Tabula. HEre beginneth a short & a breve table on these chronicles/ and ye must understand that every leef of the a b c is marked in the margin underneath i and two and three and so forth to vi all the letters unto the books end/ What soever ye find shortly written in this table/ ye shall find it openly in the same number of that letter. ¶ The Prolgue. leaf a i ij The work of the first vi days Adam the first man Eva the first wman Seth sone to Adam ⸫ Delbora sister to Abel Abel sone to Adam Cayn and Calmana sister and wife to cain Enos Chanam Malaleel. jareth. Enoch. of the line of christ Matusale. Lameth. of Crystes line leaf a ij Tubal the first graver Jabe found the first pavilions jubal found the first craft to play Neoma found first giving No/ the ship/ the raynboowe Cham. Sem. and japhet noah's sons Arphaxat and his children Chus and his children Sale and his sone Heber and his children ⸫ leaf a iij Phaleg jacten. Nembroth. and Sulphen the builders of the tour of Babylon How gentleman began Saruk of Crystes line Belus king of Babylon Nynus king of Babylon leaf a iiij There of the line of christ leaf a v ¶ 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 Atrius king of Babylon Ysaac of the line of christ and of 〈◊〉 wives and his sons Of Gomona and of the wife of 〈◊〉 jacob of the line of christ and 〈◊〉 wives and their progen●e Zerses king of Babylon Armauic●e after him Belo●us king of Babylon Inachus the first king of 〈◊〉 Phoromius was king after him judas of the line of christ leaf a v Belus king of Assurio● Athlas an Astronomyer Sarapis king of Greeks Argus' king of Greeks Omogires put first o●en to the plough Belus king of Babylon Pharaoh king of Egypte Amithus king of Babylon Pharaoh king of Egypte A●am of Crystes line job the holy man Moses the judge of Israel Aron the bishop Daftus king of Babylon Cycrops king of Athenes Amynadab of Crystes line Moses the first judge Aron the first bishop Pharaoh king of Egypte Nason sone to Amy●adab When the law of god was given in the bill of Synay Salmen of the line of christ joshua the judge Eleazar bishop Othonyell judge Aoth judge jonas the first king of Ytaly Amictus king of Babylon Boos of the line of christ leaf a vi Sanger judge Delbora judge Phemes' bishop Saturnus king of Ytaly Picus king of Ytaly Gedeon judge Boc●● bishop Abimalech judge Tola Iuge Boc●● bishop Ia●● judge Fanus king of Ytaly ●atinus king of Ytaly Tamanus king of Babylon Lamydon king of Troy The new sins of Israel D●y bishop Ebassam judge Ab●alon Iuge Abdon judge Anthamams' king of asserium Agamenon king of Grece Aeneas king of Ytaly Vlires an eloquent man Obeth of the line of christ Samson judge leaf b i jesse of the line of christ saul king of Israel Ascamus king of Ytaly Silvius king of Ytaly Venes and Padua were builded Homer the great poet ¶ Here beginneth the second part & of the kingdom of britain. leaf b ij Albron the first woman that was in England leaf b ij iij Brute king of britain leaf b iij iiij v Lotrin king of britain Madan king of britain david king of Israel leaf b vi Mempris king of britain Solomon king of peace Sadoch bishop Roboas king of peace Achunias' 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 Grenel held king of britain Leyll king of britain leaf c i josaphat king of jews Helyas the great prophet Macheas and Abdias prophets Ochosias king of Israel Lud Ludibras king of britain Bladud king of britain joram king of jews When Helyas was ravished in to Paradyse Ocholias or Asarias' king of Jews Athalia queen of jews joram king of Israel Jehen king of Israel Athalia mother to Azari king of jews joam king of jews joathas king of Israel joam king of Israel leaf c ij Leyr king of britain leaf c ij iij Amalias king of Jews jeroboam king of Israel Ozias king of jews Ozee bishop and prophet joel Ananias and Abdias prophets Zacharias king of Israel Phas●ia king of Israel Phase king of Israel leaf c iij Morgan and Conedag king of britain reynold Gorbodian Ferres and Potres kings of britain How four kings held all britain and of their names Scatee and Dawalier kings Rudac and Cloten kings Donebant king of britain leaf c iiij burn & Belin kings of britain leaf c v Cormbratus king of britain leaf c v vi joathan king of Jews Amarias' bishop Olympias were set in Grece Acham king of jews Achitob bishop Ozee king of Israel ¶ Here beginneth the third part and continued to the nativity of christ. leaf c vi Rome was builded by Romulus Ezechias king of jews Sadoch bishop Manasses king of jews leaf c vi Sellum and Echias bishops Numa king of Rome Amon king of jews josias king of jews Azastas bishop Tobias the holy man Tulius king of Rome Nabugodonosor king of Babylon Ancus king of Rome Danyell the prophet joathas king of jews jachim king of jews Samias bishop joachim king of jews Sedechias king of Jews ✚ josedech bishop Abacuk prophet The transmygration Priscus Torquinus king of Rome Nabugodonosor and Enylmerodach kings of Babylon leaf d i How the play of Chess was found Salathicll of the line of christ Servius Tulsus king of Rome Regular Sabusardach and Balthasar kings of Babylon Monarchia Persarum Darius king of Babylon Cyrus Emperor of Perses Babylon was destroyed Tarquinus Superbus king of Rome Lucres a wife How the governance of Rome was changed after the kings Histova libu Esdre zorobabel the duke Esdias' priest Cambyses king of Perses leaf d ij Euereydes & Darius kings of Pe●●● Abruth of the line of christ joachun bishop Senators of Rome were orderned Arthararses & Zerses kings of pierce Segdianus king of pierce Elyac of the line of christ Esdias an holy man Neemias the butelere Permemdes▪ So●●tes. Democr●●s 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 Ga●us a Senator Marcus Valerius a Senator Arthaxerses Arsamus and Darius kings of pierce jodas and johannes bishops Aristotiles and Socrate philosophers leaf d iij Guentholen. Seysell. Kymor. Howan. Morwith kings of britain Grandobodiam. Artogaill. and Hesyder kings of britain How xxxiij kings reigned in peace each after other in britain Lud king of britain Sadoch of the line of christ judas bishop leaf d iiij ✚ Aeneas bishop Manilius & Fabius consuls of Rome Monarchia Grecorum Alexander king Achym of the line of christ Simon and Eleazarus bishops Dolobela Emilius. Marcus Curius Genutius consuls of Rome Ptholomeus king of Egypte Elyud of the line of christ Omias and Simon bishops Sempronius. Appius. Claudius. and many more Senators of Rome Ptholomias king of Egypte Hanyball king of Penorum leaf d v Lucacius. Simpronius. Valerius ✚ were consuls at Rome Epiphanes king of Egypte Antrochus king of Sir Onias and Simon bishops Eleazar of the line of christ Onias' bishop Paulus Scipio Senators at Rome Philometor king of Egypte Mathathias an holy man judas Machabeus and jonachas his brother bishops Antiochus king of Syrry Quintus Marchus and Tiberius were Senators of Rome Mathon of the line of christ Simon and johannes bishops Publius. Lucius. Lucius. and Lucius Senators of Rome leaf d vi Ptholomeus king of Egypte Aristobolus king and priest Alexander bishop Servius. Lucius. Fabius' Senators of Rome Ptholomeus king of Egypte jacob of the line of christ Alexandra wife and bishop Hircanus' king of jews Virgyll the great poet Oracius and Salustius hystoricus Quintus & Gaius consuls of Rome Pompeius. Marcus. and julius were dictators of Rome leaf e i Cathon philosopher Cassybolon king of England Andragen king of England joseph of the line of christ Anthigonus bishop leaf e ij Titus Livius and Ovidius historicus Octavian Emperor The husbands of saint Anna Herode Ascolonita king of jews Kymbalyn king of England ¶ Here beginneth the fourth part & con tynued to the coming of the Saxons. leaf e iij The nativity of christ leaf e iij Anninus Rufus and Valerius Graccu● bishops Pylatus the judge Of Pylatus nativity ovidius Naso Tiberius Emperor Mathias the apostle ✚ judas scaryoth leaf e iiij The making of the Credo The four evangelists Peter the first pope Gaius Emperor ✚ Gynder king of England leaf e v Armager king of England Westmer king of Englende coil king of England leaf e vi ✚ Claudius Emperor james the more the apostle Nero Emperor ✚ Seneca Nero's master Iwenalis' and Lucanus poets james the less the apostle Linus a martyr and pope ⸫ Galba Emperor Otho Emperor ✚ Vitellus Emperor Vespasianus Emperor Cletus a martyr and pope Titus Emperor leaf f i ✚ Domician Emperor Clemens a martyr pope Nerua Emperor Tratanus Emperor Anacletus a martyr and pope Plinius Orator Evaristus a martyr and pope ✚ Alexander a martyr and pope Sixtus a martyr and pope Adrianus and Eustachius Emperors Thelesphorus a martyr and pope leaf f ij Ignius a martyr and pope Antonius' Emperor Pompeius' hystoriographus ✚ Pius a martyr and pope Anicetus a martyr and pope Galienus a leech Marcus and Lucius Emperors Lucy king of England Astelepades king of England coil king of England leaf f iij Constance king of England Constantyne king of England Octavian king of England Maximian king of England leaf f iiij Of the xi thousand mardens Gracian king of England leaf f v Constantyne king of England Constance king of England Sother a martyr and pope Elentherius a martyr and pope leaf f vi Marcus Antonius and Lucius Lomodius were emperors Helius Emperor Victor a martyr and pope Zepherinus a martyr and pope Origenes the noble clerk Calistus a martyr and pope Antonius' Emperor Antonius Marcus Emperor Alexander Emperor Vrbanus a martyr and pope Poncianus a martyr and pope Anteros a martyr and pope Marimianus Emperor Gordian Emperor Phylyp Emperor Decius Emperor Fabranus a martyr and pope Comelius a martyr and pope Lucius pope Gallus and Volucianus Emperors Valerian Emperor Stephanus a martyr pope Sixtus a martyr pope Dyonisius a martyr pope leaf g i Felir a martyr and pope Claudius' Emperor Euticianus a martyr and pope Aurelius Emperor Tantus Emperor Probus Emperor Carus and his two sons Emperour● Dyoclesian Emperor Maximian Emperor Gaius pope and martyr Arcellinus a martyr and pope Marcellus a martyr and pope Eusebius a martyr and pope Melchiades a martyr and pope Galerius Emperor Silvester pope Constantyne Emperor Saint Nicholas Anastasius bishop/ and he made Quicunque vult saluus esse Mercus pope julius pope Constantinus Emperor ✚ leaf g ij Liberius pope Felir pope julianus apostata Emperor jominianus Emperor Valentinian Emperor Damacius pope Valens Emperor Augustinus rethoricus ✚ Siritius pope Theodosius Emperor Claudius poeta Arcadius Emperor Honorius Emperor ✚ jerom the doctor Sanctus Heracides johannes Crysostomus Anastasius pope Innocencius pope Zozimus pope ✚ leaf g iij Bonifacius pope Celestinus pope Theodosius Emperor Sixtus and Leo pope's Marcianus and Valentinianus were emperors ¶ Here beginneth the .v. part and continued to the coming of the Danies. leaf g iiij Engist Vortiger king of England Vortimer king of England leaf g iiij v vi and h i Aurilambros king of England leaf h i ij Vterpendragon king of England leaf h ij iij iiij Arthur king of England leaf h iiij v vi and i i ij iij iiij Constantyne Adelbright edel Curan ✚ Conan Cortyf Gurmonde all kings of England leaf i iiij v vi Adelbright Sicwith Elfride Brecinall all kings of England leaf i vi Cadewan oswald Oswy Edwin Cadwalin all kings of England leaf k i Cadwaldre king of England leaf k ij Offa Osbryght Elle all kings of England leaf k iij Saint Edmonde Edelf Eldred all kings of England ¶ Here begin the pope's and emperors & other notable things in the time of the Saxons being in England leaf k iiij Leo the first Emperor Leo pope Hellarius pope Simplicius pope Zeno Emperor Felix pope Gelasius pope Anastasius Emperor Anastasius pope Simachus pope leaf k iiij Clodianus king of France Hornusda pope justinus Emperor Priscianus grammaticus johannes pope Felix the fourth pope justinianus Emperor Bonifacius pope johannes the second pope Agapitus a confessor pope Silverius a martyr pope Virgilius pope Synodus quarta Pelagius pope johannes the third pope justinus the second Emperor Tiberius the second Emperor Benedictus pope Pelagius Emperor Mauricius Emperor leaf k v What time saint Austyn came 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 sacrasyns' leaf k vi Constantyne the third Emperor Martinus the first pope Eugenius pope Vttellianus pope Adeodatus pope Constantyne the fourth Emperor Demus a Roman pope Bonifacius pope Agatho pope Leo pope Benedictus the second pope justinianus the second Emperor leaf l i johannes the fifth pope Zeno pope Sergius pope Saint Beda Leo the second pope Liberus Emperor Leo the third pope johannes the sixth pope johannes the vij pope justinianus Emperor Sysmius pope Constantyne pope Philip the second Emperor Anastasius the second Emperor Gregorus the second pope Theodosius Emperor leaf l ij 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 leaf l iij Nychoferus Emperor Michael Emperor Karolus magnus the first a saint Leo pope Ludoincus Emperor Stephanus the fourth pope paschal pope Eugenus the fourth pope Valentinus pope Gregorius the fourth pope Lotherius pope Sergius the second pope Leo pope Benedictus a Roman pope leaf l iiij Ludovicus Emperor johannes a woman pope Nicholaus pope Adrianus pope ¶ Here beginneth the vi part & continued to the coming of the Normans. leaf l v Alured king of England leaf l v vi johannes the eight pope Karolus the second Emperor Martinus pope Adrianus the third pope Stephanus the fifth pope Karolus the third Emperor Armilphus' Emperor Formosus pope Bonifacius pope Stephanus the vi pope johannes the ix and ten pope's Theodorus pope johannes the xi pope Benedictus the four pope Leo pope Xpristoforus the first pope Ludovicus the third Emperor Beryngarius & Conradus Emperors Edward king of England Sergius the third pope Anastasius pope Lando and johannes pope's leaf l vi Henricus Emperor Adelstone king of England Edmonde king of England Eldred king of England Edwin king of England Leo the vi pope Stephanus the vij and eight pope's Martinus the third pope Agapitus pope johannes the twelve pope leaf m i Edgar king of England leaf m i ij Beryngarius the third Emperor Lotharius Emperor Beryngarius the fourth Emperor Leo the eight pope johannes the xiij pope Benedictus the vi pope Otto the first Emperor Otto the second Emperor leaf m ij 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 xiiij xv. and xvi pope's Gregorius the .v. pope leaf m iij Otto the third Emperor Silvester the second pope johannes the xviij and xix pope's Henricus the first Emperor Benedictus pope johannes the twenty pope Knoght king of England Emonde Irensyde king of England leaf m iiij Knoght king of England leaf m v Benedictus the ix pope Conradus Emperor Harolde king of England Hardiknoght king of England Of the villainy that the Danys died to the englishmen Of Godewin the false traitor Alured martyr leaf m vi Silvester the tired pope Damasius the second pope leaf n i Saint Edward king of England and confessor leaf n i ij Victor the second pope Henry the second 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 vij part & continued unto our days/ that is to say/ king Edward's reign the fourth the xxiij yerre leaf n iij William conqueror Gregorius the vij pope Victor the third pope Vrbanus pope leaf n iiij William Rous king of England paschal pope leaf n v Henry Beauclerke king of England leaf n v vi Henricus the fourth Emperor Gelasius pope Calixtus pope leaf n vi Honorius pope Lotharius Emperor Hugo de sancto victore The order of saint johan baptist Innocencius pope leaf oh i Stephen king of England leaf o i ij Celestinus the second pope Lucius pope Eugenius the second pope Petrus Lombardus bishop Petrus Commestor Fredericus the first Emperor Anastasius pope leaf o ij Henry the second king of England leaf oh ij iij Adrianus the fourth pope Alexander the third pope Lucius the third pope Vrbanus the third pope Gregorius the eight pope Clemens the third pope leaf o iij richard the first king of England leaf oh iij iiij Henricus the fifth Emperor Celestinus the third pope Innocencius the third pope William of Paris Franciscus an Ytalyon leaf oh iiij johan king of England leaf oh iiij v vi and p i ij iij Fredericus the second Emperor Honorius the third pope leaf p iij Henry the third king of England leaf p iij iiij v Gregorius the ix pope Celestinus the fourth pope Innocencius the fourth pope leaf p v Thomas de Aquine Albertus magnus Eustacius Bonaventure Alexander and Vrbanus pope's Rychardus Emperor Clemens the fourth pope Gregorius the ten pope Innocencius the .v. pope Adrianus pope johannes the xxi psope Nicholaus the third pope Radulphus Emperor Martinus the fourth pope Nicholaus de lyra Honorius the fourth pope Nicholaus the fourth pope leaf p vi Edward, the first king of England leaf p vi and all q and r i Celestinus pope Bonifacius pope ✚ Benedictus the xi pope Adulphus Emperor Albertus' Emperor Clemens pope johannes the xxij pope Henry the vi Emperor leaf r i Edward the second king of Englone leaf r all and s all and t i Lodowicus Emperor johan Mandevyll a doctor of physic and knight Benedictus pope leaf t i Edward the third king of England leaf t all v all x all and y all Clemens the vi pope Karolus the fourth Emperoar Innocencencius the vi pope Vrbanus the .v. pope Gregorius the xi pope Wenselaus Emperor ✚ Vrbanus pope leaf y vi Bonifacius the ix pope leaf z i richard the second king of England leaf z all and con i Innocencius the vij pope Robert Emperor johannes the xxiij pope Sygysmundus Emperor leaf con ij Henry the fourth king of England leaf con ij iij iiij v Martyne the .v. pope Eugenius pope leaf con vi Henry the fifth king of England leaf con vi and all aa Felix the fifth pope Albert Emperor Fredericus the third Emperor Nicholaus the .v. pope leaf bb i Henry the vi king of England leaf bb all and cc i ij iij iiij v vi seven viiij ix x xi xij Calixtus the third pope printers of books Pius the second pope leaf cc xij Paulus a Venecyan pope Sixtus the fourth pope leaf cc xiij The description of England. wales scotland and ireland/ in the later end of this present chronicles. ¶ Thus endeth the Table. The Prologue IN so moche that it is necessary to all creatures of christian religion/ or of false religion/ or gentiles & machomytes/ to know their prince/ or princes/ the reign upon them/ & them to obey. So it is commodious to know there noble acts & deeds/ & the circumstance of their lives. Therefore in the year of our lord. M. CCCC.lxxxiij. year of the reign of king▪ Edward the fourth at saint Albon's/ so that all men may know the acts namely of our noble kings of England/ is compiled together this book/ & more over 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. And 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. and 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. Itm̄ 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 ci. dei. Titus Livius de gestis Romano●. Martin penitentiary to the pope in his chronicles of Emperors & bishops. And namely Theobaldus Cartusiensis 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 clerbes. ¶ And that every man may know how these chronicles been ordered. Ye shall understand/ that this book is divided in to seven. parts. Of the which the first part contained from Adam till Brute came in to britain. The second part containeth from Brute came first in to England. unto the city of Rome was burlded by Romolus. The third part containeth sith Rome was builded unto Cryst was born of our lady Ma●●. The fourth from thence unto the coming of Saxons in to Englond. The fifth part from thence/ unto the coming of the Danies. The sixth part from thence/ unto the coming of the Normans. The seventh part fro the Normans/ unto our time/ which is under the reign of king Edward the fourth. rrij. re●●/ whose noble chronicles by custom may not be seen. ¶ And so in every part of these vij parts been showed the moost● necessary acts of all the kings of England/ & their names written above in the margin/ that every man may hind 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 judge that were in the time/ and certain of their acts necessary/ till it be common till christ 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 and after with certain of their acts brevyarly/ & 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 Cryst was borne. And when that I come to Cryst was borne/ then it is written how long any thing fell after the nativity of Crist And this is the order of this book/ & the things that been spoken of. ANd as to men desiring/ to have a very knowl●he/ of these chronicles/ or of any other/ it is necessary/ to know vi things. ¶ The first is the states of things/ & 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 reconciliation. ¶ The second thing is the division of times and those been three. One is afore the law of Moses'/ & an other is under the law of Moses'/ an other is under the law of grace after christ died. ¶ The third is/ the governing of kingdoms. And as for that ye must know/ that all though there were four pryncypal kingdoms that is to say. Of Babylon/ of Perfecs'/ of Grekis/ & romans. Never wheels/ as to the course of the world/ & the order of holy scripture/ the first gouer●●●ge was under faders/ from Adam unto Moses. The second/ under jugꝭ from Moses unto Saul. The third/ under kings/ from Saul unto Zorobabel. The fourth vn● bishops/ from Zorobabel unto Cryst. ¶ The fourth is the diversity of laws/ & those were five. The first was/ the law of nature/ and that was common to all men. The second is/ the law or the custom of gentiles/ when that under king Nyno began the people to worship falls gods. The third is under the law written/ rose the law of jews/ when circumcision divided the jews from other people. The fourth is/ under Cryst/ rose the law of christian men/ when faith & 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 vij 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 ba●ayll. 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 pnnysshementes 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 eight manner of nombring/ or counting of the years. Three after the Hebrews. Three after the G●ekis. One after the Romayas. And one now after the christian men. The she brews/ 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 years 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 &. ¶ Thenne after the chyvalry began at the hill of Olympus/ they notefyed the years after the same Olympiadun. And what Olympiades' is/ ye shall know after in the book. The third/ when they began 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 xu &. as it is open in the book of Machabeorr. ¶ Theme after the romans governing the world/ counted and numbered their years (ab urbe condi●a) ¶ The last of all christian men counteth their years from the incarnation of Crist. And because we been christian men we use most to number/ from the begin ning of the world/ unto christ was borne. And fro christ was borne/ unto our tyme. And this order is observed & kept in all the book/ of every thing in his place as it is said afore. ¶ Explicit Prologus. ¶ Hic incipit Fructus tempor. 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/ the 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 no thing. ¶ 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 three of the next days following (Vt patꝪ clare in textu gen. priu●) ¶ The first day god made/ & divided the light from the darkness. ¶ The second day god made/ and 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/ & the earth though appeared. ¶ The fourth day god made/ in the which he ordained the son/ the moon/ & the stars & put them in the firmament. ¶ The fifth day god made/ in the which he ordained fishes & fowls/ & great whales in the water. ¶ The sixth day god or deigned/ in the which he made be'st and man. ¶ The seventh day god made/ & in that day he rested of all works that he had ordained/ not as in working being weary/ but he sessid to make more new creatures (Vide plura ge● i) BE it know/ that Adam the first man/ of whom it is written in this first age next following/ lived ix hundred year and xxx And he ga●e xxxij sons/ & as many daughters. ¶ Anno mundi i Et ante x●● natu●●● tatem .v. M. C.lxxxxix. ¶ Here beginneth the first age during unto the flood of Noah Adam Eva IN the first year of the world the sixth day/ god made Adan in the field Damascen & Eva of his rib putting them in paradies. And bad 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 loud 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 penall●e & daily he died. And he commanded his children to live rightwisely. And namely that they should avoid in all wise from the company of cain & his childn Nor that they should not mary with none of them. ¶ This man Adam was our first father. And for oo sin he put us out of paradise. But through his holy conversation & penance/ he gave us en ensample to come to the kingdom of heaven. And he that will not follow his holy conversation & example/ for oo 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. & thirty years/ & lived ix C. & twelve But Moses overskipped an hundred of those/ in the which Abel wept in the vale of Ploration nigh Ebron. This Seth for the oil of mercy to be gotten/ went to paradies. ¶ Delbora was sister to Abel. ¶ Abel was slain of Cayn his brother. 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 the city. And by cause 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 ravyn & by olence. For he trusteth such thing to be done to him/ as he died 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 Lameth a blind man. ¶ Anno mundi four C.xxxv. Et ante xpi nativitatem four M.ix. C.lxxiiij. ANos of the line of Cryst lived ix C. year & .v. This ●●nos began to call the name of our lord. It might hap he 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 vij C. lxxxxv. Et ante xpi nativitatem four M.iiij. C.iiij. MAlalcel of the line of christ lived eight C. lxxxxv. year ¶ jareth of the same line lived ix C.lxij ¶ Enoch of the same line lived three C. year .lxv. This Enoch was a rightwise man/ & pleased god. And for his great holiness our lord translated him in to paradies where he liveth with Hely/ in great rest of body & soul/ till the coming of antichrist. Then they shall go forth for the confirmation of good men. And they shall be crowned with the crown of martyrdom. MAtusale of Crystis line/ lived ix C.lxix. years. This matusale was the oldest man that ever any scripture hath mind of. For when he had lived nigh five hundred year/ our lord said to him. Build the an house & thou wilt/ for yet thou shalt live .v. hundred year. And he answered & said. For so little a time as .v. hundred year. I wylbuylde no house. But rested under trees and hedges/ and there slept/ as he was wont to do for a tyme. ¶ Anno mundi. M.iiij. C.liiij. Et ante xpi nativitatem three M.vij. C.xlv. LAmeth was of age vij hundred lxxvij. 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 stripe. For it is so/ that by what thing a man sinneth/ 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/ and said to his master/ that he should shot/ & 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/ be red/ that they were founden 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/ and the other of tile or brick. ¶ Tubal found first the craft to work gold & silver/ & iron. And was the first graver that ever was. ¶ jabe found first Tentoria for shepherds/ and pavilions for other men. ¶ jubal found first the craft to play upon an harp & organs & other musical Instruments he used. ¶ Noema found first the craft for to weave linen & woollen cloth/ and to drawa threads of whille and flax. And afore that time/ the people used the skins of beasts for their clothes. ¶ Anno mundi. M.vi. C.xlij Et ante xpi nativitatem three M.u. C.lvij. THe ship of Noah had in length three hundred cubytes/ in breed l in altytue xxx (Vide plura genesis vi ¶ Know ye after doctors/ that a convenient pain this time was ordained to the world. For thenne lechery habounded 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 Rain bow 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 the which we certainly abide in the end of this world/ by cause ●ouetyse shall abound/ by fire it shall be brent. Gold and silver by the fire is wont to be cleansed. ¶ Here begynn the the second age of the world during to Abraham. Noe. THis Noah was a rightwise man and found grace against god● When Noah was five hundred year of age/ he had gotten Cham. Sem. ●. I●phet. That time by the commandment of god/ he began to make a ship. And he made it perfect in an hundred year. And the hundred 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 etc. And anon the flood came and stood above all hills. ●v. cubytes (Vide pluragen. vijus.) ¶ After the flood a great drunkenness betide unto Noe. And thorough occasion of that drunkenness be blessed his two sons. Sem & Iaphet● for the faders honour that they had to him & for the honest shame/ that they covered meekly their faders memb●es/ when he was sleeping. And his son Cham for his scorning and his unreverence he cursed. ¶ And here after saint Austyn is made ● the first mention of boundage/ and of nobleness contrary to it. For Noah said/ that Chamshould 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 & Asco●. Nor all of Sem & japhet were virtuous & noble & mighty men/ when almost everich one fell in to the crime of idolatry/ & 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/ rather were called his children than the jews/ the which carnally descended from him. Nevertheless they had a spiritual privilege of god/ for the faders merys●● & his blessing. And of these three sons of Noah he being alive after th'history of Philois were born 24 M. & vij C●nen without women & children And they had on them three princes Nemorth. jectan. & Suphen. ¶ Anno mundi two M.ij C.xlij Et ante xp̄● nativitatem two M.vi. C.lvij. SEm sone to No the second year after the flood gate Arphaxat/ & o●her while he is called Melchisedech 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 Mesraym. And these two gate sons & daughters and many a region was of them/ & many of them to us been unknown for they inhabit & have their mansyons in the occidental Ynde. ¶ japhet was brother unto Cham & was blessed of his father/ & this japhet had vij sons. as Gomoi. Magog. Maday. janam. Tubal. Mosog. & Iras. And these vij gate sons & doughtes/ & of them came many a region (Vide plura Gen. xu) ¶ Arphaxat son to Sem lived. cccc. & thirty. year. And gate Elam. Assure. Ludde/ & Aram/ and they gate many a son & daughter (ut ●z geun) ¶ This Assur/ by cause he would not rebel against god. in the edifying & building of the tour of Babylon/ as Nembroth died/ therefore he was driven unto the land of Sennaars' land/ which was right strange to him/ and 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 the Metropolon of all the kingdom of Assurium. ¶ Chus son to Cham was father to Nembroth. This Nembroth was a giant of ten cubytes long. And he began to be mighty in the world/ & he is called a boisterous hunter afore god This man began that wretched vice of covetousness by his tyranny/ with the which vice ever more after this world is fulfilled. And the pryncypalest kingdom that he had was Babylon. And he had Archade. Edissa. Selencia/ and the land of Sennaar. ¶ Sale son to Arphaxat lived. cccc. and xxxiij years. And 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 mannes language/ the which every man used afore the tour of Babylon was builded. ¶ This ●eber had two sons/ and one was called jectan through ensample of Nemro●h descending from Cham took the princehood upon the children of Sem. And he had xiij sons. ¶ But these people after jerom are not known of us/ for fernesse of the country/ or mutation and changing of the people/ or elles of some other manner cause. ¶ Anno mund. M.vi. Cxliij. Et ante xpi nativitatem two M.u. C.lvi ¶ Turris Babylonis. PHaleg lived two hondreds and 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 alone/ and that was Hebrew. Wherefore after saint Austyn/ in him appeared a great stedfasnesse of rightwiseness. For this house was free of that pain/ as not consenting to the building of the tour. (Et s●dm Aug) there was lxxij generations/ & so there were lxxij language ¶ jactan brother to Phaleg of Sem Nemroch prince of Cham Sulphen of japhet/ these three princes with their people gathered them together in the field of Sennaar/ dreading the flood to come again said. let us build a tour/ of the which the height shall reach to heaven etc. Gen. twelve Our lord saw the foolishness of the people. marvelously for the pain of their sin/ he confounded the tongue of them. In so moche that none understood what an other said. And so they were dispurpled & asond●ed 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 Persees/ & there he enstruct● & taught them to adore & 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 that kingdom unto the t●●e of many a year after. ¶ In this time began many kingdoms. And the most of all those kingdoms was the kingdom of Scitarum. But there were so many rude & boisterous people in it that 〈◊〉 te was never had in worship. And it was a strong and a mighty 〈◊〉 of distance. ¶ And about this time began the kingdom of Egypt the which with divers and many alterations often times was changed. And also it is spoken of many times in 〈◊〉 ¶ nobleness or gentlemen abowee this said time began. And this nobleness or gentlemen was orderned for many causes. ● The first cause was necessity. For when mankind grew 〈◊〉 & men were prompt & ready to do 〈◊〉. it was very necessary to withstand the great malice of the ●usyd people against good men. Thereof a man is called a gentleman/ or a noble man as before other in virtues notable. ¶ Whereof Ierom saith. I see no thing else in noblesse/ or in gentlemen but that they are bounden in a certain necessity that they shall not recede fro the virtue and the gentleness of their noble ancestors ¶ The second was the divers worshyp●ge of the people. For no man worship then/ but as his natural reason gaf. 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 co●de ponder no great thing/ but that was published by the common people. Wherefore it was expedient for their peace to 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 that who some ever would defend & keep them from these perils/ he should have the right of nobleness for him & his heirs for ever more. And in this manner of wise many are ●adde to be noble men. ¶ The fourth cause of nobleness/ was great abundance of goods. Sometime the people were holden with great penury of meet & drink. And then they took them & theirs to some rich man/ that through that covenant/ they should tempre the great straightness of their hungres/ & after that they should know him as their lord & 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/ & some failed anon/ as Saul & Jeroboam. Also it is radde/ that many were noble men by tyranny & violence. Of the which some were destroyed anon. And some abode in stableness/ as Paynemes might. ¶ Anno mund. M.ix. C. & .v. Et ante xpi nativitatem two M.ij C.lxxxiiij. SAruk lineally descended from our forn father Adam to Abraham And Nachor was his son/ & he lived an hundred and xlviij year. ¶ And about this time idolatry began to to increase mightily. And if ye revolve and look the histories/ ye shall find/ that three things principally brought men to the sin of idolatry. That is to understand. The affection which they had to deed men. dread & flattering against their princes. And the diligence of artificers & crafty men about scultures or gravings. Wicked fiends thenne entered in to the idols/ and gave answer res 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 Poetes/ the which wretches and also dampened men in to heaven with all their gay aourned 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 mercy/ sent his angels/ that they spolde sheke to his elected men in visibly/ lest 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/ And 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/ and some Beelzebub. And this unhappy error stood in mankind more than two thousand years. ¶ Ninus son to Belus the second king of Babylon or of Assuriorum/ reigned liiij years. And this Ninus desired for to have lordship and 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 cunning of fighting nor armour/ anon he subdued unto him all Asiam. And there was made the first Monarch in the rest 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 fad. to whom he gave so mighty reverence/ that what somever guilty man had fled to the image/ there should no man do unto him no hurt/ & he pardonned him of all his trespass. 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/ & gave answers unto the people/ & said they were gods. And commanded them to do reverence unto them as gods. Thus the 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 mundi three M.C.xiiij. Et ante xpi nativitatem two M.lxxxv. There soon to Nachor lived two C and .v. year. This There after the death of Aram/ went from Vt of Called/ & passed in to Charram with his children & his nephews. And it is said/ by cause he would not worship the fire/ as Nembroth had taught/ he was banished the country. And the common opinion of the Hebrews is. Nembroth reigned there the which was called an other name/ Amraphel the king of Sennaar/ whom long time after this Abraham overcame (ut dicit Gen. xiiij) ¶ Anno mund. M.C.lxxxiiij. Et an xpi nativitatem two M.xv. HEre beginneth the devout & holy story of holy patriarchs/ the Here beginneth the third age of the world during to david. Abraham. which worshypt the very god & 〈…〉 worshipping/ they taught it vide p●agen̄ twelve usque ad futen▪ ¶ This Abraham a faithful lover of god was borne the xliij. year of N●us king of Babylon. And know ye that the lxxxv. year of Abraham/ thorough the mighty glory of the high god. The word of mercy descended upon mankind/ for then be 'gan to appear the oraculus of the promise of god (vide Au. xvi de ci. dei. I●● 〈◊〉. For this time holy angels appeared ●o us in form of mankind. ¶ This Abraham had two brethren. A●am & 〈◊〉. And Aram gate Loth a 〈◊〉 man & an holy. And he dele●●ed to be visited with angels as his uncle Abraham was. And for this Loath Abraham 〈◊〉 iiij. kings/ for they took Loath 〈◊〉. Of whom one was sard to be ●emroth/ but he is called here Amraphel. ¶ And Abraham had many w●●es as Sarar & Agar. And his children & his brethren had many children. But for us that write Chourls it is not necessary/ to speak of all men but of the noble faders (sed vide plura fine gen̄● ¶ Melchisedech this time was king of Salem. This man was called a rightwise king/ for his e●cedynge holiness. And he offered breed and wine to Abraham● in sign of a great mystery. He was also the priest of the buy god. ¶ Se●●ramis the third king of Babylon/ he ordained an army/ & went in to Ind/ & obtained the country. And so by all Asyam/ the kingdom of Assuriorum was dilated And he multiplied the city of Babylon mightily. & made walls about it. This Semiramis had a wife/ and he forsook her. And it is written/ that she was slain of her son Ninus/ by cause she provoked him to the unleeful concupisbence (sic di. au. xviij de ci. dei.) And 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 Ysaac. ALso Ysaac son of Abraham/ of the line of Cryst/ lived. L. lxxx. year. This Ysaac had a wife called Rebecca/ & on her he gate two sons/ Esau & jacob. This Esau sold his inheritance to his brother jacob. And he was the father of joumeorum/ & he had in possession the hill of Seyr/ & put first mares to asses whereof was eugendred mules. ¶ About this time xxx lorshyps & Gomorra for their horrible sin were overthrown. The wife of Loath/ looking backward turned in to a salt stone/ showeth that no man in the way of delyberacy on should desire thing past (hec Augus de civitate dei) ¶ Anno mund. M.iij. C.xliiij. Et ante xpi nativitatem. M.viij. C.lvi Jacob lived. L. xlvij. year. This jacob had four wives or some concubines/ that is to wite. Lyam. Balam. Zelpham/ and Rachel. Lyam was the first wife/ & she was blere eyed. And she bore him vi sons. judas. Reuben. simeon. Levy. Ysachar. Zabulon/ and a daughter that height Dy●a. Bala servant to Lya & concubine to jacob/ bare him two sons. Dan and Neptalym ¶ Rachel the second wife to jacob was barren long time/ & at the last she bore him two sons. joseph & Beniamyn Zelpha servant to Rachel bore jacob two sons. Gad & Aser/ & everich of these made a tribe/ of whom in this place it is not necessary to speak (vide plea gen) ¶ joseph son to jacob was borne lxxxx. year of his faders age/ & he lived L i year. ¶ Zerses this time was king of Babylon/ under whom was borne jacob/ & he was the vij king of Babylon ¶ Armavictre was king after him And after saint Austyn/ in that manues days our lord appeared to isaac/ promising him those things/ the which he promised to his father. ¶ Belocus the ix 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 & Chanaam/ & the benediction of all the people in his seed/ the which is our lord Ihesu christ. ¶ Abraham about this time deceased/ and was buried in Hebron. ¶ Inachus the first king that ever was in Grece was this time/ for then the kingdom began. ¶ Phor●mius was king after him/ & he ordained laws to the greeks &. ¶ Anno mund. M.iij. C.iiij. Et ante xpi nativitatem. M.vij. C. lxxxxix. judas sone of jacob descended of him/ & of this tribe of judas came the kings progeny/ & at the last christ our lord. judas gate Phares/ & Phares Esron/ & of these men little is had in scripture/ but Math rehearseth them. ¶ Beleus in this Phares days was king of Assuriorum/ or of Babylon/ and he was the ten king/ under whom Ysaac decessed. ¶ Atlas the great astonomyer 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 Sarapis was called otherwise Ap●s/ and he came in to Egypte with a mighty navy/ & there decessed/ and was made of the blind gentiles the Egypcyens/ the greatest god among them. And that time began a marvelous superstition in idolatry/ of a calf of two colours which they called Apem/ & 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 died on the same wise (ut patet) And what thing could be more wretched or foolish in man having reason. ¶ Argus was the fourth king of greeks/ after whom the noble city of Argus took his name. Lycropis edified Athenes in Grecia/ & this city was the nourisher of liberal science/ & of many philosophers/ yet they were deceived by dyvylles/ and great supersticyosyte 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 hyndeyed Ysaac. ¶ Pharaoh was king of Egypte/ which received joseph/ & exalted him for thinterpretation of his dreams (vide scientiam pulcherrimanque historiam. gen xlij &c. ¶ Amithus was the twelve king of Babylon/ under whone died joseph a blessed man in chastity ¶ Pharaoh Emonophis about Esdroms' days was king of Egypte/ & this Pharaoh knew not joseph ne none of his lineage/ & he commanded the childn of Israel to be drowned/ as it is had (Exodi. ●) Ye clerks may look that book/ and we lay will look to chronicles/ but about this time the story of Exodi began. ¶ Anno mund. M.u. C.xliiij. Et ante xpi nativitatem. M.u. C.lx ARam sone to Esrom of the line of christ was about this tymeson he gate Aminadab. Naason/ of these men little is write in scripture/ & therefore I proceed to other matters. ¶ job the holy man & of all patience ensample about this time was borne of the l●ne of Nachor the brother of Abraham ● he lived many years & after that god had 〈◊〉 syted him/ & had assayed his 〈◊〉 he lived an. L. and xl year paug 〈◊〉 & lir) ¶ Morses about this time was borne/ & the children of Israel 〈◊〉 great tribulation & bondage. And 〈◊〉 says was put in the water to be 〈◊〉 ¶ Aron about this time was ●ome. ¶ Dafrus was king of Babylon and was the xiiij king/ & Moses was been under him in Egypte. ¶ Cyerops was the first king of Athenes. And after saint Austyn/ that time many 〈◊〉 were written in the historres of the G●● kiss/ the which comynly were less than the common fame saith of a little thing they wrote a great matrie by cause to show thee cunning for there was the university of Gickies. ¶ Anno mund. M.vi. C. lirviii. Et ante xpi natu●●tatē. M.u. C.ii AMynadab sone to Aron of crysties line was this tyme. This Amynadab first after Moses which a full faith r●tred in to the reed ser and dread not when many a hundred were feared lest they should be drowned & therefore he deserved to kiing forth the kings lineage/ of whom descended our lord Ihesu Cryst. 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/ & the most notable writer of stories/ and of his loving heaven and earth speaketh For he saw almighty god clearly face to face/ which in this freyll life was never founden in scripture but of him and Paul th'apostle. ¶ Aron the first bishop lived a. L. twenty-three. 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. Wham he was a. L. twenty-three. year of age/ he decessed/ & was buried in the hill of Hor. And his son Heleazarus succeeded him in the bishopric. ¶ Pharaoh Boccaris this time was king of Egypte/ & this Pharaoh would not here the commandment of god/ ne deliver the children of Israel/ wherefore he was punished with ten plagues (Vt patz exo) And after he with all his host were drowned in the reed see ¶ Nason son to Amynadab/ was prince of the tribe of judas in the desert/ & about this time the law of god was given in the hill of Synay/ & the book of Leuitici was write & another book was called Numerum/ & the tabernacle was ordained. The book of Deuteromanun was made. Balaam was prophet & was slain. ¶ Anno mundi three M.vij. C.xxv. Et ante xpi nativitatem. M.iiij. C.lxxiiij. SAlmen of the line of Cryst was about this time/ & had a wife that height Reab. Moses' about this time decessed/ the water of flome 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/ and 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 loud of promission to the children of Israel. And of him descended the bishops unto Lryst/ 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 over came in battle. This man took Aram to his wife/ the which asked the vale lands above & beneath of her father Caleph (ut pꝪ judicum i) ¶ Aoth was the fourth 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 y● one as well as tother for his right hand ¶ About this time the king of Ytaly began. And many times their names been changed/ of the which progenyte of the romans more clearly is showed. ¶ janas' was the first king of Ytaly/ & afterward 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 month of january hath his name. ¶ Amictus was the eight king of Babylon under whom joshua decessed. ¶ Anno mund. M.vij. C.lxxv. Et ante xpi nativitatem. M.iiij. C.xxiiij. BOos soon to Salmon/ of the line of Cryst was this time/ but of him is little written/ but that Mathe. numbered him in the Genology. As doctors say/ there was made skipping of names betwixt Boos & Obeth. For at the lest betwixt them were two L. lxxij. year/ the which time to one man may not be referred/ and therefore here many things is spoken are I come to the line of christ again (Nicholaus de lyra dicit qd sunt three boos unus post alium) ¶ Sangar was the .v. judge of Israel/ but he lived no years. ¶ Dolbora was the vi Iuge/ this Delbora 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 pꝪ judicum iiij) ¶ 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 Ytaly & he was the second king there/ this Saturnus is said/ to come fro the land of Cretens in to Ytaly/ who by idolatry thorough a marvelous blindness they said he was no man but a god. And 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 Saturuus & or he was king in Ytaly/ he was king in Larentin/ & after his decease/ of the gentiles was worshypt for a god. ¶ Anno mundi three M.viij. C.lxxv. Et ante xpi nativitatem. M.iij. C.xliiij. GEdeon the vij judge of Israel was this time/ this Grdron subdued iiij. kings. Oreb. Zebee. Zeb. & Salmana. And he subdued Madean to Israel. (Vide plura judicum vi seven. et. viij.) BOcci was bishop in Israel then ¶ Abimalech the eight judge in Israel was natural son to Gedeon. And he was not called of god/ but malicious lie 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. ●●i. sons/ whom he made princes of. 〈◊〉 tees. And by cause there wer● good men & ruled to the pleasure of god. Therefore in the days of these two men. Israel drew to our lord. And therefore all thing came & was in prosperity & wealth. EAnus was the four king of 〈◊〉 & he was king of Ca●●nt● 〈◊〉 ¶ Latinus was king in Y●aly a●●● 〈◊〉 nus/ & of this Latinus was called 〈◊〉 dom of Latinorum. And Canne●● 〈◊〉ter of Euand●● found first 〈…〉 ¶ Tauranus about this time was 〈◊〉 of Babylon or of Assoon 〈…〉 man Troy was destroyed frist. 〈◊〉 casyon of the batail of Troy began for a little thing. In so much as Lam●● done king of Troy received not 〈◊〉 les and jason with dur honour as they should have be re●eyued & of so little a trespaas/ how many harms & 〈◊〉 grew. ¶ Sibilla del●hica afore the battle of Troy prophesied ho●● 〈◊〉 should be borne of a virgin without mannes seed. ¶ Lamydon king of 〈◊〉 was slain/ and his daughter R●●oma was taken in to Grekys' land. For the which followeth mighty battle & 〈◊〉 fearful my●●●eues (vide 〈…〉 na) Hercules with ●alon deshored 〈◊〉 or Troy the which anon after was builded of Pria●●is son to Lan●ydon. This Hercules died many marvelous things & many mighty batarlles. And Iufenyt● leasings been feigned on him/ At the last when he had overcome mo● the people/ he was sore hurt in war. & when he might not suffer the pain of his sore with the which he was greyed. himself he ran in to the fire/ & when he was deed/ he was worshipped among the gods of the gentiles mightily. Cirta annum inundi three M.ix. C.lxxv. Et ante xpi nativitatem. M.ij C.xxiiij. 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 the Philistyens & to the children of Amon xviij year. And they were greatly oppressed/ & then they cried to our lord. then Repte was espied with almighty god/ & fought against Amon & seditious people of the hill of Effraym. And for an unprudent voys/ he slew his own daughter foolishly/ & died sacrifice to god with her (judicum xi et twelve) ¶ Ozy this time was bishop in Israel/ & he was of the seed of Aron/ by the line of Eleazari/ the which deed/ through the provision of god the bishopric tomed to the line of Ythamar an. C. & twenty year/ in the which line Hely was the first high bishop. And Abiathar was the last/ ¶ Ebassam was judge in Israel vij year and he was the twelve judge and he was named otherwise Boos the which wedded Ruth. ¶ Abralon the xix 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 xiiij judge governed in Israel eight years. And about this time the history of Ruth was written. ¶ Authamanis this time was king of Asserium/ and Priamus' king of Troy son to Lamidon that builded his city again marvelously strong. And began battle with the Greeks unto his own hurt. And he had a son was called Hertor a ley●full gentle son by his ●y● Eccuba. This man was faithful & wise/ and juromparable of strength and nobleness This Priamus had an other son that was called Paris/ the which took away fro the land of Greeks He lena wife to Menelaius the king. ¶ Agamenon the king brother to Menela●us 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 in Ytaly three year. And this Aeneas after Troy was destroyed of the Greeks/ came in to Ytaly with twenty ships/ & died mighty battles there. And this man had wedded Priamus' daughter Elinsaram. And he was made a god thorough 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 set 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 homeward again. ¶ And that was the pryncypal date of their wry ting after that victory. For they wrote their histories & other writing (sic an● pri● vel sc●o i●. 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.lxxiiij. OBeth of christ's line son to Boos i● rehearsed in Ma. ¶ Samson the xu judge reigned twenty year/ this Samson was the most strongest man that ever was/ & he delivered Israel from the Philistiens/ & for his marvelous strength men trowed he had been Hercules (et eius mirabilia opera vide juidicum xiij) ¶ Anno mund. M.lxxv. Et ante xpi nativitatem. M.C.xiiij. 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/ ne great governor. But of him many times is made mention in holy scripture. For of him descended christ our saviour. ¶ This time Ely was judge & bishop in Israel The which had two sons Ophni & Phinees. And 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 and broke his neck. ¶ This Ely was judge next after Samson/ & not of the lineage of Aran/ that was first bishop of god elect/ but of Ythamar/ the lineage dured an hundred and twenty year. In the which lineage Ely was first bishop/ & Abrathar the last (Vide plura pri● regum) THis time Saul was king in Israel after the master in his histories/ & josephus in hi● viij. book. This Saul was first king in Israel/ & reigned. xx. 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/ and borne of a barren mother many a day. And he mynyshred afore dure 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/ and 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 oppynyens. ¶ Isyder saith/ the Samuel & Saul ruled Israel xl year. ¶ And josephus in his. vin. book/ & the master in his stories say. Samuel to be judge twelve year alone. And after him Saul to regne twenty year/ (Plura vide pri● regum) Ascanius' the vij king of Ytaly was son to Encas/ & bur●ded the city of Albron. And he was calle● the king of Albanorum. This Ascanius 〈◊〉 te Silinus the eight king of 〈◊〉 the which Silinus was father vn●o 〈◊〉 king of britain now called England. And I leave of the king of 〈…〉 they died but little noble things 〈◊〉 it be comen to Remulus & Remus that Rome builded. And then shall the ● kings come again/ & now to proc●●● to the ●●onycles of England for the ●●the namely this book is made. ¶ And Venes and Padua were builded 〈◊〉 this time/ of y●●esydue of the Tro●●●s ¶ homer the great poet about this 〈◊〉 me was/ the which wrote & feigned gloriously many a losing. ¶ Incipit regnum Brittany. nunc di●●tur Anglia. Here may ye see how England first began at albion. 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 Si●●ie/ there was a rial king & mighty & a man of great renomee/ that called was dioclesian/ that well & worthily him governed & ruled through his noble chyvalry. 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 dioclesian spoused a gentle damosel that was wonder fair/ that was his emies daughter Labana. And she loved him as reason would/ so that he gate upon her ●xxxiij. daughters/ of the which the eldest was called Albine. And these damoysels when they came unto age became so fair that it was wonder/ whereof dioclesian anon let make a sompning/ & 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 & duke's/ and noble chyvalry. The feast was rially arrayed/ and there they lived in joy and mirth enough/ that it was wonder to wite. And it befell thus/ that dioclesian thought to mary his daughters among all though kings that were at that solemnity. ¶ And so they spoke & died/ that Albine his eldest daughter & all her sisters richly were married unto xxxiij kings/ that were lords of great honour and of power at this solemnity. And when the solemnity was done/ every king took his wife and lad them in there own country & there made them queens. ¶ And it befell thus afterward that this dame Albene became so stout & so stern/ that she told little price of her lord/ and of him had scorn & despite/ and would not do his will/ but she would have her own will in divers matters. And all her other sisters everichone bore them so evil against their lords that it was wonder to wite. And for as much y● them thought that their husbands were not of so high parentage come as their father. But those kings that were their lords/ would have chastised them with fair manner upon all love & friendship/ that they should amend there selfwylled conditions: But all was for nought/ for they died there own will in all thing that them liked. & had of power. Wherefore those xxxiii kings upon a time/ and oft tyme. beat their wives. For they wend. that they would amend their tatches. and there wickedness. But of such conditions they were/ that for fair speech and warning/ the died all the worse/ and for betings eftsoons much the worse. Wherefore the king that had wedded Albyne. wrote the tatches and conditions of hsi wife Albine/ and the letter sent to dioclesian his father. And when the other kings heard. that Albines' lord had sent a letter to Dioclesian. anon they sent letters sealed with their seals. the conditions and tatches of their wives. When the king Dioclesian saw & heard so many plaints of his daughters. he was sore ashamed/ and became wonder angry and wroth toward his daughters. and thou ghte. how he then might amend it that they so mysdyde. And anon sent his letters unto the xxxiii kings. that they should come to him/ and bring with them their wives every eachone 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 and day y● though 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 xxxiij daughters that they should come & speak with him in his chambre. And when they were come/ he spoke to them of their wickedness & of their cruelty/ & spytevously them reproved & blamed/ and to them he said. That if they would not be chastised/ they should his love lose for ever more. And when the ladies heard all this/ they became abashed & greatly ashamed. And to their father they said/ that they would make all amendss/ & so they departed out of their faders chambre. And dame Albine that was the eldest sister lad them all to her chambre/ and though made to void all that were therein so that no person was among them but she and her sisters to guider. ¶ though said Albine. My fair sisters/ well we know that the king our father us hath reproved shamed and despised/ for by cause to make us obedient 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 though 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 sisters my counsel is/ that this night when our husbands been a bed/ all we with one assent for to kit their throats/ & then we may be in peace of them. And better we mow do this thing under our faders power than over 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 kit 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 & 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 ship and delivered to them victuals for half are re. 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 〈◊〉 last they came and arrived in an 〈◊〉 that was all wilderness. And when 〈◊〉 Albion was come to that land & 〈◊〉 sisters. This Albine went frost forth out of the ship and said to her 〈◊〉 sisters. For as moche said she as I am the eldest sister of all this company 〈◊〉 first this land hath taken and 〈◊〉 much as mine name is Alb●● 〈◊〉 that this land be called Alb●● 〈◊〉 mine own name. And anon all 〈◊〉 sters granted to her with a good 〈◊〉 though went out all the sisters of 〈◊〉 poe & took the land Albron as 〈◊〉 star called it. And there they went 〈◊〉 down/ and found neither men 〈◊〉 man ne child/ but wild beest●● of 〈◊〉 verse kinds. And when the 〈◊〉 were dispended & they failed they 〈◊〉 de them with herbs and 〈◊〉 in the season of the year and so they lived as they best might. And after 〈◊〉 they took flesh of diverse beasts and became wonder fat. And so they desired man's company & man's kind y● them failed. And for bear they wered wonder courageous of kind/ so that they desired more man's company than any other solace and mirth. When the devil that perceived/ wen●e by diverse countries and took a body of the ay●● & liking natures shed of men/ & came in to the land of Albion/ & lay by tho● women & shed though natures upon them & they conceived/ & after brought forth giants. Of the which one was called Gogmagog/ & an other Longherigam And so they were named by divers names/ & in this manner they came forth & were borne horrible giants in Albion And they dwelled in caves & in hills at their will. And had the land of Albion as them liked/ unto the time that Brute arrived & came to Totnes/ that was in the isle of Albion. And there this Brute conquered and discomfited the giants above said. ¶ Explicit prima pars. ¶ Here beginneth now how Brute was gotten/ & how he slew first his mother & after his father. And how he conquered Albion that after he named britain after his own name that now is called England after the name of Engyst of Sa●onte. ¶ This Brute came in to britain about the xviij 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 thorough them of Grece. This Aeneas with all his main fled thence & came to Lombardy. That though 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 creature that any man wist. And so they lived together in joy and mirth all the days of there life tyme. ¶ 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 against his will aqueynted him with a damosel that was cousin to Lauyne/ that was king Latynes daughter the queen that was Aeneas wife/ and brought the damosel with child. And when Ascanius his father it wist/ anon let inquire of the wisest masters & of the greatest clerks/ what child the damosel should bring forth/ & they answered and said/ that she should bring forth a son that should kill both his father & also his mother. And so he did. 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 and 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/ and 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 misshaped & glaced/ and so there Brute slew his father. ¶ How Brute was driven out of the land/ & how he held him in Grece. ANd when this myschaslce was befall/ all the people of the land made sorrow enough & were sore an angered And for encheason thereof 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/ & there he found vij thousand men that were of the lineage and kindred of Troy that were come of great blood as the story telleth/ as of men & women & children/ the which were all hold in thrall doom & bondage of the king Pandras of Grece/ for the death of Achilles that was betrayed & slain at Troy. This Brute was a wonder fair man and a strong & a huge of his age & of glad cheer & semblant/ and also worthy of body/ and was well beloved among his people. This king Pandras heard speak of his goodness & his conditions/ & anon made him dwell with him/ so that Brute became wonder privy & much 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 & of lineage & of acquaintance/ and there plained them unto Brute of their sorrow & of their bondage/ and 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/ and we will become your men/ & your commandments do in all manner of things/ & bring us out of this wretchedness and bondage/ and we will fight with the king for truth with the grace of the great god/ we shall him overcome/ & 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 privily went them from the kings court/ and though them that were of Troy/ went & put them in to woods & in to mountains & 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 longer dwell in his bondage. The king Pandras waxed tho sore annoyed/ and though swore that he should slay them everichone/ & ordained a great power & went toward them all for to fight. But Brute & his men manly them defended and fiercely fought & slew all the kings men that none of them escaped and took the king & held him in person/ & ordained counsel between them 〈◊〉 they might done. And some said 〈◊〉 he should be put to death/ and some 〈◊〉 that he should be exiled out of the land And some said/ that he should be 〈◊〉 te. And though spoke a wise ●●yght that was called Mempris and said to 〈◊〉 te & to all though of Troy. If king 〈◊〉 dras would yield him & have his life. I counsel that he give unto Brute that is our duke & our sovereign his daughter Gennogen to a wife/ & in 〈◊〉 with her an hundred ships well 〈◊〉de/ and all his treasure of gold 〈◊〉 of come and of wine and as mock as we need to have of 00 thing and other And then go we out of this land 〈◊〉 ordain us a land else where. For we ne none 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 ●u●ghtes and of other friends that evermore wa●● 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 and an bondred ships with asmuch as them needed of all victuals/ as afore was ordained Brute though took his wife & all his men/ that forsook the land of Grece & went them unto the see & had wind & weather at their will/ and came the third day in to an isle that was called Lorgres. 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 & forlet/ that nas therein neither man ne woman/ ne no thing dwelling/ & in the middle 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 & found. And they counseled him to go & do sacrifice unto dame Dyana/ for she was wont to give answer of what thing that ever men prayed her/ and namely unto them that her honoured with sacrifice. Brute went unto that image and said. Dyana noble goddess that all thing haste in thy might and power/ winds/ waters. woods/ fields/ 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 to France toward the west/ and there ye shall find an isle that is called albion/ and that isle is becompassed all with the see/ and no man may come therein 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/ & how king Goffar was discomfited. THenne when Brute had this answer of Dyana the god's. Anon he let the anchors wind up & sailed in to the high see. And when he & his men had sailed twenty days & moo/ they found fast beside 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 with him. This Corin there became Brutus' 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 dwelled eight days them for to rest. & their sails to amend there that it was need. tidings soon came to king Goffer that was lord of that land how that moche people of strange land were arrived in to his land in the haven of Lyegers wherefore he was sore angered & annoyed/ that they came and arrived in his land without his licence & 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 into France/ there for help & succour. And in that time reigned in France twelve kings/ and an xi of them assembled a great power for to help Goffar & for to fight against 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 & xi kings with him & brought with him twenty M. men for to fight with Brute & his company/ and Brnte had but vij M. and ccc men. And nevertheless when the two hosts met together. Brutus' folk thorough help of himself & of Turin his cousin/ and of Corin that well & manly him defended/ and fought so till that little time they had slain of the F●●nshmen two thousand & more. Anon all that were a live fled away. And in this battle Turin Brutus' cousin was slain. And Brute let enter 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 katayll unto Brute. But Brute & his men were so weary for fighting/ that they might no longer endure/ but to megre him and 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 cake counsel among them what were best for to do. Brute and Corin gave counsel and ordained privily/ that Corin should go out and 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 eight 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 and Corin with their company fiercely them pursued/ & slew more of them in the fleeing than they died 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/ and other also that he had lost of his men. That is to say vij 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 Albion and of the battle that was betwixt Corin 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 moo & moo. And Brutes lessened. And therefore he took all his men and went unto the see and had wind and weather atte 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 storytelle●● 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 all his people/ as Dyana the goddess had him be●yght. And therefore was Brute wonder glad/ and let assembled upon a day all his folk/ to make a solemn sacrifice and a great feast in honour and 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 their solempnyce 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 start up and fought with the giants and slew them everichone/ except one that was called Gogmagog. And he was master of all the Giants. And he was stronger and higher than any of the other. And Brute kept him for because that he should wrestyll with Corin that was Brutes man. For he was greater and higher than any of Brutus' men from the gyrdelstede upward. ¶ Gogmagog and Corin undertook there for to wrestyll. 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 his side/ Wherefore Corin was sore angry. And there he took Gogmagog betwixt his arms and cast him down upon a roche/ so that Gogmagog broke all to pieces/ and so he died an evil death. And therefore the place is called unto this day the saut of Gogmagog. ¶ And then after Brute gave all that country unto Corin. And there Corin called it after his name cornwall. And his men be called Cornewaylles/ and so should men of that 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. BRute & his men went forth/ and law about in divers places/ where that they might find a good place and covenable/ that they might make a city for him and for 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 all his people. And then he departed the land to them/ so that everich of them had a part/ and a certain place for to dwell in. And then Brute let call all 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/ & the third Cambar. And Brute bore crown in the city of Troy twenty year after the time that the city was made. And there he made the lawe● that the Brytons hold/ & this Brute was wonderly well beloved among all men. And Brutus' sons also loved wonderly well together. And when Brute had sought all the land in length & 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/ & gave that to Cambar his other son/ and let call it Cambar after his name/ & now is called wales. And when Brute had reigned twenty year as before is said/ then he died in the city of new Troy. ¶ How Lotrin that was Brutes sone entered with moche honour/ & governed the land well & 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 & glory of all the land of britain. And after when he was crowned king. Albanak and Cambar his two brethren went again in to there own country and there they lived with moche honour & worship. And Lotrin their brother reigned/ & was king & governed it well and 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 & worship. And then came king Humbar of Hunlonde with a great power & arrived in Albyne/ & would have conquered the land/ & began to war upon king Albanak/ and him slew in battle. When 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 brother's death. Lotrin there anon let assemble all the Brytons of Kente/ of Dover in to Derewent of Norfolk & Southfolke/ of Keftefen/ and Lyndessey. And when they were assembled they sped them fast toward their 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/ & so he died with a good will. And so they came togethers/ & took their ware p●●●ely 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 〈◊〉 for to disport. And there came Lotrin & Cambar his brother with all their people suddenly or that any of that other wist. And when Humbar saw them come he was sore adiadde/ for as much as his men wist it not afore/ and also they were unarmed. And anon Humbar for dread leapt in to the water and drowned himself and so he died and his men were all slain so that no●e of them escaped. And therefore is that water called Humbar/ and ever more shall be/ 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 folk 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 fayrnessse/ And for her he was ou●er taken in lone. & would have wedded her. This tidings came to Corin/ and anon thought to avenge him upon Lotrin. For as much as Lotrin had made covenant for to spouse Corins' daughter/ that was called Guentolin. And Corin in haste went unto him unto new Troy/ & thus he said to Lotrin. Now certes said he/ ye reward me full evil/ for all 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 and would have slain this Lotrin the king. But the damosel went between tho and 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 befell so that anon after Corin died/ & after when he was deed. Lotrin forsook Guentolin that was his wife/ and made Estrylde queen. And there Guentolin that was his wife went from thence all in great ire & wrath unto cornwall/ & there seized all the land in to her own hand/ for as much as she was her faders heir she undertook feautes and homages of all the men of the land. And afterward assembled a great host and a great power of men/ for to be avenged upon Lotrin that was her lord/ and to him came & gave 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 both hand & foot/ & cast them both in to a water/ & so they were drowned. Wherefore that water was ever more after called Abram/ after the name of the damosel that was Estryldes' daughter. And english men call that water Severne/ & Walshmen call it Abram unto this day to. And when this was done Guentolin let crown her queen of all the land/ & governed the land full well & 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/ & so the queen reigned xu year. And then let she crown her son king/ and he reigned & governed the land well & worthily. And she went in to cornwall/ and there she dwelled all her lives tyme. ¶ How Madan reigned in peace all his life. MAdam sone to Lotrin reigned on the britains xl year/ the which began to regne the xu year of Saul And this Madan lived in peace all his days/ & got two sons. Mempris and Maulin. Then he died and lieth at new Troy. ¶ Anno mundi four M.C.xxij. Et ante xpi nativitatem. M.lxxxiiij. Here beginneth the fourth age during to the transfiguration. 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 & after the death of Saul reigned xl year this david was as a marvel in all mankind. In whom ever was found to much power & so much hum●lyte▪ so moche noblynes & so much 〈◊〉 so great a charge of seculary things/ & so pure & devout a contemplation of spiritual things/ so many men to kill/ & so many tears to weep for his tirspa●s. (Plura vide i regum) ¶ Abiathat this time was bishop/ & he fled fro saul unto david/ & 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 Mempris began to regne the xxxv year of david. And for by cause that he was the eldest son/ he would have hadst all the land/ & Maulyn would not suffer him/ so that they took a day of love & accord. And at this day Mempris let kill his brother thorough treason/ & himself afterward held the land. And anon let crown him king & reigned And after became so lyther a man that he destroyed within a while all the men of his land. And at the last he became so wicked and so lecherous/ that he forsook his own wife and used the sin of Sodomy. Wherefore almighty god was greatly disposed and sore wroth with hum. And upon him took vengeance for by cause of his wickedness. 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 & down himself alone/ & cried after his men but they were gone. And there camen ●ulues anon and all to drew him in pieces when he had reigned xxiiij year. When his people heard that he was so deed/ they made joy & mirth enough and anon made E●rac his son king and he reigned with moche honour. ¶ Anno mundi four M.C.lxv. Et ante xpi nativitatem. M.xxxiiij. SAlomon the king of peace of she gift of our lord/ had a singular exceeding above all men that ever 〈◊〉 in this world/ but alonely god in wisdom & in riches/ in deyntees & in glory & familiarity with god. And all though Moses & david. Peter & Paul. jerom & Austyn & other more/ exceeded him in holiness but yet they 〈◊〉 him not in glory & riches. 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 (vid plura regum) ¶ Sadoch this time was bishop/ & for be declined not to the part of Adonie David son but was with Nathan for Solomon/ & Abyathar on the other part was deposed. ¶ Anno mundi four M.ij C.u. Et ante xpi nativitatem ix L. lxxxxiiij. BOboas succeeded Solomon his father in his kingdom/ but not in wisdom. He was deceived through the counsel of young men. And lost ten 〈◊〉 in so much as he answered not wisely the people/ as it is open (iij. reg●) ¶ Achunias was bishop/ & was the son of Sadoch (Vt pꝪ 〈◊〉. para●.) ¶ Reges Israel incip●●●t. IHeroboas reigned king in Israel xxij. year/ & he was first of y● 〈◊〉 of Solomon & a good man/ but when he was made king he was a mysch●●●us man in idolatry/ & made Israel to ●yne in idolatry/ & many great Inco●●yences were done/ almost to y● 〈◊〉 at Israel. For he was the figure of Marhomete (Plura vide three begun) ¶ 〈◊〉 the son of Robous reigned in the jury three year/ & other while a good man & hol●en by god/ and other while wretchedly disposed in idolatry/ & therefore our lord suffered him to regne little time (ut pꝪ. three regum et. ij. parali.) ¶ Anno mund. M.ij C.xxv. Et ante xpi nativitatem ix C.lxxiiij. 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/ & destroyed idols/ But after that he was sworn to the king of Syrie Benedab. For Baasa king of Israel/ then began to fight against him/ the which disposed god. Wherefore he send to him the prophet. Auani/ whom he put in prison/ and therefore he had the gout strongly & died thereof (Vt pꝪ. three regum two para) ¶ Azarias son to Achonias was bishop. Nadab king of Israel reigned two 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 (ut pꝪ. three regum) ¶ Baasa king of Israel reigned xxiv. year/ the which began to regne the third year of Asa king of jews/ & he walked in the sins of Jeroboam and slew Jehen the prophet. ¶ Hela the son of Baasa reigned in Israel two year/ & Zamri slew him & reigned vij days. ¶ Amri reigned twelve year/ & died not as his predecessors died. ¶ Archa son to Amri reigned on Israel xxij year/ & above all that were afore him he was cursed/ for wicked jesabel ruled more than he/ & moved him to follow her (ut pꝪ. three regum) ¶ Of king Ebrac/ the which began to regne the xu year of david/ & how he conquered France. THis Ebrac reigned lx year/ & a strong man he was & a mighty And this Ebrac thorough his might & help of his Brytous conquered all France. And wan there so moche gold & silver/ that when he came again in to this land he made a city/ & after his own name he let call it Ebrac/ that is called Euerywyk. And this king made the castle of Maidens/ that now is called Edenbrugh. This king had twenty sons and xxiij daughters by divers women gotten/ and these sons were called as ye shall here. Brute. Greneschelde. Margāde. jakyn. Kymbar. Roselm. Spadogh. Godeherl. Thormnan. Gldaugh. jorkanghut. Haibor. Ketyn. Rother. Kaier/ & Assaruth. And all the daughters height as ye shall here after. Eligene. Ymogen Oghdas. Guenbran. Gnardith. Auganrel. Guenthold. Tanguestell. Gorghon. Michael. Medhan. Mailour. Oudre. Cambredan. Ragan. Renthely. Neest Cheghan. Shaldud. Gladus. Herberhyn. Ahalaghe and Blandan. And these were though xxiij daughters. And the brethren became good knights & worthy in many countries. ¶ Of king Brute Greneschelde the first son of Ebrac king. 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/ & lieth at York. ¶ Of king Leyl that was Brute Grenescheldes sone. ANd when that Brute Greneschelde was deed/ reigned his son Leyl xxij 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 had reigned xxij year he died/ & lieth at Karlyll. ¶ And in his time reigned king Solomon in jerusalem/ & made the noble Temple. And to him came queen Sibylle queen of Saba/ for to here & see if it were ●oth that men spoke of the great & noble wit & wisdom of king Solomon. And she found it sooth that men had her told. ¶ Anno mund. M.ij C.lxvi. Et ante xpi nativitatem ix C.xlij IOsaphat king of jews/ was a good man & a rich/ and a devout in the way of our lord/ and reigned xxv. year/ and died none ill/ but to the cursed king of Israel gave help/ & other little thing. And therefore our lord was with him (ut pꝪ. ij●. para) ¶ Helyas the great prophet was this time an holy man/ that was lifted up in to paradise with great solace in a chair. ¶ Macheas & Abdias prophesied with him. ¶ Ochosyas son of Achab reigned in Israel two 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 & Wynchestre. And he reigned xxxix year & then he died & lieth at Wynchestre. ¶ Of king Bladud that was Ludibras son/ how he reigned & was a good man/ & a necromancer. SO after this Ludibras reigned Bladud his son/ a great necromancer. And thorough his craft of nigromancy/ he made the marvelous hot bathe/ as the geste telleth. And he reigned xxi year/ and he lieth at the new Troy. ¶ Anno mundi four M.ij C. lxxxxi. Et ante xpi nativitatem ix C.viij. IOram king of jews son to josaphat reigned eight 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 corrected & died unhappily (ut. pꝪ. ij●. para) ¶ This time Helyas was ravished in to the paradise. ¶ Ochosias or Asarias' king of jews reigned oo year/ & lived not as his father died/ & 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 seven. year of jotada bishop she was slain (iiij. regum) This Asarias' & his son joas/ & his nephew Amasia. Matheus the gospeler putteth not in the line of christ for their offences. ¶ joram king of Israel reigned twelve years/ the which began to regne the xviij 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 Helyseupon Israel slew Achariam the king of jews/ & joram the king of Israel and jesabel mother to joram/ and lxx children of Achab/ and xlij brethren of Azari/ & all the priests of Baal. And he reigned xviij year. ¶ Athalia mother to Azari king of jews/ daughter to Achab reigned on the jews vi year and slew the kings blood of joram/ except joas the son of Azari/ the which was kept among shepherds/ and after she was slain. ¶ Anno mundi four M.iij. C.ix Et ante xpi nativitatem eight C. lxxxxiij. IOam sone to Achazie reigned in the jury xi year/ whom joiada the bishop crowned king at vij year of age And he lived well as long as he was ruled by joiada/ but after he forsook god/ & marted Azarias the time bishop son to joiada/ for he blamed him that he forsook his god (Vide plura two para) ¶ joachas son to jeben/ reigned in Israel xvij year/ in whose days Helyse the prophet died. And he began to regne the twenty year of joas (Vide plura four regum) ¶ Ioam son of joathas reigned in Israel. xvij. year/ & he troubled Amazia (Plura vide four regum xiij) ¶ 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/ & let call the town after his name/ & he governed the town well & 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 & best of conditions. The king their father became an old man/ & would that his daughters were married or that he died. But first he thought to assay which of them loved him most & 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 & said/ better than her own life. Now certes said her father/ that is a great love/ then he axed the second daughter/ how moche she loved him And she said more & passing all the creatures of the world. Per ma foy said her father I may no more axe. And she 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 truth/ for I love you as I ought 〈◊〉 love my father. And for to ●●ynge you more in certain how I love you. I shall tell you. As much as ye be which/ so shall ye he loved. The king her father wend that she had scorned him/ & became wonder worth/ & swore by heaven & earth she should never have good of him/ but his daughters 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. And they ordained & spoke between them that they should depart the ream between them two after the death of king Leyr their father/ so that Cordeill his youngest daughter should no thing have of his land. But this Cordeill was wonder fair & of good conditions and 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 & yeven 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 scute anon again to Leyr and said. That he axed no thing with her but only her clothing & 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/ and made her queen of France. ¶ How king Leyr was driven out of his land thorough his folk. And how Cordeill his youngest daughter halpe him in his need. THus it befell afterward/ that the two eldest 〈◊〉 would not abide till Leyr her father was deed. but warred upon him whiles that he was on live/ & died him much sorrow & shame/ wherefore they took from him holy the ream/ & 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. Goneril that was his eldest daughter & 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 lefth with him but only xxx And when this was dove/ Leyr began to make moche sorrow for by cause 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 thought that he would go in to cornwall to Rigan his other daughter. And when he was come/ the earl & his wife that was Leyrs daughter him welcomed/ & with him made moche joy/ And there he dwelled with xxx knights & squires. And he had not dwelled scarcely twelve months there/ that his daughter of him was weary & his company. And her lord & she of him had great scorn & despite/ so that from xxx knights they brought unto ten And afterward had he 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 it 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/ and 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 tho. Alas/ now have I to long lived/ that this sorrow and 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/ and now every man hath of me scorn and despite. And now I well wot that Cordeyll 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 and honoured for my riches. But m● two daughters glossed me tho●● now of me they set little price. And soothe told me Cordeill/ but I would not believe it ne understand. & therefore I let her go fro me as a thing that I set little price of & now wot I never what for to do f●●th my two daughters have me thus deceived/ that I so much loved & now must I needs seek her that is in an other 〈◊〉/ that lightly I let her go from me without any reward of yefts. And she said/ that she loved me as much as she ought to love her father by all manner of reason. And though I should have ar ●er no more. And those that me otherwise behoteth thorough there false speeches now have me deceived. In this manner Leyr long time began to make his moon And at the last he shope him to the se● and passed over in to France and ar and espied where the queen might be found. And men told him where she was. And 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. Cordeill the queen anon took gold and silver plenty/ & tohe it to the squire in counsel that he should go & bear it to her father/ & that he should go in to certain city/ & him array & wash/ & then come aye● to her. And bring with him an honest company of knights xl at the lest with their main. And then he should send to her lord the king/ & feign that he were come for to spehe with his daughter/ & him for to see & so he died. And when the king & the queen heard that they came/ with moche honour they him received. And the king of France though let send thorough all his ream/ & commanded that all men should be as entendant to king Leyr the queens father in all manner of things as if were unto himself. When king Leyr had dwelled there a month & more he told to the kynge and to the queen his daughter/ how his two eldest daughters had him served. Agampe anon let ordain a great host of Frenshmen and sent in to Brytayne 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 ream after her faders death. And anon they went to ship & passed the see and came in to britain and fought with the felons/ and them discomfited and slew/ And though had he his land again/ & after lived three year & held his ream in peace and afterward died. And so Cordeill his daughter then let enter him with moche honour at leicester. ¶ Anno mund. M.iij. C.xlix. Et ante xpi nativitatem eight C.liij AMasius sone to Ioam reigned on the jews xxix year/ after the which the kingdom of jews was without king xiij year. This man worshipped the gods of Seyr (ut p3 two para. xv.) ¶ Jeroboam son to Ioam reigned on Israel xli year the which was manly and victorious. For he overcame the king of Sirie/ and restored Israel and Damask/ after the word of jono the prophet. But he was not good. Therefore saith Austyn. If good men regne/ they profit many men. And if ill men regne/ they hurt many men. ¶ Anno mund. M.iij. C.lxxxviij. Et ante xpi nativitatem eight C.xi OZias or Azarias son to Amasie reigned on the jury lij 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 the which cause our lord struck him with a leper (ut pꝪ. two para) ¶ Ozee bishop & prophet was this time the first of the twelve that is send against the twelve tribus/ ¶ joel the second of the twelve prophesied or juda. Ananias the third prophesied against many people. Abdias the fourth of the twelve prophesied against Edom. ¶ Zacharias son to Jeroboam reigned in Israel. vi. months/ the which began to regne the xxxviij year of Ozias & was nought in his living as his preorecessours 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 two year/ & he began to regne the l year of Ozias/ & he was nought in his living. ¶ Phase slew Phaseta/ & reigned twenty year/ & he began to regne the lij year of Ozias/ & died as other cursed men died (Plura vide four regum) And after this. Israel was without any king eight year. ¶ How Morgan & 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/ & Cordeill 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 that was king of France/ & after his death she was widow. And there came Morgan & 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 & Conedag seized all the land/ & departed it between them. And they held it twelve years. And when that those twelve years were gone/ there began between them a great debate/ 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 away in to wales. And Conedag pursued him/ and took him and slew him. And though came Conedag again and seized all the land in to his hand & held it And reigned after xxxiij 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 world 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 Conedag● son reigned after his father/ & in his time it rained blood three days in tokening of great death. ANd after this Conedag reigned reynold his son/ that was a wise knight & an hardy & ●urteys/ that well & nobly governed the land/ & wonder well made him beloved of all manner of folk. And in his time rained blood y● lasted three days. As god would & soon after theridamas came a great death of people/ For hosts without number of people fought/ till that almighty god thereof took mercy & pity & tho 'gan it cease. And this reynold reigned xxij year & died and lieth at York. ¶ How Gorbodian reigned in years that was Reynolds soon. AFter this Reynold that was Conedags son/ reigned Gorbodian that was this Reynolds son xu year/ and then he died & lieth at York. ¶ How Gorbodian had two sons & how that one slew the other for to have the be●ytage/ & how Ydoyne their mother slew● that other/ wherefore the land was destroyed. SO when this Gorbodian was deed/ his two sons that he had/ became stout & 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 be came again/ & fought with his brother Ferres/ But full evil it happened though/ for he was slain first. When Ydoyne their mother wist that Pours 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 & therewith 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 that one son she murdered the other/ and 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 daughter/ ne none other of the kindred that might have the heritage. And for as much as the strongest men drove & discomfited the feeblest & took all their lands/ so that in every country they had great war & strife under them/ but among all other things/ there were among them in the country/ that overcame all that other/ & through there might & strength they took all the lands/ & every of them took a certain country/ & in his country let call him king/ & one of them was called Scatter/ & he was king of scotland/ & that other was called Dawa her/ & he was king of Loegers/ & of all the land that was Lotrins/ that was Butts son/ the third was called Rudac/ & 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 were strongest let little by them that were of less estate/ & 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 & a courteous/ so that he passed all the other kings of fairness & of worthiness/ & anon as 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 afterward this Donebant ordained him a great power/ & 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 and 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/ & he ordained a statute/ y● & a man had done never so much harm & might 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 then 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 & worthily xi year/ then he died & 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 all the land of britain from Humber southward. And his brother Brenne had all the land from Humber unto scotland. ¶ 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 through counsel of his folk went from thence in to Norweye to the king Olsynge/ & 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 & the king Olsynges him granted/ And Belin anon as his brother was gone to Norweye he seized in to his hand all the land of Northumberlonde/ & took all the castles & let them he arrayed & kept the costs of the see/ that Brenne should not arrive in no side/ but that he were taken. ¶ The king Olsynges let assemble a great host/ and delivered his daughter to Brenne & all the people that he had assembled. And this damosel Samie had long time loved a king that was called Gutlagh/ & to him she told all her counsel/ how that Brenne should her have/ and her lead with him for ever more/ and so he should lose her but that she might forsake Brene. And when Gutlagh had heard this tidings/ he lay for to aspye burn with as many ships as he might have. So the two fletes met together/ & 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 own 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 & no moo and though that kept the costs of the see took Gutlagh & Samie & all his folk and them presented to Belin. And Belin put them in prison. ¶ How Belin drove out of his land king Gutlach of Denmark & Samie. IT was not long after that Brenne came again with a great navy/ and sent to his brother Belin/ that be should yield again his land to his wise and his folk/ and his castles also. O●elles he would destroy his land. ¶ Belin dread no thing his malice and would no thing do after that he had said. Wherefore Brenne came with his folk and fought with Belin. And then Brenne was discomfited and his folk slain/ and himself fled with twelve men in to France. And this Belin that was Brennes brother went then to York/ and took counsel what he should do with king Gutlagh. For king Gutlagh proffered to become his man/ and for to hold his land of him/ yielding yearly. M.li of silver for evermore/ & for sureness of this covenant to be kep●e. Gutlagh should 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 arynge/ & so Gutlagh became his man. And 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 Denmark. Ever more after were the covenants holden & the trevage paid/ till the time that Honelus was king of Denmark & also of this land thorough his wife Gildeburh that he had spoused for she was right heir of this land. ¶ This Belin dwelled tho in peace/ & worshipfully him held among his barons & he made four rial ways/ one from the east in to the weest/ & that was called Watling street/ & an other from the north unto the south/ & that is called 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 and Belin thorough Cornewenther 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 thorough the daughter 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 fygh with Belin his brother. And Belin came against him with a great power of Brytons/ & would tho have ye●en him battle. But their mother Cor●ewen that though lived had heard y● that one brother would have destroyed that other/ & went between her sons & the● made accord with moche pain So that at the last though two brethren with moche bliss went together in to new Troy/ that now is called London/ & there they dwelled a year. And after they took there counsel for to go & conquer all France. & so they died/ and brent towns & destroyed the land both in length & in breed. And the king of France gave them battle with his power/ but he was overcome/ & gave truage unto Belin & to his brother. And after that they went forth unto Rome & conquered Rome & all Lombardy & Germany/ & took homage & feaute of earls barons & of all other. And after they came into this land of britain/ & dwelled there with Brytons in joy & rest. And though made Brenne the town of Brystowe/ & after he went over to his own lordship/ & there dwelled he all his life. And Belin dwelled at new Troy/ & 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 of Denmark/ 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/ & also by writing record to Belin his father. Wherefore he was evil apaid & wroth/ and assembled a great host of Brytons and went in to Denmark & slew the king Gutlagh/ and brought the land in subjection all new. And took of the folk feautes and homage/ and after went again in to his own land. And as he came forth by Dehency/ he found xxx ships full of men and ●●●●men beside the cos●e of the see. And the king axed what they were. And an Earl that was master of them all courteously answered unto the king & said. That they were exiled out of Spain/ and so that they had travailed half a 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 wherein they might dwell and have rest/ and become his lyege men/ and to him would do homage and feaute while that he lived/ and to his heirs after him/ and of him and of his heirs hold that land. And when the king this herd/ he had pity of him/ and gave them an isle all wilderness/ there that no man was dwelling safe only wild beestis. And the Earl thanked much the king and became his man and 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 mundi four M.iiij. C.xl Et ante xpi nativitatem vij 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. two 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 Esal● a judge of Athens. In which Corsh●● 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 Olympus des are places ordained to the worship of jupater under the hill of Olympo And the law of this is this. That who some ever is best in any chyvalry/ what gift somever he desireth he shall have. ¶ Anno mund. M.iiij. C.lvi Et ante xpi nativitatem vij C.xliij. 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 Serri (ut pꝪ. two para xxviij) ¶ Achitob this time was bishop. Ozee king of Israel reigned ix year the which began to regne the twelve year of Acham king of jews This Ozee dread not god/ for he lived nought. And he was the last king of Israel. And in the ix year of his reign he was taken of Salmanasar. And Israel was translated in to Assirias (ut habet four regum xvij) ¶ Anno mund. M.iiij. C. 〈◊〉 Et ante xpi nativitatem vij C.xl ¶ Rome. AFter Euseby Rome was made in the hill of Palatin the fourth year of Acham king of jews of two brethren Romulus and Remus xi kal Maij. the vij Olympiades' beginning. josephus and Bede say the vi Olympiades'/ and so they defer a year. Nevertheless it is red other men to have reigned about that place mightily in Ytaly. That is to wite janus. Picus Famus. Latinuses/ the which unto Aeneas reigned about two hundred year. And then afterward from this Aeneas to Romulus/ it was reigned under xu governors. iiij. C. xxxij. year. After that fro the city was made unto the last year of Tarquyne the proud/ it was reigned under vij kings about two hundred and xliij year. Then afterward under Senators and Counsellors/ unto julius Cezar Emperor/ by four hundred lxiiij 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 gadded together the people on every side an hundred of the sage men & wisest he chose/ through 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 the write noble faders & things so yet. Also he called. M. men of arms the which he named Milites (a numero millenario) But these were no noble blood. Therefore as saint Austyn saith (de civita. dei) & also there was long war betwixt the Sabyns & them. For Romulus took many women of the noble blood of Sabyns/ & married them to that unnoble blood. Of this Romulus Orosius writeth much evil (ut patet in libro suo) ¶ About this time Merodach the king of Babylon send great gyftis to Ezechie the king of jews (ut pꝪ. four regum. xx.) And thenne the kingdom of Babylon begun. ¶ Anno mundi four M.lxxij. Et ante xpi natevitatem vij C.xxvij. EZechias the xiiij king of jews a good child of a cursed father reigned with a perfit 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 glorified him. For when Sennacheryb the king of Assuriorum came against Ezechias with a mighty host/ our lord struck his people and slew an. C. lxxxv. of fighting men/ & Sennaches ryb fled shamefully (ut pꝪ. four regum ix et. ij. para xxxij) ¶ Sadoch this time was high bishop there. ¶ Anno mund. M.u. C.i. Et ann xpi nativitatem vi C. lxxxxviij. MAnasses king of jews reigned. lv. year/ and he was an evil child of a good father/ for be died 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/ & took Manasses & put him in prison. And after Manasses repented his trespaas & cried for mercy to our lord/ and was herd. Then he was restored to his kingdom/ & he amended his life (ut pꝪ. four regum xxi et. ij. para xxxiij) ¶ Sellum was bishop/ & Echias after him This time the vij wise men had worship in Grece. s. Tale. Solon. Chilon Poreandus. Eldobolus. Bias. Pitacus. This Talus found first the default of the son & the moon (Vide plu. august. viij. de ci. dei) ¶ Numa the second king this time reigned in Rome xlij year/ the which was a great worshyper of false goods. He fulfilled Rome soofull/ that he might have no place for himself to dwell in. This man put january & February to the beginning of the year (Vide plura in august. de civi. dei.) ¶ Above all reason it is marvel that such men so exceeding 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. & he was stricken of his servants/ and he died without any repentance. ¶ Anno mund. M.u. C.lviij. Et ante xpi nativitatem vi C.xli IOsias the son of Amon at eight 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 & his works ye may see (iiij. regst. xxij. et. ij. para xxxiiij) ¶ Azast●● the son of Elchie was bishop. ¶ Tobias about this time died. And he was a very holy man. And he prophesied to the destruction of jerusalem. ¶ Tulius Hostilius was the shyrde king in Rome. And saint Austyn saith in his book decivitate dei. that from Rome was made unto August the Emperor/ there was so continual battle/ that if was take for a marvel/ and they were one year without battle except xlij in Nun days/ in the which was continual peace. And this Tulius by cause he had rest/ he died cursedly to his neighbours and then he was slain & all his household with a stroke of lightening. ¶ Nabugodonosor this time was king of Babylon/ a manly man & a victorious For he was the scourge of our lord to punish the sins of many people. This man was king of Babylon & after he conquered the kingdom of A●●suriorum & made it one monarch. But many ways scripture speaketh of this man/ now good/ and now evil. And for by cause scripture concludeth that be ended his life in the loving of god by the prayer of Danyell and in the knowledge of one very god/ some doctaurs say. he is saved/ and some say it is doubt. ¶ Ancus Marcius the fourth king of Rome reigned xxiij year. This man for grace & trust that he had to Tarquinus Priscus made him the governor of his children. And Airs & he ill rewarded him. ¶ Danyell yet a child delvyered saint Susan/ & stood in the conceit of the king with his fellows & afterward be discussed the dinnes of the king and was made a man of great honest/ (ut pꝪ Danielis prius) ¶ joathan the second son of josie reigned on the jews three months/ & was made king by the people/ and he was not good. And Pharaoh took him and lad him in to Egypte/ & made his elder brother king (ut pꝪ. four regum xxiij) ¶ Anno mund. M.u. C.lxxxviij. 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. Nabugodonosor took him & made him his servant three year. And he rebelled against him afterward/ & he took him & was about to have lad him unto Babylon/ but his counsel was changed/ & so Nabugodonosor slew him in jerusalem & cast his body over the walls after the prophecy of jeremy/ & took with him the vessels of our lord Ihesu (ut pꝪ. two para. vlt) ¶ Samias was bishop Vrtas prophet was slain of jecony y● king/ & jeremi was present. ¶ joachum son to jeconias reigned in the jury three months & lived nought/ & therefore anon he was moved that he should regne no longer/ & was bounden & translated in to Babylon/ & many with him were translated (ut pꝪ. four regum xxiiij) ¶ Daniel. Ananias. Azarias. Mysael. 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 Sedechias 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/ and was translated fro jerusalem by Nabugodonosor in to Babylon ¶ Abacuk prophesied against Nabuch at Babylon. And there be opinions what time this Abacuk was. This Abacuk brought meet to Danyel when he was put to the lions after jerom. And here endeth the fourth Aege/ and the history of Regum. Here beginneth the fifth age of the world during to the nativity of christ Transmigracio. THis time the Temple of Solomon was brent of the Caldees & jerusalem was destroyed/ this Temple stood. cccc. and xlij 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 Tytus/ that is to wite xlij years after the passion of Cryst. ¶ Priscus Totquinus 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 afterward the Senators sat as one heed of all that world. ¶ This time three children were cast in to a furnays brenning/ and with a miracle they were delivered/ as it is said (in dan. prius) ¶ Nabugodonosor the son of Nabugodonosor the mighty reigned in Babylon/ this man made an hinging garden with mighty costs for his wife/ and many marvelous things he died. So that he would be named to exceed Hercules in his greatness and 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 correction of Enil merodach 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 open lie/ with such a witty game/ he procured him to be meek. Anno mund. M.vi C.xxxiiij Et ann xpi nati 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 mothers side. For she was a captive maid. but she was of the noble blood/ This man had great loving and nobly he bore him in every place/ Three hills to the city he put. and dyched the walls round about. ¶ Regular Sabusardach & Balthasar were brethren/ the which reigned one after another and 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 Cyrus was Emperor xxx year. This Cyrus held the monarch hole at Perses. Of this man prophesied Ysayas'/ & he destroyed Babylon/ and slew Balthasar king of Babylon/ and he worshipped greatly Danyel/ the jews he send home again/ that they should build the Temple of god (Vt pꝪ Eldre priuus) ¶ 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 incredible things are written/ and 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 and dust. For it is said forsooth that it was incredible to be made with man's hand or to be destroyed with manes strength/ whereof all the world might take an ensample & it would or might be informed. ¶ Tarquinus Superbus was the vij king of Rome/ and he reigned xxxv year. This man conceived first all the torments which are orderned for malefactors. As e●le person wells/ & gallows/ fetres & manacles thaynes & colours & such other.. And for his great pride & cruelness god suffered him to mischief/ & in what manner of wile it shall be showed. He had a son of the lame name/ the which defoiled a worthy man's wife/ they called him Colla●● & his wife was called Lucres. This Tarquinus that was this vij kings son aforesaid came unto the ladies house ablegate her husband to supper & to lodging And when all were a sleep he rose with a sword in his bond/ & with strength and fere he ravished the woman. And when he was gone the next 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 and as friend/ of whom I had no mistrust/ and thus he hath defoiled my chastity and lost my name for evermore. Then her friends saw her weep and piteously complain/ 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 Lucres for though she consented not to this deed/ yet shall she not die without pain for the deed. And with the word she had a knife ready under her mantel/ with the which she smote herself to the heart. And for this cruelness & this piteous death the people of Rome arose & exiled the king for evermore & 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 there should never be king more in Rome. But they would be governed fro that forth by consuls. So when the kings had reigned two hundred year & 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 if any of them would make any excess/ the other should govern him. For there 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 passing twelve mile. The first consuls that were made/ they called Lucium & the other Brutum/ & these two men died great things in their tyme. But yet the people bore 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 there was a great dissension betwixt the people and the Senate wherefore they chose Trybunas' with their judges over the people/ & defended them fro wrong as saith Ysyd. For the Dictator when he was chose he lasted .v. year/ & 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 the kings/ & the beginning of th emperours. For it were to long to write/ specially when every year were new/ sin y● one man might be chosen so oftentimes as we read/ & also for the enduring of their governance. For they were governors of Rome .v. C. year lxvij. So the most famous men of these shall be rehearsed/ after the form of chronicles/ & as they stand in the book was eachone after other. ¶ Incipie historia libri Esdre. ¶ Anno mundi four 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 (ut pꝪ Esdre vi) After the people of jerusalem came fro Babylon/ these two ruled Jesus' the high priest as go vernour/ and zorobabel as duke. And this manner of guiding was kept unto Herodes time/ that the high priests should be principal/ 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 and of kings. For then many times they tan to idolatry. ¶ Eldras the priest of the kindred of Aron this time exceeded men in holiness/ thorough whose great wisdom all the jews state was helped. ¶ Cambyses the son of Siri reigned on the kingdom of Persarum/ the which commanded mightily the Temple of jerusalem should not be builded again. His father commanded it should be builded. This Cambyses made a cursed judge to be flayed or hylte a live/ & made his son to sit on his faders shynne/ that through that dread he should dread falsehood & judge rightwisely. This Cambyses had many names in holy scripture in the book of Esdre. Arthaxerses or Assurus in historia judith/ that was done under him he called Nabugodonosor/ or Olyfernes the prince of his chyvalry subdued many lands to his lord. And at the last he came unto Bethuleem/ & there was slain of judith a woman/ (ut pꝪ judith two et xiij) ¶ 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 no wise they should let it/ but should help it in all that they could (Vide plura in Esdre .vº de .vº tempore ambiguum ꝓpter diversitatem doctorum.) ¶ Circa amnum mund. M.vij. C. xxxiiij 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/ no thing is had in scripture/ but that Math. thevangelist numbereth them in the genealogy/ and therefore the certain time of them duly can not be know. ¶ joachim, this time bishop after josephus was called josedech/ under whom jerusalem was builded again (ut dicit. et hoc idem patet Neemie twelve) ¶ In the two hundred and xliiij. 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 coirecte the other if ●e exceeded or e●●ed. ¶ Brutus was the first Consul/ & Lutius the second. And then was there a man that was called Dictator/ the name of an offyer/ 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 every one of them went like a king/ & need caused them to leave that dignity. And they trusted never to rest the war was so strong against them. ¶ Arthaxerses was king of Persarum/ under whom Esdras came to jerusalem. And Neemias was butelere to the same king. Whom afterward he sent to build the walls of jerusalem. ¶ Zerses reigned after him two months. Segdianus vij months/ and little they died. ¶ Circa annum mund. M.vij. C. lir. Et ante xpi natuntatem three C.xl ELyac is rehearsed in the line of christ in Math. prio. And more of him is not had in scripture. ¶ Esdras a holy man a cunning/ and worshipfully was had among the people/ this man came from Babylon with other/ And he moved with very charity went again to Babylon that he might win moo of Israel/ and save the souls and bring them home with him. In this time he repeyred the law and the holy books the which the Ealders 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 jerusalem 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 ●●gr. ¶ Ne●●ias an he 〈◊〉 we butelere of king 〈◊〉 at his lords commandment went from Babylon in to jerusalem. Whereof he had twelve year the leading of the people/ And the .v. year he began to repair the yates & the walls of jerusalem/ the which work he ended in two year & four months/ & that with grieve impediments. For the half of the people stood armed without the city to witstonde the people of other nations. intending destroy them/ & the other part laboured in arms holding in the one hand stones for walls/ & in the notable other hand a sword/ or nigh by it (Vide plura liᵒ suo) ¶ Permenides a philosopher/ & namely in mortal things was about this tyme. ¶ Socrates a philosopher which understood moche of the power of god/ & he was Plato's master. Democritus hippocras/ & other/ of whom the noble works abode were also. ¶ Circa annum mund. M.viij. C. Et ante xpi nativitatem three C. lxxxx. AZ●r is rehearsed in the line of christ in Math. 1ᵒ./ but no thing of his deeds is written in the scripture. ¶ Elyasyb or Elysaphat succeeded joachim in the bishopric (ut dicit Eusebius et magister histo.) ¶ Camillus' was Dictator at Rome/ in whose days mischievous plays were ordained/ that the pestilence should cease at Rome. Of these plays saint Austyn treateth diligently in reproving the falsehood of that gods/ the which desired to be pleased with such wretched plays. So shamefully these plays were used with naked men & women/ that honest men & women would not be at those plays/ ne yet behold them (Vide pla in Aug. de civitate dei) ¶ Darius' Notus reigned at the Persces nineteen. year. ¶ Plato that divine philosopher & Arystotle his disciple were this time noble & famous clerks. ¶ Titus Quintus was Dictator at Rome/ & he was a covetous man/ whom Austyn de ci. dei. bringeth in against covetous & proud christian men. ¶ Gaius was a Senator under whom was a great battle against the king of Turcorum. And eight thousand men of them were taken/ ¶ Marcus Valerius was also a noble senator of Rome/ the which with lx thousand romans fought with the Frenshmen & had the better & slew many of them. ¶ Arthaxerses king of Persees called again to his empyte Egypte. And he put Nactanabo the king in Ethyopia/ & many jews in to transmygration. Also he send Vagosum a prince over Flom jordan to ask again the tribute that was forget/ to Esdra that was the vij year rent (ꝓpter sabban terre) ¶ Arsamus succeeded him/ & reigned a year. ¶ Dartus the son of Arsamus regnid with the Persees xxiiij year. This Darius was a mighty man & a bold/ the which asked of the Greeks a tribute/ & that was the cause of the destruction of the monarch of Persarum/ for it was translated to the Greeks/ after the prophecy of Danyell. 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 & 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 Callibolon 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 & wisely. And he reigned xxv year/ and after he died/ and lieth at new Troy. ¶ How king Seysell reigned & well governed the land after Guentholen. ANd after Guentholen regnedus his son Seysell well & worthily governed the land as his father had done before him. And he reigned xu year/ and died & lieth at new Troy. ¶ How Kymor reigned after Seysell his father/ & he begat Howan that reigned after his father in peace. ANd after Seysell reigned his son Kymor well & nobly xix year in peace/ & then after him reigned Howan his son ten year/ & then he died/ and lieth at Ikaldowne. ¶ How king Morwith died thorough mischance/ thorough a be'st. AFter this Howan reigned Morwith/ and he became so wicked and so stern/ till at the last a great vengeance came upon him. For when as he went upon a time by the see side/ he met●e with a great be'st/ that was black and horrible & hideous. And he wend that it had be a whale of the see/ & bend an arblast and would have slain that be'st with his quarrel/ but he might not smite him. And when he had shot all his quarrels the be'st anon came to him in a g●●te hast/ & him devoured a live/ and 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 Morwith was deed/ the Brytons crowned Grandobodiam his son/ & this Grandobodiam long time reigned in goodness/ & made temples & towns/ this Grandbodiam made the town of cambridge/ & the town of Grauntham/ & was well beloved of tyche & poor/ for he honoured the rich/ & 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/ & 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 became so good & merciable/ 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 and to be his brother the crown again & made him king against all the Brytons will. ¶ And after Artogaill became so good of 〈◊〉 that he was well beloved of all the land/ for he came so debonayr & free/ & died right & reason to all manner of men. And he reigned vi year & deyed●and lieth at Grauntham. ¶ How Hesyder was made king after the death of his brother. AFter the death of Artogaill/ the Brytons crowned an other time Hesyder/ but his two brethren Higamus & Petitur had of him great spite & scorn/ and ordained them help for to war upon the king there brother/ and 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 vij year/ & though had Petitur all the land & he made the town of Pickering. ¶ How the Brytons came and took Hesyder out of prison/ & made him king the third tyme. And when this Petitur was deed the Brytons took Hesyder anon & made him king the third time/ & though reigned he in peace xiiij year. And after he died and lieth at Karleyll. ¶ How xxxiij kings reigned in peace each after other after Hesyder. AFter the death of Hesyder reigned xxxiij. 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 xxxiij was called Gerbodia he reigned twelve year after him reigned Morgan two year. And after him reigned Cighnus vi year And after him reigned jowalan eight year. And after him reigned one Rohugo xi year/ & after reigned Voghen xiij year/ & after him reigned Catyll xu year/ & after him reigned Porrex two year/ & after him reigned Cherin xvij year/ & after him reigned coil twelve year/ & after him reigned Sulgenis xiiij year/ & after him reigned Esdad twenty year/ & after him reigned Andragie xvij. year/ & after him reigned Vrian .v. year/ & after him reigned Eliud two year/ & after him reigned Eldagan xu year/ & after him reigned Claten twelve year/ & after him reigned Ouirgunde eight year/ & after him reigned Mortan vi year/ & after him reigned Bledagh three year/ & after him reigned Caph i year/ & after him reigned Gen. two year/ & after him reigned Seysel & king Bled xxij year/ & king Tabreth xi year/ & Archynall xiiij year and Croll xxx year/ & Rodyngir xxxij year/ and Hectir .v. year/ & Harpir vi year/ & Carpour vij year/ and Digneyll three year/ and Samuel xxiiij year/ and Rede two year/ and Ely vij months. This Ely had three sons. Lud. Cassiballam/ and Enemion. ¶ How Lud was made kynhe after the death of Ely his father. AFter the death of Ely reigned Lud his son & governed well the land & moche honoured good folk/ & tempered & amended wicked folk/ this Lud loved more to dwell at Troy than in any other place of the land. Wherefore the name of new Troy was left/ and 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 Londoners 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 Tormace. 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 England. ¶ Circa amnum dm. four M.viij. C. lxxxxiiij Et ante xpi nativitatem two C.xv. SAdoch of the line of christ/ is numbered in Math. primo/ but in scripture there is no more mention made of him. ¶ jadus the son of Iohn was high bishop in jerusalem/ this time king Alexander reigned/ the which was wothe with the people of jerusalem/ and came to the city. 〈◊〉 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. And y● 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 granted that they should keep their own laws/ & at the vij year should be without tribute (vid mgfm in histo) ¶ The host of Alexander as Drosius saith was xxxij M. of foot men & four M. horsemen/ & ships. C.lxxx. And it is uncertain whether it is most 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 Alexander & his host slain the king of Persarum. (Et ut orosius dicit qnqutes decies centena milia) ¶ Encas the son of jady was bishop after his father. Manilius Papirius and Fabius were consuls at Rome. This Papirius when he was a child he was very wise/ and he feigned many a fair losing/ that he might keep his masters counsel and the Senators. And when he came unto man's state/ he was so noble a warrior/ that when the romans dread Alexander he was chosen for to go against him. And of the gods he charged not/ but he scorned and reproved the gods/ saying afore the unhappy thing should fall And that to his great loving holy doctors say. ¶ Incipit monarchia Grecorum. et cessat monarchia Persarum. King Alexander this time began to be lord of all the world/ & he was called great Alexand for his great victory the which he had in so little time It was an evident jugemen of the wrath of god against sinners of the 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 Danus. Also at his prayer the hills of Casyn were shit that certain of the cursed Jews might never come out. But at last in Babylon with venom he was poisoned & died the xxxij year of his age/ & the fifth year of his monarch/ the twelve year of the kingdom of Macedon. ¶ Know ye that when Alexander was deed those twelve 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 Oosir●) ¶ Anno mundi four M.ix. C. i●. Et ante xpi nativitatem two C.ix AChym of the line of christ son to Sadoch is numbered in Math priᵒ & 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 Simon/ this man send to Protholomeo king of Egypt lxxij learned men of every tribe sir to Interpret the law of the Jews the which translated from Hebrew in to Greek thorough a great miracle that so many men should in lxxij days translate all holy scripture with one accord (Vide aug. de civi. dei) ¶ Dolobela Emilius. Marcus Curus. Genutius this time were consuls at Rome This Dolobela conquered Samnites/ and after many battles had/ and Marcus subdued Epito●● & slew. xxlij. M. of his men/ & then flede king Pirro/ the which send to him for peace & offering to him great 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 Arginorum/ & a legion of knights of Rome he send to Rome/ and 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/ y● & they had failed to do the due observance/ in virtue/ they should be punished. These romans & many afore & after were the most noble men of the worlds honest that might be/ & 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 Egypti. qralr non p● seri continuacon. et intexenc reges Siric. 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 language but of devout men/ & that with a due reverence & a solemnity. Certain men attempted to have written it among 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 two C.xl ELyud of the line of christ/ gate Eleazar as it is open in Math. liᵒ & 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 & encrraced the city of jerusalem with many other good things. ¶ Sempronius. Appius. Claudius. Gneus. Gaius. Artilius. Regulus. Emelius. Fabius this time were Senators at Rome. This Sempronius fought against the country of Picentes/ & 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. Atilius Regulus a noble senator overcame three kings & lxxiij cities he subdued/ & a dragon of a. C.xv. foot he killed. afterward when he was over cruel against his enemies/ & denying to give them peas/ but if they would pay a mighty tribute/ they almost being in despair and fought against him/ & overcame him & his host & took him/ and nevertheless yet they would fain have had peas/ but this most faithful man had liefer die in pains great/ than to give rest & 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 Egypte a victorious prince and a mighty. This man subdued Siriam & Cicilian/ & the most part of asia/ & took their goods & broughe them in to his country. Ptholomeus Philopater/ son to Euergites reigned in Egypte xvij year. This man fought against two brethren. Seneleun & great Antiochum/ & he prostrated many a thousand/ but nevertheless he prevailed not (Vide plura in Iohen sup Daniclis) ¶ Hanyball the most cursed king of Penorum & of Affricanorum mightily hated 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 bushels full of gold rings he drew of their fingers. 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 senator direckid his host to him & discomfited him. & almost Cipioes' host of romans was slain. ¶ Lucacius consul. Simpronius Valcrius. Fulnius lutinus gaius & Cipio/ ruled at Rome/ this time the romans had peace one year alone/ & it was take for a miracle that they had rest so long. For afore this time in four C. and xl year the Romayus had never rest. These consuls when the year was done gathered all the strength of Ytaly/ and they had in their host eight M. armed men for dread of the frenchmen/ whom they dread strongly/ & afterward the romans subdued them. ¶ Epiphanes the son to Philopater reigned in Egypte xxiiij year. Cleopatra daughter to great Antiochus was his wife. ¶ Antrochus magnus this time reigned in Syrry/ the which died moche mischief to the jews (ut pꝪ Math) ¶ 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 of 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 gracyoully received him/ & gave him the land of Helipolces/ & there he build his Temple. ¶ Simon his son was bishop at jerusalem/ after that his father was fled. ¶ Circa Annum mundi .v. M.xxxiiij. 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 Math numbereth him (ut pʐ pri o) ¶ Onias Pius was to the jews bishop this time an holy man/ & well beloved with god & man And not alonely with good men but evil men also. At the last unryghtwylly was slain of Adronito (ut pꝪ. n. machabco● ¶ Paulus Therencius Scipio Affricanus/ these were Senators at Rome. These two erected an host arenst Hanyball/ & there almost the romans hope died. For there was slain. 〈◊〉. M. romans. And this noble Scipio affricanus brought again the state of the romans people the which stood 〈◊〉 despair ever to have recovered. For he fought with Hanyball manly & discomfited him. All Spain he overcame. A●l Africa he subdued great Antiochus he brought to be his servant. All 〈◊〉 made trybutary to the Romaynsthis man so noble & so victorious by his own unkind country was outlawed and there he died. ¶ Philo●eto● the son Epiphanes of Cleopatra reigned in Egypte xxxv year. This king yet a 〈◊〉/ noble Antiochus greatly oppressed with many deceits/ but the romans ●ent Legates/ the which commanded Antiochus that he should cease of his tyranny against him. And Marcus Publius made a circle to Antiochus thus l●ynge. The Senators of Rome & the people 〈◊〉 de●the y● y● go not out of this 〈◊〉 till y● have answered to this matter. This Antiochus saying that he might not continue his tyranny said. If it be thus commanded me of the Senators & romans people I must needs town again & so would angry he was/ that he lost the siege of Alexander/ & turned to the poor reliefs of the jewas venging him upon them/ by cause he might not venge him on a more mighty people (ut pꝪ in liᵒ Machabeorum two) MAthathias an holy man/ and of all loving most worthy bated in his heart the conversation 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 three 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. ¶ jonathas 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 disposed him to enter in to Egypte as his father died/ but he obtained not/ for the romans letted him. His most unhappy work/ & how he was in hostage 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 moche 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 hardiness 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 pꝪ Mathei i) ¶ Simon son to Mathathias was bishop eight year. This Simon was a very wise man/ & from his 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 plura li. Machabeorum) ¶ Publius Lucimius. Lucius Emilius. Lucius Lucinius. Lucius Consorinus were consuls at Rome. In whose time the Cartagynes and the romans warred strongly. 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 counseyllers'/ two he gaaf specially to be had in mind. The first that Cartago should not be destroyed that thorough the occasion of forand battles/ a Inward concord should abide among the romans/ and 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 〈◊〉 counsel/ the times following declareth. (vide plura in Aug. de civitate dei. libro four) ¶ Yet for all this counsel that noble city of Cartago was destroyed of Cipio & the Senators. And it brent xvij days continually. Many men there were sold/ & many men ran in to the fire wilfully ¶ Corinthus his same year was destroy the of the romans/ the which was the richest country of the world. ¶ Ptholomeus this time reigned in Egypte/ and was familiar with the romans. And so long he & his predecessors reigned as they kept fidelity to the romans. And know every man/ that there was none other cause that the power of the romans increased so strongly above other people/ but virtue/ the which abundantly reigned in them/ and namely rightwiseness/ which above all thing they used. And as long as they kept mesures & loved rightwiseness/ so long they were never overcome. And as soon as they were corrupted/ it is radde/ they were evercomen. ¶ 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 rightwisely. And what lights of faith they showed in the time of christian religion shall be showed afterward. ¶ Regnum judeorum 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 y● his father gave him in his testament. But he put his mother in prison & his brethren. And therefore he perished wretchedly with his brother Antigonus/ the which was of his counsel and helped him. (Vide magistrum in histo●●●) ¶ Anntigonus brother unto the king was slain through the enuyt●e of the queen. ¶ Alexander was bishop after Aristobolus/ & he stood xxvij year. And he was all a syraunt/ 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 twelve year he slew l thousand of the old sage faders of great virtue/ by cause they told him his mysgyding. Then when he should die/ he left two sons behind him. Hircanum and Aristobolun. But certainly he said his wfy should regne/ for she stood in the grace of the people. ¶ Servius Flaccus. Lucius. Fabius. Plubius' this time were Senators at Rome. This time battles among themself began. Of the which the first cause & the beginning was Giac●us a mighty 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 me●ed the common people to them saying/ That all the lands & possessions should be deuyded equally/ and also the money ●ē. 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 spitted 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 Armenye. And there were drowned an bondred & four score thousand men in the water of rain. ¶ 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. ¶ Ptholomeus son to Cleopatra reigned after him/ under whom Salustius the noble writer of histories was borne. ¶ Ptholomeus Dyonisius was after this man And in his time Virgyll and Oracius were borne. ¶ Anno mundi .v. M.C.xxxiiij. Et an xpi nativitatem ix C.u. Jacob naturel father to joseph of the line of Cryst is rehearsed in Luke & Mathe/ & little of him is had in scripture. ¶ Alexandra wife to Alexander was bishop in the jury ix yerre/ & showed moche tyranny/ all if she was made bishop by her feigned holy relygy on. ¶ 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 for 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 xxxiij 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 overcomen/ & afterward he was restored through the help of the Arabees. And then he was made trybutary to the romans. And so he was in peace a little tyme. But not in the name of king. At the last he died wretchedly/ for he was beguiled thorough the fraud of Parthorum/ the which Antigonus hired against him (vide plene magestrun history) ¶ The heresy of the pharisees 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 infect with many errors for they said that they were holier than other men. For they lived strey●lyer than other men died (Vide plus alias) ¶ Virgyll the most excellent of Poetes was magnified this time/ & marvelous things he died. And among other when that Neopolis was vexed with deadly pain of mighty worms. Virgyll cast a worm of gold in to a pond or a water/ & 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 jufyte worms. And when it was in the water all the worms went away. ¶ Also it is weyten 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 Marcellum Neopolitanun/ nephew unto the Emperor/ if he would have a bird taught to kill all by●des or a fly taught to drive all flies out of the city. And this Marcellum told this to the Emperor. And he desyted to teach a fly to kill all flies. For the common people were sore annoyed with flies And many other marvels he died (vide magistrum Rodulfun Cesterun) ¶ Oracius Flaccus/ & Salustius Crispus historicus were at this tyme. ¶ Quin●us Cepio. Gaius Lucius this time were C●●sules at Rome. ¶ Pompeius. Marcus Crassus & julius Lezar 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 lordshypes of Rome increasing were made three dictators. And this time was Pampeius. julius and 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 & fight with the region of Perthus. And through treason he was taken & 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 lombardy & France/ his five year were spended/ the which were assygued to him & no longer. There by his own authority he took other five year upon him/ in the which he subdued Cassybolon king of britain/ & the Frenshmen that rebelled against him/ ¶ This same julius after he had conquered the countries/ unto Rome he rodeagayne/ for to be received with certain worship as conquerors were before him but it was denied him & 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/ & rob the common treasure & lad it with him/ & departed it among the vij legions that were his servants. Then went he in to Spain to fight against this Pompey. For Pompey had the governance of Cariago. But after that journey in italy Pompey & he encountered together. In the which battle Pompey fled unto the king of Egypte/ & that same king for special love that he had unto this julius Cezar smote of Pompeus heed & 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 lij 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 cato mari: quam deroget urbis honorari) But for that after Austyn he was not excused of sin. ¶ This time the jury was tributary to the romans for percyalyte of two brethren Aristobolus & Ercanus both of them for envy of other cast them to the romans that they might regne. ¶ This time three sons appeared in heaven toward the ●est part of the world the which by little & little were brought in to one body. A great sing it was that Africa. Asia/ & Europa should be brought in to one monarch/ & that the lordship of Anthony the senator and L●cius Anthontij should turn in to one lordship. ¶ Marcus Cicerio Tullus the most noble Rethoryeen was consul of Rome 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 Brytons/ so that for his goodness & courtesy they granted him the ream for ever more to him and to his heirs. And 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 youngest 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 overcame 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 Brytayll king of Southwalys. And in this battle was slain Neunon 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 let a live. And then Cassybolon went again to London & 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 & the Earl of London/ & 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 Erles household of London after meet went together for to play. And through debate that arose among them Enelin that was the Earls cousin of London slew Irenglas that was the kings cousin Wherefore the king swore that Enelin should be hanged. But the Earl of London that was Enelins' lord would not suffer him/ wherefore the king was greatly wroth & utred toward the Earl/ & thought him to destroy. And privily the Earl sent letters to julius Cezar/ that he should come in to this land for to help him/ & him avenge upon the king/ and he would help him with all his might. And when th'emperor heard this tidings he was full glad/ & ordained a strong power/ and came again the third time in to this land/ and the Earl of London helped him with viij. thousand men/ and at the third time was Cassybolon overcome & discomfited and made peas to the Emperor for three thousand pound of silver yielding by year for truage 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 with him. For he durst not abide in this land. And after Cassybolon reigned vij year in peace/ and though he died the xvij year of his reign and lieth at York. ¶ How that the lords of the land after the death of Cassybolon & for by cause he had none heir made Andragen king. AFter the death of Cassybolon/ for as much as he had none heir of his leeful body begotten/ the lords of the land by the comyns assent crowned Andragen earl of cornwall & made him king. And he reigned well and worthily/ & he was a good man/ & well governed the land. And when he had reigned eight year then he died/ and lieth at London. ¶ Circa annum mundi .v. M.C.lix. Et ante xpi nativitatem xl joseph of the line of christ was about this time borne/ and after was husband unto our lady. ¶ Anthigonus was bishop this time in the Iury. This Anthigonus was son unto Aristoholy/ 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 unde/ that he might regne king/ and so Hircanus was expulsed/ & Flaccus was slain/ & Herod was exiled. But when Herod came unto Rome & told the Senators all these things/ the Emperor created him king sending with him anhoste/ the which took jerusalem. And Anthigonun the bishop taken/ led to Anthony the Senator/ the which made him syker/ & 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/ & Duidius were this tyme. ¶ Incipiunt imperatores augusti. et dictus est augustus quia augebat populum. octavian was Emperor of Rome lvij year vi months and ten days. This Octavyan 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/ y● 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 saupour christ Ihesu. This Octavyan was the fairest man that might be/ & 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 lij year of his reign was our lord Ihesu Cryst borne/ the saviour of this world/ the which granteth eternal peace to his lovers. ¶ Hic nota dscdin jeronimun) 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 Cryst. The second husband was Cleophe/ & he gate on her Maria Cleophe/ the which was wedded to Alphe of whom proceeded james the less Simon Cananeus. judas Tadeus/ & 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 Zebe●e & of them came james the more/ & johan the evangelist. The first Mary wedded joseph brother to Cleophe afore said. This time Sibilla Tiburnna prophesied of christ/ & 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 holding a child in her arms/ & said to him/ this child is greater than thou/ & 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 meruaylling they were sessed & put them holy to the pr●nce 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 Ascolonita was king in the jury xxxv year. This Herod ydumeus was the first strange king that reigned on the jews. The master in historijs saith/ he was a noble man/ & faith full in the beginning/ and in all thing he had him nobly. He was very gentle unto the romans & to the people that loved peas. And in his old age/ when he would much please the romans herd of the birth of christ/ d●e ding to be expulsed of his kingdom as a stranger/ wretchedly he fell & slew the Innocentes & divers of his own children. And at the last was hateful to all people/ & fell sick & died wretchedly. ¶ Marry the mother of Cryst was borne afore the nativity of christ xvi year or there about. ¶ Of Kymbalyn that was Andragens son reigned after his father. AFter the death of Andragen reigned Kembalyn his son a good man & well governed the land in moche prosperytee & peace all his life tyme. And in his time Ihesu Cryst was borne of that sweet virgin Mary. This king Kymbalyn had two sons. Gynder & Armager good knights & worthy. And when this Kymbalyn had reigned xxij year/ he died & lieth at London. ¶ Cristus natus est ex virgine maria anno mundi .v. M. C.lxxxxiij. IN the beginning of the xlij year of Octavyan th'emperor. which began to regne in March/ and in xxx year of Herod vij C. and l year after that Rome was builded/ the vi month from the conceiving of Iohn baptist/ the eight kal of Apryl/ the vi fery at Nazareth of galilee/ of the virgin Mary was conceived christ our saviour/ & the same year was borne. ¶ Here at Crystis nativity beginneth the sixth age during to the final judgement/ having years as god knoweth Cristus natus est. ¶ 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 & ran all day. The golden image fell the which Romulus had made/ & put it in his palace saying. This image shall not fail unto 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. & Aristoboli. And there were three Herodes greatly spoken of for their ill deeds. The first was called Ascolonita/ & under this man was borne Cryst/ & the children of Israel were slain. The second was called Antipas son to the first Herode/ under whom john baptist heeded/ & Cryst 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 & Aristoboli through the pretense of his letter by the Emperor send/ strive for the succession of his kingdom/ he disposed & made Antipater that was his first begotten son to be before them/ & 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 their father. And in the mean time the three kings of Coleyne came by Herode 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/ & that they found not the child as he deemed/ therefore in the mean season he cess to slay the children of Israel/ & so went unto Rome for the citation of th'emperor. And he took his way by the city of Tarsun/ 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 & certain days/ this Herod came from Rome again/ accorded with his sons And for the confirmation of his kingdom he was made moche bolder/ and than he slew all the children of Bethleem that were of two year of age & under that had space of one night of age/ & among these was there one of his own children. And Aristoboli & Alexium 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. And when this Herod heard this he was grieved & there he slew both his sons. And Herod Agrippa his son he ordained to be king. Wherefore Antipater his oldest son was about to poison his father/ the which Herod Agrippa understood/ & prisoned there his brother/ that which the Emperor heard & said that he had liefer 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 & in his feet & in his membres/ that no leech might come to him for stench/ & so he died. ¶ So Antipater his son in prison heard tell of this and joyed greatly/ and there fore that cause he was slain. Then strove Archelaus & Herodes for the succession of the first Herode. The Emperor there through counsel of the Senators/ the half of the jury & Idumea gave 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 gaaf to philip Herodes brother. ¶ And that same year christ came from Egypte/ And Archelaus was accused many times of the jews/ and 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 Xpristi ten . I.N.R.I. ¶ Crux Xpisti. Ihesus' christ at twelve year of age heard the doctors in the Temple ¶ Our lord Ihesu Cryst at xxx year of age was baptized. ¶ Ihesu christ the lord of all things at xxx year of age & three months died for his servants. ¶ Anninus Rufus was bishop in the jury about this tyme. ¶ Valerius Graceus 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 john baptist began for to preach. And our lord suffered death the which was dampened to death unryghtwysly for dread of th'emperor. ¶ Tyrus a certain king gate a child on Pyla a poor manes daughter/ the which man height Atus/ and this child of his mothers name & his belsyre put togethers 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 ewye/ & 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 unhappy people/ what with threating & with promise/ and with law/ & with yefts that none of them durst contrary do to his pleasure/ wherefore he was called pilate of Ponto. ¶ Herod Antipa young in his conversations/ with yefts & messages drew him to him & made him prince of the jury under him. And this time pilate gathered much money/ & He road not knowing/ he went to Rome that he might receive of the Emperor that Herod had given him. Wherefore Herod & pilate were enemies together/ unto the passion of our lord/ when that pilate send Jesus' unto Herode clothed in a white cloth/ then they were made friends. ¶ Ovidius Naso in Ponto about this time died the fourth year of his exile. ¶ Tiberius this time was Emperor at Rome/ & he reigned twenty-three. year/ & he lived in the year that our lord Ihesu Cryst died/ & somewhat after. This man was in all his works greatly advised that there should be no thing suddenly done/ wise in wars/ studious in books/ fair of speech/ fresh in wit/ save he would of times feign himself to do things that he would never do of other. This Emperor understood and 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 christian folk with out any 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 twelve apostles/ the which made our Crede/ that is our believe. And they made it after the resurrection of Cryst/ & 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 Mathias was chose between the day of the ascension & Wytsondaye in the place of judas Scaryot the traitor/ of the which judas in a history is red thus. ¶ There was a certain man in Jerusalem that height Reuben/ & after saint jerom he was of the tribe of Ysachar. And his wife height Cyborea/ the which on a certain night when he would lustily know his wife/ she dreamed that she should here a child of mischief/ & the child should be a traitor to his king & to all the people of that region/ & when the child was borne & called judas/ his father & his mother abhorred as well to slay their child/ as to nourish a traitor to the king & all his people/ therefore they put him in to a pannier/ or a leap in to the see/ & he flowed to the isle of Scaryoth/ where the lady of that place had no child by her husband/ & she feigned her to be which child/ but she failed. And after in a little season the same lady & queen conceived a child 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/ & after she knowledged that judas was not the kings son ne hers/ wherefore judas slew the kings 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. And by cause that oon cursed man draweth to an 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 man's that 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 with out any leave. And when they had chid this judas smote his father on the heed with a stone & slew him/ & judas fled away secretly after that deed/ but it was said that Reuben died suddenly. Then pilate got to judas all the goods that Reuben had & Ciborea Rubens wife/ that was mother to judas. And he dealt not courteously with her as a man should with his wife/ & for that she wept & wailed/ for she had put her son to the see/ & that she was married against her will. It was perceived that judas had slain his own father & wed his own mother. Thenne Ciborea his mother & wife moved him to leave his sin/ & than he followed Cryst/ & he forgave him his sin & made him his proctor & apostle. And how falls he was to Cryst/ it needeth not to rehearse. ¶ And that same year Mathewe was chosen/ & the holy ghost was send in to them as it is said afore ¶ The apostles or they were sparpled in to all the world/ they gathered them together in to jerusalem & made the Crede hear following/ that is our believe. Petrus ¶ Credo in deum patrem omnipotentem creatorem celi et terre. Andreas ¶ Et in ihesum xpm filium eius unicum dominum nostrum. johannes ¶ Qui conceptus est de spiritu sancto natus ex maria virgine. jacobus ¶ Passus sub pontis pilato crucifixus mortuus et sepultus. Thomas ¶ Descendit ad inferna tercia die resurrexit a mortuis. jacobus ¶ Ascendit ad celos sedet ad dexteram dei patris omnipotentis. Phllippus ¶ Ind venturus est judicare vivos et mortuos. Bartho. ¶ Credo in spiritum sanctum. ✚ Matheus ¶ Sanctam ecclesiam catholicam. Simon ¶ Sanctorum communionem remissionem peccatorum. judas ¶ Carnis resurreccionem. ✚ Mathias ¶ Et vitam eternam Amen. IHesu Cryst our saviour rose fro death to life & said to his disciples All the power in heaven & in earth is given unto me. And go ye thus in to all the world & preach/ & teach unto every creature/ & I shall be with you unto the end of the world. ¶ Here he chose him lxxij. disciples. And he had twelve 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 & bishops in the church of god yet keep the form. For to the apostles the bishops succeed/ & to the disciples 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. etc. Marcus. ✚ Wrote in Ytalia but in greek language. Innitium evangelii jesu cristi. etc. Lucas. ✚ Wrote in Grecia in greek language Huit in diebus herodis regis Jude sacerdos. etc. Matheus. ✚ Wrote in the jury in Hebrew language. Liber generacionis Ihesu cristi. etc. ¶ Here beginneth the order of Popes of Rome/ & continueth as the line of christ died afore. For in them god left his power. ¶ Anno domini xxxiiij PEter a jew the first pope was a blessed man & a glorious apostle of Cryst. ¶ He was heed of the church. xxxvij. 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 vij year teaching the way of troth. And Spmon Magus he confounded away. That season he preached to the people that were circsscysed/ the which were in Ponto of Galati. Capadocia. Asia. Bithynia. 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/ & 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/ & Aduent/ & the Emering days to be fasted of all christian people/ in to the mirror of the first & second coming of our lord Ihesu. ¶ Then when he had be pope at Rome xxv year vij months and eight days/ he was slain of Nero (Eius pla opera vide ac●●bus aplorum) ¶ Gaius this time was Emperor at Rome & reigned three year & ten months. This Gaius was first bicyous in lyurnge/ for two of his own sisters he misused/ & on one of them he gate a daughter/ which child he set betwixt the knees of jupiter in the temple/ & feigned afterward the 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/ & 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 Roman. ANd after the death of this Kymbalyn reigned Gynder his son a good man & a worthy/ & was of so high heart that he would not pay to Rome the tribute that king Cassybolon had granted unto julius Cezar. Wherefore themperor 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/ & for to have it on the king. But this king Gynder and Arinager his brother assembled and 〈◊〉 a great host 〈◊〉 of Brotons & gave battle to the Emperor Clawdius/ & slew of the romans great plenty. The Emperor had afterward one that was called Hamon that saw the people there were fast slain/ & privily cast away his own arms/ & took the arms of a deed Bryton/ and armed him with his armour/ & came in to the battle to the kyuge & 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/ for by 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 & fell down to the earth/ ¶ When Armager saw his brother so deed/ he cast away his arms and took to him his brother's arms/ & came in to the battle amongs the brytons and had them hetfly for to fight/ and fastlaye 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 fight/ & slew the romans. So at the last the Emperor forsook the field/ and fled as fast as they might with his folk in to Wynchestre. And the falls traitor Hamon that had slain the king/ fast anon began for to slay with all the haste that he might. And Armager 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 he●ed the body all to pieces/ and then let cast him in to the water. Wherefore the water was called Hamon's haven. And after there was made a fair town that yet standeth/ that is called Southampton. And after Armager went to Wynchestre for to seek Claudius Cezar the Emperor of Rome. And there Armager him took. And Claudius th'emperor thorough counsel 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 forward should be in the emperors power of Rome/ upon such covenant/ that never afterward no Emperor of Rome should take none other tribute of this land/ but only france. 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. And Armager spoused her at London with moche solemnity and myth. And then was Armager crowned and made king of britain. ¶ Of king Armager in whose time saint Peter preached in Antioch with other apostles in divers countries. THis Armager reigned well and worthily/ and governed the land right worshipfully. ¶ And Claudius Cezar in remembrance of this accord/ and for reverence and honour of his daughter/ made in this land a fair town and a castle/ and let call the town after his name Claucestren/ the which now is called Gloucestre. And thenne when all this was done the Emperor took his leave/ and 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 son on his wite 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 dwelled vij 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 xxiiij year/ he died/ and lieth at the ancient city of London. ¶ How king Westmer gaf 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 & a worthy of body/ & 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 Stanys more. And 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 Roderyk with his own hands in plain battle. 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 dwell. And thither they went & dwelled there all their lives time/ & ix hundred men there were of them & no moo left at that battle. Their governor & prince was called Berynger And anon he began a town that they might therein dwell & have resort/ and let call the town Berwyk upon tweed. And there they inhabited & became rich. But they had no women among them/ & the Brytons would not give their daughters to the strangers. Wherefore they went over see in to ireland/ & brought with them women/ & there they them spoused. But the men could not understand their language ne the speech of these women/ & therefore they spoke together as Scots. And afterward through changing there language/ in all France they were called then Scots & so should the folks 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/ and there he began first housing. ANd after this battle that is above said when Roderyk was deed/ king Westmer in remembrance of his victory let arere there beside the way a great stone on high/ & yet it standeth/ & ever more shall stand. And he let grave in the stone letters that thus said The king Westmer of britain slew in this place Roderyk his enemy/ ¶ And this Westmer was the first that builded house & 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 and 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 & was king in 〈◊〉 all his lives tyme. And when he had reigned xi year he died & lieth at York. Claudius' was Emperor at Rome next after Gai●s. And he reigned xiiij year & eight 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 whereof/ 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 Britanicus/ and Octavia a daughter. The third he wedded Agrippina/ having a son that height Nero. Claudius' wedded his daughter Octavia to Ne to 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 the Empyer. Yet Agrippina the last wife of Claudius dread/ least her husband would have proffered Britanicus/ & have deposed Nero her son/ therefore she poisoned her husband Claudius/ and Nero was promoted to the Empire. And this same Nero gave his mother such a reward again. For he poisoned Britanicus 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 ac● twelve) The body of saint james was brought by miracle in Galeciam of Spain. ¶ Nero after Claudius was Emperor/ & he reigned xiij. year & vij 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 & his wife his mother & his master. He slew also Peter & Poule/ he would never were one cloth two times. All his horse & his mules were shod 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. ●. cro said there is space to build the sheets wider. then the Senators with the common people came upon him to slew him/ & he fled by night in to the subarbes of the city & hide him/ & he heard karles & beggars saying. And they wist where the Emperor were he should never scape them. Nero thought it should be great derogation to his name & he were slain of karles. And on a great stake he ran himself to the heart & deyed/ & there was buried. And devils kept his body many a day after & did great hurt to the people/ till by a miracle of our lord the body was found & taken away/ & then the devils voided. ¶ Seneca was this time master to Nero. ¶ Iwenalis' poeta. ¶ Lucanus poeta. ¶ james the less the apostle bishop of jerusalem was slain of the jews the vi year of Nero. Marcus the evangelist was martyred the first year of him. ¶ Circa annum xp●i lxxiiij LInus Ytalicus was pope of Rome ten year and two months & xiij days. This Linus and his successor Cletus/ through their holy conversation were made to minister the ●resour of the church to the people Peter being a live. And Peter attended to praying & preaching. ¶ It it 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 vij 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 & 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 name was Quintilian. ¶ Otho reigned after him/ and he reigned but three months. For one Vitellus that was president 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 eight months/ for he was follower of Nero most special in gluttony/ and in singing of foul songs/ and at festes eating out of measure/ that he might not keep it. ¶ Vespasianus reigned next tfter him ix year and ten months and twelve 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 jerusalem. ¶ And when he heard that Nero was deed/ by whom he was sent to jerusalem/ and 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/ and after in to Tybre till he was deed/ and then let him sail without sepulture/ for this the people desired. This man was cured of waspies in his nose anon as he believed in our lord Ihesu/ And that was the cause why he went to jerusalem/ to venge Cristis death. He fought xxxij times with his enemies/ And died the year of grace lxxix ¶ Anno dm. lxxxiiij CLetus a martyr was pope xi year This Cletus was a roman/ & greatly he loved 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 for to fast two year. He cursed all though men letting such pilgrimages/ or counsellors contrary thereto. At the last he was martyred by Damician the Emperor. ¶ Titus son to Vespasianus was Emperor this time and 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 hundred 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 farforth/ that they called him the most delectable of men. He was full liberal to all men/ in so much that he said often times/ that there should no man go from an Emperor with an heavy heart/ but he should somewhat 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 xxiiij year and .v. months first he was easy/ and afterward 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 johan 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 rather like Nero & his kindred. And for these wicked conditions he was slain in his own palace at Rome in the xxvij year of his age/ ¶ Clemens a martyr was pope ix year & 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 afore him/ least 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 exile/ & suffered 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 xix 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 I set at nought. But at saint Gregory moved with pity weeping/ and prayed unto our lord for him/ that he would have mercy upon him/ & 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 chronicles/ 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 he 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 ungentle/ 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 & said ever more/ that no man was more unworthy to be Emperor than he. ¶ Anno dm. C.liij ANacletus a martyr was pope. it. year. And he was a Greek. He monished all christian 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 witness with them and namely bishops. Also he decreed that clerks should were no beards no● long here. Also that a bishop should be consecrated of three/ & diverse other thing. At the last the twelve year of Traianus he was martyred and buried by the body of saint Peter/ ¶ Plintius the second Orator & philosopher wrote much things. This man moved Traianus that he should withdraw the sentence yeven against christian folk/ written to him that they should do no ill but take heed to the virtue/ but that they should rise afore day & worship their god secretly in the night. ¶ Evaristus a Greek & a martyr was pope ten year and vij months after Anacletus. This man ordained that man & woman should be wedded openly/ and that they should be blessed openly of the priest and father & mother. And he was martyred the third year of Adrian & buried by saint Peter. ¶ Alexander a roman was pope eight year and .v. months. This Alexander the most part of the Senators he converted unto our lord. And he constytuted and ordained/ that holy water should be sprinkled 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 & three 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 mynystres 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 altar/ ne the pall. Also he ordained/ that if any 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 altar/ & at the last he was martyred. ¶ Adrianus was Emperor xxi year. This Adrian in many things is commended to christian men/ other while 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 subdued again/ & forhadde that no jew should dwell therein by no wise. christian 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 enough to me that against my will I have reigned/ which I have not deserved. For the Emperor 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/ and virtue should come before his kingdom ¶ Eustachius otherwise called Placidus and Therospita his wife/ & two of their sons/ of whom marvelous things been red/ were martyred by the command dement of Adrian. This Placidus was mayller of the emperors knights. jerusalem was restored by Adrian and made larger/ so that the place where Cryst died was within the walls/ the which was without before. And this is the third building again of that city/ for it was thrice destroyed. Of the Caldees in the time of Zedechee/ of Antiochus in the time of Machabeorr/ & of Titus in the time of Vespasian. ¶ Anno dm. C.xliiij. THelesphorus a Roman was pope xi year This man ordained this angels ympne to be song in the mass (Gloria in excelsis deo & c●) & the gospel to be red afore the sacring/ and on christmas day three masses to be song. And he ordained there should no mass be song before three of the clock. And at the last he was martyred & buried at saint Peter'S. ¶ Ignius a Greek was pope four year. This man ordained that a child should have a godfader & a godmoder at the time of baptizing/ and also one at confirmation. Also that no archbishop/ except the pope should condemn his Suffrygan but if the cause were showed in the provincial counsel of bishops. Then he was martyred & buried at saint Peter'S. ¶ Antonius Pius was Emperor xxij. year with his sons Aurolio & Lucio This man was mightily wise & naturally fair of speech/ the which lightly in oo man is not found. Nota. ¶ exceeding men in wisdom comynly are not fair speched/ nor peasfull namely of nature/ ne contrarious. ¶ exceeding men in fair speech comynly 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 none so gentle. He said through the ensample of Cipio. I had liefer keep one here of a man/ than slay an hundred of mynenmyes'. And some martyrs were made under him/ but they were made under the commandment of the Emperors afore. And the christian people were so hateful unto the bishops & to the priests of the Temple of the false gods/ that they provoked the princes always against them. For they supposed that the christian faith should destroy them. Therefore it was no marvel/ all though the prince was unpleased/ for they said All their gods were devils/ if lower judges pursued christian folk & martyred them. This time ten thousand martyrs were crucified in Armenia/ in an high hill called Arath. ¶ Pompei●s trogus isto tempore histor●as a nino usque ad octavianum deduxit. ¶ Anno dm. C. li●ij. PIus ytalicus was pope xi year & four months and xu days/ This man ordained the feast of Ester 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'S. ¶ An●cetus was pope after Pius almost ten year this man made many decrees of the Canon and for bishops (Vt 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 and xl years. He never eat nor drank his fill ¶ Nota abstinenc●am. ¶ 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 Emperors xix year. These took the Empire after Anthony the meek/ and then began two Emperors to regne but Lucius Comodus decessed. And Anthony was Emperors alone/ the which was a victorious man and a noble but that he made the fourth persecuycon to kill christian men. This Marcus was of so great sadness and steadfastness that 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 tr●●e when he looked his tresourand had 〈◊〉 that which he might give his knights and his men when he went to fight against the German/ the slavons/ and Sarmathus/ 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/ and recovered all again/ & released the provinces of their tributes. And those that would sell him his wives treasure again/ he restored them their money/ & those that would not/ he never grieved them. But the tables of their debts betwixt him & them he brent openly in the market place and thanked them/ that they helped him in his necessity. ¶ How king Lucy 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 & to all the people. He sent to Rome to Eulentre that then was pope/ & said. He would become a christian man & receive baptism in the name of god & tome to the right faith & believe. Eulentre sent two Legates/ that were called Pagan/ an other Elybain 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 Arch bishops/ 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/ & for to make the sacrament/ and after they went again to Rome. And the king dwelled in his land/ & reigned with moche honour twelve year/ and after dedye and lieth at Gloucestre. ¶ How this land was long without a king/ & how the Brytons chose a king. THis king Lucy had none heir of his body begotten/ that was afterward 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 themselves l year without king. But it befell afterward that a great prince came from Rome in to this land that was called Severie/ not for to war/ but for to save the right of Rome. But nevertheless 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 and 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 great host of Brytons/ & went to London to seek Allec/ and 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/ & 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 Exles 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 & gave the Earl battle. And the Earl defended him fiercely with his power and slew the king himself in that battle And though was coil crowned and made king of this land. This coil reigned and governed the land well & nobly/ for he was a noble man & well beloved among the Brytons. ¶ When the of Rome heard that Astelepades was slain/ they were wonder glad/ and 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 & 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/ and good & well lettered. And this Constance spoused her there with moche honour. And it befell soon after that this king coil died in the xiij year of his regne/ and lieth at Colchestre entired. ¶ Of king Constance that was a Roman/ that was chosen king after the death of coil/ for as much that he had spoused Eleyne that was king Coils daughter. AFter this king coil Constance was made king & crowned/ for almoche as he had spoused king Coils daughter that was heir of that land. The which Constance reigned well & worthily governed the land. And he begat on his wife Eleyne a son that was called Constantyne. 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 & lieth at York. ¶ How Constantyne that was king Constance son/ and the son of Saint Eleyne governed and ruled the land/ & was Emperor of Rome. AFter king Constance death reigned Constantyne his son & the son of saint Eleyne that found the holy cross in the holy land. And how Constantyne became Emperor of Rome. ¶ It befell so in the time there was an Emperor at Rome that was a Sarrasyn & a tyrant/ that was called Ma●ence/ that put to death all that believed in god/ & destroyed holy church by all his power & slew all christian men 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. & told him of the sorrow that Maxence died to the Crystyanytee Wherefore Constantyne had pity/ & made great sorrow/ and 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 find/ And though was he made Emperor and was a good man and governed him so well that all lands to him were attendant for to be under his governance ¶ And this devil and tyraun Marence that time was in the land of Grece & heard these tidings and 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/ & three other great lords that be most loved/ that one was called hoel an an other was called Tavern/ & the third Morhin. And took all his land to keep unto the Earl of Comewayle 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/ and therewith died all his will among high & low/ & they held him for king. ¶ When these tidings came to Constantyne the Emperor / he was wonder wroth toward the earl Octavian. And sent Tavern with twelve M. men for to destroy the earl for his falseness. And they arrived at Portesmouth. ¶ And when Octavian wist that he assembled a great power of Brytons & dyscomfyted Tavern/ and Tavern fled thence in to scotland. & ordained there a great power/ and came again in to this land an other time to give battle to octavian. ¶ When Octavian heard that/ he assembled a great power & came again toward Tavern as much as he might/ so that those two hosts met togethers upon Stanesmore/ and strongly smote together & tho was Octavian discomfited/ and fled thence unto Norway. And & aberne 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/ & was though made king & reigned. ¶ How Marimian that was the emperors cousin of Rome spoused octavians daughter/ & was made king of this land. THis Octavian governed the land well & nobly but he had none hey●●●aue a daughter that was a young child that he loved as much as his life And for as much as he waxed sick and was in point of death/ & 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 Meriedok/ and he should have kept the kings daughter & 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/ & then might she have all her lust/ & the counsel of the Emperor Constantyne her lord. And at this counsel they accorded/ & those though Cador of cornwall for to go to the Emperor for to do this message. And he took the way & went to Rome/ & told the Emperor this tidings well and wisely. And the Emperor sent in to 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/ & was crowned king of this land. ¶ How Maximian that was themperours cousin/ conquereed the land of Armorycam/ & yaaf it to Conan Meriedok. THis king Maximian became so rial that he thought to conquer the land of Armorycam/ for the great richesse that he heard tell that was in that land/ so that he ne left man that was of worthiness/ knight/ squire/ 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/ and went over to the land of Armorycam and there slew the king that was called Imball/ and 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/ and through me ye were let & dystroubled that ye were not king. I give you this land of Armorycam/ & you thereof make king. And for as much as ye be a Bryton. I will that this land have the same name/ & no more be called Armorycam/ but be called britain. And the land from whence we be comen shall be called moche britain. And so shall men know that one Brytaytayne fro that other. Conan Meridok thanked him greetly/ & so was he made king of little britain. And when all this was done. Maximiam went from thence unto Rome/ & though was made Emperor after Constantyne. And Conan dwelled still in little britain with moche honour/ & there let ordain two thousand ploughmen of the land for to culture the land to harowe it/ & for to sow it/ & feffed them richly after that they were. And 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 cheese thorough out all this land xi M. of maidens. That is to say eight M. for the mean people/ and three M. for the greatest lords that should them spouse. And when Dionoth understood this/ he made a commandment thorughout all the land of britain. And as many as the number came to he assemblid together of maidens/ for there was no man y● durst withstand his commandments/ for as much that all the land was take him to ward & keep/ to do all thing that him good liked. ¶ And when these maidens were assembled/ he let them come afore 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 vrsula/ that was the fairest creature that any man wist. And he would have sent her to king 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 toward little britain/ and all they were martyred at Coleyne. THis Ursula chose unto her company xi thousand maidens/ that of all other she was lady & mistress/ And all they went to ship at one time in the water that is called Tamyse/ & commanded her kin & her friends to almighty god/ & sailed toward little britain. But when they were come in to the high see/ a strong tempest arose as it was gods will/ & Ursula with her ships & her company were drive to Hundlonde through tempest and arrived in the haven of the city of Coleyne And the king of the land that was called Gowan/ was though in the city. And when he wist the tidings that so many fair maidens were there arrived. He took Elga his brother & other of his household with him & went to the ships to se● the fair company. And when he saw them so fair/ he and his company would have overlay them & sake fro them their maidenhead. But Ursula that good maid/ counseled/ prayed/ warned/ & 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 defor/ led. 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 ano●ed that he for wrath slew them everyone anon right/ & 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 deffended 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 Orkenay/ & of Norway And they came in to this land/ & brent towns & slew folk/ & cast a down churches & houses/ and rob 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 that ye here now tell was Saint Albon martyred through the wood tyrant Dyoclesian/ 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 a clerk & a wise man that was called Ancyble/ that was herbourghed a night in his house. And this was after thyncarnacyon of Ihesu Cryst two 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 Englond ¶ This Gowans brother & 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 Rome sent a strong man & of great power that was called Gracian with xxiiij M. well fighting men/ for to cast out those sarrasyns of this land. And all they arrived at Portesmouth. ¶ Maximian might not come himself/ for as much as he was chosen Emperor after the death of Constantyne that was saint Eleynes son. when this Gracian was arrived with his host/ he let aspye pryucly where king Gowan might be found. And he set upon them suddenly as they lay in their beds/ and discomfited him & slew them in their beds everichone/ that none of them scaped/ safe Gowan that fled in to his own country with moche sorrow & great pain. ¶ So oneafter it befell that Maximian was slain at Rome through treason. And when Gracian wist that tidings he let crown him king of this land. ¶ How Gracian made him king when Maximian was slain/ & afterward the Brytons slew him for his wickedness. THis Gracian when he began to regne/ he became so wicked & so stern/ and so much sorrow died to the Brytons that they slew him among them ¶ Tho 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 though that was called Gosselim scaped/ & went thence to them of Rome to seek succour/ to help to destroy the sarrasyns that had destroyed this land. And the romans said/ that they had been so often enoyed for their sending people in britain/ all for to help the Brytons/ & they would no more so do/ and so the bishop Gosselin went thence without any secour or help. And though went he to the king of little britain 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 and sarrasyns/ he granted him Constantyn his brother him for to help with power of folk. And then died array horse/ armour & ships/ & all things that needed to the viage. And when all thing was ready/ he called the bishop/ & to him said I take you here Constantyne my brother upon this covenant. That if god give him grace the paynims & the sarrasyns to destroy/ that ye than make him king. And the bishop granted with good will. ¶ Constantyne & the bishop took leave of the king Aldroye & betook him to god/ & took their men twelve thousand and went to their ships/ & sailed toward great britain & arrived at Totnesse. ¶ When the Brytons heard these tidings y● to them came succour/ they were strongly helped/ & ordained them anhuge number of people & came to them and received them with moche honour. ¶ Gowan anon as he wist of these tidings/ he assembled all the Sarrasyns & came against them & gave them battle. And 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 Brytayune/ for his great virtue & 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 spowsid his wife through counsel of the Brytons 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 Wyncestre. 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 foe king privily in counsel. The king let void his chambre of the men that were there within/ & there abode no moo but the king & the Pehite. And he made a coum tenance 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 chambre in to an other chamre so at the last no man wist where he was become. ¶ When the kings men west 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 and 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 through 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/ that none of them may be king. Wherefore I counsel you/ that ye forsake your habit and 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 Vortiger that was earl of Westsex/ for as much as Aurilambros and Uter his two brethren were but young of age. And Vortiger let slay him for to be king himself. THis Vortiger 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 & made king/ he wist ne knew but little of the world ne could nothing what knighthood axed. And he made Vortiger his chief master & counselor/ & gave him all his power/ for to ordain & do as much as to the ream aperteyned. So that himself nothing entremedled/ but only bare 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 and 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/ & other things plenty/ wherefore they held him more lord than they did the king. And Vortiger 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 Vortiger 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 where 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. ¶ Whad this Vortiger was gone/ it befell soon after/ that though hundred knights of Pehites broke the doors of the kings chambre and there they him slew/ and smote of his heed & bare it to Vortiger there that he dwelled. And so when Vortiger saw that heed/ he wept full tenderly with his eyen/ and nevertheless he was somedeal glad in his heart of his death. ¶ And anon this Vortiger took those hundred knights of Pehites/ & bad his servants bind their hands behind them/ & 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 & made him king of the land. ¶ Anno dm. C.lxxiiij. SOther a martyr was pope after Anicetum ix year the which decreed that a Nun th'old not touch the pall 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 called a leeful wife/ but if she were blessed of the priest. ¶ Elentherus a martyr was pope after Sother xv. year/ the which ordained the christian men should refuse no meet reasonable that was man's meet (Nota) ¶ Also that no man unaccused in a crime/ should be put from his dignity or degree till he were convicted/ thorough ensample of Cryst the which kept still judas Scaryoth not accused/ & christ knew him guilty. And what somever he did 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 & Domianus legates/ the which the pope sent first/ preached in England/ and this christendom dured in britain two hundred year/ unto the time of Dyodesian the Emperor when saint Albon was martyred. ¶ Marcus Antonius/ & Lucius Comodus were emperors/ but Marcus ●eyed 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 vij month of Severus. ¶ Victor a martyr was pope after Elenthertum ten year. And for the discord of the paschal time he called a counsel in Alexander/ where he was prescute that time/ & many other/ Where he decreed that Easter day should be kept on the sunday/ but he must keep the change of the moon of Apryll and that was to differ fro Jews/ for many bishops of the rest abode that time/ the same day that the yewes died hallow that feast. ¶ Also he ordained that in the time of need/ children might be crystened in every place/ & in every water. ¶ Zepherinus a martyr & a Roman was pope after Victor ix year. This man ordained that christian people of xij. year of age & above/ should receive his god on Eester day once oo year. Also he ordained that all the vessels of the altar should be glasseor tin/ and not tree/ as in old time the consecration of the gloryons blood was made in tree vessel. And this time past/ & the worship of the church grew/ & glasen vessel were forhode (Vt patet de conse. de pri. ca) ¶ Origenes the noble clerk was this time/ & he wrote so moche/ that saint jerom said I have red of Origenes where's. ●●s iiij. thousand volumes without pyscles. He translated the Bible from Hebrew in to Greek/ & died many other great things. And of this Origenes/ Samson. Solomon/ & Tratan/ is a great question among doctors if that they been dampened or saved. Therefore those things that without peril we been not bound to know/ nor the church is not certified of them. And therefore let them be alonely committed unto god. ¶ Cali●us a martyr & a Roman was pope after Zepherinus .v. year/ & he ordained the Cimiteri (in via apia) where many a thou sand martyr is buried. ¶ Also he ordained the feast of the Emering days to be kept. ¶ Anthonius Aurelius was Emperor three year. And this man lacked no kind of lechery/ & at the last he was slain among a great multitude of people/ for his mischievous lyurnge. Anthonius Marcus reigned after him vij year. This man lived bostynatly 〈◊〉 therefore he was slain as was his predecessor. ¶ Alexander was Emperor after Anthonius & reigned xiij year. This man at the Instance of his mother a christian woman & the teaching of Origenes the which came to Rome to co●●trte 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 off years of him made many martyrs. ¶ Anno dm. CC xliiij TRbanus was pope after Cali●●us eight year/ and old & young he was very virtuous. And all the hallowed vessels of the church he made of gold or silver. This man left his popechede & went to Agrippa and xi thousand virgins with him. And the clergy said he left not his dignity for holiness/ but for appetite of the virgins/ & waste 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 the psalms should be said day & night in the church of god. And that a priest should say Confiteor 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 & buried in the Cimitery of saint Calixt. ¶ Maximianus was chosen Emperor at Maguncia of the host/ & not by the Senators/ & reigned three year/ and destroyed the church mightily/ and was slain for Origene ¶ Gordian reigned after him vi year & of him is little written/ but he was slain (Hijs diebus Celus dux Colchestrie in asclepto regnat in britamnia ānts quasi. thirty. usque ad adventum Constancij. Lati M vacat) ¶ Phylyp was Emperor after him/ & this Phylyp chose to him Phylyp his son/ & they reigned xvij year/ & were the first Emperors that were crystened/ and after slain of the host/ They bequeved 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 twelve 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 y● cream should be hallowed upon Sherethursdaye. Also he divided regions to deacons/ the which should write the life of martyrs. And at the last Decius slew him. ¶ Cornethus a martyr & Roman was pope after Fabianus three 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/ & 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 & manly in the beginning/ but after was given to vice/ & moche wretchedness. And so was his son Galiene. This Valerian went unto the land of Perse. And therefore the great blood of martyrs which he had shed was taken of the king of Perse. 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 Valerian should lie down/ & he should set his feet upon his back when he would take his horse. This heard Galiene his ●one that was left at Rome. And that caused him that he was not so cruel against christian men. ¶ And here was the eight 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 three year/ this man ordained that no man should use none hallowed clothes but to the worship of god. ¶ Sixtus a martyr & a Roman was pope after Stephanus two year. This man ordained that the mass should be said upon an altar the which afore was not/ & then he died. ¶ Dyonisius a Roman was pope after him two year. This man divided parishes & chircheyardes/ & 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 he said. ¶ Claudius was Emperor after Valerian/ this emperor subdued Gothas nobly/ & thenne he dyssessed. ¶ Anno dm. CC.lxxiiij. EVticianus a martyr was pope after Felix eight year. This man ordained the corn & beans should be blessed on the altar. And he buried. CCC. &. xliiij. martyrs with his own hands/ ¶ Aurelius was Emperor after Claudius .v. year/ this Aurelius first to christian men was gentle/ wherefore he had the victory in every place gloriously. And when he was deceived by cursed men/ & pursued christian men mightily/ & 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 & christian faith/ ¶ Tacitus was Emperor after this man/ & he reigned but three months & was slain in Ponto. ¶ Probus was Emperor after him .v. year & four 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 all things well in peace he said. Knights within a little time shall not be necessary/ & anon after he was slain at Sirmium. ¶ Carus & his two sons Carmus & Numerianus were Emperors after Probus/ but soon were they died/ & their father was drowned/ & the two sons were slain/ all these three reigned but two year. ¶ Dyoclesian & Maximian came after these three emperors/ though one reigned in the east/ and the other in the West. The first thing that Dyoclesian died/ he brent all the christian men's books that might be found. The two tyrants died more harm to christian men than ever died any other. For ten year lasted the persecution. And as we read/ within xxx days twenty thousand men were slain for Crystis sake. And in England all faith was almost destroyed in that time of Maximian. ¶ Gatus was pope after Euticianus/ this man ordained that no man should accuse 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/ first Benet/ than Colet/ subdeacon/ deacon/ & than priest. And at the last he was martyred under Dyoclesian. ¶ Arcellinus a martyr was pope after Gaius xi year and iiij months. This man was persecuted sor●for dread of death he offered their corns of incense to the sacrifice of the idols And afterward he openly repent & 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 Marcellmus .v. year. This man ordained that a general counsel might not be ordained without the authority of the pope (Vt pꝪ. xvij di. c. sinodum) ¶ Also he chose xu Cardynalles in the city to bury christian men. At the last when he hadis kept beasts long time in a house closed in with them by the commandment of Maximian/ be 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 man should accuse his bishop but if he went fro his faith (ut pꝪ. two ix. seven. c. la●cos) ¶ Nota. ¶ 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 praeyr. And he suffered death nigh the city of Verelom (Vide plura in vita sancti Albam) ¶ Melchiades a martyr succeeded Eusebius four year. This man forbade that men should fast ou 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 xxxiij 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. ¶ Galerus was Emperor after Dyoclesian 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/ and there he wedded a kings daughter on whom he gate great Constantyne. And this same Constancius died in britain/ and lieth at York/ as Martyne saith in his chronicles/ and left on live Constantyne that was gotten on Eleyne/ and was king of britain & of France. ¶ Circa annum dm. CCC. viij. SIluester was pope after Melchiades. This was a glorious Confessor/ and many ways he worshipped the church of god/ what in writing/ what in miracles. He received the patrimony 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 Eleyne and the jews/ and 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 without compayre. devout. His pity and his holiness been so written in the books of holy doctors/ that without doube/ he is to be numbered among Saints. And the Greeks say/ that in the end of his life he was made a monk. And more ye 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 tyme. And she made. ixx. Colleges/ and she glorified the state of all holy church. ¶ Nicholas bishop of Myrree seat an holy man was this time. ¶ Athanasius was this time bishop in Alexandre a glorious doctor/ made the (symbalum Quicunque vult saluus esse. & ●.) ¶ Marcus was pope after Siluestes two year and eight 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/ this man was exiled ten year/ & after suffered death under Constantyne the second. ¶ Constantinus with his two brethren reigned xxiiij year. And in his last end he was perverted by the heresy of the Ariens by a bishop called Eusebi. And he pursued the church of god strongly. The end of this man was this. As he should god to Constantynople unto a great counsel/ in the which counsel he thought to have condemned the bishop and 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/ and thereby was deed as ye now here. ¶ Liberius was pope after julius xix year & vij months. Then was the second discord of the church between Liberius & Felix/ for the heresy of the Ariens the which favoured Liberius. then Constancius th'emperor called again Liberius from his exile/ by cause he favoured this heresy. And the church deieced Liberius & took Felix for pope/ & the other was expulsed as an heretic of the church. But Felix obtained not/ for the Emperor put in Liberius & expulsed Felix. ¶ Felix was pope after the death of this Liberius. And he declared Constancius 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 Libertus were saints & gave holy ensamples. ¶ julianus Apostata was after Constancius Emperor two year & eight months/ He was called Apostata/ for he fled this Constancius/ which slew his brother. And for fere of death was made a christian man & a monk. But afterward 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 viter enemy to christian men. And so he died. 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 man had and destroyed many of them. ¶ jominianus was Emperor after him eight months. For when julianus was deed the host chose him Emperor. And he was a christian man. And he said it was not leeful 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 he christened. And thus took he the dygnyter. But soon he was deed/ and in a marvelous manner. For he was laid in a close 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 char●oole. And of the air of these two in the morrow he was found deed. ¶ Valentinian with his brother Valent was Emperor after. jominianus xi year. For he departed the Empire/ & gave his brother the east/ and kept himself the west part/ This Valentinian was a lord with julianus Apostata. And it happened him on a time for to go in a Temple of false gods for to do sacrifice. And mynystres stood there with water hallowed after the guise with the which they shynkled 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. ¶ This time lived saint Ambrose. ¶ Anno dm. CCC xliiij DAmacius was pope after Felix xviij. year & two months/ this was an eloquent man in metre. And he wrote many stories of pope's & martyrs He ordained that Gloria patri should he 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/ & then he decssed a confessor. ¶ Valens 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 and l bishops were gathered under Damasius pope at Constantynope 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. ¶ Augustinus a Cartaginen of Africa was this time He was as noble a Rethoricien as might be. And in all philosophy & poetry incomparable. 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 a noble doctor of the church. And not long after that he was bishop of Yponen. And there he lived liij year/ & moche dyvynyte he wrote (ut patet in librissuis) ¶ Siritius was pope after Damasius. xv. year/ he dampened heretics/ & little else is written of him. ¶ Thodosius son to Gracian with Valentyne his uncle were emperors xxvij year/ This man was a christian man & gracious/ & in governance like to Traianus/ 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. thirty. days of those that should do execution 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 and above divided in two bodies/ having two heeds and two wits/ so that the one sleeping or eating/ the other slept not ne eat not. And when they were two year of age/ the one deceased/ and the other lived three days after. ¶ Claudius poeta was this tyme. ¶ Arcadius & 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/ & bereaved them their goods by the preaching of Peter & Paul. And yet this Arcadius subdued all his enemies by the power of god/ & shed no blood. Against this blasphemy saint Austyn made the solemn work/ the which they call (de civitate 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 maiden. 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 lapsun episcopum was this tyme. ¶ johannes 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 ordained that every man should stand at the reading of the holy gospel. And that he that was a maimed man should not be priest. ¶ innocentius was pope after Anastasius/ this man ordained that sick men should be anointed with holy oil. And at mass the kiss of peace to be yeven/ And he dampened Pelagyen an heretic and many other things died (ut patet xxvi q. i.) ¶ Anno dm. CCCC. xiv. ZOzimus was pope after innocentius two year & eight months This man ordained that clerks shalde be no taverners ne sell no wine/ & that a bound man should be made no priest without the licence of his lord. ¶ Bonifacius a Roman was pope after Zozimus four year. This man ordained that a woman should not touch the pall of the altar ne should not was she the altar. ¶ Celestinus a Roman was pope after Bonifacius eight year & ix. days/ the which ordained the psalm afore mass (judica me deus. &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 that 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 Ephysina of three hundred bishops against Nestorium an heretic. ¶ Theodosius the younger with Valentinian his nephew reigned xxvij 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 vij slepers'/ the which sleeped two hundred years. This man died at constantinople & 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 Roman was pope after Celestinus eight year. This was a holy man and a meek And little of him is written but that he builded Sancta Maria 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 time after it befell when a certain woman kissed his hand/ he was tempted with her/ And for the trespaas that he had done/ unto his penance he made his hand 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 myrade was openly showed to all people. And in the time of this pope. Marcian the Emperor being there/ was congregate at Calcedany the fourth universal sinody of vi hundred and xxx bishops against Eusticem the abbot of Constantynopoliton and (Alterandruen episcopum. qui negaverunt in rpo ve●am carnem fuisse. et etiam negabant carnis nostre resurrectionem) ¶ And after he had made many notable sermons & epistles he deceased. ¶ Marcianus and Valentinianus were Emperors this time. seven. year. In whose time was the great sinody afore rehearsed/ when Eusticem & Dyoscorus were condemned. IN the time that Marcianus was Emperor Vortiger was king in britain now called England. In whose time the Sarons came in to britain & made many kings. That is to wite as is plain by the chronicles vij And by cause it is tedious to man's reason to rehearse many diverse names together/ as vij 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 in the same time shall be set together. ¶ Circa annum dm. CCCC xlix ¶ How the wardens that had those children to keep that were Constantine'S lad them to little britain/ for the treason & the falseness of Vortiger. THis time came the Saxons that were pagans first in to britain 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 & Uter/ 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 wist the treason of Vortiger/ that though was made king. thorough whom Constance the elder brother was slain/ wherefore the hundred knights of Pehites were put to death & bore all the blame/ as the Vortiger had not wist thereof ne consented. And so the keepers of those two children/ dread lest Vortiger should put them to death through his treason & falseness/ as he had done the brother before. And therefore they were lad over in to little britain/ & the king them received with moche honour & let them to nourish. And there they dwelled till they became fay●● knights and strong & fierce. And thought to be avenged upon Constance their brother when they saw their time/ & so they died as ye shall here tell afterward. ¶ It was not long afterward that the tidings came over see to the kindred of the hundred knights of Pehite● 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/ and slew & died all the sorrow that they might. When Vortiger it wist/ he made moche sorrow & was sore annoyed/ And in an other place also tidings came to him/ that Aurtlambros and Uter his brother assembled a great host to come into 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 brought 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 yaa●e a place that is called Thongcastell. ANd soon after this sorrow/ tidings came to Vortiger that a great navy of strangers were arrived in the country of Kent/ 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 them should come & speak with him/ for to wite what folk they were & what they axed/ & in to what country they would/ ¶ There were two brethren masters & princes of that strong company/ that one was called Engist & that other Horn. Engist went to the king & told him the cause wherefore they were come in to this land & said. Sir we been of a country that is called Saxony/ that is the land of Germayne/ wherein is so moche sorrow/ that of the people been so many that the land may not them sustain. 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 & harness/ armour/ and all thing that them needeth And after they shall say to them/ that they go in to another country where that they mow live/ as their Auncetrees died them before. And therefore sir king/ if ye have aught to do with our company/ we been comen in to your land/ and with good will you would serve and your land keep help and defend from your enemies if that ye need. ¶ When Vortiger heard these tidings/ he said gladly he would them withhold/ upon such covenant/ if they might deliver his land of his enemies/ he would give them reasonable lands where they should dwell for ever more. ¶ Engist 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 Engist 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 counsel of Brytons. ¶ Engist prayed him eftsoons of as much place as he might compace with a thong of a skin whereupon he might make a Maneer for him to dwell on. And the king him granted freely. ¶ though took Engist a bulls skin/ and kit it as small as he might all in to ●o thong all a round. And therewith compaced he as much land as he might then 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' daughter/ and how the king Vortiger spoused her for her beauty. SO when this castle was made/ & full well arrayed. Engist privily died send by letter in to the country where he came fro/ after an hundred ships filled with men that were strong & & also well fighting in all battles/ And that they should also bring with them Ronowen his daughter/ that was 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 & 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 & 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 a cup of gold in her hand/ and kneeled before the king and 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 engl●sshe speak 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/ (Wasshayll) and that other should drink (hail) And that was the first time that (wasshayll) and (drynkhayll) 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 Engyst granted him upon this covenant/ that the king should give him all the country of Kent/ that he there might dwell in & his people. The king him granted privily with a good will. And anon he spoused the damosel/ & 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 & seized all the land in to his hand for him & for his men/ & became with in a little while of so great power/ & so much people had/ that men wist not in little time which were the kings men & 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/ & the third Passent. ¶ The Brytons everichone by one assent chose Vortimer to be their lord & sovereign/ & counseyler in every battle/ & crowned him & 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/ & gave him three battles. The first was in Kente there he was lord/ the second 〈◊〉 at Te●●orde/ and the third in a shire a this half Colchestre in a more. And in this battle them met Catagien & Home Engistes' brother/ so that each of them slew other. But for as much as the country was yeven long before to Horn through Vortiger/ though he spoused his cousin/ there he made a fair castle that is called Horncastell after his own name. And Vortimer was so annoyed for his brother's 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 and his people of the land. And thenne Ronowen his daughter made sorrow enough. And quentely spoke to them that were next the king Vortimer and pryvyest with him. And so much she gave him of gifts/ that he was enpoysened/ and died at London the fourth year of his regne/ & there he lieth. ¶ How the Brytons chose an other time Vortiger to be their king/ and Engist came in to this land/ and how they fought togethers. AFter Vortimers' death/ the Brytonr by their common assent eftsoons made Vortiger their king upon this covenant/ that he sholdde 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 enpoy sened Vortimer/ & the Vortiger her lord bore again the crown & reigned. And that he should come again into 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 dughty in every battle/ & came in to this land. ¶ And when Vortiger heard tell that Engist was come again with a great power in to this land/ he assembled his Brytons/ & though went against Engist for to ye●e 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 of 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 & 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 Salisbury upon a hill. And Engist should come thither with four hundred knights without moo. And the king with as many of the wisest men of his land. And at that day the king came with his counsel as it was ordained/ But Engist had warned his knights privily/ & them commanded 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 knyve & slay a Bryton. And so they slew a M. lxi knights/ & with moche sorrow many of them escaped. And the king Vortiger there himself though was taken/ & lad to Thongcastell & put in prison. And some of Engistes' men would that the king had be ●ente all quick And Vortiger though for to have his life/ granted them as much as they would axe/ & gave up all the land/ towns/ castles/ cities/ & borughs to Engyst and to his folk. And all the Brytons fled thence in to wales/ and there they held them still. And Engist went thorough the land and seized all the land/ with fra●●chyses. And in every place let cast a do●ne churches & houses of religion And wasted and destroyed christendom throughout all this land. And let change the name of this land called britain/ that no man of his were so hardy after that time to call this land britain/ but call it Engist land. And then he departed all the land to his men/ and there made vij kings for to strength the land that the Brytons should never after come therein. ¶ The first kingdom was Kent/ there that Engist himself reigned/ and was lord and master over all the other. ¶ The other king had Southsex that now is called Chichestre. ¶ The third king had Westsex. ¶ The fourth had Eestsere ¶ The fifth had Estangill/ that now is called Nortfolke. Southfolke. Merche merik/ that is to say/ th'earldom of Nicholl. ¶ The sixth had Leycheter shire. Northampton shire. Herforde/ & Huntyngdon. ¶ The seventh had Orenforde. Glouchestre. Wynchestre. Werwyke. and Derby shire. ¶ How that Vortiger went in to wales and began there a castle that would not stand without mortar tempered with blood. AS Engist had departed all the land in this manner between his men/ & delivered Vortiger out of prison & sufffed him freely to go whither that he would. And he took his way & went in to wales there the his Brytons dwelled/ for as much as the land was strong & wicked to win. And Engist never came there ne never knew it before that land. ¶ Vortiger held him there with his Brytons/ and a●●d counsel what him was best to do. And they gave him counsel to make a strong castle that he might himself there in keep and defend if need where. Masons 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/ & they wist not what it might be. Thereof 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 found/ for they should tell wherefore the fundament so failed under the work/ & that 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 tempre 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 the child if they might him find/ & 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/ & sped so fast that they came in to a town that was called Carmardyne/ And as they passed forth their way they found two children of. xxilij. year of age chiding 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 Merlin said he/ of your wit ne your reason I make no force. For men tell comynly that ye have nothing of god almighty 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 Merlin was borne/ & also whom him nourished. And the folk them told/ that a great gentle woman him bare in Carmardyne that was called Adhan. But never might no man wite who was his father. ¶ When the kings messengers heard these tidings they went anon to him that was Wardey ne of the town & told him the kings will & showed him his letter wherefore they were come thither. ¶ Merlin & 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 & his mother went thence & came unto the king & there they were received with much honour. And the king axed of the lady if that child were her son & whom him begat. The lady answered full tenderly weeping & said. She never had company of worldly man. But sir said she As I was a young maiden in my faders chambre/ & other of great lineage were in my company/ that oftentimes went to play & solace. I be left alone in my chambre/ & would not go forth for brenning of the son. And on a time there came a fair bachelor & entered in my chambre there that I was alone. But how he came in to me/ & where. I wist it never/ ne yet know I not. For the doors were fast barred & with me he died 〈◊〉 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 pro●e. SO when Merlin had heard all that his mother had said. He spoke to the king in this 〈◊〉. ¶ 〈◊〉 how I was begotten/ axe ye no more. For it falleth not to you/ ne to none other to wite. But tell me the cause wherefore I am to you brought and wherefore ye have sent after me. ¶ Truly said the king/ my wise counselors have done me to understand/ that the mortar of a work that I have begun/ behoveth to be tempered with your blood/ or the fundament shall fail for ever more. ¶ Sire said Merlin. Will ye slay me for my blood to tempre with your mortere. Ye said the king/ or else my castle shall never stand as my counselors do me to understand. though answered Merlin to the king. Sir he said/ let them come before me those wise counseyllers'/ & I will prove that 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 and 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 and may not stand. There is under the mountain there that ye have builded your tour a great pond of water/ and in the bottom of the pond under the water there been two dragons/ & that one is white/ and that other reed/ that fight together against your work/ Do ye mine deep till your men come to the pond/ and cause your men to take away the water all out/ and then ye shall see the dragons as I have you tollde/ that together fight against your work/ and this is the cause wherefore your fundament faileth. The king anon let dig under till that men came to the pond/ and let do away the water/ and there they found two dragons as Merlin had told them that eagerly fought together. The white dragon eagerly assailed the reed/ and laid on him so strongly that he might not endure/ but withdrew him and rested in the same ca●e. And when he had a while rested him/ he went before and assailed the reed dragon angrily/ and held him so sore that he might not against him endure/ but withdrew him and rested. And after came again the white dragon and strongly fought with the reed dragon. and boat him evil and him 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 Vortiger and his men that saw this battle had great marvel/ 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 and held in your land that fight against you/ and you have driven and enchased. ¶ But Brytons of your lineage overcame them & drove them away 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 their will/ and destroyed christendom through out this land. Ye had first great joy with their coming/ but now it is corned to you great damage & sorrow. For though two 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/ and 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/ & little time shall he regne ¶ Of king Aurilambros how that he pursued Vortiger & 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 Uter his brother were arrived at Totuesse with a great host/ And anon the Brytons assembled them and went to receive Aurilambros and Uter with great noblesse. And had them unto London/ and crowned Aurilambros and made him king/ and died unto him homage. And anon he axed where Vortiger 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 Vortiger was in wales/ and so they lad him thitherward. ¶ 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 high mountayrie/ and there him held. Aurilambros and Uter his brother and their folk had besieged the castle full long time/ for the castle was strong and well arrayed. ¶ So at the last they casted wild fire and brent houses and men and 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/ and 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 gave 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 afterward he put him to his mercy. And Aurilambros received him/ and to him and to his men gave the country of Galeway in scotland/ and there they dwelled/ ¶ The king Aurilambros went thorough out the land/ and put away the name of Engistlonde/ that Engist after his name had called it before. though let he it call again great britain/ and let make again churches/ houses of religion/ castles/ cities/ and borughs▪ and towns that the Saxons had destroyed. And came to London/ and let make the walls of the city/ which Engist and his folk had cast down/ ¶ The Brytons lad him unto the mount of Ambriam that sometime was an house of religion/ that though was destroyed through the paynims. ¶ Whereof a knight that was called Ambri some time 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 ever more. ¶ How Aurilambros died redress the land of great britain/ that which was dstroyed 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 love day. In the which time were slain a thousand knights lxi through treason of Engist. The king thereof had great pity & 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 Merlin after was sought and found & 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/ & 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 ever 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 giants 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 therewith & anon they were hole. ¶ How the Brytons went for to seek the great stones in ireland. assoon 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 chief captain & .v. thousand men/ & Merlin counseled them for to go unto jolonde & so they died/ And when the king of ireland that was called Guillomer heard tell that 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/ & clymmed up unto the mount. But when they saw the stones & the manner how they stood/ they had great marvel & said between themself/ that no man should them remove for no strength ne engine so great they were & so longr. But Merlin through his craft he removed them & 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 it 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 enpoyseneu 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/ & arrived in the north country & would be avenged of his faders death Vortiger/ & strongly trusted upon the company that he had brought with him out of the land of Germayne/ & 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 and came to king Guillomer & prayed him of help & succour. The king granted him with good will & 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 〈◊〉 avenge upon the Brytons 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/ & 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 thitherward he went as much as he might. ¶ The king of ireland and Passent 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 that 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/ and died in his sleeping. And the traitor said that he would go out in 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/ and 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 him. For that Cappa turned again unto the host from whence that he came. ¶ When Aurilambros died a star in the morn was seen with a clear light/ & at the bought of the beeme was seen she heed of an horrible dragon. SO when the king Aurilambros was deed & enpoisoned at Wynchestre. 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 brighter than the son And at the bought of the beeme appeared a dragons heed/ & out of his mouth came two huge lights/ that were as bright as any fire brenning/ & that one beeme toward France and straight over the see thitherward. And out of that beeme came vij beemes full clear & long as it were the light fire. ¶ This star was seen of many a man/ but none of them wist what it betokened. ¶ 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 thereof greatly what it might betoken And let call Merlin and prayed him for to tell what that it might betoken. ¶ Of the betokening of the star. MErlyn saw that star/ & beheld it long tyme. And sithen he quoke & wept tenderly. And said. Alas alas that so noble a king & worthy is deed And I do you to understand that Aurilambros your brother is 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 & regne. And by the beeme that standeth toward the east is understand that ye shall get a son that shall conquer all France/ & all the lands that belongeth to the crown of France/ that shall be a worthier king & of more hononr 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 vij beemes betoken that ye shall have vij sons. And every one of them shall be king/ & regne with moche honour. And abide ye no longer here/ but go & give battle to your enemies/ and fight with them boldly for ye shall overcome them & have the victory. ¶ Uter thanked heartily Merlin/ and took his men & went toward his enemies/ & they fought together mortally/ & 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 & all his men. ¶ And Uter anon after that battle took his way toward Wynchestre/ for to do entire Aurilambros king that was his brother. But though was the body bor● 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 Aurilambros the second year of his reign with all the worship that might belong to such a king. On whose soul god have mercy. Amen. ¶ Of Uter Pendragon/ and wherefore he was called so ye shall here. And how he was overtake with the love of Igrey ne 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 that other for to abide at Wynchestre in the bishops church. And for that cause he was called ever after Uter Pendragon/ ¶ And Octa that was Engistes son commended Uter 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/ & gave thereto a strong assawee. But they of the city them kept well & strongly. ¶ And when Uter heard thereof/ he came thither with a great strong power for to help & rescue the town & put away the siege/ and gave a strong battle. And Octa and his company them defended as well as they might. But at the last they were d●scomfyted and the most party of them slain. And Octa and Ossa were taken & put in prison at London. ¶ And Uter himself dwelled a while at York/ and after he went to London. And 〈◊〉 the Easter after he would bear crown and hold a solemn feast. And let somone all his Earls & 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 & 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 faytnesse of that lady & 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 & laughing and the love between them. And rose up from the table in wrath/ & took his wife/ and called to him his knights and went thence in wrath/ without taking leave of the king. ¶ The king anon sent after him that he should come again & 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 castal 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 & well arrayed called Tyntagyll/ & would not yield him to the king. ¶ And the king anon besieged the castle/ and there dwelled xu days that never might speed/ & ●uer 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 Vlfin that was privy with him and told him all his counsel/ & axed of him what was best for to done. ¶ Sir said he/ send after Merlin anon/ for he can 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 & his will. Sir said Merlin. I shall do so much through craft that I can/ that I shall make you come to night in the castle of Tyntagyll/ & shall have all your will of that lady. ¶ How Uter begat on Igreyne/ that was the Earls wife of cornwall Arthur king. MErlyn through craft that he could changed the kings figure in to the likeness of the earl/ and Vlfin Garlois his Chambrelayne in to the figure of jordan that was the earls cham brelayne/ so that each of them was transfigured in to others likeness And when Merlin had so done/ he said to the king. Sir said he/ now ye may go suddenly to the castle of Tyntagyll & axe entry there & have your will. The king took prpuely all the host to govern and lead to a knight that he moche loved/ & took his way toward the castle/ and with him took Vlfin his chambrelayne and Merlin/ & when they came thither the porter demid it had been his own lord. And when time came for to god to bed/ the king went to bed with Igreyne the earls wife & died with her all his will. And begat upon her a son that was called Arthur. And upon the morrow the king took his leave of the lady & went again to his host. And the same night that the king lay by Igre●ne in bed that was the earls wife the kings men gave a great assawie unto the castle. And the earl & his men manly them defended. But at the last it befell so/ that in the same assawie the earl himself was slain & the castle taken. ¶ And the king anon turned again to Tyntagyll & spoused I greyne with moche honour & made her queen. ¶ And soon after time came that she should be delivered & bore a child a son that was called Arthur. And after ga●e 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 and Ossa has brother/ that then 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 ordained them a great power of folk/ and began for to war again upon the king. ¶ How king Uter chose Aloth to keep the land of britain/ while that he was sick/ for as much as he might not lo● 〈◊〉 sickness. ANd for as much as king Uter was sick & might not help him self/ he ordained Aloth son of Eleyne that though was chosen for to be warden & chyeftayne of all his folk. And so he anon & all his Brytons assembled a great host & gave battle to Octa & to his folk/ but Octa at the last was discomfited. ¶ It befell thus afterward/ that these Brytons had dedignation of Aloth & would not be to him attendaune. Wherefore the king was annoyed wonder sore & let put him in a lytere in the host amongs his folk. And they lad him to Vereloyne that though was a fair city/ there that saint Albon was martyred. And after was the city destroyed with paynims through war. And thither they had sent Octa and Ossa & their people And entered in to the town/ & let make sure the yates/ & there they held them And the king came & them besieged/ & made a strong assawee/ but they that were within manly them deffended/ ¶ The king let ordain his gins & 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 lytere had them besieged. And they took counsel among them for to stand up in the morrow early and come out and give battle to the king/ and so they died. And in that battle were both Octa and Ossa slain/ & all the other that escaped a live fled in to Scotlnde/ & made Colegrin their chyeftayne. And the Saxons that were a live & escaped fro the battle/ brought again a great strength/ & among them they said/ that if king Uter were deed they spolde well conquer the land/ & thought to enpoysen the king/ & ordained men for to do this deed/ & gave them of yeftꝭ great plente this thing to do. And they ordained them thitherward there 〈◊〉 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 that was nigh beside/ & the false traitors upon a day privily went to the well & put therein poison/ so that all the water was enpoysened. And anon after as the king had drunk of that water/ he began to sweet/ & soon after he died/ & as many as drank of the water died also. And anon as this was espied folk of the town let stop the well for evermore ¶ When the king was deed his folk bore him to stonehenge with great solemnity of bishop & barons that were there him to bury beside Aurilambros his brother. And after turned again though everichone & sent after his son & they made him king of the land with moche reverence after his faders deche/ the xvij year of his regne. ¶ How king Arthur that was the son of Uter was crowned after his fads death & how he drove Colegrin & the Sarons & Cheldr●k of Almaigne 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 & doughty of body. And to meek folk he was good & courteous/ and large of spending/ & made him well beloved among all them there that it was need/ & when he began to regne be sworn truly that the Saxons never should have re●● ne peace till that he had dryurn them out of the land. And assembled a great host and fought with Colegrin) the which after the time that Octa was deed the Saxons maintained. And this Colegrin 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 Colegrin let the town to Bladulf & fled himself to Cheldrik that was king of Almaigne/ 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/ and sent anon his letters to the king of little britain that was 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 & arrived at Southampton. And what king Arthur if wist he was glad enough & went against them/ & them received with much honour. So that those two hostis met & assembled them/ and took their way even unto Nicholl that Cheldrik had besieged/ but it was not taken. And they came upon cheldrik & his people or they wist where that they were/ & them eagerly assailed. ¶ The king Cheldrik and his men defended him manly by their power. But king Arthur & his men slew so many Saxons/ that never was seen such slaughter/ and Cheldrik and his men that were left alive fled away. And king Arthur them pursued & drove them out in to a wood that that they might no ferder pass. ¶ Childrik & his men saw well that they were brought in to much disease/ & them yielded to king Arthur in this manner wise. That he should take their horses & their armour/ and 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/ & never come again in to this land. ¶ And upon assurance of this thing they 〈◊〉 him good hostages. ¶ And Arthur by counsel of his men granted this thing/ & received the hostages/ & thereupon the other went to their ships. And when they were in the high see the wind changed as the devil it would/ & they forned their navy & came again in to this land & arrived at Totnesse/ and went out of the ships & took the land/ and dene rob it/ and moche people slew/ & 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 town. And they deffended them well & 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 Arthur heard this tidings he let hang the hostages/ & left howel of britain his nephew/ for to keep the march toward scotland with half his people/ & himself went to help & rescue the town of Bathe. When he came thither he gave a strong battle to Cheldrik & 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 Colegrin & Bladult his brother/ & Cheldrik fled thence & would have gone to his ships. ¶ But when Arthur it wist/ he took ten thousand knights to Cador that was earl of cornwall for to let & stop his to mynge. And Arthur himself went toward the march of scotland. For mesengers told him that the Scots had besieged howel of britain there that he lay sick/ & therefore he hasted him thitherward. ¶ And Cador pursued after Cheldrik/ & took him ere he might come to his ships & slew Cheldrik & his people. And when Cador had done this viage/ he hasted him again toward 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. & they fled thence in to Limoigne/ that were in that country lx Isle's/ & great plenty of birds/ & great plenty of Eagles that were wont to cry & fight togethers/ and make great nose when folk came to rob that land/ & 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 Limoigne without any sparing/ & there with tharged 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 of Ihesu Cryst M.cc.xu shall come a lamb out of Wynchestre/ shall have a white tongue & true lips/ & 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 be made an end of. ¶ And in the end of his life a wolf of a strange land shall do him much harm & sorrow through war. But at the end the lamb shall be master through help of a reed fore/ that shall come out of the Northwest/ & him shall overcome/ & the wolf shall die in water. And after that time the lamb shall live no while/ but he shall die. ¶ His seed shall be in a strange land. And the land shall be without a governor a little tyme. ANd after this shall come a dragon meddled with mercy & also with woodness. And y● shall have a beard as a goat/ that shall give in England a shadow/ & shall keep the land fro cold & heat/ and his own foot shall be set in Wyke & that other in London. And he shall embrace Inhabitaunces. And he shall open his mouth toward wales. And the trembling of the hydour of his mouth/ his eeres shall stretch toward many habitations & countries. And his b●eth shall be full sweet in strange land. And in his time shall the rivers run blood & 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 Northwest 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 the time the son shall be as read as a blood/ that men shall see thorough out 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 hate that shall move against him war unto the end of his life/ that shall not fully be ended in his tyme. ¶ 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/ & the land shall dwell ●faderles without a good governor/ & men shall weep for his death/ from the isle of Shepey to the haven of Mart●yll. ¶ Wherefore Alas alas shall be there long of fatherless folk/ that shall over live in his land destroyed. ANd after this dragon shall come a goat out of Kae that shall have horns & a beard of silver/ & there shall come out of his nosethryll a dompe that shall betoken hunger & sorrow & 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/ & shall open the flower of his life & death. ¶ In his time there shall arise an eagle in cornwall that shall have feathers of gold/ that of pride shall be without peer of the land. And he shall despise lords of blood. And after he shall flee shamefully by a beer at Gaversech/ & after shall be made bridges of men up on the costs of the see/ and stones shall fall from castestelles'/ & many other towns shall be made plain. ¶ In his time shall seem that the beer shall bren/ & a battle shall be done upon the arms of the see in a field ordained as a shield And at the 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 goat lose moche/ & of his land/ till that the time the shenshyp shall him overcome. And then shall he close him in a lions skin/ And then shall be 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 that 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 a way a certain time/ & after he shall come again in to this long. These two owls shall do great harm to many one/ & so they shall counsel the goat to arere war against the foresaid beer. And at the last the goat and the owls shall come at Burton upon Trent/ & shall go over/ & for dread the beer shall flee & a swan with him fro his company to Burton ward the north & there they shall be with an hard shower And then shall the swan be take & slain with sorrow/ and the beer taken heeded alther next his neest/ that shall stand upon broken bridge/ on whom the lonne shall cast his beemes. And many shall him seek for virtue that from him shall come. ¶ In the same shall die for sorrow & care a people of his land/ so that lands shall be upon him the more bolder afterward. And those two owls shall do moche sorrow to the foresaid flower of life/ & her shall lead in to dystrestre/ so that she shall pass over the see in to France/ for to make peace between the goat & the flouredelyse/ & there she shall dwell till a time that her seed shall come & seche her/ & they shall be still till a time/ that they shall them cloth with grace. And they shall seche the owls & shall put them to dispiteous death. And after shall this goat be broughtte to disease & great anguish/ and it sorrow he shall live all his life. AFter this goat shall come out of windsor a boor/ that shall have an heed of a white lions heart/ & piteous looking. ¶ His visage shall be rest to sick men. His breast shall be staun ching of thirst to though that be thirsty/ His word shall he gospel. His hearing shall be meek as a lamb. 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 fierceness of his heart that he shall have/ shall make wolves to become lambs. And he shall be called thorough out of the world Boor of holiness fierceness of nobleness & of meekness. And he shall measurably all that he shall do unto the borugh of jerusalem. And he shall whet his teeth upon the yates of Paris/ & 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 mantles to two towns of England/ and shall make the river run with blood & brain. And he shall make many meadows reed/ & he shall get as much as his ancestors died. And ere that he died/ he shall here three crowns/ and he shall put a land in great subjection/ & 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 feet of lead/ & an heed of brass/ & an heart of lop a swines skin & 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/ & the land be fulfilled of all manner of good. AFter this lamb shall come a moldwarpe/ cursed of gods mo●th/ & caitiff/ a toward/ an haare/ he shall have an elderly skin as a goat/ & 〈◊〉 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 toward him also/ And in his land he shall have great praising/ till the time that he shall suffer his people live in to much pride without chastising/ wherefore god will be wroth. ¶ Then shall arise up a dragon of the North/ that shall be full fierce/ and shall move war against the foresaid moldwarpe/ and shall give him battle upon a stone. This dragon shall gather again in to his company a wolf/ that shall come out of the West to move war against the foresaid moldwarpe in his side/ and so shall the dragon and bind their tails together. ¶ Then shall come a lion out of ireland/ that shall fall in company with them. And then shall tremble the land that shall be called England as an aspyn lief/ And in that time shall castles be felled down upon Tamyse. And it shall seem that Severne shall be diye●for the bodies that shall fall deed there in/ The four chief floods in England shall run in blood. And grate dread shall be/ and anguish that shall arise ¶ After the moldwarpe shall flee & the dragon. The lion and the wolf shall them drive away/ and the land shall be without them. And the mould warp shall have no manner power/ safe only a ship whereto he may wend. ¶ 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/ fu● to have the fourth part in peace and in rest. And after he shall live in sorrow all his life tyme. ¶ And in his time the hot baths shall become cold. And after that shall the moldwarpe die aventurously & suddenly. Alas for sorrow/ for he shall be drowned in a flood of the see His seed shall become fatherless in strange land for ever more. And then shall the land be departed in to three parts/ that in to say/ to the wolf/ to the dragon/ & to the lion. And so shall it be for ever mroe And then shall this land be called the land of Conquest. And so shall the right heirs of England end. ¶ How Arthur overcame Guillomer that was king of ireland. And how the Scots became his men. THenne what Guillomer that was king of ireland heard tidings that king Arthur was entered at Glastenbury/ he ordained a great power of irishmen & came to the see with his irish people/ & so came in to scotland over the see & arrived fast there by the king Arthur was with his host/ And anon as he wist thereof/ he went toward him & gave him battle & overcame him anon right. And Guillomer fled with his men again in to ireland. And what this was done & 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/ & other folk of the country & ladies open heeded came before king Arthur & cried him mercy & said. Sire gentle king & mighty/ have mercy & pity upon us. And as yourself be of the right law to hold & maintain Crystendome. For full great dishonour it should be to slay him that believeth in almighty god as ye do. And for gods love have mercy & pity on us & suffer us. For we have had moche sorrow & pain. For the Saxons have many times passed through our land. But that is not enough to you/ for oftenymes they have done us sorrow & disease. For our castles they have taken/ & our beasts slain & eaten/ and moche harm they have us done. And y ye mould us now slay/ it we re●none honour to a king to slay them that cries 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/ & became his lyege men/ & he took of them homage. ¶ And after that king Arthur turned again with his host & came unto York/ and made there his biding during that viage. And though gave he all Logries to Aloth that had spoused his sister & other gifts great plenty. And though was Gavin his cousin but of young age. And to all his other men that him had served in his war/ he gave rich gifts/ & he thanked them moche of all their good service. ¶ How king Arthur spoused Gunnor that was Gunnors' cousin earl of cornwall/ and after he conquered of Guillomer all ireland. ANd when Arthur had brought his land in peace & rest and in good state/ & all was well in every country. though took he & wedded a wife that was called Gunnor & made her queen/ a fair lady & a gentle y● Cador the earl of cornwall had nourished in his chambre that was his cousin. But never they had children together. And nevertheless king Arthur loved her wonder well & deyely. And anon as Winter was passed/ he let assemble a great host/ & all his Barons & said that he would go in to ireland for to conquer the land. And he carried not long that he ne passed over into ireland. ¶ And Guillomer the king let assemble a great host & gave battle to king Arthur but Guillomer was his comfyted & yielded him to the king & became his man/ & to him died fewte/ and homage/ & of him held all the land fro that time forward. And after passed king Arthur furthermore & conquered Gutlonde & Islonde/ & took homage of the folk & of the land/ and there dwelled twelve year in peace & reigned with joy and mirth. And there warred no man ne woman upon him. And he became so courteous & 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 praised. And therefore the best kynghtꝭ of all manner lands came unto him there for to dwell. And he them received with good will and reverence. ¶ And all the knights were so good that no man knew the worst. And therefore king Arthur made a round table that when they should sit on their meet/ all should be alike high & 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'/ & of all the lands a this half the mount Gove/ & of his land of britain/ and of the great Corn wail/ of wales & of ireland/ and of scotland And shortly to tell/ of all the lands that would worship chyvalry/ such came to king Arthur's court. ¶ How king Arthur go in to France & conquered the land of Froll that was a Roman/ & how he slew him. sith it befell that through counsel of his barons & lords/ king Arthur would go conquer all France that though was called Gall through Romans that tho held that land in their power & in their governance. And the romans had taken that land to a noble knyzt & a worthy of body that was called Froll. And when he wist that Arthur came/ he ordained an host of a great power & fought with the king. And he & his folk were discomfited & fledꝭ unto Paris & entered the city/ & closed the yates & there held them. ¶ When Arthur wist that Froll was gone to Paris be pursued after & came thither/ & him besieged. But the city was so strong & well arrayed/ & though that were therein deffended them well & manly. ¶ King Arthur dwelled there more than a month. & there was so moche people in the city that they dispended all their dytayle that they had within. And so great hungres be came among them/ that they died wonderly thick within the city for hunger. And came unto Froll & prayed him to be accorded with king Arthur for to have peas/ & 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 & scent to 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 Par●s theret that they should fight. And anon they smote togethers so fiercely & so well they fought on both sides that no man deemed the better of them/ & so it befell the Froll gave 〈◊〉 such a stroke that he kneeled to the ground would be nolde he/ And as Froll wounded king Arthur in the forehead that the blood fell down by his eyes & his face. Arthur anon start up heartily when he felt him hurt as a man that seemed almost wood. And he took taburne his good sword/ & drew it up on high and gave Froll such a stroke that therewith 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/ & died to him homage & feaute. And he received them & took of them goodly hostages. And king Arthur after that went forth with his host & conquered Augien & Angiers. Gascoigne. Pehito. Naverne and Bourgoyne. Berry. Lotherne Turin and Peithers/ and all the other lands of France he conquered all holy. When he had conquered & taken by homages and fealties/ he turned again to Paris and there he dwelled long time/ & ordained peas long time over all the country/ and thorough all France/ ¶ And when peace was made over all/ thorough his noble kynghthode 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/ & reproved many proud men & evil tyrants them chastised after their demerits. ¶ How king Arthur advanced all his men that had travailed in his service. ANd afterward it befell thus at Easter there that he held a fest at Paris/ & richly he 'gan advance his knights for the service that they hadis him helped in his conquest. He gave to his steward that was called Kay Augien & Angiers. And he gave to Bedwer his butler normandy/ that though was called Neustrie. And to Holdin his chambrelayne he gave flanders and Mance And to dorel his cousin he gave Boleyne. And to richard his nephew he gave Pountyf/ & to all other he gave large lands & fees after they were of estate/ And when Arthur had thus his knights feoffed/ at Aueryll next after suing he came again in to britain his own land. And after at Wy●sontyde sewing by counsel of his barons/ he would he crowned king of Glomergon/ & held a solemn feast. And let somone barons earls & knights/ that they should come thither everichone. And there was Scatter king of scotland. Cadwere king of Southwalys. Guillomer king of Northwalys. Maded king of ireland. Malgamus king of Gutlonde. Achilles' king of Islonde. Aloth king of Denmark. Gone was king of Norway/ and Hell his cousin king of Dorkeney. Cador king of little britain. Morwith Etle 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 Chichestre. Arall earl of leicester/ & the earl of Werwyke/ and many other moo rich lords. Brytons there came more/ that is to say. Dippon Donaude. Gennes/ & many other that be not named here were at the feast. And many a fair feast king Arthur hadis hold before/ but never none such/ ne so solemn/ & that lasted xu days with moche honour and mirth. ¶ Of the letter that was sent fro Rome for pride to king Arthur. THe third day as king Arthur let at his meet among his kings and among them that sat at the feast/ before them came in twelve men of age richly arrayed/ and courteously 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 meruaylleth 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 dame/ for thou haste never yet before this time proved ne assayed thy strength of the romans/ & therefore thou it shall in a little tyme. For julius Cezar conquered all the land of britain/ and took thereof truage/ & our folk have it long that had/ & now thorough thy pride thou withholdest it. Wherefore we of Rome command the that thou it yield again/ & yet hast thou more folly done that thou hast slain Froll that was our baron of France with wrong. And therefore all the comyns of Rome warneth the & command that upon life & limb that thou in haste be at Rome amends for to make of thy misdeeds that thou hast done. And it so be that thou come not we shall pass the hill of joy with strength/ & we shall the seek where ever thou may be found/ and 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 that solemn feast. And the Brytons would have slain the messengers/ but the king would not suffer them & said/ that the messengers should have no harm/ and may by reason none deserve. But commanded them to be worshipfully served And after meet he took counsel of kings/ earls and ●arons/ what answer he might give again to the messengers. And they counseled him atons/ 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. And they swore by god and by all holy his name that they should him pursue and burn as much as they might. And said that they would never fail king Arthur/ and rather to be deed. And they let write a letter to send to the Emperor by the same messengers in this manner of wise. ¶ Of the bold answer that king Arthur sent to the Emperor of Rome & to the romans. UNderstondeth among you of Rome that I am king Arthur of britain/ and freely it hold & shall hold. And at Rome hastily I will be/ not to give you truage/ but for to are truage. For Constantyne that was Eleyns' son that was Emperor of Rome and of all the honour that thereto belongeth. And Maximsan king conquered all France & Almaigne/ and mount joy passed/ & conquered all Lombardy And these two were mine ancestors & that they held & had. I shall have thorough gods will. ¶ Of the reverence that king Arthur died to the emperors messengers. ANd when this letter was made and ensealed/ king Arthur to these messengers gave great yefts/ & 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 seem/ 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 herd 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 of knights of the table round. ¶ Of the kings and lords that came for to help king Arthur against the Emperor. THe kings of scotland & of ireland/ & of Gutlonde/ of Denmark and of Almaigne/ every of them had ten thousand men. The duke of Normandye. Gascoigne. flanders. Peh●to. & of Boloyne/ each had four thousand. Gerin of Charthres had ten thousand/ howel of britain had twelve thousand And himself of his own land twelve thousand. And of Arbalastres & of Archers and of other folk on foot that no man could them number. ¶ And when all were ready to go. King Arthur/ his land and Gunnor his wife/ took to keep to one of his nephews/ that was a wise knight & an hardy/ that was called Mordred/ But he was not all true/ as ye shall here afterward. King Arthur took all his ream to this Mordred/ safe only the crown. And after that king Arthur took his host and went to South hampton/ there that the ships were brought & the folk assembled. And they died go unto the see/ and had wind & weather at will. And as soon as ever they might they arrived at Hareflete. And assoon as they might they went to land out of their ships and spread all over the country. ¶ 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 the 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 that was called Dinabus. And moche sorrow he died▪ in the country/ ¶ When king Arthur heard this tidings/ he called to him Kay and Bed●were & commanded them to go privily & espy where the giant might be found And they came to the ry●age there that men should go to the mount/ that was all enclosed about with water & yet is/ and ever shall be. And they saw a brenning fire upon the hill. And there was also an other hill nigh that/ & there was upon that an other fire brenning. Kay and Bedwere came to the next hill/ & found a widow open heeded sitting besides a tomb sore weeping/ & great sorrow made. And oft she said Eleyne eleyne. And Kay & Bedwere axed what she was/ & wherefore she made so moche sorrow/ and who lay in that tomb/ ¶ O said she what sorrow & misadventure fair lords seek ye here. For if the Giant may you here find he will you slay anon. ¶ Be still 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 & me also/ and lad us both with him away. And he would have forlayne that maid that was so young & 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 was deed the Giant made me to abide and haunt his will/ & I must needs it suffer. And god it wot I do it not which my will/ for I had liefer to be deed than with him to deal/ so moche pain & sorrow I have when he me forlyeth. ¶ When Key and Bedwere had heard all that this woman them told/ they turned again & came to king Arthur & told him all that they had seen and heard. ¶ Arthur anon took them both with him & went privily by night that none of his host wist & came on the morrow early to the Giant & fought with him strongly/ and at the last him slew. And Arthur bad Bedwere smite of his heed/ & bring it to the host to show it for a wonder/ for it was so great & huge. ¶ When they came again to the host/ they told wherefore they had been out/ & showed to them the heed/ & every man was glad & 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 afterward when he had space/ he let make a fair chapel of our lady over Eleyn● tomb. ¶ How king Arthur gave battle to the Emperor/ in the which battle the Emperor himself was slain. ARthur & his people heard tidings that the Emperor had assembled a great power/ as well of sarrasyns as of paynims & christian men. Whereof the number was lxxx thousand horse men with foot men. ¶ Arthur & his people ordained fast forth in their way toward the Emperor & passed Normandy & France unto Burgoyne/ & would have gone unto the host. For men told him that the emperors host would come to Lucy. ¶ The Emperor & his host in the beginning of August teweved from Rome/ & came forth right the way to ward the host. ¶ though came king Arthur's spies & said/ if that Arthur would he should find the Emperor there fast by/ but 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 folly to king Arthur to meet with them For the spies ●olde/ that the Emperor had five or six men against one of his. ¶ King Arthur was bold & hardy/ and for no thing him nysmayed & said. Go we boldly in god's name against the romans/ that with them lead Sarrasyns & paynims/ that no manner trust they have in god/ but only upontheyr strength. Go we now & 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 christian men And god shall us help them to overcome. For we have the right opinion & therefore have we trust in god. And do we so that the enemies that be to christendom & to god may be destroyed & overcome/ & that men may record the warthynesse of knighthood. ¶ When king Arthur had thus said/ they cried all with an high voys. ¶ God that is father almighty worshipped be thy name with out end. Amen. And grant us grace well for to do/ & to destroy our enemies that been against christendom. In the name of the father/ the son/ and the holy ghost. Amen. And god give hyen never grace ne worship in the world/ ne mercy of him to have/ that this day shall faint well for to smite & eagerly. And so they road softly/ & ordained his wings well & wisely. ¶ The Emperor heard tell that king Arthur & his folk were ready counseled for to fight with him & how they were caming. He 〈◊〉 ordain his wings in the best wise that he could. And more trusted upon his strength than in god almighty/ & that was seen afterward. For when the 〈◊〉 hosts met/ the Emperor lost 〈◊〉 of his folk against one of Arthur. And so many were slain/ what on that one party & on that other/ that it was great pity to wite & to behold. ¶ In this battle were slain through king Arthur's fine kings of the paynims & of other wonder moche people/ & 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 & in that other/ the Emperor among them there was slain/ but there was no man that wist for very sooth who him slew. ¶ How king Arthur let entire his knights that he had lost there in battle/ & 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 paynims also. And king Arthur after them chased till it was night/ & so many of them slew that it was wonder to tell. And though turned king Arthur again when it was night & thanked god of his victory. And on the morrow he let look & search all the field for his knights that he there lost. That is to say. borel earl of Maunt. Bedwere/ & Kay/ and Lyegiers earl of Boleyne. Vortiger earl of Baac. Aloth earl of Wynchestre. Cuisall earl of Chestre/ and after Holden earl of flanders These were the great lords that king Arthur last 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 l●te take & put upon a beyr & sent it to Rome. And said to the romans/ that for britain & France whichehe held/ other truage would he none pay. ¶ And if they axed him any other truages/ right such truage he would them pay. ¶ 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 flanders/ there he was entered/ And all the other he let entere with moche honour in abbeys & in houses of religion in the country that they were slain. ¶ And Arthur himself sojourned the same year in Bourgoyne with his host & thought the same year following to pass the mount joy/ and have gone to Rome also to have taken the city & have put the romans in subjection/ but the wicked tyrant Mordred him letteas after ye shall here. ¶ How the traitor Mordred/ to whom king Arthur took his land to keep & 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 & fea●tees of all them that were in this land/ & would have had this land to his own use/ & took castles about/ and let them be arrayed. And after this falseness he died an other great wrong/ for against the law of crystente he took his own emies wife as a traitor should/ & ordained him a great host against Arthur's 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 Danys for to help him. And also Mordred sent to Cheldrik to send men to him out of Saxon that was a worthy duke/ & promised him if that he brought with him much people he would grant him inheritance for ever/ all the land fro Humbre to scotland/ & all the land that Engist had of Vortigers gift/ 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 enchaced Mordred the traitor & how he was slain/ & 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/ & took all France to howel for to keep with half deal of his men. And prayed him that he would it keep till he came again. For himself would pass in to britain/ & avenge him upon murdered that was his traitor. And forth with Arthur went his way & came to Wytsande/ and made his men to go in to ship & would have arrived at sandwich/ and brought with him a great host of F●enshe●en 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/ & 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/ and 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 & fled thence the same night with his men/ and 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 Gawayne his cousin/ & the body of Anguysshell/ & let that one be borne in to scotland/ and the other to Dover and buried. Anon after king Arthur took his way for to destroy Mordred/ & he fled thence in to cornwall. ¶ And the queen Gunnor that was king Arthur's wife that though sojourned at York/ heard that Mordred was fled thence & that he might not endure against king Arthur/ she was sore afeard & had great doubt/ and 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 way privily with four men without moo/ and came to Karlyon/ and 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/ and let send after his men in to Scotland and Northumberlonde unto Humbre/ and let assemble folk without number/ & came fro thence in to cornwall to seek and pursue after Mordred. ¶ And Mordred had assembled to him all the folk of cornwall & had people without number/ and wist that Arthur was coming/ and had liefer to die & take his chance/ than longer flee and 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 no man wist who had the better party. But so it befell at the last that Mordred was slain & all his folk/ and the good chyvalry that king Arthur had gathered & nourished of diverse 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 〈◊〉 ●un to be heeled of his wounds. And yet the Brytons supposen that he lived in an other land/ & that he shall come yet & conquer all britain. & But certes this is the prophecy of Merlin. He said that his death shall be doubtous/ & said sooth. For thereof yet men have doubt/ and shall have for ever more as men say. For men wot not whither that he is on live or deed. ¶ Arthur was borne at Auioun the xxij year of his regne/ after the incarnation of our lord Ihesu christ .v. C.xlvi. year. ¶ How king Arthur delivered the trame 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/ & to him said/ & bad him thereof to be king till that he came again/ for as much as he had none heir of his body begotten. And great damage was it● that so noble a king & 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 & a worthy of body. And th● two sons that Mordred had begotten had great envy of Constantyne 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 away/ & that died moche sorrow & an guysshe 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 and slew him that was there. And after he went to Wynchestre and slew him that was there also. So that both his enemies were deed. ¶ And when Constantyne had reigned well & worthily four year/ he died and lieth at London. ¶ Of the kings Adelbright and of edel. AFter king Constantine'S death there were two kings in britain/ that one was called Adelbright that was a danoys. And he held the country of Norfolk & Southfolke. That other height edel & was a Bryton/ & he held Nicholl. Lindeser/ & all the land unto Humbre. These two kings fast warred together/ but after accorded they were & loved together/ as they had been borne of oon body. ¶ The king edel had a sister that was called Ore●●enne. And he gaf her through great friendship to king Adelbright 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 & speak with him/ & 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 & the land/ & that he kept her well/ and nourish her in his chambre. And when she were of age/ she should be married to the strongest & worthiest man that he might find/ & then he should yield up her land again ¶ edel it granted & by oath confirmed his prayer. And when Adelbright was deed & intered/ edel took the damosel argentil/ & nourished her in his chambre/ & 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/ bethought how that he might fallely have the land fro his niece for ever more/ & falsely against his oath thought to deceive Y● damosel/ & to mary her to a knave of his kitchen that was called Curan/ & he became the worchyest & strongest man of body that any man wist in any land y● though lived/ & 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/ & this Curan conquered his wives land afterward & slew king edel that was his wives uncle & had all her land/ as in an other place it telleth more openly/ & he reigned but three year/ for Saxons & Danes him slew & that was great harm to all britain & Brytons bore him to Stonehenge 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 & could have no manner of love/ but ever he was meddling with his people. And took his uncle with war/ & slew his two children. ¶ The Saxons warred against him oftentimes/ but he them overcame/ & so he was in peace all his life tyme. And he reigned xiiij year/ and after he died & lieth at London. ¶ Of king Cortyf and of Gurmonde that came thorough the paynims in to britain. AFter this Conan reigned his cousin Cortyf that was behaved of all his people & no thing beloved. And 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 & the land lost without any recover. But afterward left the land to the Saxons as ye afterward shall here. For in that time there was a paynim that was called Gurmonde/ that was the kings son Daufrices of the parnems folk/ that had the ream after his father/ & was king/ safe he be●uaue & gave it to his brother. And sa●d that he nolde never be king but if that he might get and conquer a ream in a strange country. For he was bold and strong of body. And of him prophesied Merlin & sayda that he should be a wul● of the see. And he let assemble 〈◊〉 without number/ & let appareylle ships/ and went by many lands & took homages and fea●tees of many. And so he went by the see & conquered ma●ny diverse lands. So that he came in to ireland/ & conquered that land that oftentimes warred upon Brytons and Brytons upon them/ & oft won & oft lost & gave hostages to Brytons. And so they sent to Gurmonde there that be was in Irlonde● 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 paynem● & they were paynems● & 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 and arrived in scotland/ and came in to Northumberlonde there that the Saxons were dwelling/ & they confirmed the covenants between them that were made by oaths & by hostages/ f●r to bear him true faith/ & hold him for lord/ and pay to him truage by the year/ ¶ though began the Saxons and the Africans to destroy rob & burn towns/ & destroy all thing 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 fledꝭ thence as well poor as rich/ bishops/ abbots/ canons/ & all other great & small/ some in to little britain/ & some in to cornwall/ all though that ships might have. ¶ How the king Gurmonde drove king Cortyf to Chechestre/ & slew the Brytons/ and through craft & engine gate the same town. COrtyf the king fled thence in to Chechestre that though was strong/ & the●e held him twenty days/ & this Gurmonde came & 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/ & 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 & discomfited/ And while the battle dured the king privily hid him & stole away in to wales/ & men wist never were he became/ & so was the town of Chechestre taken & destroyed. And after Gurmonde went & destroyed towns & 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 Engist/ & how many kings were made after in this land. SO when Gurmonde had destoyde 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 were of Engystꝭ 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 his 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 britain/ & the folk Brytons. But sith the time that this Gurmonde conquered it eftsoons/ & 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 & began fast to inhabit it at her 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' time. The first kingdom was Kente/ & that other Southsexe/ and the third Westsex/ the fourth Eestsex/ & the fifth Northumberlonde/ & the sixth Estangle that is to say Norfolk & Southfolk and the seventh Mercheryche/ & that is the earldom of Nicholl. Huntyngdon. Herforde. Gloucetre. Wynchestre. Werwyke & Derby/ and so departed all England in to vij 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 neither. 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 & desire them to behold. And axed of the merchants whence they were/ & of what nation. And men told him that they were of England/ and english they were called/ but they & all the people of England were paynims/ & believed not upon god. ¶ Alas said saint Gregory/ well mow they be called english/ for they have the visages of angels & therefore well ought they to be crystened. And for this cause saint Gregory sent there saint Austyn in to England and xl good men with him that were of good life & holy men to preach & teach & to convert the english people and them to torn to god/ & that was in the vi year that saint Gregory had be pope of Rome/ that is to say/ after thincarnation of our lord Ihesu Cryst .v. C.lxxxv. years as the chronicle telleth. ¶ How saint Austyn baptized & converted king Adelbryght & the bishops that he made his fellows. AS saint Austyn came first in to England/ he arryven in the Isle of Tenet/ & so passed forth & came unto Caunterbury and there sojourned. And king Adelbryght of Kente that was of the lineage of Engist goodly received saint Austyn & his fellows with moche honour/ & them found all that them needed. And more over he gave them a fair place/ that now is called the abbey of saint Austyn/ in which place he lieth himself shrined. ¶ This king Adelbryght was a good man and with good will heard saint Austyn● predications/ & gave him leave to preach through out all his land before said of Kent/ to torn and convert to him all the people that he might. ¶ It betelle so after thorough gods grace/ that in little time the king himself was converted to god/ & all his people of his land were baptized. And in the mean while the people turned them to god. ¶ Saint Austyn came to Rochestre/ and there he preached the word of god. And the paynims therefore him scorned/ & 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 and other fish. Wherefore the good man sa●●● Austyn was sore annoyed and grieved. And prayed to god that all though children of that city that should be borne afterward/ that is for to say/ in the city of Rochestre/ might have tails and so they had. And when the king heard of this vengeance that was fall through saint Austyns prayer. He let make an house in the honour of almighty god/ wherein women should be delivered of their children a●● the bridges end/ In the which house yet women of the city been delivered of child. ¶ When that saint Gregory had herd tell how the english people were turned to god & converted/ he sent unto saint Austyn his pallyon by a bishop/ that was called Paulin and made him P●●mate and archbishop of England/ And sent word that he should ordain & make bishops in the land. And anon Austyn had the pallyon of the dignity of the archbishop. 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 Es●sex & christened the king of the country that was called Sicwith/ that was king Adelbryghtes cousin his sisters son. This justin went to preach in Southsex and turned moche of the people to god. And saint Austyn himself preached thorough out England. ¶ How saint Austyn went in to Wales there the Brytons were/ & how they would not be obedient to the archbishop of Caunterbury. SO when all England was crystened & turned to god/ saint Austyn went in to that land there that the Brytons were for to keep them from englishmen/ that is to say in to wales And there he fond monks & abbeys & vij 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 obedient & they said they nolde/ but to the archbishop of Carlyon they would. They would never for no manner thing be obedient to the englishmen. For the englishmen they said been our adversaries & our enemies/ & have driven us out of our country/ & we been 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 other wise/ 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 Kente/ & told him that his folk would not be to no man obedient/ but to the archbishop op Carlyon. And when the king heard this/ he was sore annoyed & said that he would them destroy/ and sent to Elfryde king of Northumberlonde that was his friend/ that he should come to him with all the power that he might & that he would meet him at Leycette/ and fro thence they would go in to wales/ & there destroy the archbishop of Carlyon/ and all though that had refused saint Austyn. ¶ How king Adelbryght & the king Elfryde slew Brecinall that was a king of Brytons that held the country of leicester IT befall so that there was a king of Brytons that held the country of leicester & all the country about/ his name was Brecinall. And this Bryton herd 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 & himself fled/ & lost his lands for ever more. ¶ And thele two kings Adelbryght & Elfryde dwelled a while at Leycetre/ & departed the land among them/ & took homagꝭ & fealties of the folk of the country. And after they went toward wales/ & though of wales heard tell of the scomfiture that Brecinall had at Leycetre/ & were wonder sore adread of though two kings. & took & chose amongs them good men and holy of hermits/ monks & pr●estes/ & of other people great plenty that went bare foot & wulwarde for to have mercy of these 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 no more than the wolf doth the sheep/ but smote of their heeds everichone/ & so they were all martyred that though them came/ that is to understand .v. C. & xl After they went fro thence to Bangor for to slay all those that they might there find of the Brytons. And when the Brytons heard that/ they assembled & ordained all their power for to fight with them. though was there a baron in wales that was called Bledrik of cornwall that sometime was lord of devonshire but the king Adelbright had driven him out in to wales/ & after there he gave them battle. And at that battle was king Adelbright slain/ & Elfryde sore wounded & forsook the field/ & the most party of his people slain. And Elfryde fled in to Northumberlonde that was his own land. ¶ And after the people of Leycetre shire made with strength Cadewan that was Brecinals sone king of Leycetre/ & he after reigned nobly & with great honour. ¶ How Cadewan king of leicester & Elfryde king of Northumberlonde were friends/ & of the debate that after was between Edwin & Cadwalyn that were both their sons. ANd after that this battle was done that Brytons assembled them & went thence & came to Leycetre/ & made there Cadewan that was Brecinals sone king of leicester & of all the country And he took homages & feauters of all the folk of the country. And after that he assembled a great host/ & said he would go in to Northumberlonde/ to destroy king Elfryde & slay him if he might And when he was come thither/ friends went so between them that they accorded them in this manerr/ that Elfryde should hold all the land fro Northumberland to Scotlonde● & Cadewan should have all the land a this side Humbre to the South/ & after they were good trendes all their life/ & loved as they had been brethren. ¶ And this Elfryde had a son called Edwin that held all the land of Northumberlonde after his faders death as his father had hold all his life tyme. ¶ And Cadewan had an other son called Cadwalin that held his faders land as ●e it held while he was a lyves and these loved as brethren. And the love lasted betwixt them but only two year/ & after began debate betwixt them through a simple enuyo●●s cousin of Cadwalins. called Bryens/ so that they assembled a great host in both parties. And at the last it befell that Cadwalin was discomfited/ & Edwin him pursued & drove him fro place to place/ so at the last he fled in to ireland. And the other destroyed & pilled his land/ & cast down castles & brent his manners/ & departed all Cadwalins land among his friends. And long time after came Cadwalin again fro ireland with a strong power/ & in plain battle slew Edwin & all his friends/ & namely though that withheld his lands by Edwyns ye●te. ¶ How king Os walled was slain thorough king Cadwalin & Peanda & how Oswy that was saint Oswaldes brother reigned after him & slew Peanda. AS Edwin was slain. Offris his son undertook the 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 moche loved god almighty that had all the land of Northumberlon by heritage/ that was called Os walled/ & he was king of all the land. But for as much as he was friend to Edwin/ & held a great part of the land of Cadwalin. This same Cadwalin warred upon him & drove him toward scotland. And when Cadwalin saw that he would not abide. Cadwalin would no longer him pursue/ but took some of ●is folk to Peanda his brother in law & prayed him to pursue after Oswalde/ till that he werr taken & slain/ & Cadwalin turned home again. ¶ When Oswalde ●erde these tidings that Cadwalin turned home again/ he would no longer flee but abode Peanda & gave him batayll● and Peanda was discomfited & fled/ & came again to Cadwalin & said/ that he would de never hold oo 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 Oswald so that he & Peanda came to Northumberlonde & gave battle unto Oswalde And in the same battle was oswald slain & his heed smyte● of/ & after he was entered at the abbey of Berdenay in which place god had wrought for him many a fair miracle/ both there & else where. ¶ And anon Oswy his brother seized all the land in to his hand that was this Oswaldes. And the folk of Northumberlonde loved him wonderly well/ & held him for their lord. But he had men of his kin worthy enough that would have departed the land/ and they warred together well. And for as much as they were not strong enough/ they came to Peanda & prayed him of help & succour. And behyght him of that land largely upon this covenant/ that he would them govern & help/ & counsel. ¶ Peanda heard their prayer/ and so spoke with Cadwalin/ that he should ordain a great host/ & fast ordain him in to Northumberlonde for to fight with Oswy. And Oswy was a meek man/ & moche loved peace & charity/ & prayed Peanda of love & pens/ & proffered 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. So at the last there was set a day of battle. And Oswy ever trusted upon god/ and Peanda trusted to moche upon pride & upon his host that he had And together they smote eagerly/ but Peanda was anon discomfited & slain And this was after the incarnation of our lord Ihesu christ .v. C.lu year. And this Oswy reigned xxviij year. And a king that was called oswin/ that was Peandaes' cousin warred upon him and together fought/ but Oswy had the victory of oswin. And Oswyne was discomfited & slain/ 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 Cadwalin reigned his son Cadwaldre well & nobly. And his mother was the sister of Peanda. And when he had reigned twelve year/ he fell in to a great syknenesse/ & thenne was there a great discord between the lords of the land/ that every of them warred upon other. And yet in the time there fell so great dearth & scarcity of corn & other vitaylles in this land/ that a man might go three or four days fro town to town that he should not find to buy for gold ne silver breed. wine. ne none other victual wherewith a man might live. But only the people lived by rotꝭ of herbs/ for other living had they none/ so moche was it failed all about/ fishes/ wild beestes/ & all other thing so that yet to this misadventure/ there fell so great mortalyce & pestilent 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 & small/ lord & servant/ in eating going & speaking/ they fell down & 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 & houses/ as well for the great hungres/ dearth & scarcity of corn & other victual/ as for the great mortality & pestilence in the land/ & went in to other lands for to save their lives & left the land all desert & wast/ so that there was no man for to travail & tilth the land. So that the land was barren of corn & all other fruits for de●a●●e of tyllyers/ and this misadventure dured xi year and more/ that no man 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 & other victuals/ and his folk perished/ & saw also the most party of his land all wasted & void of people. He appareled him & his folk that were left a live/ & 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 time. And as they sailed in the see/ he made moche lamentation/ & so died all though that were with him and said (Dedistinos dne tan● oves escarum. et in gentibus dispersisti nos) ANd then began Cadwaldre to complain him to his folk piteously & said. Alas said he. to us wretches & caitiffs is sorrow for our great sins/ 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 realm & proper soil. And out of the which sometime romans. Scots. Saxons/ neither Danys/ 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 that all things knoweth before they been do●e or made/ he seeth that we would not cease of our sins/ & 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/ & that we see our proper defawtess. And therefore hath showed to us wrath/ and will chastise us of our misdeeds. sith that he doth us without battle/ or strength of our enemies/ by great companies wretchedly to leave our ream & proper land. ¶ Torn again ye romans/ torn again ye Scots/ torn again ye Saxons/ torn again ye Fraunsoys. Now showeth 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 〈◊〉 almighty/ whom we have often offended by our follies/ the which we would not leave until he chastised us by divine power. ¶ Among the words and lamentation that the king Cadwaldre made to his folk/ they arrived in little britain/ and came to king alley ne before said. ¶ And the king received him with great joy/ & made him to be served wonder nobly. And there abode they long time after. ¶ The english people that were left a live and were escaped the great hungres & mortality/ lived in the best wise that they might And moche people sprang & came of them. ¶ And they sent in to Saron●e where that they were borne to their frondes for men/ women/ and children to restore the cities with people & to wnes that were all void of people/ & for to labour/ travail/ and tilth the earth ¶ When the Saxons heard these trdynges/ they came in to the land wonder thick in great companies/ and herberowed themselves in the counter 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/ towns/ castles/ and brughs/ and gave them names and called them as they now been called And they held the counties. Baronages & lordship's 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 Sexburga with men & women without number. And arrived in the country of Northumberlonde/ & took the land from Albion unto cornwall for her & for her folk. For there was none that might them let/ for all was desolate & void of people/ but it were a few poor Brytons that were left on mountains & woods until that tyme. ¶ And fro that time forth lost the Brytons this ream for all their days. And the Euglysshe people began to regne/ & departed the land between them. And they made many kings about by diverse parties of the land as here been divided The first of Westsexe/ the second Mercheurtche/ the third Estangle/ the fourth kente/ the fifth Southsex. All those reigned in this land after that Cadwaldre was passed out of this land/ & dwelled in little britain with king Alayne his cousin & true friend. And when he had long dwelled there/ and had knowledge that the mortality & pestilence was overpassed and that the land was repleaysshed again with people/ he thought to tome again in to his land. And prayed king Aleyne his cousin of succour & help that he might be restored again to his own proper ream and fyrfst dignity/ And king Aleyne granted him his asking. ¶ Then died he appareylle him to take his way and viage in to this land. And prayed god almighty denoutely that he would make to him demonstration/ if his prayer to this land were to him pleasant or none/ for against the will of god almighty he would no thing do. ¶ When he had thus devoutly made his prayer/ a boys fro heaven to him said. And bad him leave that journey away in to England/ & 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 britain/ ne never recover it unto the time of the prophecy that Merlin said before be fulfylletd. And that should never be unto the time were come/ that the relics of his body shall be brought fro Rome and translated in to britain/ And when the relics of other saints that have been hid for the persecution of the paynim folk shall be found and and opely showed/ then shall they recover their land again/ the which they have so long time lost through their deserts. ¶ When Cadwaldre had heard this answer/ he marveled greatly and told it to king Aleyne. ¶ then king Aleyne died send for the clergy of his land/ and made them to bring the stories & prophecies that Me●lyn and Sybyll had said in their prophecies. And when he knew that the prophecy that festom had prophesied of the Egle. and other prophecies accorded to the dy●yn answer that Cadwaldre had herd. He counseled him/ and right faithfully desired him to leave his people & his navy/ and submit him to the dispolition of god/ and do all that the angel had commanded him. ¶ Thenne Cadwaldre called Ynor his son/ and Yuori his cousin that was his sisters son/ and said to them. Taketh said he my folk & my navy that is here all ready/ and pass in to wales & be ye lords of Brytons that no dishonour come to them by interruption of the paynim folk for default of lords. ¶ And then he himself left his ream of britain and his folk for ever more/ and took his way unto the pope of Rome Sergius/ the which worshipped 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 twelve Kalendis in May/ the year of grace .v. C.lxxix. ¶ How king Offa was sovereign above all the kings of England/ & how every king warred upon other. IT befell so that all the kings in that time that were in the land. as they of Westsex. Marchenrych. Estangle/ of Kente/ & of Southsex/ & of other cestes/ each warred upon other. And he that was most mighty 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/ & reigned above them all. ¶ And so great was the war in every country between kings/ that no man might wite how the land went. ¶ But abbots/ priors/ and men of religion wrote the lives and deeds of kings/ and how long every of them reigned & in what country/ and in what manner every king died/ and of bishops also. And thereof made great bokis 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 and 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/ & after this Buerne conquered the king with power and strength. ANd thus it befell in the same time/ that there was a king in Northumberlonde that was called Osbryght/ and sojourned 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 set. ¶ 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 her husband 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 lad 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 tormed again to York. And the lady he left there sort weeping for the deed that the king to her had done. ¶ And when her lord was come 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. ¶ S●re she said/ subtilely and falsely the king Osbryght hath do me shame and villainy against my will. And told him all the truth how the king had forlayne her with sh●ngth/ wherefore she said she had liefer to be deed than to live. ¶ Fair love be still said he/ for against strength feebleness is little worth/ and therefore of me shalt thou never the less be loved and namely for thou haste 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 & great friends had. And let send for the greatest lords of the loud/ & to them made his complaint of the despite that the king to him had done and said/ he would be avenged how so 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 & came to the king. When the king him saw/ he called him courteously Buerne by name. And Buerne him answered & to him said. Sit I you defy/ and yield up fealties homages & lands/ & as much as I have holden of you/ and fro this time forward I will never of the no thing hold. And so he departed fro the king without more speech or any abiding/ and took leave of his friends & went in to Denmark/ and plained to the king Godern/ and told him of the despite of that the king Osbryght to him had done of his wife. and prayed him of succour & help him for to avenge ¶ When king Godern of Denmark and the danies had herd the complaint of this Buerne/ & the prayer that he bad/ they were right wonder glad in their hearts/ for as much as they might find a cause for to go in to England for to war upon Englesshemen/ and for to avenge Buerne of the despite that the king Osbryght had done unto his wife. And for as much as Buerne was sib unto the king of Denmark/ anon they let ordain a great host of men & let ordain them ships/ and as moche as them needed 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 and also bold. That one was called Hunga/ & that other Hubba. ¶ How the Danys took York/ and slew the king Osbryght/ and soon after slew king Elle. AS all was ready the two brethren took leave of the king Gode●n. & went toward the see for to pass over in to England as fast as they might speed. Now is Buerne so well comforted & fast hied him with the Danies that they been arrived in the North country/ & comen through out holderness/ & destroyed all the country/ & burned towns/ & rob folk/ & 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 and came out of the city & fought with them/ but no foison he ne had against them/ & moche of the people that there was were slain on both parties. And king Osbryght himself there was slain/ & the city anon was take & the Danys went in. ¶ And there was also an other king in Northumberlonde/ that Buernes' friends had chose & held him for king/ a man that was called Elle/ for as much as they would not to king Osbryght he attendant/ for the despite that he had done unto Buerne their to sin. ¶ It befell thus that the king Elle was gone in to the wood him for to dyfporte/ & of venison some he had taken. And as he sat in the wood at meet/ to a knight he said. We have well sped & moche venison taken. ¶ And with that word came in a man & to him said/ if ye so moche of venison have won/ an hundred times so much more there against have ye lost. For all this country the Danies have gotten/ & taken the city of York/ & against you shall it hold/ that never ye shall come therein/ & for so much they have slain king Osbryght/ ¶ When king Elle herd these words/ he let assemble all the folk of the country/ & ordained all the power that he might have. And would have gotten the town of York with strength. But the Danys came out anon & gave him a strong battle. And slew the king Elle and 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/ & that place is a little from York. ¶ And though rested the Danys 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 & died all the sorrow that they might. ¶ And after when Summer time came they removed from Notyngham and came in to Nicholl & lindsay/ and to Holonde. For no man might them withstand/ so moche power & strength they had. ¶ How saint Edmonde the king was martyred. ANd so far had the Danies passed from country to country. and ever more brenning and robbing and destroying all that they might till they came unto Tethforde. ¶ And in that country they found a christian king/ that much loved god and his works that was called Edmonde. And he was a king of Norfolk & South folk. ¶ This saint Edmonde king or deigned as much folk as he might/ & fought with the Danies/ but he and his folk were discomfited/ and the king himself driven unto the castle of Framelynham. And the Danies him purse wed/ and came unto the same castle/ And when king Edmonde saw that the castle might not them withstand/ he came against them/ with whom the Danies first did speak. And anon they axed of him where king Edmonde was ¶ Now forsooth said he when I was in the castle/ there was the king/ & when I went out of the castle he went out also/ & whether he shall escape or deep/ at god's will must it all be. ¶ When saint Edmonde had named god/ by that word wist they well all that it was himself. And anon Hubba & hunger 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 & his laws to. ¶ though took they king Edmonge & bond him unto a tree/ & made their archers to shoot at him with arrows/ till that his body sticked as full of arrows as an orchen is full of pricks/. But for all the pain that they hyndyde he would never god forsake. And in the same pain & torment he died/ & 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 & Hungar took the town of reading. SO when Saint Edmonde was martyred. Hunger & Hubba go thence with all the Danies unto reading And as they went thitherward they brent towns & cities/ & slew all christian people that would not forsake: god/ & cast down churches & 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 Sidiak. 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 Danyo though came out for to fight with them/ And the battle was wonder strong/ for many a man was there slain/ and the Danies that day had the victory/ And the king Eldred & his brother Alutrd that day were discomfited. ¶ But the fourth day afterward/ the Danys & the english fought together an other time upon Elkedene/ & there was slain a king of Denmark that was called Rafin/ & four earls of great power. And that day had the Danys shame/ for they we redryven unto Engilfelde. ¶ And the xu day after the Danies & the english men fought an other time at Rafing & there were the englishmen discomfited/ & from thence a dane that was called Roynt went to reading with his host & 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. four C.xlix. Lo the first was Emperor after Marcianus xvij year. In his time were the Rogation days ordained afore the ascension/ of saint Marmet bishop of vienne. ¶ The pope of Rome at that time height Leo a noble clerk/ and with him had many clerks. ¶ Hellarius was pope after Leo vij year This man ordained that no bishop should ordain his successary (ut pꝪ. eight lx. 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. ¶ Ze no was Emperor after Leo xu year/ & this man was an heretic and cruel against christian 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 seven. children at oo birth/ of the which one was made after. king of Lomb●●dye. ¶ Felix the third was pope after Simplicius three year & eight months. This man ordained that respite should be yeven to a man that was accused that be might advise him how he should answer. And that the judges & the accusers should be such/ & that they should take all suspection & spot. ¶ 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/ & that orders should be yeven four times in the year. ¶ Anastasius was Emperor after Zeno xxvij year/ & he was a cursed man & an heretic/ and hateful to god & man. And he was slain with lightening. And in his time died saint Patryk the first bishop of ireland/ in the L. xxij. year of his age. And his fellow was the abbot of Columba & saint Brygyda whom saint Patryk made a Nun And they were buried in one tomb/ & at divers times/ & this is the Epitaphi (Hij tres in gelido: tumulo tumulantur in uno. Brigida patricius: atque columba pius) ¶ Anastasius a Roman was pope after Gelasius 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/ & 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.lxxxiiij. SImachus was pope after him xu year/ & 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 & he judged that he that was first ordained & that most men of the church held with should be pope. And Symachus prevalid the which loved the clergy & poor men & for Paschalius the deacon cardinal 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 time baptized of saint Remigio/ & he had a christian woman to his wife/ & she moved him many times to the faith & said. He should be fortunable & victorious if he would torn/ & so he was & never afore. ¶ Hornusda was pope after Synachus ix. year. This man was of great mercy & alms to poor men/ & ornamentis he gave many to churches. And he reconciled the Greeks/ the which were cursed for their heresy. ¶ justinus was Emperor after Anastalius. And he reigned ix. year & was a very christian man/ & all that ever th'emperor Anastasus had done against the church/ he revoked/ & obeyed the pope Hornusda/ & called again that bishops that were exiled by his predecessors ¶ Priscianus grammacicus was this time. And this year the which is the lxxi fro the coming of the Saxons/ began the kingdom of west Saxon/ & Cerdico was king. ¶ johannes was pope after Hornusda three year & ix months. And Theodoricus the king of Ytaly an heretic took the pope with other Senators and sent them to the Emperor justinus/ determining that & he would not let the heretics be in peace he should slay all the christian folk in Ytaly. And after be took pope Iohn & Sunachun patricium & Boycium the Senators & slew them in prison. But Boys defended him by the reason of chauctoryte of the Senators/ & he sent him to the city of Papy for perpetual eryle/ where he made the book De psolatiōe philosophy. And at the last the country of Mediolanen he caused Boys throat to be cut/ & so he died. ¶ Felix pope succeeded john four year. This man commanded that sick men should be aneled for the death/ but christ ordained it first. ¶ justimanus was Emperor xxxviij year/ this man drew the law of the romans out of almost two M. books & three C. verses over long & according in to oo volumen of xij. books & called it justinian. He made also the Digests & divided them in to three books. & Bonifaus the second was pope after Felix two year and little of him is written. ¶ johanes the second was pope after Bonifarius & this man had a great strife with justinianus th'emperor/ whether that christ was of two natures or one. The pope said/ he had two natures. One of god/ & an other of man. The Emperor said other consent to us/ or thou shalt go in to perpetual exile. The pope answered. I desire to come to justunanus the most christian Emperor/ but as me seemeth I have found dioclesian the persecutor of christian man. But certainly I dread not thy malice/ ne I frir not thy threty ages Thenne the Emperor meked by ●nself & fell down to the gr●●lde/ & asked mercy and absolution. ¶ Anno dm. v. C.xxxiiij. AGapitus a confessor was pope after Iohn two year/ this ●●gapitus corned justinianus fro the error fully of the heretics. This man ordained that processions should be done the Sundays/ and then he died at Constantynople. ¶ 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 benefice again. ¶ Virgilius was pope after him xvij year. And he entered evil in to his benefice/ 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 quarta constantinopolitana contra theodorꝭ & om̄s hereticos alios fuit isto tempore. Ista synodus dampna vit heresim theodori. q ● dixit alium esse deum verum. et alium xpmm Et qd beata virgo non sit de● genitrix. sed hominis tantum. ¶ Pelagius was pope after Virgilius four year and ten months. This man ordained that heretics schismatics & Renegates/ should be punished by the secular power. ¶ johannes the third was pope after this man xiij year. Of this man little is written/ but that he restored the churchyard 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 money in. Then anon he fell in heresy/ and waxed out of his mind. ¶ And then was chose Tyberius a good man for to govern the common people. ¶ Tiberius the second was Emperor after justinus vij 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 and 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 palace at Constantynople/ he saw in the marble pament a cross graven/ and thought it should not be trodden upon/ and commanded that stone to be lift 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/ & deyed blessedly ¶ Benedictus was pope after johannes four year. This man suffered great persecution of hunger pestilence & 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 benedicte reliquis: virtutum titulus & decus 〈◊〉 dolour. ¶ Pelagius was Emperor after Benedictus .v. year. In his time Rome was besieged by the lombards/ and little he died in his days. ¶ Mauricius was Emperor after Tiberius' xxi year. This man was a very christian man and subdued Persas and Armenia's/ & in the later end of his days/ he discorded with saint Gregory/ and intended to have slain him. And then appeared a man in Rome clothed in a religious habit/ holding a naked swe●de in his hand/ and cried about the Cy●● in this wise. The Emperor shall 〈◊〉 destroyed. The which the Emperor's herd/ and he corrected himself of his trespaas/ and prayed to god to withdraw we his sentence. To whom our 〈◊〉 appeared in his sleep & said. Will y● 〈◊〉 I spare the now or in time to come. 〈◊〉 he was a lover of wretches/ and 〈◊〉 give me here my reward. then 〈◊〉 he Emperor after many a day. 〈◊〉 when he should have corrected his 〈◊〉tes for the extortion that they died 〈◊〉 asked him why that he would not pay them their wages. And so they fell at variance/ & ●hose Foka for to be Emperor & slew him & three sons. ¶ This time saint Austyn came in to England & ordained two archbishops/ that is to say/ of London/ & of York by the commandment of say gregory. ¶ And remember that many times is made ●encyon of divers regions & countries/ that offtime 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. Jewry. And in this thing Rome was pryveleged/ for the faith of Peter never failed. ¶ focas was Emperor after Maurici his may stir/ whom he & other slew. And by can see he began evil he ended nought. For in his days the romans fought stron gely against the Persees/ & the romans were discomfited & lost many a province. And at the last he was overcome and slain of Heraclius. For as he died unto other men/ so he was done unto. ¶ Anno di●. v. C.lxxxiiij. gregory the first a Roman & a monk was pope after Pelagius xi●. year. This man was called Grego ●●us magnus for many thyngs● that he exceeded in. He passed other men in power/ in riches/ in virtue/ in nobleness/ in wisdom/ in holiness/ in fame/ & in experience. And under this man the evil thyng● of cursedness passed were ceased. And many a noble bolre he wrote to the Incomparable 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 Fabi an 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 adiutorium) for to be afore the beginning of the hours he commanded to be said. He renewed & made all the offices of the church in a fair & a more compendious manner/ the which abideth yet unto this day/ & is called Gregoria num. And shortly for to conclude on this holy man/ man's tongue can not 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 the 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 see saint Gregory rebuked him th●●es for it. And the fourth time he lay in his bed/ and thought saint Gregory smote him on the heed/ & he waked & dere anon. This was the third pope among all the pope's/ the which is noted to die dreadful death. ¶ Bonifacius the third was pope after Saninianus viij months. He ordained that none but white clothes should be put upon the altar. ¶ Bonifacius the fourth was pope four year & eight months/ this man putchaced 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 dedicate to the honour of Neptunus and other falls god's/ where christian men many times were slain of devils/ might be dedicate to the worship of all saints in heaven. ¶ This man ordained that monks might use the offyet of preaching/ crystening/ and confessing. ¶ Heraclius was Emperor after Focas xiij year. And in the third year of his regne. Cosdias' the king of pierce brent jerusalem and 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 twelve year of Heraclius. Cosdras was slain of Heraclius & the cross was brought again/ the people were delivered. And when Heracliꝭ would have entered the city proudly/ the yates of the city by power of god chytte therself/ & the Emperor meked him to god above & the yates opened. And then 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 leper/ anon the lepre was hole. ¶ This time a Cyteyzin of London through the motion of Ethelbryght builded a church of saint Peter in the West part of London/ in a place that was called Thorneye. ¶ Circa annum dm. vi C.xliiij. BOnifacius the fifth was pope after Deus dedit five year. The which ordained that no man should be taken out of the churchyard. And little else of him is written. ¶ Nota Machomitum. ¶ Machomite the duke of Sarrasyns & Turks was this tyme. And he was the dysceyver of all the world/ a false prophet/ the messenger of the devil. The forgooer of antichrist/ the fulfiller of hererye/ & of all falls men the meruayllest. Of whon the domination thus began/ ¶ There was a certain famous clerk at Rome/ & could not speed in his matters that he desired to have sped in. Then he receded from Rome over the see/ & 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 nourished a dove/ & put all the corn that the dove eat in Machomytꝭ ear/ & so this dove had never no met but in his ear. The foresaid clerk on a day called the people & moved them to cheese such a prince as the holy ghost would show to them in likeness of dove. And anon this clerk secretly let flee this dove/ the which after his old custom that he was wont to/ fell anon to the shoulder of Machomyte & put his bill in his ear. And the people saw this/ anon he was chosen 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 necromancer. The second was Iohn de Anthiochia. The third was Sergius an heretic. And these three made an ungracious law and an unhappy. ¶ And what some ever 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 prone and ready to do. That is to say. gluttony/ lechery/ rapine/ & such other. And also this Machomyte ordained that a man should have as many wives as he might occupy & find/ and refuse them twice or thrice/ or four times/ and take them again/ And 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 Alcoran. 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 bo●● with letters of gold. And also he nourished a mighty camel secretly in a prive place/ and aloonly with the hordes of Machomyte was alway fed/ And 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 & touch him. And so there was a great fame of such a camel/ and all the people ran to see him Among whom was this Machomyte. But when the camel saw him that had fed him alway. Anon he ran unto him. And he had taught this camel afore time to fall down on his knees and lick his hands. And so he died afore all that people. The people then cried and 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 evermore 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 Erst Imperial against Heraclium the Emperor. And he occupied unto the end of Alexandre and Egypte. Libya. Arabia 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. COnstantyne the third/ the son of Heraclij was Emperor xxvij 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/ And he raised a great host against the lombards. And there he lost the field/ and fled unto Rome. And honourably was received of the pope Vit●llianus/ & other of 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 tyranny. And so he wretchedly lived/ and died unhappily. ¶ Martinus the first was pope after Theodor vi year. This Martinus was a very holy man/ & strongly strove for the faith of god. And when he sang mass on a certain day at the altar/ there pursued him to slay him a man that was called Spatarius of Olymphe. And when he would have smitten him/ he was blind suddenly. This same man called a Synodi in the city of Rome/ and dampened Syrum. Alexandrun Sergium. Pyrum/ and Paulum heretics. Wherefore Constantyne the Emperor expled him/ and he died a saint. ¶ Eugenius 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. 〈◊〉 year. This man made the song that the romans use/ and accorded it also with the organies. And he also had the grace of the Emperor/ the which was wroth with his predecessors. Nevertheless afterward 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/ the lordship of the city and of other the which he gave to the church. ¶ Anno dm. vi C.xliiij. 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 Cassin unto the monasteries of Floriecens nigh Aurelian. ¶ Consta● tyne the fourth was Emperor after his father Constantyne the cursed man This Constantyne was a good man & hated heretics over all thing. The church he repaired/ and grace he reconciled again to the church of Rome/ & 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 heat/ but not to those of the West party by no means For they amitted chastity in the time of saint Gregory. And every man may avertyse & ponder how much the goodness of a prince is worth/ 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 Constantyns the father & 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 Sa●rasyns and the Bulgars to enter in this Emporours' land/ that he them might not withstand/ but that he made his peace with them/ & paid to them yearly a truage/ so mightily prevailed that cursed sect of Machomyte/ & after he died blessedly. ¶ Nota. ¶ That there were vi general Synodus/ and 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 those 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. ¶ Bonifacius was pope after him/ & little of him is written/ but that he lived like a priest. ¶ Agatho was popope 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 principis jussit celebrari sextum sinodum apud ostantinopoli CC.lxxx. eporum. in qua asseret duas naturas et duas voluntates esse in xp̄o. ¶ Leo the second was pope after Agatho three year/ this Leo was an holy man and sufficiently taugh in latin & greek/ this man ordained that the pax should be yeven after Agnus dei/ and died a blessed man. ¶ Benedict●s the second was pope after Leo almost three year This man about all thing was virtuous/ & 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/ and he increased the Empire of Rome mightily/ but 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 decrees of the vi Synodus/ wherefore the ten year of his Empire he was taken of Leo the prince of Patricio 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/ then errors been multiplied/ for there is no man corrected them/ therefore that is oftentime proved in the church. then after fell a variance betwixt Leo and Tiberio. And Tybereo prevailed/ & he exiled Leo/ & cut of his nose the third year of his regne/ & reigned for him. justinianus fled to the Sarrasyns & the Bulgars/ the which restored him again to his Empire/ & slew Leo and Tiberio/ the which favoured heretics. then this same justinianus reformed himself to the church of god/ & had great repentance But he venged him to cruelly on his adversaries/ so that he would have slay 〈◊〉 their Innocent children. Therefore he was slain with his son/ of Phylyp whom he exiled. ¶ Anno dm. vi C.lxxxiiij. Johannes the fifth was pope after Benedictus ●o year/ he was a good man/ but he deceased anon. ¶ 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 religions life/ this man was chosen at the last with one accord of the church and lay men. But there was a great distinction/ for the Clergy intended to have chose Peries the archbishop. And the host of ally 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. ¶ Sergins' 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 Cadwaldre the last king of britain. He commanded (Anus 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 vij year of his ●ege to Benedict the abbot Gyrwyen monastery to be taught. And thenne after to Colfrido the abbot after the death of Benedict. And at 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 ●yte. So he continued all the time of his life in that monastery/ in giving his labours to writing & scripture to be exponed. He made lxxviij books/ the which he numbereth in the end of his english book. This man was ever in labour other in prayer or in singing daily in the church/ or to learn or 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 accorded 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/ & 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 e●powned 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 wyting of Serg●us the pope to Colfrido his abbot. And this Beda translated the gospel of saint johan in to english tongue/ & deceased blessedly. The fame saith that now he lieth at Develyn with saint Cuthberte/ & 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 seven. year/ he rose against Leo & entered his kingdom/ and kept him in prison as long as he reigned. In his 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 & wedded his sister. And thorough help of his brother & the Bulgars he recovered his Empire & slew Liberius and 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 & was not put in the number of pope's/ for he 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 Lombardy/ for they were enemies to the church mightily. ¶ johannes the vij a Roman was pope after him three year/ but no thing of him is written. ¶ justinianus 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/ & 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/ the 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. ¶ Constantyne was pope after him vij year. This man was a very meek man and so blessed/ that of all men he was beloved. He went over the see to justinianus the Emperor/ and was received with great honour/ and died a blessed man. ¶ Philip the second was Emperor one year/ the which fled in to Scicilia for the host of the romans/ And he was an heretic/ and commanded all pictures of saints for to be destroyed. Wherefore the romans cast away his coin/ ne would not receive no money that his name or image were written upon. ¶ Anastasius the second after he had slain Philip was Emperor three year. This man was a christian man/ and he lived well. But by cause he put out Philyps' eyen/ and slew him afterward. And therefore Theodosius faugh against him and overcame him/ & then he was made a priest/ and lived so quietly. ¶ Anno dm. vij C.xiiij. GRegorius the second was pope after Constantyne xvij year/ this Gregorius 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 heresy. & also for to remove th'empire fro oo people to an other as the time required/ this man cursed Leo the Emperor 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/ and 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 y● cursed law of the falls Mach●myte ¶ Theodosius was Emperor and reigned but one year. And he was a very christian man/ and even as he died so was he done unto. For Leo deposed him and made him a priest. ¶ Leo the third with Constantyne his son was Emperor xxv. year/ this Leo when he was mighty he deposed Theodosius and reigned for him/ & was deceived by a certain Apostata/ the which had him that he should take & 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 Gregorius/ and bode therein three days/ therefore the pope with the common people took fro 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 martyred & exiled. And at the last in his myshyleve he died wretchedly. And in this man's days/ but that Karolus Marcellus holp the christian faith/ & fought manly against the saracens/ and drove them backward in to Spain the which they had subdued else they had entered in to France. And Karolus slew three hundred thousand Sarrasyns & moo. 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 & body pained in hell. And the angel that showed the bishop this man said. That that was the judgement of all those that took away the goods of the church/ or of poor men. And to fortify that that the bishop said & to prove it/ the abbot of saint Denys went to the sepulchre there that Karolus was buried/ & opened the chest that he lay in. And there they see a great dragon go out/ but he had no body. ¶ Gregorius the third a Roman was pope after Gregorius the second. The which conformed the worships of the images of saints/ with the counsel almost of a thousand bishops. And he cursed horribly all the despisers of these images. As the Emperor & other that were of that condition. ¶ Constantynus the fifth was Emperor after his father Leo xxv year He was a cursed man and a pure heretic/ so that he died sacrifice to the devils. He pursued the church. And no thing that is good of him is written. And so by the su●●raunce of god the church was troubled long tyme. About this time were many marvels/ & there were marvelous earth quakys. And certain cities that were set on mountains/ they were reme●ed and borne away with the bills in to the fields vi miles thence as they stood and the cities were not broken ne bur●● In the land of Mesopotanian the earth was broken by the space of two m●le And also there was a mule that spa●e in a man's voys. Ashes fell fro heaven And in the see of Poncico there was use for great frost that was xxx cubits of thickness. And stars fell fro heaven so mightily that men trowed that the end of the world had be comen. All these betokened marvelous things for to come. ¶ Anno dm. vij C.xliiij. ZAcharias was pope after Gregorius ten year. This Zacharus was a noble man & arrayed with all virtue/ With all men be was loved for his meekness. And he deposed the king of France Hydery/ and put in his place Puppinus/ for he was more profitable. ¶ Here may ye see what power the church had that time/ the which translated that famous kingdom fro the very heirs/ to the kingdom of Pippinus/ for a leeful cause (Vt habet. xu.q.v. alius) ¶ Stephanus the second a Roman was pope after Zacharias .v. year. This man in all thing was profitable unto the church/ as well in word as in doctrine. And he governed the spirytualtee and the temporaltee nobly. He was the lover and the defender of poor men. This man anointed Pippinus 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 unryghtwysly the which he died. He also translated the Empire of the Greeks to the frenchmen. ¶ Paulus a Roman was pope after him ten year. This was a very holy man/ for he died great alms to faderlesse children & prisoners/ widows/ and 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 and suddenly was made a priest/ as a tyrant/ and 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 In famed pope/ among so many herd tofore. So the holy ghost that holy apostles seat kept in all honour & holiness ¶ Intynyte 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 that cursed Emperor was not unpunished. For when that he died/ he cried with an horrible voys and 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 Ytaly and 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/ and was the son of Pippinus/ and his mother was called Berta. ¶ Stephanus the third was pope after Paulus three year. And he amended all the errors of Constantyne. And he degraded all those the which Constantyne ordained in a general Synodus. ¶ Anno dm. vij C.lxxxiiij. ADitanus a Roman was pope after Stephanus xxiiij year. This man was mightily worshipped of the people/ no man greater afore him in honour/ riches and building. This man set two solemn Synodis. The first of 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 fadet was. And he was a covetous man/ and he took away a certain crown of a church and put it up on his heed. And anon he was corrupted with an axes and sore diseased. And he had a cursed wife/ the which reigned after him with her son. ¶ Constantyne was Emperor after Leo/ & he was a meek man/ and put away his mother fro the kingdom/ that she might take heed unto her wymmens work. But she with a feigned rancour put out his eyest afterward/ 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 and shit her up in a monastery/ and took Nychoferun to be their Emperor. ¶ The .v. universal study the which in old time was translated from Athenes 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 ●est 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 destruction of wretches came then. ¶ Michael was Emperor two year/ And he was a very christian man/ and he was well beloved/ and also he was cunning in all sciences. And though that Nychoferus had hurt and distressed of their goods by his covetousness/ this Michael 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 Germayne. And for the translation of that Empire/ the Greeks alway were defectyne unto the romans And the Greeks strove ever more with them. But it was more with venomous words than with strength/ and more with craft than with battle. 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 and said. Ye have taken from our kindred teh Empire/ and therefore we will not obey/ and we us take from you/ And for this noble Emperor Karolus 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 vij hundred liiij when his father Peppinus lived. Under whom/ and with whom he reigned xu year unto the death of his father. ¶ Thenne after his father under the year of our lord god vij hundred lxviij 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 xiiij year/ to the year of our lord vij hundred lxxxiiij 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 eight C. when pope Leo confirmed him again the Emperor. And after that he was Emperor xiiij year. And he diseased in the year of his age lxxij The which was the year of our lord eight C. and xiv. ¶ 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 Litany to saint Peter's church on Saint Marks day/ he was taken with cursed people/ and both his eyen put out/ and 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 to France. And he came with him unto Rome/ and renged the pope on his c●mye. And then he crowned Karolus. And he late afore crowned/ comfermed him again. ¶ Ludovicus the meek the first begotten son of Karolus was Emperor after his father xxvi year/ in whose time was put away that clerks should use no girdles with precious stones/ nestraunge 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/ and in the last end he ever overcame. 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/ and crowned Ludovicus the Emperor. And then he deceased & was byryed at Rome. ¶ paschal was pope after Stephanus. This paschal gave 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 christ he took heed to. This man was crowned a martyr/ & by the lay men of Rome he was buried in saint Peter's churchyard. ¶ Circa annum dm. eight C.xliiij. TAlentinus was pope after Eugenius xl days/ and little of him is wrytell. ¶ Gregorius the fourth was pope after him twelve year/ this Gregorius saw many heavy times/ for the plagues among the common people. And at this man's petition. Ludovicus the Emperor/ and Marchio the prince of Lombardy exiled all the Sarrasyns fro Ytaly. 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 Ytaly & 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 Pippinus their brother held. And they fought at a place called Fontanecum/ where Lotherius was discomfited. And there was such slaughter made on 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/ and saint Peter's church was made a stable for their horses. But Ludovicus with the frenchmen & lombards all that infinity number destroyed/ and 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/ hog gesmouth. Wherefore 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 the 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 be hurt in name. ¶ Leo was pope after Sergius viij. year. This Leo was an holy man/ & also he was in prudence as sharp as a serpent/ and in his deeds as meek as a dove. And he was brouhht 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/ and was buried & 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 that clerks should go ordinately & honestly. ¶ Ludovicus the son of Lotherius was Emperor this time/ and anointed of Sergius the pope/ & a while reigned with his father/ and after reigned xxi year alone. This man had a son that height Karolus/ in to whom the devil entered & vexed him afore his father. And thenne he conspired his faders death. And in his time many a marvel fell. ¶ Nota ¶ johannes Anglicus of the nation of Magnutin 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. Then she was chosen pope/ but afterward she was with child. And when she should have gone openly in procession/ she traveled & deceased. And this is the sixth pope/ the which to this time had the name of holiness/ & were vicious. And this person as other pope's were was punished 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 pope. Ludovicus the Emperor was present. And after he deceased a very good man & was buried in saint Peter's churchyard. ¶ Adrianus a Roman 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/ & all were deed within one year/ and the king died in the way when he came to the city of Placenciam. ¶ Anno dm. eight C.lxxiij. ¶ Of king Alured/ & how the Danies in his time prayed him of mercy that they might go out of the land. AFter the death of this Eldred reigned his brother Alured that Dolfines was called. ¶ though went the Danies & assembled them/ & went forth to seek Alured that though was king new made of Southsex/ & 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/ & went in to Westser & ordained so moche people of his own ream/ & also of other till that he had a strong host so that the Danys had no power against him to withstand. And he came to London with his host/ & there were the Danys sojourned. And there he would have fought with them. But the Danys durst not with him fight/ but prayed him of peas/ & that they might go again in to their own country/ & 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/ & such as the english men would axe. ¶ How Hubba & 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 night & day/ & never took rest of going till that they came unto Excestre/ & took though the town/ & there held them. ¶ When king Alured heard these tidings/ anon he let take the hostages/ & 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 Westsex/ & came unto Chyppenham/ & there they died much harm in the country/ they rob folk/ & brought them in prison. The king Alured them pursued/ & came upon them right soon & fiercely them assailed. And there were slain both Hubba & Hungar his brother/ and Buerne Bocarde. And in this battle were moche folk slain in that one part & in that other. But the gree 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 Hubbacs' body lying deed they buried it/ & laid upon it a great log/ & let call it Hubeslowe/ and so it is called unto this day. And that place is in devonshire. The Barons of Somerset. Wyltshyre and Dor set heard tell how that their king was discomfited/ & 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 Danys 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 that night them for to seek/ & came on the morrow about Prime to Abyndon there that the Danys were. The king Alured & his barons tho assembled & there assailed the Danies eagerly/ & there gave them a strong battle. And the Danys put them a long time that no man wist whether part more people were slain. But thus it befell as god would that the king Alured had the victory with moche honour For the Danys were so driven that they ne wist whither for to torn. And xu days the king them pursued at his will/ that gladly & fain 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 & bring 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 assigned. And all the Danys brought their king with them. ¶ The king Alured anon let them be 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 Westmestre. And after that king Alured held with him king Athelstone and all his Danies twelve days at sojourn with moche solemnity/ & gave them great yefts. And after that they were baptized & so departed. though was king Alured all at ease/ when he had his enemies overcomen/ & that they were turned to the right believe of god almighty. ¶ How the Danies that came in to France with Gurmonde came again in to England/ & of the death of king Alured. ANd thus it befall afterward/ 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 Gurmodde of africa/ 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 Englond. For the good king Alured that was wont to abate the Danies died in the mean tyme. This king Alured reigned xxx year/ & a good king had be & 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/ & of battles that had been done in the land/ & many other books of Jests/ he let them write that were of great wisdom & of good learning/ thorough which books many a man may him amend/ that will them lead & upon them look/ upon whose soul almighty god have mercy. And this king Alured lieth at Wynchestre. Johannes the eight was pope after Adrian eight 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 degraded the bishop of Portuense/ the which was the occayson of all his sorrow. ¶ Karolus the second was Emperor after Ludovicus. This Karolus had a brother the which was called Ludovicus/ & he was the king of Germayne/ and he ordained battle against his brother/ but Karolus or they taught was poisoned. And he made many a monastery. ¶ Martinus was pope after johannes one year. This Martinus little profited/ for he lived but little time. ¶ Adrianus the third was pope after him 00 year. And of him is no thing written. ¶ Stephanus the fifth was pope after him vi year. And no thing of him is written/ but that he translated the body of saint Martin. ¶ Karolus the third was Emperor after the second twelve year. This Karolus had in possession peassyble all France and 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 tesyste the Frenshemen but four year he reigned on them He was unprofitable to them/ & therefore they put him away. ¶ Amulphus was Emperor after Karolus xiij year. This Arnulphus utterly constrained the Normans/ the which destroyed the Frenshemen xl year. Then he was sick & had no comfort of no lecke/ 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 Portuensis. And pope john was deprived for his inobedience/ & was degrated to the lay f●●. 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 the which there was great alteration. ¶ Bonifacius the vi was pope .v. days. ¶ Stephanus the vi one year & three months. ¶ johannes thy months and twelve days/ ¶ jona also thy months and twelve days. ¶ Theodorus the second twenty days. ¶ johannes the eleventh was two year & xu days. ¶ Benedictus the fourth three year and two months. ¶ Leo the fourth was xl days. ¶ Xpristo forus the first vij months. All these viij. 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 that holy apostles seat. ¶ Ludonicus the third was Emperor after Arnulphus vi year. This man had not the pope's blessing/ for the unstableness of them the 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 & divided. For the Frenshemen halpe not the church/ the which their faders had edified and fortified/ but destroyed/ ne halpe not the romans against lombards/ 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 Ytaly/ and the almains in almany/ until Ottanen the which reigned in both the places. The frenchmen were constrained to abide in their own country/ and no more to be Emperor for their mischievous living. ¶ Beryngarius the first. ¶ Conradus and Beryngarius the second/ & Hugo were Emperors after ludovicus But they are not numbered among the Emperors. For some were but in Almaigne/ and some were in italy. ¶ Of king Edward that was king Aluredes sone. ANd after this Alured reigned his son Edward/ and was a good man & a wise/ that was called Edward/ & was wonder courteous. ¶ The Danies died much sorrow in the ●onde/ & their power increased and began for to wax from day to day. For the Danys 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 his truce And nevertheless the truce dured not long/ that the Danysne began strongly for to war upon the englishmen & died them moche sorrow. Wherefore king Edward died assemble a great host for to fight with them. And then this king Edward died when god would. This king Edward reigned xxiv. year/ and lieth at Wynchestre beside his father. ¶ Anno dm. ix C xiiij SErgius the third was pope after Xpristoforus vij year. This man 〈◊〉 cardinal of Rome/ & was expulsed by Formosus the pope/ & than he went to the Fresshmen. And so thorough the help & favour of them he came again to Rome/ and anon expulsed Xpristoforus the pope. And then was pope himself. And for to avenge & wreak his exile/ he took out the body of pope Formosus where that he was buried. And arrayed him in the pope's array meant & caused him to be heeded & to be cast in the water of Tybre by Rome/ Then fishers found him & 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/ & little they died. ¶ johannas the ten was pope then. This johannes was the son of Sergius pope/ both of nature & of manners. And he was pope by might. And wretchedly slain of Guidols' 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/ and therefore he is not named as pope/ ¶ Henricus the duke of Saxon was Emperor of Almaigne xvij 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 succeeded him in the Empire. And Harry had much land in Almay ne. And he gate an other son that height Brimen/ & he was a very holy man/ & was bishop of Coleyne. And he founded the monastery of Panthaleon. ¶ Of king Adelstone. NOw after this Edward reigned Adelstone his son. And when he had reigned four year he held battle against the Danies. And drove king Gaufride that was king of the Danies & all his host unto the see/ and rested by scotland/ & took strongly all the country an hole year. And after that though of Comberlonde & of Scots 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 could 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 Edmonde his brother. For king Adelstone had no son/ & this Edmonde was a worthy man & a doughty knight of body/ & as noble also. And the third year after that he was king/ he went over Humber in to that country/ in the which country he found two kings of Danys. That one was called Enelaf. & that other Renant. This king Edmonde drove them both fro the land/ & after went & took a great proye in Comberlonde. This Edmonde reigned but vij year/ & lieth at Glastenbury. ¶ Of king Eldred. ANd after this Edmonde 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 & meek unto his will. And in the second year of his reign came Arnalaf Guyran/ that was king of Denmark/ & seized all Northumberlonde/ & held that land two year. And after that came king Eldred & drove him out of this land. And this king Eldred was a noble man & a good/ of whose goodness saint Dunstane preached. And this king Eldred reigned xi year/ & lieth at Wynchestre. ¶ Of king Edwin. ANd after this Eldred reigned Edwin the son of Edmonde. And he was a simple man toward 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 tre● sour that he might have. That was great shame & villainy to himself/ and peril to his soul. And therefore god would not that he should regne no longer than four year & died/ and lieth at Wyncheste. Lo the sixth a Roman was pope vi months. ¶ Stephanus the vij was after him two year. ¶ johannes the xi a Roman was pope three year. ¶ Stephanus the eight a German was pope after him eight year/ ¶ Martinus the third was pope after him three year/ & of these vi pope's is no thing had in scripture. For what cause I can not tell. ¶ Anno dm. ix C liiij AGapitus a Roman was pope after Martinus two year & eight months/ & no thing of him is written/ ¶ Iohens the twelve a Roman was pope after Agapitus eight year/ & he had a father that height Alberyke & was a worthy man in the city of Rome. He Induced the noble men to swear that after the death of Agapitus they should these Octavianus his son pope/ & so it was done & was named john/ & 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 cut of. And many times he was warned by the Emperor & the clergy that he should correct himself/ but he nolde for no thing/ then he was deposed/ & Leo was put in to his place. Wherefore the Emperor was annoyed/ and came again & besieged Rome so long till they took benedict to him/ & restored Leo. ¶ Of king Edgar that reigned above the kings of scotland & of wales/ & how he was beguiled through the taking of his wife. ANd after this Edwyne reigned Edgar his brother a man that much loved god & peace/ and the right of holy church also. And he was a worthy man/ and a great lord of blood and mighty/ & maytened well this land in peace. And this Edgar was lord & king above all the kings 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 & intered/ he heard speak of the fairness of Estrylde/ that was Oxgarus daughter a baron of devonshire that was so fair a woman/ that all men died speak of her. He called one of his knights that he much loved & trusted upon & told him. God said he to the noble baron Orgarus of devonshire/ and see if that his daughter be so fair as men speak of/ & if it be soothe 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 Orgarus her father. And her father was an old man & had no moo children but only her/ & saw that Edelwolde was a fair young knight & worthy & rich and was well beloved with the king/ & thought his daughter should well be married & beset upon him/ and granted him his daughter if the good lord the king would consent thereto. ¶ And thenne this Edelwolde came again unto the king & told him/ that she was fair enough upon to see/ but she was wonder loathly. ¶ though answered the king and said that he took but little charge. Sir said Edelwolde/ she is her faders heir/ & I am not rich of lands/ and if ye would consent & grant that I might her have/ then should I be rich enough. In god's name said the king. I consent thereto. Edelwolde though thanked the king right much/ & went again in to devonshire & spoused the damosel/ & 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 afterward as she died before. ¶ This lady conceived by him a son. And when time was 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 & an amorous. ¶ How that king Edgar wedded Estrylde after the death of Edelwolde. THus it befell that all men in king Edgar's court then spoke and said/ that Edelwolde was richly advanced/ thorough 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 was 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 in to Devonshire/ as it were for to hunt for the heart & for the hind & other wild beasts/ and then he should see there the lady or he departed thence. And this lady was dwelling at a manner place besydest the forest/ there that the king would hunt/ And at that manner he was herborowed all night. And when time came that the king should sup/ & the son shone/ the king asked after his gossyppe & after his godson. And Edelwolde made her to come before the king. And ne verthelesse if it other wise might have be she should not have come in his sight by his will. ¶ The lady welcomed the king and sweetly him kissed. And he took 〈◊〉 by the hand/ and though next by him her sat/ and so souped they together. ¶ And there was a custom and an usage in this land that tyme. That so when one drank to an other/ the drynket should say Wassayll. And that other should answer/ and say Drink hail. And this died the king and the lady/ and also kissed many times. And after supper when time was for to god to bed/ the king went to bed/ thine king heartily on the fairness of that lady/ and then was overcome 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 forest went him for to disport with hearts and hinds and all other wild beasts. And of the hearts great plenty he sent to that 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 Edelwolde fro his wife as he had him first deceived. And the king anon after viij. days ordained a parliament at Salysbury/ of all his baronage counsel so have. And for to ordain how the country of Northumberlonde should best be kept that the Danys came not there/ the land for to destroy. And this Edelwolde came unto the kings parliament And the king sent him unto York/ for to be keeper of that country. ¶ And thus it befell/ that men 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 Estrylde that she should come unto the city of London/ and there be wedded to the king with great solemnity and worship. And held a solemn feast. And he ware a crown that was of gold/ and the queen an other. ¶ And saint Dunstane on the morrow came unto the king in to the chambre/ & found the king in bed & the queen togethers. And saint Dunstane axed the king who she was And the king answered & said/ that she was the queen Estrylde. And the archbishop saint Dunstane said/ that be died great wrong/ & against god's will to take a woman to wife whose child ye had take at font stone. And y● queen for that word never loved saint Dunstane 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 xvij year/ and lieth at Glastenbury. BEryngarius the third was Emperor after Henricus vij year/ this Beringarius was Emperor in yta lie. In whose time was great division. ¶ And Henricus th'emperor decessed/ & Otto began to regne in Almaigne. ¶ Lo tharius reigned after him two year/ & decessed when Otto reigned in Almaigne. And had a wife that height Dalnydam. the which after wedded Otto. ¶ Berin garius the fourth was after him/ this man with great tyranny subdued Ytaly/ wherefore the pope & other romans called Otto that he might deliver them which he died. And he took Beringarius by strength/ & twice he outlawed him. And he took Lotharius wife the which the tyrant had prisoned. ¶ Leo the eight was pope after Benedictus one year & four months. This man was chosen with the common voys/ & 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 & Karolus to the church/ that he might defend Ytaly from the rebellions. ¶ johannes the twelve was pope after him almost viij year/ this johens suffered great wrong of the romans. For he was take & exiled but Otto bore this heavily. For he slew the noble men of Rome/ & certain of them exiled for ever more. ¶ Benedictus the vi was pope after him vi year/ this man was take/ & 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 vicious living. Ne these unhappy men could not be Informed/ that they should eschew that oo vice/ through the which they saw so many noble men to perish/ ¶ Otto was Emperor after Beringa rius twelve 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 popeheede in to saxony. And there he deceased in his exile. And this Emperor deceased a rich man in virtue & 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 forsooth 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 Constantynopolitan of the romans blood And this man was crowned of Benedictus the pope. ¶ Of saint Edward the martyr how Estrylde 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 well 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 Estrylde that was his stepmother let slay him/ by cause to make her own son Eldred king. And thus on a day he was slain/ as ye shall here afterward ¶ It befell thus upon a day that the king Edward went in to a wood for to play/ in the south country beside a town that is called Warham. In which forest was great plenty of hearts and hinds. And when he had been a while there him for to play/ he thought upon his brother Eldred that was with his mother the queen/ for her place was 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 road in the thickness of a wood to aspye 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 looked him about/ he saw there fast besides a manner that his stepmother dwell led in/ and thitherward he went alone And anon it was told the queen/ how that the king was comen alone without any company. And therefore she made joy enough/ and thought how that she might do/ that he were slain as privily as she might/ and 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 turteysly 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 to alight/ and herborugh 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. and 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 twelve year and an half/ and lieth at Glastenbury. ¶ Of the king Eldred/ and how the king Swine of Denmark held England. and how Eldred that was 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 him. And this saint Dunstane died soon after that he had forgiven the queen her trespaas/ because that she was cause of king Edward's death. And saint Dunstane had her assoiled/ & penance had her enjoined. 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 Edwyne. And after deyed the queen their mother. ¶ And in that time came Swine in to Englond that was king of Denmark/ for to challenge & to conquer all that his auncetrees had before that tyme. And so he conquered & had it all at his asking. ¶ For the good earl Luthberte of Lyndeleye 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 not 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 tho in to Normandye. And so spoke to the duke richard/ that the duke gave him his sister Emme to wife. Upon the which be gate two sons/ that one was called Alured/ and that other Edward. And when Swine had conquered all the land/ he reigned nobly & lived xu year and then he died & 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/ and with a strong main that Knoght durst not abide/ but fled thence in to Denmark. The king Eldred had again his ream/ & 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 Knoght from Denmark with a great power/ so that king Eldred durst not with him fight/ but fled from thence unto London/ & there held him. ¶ though came Knoght & him besieged so long/ till that king Eldred died in the city of London/ & lieth at saint Paul's. And he reigned ix year. BOnus was pope after Benedictus one year. This man abode but a little tyme. ¶ Bonifacius was pope after him five months. ¶ Benedictus was pope after him ten year/ This man crowned Otto the second/ and made many romans to be taken And he gathered a counsel against the king of France/ where gilbert the necromancer was deposed. ¶ johannes the xiiij was pope after him eight 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/ and made many books/ and else little of him is written. ¶ Gregorius the .v. was pope after this man almost three year. And this Gregorius was made pope at the Instance of the Emperor Otto the third/ for he was his cousin/ 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 consul for money/ And then was strife a few days. But the Emperor came soon after/ & took Crecensius the Consul/ and stroke of his heed/ and 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 Frensshmennes none other might not break that ordinance. And those chesers 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 T●euerensis Coloniensis. Quilibet imperij fit cancellarius horum. Et Palatinus datifer Dux Portitorensis. Marchio prepositus camere. Pincerna Bohemus Hij statuunt dumm cuntis per secula summum. Palatinus est comes reni. Marchio est Brandeburgensis. 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 xviij year. This man was a worthy man all the days of his Empire. And after the wisdom of his father/ he was a very 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 vyspted holy places. This man was crowned by Gregorius his cousin. And at the last he deceased at Rome. ¶ Anno dm. M.iiij. SIluester the second was pope after Gregorius four year. And he was made pope by the help of the devil/ to whom he died homage/ for he should give him all thing that he desired. And he was called Hylbert. 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 his legs to be cut of/ and dismembered in all his body/ and to be cast out at the door to fowls/ & thenne his body to be drawn with wysde beest● and there to be buried where some ever they rested as an hand. And they stood still at saint johan lateranensis and there he was buried. And that was sign of his salvation. ¶ johannes the xviij. 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 absteing of fleshly desires/ but also in virtuous living. And this man had a sister that was an holy as he/ the whom he gave to wife unto the king of Hungry. And she brouht 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 Ytaly/ as in Almaigne against the rebellious/ and prospered rightwisely. At the last with a blessed end he deceased. And in the life of saint Laurence he and his wife be put for ensampler/ ¶ Benedictus was pope after johanes 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/ & 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 hym●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 Knoght/ And so he died many times & often/ And the war was so strong & hard/ that wonder it was to wite. ¶ And the queen Emme that dwelled tho at Westmestre/ had great dread of her two sons of the war Alured and 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 & peace long tyme. ¶ This Edmonde Irensyde and Knoght the Dane warred strongly togyder. 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 together as they had been brethren gotten of one father & of one mother borne. ¶ How king Edmonde Irensyde traitorously was slain thorough a traitor/ that was called Edrith of Stratton. ANd after though reigned king Irensyde & Knoght the Dane. But thus it befell afterward/ that in the same year that they were accorded & so much loved together. 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 Edmondes 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/ & with him be well beloved/ Wherefore he prayed his lord Edmond Irensyde upon a day with him for to et●. And the king him courteously granted & to him came at his prayer. And at the meet the king rially was served with divers meetꝭ & 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 image & 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 king. For that engine was made for to slay his own lord traitorously ¶ And so when king Edmonde was thus deed & slain/ he had reigned but ten year. And his people for him made moche sorrow. And his body they bore unto Glastenbury & there they him entired. ¶ 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 two sons that were fair & young/ that her lord had upon her gotten/ that one was called Edward/ & that other Edwyne. & lad them with him to London/ & took them unto king Knoght/ that he should do wish 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/ hast thou my true brother that was so true thus slain for me/ the man I most loved in the world. Now by my heed I shall for thy travel the 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 & put them unto the abbot of Westmestre to ward & to keep till that he wist what was best with them to do. ¶ How king knoght sent king Edmondes' sons both in to Denmark to be slain/ & how they were saved. SO it befell soon after that king knoght had all the land in his hand/ & spoused the queen Emme thorough consent of his baronage. For she was a fair woman/ the which was eldreds wife and the duke's sister of Normandy/ & 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. Sir said she. they been the right heirs of the land/ & if they live they will do moche sorrow with war/ & therefore let send them in to a strange land a far to some man that may them defoil & destroy. The king anon let call a dane that was called Walgar/ & commanded him that he should lead though two children in Denmark/ & so to do & 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 & led them in to Denmark. And for as much as he saw that the children were word fair & also meek/ he had of them great pity & ruche/ & would them not slay/ but lad them to the king of Hungry for to nourish/ for this Walgar was well beknowned with the king & well beloved. Anon the king axed whence the childn were/ & Walgar told him & said/ that they were the right heirs of england & therefore men would destroy them/ And therefore sir unto you they be come mercy & help for to seek. And forsooth 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/ & let them worthily be kept. ¶ And thus it befell afterward that Edwyne the younger brother died/ & Edward the elder brother lived/ a fair man & a strong & a large of body & gentle/ and curters 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 and 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 vowchesauf his daughter to no man so well/ as he died to him that she loved so well & he her/ and gave her unto him with a good will/ & 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 Maud that was queen afterward of Englond/ 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 Crystyan & she was a Nun. ¶ How king Knoght that was a proud man conquered No●●andy/ & how he became afterward meek & mild. NOw have ye 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 londo for to conquer. But the king of the land that was called Elaf 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 to his hand. And when he had conquered norway/ & taken feaute & homages there/ he came again in to England/ & held himself so great a lord/ that him thought in all the world his peer no man was. And he came so proud and hauteyne that it was great wonder. ¶ And so it befell upon a day as he had herd mass at Westmestre/ & would have gone in to his palace/ the wawes 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 thee/ The wawes for his commandment would not spare/ but flowed ever in height more & more. The king was so proud of heart that he would not flee the water & beat it with a rod that he had in his hand/ & commanded the water that it should go no ferder. But for all his commandment the water would not cease/ but ever waxed more & 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 withdrew 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/ & of all mights most. And I am a caitiff & a man deadly/ and he may never die/ & all thing doth his commandment/ and to him is 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/ & 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/ & became a good man and an holy. And lived and left all manner of pride and stoutness/ and lived an holy life after/ & 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 also saint Edmonde the king. And oft he gave great yefts to the house/ wherefore it was made rich. And when he had reigned twenty year he died/ and lieth at Wynchestre. ¶ Anno dm. M.xviij. BEnedictus the ix was pope after johannes/ & he was a great le●hour/ & therefore he was dampened/ and he appeared to a certain man under a marvelous figure & an horrible. His heed & his take was lylaes an ass/ that other part of his body like a beer. 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 Tholome●● noteth/ that the pride of bishops had ever an evil end. And it was ever the occasion of moche unrest and battle. ¶ Conradus 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 rudolf was accused/ & he fled from his land/ & desired more to live like a churl than like a gentleman/ & 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 Hardiknoght/ & 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 Knoght 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 flanders/ & there dwelled with the earl/ wherefore after there was never good love betwixt him & his brother For his brother hated him deadly/ & when he had reigned two year & a little more/ he died & lieth at Westmestre. ¶ Of king Hardiknoght that was harold brother. AFter this Harold Harefoot reigned his brother Hardiknoght● a noble knight & a worthy man & moche loved chyvalry/ & all manner of goodness And when this Hardiknoght had redned a little while/ he let uncover his brother Harold & smote of his heed that was his brother at Westmestre● & 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/ & bore him to saint Clementes ch●●che & there him buried. And in this manner avenged him Hardiknoght of his brother for in none other manner he might be avenged. This king Hardiknoght was so large a yever of meet & drink/ that his tables were set every day three times full with rial meets & drinks for his own main/ and for all that came unto his court/ to be richly served of rial meetts. ¶ And this king Hardiknoght sent after Emme his mother/ & made her to come again in to England/ for she was driven out of England while that Harold Harefoot 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 spoused the 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/ & come to the Earl of flanders/ that was called Baldewyne 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 some & made her come again with moche honour. This king Hardiknoght when he had reigned five year he died and lieth at Westmestre. ¶ Of the villainy that the Danys died to the englishmen. Wherefore fro that time after was no Dane made king of this land. ANd after the death of this king Hardsknoght/ 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 that 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 evermore before & if it were so that the englishmen & the Danys happened for to meet upon a bridge/ the englishmen should not be so hardy to me●e ne stir a foot/ but stand still till the Dane were passed forth. And more over if that 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 Hardiknoght was deed/ for they had no lord that them might maintain. ¶ And in this manner avoided the Danys England/ that never they came again. ¶ The earls & barons by their common assent & by their counseles sent unto Normandy for to seek those two brethren. Alured & Edward that were dwelling with the duke Richard that was their came/ in intent for to crown Alured the elder brother/ & him make king of England. And of this thing to make an end/ the earls & ●arons made their oath. But the earl Godewin of Westsex falsely & traytoursely thought to slay these two brethren anon as they should come in to England/ in intent/ to make his son Harold king the which son he had begot upon his wife/ the which was king Knoghtes daughter that was a Dane. And so this Godewin privily him went unto South hampton for to meet there the two brethren when that they should come unto land. ¶ And thus it befell the messengers that went in to Normandy/ found not but only Alured that was the elder brother For Edward his brother was gone in to Hungary for to speak with his cousin Edward the outlaw/ that was Edmondes son with the Irensyde. The messengers told & said Alured/ how that the earls & barons of England sent after him/ & that he boldly should come in to England & receive the ream. For king Hardiknoght was deed/ & 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/ & how he caused him to be martyred in the isle of Ely. AS Alured heard these tidings he thanked god. And in to ship went with all the haste that he might and passed the see/ & arrived at southhampton there Godewin the false traitor was. And when this traitor saw that he was come/ he welcomed him & received him with moche joy & said/ that he would lead him to London there that all the barons of England him abode to make him king. And so they went on their way toward London/ And when they came on Gyldesdowne though said the traitor Godwin unto Alured. Take keep about you both on the lift side & right side/ & of all ye shall be king/ & of such an hundred more/ Now forsooth said Alured. I behyght you & if I be king. I shall ordain & make such laws/ wherefore god & man shall be well pleased. Now had the traitor commanded all his men that were with him. that when they were come upon Gildesdowne/ that they should slay all that were in Aluredes company/ that came with him fro Normandy/ & after that take Alured & lead him in to the isle of Ely/ & after put out both his eyen of his heed/ & afterward bring him to death/ & so they died. For they slew all the company that there were/ the number of twelve 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 stake in the ground/ & an end of the bowels thereto fastened/ & with nedyls eyeless of iron they pryched the good child/ and so made him to go about the stake till that all his bowels were drawn out of his body/ & so died Alured there thorough 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 put him to death/ but the thief traitor fled thence in to Denmark/ & there held him four year & more/ & lost all his land in England. SIluester the third was pope after Benedictus. This Silvester was chose/ and Benedictus was ●●pulsyd. And afterward was he expulsed/ & Benedictus was put up again. And after he was put out/ and Gregorius was made pope. And he was but a simple lettred man/ & therefore he chose an other man for to be consecrate with him. And when many men were disposed with this guiding of two pope's/ the third was brought in/ the which should occupy the place of both though two. 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 ch●se pope without his assent. And so five being pope's/ the sixth was put in. But many men say/ this Gregorus was an holy man. ¶ Dama●ius 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 might not incline to the intent of the Emperor/ the which said. There should be no pope chosen but if he would be of counsel of the election. But for all that they put in this holy man Leo & after he bade of that conscience/ & refused. And anon he was chosen by the common assent this Leo put christ in the form of a Las● in his own bed/ & 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 Edward should come in to England 〈◊〉 moche honour. ¶ And this Edward in his childhood loved almighty god and him dread. And in honest & cleanness had lad his life/ & hated sin as death And when he was crowned & anointed with a rial power/ he forgot not his good manners & conditions that he first used. And forgot not all good customs for no manner honour/ ne for riches/ ne no manner highness. But ever more and more gave him to goodness/ and loved god and holy church passing all other manner thing. And poor men also he loved/ & 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 showed to saint Edward living. IT befell on a day/ as he went from the church of Westmynstre. & had herd mass of saint johan the evangelist/ for as much as he loved saint john evangelist more specially after god & our lady than he died any other saint. And so there came to him a pilgrim/ & prayed him for the love of god & our lady & saint john the evangelist some good him for to give. And the king privily took his ring of his finger/ that no man perceived it & gave it to the pilgrim/ & he it received & went thence. ¶ This king Edward● made all the good laws of England/ that yet been most used & holden. And was so merciable and so full of pity/ that no man might be more. ¶ How the earl Godewin 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 merciful was/ that he might have again his land in peace. And arrayed him as much as he might & put him toward the see & came in to England to London there that the king was that time & all the lords of England/ and held a parliament. Godewin sent to him that were his friends/ & were the most greatest lords of the land/ & pray to them to beseech the kings grace for him/ & that he would his peace & his land grant him. The lords led him before the king to seek his grace. 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 and your peas & your lordship. I him never betrayed/ ne yet him slew. And therefore I put me in reward of the court. Now fair lords said the king. Ye that been my lieges/ earls and barons of the land that here be assembled/ full well ye heard mine appeal/ and the answer also of Godewin/ and therefore I will that ye award & doth right. The earls & barons though gathered them all together for to do this award by themselves/ and so they spoke diversely among 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 a●● 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 friended man of England after the king/ & well it might not be again said/ that without counsel of Godewin Alured was never put to death/ Wherefore I award as touching my part/ that himself & his son & every of us twelve 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 above said/ every of them with gold & silver as much as they might bear between her hands before the king/ & there said the form & the manner of their accord & of their award. The king would not them agaynsaye/ 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 worder moche/ & with him he was full privy. And within a little time they loved so moche/ that there the king spoused Godewins daughter/ & made her queen. And nevertheless though the king had a wife/ yet he lived ever in chastity & cleanness of body without any fleshly deed doing with his wife. And the queen also in her half lad an holy life two year/ & died. And afterward the king lived all his life without any wife. ¶ The king gave the earldom of Oxenford to Harolde that was Godewins son/ & made him earl. And so well they were beloved/ both the father & he/ and so prive with the king/ both the father & the son/ that they might do by right what thing that they would/ For against right would he no thing do for no manner man/ so good and true he was of conscience. And therefore our lord Ihesu christ great specyll 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 Wytsondaye as king Edward heard his mass in the great church of Westminster right at the levation of Ihesu Crysties body/ & as all men were gathered in to the church/ and came nigh the altar for to see the sacring/ the king his hands life up on high/ 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 all his power for to have come in to England upon us for to war. And I saw him & all his folk drowned in the see. and all this I saw in the levation of Crystis body between the priests bond/ 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/ & took up his right hand and blessed the king & after the earl and the earl anon tomed him toward the king for to make him see that holy sight. And though said the king. ¶ Sy●● earl said he I see well that ye see thanked be god that I have honoured my god my saviour visybly Ihesu Cryst in four me of man. Whoos name be blessed in all worlds. AMEN ¶ How the ring that sayne Edward bod given to a poor pilgrim for the love of god & say johan evangelist came again to king Edward. THis noble man sayne Edward reigned xiij year. And thus it befell upon a time are he died/ that two men of England were gone in to holy land/ & had done their pilgrimage/ & were going again in to their own country where they came fro. And as they went in the way/ they met a pilgrim that courteously them saluwed/ & axed of them in what land & 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 pilgrim/ when that ye come in to your country again. I pray you that ye will go unto king Edward/ & oftentimes great him in mine name/ and oftentimes him thank of his great curteysye/ that he to me hath done & namely for the ring that he gave me when he had herd mass at Westmestre for saint Iohans love evangelist And took the ring/ & took it to the pilgrims & said. I pray you go and bear this ring/ & take it unto king Edward/ & tell him that I send if him/ & a full rich gift I will him give. For upon the twelve day he shall come unto me/ & ever more dwell in bliss without any end. ¶ Sir said the pilgrims/ what man be ye/ and in what country is your dwelling. ¶ Fair friends said he. I am john the evangelist/ & I am dwelling with almighty god/ & your king Edward is my friend/ & I love him in special for by cause that he hath evermore lived in cleanness & is a clean maid/ & I pray you my message fulfil as I have you said. When that saint john the evangelist had them thus charged/ suddenly he voided out of their syghtꝭ both The pilgrims though thanked almighty god & went forth their way. And when they had gone two or three mile/ they began to wax very & set them adown for to rest them/ & so they fell on sleep/ And when they had slept well/ one of them awoke & lift 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 & blessed them/ & went forth in their way/ And as they went in their way/ they saw shepherds going with their sheep that spoke none other language but english ¶ Good friends said one of the pilgrims/ what country is this/ & who is lord thereof. ¶ And one of the shepherds answered & said/ this country is the country of Kente in England/ of the which the good king Edward is lord of. The pilgrims thanked tho almighty god & saint john evangelist/ & went forth in their way & came to Caunterbury/ & fro thence unto London/ & there they found the king. And told him all from the beginning unto the ending asmuch as saint john had them charged/ & of all things how they had sped by the way. And took the ring to king Edward/ & he took it/ & thanked almighty god & saint john 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 Cryst mass even/ as the holy man Edward was at god's service matins for to here of that high solemn feast. he became full sick/ 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 and his knights might he not come them for to comfort and solace/ as he was wont for to do at that worthy feast. Wherefore all their mirth and comfort among all that were in the hall was tonned in to care & sorrow/ because they dread for to lose the good lord the king. ¶ And upon saint john day evangelist that came next/ the king received his rights of holy church/ as it befalleth to every christian man/ & abode the mercy & that will of god. And the two pilgrims he let before him come & gave them rich yefts & betook them to god. Also the abbot of Westmestre he let before him come & took him that ring in the honour of god & saint Mary/ & of saint johan the evangelist. And the abbot took it & put it among other relics/ 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 Westmestre/ & 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 & put in to the shrine by the noble martyr saint Thomas of Caunterbury. Victor the second was pope after Leo/ & of him little is written. ¶ Henry the second was Emperor after the first Henry xvij year/ this man was cousin to Conradus/ & he was borne in a wood/ & twice taken for to be slain when he was a child/ but god defended him evermore. When he was made Emperor/ many a monastery he made in the same place in the wood where he was borne. This man was a victorious man/ & he entered in to Ytaly/ & there he took Padulphus the prince of Campany. ¶ Strepha●●s the ix was pope after Victor ix months. ¶ Benedictus after him/ & he took the dignity of the pope Stephanus by strength & kept it ix months/ & then deceased. ¶ Henry the third was Emperor after Henry the second/ this Henry was an 〈◊〉 man/ & many times troubled that holy man Gregorius the vij And first he axed forye●enesse & was assoiled. But he persevered not long/ but brought in an other pope against him/ and said he was an heretic. And Gregorius cursed him. And the chesers of the Emperor they chose the duke of Saxon for to be Emperor/ whom this Henry in battle overcame. And then he came to Rome with his pope & pursewed pope Gregorius & the Cardynalles also. ¶ And then anon Robert the king of Naples drove him thence/ and delivered the pope & his Cardynalles. Nevertheless yet he was a man of great alms. And twelve times he fought in battle/ and a●● the last he died wretchedly/ 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 Nicholaus called a counsel against the archdeacon of Turonoseus/ the which was an her●tyke/ & he 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 twelve year/ this Alexand 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. xxxij pnter hoc) He had strive with one Codulo/ but he expulsed him as an usurper/ & put him out as a symonyer. ¶ How Harolde that was Godewins son was made king/ & how he escaped from the duke of Normandy. AS saint Edward was gone out of this world/ & was passed to god & worthily entered as to such a great l●●de ought/ the barons of the land would ●●●ad Edward Elingus. some to Edward the outlaw that was Edmonde ●rensydes son to be kings For as much as he was most kyndest kings blood of the ream. ¶ But Ha●des son through the earl Godewin/ & the strength of his father Godewin/ and torugh other great lords of the ream/ that were of his kin & unto him sib seized all England in to his bond/ & anon let crown him king after the interment of Saint Edward. This sy●olde that was Godewines son the second year afore that saint Edward was deed/ would have gone in to flanders but he was driven through tempest in to the country of Pountyse/ & there he was taken & brought to duke William And this harold wend that though this d●ke William would have be avenged 〈◊〉 him for by cause that the earl Godewin that was harold father/ had let ●lee Alured that was saint Edwardis 〈◊〉 & principally for by cause that 〈◊〉 was queen Emines son/ that was Richard's mother duke of Norman die that was a●●nll to the duke William And nevertheless when the duke William had harold in prison & under his power/ uless as this Harold 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 v●on a book/ & upon holy saints that he should spouse & wed duke Willyams' daughter after the death of saint Edward/ & that he should busily do his d●uour for to keep & save the ream of England unto the profit & advantage of duke William. ¶ And when harold had thus made his oath unto the duke William he let him go/ & ya●● him many a ●●yche yettes. And he though went 〈…〉 him be amenged what 〈…〉 befell. ¶ And anon 〈…〉 assemble a great 〈◊〉 & come in to England to avenge him upon Harolde/ & to conquert the land if that he might. ¶ And in the same year that harold was crowned. harold Hereking king of Denmark arrived in Scotland & thought to have be king of England/ & he came in England & 〈◊〉/ & destroyed all that he might/ till that he came to York/ & there he slew many men of arms a thousand & a h●●dred priests. When this tydydges' came to the king/ he assembled a great power/ and went for to fight with harald of Denmark/ & with his own hands he him slew/ & the Danes were discomfited/ and though that were left alive with moche sorrow fled to they ships. And thus king harold of England slew king harald of Denmark. ¶ Anno dm. M.lxvi ¶ How William Bastard duke of Normandy came in to England/ and slew king harold. ANd when this battle was done. harold became so proud/ & 〈◊〉 no thing per●e with his people of the thing that he had gotten/ but hell 〈◊〉 all 〈◊〉 himself. Wherefore the most part of his people, were ●●●the & from him 〈◊〉 is y● only with him abode 〈◊〉 but his soldiers. And upon a 〈…〉 he sat at meet/ a messenger came to him & said/ that William bastard the duke of Normandy was arrived in England with a great host/ & had take all the lo●de about Hasling/ & 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 were but few people with him left. And when he was come thither he ordained to give battle to duke William. 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 & trusted wonder moche upon his strength/ and fought with the duke William and with his people. But Harolde and his men in this battle were discomfited/ and himself there was slain/ and this battle was ended at Tombrydge in the second year of his regne/ upon saint Calixtus day/ & so he was buried at Walcham. ¶ Of king William bastard & how he governed him well and wisely/ and of the great war between him & the king of France. AS William Bastard duke of Normandy had conquered all the land/ upon christmas day then next he let crown him king at Westmestre & as a 〈◊〉 king yo●● unto English 〈◊〉 largely 〈◊〉/ & to his 〈◊〉/ And afterward he went him over the see & came in to normandy/ & there be dwelled a while. And in the second year of his reign he came again in to England/ & brought with him Maude his wife & let crown her queen England on Wyssondaye. ¶ And though anon after the king of scotland/ that was called Malcol●● began to strive & wan● with the king William. And he ordained him toward scotland with his men both by land & by see/ for to deshore king Malcolm. But they were ●●●ded/ & the king of scotland be 〈…〉 man/ & belde all his land of him. And king William received of him his homage & came again in to Englond And as king William had be king 〈…〉 it. Maude the queen died on whom 〈◊〉ge William had begot 〈…〉 darn/ that is for to say. Robert Curth a William Rous. Richard also that 〈◊〉 ed. Henry Beauclerke and Maude 〈◊〉 that was the earls wife of Bleynes: other four fair daughters. ¶ And after his wives death/ great de●ate began betwixt him & the king of Fraū●e 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 〈◊〉 ne of king William had long time lain in child bed/ & long time bad● rested him there. And this word came to the king of England there that he died lie in Normandye at Rone. And for this word was tho ruyll apayed● & also wonder wroth toward the king of France. And swore by god/ that when he were arisen of his skyenesse he would lygdus a thousand candles to the king of France/ & 〈◊〉 let assemble a great host of Normandy & of english men. And in the beginning of Her 〈◊〉 he come in to France & bend all 〈…〉 that they come by 〈◊〉 the 〈…〉 to here 〈◊〉/ & as much as he might brea●e. And himself halpe thereto all that he might with a good will. And there was a great heat/ what of the fire that was so great/ & of the son that it was w●der hot that it stuffed him so that he became & fell in to a great disease & skynesse. And when he saw that he was so strong sick/ he ordained & assigned all Normandye to Robert Curthos his son/ & all England to William the Rous/ and bequane to Henry Beauclerke all his treasure. And when he thus had done/ he received all the sacramentis of holy church/ & died the twenty year of his regne/ & lieth at Cane in Normandy. ¶ Anno dm. M.lxvi ORegorius the vij was pope after Alexander twelve 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 & other decrees had suffered. And then 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 a certain time when he was cardinal & Legate in to France/ proceeded sharply against prelate's & priests/ that were symoniers. And among other was one bishop there that was greatly famed with simony. And these that accused him/ privily he hired them to say the 〈◊〉. The which the Legate commayned/ & afore all the people he said. Lote the judgement of this men ●sse at this time/ for it it dyscey●●ble/ & let 〈◊〉 dispose for it. And said/ thus it is 〈◊〉. That the dygryde of a bishop is the 〈◊〉 of the holy ghost. And who some ever buyeth a bishop/ doth against the holy ghost. Th●●e that thou bishop died not against the holy ghost/ ●aye openly afore all the people (〈◊〉 petri of 〈◊〉 et spiritual sancta) And many times he began to say it/ but he could never speak (spirtut sancta) Thenus he was depasyd of his bishop 〈◊〉/ and after he could speak it well enough. ¶ Vict●● the third was pope after him do year/ & this man was poisoned with venom in the chaly● ¶ 〈◊〉 was pope after him two year. This man masyd the king of Frallce for his 〈◊〉 And he called a counsel at Clarun in the which he ordained/ that matins of our lady should be said every day/ & on saturday her solempue mass. And it is said/ that this was showed unto the freres of Cartulis. ¶ Also he called another counsesyll at Turam for the holy land to be won aim/ & provoked the people to that matere/ & within a little time after that matter/ the holy land was recevered & the sepulchre of our land/ & Antioch with many other cities taken fro the Sarrasyus. And it is said & men believed that. CC.M christian men went to that journey. For there went of states old men & young/ and also tyche and peace/ and n●o man compelled them. And this passage was made by the vision of our lady. And the 〈◊〉 of this people were diverse. Due was Godfroy de Bolayne a full noble man of all the world/ and a virtuous man/ And all other was 〈◊〉 the Duke of Neaples. The third was 〈◊〉 the kings brother of France/ & many other/ the which died full nobly for the faith of god. ¶ And it 〈◊〉 to long to this book to 〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉 make that they died. ¶ Of king William 〈…〉 was king William 〈◊〉 soon/ that 〈…〉 & houses of Relygon for to make the new forest. ANd after this William bestarde 〈◊〉 his sous William the 〈◊〉 And this William was a wonder counteryous man to god & holy church/ and let amend & make the town of Cordeis/ that the Pay●ens had destroyed. This king Wellyam destroyed holy church & their possessyous. in what part he might them find. And therefore there was so moche debate between him & the archbishop of Caunterbury Ancelmus. For by cause that he reprenyd 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/ and 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 & brother. And became word 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 wyched he became both to god & to all holy church & to all his men. ¶ And this king let make the great hall of Westmstre. So upon a day in the Wytsontyde he held therein his first feast/ & he looked him about and 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/ & blede a great quantity of blood/ & a stream of blood leapt on high toward heaven more than a hundred fathom/ and the clearness of the day was turned unto night and darkness of the fytmament also/ ¶ And when that he awoke he had great dread/ so that he not wist what for to do. And told his dream to men of his counsel & said/ that he had great dread/ & supposed that to him was some mischance to come. ¶ And the second night before a monk dreamed of the household/ that the king went in to a church with moche people/ and he was proud that he despised all the people that were with him/ & that he took the 〈◊〉 of the Crucefixe/ & shamefully 〈…〉 his teeth. And the Cruciu●● 〈…〉 all that he died. But yet 〈…〉 & as a wood man rent of the 〈…〉 the Crucefixe/ & cast it under his 〈◊〉 defoylled it/ and ch●ewe if all a 〈◊〉 And a great fire came out of the Crucifix mouth. Of which 〈…〉 man had great marvel and 〈◊〉 ¶ The good man that had dreamed 〈◊〉 strange dream/ told it to a knight that was most prive with the king of 〈◊〉 men/ & the knight was called Hamondes. ¶ Soon the monk & he told the dreams to the king & said. That it should betokenen other thing than ●eed▪ And nevertheless the king laughed 〈◊〉 ●●●twyes or thryts/ and little set 〈…〉 thought that he would go & haute and play in the forest. And men 〈◊〉 him that he should not go that 〈…〉 no manner thing ne come in the weed/ so that he abode at home before meet. But anon as he had eaten no man him might let/ but he would go unto the wood for to have his disport. ¶ And so it befell that one of his knights that height Walter Title would have sho● to an heart/ and his arrow glentyd upon a branch and thorough mysauenc●●re smote the king to the heart. And so he fell down deed to the ground without any word speaking/ and so ended his life days. And it was no marvel/ 〈◊〉 day that he died he had let to seen the Archebysshopryche of Caunterbury/ and twelve abbeys also/ & evermore died great destruction to holy church/ through ●●nfull taking & axynge/ for no man durst withstand that he would have done. And of his lewdness he would never withdraw/ neither to amend his life. And therefore god would suffer him no longer to regne in his wickedness And he had be king xiij year and vi weeks/ & lieth at Westmestre ¶ Anno dm. M.lxxxviij. paschal was pope after Vrbanus xviij year and .v. months/ the which the xiij year of his bishopric with his Cardynalles was put in prison/ by Henry the fourth Emperor. And they might not be delivered until the pope had sworn that he should keep peace with him & that he should never curse him/ And on that promise/ the pope gave the Emperor a privilege/ & 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 decrees of the pope's of Rome/ that all they held I hold/ & that that they dampened Idampne/ & most specially that privilege granted to Henry the Emperor/ the which rather is granted to venge his malice/ than to multiply his patience in virtue. For ever more I damn that same privilege. ¶ Of king Henry Beauclerk that was William Rous brother/ and of the debate between him & Robert Curthos his brother. ANd when William Rous was deed. Henry Beauclerk his 〈◊〉 was made king/ by cause William Rome had no child begot 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 William Rous was deed/ he came again in to England & the king Beauclerk welcomed him with moche honour. And the first year the king Henry reigned & was crowned. He spoused Maude that was Margaretes daughter the queen of scotland. And the archbishop Ancelmus of Caunterbury wedded them. And this king begat upon his wife two sons & a daughter/ that is to say. William and Richard & Maude. And this Maude was afterward 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 the 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 he 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 arose a great debate between him and the archbishop of Counterbury Ancelmus. For by cause that the Archebysshopp would not graun●e to him for to talenges of churches at his will. And the reforde ef●ones the Archebysshope Ancelmus went over the see unto the court of Rome & there he dwelled with the pope. And in the same year the 〈◊〉 of Normandy came in to England to speak with his 〈◊〉. ¶ And 〈…〉 other things the duke of Normandye. foryete unto the king his brother the foresaid thousand pound by year that he should pay unto the duke. And with good love the king & the duke departed/ & there the duke went again in to Normandy. ¶ And when though two year were agone/ through the entycement of the devil & of simple men/ a great debate arose between the king & the duke/ so that through counsel the king went over the see in to Normandy/ & when the king of England was come in to Normandy/ all the great lords of Normande turned unto the king of England & held against the duke their own lord/ & him forsook/ & to the king them yield/ & all the good castles & towns of Normandy. And soon after was the duke taken & lad with the king in to England And the king let put the duke in to prison/ & this was the vengeance of god/ ¶ For when the duke was in the holy land/ god gave him such might & grate/ that he was chosen for to have be king of Iherusalem/ and he forsook is and would not take it upon him/ and therefore god sent him that shame & despite for to be put in his brother's prison/ The seized king Henry all Normandy in to his hand/ & held it all his life tyme. ¶ And in the same year came the bishop Ancelmus fro the court of Rome in to England again. And the king & he were accorded. ¶ And in the next year coming after/ there began a great debate between the king Phylyppe of France & king Henry of England/ Wherefore king Henry went in to normandy/ & there was strong war between them two. And though died the king of France/ & Louis his son was made king anon after his death. And th● 〈◊〉 king Henry again in to England/ & married Maude his daughter unto Henry the Emperor of Almaigne. ¶ Of the debate that was betwixt king Louis of France & king Henry of England/ & how king Henry's two sons were lost in the height see. AS king Henry hadis be king xvij. year/ a great debate arose betwixt king Louis of france & 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 asmuch as they might in wane against the king of fraunc● And that they should be as 〈◊〉 to him as they were to their own lord for by cause that th'earl had spoused his 〈…〉 Maude. And for this cause the kenge of France died much sorrow to Normandy. Wherefore the king of England was wonder wroth & in haste went over the see with a great power & same in 〈◊〉 Normandy. for to defend that 〈◊〉. And the war between them lasted two year/ till at the last they two 〈◊〉 together. And the king of france was discomfited/ & unneaths escaped aware with moche pain/ & the most part●●e 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 〈◊〉. And when king Henry had holy all the land of normandy/ & 〈◊〉 his enemies of France he turned again in to England with moche honour. And his two sons William & 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 & all were drowned that were there in/ save ●o man that was in the same ship that escaped. And this was upon saint Katheryns day/ & these were the names of them that were drowned. William and richard the kings son●/ a the earl of Chestre Octonell his brother Geffroy Rydell. Walter 〈◊〉. Godefray Archedeken/ the kings daughter/ the countess of Perches/ the kyngesnece the countess of Chestre/ & many other. ¶ When king Henry & other lords arrived in England/ & heard these tidings/ they made sorrow enough/ And all their mirth & joy was turned in to morning & sorrow. ¶ How Maude the empress came again in England/ & how she was 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/ & began to war upon him & died 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 Emperom 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 & fraute to the Empress. And the first man that made the oath/ was William the archbishop of Caunterbury. And that other david king of scotland/ & after him all the barons & 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 thereto. And though took he his daughter & lad her in to Normandy/ & came to the noble knight Geffroy/ and 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. And after that long time a grievous sickness took him/ where thorough he died. And this king Henry reigned xxxv year & four months. And after he died as is before said in Normandy. And his heart was entered in the great church of our lady in Roven. And his body was brought with much honour in to England/ & entered at reading in the abbey/ of the which abbey he was beginner & founder. HEnricus the fourth was Emperor in almain after Harry the third xu year. This man put his own father in prison/ & there held him till he died. And t●ke pope paschal with his Cardynalles/ & present them/ as if is said afore. For the which cause as it is supposed/ he lacked issue. For he wedded the kings daughter of England Maude. But afterward 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 penounce that he should never come again to his Empire/ that he might have remission of his trespass. And after the opinion of many a man/ he was wilfully exiled & died and his wife both at Chestre in England. ¶ Gelasius was pope after paschal two year. And 〈◊〉 from Henry the Emperor in to Bourgoyne and there deceased. This Emperor chose Benedictus a spaniard to be pope/ the which storm with Calixtus. ¶ Calixtus was pope after him two year & fine months. This Calixtus was the son of the duke of Bourgoyne and was chosen in the place of Gelasius/ And when he should come to Rome/ he took the foresaid Benedictus/ and made him to ride afore him shamefully. For 〈…〉 ¶ Anno dm. M.C.xxxiij. Innocencius was pope after Honorius xiiij year and vij months This man was a very devout man/ & with such men he accompanied him/ And he had strife against Peyrs of Lion the which named him Anocletus. And by strength he took the popchede. The which innocentius saw & with two Galeys he fled in to France & was worshyfully received of saint Benumbed/ the which that time had all the kings & princes in his hand. And he provoked them for to ●rynge this pope Innocencius in to his dignity again. And at the last all thing was ceased/ & his enemies were destroyed through the judgement of god. And he was pope again & lived profitably and was buried art 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 Boloyne. For anon as he heard the tidings of his uncles death then he passed the see & came in to England thorough counsel & strength of many great lords in England/ against the oath that they had made to Maude the Empress took the ream/ & let crown Stephen king of the land. ¶ And the Archebysshopp William of Caunterbury that first made the oath of feaute to Maude the Empress/ set the crown upon Stephen's herd & him anointed. And bishop Roger of Salysbury maintained the kyngus part in as much as he might. ¶ The first year that king Stephen began to regne/ he assembled a great host & went toward scotland for to have ●arred upon the king of scotland. But he came against him in yea & in good manner/ & to him trusts. But he made to him none homage/ for as much as he hadis made unto th'empress Maude. ¶ And in the fourth year of his reign Maude the Empress came in to England. And though began debate between king Stephen & Maude th'empress. This mand went unto the city of Nicholl/ & the king her besyged long time & might not speed/ so well the city was kept & defended. And though that were within the city/ marvelously scaped away without any manner of harm. And though took the king the city/ & dwelled therein till Candelmasse And though came the barons that held with Empress. That is for to say/ the earl Radulphe of Chestre/ the earl Robert of Glocestre. Hugh Bygot. Robert of Morley/ & these brought with them a strong power & fought with the king/ & gave him a great battle. In the which battle king Stephen was taken/ and set in prison in the castle of Brystowe. ¶ How Maude the Empress went fro Wynchestre to Orenforde/ & after she escaped to Walynforde/ & of the sorrow & disease that she had. NOw as the king was taken & brought in to ward in the castle of Brystowe this Maude the Empress was made lady of all England/ & all men held her for lady of the land. But those of kent held with king Stephens wife/ & also William of Pree & his retinue halpe them & held war against Maude th'empress. And anon after the king of scotland came to them with a huge number of people. And though went they 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 〈◊〉 scaped from them & went 〈…〉 prison. And when he was 〈…〉 of prison/ he went 〈◊〉 unto Oxenford & besieged th'empress that was though at Oxenford. And the siege endured fro michaelmas unto say Andrew's tide. ¶ And the Empress let cloth her tho all in white linen cloth/ for byc●nse she would not be known. For in the same time there was moche snow/ & she escaped by the Tample from them away that were her enemies. And from thence she went to Walyngforde & there held her. And the king would have besieged her/ but he had so moche to do with the earl Radulphe of Chestre & with Hugh Bygot that strongly warred upon him in every place/ that he not wist whether for to torn. And the earl of Glocestre halpe him with his power. ¶ How Gaufride the earl of Angoy gave unto Henry the Empressse some all Normandye. ANd after this the king went unto Wyston/ & 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 William martel there was token. And for whose deliverance they gave unto the earl of Glocestre the good castle of Shyrbom that he had taken. ¶ And when this was done/ the earl Robert & all the kings enemies went unto F●ryngdon/ & began there for to make a strong castle/ but the king came thy● with a strong power & drove him thou/ And in that same year/ the earl ●●●dulphe of Chestre was accorded 〈◊〉 that the king and came to his court at his 〈◊〉. And the earl 〈…〉 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 Normandye. And in the year that next ●●sewed/ died the earl Gaufride. And Henry his son do anon tamen again to Angoy/ & there was made earl 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 dynorce between the king of France/ & the queen his wife that was right heir of Gascoigne. For by cause that it was known and proved/ that they were sib & nigh of blood. And though spoused her Henry the Empress son earl of Angoy & the duke of Normandy/ & duke of Gascoigne. ¶ In the xvij year of this Stephen this Henry came in to England with a strong power/ & began for to war upon this king Stephen. & took the castle of Malmesbury/ & died moche harm. And y● king Stephen hadis so moche went/ that he wist not whether 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 between them two/ so that Henry the Empress son should holy have the half of all the land of England. And thus they were accorded and pe●s was cried throughout all Englond ¶ And when the accord was made between the two lords/ king Stephen became so sorry/ for by cause that he hadis 〈◊〉 half England/ and fell in to such a malady/ and died in the xix year and. ●iij. weeks and .v. days of his regne/ all in war and in contake. And he lieth in the abbey of Feversham/ the which he let make in the xvi year of his regne. CElestunus the second was pope after Innocencu●s .v. months. And little he died. ¶ Lucius was after him and little proffyted/ for they died both in a pestilence. ¶ Eugen●us the second was pope after him .v. year and four months. This man first was the disciple of saint bernard & after the abbot of saint Anastalius by Rome And came to the church of saint Ce●ary/ and was chosen pope by the Cardnalles/ he no thing knowing ther●● And for dread of the Senators he was consecrated without the city this ma●● was an holy nan & suffered t●ybula●yon And at the last he deceased/ and 〈◊〉 at saint Peter'S. And after anon de●●syd saint bernard. ¶ Petrus 〈◊〉 the bishop of Paris b●●ther to Granam/ compiled the some books of the Sentence this tyme. ¶ Petrus ●●mestor brother to Gracian & to 〈◊〉 Lombardus made Hystonam 〈◊〉/ and other books. ¶ Freder●●us p●mus after Contradus was Emprerour in Almaigne & in Rome xxxij year. This man after the death of Adryan the pope the which crowned him died on sydly with Alexander to him great pr●edyce For he died help four that stout 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 expulse him. And he destroyed medyolanum to the ground/ Of the which city/ the walls were bygher than the walls of any other city/ This man at the last after that he had done many vexations to the pope/ he 〈…〉 the holy land/ and died many marvel lo●s things th●●r/ almost as much as ever died ●arolus magnus. And there he came by a town that men call Armeniam & in a little water he was drowned/ & at Ty●● he was buried. ¶ Anaslasius was p●pe after Eugenius four year and more. Thi●●an was abbot of Rufy/ and then he was chose cardinal/ & 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/ & was crowned of the archbishop The●baldus the xvij day before Cryst mass. And in the same year Thomas Be●●● 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 longing to the crown/ the which king Stephen had ●eue unto diverse men/ & them had made earls & barons/ for to hold with him & to help him against Henry them press soon. ¶ And the fourth year of his reign he put under his own lordship the king of wales. And in the same ye 〈◊〉 the king of scotland had in his own 〈◊〉/ that is to say/ the city of Karkyll/ the castle of 〈◊〉/ & the 〈◊〉 castle upon Tyne/ & the 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉. ¶ The same year the king 〈◊〉 great power 〈◊〉 in to Waly●/ & 〈…〉 in the 〈◊〉 year 〈…〉 lord. 〈◊〉 y● 〈…〉 made 〈…〉 in that year he 〈…〉 the vi year of his reg●●/ he 〈…〉 host to Tolouse & 〈◊〉 it. 〈◊〉 the seven. year of his reign dey●● 〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉/ & the almost all the cy●e of 〈…〉 rugh mischief was 〈◊〉. The ix year of his reign Thomas 〈…〉 his chancellor was chosen 〈…〉 of Caunterbury. And upon saint Bernardes' day he was sacred. And in that year was borne the kings d●ught●● Elenore. ¶ And in the ten year of his 〈◊〉 saint Edward the king was translated with moche honour. ¶ And the xi year of his regne/ he held his parliament at Northampton/ & fro thence 〈…〉 Thomas archbishop of 〈◊〉 for the great debate that was betwixt the king & him. For if he had be found on the morrow he had be slaybe/ & therefore he ●led● thence with three fellows on foot only/ that no man wist where he was/ & went over the sea to the pope of Rome. And this was the principal cause. For asmuch as the king 〈◊〉 have put clerks to de●h that were 〈◊〉 of felony/ without any 〈◊〉 of holy church. ¶ And the twelve year of his reign was john his so●e ●ome. ¶ And the. xii●j. year of his reign died 〈◊〉 the Empress that was his m●der. ¶ The xiiij year of his reign y● 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉 spoused Ma●de his daughter. 〈◊〉 he begat upon her 〈…〉 led 〈…〉. ¶ And in the xu year of his reign 〈…〉 of 〈…〉 in the same year 〈…〉. ¶ And the xvi. year of his 〈…〉 and ●●ge Archebyshopp 〈…〉 of York/ in 〈…〉 of Thomas archbishop of 〈◊〉. Wherefore this same Ro●es was accursed of the pope. ¶ How king Henry that was son of king Henry the Empress son/ ● of the debate that was between him & his father while that he was in Normandye. AFter the coronation of king Henry the son of king Henry the Empress son. That same Henry th'empress son went over to Normady & there he let mary Elenore his daughter of the dolphin that was king of Al●ayne. And in the vij year that the archbishop saint Thomas had been outlawed/ the king of France made the king & saint Thomas accorded. And thenne came Thomas the archbishop to Caunterbury again to his own church And this accord was made in the beginning of Aduente/ & afterward he was slain & martyred the fifth day of christmas chenne 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 passed avenged upon the archbishop Thomas/ ¶ And anon sir William Breton/ sir Hugh Moruile/ sir William Tracy/ & sir Reygnolde Fitz 'vise/ beers' son in english/ privily went unto the see/ & came in to England unto the church of Caunterbury/ & there they him mar●●● 〈…〉 in the mother 〈◊〉. ¶ And that was in the year of the 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉 christ. M. C.lxxi●. year. ¶ And anon after Henry the new king began for to make 〈◊〉 up on Henry his father & upon his 〈…〉. ¶ And so upon a day the king of Fra●●er & all the kings 〈◊〉/ & the king of 〈◊〉/ & 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 te/ & prayed him heresy for his love that he would send to him the names by letters of them that were the beginner's of that war against him. And the king of France sent again to him by letters the names of them that began the war against him. The first was john his son/ & richard his brotheer & Henry the new king his son. Th● was Henry the king wonder wroth/ & 〈◊〉 the time that ever he him begat & 〈◊〉 the war dured. Henry his son 〈◊〉 we king died sore repenting his misdeeds & most sorrow made of any man for by cause of saint Thomas death of Caunterbury. And prayed his father was much sorrow of heart mercy for his 〈◊〉 pace. And his father fo●gaaf him and had of him great pity. And after he d●ed the xxxvi year of his reign 〈…〉 reading. ¶ How the christian men lost all the holy land in the foresaid kings time ●e a falls christian man that became a 〈◊〉. ANd while this king reigned the great battle was in the holy land between the christian men and the Sacrasyns but christian men were there slain thorough great ●reason of the earl Ty●pe/ that would have had to wife the queen of jerusalem that sometime was Baldewynes wife but ●●e forsook him and took to her lord a 〈◊〉 a worthy man that was called 〈…〉 Wherefore the earl Ty●pe was wroth & went anon right to the Sultan that was Sultan of Babylon/ and became his man and forsook his christendom/ and all christian law. And the christian men 〈…〉 of his 〈…〉 forsook his own nation. And for were the christian men there slain with the Sarrasyus. ¶ And thus were the christian men slain & put to horrible death/ and the city of jerusalem destroyed/ and the holy cross borne away. ¶ The king of France and all the great lords of the land let them be crossed for to go in to the holy land. And amongs them wen 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/ and needs to be done. ¶ And when king Henry his father hadis reigned xxxvi year and .v. months & fourre days/ he died and lieth at founteue●ad. ¶ Anno dm. M.C.lvi. ADuanus 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/ & he went over see & gave him to study & to virtue And after was made bishop of Albanacens/ then he was made Legate in to the land of Wo●●acian/ & he converted it to the faith. Then he was made pope/ & for the wounding of a cardinal he 〈◊〉 all the city of R●me 〈…〉 William the king of C●●yle● and caused him to 〈◊〉 him. This man the first of all the pope's of his 〈…〉. dwelle● in the old city. ¶ Alexander the 〈◊〉 was pope 〈…〉 him twelve year. This Alexander hadis 〈…〉/ & the king of Si●culo●. And this man 〈◊〉 saint Thomas of Caunterbury in his exile. ¶ Nota. ¶ Saint bernard was canonized by this Alexander/ & his abbot forh●de him he should do no miracles/ for there was so mighty concourse of people. And he obeyed to him when he was deed & died no 〈◊〉. ¶ Lucius the third was pope after Alexand. four year & two months. Of him little 〈◊〉 written. In his days deceased Henry the first son no Henry the second/ & this is his Epytaphy. Omnis honoris honour. decor et decus vibis et orbis. 〈◊〉 splendour gloria sumen apex. julius ingenio ututibus hector. Achilles viribus. augustus mo●bus. ore paris. ¶ Vehanus 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 viij. 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 little 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 〈◊〉 man and a str●nge & a worthy/ and also hold. And he was 〈…〉 of the 〈…〉 the third day of 〈…〉. ¶ And in the second year of his 〈…〉 richard himself and Baldewy●e the archbishop of Caunterbury/ and 〈◊〉 bishop of Salysbury/ and Radulf 〈◊〉 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 and 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 toward the holy land/ & gate there as much as the christian men had there before lost. And conquered the land again thorough great might/ safe only the holy cross. And when king richard came to the city of Acres for to get the city/ there arose a great debate between him & the king of France/ so that the king of France went again in to France/ and was wroth toward the king richard. But yet for all that/ be king richard went again/ he took the city of Acres. And when he had take it/ he dwelled in the city a while. But to him came tidings/ that the earl john of Oxerforde 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 tidings he went again toward England with all the speed that he might. But the duke of Oshyche met with him/ and took him and brought him unto the Emperor of Almayner And the Emperor him brought unto prison. And afterward he was delivered for an huge ransom/ that is for to say/ a honoured thousand pound. And for the which ransom to be paid/ each other chalice of England was melted & made in to money. And all the monk●● of the 〈◊〉 of 〈…〉 all 〈…〉. ¶ How king richard came again from the holy land and avenged him of his enemies SO as this king richard was in prison the 〈…〉 warred upon him 〈◊〉 in Normandy/ & john his 〈…〉 in England. But the 〈…〉 ●ons of England 〈…〉 all their power that 〈…〉 took the castle of 〈…〉 stelles. And the forsa●d 〈…〉 he had no might ne 〈…〉 ●ons of England 〈…〉 none went him oue● the 〈…〉 of France. ¶ And 〈…〉 came out of person and 〈…〉 and came in to 〈…〉 Candelmast●in great 〈…〉 to Notyngham 〈…〉 to 〈…〉 comfyted he his brother 〈…〉 that with him held 〈…〉 unto the rite of 〈…〉 he let him crown 〈…〉 And after he went unto 〈…〉 to war upon the king of 〈…〉 the king of france 〈…〉 died knights toward 〈…〉 richard met 〈…〉 have reave him battle. But the 〈…〉 of France fled t●o and an hund●●d knights of his were taken 〈…〉 died steeds that were crapped 〈…〉 ¶ And anon after 〈…〉 for to bearing the castal 〈…〉 And as he toad upon a dare 〈…〉 for to take 〈…〉 upon him/ that he 〈◊〉 that he 〈◊〉 for no man of thing/ ¶ He 〈…〉 sharply all his men for to assaylle the castle. See 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/ and the king died with them what he would. And commanded his men that they should bring before him the man that him s●● hurt & so wounded. And when he came before the king/ the king axed him what was his name. And he said my name is Bertram Gurdon Wherefore said the king hast thou me slain/ sith I died the never none harm. Sire 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 the my death/ & 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 & privily him slew. And the. vi● day after the king died shrive him/ & sore repentance having of his misdeeds/ and was houseled and anointed. ¶ And this king reigned but ix year and xxx weeks/ & died & lieth beside his father at Fontenerad. HEnricus the fifth was Emperor eight year. This Henricus was son to Frederyk/ & he wedded Constance the kings daughter of Cecyle/ & thorough the occasion of her/ he subdued all the kingdom of Apulye/ & he drove all the people out the inhabit the land. ¶ Celestinus the third was pope after Clemens almost three year. This man was crowned upon Eisterdaye/ & the day so lowing he crowned Henry the Emperor. And he made a ●alays at saint Peter's/ & deceased. ¶ 〈◊〉 the third was pope after him eight year and .v. months. This man was well 〈◊〉. And he made a 〈◊〉 of y● 〈…〉 of 〈…〉 Apeculun 〈…〉 This man 〈◊〉 y● 〈…〉 joachim/ the which he made 〈…〉 star Pey●● Lombarde/ the maker of the Sentence. This time deceased the Emperor Henry. And the princes of 〈◊〉 discorded/ for s●me chose Otto/ and some chose Phylyppe brother to Henry. then Phylyppe was falsely slain/ & Otto was crowned of Innocencius in France/ the which anon fought with the romans/ for they y●ue him no dew honour. And for that cause/ against the pope's will he took the kingdom of Apulye from Frederyk/ wherefore the pope cursed him. then after the fourth year of his regne/ the princes of Almaigne made Frederyk Emperor/ and vyctoryously he subdued Otto. ¶ William 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 and an ensammple to many a man/ died many a miracle this tyme. And he ordained the frere Minores. ¶ And the vi year of pope Innocencius the third/ the order of the frere preachers began under Domynyk/ but it might not be confirmed till the first year of Honorius. ¶ Of king john/ that in the first year of his reign lost all Normandye. AS king richard was deed/ by cause that he hadis none heir/ neither son/ ne daughter/ then his brother johan was made king/ and crowned at Westmester of Hubert that though was archbishop of Counterbury. And when he began for so regne/ he became so marvelous a man/ and 〈◊〉 over in to normandy/ & warred upon the the king of France. And so long they 〈◊〉 together/ till at the last king john lost all Normandy & Angoy/ where fast he was sore annoyed/ and it was no marvel. ¶ though let he assemble before him at London archbishops/ bishops/ abbots & priors/ earls & barons & held there a great parliament/ and axed there of the clergy/ the tenth of every church of England/ for to conquer & get again Normandy & Angoy that he had lost. They would not graile that thing/ wherefore he was wonder wroth. ¶ And in that same time died Hubert. The prior and the covent of Caunterbury ●hose against the king will to be archbishop Stephen of Langton a good clerk/ that dwelled at the court of Rome/ & sent to the pope their election/ & the pope confirmed it and sacred him at Viterbi. ¶ When the king wist these tidings/ he was wonder wroth/ & drove the prior & the covent fro Caunterbury/ & exiled out of England/ & commanded that no letter that come fro Rome/ ne commandment/ should be received ne pleated in England. When these tidings came to the pope/ he sent king john his letter/ & prayed him With good will & good heart/ that he would receive Stephen the Archebysshopp of canterbury to his church/ & suffer the pryoour and his monks to come again to their own dwellings. But the king would no● grant it for no thing. ¶ How king john would no thing do for the pope's commandment. Wherefore all England was interdicted & suspended. ANd at the last the pope sent by his 〈◊〉/ & enjoined to the bishops of England/ that if the king would not receive the prior of Counterbury & his monks/ they should do general interditing through out all England. And full power to four bishops to pronounce the interditing/ if he if warned. The first was bishop William of London & that other bishop Eustace of 〈…〉 was bishop Walter of Wynche●●●/ & the fourth was bishop 〈…〉 ford. ¶ And these 〈…〉 the king kneeling 〈…〉 sore weeping that he 〈…〉 commandment. And 〈…〉 pope's Bulls of the 〈…〉 for no prayer 〈…〉 he would not consent 〈…〉 the bishops 〈…〉 the king. And in the 〈…〉 Annunciation of 〈…〉 the general 〈…〉 all England so that 〈…〉 were thytte with 〈…〉 & with walls. And when 〈…〉 dyting was pronounced 〈…〉 began for to were all out of 〈…〉 anon took in to his bond all the 〈◊〉 scion's of the four bishops 〈…〉 clergy throughout all england 〈◊〉 he took/ & ordained men for 〈…〉 it that the clerkis might not have 〈◊〉 living. Wherefore the bishops 〈◊〉 all them that put or should meddle 〈◊〉 holy church goods/ against the 〈◊〉 them that ought them. ¶ And 〈◊〉 the king would not of his maly●● 〈◊〉 for no manner thing. These four bishops afore said went over the 〈◊〉 and came to the bishop of Caunterbury & told him all th●●thyng●. And they archbishop to them said that they should go again to Caunterbury and he should come thither to them or else be would send unto them certain parlours in his stead that should do as much as of he himself were there. And when the bishops heard this they 〈◊〉 again in to England/ and came unto Caunterbury. The tidings ●ame to the king/ that the bishops were come again to Caunterbury● & himself might not come thither that time/ he sent thither bishops ertes & abbot's/ for to treat with them/ that the king should receive ch●rchebysshop Stephen/ & the prior & all the monks of Caunterbury/ that he should never after the 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 the holy church should have all franchise/ as farforth as they had in saint Edwardis time the holy Confessor. ¶ How Stephen of Langton came again in to England through the pope's commandment/ & how he went again. SO when the form of accordment thus was ordained. It was in a pair of indentures/ and they put their seals to y● one part/ & they that came in the kings name put their seals to that other part of the indentures And four bishops about said took y● 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 & 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 he would not accord/ & so he sent again to the four bishops/ that they should do out & put away that 〈◊〉 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 〈◊〉 under pledges. That is to sayet/ his 〈…〉 at his own will And thus in this manner th'archbishop Stephen came to Counterbury. When the archbishop was come/ the king came to Ch●haz. For he would no nigh Caunterbury at that tyme. But he sent by his treasurer bishop of Wyncestre 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 not never do out ●o word thereof/ ne yet it change of that the bishops had spoken & ordained. And though the chebysshop go again to R●me without any more doing. ¶ King john was though wrother than ever he was before/ & let make a common cry thorough out all England/ that all though that had holy church rents/ & 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 that 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 archbishop or by the prior of Caunterbury/ from the time of the election of the archbishop. And commanded that all the woods that were the archbishops should be cast done unto the ground/ and all sold. ¶ How king john destroyed the 〈◊〉 of Cisteaux. ANd in the same year/ the I●ysshe men began to war upon king john/ & the king ordained him for to go in to ireland/ & let ●●tre an huge tax throughout all Englond/ that is for to say xxx thousand mark. And thus he sent through out all England unto the monks of the order of ●●steaux that they should help him of vi thousand mark of silver. ¶ And they answered & said/ that they durst no thing do without their chief abbot of Cisteaux. Wherefore king johan when he came again from ireland/ died them so much sorrow & care/ that they wist not whether to abide/ for he took so moche ●aūson of every house/ & the some amounted to ix thousand & three hundred mark/ so that they were clean lost & destroyed/ & voided their houses & their lands throughout all England. And the abbot of Waversaye dread 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 hat done so moche malice/ then he was toward the king full wrath. And sent two Legates unto the king/ that one was called Pandulf/ & that 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 Englond. And that he should restore 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 and the land to amend. And we admonest you first in the pope's half/ that ye make full restytuc●n of the goods that ye have ravished & taken of holy church & of the land. And that recerue 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 sit yet more over that 〈◊〉 shall make restitution/ unto all holy church/ whereof they shall hold 〈◊〉 well a●a●ed. ¶ though answered the king as touch●nge the 〈…〉 of Caunterbury 〈…〉 said I will do gladly 〈…〉 ye will ordeyn●. But as 〈…〉 archbishop. I shall 〈…〉 as it lieth. That the 〈…〉 leave his archbishop 〈…〉 pope then for him 〈…〉 then upon 〈…〉 some other bysshop●●●●● to 〈…〉 England. And upon 〈…〉 will him accept 〈…〉 theles as archbishop in 〈…〉 he abide/ he shall never have 〈…〉 safeconduct but that be 〈…〉 ¶ though said Pandulf unto the 〈…〉 Sire holy church was wont 〈…〉 discharge an archbishop 〈…〉 cause reasonable. But eue● it hath 〈◊〉 to chastise princes that to god 〈◊〉 church were ●nobedyene●. ¶ 〈◊〉 how now said the king menace 〈◊〉 Nay said Pandult but ye now 〈◊〉 have told as it standeth in your 〈◊〉 And to ●ou we will tell what is the 〈…〉 will. And thus it standeth that ●e hath you holy enterdy●ed & 〈…〉 for the wrongs that ye have done to holy church and to the clergy. And for as much as ye dwell and beth in will to abide in malice & in 〈◊〉 and will not come out thereof ne to amend ye shall understand that this time afterward the senteence is upon you 〈◊〉 and holdeth stead & strength and upon all though that with you hat co●●ned before this tyme●whether there been earls 〈◊〉/ ●s knights/ or any other what so ever that they be/ we them assaylle/ saufly unto this day. And fro this time afterward of what condition somever that they been we them accurse/ that with you comyne any word/ & do we sentence upon them openly & specially. And we assoil clean/ earls/ barons/ knights/ and all other men of their homages/ services & feaute●s/ that they should unto you do/ And this tiding to comferme/ we give plain power/ to the bishop of Wynchestre/ & to the bishop of Norwyche. And the same power we yeue in to scotland to the bishops of Rochestre & 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 counsel 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/ and 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/ ¶ though 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 king. 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 ride 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 〈◊〉 hole year of 〈…〉. ¶ But for to suffer what death ye 〈◊〉 ordain/ we shall not spare for to tell you holy all the pope's message & his will/ that we were charged with. ¶ How Pandulf delivered a clerk that had falsed & coū●●●●●tyd the kings money before the king himself. ANd anon the commanded the king the Syrefs & Bayly●s of Northampton/ that were in the kings presence/ that they should king forth all the prisoners/ that they might be done to death before Pandulf/ for by caus● 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/ & 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 fulled the kings money. And the king commanded that he should le hanged and drawed. And when Pandulf heard this commandment of the king/ he start him up right quickly/ & anon axed a book & a candelb/ 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 hotde that he should do with him what he would. And thus was the clerk delivered & went them. ¶ 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 〈◊〉 out all England/ that 〈◊〉 might 〈…〉 churches/ and 〈…〉 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 then sent to the king of France in remission of his sins/ that he should take with him all the power that he might/ & go in to England for to destroy the king john. ¶ When these tidings came to king john/ 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/ and come to amendment in all things/ & would make satisfaction to all manner of men after the pope's ordinance. ¶ then scent the pope again in to England Pandulf & other messengers/ and came to Caunterbury to the king & there abode. And the eight day of May/ the king made an oath 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 & by their holydom/ that if the king would not hold his oath/ they said that they would by strength make him hold it. ¶ then put the king him to the court of Rome/ and theme gave he up the ream of England and of ireland for him and for his heirs for ever mo●e that should come after him/ 〈◊〉 that king john and his ●eytes 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 and set it upon his 〈◊〉. And these words said he in hearing of all the great lords of England. Here I resign up the crown and the realm of England in to the pope Innocencius hands the third/ and put me holy in his mercy & in his ordinance ¶ Thomas received Pandulf the crown of king john/ and kept it five days as fore seizing/ taking of two realms/ of England & of Irelonde. And confirmed all manner thing/ by his realtre/ that followeth after. ¶ Of the letter obligatory that 〈◊〉 johan made to the court of Rome wherefore the Peter's pens been gathered through out all England. TO all christian people 〈…〉 all the world dwelling. 〈◊〉 by the grace of god king of England greeting to your university. And 〈◊〉 known that for as mock as we have gr●●●d and offended god & out 〈◊〉 holy church of Rome. And 〈…〉 as we have need unto the 〈◊〉 of our lord Ihesu Cryst. And also we 〈◊〉 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 & of ireland. then by the grace of god we desire to meek us for the love of him that meeked him to the death of the cross thorough couseylle 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 Innocencius the third and to all the pope's that cometh after him all the ream and patronages of church's of England and of ireland with their appertenances for remission of our sins/ and for help & health of our kyn●e souls/ and of all christian souls. So that from this day afterward we will rec●yue/ & hold of our mother church of Rome/ as fee f●rme/ doing 〈◊〉 to our holy father pope Innocencius the third/ and so to all the pope's that cometh after him/ in the same manner abovesaid. And in presence of the wise man Pandulf the pope's Subdcaken/ we make liege's homage/ as it were in the pope's presence/ and before him were. And shall do all manner things above said/ And thereto we bind us/ and all that cometh after us/ and our heirs for ever more without any agaynsayenge to the pope/ and the 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 for 〈◊〉 saving saint Peter's pens 〈◊〉 to the mother church of Rome paying by year a thousand mark of lyluer/ and two terms of the year for all manner customs that we should d●●fe: the foresaid reams/ that is to say 〈◊〉 Myghclmas and at Easter. That is to say vii hundred mark for England and three hundred mark for ireland Saving to us & to our heytes our justyces and other franchise/ and other royalties. that pertain unto the crown And these things that before been said we will/ that it be firm & stable with/ out end. And to that obligation/ we & our successors & our heytes in this manner be bound/ that if we/ or any of our heytee/ 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 ever more. And that this chartre of obligation and our 〈◊〉 for ever more/ be firm and stable with out any gainsaying. We shall from this day afterward be true unto god and to the mother of holy church of Rome/ and to the pope junocincius the third/ and to all that cometh after him 〈…〉 ¶ How the clerks that were 〈◊〉 came again/ and how king john was assoiled. SO when this chartre was made and ensealed/ the king received again his crown of Pandulfus hand. And sent anon unto the archbishop Stephen/ and to all his after clerks and lewd men/ that he had exiled out of this land/ that they should come again in to England/ and have again their lands and also 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 〈◊〉 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 ychesyled to god & to holy church. And that was on Saint Margaretes day. And the archbishop anon went 〈…〉 〈…〉 she asked. The Legate went then again to the pope after Cryst●●●e. And the king sense over see to julyan that was king Rychardes wife/ for to have a relace 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 she ar ¶ But thenne at the feast of saint john that came next after/ thorough the pope's commandment/ the interditing was first released throughout all England/ the seventh day of julij. And seven. 〈◊〉 was the land interdicted. And on the morning men rung and said mass thorough out all London and so after thorough out all England. ¶ And the next year after there began a great debate between king johan and the lords of England/ for by cause that be would not graune the laws and hold the ●●che saint Edward had ordained and had been used and holden unto that to me that he had them broken. For be ●●de hold no law/ but died all thing that him liked/ and dyshertysed many men without consent of lords and ●●●tys of the land. And would 〈◊〉 the good earl Rodulf of Ch●●h● for by ●●●se that he undertook him of his wickedness/ and for cause that he died so moche shame and villainy to god and to holy church. And also for he held & haunted his own brothers wife/ and lay also by many other 〈◊〉 great lord●● daughters. For be spared no woman that him liked for to have. Wherefore all the lords of the land were wroche and 〈◊〉 the city of London. To c●sse this debate the Archebtysshop and lo●des of the land assembled before the feast of saint john baptist in a meadow belyde the town of Stanys that is called 〈…〉 〈…〉 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 lands assembled and began to war upon him again/ and ●●nned his towers/ & 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/ and 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 & his company spared neither churches ne houses of religion/ but they brent & rob it/ and bare away all that they might take so that the land was all destroyed/ what of any side and of other. ¶ The barons and lords of England ordained among them the best spehers and wisest men/ and sent them over the see to king Phylypp of France & prayed him/ that he would send Louis his son in to England to be king of England/ & to receive the crown. ¶ How Louis the kings some of France came in to England with a strong power of people/ to be king of England A None as king Philip of France heard these tidings/ he made betayne alliance between them by their common election/ that Louis king Philyps son of France should go● with them in to England/ and dry●se 〈◊〉 king john of the land. And all that were in presence of Louis/ made unto him homage/ and became his men 〈…〉 〈…〉 was set before him upon the table/ And the monk said/ that the loof was worth but an half penny. O said the king tho. Here is great cheap of breed. Now said he cho/ and I may live any while such a loof shall be worth twenty shillings or half a year be gone. And so when he said this word/ moche he thought/ and often he sighed/ and took and eat of the breed/ and said by god/ the word that I have spoken/ it shall be sooth. ¶ The monk that stood before the king was for this word full sorry in his heart/ and thought/ rather be would himself suffer death/ and 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 glady there of and joyful. though 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 which a brooch many times till that the venom came out of every side in the cup And though took the cup & filled it with good ale/ and brought it before the king kneeling saying. Sir said he Wash sail/ for never the days of all your life drunk ye of so good a cup. ¶ Begin monk said the king. And the monk drank a great draft/ & 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 〈◊〉 and there died anon/ on 〈◊〉 soul god have mercy Amen. And fine monkis sing for his soul specially/ and shall while that the abbaye standeth. The king rose up anon full evil at ease and commanded to remove the table/ & 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 his belly began to sweet for the drink that he had drunk/ and within two da●●● he died on the morrow after saint Luli● day/ and had many fair chidern of his body begotten/ that is to say. Henry his son that was king after john 〈◊〉 father/ and richard that was Earl of Comewalle/ and Ysabell that Empress of Rome/ and Elenore that was queen of scotland. And this king johan when he had reigned. 〈◊〉 and five months and five da●es be 〈◊〉 in the castle of newerbe. And his body was buried at Wynchestre. ¶ Anno dm. M.CC ERedericus the second was Emperor xxx year. This man was crowned of Honorius the pope against 〈◊〉 for by cause that be should frghte with him/ the which be died and ●●pullyd him. And first be nourished the ch●●che/ and afterward he dylpoyled it as a stepmother. Wherefore Honorius 〈◊〉 him/ and all though that were contrary to his opinion the pope assoiled. And the same sentence Girgorius the ii renewed And this same man put Henry his own son into prison/ and there murdered him. Wherefore when this Emperor an other season was sick by an other son of his own he was mindred in the time of Innocenicus the fourth. ¶ Honorius the third was pope after Innocencius. x. year/ & confirmed the order of frere preachers and minors. And made certain decretals. ¶ Of king Henry the third that was crowned at gloucester. ANd after this king john reigned his son Henry/ & was crowned at gloucester when he was ix year old/ on saint Symondes' day & Jude 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. William earl Martial earl of Penbroke. William the Brener earl of Feriers. 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 martin's feast. And there were xi bishops of England & of wales/ & 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 john's son. ¶ And anon after the Legate enterdyted 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 & took the castle of Barcamstede/ and also the castle of Hertforde. And from that day afterward/ the barons died there somo che harm throughout all England. and principal the french men 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 & french men were gone to the city of Nicholl/ & took the town & held it to king Louis profit. But chyther came king Henry's men with a great power/ that is to say the earl Radulf of Chestre/ & William earl Martial/ & William the Brener earl of Feriers/ & many other lords with them/ & gave battle unto Louis men. And there was slain the earl of Perchees/ and Louis men were fowl discomfited. And there was taken Serle earl of Wynchestre/ and Humfroy de Boune earl of Hertforde/ & Robert the son of Walter/ & many other that began war against the king/ there they were taken & led unto king Henry/ that was king Iohans 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 seal. ¶ And in the same time a great lord that what called Eustace the monk came out of France with a great company of Lords/ and would have come in to England/ for to have helped Louis the kings son of France. But Hubert of Brugh/ & the five ports with eight ships though met with them in the high see/ & assailed them eagerly/ and overcame 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 turned again in to France/ and of the confirmation of king johans' chartre. SO when Louis heard these tydynages/ he dread sore to be deed & lost. And let ordain/ & speak between the king & Louis by the Legate Swalo. And thorough the Archebysshopp of Caunterbury/ & through other great lords that all the prisoners on that one half & that other should be delivered & go quite. And Louis himself should have for his costs a thousand pound of silver. & should go out of England/ and come never more therein again. And in this manner was the accord made between king Henry and Louis. And though was Louis assoiled of the pope's Legate/ that 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 peas 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 Archebysshopp of Caunterbury/ and with other bishops/ & also with earls & barons/ and so went in to France. ¶ And afterward the king & the archbishop/ and also earls and barons assembled them/ & came to the city of London at michaelmas that next came though sewing and held there a great parliament at London/ And there were though renewed all the franchise that king john had granted/ at Romney meed/ and 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 two shillings/ And Hubert of Brugh was made though chief justice of Englond. And this was in the fourth year of king Henry's regne. ¶ 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 should go out of England/ & come no more therein. And king Henry took though all the castles in to his hand/ that king johan his father had give & take to aliens for to keep that held with him. ¶ But the proud Fawkis of britain richly let array his castle of bedford/ which he had of king john's yefte/ & held that castle against king Henry's will with might and strength. And the king came thither with a strong power/ and be syeged 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 and take. And the king 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 afterward Fawkis himself was found and had in a church at coventry and 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 treasurer of Salysbury was consecrated Archchysshopp of Caunterburye. And this king Henry sent over the see unto the Earl of province/ that he should send him his daughter in to England/ that was called Ellenore and be would spouse her. And she she came in to England after christmas. And on the morrow after saint Hylaryes day the archbishop Edmonde spoused them together at Westmestre with great solemnity. And there was a swear sight between them. That is to say. Edward that was next king after his father/ flower of courtesy & of largeness/ and Margarete that was after queen of scotland/ & Beau●●●e that was after countess of britain/ and Kachetyne that died maid in religion. ¶ Of the quinzeme of goods that wete granted for the new charter/ and of the purveyance of Oxford. ANd thus it befell that the lords of England would have some additions moo in the chartre of franchise that they had of the king/ & spoke thus between them. And the king granted them all their asking. And made to them two charters/ that one is called the great chartre of franchises/ & that other is called the charter of forest. And for the grant of these two charters/ prelate's/ earls & barons/ & all the comyns of England/ gave to the king a thousand mark of silver ¶ When king Henry had be kin xliij year/ the same year he & his lords earls & barons of the ream went to Oxforde/ and ordained a law in amendment of the ream. And first swore the king hymlself/ & 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 that ordinance the king through counsel of Edward his son/ & of richard his brother/ that was earl of cornwall/ & also of other repented him of that oath that he had made for to hold that law & ordinance. And sent to the court of Rome to be assoiled of that oath. And in the year next coming after/ was the great dearth of come in England. For a qurter of wheat was worth xxiiij shillings. And the poor people eat nettles and other weeds for hunger. And died many a thousand for default of meet. ¶ And in the xlviij year of king Henry's reign began war and debate between him and his lords/ for by cause that he had broken the covenants that were made bytwone them at Oxford. ¶ And the same year was the town of Northampton taken/ and 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 came next after/ upon saint Pancras day/ was the battle of Lewes/ that is to say/ the Wenesdaye before Saint Dunstan's day. And there was taken king Henry himself/ & sir Edward his son/ & Rychar de his brother earl of Corn wayll/ & many other lords. And in the same year next sewing sir Edward the kings son broke out of the ward of sir Symonde of Mountforth/ earl of leicester/ at Heart/ ford/ & went unto the barons of the March/ & they received him with moche honour. ¶ And the same time Gilbert of Claraunce earl of Glocetre that was in the ward also of the foresaid Symonde thorough the commandment of king Henry/ that went fro him with a great heart/ for cause that he said/ that the foresaid Gilbert was a fool/ wherefore he ordained him afterward so/ & 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 at Kelyngworth/ but the great lords that were there with him were taken/ that is to say. Baldewyne Wake. & William de Mounchensye/ & many other great lords. And the Tewysdaye next after was the battle done at Eushan And there was slain sir Symonde de Mountforth. Hugh the Spenser/ & Mount forth that was Rauf Bassettes father of Draiton/ and other many great lords/ And when this battle was done/ all the gentlemen that had been with the earl Symonde were disherited/ & ordained together & 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 frest of saint Dunstane/ was the battle & scomfiture at Chestrefelde/ of them that were disherited/ & there was many of them slain. ¶ And Robert Earl of Feriers there was taken/ & also Baldewyne Wake/ & john oclahay/ with moche sorrow escaped thence. And on saint johans' cue the baptist though sewing/ began the siege of the castle Kenilworth/ & 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 respite/ for to deliver cleanly the castle/ of themselves/ & of all other manner thing/ as they had within the castle/ & so they went fro the castle. And sir Symonde Mountforth the younger/ & the countess his mother 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 theyt lands by grievous raunsons/ after that it was ordained. And thus they were accorded with the king/ & peas 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 g●rate lords of England/ & went tho to Rome the lu year of king Henry's regne/ and Edward king john's son of britain johan Vessi. Thomas of Clare. Rogere at Cly●●orde. Oaths of 〈◊〉 Robert le Bru●. johan of Verdon/ and many other lords of England/ & of be yond the see took they way toward the holy land. And y● king Henry died in the same time at Westmestre/ what he had reigned lu year & xix weeks/ on saint edmond's day the archbishop of Caslterbury. And he was entered on saint Edmondes' day the king in the year of the incarnation of our lord jesus christ. M.CC.lxxij. ¶ prophecy of Merlin of the king Henry the first erpowned/ that was king Iohans sone. ANd of this Henry prophesied Merlin and said that a lamb● should come out of Wynchestre in the 〈◊〉re of the incarnation of our lord Ihesu christ. M.CC and xvi with true lips & holiness written in his herte● And he said so the/ 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 world/ 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 ●ystendom. But king Henry died are that work were fully at an end & that was great harm. ¶ And yet said Merlin/ that this lamb should have peace the most part of his regne. And he said full sooth/ for he was never noyed thorough war/ neither diseased in no manner wise/ till a little afore his death/ & Merlin said in his prophecy more/ & in the reign & end of the foresaid la●● be/ a wulf of a strange land shall do● him moche har●●● though his 〈◊〉 And that he should at the last be master thorough help of a reed fox/ that should come forth of the Northwest & 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 leicester/ that was borne in France/ began against him strong war/ through which doing/ many a good bachelor destroyed was & died/ & dish ryted. ¶ And when king Henry had the byctory at Eusham/ & Symond the earl was slain thorough help & might of Gilbert 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/ & died in charity/ & 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 spkenesse & disease that they have had for the love of him ¶ And Merlin also said in his prophecy/ that after that time/ the lamb should live no while/ & thenne his seed should be in strange land without any pasture/ and he said soothe/ for king Henry lived no while after that Symonde Mount ford was slain/ that king Henry ne died anon after him. And in the mean time sir Edward his son/ that was the best king of the world of honour/ was though in the holy land/ & 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 thorough out all christendom/ as the story of him telleth/ as after ward 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 Englond were as fatherless children without any succour/ that them might maintain & govern/ and defend against their deadly enemies. ORegorius the ix was pope after Honorius/ this man canonized many saints/ & defended mightily the church against Frederyk/ therefore he 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 romans were corrupt by the money of the Emperor. Then he took in his hand the heeds of the apostles Peter & Poule/ & went with procession fro the church of saint johan Latranence/ to saint Peter's church. ¶ And so he gate the hertis of the romans/ & the Emperor went fair away fro the city. This pope made frere janond to compile the five bolres of Decretales/ of many pistles & decrees. And after with many tribulations of this tyrant & other/ he deceased and went to heaven. ¶ Celestinus the fourth was pope after Gregorius almost a month/ & he was in his life & in his cunning laudable. And he was an old man & a feeble & deceased/ & there was no pope after him almost a twelve month. ¶ Innocencius the fourth was pope after him almost xi year & vi months/ this man canonized many saints/ & Frederyk the Emperor he deposed & cursed 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 & William/ by the pope's commandment against Frederyk that one after an other/ but chey prevailed not to overcome his tyranny/ for he was overmyghty/ ne these were not crowned/ for they dece●●yd anon. ¶ Thomas de Aquine an holy doctor Albertus magnus the bishop of Ratisponens. Eustacius. Bonaventure a devout doctor were this time/ the which destroyed moche heresy enfected by the Emperor. ¶ Alexander was pope after innocentius eight 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 & his kingdom by Karolus. ¶ Alphonsus the king of Castle Rychardes' brother to the king of England earl of cornwall/ were chosen Emperors after the long vacation of the Empire/ for the chesers of the Emperor were divided in sondre/ & there was great strife many year. At the last deceased richard/ & Alphonsus came amye afore Gregorius the ix by the sign of peace/ & utterly renounced all his title of the Empire/ and he had any/ for he was a very witty man/ & a noble astronomer/ and his tables been very famous the which he made/ for they be compendious. ¶ Clemens the fourth was pope after Vrbanus three 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 be 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/ & 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/ ¶ Gregorius the ten was 〈◊〉 after him four year/ after he was made 〈◊〉 for the desire that he had to the holy land. the which he intended to visit personally/ at Lodun̄ in France he made a solemn counsel/ in the which the counsel of the Greeks & the Tartars were & there the Grekis promised to be reformed by the unity of the church. And the Tartars were but a little afore baptized/ & promised the same. And there were gathered vi C. bishops &. M. prelate's/ & therefore a certain man said Gregorius gathered togrder all kind of people And there was decreed that all persans & vycaryes should be called priest. & no prelate's/ & that no man should assign his tithes to what church he would as they died afore. But they should be paid to his mother church. And he dampened the plurality of benefices & died a blessed man. ¶ Innocencius the .v. was after him .v. months/ & little he died ¶ Adrianus was after him 00 month & died less. ¶ johs the xxi was after him viij. months/ & he was in divers sciences a famous man/ but in manners a fool & deceased anon. ¶ Nicholaus the third was pope after john 00 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 xviij year this man was earl of Hanebrugh a wise man in arms/ noble & victorious & was chosen at basil. And he took the cross on him for the holy land. Thimperya● blessing he had not/ but the pope allowed the eleceyon/ for favour of the holy land. ¶ Anno dm. M.CC.lxxiiij. MArtinus the four was 〈◊〉 after Nicholaus iiij. year. this man was a great lover of religious men/ & great attending to virtuous works. This man cursed the Emperor of Constancy nople/ in so much as he promised for to torn to the faith in the general connscyll/ & 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 & died many miracles. ¶ Nicholaus de lyra a noble doctor of divinity was this time at Paris/ this man was a jew of nation/ & he was converted & myghtley profited in the order of frere minors. & he wrote over all the Bible. Or else he was in the year of our lord. M.CCC.xxx. & some man say he was a Braban & that his father & his mother were christened but for poverty he visited the school of the jews/ & so he learned the Jews language/ or else this Nicholaus was informed of the jews in his young age. & Honorius the fourth was pope after Martinus two year/ & little of him is written/ but that he was a temperate man & a discrete. ¶ Nicholaus the fourth was pope after him four year/ this man was a frere Mynor/ & all though 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 y● one part. And after him there was no pope two year & vi months. ¶ Of 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/ exles & barons/ and all men died him much honour. For in every place that sir Edward rood in London/ the streets were covered over his heed with silk of tapyser/ & 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 the conduit of Cheap ran white wine and reed/ as streams doth of the water/ & every man drank thereof that would at their own will. And this king Edward was crowned and anointed as right heir 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 queyntesye/ & 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 challenge. And after came sir Edmond king Edward's brother a curteys' knight & a gentle of renown/ and the earl of cornwall/ 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 would/ & who that might them catch/ them to have still without any challenge. And when all this was done/ king Edward died his diligence and his might for to amend and dress the wrongs in the best manner that he might to the honour of god and holy church/ and to maintain his honour/ and to amend the noyance 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 year after ward the king Edward was crowned Lewelyn prince of wales sent into France to the earl Mountforde/ that through counsel of his friends/ the earl should wed his daughter. And the earl though advised him upon this thing/ and sent unto Lewelny & said. that he would send after his daughter. and so he sent Aymer his brother after the damosel. & Lewelyn arrayed ships for his daughter & for Sir Aymer. and for her fair 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 and 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 Lewelyn heard this tidings he was very wroth/ and also sorrow full. and 'gan to war upon king Edward/ and did much 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 into wales and so much he did thorough god's grace and his great power/ that he drofe Lewelyn unto great mischief/ 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 damoysel & all his heritage. & made an oblygation 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 too his parliament for his land/ & 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 wrath again began were upon king Edward. and destroyed his lands. And though when king Edward herd of these tidings. he waxed wonder wroth unto Lewelyn and in haste assembled his people/ & went him toward wales/ And warred so upon Lewelyn the prince/ till that he brought him in moche sorrow and disease. And Lewelyn saw that his defence might him not avail/ and came again and yielded him to the kings grace 〈◊〉 him mercy. and long time kneeled before the kings foot. The king 〈◊〉 him pity/ and commanded him for●● arise. And for his meekness forgive 〈◊〉 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 & moche treason thought. and evermore made good semblant and seemed so true that no man might perceive his falines. ¶ How Lewelyn through egging of his brother david warrayed again upon kyge. Edward. IT was not long after that time that king Edward gave to david Lewelyus' brother the lordship of Frodesham. & made him a knight & so much honour did he never after to man of wales because 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 iii. hundred were attainted of such manner falseness/ wherefore some were hanged and some draw and after hanged. And afterward the king ordained/ that the sterling halfpenny and farthing should go through out all his land/ And commanded that no man fro that day afterward gave ne feoffedhous of religion with land/ tenement without special leave of the king. & he that died should be punished at the kings will/ and the yefte shall be for nought And it was not long after that Lewelyn prince of wales through the tycement of david his brother/ and both their consent they thought to disherit king Edward/ in asmuch as they might/ so that through them both the kings peace was broken. And when king Edward heard of this/ anon he sent his. barons into Northumberlonde and the Surrey's also/ that they should go & take their viage upon the traitors Lewelyn and david. & wonder herd it was for to wart though/ For it is winter in walys● when in other countries is Summer. And Lewelyn let ordain and well array and victual his good castle of Swandon. and was therein an huge number of people/ and plenty of victuals so the king Edward wist not where for to enter And when the kings men it perceived & also the strength of wales/ they let come in the see bargees & botes. and great plankies as many as they might ordain and have: for to go to the said castle of Swandon. with men on foot & also on horse. But the welshmen had so much people/ & were so strong. that they drove the englishmen again/ so that there was so much press of people at the turning again that the charge & the burden of men made the barges & the botes to sink. & there was drowned many a good knight/ that is to say. sir Robert Clyfford/ sir wyllyam of Lyndeseye. that was sir Iohnns son fitz Robert. & sir richard Tanny/ and an 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 Iohn of Vessy from the king of Arragon. & brought with him much people of bachelors & of Gascoyne's/ & were soldiers. and dwelled with the said Iohn of Vessy/ and received of him wages and with him were withhold. & noble men they were for to fight & brent many towns/ and slew moche people of welshmen. all that they might take. And all though with strength and might made assault unto the castle of Swan done and gate the castle/ And when damn vyd the prince brother heard of this tidings: he ordained him to flight and Lewelyn the prince saw that his brother was fled/ then he was sore abasshedde for he had no power to his war for to maintain. And so Lewelyn 'gan for to flee/ and wend well for to have scapedde. But in a morrow sir Roger mortimer met with him only with ten knights. & set him round about. And to him went/ & smote of his heed/ and presented the same heed unto king Edward. And in this manner Lewelyn the prince of wales was taken/ & his heed smitten of/ and also all his heirs disherited for evermore through rightful 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 too have he prince of wales/ after his/ brother's death/ and upon this he sent after Walsshemen to his parliament at Dynbygh and foolishly made wales too arise against king and began too move were against king Edward and did all the sorrow and disease that he might by his power. when king Edward her●e of this thing/ he ordained men to pursue upon him. and david fiercely him defended/ till that he came to the town 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 & drawen/ & smite of his heed/ & quarter him/ and send his heed to London & the four quarters send to the four chief towns of wales. for they should take ensample thereof & beware. And afterward king Edward let cry his peace through out all wales & seized all the land into his hand/ & all the great lords that were left alive came/ to do fealty & 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 the king said to them full courteously lordings ye be welcome/ & me behooveth your counsel & your help for to go into Gascoigne for to amend the trespass y● to me was done when I was there. & 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. Ed/ warderedy & went into Galcoyne. & let amend all the trespasses that him was done inGascoyne. And of the debate that was between the king of Arragon and 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 be of his traitors that coniected falseness against him And each of them all received therdome after that they had deserved. But in the mean time that the good king Edward was beyond the see/ too do/ them for to make amends that against him had trespassed there was a false the if/ a traitor that was called Rysapp Merydok/ begun for to make were against king Edward. and that was for cause of sir pain Tiptot. wrongfully grieved and diseased the foresaid Rysap merydok. And when king Edward heard all this matter & it well understood a none 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 into England he would under take the quarrel & amend all that was mysdon. This foresaid Rysap Mer●dok 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 & lad to York/ and there he was drawn & hanged for his felony. ¶ Of dressing y● king Edward made of his Iusti●ꝭ and of his clerks that they had done for their falseness & how he drove the jews out of England for their usury and myshyle●e. AS king Edward had dwelled three year in Gascoigne a desire came to him for to go into England again. And when he was come again he found so many plaints made to him of his justyces and of his clerks that had done so many wrongs and falseness that wonder it was to here. and for which falseness sir Thomas waylond the kings justice/ forswore England at the tour of London/ for falseness that men put upon him/ wherefore he was attaint/ and proved falls. And anon after when the king had done his will of the justices though let he inquire & espy how the jews dysceyned & beguiled his people/ through the sin of falseness and of usury. And let ordain a privy parliament among his lords. And they or/ deigned among them/ that all the jews. should void out of England for their misbelieve/ & also for their false usury that they did unto christian men. And for to speed. and make an end of this thing/ all the commonalty of England gave unto the king the xu penny of all their goods movable/ & so were the jews driven out of England. And though went the Jews into France. & there they dwelled/ through leave of king Phylyp that though. was king of France. ¶ How king Edward was seized in all the land of scotland/ through consent & grant of all the lords of scotlonde IT was not long after that alex alysandre/ king of Scotlond was deed/ and david the earl of Huntyngdon that was the kings brother of Scotland axed & claimed the kingdom of scotland after that his brother was deed/ for cause that he was ryghtfulle heir/ But many great lords said nay. wherefore great debate arose between them and their friends/ for asmuch as they would not consent to his coronation/ & the mean time the foresaid david died/ And so it befell that the said david had three daughters/ that worthily were married/ The first daughter was married to Bailol/ the second to Brus/ and the third to Hastynges. The foresaid Baylol & Brus challenged the land of scotland/ & great debate & strife arose between hem. by cause each of them would have be king. And when the lords of scotland saw the debate between them/ came to king Edward of England. & seized hyin all the land of scotland as chief lord And when the king was seized of the foresaid lords/ the foresaid Baylol Brus and Hastynges came to the kings court/ and axed of the king which of them should be king of scotland And king Edward that was full gentle and 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 scotland should hold of the king of England/ and do him feaute and homage/. And after this was done Bailol went into scotland/ & there was crowned king of scotland. ¶ And the same time was upon the see great war bytwe ne the englishmen and the Normans But upon a tyme. the Normans arrived all at Dover. & 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 lose the duchy of Gascoigne through king Philip of France through his false casting of the Dousepers of the land/ wherefore sir Edmonde that was king Edwardis brother gave up his homage unto the king of France. ¶ And in that time the clerks of Englond granted to king Edward half deal of holy church goods/ in helping too recover his land again in/ Gascoigne. And the king sent thethere a noble company of his bachelors. And himself would have gone to Po●tesmon thee/ but he was let through one Maddok of wales that had seized the castle of Swandon into his hand/ and for that cause the king tomed to wales at Crist mass And because that the noble lord of England that were sent into Gascoigne had no comforth of their lord the king they were take of sir Charlys of France/ that is to say/ sir Iohn of britain/ sir Roberte Tiptot/ sir Rau●e Tanny/ sir Hugh Bardolfe/ and sir Adam of Creting/ And yet at the ascension was Maddok take in wales/ and a nother that was called Morgan. and they were sent to the tower of London and there they were beheaded. ¶ How sir Iohn Baylol king of scotland with said his homage. ANd when sir Iohn Baylol king of Scotlond understood that king Edward was warred in Gascoigne/ to whom the ream of scotland 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 the oath that he swore unto the king of england & so he was by letter enbulled. ¶ though chose they of scotland dousepers/ for to benymme Edward of his right. ¶ And in that time came two Cardynalles from the court of Rome. fro the 〈◊〉 Celestine/ to treat of accord between the king of France & the king of England. And as the cardinals spoke of accord. Thomas turbeluyll was taken at Lions & made homage to the ward of Paris & put his sons in hostage/ & thought to go into England to aspye the country/ and tell them when he came to England that he had broken the kings prison of France by night & said that he would do that all englishmen & welshmen should about the king of France. And this thing for to bring to the end he swore/ & upon this covenant deeds were made between them/ and that he should have by year a thousand pounds worth of land. to bring this thing too an end. This false traitor took his leave/ & went thence and came into 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 and full glad was of his coming. ¶ And the falls traitor fro that day/ espied all the doing of the king and also his counsel/ for the king loved him full well and was with him full privy But a clerk of England/ that was in the kings house of France: herd of this treason/ and of the falseness/ & wrote to another clerk that though was dwelling with Edward king of England. all how thomas Turbeluyll had done his falls conjecting/ and all the counsel of england was write for to have send unto the king of France. And through the foresaid letter that the clerk had sent fro France it was found upon him. wherefore he was led to London & hanged & 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 into France for to treat of the peace of Cambroy the king sent thither of his Earls and barons. That is to say sir Edmonde his brother earl of Lancastre & of Lecetre sir Henry Lacie earl of Nicholl/ & wyllya● 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 Berewyk fled fro the Englyshmen. And went to the Scots. And king Edward went him toward Barwyk/ and besieged the town. And thoo that were within/ manly them defended and set a fire and brent two of king Edward ships/ and said in despite and reproof of him (wenyth king Edward with his long shankies too have get Berewyk all our unthanks gas pikes him/ and when he has done gas dikes him) when king Edward heard this scorn/ anon through his myghtynesse/ be passed over the dyches and assailed the town/ and came to the ya●es and gate and conquered the town/ and through his gratyous power slew xxv. thousand & vij hundred scots. & king Edward lost no man of renown sauffyr Richard of cornwall. & him killed a Fleming out of the red hall with a quarrel as the foresaid richard did of his helm. and commanded them for to yield them/ & put them in the kings grace. and the Scots would not wherefore that hall was brent and cast down. & 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 sir wyllyam Douglas & Symond Frysell and the earl patrick yielded them to the peace. But Ingham of Humlresmylle & Robert the Brus that were with. king Edward forsook king Edward & held with the Scots. And afterward they were taken & put into prison And thoo let king Edward close in Berewyk with walls & with dyches/ & after Robert Rous went to Tyndale/ & set wuyerbrydge a fire & Exham/ & Lamerstok and slew & robbed the folk of the country. And after that he went fro thence to Dunbatre. 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 too besiege the castle. But one that was called sir richard Sywarde a traitor and a falls man/ imagined for to beguile the englishmen/ And sent too the englishmen them for to deceive/ & said/ That he would yield to them the castle. if they would grant them viii days of respite/ that he might send & tell too Sir johan Baylol that was king of scotland/ how his men fared that were within the castle/ ¶ And send him word but/ if he would remene the siege of the english men/ that they would yield the castle unto the english men. ¶ The messenger thoo came to sir Iohn Baylol that thoo was king of scotland where that he was with his host/ and the messengre told him all the case/ And sire Iohn 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 & keeper of the castle & said unto the englishmen Osayd he. now Ise a fair company & well appareled I will go against them/ and with them too meet/ and them assaylle And sir Hugh Spenser saw the falseness of him and the treason. and said to him O traitor take and prove your falseness shall not avail you. And Hugh Spencer commanded anon to bind him. and all in haste went against their enemies/ & slew of the Scots xxii thou sand. For the Scots had the time no man with them of honour save Patryk Graham that manly fought/ & long and at the last he was slain. And thoo said the englishmen in reproof of the Scots (these scaterande Scots hold I for scots of wrenches unware. early in a morning in an evil tyming/ went ye fro Dunbare. ¶ As though the ware within the castle saw the scomfiture they yielded up the castle unto the englishmen. and bound their bodies gods and castles to king Edward. And so there were take in that castle three earls seven. barons. and xxxviii knights & xi clerks/ and vii Pycardys & 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 delyverede again the Scots out of prison that were cheyftayns of that land/ and they drew them to the frenchmen through couseyll of wyllyam waleys. AS king Edward had made though an end of the were. & taken the cheyfteyns of scotland. those came sir Iohn Baylol & yielded him unto king Edward/ & put him in his grace & he was led to London/ & when king Edward was come thither/ they were brought before him/ And the king axed how they would make amends/ of the trespaas and loss that they had done to him/ & they put heym 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 te me/ & never after this time against me bear arms. And all they consented to the kings will. & swore upon God's body. That is to say sir Iohn of Comyn. the earl of y● Strathorn/ the earl of Carryk/ & also four bishops undertook for all the clergy/ & so the king delivered them/ & gave them safe conduyt to go into their own land. And it was not long afterward that they nearyse again king Edward/ for cause that they wist well the king Edward folk was take/ in Gsacoyne/ as before is said But sir Iohn Baylol king of scotland wist well that his land should have sorrow and shame/ for their falseness. And in haste went him over see to his own lands & there he held him and came never again wherefore the Scots chose unto their king wyllyam waleys/ a rybaude and an harlot comen up of nought/ and moche harm did to the englishmen and king Edward thought how he might have deliverance of his people that were take in Gascoigne. And in haste went him over these in flanders for to were upon the king of France. And the earl of flanders received him with much honour & granted him all his lands at his own will. And when the king of France heard tell that the king of england was arrived in flanders and came with a great power him for to destroy. he prayed him of trewto for two year/ so that the english merchants and also French might saufly go & come in both sides. The king Edward geaunted it. 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. that sir Charles should come with his power & they of scotland would come with their power/ & so they should go into England/ the land to destroy from scotland unto they came to Kent. And the Scots trusted moche upon the frenchmen but of the thing they had no manner grant & nevertheless the Scots began to rob and kill in Northumberland/ & dydd 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 wylliam waleys had ordained such a strong power. and also that all scotland to him was attendant and ready for to ●lee Englyssh●e and to dystoye the land/ he was sore annoyed/ and sent anon by letter to th'earl of Garienne/ to sir Henry Perry & to wyllyam Latomer and too sire Hugh of Cressynham his cresorer that they should take power/ & go into Northumber/ land. & so forth into scotland. for too keep the countries and when wyllyam waleys heard of their coming. be began to flee & the englishmen him followed & drout him till he came to S●ryu●lyn & there he held him in the castle. And the welshmen every day them escryed & menaced/ and did all the dyspyer that they might so that the englishmen upon a time in a morning went out fro the castle/ the mountenance of ten mile's/ and passed over a bridge/ and wyllyam waleys came with a strong power/ and 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 flanders/ & was come again into England/ & in haste took his way into scotland/ & came thederat the ascension tide. & all that he found he set a fire & brent/ But the poor people of scotland came too him wonder thick & prayed him for goddies love/ that he would on them have Mercy and pity wherefore though the king commanded that no man should do them harm that were yoleden to him/ ne to no man of ordrene 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 too abide battle. And on saint Mary Mawdeleyns' 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 & no more. Of the which was a worthy knight slain that was a knight hospytylere that was called Frery brian jay. For when wyllyam waleys fled from the battle the same Frery brian him pursued fires lie/ & as his horse ran it start in a mire of a marsh up to the belly. and wyllyam waleys turned tho again and there slew the foresaid brian. and that was much harm. ¶ And that while king Edward went through 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 too 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 & laws he being in flanders. ¶ Of the last marriage of king Edward/ and how he went the third time into scotland. ANd after it was ordained through the court of Rome/ that king Edward should wed dame Margarete/ that was king Phylip sister of France. And the archbishop Robert of Winchelsea spoused them togethers/ through the which marriage there was made peas/ between king Edward of England & king Philip of France. ¶ King Edward went though the third time into scotland & tho within the first yfre 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 & stored for vii year ¶ How the castle of Estrevelyn was besieged and won. king Edward came to the castle of Estrevelyn with a huge power and besieged the castle/ but it little availed. for he might do the Scots none harm/ for the castle was so strong & well kept. & king Edward saw y● & bethought him upon a queyntesy. & 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. notwithstanding were he earl or Baron/ and 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 and mercy/ & the king foryaa● them all his male talon and there were all the great lords of scotland swore to king Edward/ that they should come to London to every parliament and should stand to his ordinance. ¶ How Troylebaston was first ordained THe king Edward went thence to London/ and wend to have had rest and peace of his war in which were he was occupied twenty year. that is to say in Gascoigne in wales and 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 Troillebaston and ordained thereto justices/ and in this manner he recovered treasure without number: And his purpose was for to have goon into the holy land/ to have warred upon god's 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 myshode. For thoo 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 kin ges' treasurer had complained on him & said the foresaid Edward through counsel & enticing of one Ganaston a squire of Gascoigne had broke y● parkꝭ of the foresaid bishop. & this Pers counseled & lad the same Edward & for the cause the king exiled his son out of England. ¶ Of the death of wyllyam waleys the false traitor. ANd when this king Edward had his enemies overcome in wales/ Gascoigne and scotland and destroyed his traitors/ all but only that ribald wyllyam waleys/ that never to the king would him yield/ and at the town of saint Domynyk. in the year of king Edward regne xxxiii the falls traitor was take & presented to the king But the king would not see him/ but sent him to London to receive his judgement: and upon saint Barthylme●s eve was he hanged and draw/ & his hedesmyte of & his bowels take out of his body and brent/ & his body quarteres and sent unto four of the best towns of scotland/ & his heed put upon a spear. and set upon London bridge. 〈◊〉 ensample that the Scots should have in mind for to do a miss against their lyege lord eftsoons. ¶ How the Scots came to king Edward for too amend their 〈◊〉 they had done against him. ANd at Mygkelmas though next coming king Edward held his parliament at westmester & thy●●● came the scots/ that is to say the bishop of saint andrewes: Robert the Brus earl of caryk. Symonde Frysell/ Iohn the earl of Athell & they were accorded with the king & bound & by oath swore/ that they afterward if any of them mysbare them against king Edward that they should he disherited for evermore. And when their peace was thus made they took their leave privily/ & went horn into scotland/ ¶ How Robert Brus challenged scotland. SO after this Roberte the Brus Earl of Caryk scent by his letters to the Earls and barons of scotland that they should come too him to Scone in the morrow after the Conception of our lady for great ●edis 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/ yts in my person dwelled the right of the ream of scotland/ & as ye wot well I am rightful heir. sith that sir Iohn baylol that was our king us hath forsake/ & left his land. and though it so be that king Edward of England with wronfull power hath made me too him assent against my will/ if that ye will grant that I may be king of Scotland I shall keep you against king Edward of enlonde/ & against all manner men/ & with that 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 thousand pound for to maintain the land. & all the other granted the land to him/ & with theridamas power him for to help/ & defied king Edward of England. & said that Robert Brus/ should be king of England. ¶ How sir Iohn of Comyn against said the crowning of sir Robert Brus. lordings said sir Iohn of common. 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 Roberte the Brus & all though y● to him consented were wroth/ & menaced sir Iohn of comyn though ordained they another counsel at Dumfris too which came the foresaid sir Iohn of Comyn/ for he dwelled but two mile fro Dumfris. there he was wont to sojourn and abide. ¶ How sir Iohn was traytonrsly slain SO when Robert the Brus wist that all the great lords were come of scotland to Scone/ safe Sir Iohn Comyn that sojourned thonygh scon he sent specially after the said sir Iohn to come and speak with him/ And upon that he came & spoke with him at the grey freres in Dumfris & that was the thursday after Candelmasse day. & sir Iohn granted to go with him. And when he had herd mass/ he took a sop and drank & afterward he bestrode his palfroy & road to Dumfris/ when Robert the Brus saw him come at a window as he was in his chambre made joy enough/ & came against him/ & colled him about the neck/ & made with him good semblant. And when all the earls & barons of scotland were there present Robert the Brus said sirs ye wot well the cause of this coming & wherefore it is. if ye will grant that I be king of scotlonde as right heir of the land. And all the lords that were there said with on voys. that he should be crowned king of Scotlond. & that they would him help & maintain against all manner men on live/ & for him if it were need to die/ the gentle knight though Iohn of Comyn answered Certes never for me. ne for to have of me asmuch help as the value of a boton. 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 & would alight upon his palfroy. & Robert Brus pursued him with a drawn sword/ & bore him through the body & sir Iohn Comyn fell down unto the earth. But when Roger that was sir Iohn Comyns brother saw the falinesse. 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 sir Robert the Brus so that robert Comyn was there slain & all to hearen in to pieces. & Robert the Brus turned again there that sir johan Comyn the noble baron lay wounded. and pyved toward his death/ beside the high altar in the church of the grey freres/ and said unto sir Iohn Comyn O traitor thou shalt be deed/ and never after let mine advancement/ and shaken his sword at the high altar. and smote him on his heed/ that the brain fell down upon the ground/ and the blood start on high upon the walls/ and yet unto this day is that blood seen there/ that no water may wash it away. And so died that noble knight in holy church. ANd when this traitor Robert the Brus saw. that no man would let his coronation/ he commanded all them that were of power should come unto his crowning to saint johans' town in scotland. And so it befell upon our lady day the Annunciation. the bishop of Glaston & the bishop of saint Andrew's crowned for their king this Robert the Brus in saint johans' town/ & made him king. And anon after he drove all th'Englishmen out of scotland. And they fled. & came & complained them unto king Edward/ how the Robert the Brus had drive them out of the land/ and disherited them. ¶ How that king Edward dubbed at westminster xxiiij score knights. ANd when king Edward heard of this mischief/ he swore that he should be avenged 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 whitsuntide/ & he dubbed at westminster xxiiij score knights ¶ Thom ordained the noble king Edward for to go into scotlonde/ to were upon Robert the Brus/ And sent before him into scotland sir Aymer the valance earl of Penbroge. & sir Henry Percy baron with a fair company/ that pursued the Scots & brent towns & castles. and afterward came the king himself with earls/ and barons a fair company. ¶ How Robert Brus was discomfited/ in battle/ & how Symonde Fryselle was slain. THe Friday next before the Ass●s̄cyon of our lady king Edwarde met Robert Brus beside saint johans' town in scotland & with his company/ of the which company king Edward slew vij thousand/ when Robert Brus saw this mischief he begun to flee/ & hid him that no man might him find/ But sir Symonde Frysell pursued him sore/ so that he turned aren & aboode battle/ for he was a worthy knight and a bold of body. And then glysshmen pursued ever sore in every side & slew the stead that sir Symonde road upon/ & they took him/ & lad him unto the host. And sir Symonde begun for to flatter & speak fair/ and said lords I shall give you four thousand mark of silver/ mine horse/ harness and all mine armour/ & become a beggar. though answered Theobaude of Pevenes that was the kings archer. Now so god me help it is for nought that thou spekeste. For all the gold in England I would not let y● 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 away/ to have his doom at London. & on our lady's eve nativity he was hanged & draw & his heed smite of. & hanged again with chains of iron upon the gallows. And his heed was set upon London bridge upon a sperr● & against Crystemasse the body was brent because that the men/ that kept the body by night they saw so many devils ramping with great yren hooks/ running upon the gallows & horrible tormented the body. & many y● them saw anon after they died for dread/ & some waxed mad/ or sore sickness they had. and 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 Iohn th'earl of Alethes was taken and put to death. ANd at that battle fled sir johan earl of Alethes/ & 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 a general sentence/ and in the same church he was taken. And this sir Iohn went well too have scaped fro the death/ for cause that he claimed kindred of king Edward. And the king would no longer be betrayed of his traitors but sent him to london in haste. & there was hanged and his heed smit of/ and his body brent all to ashes. But at the prayer of the queen Margarete/ for cause that he claimed of king Edward kindred/ his drawing was foryeve him. ¶ How Iohn that was wyllyam waleys brother was put to death. AS the greatest masters of scotland were thus done to evil death/ and destroyed for their falseness. johan. that was wyllyam waleys brother was take and done unto death. as sir johan earl of Alehes was. ¶ How Robert the Brus fled from scotland to Northway. ANd at that same time was Robert the Brus much hated among the people of scotland/ so that he wist not what he was best to do and for to hide him he went to Norway to the king that had spoused his sister. & there held him succour for to have. and Robert the Brus might not be found in scotland. So king Edward though let cry his peace through out all the land/ and his laws were used/ & his ministries served through out all the land. ¶ How king Edward died. SO as king Edward had abated his enemies turned southward. and sykned at Burgh upon sand in the march of scotland. and called too him Henry Lacie earl of Nichol. syrguy 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 into 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 Henry's sone. OF this king Edward prophesied 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 sternness. 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 & 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 fierceness/ with mercy against his enemies of wales/ & after of Scotland w●th fyernesse/ when he put them to death for their falseness/ & traitorously as they had deserved. And well keeped he englonde from cold & 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 toward Wales/ & made it quake through hydour of his mouth/ when he conquered it through dint of sword. For the prince Lewelyn & david his brother. Ris and Morgan. were put to death through their falseness and their folly/ And he set his foot into wyk/ & conquered Berwyk at the which conquest were slain xxv thousand & 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 in the life of sir Edward of Carnarvan his son And yet said merlyn 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 northwest 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 se for dread of the dragon without coming again. & that was proved by sir Iohn Baylol that king Edward made to be king of Scotland. that falsely arose against him. & after he fled to his own londꝭ of France/ & never he came again in to scotland for dread of king Edward: And yet said Merlin: the 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 Iohn bayllol was fled. And Merlin said the son should become in his time as red as any blood in tokening of great morta light 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 w●re against him/ that should not in his time be ended/ & that seemed well by Robert the Brus. that king Edward nourished in his chambre that sithen stale away & moved great were against him which were was not ended in his time And yet said Merlin that the dragon should dep in the march of an other land/ & that his land should be long without a goo●● keeper. And that men should weep for his death from the isle of Shephey unto y● yle of Mercyll/ wherefore alas shall be their songeamonge the common people father/ les 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 where the englishmen were discomforted and sorrowed in Northumberland/ For cause that king Edwardes son set 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 y● yle of Shephey unto the isle of Marcill the people mad more/ the sorrow for good king Edward's/ death. ¶ For they wend that good king Edward should have gone into the holy land/ For that was holy his purposes/ ¶ Upon whose soul god for his high & Ingynyte grace have mercy. ¶ Anno dm. M. C.C.lxxxii.ij. CElestnus was pope after Nicholas five months/ and nothing noble of him is written/ but that he was a virtuous man. ¶ Bonefacius 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 materes/ 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. & many things he did with his might & power. the which failed wret chydly in the end/ He gave an ensample to all prelates that they should not be haut ne proud. but under the form of a very shepherd of god. they should more study for to be loved of their 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 hundred year to an houndred year. And the first jubilee was in the year of our lord Ihu 〈◊〉 a thousand three hundred. ¶ Benedictus the eleventh was after Bonefacius eleventh months. this man was an holy man of the order of the frere preachers/ & little while lived/ b●t deceased anon. ADulphus was Emperor vi years/ This man was the earl of Anorone/ And this Adulphus was not crowned by the pope/ for he was slain in battle. & Albertus was Emperor after him ten year. This man was the Duke of Astrye and first was reproved of the pope/ and after was confirmed by the same pope/ for the malices of the kynke of France/ the which was an enemy unto the church. And to that Albert the same pope gave the kingdom of France/ as he did 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/ & he ordained the vii 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 his successary Iohn called again & in incorporyd it & published it. This Clement first of all pope's translated the pope's seat fro Rome to Avignon/ & whether it was done by the motion of god. or by the boldness of man/ divers men marvel. ¶ Iohn the xxii was pope after him viii year. This man was all glorious/ as for those things that were to be used through the active life. And he publyshid the Constitutions of the clementines/ & sent them to all the unyersi tees. And many saints he canonized & these fat bishoprics he divided & he ordained many things against the plurality of benefices/ & many heretics he dampened/ but whether he was saved or not our lord would not show to those he loved very well. ¶ Henry the vii was emperor after Albert .v. year/ this Henry was a noble man in were. and he coveted too have peas 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 Carnarivan/ and this Edward went him into France and there he spoused Isabella the kings daughter of France. the xxv day of januari atte the church of our Lady at Boloyne in the year of our lord Ihu christ M.CCC.vii. And the twenty day of Feverer the next y●ere that came after/ he was crowned solemnly at westmestre of the archbishop of Caunterbury. And there was so great press of people. that sir Iohn Bakwell was slain & murdered And anon as the good king Edward was deed. sir Edward his son king of England. sent after pers Ganaston into Gascoigne/ and so much loved him/ that he called him brother. And anon after he gave unto him the lordship of walyngforde. & it was not long after that be ne gave him therldom of cornwall against all the lords will of England. ¶ And though brought sir walter of langeton bishop of Chestre into prison & durance. in the tour of London. with two knaves alonely him to serve. For the king was wroth with him/ for because that sir water made complaint on him too his father/ wherefore he was put in pryion in the time of Troylebaston & the foresaid Pers of Ganaston made so great maystryes. that he went into the kings treasury in the abbey of westminster/ & took the table of gold with the trestyls of the same/ & many other rich jewels/ that sometime were y● no& good king Arthur's/ & took them too a merchant that was called ameri of Fris conhande/ for he should bear them over that set into Gascoigne. and so he went thence and they came never again after. wherefore it was a great loss to this land. And when this Peers was so richly auaunsyd/ he became so proud and so stout. wherefore all the great lords of the ●ea me haddthym in despite 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 Peers of Ganaston should not come into England for to bring his son Edward intory of. And all the lords of England assemble● he in a certain day at the free●pre cheers at London/ And there they spoke/ of the dishonour that king Edward. did to his ream and to his crown and so they assented all/ both earls and barons/ and all the comyne that the foresaid Peers of Ganaston should be exiled out of England for ever more/ and so it was done/ For he forswore Englond and went into ireland/ and there the king made him cheyfteyne/ and governor of the land by his commystion. And there this Peers 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 erylyd thru all cristiantee. for because that men 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 forbear his company. And so much the king gave and behighted too the people of England that the exiling of the foresaid Peers should be revoked at Stamforde/ through them that him had exiled/ wherefore Peers of Ganaston came again into England/ And when he was come again into his land he despised the greatest lords of this land/ And called sir Robert Clare Et le of Glouce●re horesone. And the Earl of Nicholl sir Henry Lacie brustenbely/ and sir Guy earl of Warwyk the black hound of Arderne: And also he called the noble Earl Thomas of Lancastre churl. and many other scorns and shamies them said/ and many other great lords of England wherefore they were toward him full angry and wroth and ryghtsore annoyed. And in the same time died the Earl of Nychall. But he charged 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 also of the Earl of Warwyk that the foresaid sir Peers was herds at gaversich beside warwick in the nineteen. day of june. in the were 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 of the foresaid Peers/ ¶ And so it befell afterward as ye shall here Alas the time. for the foresaid earl of Lancastre/ & many other great barons were put to piteous death. and martyred for cause of the foresaid quarrel. The king was tho at London. & held a parliament & ordained the laws of Symonde Mounforde/ wherefore the earl of Lancastre/ & the earls & all clergy of England. made an oath through counsel of Robert of wynchelse for to maintain the ordinances for ever/ ¶ How Roberte Brus came again into scotland & gathered a great power of/ men for were upon king Edward. ANd when sir Robert the Brus that made him king of scotland/ that before was fled into Norway for dread of death of the good king Edward. And also he heard of the debate that though was in England between the king and his lords. he ordained an host and came into England in to Northumberlonde/ and cleave destroyed the country. ¶ And when king Edward heard this tidings he let assemble his host & met the Scots at Edstrevelyn in the day of the nativity of saint Iohn Baptist in the third year of his regne/ & in the year of our lord. M.CCC. & xiiij Alas the sorrow & loss that there was done For there was slain the noble earl Gylbert of clare sir Robert Clyfforde baron & the king Edward was discomfited & Edmond of maul the kings Steward for dread went & drowned himself in a fresh river that is called Bamnokysborne wherefore they said in represies of king Edward for asmuch as he loved to go by water/ & also for he was discomfited at Bamnokysborne/ therefore the maidens made a song thereof in the country of king Edward. & in this manner they song Maidens of Englond sore may ye morn/ for tyzt have lost your lemans at bamnokysborne/ with hevelogh. what weeneth the king of england to have goat Scot land/ with rombylogh) AS king Edward was dyscoz fyted/ wonder sore & fast he fled with his folk that were left alive & went unto Berwyk/ & there held him. & after he took hostages two 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/ y● though was in England a rybande. that was called Iohn Tanner. And he go & said that he was the good king Edwardes son & let him call Edward of Carnartuā 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 Iohn lad to Northampton/ & drawn & hanged for his falseness & or that he was deed he confessed & said before all though that were there. y● the devil behyght him that he should be king of england & that he had served the devil three year. ¶ How the town of Berewyk was take through treason/ & how two Cardynales were robbed in England. ANd on myddyll lent sunday. in the year of our lord. M.ccc.xvi. Berwyk was lost through false treason of one Pers of Spalding. the which Pe er the king had put there. for to keep the same town with many burgesses of the same town/ wherefore the children that were put in hostage through the burgesses of Berewyk followed the kings marchalse many days fettered in strong yrens. And after that time came two Cardynalles int●● England/ as the pope had them sent for to make peace between England & scotland. And as they went toward Durham/ for to have sacred master Low is of Beaumont bishop of Durham they were take & robbed 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. & the same time befell many mischiefs in Englonde/ for the poor people died in England for hunger/ and so much and so fast died/ that uneath men might bury them For a quarter of whese was at xl shillings. and two years and an half a quarter of wheat was worth ten mark. and ofttyme the poor people stole children and eat them/ and eat also the hounds that they might take: and also horse & cats And after there fell a great murreyne a 'mong beasts in divers countries of England. during king Edward lives tyme. ¶ How the Scots robbed Northumberlonde. ANd in the same time came the Scots again into England & destroyed Northumberlonde/ and brent that land/ and robbed it/ and slew men women and children that lay in their cradyls/ and brent also holy church/ and destroyed cristendome/ and took and bare Engl●●● men's gods/ as they had been sara●●● 〈◊〉/ or paynims. And of y● wickydne●●● 〈◊〉 they did/ all the world spoke 〈◊〉. ¶ How the Scots would not amend their trespass. and therefore scotland was interdicted. SO pope Iohn the xxii after saint Petyr heard of the great sorrow and mischief 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 lead unto the archbishop of Caunterbury. & to tharche● bishop 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. & also to restore the goods that they had taken of holy ch●● che/ that the sentence should be pronounced through out all England. And when the Scots heard this/ they would not leave their malice/ for the pope's commandment wherefore Robert that Beus. James Douglas & Thomas Radulf earl of Moref & all though y● with them comyned or them help in word ordede/ were accursed in every church through out all England every day at mass three times. & no mass should be song in holy church through out all scotland but if the Scots would make restitueyon of the harms that they had made unto holy church wherefore many agoode pressed and holy men therefore were slain through the ream of Scotland/ because they would not sing mass against the polies commandment and against his will/ & 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 afterward/ that the king ne ordained a parliament at Borke/ And there was sire/ Spensers' son made Chambrelayne. And the mean time while the were lasted/ the king went again into 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 steel away by night/ & came into england/ & robbed & destroyed all that they might/ & 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 Scots at Myton up small the xii. day of Octobre. Alas for sorrow/ for the english husband men that could nothing of the were that there were killed & drowned in an arm of the see. And the cheyfteynes sir wyllyam of Melton archbishop of Yorbe & the abbot of selby with their steeds fled/ & came to york/ and that was their own folly/ that they had that mischance. For they passed the water of Small. & the Scots set a fire the stacks of hay/ & the smoke thereof was so huge/ that the englishmen might not see the Scots/ And whann the englishmen were goon over the water though came the Scots with their wing in manner of a shield/ and came toward the englishmen in array. And the englishmen fled. for uneath 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 thenglyssmen/ And when the great host them met/ the english men fled between the hobilers and the great host. And the englishmen almost were there slain/ and he that might go over the water were saved/ but many were drowned. Alas for there were slain/ many men of religion/ seculars priests and clerks/ with moche sorrow tharch bishop escaped. and therefore the Scots called that battle the white battle ¶ How king Edward did all manner thing that sir Hugh Spenser would. Now as king Edward heard this tidings he removed his siege trom Berwyk & came again into england. But sir Hugh Spenser that was the kings Chamberlain. kept so the kings chamber. that no man myzte speak with the king. But he had made with him a fret for to do all his nedet & that over me sure. And this Hugh bore him so stewte that all men had of him scorn & despite. & the king himself would not be governed/ ne ruled by no manner of man but only by his father & by him. And if on● knight of England had woods maneyrs or lands that they would covet and ne the king must give it them. or else y● man that aught 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 England saw the great covetise & falseness of sir Hugh Spenser the father and of sir Hugh the son/ they came to the gentle Earl of Lancastre/ and 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 a pryne assemble. at Shirburne in Elmede & they made there an oath/ for to brebe & dystrouble the daing between the king & sir Hugh Spenser & his son upon their power. And they went in to the march of wales. & destroyed the land of the foresaid sir Hughes. ¶ How sir Hugh Spenser and his father were exiled out of England. SO when king Edward saw the great harm & destruction y● the barons of Englond did unto sir Hugh Spensers' land. & too his son in every place that they came upon the king though through his counsel exiled sire Monbraye. sir Roger Clyfforde/ and sir Gosselyn devil. & many other lords that were to them consent/ wherefore the barons did 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 green cloth. & thereof the right quarter was yellow. with white bends/ wherefore the parliament was called the parlement of the white bend. & in the company was sire Humphrey de bo hounes earl of Herford & sir Roger Cliftorde. sir Iohn Monbray. sir Gosselyn devil. sir Roger Mortmer vn●●e of sir Roger Mortemer of wygmore. sire Henry of Trays sir Iohn Gyffarde & sir Barthilmew of Badelest emore that was the kings steward. that the king had sent to Shirborne in Elmede to the earl of Lancastre/ & to all that with him were for to treat of accord/ that him allied to the barons/ & came with the company & sire Roger Dammory & sir Hugh Dandale that had spoused the kings neres lyster. & 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 gloucester. & sir Hugh Spenser had the third party in his wives half/ the tyyrde sister and thoo 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 Iohn mombray. sir Goselyn Da●yll. sire Rogere Mortymer of work. sir Rogere Mortymer of wykmore his nephew. sir Henry Trals sir Iohn Gyffarde. sir Barthilmewe 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. y● both sir Hugh Spenser the father & also the sone/ were outlawed of England for evermore. And so sir Hugh the father went unto Dovere & made moche sorrow/ & fell down upon the ground by the see bank. a cross with his arms/ and sore wiping said Now fair England & good england to almighty god I thee betake. And ther● es kissed the ground & venyd never to have come again. & weeping cursed the time that ever he begat sir Hugh his son. and said for him he had lost all England And though in presence of them all ● were about him gave him his curse/ & went over see to his lands. But Hugh the sone would not go out of England but held him in y●●ee. & he & his company robbed two drum doors beside Sand 〈◊〉 & took & bore away all the gods that was in them to the value of lx M.li ¶ How the king exiled earl Thomas of Lancastre & all that held with him & how the Mortimer came & yielded him to the king/ and of all the lords. IT was not long after that the king ne made sir Hugh Spenser the father/ & sir Hugh the sone come eyes 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 Ledis. and in the castle was the lady of Bladelesmore/ for cause the she would not grant that castle to the queen Isabella king Edward's wife but the principal cause was/ for syrr Berthylme we was against the king/ and held with the lords of Englond. & nevertheless the king by help & succour of men of London/ and also of help of southerens men gate the castle maugre of thez all that were within/ 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 Burggeworth with strength. wherefore the king was wonder wroth/ and let outlaw Thomas of lancaster/ & Vmfroy de Bohoun●erle of Herford & all though that were assenting to the same quarrel. And the king assembled an huge host/ & came against the lords of England/ wherefore the Mortmers put them in the kings grace. And anon they were sent to the tour of London & there kept in prison. And when the barons heard this thing/ they came to pountfret there that the earl Thomas sojourned & told him how the Mortimers 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 their company & greatly they were discomfited/ and ordained their power together. & besieged that castle of Tykhyll/ but though that were within manly defended them/ that the barons might not get the castle. & when the king herd that his castle was besieged he swore by god & by his names. that the siege should be removed. & assembled an huge power of people/ & went thitherward to rescue the castle. & his power increased fro day to day. when the earl of Lancastre & the Earl of Herforde & the barons of their company herd of this thing they assembled all their power & went then too 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 and the Spen●er●. sir Aymer valance earl of Penbroke/ & Iohn earl of Arun/ dell & their power/ went over the water and discomfited th'earl Thomas and his company. And they fled to the castle of Tetbury/ & from thence they went to Pountfret. and in that viage died sire Roger Daumore in th'abbey of Tetbury. And in the same time the earl thomas had a traitor with him that was called Robert Holonde a knight. that the earl had brought up of nought/ & had nourished him in his butrye. & had give him athousand 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 and low/ & 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 into the earldom of Lancastre/ to make men arise to help him in that viage/ That is to say .v. hundred men of arm is. But the falls traitor came not there: no manner men for to warn ne for to make arise to help his lord. And when that the falls traitor heard tell that his lord was discomfited at Burton upon Trent. as a falls traitor thief. steel away/ and robbed in Ravensdele his lords men that came fro the scomfyture. And took of thezhors and harness/ and all that they had and slew of them all that they might take/ and came and 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 god how might robert Holonde find in his heart me 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/ rather than he that he trustyth most upon. he hath full evil yielded me mi goodness & the worship that I have to him done. & through my kindness have him advanced and 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 Lancastre. Hunfroy de Bohounes earl of Herford/ & the barons that with them were took counsel between them at the frere preachers in Pountfret. though thought Thomas upon the traitor Robert Holonde. & said in reproof/ Alas Robert Holond hath me betrayed/ aye is the red of some evil shred. And by the common assent they should all go to the castle of Dunstanbrughe/ the which pertained to therldo●● of Lancastre/ & that they should abide there till that the king had foryeve them his male talon. ¶ But when the good earl Thomas this herd/ he answered in this manner & said. Lords said he/ if we go toward the North/ the Northern men will say that we go toward the Scots/ & so we shall be holden traitors/ for cause of distance that is between king Edward and 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 myn own castle at Pountfret/ ¶ And when/ sir Roger Clyfford heard this he arose up anon in wrath. & drew his sword on high/ & swore by god almighty and by his holy names/ but if that he would go with them/ he should him slay there. the noble & gentle earl Thomas of Lancastre was sore afeard & said. Fair sires I will go with you whether some ever. ye me bid. though went they together in to the north/ and with them they had seven. C. men of arms/ & came to Burbrig 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 and his company at Burton upon trent/ be ordained him a strong power/ and sy● symonde ward also/ that was though the sheriff of York/ and met the barons at burbrug. & anon they broke the bridge that was made of tree. ¶ And when sir Thomas of Lancastre. herd that 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 that king. is lad & misgoverned by moche falls counsel. through sir Hugh Spenser the father & sir Hugh his son: sir Iohn earl of Arundel/ & through master Roberte Baldok a falls pilled clerk. that now is in the kings come dwelling/ wherefore I pray you that ye will come with us with all your power that ye have ordained and help to destroy the venom of Englond. & 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 with out your counsel/ & so ye shall be eft as well with us as ever was Robert Holonde though answered sir Andrew of Herkela & said sir Thomas that would not I do ne consent thereto for no manner thing with out the will & commandment of our lord the king/ for them should I be holden a traitor for ever more. 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 venymme 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. & more than any of you hold us now/ and in worse death ye shall die than e●er did any knight of England. And understand well/ that ye died never thing/ That sorer ye shall you repent. And now go and do what you good lykyth/ and I will put me into the mercy of god. And so went the falls traitor tyrant as a falls forsworn man For through the noble Earl Thomas of lancaster/ he received the arms of chivalry/ & through him he was made a knight. though might men see archers draw them in y● one side & in that other & 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 cristendome/ stood & fought with his enemies upon the bridge. and as the noble lord stood & fought upon the bridge a thief rybaude skulked under the bridge/ and fiercely with a spear. smote the noble knight into y●●ūdement/ 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/ & well and worthily him defended as a noble baron. But at the last he was sore wounded in his heed/ And sir wyllyam of Sullayande. & sir Roger of Benefelde were slain at that battle. when sir Andrew of Herkela saw that sir Thomas men of Lancastre/ lassed and 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 truth/ than yield us unto you. And sire Andrew again 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 tomysdo Thomas body of lancaster/ And with that word the good earl thomas go into the castle/ and said kneeling upon his knees and turned his visage toward the cross & said almighty god to the I yield/ & holy I put me unto thy mercy. and with that the vylaines and ribalds leapt about him on every side as tyrants and wood tormentors/ & despoiled him of his armour and clothed him in a rob of ray/ that was of his squires livery/ and forth lad him unto York by water. though might men see moche sorrow and care For the gentle knights fled on every side & the ribalds and the villains egerlye. th●● dyscryed/ & cried on high yield you traitors yield you. & when they were yelden they were robbed and bound as thiefs. Alas the shame and despite that the gentle order of knighthood had there at that battle. And the land was tho without law/ For holy church had though no more ereverence than it had be a burdell house/ And in that battle was the father against the sone● and the uncle against the nephew. For so much unkindness/ was never seen before in England/ as was 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 Danys/ some Pehypes/ some frenchmen some/ Normans/ some: spaniards/ some/ romans/ some/ Henaude/ soom flemings and other divers nations the which nations accorded not too the kind bloodeof 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 Monbrey sir wyllyam Tuc● it. sir wyllyam fitz wyllyam/ and many other worthy knights there were take at that battle & sir Hugh Dandell next day after was taken and put into prison/ & should have be done to death if he had not spoused the kings niece/ that was earl Gylbertes sister of Gloucestre/ & 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 & baronets. wherefore was made noche sorrow. ¶ How Thomas of Lancastre was he did at Pountfret/ & .v. barons hanged/ and drawn there. ANd now I shall tell you of the noble earl Thomas of Lancastre. when he was take & brought to york/ many of the city were full glad and upon him cried with an high voys O sire traitor/ ye be welcome. blessed be god for now ye shall have the reward/ the 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 scomfiture/ & was full glad & joyous/ & in great haste came to Pountfret. & sir Hugh Spenser. & sir Hugh his son/ and 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 into the castle/ & sir andrew of Herkela a falls tyrant through the kings commandment took with him the gentle earl. Thomas too 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 and 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 justicies that the king should put upon him points of treason. And so it befell that he was led to bar before the kings justices bareheed as a thief/ in a fair hall in his own castle that he had made therein many a fair feste. both to rich & too poor: ¶ And these were his justices sir Hugh Spenser the father. & Aymer of valance earl of Penbroke sir Edmonde of woodstock earl of Kent/ sir Iohn of britain earl of Rychemonde & sir ●obert Malemethrop justice & sir Robert him accused in this manner. ¶ Tho●mas 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 & by ●aynt Thomas/ I was never traitor/ ¶ The justice said again tho. Thomas our lord the king puttythe upon you that ye have robbed his folk and murdered his people as a thief. Thomas also the king puttythe upon you that he discomfited you and your people with his folk/ in his own reame● wherefore. ye went and fled to the wood as annutlaw. and Thomas as a traitor ye shall be hanged by reason. but the king hath forgiven you the Iugemente● for love of queen Isabell. And Thomas reason would that ye should be hanged/ but the king hath foryeve you the judgement for by cause and 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 pre●s & bring him to his judgement. ¶ when thelgen till 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 blessydfull god answer. But all availed him no thing For y● 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 knight Thomas for very scorn an old chaplet that was all to rend/ that was not worth an half penny: And after that they set him upon a white palfroy full unseemly/ and also all bara/ with an old bridle/ And with an horrible noise they drove him out of the castle toward 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. & his hands held up on high toward heaven Now the king of heaven give us mercy for the earthly king hath us forsaken & a frere preacher went with him out of the castle till he came to the place that he ended 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 toward the east: but a ribald that was called Hygone of mostoon set hand upon the gentle Earl & said in despite of him Sir traitor torn the toward the Scots/ thy fowl death to receive/ & turned toward the North. The noble earl Thomas answered tho with a mild voys/ & said now fair lords I shall do your will. & 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 and reason. And traitorously the king was counseled/ when he through the falls counsell of the Spensers suffered sir Thomas his uncles son to be put to such a death/ and so be 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 and also his profit. For afterward there fell great vengeance in England. for because of the foresaid Thomas death. ¶ Whane the gentle earl of his life was passed. the prior and 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 & drawn/ for the same quarrel at Pountfret sir wyllyam Tuchet. sir wyllyam. Fitz wyllam. sir werreyn of isel. Sir Henry Bradborn/ & sir wyllyam chain barons all/ & Iohn page esquire. and soon after at York were drawn & hanged sir Roger Clyfforde/ sire Iohn of Mambray barons. & sir Goseline devil knight. ¶ And at Brystowe were drawn and hanged/ sir Henry of wemyngton/ & sir Henry Mountforde barons. ¶ And at Gloucetre were drawn and hanged. sir Iohn Gaffarde and sir wyllyam of Elmebrugge barons/ & at London were ganged & drawn Sir Henry Ties baron. ¶ And at wynchel see sye Thomas Clepepyr knight. And furthermore to tell of this cruel action at wyndsore was draw & hanged Sir francis waldenham baron/ & at Caunterbury was drawn and hanged Sire 〈◊〉 Badeles more and sir barthyl●ew of ash 〈◊〉 barons & at Cardyf in wales sir wyllyam Fleming baron▪ ¶ How king Edward went into scotland with an hundred thousand men of arms/ & might not speed. SO● when king Edward of England had brought the flower of chivalry unto their death. through sounsell & consent of sir Hugh Spenser the father/ & sir Hugh the sone/ he became as wood ● as any lion. and 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 wychestre & unto sir Andrew of Herkela thearldom of Cardoill● 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 Lancastre. And many other were disherited also/ because 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 false pilled clerk Chancellor of Englond. 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 into his own hand. And aswell they took the gods that were within holy church/ as the gods that were without/ & let them be put into his tresoury in London/ & let/ them call his forfeytes: And by their counsel the king wrought/ for ever more he dies heryted them that the gods ought & through their counsel let ●●er a t●legge of all the goods of England/ wherefore he was the richest king that ever was in England. after wyllyam Bastard that cuonquered 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 into scotland with an h●undred thousand men of arms at whitsuntide in the year of our lord Ihesu Christ. M.CCC.xxii. But the Scots went/ & hid them in mountains and in woods and tarried the englishmen fro day to day/ that the king might for no manner thing find them in plain field/ wherefore ma●● Englishmen that had little victuals died there for hungres wonder fast and suddenly in going and coming and namely though that had been against Thomas of Lancastre & robbed his men upon 〈◊〉 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 into England/ & anon after came james Douglas and also Thomas Rudulph with an huge host into England in to Northumberlonde/ & with them the englishmen that were driven out of England/ and came and robbed the country/ and slew the people/ and also bree● the town that was called Northallerton & many other towns to York. And wha● the king heard this tidings be let so moan all manner men that might traveyller. And so the englishmen met the Scots at the abbey of Beyg●elande the xu day after michaelmas. in the same year above said/ and the english men were there discomfited. And atte that scomfiture 〈◊〉 take Sir johan of britain earl of Rychmonde that held the country and the earldom of Lancastre and after he paid an huge ransom and was let god. And after that he went into France & came never after again. ¶ How sir Andrew of Herkelay was take & put to deth●y ᵗ was earl of Cardoil THen at the time was sir Andrew of Herkela/ that 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 at the abbey of Beyghlande. And when the false traitor had gathered all the people that he might and should have come to the king unto the abbey of Beyghelande/ the false traitor lad them by another country through Copelonde. & through th'earldom of Lancastre/ & went through ●he country & robbed & slew the folk all that he might And furthermore the false traitor had take a great so●●●e of gold & silver of sir jamys 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 Beyghlande or that he came f●yder. wherefore the king was toward him wonder wroth. & let privily inquire by the country about how that it was And some men inquired & espied/ so at the last that trough was found & sought And he atteynte & take as a falls traitor/ as the good earl Thomas of lancastre him told or that he was put unto death at his taking at burbrug. & to him said. Or the year were done he should be take & hold a traitor. And so it was as the holy man said. ¶ wherefore the king sent privily too sir Anthoyn 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 Cordoil & lad unto the bar in the manner of an earl worthily arrayed/ & with a sword gird about him/ & hosed and spurred. ¶ though spoke sir Authoyn in this manner sir Andrew said he the king putteth upon the for asmuch as thou hast be orpyd in thy deeds/ he did to the moche honour/ & made the earl of Cardoil● & thou as a traitor to thy lord. laddest the people of his country that should have holp him at the battle of Beyghelande/ and thou laddest them away by the country of copelonde/ and through the earldom of Lancastre wherefore our lord the king was discomfy●d there of the Scots through thy treason & falseness and if y● hadst come by times he had had the battle & treason thou diddest for the gre● sum of gold & silver that thou received of jamys Douglas a Scot the kings enemy And out lord the king will/ that the order of knighthood. by the which than received all thine honour and ●●●shyp upon thy body be all brought to nought and thine estate undoyne. that other knights of lower degree mow after be ware/ which lord hath the avaunted hugely in diverse countries of England and that all may take ensample by their lord afterward. truly for to serve. ¶ though commanded he anon a knave/ to hue of his spurs on his heels/ and after he let break the sword over his heed. the which the king gave him for too keep & defend his land therewith when he/ made him Earl of Cardoyll. And after he let him be unclothed of his furred taberd and of his hood/ and of his furred coats/ and of his girdle/ And when ne this was done/ sir Anthony said them ne unto him. Andrew said he Now art thou no knight but a knave/ & for thy treason the king will that thou shall be hanged and drawn & thy heed 〈◊〉 of/ and thy bowels take out of thy body & brent before thee/ & thy body quartered & thy heed sent to London/ & there it shall stand upon London bridge/ & the four quarters shall be sent to four towns of England/ that all other may beware and chastised by thee/ And as Anthony said/ so it was done all manner of thing in the last day of Octobre. in the year of grace M.iij. C.xxii year And the son turned in to blood as the people it saw/ & the dured from the morn till xi of the clock. ¶ Of the miracles that god wrought for saint Thomas of lancaster/ wherefore the king let closein the church doors of the priory of Pountfret/ 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/ & he should have his sight again & so he dreamed three nights sewing. and the priest let lead him to the same hill and when he came to that place that he was martyred on/ full devoutly he made there his prayers/ And prayed god & saint Thomas/ that he might have his sight again/ And as he was in his prayers he laid his right hand upon the same place that the good man was martyred on/ and a drop of dry blood and small sand cleaved on his hand/ & therewith striked his eyen. And anon through the might of god and 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 atte his tomb that is in the priory of Pountfret and prayed that holy martyr of succour & of help/ and god heard their prayer ¶ Also there was a young child drowned in a well in the town of Pountfret and was deed three days and three nights. And men came and laid the deed child upon 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/ & god sent them their mind again. through virtue of the holy man ¶ And god hath give there also to cry●●pyls their going/ & to crooked thyr hands and there feet/ & to blind also they● sight. & to manyseke folk there health of divers maladies for the love of this good martyr. ¶ Also there was a rich man in Coū●dom in Gascoigne and such a malady he had/ that all his right side rotted & fell away from him that men might see his liver & his herte● and so he stank/ that uneath they might come n●gh● him. wherefore his friends were for him wonder sorry. But at the last as god would. they prayed to saint Thomas of ●a castre/ that he would pray almighty god for that prisoner/ and be●yght 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 awoke and was all hole and his flesh was restored again that before was rotted and fallen away. 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 felowe●● & 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 wheresoever 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 did such Miracles for this holy man/ they nolde believe it in no manner wise/ but said openly/ that it was great he resye/ such virtue of him to believe. and when sir Hugh Spenser the sone saw all this doing/ anon he sent his messenger from Pountfret there that he dwelled to kin Edward that though was at graven at scypton/ for cause that the king should undo the pilgrimage/ And as the ribald the messenger went toward the king for to do his message/ he came by the hill there the good martyr was done to death. & in the same place he made his ordure/ & when he had done. he road toward the king & a strong flix came upon him or that he came to York/ & though he shed all his bowels at his fundment. And when sir Hugh Spenser heard this tidings/ somedeal he was adread/ & thought for too undo this pilgrimage if he● might by any manner a way/ & anon he went to the king/ & 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 their 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. & 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 sone/ & through counsel of master Robert Baldok y● falls pilled clerk. that was the kings chancellor. that king consented that they should be set to their wages/ & let make ward yn● over their 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 and his power and the great boos of miracles/ that he showed for his martyr saint Thomas through all christendom. And the same time that king made Robert of Baldok y● false pilled clerk. through prayer of sire Hugh Spenser son. was made Chaunseler of England. And in that 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 johan of Goldyngton knight and sir Edmonde of Becche prisoners were taken and sent unto the king to Pountfret. & there they were done in prison. and that for said Roger was sent unto York/ & there he was drawn & hanged. And anon after sir Roger Mortymer of wygmo● broke out of the tour of London in this manner. The foresaid Roger he●de that he should be draw and hanged at London in the morrow after saint Laurence day & on the day before he held a fair feast in the tour of London & there was sir Stephen Segrave constable of the tower & many great men with them. & when there should soup/ the foresaid Stephen sent for all the officers of the tower. & they came & souped with him/ And when they should take there leave of him. a squire that was called Stephen. that was full privy with the foresaid Rogere through his counsel. gave them all such a drink that the least of them all sleep two days & two nights. & in the mean time he escaped away by water/ by the Thames/ & went over the see & held him in France. wherefore the king was sore annoyed/ & put the same Stephen out of his Constabelery. ¶ 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 Chancellor. let seize thoo all y● 〈◊〉 lands into his hands. and also all the lands that were sir Edwardes his son. & 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 seal. that he should come at a certain day to do his homage/ & thereto he so ●oned him. & else he should lose all Gascoigne. And so it was ordained in england through the king & his counsel/ the queen Isabella should go into France/ for to treat of peace between her lord and her brother. & the Oliver of Yngham should go into Gascoigne/ & have with him seven. M. men of arms & moo/ to be Seneschal & warden of Gascoigne. and so it was ordained that queen Isabella/ came into France & with her went sir aymer of valance earl of Penbroke. that was there murdered suddenly in a prevysege/ but that was through god's vengeance for he was one of the justicies that consented to saint Thomas death of Lancastre & would never after repent him of that wicked deed. & at the time sir Oliver of Yngham went over into Gascoigne/ & did moche harm to the king of France & 〈◊〉 he gate again the king Edward had lost. & much more thereto. ¶ How king Edward sent sir Edward his son the eldest into France. THe queen Isabella had but a quarter of a year dwelled in France when sir Edward her eldest son axed leave though for to go into France/ for to speak with his mother/ Isabella the queen/ & his father the king granted him with a good will/ & said to him go my fair son in God's blessing & mine/ & think for to come again as hastily as y● may/ And he went over the see into France & the king of France his uncle received him with moche honour/ & said unto him/ Fair son ye be welcome/ & for by cause that your father come not to do his homage. for the duchy of Guyon/ as his auncetourrs were wont for to do. I give you that lordship to hold it of me in heritage as all manner ancestors died before 〈◊〉 wherefore he was called duke of Guyon ¶ How the king exiled his queen Ysabell & Edward her eldest sone. AS king Edward of England herd tell how the king of france/ had give the d●chye of Guyon unto sir Edward his sone● without consent and will of him & that his son had received the duchy he became wonder wraths & sent to his son by letter/ that they should come again into England in all y● haste that they might/ And the queen Isabel and sir Edward her son were wonder sore adread 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 Englond that they should be hold as our enemies/ both to the ream/ and also too the crown of England/ & for that they nolde come into England/ but both were exiled the mother and her some. ¶ when the queen heard these tidings▪ she was sore adread to be destroyed/ through the falls conjecting of the Spensers'/ & went with the knights that were exiled out of England/ for saint Thomas cause of lancaster/ his to say/ sir Roger of wig more. syr● wellyam Trussell/ sir Hohn of Cromwell/ & many other good knyghtrs. wherefore they took their counsel and ordained among them/ for to make a marriage between the duke of Guyenne the hinges son of England/ & the earls daughter of henaude/ that was a noble knight of name & a doughty in his tyme●● if the thing might be brought a bout/ then stood they trowing with the help of god & with his help to recover their heritage in England, wherefore they were put out through the falls conjecting of the Spensers. ¶ How king Edward through wunsell of the Spensers sent to the Douzepers' of France▪ that they should help that the queen Isabella & her son sire Edward were exiled out of France. AS kynge Edward & the Spensers' herd how the queen Isabella & sir Edward her son/ had allied these to the earl of Henaude/ & too 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 be the time & the counsel that ever ye consented that the queen Isabella should go into france/ for to treat of accord between the king of Englond & her brother the kynge of France for that was your costsell, for at that time forsooth your wit failed/ for I order me sore/ least through her & her son/ we shall be destroyed. but it we take the better counsell. ¶ Nowfayte sires understand/ how merueylo●● felony and falsehood the Spensers' imagined & castr. for privily they let fill five b●●●lles fercours with silver/ y● 〈◊〉 me amounted .v. M. pound. and they sent those barrels over see privily by an alyaunte/ that was called Arnold of Spain/ that was a broker of London That he should go to the Douzepers of France/ that they shalde 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 they were brought to the death as privily as they might but almighty god would not so/ for when this arnold was in the hyghse/ he was take with Slanders 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 taky●●ge. And at the last this Arnold privily steel away from thence. & came to Lond●̄ 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 ●ene● for to be/ & take these five barrels full of silver. that were sent to the douzepers of France for to slay you and your son Edward▪ and think you hastily for to go into England/ and take with you sire Iohn of Henaude my brother/ and v. hundred 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 flanders for her soldiers/ and ordained her every day for to go into england again/ And so the had in her company sir Edmonde of woodstock. that was earl of Kent. that was sir Edward's brother of England. ¶ How king Edward let keep the costs by the see. & let try all the price men of arms & foot men through England. AS king Edward herd tell the queen Isabella & Edward her son. would come into England/ with a great power of alyauntes. & with them that were outlawed out of england for therreb ellyousnesse. he was sore adread to be put down/ & for to lose his kingdom wherefore he ordained to keep his castles in wales as well as in England/ with ●ytaylles and their appareylles/ and let keep his rivers/ & also the see. And at the feast of Decolation of saint johan baptist th● Cytezyns of London sent to the king to Porchester an. C. men of arms. And also he commanded by his letters ordained/ that every hundred & wepentake of England/ too try as well men of arms as men on foot. & that they should be put in twenty some. and in an hundred some/ And commanded that all though men were ready when any shout or cry were made/ for to purpose & take the alyaun●s that came to England for to benon me him the land for to put him out of his kingdom/ And moreover he let cry through his patent in every fair & in every market of England/ that the queen Isabella & sir Edward his cloest son. & the earl of Kent. that they were take. & saufly kept without ●ny 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 Roger●s mortimer heed of wygmore. should have an hildred pound of money for his travail. ¶ And furthermore he ordained by his patent/ & ●dmaūded to make/ a fire upon every hill/ beside the rivers and u● low countries/ for too make high bechenesse of timber. That if it so were that the alients came unto land by night time that then the Inhabytaunties there abow●e should endevoyr themself in goodly haste/ to light & fire y● bek●nes/y● the country may be warned and come and meet their enemies. And in the time ●eyedlyt Roger Mortymer his vn●e in the tour of London. ¶ How the queen Isabella 〈◊〉 Edward duke of Guyenne her son came into London at her which/ & how they died. AS queen Isabella & sir Edward her son duke of Guyhenne sir Edward of woodstock earl of ●●nte/ & sir Iohn the earls brother of Hena●de & their company. dread no●●●● 〈◊〉 of the king/ ne of his traitors foe: 〈◊〉 trusted all in god is grace/ and came to Herewich in Southfolke y●. 〈◊〉 d●y of Septimbre/ & in the year of grace. 〈◊〉 xrv●. And the queen & sit Edward 〈◊〉 soon sent letters to the Mayor & co●●s nalte of London/ requyting them that they should be helpynge● y● qua●●● and cause that they had that is so say to destroy the traitors of the ●●ame▪ But none answers were sent aye●● Wherefore the queen and sy● Edward her to ●e seute another patent letter under th● scales the tenor of which letter here forlowyth in this manner. ¶ Isabella by the grace of god queen of Englond la●y of ireland/ & countess of Pountif/ and we Edward the eldest son of the king of Englond. duke of guyon/ ●le of chester of Pauntyf/ & of moush●●ll. to the Ma●re and to all the comynal●●● of the ryts of London lendyed greeting for asmoch● as we have before the sy●ue/●ent to po●● by our letters/ how we become into this land in good array and in good manner/ for the honour and profit of holy thir●he and of our dear lord the king & all the ●eame with all our might and power/ to keep/ and inayutrne● as we/ 〈◊〉 all the good folk of the foresaid ream are holden to do/ And upon that we pray you that ye w●ll be helping to us in as much as ye may in this quarrel the is for the comune profit of the foresaid ream/ & we have had to this time no●● answer of the foresaid letters/ ne know not your mind in the party. wherefore we send to you again & pray & charge you/ that ye best you so against us/ that we have no cause to grieve you/ but that ye been unto us help the ge by all the ways that ye may/ or may know/ For wit ye well in certain/ that we & all that be come with us into this ream/ think not to do any thing. but the thing that shall be for the common profit of all the ream/ but ●only to destroy Hugh Spenser our enemy/ & enemy too all the ream/ as ye it well know/ wherefore ye pray you/ & charge you in the faith that ye own unto our lyege lord the king & to us/ & upon all that ye shall mow for fayte again us. that if the said Spenser our enemy come within your power/ that ye do him hastily to be take/ and saufly kept until ye have ordained of him our will and that ye leave it not in no manner wise as ye desire honour & profit of us all and 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 us 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 tachyd upon the new cross in Cheap/ and many copies of the same letter were tacked upon windows & doors and upon other places in she 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 into the hall and said/ that the queen Isabella was come to loud at Here which. and hath brought in her company sir Iohn of 〈◊〉. & 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 & kynger 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 into the hall another messenger/ & said that the queen Isabella was arrived at Herewich beside ypswytche in Southfolke/ sir Hugh Spenser the father spoke to the messenger & said/ Tell such in good faith my fair friend: is she come with a great strength. Now certes that such for too say sir said the messenger. she ne hath in her company but vii houndred men of arms. And with the wordesyt Hugh Spenser the father cried with an high voice & said/ Alas alas we been all betrayed. for certes with so little powere she had never come to loud/ but if folk of this land were unto her consce●te. & therefore after there meet they to be counsel. & went toward wallys/ for to arere the welshmen against the queen Isabella & Edward her son/ all for to fight & so they were in purpose everichone. ¶ How master water Stapylton bishop of exeter that was the kings tres●ter/ was heeded at London. ANd in the same time king Edward was sore adredde/ least the men of London would yield them unto the queen Isabella/ And too her son Edward/ wherefore he set master 〈◊〉ter Stapylton his cresorer/ for to be 〈◊〉 deyne/ and keeper of the Cytre of London/ with the Mayrt/ And so came too the Gild hall of London: and axed the keys of the yates of the Cyte●/thr●ghe 〈◊〉 and strength of his 〈◊〉/ & would have had the keeping of the city And the 〈◊〉 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 so as 〈◊〉/ & swore othe●/y● they all should abye it anon as the king Edward were come out of wales. ¶ And the commoners all anon of the city took the bishop & lad him anon amids of the Cheap/ & there they smote of his heed & sethies heed in his right hand. & forth with the same comyns of the city of London by heeded two of his squires that held with the bishop/ & one of them was called wyllyam of wail/ that was the bishops nephew And that other was called Iohn of Pady●ton. And also they took a burgeys of London that was called Iohn Mershall. that was sir Hugh Spenser espy the father/ & sinote of his heed also/ And in the same time the bishop had in London a faith tower in making in his close/ upon y● tiver Tese that was without temple bar/ and he failed stone to make thereof an end and he commanded his men to go to the frere Carmes/ & there they took stone to make therewith the tour/ & moche sonde & mortar & old robous that was left. And for the despite that the bishop had done unto holy church/ he & his two squires were buried in that sonde. as though they had been hounds/ & there they lay xi weeks till that the queen Isabella sent her letters to the commoners/ & prayed them that they would suffer & 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 deth●. For he was a courytous man and had with him no mercy/ & evil counseled the king. And soon after was Arnold of Spain take. that assemyd too lead the .v. M.li of silver in five batelles' fetyers unto the douzepers of France/ for to help & haste the queen Isabella to her death. & Edward her son also. & this Arnold was put to death with out y● cytr. ¶ How king Edward and sir Hugh Spenser and the earl of Arundel were taken. AS king Edward had sent master walter Stapylton/ his treasurer into London/ for to keep the city unto him against the queen Isabella ●● wife/ & against Edward his son/ anon himself took with him sir Hugh Spenler the son. & sir Iohn of Arundel and master Robert Baldok his Chancellor a falls pilled clerk & took the● way toward Brystow/ And there the king abode a little time/ and made sir Hugh Spenser the father as Constable & keeper of the castle. And the king and that other Spenser went to ship/ and sailed toward Wales/ and took no leave of the kings Steward/ ne of none of the king's household/ and went over into wales for to ar●re the welshmen apenste dame Isabella the queen and the duke her son/ And the earl of Kent/ and sire Iohn of Henaude/ And they went and pursued after them/ And their power increased every day/ So at the last the king was taken upon an bill in wales/ and Sir Hugh Spenser the son in that other side of the same hill & the false pilled clerk master Roberte Baldok there fast beside them/ And were bronghte again in to England/ as almighty god would/ And the king himself was put in safe keeping in the castle of Kenylworth/ & him kept sir Henry that was saint Thom●s brother of ●ancas tree/ and sir Nugh the father came & put him in the queens grace and Edward her son duke of Gupon/ But sir Hugh Spenser after the time that he was take● would never eat no manner meet ●e drink no manner drink/ for he wist to have no mercy/ safe only too 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 Herforde. & at a place of the tour his heed was take from his body. & also fro Roberte Baldok that was a falls pilled clerk & the kings chancellor. And men set upon their heedys' chapletties of sharp nettles/ & two squires blue in therecries/ with two great bugle horns/ upon the two prisoners. that me● might hear ther. blown out with homes more than a myrle. & one Symond of Riding the kings Martial bore be fore them upon a spear their arms reversed/ in token that they should be undone forevermore. And upon the morrow was sir Hugh Spenser the sone 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 Ysabell/ he was drawn and hanged in a stage made. a mids the foresaid sir Hugh's gallows And the same day a little from thence was sir Iohn of Arundel beheaded/ because he was one of sir Hugh Spensers counsellors. And anon after was sir Hugh Spenser father hanged and drawn/ & heeded at Brystow/ & after hanged ayeby 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 & put upon a spear/ And the falls Baldok was sent to London & there he died in prison among thieves/ for men did him 〈…〉/ than they would 〈◊〉 unto an hound. And so died the traitors of England blessed be almyghti god. And it was no wonder. for through their counsel the good earl Thomas of Lacastre 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/ & his dignity take from him. ANd andne after as all this was done. the queen Ysabell and Edward her son & all the great lords of England at one assent/ sent to king Edward to the castle of Kenylworthe/ there as he was in keeping under the ward of sir Iohn Hachin. that was the bishop of Ely. and of sir Iohn of Pereye a baron/ for because that he should ordain his parliament at a certain place in England/ for to redress and amend the state of the ream. And king Edward them answered and said Lords said he ye see full well how it is. Loo here my seal/ and I give to you all my power for to call & ordain a parliament where that ye will. ¶ And then they took their leave of him and came again to the barons of England/ And when they had the kings Patent of this thing/ they showed it to the lords. And the was ordained/ that the parliament should be at westmestre. at that Vtas of saint Hylari/ And all the great lords of England let ordained them there against that time that the parliament should. be. And at which day she parliament was the king would not come there for no m●nere of thing/ as he had set himself & assigned. And nevertheless the barons se●● unto hymoo time & other. And he ●were by goddyss out. that he would not come there do foot. wherefore it was ordained by all the great lords of England/ that he should no longer be king/ but be dep● 〈◊〉 And said/ that they would crown Edward his son/ the elder/ that was the duke of Guyenne. And sent tidings v● to the king there that he was in ward under sir Iohn earl of Garen. & sir Iohn of B●thu●. that was bishop of Ely/ and sir henry Percy a baron/ & sir wyllyam Trussell a knight/ that was with the earl sir Thomas of lancaster/ for too yield up there homages unto him for all these of England. ¶ And sir william Trussell said thyte words. ¶ Sir Edward for cause that ye have trayed your people of England/ & have undone many great lords of England without any cause/ ye shall be deposed/ & now ye be withstand thanked be god/ And also for cause that ye would not come to the parliament asye ordained at westmestre/ as in your letter patent ●●is contained/ for to treat with your own lyege men as a king should And therefore thrughall the commons ass●●●e/ & all the lords of England/ I tell unto you these words. Ye shall understand sir/ that the barons of england at one assent/ will that ye be no more king o Englond but utterly have put you o ute of your cryalte forever more And the bishop of Ely said tho to the king Sir Edwade jyelde up feaute & homage for all the archebysshops' & bishops of england & for all the clergy though said sir Iohn earl of Garenne● Sir Edward jyelde up here unto you feaute & homage for me and for all the earls of England. ¶ And sire Henry Percy gave up also his homage for him & for all the barons of Englond. And though said sir wyllyam Trussell/ jyelde up now unto you mine homage for me & also for all the knights of England/ & for all them that hold by seryauntre. or by on● other thing of you/ so that from this day after ye shall not be claimed king neither for hang be hold/ but from this time afterward ye shall be hold for a singular man of all the people. ¶ And so they went ●●ens too London ther● that the lords of England them abode/ & sir Edward abode in prison in good keeping/ And this was on the day of the Conuers●an of saint Poule. in the twenty year of his regne. ¶ Of the prophecy of Merlyndedare ● of king Edward the son of king/ Edward the first. OF this king Edward prophesied Merlyn● & said/ that there should come a goat out of Car. that should have horns of silver/ & a beard as where as snow. And a drop should come out of his nostrils/ that should betoken more the harm Hungres/ and death of people & great loss of his land/ And 〈…〉 beginning of his reign should be haunted moche lechery. And he said sooth. alas the time For king Edward that was 〈◊〉 Edward's son was boine at Ca●naryuaun in wales/ forsooth he had homes of silver. and a beard as wh●●e as ●n/ we When he was made prince of wales to moche he gave him to riot. and too folly And sooth said Merlin in his prophery that there should come out of his ●ose a deope. For in his time was great hunger among the poo●e people/ & strongr death among the rich/ that died in strannge land with moche sorrow/ & in were in scotland. And after he lost Scotlond and Gascoigne/ & while that himself was king there was moche lechery 〈◊〉 tide. ¶ And also Merlin told and said that this gore should seek the flower of lyt & of death & he said sooth. For he spoused Isabella the kings sister of France And in his time Merlin said that there should be made brydges' of folk upon dyches of the see/ and that was well seen at Bannockes home in scotland when be wa●● dies confyted thereof the scortes/ And Merlin told also/ that stones should fall from castles. and many touney should be made plain. And he said sooth/ For when king Edward was discomfited in Slotlonde & came thou south ward/ the Scots besieged though castles/ & did them moche barm & brent towns into the herd earth. ¶ And after ward Merlin told that an Eagle should come out of cornwall/ that should have feders of gold/ that of pride should have no peer and he should despise lords of blood & after he should they through a beer at Gaversich & that prophecy was full well know & fund sooth for by the eagle understand sir Pers of Ganaston that though was earl of cornwall that was a wonder proud man that despised the baronage of England. but afterward he was heeded at Gaversych through the earl of Lancastre & through th'earl of war wyh. y● And Merlin told/ that in his time it should seem that the beer should brēne and that battle should be upon an arm of the s●e in a field/ arrayed like a shield. where should die many white heads. And he said sooth. For by the bryuning of the beer it betokened great dread through hytting of swords at the bataple of Miton/ for there came the Scots in manner of a slelde/ in manner of a wing and slew men of religion priests and seculars/ wherefore the Scots called that battle in despite of the englishmen/ the white battle. And after Merlin said the foresaid beer should do the goat moche harm. & y● should be upon the southwest. & also upon his blood/ And said also/ that the goat should lose moche deal of his land. till the time that shame should him overcome/ & then he should cloth him in a lions skin and 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. & him avenge upon his enemies through counsel of two ●●les/ that first should be in paryll too be undone. And that though two o●●kes shield go 〈◊〉 see 〈◊〉 stranngs londe● and there they should dwell unto a certain tyme. and then they should come unto England again/ And though two owls should do moche harm unto many one. & that they should counsel the goat to 〈◊〉 ●erre aycust the foresaid beer. And the goat and che owls/ should come to as arm of the set at Burton upon tre●●t/y● should goover/ & that for dread the beer should flee with a swan in his company to Bury toward the North. through an unkind outpulter/ & that the swan then shall be slain with sorrow/ and the beer should be slain full nigh his own nest. that should stand upon poūtftet/ 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 pu● chased wilfully. till at the last the king took thereof shame/ & himself slew with cruelty. And after he got again that he had lost/ and moche more through folk that he let assemble out of the north west/ that made him too be adread. And avenged him on his barons/ through counsel ofsyt Hugh spenser the father/ and of sit Hugh the son that before were outlawed for they● weigh kydnesse. But afterward they came ayen into England/ sir Hugh Spenser the father cameout of France/ & so much counseled the kynge/ that he should were upon Thomas of Lancastre. So that the king and the Spensers and the earl of Arundel and their power met with Thomas of Lancastre a● Burton upon Trent/ and him there discomfited and lyr Vmtroy earl of Herforde was in his company. And after fled the foresaid Thomas and Humf●oy with they company to 〈◊〉 meeting with 〈◊〉 Andrew of Herkela/ that is called the unkind outpulter/ & also sire Symonde ward earl of York came & met with Thomas of Lancastre with an huge power/ & them discomfited/ & in the scomfiture the earl of Herforde was slain upon the bridge cowardly with a spear in the fundament. & the earl Thomas was take & lad unto Pountfiet. & though was he did beside his own castle. But afterward many him sought for miracles that god did for him. ¶ And in the time merlyn said. for sorrow & harm should die a people of his land/ wherefore many lands should be upon him the more bolder/ & 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 y● the forsaydowles should do moche harm unto the flower of life & death/ & they should bring her to much/ disease. so that she should go over see in to France for to make peace to the flower delice. & there should abide till a time her seed should come & fetch her/ & though they should abide both till the time/ that they should cloth them with grace/ & though two owls she should seek. & put them to piteous death. & the prophecy was full well know. & was full sooth/ for sir Hugh Spenser the father. & sir Hugh the son/ died moche sorrow & persecution unto the queen Isabella through their procurement to her lord the king/ so they ordained among them. that she was put unto her wages. That is to say .xx: shelyngꝭ in the day. wherefore the king of France her brother was sore annoyed. & sent in 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 that sir Hugh Spenser the father and the son had done and for the harm that they had done unto queen Isabella his sister/ wherefore through his ordinance and consent of the. Spensers. the queen Isabella went over see into France for to make accord be between king Edward and the king of France her brother▪ And there dwelled she in France/ till Edward her eldest son came her for too seek/ and so they dwelled there both till that alyaū●ce 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● Spensers'/ that spr Edward should spowsedame Phylip the worshipful lad●● the earls daughter of Henauds/ wherefore the queen Isabella and Edward her son/ and sir Edward of woodstock the ●●ges brother of England/ and sire Io han of Henaude/ and sire Rog●●e: Motymer of wygmore/ and sire Thomas Rocelyn/ and sire Iohn of C●omwelle and sir wyllyam Trussell/ and man●● other of the alliance of the gentle earl Thomas of lancaster/ that were exiled out of England for his quarrel and were dyshertted of their lands orderned them a great power/ and arrived at H●rewich in Sonthfolke/ And soon aft●● they pursued the Spensers' till y● then were taken & put to piteous death as before is said. & there company also/ for the grrate falseness that they did to king Edward. & to his people. And merely said also more that the goat should be put in great distress & in great anguish & in great sorrow he should 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 gouer●●/●● rule his people●ne his trame as a king should do. wherefore some of the barons of England came & 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 & anguish. LOdowicus was emperor after Henry four year. this Lodewye was duke of Banare/ & he despised the corovation of the pope/ wherefore the pope deposed him/ and moche labour & many perils he had after And he trowbled greatly the unity of holy church. And then was chosen against him Frederyk the duke of ostrich. & he overcame the duke and abode arebelyon to his end. and in great peril to his soul/ And at the last Rarolus was chosen against him/ the which prevailed/ and suddenly Lodewic fell down of his horse and deceased. ¶ Iohn Mandevyll a douctour of physyh & a knight borne was in England about this tyme. And he made a marvelous pylg●ymage. for he went almost about all the world. & he wrote his deeds in three languages. & deceased. & was buried at saint Albon. ¶ Benedictus the xxii was pope after Iohn vii years & more/ this man wos a monk/ & in all his youth he was of good conversation/ & a doctor of divinity. And when he was made pope/ he reformed th'order of saint Benet in that thing that was nescessary/ & he was a hard man to grant benifyces/ lest he had granted it to an uncunning man/ he made a deretall/ the which began (Benedictus deus in donis suis) And he was very cruel in his faith/ & for that of sommen little loved/ He was so stout a man that almost he would not know his own cousins. ¶ Anno dnnt. M.CCC.xxii. ¶ Of king Edward the chyrde 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 xv. year And for cause that his father was in ward in the castle of Kenilworth and 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 ple●● of the kings bynche astente. And though was commanded to all the Shy●efs 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 johan of Henaude. and his company took his leave of the king and of the lords of the ream. and tor●yd home to their own country again: And each of them had full rich yefts. every man as he was of value & estate. ¶ And though was England in rest & peace/ & great love between the king and his lords. And comyuly Euglysshmen said amongs them that the devil was deed/ ●ut the innumerable/ iresoure of the king his father/ and the treasure of the Spensers/ both of the ●ader and of the son/ and of the earl of Arundel/ & of master Robert Baldok that was the kings chancellor was departed after the queen Isabelles' ordinance & sir Rogere Mortymers of wygmore/ so that the king had no thing there of. but at her will and her deliverance/ 〈◊〉 of their lands/ as after ward 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 kenylworth under the keeping of sir Henri/ that was earl Thomas of Lancaster's brother. that though was earl of Lcycetre. And the king granted him the earldom of Lancastre/ that the king his father had seized into his hom de & put out Thomas of Lancastres' brother. & so was he earl of Lancastre & of Lcycetre/ & also steward of england as his brother was in his tyme. But sir Edward that was king Edward's father made sorrow without end/ because 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 and ruled by false counsel/ yet he was king Edward's son called Edward with the long shankys/ & came out of the worthiest blood of the world. & they to whom he was wont to give great yefts & large. were most privy with the king his own son/ And they were his enemies both by night & by day/ & procured to make debate & contake between him and his son/ and Isabella his wife But the frere preachers were to him good friends ever more/ & cast both by night and by day. how they might bring him out of prison. And among their company that the freres had prpurly brought/ there was a frere that was called/ Dunhened and he had ordained & gathered a great company of folk to keep at the nebe/ but the frere was taken & put in the castle of pountfret/ & there be 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 to sir Thomas of Berkelay. And so sir Iohn Matrevas & they lad him from the castle of kenylworth to the castle of Berinthia kelay/ & kept him there saufly. ¶ And at Ester next after his coronation: the kynordeyned a great huge host/ for to fight against the Scots/ And sir Iohn the earls brother of Henaude came from beyond the see/ for to help king Edward & brought with him vij C. men of arms & arrived at Dover & they had leave for to go forth till they came to York. they y● king them abode/ & the scots came thither to the king/ for to make peace & accord/ but the accordement lasted not between them but a little time And at that time the englishmen were clothed all 〈◊〉 coats & hodes painted with letters & with flowers full seemly with long beards and therefore the scots made a bill, that was fastened upon the church doors of laynt Pen●to ward stangate, & thus said y● sarp●● re in despite of englishmen Long beards heartless/ painted hodes wrotles g●●ye coats graceless maketh Englond thriftelees) SO in y● Triny●● day nerte after began the contak in the city of Yoke between the englishmen & the Henandes: & in the debate were slain of the erldom of Nicholl & murdered lxxx men. & after they were buried in saint clementis church in Fosgate. & for cause y● the Henaudes came to help the king. their peace was cried upon pain of life & limb. & in that other half it was found by an inquest of the e●te that the englishmen began the debate. ¶ How the englishmen stopped the Scots in the park of Stanope & how they turned again into scotland. THis time the Scots had assembled all their power & came into England/ and slew & robbed all that they might take/ and also brent & destroyed all the north country through out/ till that they came unto the the park of Stanhope in weridale/ & there the Scots held them in a bushment/ but when the king had herd through spies where the scots were/ anon right with his host besieged them within the foresaid park so that the scots witted not where to go out but only unto their harms. And they abode in the park: xv. days/ & victuals failed them in every side. so that they were greatly peyred of bodies/ & sith that Brute came fist into britain unto this time/ there was never seen so fair an host/ what of Englishmen/ & of alyuntes & of men of foot/ the which ordained them for to fight with the Scots/ through egging of sir Henry of Lancastre & of sir Iohn Henaude/ that would have gone over the water of with for to have fought with the scots. But sir Roger Mortuner consented not thereto/ for he had p●yuely taken meed of the scots them to help/ that they might go away into their own countre●●. ¶ And this same mortimer counseled somuch Thomas of brotherton the earl marshal ●hat was king Edward's uncle. y● the foresaid Thomas should not assemble at that time unto the Scots. And he assented. but he wist not the doing between the Scots & the foresaid Mort●mer/ And because that he was Marshal of England/ as to hyzperteyned ever the vauntwarde. he sent hastily to the earl of Lancastre/ & to sir Iohn of Henaude/ that they should not fight with the Scots/ in prejudice & harming of him & his fee/ & if they did that they should stand to their own paryll. And the foresaid earl marshal 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 & witted no thing of the treason And thus was the king principally deceived. And when it was night Mortymer/ that had the watch for to heap of the host/ the night dystrobled the watch that no thing might be done. And in the mean while the Scots steel by night toward their own country as fast as they might ¶ And so was the king falsely betrayed that weened that all the traitors of his land had been brought to an end as it was said before. ¶ Now here you lords how traitorously king Edward was dysceived. & how marvelously & boldly the Scots did of were/ For jamys 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 king's pavilion/ & slew there many men in their beds/ and cried Naward naward/ & another time a Douglas a Douglas/ wherefore the king that was in his pavilion & much other folk/ were wonder sore afraid/ But blyssyd be almighty god the king was not taken/ and in great peril was tho the ream of England. & that night the moon shone full clear/ and bright. And for all the kings men the Scots scaped harmless. ¶ And on the morrow when the king wist that the Scots were escaped into their own country he was wonder sorry/ & full heartily wept with his young eyen/ and yet wist he not who had him done that treason. But that falls 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/ & every man went into his own country with full heavy cheer and morning semblant/ And the Henaundes took their leave and went into their own country And the king for their travail/ hugely rewarded them/ ¶ And for because of the viage/ the king had dispended moche of his treasure and wasted. And in that time were seen two moons in the firmament/ y● one was clear/ & that other was 〈◊〉/ as men might see through the world. ¶ And a great debate was the same time against pope Iohn the xxii after say petyr. & the emperor of almain though made him emperor against the pope's will that though held his see at Avignon. wherefore the emperor made his cry at Rome & ordained another pope/ that height Nicholas/ that was a frere Minor/ & that was a yenste 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 Carnarivan. ANd now go we again/ to sir Edward of Carnarivan 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 toomuch. that afterward 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 ●erkelay/ & also of sir Iohn Matreves and to them he made his complaint of his sorrow and of his disease. And ofte● times axed 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 ●●rdeyns & said. My worthy lord dyspleyse you not that I shall tell you the cause is. for it is do●n 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 would do● to my lord your son in the same wise ¶ Thomas answered he with simple there Alas alas am not I in prison/ & all 〈◊〉 your own will/ now god it wot I thought it never/ and now I would that I were deed/ ●o 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 To●oursy & to the foresaid sir Iohn Matrevers through the kings letter/ & put out holy the foresaid sir Moryce of the ward of y● 〈◊〉 ge. And they took and lad the king unto the castle of ●o●f. 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: xx●u. that the for said sir Roger Mortymer sent the manner of the death/ how & in what wise he should be done to death/ And anon as the foresaid Thomas & Iohn had see the letter/ & commandment/ they made king Edward Carnari●an good cher●: and good solace/ as they might at that sou●tpere/ & nothing the king wist of the traytory. And when time was for to go too bed the king went to his bed & lay & slept fast. And as the king lay & slept the traitors falls forsworn against their homage & fluate/ came privily into the kings chambre/ & their company with them/ & laid an huge table upon his womb/ & with men p●ēssyd & held fast down the four corners of the table on his body/ wherewith the good man awoke/ and was wonder sore adread to be deed and there slain/ and turned his body up though so down. though took the false traitors/ & tyrants an horn. & put it into his fundament as deep as they might/ & took a spit of cop●e brenning/ & put it through the horn into his body & of● times therewith thy●led his bowels & so they slew their lord/ that no thing was perceived/ And after he was entered at Glouce●●e. ¶ How king Edward spoused Phylyp the earls daughter of Henaude at york ANd after Cristmasse though next sewing/ sit Iohn of Henaude brought with him Philip his brother's daughter/ that was earl of Henaude his niece into England/ & the king spoused her at York. with moche honour. And sir Iohn of Bothum bishop of Ely/ & sir wyllyam of Melton Archebysshopp 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 wrongs were done while that his father lived/ by cause that he trowed/ the counseyllers' that were falls a about him/ that counseled him to do otherwise than reason would/ wherefore great harm was done to the ream and to the king/ & all men directed i● the kings deed/ and 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 nothing should be done. That is to say thar●h●bysshop of Caunterbury/ tharche bishop of York/ the bishop of wynches tree/ & the bishop of Herforde/ the earl of Lancastre/ ther●e marshal/ & the Earl of Kent/ that were the kings undes and the earl of Garen●e/ sir Thomas wake. sir Henry Percy. sir Oliver yngham and Iohn 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/ and that was much harm to all England/ For the king & all the lords that should govern him were governed & 〈…〉 the queen his mother dame Isabell. & 〈◊〉 sye Roger Mortimer: & as they would all thing was done/ both among high & low And they took unto them castles towns londeꝭ/ & tent● in great harm. and loss to the crown. & of the kings estate out of all measure. ¶ How the peace was made between the englishmen & the Scots and also of justifyenge of Troylles●aston. King Edward at whitsuntide in the second year of his reign through the counsel of his mother/ & sir Roger Mortimer/ ordained a parliament at Northampton. And at the parliament the king through his counsel/ & none other of the land/ with in age granted to be accorded with the scots in this manner. that all the fealties & homages. that the scots should do to the crown of England/ forgive them for ever more/ by his chartre ensealed. And furthermore an endenture was made of the Scots unto king Edward/ that was king Henry's son/ which endenture they call it ragman. in the which were contained all the homages & feaute●s/ first of the king of scotland & of the prelate's/ earls barons of the ream of Scotloyde/ with their seals set thereon & other charters & remembrauncies the king Edward & his barons had of their right in the foresaid ream of scotland/ it was foryeve again holy church/ And also with the black cross of scotland the which the good king Edward conquered in scotland & brought it out of the abbey of Scone/ that is a full precious relic/ And also furthermore/ he releacy● & fully forgave all the lands y● the noble barons had before the time in the ream of scotland/ by old conquest. And ferther more that this peas for to be holden & continuelly last the Scots were bound unto the king in xxx thousand pound of silver to be pay●● within th●e year/ that is every year ten thousand pound by even porcy●●●. ¶ And ferther●●●● above all this/ they spoke between the parties above said. that David Dri●●●autier that was king Robert B●us son/ the false tyrant/ & falls forsworn against his oath that arose against his lyege lord/ the noble and good king Edward. and falsely made him king of scotland/ that was of age .v. year. And so this cursed counsel david spoused at B●rewyk 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. too great harm and ●mpayrynge of all the kings blood/ whereof the gentle lady came. alas the time/ For wonder moche that fair damosel disparaged/ sith that she was married against all the comyns will & assent of England. And from the time that Brute had conquered Albyon/ and named the land after his own name. britain: that now is called england after the name of Engist. And so the ream of Scotlond was hold of the ream of England/ & of the crown by feaute and homage. For Brute conquered that hand/ & gave it to Albana●/y● was his second son/ And he called that 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 the time unto this time of king Edward/ the ream of scotland was hold of the ream of England by ●eaute & service/ as about is said in the chronicles of England & of scotland & be● ythe witness more prenarely. And accursed be the time that this parliament was holden at Northampton. For there by false counsel. the king was there falsely disherited & yet he was within age. ¶ And yet when that king Edward 〈◊〉 put out of his ryaltee of Englond yet men put not him out of the f●autes and service of Sco●londe. ne of the ●ra●nchyses dysher●ted him for ever more ¶ And nevertheless the great lords of England were against to confirm the ●eas and the 〈◊〉 above said/ safe 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 th● with out the common assent of England. ¶ Of the debate that was between qu●ne Isabella and sir Henry earl of Lancas tree and of leicester/ and of the riding of bedford. Then as the foresaid david had spoused dame johann of the tower in the town of Berwy● as before is said/ The Scots in despite of the englishmen called dame johann y●●●ātesse make peas/ for the cowardly peace y● though was ordained. But the kings person bore all the w●te & blame with wrong of the making of the accord/ And all was done through the queen & Rogere Mortymer. And it was not long after that the queen Isabella ne took into her hondis all the lordship of Poū●●rer almost all the lands that were of any value that appertained to the crown of England/ So the king had not to dispend/ but of his uses and of his esscheker/ For the queen Isabella and the Mortymer had great main of the 〈◊〉 that followed the kings court ever mo●● & went and took the kings pry●●s for her penny worths ●tte good ●hepe/ wherefore the coun●●●e that they came in were/ full sore adradde/ and almost destroyed of them. ¶ though began the commonalty of England for to have 〈◊〉 to 〈◊〉 bell the queen. that so much loved her before whann she came again for to pursue the false traitors/ the Spensers' fro France. And in the same time the false traitor Robert of Holonde/ that betrayed his lord sir Thomas of Lancastre. was tho delivered out of prison/ & was wonder privy with the queen Isabella/ & also with Roger Mortymer. but that availed him but little. For he was taken at Myghel mass that though came next after/ as he road toward 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/ & he put him aside for dread of the queen/ For the queen loved him wondermoche. 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 claymoure of the englishmen/ 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. And 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 in peril of life & limb: ¶ And so he assembled all his retinue & went & spoke with them of the kings honour/ and also for to amend his estate. And sir Thomas Brotherton earl of Marchall/ and sir Edmonde wodstok/ that were the kyngys' uncles/ and also men of Londone made their oath him for to maintain in that 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 ryaltce. And that the queen Isabella should deliver onte of her hands in too 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 sire Rogere Mortimer should abide and dwell upon his own lands/ For the which lands he had holp too dysheryt● motche people/ ●n so much that the common people were destroyed and greatly domaged/ thorough such wrongfulle taking. ¶ And also too 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 counsell 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/ and in honour of him should be governed and ruled by xii of the greatest and wisest lords of the ream/ & without them. should nothing be granted ne done/ as before is said/ which covenants were maliciously put down fro the king/ where many harms. shamis and repreves have fall to the king & his ream/ and that is too understand for asmuch as Edward king of England/ sometime/ 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 y● Mortimer with out consent of any parliament they took & lad him there that never after none of his kindred/ might with him speak ne see. and after traitorously took and murdered him/ for whose death arose a slander through all cristendom/ when it was done. And also the treasure that sir Edward of Kerna● ivan left in many places in England and in wales and wasted & borne away/ without the will of kynged ward his son/ in destruction of him and of all his folk. ¶ Also through whose conseyll/ that the king gave up the kingdom of scotland/ for the which ream/ the king's ancestors had full sore travailed/ & so did many a noble man for their right/ & was delivered unto david that was Robert Brus sone all the right/ that no right had to the ream. as all the world it wist. And also by whom the charters & remebaunces that they had of the right of scotland were take out of the tresory/ & taken to the Scots the king's enemies/ to dysheryting of him & 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 dysperagid & married unto david that was Robert Brus sone. that was a traitor & enemy unto England. and through whose counsel she was take in to our enemies hands out of England. ¶ And in this mean while. the good e●le Henry of Lancastre & his company took counsel how those points abovesaid/ might be amended to the worship of the king & to his profit & to the profit of his lyegs/ And the queen Isabel through conjecting & also of the Mortimers let ordain a parliament at salisbury And at the same parliament/ y● Mortimer was made earl of March against all the barons will of England in prejudice of the king & of his crown. And sir Iohn of Eltham the kings brother/ was gird with a sword of cornwall. And though was called earl of cornwall. and ever more queen Isabella procurydso moche against her son the king/ that she had the ward of the foresaid sir Edward and of his lands. And atte that parliament the earl of Lancastre would not come/ But ordained all his power against queen Isabelle and the Mortimer/ And men of London ordained them with tyve hundred men of arms/ ¶ wharme queen Isabella wist of the doing/ ●hē 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 retene we & after the king's retene we/ so that they had ordained among them an huge host And they counseled the king so that upon a night/ they road xxiii miles too 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 kryghte 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 counsel for ever more/ wherefore the king was somedeal towards him heavy & annoyed. ¶ when th'earl marshal and th'earl of Kente the king's 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 a xi thousand pound/ But that was never paid afterward. And these were the lords that held with sir Henry of Lancastre. sire Beaumond/ sir Fouk fytzwar●n. sir thomas Rocelyn/ sir wyllyam T●ussel 〈◊〉 Thomas whither/ and abowce an hundred knights moo that were too him consented/ & all those were ●ryled through counsel of queen Isabella & of Mortymer. For the Mortimer waited to have their lands/ if that he might through/ any manner conjecting/ For he was to covetous and had to much his will and that was great pity. ¶ How king Edward went over the see for too do his homage unto the king of France/ for the duchy of Guy hen. IT was not long after that the king of France/ through counsel of his douzepers/ sent to king Edward of England 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 ascension 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 into England through the queen Isabella his mother and anon hastily he came again into england/ upon whitsunday without any taking leave of the king of France. wherefore he was wonder wothe. ¶ How sir Roger Mortymer bore him proudly and so high. ANd now shall ye here of sir Roger Mortymer of wygmore that desired and coveted to be at an high estate/ so that the king granted him to be called earl of March/ through out all his lordship. And he became so proud & hauteyn/ that he would lose & forsake the name that his elds had ever before/ & for the cause he let him call earl of march. And none of the comyns 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. & Mortymer bore him so hauteyne & so proud that wonder it was for to wite. & also disguised him with wonder rich clothes out of all manner of reason/ both of shaping & of wearing. whereof the englishmen had great wonder/ how and in what manner he might contrive or find such manner pride. And they said among them comynly/ that his pride should not long endure. ¶ And the same time sir Geffray Mortymer the young/ That was Mortymers son. let call him king of folly/ and so it befell afterward 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/ & 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 cristendom of deeds of arms assayed/ dwelled with king Arthur/ and held him for their lord and sovereign/ And that was well seen/ for he oconquerde in a battle a roman that was called Froll. and gate of him the ream of France/ and slew him with his own hounds/ and also he fought with a giant that was called Dynabus/ & slew him that had ravished fair Elayne that was king Howels niece/ 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 Pehites & saracens/ that no man could number them/ & he discomfited them all as the story telleth. ¶ And in that same time common voice sprung in england through conjecting & 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 & dread/ whether that it were so or not For they wist not how traitorously mortimer had him done murdered. ¶ How Edmonde of woodstock that was earl of kent and the kings brother Edward of Carnaryvan/ was heeded at wynchestre. ANd upon a time it befell so/ that sir Edmonde of w●●●tok earl of Kente/ spoke unto pope Iohn the xxii at Auimon/ and said the almighty god had oft times done for Thomas love of Lancastre many great miracles to many men & women/ that were through divers maladies undone. as unto the world/ & through his prayer they were brought unto their health. & so sir Edmond prayed the pope heartily that he would grant him grace/ the foresaid Thomas might be translated. But the pope said nai that he should not be translated/ unto the time that he were better certified of the clergy of England & 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 Edmond saw that he might not speed of his purpose: as touching the translation. 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 herd 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 a● end he assoiled him & his company a pena & culpa● & all that halpe to his deliverance. though took Edmond of woodstock his leave of the pope/ & came again into Englond/ & when sir Edmond 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 Edmond as fast as he might/ till he came to the castle of Corf/ & acquainted him & spoke so fair to Iohn daverill/ that was constable of the same castle/ & gave him rich yefꝭ for to have acquaintance of him and 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 ones to have a sight of him. And this sir Iohn daverill was a high hearted man & full of courage/ & answered shortly to sir Enmond & said/ that sir Edward 〈◊〉 brother was in health. & under his 〈◊〉 ge. & durst not show him unto no man sith it was defended him in the king ●●●fe Edward/ that was Edwardes son of Carna●●an/ & also by the con naū●●●●●te of queen Isabella the kings mother 〈◊〉 of sir roger Mortymer that he should show his body to no man of the world saufonly to them uponlyf & limb/ & 〈◊〉 ting of his heirs for ever mor●. But the falls traitor falsely lied. for he was not in his ward but was take thence lad to the castle of Berkley by 〈◊〉 Thoma● of Gurney/ by the cōm●●nde●●te of Mortymer/ till he was deed as 〈◊〉 is said/ But sir Edmonde of wodsto● wist no thing that sir Edward his brother was deed/ whereupon he took a letter unto king Edward his brother as to his worthy lorde● & received the letter of him & behyght him right faithful to do his message without fail. And with that sir Edmonde took leave of y● 〈◊〉 john/ and go into his own country & lordship in Kent that he had there. Anon as this same Iohn wist. that sir Edmonde was gone into Kent his own lo● deshyp/ anon he went in all the ●aste that he might/ fro the Castle of Corf and came unto sire Rogere Mortymer and took him the letter that sire Edmonde of woodstock earl of Kent had taken him closed and e●sealed with his own seal And when sire Roger Mortymer had received the letter/ ●e uncloysed it/ and saw that was strained the●●●/ & began it to read. whereof the beginning was thy● ¶ worships and reverence with brother alyegaunce & subiec●yon/ sir knyz● worshipful and dear brother/ if it you please I pray you heartily that ye be in good comforth/ 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 lord ship/ that I have to mine assenting almost all the great lords of England/ with all their appareyll/ that is to say with armour/ with treasure without number/ for to maintain your quarrel so far forth/ that ye shall be king again as ye were before/ and that they have sworn to me upon a book/ and as well prelate's as earls and barons. ¶ when sire Roger Mortymer saw and understood/ the might and the strength of the letter anon his heart for wrath began to boil and evil heart bare toward sir Edmond of woodstock/ that was earl of Kent/ & with all the haste that he might/ he went unto dame Isabella the queen/ that was the kings mother/ and showed her sire 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 & of his kingdom/ Now certes sir Roger said she/ hath sir Edmond done so now by my faders soul said she/ I will be thereof avenged/ if that god grant melyfe/ 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/ too have amend the wrongys' and the trespasses that were done among the people of his ream And thoo she took and showed him the letter that sir Edmond of woodstock had made/ and ensealed with his own seal and had him upon her blessing. that he should be avenged upon sir Edmonde as upon his deadly enemy. though was the queen sore wroth toward sir Edmonde earl of Kent. 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 Edmond of woodstock/ that he should come and speak with him at wynchestre all manner thing left. And when sir Edmond saw that the king sent after him with his letters ensealed/ he 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 house hold. And he associed unto him sir Roger Mortimer. And though spoke the foresaid Roger and said/ sire Edmonde earl of Kente/ 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 trey tour/ and also a common enemy too 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 ryalte by the common assent of the lords of England/ in peasing of our lord the kings estate/ & also of his ream. ¶ though answered the good man and said/ Forsooth sir understand well that I was never traitors to my king/ ne to the ream/ and 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 Mortymer. sir Edmonde. it is so farforth know/ that it may not be well gainsay/ and that in prys●●e of all that here been. it shall be well proved. Now had this false Moltimer the same letter that sir Edmond had take to sir Iohn daverill in the castle of Cors 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. & thought no mane●● of thing of the letter. Then Mortimer said to sir Edmonde/ & showed a letter sealed. & asked him if that he knew y● let● and the seal. This sir Edmond looked thereon/ & advised him long time on the print of the seal/ for he might not see the letter within. 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 forsooth this is my seal. & I will it not forsake. ¶ Lo said the mortimer/ sires ye here all what he hath said/ & that he know legyth him that this is his letter & his seal. And now ye shall here what is contained therein/ And than this Mortimer opened the letter that he had fold tofore together. & red it openly word by word inhering of them all/ & when the letter was red/ he said/ Loo sires/ ye have heard all that herein is written/ & that he hath knowledged that this is his letter & his seal. & he may not go therefro/ And thenn they cried & gave doom/ that he should be hanged & drawn/ & his heed smitten of i● a manner of a traitor & he & his heirs disherited forever more/ & so he was lad forth and put into prison. & when this was done/ & the queen wist that he was dampened by way of law/ both of life and of limb/ & his heirs dysheritedted for evermore. through open knowledging in plain court/ where them thought that it were good/ that the foresaid sir Edmond were hast●ly slain/ without witting of the king/ or else the king ●olde lightly foryeve him his death/ & than it should form them to much sorrow/ so as he was emp●chis/ And anon the queen through counsel of y● Mortimer/ and without any other counsel sent in haste to the bailiff of wynche●re that they should smite of sir edmond's heed ●rle of Kent without any manner abiding or respite vpo● pain of life & limbs And that he he should have no/ ne other execution/ by cause of tatyeng notwithstanding the judgement. though took the baylyfs sir Edmond out of p●ison/ and sad him beside the castle of wynchestre/ and 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's 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 Mort●mer earl of March. ANd so it befell at that time that sir Roger Mortimer earl of the March/ was so proud and so haute●● 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 mode● and beset his penny worth with the officers of the queens household/ ●n the same manner that the kings officers did. And so he made his taking/ as touching of victual and also of carriages and all he did for because of expenses and too gather treasure/ And so he did without number in all that he might. ¶ T●●oo had he made him wonder privy with the queen isabella/ And so moche lord ship and ●etenewe had/ that all the great lords of england of him were adread wherefore the king and his counsell/ toward him were aggrieved/ and ordained among them to undo him thorough pure reason & law for cause that king Edward that was the kings father trey tourly through him was murdered in the castle of Corf/ as before is said more plainly in some part of this book/ of his death. ¶ And some that were of the kings counsel loved Mortymer/ and told him in privity/ how that the king & his counsell/ 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/ & said 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. & sire Rogere Mortimer/ ne went unto Notyngham there for to sotourne/ And so it befell/ the queen Isabella through counsel of Mortymer 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 kynge●ne none of his counsel. ¶ And that time it fell/ that the Mortimer as a devil for wrath bolled/ & also for wrath that he had against the kings men Edward/ & 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 & the mortimer/ & the bishop of Lyncoln & sir Symonde of Bedford/ & sir High 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 and off felony. ¶ wherefore all though that were of the kings counsel/ when they witted of the Mortimers casting: privily came to king Edward & said/ that Mortymer would them destroy/ because that they had him accused of king Edwardes death. his father/ And prayed him that he woldmayntene them in their right/ ¶ And these were the lords that pursued this quarrel/ Sir wyllyam of Mountagu/ sir wyllyam de Bohum/ sir wullyam his brother/ sir Rauf Stafforde. sire Robert of Herforde/ sir wyllyam of Clinton/ sir Iohn Nevell of Hornbyand many other of their consent And all these swore upon a book to maintain the quarrel/ in as moche as they might. And if befell so after. that sir wyllyam Mountagu/ ne none of the kings friends must not be herberowed in the castle for y● Mortimer/ but went & took their herberowe in dyverfe place of the town of Notyngham. And though were they sore afeard/ least that Mortimer should them destroy. And in hast they came unto king Edward sir wyllyam of Mountagu/ & other that were in the castle. And privily hyntolde/ that he ne none of his company. should not take that Mortymer. without counsel & help of wyllyam of Elande. constable of the same castle. ¶ Now truly said the king I love you well. & therefore I counsel you that ye go to the foresaid constable/ and 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 and limb ¶ Thomas said Mountagu Syremy lord grant mercy. ¶ though went forth the for said Mountagu/ and came to the Constable of the castle/ & told him the kings will. ¶ And he answered & said. 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 ¶ Thomas 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 & doby your advice for to take the mortimer/ sith that ye be keeper of the castle. & hath the keys in your ward. ¶ Sire said the Constable/ will ye understand/ that the castle yates been locked with the keys that dame Isabella sent hither. & by night she hath the keys thereof: and layeth them under the luesell of the bed unto the morrow. & so ye may not come into the castle by the yates/ by no manner of wise/ But I know an aleye that stretchyth out of the ward under the ●● the into the foresaid castle/ that goeth into the west. which aleye dame Isabella the queen/ ne none of her men ne y● mortime/ ne none of his company knoweth it not And so I shall lead you through the aley/ & so ye shall come into the castle with out aspyenge of any man that are your enemies. ¶ And the same night sir wyllyaz 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 Mortimer's sight But anon as Mortimer herd 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/ & sent letters anon to the porters so that none of the great lords should go home to their own countries/ but if they were arrested & take. And among other things wyllyam Eland Constable of the foresaid castle. privily lad sir will lyam of Mountagu & his company by the foresaid way under the trthe/ till they came into the castle & went up into the tour there y● Mortimer was in. But sir Hugh of Trompynton them escried hideously: & said a traitors it is all for nought. that ye been common into this castle ye shall die yet an evil death everyone. And anon one of them that was in Mountagues company up with a mare/ 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 Isabel sa●e that the Mortimer was taken she made moche sorrow in heart/ and these words unto them she said/ Now fair 〈◊〉/ I pray you that ye do no harm 〈◊〉 his body a worthy knight our 〈◊〉 f●●de and our 〈◊〉 cousin ¶ Thomas went they thence/ and came and brought Mortimer & presented him unto king Edward/ & he commanded to bring him in savewarde. ¶ But anon as they that were consenting unto mortimers doing/ heard tell that he was taken they went & hid them/ & privily by night went out of the town ethe one his way/ with heavy heart & morning cheer & lived upon their lands as well as they might/ ¶ And the same year that Mo●●mer was take. he had it. score 〈◊〉tes without squires & sergaun●es of arms/ & foot men/ And then was Motimer lad to London/ & sir Edmonde of bedford was lad with him and was taken to the constable of the four to keep/ ¶ But after ward was the Mortymers life examined at westminster before the king/ & before all the great lords of England/ for peril that might fall to the ream/ And to inquire also which were consenting to sir Edwardes death the kings father./ and also through who me the Scots escaped fro Stanhope in scotland/ without leave of king Edward. ¶ And also how the charter of ●●●man was delivered unto the Scots therein the homages and feauters of the lords of scotland were contained that the Scots should do ever more too the Engysshe king for the ream of scotland/ 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 frautres of scotland whereof he was put out through false counsell of the queen Ysabell his mother/ and sire Roger Mortymer. that was newly made earl of March. 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 scotland/ that died without heir of his body begotten/ And how this Iohn made his fealty & homage to king Edward/ Henry's son the third. for his lands of scotland/ And how he afterward withsaid his homage/ through counsel of the Scots/ in the year of our lord M.CC.lxxiiii. & sent unto the pope through. a falls suggestion that he made his oath unto the foresaid king Edward over his estate & his will/ of the which o'th' the pope him assoiled through his bulls to hyysent. ¶ And anon as king Edward wist thereof/ he ordain anon his barons & came unto Berewyk/ & conquered the town/ at the which conquest there wereslayne xxv thousand. & vii hundred. & Bayllol that was king of Scotlond came and yielded him to good king Edward/ & the king delivered him out of the tower of London. and all the great lords with him y● though were taken at Barwyk & gave them safeconduct/ to go into scotland. And the Scots sith through their falseness/ warred upon the good king Edward. And when sire Iohn Bayllol king of Scotland saw all this/ he went over see unto Dimp●er & lived there upon his lands as well as he might. till that the Scots would amend them of their misdeeds & trespaas/ and lad with him sir Edward his son. wherefore the Scots in despite of him called him sir Iohn Turnlabard/ for because that he would not offend ne trespaas against the good king Edward of Englond. And so he forsook his ream of scotland/ and set thereof but little price. And this sir johann dwelled long time in France/ till that he died there & sir Edward his fo●● received his 〈◊〉 rytage/ and 〈◊〉 mage to the king of France/ for his lands of Dunpie●/ And so it befell afterward/ the Edward that was Iohn Bayllols son/ had● of him a squire of Englond that was borne in York shire/ that was called Iohn of Barnaby/ & 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 Dumpier/ & so he slew him & went his way in all the haste that he might into the castle. for too have succour & help of his lord/ And a none came the officers of the town. to take Iohn of Barnaby as a fellow. and sir Edward his lord holp him/ and rescued him/ & by night made him go out of the castle/ & so he went his way and came into England without any harm. ¶ And when the king of France saw that sir Edward had rescued his fellow. he became wonder wroth ayenstetyr Edward. & anon let him arrested & took into his hands all his lands/ though dwelled sir Edward in prison/ unto the time that sir Henry of Beaumond came into France/ the which Henry sometime waserle of anguish in Scotlonde and was put out thereof when thaccordment was between England & scotland through the queen Isabella & sir Roger Mortimer & their company for the marriage that she made between david/ that was Roberte Brussone & dame johan of Tour king Edward's sister of England/ & well understood this/ that at the end he should come to his right/ butyf it were sir Edward Bayllol/ that was right htyre of the ream of scotland ¶ And the king of France Lowyslsuyd much this sir Henry/ And he was with hy● full privy/ and thought for to make a deliver a●mie of sire Edward Bayllof/ if he might in any manner of wise/ ¶ though prayed he the king that he would of his grac● grant him sy●● Edward Bayllols body/ unto the next parliament. that he might live with his own rents in the mean time/ & that he might stand to be judged with his peries at the parliament/ And the king granted him his prayer/ & made the foresaid Edward to be delivered out of prison/ in the manner above said. & anon as he was out of prison sir Henry took him forth with him & lad him into England/ & made him dwell privily at the maneer of Sandhall upon Ouse in york shire. with the lady Vescy. And so he ordained him there an huge retenew of englishmen and also of alients/ for too 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 the time david earl of Moryf heard tell how that sir Edward Bayllol was privily come in to England. And came to him/ and made with him great joy of his coming & said unto him & 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 grace unto syred ward Bayllol that he might saufly go by land from Sandhall/ vnto● Scotland/ to conquer his right & herytannce in scotland. ¶ The king answered and said/ if that I suffer Bayllol. go through my land into scotland. than 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 upon this covenant that if it so befall/ as god it forbid that he be discomfited in battle 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/ & 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 those lords that pursued this foresaid matter and quarrel. ¶ That is to say/ Sire Edward Bayllol/ the which challenged the ream of scotland▪ sir Henry Beaumond earl of Ang●●●she/ sir david of Stroboly earl of atheles/ sir Geffray of Mombraye walter Comyn/ and many other that were put out of their heritage in scotland when the peace was made between England and scotland, as before is said And ye shall understand that these sordes took with them five hundred men of arms. and two thousand artbers and of foot men. and though went into ship atte Raue●spore/ & sailed by the see till that they came unto Scotlond. & came to land at Kynkehorne xii mile fro saint jobannes' town/ And anon sent out the●shyppes again/ for that they should not be hurt/ ne empeyred/ neither that no man should go in to the ships again though that they had need/ but abide alperylles/ & not flee but stand/ & rather suffer death than flee for too maintain their true quarrel. when the earl of Fysse. a fierce man & a stern/ heard that Bayllol was come/ for to take the land of scotlonde/ he came in haste to Kynkeborne/ with xii. thousand Scots/ for to dyshoye him/ that he should not come to land/ But sir Edward Bayllol and his company there him discomfited at the which discomfiture sir Alysander Scton was there slain/ and many other. The earl of Fyffe/ was though sore and full ruyl ashamed/ that so little a company bade him discomfited/ and shamefully put him & all his company that were alive for too flee. ¶ though came sir Edward Bailloll/ & took the country all about him. till he came unto the abbey of Dunfermlin. & there he found victuals for him and for his folk/ and among all other thing he fond in a chambre about five hundred of great staves of five oak with long pricks of iron. and of steel And he took them and 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 Baylloll. broke the bridges that they had made over the water of Erne. so that Bailloll might not go over/ wherefore he lodged him there all that night/ but lytyllhede he took of rest. and said unto his people/ Now dear lords ye know full well. that we been now lodged between our enemies/ and they may us hampre/ there is no boat but death. wherefore if we abide still all this night. I ween it shall torn us to much harm. For the power of scotland may every wax and encre●e and we may not so do. And we been but little people as 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/ and boldly were upon them. and let us pursue them this night. And if they be traveled thorough us. and see our hardiness. other Scots the se them so traveled and weary: the sorer will they be adread with us too 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 sire Robert Bailloll/ granted well unto the counsel/ & were thereof right glad. and anon pursued upon the Scots. that they became wonder weary. And Baillol & his company sore followed them/ & died them moche harm & sorrow/ through the r●assente. so that they 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 Bailloll 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 too yield. sith that his father set of us no price. ¶ And among all other things Bailloll and his people passed the water of Erne so that Robert Swynerton the son was fierce and angry/ & went forth and they saw people of arms full well arrayed. and forth they went unto them and with them fought. and slew & took as many as would abide: And nevertheless at that assault they wend it had be the great host of scotland. And when it came to the morrow. they gathered them together/ & rested them a while/ ¶ And while the englishmen rested th●/y● noble baron. Thomas Vescy/ & the noble baron/ Stafforde/ pricked their horse up & down by the hills/ for to keep the estrees of the country/ And as they picked up & down. they saw a great host of good array ordained in rheyr wings/ with helms & sheldes shining/ coming upon them And then 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 anon right/ ¶ And though spoke sire Fouk the son of Garenne. a baron of great renown & of deeds of arms/ Sires understood what I will say/ I have seen many divers wings/ as well among sarrasins and jews/ as among the Scots/ & yet saw I never she fourth part of the wing fight. & therefore it ye will abide our enemies/ we been enough for them. But if we be not of good heart and of good rourage we been but lost. And therefore for the love of god. take to us good heart/ & let us be bold/ & think we never of our wives ne of our children/ but onli to conquer our enemies in battle. & through the help of our lord we shall then over come. And with y● came the host of the scots toward them full serely/ & against sir Edward Bayllol in three battles well arrayed in armour/ ¶ And wonder fiercely they came toward the Bayllos' company/ But when sir Donald earl of marcel that was with the Scots/ saw all this/ he said unto Robert Brus the son of Robert the Brus these words/ Sire Roberte said he/ full sore me forthynkyth at my heart/ that these people that Bayllol 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 & done ill ' Now certes said sir Robert the Brus/ I have well perceived/ that thou art an enemy and a traitor unto scotland/ sith that thou wilt consent to save our dedelt enemies/ that have done us much sorrow & 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 hastyli ye shall see/ for I will fyzte with them rather than any of this company/ and certes sire Robert said he I shall in maugre of thy heed assail them or y●. And with that they pricked their steeds fiercely upon Gaskemore: and their wing them followed on a renge. And though came they & met with Bayllol and his company atte an hanging bough of the more in a strait passage and so fast they hasted them unto the englishmen that thousands fell onto the ground eachone over upon other into an heap both horse and man Bayllol and his men myghtylye stood against them/ and fast slew the Scots too the ground/ and many they sore 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 to do/ And the Scots that were left alive/ fled away/ for to save themself in the best manner that they might And thoo pursued them sir Edward Bayllol and his men/ & slew of theym●yll it was night. And froo thence they went too saint johannes town/ and took it: & held them there/ & v●●aylled themself at there own will/ for the● found ye● ough where with to make merry. though made Bayllol his men that were wounded go to ship/ to sail into england to he●e their wounds. & in the time there was a flēm●●ge in the see. a strong thief. & a ●obber that was called crab. & this flēmȳge was driven out of flanders for his wickidnesse & therefore he came into scotlonde. to hold with the scots/ and did as much harm to the english men as he might doo● And this Crabbe met Bayllols men in the see that were wounded before in battle that were sent again into england. for to bele their wounds. and this crab gave to them a great assawee. & would have slain them everychone. But the Englys●shmen defended them well & manli and discomfited Crab and his companies & tho 'gan he i'll into scotland. ¶ And as he came toward saint johannes town/ he found a great company of Scots/ that were come again together after the dysc●●yture at Gaskemore. the which by seyged Bayllol and his men in y● sa●●● town of saint Iohn. And anon told the Scots how that he was discomfited of the englishmen/ that were wounded at Gaskemore/ that went toward England/ for to heel 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 chyvalri of scotland with a handful of men as to count against the Scots that were slain. wherefore he counseled to remove the siege from saint johannes town/ and keep them in the best manner that they might. ¶ The Scots understood that Crab said sooth/ forsook the siege & 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 scotland came wonder fast to saint johannes town/ & yielded them unto Bayllol. & to him did homage & fealty for their lands & 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 scotland/ & after he let cry his peas 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 Edwar/ de Bayllol king of scotland came to him thither/ and did to him homage and fealty/ for the ream of scotland. And in this manner king Edward of England gathered again his homages and fealties of scotland/ whereof he was put out/ through counsel and assent of dame Isabella his mother/ and of sir Rogue Mortimer earl of March/ Tho took Bayllol king of Scotlond his leave of king Edward of England/ & went thence into his own land of scotland & set but little by such as had counseled him/ and helped him in his quarrel/ wherefore they went from him/ & went & lived by their own lands and rents in scotland. ¶ And sot befell afterward not long/ that the king of scotland neremeved & 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 thragh 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/ & 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 ¶ Thomas sent king Edward Bayllol to king Edward of England/ how falsely & traitorously he was in little time/ put to shame and sorrow through his lyege men/ upon whom he trusted wonder moche. & prayed him for the love of god that he would maintain him & help him against his enemies. The king of Englon had of him great pity/ & behyght 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. ¶ Thoo ordained king Edward of England a counsel at London/ and let gather his men in divers shires of England. & when he was all ready/ he went toward the town of Berwyk upon Twede/ and thither came to him king Edward Bayllol of scotland with his powee/ & besieged the town/ And made without the town a fair town of pavilions/ and diche● them all abowee/ so that they had no 〈…〉/ and 〈◊〉 many 〈…〉 and with other 〈…〉 wherewith they 〈…〉 houses/ & churches all 〈…〉 to the earth with great 〈…〉/ out of gonnes 〈…〉 And nevertheless the scots 〈…〉 the town/ y● though two kings might not come therein long time 〈…〉 the kings abode there so 〈◊〉/ 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 understand that though Scots that were within the town of Berwyk/ through common counsel and their assent/ let cry upon the walls of the town/ that they might have peace of the englishmen & thereof they prayed the king of his grace & mercy/ And prayed him of truce for viii. days. upon this covenant/ that if they were nottrescowed in that said of the town toward scotland of the Scots within: viii days/ that they would yield them unto the king/ & the town also/ And to hold this covenant/ they prouffred too 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 and mischief/ And the Scots though came pryvery over the water of tweed to y● bought of the abbey. & sire wyllyam Dyket that was though Steward of scotland. and many other that came with him/ put them there in great peril of themselves at that time & of their life/ For they came over a bridge that was to brokeand the stonies away/ & many of their company were there drowned/ But the foresaid wyllyam went 〈◊〉/ & other of his company/ and came by the ships of England/ & slew in a 〈◊〉 of Hull xvi men. and after they 〈◊〉 into the town of Berwyk by the 〈◊〉 side/ wherefore the Scots held 〈…〉 town rescowed/ and asked their 〈◊〉 again of the king of England/ 〈◊〉 the king sent them word 〈◊〉 that they axed their hostages with 〈◊〉 sith that they came into the town of England side/ For covenant was between them/ that the town should be rescued by the half of scotland/ & anon though commawnded king Edward to yield the town/ or he would have the hostages and the Scots said the town was rescued well enough & thereto the would them hold/ when king Edward saw the Scots break their covenants that they made/ he was wonder wroth/ and anne let sir Thomas. Fytzwyllyam and sir Alysander of Feton warden of Berwyk the which Thomas was person of Dunbarre./ & let them be take first afore that otheyr 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 breks their covenants. And when they of the town heard these tidings they became wonder sorry & sent to the king that he would grant them other viii. days of respite. so the between two hundre men of arms & twenty men of arms. might by ●●●the go between 〈◊〉 to the town of Berwyk them for to 〈◊〉 the town 〈◊〉 be hold for 〈◊〉. And if so were y● 〈…〉 more were slain of thoo two hundred before said. y● the town should not behold 〈◊〉 rescued. And this 〈◊〉 of 〈…〉 they sent to him other xii. of the foresaid 〈◊〉 in hostage the king of England granted them their 〈…〉 the hostages: on saint 〈…〉 of grace. M CCC.xxxii. the 〈…〉 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/ & the water was between though two kings and the ream of England. And the time abode the scottis in that other side for cause that the englishmen 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 were these lords. Thearl of Moryf/ jamys Frysell Symond Frysell/ walter Steward. reynold Cheyn. Patryk of Greham. Iohn le grant. jamys of Cordoll Patryk Parkeys. Robert Caldecottes Philip of Melledrun/ Thomas Gylbert Rauf wiseman. Adam gurdon/ jamis Gramat. Robert Bo●d. Hugh Park. with xl. knyghts' new dubbed. & vi. Cmen of arms. & iii M. of comyns/ In the first part of ●halfe battle were these lords/ the Steward of scotland/ the earl of Mory James his uncle/ william Douglas david of lindsay. Marcolyn Fleming/ wyllyam of Keth. Dnnken Canbok with thirty. bachelors new dubbed. ¶ In the second part of the battle were these lords. jamis Steward of Corden. Alem Steward/ wyllyam Abbrehin/ william Morys: jamys Fytzwyllyam. Adam lemose. walter Fytz. Gylbert. Iohn of cerleton. Robert wallam. with vii C men of arms/ & 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 erlond. wyllyam of Kyrkkelay. Iohn cā●●●/ Gylbert of hay/ William ramsey/ wyllyam Prendrgest. Kyrston Hard/ William Gurde/ arnold guard Thomas dolphin/ with xl knights new dubbed ix C. men of arms. & xum of comyns. ¶ In the fourth ward of the battle of scotland were these lord Archbalde Douglas/ the earl of Lenevax Alysander le Brus. the earl of Fyff. Iohn Canbell earl of Atheles. Roberte Lawether/ wyllyam of Vypount/ wyllyam of Conston. Iohn de Labels/ Groos de She renlaw john de lindsay Alysander de Gray. Ingram de Vmfteville. Patryk●de Pole●worthe/ david de wymes. Mychell Scot wyllyam Landy/ Thomas de Boys. Roger Mortimer/ with twenty bachlers new dubbed ix C men of arms/ xviii. M. & iiii. 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 foresaid town of Berewyk with an. C. men of arms. And also the comyns of the town with four C/ men of arms/ and with viii C of foot men ¶ The some of th'earls & lords above said/ amounteth lxvi ¶ The some of bachlers new dubbed amounteth to an C.lx ¶ The some of men of arms amounteth iii M.C. ¶ The some of the comyns amounteth liii. M. & iii C The sum totalle of the people abovesaid a mounteth .lxv. M.vii. C.xlv. And these lx. & vi great lords/ lad all the other great lords abovesaid. in four battles/ as it is told beforens all on fore. and king Edward of England/ and Edward baylol king of scotland/ had well counseled their folk in four battles/ for too fight on foot against the Scots their enemies. ¶ And the english mystrels blewe their trumpets and 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 & so sore: that the Scots might not help themselves. And the● 〈◊〉 the Scots thousands unto he ground. And they began for to flee fro the englishmen for too save their lives. And whane the Scots knaves saw the scomfiture & the Scots fall fast to the ground/ they pricked fast their masters horse with the spories for to keep them from peril/ & set their masters at no force And when th'Englishmen 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 the remen might see many a Scottysshman cast down unto the ground/ & the banners dysplayed hacked into pieces/ & many agode haberyoyne of steel in the blood bath And many a time the Scots were gathered into companies/ but ever more they were discomfited. ¶ And so it befell as god almighty would. that the Scots had that day no more foison ne might against the englishmen than twenty sheep among .v. vulues. And so were the scots dyscomfyted/ & yet the scots was well v. men against one Englysshman: And the battle was done on Halidoune hill be side the town of Berwyk. at the which battle were slain of the Scots xxxv tousande & vii hundred and xii And of the englishmen. but only xiii And this victory befell too the englishmen on saint Margaretes even the holy virgin & martyr in the year of our lord Ihe●n Crist. 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 sped/ they yielded to him the town with the castle/ on the morrow after saint Margaretes day. ¶ And thenne the king did ordain sir Edward Bayllol/ with other noble and worshipful men/ too be kepets and governors of all scotland in his absence. And himself turned again and came into England 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 Cryst. M.CCC xxxiii. And of king Edward vii he went again into 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. 〈◊〉 at his own lust. ¶ And in that same year/ sire Edward baylol king of scotland held his parliament in 〈◊〉 land 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 Bayllol/ ¶ And in the viii year of hysregne/ about the feast of saint johan Baptist sir Edward Bayllol the ver 〈◊〉 and true king of scotland as by heritage & right line/ made his homage & feaute unto king Edward of England for the ream of scotland at new castle upon Tyne. in the presence of many a worthy man and also of comyns both of the ream of England and also of scotland. ¶ 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 be held his Crysteman atte the castle of Rokesbourgh. ¶ And in the same year through out all england about saint Clementys tide in winter/ ¶ There arose such a springing and welling up of waters/ and also floods/ both of the see & also of the fresh rivers and springs/ that the see banks/ walls and costs/ broke up/ that mennnies beasts and houses in many places and namely in low countries/ violently and suddenly were drowned/ & fruits driven away of the earth/ through continuance and abundance of waters of the see/ ever more afterward were turned into more saltness and sourness ot savour. ¶ The x. year of king Edwardes regne. king Edward entered the Scots see after midsummer. And to many of the Scots he gave 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 & taken at Edinburgh and 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 appeared in the firmament a bemed star the which clerks call stella Cometa and that star was seen in divers parts of the firmament ¶ where after anon there followed in England good cheap and wonder great plenty of all chaffer victuals and merchandise/ and there against hunger scarcity mischief & 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 died sir Iohn of Eltham 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 kingdom of France. IN the year of our lord a thousand. CCC.xxxvii. and of king toward xii in the month of March during the parliament at westminster in lente time king Edward made of the earldom of cornwall a duchy & let it call the duchy of cornwall/ the which duchy he gaf unto Edward his hirste son with the earldom of Chestre. and also king Edward made at that same time two other earls/ that is for too say sir Henry the earl of Lancastres' son/ earl of leicester/ wyllyam of Boghun earl of Northampton/ wyllyam of Mountagu/ earl of Salysbury/ Hugh of A●dell earl of Gloucestre/ Robert of Vfforde earl of Southfolke/ And wyllyam of Clyton er●e 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 golden of silk or velvet or damask or satin baudkynne none such other ne none wild ware nefurres of beyond the see. But such as might spend an hundred pound of rent by year. But this ordinance and statute was but of little effect/ for it was no thing holden. ¶ In the xiii. year of his reign king Edward went over see in to Braban with queen Philip his wife there bearing a child at And werpe 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 Germayne of queen Isal●● king Edward's mother/ the which was holden and occupied unrightful by Phylyp of Valois the emes son of king Karoll/ the which duke and all his in the foresaid things & all otherlonging there to with all his men and goods king Edward to●de ready unto him and made & behyght him surety by good faith & trust/ and after that the king hasted him again into England & left there the queen still be hind him in Braban. Than in the xiiii year of his reign when all the lords of his ream and 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 mulles & the ix sheep of every corn/ And all the lords of every town where such things should be taxed & gathered should answer too the king thereof/ & had it and held it at his own lust & will. wherefore if I should knowledge the very truth/ the inner love of the people was turned in too hate/ & the common prayers into cursing/ for cause that the common people were so strongly grieved. ¶ Also the foresaid 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 lordships & many harms shamys & dystytes did unto the queen/ wherefore king Edward when he heard this tidings strongly moved therewith and an angered. & sent divers letters over see to the queen & to other that were his friends. gladding them certefienge 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 set again. Of whose coming the queen & all his friends were wonder glad and 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 trewelyeges and counsel of his lords that there were present with him write the king of France's name/ & took & meddled the kings arms of France quartered with th'arms of England/ & commanded forth with his coyen of gold under description & writing of the name of England & of France to be made best that might be/ & that is too say the floreyne that was called the noble price of vi shelling seven. pens sterling/ & the half noble y● valuc iii shilling & iiii. pens/ & the farth●●ges the value of twenty pens. ¶ How king Edward come unto the scluys 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 & let write in his charters writs and other letters the date of the reign of France the first. And w●yle that he was thus doing and travailing in France through his counsel he wrote to all the prelate's duke's earls & barons and the noble lords of the country/ and also too diverse of the common people divers letters and maundementes bearing date at Gandaut the viii day of February. And anon after within a little time he came again into england with the queen & her children. ¶ And in the same year on midsummer even he began to sail toward France again & manly & fiercely he fell upon Philip of Valois the which long time lay and had gathered to him a full long & boisterous many of divers nations in the haven. of Scluys/ and there they fought together the king of France & he with their hosts fro midday to three of the clock in the morn/ in the which battle were slain thirty. thousand men of the kings company of France/ and many ships and cogs were taken. And so through gods help he had there the vyctorye. & bear thence a glorious chivalry ¶ And in the same year about saint james tide without the yates of saint Omers robert of Arthoys with men of England & flanders fought against the duke of Burgon & the frenchmen/ at which battle were slain & take of the frenchmen. xv barons & lxxx knyghts/ & ships & barges were take unto the number of. CC. & xxx ¶ The ●ame year the king making & abiding upon the siege of tornay the earl of Henaude with english archers made assault unto the town of saint Amande where they slew. ●knightes & many other & also destroyed the town. ¶ And in the xvi year of his reign following in the winter time the king dwelled still upon the foresaid siege & sent offtime into England unto his tree sorer & other purveyors for gold and money that should be sent unto him there in his need/ but his proctors & messengers cursedly & full clously served him at his need & deceived him/ on whose default & latches the king took truce between him & the king of France/ And then king Edward full of shame and sorrow in his heart withdrew him fro the siege & come into britain & there was so great strive of vatayll that he lost many of his people. And when he had done there that he come for he dressed him over see into England ward. ¶ And as he sailed toward England in the high see the most mishaps storms and tempests thunder and lightning fell to him in the see/ the which was said that it was done and arraigned through evil spyrytees made by sorcery and necromancy of them of France/ wherefore the kings heart was full of sorrow/ & anguisshe welling & sighing & said unto our lady in this wise. ¶ Oblessyd lady saint Mary what is the cause that ever more going into France all things & wethers fallen to me joyful & liking & as I would have them/ but always torning into England ward all thygꝭ fallen unprofitable and very harmful neversheles he scaped all perils of the see as god would/ & 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 and would do fight with them: but the Scots would not abide y● but fled over the Scots see & hid them as well as they might ¶ And in y●: xvii. year of his reign about the feast of the conversion of saint paul king Edward when he had been in scotland & saw that the Scots were fled though he come again into England ¶ And a little before lent was the tournament at Dunstable/ to the which tournament come all the young bachelary and chyvalry of England with many other earls and lords. at the which tournament 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 noblle justes & great feestes in the place of his birth at windsor that there was never none such seen therafore. At which feast & ryaltee were two kings and 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/ and of diverse lands beyond the see weren many strangers. And atte 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 ever more yearly. And in this time Englishmen so much haunted and cleaved to the woodness & folly of she strangers/ that from time of coming of Henaudees xviii year passed they ordained & changed them every year diverse shapes & disguising of clothing of long large and wide clothes destitute & dyserte from all old honest & good usage. And an other time short clothes & straight wasted dagged & kit & on every side slatered & botomed with sleeves & tapytiss of surcotes & hodes over long & overmuch hanging/ that if I the sooth shall say they were more like too tormentors & devils in their clothing & shoeing & other array than to men & the women more nicely yet passed that men in array and curyouslyer/ for they were so straight clothed that they let hang foretayles sewed beneath within their clothes for to feel and hide their arses/ the which dysguysynges & pride peraventure/ afterward brought forth & caused many mysshappes & mischief in the ream of Englond. ¶ The twenty year of king Edward he went over into britain & Galcoyne. in whose company went the earl of warwick/ the earl of Suffolk. the earl of Huntyngton & the earl of Arundel/ & many other lords & common people in a great multitude with a great navy of. CC. & xl ships/ anon after midsummer for to avenge him of many wrongs & harms too him done by Philip of Valois king of France against the truce before hand granted/ the which truce he falsely & untrewely by cavillations loosed & disquatte. ¶ How king Edward sailed into Normandye and 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 westminster before Ester ordained him for too pass over the see again for to disease & distroble the rebels of France. & when his navy was come together & made redyhe went with a great host the xii. day of julii. & sailed into Normandye and arrived at hogs. ¶ And when he had rested him there/ vi. days for by cause or travayling of the see and for to have out all his men with all their necessaries out of their ships he went toward Cadomun brenning wasting and 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 〈◊〉 normans he had there a strong 〈◊〉 & a long during/ through which a 〈◊〉 multitude of peoble were slain And there were taken of prisoners the earl of Ewe/ the lord of Tankeruyll and a●. hundred of other knights and men of arms and vi hundred of footmen 〈◊〉 bred and the town and the subbarbes/ unto the bart wall/ and of all things that they might bear & carryen out was robbed & despoiled. After the king pas●sed forth by the country about the breed of 〈◊〉 mile he wasted all manner thing that he found. when Philip of valours perceived/ this/ all though he were fast by him with a strong host● yet he would not come nigh him but break all the burdg beyond the water of sayn fro Ro●n too Paris & himself fled unto the same ●● te of Paris withal y● hast that he might. ¶ Forsooth the noble king Edward when he come to Paris bridge & found it broken/ within two days be let make it again And in the morrow after the assumption of our lady king Edward passed over the water of sayne goy●ge toward Cresey and destroyed by the way towns with the people dwelling therein/ And in the feestr of Saint Bartholomewe he passed over the water of some unhurt with all his host there as never before honde any manner wain passage. where two thoved were slain of them that letted their passage over ¶ Therefore the xxvi day of August/ king Edward in field fast by Cresey having three batayle of englishmen encountered & met with Philip 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 king of Beme/ the duke of Loreyn. & earls also of flanders/ Dalaunson/ Bloys Harecourt/ Aumarle & Nevors/ & many other er●es barons lords & knights and men of arms the number of a. M.b. C.xlii with out footmen & other men armed that were not thing reckoned. And for all this the unglorious Philip withdrew him with the residue of his people. wherefore it was said in common among his own people. Nerembeall soy retreat. that is to say our fair withdraweth him. ¶ Than king Edward & our englishmen thanked almighty god for such a victory after their great labour taken 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 frenchmen with a great passing host come again for to give battle & fight with the english me●/ with whom met & encountered the earl of warwick Northampton & North folk with their company & slew two thousand & 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 was comen that is to say the third day of September he began to besiege the town with the castle & con tynued his siege fro the foresaid third day of September 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 scottis came into England to Nevyles cross/ about saint Lucas day the evangelist hoping and trusting for to have fo●●d all the land void of people for as much as the king of Englond was beyond the see/ safe only priests and men of holy church and women & children/ & plowmen & 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/ And so a day of battle was assigned between them & certain lords & men of holy church that were of that country with other common people fast by the city of Duresme. at which day through the grace and help of god almighty the scots were overcomen & yet were there three times so many of them as of englishmen. And there was slain all the chivalry knighthood of the ream of scotland. And there was taken as they would have fled thence david the king of scotland himself & the earl of mentyf sir wyllyam Douglas and many other great men of scotland. ¶ And after that our english men 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 saut keeping unto the kings coming and went home again into their own country And afterward was the kings ransom of scotland taxed too an hundred thousand mark of silver too be paid within ten year/ that is to say every year ten thousand mark. ¶ How king Edward besieged calais and how it was won and yoleden unto him. IN the xxii year of king Edwardes reign he went over the see in the winter time and lay all the winter at the siege of calais/ the which year while the siege lasted & endured Philip the king of France cast & purpoysed traytourously & with fraud to put a waye the siege & came the xxvii day of evil ● the same year with a great host and a strong power & neighed to the siege of calais. The which Phylip the last day of julii. sent to the king Edward word that he would give him plain battle the third day after that about evensong time if he durst come fro the siege & abide. And when king Edward heard that without any long tarrying or long advisement accept gladly the day & hour of battle that Philip had assigned. And when the king of France heard y●/ 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 vytayls within them were spended & wasted & for fault of victuals & of tefresshing they eaten horses hounds cats and mice for to keep their troth as long as they might. And when they saw and 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 frenchmen/ of that other side they wist well that they must needs die for default or else yield the town/ & anon they went & took down the banners & 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 & their privy clothes/ & held their swords naked & the point do●●warde in their hands/ & 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 & godis and dread of heart/ And when king Edward saw all this as a merciable king and lord received them to grace/ & a few of the greatest prisoners of estate & of governance of the town he sent into England there for to abide their ransom and the kings grace. And all the commonalty of the town the king let go whether they would in peace and without any harm/ and let them bear with them all their things that they might bear and carry away/ keeping the town and the castle to himself. then through meditation of Cardynales that were sent from the pope/ truce was ●●ke there between France and England for ix months than next following And about michaelmas king Edward come again into England with a glorious victory. ¶ And in the xxiii year of his regne. in the E●st parties of y●●worlde there arose and began a pestilence ● death of saracens and paynims that so great a death was never herd of afore/ and that wasted away the people so that uneath the tenth person was left alive. ¶ And the same year about the south countries and also in the west countries there fell so moche rain and so great waters that from christmas to mid summer there was uneaths nos day senyght but that it rained somewhat through which waters the pestilence was so enfted & so abundant in all countre● & namely acout the court of Rome. & other places & see costs that uneath there were left living folk for to bury them that were deed honestly. But made great dyches & pytte that were wonder broad & deep and therein buried them/ & made a re●ge of deed bodies & cast a little earth to feel them above/ & than cast in another renge of bede bodies/ and an other renge above them/ and thus were they buried & none otherwise/ 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 yereof king Edwardes reign it was done him to wete & understand of a treason that was begun at calais & ordained for to sell the town for a great sum of Florins unto king Phylip of France through the flasnesse & ordinance of a knight that was called sir Geffrey of Cherney was wonder privy with king Phylyp of France. And when king Edward heard this he took with him the noblest & gentyllest lord & many other worthy men of arms that were there present with him for the solemnity of the high fest. And well & wisely in all y● hast that he might/ & as privily as he might he went over see toward calais. And the same year the good king Edward held his Ceystmas at Havering. & the morn after new years day the king was in the castle of Calais with his men of arms that none of the aliens witted thereof. And that falls conspirator & traitor Geffrey of Cherney sith that he might not openly have his purpose of the castle privily and stely gely he come in & held y● towen with a great haste. And when he with his men were comen in/ he paid the foresaid some of florins as covenant was to a Geneweye in the town that was keeper of the castle and consenting to the same Geffreye in all his falseness and trechorye & bounden the english mynstrels and servants that were in the castle that they might not help themself ne let them of their purpose. And than weening that they had been sure enough/ then they spaken all their wickedness and falseness openly on high that all men might here. And 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 neno more might come to them/ & anon our englishmen went out at privy holes & windows & 〈◊〉 the walls of the town & of the castle & went & taught manly with the frenchmen that were with out & had the better of them/ the which when they were occupied by themself on their side/ the king that was with in the town having scarcely but xxx men of arms drew out his sword & with a loud voys he cried on high. O saint Edward. A saint G●orge. And when the people heard y●/ they come running to him & gaaf there to their enemies so great assault that there were more than two hundred men of arms & many more other slain and many fled away. And so by the grace of god alimighty the victory fell unto the englishmen. then the king took with him this Geffray that was finder of this trechory/ and also many other Frenssh prisoners/ and then within a while after he come again into 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 ●●st in to the west and namely thorughe botches/ that those 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 ligging. ¶ The pope Clement of his goodness and grace gave they us full remission and forgiveness of all their sins that they were shiyven 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/ and dearth without scharsyte. & fleing without refute or succour. for many fled from place to place because of the pestilence/ but they were enfected & might not escape the death/ after that the prophet Isay saith who that fleeth fro theface of dread he shall fall into the dyche And he that wyndethe him out of the dyche he shall be hold and tied 〈◊〉 a 〈…〉 this pestilence was 〈…〉 uneaths the tenth 〈…〉 people was left on live. And 〈…〉 a wonder thing 〈…〉 after the pestylen 〈…〉 in their heed alas 〈…〉 had afore. ¶ How king Edward had a great battle with spaniards in these fast by ●ynchelsee. ANd in the xxx year of his reign about saint Iohnns 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 chain together/ that other they must fight or be drenched. & so when all our worthy men of arms & of the se costs fast by wynchelse & romeny were gathered together/ & our navy & shyppis all ready to the war/ the englishmen met manly & strongly with their enemies coming fiercely against them. ¶ And when the Spayn● 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 piteously 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 & make his new money that is to say the pe●y the groat value of iiii. pens & the half groat of ii pens. but it was of less weight than the old 〈…〉 be .v. shilling in the pound/ ¶ And in the xxvii year of his reign was the great dearth of victuals the which was called y● 〈…〉. And the xxviii year of his 〈◊〉 in the parliament holden at 〈◊〉 after 〈◊〉. sir Henry earl of Lancastre was made duke of Lancastre & in this year 〈◊〉 so great a drought that from the 〈…〉 to the month of evil there fell no rain o●● there thee/ wherefore all fruits seeds & herbs/ for the most part were lost in default wherefore come so great disease of men & beasts & dearth of victuals in England that this land that ever afore had been plenteous had need the time to fe●e victuals and refreshing at other out 〈◊〉 & 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 ayen all his lond● & lordships that longed to the duchy of Guyhen of old time the which had been with drawn & wrongfully occupied by diverse kings of France before hand to have & to hold to king Edward & to his heirs & successors for ever more. freely peaceably & in good quiet upon this covenant that the king of England should leave of & releasen all his right & claim that he had claimed of the kingdom of France & of y● 〈◊〉 he took thereof/ upon which 〈◊〉 covenants it was sent to y● 〈…〉 Rome on both sides of the kings 〈…〉 foresaid covenant should be 〈…〉 god ordained better for the kings ●●●shyp of england. for what through fra●de & deceit of the frenchmen? what through letting of the pope and of the court of Rome the foresaid covenants were dysquate and left of. ¶ And in the same year the king revoked by his w● see and discrete counsell/ the staple of wools out of flanders into england with all the liberties franchises and free customs that longed thereto and ●deyned it in England in diverse places/ that is for to say at westmystre/ Caunterbury. Chychestre. Brystowe. Lyncoln. and Hulle with all the foresaid things that longen thereto. And y●●hys thing that should thus be done the king swo●● himself thereto/ & prince Edward his son with other many great wyenesses y● ther● were present. ¶ And the xxx year of his reign anon after whitsuntide in the parleament ordained at westmenstre it was told & certified to the king the Phylyg that held the kingdom of France was deed. and y● Ioh●̄ his son was crowned king. and that this Iohn 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 & strong lie moved. And therefore afore all the worthy 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/ & got it him there/ bidding and strenthing him/ that he should ordain him for to defend him & avenge him upon his enemies & save & maintain his right. And afterward king Edward himself/ & his eldest son Edward went to divers places & saints in England on pilgrimage for too have the more help & grace of god and of his saints. And 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 Salesbury & the earl of Oxford & a thousand men of arms & as many archers/ and in the nativity of our lady/ took their ships at plummouthe & began to sail. And when he come & was arrived in Guyon/ he was there worshipfully aken & received of the most noblest men & lords of that country. ¶ And anon afer king Edward took with him his two sons. that is to say. sir Lionel earl of Vlton and sir Iohn his brother earl of Rychemonde & sir Henry duke of Lancastre with many earls and lords and men of arms & two thousand archers & sailed toward Fraū●e & rested him a while at calais & after the king went with his host aforesaid & with other soldiers of be yond the see that there abode the kings coming the second day of Nofuembre & took his journey toward king Iohn of france there as he trowed too have found him fast by Odomarum as his letters and covenant made mention that he would a bide him there with his host. And when king Iohn France heard tell of the kings coming of England/ he went away with his men & carriage cowardly & shamefully fleeing & wasting all victuals the englishmen should not have thereof. ¶ And when king Edward/ heard tell that he fled he pursued him with all his host till Henede/ & than he beholding the scarcity and wanting of victuals & also the cowardice of the king of France he turned again wasting all the country. ¶ And while all these things were a doing/ the Scottis privily and bynyghte. took the town of Berwyksleing them that withstood them & no manels. but blessed be god the castle was saved & kept by Englishmen that were therein when the king perceived all this/ he turned again into England as wroche as he might be/ wherefore in the parliament at westminster was granted to the king of every sack of wulle l shillyng● 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 toward the siege. ¶ How king Edward was crowned king of scotland/ and how prince Edward took the king of France & sir Philip his younger son at the battle of Peyters. ANd in the xxxi year of his reign the xiii day of Iany●●re the king being in the castle of Berwyke with a few men/ but he having. there fast by a great host. The town was yoleden unto him without any manner defence or difficulty. Than the king of scotland that is for to say sir johann Bayloll considering how that god did many marvels & gracious things for king Edward at his own will fro day to day/ he took & gave up the ream of scotland & the crown of scotland at Rokesburgh in the kings hands of england under his patent letter there made. ¶ And anon after king Edward in presence of all y● prelat● & other worthy men & lords that were there let him crown king of Scotlond And when all things were done & ordained in the countries at his will/ he turned again into England with a great worship. ¶ And while this viage was in doing in scotland/ sir Edward prince of wales as a man inspired in god was in Guyhen in the city of Bordeaux treatȳge & speaking of the challenge & of the kings right of England that he had to the ream of France/ & that he would be avenged with strong hand/ & the prelate's peers & mighty men of the 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 & ●raueylynge by many diverse countries/ & he took many prisoners more than vi thousand men of arms by the country as he went & took the town of Remorantyn in Saloygne & besieged the castle vi days. And at the vi. days end they yold the castle unto him/ & there was taken the lord of crown & sir Bursygaud & many other knygheꝭ and men of arms moo than lxxx And fro thence by Toren & Peten fast by Chyneney his noble men that were with him had a strong battle with frenchmen/ & an hundred of their men of arms wereslayne. & the earl of Dance & the steward of France were taken with an ho●●dred men of arms. In the which year the nineteen. day of September fast by Pey●●● the same prince with a thousand & ix hundred men of arms and archers ordained a battle to king Iohn of France coming to the prince ward with vii M. chosen men of arms & much other people a great number/ of the which were slain the duke of Barbon & the duke of Athenes & many other noble men & of the princes men of arms a. M▪ & of other the true account & reckoning viii C And there the king of France was ●aken & sir Philip his younger son● & many dukes & noble men & worthy 〈◊〉 & men of arms about two 〈◊〉 so the victory fell there to the pry●●● & to the people of England by the gra●● of god. And many ●●at were taken prisoners were set at their taunson and upon their troush and knyghode were charged and had leave too go. But the prince took with him the king of France and Philip his son with all the reverence that he might and went again to Bordeaux with a glorious vyc●ory the sum of the men that there were take prisoners and of them that were 〈◊〉 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 h●● son and many other worthy prisoners arrived graciously in y● have of 〈◊〉 the/ & the xxiiii day of the same mo●●th about three after none they came to London by London bridge & so went forth to the kings pal●●s at westmynstre & there came 〈◊〉 a multycude and press of people abowee them to behold and see that wonder and tyall sight that uneath 〈◊〉 fro midday syll night might they ●ot come to westminster. And the king ●●raunson of France was 〈◊〉 & set to three millions of 〈◊〉/ of whom two should be worth a noble. And ye shall understand that a million is a thousand thousand and after some men his ransom was set at three thousand thousand florins and all is one effect. and this same year were made justꝭ solemn in Smytfelde being present the king of England/ the king of France/ & the king of scotland/ & many other worthy & noble lords/ ¶ The xxxiii year of his reign the same king Edward at windsor as well for love of knighthood as for his own worship & at reverence of the king of France & of other lords that were there at the time/ he held a wonder rial & 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 xxxiiii year of his reign the xiiii kal of julii sire Iohn earl of Rychmond king Edwardes son wedded dame Blaunche duke Henry's daughter of Lancastre cousin to the same Iohn by dispension of y● 〈◊〉 And ut the mean time were ordained justes at London three days of rogatyons/ that is for to say. the Mayer of London with his xxiii aldermen against all that would come in whose name & stead the king privily with his four sons Edward/ Lionel/ Iohn & 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 tomb of Thomas sometime earl of Lancastre as fresh as that day that he was done to death. ¶ And in the same year king Edward chose his sepulture and his ligging at westminster fast by the shrine of saint Edward: And anon after the xxvi day of Octobre. he went over see to calais making protestation that he would never come again into england till he had full ended the war between France & him. ¶ And so in the xxvi year of his reign in the winter time king Edward was and travailed in the Ryne costs And about saint Hyllarye tide he departed his host and went to Bourgon ward/ with whom than met peaceably the duke of Bourgon behyghting him lxx. thousand florins that he should spare his men & his people/ & the king granted at his request. & dwelled there unto the xvii day of March/ the which time come to kings Edwardes cere that strong thieves were on the see under the earl of saint Poule the xv day of March ligging a wait upon the towns of hasting Rye and other places & villages on the see cost hadden entered as enemies into the town of wynchelse/ and slew all that ever withstood them and with said their coming. wherefore the king was greatly moved and wratthed and he turned again toward Paris: and commanded his host to destroy & slay all with strength of sword that he had before hand spared. And the xii day of april the king come to Paris & there departed his host in divers battles with four C. knights new dubbyb on y● one side of him. And sir Henry duke of Lancastre under peace the truce went unto the yates of the city proffering to them that would abide battle in the field under such condition that if the king of Englond were over comen there/ as god forbed it should/ the than he should never 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 then went forth the new kynghtes' 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 wynchelle and ordained a navy of lxxx ships of men of London and of other merchants and xiii thousand men of arms and archers and went and searched and skummed the see & manly token and held the isle of Caux. wherefore the frenchmen that is for to say the abbot of Cluyn the earl of Tanker vyll y● Bursygaude y● though was steward of France with many other men of the same country by the common assent of the lord Charles y● two was regent of France they hasted them & went to the king of England asking & beseeching him stead fast peace & everlasting upon certain conditionns 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 & delyberacy on/ the frenchmen busily & with great instance asked truce for the see costs. & the king graunty them. ¶ And in the morrow after y● utas of Pasche the king turned him with his host toward orleans oes troyenge & wasting all the country by the way. And as they went thitherward their fell upon them such a storm & tempest that none of our nation never heard ne saw none such. through the which thousands of our men & their horses in their journey as if were through vengeaun●r 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 be gone/ wherefore about the fest of Philip and jacob in May fast by in Carnocum the foresaid lords of France meeting there with the king of England a peaceable accord & a final upon certain condicons & grants artycularly gathered & written together evermore for too last discreetly made & to both the kings prof fytable & to both their reams of one as sent of Charles the regent & governor of France & of Paris of the same ream written & made under date of carnocum the xu day of May. they offered & proffred to the king of England requiring his grace in all things written that he would benignly admit them & hold them farm & stable to them & to their heirs for evermore thence forth/ the which things and articles when king Edward had seen them he granted them so that both parties should be sworn on god's body/ & on the evangelist the theforsayd covenant should be stablysshe & so they accor ded graciously Therefore were ordained & dressed on every side two barons two baronet●ꝭ/ & two knights to admit & receive the oaths of the lord Chatles rege● of France & of sir Edward the first son & heir of kings Edward of Englond. And the ten day of May there was longen a solemyne mass at Paris. and after the third Agnus dei said to dun●● bis pacem/ in presence of the foresaid men that were ordained to Admit and ●●ceyue the oaths and of all other that there might be. So Charles laid his right. hand on the patent with god's body and his left hand on the myssa. ● & 〈◊〉 we. N. sweren on god's body & the holy gospels that we shall truly & steadfastly hold toward us the peas & the accord made between the two kings/ & in no manner to do the contrary. & there ameng all his lords for more love & strength of 〈◊〉 he dealt & departed the relics of the crown of christ to the knights of England/ & they token c●tously their leave: the friday next the same oath in presene of the foresaid knights & of other wo●●vi men prince Edward made at Lovers. afterward both kings & their sons & the most noble men of both ●eames. with in the same year made the same other & 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 ordes all noble barona & good kuyghts. And when the place and time was allygned in which both kings with their counsel should come together. all the foresaid things between them spoken for to ret●ye & make farm and stable the king of Englond a none were toward the see and at Hou● flet 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 into England and went to his palace at westminster of saint Dunstan's day and the third day after he visited johan king of France that was in the coure 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 homeward. ¶ And the ix day of Inlii in the same year this same Iohn king of France that afore lay here in hostage went home again/ into his own land too treat of the things and: other that longed & fallen to the governance of his ream. ¶ And afterward met & came together at calais both two kings with both their counsel about all Halowen tide. and there were showed the conditions & the points of the peas & of the accord of both lydes written/ & there without any with saying of both sides graciously they were accorded. And there was done & sungen a solemn mass and after the third Agnus dei/ upon god's body and also upon the mass book both the kings and their sons and the greatest lords of both reams and of their counsel that there were present and had not sworn before the foresaid other that they had made and titled between them they behyghten to keep/ & all other covenants that were between them ordained. ¶ And in this same year men beasts trees & houses with sudden tempest and strong lightening were perished/ and the devil appeared bodily in 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/ & the white company in lombardy/ and of other marvels. king Edward in the xxxvi peer of his regen anon after crystenmasse in the feast of the conversion of saint Poule held his 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 vi the kings commandment/ there were gathered and come together in westminster church the first sunday of lent. that is to say the ii kal of Frebruary. the foresaid englishmen & frenchmen where was song a solemn mass of the trinity of the archbishop of Caunterbury master Symonde Islepe. And when Agnus dei was done the king being there with his soves/ and also the kings sons of France. and other noble and great lords/ with candle light & crosses brought forth/ all that were called thereto/ that were not sworn afore swore that same oath that was written upon god's body and 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 & the accord made between the two kynkes 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 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 & hay/ ¶ And in the same month the vi kal of june there fell a sanguine rain all most like blood at Burgon. & a sanguine cross from morn unto prime apcrid and was seen at Boloyn in the heir the which many men saw/ & after it moved and fell in the mids of the see. ¶ And in the same time in France and England & many other lands as they that were in plain countries and desert/ baren witness 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 overcame the black/ y● anon after the black took heart to them & over come the white & after that they went again in to their castles: & than the castles & all the host vanished away. ¶ And in this same year was a great & an huge pestilence of people & namely of men/ whose wives as women out of governance took husbands as well strangers as other lewd & simple people. the which forgetting their honour & 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 sire Thomas wife of Holonde the which was departed sometime and divorced fro the earl of Salysbury for cause of the same knight ¶ And about this time began & rose a great company of diverse nasyons gathered together of whom their leders & governors were english people/ & they were called a people without any heed the which did much harm in the party of France. ¶ And not along after there arose another company of diverse nations that was called the white company/ the which in the parties & countries of Lombardy did much sorrow. ¶ This same year sire Iohn of Gaunt the son of king Edward the third was made duke of Lancastre by reason and cause of his wife that was the daughter & the heir of Henry sometime duke of Lancastre. ¶ Of the great wind/ and how prince Edward took the lordship of Guyhen of his father and went thither. ANd in the xxxvii. year of king Edward the xu day of january/ that is to say on saint mary's day about evensong 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 therewith that they been yet and shall evermore be the feebler and weyker while they stand. And this wind lasted without any ceasing vii days continually. 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 undoy ¶ And in the same year prince Edward took the lordship of Guyhen & did to king Edward his father homage and feaute thereof/ & went over see into Gal coin with his wife & children. ¶ And anon after king Edward made his son Lionel duke of Clarence. & lyr 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 & temporal law should fro the time forth plete in their mother tongue. ¶ And in the same year come in to England three kings that is to say the king of France the king of Cypress & the king of scotland/ because to bysy●● & for to speak with the king of England. And after that they had be here long time two of them went home into their own countries the kingdoms/ but the king of France through great sickness & malady that he had abode still in England. And in the xxxix year of his regne. was a strong and a great frost & y● lasted long that is to say fro saint Andrew's ty● the to the xiii kal of Apryll/ that the tylche & sowing of the earth & other such field works & hand works were much let & left undoyne for cold & hardness of the earth. And at orray in britain was ordained a great deadly battle between sir Iohn of Mountford duke of britain & sir charles of Bloys but victory fell to the foresaid iyr Iohn thruh help & succour of th'Englishmen. And there were taken many knights & squires and other men that were unnombred/ in the which battle was slain Charles himself with all that stood about him & of th'englishmans were slain but seven. And in this year died at savoy Iohn the king of France/ whose service & exequyes king Edward let ordain and did in divers placis worshipfully to be done/ & at Dover of worshipful men ordained him worthily to be led with his own costs & erepences/ & fro thence was brought too France & buried at saint Denys. ¶ In the xl year of king Edward the vii kal of Februer was borne Edward prince Edwardes son the which when he was vii of age he died. 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 westsaxon that began to regne the year of our lord god vi hundred. lxxix. first granted to Rome for the school of England thereto be continued. ¶ And in this same year there fell so great a rain in hay time that it wasted & destroyed both corn & hay. And there was such a debate & fighting of sparrows by diverse places in these days that men found ●nnumerabled deed in the fields as they went. And there fell also such a pestilence that never was seen such in no man's days that than lived/ for men that went to bed hole and in good point so deynly they died. ¶ Also the time a sickness that men call the pocks slew both men and women through their enfecting. ¶ 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 Ry charred of Amory can heveden at the tount stone after whom he was called richard. And this same richard when his father was deed and king Edward also/ he was crowned king of de the xi year of his age through right line and heritage and also by the common assent and desire of the commonalty of the ream. ¶ About this time at king Edward's commandment of England when all the castles and towns were yoleden too him the long were holden in France by a great company assembled to guider sire Bartram Claykyn a nobled 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 trnsting also upon help & favour of the pope for as much as it come to his ears 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 a bastard by assent of the most party of Spain & through help of that 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. fighting 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 too rob and also to slay with whom they countred & met in the se. mariners and other good fighting men of the country & dysperpled them. And they ashamed went home again in too 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 & great men of Denmark were ta 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/ and they not well apaid ne pleased of the answer that they had/ & they turned homewards again leaving behind them in their Inns privily written in scrowes & on walls. yet shall Danes waste the wanes Then happened there an english writer & wrote against the Dane in this manner (here shall Danes fet their banies) ¶ And in this time Pers the king of Spain with other kings that is too 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 of though kings/ loath he was & ashamed to say nay & contrary to them/ But nevertheless he was aghast lest it should be oni prejudice against the pope & long time tarried them or that he would grant or consent thereto till he had better counsel & advisement with good deliberation of king Edward his father. But when they were with him every day & continually be seeking of many noble men required & spoken to/ & with many prayers sent & made between them. than prince Edward sent to his father both vy complaining letters & also by comfortable containing all their suggestyous & causes with all that other kings epistles & letters for to have comfort & help of the wrongs not only done to the king of spain/ but also for such things as might fall to other kings. Also if it were not the sooner holpen & amended through the doom & help of knighthood to them that it asked & desired ¶ The which letter when the king & his wise 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? 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 their counsel called 〈◊〉 he would undertake the quard he bound & knit sore the king that was deposed 〈◊〉 a great o'th'/ that is to say that besholde ever after maintain y● 〈…〉 and faith of holy church/ and also with all their mynystreo rights & 〈…〉 defend from all their cum 〈…〉. And all that were ther● against ●●●ly to punish & destroble 〈…〉 liberties privileges of holy 〈…〉 creace & maintain & 〈…〉 that were wrongfully taken with 〈◊〉 born a way by him or by ou● other by cause of him/ hastily to 〈…〉 drive and put out saras● 〈…〉 misbelieved people our o● his 〈◊〉 with all his strength and his po●er and suffer ne admit none such for no manner thing ne cause too dwell 〈◊〉/ And that when he had taken a 〈◊〉 woman he should never come in to non● other woman's bed ne none other m●nes wife too defoil/ ¶ All these fo● said things truly for to● keep continue & fulfil as all his life c●me be was bound by other afore notar●●s in presence & witness of though kings with other princes/ ¶ And than that gracious princes Edward undertook the cause & the quarrel of the king that was deposed and behyght him with the grace of almighty god to restoe him again to bies kingdom/ & let ordain & gather ●●gyd forthwith in all haste his many with men of arms for to war and fight in his foresaid 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 y● one come out of the south & that other out of the north/ & cruelly & strongly they fought together & wrestled together/ & the south Egle first overcome the north eagle & all to rent him with his bill & his claws that he should not rest ne take no breathe and after the south eagle fleyth home to his own costs. ¶ And anon after there followed & was leen in the morn after the son rising & after in the last day of Octobre saving one many stars gathered together on an heap fell down to the earth leaving/ behind them fire beams in manner of lightening/ whose flames brent & consumed men's clothes & men's hair walking on the earth as it was seen y● known of many a man. ¶ And yet the northern wind that is ever ready & destyrnate to all ill fro saint Katherynes' eve three days after lost great good without number ¶ And in this same days there fell & come also such lightning thunder snow & ●●yll that if wasted & destroyed men beasts houses & trees. ¶ Of the battle of Spain beside the water of Nazers that was between prince Edward & sir Henry bastard of Spay. 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 and a great in a 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 fell 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 dynero nations to the number of an hundred thousand & more/ wherefore the shar/ penesse and fierceness, of his adversary with his full boisterous & great strength made and drive the ryghtfulle party a back a great way/ but through the grace of almighty god passing any man's strength that great host was dysparpled myghtfully by the noble duke of Lancastre and his host/ or that 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 foresaid flood and of the bridge thereof fellen down and perished. And also there were taken the earl of Dene & sir Bartram Cleykyn that was chief maker & causer of the war & also cheyftayne of the vauntwarde of the battle with many other great lords and kuyghtes to the number of two thousand/ of whom two hundred were of France & many all so of scotlonde/ 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 his kingdom again/ the which Peers afterward through treachery and falseness of the foresaid bastard of Spain as he sat at his meet he was strangled and died. But after this victory many noble men of England/ & also hardy in Spain through the flix and divers other sicknesses 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 Edwardis reign xliii in Apryll sire Lionel king Edwardes son that was duke of Cla rinse went toward 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 & about the nativity of our lady the same duke of Melai ne died. And in the same year the french men broke the peas & the truce riding on the kings ground & lordship of england in the shire & country of Pountyfe/ & token & held castle & towns/ & bear the Englyssh men on hand falsely & subtle that they were cause of breaking of truce. and in this same year died the duchess of Lancastre & is buried worshipfully in saint Paul's church. ¶ The xliiii year of king Edwardes reign was the greatest pestilence of men & of great beasts & by the great falling of waters that fell at that time/ there fell great hindering & destroying of corn in so moche that the next year after a bushel of wheat was sold for xl pens. And in this same year about the last end of Mayking Edward held though his parliament at westminster/ in which parliament was treated & spoken of y● o'th' & truce that was borken between him & the king of France & how he might best be avenged upon his wrong. ¶ In this same year in the assumption of our lady died queen Philip of England a full noble & good lady/ & at westminster full worshipfully is buried & 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 worship & name/ for there was a great host of the frenchmen upon Calkhull bridge/ & an other host of englishmen fast by the same bridge the long time had lived there. And maniworthy & great men of Englond ordained & gave counsel for to fight & gave battle to the frenchmen but the foresaid lords would not consent thereto for no manner thing. ¶ And anon after it happened that the earl of warwick come thitherward for to war/ & when the french men heard of his coming or that he came fully to land they left their senses & pavilions with all their victuals & fled & went away privily. And when the earl was comen to land with his men he went in all haste toward Normandye & deshored y● yle of Caur with strength of sword & through fire. But alas in his reforming to England ward home again at calais 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 & warted the noble knight sir Iohn̄●●●wkewod that was an Englysshman borne/ having 〈…〉 at his governance the white company 〈…〉 foresaid. the which o time against 〈◊〉 ●●●che & an other time against lord 〈◊〉 & ordained great battles & there in 〈◊〉 me country he did many merueylleu● things. ¶ And about y● 〈…〉 of saint Poule the king when he had ended & done the entering & crequyes with ●●●te costs & royalties about the scpule●●e & burying of quence Phylip his wife 〈◊〉 held a parliament at westminster 〈◊〉 ●●●che parlemnt was ar of the clergre 〈◊〉 years dime that is for to say a greedy me to be paid three year during And the clergy put it of and would not 〈◊〉 it unto Ester next coming & 〈◊〉 they granted well that in three 〈…〉 certain terms the dyme should be 〈◊〉 & also of the lay fee was a three year 〈◊〉 granted to the king. ¶ How sir Robert Knolles with other certain lords of the team went over sent to France & of their governance. ANd in the xlv year of king Edward in the begyuning king Edward with unwise counsel and undiscrete borrowed a great sum of gold of the prelaces merchants & other tyche men of his ream saying that it should be spended in defending of holy church & of his ream. nevertheless it profited nothing / wherefore about midsummer after he made a great host of the worthiest men of his ream. amongs whom weresome lord that is for to say the lord Fytzwater & the lord kenton & other worthy knights of which knyghꝭ the kygne ordained sir Robert Knolles a proved knyzt & a well assayed in deeds of arms for to be governor/ & that through his counsel & governance all thing should be governed & dressed. And when they come into France as long as they dwelled & held them hole together the frenchmen durst not fall upon them. And at the last about the begin ning of winter for envy & covetise that was among them/ & also discord they sundered & parted them into diverse companies unwisely & folely. But sir Robert Knolles & his men went & keeped them safe within a castle in britain. And when the frenchmen saw that over men & fellowship were divided into diverse companies & places not holding ne strengthing them togethers as they out for to do they fell fiercely on our men/ & for the most party took them or slew them. and though that they might take led with them prisoners. ¶ And in the same year pope Vibane come fro Rome to Auynyon for this cause that he should accord & make peace between the king of France & the king of England for evermore. But alas or he began his treats he died with sickness the xxi day of Decembre/ & was buried as for the time in the cathedral church of avignon fast by the high altar. & 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 Marcyle/ of the which abbey he was sometime abbot himself. And in both places that he was buried in/ there be many great miracles done & wrought through the grace of almighty god to many a 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 this same year the city of Lymoge rebelled and fought against the prince as other cities did in Guyhen for great taxes costages & raunsons that they were put and set to by prince Edward/ which charges were importable & to chargeable/ wherefore they turned fro him and fellen to the king of France. And when prince Edward saw this he was sore chafed and aggrieved/ and in his torning homeward again into England with sore scarmusshes and fighting and great assaults 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 withstand ne tarry on his enemies he hied him again into England with his wife and meinie leaving be hind in Gascoigne the duke of Lancastre and sir Edmonde earl of cambridge with other worthy and noble men of arms. ¶ In the xlvi year of king Edward at the ordinance and sending 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 asked him. And so the king of Naverne with great worship the great gifts took 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 & by a general convocation of the clergy it was granted & ordained that it should be paid & 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 and the treasurer that were bishops & the clerk of the prive sale. were removed & put out of office and in their stead were secular men put in. And while this parliament lasted there come solemn ambassadors fro the pope to treat with the king of peace & said that the pope desired to fulfil his predecessors will but for all their coming they sped not. ¶ Of the besyeging of Rochel & how the earl of Penbroke & his company was taken in that haven with spaniards and all his ships brent. THe ix day of june king Edward in the xlvii year of his reign held his parliament at wynchestre & it lested but vii days/ to the which parliament were sompned by write of men of holy church four bishops & four abbots without any moo. This parliament was held for merchants of London of Norwyche & of other diverse placis in diverse things & poyntis of treason 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 Lambrydge his brother come out of Gascoigne into England & took & wed ded to their wives Peter's daughters some time king of Spain Of which two daughters the duke had the elder that the earl the younger. And 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/ the which when they had been both long each in his province & countries fast by treating of the foresaid peas/ at the last they took with them y● lets of procuracye that went again to Rome without any effect of their purpose. ¶ In this year was there a shronge battle in the se between Englishmen and flemings & the englishmen had the victory & took xxv ships with salt & slaying and drenching all the men that were therein unweting them they were of the 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 of Pembroke was sent into G●scoyn with a great company of men of arms for to dies troy the siege/ which passed the se & came safe to the haven of Rochel that when they were there at the haven mouth or that they might enter/ suddenly come upon them a strong navy of Spanyerdes' 〈◊〉 which overcome the englishmen in moche blemishing hurting & slaying of many people for as much as the 〈◊〉 men were than notredy for to 〈…〉 were ware of them. And as the 〈◊〉 yards came upon them all the englishmen other they were taken o● 〈◊〉 and ten of them were sore wounded t●● the death and all their ships 〈◊〉 and there they took the earl with a great treasure of the ream of England and many other noble men also on 〈◊〉 summer eveu the which is saint Edeld●● day & led them with them into Spne. And of this mischief was no great wonder for this earl was a full ill l●uer as an open lecher. And also in a certain parliament he stood and was a yen the rights and fraunchyle of holy church. And also he counseled the king and counsell that be should are more of men of holy church than other persons of the lay men. And for the king and other men of his counteyll accepted and took rather ill opy●●ons and causes against men of holy church than he died for too defend & mayneene the right of holy church it was after seen many times for lack of fortun● and grace they had not ne bore alway so great victory ne power against their enemies as they did before. ¶ This same year the king with a great host entered these to remove the siege of Rochel/ but the wind was ever contrary unto him & suffered him not a long time to go fer fro the land/ wherefore he abode a certain time upon the see costs abiding after a good wind for them & yet come it not So at the last he come thence with his men to land ward again & anon as he was a land the wind began for 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. SOane 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 come unto Bordeaux without any manner withstanding of the frenchmen/ & he did them but little harm save he took & rawboned many places & towns & many men & let them go after freely. The same year the king set certain ambassadors to the pope praying him that he should leave of & meddle not in his court of the keeping & reservations of benefycis in England. & that though that were thosen to bysshoppis sees & dygnetees freely & with full might joy & have & be confirmed to the same of their metropolytans & Archbysshops as they were wont to be of old time. Of these points & of other touching the king and his ream/ when they had their answer of the pope/ the pope enjoined them that they should certify him ayen by their letter of the kings will & of his ream or they determined ought of the foresaid articles. ¶ In this same year died Iohn the archbishop of york/ Iohn bishop of Ely/ wyllyam bishop of worcester. In whose steeds followed & were made bishops by authority of the pope. master Alexander nevil to the Archbysshopryche 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 the 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 regue of king Edward died master wyllyam wytlesey archbishop of Caunterbury/ & the monks of the same church asked & 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 and his love but yet would the king not consent ne grant to their election of the Cardynalle ne of the pope also ne his Cardynales. ¶ And at the beginning of August it was treated and spoken at Bruges of certain points/ and articles hanging between the pope and the king of England/ and this treats lasted almost though 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 benefices in England/ and that the king should not graune ne let no benefytis by his writ that is called (Quare impedit) But as touching the election above said/ 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 and promoted to bishoprics which they desired and coveted by the court of Rome rather than by any other elections/ ¶ This same year about Candelmasse there met togyde at Bruges many noble & worthy men of both sides and reams to treat of peace between though two kings. And this tretꝭ lasted two year with great tostes & large expenses 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 that Archbysshopryche of Caunterbury master Symonde sudbery bishop of London was made archbishop & master wyllyam courteney that was bishop of Herford 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 april the duke of britain with many earls barons and worthy lords & men of Englond went over see into britain where he hath had all his lust desire & puropse ne had the foresaid truce bt so soon taken the which letted them. ¶ This same time y● yle of Constantyne where that the castle of saint savour is in. the long time was fought at & besieged of the frenchmen than yield to the frenchmen with all the appurtenances into great harm & hyndring of the ream of England. And this same year there were so great & so passing hetes & therewith all a great pestilence in England & in other diverse parties of the world that it destroyed & slew violently & strongly both men & women without number. This same year died sir Edward the lord spencer a worthy knight & abolde & 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 Englond that weresory & repentaunte 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 and cas●●oned by Bartram Claykyn between Patys & calais as he come toward england upon saint Atheldredes day the which saint as it was said the earl oftentimes had offended & 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 whispers through whom and her maynte/ ners the ream many a day was 〈◊〉 governed. ‛ NOt long after the li year of ●●●ge Edward regne he 〈…〉 ne & hold at westminster the greetest ●●●ment that was seen many 〈…〉 the which parliament he asked of ●●●●naite of the ream as he had done 〈◊〉 fending of him & of his ream 〈◊〉 comunes answered that they were so oft 〈◊〉 by day grieved & charged with so many tallages & subsidies that they might no●●ger suffer no such bu●chons charges & that they knew and wist well enough that the king had enough for saving of him and of his ream of the ream were well and truly governed but that it had be so long evil governed by ill of fycers that the ream might neither he plentevous of chaffre & merchandise ne also with richesse. And in these things they proffered themselves if the king would certainly to prove it and stand by. & 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 leave. And after this were published and showed in the parliament many plaints and defaults of divers officers of the ream and namely of the lord Latymer the kings chambrelayne both to the king & eke to the ream. ¶ And also at the last there was spoken & treated of dame Alyce per for the great wrongs & evil governance that was done by her counsel in the ream. the which dame Alyce per that the king had holden long time to his leman wherefore it was the lass wonder though through the trealtee of the woman's exciting and her steering he consented to her lewdness & evil cunoseyll the which dame Alyce & also the lord Latymer & other such that moved the king to evil governance against his profit and the reme also/ all the commonalty asked and desired that they should be removed & put away and in their steeds wise men and worthy that were true and well assayed and proved and of good governance. should be put in their steeds. So among all other there was one among the comunes that was a wise knight and a true/ and an eloquent man whose name was Pers delamare. And this same Pe●s 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 and other certain persons of the kings counsel as he was bidden by the comyns. And also trusting moche to be supported and maintained in this matter by help and favour of y● prince anon as the prince was deed at the instance & request of the foresaid dame alyce/ this per de amare was judged to perpetual prison in the castle of Notynghan ¶ 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 y● ever he were in the world to hold and made the most solemnity that he might. whose name and fortune of knighthood but if it had he of an other Ectour all men both christian & heathen while that he lived & was in good point wondered moche & dradd him wonder sore/ whose body is worshipfully buried in Crychirche at Caunterbury. And in this same year that men & the earls tenants of warwick arose maliciously against the abbot & covent of Eueshan & their tenants/ & destroyed th'abbey. & the town & wounded & beat their men and slay many of them/ and went too their manners & places & did moche harm/ & broke down their parks & closes & slew their wild beasts & chased them breaking their fish ponds & hedes & let the water of their ponds stews & rivers run out & took the fish & bare it with them. and did them all the sorrow that they might. in so farforth that forsooth they had destroyed perpetual that abbey with all their membres & apportenanunces 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 lord & other friends the peas was made between them. & for this hurling as it is said the king would not be governed at that time by his lords that there were in the parliament. but he took & made his son the duke of Lancastre his governor of the ream/ the which stood so still as governor till the time that he deied ¶ 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 promomed four pens out taken the four ordres of the frete beggars. ¶ This same year after michaelmas richard prince Edward's 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 iiii day before Mary Mawdalenes' day after dinner suddenly was smite with the palsy and lost his speech/ & on mary Mawdalenes' day died. ¶ Of the death of king Edward and how sir Iohn Monsterwarth knight. was drawn & hanged for his falseness. ‛ Byght anon after in the lii year of king Edward in the beginning of Octobre pope Gregory the ix brought and removed his court with him from avignon to Rome. ¶ And the xii day of Apryll. Iohn Monsterwarthe. knight at London was drawn & hanged & than quartered & sent to four chief towns of england & his heed smitten of & set upon London bridge/ for this same Iohn was full untrue to the king & to the ream & covetous & unstable/ for he took oft-times great sums of money of the king & his counsel foremen of arms wages that he should have paid them & took it to his own use/ & he dread that at the last he should be shent & accused for the same cause and fled prive lie to the king of France & was sworn to him and become his man & behyght him a great navy out of spain into confusion and destroying of England/ But the rightful god to whom no privity is unknown suffered him first to be shent & spylt or that he so traitorously & falsely betrayed his lyege lord the king of England & his people in his ream/ in the which ground this same johan was born. & wickedly through battle destroyed or he brought about his cursed purpose. In the feast of saint George thoe next king Edward gaaf to richard of Bordeaux his heir that was prince Edward's son at wyndsore th'order of knighthood & 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 forsooth of a passing goodness & full gracious among all the worthy men of the world fo● he passed & shone by virtue of grace given to him from god about all his predecessors that were noble men & 〈…〉 he was a well hearted man & an hard●● for he dread never no mishaps ne harms ne evil fortune that might tall a noble warrior & a fortunate forboth on land & see & in all battles & assebl●s with a passing glory & joy he had y● 〈◊〉 he was meek & benign homely 〈◊〉 soft to all men as well to strangers as 〈◊〉 his own subgettes & to other were under his governance. He was deud oute●●●ly both to god & holy church for he worshipped holp & maintained holy 〈◊〉 & their mynystres with all manner 〈…〉/ he was treatable & well avyled ●●●porall & worldly needs wise in coūse●ll & discrete and meek to speak with 〈◊〉 deeds and manners gentle and well ●●●●ght/ having pity of them that were in disease/ plenteous in giving 〈◊〉 benefits & almoses busy & curious in burlding/ & lightly he bore & suffered w●enges and harms and when be was gruon to any occupation he left all other thing for the time and tended thereto/ seemly of body and a main stature having alway to high and to low a good cheer. And there sprung & shone so much grace of him that what man had behold his face or had dreamed of him he hoped the day that all thing should hap to him joyful and liking. And he governed his kingdom gloriously unto his age/ he was large in giving and wise in spences/ he was fulfilled with all 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 into 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 & 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 here of take good heed like as his deeds beareth witness for as in his beginning all things were joyful & liking to him/ & to all people. And in his middle age he passed all people in high joy worship and blessedness. Right so when he drew into age drawing donwarde through le cherry and other sins little and little all tho joyful and blessed things and prosperity decreased & mysshapped and unfortunate things and unprofitable harms with many evils began for to spring and the more harm is it continued long time after. CLemens that 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/ & dessessyd a blessed man ¶ Karolus the four was Emperor after/ Lodewyk xxxi year. This 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 pope's blessing and to 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 to spiritual men/ the which yet are called Karolma/ at the last he deceased a rich man in virtue & goods. ¶ Innocentius the vi was pope after clement ten year/ and he was a great lover of religious 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 to be preached against the Turks/ and he made a passage to the Turks/ And to him saint Brygyt was sent from Crist for the confirmation of their rule & 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 too Kacolus aforesaid was Emperor xiiii year. And he was a child and was chosen when his father was on live/ but he took no keep of th'empire/ 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 appyrel. ¶ Vrbanus was pope after Gregory vi year/ this Vrba ne was chosen in the city of Rome by the strength of the romans but the cardinal's did that for dread and not willingly/ wherefore they fled unto the city of F●ndo●●. And they said that he was not pope/ and chose in his place sire Robert of Gebennys the same year the which was called Clement the 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 and the best of conscience could not deserve with who me it was best to say and to hold. And this strife dured xl year with a great slander unto all 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 Vrbant the vi unto Martyne I know not who was pope. ¶ The fest of the visitation of our lady was ordained by Urban the vi aft the form of the sacrament of the altar for a peace & an unity to be had among them through the merits of our blessed lady ¶ Bonefactus the ix was pope after Urban xu year. ¶ This Boneface was chosen at Rome in the stead of Urban/ & the strife continued/ For Benedictus was chosen in avignon in the place of Clement & was called Petrus de luna & he dured to the counsel of Constantynus/ & than he would not obey but ever abode obstinate. And at the last he decessed in the kingdom of Arragon. And he commanded his cardinal's to cheese an other pope the which they did anon. And they set up an idol & named him Clement/ but they profited not. ¶ Circa annum dm. M.CCClxxx. ¶ And after king Edward the third that was borne in windsor reigned richard of Bordeaux that was prime Edward's some of wales/ the which part & Edward was king Edward 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 city of Bordeaux in Gascoigne/ and 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 and Shakell squires for the prisoner that was take in spain/ by these two squires/ & the which prisoner the lord Latymer and sir Ra●fe 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 too hearing his mass beside saint Edward's shrine and there they slew him the which was called Hawell ¶ And Skakell was arrested & put in to the Tower of London And there he was long time for he would not del●●uer the Earl of Dene his prisoner unto these two lords/ by sir Aleyn Burbyll constable of the Tower and by Synt Ralph Feryers 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/ and hasting/ Portysmouthe. and. Hampton/ Stormore and Grains end/ and they did moche harm and went home again. ¶ And in this same/ year was a parleament holden at westminster/ And at that same parliament was ordained that every man woman & child that were at the age of xiiii year and above through out all the ream poor folk and other should pay to the tallage/ four pens/ wherefore came and be fell afterward great mischief & much disease to all the commonalty of there me. ¶ 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 hurling tyme. ¶ And they of Kente and of Estsex made them two chief tayns for to rule and for to govern the company of Kente and of Estsex. That one was called jacke straw/ and that other Watte Tyler/ and they come and assembled them upon black heth in Kent. And on Corpus christi day after. they camen down into Southwerke/ and braken up the prison house/ that is to say the kings bynche and 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 their gods and made avow. And on the friday next folowenge after that was on the morrow and than they came to the tour of London and the king being therein/ they fet out of the tour the archbishop of Caunterbury. sir Symonde Sudbery/ and ser Robert halys hospyteler prior and master of syant Iohans house●● a white frere that was confessor unto king richard and brought theꝭ unto the Tower hill and there they smote of their heeds and came again into London and slew moche 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 & bare them away and than they brent up the place. And than afterward they went to saint Iohn with out smythfelde & destroyed the gods there and brent up that house to the hard ground/ and went too westminster and saint martin's the grant & made them go out of the senewary all that were within for any manner of gylthe/ And than come unto the Temple and to all other Inns of men of law and despoil them and rob them of their gods and 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/ and of both countries and all the people that were within them and destroyed all the books of the counters. And thus they continued both saturday and sunday unto the monday next after in all their malice and wickedness. ¶ And than on mondaye king richard with his lords that were with him that time and with the mayor of London wyllyam walworth y● that was that time come with the aldermen and the comunes of the city/ & they come into Southwerke too here and too know the intention of these rebels & misgoverned people. And this jacke straw made than a cry in the field that all the people of accord th'old come nearer and here his claymours & his cry and his will. And the lords and the mayor and the aldermen with the comynaltee having in dignation of his covetise & falseness & his foul presumption/ Anon wyllyam walworth that time being mayor drew out his knife & slew iacke straw/ & anon right smote of his heed & set it upon a spear & so it was borne through Lendon & set upon London bridge. Anon these rysers & misgoverned pewere vanished as it had not be they/ & than 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 that at time mayor & slew iacke straw and the second was Nycholas ●rembre/ and the third Iohn Phylip●t/ & the fourth Nycholas twyforde/ and the fift Roberte lands/ and the sixth Roberte 〈…〉 the king with his 〈…〉 aye● too the 〈…〉 there be tested by 〈…〉 and set ● 〈…〉. And ●han by process of 〈◊〉 as they might to be 〈◊〉 these rebels & 〈◊〉 they 〈◊〉 upon the next 〈◊〉 through out every lord shyn in y● 〈◊〉 of england by xi by thirty by ten ●. by xii. ever as they might be go●●● & taken in any parts. ¶ And in the v. year of king Rychardes reign was the great earth make & was general through out the world the wenesdaye after wy●●ondaye in the year of our lord. M. CCC.lxxxxi. wherefore all manner people were sore aghast and afeard long time for dread of vengraunge that our lord showed and did. ¶ And in the vi year of king richard/ thenn sir henry spenser bishop of Norwiche went with a great company over se into flanders and there they get the town of Graveuing & the town of burbrughe Dunberk & Newport and there they laded & fraughted li ships with pelage for to have comen in to England with these ships and goods. And the bishop of Norwyche and his counsel let bren these ships with all the pelage in the same haven all into hard ashes/ and at Dunkirk was done a great battle between the Flemyngis & the englishmen. And at the battle were slain a great and tyt●ge of the flemings & a great number. And than went the bishop with his reteme to years & besieged it a long time 〈◊〉 it might not be gotten. & so left that siege and come again into England/ too our englishmen were souly destroyed & many died on y● flyr. and in the year come every Anne into england 〈◊〉 to be spoused to king richard & her ●●der was Emperor of Almaynt & king of 〈◊〉/ & with her 〈…〉 be of 〈…〉 and many other worthy 〈◊〉 & knights of his 〈◊〉 of Beme and of other duche tongues to do her reverence & worship. And sir Symonde veverle a worthy knight of the garter and other knights and squires that were the kings embassatoure● brought her in to England and so forth to London. And the people of the city/ that is to say the mayor & 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 Kent and so brought her unto London through the city and 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 friends that came with her had den great gifts & were well cherished & refreshed as long time as they abode there. ¶ And in this same year there was a battle done in the kings palace at westminster for certain points of treason between sir Iohn Ansley knight defendant/ and Carton squire the appellaunt. But this sir Iohn of Ansley over came this Carton and 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 and there he was hanged for his falseness. ¶ And in the viii year/ of the reign of king richard the second/ sire Edmonde of Langley the. earl of cambridge king Rychardes' uncler went in too. 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 and comfort of our englishmen. And. when that journey was done the earl of cambridge come home again with his people into England in haste blessed be god and his blessed gifts. Amen. ¶ And this same year king Richard held his christmas in the manner of Eltham. ¶ And the same year and time the king of Armony fled out of his own land and come in to England for to have help and so coure of our king against his enemies that had driven him out of his own ream. And so he was brought unto the king to Elcham there as the king held his rial feast of christmas. ¶ And there our king welcomed him and did him much reverence & worship & 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 comforths in his need/ & that he might be brought again to his kingdom and land. For the Turks had devoured and bestroyed the most part of his land/ & how he fled for dread/ and come hither for socout & 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 out lands it were a great jeopardy/ And so the king gave him gold and silver and many rich gifts and jewels and betaughte 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 too the king for to treat with him and with his lords for truce as for certain years. And so our king & his counsel granted them truce for certain years/ and our king turned him again into England. And when he was comen unto york there he abode and rested hy●● there. And there sir Iohn Holonde the earl of Kentes brother slew the earls son of Scafforde & his heir with a dagger in the city of york/ wherefore the king was sore annoyed & grieved & removed thence & came to London/ And the mayor with the aldermen & the comyns with all the solemnity that might be done riden against the king & brought him rially through the city and so forth unto westminster 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 was 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. And Hernry of Balyngbrok the dukes son of Lancastre him he made earl of Derby. And sir Edward the duke's son of york him he made earl of Ruttelonde/ And sire johan Holonde that was the Earl of Kentes brother and him he did make earl of Huntyngdon/ ¶ And Sire Thomas Mombraye/ him he made Earl of Notyngham/ and the Earl Marshalle of england. And sir Mychelde lapole knight him he made earl of South folk and Chancellor of england. And the earl of the March at the same parlelemēt holden at westminster in plain parliament amongs all the lords & comyns was proclaimed earl of the March and heir Parent to the crown of England after king richard/ the which earl of the March 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 live and heritage. And there at the castle of his he lay that time/ and there came upon him a great multitude in busshmentes of wild irishmen for to take him and destroy him And he come out fiercely of his castle with his people and manly fought with them and there he was taken & hewn all too pieces and so he died upon whose soul god have mercy. ¶ And in the ten year of king Rychardes reign the earl of Arundel went to the see with a great navy of ships & armed with men of arms & 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 set upon them & took them all and brought them unto diverse ports and havens of England & some to London/ and there ye might have had a ton of Rochel wine of the hest for: xx. shilling sterling/ and so we had great cheap of wine in England the time thanked be god almighty. ¶ How the five lords 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 that 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/ and the third was sir richard earl of warwick/ the fourth was sir Henry Balynbrok earl of Derby/ the fift was sir Thomas Mombray earl of Notyngham. And these .v. lords saw the mischief & misgovernance and the falseness of the kings counsel/ wherefore they that were that time chief of the kings counsel fled out of this land over see that is to say sir Alysander Nevell the archbishop of york/ and sir Roberte Lewe marqueyes of Develyne and earl. of Oxford/ and sir Mychell de la pole/ earl of South folk & Chancellor of England. And these three lords went over see and came never again for there they died. ¶ And than these five lords above said made a parliament at westminster and there they took sir Robert Tresaly am the justice and sir Nicholl Brembre knight and cytezeyn of London and sir Iohn Salesbury a knight of the kings household & uske sergeant of arms and many moo of other people were taken and judged unto the death by the counsel of these .v. lords in that parliament at westminster for the treason that they put upon them to be drawn from the tour of London through out the city & so forth unto Tyburn & there they should be haged and their throats to be cut & thus they were served & died. And after that in this same parliament at westminster was sir Symond Beverle that was a knight of the garter and sire Iohn Beauchamp knight that was steward of the kings household/ & sir jamys berner's were for judged unto the death and than they were led on foot to the tour hill & there were their hedes smitten of and many other moo by these .v. lords ¶ In this same parliament and in y● 〈◊〉 year of king Rychardꝭ reign he let 〈◊〉 & ordain a general justes that is called a tournament of lords and 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 & to all other was holden open household & great festes & also great gifts were given too all manner of strangers. And of the kings side were all of one suit their coats their armure sheldes horse trappure and all was white hearts with crowns about their necks and chains of gold hanging there upon and the crown hanging low before the hearts body/ the which heart was the kings leveraye that he gaaf to 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 led 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 in to smith field 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 & nation that ever they were. And this was holden during xxiiii days of the kings costs/ and these xxiiii lords to answer all manner people that would come thither. And thither came the earl of saint Poule of France and many other worthy knights with him of diverse parties full worthily arrayed. And out of Holande & Henaude came the lord/ Ostreuaunt that was the dukes son of Holland and 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 & moche thank. ¶ And in the xiii year of king Rychardes reign there was a battle done in the kings palace at westminster kytwene 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 walssheman. but this Naverne was overcomen & yield him recreant to his adversary. And anon he was despoiled of his armure & drawn on't of the palace to Tyburn & there was hanged for his falseness. ¶ And the xiiii year of king Rychardes reign sir Iohn of Gaunt duke of Lancastre went over see in too 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 the duchess his wife & 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 & 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 he should give unto the duke of Lancastre gold and silver that were cast into great wegges and many other jewels as much as viii charyetes might carry. And every year after during the duke's life of Lancastre and of the duchess his wife ten thousand mark of gold Of which gold the adventure & chargis 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/ & when he had done so he come home again in to 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 christ mass in the manner of woodstock and there the earl of Penbroke ayong lord and tender of age would learn to just with a knight that was called sire Iohn of saint Iohn/ and 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/ and 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 Iohn hende being that time mayor of London and Iohn walworth & Henry vanner being shreves of London/ that same time a bakers man bore a basket of horse breed in too Fletstrete toward an hostre and there came a young man of the bishop of Salysbury that was called roman and he took a horse loaf out of the basket of the bakers/ & he asked him why he did so/ and this roman turned again and broke the bakers heed/ And neighbours came out and would have arrested this roman & he broke from them & fled to his lords place and the Constale would have had him out/ but the bishops men shut fast the yates and 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 woldr bren up the place and all that were within/ And than came the mayor and shreves with moche other people & ceased the malice of the comyns and made every man to go home to their houses & keep peace. And this romans lord the bishop of Salesbury master johan waltham that at the time was treasurer of England went to 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 that mayor & shreves. And anon all the city afterward came before the king and his counsel/ & they cast unto the city a grievous heart & a wonder great malice And anon suddenly the king sent after the mayor of London & 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 johan baptist. And than the king called to him a knight that was called sir Edward dalyngrygge & made him warden & governor of the city and chambre of London & over all his people therein. And so he kept that office but four weeks because that he was so gentle & tender too the citizens of London/ wherefore the king deposed him & made sir Baudewyne radyng●o knight that was Courtrouller of the kings household warden & governor of his chambre and of his people therein/ and chose to him two worthy men of the city to be shreves with him too govern & keep the kings laws in the city that one was called Gylbert mawefelde & 〈◊〉 other Thomas newenton shreves. And than the mayor & the two shreves and all the aldermen with all the worthy 〈◊〉 of London went on foot unto the to●re of London/ & there came out the 〈◊〉 table of the tower & gaaf the mayor and the shreves their oath and charge as 〈◊〉 should have taken in the exchequer of ●●●●mynster in the kings court of his 〈◊〉 & Barons of the exchequer & than went they home again. And than the 〈◊〉 & his counsel for the great malice & despite that they had to the city of London removed all his courts from westm●●ster unto the city of york that is to 〈◊〉 y● Chauncelar the exchequer the kings bynche and the common place & there they held all these courts of law fro my● summer/ that is to say the feast of saint johan Bastyst unto the feast of christ mass next coming. And than the king & his counsel saw it not so profitable there. as it was at London than anon he removed it again to London & 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 & his people also than the mayor & the aldermen with the chief Comunes of the city let gather a great sum of gold of all the Comunes of the city and ordained & made great royalties against his coming to London for to have his grace & good lordship & also their liberties and franchises granted unto them again as they were wont too have afore tyme. And through great instance & prayer of the queen & of other lords & 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 & all the worthy men of the city afterward road against him in good array unto that he the on this side of Shene the mayor submitting them homely & meekly with all manner obeisance unto him as they oughten to do. And thus they brought the king & the queen to London. and when the king came to the gate of London bridge there they presented him with a milk white stead saddled and bridled and trapped with cloth of gold and reed partyed together/ and the queen a palfrey all white ut the same array trapped with white & reed and all the conduits of London ran with wine both whytel & ●eed/ for all manner people to drink who would. And between saint Paul's and the cross in thepe there was made a stage a rial standing upon high and therein were many angels with divers me lodyes and songs. And than an angel came down from the stage on high by a vice and let 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 and the queen to westminster in to their palace. And than on the morn after the mayor & the shreves and the aldermen of London camen unto the king to his palace at westminster & present him with two basyns of silver and 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 too have before times and by his letters patents and his chartre confirmed. And the queen and other worthy lords & ladies fell on their knees & besought the king of grace to confirm this. Than the king took up the queen and grauted her all her asking. And than they thanked the king & the queen & went home again. ¶ And in xvi year of king Rychardes reign certain lords of Scotlond came into England for to get worship as by feet of arms/ this were the persons/ The earl of 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 cast both horse and man & two of his rib broken with the fall & 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 sire wyllyam Darell knight and the kings banerer of scotland than made an other challenge with sir Pers curtain knight and the kings banerer of england of certain courses yet on horseback in the same field/ and when he had riden certain courses & assayed he might not have the better he gaaf it over and would no more of his challenge with sir Pers curtain knight & the kings banerere of England and turned his horse and road home unto his own Inn And one Cockeborne a squire of scotland challenged sir Nycholl Hawberke 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 and man/ and thus our english lords thanked be god had the field. ¶ And in the xvii yer● of king Rycha●●● regne died the good 〈…〉 to king richard in the manner of Shene in the shire of Surrey upon witsondaye/ and than was she brought to London and so to westminster and there was she buried and worthily entered beside saint Edward's shiyne/ 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 into England and let her be crowned queen in the abbey of saint Peter'S of westmynstre. IN the twenty year of king Rychardꝭ reign he went himself over see unto calais with duke's earls lords & barons and many other worthy squires with great array and common people of the ream in good array/ as longed to such a king and prince of his nobley & of his own person to do him reverence & observance as aught to be done too their lyege lord & so mighty a king & Emperor in his own to abide & receive there the worthy & gracious lady that should be his wife a young creature of xix year of age dame Isabella the kings daughter of France & other worthy lords of great name both barons & knights with moche other people that camen to the town of Gravening & two dukes of France y● one was the duke of Burgoyn and that other the duke of Bar that would no further less than they had pledges. And than king Richard delivered two pledges for them for to go safe & come safe his two worthy 〈◊〉 the duke of Gloucestre & the duke of york & these two went over y● 〈◊〉 of grave ny●ge & abode there as for pledgꝭ to the time that the marriage was done/ and that these two dukes of France were come again unto Gravening water. And than these two worthy dukes came over the water at Gravening & so to calais with this worshipful lady dame Isabella that was the kings daughter of France & with her came many a worthy lord and eke lady & knights & squires in the best array that might be & so brought her into the town of calais. And there she was received with all the solemnity & worship that might be done unto such a lady. And than they brought her unto the king. and the king took her & welcomed her and all her fair company & made there all the solemnity that might be done. ¶ And than the king & his counsel asked of the french lords wh●ther all the covenants & forwards with the composition that were ordained & made on both parties should be truly kept and hold between them. And they said ye/ and there they swore and took their charge upon a book and made their oath well and truly it to hold in all manner of points and covenants without contradiction or delay in any manner wise. And than was she brought to saint Nicholas 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 to the castle & ●ete to mete. And were served with all delycasye of rial meats & drinks plenteously to all manner of strangers & all other & no creature warned the 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 & ended with all ●yalte. and than these two worthy dukes of France 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 means 〈◊〉 comen over the water to Gra●●nynge & they met with our two dukes/ and everichone took leave at other and so they departed/ and our lords camen again unto calais/ and the french lords wenten over the water and so home into France again. ¶ And anon after the king made him ready with the queen and all his lords and ladies and all their people with them and came over the se in to England and so unto London. And the mayor and the shreves with all the aldermen and worthy comunes roden against them unto the black heath in too Kente/ and there they met with the king and the queen and welcomed them and that in good array and every man in the clothing of his craft and their mynstrels before them. And so they brought them unto saint George's bar in Southwark & there they token their leave. And the king and the queen roden to Kenyngton and than the people of London turned home again/ And in turning again to London bridge there was so great press of people both on horse & on foot that there were deed on the bridge/ xi. persons of men & women & children on whose souls almighty 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 through the city of London and so forth unto westminster and there she was crowned queen of England/ and than she was brought again unto the kings palace and there was holden open/ and a rial feast at her coronation of all manner people that thither come/ & 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 evil excitation and false counsel & for great 〈…〉 king had of 〈…〉 good duke of Gloverstre and to the earl n● Arundel and too the earl of warwick. Anon the king by his evil 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 Chelmesforde and 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. & the king arrested the good duke himself with his own body/ & so he was lad down to the water and anon put into a ship and anon had to calais & brought into the captains ward to be kept in hold by the kings commandment of England. Ad that time th'earl Marchall was capitain of calais And anon after by commandment of the king and by his falls counsel commanded the capitain to put him to the death. Add anon certain yeomen that had the good duke in keeping took their counsel how that they should put him unto death/ And this was their appointment that they should come upon him when he were in his bed and a sleep on a featheren bed/ and anon they bound him hand and foot & charged him to lie still And when that they had done thus they token two small towells and made on them two riding knots and cast the towells about his neck/ & than they took y● 〈…〉 y● lay under him & cast it above him & than they drew their to wells each ●●yes and some lay upon the featheren 〈◊〉 upon him unto the time that he 〈◊〉 because that he should make no 〈◊〉 and thus they strangled this worthy duke unto the death/ upon whosoule 〈◊〉 for his high pity have mercy/ Amen ¶ And when the king had rested thus this worthy duke and his unde & 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 Arundel/ and for the good earl of warwick/ And anon as they came he arrested them himself. and sir johan Cobham and sir Iohn chain knights he arrested them in the same. manner till he made his parliament. and anon they were put into hold/ but the earl of Arundel went at large unto the parliament time/ for he found sufficient surety/ to a 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 to judge this three worthy lords and other moo as they list at that time/ And for that judgement/ the king let make in all the haste a long house and a large of timber the which was called an hall & covered with tiles over & it was open all about on both sides & at the ends that all manner of men might see through out/ and there the doom was holden upon these foresaid lord 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 & bring his retinue with him in as short & in the best array that they might get in maintaining & in the strengthing of the king against them that were his enemies/ and that this were done in all the haste and come to him in pain of death. And the kyngge himself sent into Chestreshyre to cheyf●ayns of the country/ and they gathered and brought a great & an huge company of people both of knights & squires and 〈◊〉 of yeomen of Chestreshyre the which yeomen and archers the king took to his own court and gaf 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 & destruction as ye shall here afterward. And that time came sir Henry of Derby with a great meinie of men of arms and archers/ and the Earl of Rutlonde come with a strong power of people both of men of arms and archers And the earl of Kente brought a great power of men of arms and archers. the earl Marchall came in the same manner And the lord Spenser in this same manner/ The earl of Northumberlonde and sir Henry Percy his son and sir Thomas Percy the earls brother. And all these worthy lords brought a fair many & a strong power & each man in his best array. And the duke of Lancastre & the duke of york came in the same manner with men of arms and archers following the king. And sir William shop 〈◊〉 of England came in the same manner And thus in this array came all 〈◊〉 thy men of this land unto ou● 〈◊〉 all these people came to London 〈◊〉 day/ in so much that every there and lane in London and in the subarbes were full of them lodged and. 〈…〉 mile about London on every way: And these people brought the king to westminster & went borne 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 too the parliament among all the lords/ and that was on saint Mathewes day the apostle & evangelist/ there he was for judged unto the death in this ball 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. & so forth through the city of London unto the Tower hill and his heed to be smitten of and so it was done in deed in the same place. And vi of the greatest lords that sat on his judgement roden with him unto the place there he was done to the 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 strengething of the lords that brought this earl to his death for they dread least the earl should be rescued and taken from them when they come into London. Thus he passed forth through the city unto his death. and there he took it full patiently on whose soul god have mercy Amen. And than come the frere Augustine'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. & in the morn after was sir richard earl of warwick brought into the parliament there as the earl of Arundel was for/ judged/ and they gave the earl of warwik the same judgement that the foresaid earl had but the lords had compassion of him because he was of more greater age and released him into perpetual prison/ & put him into the island of Man And then on the monday next after/ the lord johann Cobham of Kente/ & sir johan Cheyn knights were also brought into the same parliament in the same hall/ and there they were for judged for too be hanged and drawn/ but through the prayers and great Instance of all the lords that judgement was forgiven to them and released into perpetual prison. ¶ And in this same year was richard Wyttyngdon mayor of London/ and Iohn wedecoke & william 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 through out every ward also. And the king made .v. dukes and one markeys & 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 and 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 a he was made duke of Norfolk. And the earl of somerset he was made markeys of Dorset. And the lord Spenser was made Earl of Goucestre/ And the lord nevil of raby was made earl of westmerlonde/ And sir Thomas percy was made earl of worcester. And sir wyllyam scrope that was tresourere of England was made earl of wylteshyre. And sir Iohn montagu earl of Salesbury. And when the king had thus done he held the parliament and royal fest 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 Holdorne. and was brought fro thence to saint Poule & there the king made and held this interment well and worthily with all his lords in the church of saint Poule in London/ and there he was buried beside dame Blaunce his wife that was daughter & heir unto the good Henry that was duke of Lancastre. In the same year there fell a dissension bytwere the duke of Herforde and the duke of Norfolk/ in so moche that they waged battle and ●asten down their gloves & than they were taken up & ensealed & the batyyll Ioyne● & the day set & the place assigned 〈…〉 and this should be at Country. ¶ And thither come the king with all his 〈◊〉 at that day and was set in the field and than these two worthy lords came into the field well and clean armed & well arrayed with all their weepen & ready too done their battle & were ready in the place for to fight at utterance. But the king had them cease & took the quarrel into his hand. And forth with right there present exiled the duke of Herforde forterme of x. year. & the duke of Norfolk for ever more. 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 too Venece and there he died on whose soul god have mercy. Amen. and than king richard made a clerk of his sir Roger walden archbishop of Caunterbury/ ¶ And in the xxii year of king Rychardes 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 through out the ream/ In so much that they compelled dyverle people to set their seals thereto/ 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 and end to him that was so high and so excellent prince and king and 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 too farm unto four persons/ the which were these/ Sir wyllyam strop earl of wyleshyre and treasurer of England/ and sir johan bush/ and Henry green/ and sir johan Bagot knights that which/ turned them too mischief and death with in a little time as ye shall find here afterward written. ¶ And than king richard made great ordinance & ●nte himself over see in to I●londe & many great lords with him 〈◊〉 a great host for to strength their king with men of arms archers and moche great stuff & right good ordinance as longed unto war And or he passed over see he ordained & made sir Edmonde of Langley his uncle the duke of york his 〈◊〉 of England in his absence with she governance & counsel of the●e 〈…〉 that had taken England to ●●●me of the king. And than he 〈…〉 see and came into ireland and 〈◊〉 was well & worthily received. And 〈◊〉 rebels that ben called would 〈◊〉 came down to the king & yold them to him both body & goods all at his 〈◊〉 will/ and swore unto him to be 〈◊〉 lyege men/ and there did to him 〈◊〉 and feaute and good service/ & thus he conquered the most part of ireland in a little tyme. ¶ And whyse that king richard was thus in ireland sir Henry of bolingbroking earl of 〈◊〉 the king had made before duke of ●●●forde/ the which duke the king had ●●led out of this land was comen 〈◊〉 to Englende for to challenge the duke●● me of Lancastre as for his right & new heritage/ & he came down out of France by land unto calais. And t●ere ●e● him sir Thomas of Arundel that was archbishop of Caunterbury y● 〈◊〉 exiled out of England/ & with him came the earl of Arundel his son & 〈◊〉 the which was in keeping of sir Iohn shelley knight sometime with the earl of 〈◊〉 & with the duke of E●ces●● the which was tho in the castle of Reygate in southsex & there he stolen him away & came too calais and there he was keeped well & worthily till these other two lords were comen/ to calais. ¶ And than this worthy duke and sir Thomas of Arundel archbishop of Caunterbury shipped in the haven of calais & drew their course nor ward and arrived in york shire at Ravensporne fast by wydelyngton/ & there he came & entered first the land & two lords with him and their navy. And so than moche people of the ream/ that when they heard of his coming & 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 heard and wist that these two lords were comen again in to England and also were landed/ Than the king left his ordinance in ireland and come in to England ward in all the has●e that he might and come to the castle of flint and there he abode to take his counsel and what might he done/ but too him come none. And than sir Thomas Percy earl of worcestre that was the kings steward wist and knew all this/ anon he came into the hall amongs althe people/ & he broke the yard of the rial kings household/ and anon every man was dysparpled and went his way & forsook their master and sovereign lord & left him alone. And thus was king richard brought down & destroyed and stood himself alone with out comforth or succour or of any good coun●eylle of any man/ alas for pity of this rial king. And anon came word that sir Henry of bolingbroking was up with a strong power of people and that all the squires of England reysen up the shires in strengthing of him a yenste king richard. ¶ And thus soon he was come out of the North country to bristol and there he met with sir wyllyam Scrope earl of wiltshire & treasurer of England & with sir Iohn bush and sir Henry grieve and Iohn Bagot but he escaped from them and went over see into ireland/ & these three knights were taken & their hedes smitten of & thus they died for their false covetise. ¶ And than was king richard taken & brought unto the duke/ and a none the duke put him in fast ward & strong hold unto his coming to London. And than was there a rumore in London & a strong noise that king richard came to westminster/ & the people of London ran thither and would have done moche harm & hurt in their woodness had not the mayor and aldermen and other worthy men cess them with fair words and tornede them home again unto London And theridamas was sir Iohn Slake dene of the kings chapel of westminster taken & brought to London/ & 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 & abide his answer. ¶ And soon after the duke brought king Richard privily unto London & put him in the tower under sure keeping as a prisoner. And than came the lords of the ream● with all their counsel unto the Tour to king richard & said to him of his misgovernance & extortion that he had done made & ordained to oppress all the comyne people & also to all the ream. Wherefore all the comyne people of the ream would him have deposed of his kingdom. And so he was deposed at the time in the tour of London by all his lords counsel & common assent of all the reameAnd than he was put from the Tour unto the castle of Ledes in Kent & 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/ and right soon after there he made his end. ¶ And than when king richard was deposed and had resigned his crown & 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 Herford & duke of Lancastre by right line and heritage and for his rightful manhood that the people found in him before all other they chose him and made him king of England amongs/ them. INnocencyus the vii was chosen at Rome and lived but two year and than Gregory xii was after him. xii. year & ever was debate. Than was Alexander chosen in the counsel of Pysan & he was called first Petrus de Candyda & so was put strife to strife everichone of those three said he was pope. than was there a counsel at Pysan where they began to make a concord & there they deposed the two & the third stood & so was worse division made than before. for that they ordained prevailed not. ¶ Roberte was Emperor after wenselaus ix year this man was duke of Bavary & earl of Palatyn a Just man and a good/ & was crowned of Boneface the ix This man entered italy with a great host of almains against Iohn the duke of Galyas/ but with an heavy host he turned again & was had worthy to suffer for his right wysnes. ¶ johan the xxiii succeeded Alexander four year & first he began well for an unity/ and he was in the counsel at Constantis & offered him to resign the popehode. & after secretly & untruly he fled away but it profited him not for he was taken & constrained to peace and was made a cardinal and buried at florence. ¶ Sygysmundus was Emperor after Robert xxvii year/ and he was son to Karolus and king of Vngarye and most christian prince. and he was so devout to god that he deserved too be canonized. This man holp the church through his marvelous prudence and wit/ for he spared no labour ne no thing that he had till he had made a full peace among the clergy. And he had ix battles against the Turk. & ever he had the victory/ & 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 Vngary & deceased a blessed man. ¶ Circa Annum dm. M. CCCC.vii. ¶ Of sir Henry of bolingbroking 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 com●nes all with one assent & all other wo● thy of the ream chosen Henry of Bolyngebroke earl of Derby son and hey● of Iohn the duke of Lancastre for his worthy manhood that oft time had be foedde in him and in deeds proved. upon 〈◊〉 Edward's day the cofessour he was crowned king of england at westm●●ster by assent of all the ream next af●● the deposing of king richard. Than he made Henry his eldest son prince of wales & duke of cornwall & Earl of Chestre. And he made sir Thomas of Arundel archbishop of Caunterbury● again as he was before. And sir Rogere walden that king richard had made archbishop of canterbury he made bishop of London for the time it stood void. And he made the Earls son of Arundel that came with him over these from calais into England. he made him earl of Arundel as his father had been & put him in possession of all his lands. And he made homage & f●aute unto his lyege lord the king as all other lords had done. ¶ And than anon● died king richard in the castle of Pounfret in the North country/ for there he was enfamed unto death by his keeper/ For he was kept there four o● .v. days from meet or drink/ and so he made his end in this world/ yet moth 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 and believe that many had & much people came to great mischief & foul death as ye shall here afterward. ¶ And when king Henry wist and knew verily that he was dead/ he let sere him in the best manner & closed it in a fair chest with diverse spices & balms and closed him in a lynnyn cloth all safe his visage and that was left open that all men might see 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 & dyring with much reverence & solemnity of service. And when all this was done than he was brought from saint Poule in to the abbare 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 Cristmasse in the castle of windsor. And on the xii even came the duke of Awemarle unto the king & told him that he & the duke of Surrey & the duke of Excestre and the earl of Salesbury & the earl of Gloucestre and other moo of theyraff ynyte were accorded to make a mumling unto the king on xii day at night/ & there they purposed to slay the king in the revelling. & thus he y● duke of Awemarle warned the king. And than the king came the same night to London privily in all y● hast that he might to get him help succour and comforth & counsel/ And anon these other that would have put the king too 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 & the earl of Salesbury with all there meinie unto the town of Cycestre. And there the people of the town would have arrested them/ and they would not stand to their arresting/ but stood at defence & fought manly. But at the last they were overcomen and taken. And there they smote of the duke's heed of Surrey and the earls heed of Salesbury and many other moo and there they put their quarters in to sacks & their hedes on pools borne on high & so they were brought through the city of London too London bridge and there these hedes were set upon high/ & their quarters were sent unto other good towns and cities of England and set up there. ¶ At Oxford was taken Blounte knight and Benet Cely knight/ and Thomas wyntersell squire and there beheaded & quartered & the knights hedes were set upon pools and brought to London and set upon London bridge/ and the quarters sent forth to other good towns. ¶ And in the same year at Pryttelwell in a mylle in Estsex there sir Iohn Holande the duke of Excestre was taken with the comynes of the country/ & 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 that 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 and there they smote of his heed and sent it unto London/ and there it was set upon London bridge. ¶ And in this same year was sir bernard brokey● knight taken and arrested and put in the tour of London & sir Iohn shelly knight and sire johan Mawdelyn and sire wyllyam Ferybe persons of king Rychardes and they were arrested and put in to the tour of London/ And thither came the kings justices & l●tte 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 Tybur 〈◊〉 and there to be hanged and after his heed smitten of/ & sir johan Shelly knight & sir Iohn Mawdelyn and sir wyllyam Ferybe persons were drawn through out the city of London to Tyburn & there they were hanged & their hedes smitten of & seton London bridge. & in this same year king Henry sent queen Isabella home again into France the which was king Rychardes' wife & gaaf her gold & silver & many other jewels and so she was discharged of all her power and 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 minors and 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 & Owen of Glendere squire of wales & this Owen arreared a great number of welshmen & kept all that country about right strongly & did moche harm and destroyed the kings to w●●es and lordships through out all wales and rob and slew the kings people both/ english & walesshe/ and thus he endured a xii year largely. And he took the lord Grey tythen 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 and kept him there still with his wife & soon after he died. ¶ And than king Henry knowing this myschyef destruction & treason that this Owen had wrought. & anon he ordained a strong power of men of arms & archers & much other stuff that longed to war for to abate & destroy that malice of this falls welsh man. And than that king came in to wales with his power for to destroy this Owen & other rebels false walshmen, and anon they fled in to the mountains and there might the king do the 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 shel●●ge. & there was merchandise of Englonde sent in to Pruce for wheat & anon they had lad & fraught ships ●●oughe & came home in safety thanked be god of all his gifts. ¶ And in y● 〈…〉 of king Henry's reign there was a star seen in the firmament that showed himself through all the world for diverse tokens that should befall soon after the which star was named by clergy. S●tellacometa & on saint Mary Mawde●●ne● day next following in the same year/ was the battle of Shrowesbury/ And thither came sir Henry Perry the Earls son of Northumberlonde 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 sire Thomas Percy his 〈◊〉 earl of worcester/ and there was sir henry Percy slain & the most part of his people in the field/ and sire 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 & hanged and his heed smitten of for his false treason at Shrowesbury & his heed brought to London and set on London bridge. And the other people that there was slain on both parties the king leete bury. And there was slain on the kings side in that battle the earl of Stafforde & sir walter Blunt in the kings cote armure under the kings banner and many more worthy men upon whose soul god have mercy Amen. ¶ And in the fourth year of king Henry's reign came the Emperor of Constantynople with many great solaes and knights and much other people of his country into England to king Henry with him to speak & to dyspoite and to see the good governance & conditions of our people & too know the commodities of England. and our king with all his lords goodly & worshipfully received & welcomed him & all his meinie that came with him & did him all the worship that they could & might. And anon the king ●mmaūded all manner officers that he should be served as worthily and rially as it longed to such a worthy lord. & 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 came dame jane the duchess of Bryt ayne into England and landed at fallemouthe in cornwall & from thence she was brought to the city of wynchestre & there she was wedded unto king Henry the fourth in the abbey of sayntswythynes of wynchestre with all the solemnity that might be done & made. And soon afterward she was brought from thence to London. And the mayor & the aldermen with the comunes of the city of London road against her & welcomed her & brought her through the city of London to westmynster & there she was crowned queen of England & there the king made a rial and solemn feast for her & for all manner of men that thither would come ¶ And in this same year dame Blanch 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 & with many other lords knights ladies & worthy squires as longed to such a kings daughter and came in too Colayne. And thither came the dukes son of Bar with a fair meinie & received this worthy lady/ and the bishop of worcestre wedded & sacred them together as holy church it would. And there was made a rial feast & a great justin goe in the reverence and worship of them & all people that thither came And when this marriage & fest was done the earl & the bishop & all their meinie took their leave of the lord & the lady & came home again into England in safety thanked be god. ¶ And in the .v. year of king Henry's reign the lord Thomas his son went over see & the earl of Kent and many other lords and kuyghtes with men of arms & archers a great number to chastise the rebels that afore had done moche harm to our englishmen and merchants/ & to many towns & ports in England on the see costs. And the lord Thomas the kings son came in to flanders 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 & 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 and there they canted these goods/ and one of these Carackes was suddenly brent there. And the lords and their people turned them home. again & went no further at that tyme. ¶ And the same time Serle yeoman of king Rychardes robs came in too England out of scotland and told too 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 & falls les ynges that this Serle had made. For much people trusted & believed in his saying. But at the last he was taken in the North country & thereby law judged to be drawn through every city & good burgh 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 & there to be laid on an hurdle & than to be drawn through the city of London to Tyburn and there to be hanged & than quartered and his heed smitten of & seton London bridge & his quarters to be sent to four good towns of England & there set up & thus ended he for his false treason and decessed. ¶ And in the vi year of king Henry's reign the fourth. the earl of Marre of scotland by safe conduit come into England to challenge sir Edmonde earl of Kente too certain courses of war on horseback. And so this challenge was accepted & granted & the place taken in smithfield at London. & this earl of Marre the Scott came proudly in to the field as his challenge asked. And anon came the earl of Kent & road unto the scot & manly road together with sharp spears diverse courses/ but the earl of Kente had the field and gate him moche worship and thank of all manner men for his manful deeds. ¶ And in the vii year of king Henry's reign the fourth sir richard. Scrop archbishop of york & the earl Marchall of England gathered unto them a strong power against king Henry. And the king hearing thereof in all the haste that he might 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 & these two lords brought forth and there they were dampened unto death & both their heeds smitten of & there they made an end on whose souls god for his pity have mercy Amen. ¶ And when this was done the king came too London again and there rested him. Anon god of his great goodness wrought and showed many great miracles for this worthy clerk archbishop of york that thus was done to death. ¶ And in the vii year of king Henry's reign dame Lu●e the duke's sister of Melayne came in to England & so too London & there was wedded to sir Edmonde earl of 〈◊〉 in the priory of saint mary oueres in southwark with moche solemnity & great worship/ The king was there. himself & gaf her at the church do●e and when that they were wedded & mass was done the king his own person brought & lad this worthy lady into the bysshoops place of wynchestre & there was a wonder great feast holden to all mane●e of people that would come. And the same year sir Robert Knolles knyzt a worth● warrior died at his manner in Northfolk & 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 westmynster inwards to the tour in a barge and all through lewdness. And in the same year dame Phylip the younger daughter of king Henry was lad over se with sir richard the duke's brother of york and sir Edmonde Courteney bies shop of Norwiche & many other lords knights & squires ladies & gentlewomen that appertained to such a kings daughter & came in to Denmark/ and the king received this worthy lady for his wife/ & welcomed these worthy lord and did unto them moche worship/ & they were brought unto a town that was called London in Denmark and there was this lady wedded and sacred to the king of Denmark Norway and Swithen & there was crowned queen of Denmark with moche solemnity and there was made a rial fest. 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 England inhis aufte thanked be god. ¶ And in the viii year of king Henry's reign there was a man that was called your walsshe clerk/ & he appealed a knight that was called sir Percyvale Snowdone of treason/ & there they were joined to fight unto the utterance within/ lists/ & the day and place & time assigned and limited to be done & ended in smithfield/ at the which day though two persons camen into the field and fought sore & mightily together/ but at the last the knight overcome 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 Tyburn & there he was hanged & the knight taken to grace & was a good man. ¶ And in the same year the earl of nurthumberland and the Lord Bardolfe camen out● of scotland in prejudice and destruction of king Henry/ wherefore they of the north country arosen upon them & foughrens with them & discomfited them and took them and smoten of they● hedes & quartered their bodies and sent the heed of the earl & a quarter of the lord Bardolf to London and there they were set upon London bridge for false treason that they had purposed against the king/ ¶ And in the ix year of king Henry's reign was sir Edmonde Holonde earl of Kent made Amerall of England for to keep the see/ and he went too the see with many rial ships that were full well arrayed and enparelled and enarmed with many a good man of arms and archers and of good defence of war in the kings name of England/ & so he landed at the last in the cost of britain in y● yle of Bryak with all his folk/ & he besieged the castle & assaulted it & they withstood him with great defence & thstrength. 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 in to England with the earls body & was buried amongs his auncest res right worthily. ¶ And in the same year was a great frost in England that du●ed. xv. weeks longe● ¶ And in the ten year of king Henry's reign the fourth came the Seneschal of Henaude with other meinie in England too seek adventures and to get him worship in deeds of arms both on horseback and on foot a● all manner points of war. And the seneschal challenged the earl of Somerset & the earl delivered him full manfully of all his challenges and put his adversary unto the worst in all points & 〈◊〉 ne him there great worship and y● 〈◊〉 of the field. And on the next day after came in to the field an other man of arms of the Seneschals party. And against him came sire richard of Arundel/ knight/ and the Henaude had the better of him on foot in one point for he brought him on his knee. And on the third day come in an other man of arms in too the field/ and against him there came sir Iohn Cornewayll knight and manly and knightly he quite him in all manner points against his adversary & had the better in the field. And on the fourth day come another man of arms of Henaude in too 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 atte that time dubbed him knight. And on the fift day there came an other mavof arms of the henaud's party in too the field/ and to him came in sir johan steward knight/ and manfully he quite him in all manner points & had the better. And on the sixth day after came an other Henaude/ and to him came wyllyam porter squire & manfully he quite him and had the better in the field/ and the king dubbed him knight that same time/ And on the seven the day after came an other man of arms of Henaude in too the field/ and too him came johan standysshe squire and manfully he quite him on his adversary and had the better of him in the field and there the king dubbed him kuyght 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 and had the better of him in the field/ & anon the king dubbed him knight/ And on the viii day came in to 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 worships/ And then the king at the reverence of these worthy strangers made a great feast and gaaf unto them many great and rich gifts and then they token their leave and went home again into their own countrer. ¶ And in the xi year of king Henry's reign the fourth/ there was a 〈◊〉 battle do in smithfield between two squires/ that one was called Gloucest●e that was the appellaunte, and A●thur was the defendant and well and ●●●ly they fought together long time and the king for their manfulness ● of his grace took their quarellinto 〈◊〉 hand and made them too go out of the field at ones and so they were duyded of the battle and the king gave them grace. ¶ And in the xii year of 〈◊〉 Henry's reign the fourth. Rysd●e a squire of wales that was a rybelle a ryse●● supporter to Owen of Glendre that did moche destruction to the people of wales was taken & brought to London & there he came afore y● Iustic● & was dampened for his treason/ & than he was laid on an hurdle & so drawn to Tyburn through the city & there he was hanged & let down again & his heed smitten of & the body quartered & sent unto four towns & his hede set on London bridge. ¶ And in the xiii year of king Henry's regne t●o died sir johan Beauforde earl of Somersette. that was Captaynt of calais & was buried at the abbey of the Tour bill on whose soul god have mercy amen. And in the same year the lord Thomas king Henry●s son wedded the Countess/ of Somerset. ¶ And in this same year came the enbassat●urs of France into England from the duke of Burgoyne unto the prince of England king Henry's son and heir for to have help & succour of men of arms and archers against the duke of orleans. And though went over see the earl of Arundel. si● gilbert Vmfrevyll earl of Keme/ & the lord Cobham sir Iohn Oldecastell & many other good knights & worthy squires & men of arms & good archers into France and came to Paris to the duke of Burgoyn. And there he received & welcomed these englishmen the lords & all other many. And thann it was done him to meet that the duke of orleans was comen into Semtclowe fast by Paris with a great number of arms and arbalastres/ & thither went our englishmen and fought with them & gate the bridge of Semtclowe & there they slew much people of frenchmen & arbalastres & the remnant fled & would not longer abide. And than our english men came again to Paris & there they took their leave of the duke & came again in to England in safety & the duke gave them great gifts/ & anon following the duke of orleans sent ambassadors in England to king Henry the fourth beseeching him of his help & succour/ 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 Beauford earl of Dorset & the duke of Awemarle he made duke of york. And than the king or deigned his son sir Thomas the duke of Clarence Thomas Beauford earl of Dorset & sir Iohn Cornwyll with many other lords knights & squires and men of arms archers for to go over se in to France in helping and strengething of the duke of orleans. And these worthy lords with their retinue shipped at Hampton and sailed over the see in to Normandye and landed at Hogs. And there met with them the sorde Hamble at their landing with vii thousand men of arms of frenchmen & three sergeants of arms with them and all were put to flight and taken of them vii hundred men of arms and iiii. 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 withstood them and took many prisoners as they roden And so they passed forth till they come to Bordeaux & there they rested them a while & set the country in peace & rested till the wind was ready for to sail. ¶ And than the duke with his meinie come home in to England in safety thanked be god/ And in the same year was y● byngꝭ 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 Infyrmitees & great sickness that he might not well endure no while so fervently he was taken & brought in bed at westminster in a fair chambre. And as he lay in his bed he asked his chamberlain what they called that chambre that he lay in and 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 ready unto god & disposed all his will. And soon 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 in too the abbey of Crychyrche and there he was entered and buried beside saint Thomas of Caunterburyes shrine & thus ended the worthy king Henry about mydlenten 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 johan. xiii. year/ this man was chosen by the counsel of Constantinople & the other was deposed that stroff. 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 did 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 that matter & there he deceased. ¶ Eugenius was pope after Martin xvii year/ this Eugenius was chosen peaceable aft 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/ & for that began the stryffe again the which stood to his death. & 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 did after that Ileve 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 & a gracious man and a great conqueror ¶ And in the first year of his reign for great love & goodness he sent to the freres of Langley there as his father had do bury king richard the second & let take his body out of the earth again and did bring it to westminster in a rial 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 〈◊〉 he came to westminster/ & there he let make for him a rial & solemn enterement and buried him by queen Anne his wife as his own desire was on ●●●ther side of saint Edward's 〈…〉 the abbey of saint Peter'S in westminster on whose soul god have mer●● 〈◊〉 ¶ And in this same year were 〈◊〉 of lollers taken and false heretics that had purposed through false ●●eason 〈◊〉 to have slain our king and 〈◊〉 destroyed all the clergy of the ream and they might have had ther● falls purpose. But our lord god would not 〈◊〉/ for in haste our king had warning thereof & of all their false ordynaun 〈◊〉 working & came suddenly with his power to saint Iohnns with out smythfelde & and ne they took a certain of that lollers ● falls heretics & brought the too the kings presence/ & there they told all the● falls purpose and ordinance how they would have do and wrought y● they might nave reigned and had their will and there they told which were their captains & governors & than the king commanded them to the tower of London & th● took more too them both within the city & with out & sent them to Newgate & to both counters & than they were brought in examycō● before the clergy & the kings justices & there they were convyeted for their false heresy & dampened before the justice for their false treason. And this was their iugemē● that they should be drawn from the tower of London to saint Gylys field and there to be hanged & brent on the gallows. Also there was taken sir Roger Acton knight for heresy and el●● for treason against the king and the ream/ & he came afore the clergy & was convict for his heresy & dampened before the justice to be drawn from the tour of London through the city to laynt Gylys and to be hanged & brent. ¶ And in the second year of king Henry's reign the fift he held a counsel of all the lord 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 & good will to show him as touching the title of the right that he had to Normandye Gascoigne & Guyhen the which the king of France withheld wrongfully & unrightfully/ the which his ancestors' before him had by true title of conquest & right heritage/ the which Normandye Gascoyn & Guyhen the good king Edward of windsor & his ancestors' before him had holden all their lives tyme. And his lords gaaf him counsel to send ambassadors unto the king of France & 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 & too tender of age for to make any war as against him and was not like yet to be a good warrior to do and make such a conquest there upon him. And somewhat in scorn and despite he sent too him a town full of propos balls because he would have somewhat for to play with all for him and for his lords/ for that would become him better than for to maintain any war ¶ And than 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/ and of the present the which he had sent too our king. ¶ And when the king had heard their words and the answer of the dolphin he was wonder sore aggrieved & right evil apaid toward the frenchmen & toward the king and the dolphin/ & thought to avenge him on them as soon as god would send him gace & might/ and anon let make tennis ●alles for the dolphin in all the haste that might be/ and they were great gone stones for the dolphin to play with all/ And than anon the king sent for all his lords and held a great counsel at westminster and told unto them the an swear that they had of the Dosphyn and of his worthy present that he sent to him and to his lords to play with all. And there the king and his lords were accorded that they should be ready in arms with their power 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 and to be ready with all their retinue to meet at Southampon by Lammasse next following without any delay. wherefore the king ordained his navy of ships with all manner stuff & victual that longed to such a wartyoure of all manner ordinance in the haven of Southampton in to the number of. CC C. and twenty sails. And than fell there a great disease and a foul mychef/ for there were three lords which that the king trusted much on/ & through falls covetise they had purposed and imagined the kings death & thought to have slain him & all his brethren or he had taken the see the which three lords were named th●●slir Richard earl of Cambrydg bidet to the duke of york/ the second was the 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 french men 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 too have done this they received of the frenchmen 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 lad through Hampton & without North gate there to be heeded/ & thus they ended their lives for their false covetise and treason/ And anon as this was done the king and all his meinie made them ready and went to ships & sailed forth with xu hundred shxppes and arrived with in sayn at Kydecause upon our ladies even the assumption in Normandye with all his ordinance. And so went him forth to Harflet & he besieged the town all about by land and elre by water & sent to the capitain of the town and charged him to deliver the town. And the capitain said that he would deliver him none/ ne none he would him yield/ but bad him do his best. And than our king laid his ordinance unto the town/ that is for to say Gonnes Engynnes & trypgettes & shotten & cast at the walls & eke unto the town/ & cast down both towers and town and laid them unto the earth/ and there he played at the tents with his hard gonstones. ¶ And they that were within the town when they should play their song was well away & alas that ever such tennis balls were made/ & cursed all though the war began & 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 morneerly to make assault unto the town. And William Boucher & john Grant with xii other burgeys worthy men came to the king & be sought him of his rial princehood & power to with draw his malice & destruction that he did to them & besought him of viii days of respite & truce if any rescue might come to them/ & else to yield up the town unto him with all their goods/ & shan the king senf forth the capitain & kept the remnant still with him & the lord Gauco●●e that was capitain or the town went forth to Royn in all the haste unto the Dolphy for help & succour but there was none n● no man of rescue/ for the dolphin would not abide. And thus this Cap●tayne come again unto the king and yielded up the town and delivered hrm the keys and had him go & put out all the frenchmen both men women and children & stuff his town of Harflet with english people. And than the king sent into England and did cry in every go the town of England that what 〈◊〉 man would come thither and 〈◊〉 him there in that town he should have house and household to him and to his heirs for ever more. And so th●de●●● many diverse merchants and ●●●●men and inhabit them there to 〈◊〉 the town and were welcome. ¶ And when the king saw that this town was well stuffed both of victuals & of men this worthy prince took his leave & went to Lalays ward by land/ & the french men heard of his coming they thought for to have stopped him his were that he should not pass that way and in all the haste that they might b●al●en all the bridges where that as any passage was for horse and man in so much that the remyghte no man pass over the Rivers neither on horse ne foot but if he should have be drenched/ And therefore our king with all his people went and seek this way far up to paris ward & there was all the rial power of France assembled and ready to give him battle and for to destroy all his people/ But almighty god was his guide and saved him and all his meinie & defended him of his enemies power & purpose thanked be god that saved so his own knight & king in his rightful title/ ¶ And than our king beholding and saying the great multitude & number of his enemies to withstand his way & give him battle/ than the king with a meek heart & a good spirit lift up his hands to almighty god and besought 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 cheer/ for they should have a fair day & a gracious victory & the better of all their enemies/ & 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 ransom for his person. ¶ And the duke of york fell on his knes & besought the king of a bone that he would grant him that day the avauntwarde in his battle/ & the king granted him his asking & said/ gramercy cousin of york & prayed him too make him ready. And than he bade every man to ordain him a stake of tree & 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 falls purpose & arrayed them for too over ride our meinie suddenly at the first coming on of them at the first brunt. And all the night before the battle. the french men made many great fierce & moche revel with howting & shouting & played our king & his lords at the dice/ and an archer alway for a blank of their money/ for they wend that all had been theirs/ the morn arose the day gan spring/ And the king by good advice let array his battle and his wings & charged every man to keep them hole to guider & prayed them all to be of good cheer. 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/ & therefore be of good cheer & let us go to out journey. And than he said with●an high voys in the name of almighty god & saint George avaunt Banner & saint George this day thine help. ¶ And than this frenchmen came pricking down as they would have over riden all onre meinie/ but god & our archers made them right soon too 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 on heaps two spears lenthe of hight/ And our king with his meinie and with his men of arms and archers that sthacked on them so thick with arrows & laid on with staves and our king with his hands fought manly that day. And thus god almighty & 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 more than xi thousand with out prisoners that were taken/ & there were numbered the day of frenchmen in the field more than six score thousand. but god the 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 on 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 prysoneres than they died withdraw/ them and broke their battle & all their array. And thus our king as a worthy conqueror had that day the victory in the field of Agyngcourte in pycardy/ And than our king reforned again there that the battle was for to see what people were slain of englishmen/ and 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 y●erle of Naverne chief Constable of France/ & viii earls & the archbishop of Sans/ & of good barons an hundred and moo/ & of worthy knytes of great alliance of cote armours a thousand & .v. hundred. And so of englishmen was deed that day the good duke of york and the earl of Southfolke/ and 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 & Cryspynyanes' 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 prysoneres the duke of orleans the duke of Bourbon the earl of Vendome the earl of ewe the earl of Rychemonde & sire Bursygaunt Marchall of France & many other worthy lords were taken there in this battle of Agyngcourt & were brought unto the town of calais & so over the see with the king into England & landed at Dover in Kent with all his prisoners in safety thanked be god almighty/ and so came to Caunterbury and offered at saint Thomas shrine & so he road forth through the country of Kent the next way unto Eltham & there he restted till that he would come to London. And than the mayor of London & the aldermen shreves/ with all the worthy commoners and crafts came to the black heath well and worthily arrayed/ for too welcome our king with diverse melodyes'/ & thanked almighty god of his gracious victory that he showed for him/ And so the king & his prisoners passed forth by them till he came to saint thomas watering/ & there met with him all religious men with procession and welcomed him & so the king came riding with his prisoners through the city of London where y● them was showed many a fair fight at all the conduits & at the cross in cheap as in heavenly array of angels are chaungelles patrya●kes prophets & virgins with diverse melodies sensing & singing to welcome the king & all the conduits running with wine & the king passed forth to saint Paul's and there met with him xiiii bishops all ●euessed & mitred with sensers to welcome the king/ & there they song for his gracious victory Te deum laudamus. And there the king offered & took his horse & 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 & so to the city of London. And the mayor & the aldermen with the shreves & worthy crafts of London by the kings commandment met with him on the black heath in the best array that they could on 〈◊〉. And there they welcomed him and brought him unto London with moche honour & 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 fifth & there they kissed together. & enb●aced each other/ and than the king took the Emperor by the hand & so they came riding through the city of London unto saint Paul's & theridamas they alighted and offered and all the bishops stood revesshed with sensers in their ●ondes sensing to them. And than they took their horses and road unto westmynster. And the king lodged the Emperor in his own palace and there he rested him a great which & all at the kings cost. ¶ And soon after came the duke of Hollonde in to 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 & lodged in the bishops Inn of Ely & 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 process of time he took his leave of the king/ but or he yode he was made knight of the garter and received and wered the livery And than he thanked the king and all his lords. And than the king & 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/ & so the Emperor took his leave of the king and passed forth in goods name. and our king came over again in to england in all the haste that he might and that was on saint Lucas even that he came to Lambythe/ and on the mondaye next he came in to the parliament 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 & last to the purification of our lady than nexe after. And there was granted unto him to maintain his wars both of spyrytualtee & of temporalty an hole tax & a dyeme. & than anon the king prayed all his lords too 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 & charged him to keep his laws and maintain both spiritual and temporal. And when the king had thus do & set all thing in his kind. On saint Marks day he took his horse at westminster & came riding to Paul's & there he offered & took his leave/ and so road forth through the city taking 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 too saint George's & there offered & took his leave of the mayor charging him to keep well his chambre. And so he road forth to Hampton and their abode till his retinue were ready & comen for there was all his navy & ships with his ordinance gathered together and well stuffed as longed to such a rial kyuge 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 guns trypgytes engines sows bastyles bridges of leather scaling laddres malles & spades shovels picks paveys bows & arrows bow strings & tons chests & 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 guns & gunpowder. And when this was ready & his retinue come the king & all his lords with all his rial host went to ship & took the see & sailed in to Normandye & landed at Touke upon Lammasse day than next after/ & 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 hulks Galays & ships that were coming to destroy his navy. And anon he commanded thee/ earl of March to be chief chyeftayne & many other worthy lords with him & with men of arms & archers to go to the se that none enemies defouled his navyene entered his land in no party for to dystroble his vyagene 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 Capytayn of Touke and charged him for to deliver him his castle and his town and else he would neither leave man ne child alive. & anon the Capytuyne 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 Iohn Kykelay and made him capitain & commanded him for to put out all frenchmen both of the castle and of the town/ And there beside was the castle of Lovers and thither the king sent the earl Marchall with a fair meinie 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 for the his way too Cane that was a strong town & a fair & a rial castle therein/ & 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 too keep ne none they would deliver unto him/ And so anon he laid his siege unto the town and laid gonnes on every side/ and betetowne both walls and towers and slew moche people in their houses and also in streets. And the good duke of Clarence laid down the walls on his side unto the bare ground/ And so with in a while the king by his counsell assaulted the town all about. And anon the duke of Clarence was entered into the town and slew down right till he come too the king and spared neither man ne 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 the which the king commanded to be buried in the abbey of Canefast by wyllyam conqueror/ on whose soul god have mercy Amen. And than the king came into the town with his brother the duke of Clarence & many ot●er worthy lords with moche solemp●●●●● mirth. And than the king commanded the capitain for to deliver 〈◊〉 his castle/ and he besought the king to give him xiiii day of respytey● 〈◊〉 cow would come/ & if none would come to deliver him the keys and the 〈◊〉 at his commandment. And vn●er this composition was the town and 〈◊〉 castle of Bayous with other towne● 〈◊〉 tresses and villages in to the nomb●● 〈◊〉 xiiii. upon the hill before the castle 〈◊〉 Cane our king pight all his tents 〈◊〉 seemed a town as much as the 〈◊〉 by that time came tidings that non● rescue would come there. And so 〈◊〉 xiiii. days end the capitain of the castle came out and delivered the 〈◊〉 the castle to our king/ & Bayous and 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/ and made him capitain of Bayours & 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 xu knights of the bathe there was sir Louis Robert Salyn Chaynye Mougomerye & many other worthy men and the king commanded them for to put out all the frenchmen and women/ and no man so hardy to defoul no woman ne take no manner of good away frame them but let them pass in peace on pain of death. And there passed out of the town in one day more than xu hundred women And than the king let stuff the town and castle with english men and ordained there two captains that one for the town and an other for the castle and charged them upon their lives too keep well the town and the castle. And or that our king went thence he gate Valleys Newelyn and laid a siege too Chyrburgh/ and the siege laid the duke of Gloucestre with a strong power and a mighty/ and by process of time & made the a capitain of the same town/ ¶ And this same time the good earl of Warwyk laid a siege unto Dounfronte and gate if and put therein a Captain. And for to speak more of the earl of March that the king ordained tho for to scum the se● & to keep the costs of England for all manner of enemies/ the wind arose upon them that they wend all to have been lost/ but through the grace of almighty god & good governance they rodden afore the isle of wight all that storm. And there was lost two Carackes & two Balyngers with merchandise & other great goods & all the people that were within them/ and an other Carrack droke up before Hampton and threw his mast over the walls of the town/ and this was on saint Bartholomeus day. And when all this storm was cessed this worthy earl of March took his ships with his meinie & went to the see and landed in Normandye at Hogs and so roden forth towards the king/ and ever as he came the Frenssh men fled/ And there came to them anthony pig and followed the host all the way till they came to a great water and there they dread to have be drenched for the water closed them so that they might no where get out. But at the last god almighty & this pig brought them all sante onte/ and there they caught them a guide that knew all the country about & he brought them through a quyckesande and so into an isle/ & they took many prisoners by the way to ward the king in their journey/ & so they camen unto Cane. And there the king welcomed him & took his journey at Argentun & anon though it 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 alfayre minster & they yield it up anon unto the king. And than the king went from thence to alaunsome & won the town & the bridge/ and the king sent the earl of Warwyk to a town that was called Belesme with a great & strong power and anon they yield it & put them all to the kings grace & in his mercy/ & so died many strong towns & castles that were in though parties. And from thence they went to Veruyll in perch. & anon it was yoleden unto the king both the town and the castle and bodies and goods to the kings good grace. and so the king gate & 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 Iohn Oldcastell that was the lord cobham was arrested for heresy and brought unto the tour of london/ & anon after he broke the Tour and went in to wales and 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 & so the lord Powies men brought him out of Wales unto London again in a whyrlcole and so he was brought to westminster and ther●was examined of certain points that were put upon him/ & he said not nay & so he was convict of the clergy for his heresy/ and dampened before the justyces unto the death for treaosn. And tha●● he was lad to the tour again/ and there he was laid on an hurdle and drawn through the city too saint Gyles field & there was made a new pair of galo●es and a strong chain and 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 Henry's the fifth. he sent his uncle sir Thomas Beauforde duke of Excester with a fair meinie of men of arms & archers beforethe city of Rone and there dyspleyed his banner & sent herod's unto the town and bad them yield that city unto our king their lyege lorde● & they said he took them none to keep ne none he should have there but if it were dear bought & moved with their hands for other answer would they none give but gonnes. And there the duke took good advisement 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 anon our meinie met with them & overthrew a great heap of them & there were taken & slain. thirty. persons of full right good men's bodies & the remnant fled again in too the town/ & 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 eat down all the subarbes about the city unto the hard ground. for by cause the king should there no refreshing have at his coming. And upon the friday before lammasdaye than next following/ o●re king with his host came before Roone/ and anon he set his siege round about that city/ and anon he let lay his ordinance unto the town. And the king with his lords were lodged within t●e Charter house and great strength all out them and that was in the east party of the city and than the duke of Cla●ence lodged him with all his strength and power atte the West end in a waste ●bba●e before the po●te Chanx. And the ●uke of E●cester with his meinie in the north side before the port Beauuesy●. And bytwen● the duke of Clarence and t●e duke of Er●estre was the Earl Mar●hal lodged with moche people and a strange power before the castle gate. And than the earl of Ormonde with the ●nde Haryngton and also the Lord T●lb●t with the●re retinue and compa●tye ne●te him/ And than sir johan cornwall with many other noble kyng●tes and 〈◊〉 of name with all their ●tenue lay with the noble duke of Clare●ce. And than●● from the duke of Erce●●●r towards the king were lodged the lord Roos and the lord Wylleby with the Lord Phehewe and sir William ●orter knight with theridamas reter●●e before the port of saint hylary. And than was ●he earl of Motayne with his reter●●e lo●ged in the abbaye of saint Katherynes And the earl of Salesbury with his 〈◊〉 say o● that other side of saint Katherynes & sir johan Gray knight was lodged at the abbey that is called mount du saint Mychell. And ●yre Phylip Leche. knight the kings tresou●er was lodged between the water of Sern and the abbey and kept the ward under the hill/ And the baron of Caro●● was lodged under the water side for too keep the passage/ And Ieny●● the squire lay next him on the water side/ and these two squires kept manly the water of sayn and 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●onde/ and sire Gylbert Vmfrevyll earl of Keme/ and sir richard earl of Arundel & the lord Feryers with their retinue before port du Pounte/ & each of these lords had strong ordinance/ and the king did make at Pountlarge over the water of sayn a strong and a mighty chain of Iron & put it through great pylꝭ fast pight in the ground & that went over the river of sayn that no vessel might pass that in no kind. And about that chain the king let make a bridge over the water of sayn that man & horse and all other carriage might go too and fro at all times when need were. And than came the earl of warwick 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 had him yield up the town upon pain of death and anon he laid his siege. and the Capytayn besought the earl that he might come unto his presence and it pleased him and 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 and entreated so with this earl that this same town was under composition too be done as the city of Rone did/ and the earl granted and consented thereto upon this condition that the kings nanye of England with his ordinance/ might pass up by the them in safety with out any manner of let or dysturbaunce. and to his composition they set 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 warwick again to the king & lodged him between the abbey of saint Katherynes and the king till that the abbey entreated and so was yoleden unto the king. And than he removed him thence and lodged him before the port Martenuylie/ and though was the earl of Salesbury commanded by the king for to make him ready for to ride but there came hasty tidings & made him to abide/ And so he reform again & lodged him beside the good Earl of Huntyngdon till that the siege was ended. ¶ And then came the good duke of Gloucestre the kings brother from the siege of Chyrbourghe the which he had won and gotten and stuffed 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 & his enemies than any other lay by xl rods of length with in shot of quarrel. & with him lay the earl of Southfolke & the lord of Bergeyency with all his retinue & strong ordinance & manly & 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 too the king with a fair many of men of arms of their own country guise the sum of xvi hundred good men's bodies/ & the king welcomed them & made them good cheer. ¶ And than came tidings unto the king that the king of Fraū●e and the dolphin with the duke of Burgoyne would come down & 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 & thrrfore the king assigned the prior of Kylmayne with his power & lodged him on the north side of the host for to stop their passage/ & was by the forest of Lions/ & of this ordinance they wer●full glad and so they went forth in all haste & kept the ground and the place that the king & his counsel had assigned/ & they quite them as good warryours unto their king. ¶ Now will I tell you which were the chief Capatayns & governors of the city of Rone. Mon sir Guy Botyler was chief captain both of the city and of the castle. And Mon sire Termygan he was capitain of port Canx. Mon syre de la Roche he was capitain of the Dysners. Mon Sire Anthony he was lieutenant to Mon sir Guy Botylere/ Henry Chant fyen he was the capitain of the port de la Pounte. johan Mantrevas was capitain of the port de la Castelle/ Monsyr de Preanx he was capitain of the port of saint hylary/ The bastard of Tyne he was capitain of the port Martenyulle/ And grant Jakes a worthy warrior he was capitain of all men of war and he was 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 as they should encounter with our meinie. And each of the captains lad five thousand/ men of arms & some moo. And at the first coming of our king there were numbered by Heroudes in to three hundred thousand of men & women & children what young & old/ & among all these was many a manful man of his hands and so they proved them when they issued out of the city both on horseback & on foot/ for they came never at one gate alone/ but at three or four gates & at every gate two or three thousand of good men's bodies armed & manfully encountered with our englishmen & much people slain diverse times with guns quarrels and other ordinance. And this siege dured twenty weeks/ and ever they of the town trusted too have be rescued but there came none/ so at the last they kept the town so long that there died many a thousands with in the town for default of meet of men & 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 ●ytaylles/ and anon our englishmen drofe them in to the town again. So at the last the capitain of the town saw the mischief and that they were not rescowed and also the scarcity of victual and 〈◊〉 the people died so for default of meet every day many thousands & also saw young 〈◊〉 lie and suck their mothers pap●● 〈◊〉 were deed. Than anon they sent 〈◊〉 king beseeching him of his 〈…〉 mercy and brought the keys 〈…〉 ne unto the king and delyu●●● y● 〈◊〉 into him and all the soldiers 〈◊〉 the town with their horses and 〈◊〉 and the comunes of the town for 〈◊〉 de and dwell still in the town ye 〈◊〉 to pay to him & to his successor 〈◊〉 all manner customs and 〈…〉 katerenmes. And than the kyn●● 〈◊〉 in to the town and rested hy● in the castle till the town was set ●n rule and in governance. ¶ How the king of England was made enheyrytour and regante of Frace & how he wedded queen K●●heryne. ANd anon after that Rone wa● gotten. Deep and many other towns in the basse Nor●●●ndye gaaf them over with out stroke or syeg when they understood y● the king had gotten Rone. Also this year had be a pe●● made & sworn between the duke of Bur●oyne & the dolphin which were sworn on god's body that they should lone & assist each other against their enemy's. And after this contrary to this oath the duke johan of Burgoyne was slain and piteously murdered in the presence of the Dolph● wherefore the frenchmen were greatly divided/ & 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 in too the castle of Ledes in Kent. And one frere Radulf a doctor of divinity her confessor which afterward was slain by the person of the Tour falling at words and debate/ And afterward 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 mean of Philip new made duke of Burgoyne which was sworn to king Henry to●auenge his faders death and was become english. ¶ And than the king with his new wife went to Paris where as he was rially received/ And from thence he went with his lords and the duke of Burgoyne & many other lords of France and laid siege to diverse towes & castles that held of the Dolphins party & wan them but the town of Mylon held long time for therein were good defenders. In the viii year the king & the queen came over see and landed on Candelmasse day in 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 parliament at westmynster/ at which parliament it was ordained that that gold in english coin should be weighed and none received but by weight. And 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 & diverse other lords taken prisoners as the earl of Huntyngdon the earl of Somerset with diverse other/ and all was because they would not take none archers with them but thought to have overcome the frenchmen themself with out 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 can delmasse the town of Mylon was yoleden unto the king. ¶ In the ix year on saint Nycholas day in Decembre was borne Henry the kings first begotten son at windsor/ whose godfaders attthe 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 godfader at conferming: ¶ 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 Hampton & sailed over to the king in France where she was worshipfully received of the king/ & also of the king of France her father and of her mother. And thus king Henry wan fast France & held great estate & sat at a great feast in Paris crowned & the queen also which had not been seen before/ & all people resorted unto his court/ but as to the king of France he held none astatene rule but was left almost alone. ¶ Also this year the wedercoke was set upon Paul's steeple at London. And this year in the month of August the king waxed seek at Boys de vyncent/ & 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 forth that when he was anointed he said the seruyfe with the priest/ and at the verse of the psalm of Miserere mei deus/ that was Benign facdne in bona voluntate tua zion/ ut edif●centur mury Iherusalem/ he ●adde tarry there and said thus/ O good lord thou knowed that mine intent hath been & yet is if I might live too reedyfye the walls of Iherusalem. And than the priest proceeded forth and made an end. And anon after this most noble prince and victorious 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 foresaid Boy's/ de vyncent beside Paris the xxxvi year of his age/ uphon whose soul god have merry Amen. ¶ Than was the body enbamed and cered & laid in a rial chare and an image like too him was laid upon the corpse open with diverse banners & horses covered richly with the arms of England & 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 Englond & in every town by the way he had solemnly his dirge on the even and mass on the morn & moche alms was given to poor people by the way. & 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 rial image like himself of silver & gild which was made at the cost of queen Katherine And thus ended & is entered and buried the noble king Henry the fifth/ upon whose soul and all christian soul's god have mercy Amen. ¶ Of the law of king Henry the fifth and what he ordained for king richard and for himself after his death. Here is to be noted that this king Henry the fifth was a noble ●tȳce after he was king and crowned how it before in his youngth he had been wild reckless & spared no thing of his lust ne desires but accomplished them after his liking/ but as soon as he was crowned anointed & sacred anon soda●ly he was changed in to a new man and set all his intent to live virtuously in maynte ning of holy church destroying of heretics/ keeping justice & defend●nge of his ream & subjects. ¶ And for as much as his father had deposed by his ●abour the good king richard & pre●●ously made him to die & for y● 〈◊〉 done to him against his legeaunce he had sent to Rome for to be assoiled thereof For which offence our holy father ●●e pope enjoined him to make him to be prayed for perpetually & like as he had done too be taken from him his natural life therefore he should do found four tapers to b●enne perpetually about his body that for the extinction of his bodily life his soul may ever be remembered & life in heaven in spiritual life And also that he should every week on the day as it come about of his death have a solemn mass of requyem & on the even afore a dy●yge with ix. lessons & a doole to poor people alway on the day of a xi shillings and vii pens to be deled penny meal and ones in the year at his anniversary his terment to be holden in the most honest wise/ and to be deled the day twenty pound in pens to poor people. And to every monk twenty shilling which all these things performed this noble king for his father for king Henry the fourth his father performed it not during his life of wome as it is said that god did touch him and was lep●e o● that he died ¶ And also this noble prince let do call all the abbots and priors of saint Bonnets order in England and had all them in to the chapter house of west minster for the reformation of their order wherein he had communication/ and also with bishops and men of the spyrytualtee/ in so far forth that they doubted sore as that he would have had the pemporaltees out of their hands/ wherefore by the advise labours & procuring of the spiritualty encouraged the king for to challenge Normandye & his right in France to the intent to set him awerke there that he should not seek none occasions for too enter in to such matters. & than all his life time afterward he laboured and was busy in the war and 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 regent and heir of France. And so notwithstanding for all this great war that he had/ nevertheless yet he remembered his soul and also thought that he was mortal and 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 over his sepulture of the which the myddyll mass and the first and the last mass shall be as it is assigned by him as it appeareth by these verses following. Henrici miss quinti sunt hic tabulate. Que successive sunt p monachos celebrate ¶ Die dmca. Prima sit assumpte de festo virgins alme Poscit postremam xp̄s de morte resurgens ¶ Feria seconda. Prima salutate de festo virginis extat. Nunciat angelicꝭ laud postrema choreis ¶ Feria tercia. Esse deum natum de virgine prima fatetur. Commemorat natam sic vl●●a miss marian ¶ Feria quarta. Prima celebret ad honorem neupmatꝭ almi Vltima preptā denunciat eme marian ¶ Feria quinta. Semper prima colidebet de corpere xpi Vltima lit facta de virgine purificata. ¶ Feria sexta. Concedet ut prima celebret de cruce seam Atque salutate fiet postrema maria. ¶ Sabbato. Dens ad scons est prima colenda supernos Vltima de requie p defunctis petit esse. Semper erit media de ꝓprietate diei. ¶ And yet the noble king Henry the fift founded two houses of religion one is called Zion beside Braynforde of the order of saint Brygytte both of men & women/ and on that other side of the river of 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 Charter house do their service and in like wise when they of the Charter house resten the other goeth to/ and by ringing of the bells of either place each knoweth when they have ended their service which he nobly endowed/ & do daily there great alms deeds/ as in easter house certain children be founden to school/ and at Zion certain alms given daily. And yet beside all this he had founded 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 and a servant. Lo here may all princes take ensample by this noble prince that reigned so little time not fully ten year and did so many noble acts as well for his soul to be perpetually remembered and prayed for/ as in his conquests & he being in his most lusty age disposed & eschewed sin & was a great justicer/ in so moche that all y● prycꝭ of christendom dread him and also of also of heathens/ and he had determined in himself if god would have spared him to have warred on the sarazens and 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 vyncente in the xxxvi year of his age. on whose soul god have mercy Amen. EElyx the .v. was pope when Eugenius was deposed ix year. this felix was duke of Savoy a devout prince & an old man. & he saw his child's child. This man when he lived a holy life was chosen pope of the counsel of basil/ & Eugeny was deposed. and there was strife long time/ & he had no great obedience for the deposition of eugeny. And at the last eugeny decessed/ & than felix resigned to Nicholas for favour of peace to be had & he was made Legate of France & cardinal of Sabianus. This was the xxiii. strife betwixt Eugedy & felix & it dured xvi & year & this was a new cause & never seen before. for the counsel of basil deposed Eugeny the vere pope & there was no more for he obeyed not the decrees of the counsel of Constantynople as they said ne he charged not to obey the counsel of basil. but he said rather the contrary should be done than as they decreed. wherefore there arose a great alteration in that matter/ for some said one way & some an other and could not accord to this day/ for that one party said that the counsel was above the pope. & an other party said the contrary that the pope was above the counsel. but they left it undetermyned. and therefore god must dispose for the best. ¶ Albert was Emperor after Sygysmonde one year. this Albert was the duke of Austre and nephew too Sygysmond & therefore he was king of Beme and of Vngary for his daughter for other heir he left none. This man was chosen Emperor of Almaigne but anon he was poisoned and died/ and he was in all thing a virtuous man that all men said he was a president too all kings ¶ Fredericus the third was Emperor after him. this Frederyk 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 ●t the pope in the city and was a 〈◊〉 man & a quiet & of a singular pity & he hated not the clergy he wedded y●●●●ges daughter of Portyngale and in his time whiles that he reigned he made a great convocation of princes in 〈◊〉 for the Incours of the Turks 〈◊〉 ●●●●ed unto them that now 〈…〉 year. christendom was made 〈…〉 hundred mile. and he warned 〈…〉 they should be ready to resist him. ¶ And the imperial city of Constantynople was taken at that same time of the misbelieving Turks and 〈◊〉 by a Ianu●s whom for his labarre the Turk made a king as he ●●mysed him. and the fourth day he called him to him and did hang him 〈◊〉 his deceit too his master. And ch●● was great sorrow and weeping among the christian people for the loss of that noble city/ for many a christian man was slain & innumerable were sold and the Emperor was slain & forenuye the Turk caused his heed to be smitten of when he was deed. And all most all the faith in the land of Greek failed. ¶ Nicholaus the .v. a Ianuens was pope after felix viii year. This Nicholas was chosen at Rome in the place of eugeny/ and yet the strife hinge still. and a little & 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 christendom 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 Nicholas/ was a master in divinity and an active man & a rich man in conseytes/ & many things that were fallen he builded again/ & 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 fulsie mundo: cessit felix Nicholas. 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 apostles 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 reign began the first day of Septembre in the year of our lord. M. CCCC.xxii. This king being in his cradle was much doubted & dread because of the great conquest of his father and 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 regent of France/ & the duke of Gloucestre was made protector & defender of England ¶ And the first day of March after was sir wyllyam tailor priest degraded of his priesthood/ & on the morn after he was bryute in smithfield for here sir. ¶ 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 xvii day of August was the battle of Vernayll in perch. between the duke of bedford regent of France & the duke of Alaunsome which was a full great battle. The duke of Bedford had on his side the earl of Salesbury Mountagu & the lord Talbot & all the power that they could make in Normandye & the garrisons kept/ and also many Copycayns with moche people of the duke of Burgoyns And on that other side was the duke of Alaunsome. the duke of Turon that was the earl of Douglas and the earl Boughan with many lords of France & a great company of Scots and Armynakies. And than the earl Douglas called the duke of bedford in scorn Iohn with the leaden sword. And he sent him word again that he should find that day that his sword was of steel. And the battle joined on both sides and fought long tyme. 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 were slain the earl Douglas which a little before was made duke of Turon the earl Boughan the earl Almarre the earl of Tonuar the earl of Vauntedor & the vyscounte of Nerbon which was one of them that slew the duke johan of Burgoyn kneeling before the dolphin and many more unto the number of ten thousand & more. And there was taken prisoners the duke of Alaunsome and many nther 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 & went over see with her in to Henaude for to take possession of his wives inheritance where he was honours by received and taken for lord of that land 〈◊〉 soon after he was 〈…〉 torn home again to England and let his wife & all his treasure that he 〈◊〉 brought with him in a town that is called Mounse 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 de to a town of her own called Syrixe And from thence she went to a town in Hollonde called the Gowde and there she was strong enough and withstood the foresaid duke of Burgoyne. ¶ And soon after the duke of Gloucestre sent over see in to 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 zeland called Brewer's haven where the lords of the countee came down and fought with him/ and in conclusion he was feign to withdraw him and his meinie to the see again. But yet he slew and killed & hurt diverse lords and moche people of that same country/ & so returned home again into england with his meinie & prevailed no thing. ¶ And also this same year the earl of Salesbury/ the earl of Suffolk/ the lord wylleby & the lord Scales with their retinue laid siege to the city of Manus the which city was yoleden to them with many other strong towns and castles to the number of xxxvi ¶ This time all Normandye and a great part of France unto orleans was under the obeisance of the king of England/ and all the 〈◊〉 of France was in great 〈◊〉 and mischief. ¶ How there was like to have been a great fray between the cardinal and the duke of Gloucestre. And of the coronation of king Henry the sixth both in England & in France. IN 〈…〉 great w●●che in 〈◊〉 for a fray that was between the bishop of wynchestre. & the duke of Gloucestre protector etc. 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 Vernayl in perch the duke of bedford came over into England. And on whitsunday this same year at leicester he dubbed king Henry knight. And forth with the said king Henry dubbed all these knights w●os names followen/ that is to wite sir richard duke of york also the son and heir of the Duke of North folk/ the earl of Orforde the earl of westmerlonde/ the son and heir of the earl of Northumberlonde the son & heir of the earl of Vrmonde the lord Roos/ sir jamys bottelat/ the lord Martrauas/ sir Henry grey of Tankeruyle sir wyllyam nevil/ lord Fawconbredge/ sir George nevil lord Latymer the lord wells/ the lord Barkle/ the son & heir too the lord Talbot/ sire Ralph grey of work/ sire Robert veer sir richard grey/ sir Edmonde hongerforde sir johan bottelar/ sir Raynolde Cobham sir johan passheley sir Thomas ●●stall. Iohn Chydyok/ sir Rauflange. ford. sir william drury. sir willyam thomas/ richard Carbonell/ sir Richard wydewyle/ sir Iohn shrydelowe. sir wyllyam Chain/ sir william Bavyngton. sir Iohn june/ and sir Gylbert Beauchampe. ¶ Item in the fifth year the duke of Bedford with the duchess his wife went over see to calais/ & a little before went over see Henry bishop of wynchestre. And on our ladies day● 〈…〉 church at calais the bishop of wynchester as he had sungen mass was made cardinal and he kneeling 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 spiritual and temporal. ¶ And this same year was great abundance of rain/ that the substance of hay and also of corn was destroyed/ for it rained almost every other day. ¶ And this same year the good Earl of Salesbury sir Thomas 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 Englishmen never gate ne prevailed in France/ but ever after began to lose little & 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 had. And after this he took the gyrthe of holy church at saint George in Southwark/ & there he took the cross and forswore 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/ & canell dung and slew & made an end of him there. notwithstanding the constables & many other men being present for to keep him for there were so many women & had no pity. ¶ Also this same year the duke of Northfolk with many gentlemen and yeomen took his barge/ the viii day of Novembre at saint mary oueres for too 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 〈…〉 the bridge with cas●ynge down ropes/ by the which ropes they saved themself. ¶ This same year on saint Leonardes' day king Henry being vii 〈◊〉 of age was crowned at westminster/ at whose coronation were made xxxvi knights. ¶ This year on saint George's day he passed over set● calais toward France. ¶ About this time and afore the ream being in great misery and tribulation. the dolphin with his party began to made war & gate certain places & made distresses upon the englishmen by the mean of his captains. that is to say lafoy here & poton desayntraylles/ and in especial. a maid the which they named la purelle de dicu. This maid road like a man and was a valiant capitain. among them and took upon her many great enterprises in so moche that they had a believe for to have recovered all their losses by her. notwithstanding atte the last after many great feats/ by the help & prudence of sir Iohn Luxemburgh the which was a noble capitain of the duke of Burgon & many english men Pycardes and Burgoynons which were of our party before the town of Compyne the xxiii day of may the foresaid pucelle was taken in the field armed like a man & many other Captains 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 despited But in conclusion it was founden that she was not with child/ and 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 Candelmasse richard hunger a wool packer was damned for an heretic and brent at Tourhylle. ¶ And about mydlenten sir Thomas Baggrly priest and 〈◊〉 of the Maven in Estsex beside walden was dies graded and dampened for an heretic & brent in smith field/ ¶ And also in this same year whiles the king was in France there were many heretic's and solardes' that had purposed to make a rising and cast bills in divert places but blessed be almighty god the capitain of them was taken whose name was wyllyam Maundeuyll a weaver of Abendon and bailiff of the same town. which named himself jack Sharp of Wygmoreslonde in wales. And after ward he was beheaded at the foresaid Abendon in the whitsun week on the tewes day. ¶ 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 bedford and many other lords of France/ and of England. And after this coronation and great feast holden at Paris the king returned from thence to Rone and so toward 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 that mayor Iohn wells with all the crafts of London clothed all in white/ and so they brought him unto London the xxi day of the same month. ¶ And this same year was a restraint of the wools of calais made by the soldiers because they were not paid of their wages. wherefore the duke of bedford regent of France being than captain came to calais the tuesday in the esterweke. And than on the morn after many soldiers of the town were arrested and put in ward. And in the same week he road to Terewyn/ and by the mean of the bishop of Terwyn he wedded the Earls daughter of saint Poule & came again to calais/ & than the xi day of june on saint Bernabeys day there were four soldiers of calais that were the chief causers/ of the restraint of the wulles byhe●ded that is to wite johan Maddelcy/ Iohn Launday/ Thomas Palmer/ and Thomas Talbot/ & an hundred & ten bannysshed out of the town that same time and before were banished an hundred and twenty soldiers. And on mydsome● enen after came the lord regent & his wife too London. ANd than about this time died 〈◊〉 Martin. And after him Eugeny the fourth was 〈◊〉. This ma was peaceably chosen in the court of Rome by the Cardynales and was very 〈◊〉 indubytate pope. But within a 〈◊〉 ●●me after he was put and erpul●ed out of Rome in such a manner that he was fain for to flee naked. ¶ In this same time was the counsel of Basyle to the which counsel eugeny the pope was cited to come. And because that he ●ame not they deposed him but he wrought notne set not thereby but gate the city of Ro●me & abode still pope xii year. ¶ This time about wytsontyde the heretykis of Praghe were destroyed. for at two journeys were destroyed of them more than xxii. thousand with their capitains that is to were Procapius Sapl●o & Lupus prespyter ¶ Also there was taken on live master Peers clerk an english man and an heretic. ¶ And also this same year was a strong frost & a long during the which lasted xi. weeks for it began upon saint Katherynes' even and lasted unto saint Scolastycus day in Fever year/ in the which time the vintage that came from Burdeur come over shotres hill. ¶ This year was the counsel of arras & a great neat by●wene the king of England and the king of France where were assembled many great lords of both parties. at which counsel was offered 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 offres were refused by the Cardynalle of England & other lords that there were for the king. wherefore the duke of Burgoyn the which had been long english sworn forsook our party & returned french by the mean of the foresaid Legate. & made a peace with the french/ king receiving of the king for recompensing of his faders death the count of Pontui/ the lordship of Macon with moche other as is specified in the said treaty And so our ambassadors came home again in worse case than they went out For they lost there the duke of Burgoyne which had been with his Burgoynons & Pycardes a singular help in all the conquest of Normandye & of France This same year was a great battle on the see between the Genoese & the king of Arragon of which battle the jenewes 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 & squyrꝭ & much other people/ & this was on saint Dominic● day. And this same year were seen three sons at one's/ & 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 lived only by miracle not eating any meet. This year the duke of Burgoyne began his order at Lyle of the golden Fleys and ordained certain knights of the same order and made statutes and ordinances much according unto the order of the garter. ¶ Also this same year the Frensshmen had enterprised too have stolen calais in the fishing time/ for many botes of France had safeconduytes to come to Cal●●● for to take hearing. And the sondyours of the town had a custom to come to the church. & leave their stanes standing at the church door/ which staves the french men 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/ and he told to her there counsel/ and she on the morn told it to the lieutenant which forthwith all commanded that every man should keep his weepen in his hand sakering time & other. And when the frenchmen perceived this that they were myspoynted they sailed straight to Deep & stolen & took the town. And on New years day/ after they took Harflete. And thus the englishmen began to lose a little and little in Normandye. ¶ How calais & Guynes were besieged by the duke of Burgoyn & 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 the time well victualed & manned/ for sir Iohn Ratclyfe was lieutenant of the town for the king. & the baron of Dud lay lieutenant of the castle. ¶ And the ix. day of julii the duke of Burgoyne. with all the power of flanders and moche other people came before calais & set his siege about the town/ and every town of flanders had their tents by themselves. And this siege endured three were. In the meant while the duke of Gloucestre being protector of England took the most part of all the lords of England & went over the see to calais for too rescue the town or for to fight with the duke and his host if they would have biden. This time London and every good town of England sent over these to this rescue certain people well arrayed of the best & choose men for the war. ¶ And the second day of August the foresaid duke of Gloucestre arrived at calais with all his army & .v. hundred ships and 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 bytayle & fled in to flanders and pycardy. & in like wise did the siege that lay before Guynes where as they of Gwenes took the gregonne of brass called Dygeon & many other great gonnes & serpents. And than when the duke of Gloucestre was arrived with his host/ he went into flanders and there he was xii days and did but little harm except that he brent two fair villages Poppering & Bell & other houses which were of no strong building/ & so he returned home avē ¶ And this same year the king of scotland besieged Rokesburgh with much people. But sir Raufgray departed from the castle & ordained for a rescue But as soon as the king of Scotlond understood his departing suddenly he broke his siege and went his way and left moche ordinance behind him/ where he gate him no worship. This same year the second day of january queen Katherine the which was the kings mother and wife too king Henry the fift died & departed out of this world and was brought rially through London & so too westminster and 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 to●re on it on London bridge toward Southwerke with two arches & all that stood thereon. ¶ This same year was a great treat holden between Gravening & calais bythene the king & the duke of Burgoyne where was in the kings name the Cardynalle of England the duke of Norfolk & many other lords/ & for the duke of Burgoyn was the duchess having full power of her lord as regent and lady of his lands where was taken by th'advise of ●o the parties an abstinence of water for a certain time in the name of the duchess and not of the duke because he had gone from his oath and legiance that he had made to king Henry the fifth therefore the king never would weytene 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 & was carried from bedmond say 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 seysme between eugeny and 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 atsaynt Paul's in London rially/ where was made a rial heerse/ & the king in his estate clad in blue was at even at dirge & on the morn at mass ●c. And after him was clecte 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 & Vngary because 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 & pytefulle so moche that all the people that knew him said that the world was not worthy to have his presence ¶ This same year one Owen a squire of wales a man of low birth. which had many a day before secretly w●dded queen Katherine/ & had by her three sons and one daughter & he was taken and commanded too 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 Bemonde and brought again to Newgate/ and after ward delivered at large. And one of his sons afterward was made earl of Rychemonde and an other earl of Penbroke. and the third a monk of westminster which monk died 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 myscheyfly & foul hurt other ¶ Also at bedford on a shyresday were xviii men murdered without stroke by falling down a stayr as they come out of their common hall and many foul/ hurt. ¶ In the xviii year sir richard Beauchamp the good earl of warwyke died at Rone he being that time lieutenant of the king in Normandye and from thence his body was brought to warwick where he lieth worshipfully in a new chapel on the south side of the quere. ¶ Also this year was a great dearth of corn through out all England for a bushel of wheat was worth xl pens in many places of England and yet they might not have enough wherefore Steven brown that time mayor of London sent in to 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 someplaces of England poor people made them breed of fern roots. ¶ This year the general counsel of Basyly de/ posed Eugeny & they chose Felix which was duke of Savoy/ & than began the schism which endured unto the year of our lord. M CCCC. xlviii. ¶ This felix was a devout prince & saw his sons son/ and after lived an holy life & was chosen pope of the counsel of basil & Eugeny deposed. And so the schism was long time & this Felix had but little obedience by cause of the nautralyte/ for the most part & well nigh all christendom obeyed & reputed Eugeny for very pope of them both/ for both occupied during the life of Eugeny. This same year sir richard which was by carry of Hermettesworth was degraded of his priesthood at Paul's & brent at tour hill as for an heretic on say Botulphus day/ how well at his death he died a good christian man/ wherefore/ after his death moche people come to the place where he was brent & offered & 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 bishops destroyed it & made there a dung hill. Also this same year the shreves of London fet out of saint martin's the grant of the sentwary five persons which afterward were restored again too the sentwary by the kings justices ¶ And after Albert the third. Frederyk was chosen Emperor. This Frederyk duke of Osteryk was long Emperor & differed to be crowned at Rome because of the schism/ but after that unity was had he was crowned with the Imperial diadem with great glory and triumph of pope Nicholas the four This was a pesyble 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 treason & committed to perpetual prison in y● yle 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 west minster afore the archbishop of Canterbury. And there she was enjoined to open penance to go through cheap bearing a taper in her hand & after to perpetual prison in y● yle of Man under the keeping of sir Thomas stanley. Also that same time was arrested master Thomas south well a canon of westminster master Iohn have a chaplain of the said lady/ master Robert Bolynbroke a clerk using nigromancy/ and one Margery iourdemayn called the which of Eye beside westminster/ there were/ arrested as for being of counsel with the said duchess of Gloucestre. & for master Thomas such well died in the Tour the night's before he should have be rained on the morn. for he himself said that he should die in his bed & not by justyces. ¶ And in the twenty year master Iohn hume and master Roger Bolyngbrok were brought to the gild hall in London/ and there before the Mayer the lord and chief justyces of England were rained and dampened both to be drawn and hanged & quartered. but master Iohn hume had his chartrel & was pardoned 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 and quartered/ on whose soul god have mercy. Amen. And Margere ●●rde main was brent in smithfield. ¶ Also this year was a great fray in London in fleet street by night time between men of court & men of London/ and diverse men slain and some hurt. and one Herbotell was the chief causer of the misgovernance & affray. ¶ Also this year at the choosing of the mayor of London the comyus named Robert Clopton & Raulyn Holande talyour/ and the aldermen took Robert Clopton & brought him at the right hand of the mayor/ as custom is. And than certain talyours and other hand crafts men ●yed nay nay not this man but Raulyn Holande wherefore the mayor that was Padyslye sent them that so cried too Newgate where they abode a great while and were punished. ¶ In this same year were diverse ambassadors sent into Guyon for a marriage for the king for the ●●●les daughter of Armynake that which was concluded/ but by the mean of the earl of Suffolk it was let and put a part. ¶ And after this the said earl of Suffolk went himself over se in France & there he treated the marriage between the king of England & 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 duchy of Angeo and the earldom of Main which was the key of Normandye Than departed the earl of Suffolk with his wife and diverse lords & knights in the most rial estate that might be out of England with new chares & palfreys which went through the cheap and so went over the see and receyued● her and than after in the Lenten brought her unto Hampton where she landed and there was rially received. ¶ And upon Can●●masse even before by a gr● tempest of th●ndre and 〈◊〉 to at after none/ Paul's steeple was set on fire on the mids of the shaft in the time ●re/ which was quenched by force of labour/ & 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 Staff ford made and created duke of Buking ham/ th'earl of werwyk duke of Warwick the earl of Dorset marks of Dorset/ & the earl of Suffolk was made marks of Suffolk. ¶ How king Henry wedded queen Margarete/ and of her coronation. THis year king Henry married at Suchwick queen Margarete/ & she came too London the xxviii day of May. And by the way all the lords of England received her worshipfully in diverse places And in especial the 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 be known/ met with her with red hodes & brought her to London. where were diverse pagenties & countenance of diverse histories showed in diverse places of the city rially & costly. ¶ And the xxx day of May. the foresaid queen was crowned at westminster. And there was justes three days during within the Sayntwary before the abbey. ¶ This year y● 〈◊〉 your of Kylmayn apeled th'earl of Vrmonde of treason. which had a day to them assigned for to fight in smithfield. And the lists were made. and the field dressed. But when it came too point/ the king commanded that they should not fight: but took the quarrel into his h●nde. And this was done at the Instance and labours of certain preachers & doctors of London/ as master 〈…〉 person of 〈…〉 in Holborn/ and other. ¶ Also this year came a great 〈◊〉 in to England out of France. for to have concluded a perpetual peas/ but in conclusion it turned unto a truce for a year. ¶ About this time died say Barnar dine a grey frere which began the new reformation of the order in many places/ in so much/ that they/ that were reform/ been called observants/ which observants been greatly increased in yea lie and in Almaigne. This Barnardyn was canonized by pope Nicholas the .v. in the year of our lord. M. CCCC.l. ¶ johannes de Capistrano was his disciple/ which profited moche to the reformation of the order for god hath showed many a fair miracle. ¶ Also here is to be noted/ that from this time forward/ king Henry never proffyted ne went for ward/ but fortune began to torn from him on all sides. as well in France Nor mandye/ Guyon. as in England. some men hold opinion/ that king Henry give 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 Army nakes sister/ which was promised as it was said and concluded/ & after broken/ and he wedded queen Margarete/ as afore is said/ & a full dear marriage for the reme 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 frenchmen to enter. ¶ And about this the said marks of Suffolk axed in plain parliament/ a fifteen and an half/ for to fetch her out of France. 〈◊〉 what a marriage was this as to the comparison of that other marriage. For there should have be delivered. so many castles & towns in Guyon/ & so much gold should have be yeven with her/ that all England should have be thereby euryrhed / 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 Normandye/ & Guyon/ by division in the ream/ the rebelling of comyns against their prince & lords/ what division among the lords. what murder & slaying of them/ what fields fought and made/ in conclusion so many that many a man hath lost his life. & in conclusion the king deposed/ & the queen with her son fain to i'll into scotland/ & from thence into France. & so to Loreyne/ the place that she came first fro. Many men dame that the breaking of the kings promise to the sister of the earl of Armynak/ was cause of his great loss and adversity. ¶ How the duke of Gloucestre the kings uncle was arrested at the parliament of Bury/ and of his death/ and how Angeo in Main was delivered. IN the xxvi year of king Henry was a parliament at Bury. called faint 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. umfrey the kings uncle. which had be protector of England all the noncage of the king. And anon after as he was in his lodging. he was arrested by the Vycounte Beaumond the Conestale of England/ whom accompanied the duke of Bukyngham/ & many other lords. And forth with all his servants were commanded to depart from him. And. xxxxii. 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 said he died for sorrow/ some said he was murdered between two federbeddꝭ. some said that a 〈◊〉 was put in his fundment. But how he died god knoweth. to whom no thing is hid & then when he was deed. he was laid open that all men might him see. And so both lords & knights of the shire. with burgeys. came & saw him lie deed. but wound ne token could they not perceyve how he died. here may men mark 〈◊〉 this world is. ¶ This duke was a noble man & a great clerk. 〈…〉 fully the ream to the kings behove. & nwer could be found fault to him. But envy of them that were governors & had promised the duchy of Angeo & the 〈◊〉 doom of Main. caused y● 〈…〉 this noble man. For they dread 〈◊〉 would have impeached y● 〈…〉 And after they sent his body to 〈◊〉 Albon with certain lights. for 〈◊〉 buried. And so sir Geruays of 〈◊〉 had then the charge for to convey y● 〈◊〉 And so it was buried at say 〈◊〉 in the abbey. And five persons at his household were sent too London and there were they rained. and Iug●d to be drawn/ & hanged/ & also quartered. Of whom the names were/ sir Roger ●ham brelayne a knight. & one 〈…〉 squire. Arthur a squire. and 〈◊〉 Nedbam. which .v. persons were draw fro the tour of London through Cheap to Tyborn/ & there let down 〈◊〉 & then striped too have been heeded and quartered/ and then the Marquay● of Suffolk showed there for them the kings pardon under his great seal. And so they were pardonned of the remenaunce of all that other 〈◊〉 & had their lived/ and so they were brought ayentoo London/ and after freely delivered Thus began trouble in this ream of England/ for the death of this noble duke of Gloucestre/ & all the 〈◊〉 of the ream began for to murmur for it and were not content. ¶ After that pope Eugeny was deed/ Nicholas the fifth was elect pope. this Nicholas was chose for Eugeny yet hanging the schism. not withstanding he gate the obedience of all christian reams/ for after he was elect and sacred pope/ certain lords of France and of England/ were sent in to Savoy too pope felix. for to entreat him to scasse of the papacy. And by the special labour of the bishop of Norwiche and the lord of saint johannes. he ceased the second year after the pope Nicholas was sacred/ And the said felix was made Legate of France and cardinal of Savoy. and he resigned the hole papacy to Nicholas. And after lived an holy life. and died an holy man. And as it is said almighty god showeth miracles for him. This was the xxiii schism between Eugenio and felix. and dured xvi year. The cause was this/ the general counsel of basil deposed Eugeny/ which was only pope and Indubytate. for as much as he observed not and kept the decrees & statutes of the coū●eyll of Constance. as it is said before. Nother he wrought not to give obedience to the general counsel in no manner wise. wherefore arose a great alteration among writers of this matere 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 Nicholas 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 Turkys. ¶ And the people wondered & great lie marveled of the ceasing & resyning of pope felix to pope Nicholas/ considering that Nicholas was a man of so homely a birth. And that other was of affinity to all the most party of christian princes/ wherefore there was a verse published. as afore said. ¶ How sir Fraunsoys Aragonoys took Fogiers in Normandye. and of the loss of Constantynople 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 Normandye. named Fogyers/ against the truce/ of which taking began moche sorrow and loss. for this was the occasion/ by the which the frenchmen gate all Normandye. ¶ about this time the city of Constantynople/ which was the imperial city in all Grece/ was taken by the Turks Infidels. which was bytrayde as some hold opinion/ and them peroure taken and slain. and the rial church of saint Sophia rob and despoiled/ and the relics and images and the road drawenge about the streets/ which was done in spite of christian faith and soon after all christian 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. & a great loss to all christendom. ¶ In the xxviii: year was a parliament: holden at westminster) and from thence adjourned to the black freres at London/ & after christmas to westminster again. ¶ And this same year Robert of cane a man of the westcountre/ with a few ships took a great fleet of ships coming out of the bay. lad with salt. which ships were of Pruce/ flanders Holande and zelonde/ and brought these to Hampton. wherefore the merchants of England being in flanders/ were arrested. in bridges. Ipre & other places. and might not be delivered/ ne their debts discharged/ till they had made appointment for to pay the hurtis of those ships/ which was paid by the merchants of the staple every penny. And in like wise the merchants & goods being in Dansk/ were also are stead. and made great amends. ¶ This same year the frenchmen in a morning took by a train the town of Pounte all Arch. & therein the lord Fawconbrydge was taken prisoner. And after that in Decembre Rone was taken and lost. being therein sir Edmonde duke of Somerset/ and the earl of Shrewesbury/ the which by a pointment left pledges and lost all normandy/ and come home in to England. And during the said parliament/ the duke of Suffolk was arrested/ & 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 Angeo & Main and after losing of all Normandye and in especial for the death of the good duke of Gloucestre/ in so much in some places men gathered and made them captains/ as Blewherde & other/ which were take & put to death. And then the said parliament adiouned 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 tour and comen thither/ they desired for to have execution on them that were cause of the deliverance of Norman die/ and had be cause of the death of the duke of Gloucestre: and had sold Gascoyn & Guyan/ of the which they named to be guilty/ the duke of Suffolk as chief/ the lord Say. the bishop of Salysbury/ Danyell/ & many more. And for to pease the comyns. the duke of Suffolk was exiled out of England for v year. ¶ And so during the parliament he went in to Norfolk. and there he took his shiping/ for to go out of the ream of England in to France. And this year as he sailed on the see a ship of were called Nicholas of the torment with his ship and found him therm/ whom they took out/ and brought him in to their ship to the master and the capitain/ and there he was eramyned and atte the last judged too death. And so they put him in a cabin and his chaplain with him for to shrine him And that done they brought him in too Dover road/ and set him in to the 〈◊〉 and smote there of his heed. And brought the body a land upon the 〈◊〉 and set the heed thereby. ¶ And this was done the first day of May. ¶ 〈◊〉 what availed him now all his 〈◊〉 raunce of Normandye. And here 〈◊〉 see how he was rewarded for the death of the duke of Gloucestre thus began sorrow upon sorrow & death for death. ¶ How this year was insurrection 〈◊〉 te of the comyns/ of whom jack 〈◊〉 an irish man was capitain. THis year of our lord. M. CC●● was the great grace of the jubilee at Rome/ where was great 〈◊〉 in so moche that from all places in 〈◊〉 doom/ great multitude of people 〈◊〉 tide thither. And in this same year was a great assemble and gathering togy●der of the comunes of Kente in to grece number. And made an insurrection & rebelled against the king and his laws/ And ordained them a capitain. called johan Cade an Irysshman which named himself Mortymer/ cousin to the duke of york. And this capitain held them together/ & made ordinances among them/ and brought them to the black heath/ where he made a bill of petitions to the king & his counsel and showed what Injuries and oppressions the poor comyns suffered. & under colour. for to come to his above/ & he had a great multitude of people. ¶ And the xxvii. day of june. the king & many lords captains. & men of were went toward him to the black heath. And when the capitain of Kent understood the coming of the king with so great puissance. he withdrew him & his people to senok/ a little village. ¶ And the xxviii day of june he bring withdrawn and gone the king came with his army set in order & enbataylled to the black heath. and by advice of his counsel. sent sir umfrey Stafforde knight/ & wyllyam Stafforde 〈◊〉 two valiant captains/ with certain people for to fight with the capitain & to take & bring him & his accessaries to the king/ which went too Senol: And the capitain with his fellowship 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 gretr variance among the lords men and common people being on black heath against them lords & captains/ saying plainly that they would go unto the capitain of Kent. to assist & help him/ but if they might have/ execution on the traitors being about the king. whereto the king said nay. And they said plainly that the lord Say treasurer of england/ and the bishop of Salysbury/ and the baron of Dubby/ the abbot of Gloucestre/ Danyell/ & Trevilyon/ & 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 and sent to the tour of London. And then the king hearing tidings of the death and overthrowenge of the Staffordes he withdrew him to London/ and from thence to Keling worth/ For the king ne the lords durst not trust their own household men.:/ ¶ Then after that the capitain had had this victory. upon the Staffordes anon he took sire Vmfreys salad. and his Brygantynes smitten full of guilt. naylles/ and also his guilt spories and arrayed him like a lord & a ●apytayne and resorted with all his meinie/ & also more than he had before. to the black heath again. To whom came the archbishop of Caunterbury/ and the duke of Bokyngham to the black heath. and spoke with him/ And as it was said/ they found him witty in his talking and his request/ & so they departed. ¶ And the third day of july he came & entered into London with all his people And there died make cries in the kings name and in his name/ that no man should rob/ ne take no manner goods/ but if he paid for it. And came riding through the city in great pride/ and smote. his sword upon London stone in Canwick 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 the mayre & th' alder men/ where that he was examined. And he said/ he would and ought to be judged by his peries. And the comyns of Kente took him by force from the Mayer & officers that kept him/ and took him to a priest/ to shrive him. And or he might be half shriven/ they brought him to the standard in the Cheap side/ & there smote of his heed/ on whose soul god have mercy. Amen. And thus died the lord Say treasurer of England. After this they set his heed upon a spear. & bore it all about the city. And the same day about Myle end/ Cromere was beheaded/ And the day before at after noon/ the capitain with certain of his men/ went to Phylyp Malpas house/ and robbed him/ and took away much good/ And from thence he went to saint Margaretes patens to one Gerties house/ and rob him. & took away fro him much good also. At which robbynge diverse men of London/ of their neighbours were at and took part with them. ¶ For this robbing the people's hearts fell from him/ and every thrifty man was a feared/ for to be served in like wise. For there was many a man in London/ that awaited and would fain ha●e seen a common robbery/ which almighty god forbid. For it is to suppose if he had not rob: he might have gone 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 evil. he did do smite of a man's heed in south work. And the night after the Mayer of London with the aldermen & the comynes of the city/ concluded to drive away the capitain and his host. And sent to the lord scales to the tour and too Mathe gough a captain of Norman die/ that they would that night assail the capitain with them of Kent. And so they did come too London bridge/ in Such work/ or the capitain had any knowledge thereof/ and they fought with them that kept the bridge. And the Kentysshmen went to harness/ and came to the bridge/ & shot and fought with them and gate the bridge/ and made them of London too flee and 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 sutt●n an Alderman of London was slain Roger Heysaunte/ Mathe Gough/ and many other. And after this the chancellor of England sent to the capitain a pardon general for him & an other for his meinie. And then they departed fro Such work/ every man to his own house. ¶ And when they were all departed and goon/ there was proclamations made in Kent/ Southsex and other places/ that what man could take the capitain quick or deed/ should have a thousand pound. ¶ And after this one Alexander yden a squire of Kent took him in a garden in Southsex/ and in taken Iohn Cade capitain was slain/ & beheaded and his heed set upon London brydges' And anon after/ the king came in to Kente/ and died his justyces sit at Caunterbury/ & inquired who was causers and chief cause of this insurrection And there were viii men judged to the death in one day. and in other places more And from thence the king went in to Southsex/ and in to the west country/ where a little before was slain the bishop of Salysbury. And this same year there were so many Iugyd to death that three heeds stood upon London bridge at ones. ¶ Of the field that the duke of york took at Brentheth in Kent/ & of the birth of prince Edward/ and of the first battle at saint Albon. where the duke of Somerset was slain. IN the xxx year of the king the duke of york came out of the Marche of wales/ with th'earl of Deueush●●● & the lord Cobham & great 〈◊〉 for reformation of certain 〈◊〉 & wrongs and also to have justice upon certain lords being about the king/ & took a field at Brentheth beside ●●● ford in Kent. which was a strong field for which cause the king with all his lords went unto the black heath. with a great and a strong multitude of people armed/ and ordained for y● were in the best wise. And when they had mustered on the haveth/ certain lords were tho sent unto him. for to 〈◊〉 & make appointment with him. which were the bishop of Ely. the bishop of wynchestre / th'earls of Salysbury and 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 be 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 anoyse 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 theme they concluded/ that the duke of york should depart at his own will. ¶ about this time began great division in 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 that at the last they called the king of Pole to be their lord/ the which king came & was worship fully received/ And besieged the castle/ of Mariengburgh/ which was the chief castle of strength of all the land. and wan it & drove out the master of Daske/ & all other places of that land and so they that had been lords many years. lost all their seygnou●ye & 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 Iohn Norman was chosen for too be mayor 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 the mayor/ aldermen & the crafts road on horseback the which was never used after. For sin that time they have ever goon by water in botes & barges. ¶ Ye have well understand before how the contrary to the promise of the king & also the conclusions take between the king & the duke of york at Brentheth the duke of Semerset 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 reme/ & also the comyns were not pleased: For which cause the duke of York/ the earl of warwick/ the earl of Salysbury with many knights and squires/ and much 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 Northumberland/ the lord Clyfforde/ & many other. ¶ And what time that the duke of york and his fellowship understood/ 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. and there met with the king to whom the king sense certain lords and desired them to keep the peace/ & departed: But in conclusion while they treated on y● one side/ the earl of werwyk with the March men and other/ entered in to the town on that other side/ and fought against the king & his party/ & so began the battle and fighting which endured a great while/ But in conclusion the duke of york obtained. and had the victory of that journey/ In which was slain the duke of Somerset/ the earl of Northumberlonde. the lord Clyfforde. & many knights & squires/ & 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 york. was made protector of England/ & the earl of werwyk 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/ & might not rule as they did before. ¶ And this same year died pope Nicholas the fift. and after him was Calixt the third. This Calixt was a Catalane/ & the acts of him shall be showed here after following. ¶ In this same year fell a great affray in London against the Lombard's. the cause began/ bycauce 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 and there for the offence. he was committed to ward. and thenne the mayor departed fro the yield hall/ for to go home to his dinner/ But in the Cheap the young men of the mercery for the most party prentices. held the Mayor & sheriffs still in Cheap. and would not suffer them too depart/ unto the time that their fellow/ which was committed to ward/ were delyve red: and so by force they rescued their fellow from prison. And that done the Mayor departed and the sheriffs also/ & the prisoner delivered. which if he had be put to prison. he had be in jeopardy of his life. And theme began a rumour in the city against the Lombard's And the same evening the hondcrafty men of the town arose/ and ran to the Lombard's houses and dyspoyled and rob divers of them. wherefore the May ●● 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 that was rescued by his fellows/ saw this great rumour. affray & robbery/ ensued/ of his first moving to the Lombarde/ departed & went to westminster to sayntwary. 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 Mayre that time wyllyam Marrow/ the duke of Bokyngham. & many other lort des/ to see execution done/ But the comynes of the city secretly made them ready and did arm them in their houses and were in purpose to have rungen the comyne bell/ which is called bow bell. but they were let by sad men which came to the knowledge of the duke of ●●kyngham & other lords. And in continent they arose/ for they durst no longer abide/ for they doubted that the hole 〈◊〉 te should have risen against them. But yet nevertheless two or three of the city were jugyd to death for this robbery/ and were hanged and Tyberne. ¶ Anon after the king and the queen/ & other lords road to Coventre & withdrew them fro London. for this cause. And a 〈◊〉 before the duke of york was sent for to g●●●newych. & there was discharged of the protectourshypp. & th'earl of Salysbury of his Chauncelershyp. And after this they were sent fore by privy scale for too come to Couentre/ where they were almost deceived/ & the earl of werwyke also & should have been destroyed if they had not seen well to. ¶ How the lord Egremonde was take by the earl of Salysbury sons/ and 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 ●●eyne were whales. ¶ In this same year/ for certain affrayes done in the nor the country between lord Egremond & the earl of Salysbury sons. the said lord Egremond whom they had condemned in a great sum of money to the said Earl of Salysbury/ and therefore he was committed into prison in Newgate in London/ where when he had be a certain space he broke the prison/ and three prisoners with him/ & escaped and went his way: & Also this year the earl of warwick & his wife went to calais with a fair fellowship & took possession of his office/ ¶ about this time was a great reformation of many monesteryes of religion in diverse parties of the world/ which were reformed after the first institution/ & continued in many places. ¶ This same year was a great battle in the Marches between the land of Hungry and Turkey/ at a place called Septedrad/ where Innumerable turks were slain/ more by miracle thann by man's hand/ for only the hand of god smote them/ Saint Iohn of Capystrane was there present. & provoked the christian people being theme afeard for to pursue after the Turkys/ where an infinite multitude were slain and destroyed & the turks said/ that a great number of armed men followed them that they were afeard to turn again and they were holy angels. ¶ This same year the prisoners of Newgate in London broke their prison/ and went upon the ledes and fought against them of the city/ and kept the gate a long while/ But at the last the town gate the prison on them. And then they were put in fettres and yrens/ & 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 therein to the earth. ¶ Also in the xxxvi year saint Osmonde sometime bishop of Salysbury was canonized at Rome by pope Calist. & the ten 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 capitains/ & men of were went to the se with a great Navy. & came into the downs by night. And on the morn early before day they landed and came to Sand witch/ both by land & water/ & took the town/ and ryfled and 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/ flanders Holonde and zelonde/ children gathered them togethers by great companies/ for to go on pilgrimage to saint Michael's mount in Normandye/ 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 & also for lac/ of victual as they went. ¶ In this year Reynolde peacock bishop of Chestre/ was found an heretic/ and the third day of Decembre was adjured at Lambeth in presence of the archbishop of Caunterbury & many other bishops doctors & lords temporal/ and his 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/ and wrath had by the heirs of them that so were slain/ against the duke of york/ the earls of werwyk 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 hundred men and lodged him at Baynerdes' castle in his own place. ¶ And the xu day of january came the earl of Salysbury with .v. hundred men & was lodged in therber his own place. ¶ And then came the duke of exeter & of Somerset with viii C. men/ & lay without/ temple bar/ ¶ And the earl of Northumberland/ and the lord Egremonde/ the lord Clyfforde with xu hundred men/ & lodged without the town. ¶ And the Mayor that time Geffraye Boloyne/ kept great watch with the comyns of the city/ and road about the cytce by Holborn and Fleetstreet/ with a .v. thou sand men well arrayed and armed. for to keep the peace/ ¶ And the xiii day of Feverer the earl of warwick came to London. fro calais well beseen & worshipfully with .v. hundred men in red jakectes broudred with a ragged staff behind and before. and was lodged at the grey freres/ ¶ And the xu day of March the king came to London & the queen. And there was accord & peace made among the lords/ & they were set in peace And on our lady day the xu 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 Flete street between men of court & men of the same street. In which fray the queens Attorney was slain. ¶ How the kings household made a fray against the earl of werwyk/ & of the journey at bloreheth. ALso this same year as the earl of werwyk was at counsel at west mynster 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 spyttes and pestles against him. And the same day he road towards warwick and soon after he gate him a commission/ and went over the see toward calais ¶ soon after this th'earl of Salysbury coming to London/ was encountered at Bloreheth with the lord Audley. & 〈◊〉 other people ordained to destroy 〈◊〉 But he having knowledge that he should be met with/ was accompanied with his two sons sir Thomas and 〈◊〉 johan Nevell/ & a great fellowship 〈…〉 men. And so they fought togeter 〈◊〉 theerle of Salysbury 〈…〉 And the lord Audley was 〈…〉 many gentlemen of 〈…〉 people hurt. & the earls two 〈…〉 hurt. & going homeward 〈…〉 they were taken/ & had to 〈…〉 queens meinie. ¶ After Calixt Pius was pope 〈◊〉 chose this year. M. cccc. 〈…〉 was called before Aeneas an 〈…〉 man/ and a poet 〈…〉 ambassador of the Emperor before 〈◊〉 And he wrote in the 〈…〉 a noble treatise for 〈…〉 me/ Also he canoursed 〈…〉 of Senys/ This pope ordained 〈…〉 dulgence and pard●●● 〈…〉 de go & were against the 〈…〉 te a pistle to the great Turk 〈…〉 him to become christian. And in 〈◊〉 ordained a passage ayenstre y● 〈◊〉 Ankon/ to which mo●ke people drew out of all parties of 〈…〉 which people he sense many home 〈◊〉 by cause they suff●●● 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 and the soul dyours 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 and her counsel/ and how the great princes of the land were not called to counsel but set a part/ & not only so but it was said through the ream/ y● 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 common weal 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 th'earl of warwick came fro calars with many of the old soldiers as Andrew Trollop and other/ in whose wisdom as for the were he trusted moche upon And/ when they were thus assembled & made their field. the king sent out his commissions & privy seals unto all the lords of his ream/ to come & 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 & th'earls of werwyk & of Salisbury. for it is here to be noted the 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 dyspoysed man. And then when the king was come too the place where they were the duke of york & his fellowship made their field in the strongest wise/ & purposed verily to abide & have fouzte. But in the night Andrwe Trollop & all the old soldiers of calais with a great fellowship/ suddenly departed out of the dukes host/ & went straight unto the kings field/ where they were received joyously. for they knew th'intent of tother lord/ & also the manner of their field/ And than the duke of york with that other lords. saying these deceived/ took a counsel shortly in the same night. and departed from the field/ leaving behind them the most party of their people to 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 th'earl of March with the earls of werwyk & of Salysbury. which road together with three or four persons straight in to 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 Gernescy & 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 shiping in wales. and sailed over in too ireland/ where he was well received. ¶ How the earls of March/ werwik and Salysbury entered in too calais & how the earl of werwyke 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 & pursue after to take them/ but they met not with them as god would/ And than the king went to Ludlowe/ & despoiled the castle & the town/ And sent the duchess of york & her children to the duchess of Bokyngham her sister/ where/ she was kept long time after/ And forth with the king ordeyed the duke of Somerset/ to be capitain of calais and these other lords so departed/ as afore is said/ were proclaimed rebels and 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 hast/ for to go too calais/ and take possession of his office/ And when he came he fond th'earl of werwyk therein as capitain/ & the earls of March & of Salysbury also/ & than he landed by scales & went to Gynes & there he was received/ And it fortuned that some of thoo ships that came over with him. came in to calais haven by their fire will/ for the shipmen aught more favour to th'earl of werwyk than to the duke of Somerset/ in which ships were take diverse men/ as jenyn Fynkyl johan fellow. Kaylles and Purser: which were beheaded soon after in calais. and after this came men daily over these to these lords too calais/ and began for to wax stronger and stronger. and they borrowed much good of the Staple/ & on that other side the duke of Somerset being in Gynes/ gate people too him which came out and scarmysshed with them of calais/ and they of calais with them which endured many days During this skermysshing. moche people came over daily unto these lords/ ¶ Then on a time by thaduys & counsel of the lords at calais sent over master Denham with a great fellowship to Sandwytche/ which took the town & therein the lord Rivers & the lord scales his son/ & took many ships in the haven/ & brought them all to calais with which ships many mariners of their fire will/ came to calais/ to serve th'earl of werwyk/ And after this the Earl of werwyk by the advice of the lords. took all his ships and manned them well and sailed himself in too ireland. for too speak with the duke of york/ and took his advice how they should enter into Englond. 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 Excetre Admiral of England being in the grace of duac companied with many shyppis of were. met with the earl of werwyk & 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 werwyk than to him/ & they departed & came too calais in sauftee ¶ Then the the kings counsel saying that these lord had gotten those ships fro Sandwhtche. & taken the lord Rivers & his s●ue ordained a garrison at Sandwytche 〈◊〉 abide & keep the town & made one 〈◊〉 ford capitain of the town & ye●●●vytaylle ne marchaust. that should ge to 〈◊〉 unders/ should go to calays Thithes of calais saying this made D●●ham & many other to go to Sandwytche & as sailed the town by land & by water 〈◊〉 it. & brought the capitain over see and smote of his heed & yet daily men came over to them fro all parties. ¶ How th'earl of March and of W●●wyk and of Salysbur● catred in to E●tglonde/ & of the field of Northapton w●ere diverse lords were llayne. ANd after this the foresaid earls of March warwick & Salysbur● came over to Dover with moche people & there landed/ to whom all the count●e drew/ & came to London all armed & for to let the lords of the kings counsel know their truth & also they entente● 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. & was fought a great battle In which battle were llayne the duke of Bokyngham and th'earl of Shrewesbury/ the viscount Beamonde/ the lord Egremonde/ and many other knights and squires/ and other also/ and the king himself was taken in the field/ and afterward brought to London/ And a none after was a parliament at westmynster/ during which parliament the duke of York came out of ireland/ with the earl of Rutlonde/ riding with a great fellowship into the palace at westminster/ and took the kings palace & came in to the parliament chambre/ & there took the kings place/ & claimed the crown as his proper enherytawnce & right. & cast forth in writing his title/ & also how he was rightful heir/ wherefore was moche to do/ but in conclusion it was appointed & concluded/ the king Henry should regne & be king/ during his natural life for as much as he had be king so long/ & was possessed/ & after his death the duke of York should be king & his heirs kings after him/ & forth with should be proclaimed heir apparent & should also be protector & regete of England during the kings life with many other things ordained in the same parliament/ & if king Henry during his life/ went from this appointment or any article concluded in the said parliament he should be deposed/ & the duke should take the crown & be king. all which things were enacted by th'authority of the same/ at which parliament the comyns of the ream being assembled in the common house/ comyning and treating upon the title of the for said duke of york/ suddenly fell down the crown/ which hinge then in the mids of the said house which is the frayter of the abbey of westminster/ which was taken for a prodyce or token/ that the reign of king Henry was ended. & also the crown which stood on the highest tour of the stleple in the castle of Dover/ fell down this same year. ¶ How the 〈◊〉 of York was slain. and of the field of wakefield/ and of the second journey at saint Albon by the queen and 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 protector. should go northward. to bryn in the queen/ & subdue such as would not obey/ with whom went the earl of Salysbury/ sir Thomas nevil his son/ with moche people And at wakefield in Cristmas week/ they were overthrow and slain by lords of the queens parti that is to wite. the duke of york. was slain. the earl of Rotlonde. Sir Thomas Neuyl & many more/ & the earl of salisbury was take & other/ as johan Harowe of London capitain & ruler of the footmen & haunson of hull. which were brought to pounfret/ & there beheaded. & there heads sent to york. & set upon the yates/ & thus was the noble prince slain: the duke of york/ on whose soul god have mercy. And this time th'earl of Mar: +che being in Shrowesbury. hearing the death of his father: desired aid of the town to avenge his faders death. & fro thence went to wales/ & at Candelmasse after he had a battle at Mortimer's cross: against th'earl of Penbroke & of wyleshtyre where the earl of March had the vyctori Than the queen with those lords of the north after that they had distressed & slain the duke of york and his fellowship/ came south ward with a great multitude of people/ for to come to the king and defeat such conclusions as had be take before by the parliament/ against whose coming the duke of Norfolk. the earl of werwyk/ with moche people & ordinance. went to sayne Albon/ and lad king Henry with them/ & there encountered to vyder in such wise/ and fought: so that the duke of Norfolk & th'earl of werwyk/ with many other of their party fled and lost that journey. where that king Henry was taken with the queen and prince Edward his son/ which two had gotten that field. Then the queen & her party being at her above/ s●nt anon to London/ which was on an Asshewenesdaye the first day of Lente for vi tayll/ for which the Mayor ordained by thaduys of the Aldermen. that certain carts lad with victual should be sent to saint Albon to them. & when the carts camto Crepyll gate/ the comyns of the city that kept that gate/ took the victuals fro the carts and would not suffer it to pass. Then were there certain Alder men & comyns appointed to go unto bernet/ to speak with the queens counsell to entreat that 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 Cottes would coming out of wales with a great meinie of welshmen/ and that they both were coming unto London ward/ Anon as these tidings were know. the treatise was broke for the kygne. queen/ prince/ & all the other lords that were with the departed fro saint Albon's north ward with all their people. yet or they departed thence they be heeded the lord Bonuyll & sir Thomas Kryell. which were taken in the journey done on Shrovetewesdaye. ¶ Then the duchess of york keynge at London/ he ring of the loss of the field of saint Albon●/ sent over see her two young sons George & richard/ which went too Vtrech. & Philip Malpas a rich merchant of London. Thomas Vaughan squire/ master wyllyam Ha●clyf & many other/ fearing of the coming of the queen to London. took a ship at And werpe to have gone in to zeland. & on that other cost/ were taken of one Colomyne a Frensshman/ a ship of were. And he took them prisoners/ & brought them in to France. where they paid great good for their ransom. & there was great good & richesse in the ship. ¶ Of the deposing of king Henry the vi. and how king Edward the fourth took possession. & of the battle on Palmsondaye/ & how he was crowned. THen when the earl of March. & the earl of warwick had met to guider on Cottyswold/ incontinent they concluded to go to London/ & sent word anon to the Mayor & too the city that they would come/ and anon the city was glad of their coming hoping to be relieved by them. and so they came too London. And when they were come and had spoke with the lords and estates being there/ concluded for as much as king Henry was gone with them northward/ that he had forfeited his crown and aught to be deposed according unto the acts made and passed in the last parliament. And so by the advice of the lords spiritual and temporal. then being at London/ the earl of March Edward by the grace of god Elder son of the duke richard of York as right full 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 westminster in the church of the abbey. & offered as king with the ceptreryall. To whom all the lord spiritual & temporal died hamage/ as to their sovereign lord & king. And forthwith if was proclamid through the city king Edward the fourth by/ name/ And anon after the king road in his ryalle estate northward with all his lords to subdue his subge●tꝭ the time being in the north. and for to avenge his faders death. And on Palmsondaye after he had a great battle in the north country at a place called Towton/ not fer from york. where with the help of god he gate the field and had the victory where were slain of his adversaries/ thirty. thousand men & more. as it was said by them that were there. In which battle was slain the earl of Northumber land/ the lord Clyfforde sir Iohn nevil the earl of westmerlondes brother/ Andrew Trollop/ & many knights & squires. ¶ then king Henry that had be king/ being with the queen & the prince at york/ hearing the loss of that field: & so much peole slain and overthrow/ anon forth with departed all three with the duke of Somerset/ the lord Roos/ & other/ toward scotland And the next day after king Edward with all his army entered into york/ & was there proclaimed king & obeyed as be aught to be. And the mayre & comyns swore to be his lyegemen/ & when they had tarried a while in the north & that all the north country had turned to him he returned southward/ 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 regne/ he was crowned at westminster/ & anointed king of England/ having possession of all the ream. CAlixtus the third was pope after Nicholas three year & .v. moan thes/ this Calixt 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 Turks/ For death came upon him. And he was chose in the year of our lord. M. cccc. lv. & he died the vi day in the which he made the refiguration/ and also he chanonysed saint Vyncent/ a frere preacher and there was a great reformation of many monasteries in diverse parties/ of the world/ and these reformations/ were made many times/ but almost none abode/ but they returned again as they were afore/ by succession of time/ after the death of the worshipful faders. the feast of the transfiguration was ordained of Calixt/ for the gift of grace of the marvelous vycotory done against the Turk in Hungary on saint Sirtus day. M. cccc.lvii. For there was a marvelous vyetory give to the christian men in Hungary against the great Turk/ & there he lost. many a man & fled shamefully fordrede of enemies/ & no man followed him/ but alone the hand of god feared the Turk & his host on saint Calixt day. Saint Iohn de Capystrano was there seen present/ & he provoked the people that were afeard to follow the mysbyleving 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 backward/ & therefore they fled/ & left all their treasure behind them/ & they were angels that caused them to flee. Nota. PRrynters of books were mightily multiplied in Maguncye/ & through out the world. and there began first/ and there held their crafts. and this time many men began to be more subtle in crafts and swyfter than ever they were afore. PIus the second was pope after Calixt vi year. this Pius was chose in the year of our lord. M. cccc.lviii. & he was called Even as an eloquent man a great orator a laureate poet. & in the counsel of basil he wrote a noble treatise for thauthority 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 Turkys host & anon after he deceased. PAulus a Venetian was pope after Pius vii year. this Paul was chose in the year of our lord. M. CCCC. lxiiii. And anon he hallowed the fest of the presentation of our lady. as Pius did This man was a tough man in right wysnes/ and he said it was better to make few things. & keep them steadfastly than for to make many/ & soon renoke them. And he made a great palace at saint marks. & 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 Burgoyn/ the which wedded dame Margarete sister to king Edward the four the of England. Also the same Karolun entered in the land of Geldyr/ & conquered it holy. The year of grace also was changed by pope Paul for favour of man's soul from xxv year. to xxv year. And because the cursedness abounded so sore/ grace abounded also sore. SIxtus the fourth a Ianuens. & a frere minor was pope after Paul/ This man was general in the order of the frere Mynoris or he was cardinal. And he was chosen in the year of our lord. M. cccc.lxxi. And was called Frauncyscus de Sanona. of good fame & virtuous. He was chosen cardinal with out his knowledge till he was made/ & the same year that he was chosen pope. the Turk had taken from christian men two empires/ & four kingdoms twenty pronynces'/ & two hundred cities/ & had destroyed men & women without number. and that 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 Indulgences of pardon of the tresory of the church unto all crysten reams/ that he might ordain some treasure/ to withstand the misbelieved Turk. And in the land of England/ johan abbot of abyngdon was the pope's Legate/ to dispose this goodly treasure: of the church too every faithful man/ that was disposed/ and that would able him too receive it. ¶ Here endeth this present chronicle of England with the fruit of times. compiled in a book/ and also imprinted by one some time school master of saint Albon's/ upon whose soul god have mercy. Amen. ¶ And newly in the year of our lord god. M. CCCC.ii. imprinted in Flete street in the sing of the son By me Wynkynde word. ¶ Here followeth a little treatise the which treeateh of the description of this land which of old time was named. Albyon And after britain And no we is called England and speaketh of the noblesse and 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 in fleet street in the sign of the son 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 & worthiness of the same is not known: Therefore I intend to set in this book the descrypyon of this said Isle of britain and with the commodities of the same. ¶ In the first shall be told the names of the island. Ca. i ¶ Of the setting bounding lenthe and breed. ca. ij ¶ Of the worthiness and perogationes Capitulo. three ¶ Of the marvels and of the wonders. ca. four ¶ Of the chief parties of the same land. ca. v. ¶ Of the islands that been thereto adjacent. ca. vi ¶ Of the kings high ways and streets. ca. vij ¶ Of the famous Rivers & streams ca viii ¶ Of ancient cities and towns. ca ix ¶ Of provinces and shires. ca. x ¶ Of the laws and names of the laws. ca. xi ¶ Of kingdoms of bounds & marks between them. ca. twelve ¶ Of bishoprics & their sees ca. xiij ¶ Of how many manner people have. dwelled therein. ca xiv Of the languages of manners & usage of the people of that land. ca. xu ¶ Of the land of wales. ca xvi ¶ Of the name and why it is named: wales. ca. xvij ¶ Of the commodities of the land of wales. ca. xviij: ¶ Of the manners and rites of the welshmen: ca: nineteen ¶ Of the mernaylles wonders of Wales. ca xx ¶ Of the discretion of scotland sometime named Albanya. ca xxi. ¶ Of the description of ireland: ca. xxii ¶ Of the bounding of ireland. ca: xxiii: ¶ Of the greatness and quantity of that land. ca. xxiiii ¶ Of the defaults of the land. ca: xxv ¶ Of them that first inhabited ireland. ca: xxvi. ¶ Of the conditions and manners of Irisshmen. ca. xxvii ¶ Of the marvels & wonders of ireland: ca. xxviii ¶ Of the marvels of saints of ireland. ca. xxix ¶ Explicit tabula. ¶ The names of this Ylonde. ca j EIrste as Galfrydus saith this land was called albion after the name of Albyne the oldest daughter of dioclesian and had. xxxii.systerss. & they were first that enhabytede this land/ And because she was the oldest sister she named his land albion after her own name as the chronicle rehearseth: 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. afterward Brute conquered this land & called it britain after his own name. And then Saxons or englishmen conquered this land and called it Anglia that is Englond Or it is called Anglia of a queen that owed this land/ that was named angela and was a noble bukes daughter of the Saxons. Or as Ysyd saith Ethi xu anglia hath that name as it were an angle and a corner of the world. Or else as Beda saith li. i: Saint Gregory saw Enlysshe children to sell at Rome & he accorded to the name of the land. and said they been soothly angles/ for her face shined as angels/ for the noblyte of the land shone in the children faces. ¶ Alfre. The Bryttysshe Anglia is called that other world/ and for great plenty of all good the great Charles called it his own chambre. ¶ Solinus The edge of the frensshee cliff should be the end of the world/ if the Ylonde of britain ne were not/ which is worthy to have the name of an other world. ¶ Alfry this Ylonde is called insula for it is in salo/ that is the se/ & is beaten of with diverse course of waters with streams and with wawes of the se. ¶ Of the setting bounding lenthe and breed of this land. THis Britain is accounted a noble land both in our stories and also in the stories of Greeks. & is set against Germania. Gallia. France & Spain between the north and the west & the se between. This land is thirty mile from the cliff of the men that be called mormi gessorico. ¶ Beda li. i And for this island lieth under the north heed of the world. & it hath light and bright nights in the summer tyme. So that oftentime at midnight men have questions & doubt whether it be evyntyde 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 & cometh soono in to the east again. And therefore in the summer been their days full long df xviii hours & the nights of vi hours. And after in the winter been long nights of. xviii.houreses and short days of vi hours. Also in Armenia. Macedonia. Italya and in other lands of the same line the longest day and longest night also is of xu hours. and the shortest day or night is of ix hours. ¶ Plinius in meroe. That island is chief of blackemen/ there is the longest day xii hours. In Alexandre in Egypt of xiii. hours In ytalya of xv. 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 Ocean as it were without the world/ and is set against France & spain ¶ Giraldus. britain is endlong and larger in the middle than in the ends. ¶ Drosius. britain stretcheth in le● be out of the south into the north/ and in the southest it hath France in the south Sp●● in the north/ norway/ & in the west H● berma/ that is ireland. when shipmen passen the next cliff of that land the● 〈◊〉 a city that heat Rupty mouth. ¶ 〈◊〉 li i. That city is now called 〈◊〉 of Englishmen Reptacestre ¶ So 〈◊〉 britain is viii. houndreth mile of 〈◊〉 the and it be mutton from the clyt of lateness to theangle of Calydon. ¶ 〈◊〉 That is from pen with street xu 〈◊〉 yond Mychels slow in 〈…〉 to Catenesse that is beyond 〈◊〉 and britain is more than two honded mile broad from Menema that is the 〈◊〉/ place in wales unto yarmoth thfolke. ¶ Beda only out take 〈◊〉 guessed out sheting of diverse forlendes 〈◊〉 the which britain is all about. 〈◊〉 sith lxx thousand pace. ¶ Of the worthiness and peroga●nes. ca. iii AS France passeth britain so britain passeth ireland in fair weather and noblyte but not in bell/ the. ¶ Beda li. i For this island is best. to bring forth trees and fruyce. Ruther ne and beestes. And wine groweth therein in some place. The land hath plenty of fowls and of beasts of diverse manner of kind. The land is plenteous and the see also. The land is noble copious and rich of noble wells and Rivers with plenty of fish. There is great plenty of small fish of salmon & of celes. ¶ wilhel. de. 'pon. li.iii. So that the people in so me place feed their swine with fish. Beda. li.i. There been oftentimes taken dolphins. See calves/ & Balayne great fishes as whales kind. and diverse mane reshelfysshe/ among the which shelfys she been muscles that within them have Margery peerless of all manner of colour and hew of rody & read purpur and of blue/ and specially and most of white There is also plenty of thelfysshe that men dyen therewith fine read/ the redness there of is wonder fair and stable/ & staineth never with cold ne with heat. with wete ne with dry. but ever the older the colour is the fairer. There been also saltewelles & hoot wells/ thereof running streams of hot baths departed into diverse places according. For man & woman of all manner age old or young. ¶ Basilius saith. That the water the runneth and passeth by veins of certain metal taketh in his course great heat. This island is plenteous of veins of metals. brass of iron of lead of tin/ & of silver also ¶ Plinius li. vi.ca.vi. In this island under the turf of the land is found good merle. the thrifty of the fatness drieth him self therein/ So that ever the thick the field is merled the better corn it will bear There is also another manner white merle that the land is the better four score year that therewith is merled. ¶ Solinus In this island groweth a stone that is called Gagates/ if ye will know his fayrnesse/ it is black as gems been/ if ye will know his kind/ It brenneth in water and quencheth in oil and as to his might/ if the stone befroted and chaffed It holdeth what him neigheth as Succuns a stone that is so named. ¶ Ysydorus. li.xv. There been sheep that bearen good wool There been many hearts & wild beasts and few wolfs/ therefore sheep been the surer without keeping left in the field ¶ R. In this island also been many cities and towns fair & noble & rich/ many great Rivers and 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 & of hard/ of chalk & of white lime. There is also white clay & red for to make pots/ crockes/ stenes/ & other vessel & brent tile to cover the houses & churches as it were in that other samia/ that is named samos also. ¶ flanders loveth well the wool of this land. And Holland the skins and fells of all manner of beasts Guyan the iron & the lead. ireland the oor & the salt All Europa loveth & desireth the white metal of this land ¶ Alfredus. Bryta yn hath enough of matter that there needeth to buy and sell/ or is needful 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 wool/ 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 beautevous of land flower of londdes 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 lands that Land fedethe them/ That land beareth fruit and corn great plenty enough. That land is well at ease as long as men live in peace. east and west in each land been known well the havens of Englonge: Her ships Foundes and oft helpeth many lands their meet and money men have there more common always. And for to learn men gladly give gifts. In land and strand wide speak men of England. Land honey milk cheese this Ylonde thereof shall bear the price. This island hath no need of other lands. all lands 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 & wonders. ca iiii. IN britain been hot wells well arrayed and a dressed to the use of manhood/ masters of thilk wells is the great spirit Minerva. In her house the fire endureth always that never changeth into ashes/ but there the fire slaketh/ it changeth into stone clots. ¶ Alfre. In britain been many wonders/ nevertheless four been most wonderful the first is at Pecton there bloweth so strong wind out of the chines of the earth that it casteth up again clothes that men cast in. The second is at stonehenge besides Salesbury there been great stones & wonder huge. and been reared on high as it were yates set upon other yates: Nevertheless it is not known clearly ne apperceived how and wherefore they been so are red & so wonderful hanged. The third is at Cherdhoke there is a great hollowness under the earth/ often many men have walked therein. and 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●y sprung about in the fields. Also there is a great pond that containeth lx islands covenable for men to dwell in/ that pond is beclipped about with six score roches/ & upon every roche an eagles nest and three 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 hot or cold right as he will himself. There been salt wells far from the see & been salt all the week long unto saturday at noon/ And fresh fro saturday at noon unto monday. The water of these wells when it is sudden turneth into small salt fair and white. Also there is a pond/ the water thereof hath wonder working/ For though all an host stood by the pond and turned their face thitherward 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 face be towned away fro the water the water 〈◊〉 the not. There is a well that no 〈◊〉neth fro ne neither thereto and yet 〈◊〉 manner of fish be taken therein se at well le is but twenty foot long and xx. foot 〈◊〉 de/ and not deep but to the knee. and 〈◊〉 seethe with high banks on every side. In the country about wynchestre is a den or a cave/ out of that cave blo●●●eth alway a strong wind so that no man may endure to stand tofore 〈…〉 den or cave. There also a pond that turneth tree into iron if it be therein a year. And so trees been shapen into whestones. Also there is in the top of an hill buryels every man that cometh and meeteth that burial/ he shall find it even of his own length and measure. And if a pilgrim kneel thereto anon he shall be all fresh & feel no grief of wetynes. ¶ Gir in. top. Fast by the minster of Wynbinney that is not far fro bathe is a wood that beareth moche fruit if the trees of that wood fall into water or ground that is nigh and lie there all a year. the trees tornen into stones. ¶ Gir in 〈◊〉 under the city of Chestre runneth the river nemons worms that were brought thither lived there/ It was judged that thewy land of man should long to britain ¶ R. In that island is sortylege and wit checrafte used. For women there sell to shipmen wind as it were closed under three knots of thread. so that the moor wind he will have/ the moo knots he must undo There often by day time men of that land seen men that been deed tofore hand beheaded or hole and what the the they died. Alyens' set their feet upon feet of the men of that land for too see such sights as the men of that land done. ¶ Beda li.ii. Scots dwelled first in this Ylonde. ¶ 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 sondes. There is noble corn land and fruitful. It is supposed that this Ylonde was hallowed & blessed of saint Austen the first doctor of englishmen for there he arrived first. ¶ Of the kings high ways and streets Capitulo viii Molyuncyus' king of Brytons. was the xiii. of them and the first that gaf them law. He ordained that blow men follows/ god's temples and high ways that leaden men to cities & towns should have the freedom of colour so that every man that went to any of the then for succour or for trespaas that he hath do 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 away all stry fe & doubt/ made four high kings ways privileged with all privilege and freedom. And the ways stretch through the island. The first & greatest of the four ways is called Fosse & stretcheth out of the south into the north and beginneth from the corner of cornwall and passeth forth by devonshire by Somersete and forth besides Tetbury upon Cottes would beside coventry unto leicester/ & so forth by wild plains toward New work and endeth at Lyncoln. The second chief kings high way is named wat lyngstrete and stretchethe thwart over Fosse out of the southeast into the northwest 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 then forth to stratton and so forth by the middle of wales unto Cardykan and endeth at irish see. The third way is called Erynnugestrete and streccheth out of the west northwest into the east southeast/ & beginneth in Menevia that is saint david's land in west Wales and stretcheth forth unto Southamton: The fourth is called. Rykenyldestr●te and stretcheth forth by Worchestre by Wycombe and by Birmyngeham by Lechefelde by Derby by Chestre field by York and forth unto Tynmouthe. ¶ Of the famous Rivers and streams Capitulo viii THere been three famous Rivers running through britain by the which three Rivers merchants of beyond the see comen in ships in to britain well nigh out of all manner of nations and lands. These three Rivers been tem se. Severn and Humbre. The see ebbeth and floweth at these three Rivers and departeth the three provinces of the Ylonde as it were the three kyndoms asunder. The three parties been Loegria. Cambri a/ and Northumbria. That been middle England: wales. and Northumbrelond ¶ R. These name Temse seemeth made one name of two names of two Rivers that been Tame & Ice for the river of Tame runneth besides Dorchestre and falleth in ice/ therefore all the river froth first heed unto the east see is named Tamyse or Temse. Temse beginneth besides Tetbury that is three mile by north Malmesbury. There the Temse springeth of a well that runneth eastward & 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 for the than toward Hampton & so forth by Oxenford by wallynforde by reading and by London. ¶ wilhelmus de 'pon. ca two. at haven of Sandwhiche it falleth in to the East see/ and holdeth his name xl mile beyond London: and departeth in some place Kente and Essex westsex and Mercia/ that is as it were a great deal of middle England. ¶ R Severn is A river of britain and is called Habern in Brytons/ & 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/ but by corrupt latin it is called Sabrina Severn in english. Severn kegynneth in the middle of wales and passeth first toward the east unto Shrowesbury/ and then turned southward unto Bryggenorth wyrcestre & gloucester & falleth into the west se besides Brystow and departeth in some place England and wales. ¶ wilhel de 'pon. li.iii. Severn is swift of sheme/ fish craft is therein/ woodness of y●s woe lowing and of the whirling water casteth up and gather to heap great heaps of gravel. Severn oft ariseth and overfloweth the banks: ¶ R▪ Humbre hath that name of Humbre king of. Hunes. for he was drowned therein. And runneth first a croak out of the southside of york and thenne it departed the province of Lyndeseye that longed sometime to the Merces from the other country Northumberlonde Trent and Ous 〈◊〉 into Humbre and maken the river 〈…〉 ¶ Trevysa. The merces were men as it were of middle England as it shall be said here after. ¶ OF ancient cities & towns. 〈◊〉 THe kingdom of 〈…〉 sometime made far 〈…〉 noble cities without right many 〈◊〉 that were walled with towers with 〈◊〉 & with bars strongly builded. ¶ 〈◊〉 These were the names of the 〈◊〉 Caerlud that is London. Caerbran●● that is York. Caerkent that is 〈…〉 Caergoraukon that is worcethe. Caer●●rion that is leicester. Caerdon that is. Gloucestre Caercolden that is Col●●stre Carrey chat is Chichestre. Sarons' called it sometime Cyssoncestre: Ca●●ry that is Cyrcestre. Caerguent that is 〈◊〉. Caergraunte that is Cambrigge. Caerleyll that is Lugubalia and Karlylle. Caerpous that is Porchestre. Caerdrom that is Dorchestre. Caerlud●●● that is Lyncoln and Lynderolyn. Caer marthyn that is Merlyns city Caersegent that is S●e●tre & is upon Temse not fer from reading leon that is Caerlegyon also & byghtfyr ste Legecestre and now is named Chestre Caerbathon that is bathe and height sometime Athamannus city Caerpaladour that is Septon that now height Shafts bury. ¶ R. Other cities been found in chronicles for understanding of stories/ of whom it shall follow. ¶ will de 'pon. London is a rial and a rich city upon. tamyse. of burgeysses of riches of merchants of chaffer & of merchandise. Therefore it is that sometime when dearth of victuals is in all England comnly at London it is best cheap because of the buyers and sellers that been at London. ¶ Gau fire. Brute the first king of Brytons builded & edified this city of London the first city in remembrance of the city of Troy that was destroyed & called it Trow ye neweth and Trinouantum that is new Troy afterward 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 londres. & is named in latin londoma. Rudhudibras king Leyle'S son. was the viii. king of Brytons/ he builded Caunterbury the chief city of Kent & called it Caerkent. afterward Englishmen called it Doroberma/ but that is not Dover that standeth upon the cliff of the french se & is from this Dover xii english mile. afterward this Doroberma was & is called Caunterbury. The same king. Rudhudibris buyldede wynchestre. & called it Caerguent & after englishmen called it went & wynchestre after the name of one wine an english man that was bishop there All westsax on was subject to him/ the same king builded Pasadour that is Septon that now is called Shaftesburye Brytons tell that an Egle prophesied there sometime. Bladud. Leyle'S son a necromancer was the ix. king of Brytons/ he builded Bathe and called it Caerbathon. Englishmen called it after Athamannus city. But at the last men called it Bathonia that is Bathe. ¶ Wylhel. depon. li.ii. In this city welleth up and springeth hoot baths and men ween that julyus Cezar made there such baths. ¶ R. But Gaufre. monemutensis in his brytons book/ saith that Bladud made thilk baths because wyllyam hath not seen that brytysshe book wrote so by telly●ge 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 hoot baths/ ne julyus' cezar did such a deed though Bladud builded and made the city. but it accordethe better to kindly reason that the water runneth in the earth by veins of brimstone and sulphur and so it is kindly made hoot in that course & springeth up in diverse places of the city. And so there been hoot baths that washeth of tetres soores scabs/ ¶ Treuisa. Though men might by craft make hot baths for to endure long enough/ this accordeth well to reason and to philosophy that treateth of hot wells and baths that been in diverse lands though the water of this bathe be more trobly & sourer of savour and of smell than other hot baths been that I have seen at Akon in Almaigne. And eyges in Savoy/ which been fair and clear as any well stream I have been bathed therein & assayed them. ¶ R Claudius Cezar married his daughter to Arui ragus king of Brytons. This Claudius cezar builded Gloucestre in the wedding of his daughter. Brytons called this city first after Claudius' name but afterward it was called Glocestre after one Glora which was duke of that country and standeth upon Severn in the march of England and wales● Shrowesbury is a city upon Severn in the march of Englonge and Wales is set up ponne the top of an hill/ And it is called/ Shrowesburye of shrobbes and fruit that grew there somtym on that hill Brytons called it sometime Pengwerne that is the heed of a fair tree. Shrowesbury was sometime the heed of powesye that stretcheth forth thwart over the middle of wales unto the irish see Notyngham standeth upon Trent and sometime heat Notyngham that is the woning of dens/ for the Danes dwelled there sometime & digged dens & caves under hard stones and rocks and dwelled there. ¶ R. Lyncoln is chief of the province of Lyndeseye & was called sometime Caer ludcoit & afterward Lyndecoln. It is uncertain who builded first this city but it it were king Lud/ & so it seemeth by meaning of the name/ for Caer is brytysshe & is to say a city & coit is a wood and so it seemeth that Caerludcoit is to say Lud'S wood town King Leyr was Bladuddes son & builded leicester/ as it were in the middle of England upon the river Sos & upon Fosse the kings high way. ¶ Wylhel. ce 'pon. li.iii. YOrke is a great city in either side of the water, of Ouse that seemed as fair as Rome unto the time that the king wyllyam had with brenning and fire defouled it and the country a/ bout. So that a pilgrim would now weep and he saw it/ if he had known it tofore. ¶ Gaufre. Ebrancus the v king of Brytons builded York and called it after his own name Caerbranck he builded also two oath cities one in scotlond & is called Edinburgh/ & an other toward scotland in th'end of england & is called Alcliud. ¶ R. Edinburgh is a city in the land of Pictes between the river of tweed and the scottish see & heat sometime the castle of Maidens & was called afterward Edinburgh of Edan king of picts that reigned there in egfridus time king of Northumbrelond. Alcliud was sometime a noble city/ & is now well nigh vnknowe to all englishmen. for under the Brytons and Pyctes and englishmen it was a noble cite to the coming of the Danes. But afterward abowtee the year of our lord viii C.lxx it was desstroyed when the Danes destroyed the countries of Northumbrelonde. But in what place of britain that city. Alcliud was builded. auctors tellen dyversesy. ¶ Beda. li.i. saith that it was builded by west the arm of the see that departed between the Brytons and the Pyctes sometime there severn's famous wall endeth westewarde/ & so it seemeth by him that it is not far from caerleil for that city is set at the end of that wall. other wyters of stories written that the city of 〈◊〉 is that city that now is called Aldburgh that is to say an old town/ & standeth upon the river Ous not far fro Burgh●●●dge/ that is xu mile westward out of York/ & it seemeth that he proveth that by Gaufride in his bake of deeds of ●●●●tons/ he writeth that Elidurus' king of Brytons was lodged at the city 〈◊〉 by cause of solace & hunting & 〈◊〉 his brother Argalon masking in 〈◊〉 de nigh there beside the high 〈◊〉 but that wood Calatery which is 〈◊〉 in english reacheth almost to York & stretcheth toward the north by Aldburgh in length by space of .xx ●nyle the most deal of that wood is now drawn dow●e and the land ytylled Other men wo●de suppose that Alcliud was that city 〈◊〉 called Burgham in the north conty●● of westmerlonde fast by Comberlond and standeth upon the river Eden the city is there wonderlyseen. Demeye now where it is builded. ¶ Trevyla. It is not bar the to assoil if men take heed/ that many towns bear one name as Cartage in Affryca & Cartag in Spain. New port in Wales and Newparte in the parish of Barkeleye Wottonne under egg and wotton passeth Wykwar will: pain. and wyk in the parish of Bar keleye. And two shire town either is called Hampton/ is Southamptonne and Northampton so it seemeth by the stories that one Alcliud was in yorkshyre/ an other in westmerlonde/ & one fast by the right side of the west arm of the se that departeth England & scotland/ But that Alcliud was a right strong city as Beda saith. And the city standeth fast by a river that is called Cliud. And there is no such river in yorkshyre neither in westmerlonde as men of the country tell me. Some men say that the river Cliud is now named Sulwach. Sulwatche is but five mile fro Caerleyll which is a city in the country of north England/ toward the northwest & hath another name which is Luguball Leyll the vii king of Brytons builded Caerleyll. ¶ R. In this city is somewhat of that famous wall that passeth Northumberlonde. ¶ will hell. de 'pon In this city is yet a three chambered house made of vault stones that never might be dystroyede with tempest. of weather ne with brenning of fire also in the country fast by in westmerlonde in the front of a three chambre place is written in this manner. Marn .v. ctori. What this writing is to say I doubt somewhat but if it were so that some of the Combres lay there 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 Britons that was. arviragus son. This Marius overcome in that place Rodryke king of Pictes So saith Gaufre in his brytysshe book. william malmesburi saw never that book At Hagulstaldes' church is a place lxxx mile out of york norwestwarde the place is as it were destroyed/ so saith wylhel. li.iii. de 'pon. That place longed somtym to the bishopric of york/ there were sometime houses with vice arches & voutes in the manner of Rome. Now that place is called. Hestoldesham and Heglesham all so. ¶ Beda. li.iii. ca. i saith. That that place is fast by the long wall of thee/ work of Rome in the north half. ¶ R. There is difference between the province of Lyndeffar & the church Lyndefarne/ For the province of Lyndeffar & Lyndeseye is all one/ & lieth by East Lyncolne and Lyncoln is the heed thereof/ of the which saith Beda. li.iiii.ca.xi. that Sexwulfus was first bishop there. but Beda. li.iiii.ca.xxiii. saith. That Lyndeffar church is an island that is called holy island in the river of tweed next Barwyk. And so it is gathered of Bedaes' saws that, tweed runneth into the famous arm of the see that now departeth Englishmen and Scots in the east half and in that arm been three islands, that one is Maylros that now is called menros. then above toward the west is Lyndeffarn church that is called holy island: then the third is above upward and is the island Farn/ and is called also ferny island. Then upward above 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 aright strong castle. ¶ Gir. initenere. two cities there been either is called Caerlegy on and Caerleon also. one is Demycya in South-Wales that is named Caeruske also there the river of Vskefal●eth into Severn fast by Glamorgan. belinus king of Brytons sometime builded the city and was sometime the chief city of Demecia in seek wales. Afterward in Claudius' Caesar'S time it was called the. city legions when at prayer of Geniust he queen Vespacyanus and arviragus were accorded and legions of Rome were sent into ireland/ though was Caerleon a noble city and of 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 of the atrees/ that were places high and ryall to stand and site in. & to behold about The places were rially closed with ryal 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 juliust the martyr and 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 chief mother church of all wales & the chief see. But afterward the chief see was turned out of the city into meneuia that is saint david's land in west wales. In this Caerleon was amphibalus born that taught saint Albon There the messengers of Rome come too great Arthur's court/ if it is leeff ●ll too trow Treuisa. if/ Giraldus was in doubt whether it were leeffull for to trow or not/ it were a wonder shewenge as men would ween for to have evermore in mind/ and ever be in doubt if all his books were such what lore were therein and namely while he maketh none evidence for in neither side he telleth what move the him so to say. ¶ R. There is an other city of legions. there his chronicles were bytravaylled 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 fame place that it was first in latin. The understanding of him that made this chronicles is thus written in latin in the beginning of this book. ¶ Presentem cronicam compilavit frater Ranulphus Cestrensis monachus. That is to say in english. Brother Ranulph monk of Chestre compiled and made this book of the chronicles. ¶ R. The city of legions that is Chestre standeth in the March of England toward wales between two arms of the see that been named de 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 unknown For who that seeth the foundementes of the great stones would rather ween that it were romans work or work of Giants than it were set by working of britains. This city sometime in Brytysshe speech heat. Caerthleon Legecestre in 〈◊〉 and chester in english and the city of legions also. For there lay a 〈◊〉 legions of knights that julius 〈◊〉 sent for to win ireland. And 〈◊〉 Claudius' cezar sent legions out of 〈◊〉 city for to win the island that be ●●●led Orcades/ what ever wyllyam malmesbury by telling of other men mente of this city. This city hath plenty of ●●●●uelode of corn of flesh of fish and ●●●cyally of price of salmon this ●rte ●●●●ueth great merchandise and send 〈◊〉 out also. Also night this city been 〈◊〉 wells/ metal and oor Northumbres destroyed this city sometime. But after 〈◊〉 de Elfleda lady of Mer●a builded 〈◊〉 orgayne and made it much more. In 〈◊〉 same cyce been ways under the c●th w●th vowtes and stone work wonderly ●●●●ought/ three chambre works great stones ygraven with old men's names therein There is also julius cezar name wonderly in stones ygrave and other nooble men's also with the writing about. This is the city that Ethelfride king of Northumberlonde▪ destroyed and slew there fast by night two thousand monks of the minster of Bangor This is the city that king Edgar come the●●der sometime with un. kings that 〈◊〉 subject to him. Amesrer brekethe out in this manner in praising this city. Chestre castle town as it were name taketh of a castle. It is unknown what man builded this city now. though Legecestria cheese heat now town of legyones Now welsh and english hold this city of great price. Stones on wall/ seemeth work Hercules all. There long with might/ to dure that heap is a height/ Saxon small stones set upon great been atones There under ground/ loting double voute is found/ That helpeth with sondes/ many men of western lands/ fish flesh and come low this city town hath enough/ ships and chaffer/ se water bringeth enough there/ Godestall therlis that was Emperor or this/ And forth Henry king/ earth is there right dwelling/ Of king harald/ poudre is there yet I halde/ Bacchus and Marcuryous/ Mars and Venus. also Lauerna/ Protheus and Pluto/ regnen there in the town ¶ Trevysa. God wot what this is too mean/ but poets in their manner speech feign as though every kind craft and living had a 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 robbery. Protheus god of falsehood and of guise &. Pluto god of hell. And so it seemeth that these verses would mean/ that these foresaid gods reign and been served in Chestre Mars with fighting & cokking. Marcurius with covetise & richesse. Bacchus with great drinking. Venus with love lewdly. Lauerna with theft and robbery Protheus 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. ten TAke heed that England containeth xxxii. shires and provinces that now been called Erldoms reserved cornwall and the island. ¶ Alfre These been the names of the Erldoms & shires. Kente Sousex Sothery Hampshyre Barokshyre that hath his name of a bare oak that is in the forest of windsor for at that bare oak men of that shire were wont to come together and make their treaties/ and there take counsel and advise. Also wyldshyre that heat somtymee the province of Semeran Somersete Dorsete devonshire that now is called deuonia in latin. These ix South shires the Tamyse departed from the other deal of England which were sometime governed and ruled by the westsaxons law Eestsex Myddelsex Southfolke Northefolke Herdeforth shire Huntyngdon shire Northampton shire Cambridgeshyre Beddeforth shire Buykyngham shire. leicester shire Derby shire Notyngham shire lincolnshire yorkshire Durhanshyre Northumberlonde Caerleyllshyre with Cumberlonde Appelby shire with Westmerlonde Lancastre shire that containeth five little shires. These fifteen North and east shires were● sometime governed and ruled by the law called Mercia in latin and marchene law in english It is to wite that yorkshire stretcheth from the river of Humbre unto the river of Teyse/ And yet in yorkshire been xxii hondredies: hundred & candredes is all one. Candrede is one word made of walshe and irish/ and is too meaning a country that containeth an hundred towns/ and is also in english called Wepentak/ for sometime in the coming of a new lord tenants were wont to yield up their weepen in stead of homage. Duramshyre stretcheth from the Rynere of Teyse unto the river of Tyne. And for to spke properly of Northumberlonde it stretcheth froo the river of Tyne unto the river of tweed That is in the beginning of scotland. Then if the country of Northum berlonde that was sometime from Humbre unto tweed be now a counted for one shire & one earldom as it was sometime. Then been in England but xxxii shires. but if the country of nurthumberland be departed into vi shires that been Euerwykshyre Duramshire Northumberlonde Caerleylshyre Appelbyshyre Lancastre shire. then been in England xxxvi shires without cornwall & also without the islands. King wyllyam made all these provinces and shires to be described and moten. Then were founden xxxvi shires and half ashyre Towns two and thirty thousand and four score parish churches xlv thousand and two Knights fees .lxxv. thousand/ whereof men of religion have. xx.vii. thousand & xu 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 and 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 neither in wales ne in scotland but it is in England and it joineth unto devonshire/ & so may there been atcompted in England xxxvii shires and an half with the other shires. ¶ De legibus legumque vocabulis. OVnwallo that height Moliuncius also made first laws in britayne the which laws were called Moliuncius laws/ and were solemnly observed unto wyllyam conquerors time. Moliuncyus' ordained among his laws that cities Temples & ways that leaden men thereto/ and plough men solowes should have privilege and freedom for to save all men that would fletherto for succour and refuge. Then afterward Mercia queen of Britons that was Gwytelinus' wife of her the province had the name of Mercia as somman suppose. She made a law full of wit and of reason/ & was called Merchene law. ¶ Gildas that wrote the Chronicles and histories of the Brytons turned these two laws out of Bryton speech into latin. And afterward king Aluredus turned all out of latin in too Saxons speech/ and was called marchene law. Also the same 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 Myndebruch hurting of honour and worship. In french bleschur dhonnour. Burbruck in French bleschur de court on de cloys Grithbruche breaking of peas/ Myskenning changing of speech in court. Showing set ting forth of merchandise. Hamsokne or Hamfare a rear made in house. forstalling wrong or bet down in the kings high way Frithsoken surety in defence. Sak Forsfayte Soka suit of court and thereof cometh soaken. Theme Suit of bondmen fighting wit A mersement for fighting. Blood wit A Mersement forsheding of blood. Flytwytte a mends for chyding of blood Leyrwytte amends for dying by a bound woman Gulewytte A mends For trespass. Scot A gathering to work of bayllyes. Hydage tallage for hides of land. Daneghelde tallage given to the Danes that was of every bona taterre/ That is every ox land three pens A wepyntak 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 Brytons from the first Brute unto julius Caesar'S time/ and fro julius Caesar'S 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 Gracyan 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/ then 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 britons against the Pyctes/ and put out Gurmonde she Iryss he king with his Pyctes and the Brytons also with her king that heat Careticus & drofe hem out of England into wales/ and so the Saxons were victors and every province after his strength made him a king. And so departed England into seven kyngedomes. nevertheless afterward these seven kyngedomes everichone after other came all in to one kyngedome● All hole under the prince Adelstone nevertheless the Danes pursued this land fro Adelwolfys time that was Aluredes father unto the third saint. Edward's time about a hundred lxx year that reigned continually therein xxiii year and a little more. & after him harald held the kingdom ix moves. 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 kingdoms and her marks mares and bounds when they began and how long they endured here shall I some what shortly te. ¶ Alfre. The first kingdom was the kingdom of Kente. that shetcheth fro the East occian unto the river of Tamyle. There reigned the first Hengistis/ and began to regne by the acompting of Dyonise the year of our lord a hundred lu that kingdom dured three hundred and: lviii. year xo kings unto the time that Baldrede was put out and Egbert king west saxon joined that kingdom to his own the second kingdom was at southesaxon that had in the east side Rent. in the south the see and the isle of wight/ in the west hampshyre/ and in the north sothery there Ella reigned/ first with his three sons/ and began to regne the year after the coming of the Angle's 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 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 the which were 〈◊〉 gect somedeal to other kings. Nevertheless oftest and lengeste they were under the kings of Mercta and unto that time that Egbert the king of westsaxon joined that kingdom to his own The fourth kingdom was of east Angles and containeth Norfolk & southfolk/ and had in the east side/ and in the north side the see/ and in the north west Lambrigeshyre/ in the west saint Edmondes' dyche and Herfordshyre/ and in the south Estsex/ And this kingdom dured under twelve kings unto the time that king Edmonde was slain. And then the Danes took wrongfully both the kingdoms of east Angles and of estsaxon afterward the Danes were put out & driven away or made subject. And then the elder king Edward joined both the kingdoms too his own. The fift kingdom was of westsaxon and dured lengeste of all these kingdoms/ and had in the east side southsaxon/ in the north Tamyse/ in the south and in the west the see Dccean. In that kingdom reigned Serdryk with his son Kenryk. and began to regne the year of our lord five hundred and: nineteen. and then after the coming of Angles lxxi so saith Denys the other kingdoms passed into this kingdom: The sixth kingdom was of Mercia and was greatest of all. The marks and the meres thereof were in the west side of the river Dee fast by Chestre and Scuarne 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 of withal/ there Humbre falleth into the west se. Penda Wybbes son reigned first in this kingdom in the year of our lord Ihesu christ vi hundred xxvi so saith Denys and fro the coming of Angles an hundred lxxv. year. This kingdom dured under xvii. 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 and joined the kingdom of Mercia to his own kingdom. nevertheless at the beginning this kingdom of mercia was departed into three/ in west mercia/ in middle Mercia/ & rest/ Mercia The vii kingdom Was Northamhymbrorum that is the kingdom of Northhumberlonde/ the meres and Marks thereof were by west and by east the se of Dccean/ 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 Merse and by north the Scots see that heat forth in Scots/ Wears in Brytysshe. the scottish see in english/ This kingdom of Northumberlonde was first dealt in two provinces That one was the south side and heat/ Deyra and that other was the north side & heat Brenicia/ as it were two kyngedomes/ and the river departed these two kingdoms that time/ for the kingdom of Deyra was from the river of Humbre unto the river of Tyne. The kingdom of Brenicia was fro Time to the scottish see/ And when Py●●● dwelled there as Beda saith. li.iii. ca. ii That Ninian 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 hondrede xlvii. so saith Dyonyse. In Deyra reigned king Elle the year of our lord five hundred/ xlix. these two kingdoms were otherwhile as it is said departed between two kings and somty me all hole under one king/ and dured as it were twenty english kings. CCC. xxi. year at last Dsbartus and Ellewere 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 subgect the kings Danes Scott●sshe and welsh and reigned first alone in England & held the kingdom of England all hole & all one kingdom that was the year of our lord. viii. C xxviii That river of merse was sometime the mark & mere between the kingdom of Mercia & the kingdom of Northumberland/ that may be showed in two manners first by this property of this mersee/ that is as much to say as a see that is a bound & a mere for it departed one kingdom from an other. Also it is written in Cionides of Henry & alfred that kynged ward the elder fastened a castle at Mamcestre in Northumberland/ but the city Mancestre is fro the river of Mersee scarcely three mile. ¶ Of bysshopriches & their sees ca. xiii LVcius was the first king crystened of the Brytons/ in his time were three Archcbysshops sees in britain/ one was at London/ an other at york/ & the third Caerusk the city of legions in Glamorgan/ that city is now called Cacrleon. To these. archbishop's sees were subject xxviii bishops & were called flames. To the archbishops sec of London was subject Corn wail & all middle England unto humbre. To York all Northumberland from the bow of Humbre with all Scotland. To Caerleon all wales there were in wales vii bishops/ & now been but four though Severn departed England & wales. ¶ wilhel. de 'pon liii But in the Saxons time though saint Gregori. had granted London the privilege of tharchebysshops see. nevertheless saint aus ten that was sent into England by saint Gregory turned that charchebysshop see out of London into Caunterbury. After say Gregory's days at the prayer of king Ethelbryght & citizens & burgesses of Caunterbury/ theridamas that hebysshops see hath dured unto now save that in the mean time Off a king of Mercya was w●●the with men of Caunterbury/ & benam them that worship/ & worshipped Adulphe bishop of Lychfeld with the archebysshops' pall by assent of Adryan the pope upon case by yefts sent. nevertheless under Ke nulph the king it was restored to Caunterbury again. The worship of the see of York hath dured there alway & yet dureth though scotland be withdraw fro his subjection by passing of time ¶ Gir initenere. li.i. The archbishop pes see was turned out of Caerleon into Menevia that is in the west side of Demi ca upon the irish se in saint david's time under king Arthur from saint david's time unto Sampsons' time were in Menevia xxiii archbishops. Of terwarde fill a pestilence in all Wales of the yellow evil/ that is called the jaundice And then Samson the archbishop took with him the pall and went into britain Armonica the lass britain and was there bishop of Dolensis. fro me 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. Ne vertheles alway fro that time the bishops of wales were sacred of the bishop of Mencuia of saint david's/ and the bishop of Mencuia was sacredr of the bishops of wales as of his suffrigans and made no profession ne subjection to none other church. Other bishops that come afterward were sacredr at Caun terbury by compelling and heest of the king/ in token of that sacring & subjection. Boneface archbishop of Caun terbury that was Legate of the Cross song in every Cathedral church of uva les solemnly. Amas he was the first archbishop of Caunterbury that so did in wales/ & that was done in the second Henry's tyme. ¶ R. But now been but two primates in all england of canterbury and of York. To the primate of Caunterbury vert subgettr xiii bishops in England & four in wales. The primate of york hath but two suffeygans in England that been the bishop of caerleil & of Durham: Of all these sees & changing of her places I shall show you here following. Take heed in the beynning of holy church in England bishops ordained their sees in low places & simple that were covenable for contemplation for prayers & devotion. But in wyllyam 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 se of Dorchestre changed to Lyncoln: Lychefelde to Chestre. Tetforde to Norwyche Shyrborn to Salesbury. wells to Bathe. cornwall to Exestre/ & Seleseye to Chichestre. 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 changed yet never his place. Chichestre hath under him only Southsex & y● yle of wight/ & had his see first in Seleseye in the time of the archbishop Theodore/ & the see dured there. CCC xxxiii year under twenty bishops fro that first wilfrede unto the last Stygand at the commandment of king wyllyam conqueror changed y● set fro Seleseye to Chichestre. ¶ De episcopis occidentalibus wilhelmus Have mind that all the province of westsaxon had alway one bishop fro the beginning unto Theodorustyme/ but grant of king Islo king of westsaxon the first Birinus ordained a see at Dorchestre that is a simple town by south Oxenford beside walyngford between the meeting together of Temse & Tame when Birinus was deed. Kenwalcus the king ordained a sceat Wynchestre as his father had purposed/ there agsbert a frensshman was first bishop of all the province of westsaxon. fro that time the city & the see of Dorchestre pertained & longed to the province of Mercia/ that city standeth within Temse. & the Temse departed between Mercia & westsaxon. After that Agtbert was put out of wynchestre that tho height wynton 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/ & after him come Leutherius the foresaid Agelbertes nephew. After Leutherius hedda a while was bishop there. when he was deed. Theodoius the archbishop ordained two bishops to the province of westsaxon. Danyell at wynchestre to him were subject two countries: Sothery and Southampshyre/ & to him were subject six countries. Barkshyre Wyltshyre Somersete Dorset●eshyre Deu●●shyre and cornwall. ¶ Trevysa/ I●semethe by this that westsaxon contryned. sothery Southampshyre Dorseteshyre devonshire cornwall. ¶ wilhel. Afterward in elder Edward's time to these two sees were ordained by come mandment of formosus the pope three other sees. At wells for Somersete. At Kyrton for Devernshyre. and. At saint german for Comewayle. Notte long afterward the sixth see was set At Rammebury for wiltshyre. At the last by commandment of king wyllyam conqueror all these sees save wynchestre were turned and changed ooute of small Towns in to great Cyrees for Shyrborn and Rummesbury were turned in to Salesbury. Now to that see is subject Barbsbyre wylesbyre & Dorsete. The see of Welles was turned too Bathe/ thereto is now subge tall somerset. The sees of Ryrton and of cornwall were changed to Erestre thereto is subgert devonshire & Comewayle. ¶ De orientalibus episcopis. IT is known that the east saxons always fro the beginning to now were subject to the bishop of London But the province of east Angles that containeth Norfolk and Suffolk had one bishop at Donwyk/ the bishop heat felix and was Bourgon & was bishop xvii year/ after him Thomas was bishop .v. year/ After him boniface. xvii. year. then Bysy after ward was ordained by Theodorus and ruled the province while he might endure by himself alone/ After him unto Egbertes time king of westsaxon an hundred xliii two bishops ruled that province one at donwik and an other at 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/ & his successor Herbertus changed the se fro Tetforde to Norwhiche by leave of king wyllyam the reed. The see of Ely that is nigh thereto the first king Henry ordained the ix year of his regne/ & made subgect thereto Cambrygges hire that was tofore apart of the bishopric of Lyncoln/ & for quyting thereof/ he gave to the bishop of Lyncoln a good town called Spalding. ¶ De episcopis Merciorum. wilhelmus Dear take heed that as the kingdom of Mercia was alway great test for the time/ so it was dealt in mobysshopryches & specally by great heart by king Offa. which was xl year king of Mercia/ he changed the archcbysshops see fro Caunterbury to Lychfeld by assent of Adryan the pope. then the province of Mercia and of Lynde●●far in the first beginning of her christendom in king wulfrans time had one bishop at Lychfelde/ the first bishop that was there heat Dwyna. the second heat Celath and were both Scots/ after them the third Trumphere/ the fourth jarmuanus/ the fift Chedde But in Edelfredes time that was wulfrans' brother when Chedde was deed/ Theodorus tharchbishop ordained there Wynfrede Cheddes deken. nevertheless apud Hyndon after that for he was unbuxom in some point/ he ordained there Sexwulf abbot of Medamstede that is named burgh. But after Sexwulfus fourth year Theodorus th'archbishop ordained five bishops in the province of Mercia. And so he ordained Bosel at gloucestre/ Cudwyn at Lychfelde/ the for said Sexwulf at Chestre. Edelwyn at Lyndeseye at city Sidenia/ and he took Eata monk of the abbey of held at whythy & made him bishop of Dorchestre beside Oxenford. though this dorchestre heat Dorking/ & so the see of that longed to westsaxon in saint Bytynes time longed to Mercia from Theodorus tharchebysshops time Ethelred king of Mercia had destroyed Kente/ this bishop Sexwulf took Pyctas bishop of Rochestre that come out of Kente & made him first bishop of Herdforde at last when Sexwulf was deed Hedda was bishop of lichfield after him & wilfred flemed out of Northumberland was bishop of Chestre. vetheles after two year alfred king of Northumberlond died & wilfred turned again to his own se hagulstalden/ & so Hedda held both the bysshopriches of Lichfeld & of Chestre. aft became albyn that heat wor also/ & alt become three bishops. torta at chestre witta at Lychefelde/ And Eata was yet at Dorchestre. After his death bishops of lindsay held his see iii hundred liiii year unto Remigius changed the se to Lyncoln by leave of the first king wyllyam But in Edgar's time bishop Le of winus joined both bishoprics to guider of Chestre & Lyndeffar while his life endured. ¶ De episcopis Northumbran Wilhel. de 'pon li ca: xi. AT York was one see for all the province of Northumberlonde paulinus held first these & was ordained of that bishop of Caunterbury/ & held the see of York vii year afterward when king Edwin was slain & things were dystroubled. Paulinus went thence by water away into Kent from whence he come first and took with him the pall ¶ Wilhel. li.iii. And so the bishopric of York ceased xxx year/ & the use of the pall ceased there an hundred xxv year unto y● Egbart the bishop that was the kings brother of the land recovered it by authority of the pope. ¶ R. when saint Oswolde reigned Aydanus a Scot was bies shop in Brenicia that is the north side of Northumberlonde/ after him finianus after him Salmanus ¶ wilhel: uby ●. At last he went in to scotland with great iudygnation/ for wylfre undertook him for he held unlawfully Eesterdaye xxx year after that Paulinus was gone from thence Wilfred was made bishop of York. ¶ Beda li. four But while he dwelled long in france about his sacring at exciting of quartadecimanorum/ that were they that held Eesterdaye the xiiii day of the moan. Chedde was tale out of his abbey of listing & wrongfully put out into the se of York by assent of king Dswy. But three year afterward. the odorus th'archbishop did him away & assigned him to the province of Mercia/ & restored wilfrede to the see of york. But after by cause of wrache that was between him & the king Egfryde was put out of the see by Theodorus help. th'archbishop that was corrupt wish some manner meed this was done after that Wilfred had been bishop of York/ & Cumbert at Hagustalde church/ & Eata at Lyndeffar church that now is called holy island in the Ryvert of Tw●de. Aydanus found first the see. And Theodorus made Eadhedus bishop of Repoune that was comen again out of Lyndeseye. Wilfred had be abbot of Repoune. Theodorus sent Trunwynus to the land of Pyctes in th'ends of England fast by scotland in a place that heat Candida casa. & whiterne also. there saint Ninian a Bryton was first founder & doctor. But all these sees ourtake york failed little & little for the see of Candida casa that is Gallewaye y● though longed to England & dured many years under ten bishops unto that it had no power by destroying of the Pectes. The sees of Hagustalde & of Eyndeffa● was sometime all one under lx bishops about four score year & ten & dured unto the coming of the Danes. In that time under Hyngar & Hubba arduf the bishop read long about with saint Cuberts' body unto king Aluredes time king of we●lsaxon/ & the se of Lyndeffar was set at Kunegestre that is salled Runyngysburgh also/ the place is called now Vbbesford upon tweed. At the last thee: xvii. year of king Egbert king Edgar's son the se was changed to Durbam & saint Cutberts' body was brought thither by the doing of Edmonde the bishop/ & fro the time forward the se of Hagustalde & of lie deffar failed vetterly. The first king Henry in the ix year of his reign made the new see at Cacerleyl. The archbishop of Caunterbury hath under him xiii bishops in England. & nu in wales he bathe Rochestre under him/ and that see hath under him a part in Kente alone London hath under him Estsex Myddelsex & half herdforth shire. Chyrhesde hath under him Southsex and the Isle of Wight. Wynchestre hath under him Hampshyre and Southrey. Salesbury hath under him Barksyre wild shire Dorsete. Exetre hath under him devonshire and cornwall. Bathe. hath under him Somersetteshyre alone/ Wyrcestre hath under him Gloucestre shire Wyrcestre shire and half warwykshyre: Herdforde hath under him Herfordshyre and some of shropshire Chestre is bishop of coventry and of lichfield and hath under him Chestre shire staffordshire Derbyshyre half Warwykshyre and some of shropshire and some of Lancastre shire fro the river of Mersee unto the river Rypylle. Lyncoln hath under him the provinces that been between Temse and Humbree that been the shires of Lyncoln of Lecestre of Northampton of Huntyngdon of Bedford of Bokyngham of Oxenforde and half Herdfordshyre. Ely hath under him Cambrygeshyre out ache merlonde. Norwyche hath under him Merlonde Norfolk and Suffolk. Also that chbysshop of Caunterbury hath four suffrygans in Wales that been Landaf saint Davies Bangor & saint assaph The archbishop of York hath now but two bishops under him that been Durham and Carcleyll. ¶ R. And so been but two primates in england what of 'em shall do to the other & 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 wyllyam & the bishops of england by commandment of the pope. the cause was handled and treated between the foresaid primates and ordained and 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 so that in what place ever it be in england the the primate of Caunterbury wit hot and constrain togader a counseyl 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 Caunterbury is dedeche 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 or denaunce of him and take his oath with prosessyon and lawful obedience. After about the year of our lord xi C. lxxxxv in the time of king richard been reasons set for the right party for either primate and what one primate died 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 treaties thereof/ Therefore it were noyful to charge this place with all thilk reasons ¶ Of how many manner people have dwelled therein. ca. xiiii BRytons dwelled first in this island the xviii year of Hely the prophet/ the xi year of Solmus postumus king of Latyns xliii after the taking of Troy/ tofore the building of Rome CCCC xxxii year. ¶ Beda li j● They come hither & took her course from armonyk that now is that other britain they held long time the south countries of the yloude It befell afterward in Despasianus time duke of Rome/ that the Pyctes shipped out of Scycya in to Dccean/ and were driven about which the wind and encred in to the Norche costs of ireland and found there Scots and prayed to have a place to dwell I●ne & might none get. for ireland as Scots said might not sustain both people Scots scent the 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 rather these hem of the mother side than of the father side of the womenky rather than of the men kin ¶ Gaufre. In Vespasyan the Emperors time when Marius' Armragus son was king of Brytons One Rodryk king of Pyctes came out of Scicia and gan to destroyed scotland/ Martus the king slew this Rodryk & gave the north party of scotland that heat Cathenesia to the men that were came with Rodryke and were overcome by him/ for to dwell inn/ But thesemen had no wives ne none might have of the nation of Brytons/ therefore they sailed into ireland & took to their wives Irysshmen daughters by that covenant that the mother blood should be put tofore in succession of heritage. Girca xvii nevertheless Sirinus super Vyrgilium saith that Pictes agatyrses that had some dwelling place about the waters of Scicia/ and they been called Pyctes of painting & smiting of wounds/ therefore they are called pyctes as painted men. These men and these gorhes been all one people for when Maximus the tyrant was went out of britain into France for to occupy th'empire. Then Gratianus & Valentinianus that were brethren and fellows of th'empire brought these goths out of Scicia with great gifts with flattering and fair behests into the north country of britain. for they were stalworth and strong men of arms and so these thieves & brybones were made men of land & of country & dwelled in the north countries And held there cities and towns. ¶ Gaufre. Carancius the tyrant slew Bassianus/ and gave the Pyctes a dwelling place in. All bania that is Scotlond/ there they dwell led long time afterward and meddled with Britons. ¶ R. Thensyth that P●●tes occupied first the north side of scotland. It seemeth that the dwelling place that this Carancius gaf them is the south side of scotland that stretchethe from the thwart over wall of romans work to the scottish see: and con teyneth Galleway and Lodovia that is Lodewaye. ¶ Therefore Bedeli iii ca ij. speaketh in this manner. Nirua● the holy man converted the south P●tes. afterward the Saxons come and made the country long too Brencia the north partiee of Northumberlonde unto the time that Kynadius Alpinus son king of scotland put out the Pyctes & made that county that lieth between Twed and the scottish see long to his kingdom. ¶ Beda. li.i ca. i afterward long time the Scots were led b●du●● Renda and came out of ireland that is proper country of Scots and with love or with strength made 'em place fast by the pyctes in the north side of that arm of the see/ that breaketh into the lo●d in the west side that departed in old time between Britons and Parts. Of this duke Renda the Scots bad the name and were called Darlendinus as it were Rendaes' part for in her spe●h a part is called dal. ¶ G●p. The ●●●tes might have no wives of Brytons but they took 'em wives of irish scots and promised hem fair for to dwell with them and granted him a land by the see side there the see is narrow That land is called now. Galleway Martanus irish scottish landed at Argall that is scotten cliff for Scots landed therefore to do harm to the Brytons or for the place it next to ireland for to come a land in britain: ¶ Beda And so the Scots after the Brytons & Pictes made the third people dwelling in britain ¶ R. then after that come the Saxons at praying of the Britons to help them against the Scots & Pyctes. And the Brytons were soon put out into wales. And Saxons occupied the land little and little. and eft more too the scottish see. And so Saxons made the fourth manner of men in the island of britain. ¶ Beda li. v. ca. ix for Saxons and Angles came out of Germani a/ yet some Brytons that dwell nigh callen 'em shortly germans. ¶ R. nevertheless about the year of our lord viii hundred Egbartus king of westsaxon commanded and bade all men call the men of the land englishmen. ¶ Alfre Then after that the Danes pursued the land. about a two hundred year/ that is for to say fro the foresaid Egbartus time unto saint Edward's time/ and made the fift manner of people in the island But they failed afterward. Atter last come Normans unto duke wyllyam and subdued englishmen/ & yet keep they the land and they made the sixth people in the Ylonde. But in the first King Henry's time come many flemings & received a dwelling place for a time beside Maylros in the west side of england/ and made the seventh people in the island. nevertheless by commandment of the same king they were put thence and driven to Haverfordes' side in the west side of wales. ¶ R. And so now in britain Danes and Pyctes fayllen all out/ and five nations dwellen therein that been Scots in Albania/ that is scotland. britain in Chambria that is Wales: but that flemings dwell in that is west wales. And Normans and englishmen been meddled in all the island/ for it is now doubt in stories how and in what manner they were put away and destroyed out of britain. Now it is too declare how the Pyctes were destroyed & failed ¶ Gir p̄. 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 and better men of arms though they were lass in number than the Scots then 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 and specially the great of them to a feast. and waited her time when the Pyctes were merry and had well drunk they drew up nails that held up hollow benches under the Pyctes and the Pyctes unware suddenly fill in over the hams into a wonderful pytfalle. then the Scots fell on the Pyctes and slew them and left none alive. And so of two manner people the better warryours were holy destroyed. But the other that been the Scots 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 call it. scotland after her own name/ In king Edgarus time Rynadius Alpinus son was duke and leader of the Scots and warred in Pycte land and destroyed the Pyctes. he warred six scythes in Saxon & took all the land that is between tweed and the scottish see with wrong and with strength. ¶ Of the languages of manners and usage of the people of that land. ca. xu AS it is known how many manner of people been in this Ylonde there been also so many languages and tongues. nevertheless welsh and Scots that been not meddled with other nations keep yet their language & speech but yet the scots that were sometime confederate & 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. sontherne Northern & middle speech in the 〈◊〉 of the land as they come of thee manner of people. Germania. Ne●eles by commixion and meddling first with Danes and afterward with Normans in many things the country language in appared/ for some use strange wlaff 〈…〉 tering harring garring & gry●●ytynge This apparinge of the language cometh of two things/ one because the chylorene that gone to school learn to speak first english/ and than been compelled to constrewe her lessons in french & that have been used sin the Normans come into England: Also gentlemen's children be learned and taught from their youth too speak french/ and up londesshmen will counterfeit and liken himself to gentle men and are busy to speak french for to be more set by/ wherefore it is said by a common proverb. jack would be a gentle man if he could speak french ¶ Treuisa. This was much used to for the great death. but sith it is somedeal changed/ for sir joan Corn wail a master of grammar chaungede the teaching of grammar school and construction of french in too 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 frenssh in scoles & use all constructyon in english wherein they have advantage one way that is that they learn the sooner their grammar/ and in another disadvantage. for now they'll earn no french nor can no ne/ which is hurt for them that shall pass the see. And also gentlemen have much left to teach their children 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 and hath one manner sown among all them that speak it in England/ for a man of ●ence southern western & Northern men speaken frenshe all sick in sown and speech but they can not speak their english so. ¶ Treuisa. nevertheless there been as many diverse manner of french in the ream of france/ as diverse english in the ream of England. ¶ R. Also of the foresaid touge which is departed in three is great wonder/ foremen of the east with men of y●●est accord better in swooning of the●● speech/ than men of the north with men of the south Therefore it is that men of mer●● y● 〈◊〉 of middle england as it were partakers with the ends understand better y● 〈◊〉 ●●●gages northern & southern than northern & southern understand either other 〈…〉 held 'pon. li.iii. All the language of the North●●bres & special at york● is so sharp shutting frotting and unshappe that 〈◊〉 southern men may uneath understand that language. I suppose the cause but 〈◊〉 they be nigh to the aliens that speak strangely. And also by cause the kings of England abide and dwellt more 〈◊〉 the south country than in the north 〈…〉 tree. The cause why they abide more in the south country than in the north 〈…〉 tree/ is by cause that there is better 〈◊〉 land more people 〈◊〉 noble 〈…〉 profitable havens in the south 〈◊〉 than in the north country: ¶ De gentis huius mo●●●bus. Gir. in. itinere. FOr the manners & doing of walsshmen 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 english men by cause they company with englishmen. And they be mighty and strong to fight/ and been the most enemies that welshmen have/ and use merchandise and clothing and been full ready too put themselves in adventures and to peril in these & land because of great winning & been ready sometime to the plough and sometime to deeds of arms when time and place asketh. It seemeth of these men a great wonder that in a boon of a wethers right shoulder when the flessheiss sudden away and not roasted they know what have be done/ is done/ & shall be done as it were by spirit of prophecy and a wonderful craft. They tell what is done in far counties/ tokens of peace or of war/ the state of the royalme/ slaying of men & spousebreche such things they declare certain of tokens and 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 unpacy cut of peace/ enemies of business/ and full of sloth. ¶ Wilhel. de 'pon. li.iij. saith. That when they have destroyed their enemies all to the ground/ then they fighten with them self and sleeth each other/ as void and an empti stomach worketh in itself. ¶ R. nevertheless men of the south been esyer and more mild than men of the north. For they be more unstable & more cruel and 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 they took that vice of king Herdeknot that was a Dane. For he heat let forth twice double mess at dinner and at souper also These men been speedful on horse and a foot. Able and ready to all manner deeds of arms/ and been wont to have victory and mastery in every fight where no treasonis walking/ and been curious & can well tell deeds and wonders that they have seen. Also they gone in diverse lands uneath been any men rich in her owe ne land or more gracious in far and in strange land/ they can better win & get new than keep her own heritage/ Therefore it is that they be sprad so wide and went that every land be their own. The men be able to all manner sleight and wit/ but tofore the deed blondering and hasty: And more wise after the deed than tofore. and 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 set and put tofore all other/ ne were that light wit letteth. And as Hanyball said that the romans might not be overcome but in their own country so. englishmen may not be overcome in strange lands but in her own country they be lightly overcome. ¶ R. These men despisen her own and praise other men's. And uneath be pleased nor apaid with their own estate what befalleth and becometh other men/ they will gladly take to them/ self. Therefore it is that a yeoman arrayeth him as a squire/ a squyere as a knight a knight as a duke/ a duke as a king/ Yet some go a bout and will be like to all manner state and been in no state. For they take every degree that be of no degree for in bearing outward they be myntrals and herowdes. in talking great speakers In eating and drinking glotons/ In gathering of cattles hucksters and taverners. In array tormentors. In winnings argi. In travail tantaly. In taking heed dedaly. In beds sardanapaly/ In church's mawmetes. In courts thunder only in privilege of clergi & in preben des they knowledge themself clerks. ¶ Trevysa As touching the terms of latin as argi/ tantali/ dedali/ serdanapaly/ ye must understand them as the poetes feigned of them. Argus was an herd & kept beasts he had an hundred e'en: and Argus was also a ship/ a shipman and a chapman/ and so Argus might see before and behind and on every side. Therefore he that is wise and ware and can see that he be not deceived may be called argus. And so the chronicle saith in plural number the 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/ and he standeth always in water up to the neither lip & hath alway ripe apples & noble fruit hanging down too the overlip/ but the fruit ne the water may not come with in his mouth. he is so hold and standeth between meet and drink & may neither eat ne drink/ and is ever an hongred and a thirst that woe is him alive by this manner likeness of Tantalus they that do right nought there as is moche is to do in every side been called tāta●y. It seemeth that it is to say in travail they be tantaly/ for they do right nought thereto. The third word is dedale/ take heed that Dedalus was a subtle and a slyeman. And therefore by likeness they that been subtle & sly they be called dedaly. And the fourth word is sardanapaly/ ye shall understand that Sardanapalus was king of Assyryens and was full unchaste/ and used him for to lie soft. And by a manner of likeness of him they that live unchastely been called sardanapaly. ¶ R. But among all englishmen meddled togethers is so great a changing and diversity of clothing and of array and so many manners & diverse shapes that well nigh is there any man known by his clothing and his array of what some ever degree that he be Thereof prophesied an holy Anchor in king Egelfredes time in this manner. Henry ii.vi. Englishmen for as much as they use them to dron● lewnes/ to treason and to retchlessness of god's house/ first by Danes and then by Normans/ and at the third time by the Scots that they hold the most wretches and 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 bytokened by many manner diversities of clothing. ¶ Here followeth the description of the land of Wales. ¶ 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 thestate of that land Cause of the man I shall tell And then praise the land and well. Then I shall weyte with my pen. All the manners of the men then I shall fond. To tell marvels of the land. ¶ Of the name and wherefore it is named wales. ca. xvij WAles now is called wallia. And sometime it heat Cambri● For Camber Brutes sone Was prince and there died won. then wallia was to mean For Gwalaes' the queen King Ebrancus child Was wedded thither mild And of that lord & walon Withdraweth of the sound 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 as in the mother ¶ Of the commodities of the land of Wales. ca. xviii THough that land be luyt It is full of corn and of fruit. And hath great plentey wis 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 bond 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 needeth 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 hele Wales is dealed by. A water that heat Twy. North wales from the south. Twy dealeth in places full couth. The south heat Demicia And the other Venedocia. The first shooteth and arrows bears That other dealeth all with spears. 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 hand Sometime under princes of that land ¶ Of the manners and rites of the wasshemen. cn xix 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 breach well fain Both in wind and in rain In this clothing they be bold Though the weather be right cold Without sheets always. Evermore in this array They go fight play and leap Stand sit lie and sleep Without surcot gown cote and kyrtyll Without iopen tabbard clok or bell Without lace & chaplet that her laps Without hood heart or caps Thus arrayed gone the sedges And alway with bare legs They keep none other going Though they meet with the king With arrows and short spears They fight with them that them dearth They fight be●ter if they needen When they go than when they riden In stead of castle and tour They take 〈…〉 When they seen it is to do. In fighting they 〈…〉 Gyldas' saith they been 〈◊〉 In peace and not stable. If men axe why it be It is no vonder 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 Ben castles builded strong The men may dure long un eat And love well conume meet They can eat and been mury Without great cury They eat breed cold and hot Of barley and of oat Brode cakes round and thin As well seemeth so great kin seld they eat breed of wheat And seld they done ones eat They have gruel to pottage And lekes kind to companage Also butter milk and cheese Yshape endlong and corner wese Such messes they eat snell. And that maketh 'em drink well Meet and 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 tell many a 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 'em that sittest on his meal He dealeth his meet at meele And giveth every man his del● And all the 〈◊〉 pluse He keepeth to his own use Therefore they ha●● 〈◊〉. And mishaps als● They eten hot sam●● always All though physic say may. Her howls bes low with all And made of yerdes' small Not as in cities nigh But far a sunder and not to high When all is eaten at home Then to their neighbours will they 〈◊〉 And eat what they may find and see And then torn home aye The light is idle that they ledes In brenning sleeping & such deeds. welshmen 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 seld they bear purse about. At her breach out and home They hung their money and comb. It is wonder they be so hende And hate crack at nether end And without any core Make their wardrobe at door. They have in great mangery Harp tabor & pyp for mynstralsy They bear corpse with sorrows gre●●e And blow loud horns of ghert. They praise fast Trojan blood. For thereof come all her broad. Nigh kin they will be Though they pass an hundred deg●●e. Above other men they will hem dight. And worship priests 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. Been turned to better right That is known as clear as light They tyllen gardy●●●●lde & 〈◊〉. And draw 'em to good towns They ride armed as w●ll god And go y hosed and you. And sitten fair at her meal And sleep in beds fair and feel So they seem now in mind More englishmen than walssh kind If men are why they now do so More than they wont to do They lyven in more pees Because of their riches For their cattles should slake If they used oft wreck dread of loss of her good Make them now still of mode All in one it is brought Have nothing and dread nought The poet saith a saw of proof. The foot man singeth tofore the thief And is bolder on the way Than the horse man rich and gay ¶ Of the meruayls & wonders of wales ca. twenty THere is a pole at Brechnok Therein of fish is many aflok Oft he changeth his hew on cop And beareth above a garden crop Oft time how it be Shape of house there shalt thou see 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 note As merrily 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 th'earth and come thereto Many benytece of kind Ben now hid fro man●●es ●●ynde 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 'em that comen after us That old men had by gr●te need We have by busy deed ¶ Treuisa. In books ye may read That kind faileth not at need When noman 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 & strife. In west wales at Kerdyf Fast by Severn strand Barry height that island In that hither side in a chen● Shalt thou here wonder dene And diverse noys also If thou put thine cere to Noys of leaves and of wind Noys of metals thou shalt find Froting of iron & westones y● shalt here heating of ovens then with fire All this may well be By wawes of the see That breaketh in there With such noys and far 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 if grieveth so To the men it bodeth woe At crucynar in west wales Is a wonder butyals Every man that cometh it to se Seemeth it even as much as he Hoole weepen there a night Shall be broken ere day light At nemyn in north wales A lytell island there is That is called bardysay Monks dwell there always Men live so long in that hur'st That the oldest dieth first Men say that Merlin there buried is. That height also syluestris There were Merlyns tweyns And prophesied beyne One heat Ambrose an Merlin And was gotten by goblin In demicia at carmerthyn Under king Vortygeryn He told his prophecy Even in snowdonye. at heed of the water of coneway In the side of mount 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 the ¶ Treuisa 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 otherwhile Succubus is that wight God grant us none such vile Who that cometh in her guile Wonder hap shall he smile With wonder 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 An other Merlin of Albyn land That now is named Scotdonde also And he has nemes two Silvestris and Calidonius also Of that wood Calidonie For there he told his prophecy And heat Syluestris 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 ¶ Treuisa. Silvestris 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 Arthure Openly and not so dose As Merlin Ambrose There been hills in snowdonye That been wonderly high With height as great a way As a man may go aday And heat eryry in welsh Snowy hills in english. In these hills there is Leese enough for all berstes of wales These hills on top berrs Two great fish wears Contained in that one pond. moveth with the wind an island. As though it did swim. And neyheth to the krymme. 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 Tetynwell There is a little well That floweth not alway As the see twice a day But sometime it is dry And sometime full by the eye Theridamas is in North wallia In Mon that heat Anglesia A stone according well night As it were a man's thigh how far ever that stone Be born of any mon. On night it goth home his way That he found by assay Hugh thereto of Shrowesbury In time of the first Harry For he would the sooth find That stone to an other he 'gan bind. With great chains of yre●● And threw all yfere Ybound at one heap Into a water deep Yet amorowe that stone Was seen early in Mon. A churl held himself full slyghe. And bound this stone to his thigh. His thigh was rotten or day And the stone went away. 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 rocht of hearing by country Though there cry any man born And blow also with an horn Noise there though thou abide Thou shalt hear none in this side Theridamas is an other island Fast by money at hand hermits there been rive If any of them done stryve All the mice that may be get Come and eat all their meet then cesseth never that w●● Till the strife 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 scotland. Venus bells and staves That in worship men haves And been worshipped so then Of clerks and of lewd men. That dreaden also To sweren on any of tho. Staff either bell As it were 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 shan ones Been 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 place Either in Shrowesbnry street There that maid rested sweet ¶ Of the description of scotland sometime named Albania. ca. xxi IT is a comynsaw that the count which is now named Scotland is Turrian outstretching of the north side of Beitayn & is departed in the south side from Breitayn with arms of the se/ & in that other side it is be clipped with the see. This land heat so metyme Albania and had the name of All banactus that was king Beutes son for Albanactus welled first therein/ or of the province Albania that is a country of Scicia & nigh to amazona therefore scots been called as it were scyttes for they come out of Scicia. After ward the land heat Pictavya for the Pyctes reigned therein a. M.CCC.lx. year. And at last heat. Hibernia as ireland height. ¶ Gir●i top For many skills/ one is for affinity & ally that was between them & Irysshme for they took their wives of ireland & that is openly seen in her believe/ in clothing/ in language & in speech/ in weapon & in manners. another skill is for Iryssh men dwelled there sometime ¶ Beda. li.j. Out of ireland that is the proper country of Scots come irishman with her duke that was called Renda. And with love and with strength made 'em thyef sees and cities besides the Pyctes in the northsyde ¶ Gir. Now the land is shortly called scotland of Scots that come out of ireland & reigned therein. Ccc.xu year unto reed Wyllyams' time that was Malcolins' brother. ¶. R. Many evydeneꝭ we have of this scotland that it is oft called & height 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 & is next to britain Beda. li.iii. ca. xxvii saith Pestilence of moreyn bare down Hiber nia Also li iii. ca. ii 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 Northumberland destroyed Hibernia. Also. li.iiii. ca. xu the most deal of Scots in Hibernia & in the same chapiter he called Hibernia properly named/ that west ylondr is an hundred mile from everich/ britain & departed with the see between & called Hibernia that country that now is called scotland/ there he telleth that Adamuan abbot of this island sailed to Hybernia for to teach irishman the lawful esterdaye And at last come again into scotland. ¶ Ysy. ethi li xiiii Men of this scotland been named Scots in their own language & Pyctes also. for sometime her body was painted in this mancre/ they would sometime with a sharp egged toll prick & carve her own bodies & make thereon diverse figures & shapes & paint hem with ink or with other painture or colour/ & because they were so peyced they were called picti/ that is to say painted ¶ Erodotus Scots been light of heart strange & wild enough but by meddling of englishmen they been much amen ded/ they been cruel upon theyt enemies & hateth bondage most of any s●ynge and hold for a foul sloth if a man die in his bed/ & great worship if be die in the field. They ben little of meet ● mow fast long/ & eaten seld when the son is up/ & eaten flesh fish milk & fruit more than breed and though the● be fair of chap they been defouled and made unseemly enough with their own. clothing. They praise fast the usages of their own forfaders & despise other men's doing/ her land is fruitful ynou gh in pasture gardyns & fields. ¶ Girde. p. ca: xviii. The princes of Scots. as the kings of spain been not won to be anointed ne crowned. In this Scotland is solemn & great mind of say●● andrew th'apostle: For saint Andrew had the north parties of the world Scitts and Pyctes to his lot for to preach & convert the people to crystes byleveꝭ & at last be was martyred in Achaia in gre●a in a city that was named Patras & his bones were kept. CC.lxii. year unto Constantinꝰ thēpe●rours tyme. & then they were translated● to Constantinople & kept there. C.x. year unto Theodosyus themperours rhyme and then Vngus king of Pycte●in scotland destroyed a great part in britain & was beset with a great host of Brytons in a field called Mark. & he heard saint Andrew speak too him in this manner. Vngus ungus here thou me crystes apostle I promise the help and succour when thou hast over comen thine enemies by my help/ thou shalt give the third deal of thine heritage in alms to god almighty/ and in the worship of saint Andrew/ and in the sign of the cross went tofore his host & the third day he had victory and so turned home a yene and desed his heritage as he was boden. And for he was uncertain what city he should deal for saint Andrew he fasted three days/ he and his men prayed saint Andrew that he would show him what place he should cheese. And one of the wardens that kept the body of saint Andrew in Constantynople was warned in his sleep that he should go into a place whereout an angel would lead him and so he come into scotland with seven. fellows to the top of an hill named Ragmonde. The same hour light of heaven beshone and beclipped the king of Pyctes that was coming with his host to a place called Carceuan. There anon were heeled 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 the churches in the land of Pyctes. To this church comen pilgrims once of all lands. There was Regulus first abbot and gathered monks And so all the tyenthe land that the king had assigned him he departed it in diverse places among abbeys. ¶ Of the description of ireland. ca xxii HIbernia that is ireland. and was of old time Incorporate into the lordship of britain so saith Gir. in sua pop. where he descryveth it at full. Yet it is worthy & sernely to praise the land with large praising/ for to come to dear & full knowledge of the land these titles that follow open the way Therefore I shall tell of the place & stead of that land how great and what manner land it is/ whereof that land hath plenty & whereof it hath default/ also of what men have dwelled therein first. Of manners of men of that land. Of the wonders of that land/ and of worthiness of hallows and saints of that land. ¶ Of the bounding of ireland ca. xxiii ireland is the last of all the west islands and height Hibernia of one Hiberus of spain that was Hermonius brother/ for these two brethren gate and wan that land by conquest. Or it is called Hibernia of that river Hiberus that is in the west end of spain/ & that land height scotland also/ for Scots dwelled there sometime ere they came into that other Scotlond that longed to britain/ therefore it is written in the Martyloge. Such a day in Scotlond saint bride was born/ & that was in ireland. this land hath in the southest side spain three days saylling thence a side half/ & hath in the east side the more britain thence a days saylling/ in the west side the endless Ocean & in the north side. yselonde three days saylling thence. ¶ Solinus. But the see that is between brytaye & Ireland is all the year full of great wawes & uneasy that men may seld sail sekerly between the se is. C.xx. mile broad. Of the greatness & quality of that land ca. xxiiii Ireland is an island greatest aft britain/ & stretcheth north ward from Brendas' hills unto the land Columbina & conteyeth eight days journey every journey xl mile & from Devil to Patriks hills & to that see in the side in breed four journey is/ and ireland is narrower in the middle than in the ends/ all otherwise than britain is/ as ireland is shorter northward than britain/ so is it longer south ward the land is not plain but full of mountains of hills of woods of marayes and of mores/ the land is soft rainy wind and low by the see side and within hilly and sondy. ¶ So linus. There is great plenty of noble pasture and of lose/ therefore the beasts must be oft driven out of their pasture lest they eat overmuch 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 flux because of the moisture of the meet. The flesh of kyen is there wholesome/ and swines flesh unwholesome. Men of that land have no fever but only the fever ague and that right seld Therefore the wholesomeness of that land & the cleanness out of venom is worth all the boast and richesse of trees of herbs of sp● cery of rich clothes and of precious stones of the east lands: The cause of the health and wholesomeness of that land is theat temperate heat and cold that is therein In quibus rebus sufficit. In this land been moo kyer than oxen/ more pasture than corn/ more grass than seed/ there is plenty of salmon/ of lamprays/ of eels and of other see fish. Of eagles/ of crane's/ of peacocks of/ curlewes/ of sparouhaukes of goshawks/ and of gentle falcons/ Of wolves and right shrewd mice there been attercoppes/ blood soukers' ceftes that done none harm/ there been fairs little of body & full hardy & strong/ there been barnacles fowls like to wild ghees which grown wonderly upon trees/ as ●it were nature wrought against kind. Men of religion etethe bernacles upon fastyndayes because they been not engendered with flesh/ wherein as me thinketh they err for reason is against that. For if a man had eaten of Adam's leg he had eaten flesh/ & yet Adam was not engendered of father nor mother/ But that flesh come wonderly of the tree. In this land is plen of honey and of milk of vine and of vyneyerdes. ¶ Solinus and Ysid. wetten the ireland hath no bees nevertheless it were better written that ireland had bees and no vine yards. ¶ Beda saith that there is great hunting to roobuckes/ and it is know 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 Saragonus. 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 founden a stone that is called Gagates and white margery pearls: ¶ Of the defaults of the land ca xxv. w heat corns been there full sma●●e uneath yclenced with mann●● 〈◊〉 de/ reserved men/ all beasts been small●● there than in other lands. They 〈◊〉 well nigh all manner fish 〈…〉 that is not gendered in the see the●● 〈◊〉 unkind faucons gerfaucons 〈…〉 fesaunte/ nightingalings and p●●s that lacken also roe and buck and 〈◊〉 les wonts and other venomous 〈◊〉 Therefore some men feign and that 〈◊〉 ●ourably that saint Patry●●● 〈…〉 land of worms and of venomous 〈◊〉 but it is more probable and more 〈◊〉 that this land was from the 〈◊〉ge always without such women for 〈◊〉 nemous beasts and womes dyen there anon if men bring them thither out of other lands. And also 〈◊〉 and poison brought thither out of other lands losen their malice as soon as it passeth the middle of y● se. also powder & earth of the land cast & sown in other londen d●yuen away worms so farforth ● if a turf of the land be put about a worm it sleeth by or maketh him thryl the earth for tes●●pe away In the land cocken crow but little tofore day/ so that the first crowing of cocks in the land & the third in other lands been like far totore the day. ¶ Of them that first inhabited ireland. ca. xxvi GIraldus saith that Casera noah's near dread the flood & fled with three men & thirty women into that island and dwelled therm first the last rear tofor noah's flood. But afterward Bartholanus Seres son that come of japhet noah's son come thither with his three sons by hap or by craft. CCC. year after noah's flood & dwelled there & increased to the nombir of ix M. men & afterward for stench of kareyns of giants that they had killed they dieden all save one Ruanus that lived a M.u.c. year unto saint patrick's time & informed the holy man of y● for foresaid mea and of all the doings and drd●●▪ When the third time come thither Norwich once of S●●●ia with his four sons & dwelled there. CC. xvi.yere. And at last of his or ●●●ynge by diverse mishaps of wars and of moreyne they were clean destrored and the land left void. CC. year after. The fourth time five dukes that were brethren Gan●●● Genandus Sagan●●us Rutheragus Sla●●us of the said Nymesaes successors come out of Grece g●●●h●red y● tonde & deled 〈◊〉 fyir parties genery party containeth xxii candredes. A Candr de is a country that containeth a towns. 〈◊〉. and they set a stone in the mydd else of the land as it were in the naneii & beginning of five kynkdomes. Alte the last Slautus was made king of all the land. The fifth time when this nation was ixx. year together they were feeble four noble men that were Millesins the kings sons come out of Spain with many other in a navy of xl ships & two of the worthiest of these ivi brethren that heat Hyberus & Hermon dealed the land between 'em tweyn/ but afterward covenant was broken between hem both & Hiberus was slain Then Hermon was king of all the land. And from his fyme to the first patrick's time were kings of the nation: C.xxxi. And so fro the coming of Hibernensis unto the first Patryk were. M. viii.c. year. They had the name Hibernensis & Nybernia of the foresaid Hiberus/ or else of Hiberus a river of spain. They were called also gatels & Scots of one Gaytelus that was Phenis' nephew. This Gaytelus coudce speak many languages/ after the languages that were made at Nemproths tower And wedded one Scotta Pharaoh's daughter Of these dukes come the Hibernensis Men say that this Gaytelus made the irish language and called it Gaytelaf as it were a language gathered of all laugages & tongues. at the last Belmus king of Brytaynr had a son & height Gurguncius come out of Donnemarke at islands Orcades/ he found men that were called Basclensis/ and were come thither out of Spain/ these men prayed & besought to have a place to dwell in. And the king sent them to ireland that was tho void & waste. & ordained and sent with them dukes and captains of his own/ and so it seemeth the ireland should long to Britain by right of old tyme. From the first saint Patyrk unto Fedliundius the kings time. CCCC. year reigned xxxiii kings every after other in ireland. In this Fedliundius time Turgesins duke & captain of Norway's brought thither men of Norway & occupied the land and made in many places deep deches & castles single double & tryble & many wards strongly walled & many thereof stand yet all hole/ but irishmen retch not of castles/ for they take woods for castles & marayes and moors for castle dyches but at last Turgesius died by gylefulles of women/ & englishmen say that Gurmundus wan ireland and made thilk dyches/ & made no mention of ●●gesius/ and irishmen speak of Turgius and know not of Gurmundus. Therefore it is to were that Gurm●dus had won Britain & dwelled therein/ & sent Turgesius' with great strength into Ireland for to win that land/ & because turgesius was captain & leader of that voyage and journey and seen among them therefore irishman speak moche of him as a noble man that was seen in that land and known. At last when Gurmundus was slain in France Turgesius loved the kings daughter of ireland and her father behyght Turgesius' that he would send her him to the low larherin with xv. maidens. and Turgesius promised to meet there with xv. of the noblest men that he had/ & held covenant & thought no guile/ but there come xu young berdeles men clothed like women with short swords under her clothes/ & fill on turgesius & slew him right there/ & so he was traitorously slain after he had reigned xxx year Not long after three brethren Amelanus Siracus & juorus come into ireland with her men out of Norway as it had been for love of peace and afmarchaundyse and dwelled by the see sides by assent of irishmen that were alway idle as Paul's knights/ & the Nor ways builded three cities Develyn Waterforde and Lymeryche and increased and after were rehell against men of the lend & brought first sparths in to ireland So fro Turgesius time unto roderyks time king of Connacia that was the last that was king of all the land were xvii kings in ireland and so the kings that reigned in ireland from the Hermons time unto the last Roderyks time were in all. C.lxxxi. kings that were not crowned neither anointed ne by law of heritage/ but by might may strye & strength of arms. The second Henry king of England made this Roderyk subject the year of king Hentyes' age xl and of his reign xviii the year of our lord xi hundred lxxii Of the condidions and manners of ireland. ca. xxvii SOlinus saith that men of this land been strange of nacon houseles and great fyghters'/ and account tight and wrong all one thing/ & been single of clothing/ scarce of meet/ cruel of heart/ angry of speech/ & drinketh first blood of deed men that been slain and then washen their visages therewith & hold them paid with flesh and fruit in stead of meet & with milk in stead of drink & usen moche playen & yolenes and hunting & travail but little. In their childhod they been hard nourished and hard fed and they be unseemly of manners & of clothing & have breach and hosen alone of wool and straight hodes that stretcheth a cubit over the shoulders behind & foldynges in stead of mantles and of cloaks. Also they 〈◊〉 no sadels' boots ne spurs when they 〈◊〉 de. but they drive their horses with a ●●●bred yard in the over end. In stead of bites with trenches and of bridals of reest/ they use brides that letce not 〈◊〉 horse to etc their meet/ they fight ona●med naked in body/ nevertheless with two darts & spears/ & with broad sparths they fight with one hand. These men forsaken tilling of ldde & keyen pasture for beasts. They use long beards and long locks hanging down behind her h●des/ they use no craft of flax of wool/ of metal/ ne of merchandise but give 'em to idleness and to sloth and reckon rest for liking and for freedom for kyches/ And though scotland the daughter of ireland use harp tymbire and tabor. nevertheless irishman be cunning in two manner Instruments of music/ in harp and timber that is armed with wire and strenges of bias In which Instruments though they play hastily and swyfeely they make tygher merry harmony & weladye with thyche tewnes werbles and notes and begin from bemoll and playen secretly under dime sown in the great strenges/ and torn again unto the same/ so that the greetest party of the craft hideth the craft as it would seem as though the craft so hid should be ashamed if it were take. These men been of evil manners in her living they pay no tithings they wed lawfully/ they spare not their alyes/ but the brother wed the brother's wife/ they been busy to betray her neighbours & other they bear sperthes in their hands in stead of staves & fight against them that trust most to them/ these men been variable and unsteadfast trechours 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 gall/ of malice than of kuyghthode/ they have such manners that they been not strong in war and in battle ne true in peace/ they become gossybs to them that they will falsely be traye in the gossybrede and holy kindred everich drinketh others blood when it is shed/ they love somedeal her nurse and her playferes which that suck the same milk that they soaked while they were children. And they purse where brethren/ their cousins and their other kin/ & despisen their kin 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 gotten the mastery over them & turneth treason into kind so farforth that they been traitors by nature. And aliens and men of strange lands that dwell among them foloing their manners that uneath there is none but he is besmetted with their treason also. Among them many●men pyssen sitting and women standing. There been many men in that land foul shapen in limbs & in body/ for in their limbs they lack the benefice of kind So that no where been none 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 bringeth such foul grooms and evil shapen of 'em that with unlawful dealing with foul manners and evil living so wickedly defouled kind & nature. In this land and in wales old wives and women were wont and been yet as men say oft for to scape themself in likeness of hares for to milk their neighbours kine and steel her milk and oft grey hounds rennen after them and pursewen them and weenen that they be hares. Also some by craft of Nygromancye maken fat swine for to be reed of colour and sell them in markets and fairs But as soon as these swine pass onye water they torn into their own kind whether it be straw hay grass of turfs But these swine may not be kept by no craft for tendure in likeness of swine over three days: Among these wonders and other take heed that in the uttermost end of the world falleth new marvels and wonders: As though kind played with large love secretly and far in th'ends/ than openly and nigh in the middle. therefore in this island been many gryselye 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 ylond noman may die but when they been old and vexed with great fekenes/ they been born out into the next land and die ther. There is an other island in Ireland that no woman therein 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 Ulster is an island in a lake wonderly departed in twain In that one part is great disturbance and dyscomforth of fiends and in that other party greatly king & comforth of holy angels There is also saint patrick's purgatory that was showed at his prayer to confirm his preaching and his lore when he preached to misbelieved men of sorrow and pain that evil men should suffer for her evil works And of joy & of bliss that good men shall receive for her 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 without 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 repentant what somever penance he do/ and every man that is very repentant at his lives end shall be sekerly saved/ though he vever here of saint patrick's purgatory. There is an island in connacte Sale/ that is in the se of Conaccia hallowed by saint Brandon that hath no mice/ there deed bodies been not buried but been kept out of the earth and rotten not. In Mamonia is a well/ who that washeth him with that water of that well he shall wax/ hoar on his heed. There is an other well in Vltonia who sonever is washen therein he shall never wax hoar afterward/ There is a well in Mounstre or Mamonia/ if any man touch that well a none shall fall great rain in all the province/ and that rain shall never cessetyll a pressed that is a clean maiden sing a mass in a chapel that is fast by and bless the water/ and with milk of a cow that is of one here bespryngr the well/ and so reconcile the well in this strange manner. At Glyndalcan about thee 〈◊〉 of saint Keyyn wythes betyth apples as it were apple trees & been more belsome than sa●●●ry. That holy/ saint ●ough forth these apples by piayers for to hele his child that was seek There is a lake in Ulster & moche fyssh therein/ which is xxx mile in length & xv. in breed. The river Ban tennethe 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 cum brutis. And there was a well in that land in great reverence of old time/ & always covered/ if it were left uncovered the well would rise and drown all the land. And so it happened that a woman went to that well for to fetch water and hied her fast to her child that wept in the cradle/ and left the well uncovered/ then the well sprang so fa●● that it drowned the woman & her child and made all the country a lake and a fish pond. For to prove that this is to the it is a great argument/ that when the weather is clear/ fisher's of that water see in the ground 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 Ossyryens every vii year at the prayer of an holy Abbot/ twain that been wedded a man and a woman must needs be eryled and forshapen into likeness of wolves & abide out vii year. And at end of vii year. if they live they come home a gain and take again their own shape/ & then 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 the part of the shaft or pool that is in the earth shall torn into iron and that part that a bideth in the water shall come into stone/ and the part that abideth above shall be tree in his own kind. Also there is a lake that tornethe basel into ash & ash into hazel if it be done therein. Also in Ikonde been three salmon lrpes there as samons leap ayemst a tooth a long spears lenthe. Also in Leginia is a pound there be seen colmen birds/ the herds been called certelles and come homely to man's hand but if men do 'em wrong or harm. they gone away and come not again/ & the water there shall be bitter and stink/ and he that did the wrong shall not after without wretch & mischief but if he do amends ¶ R. As touching patrick's purgatory. Ye shall understand that the second saint Patryk that was abbot & not bishop while he preached in ireland laboured & studied for to torn thilk wicked men that lived as beasts out of her evil life for dread of pains of hell/ and for too confirm 'em to good life/ & they said they would not ●orne but some of them might know somewhat of the great pains and also of the bliss that he spoke of Then saint Patryk prayed to god all mighty therefore/ & our lord Ihesu christ appeared to saint Patryk and took him a staff and lad him into a wild place and showed him there a round pit that was dark within and said/ that if a man were very repentant and stable in believe and went into this pit and walked therein a day and a night/ he should see the sorrows 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 are red and builded there a church and put therein canons regular & closed the pit about with a wall/ and is now in the church yard at the east end of the church and fast shit with a strong door for no man should nicely go in without leave of the bishop. or of the prior of the place. Many men went in and come out again in patrick's time and told of pains and joy that they had seen/ and the marvels that they saw been there yette written/ and by cause thereof many men turned and were converted to right by leave. Also many men went in and come never again. In king stepneus 〈◊〉 king of England a knight 〈…〉 Swayne went into say 〈…〉 and come again & swelled ever after during his life in peses of 〈◊〉 of Ludensis that is of childre of chyste 〈◊〉 & told many wonders that he had seen in patrick's purgatory. That place is called patrick's. purgatory & the church is named Reglis. Noman is enjoined for to go into that purgatory/ but counseled that he should not come therein but take upon him other penance. And if a man have au●●rd and be stolen & will needs go therein, he shall first go to the bishop & then he shall be sent which letters to the prior of the place and they both shall countseyll him to leave & if he will needs go thereto he shall be in prayers & in fasting xu days and after xu days he shall be houseld and lad to the door of the purgatory with process you and ●et●ay and yet he shall be counscylled to le●● it/ & if he be stedefaste and will enter/ the door shall be opened and he blessed & go in on god's name/ and hold forth his way/ & the door shall be fast shut till the next day/ and when the time is the prior shall come and open the door & if the man be comen he leadeth him into the church with procession/ and there he shall be xu days in prayers & fasting. ¶ Of the marvels of saints of ireland. ca. xxix near Giraldus maketh mind y● 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 and say many prayers & done great abstinence a day/ & drinketh all night so is acorned for a miracle/ that lechery reigneth not there as wine reigneth/ and been chosen out of abbeys into the clergy/ and done as monks should/ what they that been evil of them been worsto fall other. So good men among them chough they been but few been good at the best/ prelate's of that country been full slow in correction of trespass/ and busy in contemplation and not in preaching of god's word. Therefore it is that all the saints of that land been confessors and no martyrs among them/ and no wonder/ for all the prelate's of this land clerks and prelate's should do is to them unknown Therefore when it was put against the bishop of Cassyll how it might be that so many saints been in Isionde and never a martyr among them all sithen that the men been so shrewd & so angry/ & the prelate's sorycheles & slow in corrections of trespass. The bishop answered frowardly enough & said our men benshrewed and angry inought to themself/ but to god's servants they leye never hand but do 'em great reverence & worship/ but englishmen come into this land that can make martyrs & were wont to use the craft. ¶ R. The bishop said so because that king Henry the leconde was tho new comen into ireland freshly after the martyrdom of saint Thomas of Caunterbury. Gir In this land in wales & in scotland. been bells and staves with crooked hedes & other such things for relics in great reverence and worship/ so that men of this land dreaden more for to swear up on one of thylpe bells and gold staves than upon the gospel. the chief of all such relics is holden Thuns staff that is at Develyn/ with the which staff they say that the first saint Patryk drofe the worms out of ireland. Augus de ci. dei. ca. vii If menlaxe how it may be that diverse manner of beasts and of diverse kind that be kindly gotten between mail and female come and been in islands after Notes flood. Men supposen that such beasts swam into islands about and first to the next & so forth into other Or else men sailing into islands brought with 'em such beasts for love of hunting/ or angels at god almyghtyes commandment brought such beasts into islands about or the earth brought them forth first and fulfilled though god's commandment/ that commanded the earth to bring forth grass and quyche beasts. ¶ Here endeth the description of britain/ the which containeth England wales and scotland/ and also because ireland is under the rule of Englind and of old time it hath so continued. therefore I have set the description of the same after the said Beytayne which I have taken out of Polycronycon. And because it is necessary too all Engglysshmen to know the properties commedytees & marvels of the. I wyllyam Carton have them set first in enprynt according to the translation of Tr●●sa/ which art request of the lord Bar keley translated the book of Polycronycon into english. ¶ finished & imprinted in Flete street in the sign of the son by me winkin de word/ the year of our lord a. M. CCCCC. and two mensis Mayus.