Tamyse departed foam the other deal of England which were some time governed and ruled by the westsaxons law Eestsex Meddelsex Soulfolke Norfolk Herdforthe shire Huntyngdon shire Beddeforsh shire Bokyngham shire. leicester shire Derby shire Notyngham shire lincolnshire york shire Durham shire Northumberlonde Ca●rleyll shire with Cumberlonde Appelby shire with westmerlonde Lancastre shire/ that conteyenth five little shires. These fifteen north and east shires were sometime governed and ruled by the law called Mercia in latin and marchene in english It is to wite that york shire stretcheth from the river of Humbre unto the river of Teyse/ And yet in york shire been xxii hondredis. hundred and candredes is all one. Candrede is one word made of welsh and irish/ and is to meaning a country that containeth an hundred towns And also in english called wepentake. For sometime in the coming of a new lord tenants were wont to yield up their weepen instead of homage. Duram shire stretcheth from the river of Teyse unto the river of Tyne. And for to speak properly of Northumberlonde it stretcheth fro the river of Tyne unto thou river of tweed. That is in the beginning of scotland. Then if the country of Northumberlonde that was sometime from Humbre unto tweed be now a counted for one shire & one earldom as it was sometime. Thenne been in England but xxxii shires. but if the country of Northumberlond be the departed in to vi shires that been Euerwykshyre Duramshyre Northumberlond Caerleylshyre Anpelbyshyre Lancastre shyre· Then in England but xxxvi shires without cornwall & also without islands. King wyllyam made all these provinces and shires to be described and moten. Then were founden xxxvi shires and half a shire Twones two and thirty thousand and four score parish churches xlv thousand and two Knights fees .lxxv. thousand/ whereof men of religion have xxvii thousand and xv: knights fees. But now the woods been hewn down and the land new tilled and made moche more than was at that time and many towns & villages builded & so there been many more villages & towns now than were in that tyme. And were as afore is written that cornwall is not set among the shires of england it may stand among them well enough for it is nether in wales ne in scotlonde but it is in England and it joineth unto devonshire/ & so many there been accounted in England. xxxvii· shires and an half with the other shires. ¶ De legibus legumque vocabilis: DVnwallo that hight Molliuncius also made first laws in britain the which laws were called Moleuncius laws and were solemnly observed unto wyllyam conquerors tyme. Moliuncius ordained among his laws that cities Temples and ways that leaden men thereto/ and plough men solowes should have prevelege and freedom for to save all men that i'll thereto for succour and refuge. Then afterwade Mercia queen of Brytons that was Gwytelynus wife of her the province had the name of Mercia as some man suppose. She made a law full of wit and of reason/ & was called Merchene law. Gildas that wrote the chronicles & hystores. of the Brytons turned these two laws out of Bryton speech in to latin. And afterward king Aluredus turned all out of latin in to Saxons speech/ and was called marchene law also the king Aluredus wrote in english and put to an other law that height westsaxon law Then afterward Danes were lords in this land/ and so came forth the third law that heat Dane law. Of these three laws saint Edward the third made one common law that yet is called saint Edward's law. I hold it well done to write here & expone. many terms of these laws Myndebrugh hurting of honour & worship. I french bleschurd honour. burbruck in French bleschurde cour●ou de cloys Grichbruche breaking of peace/ Myskenning changing of speech in court. Showing setting forth of merchandise. Hamsokne or Hanfare a rear made in house Forstalling wrong or bet down in the kings high way Fritsoken surety in defence. Sak forfeit Soka suit of court & thereof cometh soaken. Theme Suit of bondmen fighting wit Amersement fighting. blodewytte A Mersement for shedding of blood Flytwytte amends for ●hydynge of blood Leyrwytte amends for dying 〈◊〉 by a bound woman Gultwytte amends/ for trespass Scot a gadring to work of bayllyes. Hydage tallage for hides of land. danegheld tallage given to the danes that was of every bona taterre That is every ox land three pens A wepyntake and an hundred is all one for the country of towns were wont to give up wepyn in the coming of a lord Lestage custom challenged in chepynges fares and stallage/ custom for standing in streets in fair tyme. ¶ Of kingdoms of bounds and marks between them. ca xii. THe kingdom of britain stood without departing hole and all one kingdom to the Brytous from the first Brute unto julius Cezars' time/ and fro julius Cezars' time unto severus time this land was under tribute to the romans. Nevertheless kings they had of the same land from Severus unto the last prince gracian successors of britain failed and romans reigned in britain afterward the romans left of their regning in britain by cause it was far from Rome/ and for great business that they had in other side/ Thenne Scots and Pyctes by misleading of Maximus the tyrant pursued britain and warred there with great strength of men of arms long time unto the time that the Saxons come at the praying of the Bretons against the Pyctes & put out Gurmonde the irish king with his Pyctes and the Brytons also with herus king that hyet Careticus and drose 'em out of England in to wales/ and so the Saxons were victors and every province after his strength made him a king. And so departed England in seven kingdoms. nevertheless afterward these seven kingdoms everichone after other came all in to one kingdom. All hole under the prince Adelstone nevertheless the Danes pursued this land fro Adelwolfys time that was Aluredes father unto the third saint Edwardes time about a hundred lxx year that reigned continually therein xxiii year and a little more. and after him harald held the kingdom ix months. And after him Normans have reigned unto this tyme. But how long they shall regne he wot to whom no thing is unknown. ¶ R. Of the foresaid seven kingdom & her marks mares and bounds when they began & how long they endured here shall I some what shortly tell. ¶ Alfre. The first kingdom was the kingdom of Kent. that stretcheth fro the east occian unto the river of Tamyse. There reigned the first Hengistis and began to regne by the acompting of Dyonyse the year of our lord a hundred lv that kingdom dured three hundred and lviii year .iv. kings unto the time that Baldred was put out and Egbert king west Saxon joined the kingdom to his own the second kingdom was at soutsaxon that had in the east side Kent. in the south the see & the yele of wight/ in the west Hampshyre/ & in the Northsothery there Ella reigned first with his three sons/ and began to regne the year after the coming of the Angles even xxx but that kingdom within short time passed into the other kingdoms. The third kingdom was of Eestsaxon/ and had in the east side the see/ in the west the country of London/ in the south Temse and in the North southfolk. The kings of this country of westsaxon fro the first. Sebertes time unto the time of the Danes were ten kings that which were subject somedeal to other kings. Nevertheless of te●●e and lengeste they were under the Kings of Mercia & unto that time that Egberte the king of westsaxon joined that kingdom to his own. The fourth kingdom was of east Angels and containeth Norfolk and Southfolke/ and had in the east side/ and in the North side the see/ & in the Northwest Cambrygeshyre/ in the west saint Edmondes' dyche and Herfordshyre/ and in the south Estsex And this kingdom dured under twelve kynhes unto the time that king Edmonde was slain. And thenne the Danes took wrongfully both the kingdoms of east Angels and of eestsaxon Afterward the Danes were put out and driven away or made subject. And then the elder king Edward joined both the kingdoms to his own. The fift kingdom was of westsaxon & dured longest of all the kingdoms/ & had in the Eestsyde southsaxon/ in the north Tamyse/ in the south & in the west that see ocean. In the kingdom reigned Serdryd with his son Kenryk. and begun to regne the year of our lord five hundred & twenty And then after the coming of Angels lxxi so saith Denys the other kingdoms passed in to this kingdom. The sixth kingdom was of Mercia & was greatest of all. The marks and the meres thereof were in the west side of the river Dear fast by Chestre and Severn fast by Shrowesbury unto bristol. in the east the east see in the south Tamyse unto london/ in the north the river of Humber. and so westward and downward unto the river Merse unto the corner off wyrhall. there Humbre falleth into the west see Penda wybbes son reigned fist in this kingdom in the year of our lord Ihesu christ vi hundred xxvi so saith Denys and fro the coming of Angels an hundred .lxxv. year. This kingdom dured under xviii kings about two hundred lxiii year. unto the last Colwulf the Danes betook that kingdom to keep when burdred the king was put out. But the elder Edward the king put out the danes & soyned the kingdom of Mercia to his own kingdom. nevertheless at the beginning this kingdom of mercia was departed into three/ in the west mercia. in middle mercia. and east Mercia. The vii kingdom was Northamhym brorun. that is the kingdom of Northumberland. the meres and Markis thereof were by west. and by east the see of Occian. by south the river of Humbre and so downward to ward the west by th'end of the shires of Nottingham and of Derby unto the river of merce and by north the Scots see. that heat forth in scottish see in english. This kingdom of northumberlonde was first dealed in two provinces. That one was the south side and heat/ Deyra and that other was the north side and heat Brenycia/ as it were two kingdoms & the river departed these two kingdoms that tyme. for the kingdom of Deyra was from the river of humbre unto the river of tyne The kingdom of Brenycia was fro Tyne to the scottish see. And when Pyctes dwelled there as Beda saith. li.iii. cap. two. That Nynyan that holy man converted men of the south side Ida the king reigned there first and began to regne the year of our lord five hundred xlvii so saith Dyonyse. In Deyra reigned king elle the year of our lord five hundred xlix These two kingdoms were other while as it is said departed between two kings and sometime all hole under one king. and dured as it were twenty english kings ccc.xxi year/ Atte last Osbertus and Elle were slain in the ix year of her kingdom the Danes slew them and Northumberlonde was void without king viii year/ Then afterward the danes reigned in Northumberlonde xxxvi year unto the ooning of the kingdom Adelstone. he made subject the kings Danes scottish & welsh and reigned first alone in England and held the kingdom of England all hole and one kingdom that was the year of our lord viii. C.xxviii. That river of Merse was sometime the mark & were between the kingdom of Northumberlonde/ that may be showed in two manners first by this property of this merse/ is as much to say as a see that is abound and a mere for it departed one kingdom from an otheri ¶ Also it is written in chronicles of Henry & alfred that king Edward the elder fastened a Castle at Mamcestre in Northumberlonde/ but that City mamcestre is from the river of merse scarcely three mile. ¶ Of bysshpryches & their sees. ca xiii. LVcius was the first king crystened of the Brytons. in his time were three archbishops sees in britain. one was at London/ an other at york/ And the third at Caerusk the city of/ legions in Glamorgan/ that city is now called Caerleon/ To these archbishops sees were called flames To the archbishops see of/ london was subject Corn wail & all middle england unto humbre/ To york all Northumberlonde from the bow of Humbre with all scotland to Caerbeon all wales. there were in wails vii bishops/ and now been but foure· though Severn departed england & wales. ¶ Wihel. de pan. li. i. But in the Saxons time though Saint Gregori. had granted/ london the privilege of tharchebysshops see nevertheless saint Austen that was sent in to England by saint Gregory turned th'archbishop see out of/ london into Caunterbury. After saint Gregoryes days at the prayer of king Ethelbryght and C● and burgesses of Caunterbury their tharchebysshops see hath dured unto now save that in the mean time of a king of mercia was wrought with men of Caunterbury/ and benam them that worship/ and worshipped Adulphe bishop of/ lichfield with the archbishops pally by assent of Adryan the pope upon Caas 〈◊〉 yefts sent/ nevertheless under Kenulph the king it was restored to Caunterbury again. ¶ The worship of the see of york hath dured there alway and yet dured though scotland be withdraw fro his subjection by passing of tyme. ¶ Gir intinere. li.i. the archbishops see was turned out of Caerleon into Menevia that is in the west side of Demecya upon the irish see in saint david's time under king Arthur. From saint david's time unto sampson's time were in Menevya xxiii archbishops. afterward fell a pestilence in all wales of the yellow evil/ that is called the jaundice. And thenne Samson the archbishop took with him the pall and went in to britain Armonica the lass britain and was there bishop of Dolensin. from that time unto the first Henry's time king of england were at Menevia which is called saint david's xxi bishops all without pall/ whether it were for uncunning or for poverty. Nevertheless always fro that time the bishops of wales were sacred of the bishop of Menevia of saint david's/ and the bishop of Menevia was sacred of the bishops of wales as of his suffrigans & made no profession ne subjection to none other church. Other bishops that come after ward were sacred at Caunterbury compelling and heest of the king/ in token of that sacring & subjection Boneface archbishop of Caunterbury that was legate of the Cross song in every Catheralle church of wales solemnly. Amas he was the first archbishop of Caunterbury that so died in wales/ & that was dene in the second Henry's tyme. R. But now been but two primates in all England of Caunterbury and of york. To the primate of Caunterbury been subject xiii bishops in England &. iiii· in wales. The premate of york hath but two suffrygans in England that been the bishop of caerleil & of Durham: Of all these sees & changing of other places I shall show you here folwing. Take heed in the begyngning of holy church in England bishops ordained their sees in low places and simple that were covenable for contemplation for prayers & devotion. But in william conquerors time by done of law: Canon it was ordained that bishops should come out of small towns in to great cities. Therefore was the see of Dorchestre changed to Lyncoln: Lychefelde to Chestre. Tetforde to Norwyche Shyrbron to Salysbury. wells to Bathe. Conewayles to exestre/ & Seleseye to chichester. The bishop of Rochestre hath no parish but he is the archbishops chapelayn of Caunterbury. sith the see of Caunterbury was first ordained by saint Austen/ it caunged yet never his place. Chychestre hath under him only South sex and the isle of wight/ and had his see first in the time of the archbishop Theodore/ and the see dured there. CCC.xxxiiii. year under twenty bishops fro the first wylfryede unto the last sith and at the commandment of king wyllyam conqueror changed the see fro Seleseye to Chychestre. ¶ De episcopis occidentalibbus wilhelmus. Have mind that all the province of west saxon had alway one bishop fro the beginning unto Theodorus time/ by grant of king Islo king of westsaxon the first Birrynus ordained a see at Dorchestre that is a simple town by south Oxenford beside walyngforde between the meeting together of Temse & Tame when Birinus was deed. Kenwalcus the king ordained a see at wynchestre as his father had purposed/ there agylbert a Frenssheman was first bishop of all the province of westsaxon. For that time the city & the see of Dorchestre perceived & longed to the province of Meria/ that city standeth with in Temse. & the Temse departeth between Mercia & westsaxon. And after that Agylbert was pute out of wynchestre that tho height winton then was there an english bishop that was called wine./ Some men suppose that this city hath the name of this wine/ & is called wynchestre as it were wine city. At the last he was put out and after him come Leutherius the foresaid Agelbertes nephew. After Leutherius hedda awhile was bishop there. when he was deed. Theodorus the archbishop ordained two bishops to the province of westsaxon. Danyell at wynchestre to him were subject two countries/ Sothery & southampshyre/ & to him were subject six countries. Barkshyre wiltshire Somersete Dorseteshyre devonshire & Cornwall. ¶ Trevysa. It seemeth by this that westsaxon conteyted. Sotherye Southampeshyre Dorseteshyre devonshire Corn wail ¶ Wilhell. After ward in elder Edward's time to these two sees were ordained by commandment of Formosus the pope three other sees. At wells for Somersete. At Kyrton for Devonshire. and. At saint german for cornwall. Not long after ward the sixth see was set At Rammesbury for wiltshire. At the last by commandment of king wyllyam conqueror all these sees save wynchestre were turned and changed out of samlle Town in to great cities for Shyrborn and Rummesbury were turned in to Salysbury. Now to that see is subject Barkshyre wyltshyre and Dorsete. The see of wells was turned to Bathe/ thereto is now subject all somerset. The sees of kyrton & of cornwall were changed to Exestre thereto is subject Devonshire & Cornwall. ¶ De orientalibus episcopis. IT is known that the east Saxons alway fro the beginning to now were subject to the bishop of London But the province of the east Angels that containeth Norfolk and Souffolk had one bishop at Donwyk/ the bishop heat Felix and was a Bourgon & was bishop xvii year/ after him Thomas was bishop .v. year after him. boneface xvii year. then Bysy afterward was ordained by Theodorus & ruled the province while he might endure by himself alone/ After him unto Egbertes time king of westsaxon an hundred xliii bishops ruled that province one at donwyk and an other of Elyngham. Nevertheless after Ludecans time king of Mercia left and was only one see at Elyngham unto the .v. year of wyllyam conqueror/ when Herfastus the xxiii bishop of the estrene changed his see to Tetforde/ and his successor Herbertus changed these fro Tetforde to Norwhiche by leave of king wyllyam the reed. The see of Ely that is night thereto the first king Henry ordained the ix year of his regne/ and made subgect thereto Cambrydgeshyre that was tofore a part of the bishopric of Lyncoln/ and for quyting thereof/ he gaafte to the bishop of Lyncoln a good town called Spalding. ¶ De episcopis Merciorum wilhelmus. HEre take heed that as the Kingdom of Mercia was alway greatest for the time/ so it was dealt in more bishoprics and specially by great hyrte by king Offa. which was xl year king of Mercia/ he changed the archbishops see fro Caunterbury to lichfield by assent of Adryan the pope. then the province of Mercia & of Lyndeffar in the first beginning of her christendom in king wulfrans time had one bishop at Lytchefeld the first bishop that was there heat Dwyna the second heat Celath & were both Scots/ after them the third Trumphere/ the fourth jarmuanus/ the fift Chedde But in Edelfydes time that was wulfrans' brother when Chedde was deed/ Theodorus th'archbishop ordained their wynfrede Cheddes deken. nevertheless apud Hyndon after that for he was unbuxum in some point/ he ordained there Sexwulf abbot of Medanstede that is named burgh. but after Sexwulfus fourth year Theodorus th'archbishop ordained five bishops in the province of Mer●ia. And so he ordained Bosell at gloucestre/ Cudwyn at lichfield/ the foresaid Sexwulf at Chestre. Edelwyn at Lyndeseye at city. Sydenia/ & he took Eata monk of the abbey of held at whit by & made him bishop of Dorchestre beside Oxenford. though this Dorchestre heat Dorking/ & so the see of that longeth to westsaxon in Saint Byrynes' time longed to Mercia from Theodorus the Archebysshops' time Ethelred king of Mercia had destroyed Kente/ this bishop Sexwulf took Pyctas bishop of Rochestre that come out of Kente and made him first bishop of Herdforde at last when Se●fulf was deed Hedda was bishop of lichfield after him and wylfryd flemed out of Northumberlonde was bishop of Chestre. nevertheless after two year Alfred king of Northumberland died and wylfrede turned again to his own se hagustalden/ and so Hedda held both the bishoprics lichfield and of Chestre. after him come Albyn that heat wor also and after him come three bishops. Torta at chestre wytta at lichfield/ And Eata was yet at Dorchestre. After his death bishops of lindsay held his see iii hundred liiii year unto ●emygius changed the see to Lyncoln by leave of the first king wyllyam But in Edgar's time bishop Leot winus joined both bishoprics to gyeer of Chestre and lyndeffa● while his life edured. ¶ De episcopis Northumbran Wilhel. de 'pon. li. ca xi. AT york was one see for all the province of Northumberland paulinus held first the see & was ordained of the bishop of Caunterbury/ & held the see at york vii year afterward when king Edwin was slain and things were dystroubled. Poulinus went thence by water away into Kent from whence he come first & took with him the pall. ¶ Wilhel. li·iiii. And so the bishopric of york ceased xxx year/ & the use of the pall ceased there an hundred xxv year unto that Egbart the bishop that was the kings brooder of the land recovered it by authority of the pope. R. when saint Oswolde reigned Aydanus a Scot was bishop in bernica that is the north side of Northumberlonde / after him Finianus after him Salmanus. ¶ wylhel: uby. s. At last he went in to Scotland with great in dygnacyon/ for wylfre under took him for he held unlawfully Besterdaye xxx year after the Paulinus was gone from thence wilfred was made bishop of york. ¶ Beda li. iiii. But while he dwelled long in France about his sacring at exciting of quartadecimonorum/ that were they that held Eesterdaye the xiiii day of the moan. Chedde was tale out of his abbey of Lynsting & wrongfully put out in to the see of yorkesby assent of king Oswy. but three year after ward. Theodorus tharche bishop died him a way & assigned him to the province of Mercia & restored wilfred to the see of york. But after by cause of wrath that was between him & the king Egfryde was put out of the see by Theodorus help. th'archbishop that was corrupt with some manner meed this was done after the wilfred had been bishop of york/ & Cumbert at Hagustalde church/ & Eata at Lyndeffar church that now is called holy island in the river of tweed. Aydanus found first the see. And Theodorus made Eadhedus bishop of Ropoune that was comen again out of Lyndeseye. wilfred had be abbot of Repune. Theodorus sent Trunwynus to the land of Pyetes in th'ends of England fast by Scotlond in a place that heat Candida casa. and whiterne also. there saint Ninian a Bryton was first founder & doctor. But all these sees out take york failed little & little for the see of Candida casa that is Gall way that though longed to \ England and dured many years under ten bishops unto that it had no power by destroying of the Pyctes. The sees of Hagalde & of Lyndeffar was sometime all one under lx bishops about four score year & ten and dured unto the coming of the Danes. In that time under Hyngar & Hubba ardufe the bishop go long about with saint Cuberts' body unto king Aluredes time king of west Saxon/ & the see of Lydeffar was set at Kunegestre that is called Kunyngysburgh also/ the place is called now Vbbesforde upon tweed At the last the xvii year of king Egbere king Edgar's son/ the see was changed to Durham/ & saint Cutber●tꝭ body was brought thither by the doing of Edmonde the bishop/ & fro that time forward the see of that Hagustalde & of lyndeffar failed utterly. The first king Henry in the ix year of his reign made the new seat Caerleyll. The archbishop of Caunterbury hath under him xiii bishops in England. and four in wales he hath Rochostre under him/ & that se hath under him a part in Kent alone London hath under him Estsex Myddelsex & half Herdforthshyre. Chychestre hath under him Southsex & the isle of wight. wynchestre hath under him Hampshyre & Southery. Salesbury hath under him Barkshyre wyldshyre D●rsete. Exetre hath under him devonshire and cornwall. Bath hath under him Somerseteshyre alone/ wyrcestre hath under him Gloucestreshyre wyrcestreshyre and half warwykshyre Herdforde hath under him Herfordshyre Chestre is bishop of Coventry & of lichfield & hath under him Cherstreshyre staffordshire Derbyshyre half warwykshyre and some of shropshire and some of Lancastreshyre fro the river of Mersee unto the river Rypylle. Lyncoln hath under him the provinces that been between Temse and humbre that been the shires of Lyncoln of leicester of Norhampton of Huntyngdon of bedford of Bockyngham of Oxenford and half Herdefordeshyre. Ely hath under him Cambrygeshyre outake Merlonde. Norwyche hath under him Merlonde Norfolk and Suffolk. Also th'archbishop of Caunterbury hath four suffreygans in wales that been Landaf Saint Davies Bangor and saint assaph. The archbishop of york hath now but two bishops under him that been Durham and caerleil. ¶ R. And so been but two primates in england what of 'em shall do● to the other and in what manner point he shall be obedient and under him. It is fully contained within about the year of our lord Ihesu christ a thousand lxxii tofore the first king wylliam & the bishops of england be commandment of the pope. the cause was handled and treated between the foresaid primates & ordained & deemed that the primate of york shall be subject to the primate of Caunterbury in things that longen to the worship of god and to the believe of holy church that in what place ever it be in England that the primate of Cauntherbury wylhote & constrain togader a counsel of clergy the primate of york is holden with his suffrygans for to be there and for to be obedient to the ordinance that there shall be lawfully ordained when the primate of york shall come to Caunterbury and with other bishops he shall sacre him that is chosen/ & so with other bishops he shall sacre his own primate/ if the primate of york be deed/ his successor shall come unto the bishop of Caunterbury and he shall take his ordinance of him and take his oath with prosessyon & lawful obedience. After about the year of our lord xi C. lxxxxv. in the time of king richard been reasons set for the party for either primate & what one primate did to that other in time of Thurstinus of Thomas and of other bishops of york from the conquest unto king Henry's time the third. Also there it is said how each of them start from other. This place is but a forspeking and not a full treatꝭ thereof Therefore it were noyfulle to charge this place with all thilk reasons. ¶ Of how many manner people have dwelled therein. ca xiiii. BRytous dwelled first in this island the xviii. year of Hely the prophet/ the xi year of Solinus postumus king of Latyns xliii after the taking of Troy/ tofore the building of Rome. CCC.xxxii. year. ¶ Beda. li. i. They come hither & took her course from armonyk that now is that other britain they held long time the south countries of the island It befell afterward in Vespasianus time duke of Rome. That the Pyctes shipped out of Scycya into Ocean/ and were driven about with the wind and entered in to the North costs of ireland and found there Scots and prayed to have a place to dwell Inn and might none get. For ireland as Scots said might not sustain both people Scots scent Pyctes to the north side of England and behyght them help against the Brytons that were their enemies if they would arise/ and took them wives of their daughters/ upon such condition if doubt fill/ who should have right to be king they should rathar cheese him of the mother side than of the father side of the women kin rathar than of the men kind ¶ Gaufre. In vespasian the Emperors time when Marius arviragus son was king of Brytons One Rodryk king of Pyctes came out of Scycya and gan to destroyed scotland/ Marius the king slew this Rodryk and gave the north party of scotland that heat Cathenesia to the men that were came with Rodryk and were overcome by him/ for to dwell Inn. But these men had no wives ne none might have of the nation of brytons there for they sailed into ireland & took to their wives Irysshemens' daughters by that covenant that the mother blood should be put tofore in succession of heritage. Gir. ca xvii. nevertheless Sirinus super Vyrgilium saith that Pyctes agatyrses that had some dwelling plyce about the waters of Scycya and they been called Pyctes of painting & smiting of wounds/ therefore they are called Pyctes as painted men. These men and these goths been all one people. For when Ma●imus the tyrant was went out of britain into France f●r to occupy th'empire. Then Gratianus and Valentianus that were brethren and follows of th'empire brought these goths out of ●cya with great gifts with flattering and ●re behests into the north country of Bryta●ne. For they were stalworth and strong m● of arms and so these thieves & bryborus were made men of land and of country and dwelled in the north countries. And held there cities and towns. ¶ Gaufre. Carancius th● tyrant slew Bassyanus ● and gave the Py●●e● a dwelling place in. Albania that is Scotlond/ there they dwelled long time afterward and meddled with Brytons. ¶ R. then sith that Pyctes occupied first the 〈◊〉 side of Scotlond. It seemeth that th● dwge place that this Carancius gaat them is the south side of scotland that stretchethe from thawrte over wall of romans work to the scottish see. and containeth Galleway and Lodovia that is Lodewaye. ¶ Therefore Beda. li.iii. ca two. speaketh in this manner. Ninian the holy man converted the south pits. afterward the Saxons come and made that Country long to Brenicia the north party of Northumberlonde unto the time that Kynadius Alpinus son king of Scotland put out of the Pyctes and made that country that lieth between tweed and the scottish see long to his kingdom. ¶ Beda. li· ca i. afterward long time the Scots were led by duke Renda and came out of ireland that is proper country Scots and with love or with strength made him a place fast by the Pyctes in the north side of that arm of the see/ that breaketh in to the land in the west side that departed in old time between Brytons and Pyctes. Of this Duke Renda the Scots had the name and were called Darlendinas as it were Rendaes' part/ for in her speech a part is called dall. ¶ Girp. The pyctes might have no wives of Brytons but they took 'em wives of irish Scots and promised 'em fair for to dwell with them And granted him a land by the see side/ there the see is now That land is called now. Galleway Marianus irish Scottesshe land datte Argall that is Scotten clyfe for Scots landed there for to do tharme to the Brytons or for that place is next to ireland for to come a land in britain. ¶ Beda. And so the Scots after Brytons and Pryctes made the third people dwelling in britain. ¶ R. then after that come Saxons at praying of the Brytons to help them against the Scots and Pyctes. ¶ And the Brytons were soon put out in to ways. And Suxons occupied the Land little and little. And eft more to the scottish see. And so Saxoas made the fourth manner of men in the island of britain. ¶ Beda li.u. ca ix. For Saxons and Angels came out of Germania/ yet some Brytons that dwelled nigh callen hem shortly Germans. ¶ R. nevertheless about the year of our lord viii hundred Egbartus king of westsaxon commanded and bad all men call the men of the land Englishmen. ¶ Alfre. then after that the Canes pursued the land. about two hundred year/ that is for to say fro the for said Egbarteus time unto saint Edward's time/ and made the fift manner of people in the land/ Bute they failed after ward. Atte last come Normans unto duke wyllyam and subdued englishmen/ and yet keep they the land and they made the pytthe people in the island. But in the first king Henry's time come many flemings and received a dwellynege place for a time be side Maylros in the west side of Enlonde/ and made the seventh people in the island. nevertheless by commandment of the same king they were put thence and driven to Haver fords side in the west side of wales. ¶ R. And so now in britain Danes and Pyctes fayllen all out/ and five nations dwellen there in that been Scots in Albania/ that is Scotlond. britain in Chambrya that is wales. but that flemings dwell in that is west wales. And normans & englishmen been meddled in all the island/ for is now doubt in stories how & in what manner they were put a way & destroyed out of britain. Now it is to declare how the Pyctes were destroyed & sailed. ¶ Girp. ca seven. britain was sometime occupied with Saxons/ & peas was made and stablished with the Pyctes/ then the Scots that came with the Pyctes saw that the Pyctes were nobler of deeds & better men of arms though they were lass in number than the scots Thenne the Scots having thereof envy turned to their natural treason that they have oft used for in treason they pass other men and been traitors as it were by kind. For they prayed all the Pyctes & specially the great of them to a feast. & waited her time when the Pyctes were merry & had well drunk they drew up nails that held up hollow benches under the pyctes & the pyctes unware suddenly fill in over the hams into a wonderful pytfull. Then the Scots fell on the Pyctes and slew them & left none alive. And so of two manner people the better warryours were holy destroyed. but the other that been the Scotes which been traitors all unlike to the pyctes took profit by that falls treason/ for they took all that land and hold it yet unto this time and it. scotland after her own name/ In king Edgar's time Kynadin Alpinus son was duke and leader of the Scots and warred in Pycte land/ and destryyed the Pyctes. He warred six scythes in Saxon and took all the land that is between tweed and the scottish see with wrong and with strength. ¶ Of the languages of manners and usuge of the people of that land. ca xu· AS it is known how many manner of people been in this island there been also so many languages and tongues. nevertheless welsh and scots that been not meddled with other nations keep yet their language and speech but yet the Scots that were sometime confederate and dwelled with Pyctes draw somewhat after their speech/ But the flemings that dwell in the west side of wales have left her strange speech and speaken like to Saxons/ also englishmen though they had fro the beginning three manner of speeches. Southern Northern & middle speech in the middle of the land as they come of three manner of people. Germania. nevertheless by commixyon and mydling first with Danes & afterward with Normans in many things the country language is appared/ for some use strange wlaffing chytering harring garting and grysbyting. ¶ This apparing of the language cometh of two things/ one because that children that gone to school learn to speak first english/ and than been compelled to conster his lessons in french & that have been used sin the Normans come into England. Also gentlemen's children be learned and taught from their youth to speak french/ & up londesshmen will counterfeit and liken himself to gentlemen and are busy to speak/ french for to be more set by/ wherefore it is said by a common proverb. jack would be a gentlemen if he could speak french. ¶ Treuisa. This was much used to fore great death. but sith it is somedeal changed/ for sir johan cornwall a master of grammar changed the teaching of grammar school & construction of/ french into english. And other school masters use the same way now in the year of our lord. a. M.CCC.lxxxv. the ix year of king richard the second/ & leave all/ french in scoles and use all construction in english wherein they have advantage one way that is that they learn the sooner their grammar/ and in another disadvantage. for now they learn no french nor can none. which is hurt for them that shall pass thee see. And also gentlemen have much left to teach their chyldred to speak/ french. ¶ R. It seemeth a great wonder the Englishmen have so great diversity in their own language in sown & in speaking of it which is all in one island. And the language of Normandye is comen out of an other land & hath one manner sown among all them that speak it in England/ for a man of Kente southern western & northern men speaken/ frenshe all like in sown & speech but they can not speak their english so. ¶ Trevysa. nevertheless there been as many diverse manner of/ frenshe in the ream of/ france/ as diverse english in the ream of England. ¶ R. Also of the foresaid tongue which is departed in three is great wonder/ for men of the east with men of the west accord better in swooning of the speech/ than men of the north with men of the south Therefore it is the men of mercii that been of middle England as it were partynes with the ends/ understand better the side languages northern & southern than northern & southern understand either other. ¶ Wilhel. de 'pon. li.iii. All the langahes of the northumbres & special at york is so shutting shytting frotting & unshap/ that we southern men may uneath unverstonde that langage· I suppose the cause be that they be night to the aliens that speak strangely. And also by cause the kings of England abide and dwell more in the south counteree than in the north country. The cause why they abide moor the south country than in the north country/ is by cause that there is better corn land more people moo noble cities and more profitable havens in the south country than in the north country. ¶ De gentis huius moribus. Gir. in 〈◊〉▪ FOr the manners and doing of walsshemen and of scots been tofore somewhat declared. Now I purpose to tell and declare the conditions of the meddled people of England. But the flemings that been in the west side of wales been now all turned as they were englishmen by cause they company with englishmen. And they be mighty and strong to fight/ and been the most enemies that walsshemen have/ and use merchandise and clothing and been full ready to put themself in adventures and to peril in the see and land because of great winning and been ready sometime to the plough and sometime to deeds of arms when time and place ar. It seemeth of these men a great wonder that in a boon of a wethers right shoulder when the flesh is sudden away and not roasted they know what have be done/ is done/ and shall be done as it were by spirit of prophecy and a wonderful craft. They tell what is done in far countries towenes of peace or of war/ the state of the royalme slaying of men and spousebreche such things they declare certain of tokens & signs that is in such a shoulder bone. ¶ R. But the englishmen that dwell in England been meddled in the island & been far fro the places that they sprung of first tornenne to the contrary deeds lightly without enticing of any other men by her own assent. And uneasy also unpatient of peace/ enemies of business/ and full of sloth. ¶ Wilhel. de 'pon. li.iii. saith That when they have destroyed their enemies all to the ground/ thenne they fighten with themself and sleeth each other/ as void and an empty stomach worketh in itself. ¶ R. nevertheless men of the south been esyer & more mild than men of the North. For they been more unstable and more cruel & more uneasy. The middle men been partners with both. Also they use them to gluttony more than other men and been more costlewe in meet and clothing Men suppose that that they took that vice of king Herceknot that was a Dane. For he here set forth twice double mess at dinner and at souper also. These men been spedefulle on horse and a foot. Able and ready to all manner deeds of arms/ and be wont to have victory and mastery in every fight where no treason is walking/ and been curious and can well tell deeds and wonders that they have seen. Also they gone in diverse lands uneath been any men rich in her own land or more gracious in far and in strange land/ they can better win and get new than keep thyr own heritage/ Therefore it is that they be spread so wide and ween that every land be own. The men be able to all manner sleight & wit/ but to fore the deed blondering and hasty. And more wise after the deed than tofore. an leaven of lightly what they have begun. ¶ Solinus li. vi. Therefore Eugenius the pope said that englishmen were able to do what ever they would/ and to be seat & put tofore all other ne were that light wytletteth. And as Hanyball said that the romans might not be over comee but in their own country so: Englysshmen may not be over come in strange lands but in their own country they be lyghty overcome ¶ R. These men despisen her own & praise other men's. & uneath be pleased nor apaid with their own estate what befalleeh & becometh other men/ they will gladly take to themself. Therefore it is that a yeoman arrayeth him as a squire: a squire as a knight a knight as a duke/ a duke as a king/ yet some go abote & will be like to all manner state & been in no state. For they take every degree that be of no degree for in derynge outward they be myntrals and herowdes. In talkning great spekers In eating & drinking gluttons/ In gathering of cattles hucksters and taverners. In array tormentors. In wnyning argry. In travail tantaly. In taking heed dedaly. In beds Sardanapaly/ In churches mawmetes. In courts thunder only in privilege of clergy and in prebends they knowleche themselves clerks. ¶ Trevysa As touching the terms of latin as argi/ tantali/ dedali/ serdanapali/ ye must understand them as the poctes feigned of them. Argus was an hard and kept beasts he had an hundred een. and Argus was also a ship/ a ship man & a chapman/ & so argus might see before & behind & on every side. Therefore he that is wise & ware & can see that he be not deceived may be called Argus. And so the chronicle saith in plural number that Englishmen been argy. that is to say they see about where as winning is That other word tantaly/ the poet feigneth that Tantalus slew his own son wherefore he is dampened to perpetual penance/ & he standeth alway in water up to the neither lip & hath alway ripe apples & noble fruit hanging down to the overlip. But the fruit ne the water may not come within his moute. He is so hold and standeth between meet and drink and may neither eete ne drink/ and is ever an hungered and a thirst that woe is him alive by this manner likeness of Tantalus they that do right nought there is moche is to do in ever side been called tantaly It seemeth that it is to say in travail they be tantaly/ for they do right nought thereto. The third word is deda●e/ take heed that Dedalus was a subtle and a sly man. And therefore by likeness they that been subtle and sly they becalled dedaly. And the fourth word is sardanapaly/ ye shall understand that Sardanapalus was king of Assyryens & was full unchaste/ & used him for to lie soft. And by a manner of lykenies of him they that live unchastely been called sardanapaly. ¶ R. But among all englishmen meddled togethers is so great a changing & diversity of clothing & of a ray & so many manners and dyverseshappes that well nigh is there any man known by his clothing & his array of whate some ever degree that he be There of prephecyed an holy Anchor in king Egelfredes time in this manner. Henry li. vi. englishmen for as much as they use them to drynkel●wn●es/ to treason & to retchlessness of god's house/ first by Danes & then by Normans/ and at the third time by the Scots that they hold the most wretches & lest worth of all other they shall be overcome. then the world shall be so unstable and so diverse and variable that the unstableness of thoughts shall be betokeneth by many manner diversities of clothing. ¶ Here followeth the discretion of the land of wales. ca xvi. Now this book taketh on hand. Wales after England So take I my tales And wend into wales To that noble blood. Of Priamus blood knowledge for to win Of great Jupiter'S kin. For to have in mind ✚ Dardanus kind. In these four titles I fond To tell the state of that land. ● Cause of the man I shall tell And then praise the land and well ❀ then I shall write with my pen. All the manners of the men then I shall fond ● To tell marvels of the land ¶ Of the name and wherefore is named wales. ca xvii. WAles now is called wallia. And sometime it heat Cambria For Camber Brutes sone Was prince & there died won Then wallia was to mean. For Gwalaes' the queen King Ebrancus child Was wedded thither mild And of that lord Gwalon With draweth of the sonn● And put to. l.i. a. ● And thou shalt find wallia. ✚ And though this land Be moche less than England As good glebe is one as other In the daughter in the mother ¶ Of the commodities of the land of wales. Capitulo. xviii. THough that land be luys. It is full of corn and of fruit And hath great plenty iwies Of flesh and eke of fish Of beasts tame and wild Of horse sheep● oxen mild Good land for all sedes For corn grass and herbs that spreads There been woods and medes Herbs and flowers there spreads. There been Rivers and wells Valleys and also hills Valleys bring forth flood. And hills metals good cool groweth under land And grass above at hand There lime is copious And slates for house honey and milk white There is dainty and not light Of braket meet and ale. ✚ Is great plenty in that vale And all that endeth to the live That land bringeth forth rive But of great riches to be draw And close many in short saw It is a corner small As though god first of all Made that land so feel To be selere of all heel. Wales is dealed by A water that heat Twy North wales from the south Twy dealeth in places full couch The south heat Demicia And the other Venedocia The first shooteth and arrows deres That other dealeth all with spear In wales how it be Were sometime courts three At Carmerthyn was that one. And that other was in Moon The third was in Powysy In Pegwern that now is Shrowesbury There were bishops seven And now been four even Under Saxons all at home Sometime under princes of that land ¶ Of the manners and rites of the welshmen. ca nineteen. THe manner living of that land. Is well diverse from England In meet and drink and clothing And many other doing They be clothed wonder well In a shirt and in a mantel A crisp breath well sayn● Doth in wind and in rain In this clothing they by bold Though the weather be right cold without sheets always. Evermore in this array They go fight ply and leap Stand sit lie and sleep without surto● gown cote and kyrtyll without ●open tabbard clok or bell without lace and chaplet that her laps without hood hat or caps Thus arrayed gone the sedges And alway with base legs They keep none other going ⸫ Though they meet with the king with arrows and short spears They fight with them that them deres They fight better if they needen When they go than when they ●yden In stead of castle and coure They take wood and mareys for succour when th●y seen it is to do. In fighting they would be a go Gyldas saith they been variable In peace and not stable. if men a●e why it be It is no wonder for to see Though men put out of land To put out other would fond But all for nought at this stand For all many woods been at groaned And put the see among ●en castles builded strong The men may dure long unete And love well conume meet They can eat and been mury without great cury They eat breed cold and hot Of ●arly and of oat Brode cakes round and thin As well seemeth so great kin seld they eat breed of wheat And seld they done one eat They have gruel to p●tage And lekes kind to come panage Also butter milk and cheese y shapeend land and corner wise Such messes they eat snell And that maketh 'em drink well Me●e ●d ale that hath might thereon they spend day and night Ever the redder is the wine. They hold it the more fine When they drink at ale They till many lewd tale For when drink is in handling They been full of jangling at meet and after eke. Her solace is salt and leek The husband in his wise Telleth that a great price To give a gaudron with growele To hem that sitten on his meal He dealeth his meet at meele And giveth every man his deal And all the over pluse He keepeth to his own use. Therefore they have woe And mishaps also They eaten hot salmon always All though physic say nay Her houses been low with all And made of yerdes' small Not as in cities nigh But f●rre a sunder and not to high When all his eaten at home. Then to their neighbours will they run And eat what they may find and see And then torn home again The life is ydele that they ledes In brenning sleeping and such deeds Wallshmen use with her might To wash their guests feet a night if he wash her feet all and some. Then they know that they be welcome They live so easily in a rout That field they bear purse about. At her breach out and home They hung their money and comb. It is wonder they beso hende And hate crack at nether end And without any core Make their wardrobe at the door. They have in great mangery Harp tabor and pipe for mynstralsy They bear corpse with sorywes great And blow land hoenes of gheet· They praise fast Troyau blood. For there of come all her broad. ⸫ Nigh kin they will be Though they pass a hundred degree Above other men they will him dight. And worship pressed with her might As angels of heaven right They worship servants of god almight. Oft guiled was this broad And yearned battle all for wood For Merlyns prophecy And oft for sortelegye best in manners of Brytons For company of Saxons Ben turned to better right That is known as clear as light They tyllen gardyns field and downs And draw him to good towns They ride armed as will god And go yhosed and yshoode And sitten fair at her meal And sleep in beds fair and in feel. So they seem now in mind More englishmen than welsh kind. if men axe why they now do so More than they wont to do They lyven in more peace Because of their riches. For their cattles should slake ● if they used oft work dread of loss of her good Make them now still of mode All in one it is brought. Have no thing and dread nought The poet saith a saw of preef The foot man singeth to fore the thief And is bolder on the way. Than the horse man rich and gay ¶ Of the meruayls and wonders of wales. THere is a pole at Brechnok Therein of fish is many a floke. Oft he changeth his hew on cop And beareth above a garden crop Oft time how it be Shape of house there shalt thousese When the pole is frore it is wonder Of the noise that is there under if the prince of the land hot Birds sing well merry not As merely as they can. And syngyn for none other man Besides Caerleon Two mile fro the town Is a roche well bright of leem Right against the son beem. Goldclyf that roche height For it shineth as god full bright Such a flower in stoon is nought. Without fruit if it were sought if men could by craft undo The veins of thetth and come thereto Many benyfece of kind Ben now hid fro man's mind And been vnknowe yet For default of man's wit great treasure is hid in ground And after this it shall be found By great study and business Of them that comen after us That old men had by great need We have by busy deed ¶ Treuisa. In books ye may read That kind faileth not at need When no man had craft in mind. Then of craft halpe god and kind When no teacher was in land Men of craft by god's hand They that had craft so then. ✚ Taught forth craft to other men Some craft that yet come not in place Some man shall have by gods grace ¶ R. An island is with noise and strife In west wales at Kerdyf Fast by Sauerne strand. Barry height that island In that hither side in a chene Shalt thou here wonder dene And diverse noys also if thou put thine ere to Noys of leaves and of wind Noys of metals thou shalt find Froting of iron & westones thou shalt her● heating of ovens then with fire All this may well be. By wawes of the see That breaketh in there With such noys and fare. At Pendrok in a stead Feudes do oft quede And throweth foul thing inn● And despiseth also sin. Neither craft ne beads may Do thence that sorrow away When it grieveth so. To the men it bodeth woe At crucynar in west wales. Is a wonder buryals Every man that cometh it to see Seemeth it even as much as he Hoole weepen there a night Shall be broken ere day light At nemyn in north wales A little island there is That is called bar●ysay Monks dwell there always Men live see long in that hur'st That the oldest dieth fryste Men say that Merlin there buried is. That height also syluestris There were Merlyns twain And prophesied beyne One heat Ambrose an Merlin And was gotten by goblin In demicia at carmerthyn Under king Vortygryn He told his prophecy Even in sonwdonye. at heed of the water of coneway In the side of mout eryry Dynas embreys in welsh. ⸫ Ambrose hill in english King Vortygere's sat on The waterside and was full of won. Then Ambrose Merlin prophesied. Tofore him right though ¶ Tresa. what wit would ween That a fiend might get a child Some men would mean That he may no such work weld That fiend that goth a night women full oft to guile Incubus is named by right ⸫ And gyleth men other while Succubus is that wight God grant us none such vile who that cometh in her guile wonder hap shall he smile with onder deed ⸫ Both men and women seed fiends will keep with craft and bring an heap. So fiends wild May make women bear child yet never in mind was child of fiends kind For without eye There might no such child die. Clergy maketh mind death sleeth no fiends kind But death slew Merlin Merlin was ergo no goblin And other Merlin of Albyn land That now is named scotland And he had names two Syluestris and Calidonius also Of that wood Calidonie For there he told his prophecy And heat Silvestris as well For when he was in battle And saw above a grisly kind And fill anon out of his mind And made no more abood But ran anon unto the wood ¶ Trevysa. Silvester is wood Other wild of mode Other else That at wood he dwells ¶ R. Silvestris Merlin. Told prophecy well and fyn And prophesied well sure Under king Arthur Openly and not so close As Merlin Ambrose There been hills in snowdonye That been wonderly high with high as great a way As a man may go a day ⸫ And heat eryry in welsh Snowy hills in english. In these hills there is Leese Enough for all beasts of wales These hills on top bears Two great fish wears Contained in that one pond. moveth with the wind an island. As though it died swim. And neyheth to the brim. So that herds have great wonder. And ween that the world moveth under In that other is perch and fish Every one eyed is So fareth all well In Albania the mylwell In Rutlonde by Tetyn well There is a little well That floweth not all walye ⸫ As the see twice a day But sometime it is dry And sometime full by the eye There is in North wallia In Mon that heat Anglesia A sto●e according well nigh As it were a man's thigh ⸫ How far ever that stone Been born of any mon. On night it goth home his way That he found by assay Hugh thereto of Shrowesbury Hn time of the first Harry For he would the sooth find That stone to an other he 'gan bind. with great chains of iron And threw all Iferens ybound at one heap In to a water deep ⸫ yet amorowe that stone was seen early in Mon. Achorle held himself full slyghe. And bound this stone to his thigh. His thysthe was rotten ordaye And the stone went a way. if men done lechery. nigh that stone by Swote cometh of that stone. But child cometh there none. There is a roche right wonderly. The roche of hearing by country Though there cry any man born And blow also with an horn Noise there though thou abide Thou shalt here none in this side Theridamas is an other island Fast by money at hand hermits there been rive ⸫ if any of them done strive All the mice that may be get Come and eat all their meet then cesseth never that woe Till the wryfe cease also As men in this land ✚ Ben angry as in ireland So saints of this country Ben also wretchefull alway Also in this land In ireland and in Scotlond. Been beiles and staves That in worship men haves And been worshipped so then Of clerks and of lewd men. That dreads also To sweten on any of though Staff either bell As it swre the gospel At Basin work is a well That Sacer heat as men tell. It sprengeth so sore as men may see What is cast in it throweth aye Thereof sprengeth a great strand It were Enough for all that land Seek at that place Have both hele and grace In the welmes ofter than ones Ben found reed spercled stones. In token of the blood reed That the maid wenefred Shad at that pit When her throat was kit He that did that deed Hath sorrow on his seed His children at all stounds Berken as whelps and hounds For to they pray that maid grace. Right at that well glace ✚ Either in Shrowesbury street. There that maid rested sweet ¶ Of the description of scotland sometime named Albania. ca xxi. IT is a common saw that the country which is now named scotland is an out stretching of the north side of britain and is departed in the south side from britain with arms of the see/ and in the other side it is be clipped with the see. This land heat some time Albania and had that name of Albanactus that was king Brutus' sone Albanactus dwelled first therein/ or of the province Albania that is country of Scycia & nigh to amazona therefore Scoctea been called as ye were scyttes for they come out of Scicia. After ward that land heat Pyctavya for the Pyctes reigned there in a thousand. CCC. lx· year. And at last heat. Hibernia as ireland height ¶ Gir. in top. For many skills/ one is for affinity and ally that was between them and irishmen for they took their wives of ireland and that is openly seen in her believe/ in clothing/ in language and in speech/ in weyyn & in manners. another skill is for Irysshemen dwelied there sometime. ¶ Beda. li.i. Out of ireland that is the proper country of Scots come irishman with her duke that was called Rendar. And with love and with strength made 'em chief sees and cities besides the Pyctes in the north side. ¶ Gir. Now the land is shortly called scotland of Scots that come out of ireland and reigned there in Ccc.xu year unto reed wyllyams time that was Malcolyn brother. ¶ R. Manyevydencꝭ we have of this scotland that it is oft called and byghte Hibernia as ireland doth. ¶ Therefore Beda. li.ii. ca xi. saith that Laurence archbishop of Dunbar was archbishop of Scots that dwelled in an island that heat Hibernia and is next to britain. ¶ Beda. li.iii. ca xxvii. saith Pestilence of moreyn bore down Hibernia. Also. li.iii. ca two. saith that the Scots that dwelled in the south side of Hibernia. Also: li. iiii. ca iii. he saith that Clad was a youngling and learned the rule of monks in Hibernia. Also. li.iiii. ca xxii. Egfridus king of Northeumberlonde destroyed Hibernia: Also. li.iiii. ca xv. the most deal of Scots in Hibernia and in the same chapter be called Hibernia properly named/ the west island is an hundred mile from everich/ britain and departed with the see between & called Hibernia that country that now is called Scotlond/ there he telleth that Adamua abbot of this island sailed to Hibernia for to teeth irishman the lawful Esterdaye And at last come again in to scotland. ¶ icy. ethi. li. xiiii· Man of this scotland been named Scots in their own language & Pyctes also. For sometime her body was painted in this manner/ they would some time with a sharp egged toll prick end carve there own bodies and make thereon diverse figures and shapes & paint hem with ink or with other painture or colour/ and because they were so peyntede they were called picti that is to say painted. ¶ Erodotus Scots been light of heart and wind enough/ but by meddling of englishmen they been much amended/ they been cruel upon their enemies and hateth bondage most of any thing and hold for a foul sloth if a man die in his bed and great worship if he die in the field. They ben little of meet and mow fast long/ and eaten seld when the son is up/ and eten flysshe fish milk and fruit more than breed and though they be fair of chap they been defoulde & made unseemly enough with their own cloth thing They praise fast the usages of their own for faders & dyspysen other men's doing her land is fraytful enough in pasture gardyns and fields. ¶ Gir. de. p. ca: xviii. The princes of Scots as the king of Spain been not wont to be anointed ne crowed. In this Scotlond is solemn & great mind of saint Andrew th'apostle: For saint Andrew we had the north parties of the world Scites & Pyctes to his lot for to preach & convert the people to crystes believe. And at last he was martyred in Achaia in grecia in a city that was named Patras & his bones were kept. CC.lxii. year unto year unto Constantynus th'emperors tyme. And then they were translated in to Constantynople & kept there. C.x. year unto Theodosyus th'emperors time & then Vngus king of Pyctes in Scotlond destroyed a great part in britain and was beset with a great host of Brytons in a field called Mark. End he heard saint Andrew speak to him in this manner. Vngus ungus here thou me Crystes apostle. I promise the help and succour when thou haste overcomen thine enemies by my help/ thou shalt give the third deal of thine heritage in alms to god almighty/ in the worship of saint Andrew/ and the sign of the cross were tofore his host and the third day he had the victory and so turned home again and dealed his heritage as he was baden. And for he was uncertain what city he should deal for saint Andrew he fasted three day/ he and his men prayed Saint Andrew that he would show him whate place he should cheese. And one of the wardens that kept the body of saint Andrew in Constantynople was warned in his slept that he should go into a place whereout an angel would lead him and so he come in to scotland with vii fellows to the top of an hill named Ragmonde. The same our light of heaven beshone and beclipped the king of Pyctes that was coming with his host to a place called Carceuan. There anon were held many seek men. There met with the king Regulus the monk of Constantynople with the relics of Saint Andrew. There is founded a church in worship of Saint Andrew that is heed of all churches in the land of Pyctes. ¶ Too this church comen pylgrymmes out of all londes·s There was Regulus first abbot and gathered monks. ¶ And so all the 〈◊〉 land that the King had assigned him he departed it in diverse places among abbeys. ¶ Of the description of ireland. Capitulo. xxii. HAbernia that is ireland. & was of old time In corperate in to the lordship of britain so saith Gir. in sua pop. where he decryveth it at full. yet it is worthy & seemly to praise that land with large praising for to come to citte & full knowledge of that land these titles that follow open the way. Therefore I shall tell of the place & stead of the land how great & what man●●● land it is/ whereof that land hath plenty & whereof it hath default/ also of whate men have dwelled therein first. Of manners of men of that land. Of the wonders of that land/ & of worthiness of hallows & saints of that land. ¶ Of the bounding of ireland Capitulo xxiii. ireland is the last of all the west ylondos and high Hybernia of one Hyberus of Spain that was Hermonius brother/ for these two brethren gate and wan that land by conquest. Or it is called Hybernia of that river Hyderus that is the west end of spain/ and that land hight scotland also/ for Scots dwelled there sometime ere they came into that other scotland that longed to britain/ therefore it is written in the Martyloge Such a day in Scotlond saint bride was borne/ and that was in ireland. This land hath in the southeast side Spain three days sailing thence aside half/ and hath in the east side the more britain thence a days sailing/ in the west side the endless Ocean and in the North side. yselonde three days sailing thence. ¶ Solynus. but the see that is between and ireland is all the year full of great wawes and uneasy that men may seld ●ayle sickerly between that see is a. C. mile broad. ¶ Of the greens and quality of that land. ca xxiii. ireland is an island greatest after britain/ and stretched north ward from Brendas' hills unto the land Columbyna and containeth viii days journey every journey xi mile and from Develyn to patrick's hills and to the see in that side in broad four de● than in the ends/ all other wise than britain/ is as ireland is shorter north ward than britain/ so is it longer south ward the land is not plain but full of mountains of hills of woods of maryes and of moors the land is soft rainy wind and low by the see side and within hilly and sondye. ¶ Solinus. There is great plenty of noble pasture and of lose/ therefore the beasts must be oft driven out of their pasture lest they eete over moche for they should shend himself if they might eat at their will. ¶ Gir. Men of that land have commonly their health. And strangers have oft a perilous slew by cause of the moisture of the meet. The flesh of kyen is there wholesome/ and swines flesh unholsome· Men of that land have no fever but only the fever ague and that right seld. ¶ Therefore the wholesomeness of that land and the cleanness out of venom is wroth all the boast and richesse of trees herbs of spicery of rich clothes and of precious stone of the east lands. The cause of the health and wholesomeness of that land is attemperate heat and cold that is therein. In quibus rebus sufficit. In this land been moo kine than oxen/ more pasture than corn/ more grass than seed/ there is plenty of Salmon/ of lamprays/ of eels and of see fish. Of eagles/ of carnes/ of peacocks/ of curlewes of sparouhaukes of goshoukes/ and of gentle falcons. Of wolves and right shrewd mice there been attercoppes/ blood souke●s eeftes that done none harm/ there been fairs little of body and full hardy and strong/ there been barnacles fowls like to wild ghees which grown wonderly upon trees/ as it were nature wrought against kind. Men of religion ette the barnacles upon fastyngdayes by cause they been not engendered with flesh. wherein as men thinketh they err for reason is against that. For if a man had eaten of Adam's leg he had eaten flesh/ and yet Adam was not engendered of father nor mother/ but that flesh come wonderly of the tree. In this land is plenty of honey and of milk of vine and of veynerdes. ¶ Solinus and ysyder. written that ireland hath no bees nevertheless it were better written that ireland had bees and no vyneyerdes. ¶ Beda saith that there is great hunting to roobuckes/ and it is known that there been none. It is no wonder of Beda for he saw never that land but some man told him such tales. Also there groweth that stone Saxagonus. And is called Iris also as it were the rain bow if that stone be hold against the son●● anon it shall shape a rainbow/ there is also a stone that is called Gagates & white margery pearls. ¶ Of the defaults of the londe· Capitulo xxv. WHere corns been there full small unne the yclenced with man's hand/ reserved men/ all beasts been smaller there than in other lands. There lackth well nigh all manner fish fresh water that is not gendered in the see there lacken unkind faucons grefacons/ per tryche fesavate/ nightingalings/ and pies/ There lacken also roe and buck/ and Ilesypyle wonts and other venomous beasts. Therefore some men feign and that favourably that Saint Patryk cleansed that land of worms and of venomous beasts but it is more probable and more skilful that this land was from the beginning alway without suceh worms/ for venomous beasts and wermes dyen there anon if men bring them thither out of other lands. And also venom and poison brought thither out of other lands losen their malice as soon as it passeth the middle of the see. Also powder and earth of that land cast and sown in other lands driven away worms so ferfor that if a turf of that land be put aboutt a worm it sleeth him or maketh him thryll that earth for tescape a way In that land cocks crow but little to fore day/ so that the first crowing of cocks in that land and the third in other lands been like far totore the day. ¶ Of them that first inhabited ireland. ca xxvi. GIradus saith that Casera noah's niece dread the flood and fled with three men and thirty women in to that island and dwelled there in first the last year tofore noah's flood. But after ward Bartholanus Seres son that came of japhet noah's son came the there with his three sons by hap or craft. CCC. year after Noers flood and dwelled there and increased to the number of ix M. men and after ward for stench of kareyns of giants that they had killed they dieden also save one Ruanus that lived a. M.u. C. year. unto saint patrick's time/ and informed the holy man of the foresaid man and of all the doings and deeds. then the third time come thither Nymeth out of Scicia with his iiii sons and dwelled there. Cc.xvi year. and at last of his of spring by diverse mishaps of wars and of morenyge they were clean destroyed and the land left void. CC. year after they fourth time five dukes that were brethren Gandius Genandus Sagandus Ruthe regus Slavius of the said Nymethes successors come out of Grece & occupied that land & dealed it in five parties/ and every party containeth xxii candredes. a Candrede is a country that containeth a. C. towns and they set a stone in the middle of the land as it were in the navel and beginning of five king domes. at the last Saluius was made king of all the land. ¶ The fifth time when this nation was thirty. year. together they wax feeble. Four noble men that were Millesius the kings sons come out of Spain with many other in a navy of xl ships & two of the worthiest of these iiii brethren that heat Hyberus & Hermon dealed the land between them twain/ but after ward covenant was broken between them both and Hiberus was slain Then Hermon was king of all that land. And from his time to the first patrick's time were kings of that nation. C.xxxi. And so fro the coming of Hybernensis ● unto the first Patryk were. M.viii. C. year. They had that name Hibernensys & Hibernia of the for said Hiberus/ or else of Hyberus a river of Spain. They were called also gatels & Scottis of one Gaytelus that was Phenis' nephew. ¶ This Gatelus could speak many languages/ after the languages that were made at Nemproths tower/ And wedded one Scotra Pharaoh's daughter. ¶ Of these dukes come the Hibernensis Men say that this Gatelus made the irish language & called it Gaytelaf as it were a language gagred of all languages & tongues. at the last Belinus king of britain had a son & height Gurguncius come out of Donnemarke at islands Orcades He found men that were called Balclensis/ and were come thither out of spain/ these men prayed & besught to have a place to dwell in And the king sent them to ireland that was tho void and waste. And ordained and sent with them duke and captains of his own & so it seemeth that ireland should long to britain by right of old tyme. From the first saint Patryk unto Fedliundius the kings time. CCCC. year reigned xxxiii kings everich after other in Irlonde· In this Fedliundius time Turgesius' duke and capitain of Norway's brought thither men of Norway and occupied that land & made in many places deep dyches and castles single double and tryble and many wards strongly walled and many thereof stand yet all hole but irishmen reach not of Castles/ for they take woods for castles and marayes and moors for castle dyches but at the last Turgesius died by gylefulles of women/ & englishmen said that Gurmundus wan ireland and made thilk dyches/ and made no mention of Turgesius/ & irishmen speak of Turgesius and know not of Gurmundas. Therefore it is write what gurmundus had won britain & dwelled therein/ and sent Turgesius with great strength in to ireland for to win that land/ & because Turgesius was capitain and leader of that viage and journey & seen among them therefore Irysshemen speak moche of him as a noble man that was seen in that land and known at the last when Gurmundus was slain in France Turgesius loved the kings daughter of ireland and her father behighted Turgesius that her world send her him to the low largeryn with. xu· maidens & Turgesius promised to meet there with xu of the noblest men that he had/ and held covenant and brought no guile but there came xu young berdeles men clothed like women with short swords under their clothes/ and fill oon Turgesius & slew him right there/ & so he was traitorously slain after he had reigned xxx year Nat long after iii brethren Almelanus Siracus & juorus came into ireland with their men out of Norway as it had been for love of peace and of merchandise & dwelled by these sides by assent of irish men that were alway idle as Paul's knights/ & the Norway's builded three cities Deveyn waterfore & Lymeryche & increased & after waxed rebel against men of that land and brought first sparths in to Irelonde So fro Turgesius' time unto roderykes time king of Connacia that was king of all the land were xvii kings in ireland and so the kins that reigned in Irelonde from the Hermons time unto the last time Roderyks were in all. C.lxxxi. kings that were not crowned neither anointed ne by law of heritage butt by night mastery and strength of arms The second Henry king of England made this Roderyk subject the year of king Henry's age xl. and of his reign xviii the year of our lord xi hundred ·lxxiis: Of the conditions and manners of ireland. ca xxvii. SGlinus saith that men of this land been strange of nation houseles & great fighters/ and account right and wrong all one thing/ and been single of clothing/ scarce of meet/ cruel of heart/ angry or speech and drinketh first blood of deed men that been slain and then washen their visages therewith and holden them paid with flesh and fruit in stead of meet & with milk in stead of drenke and usen moche plain and idleness and hunting and travail butt little. In their chyldehode they been hard nourished and ●erde fed and they be unseemly of manners and of clothing and have breeches and hosen all ne of wool and straight hodes that stre●cheth a cubit over thesholders behind and foldynges in stead of mantles and of cloaks. Also they use no saddles boots ne spurs when they ride. but they drive their horses with a chambered yerede in the over end. In stead of bits with trenches of bridals of reest/ they use bridals that let not their horse to eat there meet/ they fight unarmed naked in body/ nevertheless with two darts and spears/ And with broad spar●den they fight with one hand. ¶ These men forsaken tilling of Land and keepen pasture for beasts. ¶ They use long beards and locks hanging down behind their hedes ● they use no craft of flax/ of wool/ of metal/ ne of merchandise but give 'em to idleness and sloth/ and reckon reest for liking and for freedom for riches/ And though scotland the daughter of ireland use harp timber and to bower. nevertheless irish men beconning in two manner Instruments music/ in harp and timber that is armed with were & strenges of brass In which Instruments thought 〈◊〉 play hastily and swiftly they make ryhgt 〈◊〉 ●onye and melodies with thick tewnes ●erbles and notes and begin from be mo●● and playen secretly under dime sown in the great strenges and torn again unto the same/ so that the greatest party of craft hideth the craft as it weld seem as though the craft so should be ashamed if it were take These men been of evil manners in their living they pay no tithings the wed lawfally/ they spare not their alyes/ But brother wed the broththers' wife/ they busy to betray her neighbours and other they bear sperthes in their hands in stead of staves and fight against them that trust most to them/ these men been variable and unsteadfast threchours and guileful who that dealeth with them needeth more to be ware of guile than of craft of peace than of brenning brands/ of honey than of kynghthode/ they have such manners that they been not strong in war and in battle ne true in peace they become gossyps to them that they will falsely betray in the gossybrede and holy kindred everich drinketh others blood when it is shed/ they love somd●l● her nurse and her playferes which that suck the same milk that they soaked while they were children. And they pursue their brethren their cousins and their other kine/ and despisen their kine whiles they live/ and avenge their death when they been slain. So long hath the usage of evil custom endured among them that it hath gotenne the mastery over them and turneth treason in to kind so farforth that they been traitors by nature. ¶ And aliens and men of strange lands that dwell among them following their manners that vaunteh there is none but he is be smetted with their treason aslo. Among them many men pyssen syttyge and women standing. ¶ There been many men in that land foul shapen in limbs and in body/ For in their limbs they lack the benefice of kind So that no where been better shapen than they that been there well shapen & none worse shapen than they that been evil shapen. And skilfully nature hurt/ and defouled by wickedness of living bring the such grooms and evil ●penne of 'em that with unlawfulle delyn●●yth foul manner and evil living so wickedly defouled kind and nature. In this land & wales old wives & women were wonre & been yet as men say oft to scape themselves in lykees of hates for to milk their neighbours ●ine & stole her milk & oft gr●y hounds ren● after them & pursewen them & weven that they be hares Also some by craft of Nygramancye 〈◊〉 ●●tte swine for to be reed of colour and self then in markets & fairs But as soon as these swine pass any water they torn into their own kind whether it be straw hay grass of ●ues. But these swine may not be kept by no craft for tendure in likeness of swines over three days Among these wonders & other take heed that in the uttermost end of the world falleth new marvels & wonders. As though kind played with large love secretly and far in th'ends than openly & nigh in the myddeell. therefore in this island been many gresely wonders & marvels. ¶ Of the marvels and wonders of ireland. ca xxviii. MAny men tell that in the north side of ireland is the land of life. In that island no man may die but when they been old and vexed with great sickness/ they been borne out in to the next land and die there. There is an other island in ireland that no woman there in may bear a child/ but yet she may conceive. Also there is an island in which no deed body may rotten. In vltonia that is Vlstre is an island in a lake wonderly departed in tween In that one part is great disturbance and dyscomforth of friends & in that other party great liking and comforth of holy angels There is also saint patrick's purgatory that was showed at his prayer to confirm his preaching & his lore when he preached to misbelieved men of sorrow and pain that evil men sho● suffer for their evil works. And of joy and of bliss the good men shall receive for their holy deeds he telleth that who that suffereth the pains of purgatory/ if it be enjoined him for penance he shall never suffer the pains of hell/ but he die finally withon repentance of sin/ as the ensample. is set more full at this chapter end. ¶ Treuisa. But truly noman may be saved but if he be very repentance what somever penance he do/ and every man that is very repentant as his lives end shall be sekerly saved/ thought he never here of saint patrick's purgatory. There is an island in cona●te Sale/ that is in the see of Conaccia hallowed by saint Brandon that hath no mice there deed bodies been not buried but been kept out of the earth & rotten not. In Mamonia is a well who that washeth him with that water of the well he shall wax/ hoar on his heed There is an other well in Vltonia who somever is wasshen therein he shall never wax hoar after ward/ There is a well in Mounstre or Mamonia \ if any man touch that well anon shall fall great rain in all the province/ & that rain shall never cease/ till a pressed that is a clean maiden sing a mass in a chapel that is fast by & bless the water/ & with milk of a cow that is of one her bespring the well. & so reconcile the well in this staunge manner. At Glyndal can about the oratory of Saint Keywyn wyches beareth apples as it were apple trees and been more wholesome than savoury. That holy saint brought forth these apples by prayers for to hele his shield that was seek. There is a lake in Vlstre and moche fish therein/ which is xxx mile in length and. in breed. The river Ban runneth out of that lake into the north Ocean and men say that this lake began in this manner. There were men in that country that were of evil living coeuntes cumbrutis. And there was a well in that land in great reverence of old time/ And all way covered/ if it were left uncovered the well would rise and drowned all the land. And so it happened that a woman went to that well for to fetch water & hied her fast to her child that wept in the cradle/ & left the well uncovered/ then the well sprang so fast that is drowned the woman and her child & made all the country a lake and a fish pond. for to prove that this is so there it is great argument/ that when the weather is clear/ fisher's of that water see in the round under the water round towers and high shapen as steeples and churches of that land. In the north side of ireland in the country of Ossyyryens every vii year at the prayer of an holy Abbot/ twain that been wedded a man and a woman must needs be exiled and forshapen in to likeness of wolves & abide out vii year. And at end of vii year. if they live they come home again/ And take again their own shape/ And than shall other twain go forth in their stead and so forshapen for other vii year. There is a lake in this land if a pool of tree pight and sticked therein that part of the shaft or pool. That is in the earth shall torn in to iron/ And that par●e that abideth in the water shall torn into stone/ And the part that abideth above shall be tree in his own kind. Also there is a lake that tornethe hazel in to ash and ash in to hazel if it be done therein. Also in ireland been three Salmon leaps there as samons leap against a Roche of long spears lenthe. Also in Leginia is a pound there been seen colmen birds. The beards been called certelles and come homely to man's hand but if men do him wrong or harm. They gone a way and come not again/ and the water there shall be bitter and stink/ and he that died the wrong shall not a start without wretch and mischief but if he do amends. ¶ R. As touching patrick's purgatory. ye shall understand Saint Patyrk that was abbot and not bishop while he preached in ireland laboured and studied for to torn thilk wicked men that lived as beasts out other evil life for dread of pains of hell/ and for to confirm 'em to good life and they said they would not torn but some of them might know some what of the great pains and also of the bless that he spoke of. then saint Patryk prayed to god almighty therefore/ over lord Ihesu christ appeared to saint Patryk and took him a staff & lad him in to a wild place and showed him there a round pit that was dark within and said/ that if a man were very repentance and stable in believe and went into this pit and walked therein a day and a night he should see the lorowes and the pains of evil men/ and the joy and bliss of good men. then christ vanished out of patrick's sight ● and saint Patryk arreared and builded there a church and put therein canons regular and ●se the pit about with a wall/ and 〈…〉 in the church yard at the east end 〈…〉 church and fast shut with a strong 〈◊〉. For no man should nicely go in without 〈◊〉 of the bishop or the poyour of the place. ●ny men went in and come out again in Patryks' time and told of pains and joy th●● they had seen/ and the marvels that they saw been there yet written/ and by cause there of many men turned and were converted to right believe. ¶ And also many men went in ● c●me never again. In king stephen's time ●ynge of england a knight that height Owayne 〈…〉 saint Patryks' purgatory & come again & dwelled ever aft during his life in needs of th'abbey of Ludensis that is of th'order Chystews & told many wonders that he had seen in Patryks' purgatory. ¶ That place is called patrick's purgatory/ & the church is named Reglis No man is enjoined for to go into the purgatory. But counseled that he should not come therein butt take upon him other penance And if a man have avowed & bestale & will needs go therein He shall first go to the bishop & thenne he shall be sent with letters to the prior of the place & they both shall counsel him to leave & if he will needs go thereto he shall be in prayers & in fasting xv. days & after xv. days he shall be how seld & led to the door of the purgatory with procession & litany & yet he shall be counseled to leave it/ & if he be stedefaste & will enter/ the door shall be opened & he blessed & go in a god's name & hold forth his way/ & the door shall be shit till the next day/ & when the time is the prior shall come & open the door. & if the man be comen he ledethe him in to the church with ꝓcessyon & there he shall be fifteen days in prayers & fasting. ¶ Of the marvels of saints of ireland. ca xxix. HEre Gyraldus maketh mind that as men of this nation been more angry/ than other men & more hasty for to take wretch whiles they been alive/ so saints & hallows of this land been more wretchefull than saints of other lands Clerks of this land been chaste & say many prays & done great abstinence a day/ & drinketh all night so is afounted for a miracle/ the lechery reigneth not there as wine reigneth/ & been chosen out of abbeys into the clergy/ & done as monks should/ whate they that been evil of them been worst of all other. So good men among them though they been but few been good at the best/ prelate's of that country been full slow in correction of trespass/ & busy in contemplacyn & not in preaching of god's word Therefore it is that all the Saints of the land been confessors & no martyrs among them/ & no wonder/ for all the prelate's of this land clerks & prelate's should do as to them unknown. Therefore when it was put against the bishop of Cassyl how it might be that so many saints been in ireland & never a martyr among them all sithen that the men been so shrewd & so angry/ & the prelate's so rycheles & sl●we in corrections of trespass. The bishop answered frowardly enough & said our men been shrewd & angry enough to themselves but to god's servants they leye never hand but do hem great reverence & worship But english men come into this land that can make martyrs & were wont to use the craft. ¶ R. The bishop said so because the king Henry the second was to new comen into ireland frensshly after the martyrdom of saint Thomas of canterbury Gir. In this land in wales & in Scotlond. been bells & staves with crooked hedes & other such things for relics in great reverence & worship/ So the men of this land dreaden more for to swear upon one of thilk bells & gold staves than upon the gospel. the chief of all such relics is held Ihus staff that is at Develyn. with that which staff they say that the first saint patrick drofe the worms out of Ireland Augus. de. ci· dei. ca seven. if men axe how it may be that diverse manner of beasts & of diverse kind that be kindly gotten between mail & female come & been in ylondes after noah's flood Men supposen that such beasts swam into ylondes about & first to the next & so for forth into other. Or else men sailing into islands brought with hem such beasts for love of hunting/ or angels that god almyghtes commandment brought such beasts into ylondes about or the earth brought them for the first & fulfilled though god's commandment \ the command: ded the earth to bring forth grass & quick beasts ¶ Here endeth the description of britain/ the which contained england wales & scotland And also because Ireland is under the rule of england & of old time it hath so continued Therefore I have set the description of the same aft the said britain. which I have taken out of Poly cronycon. and also imprinted by one sometime sco●e master of saint/ Albon's upon whose soul god have mercy Amen. imprinted at London in Paul'S church yard at the west door of powly● beside my lord of londons palace by me julyan Notary ✚ In the year of our lord god. M. CCCCC.xv.