AN Epitome of Frossard: OR, A summary Collection of the most memorable Histories contained in his Chronicle, chiefly concerning the State of England and France. Wherein the famous Wars and Conquests of king Edward the third, with the honourable achievements of the Black Prince, and other his sons, both in France, Spain, and Portugal, are compendiously described. Intermixed with other historical occurrents of those times, very worthy, and profitable to be had in remembrance. Compiled in Latin by john Sleydane, and translated into English, By P. Golding. AT LONDON, ❧ Printed by Tho: Purfoot, for Per: Golding. 1608. ¶ Cum Privilegio. An Epitome of Frossard. OR, A summary collection of the most memorable histories contained in his Chronicle, chiefly concerning the state of England and France. The first Book. Philip, surnamed the fair, King of France, had three Sons, Lewis, Philip, and Charles, and one daughter. The two eldest succeeding one another, and deceasing without issue, left the kingdom by descent to their brother Charles. This Charles had a Son, but he died very young during the life of his Father. The daughter of Her name was Isabella. King Philip and sister to Charles, was married to Edward the second King of England, who begat of her a Son named Edward, of whose most noble disposition, stout courage, and princely virtues, honourable mention is made in many places of this work. There is a saying in Homer, that Children for the most part prove, worse than their parents, seldom any better, but in this King it fell out otherwise: For his father was a man of evil disposition, much given to riot and excess, and greatly led by sycophants and flatterers, of which sort the principal were two Noble men of the house of the Spencers. These so bewitched the King's mind, that by their counsel and instigation he put to death some two and twenty of the chiefest Barons of England, and not so contented, banished also his Wife and her Son wholly out of the Realm. But the Queen at length, through the assistance of her faithful friends being brought back with her Son into England, not only exacted most severe punishment upon those flatterers the Father and the Son, but further for divers grave and weighty considerations, by authority of Parliament removed her husband from ruling the state as a person unfit for government, and restrained him to safe custody. Which done, the worthy Prince Edward (a most virtuous Son of a most vicious Father) who before had lived in exile with his Mother, as is already declared, was crowned King of England at London by the name of Edward the Third, in the Sixteenth year of his age, and the year of our Lord 1326. He took to Wife 1326. Philip the daughter of William Earl of Henault and Holland, whom he had formerly begun to fancy amongst the rest of her Sisters at such time as he came with his mother as a banished person out of England into Henault. But the Peers of France after the death of King Charles, would in no wise admit his Sister (matched to the King of England) to the succession of the crown, because it was now of old received as a custom in that country, not to leave the charge of so great a Kingdom to be managed by the discretion of women. Whereupon they likewise renounced Edward the Third, her Son and Grandchild to King Philip as descending of the female line: and so with one consent they gave the sceptre and sovereignty to Philip of Valois, cousin german to King Philip deceased. Upon this occasion ensued most cruel wars and bitter enmity, Edward the Third presuming that he had more rightful interest, and a better title to the kingdom of France, than Philip of Valois. And to further this quarrel, it so fell out, that a certain Noble man of great account called Robert of Artoys, one Robert of Artoys cometh into England, and the occasion of his coming. who had been long of singular respect and estimation with King Philip, at length falling in his disfavour, was banished the Court, and could be suffered to rest in no place by reason of the king's displeasure. This man after many wanderings, at last arrived in England where he found quiet harbour and abiding: and being by the King entertained as a counsellor, ceased not by his persuasions to provoke and stir him up to arms against the French King. King Edward purposing to war upon Philip, solicited the friendship of the Flemings, at that time remaining scarce in due obedience of their Lord: whereof the French King having intelligence, by the help of the Earl of Flanders then sojourning in his Court, he procured certain places of Flaunders to be fortified, where the English men must of necessity pass when they should come into France. The King of England sent his forces against them and in a pitched field the Flemings were over thrown and chased. And further for the better dispatch of his affairs and to compass the favour of the German Princes, the King of England came himself to Antwerp, where he entered into a league of amity with the Dukes of Gelder's, and juliers, the Archbishop of Colen, and divers others. And that the Emperor should take no offence thereat, it was concluded, the Duke of juliers should be addressed unto him in the name of the King of England and the rest, to acquaint him with these proceedings. The Emperor was so far from dislike of the matter, that he also created the King of England Lieutenant General of the Roman Empire. The chief cause why Lewis of Bavier the Emperor, so highly honoured the King of England, was for that he hoped during the tumults of the wars, he might happily take some opportunity to recover again the City of Cambray, which being indeed a City imperial, was notwithstanding withholden from him by the French men. The French King in the mean while contracted a league with David King of Scots, who for the same purpose came with his Wife to Paris. He sent also a power into Scotland to molest the English at home, that thereby their forces might be more weakened, and the King of England's puissance abated. The King of England proceeding in his purpose, with the power of his confederates besieged Cambray to recover Cambray besieged. it again to the Empire. But the City was so well provided both of munition and victual, that he attempted it in vain: wherefore abandoning the siege, he passed with his forces into France. Assoon as the English army was entered into France, the Earl of Henault, who of late succeeded in the room of his deceased Father, and had been present at the siege of Cambray (as a matter of duty in regard it concerned the Empire) refused now any longer to serve the King of England for fear of displeasing the French King, because he thought that in this war the King of England rather intended his own business then the affairs of the Empire. The French King at such time as his enemy's forces were advanced against him, and that the armies on both sides stood ready ranged in order of battle, albeit he had a far greater power than the King of England, (as having in his army above an hundredth thousand men,) yet notwithstanding, partly persuaded by his Lords, but principally terrified by the letters of Robert King of Sicill his near kinsman an excellent Astronomer, he withdrew himself and departed without giving battle. And so the King of England returned into Braband, and the French King into his own Country, much displeased with himself that he had refused to fight. The King of England shortly after being well assured of the faithfulness of his confederates, passed over into his own kingdom. About this time in the City of Gaunt, a certain person of the base sort named Jaques of Arteuill, purchased himself such estimation among the commons, that in continuance of time there was none able to withstand his bold attempts, no not the Earl of Flaunders himself. The King of England to procure the good will of the Flemings, allied this fellow unto him, as one that might afford him much help in his wars hereafter. Of this jaques henceforth we shall often have occasion to make mention. The King of England before he returned into his own country as is a little before declared, had obtained a grant of the Flemings to aid him in his wars, whereby himself might not only assail his enemy with the greater force, but they also recover their lost towns, as Lisle, Tourney, and certain others holden at that time by the French. But the Flemings pretended great difficulty in the matter, before they would conclude this league with the English. For they had formerly covenanted with the French King, and bound themselves upon the forfeiture of twenty hundredth thousand crowns, never to bear arms against the King of France, and these conditions were ratified by the Bishop of Rome. Hereupon they persuaded the King of England to take upon him the arms and style of the Realm of France, and in so doing they thought themselves discharged of their oath. The King after much deliberation King Edward taketh upon him the title of France. condescended to their requests, and so the league was established between them. The French King having intelligence of the matter, practised with the Flemings by some friends of his, as it were in the name of the Pope, to forsake the King of England and adhere to him again, adding large promises of great reward: all which notwithstanding they refused, whereupon presently ensued the Pope's thunderbolt. It made the Flemings shrewdly afraid, but the King of England so encouraged and heartened them by letters and messengers, that they brooked the matter with the better patience. Then began the wars to grow hot between the Flemings and French men, and the King of France sent his eldest Son as General, who with a puissant Army marched through the country even as far as Henault. Whilst William Earl of Henault for the establishing of his affairs, travailed first into England, and afterward to Lewis the Emperor, the French men in his absence did marvelously afflict his country by making continual incursions upon it. But the Earl at his return out of Germany, having associated himself with the King of England, the Emperor, and divers Princes of the Netherlands, raised a mighty power, and being also aided by him, who in a manner had the hearts of the Flemings at command, I mean jaques of Artevile, enforced his enemies to retire. So the Armies on both sides being prepared to fight, the Earl of Henault was very desirous to come to the encounter: but the Duke of Braband was of another opinion, and with weighty reasons dissuaded him from hazarding the battle till such time as the King of England were returned, whom they accounted as General of this war. Assoon as the French King understood the King of England was departed into his own country, he gave commandment that a fleet of Ships should presently be rigged and put forth to Sea, to attend his coming back, and then to assail him with great violence, and bend all their forces to impeach his landing. But the King of England encountering them in his passage, put them valiantly to the worse, and with fortunes favourable assistance arrived safely in Flaunders. Robert King of Sicill of whom we have formerly spoken, foreseeing by the Art of Astrology, that the kingdom of France should sustain great damage by the English men, for the great affection he bore to that Realm, travailed himself to Avignon, and there made earnest suit to the Pope and College of Cardinals, that they would set an atonement between those two puissant Princes. They promised to employ their endeavours, so the minds of the kings were disposed according. About this time the Brabanders, Flemings, and Henowaies, entered into a most strict league among themselves, in such sort that if any of those countries should happen to be molested with war, or afflicted by any other means, the rest were bound to succour and assist them: And if any dissension or variance chanced, they should arbitrate the matter among themselves, or else if the case were such that they could not decide it, than it should be determined by the discretion of the King of England, into whose hands they were all sworn to put the controversy and to abide by his arbitrament. The King of England associated with the aid of his confederates, besieged Tourney with a strong army. Many assaults Tournay besieged. were given, but they prevailed not by reason of the valiant defence made by the Townsemen, who were furnished thoroughly aforehand, both with men and all things needful to offend the enemy by commandment from the French King, who was ptivie to a great part of the devices and consultations among his enemies. During the siege before Tourney, the French King sending certain companies into Scotland, earnestly entreated the captains left there in Garrison for the safety of their country by King David, to make some invasion upon the English, that by this means his enemy might be enforced to raise his siege and return for the defence of his own country: promising moreover that he would send them store of soldiers whose service they might employ in that action. The Scots stoutly undertaking the matter, won certain holds and much endamaged their enemy. The French King in the mean while levied a great army to raise the siege before Tourney. There came to his aid Charles King of Boheme, the Dukes of Burgoine, Britain, Bourbon, and Lorraine, the Earls of Bar, Savoy, Geneva, Alauson, and Flaunders. And besides these, the kings of Navarre, and Scotland, the one as confederate, the other as feudary to the crown of France. That the Earl of Flaunders followed the French King as we have declared, whilst the Flemings took part with the English, let it not seem strange to any, for thus standeth the case. This jaques of Artevill whom we spoke of before, was become so popular and grown to such authority amongst the commons, that the Earl himself could find no safe abiding in his own country, but was constrained for that cause to commit himself to the protection of the French King. The siege of Tourney continued some three months, A truce taken for twelve months. during which space jane os Valois the French kings sister, and mother to the Earl of Henault, laboured very earnestly to procure a composition. At length she obtained thus much, that a day was appointed for a meeting to be had between the Lords of France and England, where they agreed upon a truce for twelve months' space, with condition that each party should hold whatsoever he had gotten by battle. hereupon the armies were both dismissed. And this further was concluded, that at a certain time prefixed within the year, another treaty should be had at Arras, where commissioners from both Princes, and from Pope Clement should meet together, and this likewise was performed. There the English men demanded much, and the French men proffered nothing, save the Earldom of Ponthiew, which was given before in dowry to King Edward's mother, when she married into England. More Prolonged for twelve months more. than thus was nothing done in this treaty, only another year added to the truce, and the King of England returned into his Country. When things were thus set at a stay, and that the Duke of Britain prepared to return into his own country, he The occasion of the wars in Britain. was seized upon in his journey by a most violent sickness, whereof in short space he died, leaving behind no lawful issue male to succeed him. He had two brothers, of whom the one which was Earl of Mountfort, was his brother only by the father's side, the other both by father and mother, but he died before him leaving issue one only daughter, whom the Duke of Britain in his life time joined in marriage to Charles of Bloys sister's Son to Philip the French Charles of Bloys. King. For the Duke fearing it might so fall out, that after his decease his brother the Earl of Mountfort would seize the signory of Britain into his own hands, and by that means dispossess, and as it were disinherit the lawful daughter of his brother by the whole blood, thought good to provide a stay for the Lady by marriage, and therefore his desire was the rather to match her to the king's nephew, because if the other should make any attempt hereafter, he might the easilier be resisted. And so it came to pass. For the Earl of Mountfort had no sooner understanding of his brother's death, but that partly by force, & partly by composition he possessed himself of the greater part of Britain. And then the better to support his cause and 'stablish his estate, he went over to the King of England, where relating the whole discourse of his proceedings, he received from him the investiture of his dukedom. And the King of England considering that by this means he might have a ready passage through Britain into France, promised both his council and furtherance to the new Duke against his enemy, whether it were the French King or any other whosoever. For he had lost the French kings favour before, ever since he brought in the Germans to serve in his wars, upon whom he had spent such a huge mass of money, without accomplishing any notable enterprise. And this is the true cause and original ground of this war. Charles of Bloys being advertised of the proceedings and enterprises of Mountfort, made great complaint of him to the French King. After consultation had, the King commanded that the Earl should be summoned to the Parliament of Paris. The Earl came, and after some debatings on both sides, he was enjoined by the King not to depart the City for a certain season. Nevertheless he conveyed himself secretly away, and so sentence was given with Charles. It was a great blot in Mountforts' case that he had been invested in his Duchy by the King of England. And thereupon the French King denouncing Charles to be rightful heir, encouraged him with his own mouth to recover by force of arms the signiory due unto him both by judgement of law and right of inheritance: promising not only his own aid, but procuring other Lords also to assist him in the maintenance of his rightful quarrel. The war was undertaken (in the behalf of Charles) with the power of the Peers of France his friendly assistants. Besides other, at length the City of Nants (the principal in those parts) was forced by assault. There Mountfort himself was taken prisoner, and from thence conveyed to Paris to the King, by whose commandment being cast in prison, he there ended his life. His Lady in the mean time bearing her fortune with a true manlike resolution, encouraged the fainting hearts of her people, and both fortified with Garrisons and furnished with victuals; the rest of the holds yet untaken by the enemy. Upon conclusion of the truce between the kings of England and France, and dissolving the siege before Tournay, the King of England returning home, perceived what great annoyance the Scots had wrought to his country in the mean while: whereupon he assembled an Army. The Scots being pressed with great extremity in the absence of the King, purchased a truce of the English upon condition, that if within four months space the King did not provide for the rescue, they should yield. This was signified to the King of Scots, who thereupon returned, and being aided with foreign power, won certain holds from the English. Amongst other the City Durham take & sacked by the Scottish. of Durham was one, where no mercy was shown to no sex, age, nor order whatsoever, but the very churches and all were consumed with fire. Afterward perceiving that by further prosecutiug his enterprise, he did but lose his labour, and understanding moreover that the King of England approached with a mighty power, upon deliberation with his counsel, he retired: In the mean while ministering proffers of a truce which notwithstanding he had no intention to admit till he had first taken advise of the French King with whom he was formerly confederate. The Lords of France departing out of Britain for no other respect but because the winter whether compelled them, returned again with their forces in the beginning 1342. of Summer, purposing to bring the rest of that Duchy in subjection. Whereof the Lady of Mountfort being advertised, she sent ambassadors to the King of England, requiring aid upon this condition, that her Son whom she had borne by the Earl of Mountfort, should take to wife some one of the king's daughters. But the succours which he sent for, the space of well near two months together were tossed upon the Seas with storms and contrary winds, in such sort as they could by no means attain to their desired port, so that in the mean season certain places were recoured by the French men. But it is admirable to relate with what courage and stoutness the Lady Mountfort demeaned herself: For she was not only content to fortify strong holds, and encourage her followers The gallant carriage and warlike behaviour of the Lady Mountfort. with comfortable speeches, but she also put on armour herself, and attended with a troop of horse, came into the open field and provoked her enemy. Moreover being besieged in a certain Castle and put to great distress, when for the most part all that were about her persuaded to yield, she alone (amongst men) persisted in opinion to the contrary, and with this resolution held it out so long till at last the English forces which had wandered a great while upon the Seas, arrived to her rescue. A certain French captain called Lewis of Spain, took the City of Dinant in Britain by composition, the Citizens having slain their governor in the market place, because he refused to yield it. Another City near adjoining named Gerand, was taken by the same Captain by force; where not so much as Children and little infants, nor the Temples consecrated to God's service, could escape the uttermost rigour of war, but were all destroyed with fire and Sword. The Duke was much displeased with this impious cruelty, and worthily caused the authors of such wickedness to be hanged. He also received the city of Vannes upon composition without consent of the captain, and many other places beside. To be short, diverse encounters passed both by Sea and Land with variable fortune on both sides. A town and Castle in those parts called Hamibout, was assaulted with great violence, but defended with more valour, for therein at that time remained the Duchess of Britain whom we spoke of before. The French men perceiving they spent their time in vain, and that Winter began to approach, persuaded Charles of Bloys to dismiss his Army, and withal to take a truce, and place his soldiers in Garrison. It was so done, and the Duchess sailed over to the King of England, who sent an Army into Britain against the French men. About this time, the noble men of England counseled their King to take a steadfast truce with the Scots for three years space if it might be: showing how great a burden it would be to him to support so huge a charged of wars round about him, in Scotland on the one side, in France on the other. hereupon Ambassadors were sent to the Scottish King, but nothing could be effected, for he would determine upon nothing without the French kings counsel. The King of England moved therewithal, raised a mighty power in purpose to bring the Scots to utter subversion. But in the mean time, by the mediation of good men a truce was obtained & established. The English Army which we spoke of erewhile, met with the French kings fleet well appointed, upon the coast of Britain. There they encountered one another and continued in fight till within the evening. Somewhat before midnight there arose a very dangerous tempest, which scattered them in such sort, that they were separated more than an hundredth miles asunder. In this conflict also, the Countess of Mountfort herself performed knightly service. At length the English men recovered a haven not far from the City of Vannes, at that time in possession of the French men, where putting on land their forces, they valiantly approached the City. And in conclusion dividing their army into three parts, with two of them they fiercely assaulted the town in two several places in the night season, and whilst all men resorted thither to make resistance, they brought the rest of their forces to a place unfortified and so entered the Vannes won by the English. town, putting all that were in it either to the Sword or to flight. There were two French Lords which had the custody of this town, whom it full sorely grieved to see the City thus taken. Therefore assembling such forces as they could Recovered again by the French. raise upon the sudden, they gave a fresh assault to the town and so surprised it agine from the enemy. In these conflicts Robert of Artoys admiral of the English fleet, and General of the war, was wounded: who being conveyed to London for the cure of his hurts, in short space after there ended his life. Whereat the king of England conceived The death of Robert of Artoys. so great grief and displeasure, that of purpose to revenge the death of so worthy a man, so dearly esteemed, he himself sailed over with a mighty power of shipping into Britain. So great was the number of the English forces, that at one instant they besieged three of the most puissant Cities in all that country Renes, Vannes, and Nants, where Charles of Bloys with his wife at the same time remained: besides the town of Dinant which they took by force. Charles of Bloys wrote to the French King concerning the state of his affairs, the arrival of the English, the besieging of his towns: earnestly requiring that he would succour him in this great distress. The French King sent 1343. his son the Duke of Normandy: who with an Army of some forty thousand, took his way directly towards Vannes at that time very straitly besieged by the English. And had not the winter season brought great impediment to their purpose, it had surely come to a field battle. But at length through the intercession of two Cardinals sent from Pope Clement, a truce was agreed upon for three years, and a solemn o the taken of the Princes for the due A truce for three years. observation thereof in the mean space. So the King of England returned into his own country. Whilst the wars were yet open, the Englishmen had laid siege to the City of Vannes lately before recovered by the French: and it was stoutly defended by two noble men, the one called Lord Clisson, the other Henry of Lyon. It was these men's fortune in a certain light skirmish to be taken prisoners by the English: and because there was a Lord of England also remaining among the French, upon conclusion of the truce, communication was had for the exchange of prisoners. The King of England for the redeeming of his, delivered to the French men the Lord Clisson, detaining the other still prisoner. hereupon as is most likely, some emulous observers of Clissons carriage, raised a suspicion that he should be secretly affected to the English, and that for this respect, he rather than the other obtained his liberty. To be short, this jealousy increased so far, that he lost his head for it at Paris. And for the like cause divers other noble men suffered the like punishment. Sure it was a lamentable spectacle, especially considering that Clisson in the recovery of Vannes from the English, had so honourably performed the office both of an excellent Captain and valiant soldier. This act of the French kings was taken in so ill part by the King of England (esteeming it done in his reproach) that he commanded Henry of Lion to be presently set at liberty, and freely forgave him his ransom: only enjoining him at his return to signify to the French King, how he interpreted these proceedings no otherwise then as intended to his dishonour, and that thereby he held the late truce to be violated: wherefore he should expect no other from him but as an enemy. This message was delivered to the French King, and the King of England sent an army into Aquitane, with certain other forces to succour the Lady Mountfort. The Englishmen were entertained with great applause Bayon & Bordeaux receive the English. at Bayon and Bordeaux. Afterward laying siege to Bergerat, a town near the river Gerond, they received the townsmen to mercy, the English Captain taking their oath of fidelity in the name of the King his Master. They took many other places also partly by composition, partly by force of arms. Amongst other they won the Castle of Auberoch, a place notably fortified, and leaving there a Garrison to defend it, the English Captain returned again with the rest of his army to Bordeaux. In the mean while the French men to the number of twelve thousand, besieged the same Castle again very straitly and put the soldiers there in Garrison to great distress. But the English Captain at Bordeaux having intelligence thereof, assembled some nine hundredth men, and in an evening, when the French men were to supperward, broke suddenly out of a wood and charged so resolutely upon them, that he put them to discomfiture, and in the chase took divers prisoners, their Captain for one, being sore wounded, whom the people in those parts had in such estimation, as if he had been a Prince. As the English men lay in leaguer before a certain Castle, the soldiers put their Captain in hold because he refused to yield it up to the enemy, and would by no means grant his liberty, but upon consent to their request. In the end he consented, and afterward coming to Tholouse, was there arraigned of treason, and hanged upon a gibbet for his labour. The town of riol was likewise rendered into the Englishmen hands, but the Castle was still maintained by the Captain. The Englishmen therefore drew a mine, & overthrew a great part of it to the ground: then the captain considering his imminent peril, abandoned the place and left the Castle to the English. They also received Angolesme by composition, after a months respite which the townsmen had requested upon hope to be relieved in the mean time by the French King. It is formerly told you of jaques de Artevill how he was grown so great among the Flemings, that the Earl himself could have no safe recourse into his own country. But at length he received the just reward of a seditious rebel. He had given great hope to the King of England, that he would procure the whole country of Flaunders by general consent to accept him for their sovereign. And for accomplishment hereof the King of England with a well furnished navy arrived in the haven of Flaunders. The matter was propounded to the commons, and all for the most part seemed well affected to the King of England. But the Gauntoys took this practice in marvelous ill part, and when jaques returned into the Citle, they entertained him nothing so kindly as they were wont, but besetting the house where he was, broke open the doors upon him, and slew him as he thought to have escaped at a postern. Amongst other Articles wherewith The death of jaques de Artevill. they charged him, this also was a principal point, that he had privately conveyed all the common treasure over to the King of England. The Earl of Flaunders moreover had but one only son. About the same time, William Earl of Henault sailing with great assistance into Friesland (pretending himself to be rightful Lord of that country) was himself there slain in battle with divers of his nobility. After his death, Margaret Princess of Henault and wife to Lewis of Bavier the Emperor, took possession of this Earldom. The French King was very desirous to draw unto his party one Sir john of Henault, a worthy Gentleman and a gallant soldier, who had formerly done great service to the King of England. The matter was attempted by divers means, and when no other would take effect, this devise was put in practice: to insinuate into his conceit, that the King of England had a purpose to withdraw from him, his pensions and yearly entertainments. He gave such credit to this report, that forthwith he wholly estranged himself from the King of England, and yielded his service to the French King. When the French King understood that the Englishmen wasted Aquitaine, and had won many towns and fortresses there, he levied his forces, amounting to the number of an hundredth thousand men. Over this army he appointed his Son John Duke of Normandy to be Lieutenant General. To the French kings aid came Odet Duke of Burgundy, with his Son Philip Earl of Artoys and Boloine, both of them excellently well accomplished for the war. They recovered the town of Angolesme, & laid siege to the castle of Aguillion, gotten before by the Englishmen upon composition, than which there was not a stronger nor better fortified in those quarters. The winning thereof was by sundry means attempted. But it is Valiant resistance made by the English in the Castle of Aguillion. incredible to believe, with what courage and resolution the Englishmen that lay there in Garrison defended themselves. The French King being advertised thereof, and demanded what his pleasure was to be done in the matter, returned answer to his Son that he should continue his siege till necessity of hunger constrained them to yield. The King of England understanding in what distress his men were, raised in continently a power of fourteen thousand soldiers. He was accompanied amongst other with his Son Edward Prince of Wales, and a certain French Gentleman called Godfrey of Harecourt, who being expulsed his country by the French King, fled to the King of England for safeguard of himself, and revenge of his injuries: for the French King had seized upon all his possessions. This Godfrey was the cause that the King of England directed his course into Normandy, being otherwise purposed to sail into Aquitaine. He divided his Army into three parts, whereof two ranged along the sea coast, wasting the fields, sacking divers towns, and leading away their prisoners, lest afterward they might gather to a head and work them some displeasure. The third wherein was the King himself, marched through the main land, making havoc of all things, and every night they met all together again at the king's camp. The French King in the mean time caused such an army to be raised, as a more puissant had not been seen in France of many years. Letters were also addressed to the King of Bohemia for aid, who at that time highly favoured the French King. The Englishmen took a very rich town in Normandy called Saint Lupes, and afterward hastened to the siege of another much richer called Caen, borrowing that name of the river running by it. The townsmen were purposed to have given battle to the Englishmen in the field: but being people unexperienced in arms, at the first fight of the enemy, they fled back again into the town. The French captains had betaken themselves to their fortresses, but beholding the huge slaughter made in the City (for the Englishmen had taken it) they Caen in Normandy won by the English. yielded. Amongst other prisoners the Constable was one, whom with the rest which were taken in his company, the King of England afterwards bought of him that took them for twenty thousand crowns. The Englishmen marching still forward, passed over the river Scene towards Roan, and their light horsemen scoured the country even unto the Suburbs of Paris: where encountering the townsmen of Amience well appointed, posting towards Paris upon commandment from the King, because of long time before they had been charged with no service for the wars, they let fiercely upon them, and bereft them of their carriage. The French King in the mean while (notwithstanding the Parisians earnest suit to the contrary) departed from Paris to Saint Dennis, whither as then the rest of the Peers were assembled. From thence pursuing his enemy with a certain vehement and wonderful desire to fight, he removed to Amience. The King of England assayed to pass his army over the river Some, but there was neither ford known, nor bridge possible to be taken, they were all so surely guarded by the French men. At length after proclamation of enlargement and reward to any French prisoner that should perform it, a certain young man taken by chance, discovered a ford. The French men suspecting they would pass over at the same place, opposed themselves strongly against them, and entertained them in the river with a sharp skirmish. Nevertheless the Englishmen waded through and put them to flight. By this time The battle of Blanchetaque. the French King was come to Abbevile, and the King of England waited for him in the plain fields, to give him battle. When the time of battle approached, the King of England made his prayers to God to send him an happy victory, and divided his wholly Army into three parts. In the vanguard was his Son, in the rearguard himself. The The memorable battle and victory of King Edward at Cressy. fight was furious on both sides, but at length the Englishmen obtained the victory, which may seem a wonder considering the huge multitude of their enemies. In this battle the King of England (who awaiting opportunity, had not yet put himself in press) being advertised that his Son fight valiantly in the forefront, was wellnighe oppressed by the enemy, he made answer to the messengers in this sort: Demand no help of me this day so long as my Son liveth: For I will that he now show some proof of his valour, and that the honour of the victory be wholly his and theirs that are appointed to attend him. In this battle was slain Henry of Lutzenburge Father to Charles King of Bohemia, who although he were blind, would needs adventure against the enemy notwithstanding. Towards night the French King accompanied with very few, withdrew himself out of the field. The King of England caused the dead bodies of the French men to be numbered, and there were found slain, eleven Princes, fourscore Barons, twelve hundredth Knights, and about thirty thousand others. By commandment from the King, all the noble men were buried in the villages near adjoining, and three days truce was granted to give burial to their dead. After the King of England had obtained this notable victory, he took his way directly towards Calais, and environning Calais besieged. the town with a strong siege, there planted himself, in purpose not to depart before he had constrained them to yield for famine. Mean while the French King sent word to his Son the Duke of Normandy, lying still at the siege of Aguillion, that he should give over his enterprise, and convey his forces again into France, to withstand the English men who subdued all things before them as they passed. Before this advertisement came to the Army, there was another battle fought between the French and the English: wherein was present Philip son to the Duke of Burgundy, who falling with his horse soon after departed this life. During the siege of Aguillion (whereof an English Baron was captain) the Earl of Derbie whom the King of England had before sent into Aquitaine, remaining at Bordeaux. Assoon as he understood that the siege was raised and the Duke of Normandy departed, he assembled to the number of six thousand men, and ranging through a great part of the country thereabouts, at length took Poitiers by assault, and then returning again to Bordeaux, dismissed his soldiers, leaving no Garrison in Poitiers, because the town was utterly razed. Whilst the King of England was busied about the siege of Calais, David King of Scots (partly of his own motion, partly by procurement of the French King) persuading himself that all the soldiers of England or at leastwise the greater part were gone a warfare with their King, assembled his forces to the number of forty thousand or there about, and invaded England. The Queen of England in the mean time behaved herself with great courage and discretion, consulting with the Lords and Prelates of her Real me, about the direction of her affairs. So an army was levied upon the sudden, and the enemy fiercely encountered certain Archbishops and Bishops of England being present in the conflict: whose power notwithstanding it were far inferior in number to the Scots, yet they obtained the victory. In this battle the Scottish King himself with many others, were taken prisoners. David King of Scots taken prisoner. The number of them that were slain, amounted to fifteen thousand, the rest saved themselves by flight. After the accomplishment of this honourable victory, the Queen of England crossed the seas and went to visit the King her husband. In the battle before mentioned, amongst others was also The battle of Cressy. slain the Earl of Flaunders, who by reason of the rebelliu of jaques de Artevill, was compelled to put himself into the French Kings protection. He left a Son named Lewis at that time about fifteen years of age. Now the King of England was in great expectation, that through the politic assistance▪ of jaques de Artevill, he should have brought the flemings to receive him for their sovereign, and that his Son the Prince of Wales with their general acceptance, should have obtained the Lordship of all Flaunders. But the author of so wicked a devise was slain as is already declared: for the Flemings would not disinherit the Son of their Lord, though they loved not his Father. The King of England therefore began to treat of a marriage between the young Earl, who was then remaining in the French Court (for he fled thither with his Father at such time as the state grew troublesome in Flaunders) and a daughter of his named Isabella. Against this match the Duke of Braband opposed himself, for he also had a daughter at the same time whom he desired to match with the young Earl. Means were found by the flemings to convey the Earl from the French King, and he returned into Flaunders in hope to recover his Father's possession. The King of England in the mean while was nothing slack in soliciting his suit with the Lords of Flaunders. By them the matter was moved and the match proffered to young Lewis. But he utterly refused it, protesting that he would never marry the daughter of him that had slain his Father. When the counsellors of Flaunders saw him so resolute in this opinion and that he would give them none other answer, they committed him to safe custody, and would grant no enlargement, but upon condition that he should be ruled by the advise of his elders. So at length he was persuaded, and the King of England with the Earl's wife that should be, the Lords of Flaunders, and himself, met together at a day appointed. There the matter was debated, the Earl consented, was forthwith contracted, and after returned into Flaunders, where he was nothing so straightly looked unto as he had been. A little before the nuptials should be solemnized, he took occasion accompanied with a small train, to ride a hawking, where pretending great earnestness in following a Falcon, which he had let fly at the heron, by little and little he outstripped the rest of his company, till at last he lost sight of them all, and so escaped again to the French King. Whilst the King of England besieged Calais, the truce which we told you was concluded by certain Cardinals between Charles of Bloys and the Countess of Mountfort expired, by occasion where of the wars were renewed again afresh. The King of England sent a competent crew of horsemen out of the army which besieged Calais, to succour the Lady Mountfort. Certain Englishmen were straightly environed by Charles of Bloys in a town & castle which they had taken immediately before: But certain other Englishmen sent suddenly from the Countess in the dawning of the day, broke unlooked for into the camp of the French men (who by reason of a little good fortune in a certain skirmish the day before, looked negligently to their watch) and putting a great part of them to the sword, Charles of Bloys taken prisoner. took also the Lord Charles of Bloys himself prisoner. In the mean time the King of England pressed the town of Calais with great vehemency, and the French King intending to raise his siege, levied a mighty army. Whereof the King of England having advertisement, so fortified all places, by which the French men might have any access as well by the sea coast as the main land, that they could not possibly make any approach to disturb him. The French King seeing all entrance already foreclosed, required the King of England to give him battle. But the King of England considering how he had spent well-nigh a whole year in the siege of this City, and withal consumed a great treasure about it, thought it good policy to hold his advantage. The same time also two Cardinals sent from Pope Clement to endeavour an accord between the Princes, had three days communication with the Lords that were appointed Commissioners from both parties, but could effect nothing of their purpose. Whereupon the French King presently after dissolved all his great army. The Calsians seeing themselves deprived both of present aid and future expectation, began to parley of giving up the town. But the King of England would accept no other condition but one, which was to put themselves, life, and goods absolutely into his power, and to remain wholly at his disposition. His counsel earnestly dissuading him from this obstinate resolution, as a thing tending to very ill example, at length the matter was brought to this issue: that six of the principal citizens, bareheaded and barefooted, with halters about their necks, and the keys of the town in their hands, should present themselves before him to be disposed of at his pleasure. The report of those tidings, suddenly moved great mourning and lamentation in the city. In which sorrowful confusion, when one not of the meaner rank had protested openly that he would not shun death in the behalf of his country, now almost pined with hunger, his example soon after drew five more to the like affection. These men being publicly brought forth in such manner as he appointed who had now jurisdiction over their lives, and by his commandment adjudged to die: when all the Noble men had made intercession in vain, the Calais yielded to King Edward. Queen at length after many reasons alleged for her purpose, with much entreaty obtained their pardon. Then were some sent to take possession of the town, and by authority from the King all the old Inhabitants were removed, and the City new peopled with English. After this, by means of a certain Cardinal, a truce was taken for two years. The King of England entrusted the government of Calais to a certain Italian. Not long after, a French Lord that lay in Garrison at Saint Omers, knowing the nature of the Italians to be above all other people covetous of gold, practised privately with this fellow, to sell him the Castle for twenty thousand Crowns. The King of England, I know not by what means, having intelligence hereof, dissembled his knowledge, and sending for the Italian, examined him of the matter. Who seeing no other remedy confessed the truth, and besought him of pardon. The King granted, and at his departure gave him in charge to proceed with his project. A day before this practice should be put in execution, the King himself strongly guarded, as covertly as might be entered into Calais. The french man who had paid his money down, and knew nothing that the plot was discovered, sent his men of arms before to take the Castle. Assoon as they came in, not suspecting any such matter, they were presently attached and made prisoners to the English. Then in the dawning of the day the King of England issuing out of the City, charged suddenly upon the rest of the French men which hovered thereabout to see the success of their enterprise, and put them to flight, taking many prisoners, and amongst others the same person that was the first contriver of this treason. About this time King Philip of Valois married another wife, the daughter of Philip King of Navarre: and almost at the same instant john his eldest Son took to wife I●aue Duchess of Boloine, late wife to the Duke of Burgundy's Son, the same that at the siege of Aguillion ended his life, in the year of our Lord 1346. 1346. Philip of Valois dieth, and john his Son succeed. After the decease of King Philip, john his Son succeeded in his stead, who not long after his coronation arraigned the Constable (than newly delivered out of prison in England) of treason, and caused him to be beheaded at Paris. John the son of Philip de Valois. SHortly after the coronation of King john, Pope Clement departed out of this life at Avinon. He appointed for his successor in the papacy, the Cardinal of Ostia a French man borne, called before his election Stephen Albert, but afterward named Innocent the sixth. By occasion of certain disgraceful speeches mutually interchanged, a mortal quarrel was grown betwixt the King of Bohemia and the Duke of Lancaster, which they were at point to decide by single combat: but the French King interposing himself, by his mediation the matter was compounded. After the Constable as we told you, was by the king's commandment put to death, Charles of Spain, upon whom the King had bestowed the signory of Angolesme, & who had also espoused the daughter of Charles of Bloys, being advanced to that office, was by Charles king of Navarre slain suddenly in his bed. With this fact, as ye may well judge, the French kings mind was not a little troubled, nevertheless upon certain conditions he was pacified. To this Charles thus murdered succeeded jaques of Bourbon. And the truce taken between the French king and the English to endure till April, was prolonged to Midsummer. For the ambassadors of both kings meeting at Avinion before the Pope, when they could not agree upon articles of peace, added so much more time to the continuance of the truce. The Prince of Wales brought an army into Aquitaine, and the King his Father intending to prosecute his wars in France, came to Calais. There the French King by an herald proffered the single combat, but the King of England refused it. The French King sending out his writs, summoned to Paris all his nobility, with the heads of the church and the burgesses of his towns, declaring unto them how greatly it imported him to provide for the wars. So by act of Parliament a general subsidy was granted, from payment whereof there was no man could be exempted. The King of Navarre, john Earl of Harecourt, and diverse others, being surprised by the French kings unsuspected approach, as they sat at dinner in the Castle of Rouen, were suddenly apprehended and committed to safe custody. The King of Navarre was sent prisoner to Paris. The Earl of Harecourt had uttered I wot not what reproachful words against the King, in presence of divers noble men, stoutly maintaining that the subsidy lately exacted, ought not to be paid, and withal exhorting the residue to stand stiffly in denial thereof. Hence grew the ground of his indictment, and hence proceeded the cause of his punishment. For hereupon the King commanded him to be beheaded, and his body afterward to be hanged upon a gibbet. The King of England's Son who came lately (as we Edward the black Prince. told you) into Aquitaine, setting forth from Bordeaux, wasted all the country thereabout, namely Poitiers, Turon, and Berrie; where fournishing himself with what was needful for his own use, the rest he utterly spoiled and destroyed, burning up their corn, and shedding out their wines to the intent that afterwards it might not be converted to the benefit of his enemy. The French King in the mean while having a great power assembled at Charires, departed from thence, with all possible haste, and a right enemie-like affection following after the English Prince. When he came near unto Poitiers, news was brought him that the English army lay encamped not far off. Immediately hereupon calling his counsel, he gave direction for the setting of his men in order, disposing his whole army into three battalions. In the first he placed ●he Duke of Orleans, in the second Charles his eldest Son, and himself led the rearguard. The number of his enemies was very small. Assoon as he understood by his scouts in what sort they were embattled, and how they had planted themselves in a place both by nature and their own industry strongly fortified, he gave commandment that all his people should fight on foot, three hundredth or somewhat more only excepted, who with their horses were appointed to break the array of the english archers. He was accompanied in the field with his four realm, with great impunity of vice, as generally happeneth during their King's captivity. in such cases, where scarce any are thought to remain which by authority might repress mischief & punish offenders. thieves and robbers banding themselves together, filled the country with repine and murder, forestall the highways, and spoiling the passengers. Besides this, the S●ates could not well agree among themselves, for the nobility began to distaste the authority of the ●ix and thirty which were appointed to have chief rule in the common wealth. But most horrible of all other, was that tumultuous insurrection of the peasants which assembled in Champain and the places thereabout, whose company by little and little augmenting through the daily concourse of such rascals as resorted to them from all quarters, at length increased so far, that their number amounted to an hundredth thousand. Their purpose was to have destroyed all the nobility and gentry of France. And with this intent entering violently into the noble men and gentlemen's houses, they ri●led them, bound the Masters to the posts, & ●auished their wives and daughters before their faces, murdered cruelly all the whole household, and lastly consumed the houses with fire. And now their barbarous outrage prevailing so far, that the women of greatest calling were compelled to forsake their dwellings and hide themselves in secret places, unless they would abandon their bodies to the beastly lust of most filthy varlets, an army at length was raised, and at the town of Meaulx they were fought withal, and every one slain or drowned in the river Marne. Charles the king's son, perceiving there was a secret conspiracy between the King of Navarre and the Provost of Paris, departed out of the town, and assembled his forces. It seemed as if the matter would have grown to a troublesome issue, for he besieged the city, but by the mediation of certain Bishops, the Princes were reconciled. The Provoste nevertheless intending to set all in an uproar, had plotted one night to dispatch all those of the contrary faction. And the matter was brought to such forwardness, that he had already agreed with centaine (●ho for the same purpose awaited their prey without the gates) that at a time appointed in the night they should enter into the city. But the treason being discovered, he himself was apprehended in the night season with ●he keys of the town in his hand, and so slain with so●e others that were partakers of his practice. This Prouo●●e (during the troublesome state of those times,) was the first that enclosed Paris with walls and ditches, and planted gates at the entrances into the city. The King of Navarre being certified of this man's death, whom he dearly esteemed in regard of the manifold benefits he had received at his hands, and partly moved with displeasure of the matter, but ●ore nearly touched, for that himself was commonly noted to be chief author of that practice, as well of his o●ne accord, as by instigation of his brother Philip, (who had formerly vexed Normandy with wars, & desired nothing more than to ●orke mischief to the realm of France) forthwith denounced war, and hotly pursued it, making many excursions towards Scene and Marne, and ●inning also diverse towns and fortresses about Amien●e & Arras. The Provost had furnished him with great sums of money, and therefore he might maintain men of war at his pleasure: beside, many favoured his pretence and furthered his proceedings. Hereby it cam● to pass that oftentimes he took many towns and castles ●ith little or no difficulty: insomuch that certain of the principal townsmen of Amie●ce at an hour agreed upon in the night, set open the gates of the town for his soldiers to enter, where then nothing else remained to win but the castle. But by good fortune certain fre●ch horsemen falling upon them, dissappoynted their purpose, putting the aduenture●s to flight, and the tra●tors to execution. Together with these evils (as is wont to happen) ensued a wonderful dearth and scarcity of all things, in such fort as the poorer people had much ado to sustain their lives: and this plague continued four years. For, so long as the insatiable soldiers devoured all men's goods, of what estate or degree soever without controlment, so long the husbandman might not apply his labour in safety, not the merchant exercise his traffic without extreme hazard both of life and goods: what other effect could ensue thereof, but a general & common mischief, and such a one as should concern every particular person? Certain of the king of Navarres people being upon a A strange shift in extremity. time surprised by their enemies at some disadvantage, when they saw that of necessity they must put their fortunes in trial, though far overmatched in number, yet seeing no other remedy, they betook themselves to a little hill, and putting off all their spurs, pitched them in the ground before them with the rowels upward to hinder the approach of their enemies. But the evening came on so fast, that it stayed the frenchmen from the'ncounter. In the night time with great silence they conveyed themselves into the next village, and there making fires as if they had purposed to tarry all night, they secretly departed contrary to the frenchmens' expectation, who pursued in vain, but could not overtake them. Amongst other places the Navarrois held Melune upon Scene. To the besieging of this town, the Duke of Normandy sent four thousand horsemen. But by mediation of the Cardinals which we spoke of before, a peace was concluded between them. But Philip the King of Navarres brother would never give his consent to any conditions of peace whatsoever, upbraiding his brother that he was deluded with witchcrafts and enchantments: and therefore he retired himself to certain holds upon the Sea coast which were in the kings of England's subjection. By that time the peace was confirmed between the Navarrois and the Frenchmen, the three years truce (obtained by the Cardinals after the taking of King john) between France and England, expired. Therefore all such as had served ●nder the King of Navarre, repaired to the English Captains for entertainment, and so one mischief drew on many more successively ensuing each other. Notwithstanding for that time, the Englishmen were but ill entreated by the French, though not without great damage to the poor wretches that inhabited in the upland country, or in towns but weakly fortified. For the Englishmen accompanied with foreign soldiers, made spoil of them at their pleasure. When the time of truce (as we said before) was worn out, the king of England and his eldest Son with the Private conference about a peace. French King and the Duke of Bourbon, conferred privately together at London concerning a peace, the articles whereof they sent over to the Duke of Normandy, and he propounded them to the three estates of the kingdom. But when the matter came to be debated in counsel, these conditions were utterly disliked, and answer was given to the Ambassadors, that they would rather choose to endure yet greater miseries, then condescend to such articles. This answer was taken in very ill part, as well by the captive King of France, as by the King of England: who immediately thereupon caused such an army to be levied, as never any man saw pass out of England before. He took landing at Calais, accompanied with his four sons. But before his departure out of England, he made open declaration of his intent before the whole army: in effect, that he had undertaken this expedition in hope and full purpose to enforce the French men to receive such conditions as should be both for the honour of his person, the commodity of his people, and the dignity of his crown: And that he was resolved never to give over, nor return again, till such time as he had accomplished his affairs in such sort as he desired. Wherefore if any man disliked his pretence, he should have free liberty to depart, or tarry. But there was none amongst them all which did not willingly embrace these conditions. From Calais the King of England marched to Rheims, 1359. which city when he found for the bigness thereof to be strongly fortified, he forbore to assault it, because he would not rashly hazard the loss of any of his men whom he reserved for greater services. From thence after two months siege or somewhat more, he took his way into Burgundy. The Duke sent messengers to him, requesting that It should seem to be but twenty thousand. his soldiers might not be suffered to spoil his country, The King of England being a very courteous Prince was easily entreated; but upon condition that the Duke of Burgundy should pay him an hundredth thousand crowns. In the mean time France was miserably wasted, partly by the King of England himself, partly by the rest of his army left in Picardy, and not a little by the King of Navarre, who yet again moved arms against the Duke of Normandy. A certain friar of the order of Saint Francis, prophesied at Avinion that both the Clergy should suffer much johannes Ro●hetaillada. for their pride, covetousness and ambition, and that the kingdom of France should be extremely afflicted by the invasions of strangers, in so much that no part of it should be free from that misery. The Pope because he foretold matters that displeased him, cast this friar in prison. The King of England sent word to the Duke of Normandy, that he would give him battle: but the Duke having no disposition to put himself to the courtesy of Fortune, stayed still at Paris. And because he well perceived, that the state could not long continue at this pass without the utter subversion and overthrow of the kingdom: by advise of his nobility & counsel, he sent ambassadors to the king of England to entreat of peace. The matter was diversly attempted, but it seemed almost an impossibility to accord their difference. For the King of England still absolutely maintained, that the crown of France was his rightful inheritance. Whilst things were thus in consultation, there suddenly rose a marvelous tempest about Chartres, the violence King Edward inclineth to peace. 1360. whereof was such, that it overthrew both men and horses. The king was so moved with the consideration hereof, that he made a vow he would incline his mind unto peace, & so at Calais the matter was concluded. The conditions were these: that the king of England, his heirs, and successors after him, should hold & enjoy the Counties, Cities, Castles, holds, Lordships, Isles, rents and revenues of all Aquitaine; also the City, Castle, county and whole signiory of Poitiers: the City and castle of Rochel, and Lymoges with all the country about it. To these were added, Angolesme, aswell the town as the castle, with all the territory thereto belonging: Also Calais, and many other places beside, whereof as the number is great, so the rehearsal would be tedious. Item, that the king of France should renounce his title to all these, and release all fealty and right, which he, his heirs or successors might by any means claim therein, & that the king of England should hold them all frankly and freely without acknowledgement of any homage or superiority to the king of France or his successors in that behalf. Item, that the king of England should again, for himself, his heirs and successors, disclaim all title, right and interest, which either he or his posterity might pretend to the crown of France. Item, that he should resign all the portion which he challenged in the Dukedoms of Normandy, Anjou and Turon: also all his right to Britain. These and many other articles, described more at large in my author, both the Kings and their sons were solemnly sworn to observe. And for further assurance, the French King gave in hostage, the Peace concluded, and King john set at liberty. Dukes of Orleans, Anjou, Berry & Bourbon, besides some twelve Earls and Barons, and diverse personages of good account sent particularly from all the chief Cities of France. These being all conveyed to London, the French king was set at liberty and returned again to Paris, to the great rejoicement of his subjects. 1360. Immediately upon his return, he directed forth letters to all his officers, lieutenants, and Captains, to avoid out of all such Towns, Castles and holds, as he had departed withal to the King of England. But it is wonderful to report, with what unwillingness they all for the most part obeyed this commandment: for it seemed a very strange and difficult matter for them to undergo the yoke and subjection of the English. But the French King being a just and virtuous Prince, would for no respect infringe his oath, or serve from his covenants. Therefore he gave command that all things should be performed according to the express tenor of the agreement. In like manner the King of England sent commissioners to surrender again certain Castles and holds taken in the wars into the French kings possession. When the towns and fortresses were in this sort delivered, the soldiers which had now accustomed themselves so long time together to live upon spoil and pillage, considering that in regard of the wicked acts they had formerly committed, it would be little for their profit, and less for their safety to return home again, determined from thenceforth to seek their fortunes. And thereupon assembling themselves together, they ranged through Champain and the places adjoining, wasting and destroying all things before them, and as it commonly falleth out, their number daily increased. The French king being informed of their mischievous proceedings, sent jaques of Bourbon against them with an army. He found them encamped upon a very high hill, the situation whereof was such that it was impossible to take any perfect view of their forces: & being indeed some sixteen thousand, they appeared to his scouts not above 5000. When it came to the encounter, it was fiercely fought on both sides, but fortune inclined to the worse party. Many gallant gentlemen perished in this conflict: the Duke of Bourbon himself with Peter his eldest Son were very sore wounded, and being conveyed to Lions, died within three days after. When these villains had obtained this victory, they took their way directly towards Avinion; at whose approach the Pope and his college of Cardinals were not a little affrighted, for such was both their courage and their cruelty, that no man durst oppose himself against them. Nevertheless the Pope and his Cardinals being thus driven to their shifts, and having no other means to repress this mutinous multitude, to whom no mischief came amiss, commanded a croysie to be preached against them, with a grant of clear remission of all their sins which took it upon them. Many assembled, but when there was no mention of pay, they shrunk away every one. The very same time the Marquis of Mountferrat made war upon the Duke of Milan. The Pope therefore practised with him to lead away this rebellious rebel into Lombardy. And even so it fell out, for when the Pope and Cardinals had paid them threescore thousand crowns, and that the Marquis also had promised them entertainment beside, they followed him and did him good service in his wars. The french King passed through the Dukedom of Burgundy 1362. (which was then lately fallen to him by the death of the younger Duke) towards Aumion to visit the Pope, who in short space after deceased. And when they could not determine upon a new election (by reason of the inordinate strife which was chiefly between two contending for the papacy) at length a certain abbot of Saint Victors in Marseilles, a learned and godly man, was chosen, and from thenceforth called Pope Urban. The King of Cyprus the same time arrived at Avinion, 1362. and made earnest intercession to the Pope and the french King, for the undertaking of an expedition against the Saracens and other enemies of the christian faith. The Pope promised his furtherance, and in a public assembly propounded the matter. Whereupon the french King with a great part of his nobility, took upon them the sign of the cross. Afterward the King of Cyprus' traveled into Bohemia to the Emperor, and from thence through Germante, Brabant, and Flaunders, he came into England, making the like petition to King Edward, but he honourably excused himself. Out of England he returned unto Amience where the french King then sojourned: and after that he repaired into Gascoine to the Prince of Wales, who about the same time had a Son borne named Edward. The noble men that were left in hostage for the french King, began to grow discontented for the long restraint of their liberty, and king Edward being of a gentle and courteous disposition, had given them leave to go over to Calais, as well to recreate and refresh their minds, as also that from thence (being so near France) they might the more commodiously dispose of their affairs in their own country. They sent oftentimes to the King and the Duke of Normandy his Son. But the King was so busied about the preparation of his voyage against the Saracens & withal so troubled by the King of Navarre, who still continued in arms against him, that he could not conveniently intend to dispatch them. By means whereof, it came to pass that the Duke of Anjou the king's Son, leaving the rest of his fellow pledges, returned again into France. The french King had a marvelous desire to see the King of England again, because he had so honourably entreated him whilst he was his prisoner. He was counseled to the contrary, notwithstanding he still persisted in his purpose, and so much the rather for that he would excuse his Son for departing without licence. So he went and was entertained very royally. But not long after he fell sick and died The death of King john. at London. His body was conveyed over into France and buried in the town of Saint Dennise, the King of Cyprus being present at his funerals. The King of Navarre thinking that occasion was now fitly offered him to make war, collected forces from all parts where he could raise them: and in Normandy a battle was fought with great fierceness and little advantage on both sides. After the death of king john, his son Charles who was before styled Duke of Normandy, succeeded in the inheritance of the kingdom, and was the same year crowned at Reams, together with his wife the daughter of Peter Duke of Bourbon. At his coronation were present, the King of Cyprus, Wenslaus King of Bohemia, and the Dukes of Lutzemburge and Brabant. When the solemnities were finished and the new King returned to Paris, he proclaimed his younger brother Philip, (who had been prisoner with his father in England) Duke of Burgundy, the same being formerly promised him by King john before his last going over into England. Charles the fifth. AS yet France was not thoroughly purged from the remnant of those ravenous cutthroates before mentioned: and in Normandy and the places thereabout, many taking part with the Navarrois, much afflicted the country. The ringleader of these wars was Lewis of Navarre. King Charles appointed his brother Philip (lately created Duke of Burgundy) to go against them, by whom all for the most part was again recovered. About the same time the Earl of Mountpeliarde, aided by certain Germans his friends, entered into Burgundy not far from Besanson. Incontinently the Duke repaired thither with his army, but his enemies were retired before his coming. Amongst the Articles of peace between the kings of England and France, (whereof we have given you a brief abstract before,) the matters of Britain were excepted, and the kings had both promised to employ their mutual endeavours that the controversy might be indifferently decided. But the matter was very slightly handled, and it happened that King john died as is already declared. By means whereof the wars broke forth afresh, and the french King sent a thousand horse to the aid of Charles of Bloys, who upon the delivery of his Sons in hostage, was now released out of prison. On the other side, john Earl of Mountfort obtained succour partly from others, but principally from the Englishmen, who at that time held the possession of Aquitaine. When their armies were both come into the field and ready to join battle, a cerraine nobleman of Britain (for whom it was not lawful to bear arms because he was a prisoner) undertook to be a mediator betwixt them, exhorting and humbly entreating them that they would accord friendly amongst themselves, and not suffer the matter to come to trial of the sword. It was possible he might have prevailed, but that certain gentlemen secretly persuaded the Earl of Mountfort their general, that he should not by any means come to composition with his enemy. For these men having already consumed the greatest part of their means, now set up their rest, either to recover themselves again by the wars, or to lose what remained in the adventure of their fortunes. Thus battle was given, with much bloodshed on both sides, but the Englishmen valour put their enemies to flight. Charles himself was slain in the field, which many thought to be a matter plotted of purpose, because Charles of Bloys slain in battle. there was no other means to bring those wars to conclusion. The Earl of Mountfort beholding his body deprived of life, could not refrain from tears notwithstanding he was his enemy. When Mountfort had thus chased his enemies and gotten the victory, in short space after he recovered many towns of Britain. The French King being advertised of the state of these affairs, sent his brother the Duke of Anjou, as well to comfort the late wife (now widow) of Charles, which remained exceeding sorrowful and pensive, as also to animate and encourage their minds which in her behalf still maintained their garrisons. But a great part of Britain being by this time brought under the subjection of Mountfort, the French King upon further deliberation with his counsel, sent ambassadors to him to treat of agreement. Mountfort referred his cause to the King of England, who not disliking the matter, he accepted the conditions proffered: which in substance were these. That Mountfort should hold all the Dukedom of Britain during his life, and if it fortuned him to die without issue, than the inheritance should again return to the Sons of Charles, which as we told you were then kept hostages in England. Item, that he should assure unto the widow of Charles, some Earldom in those parts, whose yearly revenue should amount to twenty thousand franks. Item, that at a time prescribed (being summoned by the french King) he should present himself in person before him, to be by him invested in his Dukedom, and to perform all ceremonies usually incident to that solemnity. And finally of his own voluntary motion he promised to employ his endeavour for the ransomming of his kinsmen that remained pledges in England. About this time Lewis of Navarre went into Italy to be affianced to the Queen of Naples daughter. The French King lent him threescore thousand franks for the furniture of his journey, receiving certain Castles of his in pawn for the repayment of his money. When he had almost brought his matters to effect at Naples, shortly after he ended his life. After the wars of Britain and Navarre were finished, every place still swarmed with such cutthroat soldiers as were accustomed to live upon pillage, and these mightily plagued the country. The French King well considered that they must be either wholly subverted, or by some other means removed out of the Realm. Therefore, the King of Hungary having wars at that time with the Turk, he would gladly have conveyed them over to him as he requested: but the old soldiers to whom that country was not unknown, dissuaded their fellows from undertaking that voyage. Then another devise was contrived, and Pope Urban lying at Avinion, furthered the french King in his purpose. For he also out of his good affection to France would willingly have had that mischievous multitude dispatched out of the kingdom. There ragyned at that time in Castille a King called Don Pietro, a wicked person and a notable tyrant. For he not only put to death diverse good and virtuous persons, but murdered many also with his own hands, and amongst others his own wife, descended of the honourable house of Bourbon. He cast the governors of the church in prison, and seized all their goods into his own possession. It was reported by his own familiar friends, that he had conspired with the King of Granado the general enemy of christendom. His father was King Alphonso, who falling in affection The occasion of Prince Edward's expedition into Spain. with another woman besides his wife, had by her three sons, the eldest whereof named Henry was a man both of valiant courage and virtuous disposition. This tyrant in regard of the manifold crimes whereof he was often accused before the Pope, had already provoked all men's hatred against him. Pope Urban therefore upon good consideration, sent for this bastard Henry, and Peter King of Arragon, (who was at continual enmity with the tyrant, as one that had bereft him of divers Lordships) to come before him at Avinion. There Henry the bastard was made legitimate, and denounced King of Castille, the tyrant being first excommunicate, after disposed. The King of Arragon promised free passage through his country, and provision of victuals, to such armies as should be conducted into Castille against the tyrant: intending also by the help of those forces to recover his own losses. To this expedition resorted many honourable personages: and by this means those soldiers that had so long annoyed the realm of France, were conveyed into Castille. The tyrant having intelligence of the army that was coming against him, betook himself to flight, with his wife, his two daughters, and one noble man only. For he was so Don Pietro the tyrant expulsed, and Henry the bastard made King of Castille. hated of the commons, that not one of them would take arms in his defence: so he was forsaken and left destitute of all men. And Henry the bastard arriving in Castille with great joy and general applause of the people, took upon him the administration of the kingdom. After his coronation, when he had received the oath of allegiance from the most part of the Nobility, and Cities of the realm, the noble men by whose aid he had obtained the crown, took their leaves and departed: for now all seemed to be accomplished. But he had not yet discharged those french make-shiftes, because he purposed to make war against the King of Granado. The tyrant remaining in these perplexities, by the advise of that one noble man which attended him, addressed letters to the Prince of Wales, full of lamentable complaints concerning his misfortunes, beseeching him to commiserate his estate and to releleeve him with succour. Shortly after, he himself not daring to trust his own subjects, repaired to Bayon. The Prince's counsel were of opinion that he ought not to be succoured in regard of his abominable wickedness and ungodly disposition, nor that any dangerous enterprise should be undertaken for his sake. Contrarily the Prince judged it an unworthy thing that a bastard Son should usurp the inheritance of the crown, which was a very ill precedent and extended to the prejudice of other kings and princes. Therefore when the tyrant came he received him courteously into the town of Bordeaux, and promised him his assistance. Nevertheless he sent in●… England to the King his Father, declaring to him the wh●… circumstance of the matter, and requiring his cou●… and direction concerning his proceedings. The King of England in regard th●● of long time before, there had been a league between 〈…〉 Spaniard and him, encouraged his Son (in the answ●… of his letters) to go forward with his purpose for the 〈…〉 him to his ●ing do 〈…〉 And so the journey was 〈…〉 upon between th●…. But one thing was 〈…〉 in the wa●… Their ●…assage lay through the King oSpan● varres country, who had lately contracted amity with Henry the new King of Spain. Howbeit matters were so handled, that a meeting was had at Bayon, and upon certain conditions the King of Navarre was ●o well satisfied, that he promised all courtesy, friendship, and peace. King Henry being advertised of these proceedings, sent to the King of France forayd. The Prince practised with the Captains of those soldiers which before had been so troublesome to France & now took pay of the Spaniard, that they should forsake King Henry's service, and follow him. There was about twelve thousand of them: and as they were marching towards Gas●oine, in the kingdom of Arragon they endured great distress, the ways and passages being on all sides soreclosed and fortified. Nevertheless they made way through all inconveniences, and holding on their journey till they came almost at toulouse, they were received into Mount Alban, a town pertaining to the territory of Guienne. The french men understanding thereof, beset the ways round about that they might not issue forth into toulouse, or the places adjoining. In conclusion, it came to handstrokes: and the French men fought valiantly, insomuch that they chased their enemies even unto the town: but by reason of the fresh supplies coming continually to their rescue, in the end the French men were overthrown, and the greater part of them either slain or taken prisoners. In which number was the Earl of Provence, who came at that time to aid the men of Tholons: and besides him, diverse others of great account The Earl of Provence taken prisoner. both of Provence and France. Having thus cleared their passage by the sword, they proceeded to the end of their journey. The prince of Wales because he was loath to burden the people of Aquitaine with exactions for the maintenance of his soldiers, borrowed no small some of money of his father, & besides that converted all his plate both gold and silver into coin. Many prisoners (as the custom is) were discharged upon their word; so was the Earl of Provence. But Pope Urban for hatred he bore to those mutinous soldiers, took upon him to acquit the Earl of Provence and others that were set at liberty after the same manner, from their ransoms: so that they paid not one farthing, but had a clear dispensation from him of all bonds and obligations whatsoever. Whilst the Prince was making preparation for the The king of Maiorica craveth aid of Prince Edward, and obtaineth promise of the same. wars, there arrived at Bordeaux the King of Maiorica, who made grievous complaint of the King of Arragon, which had slain his father in prison at Barcelone, and withheld all his possessions from him by force: towards the revenge of which injuries and the recovery of his inheritance he humbly implored the Prince's aid. He had to wife the Queen of Naples. The Prince upon hearing of his complaint, promised that so soon as he had finished this enterprise for Spain, he would undertake his affairs, and so bring to pass that either upon reasonable conditions, or by force of arms, he should be restored to his kingdom. Before the Prince set out from Bordeaux he had a son borne, to whom the banished King of Maiorica was godfather. The birth of King Richard 2. He was named Richard, and afterward came to be king of England, Edward the Prince's elder son being dead before his father. In the beginning of February the Prince departed from Bordeaux, and within a little while after, an uncertain rumour Prince Edward setteth forward on his journey into Spain. was bruited abroad concerning the King of Navarre, as if he had entered into a new league with King Henry of Castille, and that thereupon the Ptince and his Army should be denied passage through his country. Hereupon letters were addressed to the King of Navarre, who advisedly alleging the reasons that moved him, withal declared his good affection to the Prince and the banished Tyrant. The Prince marched with his army in three battles, one following another, the vanguard was conducted by the Duke of Lancaster sent lately from the King of England to assist him, the King of Maiorica had the leading of the rearward, and he himself accompanied with the tyrant marched in the main battle. As they passed through Navarre, the King himself for their better direction became their guide, and bore them company through a great part of his country. At Pampelone also (which is the chief city of Navarre,) he entertained the Prince with a banquet. Many feared that the armies should have been stayed assoon as they came within his kingdom, but contrary to their opinion, the King still persevered in peace and friendship. King Henry having advertisement of the army coming against him out of Aquitaine, levied forces in Spain to the number of threescore thousand fight men. For he was exceedingly beloved, and every man was willing to undergo any danger for his sake. Then he sent an herald with letters to the Prince, desiring to know what the reason was that he undertook these wars against him, seeing that for his part he had never offered him any manner of offence or injury. The Prince upon deliberation with his council detained the messenger, and marching still forwards, arrived at a town called Victoria, near unto which, both himself and his adversary encamped with their armies. The king of Spain had three thousand soldiers sent to his aid out of France. The Englishmen had planted themselves upon a hill. Counsel was given to the Spaniard that if he purposed to win the victory without slaughter and bloodshed, he should need to take no other course, but only to shut up the ways that no provision of victual might be conveyed to his enemy. For the Englishmen were enclosed as in a straight, & with small labour all passage might easily have been intercepted. But the King of Spain desirous to fight, in regard of the greatness of his forces which were now grown to above an hundred thousand (for their number daily increased) choose rather to abide the trial of battle. When the Prince had rested some few days in that place, because of the barrenness thereof he dislodged from thence, and encamped in another ground more commodious. And being not far distant from his enemy, he sent back the messenger, whom he had now detained almost three weeks, with letters to the King of Spain, containing briefly this answer: that, for respects of great importance he was come to succour the banished King, that he would willingly compound the difference between them, but upon no other terms then that King Henry should renounce the title and resign the government of that kingdom, whereto he could pretend no lawful interest: and if this were refused, that he should find him prepared as well the one way, as the other. We showed you before in what manner the Englishmen ordered their battles. The spaniards in like sort divided their whole power into three parts. The first was led by a certain French Captain of great esteem, and in it were about four thousand men. The second was commanded by the two brothers of King Henry, and it contained some five and twenty thousand, horse and foot. The third by King Henry himself, and his battle far exceeded both the other in number, as having in it seven thousand horse, and threescore thousand footmen, whereof a great part were armed with crossbows. The field was pitched between Navarre and the town of Navarette. Seldom or never hath any battle been fought with greater fury and violence. The spaniards used slings, whose force was such that therewith they pierced the helmets of their enemies, surely a cruel kind of fight. On the other side the Englishmen being most expert arches, over whelmed them with the multitude of their shot. One of king Henry's brothers (which as we told you had the leading of the vanguard) assoon as he saw the Prince's colours advance towards him, departed out of the battle, and never struck stroke against the enemy. His example much discouraged a great many of the rest. But King Henry himself wheresoever he saw his men faint or go by the worse, pressed in thither, calling earnestly upon them, exhorting and encouraging them, and often putting them in remembrance both of his honour and their duty: in so much that thrice in that one day did his vehement acclamations add new life to his soldiers courage, and thrice restrained them from flying, when they were even betaking themselves to flight. Neither did the common soldiers only, exercise their weapons that day, but the Princes themselves also, laying hand to their swords, made honourable proof of their particular valour. The deposed Tyrant sought by all means he could to have encountered King Henry. The fight continued for a time very vehement & cruel, the soldiers on either part well expressing the hostility of their affection by the violence of their actions: but at length the Spaniards unable to withstand the united forces of the Englishmen and Gascones, gave themselves to flight, neither could king Henry by his authority or persuasion Prince Edward's victory against Henry king of Castille cause them to turn head against their enemies. So that perceiving himself to be more and more abandoned of his people, he was constrained to fly also: for he made no question at all that he should be put to death if he had been taken prisoner in the battle. The Englishmen pursued the chase & marvelous destruction was made partly of those that were slain partly of those that-perished in a certain notable river thereby, whereinto they chose rather to cast themselves headlong, then to come alive into the hands of their enemies. When the chase was ended, a general view was taken of the dead bodies, and there were found slain, little less than six hundredth horsemen, and almost seven thousand footmen, not accounting them that were killed at the bridge or drowned in the River. After this battle the Princes came together to Burgis (a town of Spain) and thither resorted all the Nobility of the country, from Toledo, from Lisbon, from Gallicta, from Seville, and from diverse other places of Castille, to swear Don Pietro restored. fealty to Don Pietro, again restored: for well they saw, it was not possible to resist such power as he had now about him. These things dispatched, Prince Edward dealt with the Tyrant to provide money for the payment of his soldiers, by whose help he had recovered his kingdom: whereupon Don Pietro took his journey into Seville, there to levy money for that purpose, pretending to return within few weeks after, and to give satisfaction to all men. For at such time as he was driven out of Castle, & came first to Bordeaux to implore the Prince's aid, as we have formerly declared, he made faithful promise, that assoon as he should be restored to his kingdom, he would give liberal contentment to all that served in his quarrel: and to the same effect became bound to the Prince, that so the Prince might be his surety to the Captains and gentlemen that were ready to undertake the enterprise in The ingratitude of the Tyrant. his behalf. At his departing towards Seville, he made certain appointment with the Prince, and gave him his faith to return very shortly again, and to bring money with him for the discharge of his soldiers. When the prince upon expectation of his return, had tarried certain months beyond the time prefixed, he sent messengers to inquire the cause of his delay. The tyrant excused himself, how he had sent certain of his servants with the money, & that they were intercepted in the way by thieves. Wherefore he requested him to return into his own country, & leave some officers of his in Castille, to whom he would make satisfaction to the uttermost. This answer greatly displeased the Prince, but no other at that time could be obtained. King Henry escaping out of the battle, fled to Valentia a city of Arragon, and there acquainted the king with his calamity. From thence he went to Mountpelier to the Duke of Anjou, a mortal enemy of the English. After that, he took his journey to Avinion to Pope Urban (who was then prepayring to depart from thence to Rome) and to him likewise recounted his miseries and misfortunes. At last being privately aided, by the Duke of Anjou, he assembled certain forces, and invaded Prince Edward's dominions. The Princess somewhat amazed with the suddenness thereof, sent to the French King to repress her enemy. But the French King winked at the matter. hereupon Prince Edward having advertisement how the world went, was constrained to return into his own country before the King of Castille had paid him his money. As he came through Arragon he met with some impediments, & his passage was stopped. Nevertheless at a day of meeting the matter was taken up friendly between them. Prince Edward after his return into his own dominion, because he had consumed a great mass of money about this expedition into Spain, summoned all the nobility of Aquitaine with the burgesses of the cities, to a parliament: and there made public request for the grant of a general subsidy to belevyed through all his dominion, and that only for five years, in consideration as well of the great debt wherewith he had charged himself, and had not yet discharged his soldiers, as also for that he had spent, and in a manner clearly exhausted all his own treasure about this voyage. All the cities for the most part gave their consents; but many of the greatest Lords opposed themselves against the Prince's purpose. Affirming that so long as they were subject to the King of France, they were never burdened with any such exactions, and rather than they would now undergo them, they would endure the uttermost whatsoever. When the Prince would relent no part of his rigour, the Lords which had thus gainsaid him, took their The Lords of Gascoigne rebel against Prince Edward. way directly to Paris to the French King, where in assembly of the council, they declared their grief, making sore complaint of the Prince, and withal beseeching the French King to receive them into his protection. The French King made answer that he would deal by the advice of his counsel, and according to the articles of peace concluded between his father and the King of England. Mean while the Lords of Gascoine remained at Paris. The subsidy was such, that every household should pay yearly one frank: which had amounted to the some of twelve hundredth thousand Frankes by the year. King Henry having advertisement of the rebellion of the Gascones, and holding it good policy to make use of another man's trouble, resolved not to let slip so fair an opportunity. Therefore by the King of Arragon's assistance, he raised an army of ten thousandmen, and which way soever he directed his forces, he recovered towns and castles again to his subjection. Don Pietro remaining the same time at Seville, assoon as he heard news of these proceedings, sent presently to the King of Portugal and the King of Granado for succour. He obtained his request, and had gathered together in all, forty thousand men, amongst whom there were many Saracens. King Henry seeing it stood him in hand to proceed rather by discretion and policy, then by plain force, (for the Tyrant far exceeded him in number of soldiers,) following the advise of a certain Captain of his, even in the morning's first approach, contrary to expectation, suddenly invaded his enemies, and fought prosperously: in such sort, that the Tyrant was constrained to fly for tefuge into a castle thereby, whereof assoon as King Henry had intelligence, he brought all his Army thither, and bend his forces against it. The tyrant perceiving his imminent peril, issued secretly out of the castle, accompanied with some sew in the dead time of the night, hoping so to have escaped by flight. But it was his fortune to fall into the hands of the captain of the Scowtwatch, by whom he was apprehended and brought forth with before King Henry, who at his first entrance began presently to inveigh against him with most bitter terms, and the tyrant for his part also returned words of like reproach, calling him son of a strumpet. To be short, King Henry overthrowing The death of Don Pietro, and recovery of the kingdom by Henry the Bastard. him to the ground and getting upon him, stabbed him to the heart with his dagger, and in short space after his death, with small trouble recovered again the possession of the whole kingdom. The King of Portugal went about to have revenged the death of his kinsman Don Pietro by battle, but he was pacified. During the time that the Lords of Gascoine sojourned at Paris, the French King had a son borne, which afterward carried the name of his father. In the mean while the Lords of Gascoine made often supplication to the French King, that he would undertake the defence of their cause against Prince Edward: which thing if he refused to do, extreme necessity would compel them to seek some under whose protection they might quietly enjoy their possessions; by means whereof it might come to pass in time, that the Kings of France should forego all their right and interest in the whole province of Aquitaine. The french King considering the great importance and danger of the war, took long respite to deliberate upon the matter. Most of his counsel persuaded him to war, affirming with great vehemency that the articles of peace were infringed by the King of England. At length it seemed good to summon the Prince to appear in person at the parliament of Paris, and certain were appointed to carry the summons accordingly. Prince Edward when he heard this message, after some pause, made answer to this effect, that since the French King had so commanded him he would surely come to Paris, but it should be with his helmet on his head, and threescore thousand soldiers in his company. The messengers departed out of Bordeaux, and being apprehended in their way homeward, whereby the Prince's commandment cast in prison. Here by the way, it shall not be amiss to make some remembrance of the hostages left in England. The Duke of Anjou (as is declared already) had conveyed himself away before the death of King john. The Duke of Berry through the King of England's courtesy, had entreated a years respite to solace himself in France. And upon like favour divers others were licensed to depart for a season. Some one or two only by the payment of their ransoms purchased their liberty. Those that the King had thus dismissed, after the wars began again, returned no more. The french King proclaimed open war against the The peace broken, and wars again renewed between England & Franc King of England, and committed the charge thereof unto two of his brethren, who mustered soldiers from all parts, so that the number of them amounted to an hundred thousand men. The French men made often incursions upon the country of Poitiers and other of the Prince's dominions. And the Prince's soldiers likewise invaded the Lordships of those who had given the first occasion of these wars, and made complaint of him to the French King. The french King published his cause and the necessity of this war in divers places by cunning persons, with so well seeming circumstances, as no man could otherwise judge, but that his proceedings were grounded upon most just and reasonable occasions. The same did the King of England also, verily to this intent, that by declaring the causes of the war they might have the people more at commandment to pay their subsidies, and to bear the burden of their exactions. Lewis Earl of Flaunders had no issue but one daughter: The King of England sought by all means to have obtained her in marriage for his youngest Son, and the matter was laboured for the space of three whole years together. In the Earl himself was no want of good affection: but Pope Urban in regard they were of his kindred, would in no wise give his consent to the marriage. The Earl therefore perceiving this match might not go forward, began to make means by his friends to Philip Duke of Burgundy the French kings brother, that the marriage might be made between him and his daughter. This treaty took effect, and so it came to pass that Burgoigne and Flaunders were united together. The King of England considering how by means of this marriage the Duke of Burgundy should become heir to the Earl of Flaunders, practised with the King of Navarre who bore a secret grudge to the French King for certain Lordships, that he should denounce open wars against him. The French king had provided a great power of shipping, intending to send his brother the Duke of Burgundy with an army of choice soldiers to make wars in England. The King of England having intelligence thereof, made preparation according, and determined to receive them with some entertainment in their passage. Moreover he sent his Son the Duke of Lancaster with certain forces to Calais; which when the French King understood, by the advice of his counsel he altered his purpose, judging it the better course to encounter with his enemy, when he had already passed the Seas of his own accord. hereupon the Duke of Burgundy was set forth well appointed, who at such time as he lay encamped near his enemy, notwithstanding he were of much greater puissance, yet would he not adventure to give him battle, unless he had express direction for the same from the king his brother. My author reporteth that a certain English captain, a man of approved valour and discretion and withal very fortunate in his affairs, having one day observed a fair opportunity, would have attempted some exploit upon the enemy: and to the intent the better to effect his purpose, had requested an English Earl to guard him with certain horsemen for the performance of his enterprise. Which when the Earl had condescended unto, some followers of his gave him counsel to the contrary, persuading him that if the adventure proved successful, the reputation thereof would redound to another, and therefore that it were better for him to undertake some service by himself, the honour where of might be entirely his own. By this means the Captain being disappointed, was fain to leave his desired enterprise unperformed. Thus we see, envy and ambition, hath some predominance in all places, and oftentimes it falleth out, that through private emulation, whilst one will adventure nothing in another's behalf, many notable occasions are neglected, which perhaps the enemy afterward converteth to his own advantage. When the French and English armies had thus a while confronted one another, the Duke of Burgundy by the king's command broke up his camp, and licenced all his soldiers to depart. The Duke of Lancaster returned to Calais, and when he had there rested some few days to refresh himself, reassembling his forces, he took his way into France, where having burnt up certain towns, because the winter approached, he dissolved his army and returned into England. These long-lasting wars greatly grieved many noble men of France, insomuch that diverse of them conveyed away their goods & household-stuff, removed themselves into other places where they might with more safety expect the comfort of a calmer season, wisely mistrusting lest in sitting still, o● taking part either with the french King or the English, they might have tarried to their cost howsoever. For so stood the ca●e with many of them who had possessions in both Prince's dominions, that they could neither adhere to the one nor forsake the other, without prejudice to their own estate, and apparent loss of whatsoever they held within either of their jurisdictions. On the other side many Lords of Gascoine revolted from Prince Edward and joined with the french. King Edward as he was a man of singular wisdom and stayed disposition, foreseeing that this defection of the nobility from his Son would tend to much mischief, addressed letters into Gascoine to this effect. How he understood that they all for the most part were discontented with the subsidy which his Son had lately imposed upon them: his mind was therefore to apply a remedy to this inconvenience, and wholly to take away all occasions which might any way move dissension or controversy. To which purpose and intent he had given commandment to his Son that he should surcease from all such exaction of money, and that all those which found themselves o●er-charged or burdened, either by him or any of his officers, should have satisfaction allowed them according to the damage they had sustained. And further he pardoned all such as had revolted to the French King, upon condition that within one month after they should return again into Gascoigne: requesting this only at their hands, that they would not stir sedition, but calling to mind their promised faith and allegiance, rest contented to conform themselves to the present state of government. In so doing they should find him ready to make particular recompense to as many as could justly complain of oppression. And for conclusion that this was the intention and desire both of himself and all his counsellors. These letters were published in diverse places of Gascoine, but they wrought small effect, for many were seen daily to forsake the Prince, and to resort to the French King notwithstanding: whereby it appeared plainly, that no virtue hath more force to hold the hearts of men in obedience, than affability. For Prince Edward though otherwise a worthy gentleman, being puffed up as men commonly are, with the prosperous achieving of great enterprises, began to carry himself roughly and austerely towards the noble men that were his subjects: whereby it came to pass that they could not love him. But the french King for King Charles commended for his courtesy. that besides his excellent wisdom, he was also gentle and courteous, easily insinuated himself into the favour and affection of all men. By means whereof he greatly enriched the Realm of France, and worthily deserved to be registered in the number of the most prudent Princes. The french King by the advise of his brethren, the Dukes of Anjou, Berry, and Burgoyne, with other of his nobility, sent a puissant army into Gascoine. The Duke of Anjou marching with his forces from Tholouse, easily recovered either by force or by composition, whatsoever towns or holds were pertaining to the English in those quarters. The Duke of Berrie invaded the territory of Lymoges. Certain Lords of Gascoine joined themselves with the Duke of Anjou, they were the same that by their complaints and accusations had formerly incited the french King to undertake this war. The Duke of Berry was associated with the dukes of Bourbon and Alaunson and divers others: which way soever they took, they found easy passage. About this time the french King fell to agreement with the King of Navarre. For it stood him upon to make him his friend, lest perhaps he should have given access to the English forces through a part of Normandy which he held, and by the sea-coast, into the rest of that country pertaining to the crown of France. The agreement was upon this point, that the King of Navarre assoon as he returned into his own kingdom, should make his defiance to the King of England. There came also a power out of Spain to the aid of the French King, upon the bounty and good affection of King Henry. In the mean time the Prince of Wales not unmindful of his friends A truce taken with Scotland ●or 9 years. & adherents, raised men of war on all sides; and the King his father that he might with more ease sustain the brunt of these wars, took a truce with the Scottish King for nine years, in such sort as it should be lawful for the Scots to serve for entertainment on either party at their pleasure. He sent also another army to waste the country of Picardy: the charge whereof he committed to one Sir Robert Knolles, a man marvelously affected to the english nation, though himself were a stranger and a briton borne. The number of his forces came to some ten thousand men. With this power departing from Calais and marching through Artois, when he came before Arras, he forbore to assault it, but by setting fire to the suburbs, tempted the townsmen to make some sally out of their gates, whereto notwithstanding he could not provoke them. So he proceeded forward destroying all with fire and sword as he passed. The Duke of Anjou after he had recovered divers places from the English, in regard he thought sufficient, was performed for the present, imparting his purpose to the rest of his associates▪ dissolved his army and distributed his men into garrisons. The Duke of Berry after long siege, received the City of Lymoges by composition. Whereat Lymoges recovered by the French. the Prince of Wales conceived so great offence and indignation, that raising a power immediately, he begird the town with a new siege, vowing never to depart before he reduced it again into his subjection. And when he understood by such as had taken exact view of the situation and strength thereof, that it was too hard a matter for him to take it by assault, he caused a mine to be drawn and conveyed under the earth even close to the gates of the City: which being set on fire, the violence thereof overthrew a great piece of the wall, and opened a large breach for his soldiers to enter. But who is able to report the miserable and unmerciful slaughter which then ensued? Not so much as women and young Children which cast themselves prostrate at the feet of the English, lamentably imploring the safety of their lives, could obtained any favour, but were all put to the sword: so implacable was the Prince's wrath, so relentless his displeasure. And after all Conquered again & utterly razed by the English. this terrible massacre of people, the spoil and sack of the Citizen's goods, with the committing of all beastly and inhuman outrage, according to the lust and fury of the soldier, the town itself by Prince Edward's command being set on fire, was utterly razed and laid level with the ground. The Duke of Berry when he wan this City had dismissed his army as his brother had done before him: by means whereof it came to pass, that his soldiers being dispersed and few perhaps remaining there in garrison, the townsmen were left destitute of relief. The army of Sir Robert Knolles which had pierced through France into the country of Anjou, was at length slain by the Constable, and Sir Robert himself escaping by flight returned into Britain. About this time died Pope Urban, who but lately before was retuned to Avinion. In his place was set up Gregory the xi. through the earnest suit and great travel of the french King, who foresaw that this bishop would be a great strength to his proceedings. Prince Edward by the advice of his physicians left Gascoine, and returned into his own country. For at such time as he warred in Spain, in the behalf of Don Pietro the banished tyrant of Castille, he caught a grievous and well-near incurable disease, which was now so far grown and increased upon him, that he was not able to sit upon horseback, but was fain to be carried from place to place in a litter: whereupon his physicians gave him counsel to go into England, because they were of opinion he might better be recovered, in regard the temperature of the climate Prince Edward returneth into England. (being his native soil) was more agreeable to the constitution of his body. At his departure out of Aquitaine, he appointed his brother the Duke of Lancaster, (who during the whole continuance of the wars had been partaker of his fortunes) to be his vicegerent into those quarters: beseeching the noble men of Gascoine which were assembled at Bordeaux that they would be content to accept of his government. We have formerly made mention of the King of Maiorica, who in hope to be revenged of the disgrace and injury done unto him, had for a time depended upon the faithful promise of Prince Edward to aid him against his enemy the King of Arragon, then confederate with the Spaniard. But King Henry of Spain when after the Prince's depature he had almost recovered all that belonged to his dominion, found this King of Maiorica in a certain town of Spain, left there by the english for recovery of his health: and because he had taken part with his enemis, apprehended him and detained him in prison for the space of certain years after. At length by the help of his friends and upon the payment of an hundredth thousand pistolets, he procured his liberty, and levying great forces against the king of Arragon, the matter had surely come to a bloody conclusion, had he not again fallen suddenly into a violent sickness, which in short space ended his life. By this means therefore the occasion being taken away, the wars ceased. Don Pietro the tyrant of Spain, whose history we have discoursed already, left behind him two daughters, Constance & Isabella, whom certain noble men of Spain immediately upon their father's death conveyed by sea into The Duke of Lancaster marrieth Constance one of the daughters of Don Pietro. Aquitaine. The Duke of Lancaster by advise and persuasion of his friends, espoused Constance the elder of these sissters: whereunto he was the rather moved, aswell in commiseration of the young Lady's misery, as in hope hereafter to obtain the possession of their inheritance. The King of Spain having intelligence hereof, & fearing likewise that the King of England's fifth son would marry the Edmond of Langly. other daughter, addressed his ambassadors to the French King, with whom he joined in most steadfast league of friendship: the French King for his part promising him assured aid against any enemy whatsoever, and moreover that he would never enter into other conditions of peace with the King of England, but such as should be both to the honour and profit of the King of Spain. The Duke of Lancaster shortly after his marriage assembled The Duke of Lancaster returneth into England. the Lords of the country together, and declaring to them his occasions and purpose of departure, appointed such officers as should govern in his absence, and departed with his wife into England. King Edward upon advisement with his counsel, determined to send his son the Duke of Lancaster with an army into Picardy, which wasting and destroying that country, should from thence proceed forward into France. Moreover he sent the Earl of Pembroke with another army into Aquitaine, to make war likewise in those parts, that so the French men might not fail to have their hands full on all sides. But the French King having knowledge hereof, by means of certain English men that resorted unto him, forefortifyed with garrisons all places of Picardy, and further understanding by relation of those fugitives, that the English fleet should arrive in Gascoigne, he gave secret intelligence thereof to the King of Spain his new confederate. The Spaniard performed the part of a friend, & sent 40 great Ships with thirteen others of less receipt, well appointed to meet with the English men in their passage. Not far from Rochel the Spanish fleet encountered the English with great violence, and the fight 1372. continued almost a whole day without intermission. During which space the Rochellers stood like idle spectators beholding the conflict, and being requested by their governors to help the English in their necessity, alleged frivolous matters for excuse and refused: For howsoever they, dissembled outwardly to the world, yet in their hearts they utterly abhorred the Englishmen government. The next day they renewed their fight afresh, and it was maintained with as great resolution as ever was any. Notwithstanding, in the end the Spaniards obtained victory, by reason that both in number of men and shipping, and in the greatness of their vessels also they much overmatched the English. Many were slain, and many taken prisoners, amongst whom was the Earl of Pembroke himself, The English men overcome at Sea, & the Earl of Pembroke taken prisoner. and most part of the captains in his fleet. The ship likewise which carried a great quantity of treasure for the maintaining of three thousand soldiers, was swallowed up in the sea. After this battle was ended, came a sufficient power out of Gascoigne to Rochel, but it was too late when the matter had fallen out so unprosperously before. Thus it came to pass, that by little and little the King of England lost all his whole signory of Gascoigne, the people partly rebelling, and partly yielding themselves willingly to his enemy. Whilst these things passed, there repaired to the French Kings court one Ivan, the son of a certain British Lord, making grievous complaint of great injury done unto Ivan the son of Ammon Prince of Wales. him by the King of England, both in causing his father Ammon Prince of Wales to be wrongfully put to death, & afterward in conferring the principality of the whole country to his own son Edward. Upon relation of his grevance, the French King furnished him with a fleet of ships and some four thousand men to serve him, by whose help this Ivan, entering into a certain island belonging The I'll of Garnes●y. to the English, and coming to encounter with his enemies, overthrew them in the field and put them to flight. After which exploit he was recalled by the French King and sent into Spain, there to make provision of more Ships, that he might lay siege to the town of Rochel. This good success of the French kings affairs both by the Spaniards and by Ivan, gave him occasion to think that the rest of the English provinces, would easily be brought to revolt; especially if the English men should receive but another overthrow, or at leastwise be put to any extraordinary trouble or molestation. Hereupon he sent the constable, with a great power of the chiefest peers of his kingdom, to renew the wars again in his enemy's countries. Assoon as they came into the territory of Poitiers, all the towns and castles thereabout rendered themselves into their subjection. The townsmen of Poitiers being at variance among themselves, addressed letters to the constable, signifying their good affection toward him, and early in the next morning according to promise, Poitiers yieldeth to the French. set open their gates to receive him into the city. This example of the Poitevins divers other towns took as a precedent for themselves to imitate. In the mean while, this Ivans whom we spoke of before, accompanied with the Spanish Admiral came with a well furnished navy out of Spain and arrived at Rochel: which town notwithstanding sustained no damage at their hands, because the townsmen hated the English, and desired by all means to be again under the French Kings government. They had long since freed themselves from their forced subjection, but that the English garrison which kept the castle, held them always in such awe as they durst never venture to put their purpose in execution. At length contriving a stratagem politic enough for the time; under pretence of taking a general muster as well of the townsmen, as of the garrison, they alured the captain (who was a man of no great forecast) with all his company out of the hold. Which done, forthwith a great number of the townsmen, breaking out from an ambush, gave assault to the fort and suddenly surprised it, those few which made resistance being easily repressed. The noble men of France were at the same time assembled at Poitiers, and having intelligence hereof, were desirous to be received by the Rochellers into their town. Whereunto they condescended, but upon certain conditions which were these. 1. That it should be lawful for the men of Rochel utterly to raze their Castle, out of which they had often received so great displeasure, and to lay it level with the Rochel yieldeth to the French. ground: 2, That the French men should solemnly promise neverto erect any castle there again: 3, And that Rochel from thenceforth should perpetually remain a member of the crown of France, and never be alienated to any other Lord, by any possible means that might be devised according as times and states should happen to alter afterward. When the King (who was made acquainted with these proceedings by the Lords) had confirmed and ratified these covenants, Rochel became subject again to the French: and the revolting of this town, gave occasion to many other of their neighbours to do the like. The French kings captains holding it discretion to follow their fortune, used such industry, that in short space they recovered all the territory of Poytow and the country adjoining, not without some help and furtherance from the Britons, who were exceedingly inclined to the French King, though their Lord wholly favoured the King of England, as by whose means he had obtained his Dukedom. It happened not long after that the Englishmen immediately upon their coming into Britain, burnt up seven great ships of the King of Spain's as they lay there in harbour. hereupon suspicion arose, that this matter was done by the Duke of Britain's consent and direction, whereof the French king being advertised by certain Lords of Britain, sent the Constable to make wars upon the Duke and to conquer his country, as one who had forseited his estate by entering into a league with the English men against him, of whom he had received the investiture of his Dukedom, and to whom as the custom is he had sworn homage and fealty. The Duke The Duke of Britain flieth into England. of Britain in this extremity, distrusting his own subjects fled into England. And the Constable by the help of the Britons themselves brought much of the country in subjection. David King of Scotland deceased without issue, and 1373. by right of succession, the crown descended to Robert. It is said before, that King Edward after his son the Duke of Lancaster was come with his wife into England, had determined to send him over again to make wars The Duke of Lancaster arriveth at Calais in Picardy. But the matter was delayed. For this year was the first time of his arrival at Calais accompanied with the Duke of Britain, and thirteen thousand soldiers. They ranged through a great part of Picardy, putting all to fire and sword, but they abstained from besieging of towns for the French king had long before sufficiently strengthened them with garrisons. And as they marched forward making havoc of all things, the French army still followed without intermission: notwithstanding they never came to join battle, but by intercession of the Pope's legates, a truce was taken, and a time appointed for another meeting at Bruges in Flaunders there to treat of weigher matters. Before this truce was proclaimed, the Duke of Britain by the Englishmen aid, had recovered divers places, and was like to have gotten more, had not the news of this truce been a stay to his proceedings. Therefore discharging his army and leaving good garrisons in the places recovered, he returned into England. About the calends of 1376. November the ambassadors of both Kings repaired to Bruges, that there by mediation of the Pope's Legates, they might treat of a marriage between Richard son to the Prince of Wales, and Marry the French Kings daughter. The matter was diversly debated, but could not be brought to any perfect conclusion. Pope Gregory taking offence thereat, departed from Avinion and went to Rome. About this time Prince Edward the King of England's eldest son, a most worthy and valiant gentleman, ended The death of Prince Edward. his life at London. After whose death king Edward assembling the rest of his sons and the nobility of his realm, declared publicly unto them, his purpose that Richard the son of his son deceased, should succeed in the inheritance of the kingdom. And because he had long since imparted as much both to the noble men and the residue of his sons, before he made his last voyage into France, it was no hard matter to persuade them all to approve his determination, and to confirm the same by oath. Within a while after the King himself also departed King Edward the thirds death and commendation. this life, not without great sorrow of as many as knew him: for he was a Prince so renowned, that even the French King himself, when he heard of his death, gave this report, that he thought him worthy to be numbered amongst the wisest of princes. After his decease, succeeded Richard his grand son, according to his own appointment King Richard 2. 1377. in his life time, and was crowned king of England the eleventh year of his age, Anno Dom. 1377. The Duke of Lancaster was chosen protector, and took upon him the government of the realm during the king's minority, who in the mean while was trained up under the instruction of a certain noble man appointed to that charge by general election. It is declared before how the French King the better to maintain his wars against England, had made a league with the King of Navarre, but it fell out afterward that two gentlemen of the house of Navarre, attending upon the king of Navarres sons in the French court, were had The French King poisoned. in suspicion of giving poison to the King. Which fact when they had publicly confessed before the people, they were put to execution for the same. Immediately hereupon the French King sent an army into the sea coast of Normandy belonging to the King of Navarre, under the conduct of the Constable, who easily subdued all that part 1378. of the country. Besides this, the King of Spain the French kings new confederate, made war also upon the King of Navarre: who being driven to this distress, required aid of Richard King of England, of whom he accordingly obtained it. The Duke of Britain remaining still in England, made importunate suit to the young King from time to time for aid, but the king gave always a dea●e ●are to his request. For the Duke of Lancaster aspiring to get that signory to himself, assembled a power, and sailed over into Britain, where he laid siege to certain places, but the French 1379. army whereof the Constable was general, compelled him to depart. The second Book. IN the former book is declared how the French men recovered a great part of Aquitaine from the English. There were many still notwithstanding in those places, which stood stoutly for the King of England. The Duke of Anjou therefore coming thither with an army subdued in a manner all that ever remained. The Gascoignes had lately before sent into England for succour: but by reason there was trouble and insuirection budding up within the realm, their sending was to none effect. For the Duke of Lancaster who had all the authority in his hands, was much hated by the commons, which afterward was the occasion of much mischief in England. Thus when no forces came from thence to their rescue, the Gascones destitute of all succour, were constrained to yield themselves to the enemy. The French King being a wise and politic prince, held correspondence with all men which might stand him instead, or from whom he expected any commodity or furtherance: considering therefore with himself how the king of England was yet under age, and that trouble and partaking were growing within the realm, he solicited Robert King of Scotland, and put him often in remembrance by his letters, to make war upon the Englishmen now while so great opportunity was offered, that being thereby busied at home, they might not have so good leisure to pass over into France. The scottish King moved with these instigations, and partly of himself desirous to revenge old injuries, especially whilst the King of England was yet in his novage, upon consultation of the matter, sent commandment for the assembling of his people to meet him at a certain time ready furnished and appointed for the wars, upon the borders of England and Scotland. When they were come together, a certain Scottish Lord desirous to show some proof of his vasor and bold courage, associating himself with some few others, in the night season whilst the watch were all sleeping or negligent, without any great difficulty surprised the castle of Berwick. When the governor of the town understood The Castle of Berwick surprised by the Scottish. it, he gathered together a company of the townsmen and early in the morning assoon as any daylight appeared, first broke down the bridge (which was the only passage to issue out,) and then environed the castle round about with a siege, so straightly that it was impossible for his enemy to make any evasion. The people of the country being also certified by him how the matter stood, brought in ten thousand men to his aid. At the tidings whereof, the Scottish men raised their camp to come and rescue their besieged companions. But they were so terrified with the greatness of the English army, that they would not adventure the courtesy of fortune. So in conclusion, assault was given, the castle recovered, and all that were in it were Again recocovered by the English. put to the sword, save only the captain himself, upon whose authority this enterprise was undertaken. After the Castle was thus gotten again, it seemed good to the Englishmen to pursue their enemies in their retreyte, which they likewise did, though it fell out to their own deadly disadvantage, fortune favouring the Scottish. Pope Gregory in time past had made a solemn vow, that if ever he attained to the Papacy, he would never keep his residence any other where then are Rome. This was very offensive to some of the Cardinals which bore scarce good affection to the romans: and it was nothing pleasing to the french King, who was desirous to have had the Pope his nearer neighbour. Therefore he sent his brother the Duke of Anjou to Avinion to persuade with him, but he was not able to divert him from his purpose. So he went to Rome, the place he desired, and within a while after there ended his life. When the Cardinals as the custom is were assembled together for the election of another, the people of Rome began to make great tumult in the court, threatening violent effects of their displeasure, if they made choice of any other to be Pope, than such a one Great tumult about the election of a Pope. as was both by birth and ancestors a Roman: And therewithal rushing in amongst the Cardinals, and with their fury interrupting their business, it came to pass by means of this disturbance, that one was chosen for Pope which was 100 years old. This man the Romans hoist up upon a white Mule, and with great solemnity led him about the City. But the crooked old man weary with this troublesome kind of courtesy, and tired with this tumbling up and down, within three days afeer gave up the ghost. Whereupon ensued another hurly burly, the romans therein with arrogant threats showing themselves more outrageous than before. At length a Roman born was elected and called afterward by the name of Urban the sixth. About the same time died the Queen of Navarre the french king's sister, and by her decease a certain signory in Normandy fell to Charles and Peter the King of Nauarres sons, which were brought up in the french Court. Many counseled the french King to seize into his hands all the King of Navarres possessions in Normandy, and to hold the same till his sons were come of age. The King of Navarre mistrusting as much, requested to have his Sons sent home, pretending that he was purposed to bestow the elder of them in marriage with the King of Spain's daughter. Answer was returned by the french King, that his sons could not be in a better or more honourable place then in his Court. For he would bring them up in all respects, as was fitting for the Sons of a King, and such as were allied in blood to himself. This answer was taken in displeasure by the King of Navarre, who thereupon fortified those places of Normondy against the force of the french men. Many important occasions moved the french King to conceive offence against the King of Navarre, but especially that matter of poisoning, which we told you before was confessed. Wherefore sending an army against him, he subdued Mountpelier, and the country about it, which at that time were under the King of Nauarres subjection. The King of Navarre being thus molested both upon the frontiers of his own kingdom, and in Normandy, (for the French King had sent an army thither also) made request to the King of England by ambassadors, that he might be received into his friendship. The King of England sent him answer, how he thought it expedient, that if he would deal seriously and effectually in matters of such importance, he should come into England himself. This motion was well accepted by the King of Navarre, and accordingly he repaired into England: where recounting his misfortunes, after the matter had been debated in counsel, he was received into league and amity with the King of England, upon these or the like conditions. 1. That from thenceforth ever after he should take part with the English: 2. That he should never make peace with the french King or the King of Spain upon any terms whatsoever, without consent of the King of England and King Richard entereth into league with the King of Navarre. his counsel: 3. That he should fortify the Castle of Chirburg in Normandy, and maintain a garrison in it for three years space to the use of the King of England: 4. That, if it should happen the Englishmen to recover any towns in these quarters from the french, than the King of England to have the profits of the same, the propriety of the places remaining to the King of Navarre. And this especially was most acceptable to the English, because from thence they might always have access into France at their pleasure. It was further agreed, that the King of England should immediately send four thousand horsemen into Navarre to be employed against the Spaniard, and that it should not be lawful for them to depart out of the King of Navarres service, till such time as the wars were finished. This to be done, not at the King of England's charged, but his own. The french King being advertised by some of the King of Navarres own household, that he was purposed to go into England, persuaded the king of Spain to make invasion upon his country in the mean while. The commander of that army which the french King had sent into Normandy was a great soldier, and one well experienced in martial affairs, called the Lord Cowcy. This man whilst the King of Navarre was absent negotiating his affairs in England, recovered many towns and fortresses thereabout, and with so much more facility because he carried in his company Charles the King of Nauarres eldest son; in whose behalf when many heard those wars were undertaken, they stood not much upon resistance▪ Only the Castle of Chirburg remained still to be brought in subjection. Henry King of Castille besieging Bayon (a town of the English dominion) with a great army, had surely enforced them to yield had not the plague consumed his soldiers. Neverthelosse he brought not forth his forces in vain, for he subdued many other towns thereabouts: and besides a great part of his army was conveyed to the siege of Pampelone the chief City of Navarre. I told you before of one Ivan a welsh man, who after the death of his father Prince of Wales, had from thenceforth of a child been brought up under Philip, john, & Charles, Kings of France. This Ivan being grown to man's estate, and desirous of revengement, omitted no occasion whereby he might work displeasure to the English: and in all military employments so demeaned himself, that the french King held him in great reputation. As he lay at the siege of a certain Castle in the country of Burdeloys, and had brought the besieged to that point that famine must of necessity have enforced them to yield, a certain welshman under pretence of bringing private intelligence of his countrymen's good affection, insinuated himself into his acquaintance, and in conclusion waiting opportunity one day when he had no other company about him, cruelly murdered Ivan of Wales treacherously murdered by one james Laube a welsh man, as he lay at the siege of a certain castle called Moctaine. him unawares as he sat idly gazing upon the Castle & combing his head. The rest of the Captains though they were much troubled with this shanefull murder of so gallant a soldier, yet continued their siege very straightly notwithstanding. But upon the approach of a great number of Englishmen coming by sea, both the french men, and Britons (which joined to their aid) were constrained to break up their camp and leave their enterprise unperformed. By this occasion the Englishmen recovered much in the territory of Burdeauz. Amongst other places, the English had besieged a town in Britain called Saint Maloes, at that time in possession Saint Maloes besieged. of the french men. Many assaults were given and those very violent, but the french King then abiding at Rouen, sent an army, whose coming somewhat abated the fury of the assailants, and gave a stop to their proceedings. Nevertheless they went forward with their enterprise and attempted to compass it by undermining. Which when the townsmen perceived, taking the advantage of opportunity, one night very secretly they issued out of the town, and whilst their enemies kept negligent watch, broke up the mines in such sort, that those which laboured in the works underneath, were overwhelmed with the earth which they tumbled upon them. The English thus prevented, and disappointed of their purpose, thought it best for their behoof to return into their cowntrey. Two of the King of England's uncles were chief commanders in this service. john the King of Spain's Son (termed the infant of Spain) and the Constable of Spain together besieged Pampelone. The King of Navarre emboldened with the assistance of the English, valiantly defended himself and was purposed to have given battle in the field: but King Henry upon some occasions recalled his son, and so the army was dispersed. The Englishmen and Navarroys together pursued the Spaniards in their departure, and burned and sacked certain towns and villages upon the frontiers. Wherewith the King of Spain was so vehemently moved, that he raised an army of some forty thousand, in purpose to have besieged Tudell, the place where the King of Navarre wintered. But by mediation of good men, a means was found to make peace between them. Which was, that Charles the King of Nauarres son should take to wife the King of Spain's daughter, and the King of Spain's Son should likewise marry the King of Nauarres daughter. This Charles (as we told you) had been detained certain years by the french King: but at such time as this treaty of marriage took effect, upon the king of Spain's request, he was honourably sent home to her father. Immediately upon the conclusion of these matters, the King of Spain deceased, and john his son with the Henry the bastard King of Castille deceaseth and john his Son succeed. general consent and approbation of the state, was received in his steed. The Duke of Lancaster and his brother (who had married the daughters of Pietro the tyrant slain by King Henry) took it in high displeasure that the matter was knit up in this sort; not a little enuing the new king's coronation. The King of Portugal also was very much offended at the succession of King john, as shall be declared more at large hereafter. The French king being a notable politic Prince, and of great experience in matters of state, to the intent he might more commodiously maintain his wars against Edmond of Langly. the English, sent an ambassador into Scotland to retain the Scottish King in amity and friendship. This man arriving by the way at Sluice in Flaunders from whence he purposed to have proceeded on his journey, was by the magistrate of the town brought before the Earl then remaining at Bruges: where by occasion of some undiscreet speeches, he was reproved and sharply checked with terms of reproach, both by the Earl of Flaunders himself, and by the Duke of Britain; inveighing earnestly against such kind of persons, as the chief causers of all dissension and unquietness. There were others also which put him in fear that if he committed himself to sea, it was likely that the Englishmen lying in weight for such opportunities, would intercept him in his passage. Here upon altering his purposes he returned into France without dispatch of his commission: and upon the report he made of these matters, the french King wrote very sharp letters to the Earl of Flaunders, exhorting and advising him as he tendered his own welfare, that he should not foster his enemy the Duke of Britain. When the Earl had imparted these letters to his counsel, there were none but persuaded him, that a banished Prince forced in such sort to fly his country, was by all means to be relieved: many of them boasting, that if it should come to the push to have wars for the matter, Flaunders was able to withstand the uttermost that France could do. Nevertheless the duke of Britain shortly after of his own accord departed into England, and the minds and affections of his people began to incline more favourably towards him then in former times they had done. It is declared before, how the Cardinals after the death of Pope Gregory, to pacify the tumult of the Romans, had through fear and compulsion chosen Urban the sixth. Now because this Urban by reason of his pride and insolency was misliked of all men, the Cardinals by general consent proceeded to a new election, and chose Robert bishop of Cambrey, called afterwards by the name of Clement. There remained at that time in the territory of the Romans one Robert Budaeus, a m●n honourably descended He is called Silvester Budaeus. Fross. Chro. Li●. 2. in the country of Britain and a stout warrior, having two thousand of his country men under his command. Him did Pope Clement solicit for the maintenance of his quarrel, who nothing misliking the motion, was secretly conveyed with his men into the Castle from thence, to work disturbance to the Romans. On the other side the Romans oftentimes sent the German and Italian soldiers whom they had waged in their defence, against these Britons: and they handled the matter in such sort, that their enemies wearied with their often and continual assaults, were at length constrained to yield up the Castle upon no other conditions, but only the saving of their lives. Robert their captain who was not present at the doing hereof, but lay encamped without the City, when he heard these tidings, weighted opportunity till such time as he understood by his espials, that the Romans should assemble together in the Castle to consult of their affairs: then taking his way through secret passages, and under the evenings covert entering closely into the City even at the fittest time that could be wished for his purpose, he assailed the Romans as they came out of the counsel house, unarmed and suspecting no such matter: of whom he made a terrible slaughter, and killed many of the principal men and chief Citizens amongst them. After the accomplishment of which misch●efe, he returned again to his camp at leisure. When the French King understood that a new Pope was created, he called a convocation of certain estates & chiefly of divines, demanding their opinion whether of the two Popes ought in this diversity to be acknowledged. Their censures for the most part as happeneth in such cases, were variable and different. The Lords of the spiritualty with the King's brothers, and many of the divines, were of opinion that Cleoment ought to be received. This determination pleased the King well, and was immediately proclaimed through the whole kingdom, that a certainty might generally be known for his subjects to trust unto. Of the same judgement were the King of Spain, the Earl of Savoy, the Duke of Milan, and the Queen of Naples. Charles of Boheme the Emperor dissembled his mind, notwithstanding the greater part of the Empire took part with Pope Urban. The Scottish King also inclined to Clement. Lewis Earl of Flaunders affirmed boldly, that open injury was offered to Urban: the Henaulters stood neuter, adhering neither to▪ the one, nor the other. Pope Clement the better to confirm his cause, directed the Cardinal of Poitiers into France and the countries adjoining, to publish in all places where he came, how Urban had been by force and violence utterly against the wills of the Cardinals, intruded into the papacy. It was an easy matter to persuade the French men, who had already given sentence on his side. The Earls of Henault and Barband, omitted not to give him all honourable and courteous entertainment, but for aught else, there was nothing to be obtained at their hands. The Earl of Flaunders had sent him word long before, that he had no desire to talk with him, for he accounted Urban as chief shepherd of the Lords flock, and intended never to forsake him. Moreover Pope Clement sent to Avinion to have his Court prepared and furnished with all things necessary against his coming. About this time the Queen of Naples resorted to the The Queen of Naples cometh to the Pope. Pope to treat with him of very important affairs: and thus stood the case. Lewis of Sicill Duke of Apulia and Calabria, lying upon his death bed, caused this his daughter to come before him & addressed his speech to her in this manner. Thou art now (my dear daughter) to enter upon the inheritance of a most flourishing estate, & I doubt not but many princes will be forward to desire thee in marriage, in respect of this thy goodly and glorious heritage. Therefore if thou wilt follow thy father's counsel, match thyself to a Prince that is rich and powerful whose puissance may be able to defend both thee and thy possessions. And if it happen that thou haste no issue, then make conveyance of all thy patrimony according to the direction of the Pope then being. This my father Robert enjoined me at his death, and this (to discharge myself of that duty) I likewise give in charge to thee again. When the father had discoursed much more to this effect, the daughter devoutly promised in the presence of many, that she would not fail in her duty for the performance of his command. After her father's decease, she was married to Andrew the brother of Lewis the King of Hungary: but of this marriage proceeded no issue, be reason that her husband died very young. Afterward she matched herself to Charles prince of Tarent, and by him had only one daughter. Against this Charles, the King of Hungary moved wars, and subdued from him the countries of Apulia and Calabria, Charles himself being likewise taken prisoner in battle and carried away into Hungary where he ended his life. After him she married to the King of Maiorica, and sent Ambassadors into France to Lewis of Navarre (of whom we have formerly made mention) for the concluding of a match between him and her daughter. Who taking his journey for the same intent, deceased by the way before he could attain the accomplishment of his purpose. The King of Maiorica in hope to recover his father's inheritance, prepared to make sharp wars upon the King of Arragon, by whom it was withholden from him. His wife desirous to retain him still at home, dissuaded him all she could from his intended enterprise, alleging how he already enjoyed a kingdom large and flourishing sufficient of itself to maintain plenty even with superfluity: but she could not prevail. Therefore giving place to his resolution, at his departure she earnestly exhorted him, that he should open all his estate to Charles King of France who was a wise and prudent prince, and declaring to him his injuries received, dispose all his proceedings according to his direction. But the King of Maiorica expecting I know not what greater helps otherwhere, required aid of Prince Edward the king of England's son, who indeed faithfully promised him what he was able to perform. Now during his absence, upon these occasions his wife sent a messenger to the French King, requesting him that out of his royal courtesy he would be a means to procure her a match for her daughter, such a one as both for the nobility of his birth and the worthiness of his person, were fitting for her estate: to the intent that so ample & rich possessions might not at any time fall into the hands of strangers. The french king moved with her reasonable petition, sent a kinsman of of his, unto whom she willingly espoused her daughter. The King of Maiorica as is showed before, ended his life in the pursuit of his enterprise: After his death the Queen married again the fourth time. Whereat the King of Hungaries nephew named Charles, conceiving great offence, made wars upon the new king, and besieging him in a certain castle upon the sea coast, at the winning thereof (which was by composition) he took both him and her prisoners, and with them also her daughter and her husband, which unfortunate pair it fortuned soon after to exchange this life for a better. The king and his wife were both released, upon condition that they should surrender Apulia and Calabria. Which when Charles had once gotten into his possession, thenceforth establishing his estate, & augmenting his puissance by joining in league with the princes round about him, he gaped also for the kingdoms of Naples, Sicill, and Province. The Queen therefore fearing, and in a manner foreseeing that assoon as she were dead, Charles' would with all his forces invade those dominions, repaired to the Pope discoursing to him the whole state of her affairs, and withal beseeching him that he would receive her into his protection. Hereupon by a frank and free grant, she conveyed Naples, Sicill, Calabria, Apulia & Province, absolutely to the Pope, to bestow The Queen of Naples conveyeth her inheritance to the Pope. them all upon whomsoever he pleased hereafter. The Pope accepted this donation of hers very thankfully, & caused instruments of the same made in form of law, to be publicly recorded. Not long after, the Pope at his coming to Avignon bestowed all those seignioryes upon the Duke of Anjou which came thither from toulouse to visit him: and this grant was confirmed to him and to his heirs for ever. The men of Bruges endeavoured with great labour and cost to draw the river Lisander from Gaunt to their town; & The occasion of the Flemish wars. for effecting thereof, kept well near five hundredth men at work. The Gauntoyes being certified of their proceedings, began to make some stir and to show themselves discontent with the matter. There was at that time in Gaunt a marvelous factious fellow and very popular, called john Lion, one that applied his whole study and industry to incense john Lion a seditious fellow in Gaunt, bringeth up the faction of the white caps. the people against their Prince. His counsel being demanded by the commons in this matter; with a set speech and composed countenance, he made answer to this effect. That in truth this attempt of the men of Bruges was not to be tolerated, but withal, that an ancient custom of the city (very laudable though at that time grown out of use) was necessary to be renewed, namely, that all such as were desirous of the ancient liberty, should we are white caps. For (said he) the Gauntoyes have had many and those very notable privileges above others, which by little and little were now worn out of date and utterly extinguished, to the great wrong & prejudice of the citizens: and if they would be so contented still, it would come to pass in the end, that even those that remained should be taken from them. That the city of Gaunt had in times passed so flourished that men of great account held themselves well appayd, and thought no small honour if either by desert, reward, or favour they might obtain to be made free denizens of the city: but now the world was so changed, that no man (no not for benefit & commodity proffered him) would much desire to be admitted into their society. With these and such like speeches he exceedingly stirred up their minds, and easily drew the worse sort of people to follow him. Every man betook him to his white cap: and one day amongst the rest assembling themselves together, they took arms & went forth to destroy the labourers of Bruges. But they having incling thereof, left their work unfinished, and provided for their safety by flight. Another matter which greatly exaggerated their displeasure, was this. The Gauntoys would have had a townsman of theirs set at liberty whom the Earl had caused to be apprehended: exclaiming that thereby their privileges were violated. And therefore when they had sent their messenger to the Sheriff, and could not obtain his deliverance, they made means to the Earl to get him released. The Earl promised he would willingly afford them that pleasure, adding further that he would do nothing whereby their liberties might any way be infringed, and moreover that he would give commandment to the men of Bruges wholly to surcease from their attempted enterprise, and to fill up all those ditches which they had digged and cut out already. Desiring only in the mean time that they would leave of that fashion of wearing white caps, as a thing that ministered perpetual matter of faction and sedition. When this answer was brought to the Gauntoyes, it greatly alienated their affections from the Earl, especially being so exasperated and provoked against him by Lion the author of this insurrection: who persuaded them confidently that if this custom might be abolished, it were the next way to reduce them again into their old subjection and servitude. Now although the Earl of Flaunders entreated his people fair to lay aside their caps, yet nevertheless he sent some two hundred men to have entered unlooked for into the city, who surprising Lion and certain others, should have conveyed them from the people, and committed them to prison. But this matter could not be so covertly handled, but Lion got knowledge thereof, and had leisure both to call the people together and to exhort them with vehement persuasions, that if ever they would fight for the maintenance of their liberty, they should now presently make proof of their valour. Hereupon having some four hundred of his faction about him, he proceeded to the market place: where encountering the governor of the town, he snatched the Earl's ensign out of his hands, and tearing it in pieces, trod it under his feet, killing the governor himself from whom he took it. What should I tell you, how mightily the Earl's patience was moved with this villainy? The citizens & twownedwellers which were of honester minds and better discretion, foreseeing that all things tended to a sorrowful issue, consulted amongst themselves, and sent certain of their principal men to make suit to the Earl for pardon of their offence. The Earl at the first received them somewhat roughly, but afterward lest by severity out of season the mischief might have grown greater, he was content to remit the rigour of his displeasure. Whilst those men traveled about the common benefit, Lion who sought nothing but trouble and disturbance, to the intent he might know the certain number of his followers, mustered them without the town, and found them to be almost ten thousand. Then speaking to them in open audience many and diverse things concerning the maintenance of their liberty, he gave them counsel to pull down a certain castle (which the Earl had lately builded) because from thence the city might be much annoyed: and it was no hard matter to persuade his seditious multitude. So they easily won it having no garrison to defend it, and when they had rifled, it they set it on fire: Lion in the mean time making show as if he had been sorry for the fact, pretending that it happened by mischance, whereas in truth it was committed of mere malice and set purpose. These tidings so troubled the Earl, that he would not endure to hear the messengers of the people speak craving pardon for this offence, as they had done for the other, but there threatened them to punishment as the fact deserved. For he had bestowed a great some of money about the building of this castle, besides the reproachfulness of the action, wherewith his noble spirit was much more provoked then by any other occasion. The Earl made grievous complaint amongst a great company of noblemen & knights assembled at Lisle in Flaunders, of the intolerable pride of his rebellious subjects, and of the unworthy iniu●ies they had offered him; wherewith he so moved their affections, that they all with one consent promised him their uttermostayd and furtherance, and to be ready prepared for any service wherein he would employ them. Hereupon soldiers were forthwith placed in garrisons and wars begun; the very original whereof, is the same which we have already discoursed. When the Earl's mind was thus incensed against the Flemings, Lion having thereby gotten greater opportunity, after he had in open assembly slanderously inveyed against the cruelty and obstinate wilfulness of the adverse party, and under that pretext persuaded the people that it was very necessary to procure their neighbours to join with them in league and confederacy, he again mustered his soldiers by the paul, and found them to be nearhand twelve thousand. Amongst others which followed his faction, were the men of a certain town called Dam: in which town shortly after Lion died very suddenly, not without suspicion of poisoning. The men of Ipre were The death of Lon. likewise of his confederacy, into which town the rebels entering by permission of the commons, slew certain gentlemen that lay therein garrison. After Lion was dead, the Gantoyes created them new captains, and being assisted by the men of Bruges and many other towns which took their part, their number increasing to an infinite multitude, they besieged (a long while to little purpose) The Earl of Flaunders besieged by his subjects. the Castle of Teremund, wherein the Earl of Flaunders at that time remained. Wherefore raising their siege and joining those forces to the rest of their army, they proceeded forward to the town of Arde, which they straitly beleagered, and the townsmen as stoutly defended. Notwithstanding, when no way could be devised to bring victual to the besieged, the Earl foreseeing that the necessity thereof in conclusion would force them to yield, wished secretly that some conditions of peace might be procured between them. Hereunto also his mother the Lady of Artois was marvelously inclined: who but lately before addressing most friendly letters to the Duke of Burgundy (which had married the Earl of Flanders daughter) earnestly besought him that he would employ his diligent endeavour to bring this matter of agreement to effect. For the accomplishment whereof a treaty being had at Tournay, after fifteen days spent in debating of diverse matters (the Gauntoyes in that while showing themselves very arrogant & lusty) at length it was concluded to this purpose. That the Gantoyes should break up their siege before Ard, and within one year next ensuing re-edify the castle which they had lately razed: and that the Earl laying aside all memory of former displeasures, should come and make his residence at Gaunt. The Duke of Britain because he was loath by his long sojourning with the Earl of Flaunders, to procure him the French Kings displeasure, departed from thence (as I told you before) into England. During his continuance there, he received very comfortable The Duke of Britain returneth into his country. letters from almost all the states of his country, soliciting his return home again: whereupon by the King of England's advise he returned, but not without English aid for his better assurance and safety. When the Earl of Flaunders according to his former agreement, was come to Gaunt, he made an eloquent oration before all the people, wherein he at large declared his good affection, (by the way lightly glancing at their ingratitude) and withal (doing the office of a gracious Prince) exhorted them, from thenceforth to maintain peace and tranquillity in the common wealth. For his part, protesting that he would so order all his affairs, as no occasion of trouble should any way be derived from his proceedings. Only this he requested with great earnestness at their hands, that they would forbear that fashion of wearing white caps, and cause the custom thereof to be discontinued. To all the rest of his speech they gave quiet attention, but assoon as he talked of laying aside their caps, ye might have seen the colours and countenances of most of them changed. The Earl (as it is likely) perceiving their minds, and considering with himself that the seeds of discord were generally dispersed amongst them, dismissed his audience and departed out of Gaunt. This was a pleasant spectacle to the seditious, but the honestly affected were greatly grieved that this private grudge and inward debate should thus be more and more augmented. After the Earl of Flaunders had forsaken the town of Gaunt, a certain gentleman moved with desire of revenge for the death of the governor his kinsman lately murdered by the rebels, made defiance to the Gauntoys, & by occasion set upon certain merchants as they were sailing up the river of Skeld with corn for provision of the town. He took them and cut off their hands & put out their eyes: which fact of his was generally interpreted by townsmen as done by the Earl's direction. The seditious sort, as if hereby a gap had been opened to do what mischief they listed, assembled to the number of five thousand men, and suddenly surprised Arde, (which at that time was unfurnished for defence, expecting no danger in regard the peace was so lately concluded) and when they had taken it, beat down certain gates and towers, and that part of the wall which looked towards Gaunt. Then the Earl being as it were overcome, and vanquished with their intolerable outrage, after he had by his messengers directed into the City, laid open in plain terms before the people, both their wicked proceedings, and his patient forbearance, proclaimed open wars and utter enmity against them. In the mean season those citizens which were desirous of peace, persuaded and prevailed with the rest, that to mitigate the Earl's displeasure, they should make restitution of the town they had taken, and banish certain of the chief authors of the enterprise. This thing gave the Earl some satisfaction. And for example sake, he put to death certain commoners of the town of Ipre, which had been chief movers of the late insurrection. Upon the report whereof, the rebels and ringleaders of mischief at Gaunt, began to mistrust that all would be amiss on their sides also. Wherefore following the counsel of one of their own stamp (who was of opinion that liberty could not be procured, but by subversion of the nobility and gentlemen's estates) they overthrew and beat down all the Castles and gentlemen's houses they could come to, and rifling their goods, divided the spoil amongst them. The gentlemen moved with this violent injury, and increased in number by the loss of their substance, upon complaint to the Earl, obtained his licence and with such power as they procured, made cruel wars upon the Gauntoys. Who fearing lest the Earl should procure aid out of France, they sent messengers afore hand to the French King, beseeching him that he would not take arms against their common wealth; affirming that they contended with their Lord and endured the discommodities of war, not upon any wilful obstinacy, but in desire to maintain their liberty. The french King being already scarce well pleased with the Earl of Flaunders for harbouring the Duke of Britain, both condescended to their requests, and gave them encouragement. Pope Clement also, whom the Earl had refused to acknowledge, was nothing forgetful thereof, but kept it in mind against occasion should serve, to work him as great a displeasure. When the Duke of Britain (as we have told you) being King Richard aideth the Duke of Britain. called home by his subjects letters, was returned into his country, the King of England according to promise sent a number of soldiers to his succour: but by violence of tempest they were driven back into England. The duke in the mean while not knowing hereof, and wondering at the occasion of their delay, solicited the King again for aid. hereupon the King sent on of his uncles, (the youngest son of King Edward) and with him six thousand men. After Thomas of Woodstock the Earl of Buckingham. he had passed through a good part of France, when he approached near his enemy the Duke of Burgundy, the French Kings brother; the Duke was desirous to have given him battle; but the French King for weighty considerations commanded the contrary, presupposing it would come to pass that they might be dissevered of themselves. And as he was endued with a kind of fortunate discretion for the managing of his affairs, he practised by his letters as secretly as might be with the men of Nants, (a rich and populous City in those quatres) putting them in remembrance of their duty, and earnestly desiring them that they would not take part with his enemies against him. They in regard of their affection to France, promised assurance of their good will and faithful endeavour, thereby discharging the king's mind of all doubts, and that they might better make resistance against their enemies, they requested him to send a convenient number of soldiers to remain with them in garrison. The Englishmen after a cumbersome journey and many difficulties, at length arrived in Britain. My author reporteth that the Engligmen were wont to observe this custom: that when they went forth to warfare into any foreign country, they were solemnly sworn to their King, first to conceal and in any wise to keep secret all counsels and purposes concerning the service undertaken: and then that they should conclude no absolute peace with the enemy, but with the consent and approbation of their King and his nobility. As the Englishmen (according to my former speech) were marching through the midst of France towards Britain, King Charles the wisest and most prudent Prince of his times, fell gre●uously sick. It is declared before how certain of the King of Nauarres friends had given him poison. The op●… of which poison was so violent, that both his hair an●… nails fell off, and his body became so withered, that scarce the image of a man remained. Nevertheless the Emperor sent him a certain German physician, who abated the force thereof in such sort, both nails and hair and health also by little and little returned. But his body could never be so clearly purged, King Charles' the 5. dieth of poysontaken long before. but some part of the venom remained, which being drawn into his arm, distilled out at an issue made for the purpose. And the physician told him at his departure, that whensoever that issue dried up, he should not live long after. Therefore despairing of health, and feeling his own weakness, he sent for his brethren the dukes of Burgundy and Berry, with the Duke of Bourbon, to whom he spoke in this manner: (as for the Duke of Anjou because he seemed so His speech at his death. gripple and covetous, he desired not his presence.) I feel undoubtedly my dear brothers, that I cannot long continue amongst you. Therefore I commend Charles my son to your tuition, beseeching you that you will be always assistant to him with your wisdom and counsel, as it becometh uncles to assist their nephew which must undergo the weight of so great a burden, and that in so tender years as he can no ways be able to help himself. Assoon as I am dead, let it be your care to see him crowned: for in you I repose all my trust and confidence. Ye see he is but a very child, and therefore shall stand in need of good bringing up and wholesome instruction. So let him be taught, and trained up in all points pertaining to the office of a king, as it may appear to the world that you have performed your duties. And for a wife when time shall serve and years be fitting, let me entreat you to make his choice, for birth and estate such a one, as by her match the realm may rather be honoured, then impaired. I have had much conference with a certain Astronomer of great learning and judgement; who told me, that in the time of his youth he should be put to much trouble and disquietness, and should escape many casualties of fortune. Surely I have often and very much considered with myself, by what occasions such things should come to pass. For at this present through the divine favour, ye have a state reasonable quiet and settled. Of Flaunders I know not what to think: the Duke of Britain is subtle, a friend to the English, an enemy to us: therefore it is behoveful that ye retain the chief Cities of Britain in love and amity, for by this means shall the Duke's counsels be frustrate. Surely the Britons deserve to be commended, and are worthy to be well esteemed: for they have always done me faithful service, both in defending my kingdom, and pursuing my enemies. Send into Germany, to provide a wife for my son in those quarters, that by such means the bond of league and friendship betwixt us may be more strongly combined. Ye have heard how the King of England takes the same course, and seeks a wife from thence, that he may strengthen and establish his affairs by such alliance. This realm of ours (as we see) is much disquiered, and suffereth many displeasures by the English: I beseech you endeavour to take away all such occasions of war and enmity. For howsoever I may seem to have nourished wars, yet in my heart I have utterly abhorred them, and the thought thereof at this present moves no small remorse in my conscience. These and many other things were spoken by him to the like effect. The Duke of Anjou was absent as I told you a little before, notwithstanding by messengers that went and came, he easily understood how all things passed: and upon advertisement from some of his friends remaining at the Court, he came to Paris the same day that the King ended his life. As 1380. soon as he heard certainly that the King was dead, incontinently he seized upon all the king's apparel and jewels and whatsoever else was there of worth or value. For at the same time he had determined upon a journey into Naples, towards the furniture whereof he had need of many such necessaries, especially being so augmented in honour as he was lately before by the gift of Pope Clement. Now although it were appointed by the kings will who should have the administration of his goods, yet nevertheless the duke of Anjou took it upon him, & his brothers did not greatly gainsay him, peradventure in respect he was their elder. Afterward it was decreed by the Peers of the Realm, that so soon as the coronation of their new King were finished, the government of the state should be committed to his uncles, to remain in their hands till the king 1380. came to one and twenty years of age. To the coronation of this King were called Albert Duke of Bavaria, the The coronation of Charles the fixed. Earl of Savoy, and the dukes of Gelder's and juliers: there were also present Wenceslaus Duke of Braband, with the duke of Lorraine, the Earl of March, and others. The Earl of Flaunders excused himself. The young King was then twelve years old, he had one brother, and one sister, both, by father and Mother; their names were Lewis, and Katherine. After these solemnities ended, great consultation was had about matters concerning the honour and safety of the kingdom. At length it was concluded, that the duke of Berry should govern all that province which is commonly called Languedoc, the duke of Burgoine should rule Picardy and Normandy, and the duke of Anjou remaining about the king's person, should have the chief government of the whole kingdom. King Charles was a Prince so wise and prudent, that sitting The commendation of King Charles the 5. in his gown at Paris in ease and quietness, he recovered many things by counsel and policy, which his predecessors fight themselves in the field with all the forces they could make, had lost before in battle, to their enemies. And amongst other vexations which happened to King Edward at his last voyage that he intended into Britain for the rescue of his men besieged, when he was forced back by the extremity of weather: this one thing troubled him above the rest, that he must make war with such an enemy as never bore arms, nor came into the field: whereupon it is reported he should say, that he never dealt with any enemy which used so little armour and put him to so much trouble. For indeed King Charles after he came to the crown, never put on armour himself, but managing all his affairs by wisdom and policy, committed the execution thereof to his brothers. Charles the sixth. IT is showed before how the youngest son of King Edward passed with his forces through France into Britain to aid the Duke: who albeit he were recalled by his subjects (as I told you) yet the King of France wrought so much by his policy that he found small faithfulness, and but cold affection in many of them, especially in the people of Nants and some others. When the duke Thomas Earl of Buckingham. discoursed of his unfortunate adventures, and the subtlety of his enemies proceedings, the King of England's son always comforted him and promised assurance of friendship and succour. So they agreed between themselves to besiege the town of Nants with both their forces united together, and the Englishmen went about it without Nants besieged. further delay. The Duke of Britain in the mean time solicited his people to furnish him with succours for the proceeding in his enterprise. But they made him answer, that they would in no wise waste their own country for the Englishmen pleasures, and that they would never take arms in his quarrel so long as the Englishmen lingered in Britain. This was the very occasion and impediment which made him break promise with the English. And the King of England's son marveling what the matter meant, began to be somewhat offended, especially because there came no news at all from the duke (the messengers which carried letters between them being indeed cut off by the way.) At length after long and daily expectation when he had spent two months in the siege, finding that all he could do of himself was but labour lost, unless more forces came from his confederate, leaving his enterprise unperformed, he himself took his journey to the duke, intending to know directly what was his purpose & resolution. The Duke advisedly purged himself, imputing the blame to his people, by whose treachery being deceived, he was not able to perform his promise. Nevertheless, to render his friend some satisfaction, he gave him leave to winter with his army at Vannes. During the time that Nants was besieged, certain noble men of Britain of more eminent respect and authority than the rest, had some communication with their Prince in these words, or the like. Sir, you sufficiently declare and manifestly show, that you are wholly addicted to the English nation. But what fruit or commodity, what honour or advancement, do you expect from their friendship? what motives induce you to observe them with such affection? For when you have brought them into Britain, they shall bereave you of your goods, and dispossess you of your inheritance descended from your ancestors, and this they will do if ever they obtain the upper hand of the French men. Let the King of Nauarres example move you: who in regard of the singular good opinion he had conceived of their faithfulness, committed into their hands the town and castle of Chirburg: whereinto being once admitted, they would never out of it but held it for ever after as their own. By like occasion, if through your sufferance and favour they be once received into our cities here, never persuade yourself that they will at any time forego them: for they may always have aid out, of their own country at pleasure, whereby their courage shall be refreshed, & their forces renewed. We need not seek far for a precedent: see you not how they detain Breast, a town entirely of your own signory and jurisdiction? But when will they find time to restore it again? assure yourself for certainty they intent nothing less. Let this therefore be your warning, and hold yourself well appayd that you are beloved of your people, who are resolutely of this mind and purpose, never to forsake the French king to pleasure the English, will you for your wives sake, because you have married an English woman, take a course to overthrow yourself and your estate? will you therefore adventure the loss of so goodly and large an heritage, for the keeping whereof you have sustained so many perils and so great dangers? will you be at the charge to maintain soldiers perpetually? what are you able to perform of yourself, when your subjects shall forsake you, yea and take arms and fight against you also? But omitting all these reasons and considerations: the French King is now dead which was so vehemently incensed against you, and in his place his son succeeded, who is yet very young and of no evil disposition, we will apply our endeavours to reconcile you unto him, that friendship and amity may be established between yo●. So shall it come to pass, that both you shall enjoy your own without trouble or disturbance, and these Englishmen finding their expectations and purpose prevented, shall get them home into their country. The Duke although he were much moved with this kind of discourse, yet dissembled the matter for fear of giving offence to the English. And the noble men which had given him this counsel, thinking it was no time to use longer delay, posted secretly to the French King lying then at Paris, where declaring what had passed, they treated for peace. The English general not knowing what was in hand, purposed against the next spring to have had new supplies out of England, and to have made sharper wars in France then before. The French men themselves mistrusted as much: foreseeing that at one time or other some great mischief would befall them from the English. The Britons which negotiated with the King for agreement, perceiving that such a matter was feared in France (like discrect commissioners who observe all things diligently in such occasions, and apply the same to their own advantage) in their treaty of peace, did marvelously exaggerate that point, and with great policy, insomuch that by mentioning such matters and casting doubts thereupon, they had the French King far easier to be dealt with in all their affairs. The Duke of Anjou (as I told you) was chief in authority: who for that he was purposed shortly after to take his journey into Calabria and the other provinces which he had obtained in gift from the Pope, intended nothing less than that France should be troubled with any new wars, by occasion whereof he might lose the opportunity of performing what he had before determined. Therefore accepting the counsel of the Briton commissioners, so much rather for the doubts of future war which they had suggested into his opinion, he willingly condescended to the motion of agreement. So it was concluded, to this effect: that the Duke of Britain being received into The Duke of Britain reconciled to the French king, forsaketh the English. the French kings favour, should do homage to him for his Dukedom, with performance of all rights belonging to such ceremonies. And further, to the intent that the English general (who upon the Duke's request had traveled such an infinite compass of ground to come to his aid) might in some sort be honourably satisfied, it was permitted to the Duke to furnish him with ships and all other things necessary for the conveying of him and his people again into his country. The English general seeing himself thus deluded, and deceived, would admit no excuses, but full of indignation, hoist sails to the wind & made homeward into England. About this time the Earl of Flaunders was exceedingly incensed against the Gauntoyes for their intolerable proud and arrogant demeanour. It happened the same time very fortunately for him, that variance rose amongst the men of Bruges, between the Aldermen and the Commons: insomuch that the magistrate wrote letters to the Earl, instantly desiring his presence. Whereupon he came, and having put to death some five hundredth one & other, he received the town into his protection, with certain other of their neighbours which were desirous of the like favour. Being therefore emboldened by the accession of these forces, he determined to chastise the men of Ipre, who had slain certain gentlemen of his household, and received the Gauntoyes into their town. At their request, the Gauntoyes their confederates sent three thousand men to aid them. The Earl's army with the help of the men of Bruges amounted well near to the number of twenty thousand. The Gantoyes therefore augmented their power likewise by levying nine thousand more: and so proceeding some miles on their way, they sent word to their fellows, that they should also bring forth their men into the field, that so with united forces they might jointly assail their enemy. There came forth some eight thousand, who when they had marched a while in order of battle, arriving at a three-way leete, and consulting among themselves which way was to be taken, at length they followed the same which was forelaid before by any ambush of the Earls soldiers: whereinto being once fallen, before they could clear themselves from the danger, and come to join with their confederates, they lost three thousand of their men, the rest hardly escaping by flight. The party which gave them counsel to enter that passage, being accused of treason for his labour, was by the people in their fury and uproar admitting no excuse, miserably slain and torn in pieces one limb from another, every man snatching some part to wreak his particular malice. The unhappy wretch (doubtless) had this punishment undeserved: for had he committed such a villainy, surely he would never have trusted himself in their hands afterward. After this good success, the Earl forthwith addressed himself to the siege of Ipre, now whilst they were all in this fear & perplexity. But the men of Ipre terrified with the late accident, submitted themselves to his mercy. Being received into the town, he put to death some 700 commoners, and sent three hundredth or thereabouts of the wealthier sort, prisoners to Bruges. Many other towns following the example of Ipre, yielded themselves likewise to his obedience. The Gauntoyes therefore which now in a manner alone stood out against him, were besieged, but it could not be done so straitly, but that victual and provision might freely be conveyed into the town at one gate or another. For the place is naturally very strong, both in regard of the ground whereupon it is situate, and the commodity of two rivers called Skeld and Lise running by it: therefore he had need of a very populous army that should environ it on all sides. The townsmen mustered themselves by paul, and there were found of such as for their years were able to bear arms, to the number of four score thousand. They so little esteemed the siege that even then whilst their enemies lay before the city, they went forth and sacked certain towns of Flaunders. Amongst others the men of Bruxelles favoured them exceedingly: and the Liegeois also would surely have sent them succour, but that the great distance between them was a hindrance to their purpose. The Earl perceiving he did but lose time and labour in besieging Gaunt, for that the winter also approached, broke up his siege & dispersed his army. In the beginning of the next spring he 1381. levied some twenty thousand men and besieged Gawre. The captain that lay there in garrison desired help of the Gauntoyes, and they presently sent a band of six thousand: who falling by chance upon some six hundredth soldiers of Arde, which upon commandment were marching in great haste towards the Earl, oppressed them with their multitude, and slew them every one. Besides this, one Peter Peter de Boys. de Bois a valiant fellow, receiving other six thousand men of the Gauntoyes, had covenanted with him that went before to the relief of Gawre, that he should not fight with the Earl, but jointly together with both their forces. But the other notwithstanding, hearing that his enemy approached ready to give battle, was so inflamed with desire of honour, that without further expecting the company of his assistant, though his own power were far too weak for such an encounter, yet he put his men in order against the enemy. The Earl divided his battle into five squadrons, in every of which were four thousand soldiers, and giving charge upon his enemies, albeit they valiantly defended themselves, yet by reason of their small number, unable to sustain so great violence, he soon overthrew them and put them to flight. His horsemen pursued the chase with great cruelty: and when they had withdrawn themselves for refuge into a certain monastery thereby, the Earl because none of the whole rout should escape, caused fire to be set on all the housing about it. There were two Captains over these forces, whereof the one fight valiantly at the gate of the place was there slain, the other which had gotten himself up into a tower, was compelled at length by violence of the flame which had now caught hold of every thing about him, to leap down headlong amongst the thickest of his enemies, where being received upon their pikes and sword points, he was hoist up again into the fire and so ended his life. All the rest perished miserably in the fire, three hundredth only excepted which took their flight directly homeward towards Gaunt, and so escaped. This Peter de Boys whom we spoke of, being not far of, saw in what distress his fellows remained, and beheld the sad spectacle of their destruction, but by reason of a river and certain marshes between, he was not able to come time enough to their rescue. For which cause assoon as he came home with his company to Gaunt, he had like to have been slain by the common people. But he alleged such reasonable excuse, that he gave them contentment, and withal persuaded them, that in regard they had lost two expert men of war in this defeat, they should authorize some one other by whose industry they thought the affairs of the common wealth might be better directed: for so it was needful having to deal with such a cruel enemy. The Earl dismissing a good part of his army, sent the rest into garrisons, but especially to the defence of Arde. In the mean time about twelve hundred of the faction of the white caps, having advertisement what time certain gentlemen would range abroad out of Arde to fetch in some booty, broke out of an ambush upon them as they returned with their prey, and put most of them to the sword. But they escaped not scotfree with this trick: for themselves being circumvented with like policy, by the companions of those that were slain few or none of them returned to boast of their enterprise. The wealthier and honester sort of citizens in Gaunt did greatly lament (though secretly to themselves) that the state of their common weal was thus crazed and shaken, their Captains and men of war being from time to time killed up, and themselves also by little and little consumed by the Earl of Flaunders. For such rascall●es and base varlets as in time of peace were of no reputation, but rather esteemed as beggars, by reason of their number and power, were now in chief authority and ruled all things in the city at their pleasure. And because in these troublesome affairs they might both do & command what they listed, they were well pleased with this bloody spectacle of daily tumult and insurrection. Moreover Peter de Boys the very wellspring of mischief, considering with himself that howsoever matters should fall out, and though the Earl were reconciled to the Ganntoys, yet he should hardly escape without peril of his life, began to look about for a fellow whom he might commend to the people for their purpose, such a one indeed as could stir sedition cunningly, and would persist in the maintenance thereof to the uttermost. At last he bethought himself of Philip de Artevill, the son of jaques often Philip of Arteuill. heretofore mentioned; who albeit in regard of his disposition and sufficiency, he were a fellow fit for such employment, yet because his father was slain (in such sort as we have formerly declared) by the Gauntoyes, he always kept himself within the compass of a private life. In every place as on passed through the city, a man might have heard the people's words wishing again either for jaques whom they had already killed, or some other such like whom they might follow as their captain and governor. Boys making use hereof to his advantage, broke the matter to some of his own faction, but not before such time as he had conferred with Philip, whom by declaring these circumstances, proposing great rewards, and se●ting before his eyes what honour he might obtain by this means in such a city as Gaunt, he easily alured to his purpose. The next day he began to commend Philip to the people, taking occasion at his father jaques, how there was never any who with greater fidelity had governed the state of Flaunders than he: whereof the old men of the country, to whom the truth thereof was known, could sufficiently bear witness how he had always most earnestly defended the honour and profit of the country, which could not possibly have escaped extreme misery long ago, had it not been preserved by the wisdom of that one man alone, wherefore for his part he thought his countrymen should not do amiss to choose an imp of the same stock (being no worse than it was) to place in the common wealth for the maintenance of public welfare. Through these persuasions the people made choice of Philip to be their Captain. It is declared before how john the son of Henry king of Cast●e, was by general consent of the state admitted to the succession of the crown. This much displeased Ferdinando King of Portugal, who held it a great indignity that the son of a bastard should be exalted to the government of so great a dominion, and the lawful King's daughters be disinherited the while: of whom as we have said before, the Duke of Lancaster had married one, and his brother the other. Moved therefore with the unworthiness Edmond of Langly. of the matter, and also because he was allied in blood to the Ladies, he proclaimed wars against the King of Spain, desiring aid of the King of England, who sent his uncle the Earl of Cambridge with an army, having also in his company Isabella his wife and john his son. The Duke of Lancaster was sent into Scotland to treat with the Scottish King for the renewing of peace, or at least wise to take a truce for a season. During his absence, there sprung up a most perilous insurrection, the occasion whereof in effect was this. The country people in those places (as in diverse others) hold their livings of the Nobility and Gentlemen, in such sort as they are bound both to till their lands, to fell their corn, to gather it together, bestow it in their barns, thrash it, dress it, and whatsoever else belongs unto it: they are also bound to cut their wood and carry it home to their Landlord's houses. Now the same time there was a certain mass priest called Sir john Wallis, who had preached in his sermons to the people, that equality ought to be observed in all things, that one man was no better than another, the gentleman then the churl, the rich then the poor, the learned then the ignorant: but all men were derived from the self same parents, even Adam & Eve, and that our first forefathers lived all after one sort, without any inequality of state, or difference of persons. Herewithal he persuaded them to assemble in great number, and make suit to the King for redress, who because he was young, might perhaps be brought to hearken to their requests, or if he would not, then to set themselves at liberty by the sword. This priest being apprenhended and committed to prison for these matters, was by the Archbishop of Canterbury let loose, upon what conscience I know not, but sutelie it proved to his own sorrow and confusion. For after he was once abroad, he proceeded with his enterprise more boldly than before. The poorer sort of the Londoners for envy they bore to the rich (as it is commonly seen) commended this course of the rebels, and by letters solicited them to come to London, promising to give them entrance into the City. hereupon gathering their company together both out of all the country adio●ing, and from some places further of, well near to the number of threescore thousand, they came to Canterbury a town of their own faction, and there spoiled the shrine of Saint Thomas. Next dare marching forwards, they beat down to the ground all houses in their way which belonged not to some of their conspiracy, and which way soever they went they compelled all husbandmen to be partakers of their proceedings. At Rochester they took a certain knight by force, and Sir john Newton captain of the Castle of Rochester. At Blackheath. made him to become their leader: and for assurance that he should not deceive them, made him deliver his children into their hands for pledges. When they came within a little of London, they sent him to the King with this message, that they were minded to have some speech with him concerning weighty affairs, and therefore that he should come forth and talk with them. The King upon deliberation, made answer that he would perform their request. So the next day accompanied with certain lords he entered his barge, and rowing near the place where they were descended to the shore in great number expecting his coming, he demanded of them what they would with him? They required that he would come out of his barge to parley, and then their demands should be declared unto him. But the King distrusting their multitude, without any further communication returned back again. Then being more vehemently moved, they hastened to London, making spoil of some lawyers and gentlemen's houses in their way. And when they approached the City, finding the gates shut against them, they threatened to set fire on the suburbs, with the cruelest effects of their fury beside, and that if they entered by force, it should be to the utter destruction of all that were in it. The Citizens herewith dismayed, especially considering that a great number within inclined to sedition and tumult, gave them entrance. They were no sooner come in but presently they ranged through all the taverns and tippling houses and fell to drinking and making good cheer, no man presuming so much as once to say them nay of any thing. The Captains in the mean while with some twenty thousand, Wat Tiler. jack straw & john Ball. The Savoy. marching through the midst of the City, set fire on the duke of Lancaster's house, and some others which they burned to the ground. They put all strangers to the sword and rifled the houses of the Exchangers. In the evening they assembled themselves altogether again in a company before the tower (where the King then remained, and with At Saint Katherine's. him a great number of the chief of the city) openly protesting that they would never from thence till such time as they had obtained their purpose. The King & some others thought it best to have set upon them in the night season as they lay negligently dispersed and unarmed, overwhelmed with sleep & drunkenness, and so to have defeated them. Others to whom this attempt seemed dangerous and of great uncertainty in the event, judged it better that means were made to pacify them with some gentle and plausible oration. And this counsel took effect. The day following the King sent them word, that as many as would speak with him should repair to a certain place where he would Mile end. meet them, and give satisfaction to their demands. Many came, and many tarried still in the city, especially the chief captains of the sedition: who assoon as the King was gone forth, followed with some four hundredth of Wat Tiler, jack Straw, & john Ball. their companions broke into the tower, and there surprising the Archbishop of Canterbury Lord Chancellor of England, they cut of his head, and served divers others also Simon Sudbury. of great account in the same sort, whose heads they pricked upon poles, and set them up upon the bridge, and other places of greatest view and most resort in the city. When the King came to communication with the rebels, he demanded gently of them, what they required? Marry (quoth they) that thou set us and our Children and our posterity that shall come after us at liberty for ever, and being so enlarged, maintain and preserve us from all manner of bondage and servitude, either in show, or substance. The King promised to fulfil their requests, and thereupon signed & delivered unto them certain writings and charters for the same, wherewith a great part of them were reasonably well satisfied, and began to be much more tractable. But the principal heads of rebellion which, as I told you, abode still behind, being villains of most wicked disposition, whose only desire was to make a prey of rich men's goods, had drawn together in the mean time some twenty thousand with part of the commonalty intending to have fallen to rifling presently. But the King coming unawares (though not out of season) upon them, as he returned from parley with the rebels at the place appointed without the city, espying such a multitude together, paused a while to understand the matter. Immediately one of those varlets It was in Smith seld. Wat Tiler. stepping forth, began to talk to him in a very rude and contemptuous fashion, having formerly given in charge to his companions, that at a certain sign or watchword which he would give them, they should rush violently forth and kill all that were abount the King, whom only he would have spared in regard of his age. As he continued in his arrogant speeches and behaviour to the King, the Mayor of the City disdaining thereat, thrust him through with his sword. Then might ye have seen the enraged William Walworth. multitude in a blind fury even ready to have destroyed them all: but the King pacified them pressing himself alone into the thickest of them, which otherwise perhaps might have seemed a poin● of indiscretion; but the success warranted the action. Many counseled the King to have pursued them in their departure, and to have set upon them as they were separated and dispersed. But the king would not allow of that course, nor suffer any violence as then to be used towards them: thinking that with more ease and better leisure he might take punishment of them at his pleasure hereafter. Neither were all offenders alike: for, as in such commotions it happeneth, a great sort were taken up by the way perforce, and compelled to go along with the rest for company. And he used this gentleness the rather because the chief captains and ringleaders of this mischief, being detected by the people, they only might be put to death, and the residue be pardoned. The Earl of Flaunders once again besieged Gaunt, assembling men of war out of Henault and Artoys, the Lordship Gaunt besieged by the Earl of Flaunders. whereof was lately befallen him by the death of his mother. In the mean time a certain Captain of his, winning a little village belonging to the Gauntoys called Grantmont, slew all that were in it, every one both old men, women, and Children, not sparing so much as women with child, and those that lay sick in their beds. The churches were destroyed with fire, and the town laid level with the ground. It happened the author of this so miserable and unmerciful spectacle, in a certain skirmish (such as there were many) falling into an ambush of the Gauntoys, to be slain. The Earl taking his death very grievously (for he had not any man about him whom he more dearly esteemed) broke up his siege, conceiving greater displeasure against the Gauntoys then before. Nevertheless by mediation of the Lords of Henault and Braband, and upon the earnest suit of the people, peace was again concluded. Amongst other articles this was one, that within fifteen days after, the Gauntoys should deliver two hundredth persons such as the Earl should nominate, to be disposed of at his pleasure. Peter de Bloys and Philip of Artevill having secret intelligence hereof, and suspecting themselves might be some of the number, provided a competent crew of their faction to be in a readiness at all assays, and the next morning when the articles of peace were read publicly in the townhouse, they entered in strongly accompanied, and slew two Aldermen of great account: the same which were chief agents for the town in this treaty of agreement. With this fact the Earl was so exceedingly provoked that it seemed from thence forth he would never have come to any composition with the Gauntoyes before he had utterly rooted out the whole rabble of that seditious generation. About this time happened an insurrection in Paris: the Commotion in Paris. citizens requiring that the late subsidy and new exactions imposed upon them, might be taken away, from payment whereof they pleaded immunity by a grant they had obtained from King Charles the fifth, which they said the new King at his coronation had likewise confirmed. The King to whom it was unpleasing and tedious to live amongst contentious persons, departed out of Paris to Meaulx. The people in the mean while rising in an uproar, broke up the prisons, let out the prisoners, and killed certain of the king's officers. At length a certain noble man of the The Lord Coucy. court who was very well beloved of the people, being sent to appease the tumult, dealt with the citizens in such sort, that they were content in regard of the necessity of the time, to disburse weekly ten thousand sranks towards the maintenance of the king wars and payment of his soldiers. Another uproar happened also at Rouen not unlike to this at Paris, but it was suppressed by the King himself. Many Cities and common wealths following the footsteps of the Gauntoys (whom they extolled with high commendation as most stout defenders of their liberty) rebelled against their magistrates. Behold to what ruin all things tended, if by the industry of valiant Princes, these evils had not been restrained. The Earl of Cambridge of whom we spoke before, making a long passage for want of good weather, after he had been much tossed upon the seas with the contrary winds, at last arrived with all his soldiers at Lisbon in Portugal: When he had tarried there certain months, the King of Portugal bestowed all his men in garrisons, giving commandment that they should not attempt any thing against the enemy without his knowledge and direction. The englishmen and Gascoines unacquainted with idleness, and desirous to be employed in some exercise of arms, upon a time when they could not obtain licence of the King, went forth of their own heads, and winning certain holds of the Spaniards, placed garrisons in them and returned. No other memorable service was performed of many months after, by means whereof the King of Spain had time and leisure more then enough, to make sufficient preparation for his defence. He had aid also sent him out of France, which was allowed free passage through Arragon by reason of the league that was confirmed between both kings upon conclusion of the marriage, as we have discoursed already. The King of England sending ambassadors into Germamany, to Charles King of Bohemia, requested to have his King Richard marrieth Anne sister to Charles King of Bohemia. sister to wife. The matter was debated a twelvemonth and more, and at last took effect. The french King to the intent to hinder this marriage, gave commandment to the Normans to enter the seas with a puissant fleet, and to intercept the new Bride with all her train in their passage. But the Duke of Braband, putting him in mind how unfitting it were for his honour to attempt such an enterprise against a company of silly women unable to make resistance: partly by the justness of his request, and partly by entreaty and persuasion, diverted the king from his purpose. It was covenanted between the King and the Parisians, that the money which they were to pay weekly should be kept by the treasurer of the City, and no part of it to be expended about any other occasion but only in time of necessity for the maintenance of men of war. Now the french King when he should send his succours unto Spain, required the treasurer to disburse an hundredth thousand franks for the use of that service. The treasurer neither refusing, nor performing, delayed the matter with frivolous excuses. The duke of Anjou at that time standing in great favour with the people, to the intent the more commodiously to furnish himself for his journey into Naples, wrought secretly in such sort, that no part of this money was sent to the King: but having all the authority in his own hands, found means to bring the matter so about, that the whole sum which the King demanded, was without any grudging delivered to himself. Being therefore plentifully furnished with all The Duke of Anjou taketh his journey into Italy. things needful, and having gathered together about thirty thousand men, he proceeded on his voyage. When he arrived at Avignon where Pope Clement then remained, he found the hearts of the noblity marvelously inclined towards him. Afterward leaving Provence, he passed through Italy into Apulia and Calabria: of which countries when with most earnest affection of the people he had taken possession, he took his way towards Naples. But the Neapolitans were altogether addicted to his adversary, Charles the King of Hungaries nephew heretofore mentioned. This Charles after the death of the Queen of Naples, who left no issue of her own to enjoy her inheritance, usurped the title and dominion of all these signiories: affirming that the Pope's gift to the Duke of Anjou was for two especial causes of no force nor value. First, because it was not in the deceased Queen's power to alienate those things that were not her own: which opinion of his the Neapolitans and Sicilians stoutly maintained. And again, though it had been most free for her to dispose of them all at her pleasure, yet because in those countries they acknowledged Urban for chief bishop, and not Clement to whom and from whom that conveyance was made, the gift must necessarily be void and frustrate. Charles had long before furnished Zeuf an enchanted castle: see Fros: Chro: Lib: 2. Cap: 391. with all manner of provision a certain castle called Leuf, planted (as the people say) by art Magic, encompassed on every side with the sea and so impregnably fortified, that by any other means then by such like skill, it was impossible to be conquered. Into this castle abundantly stored with all necessaries for certain years, he withdrew himself and his retinue: taking no great thought for the rest, in regard he was well assured that the Neapolitans would never forsake him, and as for Calabria though he lost it for the present, yet after a year or two he made no question to recover it. For he knew the Duke must always maintain a great army in pay for fear of rebellion, which he could not long continue, but either want of money or victual would force him to great inconvenience. So that his power being weakened and his numbers dispersed, he might easily be overthrown and driven out of the country. But there was a certain conjuror which promised the Duke of Anjou to blind the eyes of them in the Castle, in such sort as they This enchanter by such like illusions had before caused the Queen of Naples and her husband to yield up the same castle into the hands of Charles. Fross. Chro. lib. 2. cap 346. & 392. should believe there was a bridge made over from the main land, by means whereof they should be compelled to yield for fear. But by procurement of the Earl of Savoy (who accompanied the Duke in that expedition) he was put to death for a like piece of service which he had done long before. The Englishmen and Gascones having tarried almost nine months in Portugal without performing any notable exploit, like men that hated such slolthfulnes, determined once again to adventure forth against the Spaniards. Their Captain the Earl of Cambridge, when they acquainted him with the matter was against it, but they nevertheless went forward with their purpose, and having good success brought certain towns in subjection. After their return, they complained that their entertainment was not paid them. The king of Portugal half angry because they adventured without his commission, made show as if he would not have contented them. Whereupon some counseled to foray the country & take out their wages in pillage; but others of more stayed judgement and sounder discretion persuaded the contrary, and so at length by entreaty they obtained that which they were purposed to have gotten by violence. After this the King of Portugal levied an army of fifteen thousand besides the English: and the King of Spain having a power of thirty thousand, bade him battle. Both their forces came into the field, and many days together light skirmishes passed between them. But the king of Portugal because his enemy's forces were more in number then his, would in no wise join with him in a set battle. The Duke of Lancaster (whom this matter chiefly concerned, in regard he married the eldest daughter of Don Pietro) had promised his brother at his setting forth towards Spain, that as soon as he had dispatched his affairs in Scotland, he would come thither also himself, and bring an other army. His coming the king of Portugal expected. But by reason of the late insurrection, the state being somewhat troublesome in England, the King thought it not convenient to send his men of war out of the Country. The King of Portugal therefore seeing no more succours come, began to treat with the Spaniard of peace, though altogether against the minds of the English: whose General highly offended with the matter, returned thereupon into England, and took with him his son also, to whom the king of Portugese's daughter named Beatrice a Lady of 10 years old had been lately betrothed. The nextyeere following, the King of Spain's wife (which was the King of Arragon's daughter) deceased, and the King of Spain married this Beatrice, whom the Earl of Cambridge had in a manner cast off and forsaken. This marriage was ratified by the Pope. Not long after, also died Ferdinando King of Portugal, in whose place, not the King of Spain The death of Ferdinando king of Portugal. which had married his daughter, but a bastard brother of his succeeded, being admitted to the crown rather by favour of the clergy and authority of the cities, then by election or approbation of the nobility. Upon this occasion much trouble and great wars ensued afterward. When the Gauntoys through the Earl of Flaunders procurement The Gauntoyes kept from victual, and brought to great extremity by the Earl of Flaunders. were kept straightly from victual out of all places adjoining, certain of their town to the number of twelve thousand, passing through Barband came to Liege and were there relieved with corn and other necessaries. In their return homeward, they earnestly besought the Duchess of Braband (for the Duke was then at Lutzemburgh) to be a means to the Earl of Flaunders, that at leastwise he would be foe far pleased as to suffer the matters between them, to be debated by indifferent persons at some time & place appointed. The Earl condescended, and a meeting was had at Tornay. Thither resorted the commissioners of diverse neighbour states, to compound the strife if it might be possible. For the Gauntoys came Philip● of Artevile. But after much expectation, when it seemed the Earl would neither come himself, nor send any other to treat in his behalf, the parties assembled wrote letters, admonishing and earnestly entreating him, that he would not neglect this good opportunity, now whilst his adversaries were so tractable to deal with, and so desirous of agreement. Whereunto the Earl made answer, that he had not leisure to be present there himself, but to gratify those honourable persons that had traveled so far in the matter, he would send some in few days after, which should fully acquaint them with his resolution: the effect whereof, upon relation of his messengers, was much to this purpose. That he would not come to composition with the Gauntoys upon any other terms, then that all of them generally between fifteen and threescore years of age, presenting themselves without the city upon the open plain, without any manner of weapon, bare headed and bore footed, with halters about their necks, should first crave pardon of him for their offences, & afterward submit themselves to his mercy, to determine of them and their lives at his pleasure. Other answer then this (notwithstanding all the intercession of his friends) none could be obtained, and so the assembly broke up. Philip returning to Gaunt, the next day discoursed the success of his treaty to the people. Then might ye have seen the lamentable state of a city reduced to extreme misery & desperation. In which general calamity Philip put them in choice of three courses to be taken, either to accept the conditions proffered, or A hard choice to shut themselves up in their churches, and there praying to God for pardon of their sins, abide patiently the end of their lives: or else some five thousand of them to issue out of the town and fight with their enemy. After deliberation, this last took place: for indeed there was no other remedy, but either to try their fortunes forthwith by the sword, or else to perish miserably for hunger. The Earl had his men of war about him the same time at Bruges to the number of forty thousand. For knowing that his enemies were now brought to such distress, he was resolved by all means to make an honourable conclusion of this war: and therefore when he heard tidings of the Gauntoys approach, ●e disposed his forces to receive them. The Gauntoyes though they were few in number, yet being heartened by persuasions, and chiefly for that they left a poor, forlorn, afflicted, and most miserable city behind them, wherein their wives, their children, and whatsoever See the effects of desperate resolution. else was dear to them remained, the safety or destruction of all which depended wholly upon the success of that one days service, came to the field with a bold courage & desperate resolution. The men of Bruges who before were exceedingly forward and desirous to fight (in so much that the Earl was in a manner constrained by their importunity to give battle that day against his own mind and purpose) assoon as the armies joined, being strooken with a sudden fear, upon what occasion I know not, except because the sun was in their faces, broke their array and ran headlong out of the battle. The Earl himself also when he could by no means restrain them, was forced to fly and his battle of horsemen with him. The Earl outryding the rest of his company, recovered the town of 1382. Bruges, and would have closed the gates against the entrance of his enemies: but it was in vain, for they pursued so fast after him as he fled, that they entered the city a little before night. And even then the Earl not altogether The Earl overthrown, and Bruges taken by the Gauntoys. past hope, gathered the town●●●●en together, & made head against the enemy: But he was brought to such extremity, that somewhat before midnight the Gauntoyes having overrun all the City, and he being utterly destirute and forsaken of his people, was fain to convey himself by stealth sometime into one lane and sometime into another, and at length entering into the cottage of a poor woman, who had scarce so much in all her house as to hide him, with much ado saved his life. Behold here the misery and strange mutability of man's estate. After this victory, the men of Bruges were cruelly entreated by the enemy, and amongst other things that pleased the conqueror, some five hundredth of the wealthiest of their city were carried prisoners to Gaunt. The Earl still doubtful of his life, after he had lurked there a while in great secrecy, fled to Lisle one while on foot, and other while on a mares back without any saddle, in most wearisome way and most tedious weather. This success of Strange alteration in the Earl's fortune. the Gauntoys greatly rejoiced the people of Paris, of Rouen, of Liege, of Braband and all the cities thereabout; not only in regard of the example, but because they also wished ill to the earl of Flaunders, whom they generally noted of pride: Philip was highly honoured in all places where he became, and in all things used such excess as ever in a Prince might have been counted superfluity. All the towns generally submitted themselves to the victorious people of Gaunt. Only the men of Arde being summoned to yield, when they had valiantly refused even in despite of their enemies, were besieged by Philip with a strong power levied from all parts of Flannders. The Gauntoyes in the mean time made many roads into the country, rissing and destroying diverse gentle men's houses. And amongst the rest, a certain castle of the Earls where they found the holy Fund wherein the Earl was christened, with his cradle and such other things, which were all made a prey to the barbarous fury and outrage of the soldier. The Earl being thus utterly overthrown & brought under foot, considered how there was no other hope of recovery now remaining but one, which was to move the French king to commiseration of his estate. To this therefore he addressed himself: and for better obtainment of his purpose, employed the friendly endeavour of The Duke of Burgundy. his son in law, the uncle of him at whose hands he required succour. The young king easily induced by his persuasions, undertook this war with great alacrity. When Philip of Arteuill understood that by the Duke of Burgoines The French King taketh upon him the Earl's quarrel against the Gauntoys. intercession, the Earl's suit was preferred in France, he addressed letters forthwith in the name of the people to the French king, beseeching him that he would be a means to make reconciliation between the Earl & his country. He wrote not this so much for any good faith which he intended, as to learn hereby what opinion was holden of him in France. But assoon as he saw himself disappointed there (for the King had disdain at his letters) he turned to the King of England, of whom he not only requested aid for the Gauntoyes, but also (altogether out of season) demanded the two hundredth thousand crowns that his father jaques had lent King Edward at the siege of Tourney: by means whereof it came to pass that he obtained neither the one nor the other. For had he made no mention at all of the money, but only entreated of the league, it is like enough he might have obtained his desire. The Earl of Flaunders having access now opened unto him by reason the king's mind was so addicted to this war, took his journey into France. And after he had received his inauguration at the king's hands, for the county of Artoys (which was lately befallen him) he began to conceive better hope of his affairs: especially when he saw so puissant a Prince, with such forwardness of affection, bring a mighty army of no less than threescore thousand men, to wage battle against his enemy in the maintenance of his quarrel. Whereof so soon as Philip had received advertisement, he omitted no part of what pertained to his charge, but commanded presently that all the bridges upon the river Lise which were near hand, should be broken down. Moreover he caused two passages upon the river to be strongly fortified and defended with good garrisons: the one of them (at Comius) being kept by Peter de Boys with nine thousand men. Whereof the French men being not ignorant, sundry opinions rose amongst them as they consulted of their affairs: some thinking it were best to go about by Saint Omers where the river is shallowest; others giving counsel to make a bridge over Skeld not far from Tourney, to the intent the army might pass easily from thence into Arde. At length it liked them best to venture upon the enemy before mentioned which lay at Comius. When they came thither, they found the bridge broken down and no passage to get over, whereupon they fell again to consultation. In the mean while certain adventurous gallants which were desirous to make some proof of their valour (having formerly agreed amongst themselves, that if no passage could be found, they would secretly use some means by their own industry without knowledge of their commanders, to convey themselves over) with the help of three or four small boats sliding along by a cord fastened to both sides of the river, passed over in that sort by a few at once, till they had gotten all their company to the further side in safety: and this they did with so little trouble or danger, that the enemy who lay encamped not far of, never perceived it before such time as he saw them marching towards him with Ensigns displayed. Peter de Boyis imagining that so small a number durst never venture upon him, because the cuening approached, would not fight with them as then, but rather thought to set upon them in the night when the weariness of their travel had overtaken them with They were in all not above sour or five hundredth. Fros. Chro. lib. 2. Cap. 414. sleep. But the French men whom the boldness of their attempt had made circumspect in their proceedings, considering how great and dangerous an enterprise they had undertaken without licence either of King or Captain, were exceedingly watchful, and stood always upon their guard for fear of disadvantage. About the break of day their enemies came forth to assail them, whom they encountered with such resolution (albeit their number were but a handful in comparison) that they slew well ●ere six thousand, and chased the rest into a town thereby which they took for refuge. After this battle the French king presently building up a bridge, brought over the rest of his forces, and marched directly towards Ipre. The townsmen following the fortune of the conquerors army, slew their governor because he refused to yield, and committed Ipre receiveth the French king. themselves to the French King. All their neighbours imitating their example, did both pay great sums of money, and also brought their captains prisoners which persuaded them to stand out in rebellion. But the Earl of Flaunders was called to council in none of these proceedings. The men of Bruges could have been contented to yield as well as the rest, but their Captains so encouraged them with hope of aid out of England, that they held it out notwithstanding. When Philip of Arteuill understood that the power of the most puissant King was encamped not far from him, he also brought forth his army into the field, which consisted of some fifty thousand men. There he exhorted them in a pithy oration, that now going to battle they set before their ●ies that memorable overthrow which with so small a company they had given to the Earl of Flaunders; and withal to consider how after this battle, if they obtained victory, they should thenceforth become Lords of all, and be able to make opposition against them. Which thing in their behalf all good and well governed common wealths desired, to whom no tidings could be more acceptable, then to hear that the Gauntoys fight valiantly and constantly in defence of their liberty, had reaped the honourable reward of their virtue and courage, by destroying such persons as through ambition and covetousness could not suffer any common wealth to remain in quiet. When he had spoken much more to this effect, he commanded that in the conflict they should put all to the sword, and spare no man, the King only excepted. The Flemings not forgetting what Philip had told them, fought very manfully: & this also not a little sharpened their courage, that they had stirred up such a puissant enemy against them, whom if they might overcome, it would redound to their perpetual fame amongst all posterity. Notwithstanding at length being enclosed between two wings of their enemies The French kings victory against the Gauntoyes. & forced into a strait, they were overthrown. The battle lasted not much above an hour, and yet in that little space xxv. Thousand of their number were wanting. Philip fight valiantly amongst the thickest of his enemies Philip de Artevill slain. was slain in the field, and his body being sought for and found amongst the dead, was by the King's commandment hanged upon a tree. Undoubtedly, that days battle was fought in a fortunate hour for all noblemen and gentlemen. For had it fallen out otherwise then it did, surely (as the world than went) it would have given a great blow to their authority, and have shaken even the seats of Kings and Princes. The Parisians, who lately before had begun a commotion, longed exceedingly to hear some good news of the success of this battle. In champaign and a great part of France beside, all the wealthiest cities, and the peasants of the country began to make insurrection. Therefore upon the success of this action, depended the safety or ruin of many Prince's estates. The King was then between thirteen and fourteen years of age. The men of Bruges perceiving that by this overthrow of the Bruges yieldeth to the french King. Gauntoyes, all hope of succour was bereft them, and all means of recovery taken away, submitted themselves to the king's mercy. And the Earl of Flaunders because he bore no displeasure to this town, became intercessor for them to the King, that they might be received into favour paying six score thousand franks. Those that besieged Arde, assoon as they heard tidings how their fellows were discomfited, broke up their camp and returned to Gaunt. The Gauntoyes altogether broken and discouraged with this so great misfortune, began to consider with themselves how they might best move the King's mind to mercy and compassion. But Peter de Boys being brought thither in a horselitter (for he was yet weak of his wounds) with his great words and glorious vaunts, quite put that imagination out of their heads. After the french King upon deliberation with his counsel, thought it not convenient as then to besiege Gaunt, he distributed his men into divers garrisons, and returned to Tourney. The Gauntoys as is showed before, had sent to the King of England about the obtainment of a league; the articles whereof (devised by his counsel) the King sent to them in writing by a gentleman of his household, that if the Flemings allowed them, they should confirm them with their seals. But the ambassador arriving at Calais, when he heard how the Gauntoys were overthrown, and that the french men had subdued most part of the country, without performance of his commission he returned into England. Neither were the English nobility greatly sorry that the Gauntoys went by the worse: whom if it had fortuned to go away with victory, the commons generally in all countyres adjoining, would from thence have derived a pattern of pride and rebellion, and considering how but lately before there had been most perilous tumults in England, every small matter might have ministered new occasion of insurrection. Thus they thought, and this was their opinion. Whilst the french king lay at Tourney, divers well disposed persons laboured very earnestly to make a reconciliation between the Earl and his rebellious subjects. The Gauntoys refused not to be at the french King's disposition, but rather than receive the Earl Lewis again, it seemed they would endure all extremities whatsoever. When nothing could be brought to effect, the french King returned homeward: & as he approached near Paris, there came forth to meet him some 20000 of the townesemen, all armed and well appointed. This seemed very strange both to the King and all that were about him: and because in those days it was no trusting to such a multitude in arms, there were some sent to inquire their meaning. Their answer was thus: that they came forth in such sort provided, to the intent the King might see with what power the Parisians could furnish him upon short warning whensoever he had need of their service. This they framed for, an excuse at the present time, but doubtless their intention was far otherwise before, and had not the King come home with victory, surely strange things had happened. Being commanded to return into the town and put off their armour, they obeyed. The King brought with him a great army of Britons and Burgonions, the countenance whereof kept the Parisians in fear. Then by advise of his uncles he began leisurely to deal with them according to their deserts. He caused all their croslets to be brought together upon a heap, and took them from them: put to death many principal men of your City, imposed divers taxes and tributes upon them, and in conclusion wippe them off some four hundredth thousand franks for fines and ransoms. There was mortal contention the same time between Schism in the Church. the two Popes Clement, and Urban. Clement then remained at Avinion, and Urban, partly for other causes, but principally the more commodiously to annoy his adversary the French King, repaired to Genoa. He came not out of Italy unfurnished of means wherewith to strengthen his supremacy. And these were his practices. He determined The practices of Pope Urban against Clement his adversary. to send his bulls into England, directed to the Archbishops and Bishops of the Realm, wherein he granted free remission of all sins to such as impugned the Clementines: for so did Pope Clement with him in France. And being well assured that he could no way work the Frenchmen greater displeasure then by this means to set the Englishmen against them, he practised another devise for the getting of money, without which, he knew the English nobility would be nothing forward to take arms for all his absolutions. Therefore he thought it best beside for his former pardons, to grant the King licence to levy a tenth upon all churchmens goods, the principal prelate's excepted, out of which collection the soldiers employed in that service, should be allowed their entertainment. And to compass this matter the better, he suborned the chief of the Clergy (whom he had exempted from this payment) to urge forward the inferior sort to make contribution. By this means, neither the king's treasure is exhausted, nor the common people burdened more than they gave of their own voluntary affection: which surely every man did for his part most liberally, as the world went in those days: especially in consideration of the reward proposed (which was not mean nor ordinary) the opportunity of obtaining whereof, no man thought was in any wise to be neglected. Thus partly by the great number of bulls which Pope Urban sent into England, and partly by He sent no less than 30. as appeareth: Fross. Chro: lib. 2. cap. 428. sermons preached in every place to that purpose, men's minds were so ravished, that they thought themselves already in paradise, which had the fortune to die in such a blessed season: so that in short space there was gathered together, of the tenths of the Clergy and benevolence of the people, about the sum of five and twenty hundred thousand franks. And that the matter might import more credit, it was the Pope's pleasure some churchmen which had experience in such affairs, associated with some other skilful captain, should have chief command over the army thus assembled. In like manner he sent his bulls into Portugal, and used the like practice there to trouble the King of Spain which took part against him. So the Duke of Lancaster was appointed to invade Spain, and a Bishop of the family of the Spencers was sent to make wars Henry Spencer Bishop of Norwich. in France. But in regard the Duke was nothing favoured by the commons, and suspected to have taken upon him this voyage, rather for covetousness then any conscience, most part of the people desired to serve under the Bishop. To whom the King at his setting forth, gave commandment that he should tarry for his other associate and fellow Captain of the war, at Calais. But the Bishop being one that could away with no lingering, and supposing there was no delay to be used in the matter, led forth his army presently into Flaunders. The Earl lying then at Lile, sent to him to know the cause of his sudden invasion without defiance. Whereto he answered, that he persecuted all the Clementines in the behalf of Pope Urban. The messengers replied, that Flaunders held altogether of Vrbanes side; & it there were none other occasion but that, he had unjustly undertaken this war against those that had no way deserved it. Wherefore they desired him to grant them safe conduct, that they might pass over into England to speak with the King. Then the Bishop in a froward fashion told them, that for his part he would make them no safe conduct neither to go nor tarry; if they would needs pass, they might do it at their own peril. When no other answer then this could be obtained from a person so arrogant and uncivil, the Flemings to the number of Nine thousand flemings slain by the English in a battle not far from Duakirk. twelve thousand made opposition against the English, not far from the town of Dunkirk; where encountering them in battle, (after they had slain a Herald sent with a message from the Englishmen) they were overthrown and put to flight with the loss of some nine thousand of their people. Then the Englishmen having taken certain little towns thereabout, marched forward to besiege Ipre. And to the intent to make their power the stronger, they sent word to the Gauntoys that they also should draw out their forces into the field. For there was no league established between them, and it grieved the English not a little that the french men won the victory in the former battle, so envious were they of the french men's honour or good fortune. The Gauntoys therefore sent them 20000. men to the siege of Ipre. Whilst Ipre was thus straightly environed, the Earl of Flaunders by mediation of the Bishop of Liege, determined to fall to some friendly agreement with the English, whom (as in reason it might be supposed) he should find tractable in that behalf, considering how the war was raised only against the Clementines, and himself with all his people were Vrbanists But the Gauntoys who were partakers of the English men's counsels, for hatred they bore to their Lord, interrupted this treaty. Then had the Earl no other hope but the help of the french King, who being again solicited by the Duke of Burgome, his uncle, and the Earl of Flaunders son in law, undertook the matter, and raised an army of above 1383. The French King again undertaketh the Earl of Flaunders cause. an hundred thousand men. The Bishop as unskilful in matters of war so wondrously proud, when he heard that the king's power was coming against him, streytway dislodged his camp, and breaking up his siege withdrew himself towards the sea coast, with part of his army (the rest being dispersed in garrisons) to the intent that when his enemy approached, he might the better provide for his safety by an easy retreyte to Calais. In the King's army was the Duke of Britain, which seemed a strange sight to the Englishmen, through whose friendship and assistance he had often been succoured & restored to his Duke doom. But he might lawfully do it at that time without impeachment of his honour. First, because he was lately before reconciled to the french King: and again in regard he ought this reciprocal duty to the Earl of Flaunders, whose bounty and good affection he had abundantly tasted in the time of his necessity, when he lived as an exile, expnlsed out of his own country. Such is the instability of man's estate, that the affliction which oppresseth one to day, seizeth upon another to morrow. And yet the Duke showed himself no whit unmindful of the benefits he had received from the English, who upon the approach of the french army, had retired themselves into a certain town called Borborough, and were besieged in the same. For considering the imminent peril that hung over their heads, which they could no way avoid but by yielding (the success whereof was likewise uncertain) he ceased not to exhort them (as they parlyed with him from the walls) to provide in time for their own safeguard by offering some reasonable composition. The Englishmen not only unthankfully accepted his motion, but further entreated him to be a means to the King for the effecting of their purpose, which he also undertook and performed. So the King upon some deliberation, receiving the town into his hands, suffered all the Englishmen to depart without harm or violence. When the expedition was ended, and the army broke up, the King gave honourable thanks to such foreign Captains as had served him in this journey, especially to Duke Frederick of Bavier, who had put himself forth into this action, only upon desire to see the countries and to observe the order and discipline of the french wars. The Duke of Britain desirous in regard of his good affection, aswell to the french King as the English, to bring them to agreement, procured so much by his great travel and diligence, that an appointment was made for the meeting of certain ambassadors from France, England, and Spain. For the french King would not deal with the English, but so as the Spaniard might be included in the treaty. And because in so doubtful a case, neither the french men would come to Calais, nor the Englishmen to Boloine, a place indifferent between both was assigned for their meeting. There the french kings uncles demanded again all Aquitaine, together with Calais, and all the fortresses which the Englishmen then held on that side the sea, as far as the river of Gerond, aswell in Normandy, as in the countries of Britain, Poytow, and Rochel. chose the Englishmen would part from none of all those things, and beside, the principal points which they had in cō●ission to treat of, they would also that the Gauntoys should be received into this society: For so it was formerly agreed between the Gauntoys and them at Calais. But against this demand the Earl of Flaunders opposed himself with great vehemency, affirming that they were in no wise to be admitted into league with so great Princes. In conclusion, when nothing else could be agreed upon, a truce was taken for ten months both by s●a and land, between the French, English, Spanish, Scottish, and Gauntoys, notwithstanding all that the Earl of Flaunders could allege or persuade to the contrary. This also was added, that somewhat before the truce expired, the ambassadors should meet again at a place appointed to confer of these affairs more at large. Within a while after deceased the Earl of Flaunders, 1383. The death of Lewis Earl of Flaunders. whom fortune for a time had wonderfully entangled with wars amongst his own subjects; so that in his example alone we may behold, how great a happiness it is for a Prince so to govern his people as he may be both beloved and feared: and contrarily, how dangerous it is to happen upon a puissant common wealth which under pretence of maintaining their liberty, confoundeth all things together, to the intent to shift their necks wholly out of the yoke of obedience. When the ambassadors departed from the treaty above mentioned, it was agreed amongst other matters, that the French men should give notice of the truce to the King of Scotland. But this was left unperformed, by what error or negligence I know not. It should seem after the Earl of Flaunders death, the duke of Burgoynes brai●e was so busied that he quite forgot it: for all that inheritance was descended to him. Certain English gentlemen taking advantage of this occasion made a road into Scotland, wasting the country as they went with fire and sword. The Scots who knew nothing what had passed, marveled much at the matter, seeing no war was proclaimed, and so much the more because they had heard a certain dark rumour of a truce. But howsoever the case stood, they prepared to defend themselves. When report hereof was brought to the french King, the Peers began to accuse one another of negligence in forgetting a matter of so great moment. And because there was now no other remedy, they sent certain into Scotland, which by declaring the true circumstances of the matter should give them satisfaction. The king himself was well inclined to peace, but the Lords of his country made much ado and were very hot upon revenge, and in like manner road forth into the borders of England to show that they neither wanted courage nor ability to defend themselves and their goods from their enemies. At length being pacified and the King persuaded, the French ambassadors sent an herald into England, and so quieted the strife. And when the truce was received and ratified on both parts, it was proclaimed by sound of trumpet, that no man should presume to transgress the articles therein contained. But to persuade the king of England to this peace (for he was highly offended at the late invasion of the Scottish) great means were made by the Duke of Lancaster, who had formerly determined to make his voyage this year into Spain, with the assistance of the King of Portugal: which war he was the more desirous to accomplish, in regard he had issue by his wife, to whom he affirmed the kingdom of Spain was both by the law of nations and nature itself, of right appertaining. It is showed before with how great preparation & puissance the Duke of Anjou passed into Italy. When he came thither he found no opposition, but only in the Neapolitans, who would in no wise be turned from his adversary: but Provence, Calabria, and Apulia received him. The Earl of Savoy (as I told you) accompanied him in his journey, and about this time ended his life. Now when he had retained his soldiers for the space of three years together, being almost drained dry with so great and continual charges, he requested his brothers that they would not fail him in these his affairs of so great honour and importance. They out of their love and honourable affection, holding it not fit to abandon him in so ●ust a quarrel, The Duke of Anjou dieth in Italy. sent an army to aid him: which when it came to Avignon, received certain tidings that he was lately dead at a Castle not far from Naples, and so returned home again. After the death of the Earl of Flaunders, the inheritance of that country descended to Philip Duke of Burgundy which had married his daughter. Now the Duchess of Braband (whose husband Wenceslaus of Bohemia died lately before at Lutzemburge) desired earnestly, that Burgundy, Henault and Flaunders, might be united in perpetual league and amity. The Duke of Burgoigne had a son named john. This john married Margaret the daughter of Albert Duke of Bavier and Henault at Cambray. And William the son of Albert took to wife Margaret daughter to the Duke of Burgoigne. The french king was present at these nuptials. And the Duke of Burgoigne gave in dowry with his daughter an hundred thousand franks. These alliances troubled the Duke of Lancaster, who had a purpose to have matched a daughter of his to the son Her name was Philip whom he had by Blanch his first wife. of Duke Albert. And therefore at such time as these matters were in treaty, he endeavoured by his letters to Albert, to have hindered their proceedings, but it prevailed not. Concerning the Earls of Henault, ye must conceive that William the Lord of this signory had four daughters, Margaret, Philip, jone, and Isabella, and one son named William. Margaret was married to Lewis of Bavier the Emperor: Edward king of England, married Philip: William was slain in battle against the Phrisoners & left no issue. Therefore by his death the right of succession devolved to Margaret the eldest sister: and she enjoyed the heritage till such time as Albert her son whom she had by Lewis the Emperor, being grown to man's estate, entered upon the inheritance of his ancestors. And afterward William the son of Albert married the Duke of Burgoignes daughter, as is a little before declared. The Duke of Anjou left behind him two sons, Lewis, and Charles': in whose right their mother (by the counsel of Pope Clement and the French king) made war upon the people of Provence, not without the French Kings assistance, who supplied her wants both with men and money. The men of Manceilles were well affected towards her, but all the rest opposed themselves against her, and as it seemed, would not accept her for their sovereign, before Calabria, Naples and Apulia had done the same: of which countries when she could show herself to have quiet possession, they also offered to put themselves under her obedience. The truce by this time being expired, the French King had a marvelous desire to be doing with the King of England. Hereupon levying an army, he sent the Duke of Bourbon into Aquitaine, that if it were possible he might expel the English men wholly out of France. He sent another The Admiral of France sent with a power into Scotland. army also into Scotland under the conduct of his Admiral, to the intent the Scottish power and his being joined together, might put the king of England to the greater vexation. But when the Admiral arrived in Scotland, he found not such friendly entertainment as he looked for. Charles the fifth, upon his deathbed had requested his brothers to choose a wife for his son of some noble family, & especially out of Germany, that the alliance might be the stronger. They did according to his desire. For he married Isabella the daughter o● Stephen Duke of Bavier, a Lady Charles the French king, marrieth Isabella daughter of Stephen Duke of Bavier. of most excellent beauty. But the first means of this match was derived from this occasion, that Frederick of Bavier her uncle had followed the French king in his late wars against the English, as hath been already declared. Shortly after the death of the Duke of Anjou, who had attempted great matters in Italy, died also his adversary Charles, surnamed the Peaceable. It was supposed, that he was made away by the Queen of Hungary, who having two daughters by her husband Lewis deceased, feared lest this Charles which was his brother's son, should dispossess them of their inheritance, specially for that he openly termed himself King of Hungary: and therefore wrought means to dispatch him out of the world: but whether this be a true report or a conjecture, I cannot affirm. Then sent she ambassadors to the French King, requiring that her daughter might be matched to his brother Lewis of Valois. This being not misliked in France, commissioners were sent into Hungary to go through with the matter in the behalf of Duke Lewis, and others afterward sent from thence into France to fetch the bridegroom. In the mean while Henry of Bohemia, called the Marquis of Blankford, the natural brother of Charles King of Bohemia, disdaining that a king should be sought so far off, by the procurement of certain Lords of Hungary, and not without consent of his brother, besieged the Queen and her daughter, as they sojourned for their recreation in a certain castle seated in a solitary place far from resort of people. By means whereof she was at length constrained to give him her daughter to wife. The French kings brother who was proceeded on his journey, as far as champaign with all his household and retinue, when he heard news of this alteration in Hungary, was not a little discontented with the matter & returned again to his brother: who seemed not greatly sorry, for as much as Hungary by reason of the far distance of the country from France could hardly afford him any help at need. The Scottish king understanding the Admiralles desire to be employed, levied an army of thirty thousand men. The French and Scottish men together invade the borders of England. He himself would not be present in the journey, but he sent his nine sons: who together with the French men set forth towards their enemy's country, and wasted the borders far and near. But assoon as they understood that the King of England approached with an army of seventy thousand men, they made no longer abode, but retired and the English pursued after. The Admiral persuaded to give battle, but the Scottish men in regard their enemies were more in number than they, and because they knew likewise that the English were men of great practice and experience in arms, by all means refused the encounter. And it appeared, the English were never almost more vehemently bend to do the Scottish a displeasure, then at that time, because they had then waged foreign soldiers against them, and that out of France: wherewith the English men were exceedingly provoked. The Scottish men the better to satisfy the Admiral (who still urged them to give battle) brought him to a hill there by of exceeding great height, from whence he might perfectly take a view of all his enemies forces. Which assoon as he had seen, he was content to follow their counsel that were of a contrary opinion to his own. Notwithstanding lest they should seem to have performed nothing, with both their powers joined together, they invaded the marches of Wales, where they did somewhat more harm than they could in England. The Duke of Lancaster and many others gave counsel to follow after them, but a certain person of great credit and authority, quite diverted the king's mind from that purpose, suggesting The Earl of Oxenford. into his conceit, how the Duke sought to thrust him forth into this dangerous action, to the intent he might perish in battle, and so himself get possession of the crown. How much mischief this bringing the King in suspicion of his uncles bred afterward in England, shall be declared in place convenient. The Gauntoys tired with seven years wars, were desirous of peace, but it was privately amongst themselves. For Peter de Boys who knew it was most for his profit and reputation, to have the people always in trouble & contention, held them under in such sort, that scarce any man durst openly make mention of peace. Nevertheless, through the diligent endeavour of two well disposed citizens (men studious of the public welfare) and a certain gentleman of virtuous quality, who was well beloved 1358. and befriended in France, their matter was brought to a peaceable conclusion: and the Duke of Burgoigne who The Gauntoies received to savour, and their peace made with their Lord the Duke of Burgoigne. was lately become Lord of the country, showed himself very gentle and tractable, which he did so much the rather, because in the beginning of the next spring he was purposed to make wars in England. My author makes a large rehearsal of the Articles of this peace, which here it shall not be needful to insert. When Peter de Boys understood these proceedings, he liked them so well, that he left the City, and went over into England with an English gentleman Sir john Bourchier. whom the Gauntoys long before had procured upon earnest entreaty to be governor of their town. For howsoever after the peace was confirmed, it seemed he might have stayed there in safety, yet not daring to trust the multitude, he thought it his best course to convey himself out of their danger. The author of this work after rehearsal of these matters, discourseth how himself for his better knowledge and instruction of such occurrenty as happened in Spain, Portugal, Gascoigne, and the countries thereabout (when he was of those years that he was able to endure the travel of the journey, and of that capacity and understanding that he could describe and register in writing such things as he learned by his own or others observation) came at length to the house of a Gascone Lord called the Earl of Foys, a man of much honour and The Earl of Foys. respect in those times: by whom being familiarly entertained for certain months together, he received diverse informations both from the Earl himself, and from other persons of great credit and account which had been present themselves at the doing of those things whereof they made relation. Amongst the rest he recounteth a certain sorrowful adventure, and such a one as would make even nature itself astonished; the discourse is this. The Earl of Foys an honourable and valiant gentleman, held in custody a certain noble man whom he had The strange story of Gascone Earl of Foys, and his son. taken prisoner, by the law of arms, who for his ransom covenanted to pay fifty thousand franks, for which sum the king of Navarre (whose sister the Earl had married) proffered to become surety. But the Earl suspecting the King's credit (wherewith perhaps he had been too well acquainted) would not but upon better assurance, deliver his prisoner. His wife displeased to see her brother no better respected, was very importunate with her husband, and would not be in quiet till she had persuaded him: oftentimes making mention how there was a matter of as great value as that, to be assigned to her brother in consideration of her dowry, and therefore that he need not fear to be deceived. The prisoner by this means being set at liberty, as soon as he came home into his country, to the intent to discharge his credit, provided the sum of money and sent it at his day accordingly, not to the Earl himself, but to the King of Navarre his surety: which when the Earl understood, he marveled much the money was not brought him, and by his wife (who willingly undertook the journey) signified his mind to the King of Navarre, desiring him to remember his promise, who upon receipt of the message answered his sister in this sort: Sister, this money belongs all to you as your husband's debt in am of your dowry, and since it is now come to my hands, I will in no wise suffer it to pass from me again. Then began she to entreat and earnestly to beseech him that he would alter his purpose in that behalf, showing how great occasion it would minister of perpetual hatred and contention between them, & how she durst never return home to her husband, unless she brought the money with her: for he was by nature wrathful, and would never be pleased with her again, if he saw himself deceitfully dealt with, considering how she was the only means which moved him to accept that assurance, and to deliver his prisoner, neither of which he would have done but upon her entreaty, and therefore the whole blame would be imputed to her by her husband. When she had oftentimes thus expostulated in vain, and saw his obstinate mind would be nothing changed, not daring to go back into her own country, she abode still in Navarre with her brother. During the time she sojourned there, her son which bore his father's name, a youth of some fifteen years of age, came thither to visit her: and after certain months tarriance Gascone. when he prepared to depart, he would fain have persuaded her to return with him to his father, but she would by no means be entreated. So he took his leave, and went from thence to Pampelone to do the like to his uncle: who not only used him with all honourable and kind respect, but also at his departure gave him many rich gifts, and amongst the rest, a purse with a little box in it full of a certain confection in fine powder, the force whereof was such, that whosoever had tasted of it in never so small quantity, should incontinently have died. In presenting this amiable gift to his young kinsman, he uttered these speeches. You see (sweet nephew) how great displeasure your father hath conceived against your mother, yet not so great but that there is possibility they may be again reconciled. No man will imagine how much I am grieved for the discontentment between them, and no less in duty ought you to be also. But for remedy of this inconvenience, when you are returned to your father, you shall find the means to cast a little of this powder upon the meat which shall be set before him, but you must do it very closely: for it will come to pass, that whereas now he utterly abhorreth her, as soon as he hath eaten of that meat, he shall desire her above all things; insomuch as he shall scarcely at any time endure her out of his company, so great shall be his love, so ardent his affection. Undoubtedly you have much reason to wish it were so; but in any wise beware you make no man of your counsel, for than you lose your labour. The young gentleman as yet unacquainted with the world, thinking his uncle (of whom he would never have suspected ill) had intended good faith and spoken as he thought, received the gift thankfully, & promised to do according to his direction. When he came home, his father gently welcomed him, enquiring of divers circumstances concerning his journey, and other novelties, and amongst the rest, whether his uncle had given him any at his parting, or no. He answered yes, and showed him all his gifts, the box only excepted. But it so fell out, that a bastard son of the Earls, who kept familiar company with his brother, I know not by what occasion, lighted upon his garment and found the purse hanging at it, wherein he perceived some special thing whatsoever it were, was contained. Whereupon questioning with his brother what it should be that he carried so continually about him in his bosom, he would give him no answer, but changed colour and seemed angry that he had been so inquisitive. Within few days after they fell at variance playing at tennis, and the young Lord buffeted his bastard brother with his fists: who having no other means to make his party good, ran strait to the Earl with a lamentable complaint, showing what injury was done to him by his brother, who indeed deserved to be beaten himself, and well chastised with a whip. And for what cause (quoth the Earl) dost thou think him worthy to be whipped? because (quoth the bastard) ever since he ruturned from his mother, he hath carried about him at his breast a thing with a rank savour, to what purpose I know not, but that he told me it would not be long before his mother and you were reconciled. With that the Earl began to have some suspicion, and commanded the boy to keep all secret. Next meal as he sat at dinner, and his son (after his ordinary custom) serving him with assay, he espied the purstrings hanging at his bosom: whereupon he hearkened him to him as if he would have whispered in his ear, and when he came nigh, took hold of his doublet and unbuttoned it, and cutting of the purse, made a prose of the confection upon a dog, who assoon as he had received it, fell down dead immediately. Then the Earl enraged with anger, and trembling all over his body, rose up against his son intending doubtless to have slain him, but that the Gentlemen which were about him, abhorring the cruelty of such a fact, and amazed at the strangeness of the accident, withheld him. When he saw he could be suffered to use no other violence, with bitter execrations he cursed his son, that had gone about so unnaturally, and with so horrible kind of death to have murdered his own father, who had oftentimes sustained great wars against mighty and puissant Princes, only to enlarge his signiory and to leave him the richer inheritance. All that were present did what they could to appease his wrath: but he commanded his son forth with to prison, and to be sure he should not escape, gave in charge that he should be straightly watched, threatening this keeper with extreme punishment if he showed him any favour. Moreover he put to death with most cruel torments about fifteen persons all gentlemen of good worth because that being conversant and familiar with his so●ne, they had not discovered this damnable practice. Afterwards in an assembly of all the states of his country, whom he had summoned to be present at a day appointed, when he had declared at large the most wicked and unnatural treason which his son had practised against him, amplifying the matter with divers circumstances to make it appear more heinous, he gave sentence upon him that he should be put to death. Intercession was made of all hands humbly entreating him that he would not show so cruel an example: neither would they depart from thence before he had faithfully assured them, that his sons life should be saved. He performed his promise, but detained him still in prison. When report of this matter came to Pope Gregory the xi. he sent certain Cardinals from Avinion, whom he had given in charge to make a perfect atonement between the father and the son. But (God knows) they came to late. For the young Earl during the space of ten days that he was kept in prison, had taken little or no sustenance, (though meat were set before him) so as it should seem, through continual musing upon the strangeness of his misfortune, he had conceived so great g●eese, as he desired nothing but death. Whereof his father being informed by the keeper, he entered in unto him with a troubled mind, The Earl of Foys killeth his own son unwittingly. holding a penknife in his hand wherewith he was paring his nails, and by what fatal adventure I know not, cut a vain of his son's throat, chiding him bitterly in the mean time for refusing his meat, and so departed out of the room. Immediately after, the keeper coming in, found him dead upon the floor. Which news being brought to the Earl, did marvelously afflict him though he were much disquieted before. For this accident happened altogether beyond his intent and expectation. Ye have heard before of the death of Ferdinando King Pag. 110. of Portugal, in whose place was chosen not john King of Castille the deceased kings son in law, but another of the clergy, ferdinando's base brother, & that rather by favour of the cities, than of the nobility. Whereupon the King of Spain sent ambassadors forthwith to the state of Lisbon (the principal & most flourishing of all that country) sharply accusing & reproving them for so unjustly taking the inheritance of the crown from him, who had married the only daughter of their King Ferdinando, and conferring the same upon one which in right had no title at all to that dignity. When this would not prevail, and that they showed themselves themselves resolute to abide by their election, he raised an john King of Spain layeth claim to the crowen of Portugal, & besieged Lisbon. army of thirty thousand men, and besieged their City. But after a years continuance and more, having performed no notable service, he was constrained to return into Spain by reason of a pestilence which consumed well-near 20000. of his men: & not long after there came succours to him to out of France, wherewith both his power and his courage were anew reinforced. Nevertheless when it came to consultation, the Spaniards thought best to discharge the army, but the French men being demanded their opinion, gave counsel to fight with the enemy, alleging probable reasons for the same. At such time as the King of Spain retired with his army from Lisbon, certain ships of the Englishmen arrived in the haven. They were not sent thither by the King of England, but of their own heads, after they had roved about from place to place in Gascoigne and Guienne, they assembled at Bordeaux, and there taking shipping would needs go serve the king of Portugal. The king was very glad of their service, and thereupon levied his forces again in purpose to give his enemy battle in the field. But divers of the nobility such as had not given their consents to his election, being offended with the Citizens of Lisbon, whose authority in that behalf prevailed, refused to take arms at his commandment. The King hereupon advising with his counsel, they persuaded him to make no longer delay in the matter, but to go forth against his enemy with such power as he had already: how there was no other means to set the Kingdom in quiet: that it behoved him to make way for his fortunes by the sword, and not be discouraged though his enemy were of greater puissance than he, for oftentimes it fell out, and examples were plentiful, that great numbers were overthrown by small handfuls: lastly, that he should propose to himself the example of Henry, the father of the king of Castille then reigning, who by the sword had conquered that Kingdom, and by the sword maintained his conquest. Encouraged with these and such like speeches, he brought his army into the field, consisting of ten thousand men. The Englishmen seeing themselves overmatched in number, gave the King counsel, that he should not abide in the plains, but seek some place of strong situation to encamp in, where the enemy might make no approach but to his disadvantage. Such a place was found, which they likewise so fortified by their industry, and compassed on every side with sundry impediments, that but by one only entrance, and that not very large, there was no possible means to come at them. In the Spanish army, the French men carried greatest sway by reason of the king's favour, who ordered all his affairs by their counsel and direction: which things stirred up envy in the Spaniards hearts, as those that could by no means endure, so great hope should be reposed in the aid of strangers. This also much increased their grudge, that when the King had brought his army to the place of battle, the French men sued importunately to have the leading of the vanguard. When they approached near their enemies, the French men persuaded to give battle presently, but the Spaniards counseled ●o defer it till the next morning, because night was then at hand. But the Frenchmens persuasion took place: who assoon as the sign of battle was given, ran furiously upon their enemies, and assailed them with great violence. The fight was maintained with great force and courage on both sides: but the valour and skill of the English archers here approved it The King of Portugal through the English men's aid obtaineth a notable victory. self, as it had oftentimes done in other places. For the showers of arrows which they sent amongst the Frenchmen, so galled their horses, and distressed their men, that the greatest part of them being slain the residue were all taken prisoners. The King of Spain with the rest of his forces to the number of twenty thousand, was two miles behind when the French men gave this overhasty onset: and when word was brought him, that they were dangerously engaged, and in peril to be all slain, he was very desirous to have come to their rescue, but he could not bring his soldiers forward. For it was determined amongst them, that seeing the french men would needs seem valiant above the rest, and had vaunted themselves with so great bravery, they would give them leave to go through with their enterprise alone, and disclaim all interest in the success of their proceedings. A little before night the King of Spain drew near to his enemy, who upon advertisement thereof, first placed his men again in order of battle, and then gave commandment on pain of death, that all such as had any prisoners should presently kill them, lest in the ensuing conflict, they might happen to recover arms and join with the enemy. Surely it was a cruel sight, and such a one as moved even the conquerors themselves to pity and tears: but there was no remedy, they must do as they were commanded. There was about a thousand of these prisoners, all which were consumed by a cowardly kind of death; so as it appeared, their fellows which died valiantly before in fight were much more happy than they, who being both by fortune and their own virtue preserved, after assurance given by the enemy, and received by them according to the law of arms, fell into extreme calamity at such time as they thought themselves most secure of life and safety, and were slain by the conqueror, not enraged and angry as in the fury of battle, but being now at peace with them and even himself abhorring such an unnatural slaughter. The Portugese's through the great advantage of their ground, overthrew their enemies again; and in this second battle was mercy showed to no man. They that could, saved themselves by flight, the rest were all slain. The Spaniards missed of their number about seven thousand. Afterwards (as the custom of Princes is when they have performed many notable mischiefs) a truce was agreed upon. So the King of Spain dismissed his soldiers, and the King of Portugal was received with great triumph into Lisbon. About the same time the French men recovered all that was holden by certain brigands in the country of toulouse & the places there adjoining. The Gascones for that the wars they made in France was greatly to their enriching, did willingly serve under the King of England: and if they had been gently and respectively used they would never have changed their Lord. But the King of England's Son by his strange behaviour alienated the greatest part of the nobility from him, in such sort that they forsook him, & put themselves under protection of the French King. Besides this, his officers used the Gascones disdainfully as unworthy to whom any charge in the common wealth should be committed. Hereupon grew hatred between them, and by this occasion Charles the fifth recovered all again, as hath been already declared. Whilst the wars were yet hotly pursued between the two Popes, the soldiers of Clement had besieged Urban in Pope Urban besieged. a certain castle of Italy, and if money had come to content them he had surely been taken. But the Bishop's treasure at Avinion was already so wasted, that the sum of twenty thousand franks which should be distributed amongst the soldiers, could not possibly be raised. This dissension between the two Popes, drew almost all the Princes of Christendom into sundry factions, as hath been showed before. These miseries and many other wherewith the Clergy should sometimes be afflicted, a certain Franciscane Friar had long since foretold in the time of Pope Innocent: and being for the same cast in prison at Avignon, had lost his head for his labour, but that he confirmed his sayings by authority of scripture. We have spoken of Ferdinando king of Portugal, which left behind him one only daughter named Beatrice, married to the King of Spain. Now my author declareth how he understood afterward, that she was begotten by the king of Portugal upon a certain Lady whom he had ravished, and whose husband he had chased out of the kingdom: and that his daughter so borne was afterwards by Pope Urban made legitimate. And moreover, at such time as the marriage was in treaty between this Lady and the King of Spain, this matter was also brought in controversy. But the King of Portugal to remove all doubts, dealt in such sort with his nobility and chiefest of the cities, that they all solemnly promised him, not to acknowledge any other sovereign after his death, than this his only daughter, neither to admit any man else to the succession of the crown, but him that should have her in marriage. Assoon as he was departed out of this life, the noble men were desirous the inheritance should pass to the King of Spain: but the cities for hatred they bore to the Spaniards, advanced him to the crown, of whom we have oftentimes spoken before, namely the base brother of the King deceased. And because at such time as the king of Portugal died, the Lady's husband remained still alive, most men thought that the child begotten between them, was borne in adultery. Moreover that couple had lived five years together as man and wife, when the king doting in his wicked and frantic affection, attempted this dishonourable practice, not only for a Prince, but for any other person, most unworthy and shameful. The wretched husband being robbed of his wife, got him to the King of Spain: and after the King of Portugese's decease returned again to Lishone, but received his wife no more, following therein the counsel of his friends, who alleged great reasons to the contrary. Afterward he was slain in a certain skirmish: and it is likely he had small joy of his life, considering the extreme injury and disgrace received from such a one, of whom he had no hope to be revenged. At such time as Lisbon was besieged by the Spaniards, the king of Portugal sent Ambassadors into England, exhorting and requesting the Duke of Lancaster to succour him in this great necessity, against such an enemy as both possessed a kingdom which was none of his own, and sought also by force to seize upon the crown of Portugal, whereto he had no more right than to the other. Upon hearing of their embassage, it was concluded that the Duke of Lancaster should be sent into Portugal, and all things were prepared and made ready for his voyage, when suddenly the Admiral of France landing with an army in Scotland, from thence made war upon the Page. 127. English, as hath been before declared. hereupon the Duke's journey was stayed. Nevertheless the King of Portugal fought prosperously, and vanquished his enemy in two battles as is showed already. And after this victory returning to Lisbon, by advise of his counsel, he sent Ambassadors again to the king of England, and the Duke of Lancaster, desiring him if ever he meant to attempt any thing against his adversary the king of Spain, that he would not neglect the present opportunity. For twice he himself had already defeated him in battle, and driven him from the field: now did he quake and tremble for distrust of his estate, and it were an easy matter to overthrow him wholly, specially if they should assail him with both their forces united together. Scarce could he know on which side to turn him, his affairs and his counsels would be all so confounded: and that his state might be more violently shaken, it seemed best in his opinion to make present invasion upon him befote he should recover his strength or bethink him of the danger. When these and many other like matters had been delivered by the Ambassadors, it pleased the King that the Duke of Lancaster should now at length proceed with his voyage before undertaken. So with a certain number of horsemen, The Duke of Lancaster saileth into Portugal. Bristol. and more than two thousand archers, accompanied with his wife and children, he took shipping at a certain haven in Wales, whither the Portugese's upon advertisement from their ambassadors, had before sent five and twenty ships and Galleys to attend him. And because he saw great likelihood of troubles to arise in England, & that he was envy by many which were in authority about the King his nephew, he was very glad and desirous to go this journey. His first landing was in the haven of Breast, which town because the Englishmen refused to restore to the Duke of Britain, was at that time by the Britons and Frenchmen together besieged. But the Duke of Lancaster's puissance enforced the Britons to raise their siege. Then directed he his course towards Cologne a town in Spain. For after much deliberation it was generally thought more honour to land first in their enemy's country, then to go straight to their friends. But the town was so strongly fortified as their atttempt and endeavour was vain. Therefore losing from thence they The Duke of Lancaster arri-Seth in pain. sailed to Compostella, into which town after some parley they were honourably received. Assoon as the King of Spain heard tidings of the Englishmen arrival, he took counsel with certain French Lords whom he chiefly favoured, concerning his affairs, and what they thought of the Englishmen proceedings. They were absolutely of opinion, that the king of Portugal should marry the Duke of Lancaster's daughter, and therefore that it behooved him to require aid of the French king: who both in respect of his own good disposition, and the most strict and ancient alliance between Spain and France, would not fail of his friendly duty in that behalf. Moreover assuring him that there were a great number in France so ill affected to idleness that nothing could happen more according to their desires, then to meet with any occasion of military employment. When they had given him this counsel, they further advised him to take order, that all weak holds, churches, and such like, whereinto the country people had conveyed their goods for fear of the foraging soldiers should be beaten down. For those places were such as could not be defended, and if they were taken, the prey and pillage therein would afford great profit and advantage to the enemy. The King to whom this counsel seemed not amiss, authorised the French men to cast down what they thought good at their discretion, and withal to seize whatsoever they found in them (after a day prefixed) to their own commodity. The French king being solicited by the king of Spain for aid, required him to be of good courage, for within short space he would bend all the forces he was able to make against the English nation: who being once subdued, he would send store of soldiers into Spain, by whose help he should be enabled, not only to bridle and restrain, but to break and confound the puissance of both his adversaries. Whilst the Englishmen wintered at Compostella, they made often roads into the country, and brought certain towns under their subjection. In the mean time the king of Pontingale wrote diverse Letters to the Duke of Lancaster full of great kindness and affection. But counsel was given the Duke, that he should delay the matter no longer, nor negotiate with the King any further by letters: that it was very behooveful for him, now he had proceeded thus far, to go through with his affairs as speedily as might be: the French men were subtle fellows, the Spaniards had small faithfulness: and it might so fall out that the French men, by whom the King of Spain was wholly carried, would persuade him to agreement with the King of Portugal upon some indifferent conditions. These reasons were approved, and thereupon the Duke sent word to the King of Portugal that he was desirous to speak with him, whereto he condescended and so they met at a place appointed. After much communication, it was concluded that the Duke of Lancaster should stay all the winter at Compostella, sending abroad his soldiers to foray the country in the mean while, and assoon as the spring time approached, to advance their Standards both together against the enemy, in what part of the Kingdom soever he remained. Also that the King of Portugal should take his choice which of the Duke's daughters he would have in marriage. He chose Philip the Duke's daughter by his first wife. The matters thus accomplished, the duke returned to Compostella. The King of Spain being disquicted by the English soldiers, which wasted his country and forced his towns to yield, marveled much that there came no aid all this while out of France: but the French Lords always encouraged him, putting him in comfort, that assoon as the wars in England were dispatched, he should not fail of sufficient succours. The French King, upon a marvelous desire to invade The French King maketh great preparation to invade England. England, assembled the greatest puissance he could possibly make. There were numbered of noblemen and gentlemen above twenty thousand, and more than fifteen hundred ships, abundantly furnished with all necessaries, even to smallest trifles. And although this preparation was such, as a greater or more sumptuous had not been seen in man's remembrance, yet (as it often happeneth in such occasions) the report thereof in England far exceeded the truth, and was extended above measure. In so much that public prayers and supplications were daily offered to God, that he would avert and turn from them this imminent mischief. All the havens and port towns where they suspected the French men might land, were strongly fortified and planted with Garrisons: and an unmeasurable mass of money was levied, amounting to the ●umme of twenty hundred thousand florins, so as there was no man in the whole kingdom which felt not the weight of this heavy burden. All good and well disposed persons bewailed the present state of their country; but idle unthrifts, malcontents, and such as had nothing to take to, were of nothing more desirous. The French army was now fully furnished and all things put in a readiness in the haven of Sluse in Flaunders, nothing was wanting, but only the Duke of berries presence. He never allowed this enterprise, and at his coming thither, when consultation was had about setting forward on their journey, he persuaded the contrary with divers reasons, as the roughness of the winter weather (for it was then about Christmas) and the tender age of the King whom he thought in no wise was to be committed to the uncertainty of winds and seas at that unseasonable time of the year. His counsel prevailed, and thereupon the voyage was put of till the next spring; the preparation whereof stood France in little less than thirty hundred thousand Frankes. It was oftentimes reported for certainty to the King of Portugal, that the French Kings army was already entered into England. Whereupon some gave him counsel, that he should not be to forward in marrying his wife which he had lately affianced, but rather to expect what issue the wars would come to: for if it should happen the King of England to go by the worse (as it was likely enough at that time) the Duke of Lancaster's friendship would then do him small pleasure. The King following their advise, dissembled his marriage, and for a while made nomotion at all thereof, but with kind letters and costly presents still continued the Duke's favour for his advantage. Leo King of Armenia who had been driven out of his country by the Tartars, and came lately before into France, being not a little sorry that so great dissension should grow between two such puissant Princes as the French King and the English, of a certain godly zeal and good disposition sailed over into England, to make a trial if he could do aught in establishing a peace between them. The King of England gave him patient ear in discoursing his miseries and banishment, and how the power of the Turks and Barbarians daily increased through the mutual wars and dissension of the Christian Princes. And when by occasion hereof he descended to the point, to exhort to love and concord, the King answered, that he should first deal with his adversary to discharge his great army; and that done, for his part he was not so perverse, but he would willingly embrace whatsoever was agreeable to equity and reason. Hereupon he returned to the French King, who seemed nothing affected, nor inclinable to peace. The third Book. IT fortuned in France, that a certain Jaquesle Grissel sir john de Carogne. gentleman of the Earl of Alaunsons' house, ravished another man's wife whilst her husband was absent in a foreign country. Assoon as he returned, the sorrowful Lady with tears in her eyes and shame in her countenance, declared unto him the violence she had suffered. Her husband complained to the Earl of Alaunson, and the party accused denied the deed. Now the Earl showing himself more favourable to the offender, then to him that had the injury, the plaintiff appealed to the Parliament of Paris. A whole year and more the matter was there ca●uassed; and in conclusion, when the one still avouched the fact, and the other stood stoutly in denial, it was decreed, that the controversy should be decided by combat. So at a certain day which either themselves had chosen, or the judges appointed, they encountered one another firston on horseback, after on foot. Not blind fortune, which otherwise is wont to bear sway in such cases, but justice and true valour showed their force in this conflict. For he that held his wives chastity dearer than his own life, and was not afraid to venture his head in defence of the same, by his adversaries A notable example of destruction, made it manifest to the world, that there is a God of vengeance, which will not suffer secret divine justice. wickedness to escape unpunished. After he was slain, the hangman drew his body to the gallows and hung it up: whereas if he had fortuned to g●t the victory, the woman for falsely accusing him, should by decree of the Parliament have been burned, and her husband after his death, put to the same reproach which now was used to his adversary. The whole company of honourable spectators The French king was present with most of his nobility. highly exstolled the conqueror, and applauded his victory with deserved commendation. Moreover the French king out of a certain princely respect and inclination, not suffering so worthy an act to pass unrewarded, gave him presently a thousand franks, and from thenceforth a pension of two hundredth pounds by the year, during his life. About this time deceased the King of Arragon: who The death of Peter King of Arragon. a little before his death calling his sons unto him, exhorted them to mutual love and concord: & for as much as in so great partaking of Princes, he only had stood indifferent between the two Popes, he desired his sons that they would do the like, and not apply themselves to any faction till the truth were more manifestly discussed. Nevertheless when he was dead, Pope Clement and the French king, drew john his eldest son to their party. But when he came to be crowned, the cities would not consent, unless he were first solemnly sworn not to levy any tributes or exactions of money, other than such as had been formerly accustomed. Edward Prince of Wales as long as he lived, was for his noble chivalry and glorious fortune held in great admiration, and many sought his friendship and alliance. Among others there was also a league between him and the King of Arragon, under these conditions. That the Englishmen should at no time make wars upon the realm of Arragon: and in consideration hereof, that the King of Arragon should yearly send five hundredth horse to serve the Duke of Aquitaine against any enemy whatsoever, or if he could not conveniently find so many horsemen, he should pay him a certain sum of money. Now for the space of ten years he had neither done the king of England any service, nor paid him any money. The Duke of Lancaster therefore (to whom at his setting forth towards Portugal, the king his nephew had given authority to demand all rights and services belonging to the Dukedom of Aquitaine, either from the king of Arragon, or any other) thinking that so great a mass of money would much pleasure him in his present affairs, wrote letters requiring those arrearages, and sent them to the King of Arragon by the Archbishop of Bordeaux. Who at his coming found the King very sick, so as he died within few days after. The Archbishop nevertheless still prosecuted The Duke of Lancaster's ambassador imprisoned by the King of Arragon. his suit, and the new king offended with his importunity cast him in prison at Barcelone. Whereof when the Duke of Lancaster was informed, he gave commandment to the English garrison at Lourde (which is the only strong and impregnable castle in those quarters) that they should infest the Arragonians with war, and do them as much displeasure as they could. They were nothing slack in performing his command, and wrought great annoyance to the country, especially to the merchants, whom they intercepted at every passage and spoiled of their commodities. The people of Barcelone being vexed with their daily excursions, and caught up as a prey by the ravenous soldiers, made such means to their king by intercession of the nobility, that he was content to release his prisoner. After that by persuasion of the Duke of Ber●y, the voyage into England was deferred, as we have showed a little before: assoon as the spring came on, it was appointed that the Constable of France with twelve thousand men should be sent to invade England, and besides that certain forces should be likewise conveyed into Spain to the relief of King john against the Englishmen & Portugese's. Upon this occasion a new subsidy being sessed again through all France, ye might have seen many country people and towne-dwellers, which not knowing how otherwise to help themselves, abandoned their lands and tenements, and departed either into Henault, or into the Bishopric of Liege, because those places at that time were free from the burden of such intolerable exactions. The succours sent into Spain were six thousand horsemen, under conduct of the Duke of Bourbon. We have told you before how the king of Portugal expecting the success of the English war, dissembled politicly with the Duke of Lancaster in the mean while. Now when he saw that England was discharged of the danger, and that the French kings army was dissolved, he sent some forthwith to affiance the Duke of Lancaster's Philip the Duke of Lancaster's daughter married to the King of Portugal. daughter in his name, whom within few days after being honourably conducted unto him, he espoused. After the marriage he sent word to his father in law, that he should draw out his forces assoon as he pleased, and he would do the like, that so they might jointly together proceed against their enemy. In the mean while the French men well appointed and gallantly furnished, arrived in Spain. After whose coming, consultation being had whether it were best to bring their forces in to the field, or to place their men in ga●rrisons, when sundry opinions rose amongst them, the Spaniards persuading battle, the French men the contrary, it was referred by the King to one of the French Captains of most experience, to determine the matter at his discretion. And he in regard the Duke of Bourbon their General was not yet come, thought it altogether unfitting to fight with the enemy, but rather to bestow their soldiers in places convenient till need should require: for by this means it would come to pass, that the Englishmen ranging over all the country, through the intemperate heat of the climate, should fall into many dangerous diseases: and although for the present they became Lords of diverse places, yet should they not be able to maintain them long: and when their strength began once to decrease, it would be an easy matter to recover all again, especially after the Duke of Bourbon's coming, with the rest of their forces. This determination took place, and so immediately the men of war were conveyed into those parts of Spain which border upon Portugal, to defend the frontiers of the kingdom. The Constable who was appointed to make invasion upon England, had his army prepared, and his ships ready rigged in a certain haven of Britain. diverse other Lords of France were likewise ready to be embarked at Harflew in Normandy, whose direction was to have landed their forces together with his, upon the coast of England. But there happened a sudden adventure in the mean time, whereby their whole enterprise was overthrown, and that ye may the better conceive the discourse, we will rehearse the matter from his first original. It is declared before, how Charles of Bloys being taken prisoner by the Englishmen that aided the Countess of Mountfort, was set at liberty upon condition he should pay two hundredth thousand crowns to the King of England for his ransom, and for assurance of the same, left his two sons john & Guy in hostage. It fortuned afterward that he was slain in battle against the Duke of Britain. After which time the Englishmen at the Duke of Britain's request, came through the midst of France with a great power to aid him. Whereupon the French king fearing least the Duke by this occasion should yield himself subject to the King of England, made composition with him as hath been before declared. Whereat the Englishmen (who had traveled a long journey through many perils and great difficulties, to come into Britain) were exceedingly offended, and assoon as they came home, made complaint to their king of the Duke's discourtesy and ingratitude. And to the intent to work him as great displeasure, they made this offer to john the son of Charles of Bloys, (whom they held still as pledge for his father's ransom, his brother being deceased there already) that if he would receive and hold the Duchy of Britain of the King of England, and do homage and fealty to him for the same, he should be delivered out of prison, and set in possession of his Dukedom, and beside, have in marriage Philip the Duke of Lancaster's daughter; the same which was afterwards Queen of Portugal. The offer of marriage he was well contented to accept, but to seem disloyal to the French king, or be an enemy to the crown of France, that he would never consent to. Whereupon remaining steadfast in his resolution, he was again committed to prison. Now the Constable of France Sir Oliver Clisson, (who although his inheritance lay in Britain, yet loved not the Duke, and the Duke on the other side hated him more than any man else, because upon the King's command; he had troubled his country with war) had a daughter whom he much desired to marry with this john that was prisoner in England, thinking it would be a great advancement to his house if he might bring it to pas●e. Therefore when he had cast in his mind by what means he might best purchase his liberty, he began secretly to practise with the Duke of Ireland (a man whom the king highly favoured and much delighted in his company) promising to give him six score thousand franks if he would undertake to procure his enlargement. The Duke accepted his offer: not withstanding as long as the Duke of Lancaster remained in the realm; in regard the matter had been motioned before for his daughter, he could effect nothing of his purpose. But after he was gone▪ the Duke of Ireland desirous of the gold, ontreated the King (with whom no man was more familiar than himself) that in consideration of his services and pains taken in the common wealth, he would bestow the prisoner upon him, for whose ransom he might get a great mass of money. The king who was altogether carried by this man, in such sort as he both neglected and hated his uncles in respect of him, did willingly condescend to his request. Assoon as the prisoner was delivered into his hands, he conveyed him over to Boloine, receiving there three score thousand franks, the rest to be paid him at Paris: where the Constable expecting the young man's arrival, when he came received him with great honour, and married him forthwith to his daughter. How much this matter troubled the Duke of John of Bloys marrieth the Constable's daughter of France. Britain, he may well conjecture that remembreth the discourse, and considereth the circumstances of such things as have been heretofore rehearsed touching the wars in Britain. For he saw that by this marriage his whole estate was called in question, and like to be much endangered. Therefore he prepared revenge, having the thought thereof more conversant in his mind, than any other. And at such time as the Constable had his army about him in the Duke's country, ready to have pass into England as we told ye before, the Duke summoned all his nobility to be at Vannes by a certain day, for weighty affairs that he had to consult of: desiring the Constable also by letters, that he would honour the assembly with his presence. The Constable though he were nothing ignorant of the mutual grudge between them, yet presuming upon the greatness of his office, and the authority of his present employment against the King enemies, came thither as he was requested. After some consultation had about the matters they met for, the Duke as it were for pleasure and recreation, invited certain of the chief Noble men, and amongst them also the Constable, into a certain castle there by which he had lately begun to build, The Castle of Ermine. and now in a manner finished. When they came thither, the Duke stoutly dissembling his purpose, and himself leading the Constable from place to place, as it had been to do him the more honour, at last brought him to a certain tower of far more sumptuous and costly building then the rest, desiring him to view it well, and if he espied any fault, that he would frankly tell him his opinion. The Constable entered in alone, and mounting up the first story the doors were presently closed beneath, and certain armed men rushing suddenly forth, laid hands upon him and bound him in fetters. The hangman was likewise ready by the Duke's appointment to have taken away his life. Nevertheless at the humble entreaty and tears of a certain noble man that came in his company, the Duke The Lord de laval. hardly relenting delayed his execution, commanding him to be kept straightly in irons. But within few hours after, anger boiling in his breast, & admitting no other thought but revenge, his wrath not like others being any whit assuaged, but rather more vehemently increased by respite and consideration, he again commanded that his head should be stricken of. But what labour and care, what peril and difficulty he again sustained, by whose means the Constable had hitherto been saved; how many, how sorrowful, how effectual matters he alleged, before he could move the Duke's most obdurate mind to any sense or feeling of compassion: none can conceive but he which knoweth that the Duke long since had resolved upon nothing more certainly then by one means or other, to bring the Constable to destruction; none but he which knoweth that the Duke for many years together had with incredible desire hunted for this opportunity; none but he which considereth that it was a most unnatural & outrageous kind of anger, which upon time to muse & think of it, was not quenched but inflamed, and could be satisfied with nothing, but the blood and slaughter of a man which was brought in danger by deceit, and under the pretence of friendship. Therefore that the Constable was saved from the Duke's deadly intent, next to the providence of the everliving God, he was only to thank this man for his deliverance; who immediately made intercession for him, and never rested till by extreme importutunity he had extorted from the Duke, the assurance of his friend's life and safety. So at length the Duke was contented to set the Constable at liberty, upon condition that he should pay him an hundredth thousand crowns before he departed, and deliver three castles into his hands, to remain to him and his heirs for ever. Whereof assoon as the Duke had taken possession, he dismissed his prisoner, who within two days after came to Paris & made grievous complaint to the King of the great injury and violence he had suffered. The king gave him comfort and hope of redress, but the King's uncles upon relation of the circumstances, were so far from pitying his mischance, that they rather seemed angry and offended, because when he had all things in a readiness for his journey, he neglected his affairs and the opportunity of the season, to follow matters of pleasure and idle disport, giving rash credit to such a one, as both he himself hated, and who he knew well enough, had long since sought advantage of his life. The Admiral and the rest of the Lords which were ready to take shipping in Normandy, upon understanding of these occurrents, dismissed their forces. So it came to pass that this expedition against England, which by the general consent and good liking of the whole kingdom had been most certainly resolved and concluded upon, was by these occasions that ye have heard, utterly overthrown and disappointed. At the same time also the young Duke of Gelder's proclaimed 1390. wars against the French King, and sent him his defiance: for the king of England, for so doing had given him a pension of four thousand franks. The chief motives that stirred the Duke of Britain to this fact before mentioned, were first the mortal hatred he bore to the Constable: and secondly, that he might thereby reconcile himself to the King of England, whose displeasure he had mightily procured by entering in league with the French King. Most part of the noblemen of France persuaded the King in the Constable's behalf, that he should not suffer such a deed to escape unpunished. Hereupon messengers were sent to the Duke, to let him understand that both the King and his uncles and the whole counsel of state were highly offended with him, because through his violent apprehension and detaining of the Constable, he had frustrated the king's purpose of invading his enemies. Wherefore their will and pleasure was, that he should make full restitution both of the money and castles which he had wrongfully taken: and concerning his disappointment of the voyage, that he should come in person to Paris, there to render an account of his doings. The duke when he had received this message, after some deliberation of the matter, made answer to this effect: that he not only nothing repent him of what he had done to the Constable, but was also exceeding sorry that he did no more, and that it grieved him at the heart as often as he remembered it, that ever he suffered him to go away alive. As for the castles, seeing he had them in his possession, he would by no means restore them again, nor never depart with them unless the King put him out by force. The money was all bestowed amongst those that helped him to defend his country against the Constable, them whom he had not a more mortal enemy in the world. For interrupring the journey into England, he had never any such thought in his mind, it was a private case between the Constable and him, and whatsoever was done, proceeded of no other intent, but only desire of revenge. Ye have heard, how at such time as invasion was feared in England, great sums of money were levied for the maintenance of war, to defend the Realm. Now, when the French men altering their purpose, returned without performance of their enterprise, many gave out speeches that it was unjustly done of the king's officers to keep still the money, the danger being avoided without any charge or expenses. This muttering being stilled for a while, upon occasion of a new subsidy demanded for payment of the soldiers wages which had been placed in garrisons, was again renewed more boldly than before. The commons took the matter very heinously, and framed grievous accusations against certain persons, through whose dishonesty and unfaithfulness, they said the whole treasure of the kingdom, and the goods of the subjects, were wastefully consumed. The King was led altogether by a few of the meaner sort, men of base quality and ignorant disposition. But especially, the Duke of Ireland had him in a manner at command, and possessed him in such sort, as it seemed he had enchanted the young king's affections. For whatsoever he said was done, and there was nothing so unjust or contrary to reason, which the King would not credit upon his report. He brought the king's uncles in suspicion and hatred, so as they had much ado to keep themselves out of danger. As for them, they were nothing displeased with the people's complaints: for by this occasion they saw many alterations would happen. Therefore they inclined to the people, allowing their pretence, and encouraging them to proceed as they had already begun. In At Saint George's feast at Windsor. conclusion it came to this pass, that at a certain time when the King and his nobility were assembled together, the Londoners made grievous complaint of the new subsidies and exactions which from time to time were imposed upon them: and which grieved them most of all, that they saw no good or necessary use whereto all that money was converted. They thought the King was not made privy to any thing, and therefore they required that a day might be assigned to the king's collectors and receivors to yield an account of their receipts and payments, whereby it might appear, who had carried themselves uprightly in their office, & who otherwise, that the one might be retained, & the other discharged. The Duke of Gloucester one of the king's uncles, had given them counsel & direction to frame their speech in this manner. But the King assoon as he heard their suit, rejected it at the first, and would have put of his answer till another time. But the people still urged their demand, and pressed upon him with more earnestness, because many of the noble men about him did openly allow of their petition. So at length he was contented, that within a few days after an account should be taken of all those officers, and that his uncles and certain other whom the people required, should have the examination of the matter. In many of the officers was found great fraud and extortion, all which the law condemned to death. Immediately upon receipt of the accounts, the King accompanied with his minion the Duke of Ireland, took his journey into another part of the Realm. Where understanding that certain of his household were put to execution at London, he was exceedingly moved to displeasure both against the commons, and against his uncles. For the Duke of Ireland had as it were imprinted this conceit in his mind, that they went about to depose him from his crown, and therefore never ceased to incense and provoke him (who of himself was too apprehensive of such occasions) till he had persuaded him to make war against them. So the Duke was made general, and by the King's appointment levied some fifteen thousand men. But before he would march forward with his army, he sent a certain friend of his disguised in the habit Sir Robert Tresilian. of a merchant, to London, where the king's uncles were assembled, to discover their counsels and manner of proceedings. But this gentleman (most contrary to his expectation) I wot not by what misfortune, was discovered himself, and when he had revealed to the Lords certain matters concerning the King, he was put to death. This occasion as ye may well conjecture, did mightily aggravate the king's displeasure. Now, when the Duke of Ireland saw the power of his adversaries approaching against him, as fierce and slout as he seemed before, yet performed he nothing worthy of a valiant or discreet commander. For he was absolutely persuaded out of a self-guilty opinion of his own desert, that if it were his fortune to be taken in battle, there would be no other way with him, but death. Therefore assoon as he had placed his men in order, he began to provide for his own security, retiring into the rearward, to the intent that as occasion should serve, he might be the readier to convey himself out of danger. The soldiers hearing a sudden rumour that their General had forsaken them, abandoned themselves presently to flight, without exchanging any stroke with their enemy. Very few were slain, and Sir Robert Beachampe, sir John Salisbury, sir Nicholas Brambre. those only in chase, certain knights were taken and put to death at London. The Duke of Ireland accompanied with one or two of his friends, fled over the seas into Holland, whither he had long before caused all his treasure to be conveyed. For albeit he had the King wholly on his side, yet he much mistrusted and feared his uncles, of whom he had so well deserved, that nothing but utter enmity was to be expected at their hands. These troubles being thus quieted, and the noble men yet hearing no news of the King; it was thought convenient, that the Archbishop of Canterbury should be addressed unto him in the name of his uncles & the people, signifying how they were all very desirous of his presence, and that if it pleased him to repair to London, he should be honourably and lovingly received. For they sought nothing but the welfare and tranquillity of the kingdom, which it was impossible for him to maintain without the good wills of his subjects▪ That it was not without causes of great importance, that some were openly punished, and others driven out of the realm; for as much as through the authority and ill gonernment of those persons, the honour of the kingdom was impaired. What the noblemen had done in that behalf, was for the general good of the common wealth, and as the state than stood that it was a matter of necessity, and therefore he had no just cause of displeasure against them. Although the King were highly offended with the occasions which had passed before: yet upon these and such other reasons as the Archbishop used, he was persuaded to come to London. After he had remained there a while, a Parliament was called at Westminster, where the Lords and Prelates of the realm renewed their oath of allegiance to him, which they had formerly sworn to his uncles in his behalf: for he was now attained to the age of one and twenty years, the age accustomably prescribed for the administration of public affairs. In this mean while, the Duke of Lancaster subdued may towns in Spain, and the King of Portugal was not idle but in an other part of the country, brought much into his father in laws subjection. And when they had practised this kind of warfare for a time, at length they joined their forces together, to give their enemy's battle in the field. The King of Spain in the mean season marveled much at the Duke of Bourbon's long tarriance and delay, whose only coming he had waited for all this while with so great expectation. The French men's advise being again demanded, they persisted resolute in their first opinion, holding it altogether unexpedient to give the Englishmen battle, though they had gotten many towns, for those might easily be recovered hereafter: and it must needs come to pass, that the Englishmen being tired with the continual travels of war, sometimes overcome with extremity of heat, otherwhiles enfeebled through the subtlety of the piercing air entering in at the open pores of their bodies, should fall into sundry diseases and infirmities. And indeed so it happened. For by reason of the The Englishmen miseries under the Duke of Lancaster in Spain. vehement heat and sudden cold, which they were forced to abide in the day time, through the Sun's scorching violence and their own travel, in the night by occasion of their watches, & open lodgings in the field, divers pestilent sicknesses were engendered amongst them. Besides this, most part of their horses not finding wherewith to sustain them in the country, perished for hunger. hereupon rose many sorrowful complaints amongst the poor soldiers lamenting their misfortune. The King of Portugals counsel being asked in this necessity, he thought it best in regard of the intemperateness of the season, to withdraw into some of the towns which they had taken, and to discharge the army. The Duke on the other side feared least when their soldiers were dispersed, the Duke of Bourbon whom he knew to be coming, should surprise them unawares. Whereupon resolving as yet not to break up their camp, they continued still in the field. But it was lamentable to behold the English, who being altogether unaccustomed to the intolerable heat of that country, and the drinking of those hot wines, were so afflicted with sickness, that the poor wretches with great misery had much ado to sustain their lives. Then the general of the horsemen, who could both hear and discern the state of the Sir John Holland. army more nearly, by reason of his daily intercourse in all affairs, acquainted the Duke of Lancaster with the calamity of his people, and showed him how the case was such as required both speedy help and present resolution. hereupon it was concluded to dismiss the army, at the tidings whereof, there was great rejoicing through the whole camp. Nevertheless they saw no means how to return into their country. By sea they could not, they were to far within land, and beside, most of them were so feeble and diseased, as they could not possibly brook the violence of waves & tempests: by land there was no going, for their passage must lie through Spain, Navarre and Arragon, king dones confederate against them: what should be done in this extremity? An herald was sent to the enemy, to require a safe conduct for certain English gentlemen, to come and parley with the King. The Spaniard musing what strange occasion should move them, admitted their request: the effect whereof was this: That for as much as their whole army was grievously visited with sickness, the King calling to remembrance the miseries of mankind, which are incident to all, would give leave to their sick persons to withdraw themselves into some of his towns, & to abide there till their health might be recovered. And for the rest which were desirous to return into their country, that he would grant them licence to pass quietly through his kingdom of Spain, and withal to be a means to the kings of Arragon and Navarre, that they would likewise suffer them to travel in safety through their dominions. The King of Spain after deliberation, condescended to their request upon condition, that aswell those which went now directly towards their Country, as the rest that stayed for recovery of their health, should at their departure be solemnly sworn, neither to return any more to the Duke of Lancaster, nor to come within the confines of Spain upon any occasion of war, for the space of six years after. These conditions though they seemed grievous unto them, yet so earnest was their desire and affection homeward, as they would willingly have accepted them, had they been much worse. The Duke of Lancaster who had compassed this matter by collateral means in another man's name, lest he should seem to have craved aught at his enemy's hands, after the dissolving of his army, departed again to Compostella, dispersing his sick people into the towns and villages there adjoining. Of those that went for England, divers Lords and Gentlemen, beside great numbers of the common sort, being unable to sustain the violence of their disease, and the travel of their journey, ended their lives in the way. In the mean time the Duke of Bourbon who had lingered a long while, and fetched a great compass (for he had visited Pope Clement at Avinion) arrived in Spain: and although he heard tidings of the dissolving of the English army, yet nevertheless in regard he had proceeded thus far, he would not now go out of the country before he had seen the King. The Spaniard was afraid lest if the French soldiers should make any long tarriance, or at leastwise be admitted, they would demand entertainment, which if he should deny them, they would rob and spoil his country: therefore within few days after the Duke's coming thither (whom otherwise he received with all honour and courtesy) he declared unto him, how at that time the enemy being deprarted of his own accord, he had no further employment for sorraine souldiets. The Duke was not only nothing offended with this discharge, but very glad of the occasion to be soon dispatched, for he found the country did not agree with his people's complexion. The Duke of Lancaster lay sick a while at Compostella, and upon the recovery of his strength, hearing of the Duke of Bourbon's departure, he also set his mind upon returning into his country: for he well perceived, that by reason of these calamities and afflictions, he was utterly disabled from going through with his enterprise. Therefore borrowing both men and shipping of the King of Portugal, he set sails to the wind, and in four hours after arrived at Bayon. Here may you see how strange and lamentable The Duke of Lancaster returneth out of Spain. are the adventures & casualties of man's life, and how uncertain are the events of all our actions, of all our cogitations. For this Duke, who sometimes through occasion of foreign wars, and otherwhiles by reason of civil discord and rebellion, being restrained from his purpose, could not when he would, accomplish this voyage, which for many years before he had so ardently desired: now after such time as upon often invitements and embassages from the King of Portugal, he was come into the kingdom which pertained to his wives inheritance, was at length compelled without achieving any memorable matter, and with the loss of his soldiers, under a colourable submission to his enemy, to leave all his affairs and intents unperformed, and to return home into his own country. We have formerly made mention of the duke of Gelder's which denounced wars against the realm of France; and that was done in a very proud and contemptuous fashion, contrary to the accustomed manner of defiance. Now for the better understanding of all circumstances, observe this discourse. Reynold Earl of Gelder's through prodigality and riot, had much impoverished his estate; and when by reason of his wants, he could hardly maintain the reputation of his calling, in this distress he repaired to his uncle the Archbishop of Colen for counsel. The Bishop after so sharp reprehension, used these, or the like speeches. Cousin, you see and perceive wel-enough that there is not any Prince, nor noble man of so small account, which will bestow his daughter with you in marriage, you have so spent & consumed your means, and set yourself so exceedingly in debt. But there is a rich merchant, Bertold of Bertold of Machline. Machline, which you know hath but one only daughter, to whom in expectation of her large dowry, many great Lords have been suitors. You cannot make a better match for yourself than to seize upon such a booty. You shall do well therefore to make this offer to her father: that if he will undertake with his money to redeem those towns and castles which you have pawned to your creditors, and withal be contented to release such bonds of debt as he hath of yours already, in consideration hereof you will take his daughter to wife. This counsel was well accepted of the Earl, and so he sent one to make the motion. When Bertold had received the message, his answer was this: that he should hold it a great honour both to himself and all his house, if his daughter might seem worthy to be matched with such a husband: the respects which he thought moved the Earl to desire it, were that he might be discharged from the danger of his creditors, and possess his own without controlment. Therefore he was well content to proceed with the marriage, and disliked not of the conditions proffered, so as these likewise for his part might be added: that if it fortuned the Earl to die first, leaving no issue, than all his possessions to remain entirely to his wife during her life. And if it happened her to die first, leaving issue by the Earl, that then her children should be admitted to their father's inheritance, and not be debarred of their fortune, though he should afterward marry a woman of more honourable birth, and have issue by her also. These conditions being accepted, Marry the daughter of Bertold was married to the Earl of Gelder's, and the fourth year after Reignold Earl of Gelder's, married Mary daughter to Bertold of Machline. deceased, leaving issue by her husband one daughter named Isabella. After her decease the Earl married again, Isabella sister to that most worthy & prudent Prince, Edward King of England, by whom he had two sons, Reignold and Edward, and one daughter called joan. It fortuned both the Reignolds, as well the father as the son, deceased: Edward took to wife a daughter of Albert Duke of Bavier, and afterwards in a battle against Wenceslaus Duke of Braband, was wounded to death, and departed without issue. joan therefore after the death of her brothers, presumed the inheritance should be hers; but Isabella which was descended of the first marriage, maintained the contrary, affirming that herself only had rightful interest in the succession. This Isabella was joined in marriage to john of Bloys, who had much alteration with his adversaries about the inheritance, and great contention was like to have grown between them, so far forth as the matter had surely come to trial of the sword, but that by his wives departure in the mean season, the controversy was decided. Then joan which was now the only and undoubted heir of her father, being married to William Marquis of juliers, bare to him a son called after his father's name, William. This William made Duke of Gelder's in the right of his mother, took to wife the daughter of Albert Duke of Bavier, the same which had been formerly espoused to Edward of Gelder's his unele, but by reason of her tender years, remaining still a maiden widow. Reignold Earl of Gelder's which married the king of England's sister, in regard of his great league and alliance with King Edward, was highly favoured by Lewis of Bavier then Emperor, in so much that he advanced both him and the marquess of juliers to a higher degree of honour, and created them both Dukes. Now the occasion why this William the young Duke of Gelder's made defiance to the French King, was both because he bore good affection to the king of Engand▪ to whom he was allied be faith and homage, and also for that Wenceslaus Duke of Braband, whom he exceedingly hated, was confederate with the French men. The cause of his hatred against the Duke of Braband was this. Reignold which married first Mary of Machline, and afterward king Edward's sister, being a man beyond all measure prodigal, mortgaged three Castles to the Earl of Morse, a rich Lord in Germany, for a great sum of money. ●he Earl a long while after, seeing his debtor unable to redeem his pledge, sold the castles to Wenceslaus Duke of Braband. After the death of Reignold, Edward his son addressing letters to Wenceslaus, requested to have the Castles again and he would repay him all the money that he had disbursed. Which when Wenceslaus absolutely refused, preparation was made for waries, which doubtless should have been the conclusion, but that by entreaty of the Duke of juliers, and Albert of Bavier, the matter for that time was compounded. The same year Charles the Emperor appointed his brother Wenceslaus as public protector Langue fried. of the high ways, for the punishment of thieves and robbers, that people might pass quietly from one place to another. Now it fortuned that certain merchants of Flaunders and Braband, as they traveled about their affairs into Germany were robbed of their money & spoiled of all their goods in the country of juliers, through which they made their journey. It was reported, that the offenders were received and fostered by the Duke of juliers, who (as many more besides himself) was thought to repine at the giving of so great an honour to Duke Wenceslaus. The poor merchants that sustained the loss, made grievous complaint to him which had the charge of redressing such enormities: who thereupon directing friendly letters to the Duke of juliers, prevailed so little, that he might plainly perceive, he rather desired war, than peace. Wenceslaus therefore lest the suffering of such disorders to escape unpunished, should bring the authority of his office in contempt, levied an army. The Duke of juliers did the like, & was aided by Edward Duke of Gelder's. The battle was fought in juliers with great Wenceslaus Duke of Braband taken pri sooner. Edward Duke of Gelder's slain in battle. fierceness on both sides: but the Brabanders were discomfited and put to flight, and amongst others the Duke himself also taken prisoner. Edward Duke of Gelder's was likewise mortally wounded, and died of the same. When the Duchess of Braband heard tidings of her husband's captivity, by advise of the French King she resorted to the Emperor at Confluence: who upon her complaint being moved with his brother's misfortune, prepared sharp wars against the Duke of juliers, intending to have made a notable spoil and destruction of his country, had he not been pacified by the Prince's electors, who thought it would be an ill precedent, that a fellow of the Empire should be so oppressed. The Duke therefore being by their means brought before the Emperor's presence, when he had voluntarily discharged his prisoner, after sharp reprehension, he was again reconciled and restored to the emperors favour. Within few years after, died Wenceslaus Duke of Braband, than William the Duke of juliers son, holding the signory of Gelder's in right of his mother, claimed again from the duchess of Braband these Castles which his uncle Edward in his life time had challenged before. The restitution whereof being 1383. denied, ministered new occasion whereby the old grudge was again revived. And because Braband at that time was in league with France, and the Duke of Burgoine the French kings brother, was next heir to the widow; the Duke of Gelder's (who studied all the displeasure he could against the house of France) to the intent to show his love towards the English nation, passed over the seas, and contracted great alliance with King Richard, receiving from him a pension of four thousand franks, as hath been before declared, and afterward at his return, defied the French king, and professed open enmity against the Brabanders: in so much that the Duke of Burgoigne upon advertisement from the widow, of his daily incursions, was constraimed to send thither certain companies of horsemen, for defence of the frontiers. Mention is made before of the Duke of Lancaster, who by reason of great plague and mortality in his army, was forced to discharge his soldiers and return to the king of Portugal. Now when the Spaniards and French men The Spaniards recover again all that the Duke of Lancaster had gotten in Castille. saw their enemies dispersed, they easily recovered all that was lost, the Englishmen which remained in garrisons being either expelled by force, or dismissed by composition. The king of Portugal persuaded his father in law to send for a new supply out of England. But the Duke considering how it was far of, and that the state of England was at that time greatly encumbered, made speedy provision for his departure, and sailed (as we have showed you) to Bayon: from whence he wrote diverse letters both to the King, and to his brothers for succour. But the Englishmen minds were so alienated from the wars of Portugal, by reason of the great miseries they endured there, that scarce any man could be found which would enter his name to go upon that voyage. Besides this, the troubles, seditions, and executions which had been lately in the realm before, remained still so fresh in every man's memory, as they had no leisure to intend to foreign affairs. The French king understanding how the world went in England, to the intent to make use of his adversaries ill fortune, upon great hopes and large promises, alured the Duke of Ireland out of the netherlands into France. Charles king of Navarre about this time sessing his people at a subsidy of two hundred thousand franks, assembled the burgesses of his towns at Pampelone the chief City of his kingdom: and when he saw that they stuck upon the matter, he shut them up in a certain court enclosed about with high walls, threatening that if they concluded not the sooner, he would handle them according to their deserts. But in the mean while happened a wonderful accident. After he had left them in this angry mood, he gave himself to sleep: and because he was aged, his servants were accustomed to burn a perfume about him, to provoke him to sweat. Now it fortuned (by what negligence or mischance at that time I know not) that some spark of fire caught hold of the bed; which by little and little increasing and gathering strength, at Charles King of Navarre, by a strange misfortune burned in his bed. last broke forth in a burning siame about him: by means whereof the wretched king being alone and not able by reason of his age to help himself, nor to wind out of the linen which entangled him, was almost consumed in the flames before any could come to his rescue. Many Lords of France which were much displeased that the Duke of Gelder's had made defiance to their king in such proud terms, contrary to the custom of other Princes, were of opinion, that if he should escape clearly away withal, it might perhaps hereafter be imputed as a blame and reproach to them which were now of the king's counsel. The king was forward enough to have taken a course of revenge, but in regard the Duke of Britain attempted new troubles, soliciting the English to be partakers of his proceedings, the enterprise which both himself and many other desired, could not then be performed. The Duke of Berry sent one privately in his own name, to deal with the Duke of Britain in friendly manner, to draw him to some reasonable agreement: but it was in vain, and that made the French men in greater fear and suspicion. For they considered what peril it might be to the realm, if the King as he desired himself, and was persuaded by others, should now address himself into Germany, when the Duke of Britain showed so small affection to peace as he seemed altogether desirous of war, attending but for opportunity to discover his intention. When they had long varied in opinions, some thinking such indignity was in no wise to be taken at so mean a Lords hands as the Duke of Gelder's, & that the King now in his youth was to be enured to arms; others opposing against this counsel, the present state of the kingdom, the charge of the wars, and the fierceness of the Germans: at length it was agreed, to contemn the Duke of Gelder's as a young man, whom rather heat of youth, than any advised judgement had moved to that action: and if he proceeded to make wars as he had threatened, that then it should be more honour for the king to advance his forces against him. But by all means it was thought necessary to fall to agreement with the Duke of Britain. For he (as we said before) seemed openly to practise with the King of England, and already certain English ships scoured the Seas between Normandy and Britain; which notwithstanding they did no harm to France, yet because they still houe●ed about that coast, the French men always mistrusted the worst. For these causes many thought it the fittest course by war to chastise the Duke's presumption. But the King's Uncles and some others of sadder discretion, who always held the success of war uncertain, were of a contrary opinion. For it was easy to conjecture, that the wars with England would be renewed upon this occasion, which was the only thing that the Duke of Britain desired. Commissioners were therefore directed unto him to make a peaceable conclusion of the matter. Whereof the Duke being informed, before their coming, consulted of his affairs at large. His counsel with weighty reasons persuaded him, that he should desist from his course, and restraining his affections, submit himself to the French King, whose puissance was such, as he had restored great Lords, yea, and Princes, to their honour and estates, and had driven others again to whom he bore displeasure, out of their signiories and dominions. Therefore their best advise was, that he should of his own accord, restore again to the Constable the castles which he had lately taken from him. For it would be more honourable for him to deliver them now willingly, then hereafter by compulsion. The Duke following their counsel, The Duke of Britain restoreth all that he had taken from the Constable. made restitution of all, and beside, put every officer in his place again, as he found them when he first seized the castles into his possession. The fame hereof being presently spread into France, met the commissioners also upon the confines of Britain. Who when they came before the Duke, because of his own accord, he had already performed that which otherwise they should have requested at his hands, they proceeded to the other part of their commission, which was, to require him, that at a day prefixed he would repair to the town of Bloys upon the river Loire, there to meet and confer with the King's uncles. The Duke condescended, and being come thither accordingly, they exhorted and entreated him, that for assurance and confirmation of peace, he would speak with the King himself, and do homage unto him as all others had done, he only excepted. The Duke as one that was not ignorant how great enemies he had about the King, namely the Constable, and john his Son lately set free out of England, discreetly and earnestly excused himself. Nevertheless after the King's uncles had made him faithful promise that he should both go and return in safety, without any offence or interruption, he was contented at length to bear them company to Paris. When the Duke of Lancaster had sent many letters from Bayon into England for succours, and could not prevail, seeing all men's affections generally enstranged from the voyage of Spain, it was a mighty grief and corrosive to his heart, considering with himself how strong and well furnished an army he had brought forth against his enemy, through the puissance whereof, he had conquered no small number of towns and fortresses: and afterward how cruelly fortune had dealt with him and his, overthrowing the whole course of his proceedings in such sort, as he saw no possible means left, how ever to obtain his inheritance of the kingdom of Castille. In musing upon this his misfortune, he compared it to that calamity which the Duke of Anjou suffered in Calabria, who being come into Italy upon large hopes and great expectation, not only failed of the ends whereto he aspired, but spent his life also in the pursuit of his enterprise. This only was a comfort to him in all his discouragements, that he had a daughter by his wife Constance, whom he thought some French Lord of high estate, either in respect of her birth or possibility, would desire to have in marriage. Now the Duke of Berry was at the same time a widower, and his friends now and then discoursing with him about a wife, amongst others mentioned also the Duke of Lancaster's daughter. The Duke presently began to conceive some good affection that way, and thereupon advertised the Duke of Lancaster of his intent: whom when he had found nothing strange in the matter, he sent Commissioners again to negotiate with him further in that behalf. The Duke of Lancaster in the mean time, politicly dispersed the fame hereof into all countries far and near, by sending to his friends instructed for the purpose, both the copies of his own and the Duke of Berry's letters: for he was well assured that these tidings would marvelously trouble and disquiet the King of Spain. Who indeed assoon as he heard of the matter, began to enter into a deep consideration with himself, how great inconvenience might redound unto him by this marriage, namely, that peace being established between England and France, both those nations uniting their forces together, would make wars upon Spain, and so convey the possession of the crown to the Duke of Lancaster's wife. Wherefore, upon advise which his counsel, it was thought good to make a secret motion, that the Duke of Lancaster's daughter might be given in marriage to Henry his son, whom he had by the King of Arragon's daughter. Hereupon a sew were sent, and those slenderly accompanied, lest the French men by whose friendship he possessed his kingdom, should come to any knowledge of the business intended. The Duke gave good ear to their message. And yet he put the French commissioners still in great hope, ever making this exception, that he would go through with nothing without the consent and approbation of the King of England his nephew, to whom he had wholly referred the conclusion of these matters: and with this answer he dismissed them. But he carried himself much more familiarly towards the Spaniards, through his wives procurement, who saw by this means, that her daughter without any impeachment or difficulty, should orderly succeed in the inheritance of that flourishing kingdom, for the obtaining whereof so many travails and painful adventures had been sustained by her husband. The hatred kindled every day more and more, between the Brabanders and Gelder's; and the Brabanders assembling about forty thousand men, besieged Grave a town Grave besieged by the Brabanders. near adjoining to the river Maze. The duke of Gelder's lying the same time at Nymmeghen, because he had great confidence both in the townsmen and the Garrison left at Grave, did not greatly pass for that siege. Nevertheless he required aid of the King of England, sor so it was conditioned between them when he made his defiance to the French King. But the state of England was so entangled with civil dissension, and troubled with expectation of wars out of Scotland, that no aid could be obtained from thence. And the Brabanders seeing they wasted their time in vain, sent some ten thousand of their men abroad to harry their enemy's country. The Duke of Gelder's being certified thereof, gathered together about three hundred horsemen, and contrary to the persuasions of almost all his Counsel, with that small company marched towards his enemy with great courage: esteeming it better to die fight manfully in the field, than to be shut up within the walls of a town, and besieged. Therefore when he had put his men in array, he exhorted them to knightly prowess and valiant demeanour, giving so great encouragement by example of his own resolution, that setting sputres to their horses, they all in one troop ran furiously The notable victory of the Duke of Gelder's against the Brabanders. 1388. upon their enemies, preventing their expectation with such a desperate charge before they could settle themselves to any orderly resistance, that they easily overcame them, and with small loss obtained an honourable victory. Many perished, some slain in fight, others drowned in the river Maze: such as escaped, fled with all the speed they could make, and carried tidings of their overthrow to the camp before Grave. Whereupon so great terror rose presently amongst them, that without further delay they abandoned the siege, and for haste left all their provision and baggage behind them. The French king being exceedingly desirous to take revengement of the Duke of Gelder's for those arrogant and reproachful Letters he had sent him, raised a mighty army. Many dissuaded him from this voyage, and among the rest, his uncles; but because the duke of Britain was now fully concluded withal, insomuch that he had repaid the money also that he had taken from the Constable, the King would not by any means omit the present occasion of accomplishing his purpose. And first he sent ambassadors to the emperor to acquaint him with the causes of this war: for so it be hooved him, in regard of certain covenants and articles made formerly betwixt the Emperor and him. It was thought best to pass the army through Braband; and the Duchess herself was well contented it should be so; but all the people beside, stood stoutly against it, and were ready to defend their frontiers from admitting such a multitude, as being once received, would do no less harm and annoyance to the country, than if their enemies should waste and spoil it. Moreover, they threatened the Duchess, that if she gratified the Frenchmen in this behalf, they would never take arms against the duke of Gelder's. Then she advisedly excused herself to the King, imputing the blame to her people, and beseeching him not to take any offence at her denial. Therefore taking his journey through champaign, he sent three thousand before to The French king goeth against the Duke of Gelder's. make way through the forest of Ardenne, which otherwise he could not have passed. Moreover he sent unto the Emperor, a copy of the Letter which the duke of Gelder's would have had carried into France when he made his defiance. When the Emperor had seen that despiteful and unreverent manner of writing, he gave answer to the ambassadors in such sort as might well assure them he would be no hindrance to the Frenchmens proceedings. Who hewing their passage through the forest of Arden, entered into the territory of Lutzemburge; and when they approached near the country of Liege, the Bishop (whose name was Arnold, of the house of the Earls of Horn) moved by the Archbishop of Colen, made intercession to the King for the duke of juliers, whose signory was like to be the first that should have tasted the violence of that war. The King was not much against his request, so the duke himself would come and show how the matters which he alleged for his excuse, were just and reasonable. The duke being brought to the King's presence, protested that he neither counseled his son to make that defiance, nor had any knowledge thereof before the letters were sent. And for confirmation of his innocency in this case, promised that he would persuade with his son, to make his purgation advisedly before the King, and desire him of pardon: which thing if he could not effect, he would set open all his towns to the King, that by means thereof he might accomplish his wars with more advantage. This condition was accepted, and the rather by the duke of Burgoigns persuasion. The duke of juliers therefore accompanied with the Archbishop of Collen, resorted to his son, and ye will not believe what travel and endeavour he used to alter his obstinate mind. For all his discourse savoured of nothing but mere fierceness and contempt of the King, whose puissance he persuaded himself, that he should be able to withstand through the help of the English. At length after many rebukes and sharp threatenings, with mild speeches and gentle entreaties now and then intermingled between, being forced as it were by assault, he condescended to his father. Then the duke drew him a form of excuse The Duke of Gelder's submits himself to the French king. to this effect; that whatsoever he had done in this matter, was by counsel and procurement of the King of England. When the French King had seen the duke of Gelder's, and heard what he had spoken for himself, his mindeseemed to relent with a singular kind of affection: for he not only pardoned his fault, but from thenceforth began to love him, and that much more earnestly, than if he had never offended him. When the Scottish men understood that discord was hatching in England, and by continuance of time had gathered greater strength, being daily more and more augmented, to the intent to revenge old injuries, without acquainting the King with their purpose, they assembled to the number of forty thousand men. They thought likewise The Scots invade England. to have concealed it from their enemies by a policy, but they were deceived. For the English having intelligence thereof, made preparation to with stand them. It came to a pitched field, and never was battle fought with greater force between them. The Scottish army being divided in two parts, came not with equal puissance to the encounter, because they were separated one far from an other: nevertheless they went away with victory. After the French men's departure, the Duke of Gelder's being one that took no pleasure in case and idleness, raised certain forces and took his journey towards Prussia. It happened, that as he passed through Germany, he was taken prisoner. But the Lords of Prussia rescued him again The Duke of Gelder's taken prisoner. by force, and caused the party which had taken him, to fly for his own safety, lest he should have fallen into the like misfortune himself. Now although he were set free by the help of his friends, and as he lost his liberty by the law of Arms, so he had recovered it by the same means again: yet because he would keep faith with his enemy, he came at a certain time to a place appointed, and compounded for his ransom. The Duke of Lancaster (as we showed before) kept the duke of Berry still a suitor in great expectation, and yet he was all the while more affected to the Spaniard. Amongst other doubts which he cast, this was one: that if the Duke of Berry should fortune to die, his daughter should then remain but a poor Lady in respect of her other sisters, for the duke had children by his first wife, which doubtless would go away with the greatest part of his estate. When the French King understood how the King of Spain had put in a bar against the duke of Berrios proceedings, he was wonderfully offended; so was the whole Counsel of France, who knew well how highly Spain was bound to the Kings of France for great benefits received many ages together. For by the aid of Charles the sift, Henry the bastard being set in possession of the kingdom, left the same after his decease, to his son john now reigning: yet not in such sort that he was able to defend it against the English men and their confederates the Portugese's, if he had not been upholden by the succour of the French men. This ingratitude therefore being generally taken in very ill part, Ambassadors were addressed to the King of Spain with this message. That he should take good advisement and consider well with himself, what he did, and with whom he contracted friendship: seldom any marriages were made, but there passed leagues and confederacies between the parties. There were yet extant counterpanes of the alliance between Henry his father, and his posterity on the one part, and the Kings of France on the other: Against the covenants whereof it were not good to transgress: if he did, that he should think no wrong done him by the French King in forsaking his friendship, which notwithstanding was the thing that he studied by all possible means to preserve and continue. The King of Spain answered, that indeed there had been debating of certain matters in his name with the duke of Lancaster, but it should be in no wise prejudicial to the state of France; and that he would never attempt any action, whereby in the least degree he might seem to have broken the bonds of friendship and alliance between them. Assoon as he had dismissed the ambassadors with this answer, immediately Katherine the Duke of Lancaster's daughter, married to Henry Prince of Castille. after he went through with the marriage, and thereupon the Lady Constance to put the matter out of question, conveyed Katherine her daughter into Spain, and there married her to Henry the young Prince of Castille. Which done, she made diligent search for her father's bones, and when the place of his burial at length was discovered, she caused them to be taken up, and honourably entombed again at Seville. Through the travel and industry of certain well disposed persons, communication was had concerning a truce between the Kings of England and France, with their Truce for three years between England, France, & their confederates. confederates, viz. Spain, Portugal, and Scotland. Now because the Scots lately before had some good success against the English, there was much ado to draw them to any agreement: nevertheless their King being well inclined to quietness, in the end they also changed their copy. So a truce was concluded for three years, in such sort, that whosoever should by any means infringe it, should be accounted, as a wicked and perjured person. We have spoken before of the Duke of Ireland, who being driven out of England, and lately through fair promises alured out of the low countries into France, remained there a while, but could not purchase any settled abode or continual resting place. For the Lord Cow●y a man of great authority about the French King, upon just and weighty occasions, hated him extremely. For the Duke of Ireland having taken to wife this Lord Cow●yes daughter, fell afterwards in love with an other woman, and by dispensation from Pope Urban, who was ready by all means to pleasure the King of England, divorced his wife and married his paramour. The Lord Cowey therefore, father of the wronged Lady, being deeply moved with such dishonourable injury, would never be in quiet, till he had baited out of France this man, whom the world charged with more crimes, then that alone. See here the ebbing and slowing of human estates, the affections of Princes, and the ends of wicked persons. The French King was persuaded by some about him, to make a progress into the furthest parts of his kingdom, as a thing so acceptable to the people, as nothing could be more effectual to win their hearts. So he took his journey through campaign, Burgoigne, and other provinces till he came to Avinion: and when he had visited the Pope, went from thence to Mountpelyer. Which City although by reason of traffic and merchandise it be very wealthy, yet it had been so oppressed with tributes and exactions, that as then it was much impoverished. For as long as king Charles the fifth lived, the duke of Anjou had the rule of all those countries, to the great enriching of his own coffers. And at such time as in pursuit of greater fortunes, he undertook his voyage towards Naples, by consent of the Peers the duke of Berry succeeded in his government. But assoon as the king came to one and twenty years of age, he displaced his uncles from their authority, and took the administration of their offices into his own hands. Now when he came into Province and the places adjoining, many grievous complaints were preferred against his uncle of Berry, who had beyond measure polled the poor commons of their goods, and brought them in a manner to extreme desperation. Ye might daily have seen great numbers of suitors putting up petitions and supplications, complaining of deceit, injury, violence, rapes, extortions, and proscriptions. It grieved the King exceedingly to see the The Duke of Berry's treasurer burned. miseries of his people, and therefore for an example to terrify others, he caused the Duke of Berry's treasurer, the chiefest man in those quarters, to be burned●; for there came many accusations against him, of great wrong and oppression which he had done in the country. The Duke of Berry by his letters made earnest intercession to save his life, but he could not prevail. When the King undertook this journey, he would in no wise be accompanied by his uncles, wherewith they were greatly offended, but especially because they saw some others of mean estate, to grow in great reputation about him. About this time departed Pope Urban out of this life, The death of Pope Urban. whereof Clement being certified within ten days after, at Avinion, he earnestly commended his cause to the French King, desiring him that now upon this occasion he would use his credit with the Emperor, the King of Hungary, and other Princes, to the intent that all discord being removed, peace and quietness might at length be established in the church. He was in good hope that now when his adversary was dead, the supremacy would entirely have fallen to him. But he was far deceived; for the Cardinals created Boniface of Naples. The Moors and Barbarians made often excursions upon the Genoese, and the Cities and islands under their subjection. Which thing they might more commodiously do, because upon the confines, coming from Genoa towards their country, they held a very strong and defensible town called Africa. Out of this town they issue forth against their enemies by sea with great ease and advantage, and if need require, they have recourse again into the same, as a most safe harbour & receptacle. The Genoese therefore enforced through the complaints & entreaty of their friends, began to consider how they might work redress. And because they understood there was a truce lately concluded between France, England, and the kingdoms conconfederate, they sent ambassadors to the French King, requiring him of succour. The King was so inclinable to this war, that he not only undertook it himself, but solicited divers of his neighbour Princes, to set their helping hands to performance of the enterprise. Therefore assembling 1390. The French King aideth the Genoese against the Moors and Barbarians. no small power out of France, Britain, Artoys, Flaunders, and England, he sent it into Lombardy, under the conduct of Lewis Duke of Bourbon, with whom he joined in commission the Lord Cowcy, a man of most knowledge and experience, and in greatest judgement and direction in military affairs, that lived in those times. These taking shipping together at Genoa, at length overcame the contrary waves and tempests which encountered them at sea, and arrived safely in their enemy's country. Now as the Moors were consulting, because they saw that the Genoese upon this redoubling of their puissance, by the coming of the french and other foreign nations to their aid, would besiege their City; a certain grave old man amongst them, descended of a noble family, gave counsel in this manner. That they should not give battle to their enemies, in regard of their great number; but rather suffer them quietly to encamp and settle themselves before the City; for it was strong enough to abide the violence of their siege for a long season. Therefore let their enemies roast themselves abroad in the heat of the scorching sun beams, whilst they being fenced from the injury of the weather, with houses and shadowy places, rested at their ease within the City. For it would come to pass, that when their provision by little and little was consumed, themselves tormented with heat, and tired with a thousand other discommodities, they would get home again without speeding of their purpose. The old man's counsel was well liked, and the city being besieged both by sea and land, many light skirmishes were daily interchanged. The Barbarians sent an Ambassador desiring to know for what causes this war was moved against them. The French men made answer, that the chief reason was, because their forefathers had put the Saviour of the world to a shameful death, for that they excluded baptism, were blasphemers of God, and spoke unreverently of the holy Virgin mother of Christ: these were the occasions why they bent their forces against them, as the common enemies of christendom. This answer seemed but a mockery to the Moors, so far were they from any thought of misliking their religion. The Sicillians and other countries near adjoining brought corn, wine and other provision abundantly into the camp of the besiegers. But by reason of the hotness of those country wines, and the extreme intemperateness of the air, it could not be otherwise but that very many fell into most dangerous diseases. Amongst these inconveniences the duke of Bourbon now altogether out of season being haughty, proud and cruel, and such a one as no man almost might presume into his presence, would remit no part of his severity: insomuch that through his default, showing himself always rough and intractable, many notable exploits were omitted. After two months siege, when they had bestowed all their labour in vain, virtaile waxing scant, and scarcity being feared, because the winter approached and their watching grew painful (for the Barbarians did continually molest them in the night) the pestilence being also mistrusted to hang over their heads, most were of opinion, that the best course was, to dissolve the army. This also was another thing which they suspected, that the Genoese perhaps might fall to agreement with their enemies, and there was already such a rumour spread through all the camp. Upon these considerations therefore the French men raising their siege (which greatly displeased the Genowais) addressed themselves homeward. Whereupon the Barbarians resuming greater courage, began to conceive large hopes and to promise themselves the performance of great matters hereafter. And that they might be able to repulse their enemies with greater force another time, they joined in league with the Princes that bordered about them. john king of Spain, within two years after his son had The death of john king of Castille. married the duke of Lancaster's daughter, departed this life, leaving the succession of the Crown to Henry his son. Moreover at such time as the marriage was concluded, this also was one covenant betwixt them: That the King of Spain should yearly pay to the Duke of Lancaster and his wife, a hundred thousand crowns, and for assurance thereof, should deliver as pledges, four of the chief Earls of his kingdom. Galeas duke of Milan surprised his uncle Barnabas by treason, and put him to death. The son of this Barnabas took to wife the Earl of Arminackes sister. And Lewis duke of Orleans brother to King Charles the sixth, had married Valentine the daughter of Galeas. Now the Earl of The Earl of Arminacke passeth into Italy against the Duke of Milan. Arminacke upon the incessant importunity of his sister, assembled an army of the companions in France, and leading them into Italy, laid siege to Alexandria, a town pertaining to the Duchy of Milan. Galeas, who sojourned the same time at Pavy, sent thither five hundred horsemen to lie there in garrison: for his enemies were not then of so great number, that they could environ the town round about. The Captain of those horsemen being a skilful man of arms, after he had lain a while at Alexandria, issued forth one day with 300. horse to draw his enemies to some disadvantage: for he knew well they would proffer some skirmish to the townsmen. Therefore at his going out he gave commandment, that in their fight they should retire from the enemy, and suffer him to pursue them, till they had drawn him within compass of their danger. He was nothing deceived in his opinion: for as they were skirmishing after their ordinary manner, the townsmen gave back till they came to the place where their fellows lay in ambush, who incontinently broke forth with great violence. The French men thus unexpectedly engaged, behaved themselves with great courage and valour: but being overwearied with travel, and faint with heat of the Sun, they were unable to sustain the reviewed force and fury of their enemies. The Earl himself having gotten out of the press to take air, found a brook there by, whereof he drunk so abundantly, that he was suddenly taken with such a sickness, as both presently bereft him of his speech, and within few hours after, of his life. His soldiers by this means discouraged, made as much haste as they could to get themselves out of Italy. But many of them being intercepted & slain in their passage, the rest when they came to the confines of France, were by the King's commandment prohibited to enter. The Duke of Britain, who had larely been at Paris, and done his homage according to the custom, being unable to change the disposition of his nature, though he had been oftentimes reconciled to the French King, yet in his heart he could not choose but hate him, and love the King of England At such time as this atonement was made at Paris, he promised from thenceforth to become a Clementine. But assoon as he was returned into his own country, he performed nothing less. And when the King's Officers were sent unto him, he would not admit them to his presence: carrying himself altogether in such a fashion, as it might plainly appear he sought new occasions of war and contention. Many counseled the King to levy arms against him, to abate his pride and arrogancy, which was in tolerable. But the King's uncles, and especially the Duke of Burgoigne (whose wife was the Duke of Britain's kinswoman) employed their travel to this effect, that a day certain might be assigned for communication. So a meeting was had at Tours: and certain points were there rehearsed, wherein the Duke might seem to have contemned the king's authority. The Duke answered respectively to every of them, and sharply enough, glancing covertly sometimes at certain persons of base lineage in the Court, upon whose counsel and opinions the King much depended. Such difference and alteration was about the matter, that it seemed not likely to be otherwise ended, than by the sword. Nevertheless, in conclusion a means was found to make amity and peace between them. The French king gave his daughter in marriage to the Duke of Britain's son: and the son of john of Bloys (the Constable's son in law) married the Duke of Britain's daughter. Verily, for the most part, to such comical conclusions, come the tragical contentions of Princes. Guy Earl of Bloys had rich and ample inheritance, both in France and other countries. But after the death of Lewis Guy Earl of Bloys. his son, who deceased very young, he had no one certain heir, but diverse in diverse places, according as his lands lay separated one far from another. Now the duke of Touraine the French kings brother, by the means of his wife which was daughter to Gal●as Duke of Milan, had a greatmasse of money lying by him. And because he was desirous to bestow it to some benefit, he would never rest till he had persuaded the Earl to sell him all the lands pertaining to the Earldom of Bloys. It was a hard matter to compass, and good reason why: but being overcome at last by the entreaty of his wife, the Duke of berries daughter (whom the French king had suborned) when he saw no hope of issue, he sold him the reversion of his Earldom for two hundred thousand franks. Gascone Earl of Foys, whose singular wisdom and liberality my Author doth oftentimes commend, fell suddenly The sudden death of Gascone Earl of Foys. down dead one day when he was come home from hunting, as he washed his hands to go to dinner. By what mischance his only son perished, we have showed before. Now of his base sons he loved one so well, that he was earnestly in hand with the French King for his legitimation, that he might have made him his heir: and if sudden death had not prevented him, perhaps he might have brought the matter to pass as he desired. The next of his kinted to succeed him was the viscount of Chastillon, but as long as he lived, he always hated him, & to the intent to do him displeasure, besides his purpose and endeavour to have conveyed the inheritance to his bastard son, he also borrowed of the French King (when he had no need) five hundred thousand franks, because if ever he happened to become his heir, he would be sure to charge him with a heavy burden. Assoon as the Earl was dead, there wanted not some to persuade the King, that in regard he deceased without issue, and was indebted to him so great a sum of money, he should seize all the Earldom into his own possession. After the matter had been diversly debated, at length by inter session of the Duke of Berry, the King was contented to depart with the Earldom to the Viscount, upon these conditions: that he should pay unto him threescore thousand franks, and twenty thousand more to such as had traveled and taken pains in his behalf for the obtainment of his suit; and finally, that by the censure of indifferent persons, he should deal friendly and honourably with the Earls two bastard Sons that remained. After the French men were returned out of Barbary, upon relation which many made of the occurrents they had seen, the King was inflamed with a marvelous desire to go into those countries to conquer the Barbarians: and there were divers that provoked and put him forward to the action, as an enterprise fitting a Prince of such puissance. But it was generally thought necessary, that the church should first be settled in quiet, before this expedition were undertaken. And that could not otherwise be brought to pass, then by suppressing the new Pope lately chosen at Rome: This counsel was well approved, and there upon proclamation made through all France, that the King would address himself to the wars, at the beginning of the next spring. Now when this voyage was thus fully resolved upon, ambassadors arrived out of England, signifying how their King was very desirous of peace. This news wonderfully rejoiced the French King, and thereupon a meeting was appointed at Amience. The King of England sent thither two of his uncles the Dukes of Lancaster, and York, but the Duke of Gloucester the great adversary of peace, he kept still with himself at Dover. The french King was present in person at this treaty. The Englishmen demanded again all Aquitaine, 1391. A treaty of peace at Amience. which King john had departed from by the law of arms: and beside, fourteen hundred thousand franks which remained yet unpayed for his ransom. The French men offered them a part of Aquitaine, namely, that they had already in possession, and nine bishoprics. For the payment of their money they required three years respite, and that Calais might be razed to the ground. The conditions were rejected on both sides. For although the Englishmen inclined wonderfully to peace, yet without their king's consent, they would not conclude upon any thing, for that was beyond the limits of their commission. It seemed the King of England did not greatly disallow the rest of the articles, saving only the racing of Calais. But the Duke of Gloucester, the disturber of peace, and enemy to all agreement, made vehement opposition; affirming that it was impossible ever to draw the French men to any accord which might be for the profit and honour of England. And because in these affairs of so great consequence, the King alone had not authority sufficient to confirm the articles of peace, though he liked them never so well, without consent of the three estates of his kingdom assembled in Parliament; it was agreed, that to the former, three years truce, another twelvemonth should be added, that in the mean time convenient leisure might be had, to consider and determine of the matter at large. Nevertheless at the Duke of Lancaster's departure, the French King discovering his mind, showed him how earnestly he was desirous of peace, to the intent that by this means he might bend all his forces against the Turks and Barbarians, who had lately both driven the King of Armenia out of his country, and also entered with great cruelty into the Kingdom of Hungary. The Duke well disposed of himself, and moved with the Kings most courteous and honourable discourse, promised him his faithful furtherance, and that he would never cease the employing of his best endeavours, till he had brought the matter to such a conclusion, as by the King especially, and by all well affected people was generally desired. The french King made an exchange with his brother Lewis, for the Duke doom of Toureine, in lief whereof he gave him the duke doom of Orleans which was much greater; but with this condition, that all his heirs and successors should do homage and fealty to the Kings of France for the same. A certain gentleman of the Court called Peter of Craon, Sir Peter of Craon. was highly in favour with the Duke of Orleans, who besides his wife, bare secret affection to another Lady of excellent beauty; and this matter was not unknown to that friend of his, whom he used so familiarly. It so fell out, that the Duchess had intelligence of her husband's love, and thereupon, sending for the Lady, rebukte and threatened her very sharply. The Lady all a bashed and sorrowful, excused herself as well as she could, and at her next meeting with the Duke, told him all what had happened, and how the matter which he desired to keep most secret, was discovered to his wife. The Duke dissembling his knowledge, carried himself so kindly towards his wife, that in the end he got notice from her, of the party which had betrayed him, namely, Peter of Craon: who by this means being brought both into the Dukes, and the King's displeasure, was shortly after banished the Court. And thereupon finding no quiet harbour in France, he resorted to the Duke of Britain; who burning with irteconcileable hatred towards the Constable, handled the matter in such sort, as Sir Peter of Craon was persuaded, that the Constable through secret complaints and accusations against him, had been the procurer of his banishment. hereupon imagining with himself by what means he might be revenged of this injury, he sent certain of his household servants at sundry times to Paris, commanding them to enter the town disguised, and to keep themselves private in a house of his: within a while he followed after himself. And one day when he had learned certainly by his spies, what time the Constable would return from Court, he set upon him coming homeward in the night Sir Oliver Clisson treacherously assaulted, and almost slain by sir Peter of Craon. with small attendants, and wounded him very grievously: in so much that having overthrown him from his horse, he left him in the place for dead. News hereof was presently brought to the King, who himself came forthwith to visit the Constable, and gave commandment also to the Provost of the City, that he should make diligent search with all possible speed to find out the offenders. But it was to no purpose: For Saint Peter of Craon assoon as he had committed the fact, fled immediately upon the spur towards Britain, through the gate of S. Anthony, Ever since the Parisians met the King in arms at his return out of which at that time stood open, & had done both night and day for many years before. The King sent a messenger to the Duke of Britain, commanding him upon his allegiance to apprehend Sir Peter of Craon and send him to Paris. The Duke stiffly denied any such to be there. But the King Flaunders, when to curb their boldness, he caused all their armour to be taken from them, the chains of the streets to be carried away, and the four principal gates of the city from thence forth to be left always open. The French King falleth suddenly into a frenzy. held that excuse altogether unsufficient: and therefore partly moved with the heinousness of the offence, which in some sort he thought concerned his own person, and likewise for that he saw the Duke to be a continual disturber of the realm, he levied a great army and marched towards Britain. The King's uncles for hatred they bore to the Constable, persuaded him as much as they could, to desist from his purpose. But when they could not prevail, they themselves also accompanied him in his journey. At such time as they approached the enemy's frontiers, the king who had been troubled before with a fever, and certain light fantasies in his brain, being now distempered with overmuch heat of the weather, and disquieted with other matters, was suddenly, as he road upon the way, deprived of all power and use of understanding. In such sort, that imagining he had been amongst his enemies, he drew out his sword and ran desperately upon the Lords, and the rest of the company which was about him, chase his own brother and diverse others a great way together, so as for their better safety, they were forced to alight from their horses; and shift as well away as they could on foot. At length, catching hold of him behind, and disarming him, they conveyed him to the next town for a while, and afterwards to a certain castle of France more nearer to Paris. Which done, when consultation was had, to whom the government of the commonwealth should be committed, whether to the King's uncles, or to his brother, it was thought fittest that his uncles should have the authority, because the other was yet too young to take the administration upon him. Whilst the king lay thus diseased, his uncles having gotten power and opportunity to deal straightly with those that before had led the King as they listed, drove the Constable out of France, and put diverse others in prison and bonds. The Constable was not expulsed by force, but upon some sharp speeches given him by the Duke of Burgoigne, departed of his own accord, holding it his safest course, by a timely flight to prevent future inconveniences. It grieved his enemies, that he had so escaped, and to the intent they might not seem to proceed indirectly against him (for they knew the duke of Bourbon and the Duke of Orleans wished him well) they 1391. cited him after he was gone, to the parliament of Paris. At the day prefixed when he made no appearance, he was condemned both of felony and treason. For at such time as he lay dangerously sick of his wounds, upon the making of his will, his movable goods were found to be in value about seventeen hundred thousand franks: which huge mass of money many were of opinion he had gotten by very unlawful means. The rest that were holden in prison, being bereft both of lands and goods, remained also in great danger of their lives. Of this number, one or two, when they saw their innocence could not shield them Sir John Mericer. from extremity of peril, conceived so great sorrow with the consideration of their present estate compared to the glory of their former fortunes, that with weeping and lamenting they had almost made themselves blind. The fourth Book. AS well the French Kings uncles, as the English, laboured very earnestly, that at length a final peace might be concluded betwixt them. The matter was negotiated by writing, to the intent every circumstance might be more diligently examined and considered. It seemed to the Englishmen, and specially to the Duke of Gloucester, that the French men used certain words of doubtful signification, which afterward, as occasion should serve, they might interpret in another sense for their own advantage. Therefore they were more circumspect in discussing every particular, and wheresoever any uncertainty or doubtful manner of speech occurred, they would be resolved in what construction it should be taken before they passed any further. All such for the most part as had wasted their substance, and impoverished their estates in time of peace, were now desirous of war; but the two Kings were exceedingly inclined to concord: and especially the French King, in regard of the occasions before mentioned. The banished King of Armenia also, by discoursing with how insatiable desire, and what mighty puissance the barbarous nations gaped, not only after the kingdom of Hungary; but in a manner for all Christendom, gave great furtherance to the matter in handling. In conclusion, a truce was taken for four years A truce for four years between England & France both by sea and land, it being further agreed, that certain signiories should be restored on either party, as well to the English as the French, and all the soldiers which lived by spoil and pillage, to be dismissed. The French king who lately before, by the help of a certain skilful Physician, had recovered both his understanding, and his speech, about this time relapsed again into his former extremity. Pope Clement (who had sustained the opposition of two The death of pope Clement adversaries, first Urban, than Boniface newly erected) being dead at Avinion, the Cardinals substituted Benedict in his place, conditionally, that if the French King did not ratify his election, another should be chosen. Both the Popes sent their Legates to the French King, and he gave them both friendly audience, howbeit by the counsel of his divines, he inclined neither to the one, nor the other, but rather sought means how to take a way all ground of dissension, and to establish quietness in the Church. Therefore sending Ambassadors to the Emperor, whose authority, care, and diligence ought to be chief in that behalf, and likewise to the Kings of Bohemia, Hungary and England, he besought them earnestly, that they would help to further the public welfare and tranquillity of christendom. The King of England at this time, by consent of the King Richard giveth all Aquitaine to the duke of lancaster. whole state of his realm, gave all the Duchy of Aquitaine entirely and freely to the Duke of Lancaster, and to his heirs for ever. The Duke therefore disposing of his affairs in England, sailed over into Aquitaine, and at Bordeaux showed the grant which King Richard had given him. The townsmen made him answer, That of his presence and coming thither they were glad and joyful: but to admit his government, and acknowledge him for their sovereign Lord, that could they not yet resolve upon. Let him first deal and agree with the rest of the Cities, whom it equally concerned, and if they would be content to ratify the Kings grant, neither should their part of duty be unperformed. The men of Bayon answered him after the same fashion. And when he assayed the disposition of several persons, the noblemen and gentlemen being assembled together, gave this determination: That in regard the Aquitaines were so linked, and as it were engrafted together with the English, that they might by no means be separated or conveyed over to any other Lord, therefore they were of opinion, that this gift of the Kings must necessarily be void and frustrate. At length it was thought good, that commissioners should be sent to plead the matter before the King himself. Who when they came thither, boldly maintained their right; affirming that their The Gascones refuse to accept the duke of Lancaster for their sovereign. signory ought not to be alienated from the Crown of England, neither by gift, marriage, composition, nor any other means whatsoever. That the Kings of England were accustomed at their coronation, to promise by solemn oath that it should be so, and that the King there present had done the same: and there withal they produced their charter. They alleged further, that it was most necessary and behoveful for the realm, that this custom authorized by the wisdom of grave counsellors, and established by continuance of long time, should still be kept firm and inviolate. For howsoever the Duke of Lancaster at this present were a faithful and assured friend to the English men, yet things could not always continue at one stay: and it might happen hereafter, that he should conclude some league, or agree upon some marriage with the Frenchmen, Britons, Burgonions, or others, according as time should serve, and his own affairs require: whereby it might come to pass, that the Dukedom of Aquitaine, which by a certain peculiar prerogative was now annexed to the crown of England, should be transferred to a strange Lord, and from thenceforth lost all their ancient alliance and society with the English nation. When they had finished their speech to this purpose, many were moved by their reasons to be of the same opinion. But the Duke of Gloucester with great vehemency of spirit opposed himself against them, not so much for any affection to his brother, as for that he wished him by this means to be removed further off from the realm, to the intent himself might the more commodiously rule all things as he listed. After much debating, the Gascones request prevailed; and thereupon word was sent to the Duke of Lancaster, that he should surcease from his enterprise, and insist upon his grant no further. Whilst the Duke was absent in the parts of Aquitaine, King Richard raising an army of thirty thousand K. Richard's voyage into Ireland. Archers, and four thousand horsemen, passed over into Ireland: for the conquest whereof, in former times great wars had been made by his ancestors. Nine months after his arrival, the country was yielded into his subjection, and their four petty kings taken prisoners, in framing whose fashions to civility and good manners, no art nor diligence was omitted: but hardly may a barbarous mind and savage nature be reduced to civil conversation. After the death of Queen Anne daughter to Charles the Emperor, the King of England because he had no issue, resolved 1394. upon a second marriage. But especially above all other nations, he desired to link himself with France in a most steadfast bond of amity. Hereupon he began to be a suitor for Isabella the French kings daughter, which had lately before been betrothed to the Duke of Britain's Son, at Tours. This motion did greatly displease the Duke of Gloucester, who desired nothing but wars. The French men for the most part were of opinion, that nothing was to be determined in this matter, before peace were thoroughly concluded and established. Henry King of Hungary, brother to Charles the Emperor, Otherwise called Lamorabaquy. being threatened with wars from Basam a mighty and puissant Prince of the Turks, required aid of the French king: who sent two thousand young Gentlemen to his succour. john the son of Philip Duke of Burgoigne a young john the duke of Burgoignes son sent by the French king to aid the King of Hangary against the Turks. Lord of the age of two and twenty years, associated for his better direction, with that worthy and valiant soldier the Lord Cowcy, was appointed general of these forces. They passed out of France into Austria, and from thence to Buda in Hurgary, where being arrived, although the enemy before had prefixed a day of battle, yet heard they no news of his coming; therefore it was thought best to pass the army over Danubius, and to assail him in his own country. They were almost an hundred thousand strong, the greater part of them being horsemen▪ Now when the● were entered into the Turks dominion, after the taking of some towns, they laid siege to the city of Nicopolis, the principal and strongest in those quarters. The siege continuing somewhat long, and affording more vacant Nicopolis besieged. time than was convenient for soldiers, the Lord Cowcy desirous to advance his honour and the reputation of his name, accompanied with five hundred lances, and as many archers, all on horseback, ranged abroad somewhat farther into the country, to see if he could meet with any enemy upon whom he might adventure his fortune. It happened according to his desire. For the enemy understanding that there were foragers abroad, assembled to the number of twenty thousand, and marched directly against them. When the French men had intelligence thereof, they practised a devise as the time than served not unfitting for their purpose. Entering all into a wood, they sent about some hundredth horsemen to entice the Turks out of their strength where they lay at the defence of a certain passage, to come forth and skirmish with them. The Turks supposing there had been no more of their enemies than they saw, issued presently out against them: and the French men purposely retired until such time as they had drawn them to the wood, within compass of their ambush, which suddenly broke forth, and invaded them on all sides. By this means the Turks being intercepted and Fifteen thousand Turks 〈◊〉 slain by one thousand christians under the conduct of the Lord Cow●y. cut off, as well by those that freshly assailed them, as by the other which before made countenance to fly, but now turned furiously upon them, were slain to the number of fifteen thousand, and the rest hardly saved themselves by flight. Basan the Turkish king, howsoever he seemed slack in his affairs, yet had he perfect intelligence of all his enemies proceedings. For he was continually certified thereof by Galeas Duke of Milan, with whom he had great intercourse of friendship. Therefore he assembled a huge army, the soldan of Babylon, the Medes, and the King of Persia, sending great forces to aid him. Concerning the Duke of Milan, ye shall understand, A discourse ot the Duke of Milan. that there were sometimes three brothers, Manfred, Galeas, and Barnabas. The uncle of these was Archbishop of Milan. Lewis of Bavier being elected Emperor, when he could not obtain his confirmation from the Pope, went to Rome, and there of his own authority creating another Pope, and certain Cardinals, was by him invested in his imperial dignity: and afterward permitted his soldiers to take the payment of their wages out of the spoil of the City. Charles King of Bohemia, the Son of Henry of Lutzemburge, was created Emperor against this Lewis. Which Charles coming newly into Italy from Aquisgrave where he had received his consecration of the Pope, this Archbishop of Milan entertained him with great courtesy, and did him all the honour he could, lending him money also at his departure, to the sum of an hundred thousand crowns. The Emperor in consideration hereof, and to show his grateful mind, created the Archbishop, Viscount of Milan, and gave to him and to his nephews after him, all that signory, to hold and enjoy the same, till such time as the Emperor should redeem it again by repayment of the whole sum which he had borrowed. After the Archbishop's death, Manfred his eldest nephew by the Emperors consentand good liking, succeeded in the signory of Milan. But his brothers for envy dispatched him out of the way, concluding with themselves to seize upon his estate, and afterward to confirm their authority by alliance in marriage with other Princes. So when they had ●idde their elder brother of his life, they made equal partition between them, and rained puissantly by force and policy. Galeas in regard he was the elder, had ten towns, and Barnabas had nine. Milan itself was indifferently allotted to them both, the one to have it one year, and the other another, by turns. They levied subsidies and taxes of their people from time to time, by most unjust and violent means. Such fortresses as either of them held, they furninished with Garrisons of foreign soldiers, of all nations but their own, whom they principally disinherited. Through compulsion and rigour they kept the people in great awe and subjection, exacting most cruel punishment upon such as stirred never so little against them, to the intent to terrify others by their example. They purchased the alliance of Princes with great sums of money. Galeas paid to the Earl of Savoy whose sister he married, an 100000 crowns. This Galeas had like wise a son of his own name that married the daughter of john King of France, who in consideration hereof, departed with six hundred thousand franks towards the payment of his father in laws ransom, to the King of England. Valentine the daughter of this younger Galeas, was married to Lewis Duke of Orleans, brother to the French King Charles the sixth: but her father first paid to him that should be his son in law, ten hundred thousand franks, surely a wonderful sum of money: with part whereof the Earldom of Bloys was purchased, as we have heretofore declared. Between the two brothers there was no contention, as long as they lived together. But the younger Galeas after his father's decease, surprised his uncle Barnabas by treason, and slew him. One of this Barnabas daughters was married to Stephon Duke of Bavier, and brought forth a daughter named Isabella, who afterward became the wife of Charles King of France, as is mentioned in this history already. Galeas Pag. 127. having thus treacherously slain his uncle, was not so contented, but persecuted even his children's children, and all their generation, seizing into his hands all their goods and possessions. Also he burdened the people with grievous and continual exactions. Besides this, he held a wicked and unreverent opinion concerning the Godhead. So he might enrich himself and advance his authority, he regarded not by what means it were effected. Amongst other precepts of good doctrine wherewith he was plentifully instructed, he was also misled in this opinion, and took it as hereditary from his ancestors, utterly ro despise the Pope's authority, and to rejoice exceedingly when any dissension happened in the church. Now the Duke of Orleans wife being a very ambitious woman, was not a little fain and desirous that her husband might attain to the Crown, by what means she did not greatly regard. hereupon many suspected that the king's mind had been all this while enchanted by her witchcraft. The ground of the suspicion grew upon this occasion. She had a Son by her husband, a fair young child, much about the age of the Dolphin. As these two children were sporting together in a chamber, a poisoned appell was cast in amongst them, on that side where the king's son was: but the child (which may seem a wonder) refused to meddle withal. Then the other when no body perceived him, caught it up, and within a little while after he had eaten of it, through the violent operation of the poison, yielded up the ghost. The report hereof was presently carried to the Court, and soon dispersed over all the country. This also was another thing which increased the suspicion, that during all the time of the King's sickness, he would endure neither the Queen, nor any other woman to come about him, but only this Duchess of Orleans. By these occasions, men's minds being marvelously incensed, she was conveyed from the Court to a certain castle not far from Paris, and there restrained of her liberty. Besides, her husband conceived great displeasure against her about the death of his son. When Galeas of Milan understood how his daughter was entreated, he was highly offended, and sent ambassadors forthwith into France, where they found nothing so friendly entertainment as he expected. Therefore about such time as the voyage was undertaken into Hungary, he proclaimed wars against the French King: and the more to grieve his enemy, entered in league with Basan the Turk, and made him acquainted both with his own affairs, and with the state of France. Albert Earl of Henault, whereas William his son was purposed to have gone this expedition against the Turks, ceased not to exhort him that he should rather make war upon the Phrisoners, which contrary to all right withdrew themselves from his obedience. The young Earl obeying his father's command, assembled his men of war from all parts adjoining, and being likewise assisted both with French and English succours, took shipping together and sailed into Fris●land. Within few days after their arrival, endeavouring to pass over the banks and ditches wherewith that country is strongly fenced, the wild Fri●oners having intelligence of their enemies approach, made stout opposition against them. But after long conflict, through the valour and prowess of the horsemen and archers, who by a secret passage had conveyed themselves nearer unto them, they were suddenly overcharged and many of them slain. Little else was performed at that time, by reason the winter was so near at hand. But about Friesland subdued by the Earl of Henault. two years after, the wars being renewed there again, those haughty and proud stomachs of theirs, were forced to yield under his subjection, and to acknowledge him for their Lord, whom always before they had contemned. After the King of England had long solicited his marriage with the French kings daughter, and that many ambassadors had passed between them, at length it was concluded, that both the kings should meet in person at a certain town which was the mid way between the French territory & Calais. This agreement took effect. and the french King himself delivered his daughter by the hand to the 1396. King Richard marrieth Isabel the french king's daughter. King of England. But before the matter could be brought to this conclusion, king Richard was fain to feed his uncle the Duke of Gloucester both with gifts andlarge promises. For he hated peace extremely, and was of so perverse and proud disposition, that the King stood in great fear lest he should have raised his commons against him, and therefore held it his best course ●o assure himself of his friendship. After the consummation of these nuptials the French King was purposed to have made invasion upon the Dukedom of Milan; and the King of England had already promised to aid him with six thousand archers. But there happened a matter in the mean time, which gave occasion of new deliberation. The Hungarians and French men together had strongly besieged Nicopolis, and conceived good hope, that in short space they should become Lords of the City. In the mean while Basam the Turkish King, assembled out of his own dominions and the countries of Princes adjoining, about two hundred thousand men. He sent almost eight thousand before, and divided the rest of his whole army into two battles. Assoon as our men were advertised of their coming, they presently prepared to meet them. And because the scouts which they had sent forth to discover, reported that the enemies were but a small number, (for they had seen no more than those eight thousand fore-riders) the French men in great heat made haste to the encounter. As they were thus in a readiness, the King of Hungary sent them word, that they should not be too forward, for he mistrusted the scouts had not taken a full view of their enemy's forces: and that he had sent out some others better acquainted with the coasts of the country, who within few hours would assuredly return and bring more certain intelligence. The Lord Cowcy & many others allowed this advise, and thought it necessary by all means to be followed. But the Constable Philip of Artoys, because his opinion was not first demanded, proudly and perversely One man's pride, causeth many men's destruction. misconstrued the kings profitable counsel, as if his intent had been to bereave the French men of their opportunity, (being already ranged in battle,) and to assume the honour of the victory to himself. To this effect he uttered many idle words; nor for that he was so persuaded himself, or could by any good reason dissallow of the King of Hungaries counsel, but because he envy the Lord Cowcyes late honourable exploit, and the reputation he had gained by defeating so great number of enemies with so small forces. And he disdained not a little, that himself being both for dignity and revenue one of the greatest subjects i● France, any other should be preferred before him: presuming that his opinion and authority in such cases ought principally to take place, and to be respected above the rest. Therefore rejecting the King of Hungaries advise which the residue approved, and supposing there was no delay to be made in the matter, without expecting the aid of his associates, he marched forward against the enemy. By occasion whereof, the rest were likewise enforced to join their powers with his, unless they would be accounted betrayers of their company. See what mischief comes of pride and emulation. Now were their enemies upon them, and the French men so beset on all sides with huge numbers which encompassed them about, that they saw no way to escape. And although they were very few in comparison of their enemies, yet in this distress they showed proofs of invincible courage: but they were so oppressed with multitude, that it was impossible for them to avoid a lamentable destruction. The Lords for The siege before Nicopolis raised, and all the Frenchmen slain or taken prisoners. the most part were all taken prisoners, the beauty and richness of their armour discovering them to the Barbarous people, who saved their lives in hope to make great commodity of their ransoms. After the victory, king Basam caused a view of the dead bodies to be taken, and when he understood that there were many more slain of his part, then of his enemies, being enraged with great fury, he commanded 300. gentlemen of divers nations that remained prisoners, should be all cruelly slain, & cut in pieces. The King of Hungary when he saw how the french men without further expectation, would rashly adventure against the enemy, was exceedingly sorry: and when he beheld their miserable overthrow, by persuasion of such as were about him, not seeing any other remedy, he himself also fled and passed over Danubius. Undoubtedly the pride and envy of the French men gave the enemy that days victory. Basam the Turkish King, after he understood the estate of his prisoners, such I mean as were of greater birth and calling then the rest, determined no violence against them, but sent a messenger into France to give notice of their captivity and the overthrow of the Christian army. Philip Duke of Burgoigne who took his sons misfortune very heavily, persuaded the French King, that he should send some rich presents to the barbarous tyrant, whereby he might be moved to deal more favourably with his prisoners. Of all others the Lord Cowcyes noble spirit was most dejected with this calamity: For entering into a deep consideration with himself how he had always heretofore been very fortunate in warlike affairs, and now having received so great a charge from a mighty prince, could not hold his place and execute his office for the envy of his adversary, but was brought in danger of his life through another man's rashness in a barbarous country, with the loss and slaughter of a great number of his friends, upon the conceit hereof, he died for sorrow. To the like end also came the party, that by his folly and indiscretion drew The Lord Cowcies' death so many thousand people, and so many honourable personages into destruction and extreme misery. The Duke of Burgoigne, to the intent to redeem his 1397. son, and the rest of his fellow prisoners from captivity, dealt with the Merchants of Venice (which travel into all parts of the world for commodities) that joining with the other Ambassadors sent by the French King, they should compound with the Turks for their ransom. The composition which they made, was to this effect, that the Lords and Gentlemen that remained prisoners, to the number of five and twenty, should pay for their ransom two hundred thousand crowns: and for this sum the Merchants became sureties. From that time forth Basam began to use the French men more courteously than he had done: and at their departure, taking occasion to speak to the Duke of Burgoignes son, I perceive (said he) that thou art descended of high and noble parentage, & livest in great expectation of honour: it can not be but a great grief and oppression to thy mind, thus in the flower of thy youth, to be subjecteth to this misfortune; for recovery of which disgrace, and to put away the sad remembrance of this adventure, perhaps thou wilt one day come in battle against me again. And although by the law of arms I have now power to bind both thee and thy fellows from ever bearing arms against me hereafter, yet will I not do it, but freely give leave both to thee and the rest, that being returned into your countries, ye shall assemble your uttermost forces, and make wars upon me again whensoever ye are disposed. For I am of that courage and puissance, and withal so confident in my fortunes, as I dread not the power of any enemy whatsoever: And this that I speak, thou mayest boldly make report to whom thou thinkest good, in my name. Soon after, the French men being discharged, sailed with the Venetians to Rhodes, and departing from thence, after a long and trouble some passage, at length arrived safely at Venice. During the time they sojourned there, the King of Hungary sent a messenger to congratulate their deliverance, signifying how much he rejoiced at their happy enlargement: withal, how he understood they were to pay a great mass of money for their ransom: and he heartily wished his estate were such, that he were able to supply their defect thereof in such plentiful manner as he desired. But as now by reason of the late unfortunate overthrow, he was much impoverished, and the yearly revenues of his Crown not a little impaired. Nevertheless, for some testimony of his good affection, whereas the State of Venice was to pay him yearly seven thousand crowns, he had given commission to his messengers to sell that annuity, and the money rising thereof to bestow upon them towards the furnishing of their wants and maintenance of their necessary expenses. The French men thankfully accepted this kindness, but the Venetians answered subtly and uncertainly to the matter; and there were some that suspected it was handled in such sort, of set purpose between them and the ambassadors of Hungary. The Duke of Burgoigne obtaining a friendly benevolence of his people, not without help of the French kings liberality, discharged his credit with the Merchants. His son being returned into France, made a large relation to the king of such things as he had observed through the whole course of his voyage: in conclusion adding thus much, how it was not unknown to the Turks, that thorough the civil dissension of the Popes, the general quiet, not only of the Church, but also of all Christendom, was disturbed; and that it seemed a wonder to them, how ever Kings and Princes could suffer such licentious liberty and unbridled ambition of one or two persons to remain uncontrolled. The king's mind was exceedingly moved with this discourse, so as from that time forward he intended to the establishing of peace more earnestly than ever before. The Duke of Gloucester being altogether of a turbulent At the marriage of King Richard to the French Kings daughter, a truce was agreed upon for thirty years. and feditious nature, was not a little angry and discontented in his mind, that so many years truce was taken between the two Kings, who were now so linked and united together by marriage, as there was no other expectation, but that a final peace should be concluded betwixt them. Heereùpon he caused seditious rumours to be spread abroad, and such as imported danger to the King's person, whom he had now purposed in his mind to put beside the government of the kingdom. And knowing himself to be in great favour and authority with the Londoners, he persuaded them that from thenceforth they should refuse the payment of the tax which was imposed upon all kinds of merchandise certain years since, for maintenance of the wars, and defence of the Country, seeing now all was quiet again; and a truce taken with the enemy: for such kind of exactions he said were unjust, and contrary to reason. The people by petition moved this matter to the King, who referred his answer till the Parliament at Westminster, which being come, the Duke of Lancaster made public declaration of the King's mind, in such sort as they were all well pacified for that time, and departed without further trouble. Not long after, the earl of Saint Paul sent from the French king to visit the new The Earl of Saint Paul. married Queen, arrived at the Court of England: who understanding of the Duke of Gloucester's treacherous practices, exhorted the King to provide a timely remedy for such inconveniences. After his departure, a general brute was raised, that the king would restore Calais to the French men, and that he had already concluded upon the matter with the earl, whom the French king had sent Ambassador for the same purpose. There was not any thing whatsoever that could more vehemently have in censed all England against the King, than this. And the Duke of Gloucester taking occasion hereat, persuaded the people, that they should expostulate the matter with the king, to know certainly his intention. The king answered in such sort as any sound and indifferent judgement might well have been satisfied, and easily have seen that this rumour was merely contrived by envy and detraction. These false reports and malicious suggestions greatly troubled the king's mind, and when he understood that his uncle aspired to the Crown, and studied how to bring his purpose to effect, not without bewailing the present state of his country, he asked counsel of the Duke of Lancaster and some others, (whose dispositions he mistrusted not) what course they would advise him to in this behalf. The Duke and the rest as well as they could, endeavoured to quiet his thoughts, and to remove all fear and suspicion out of his mind, assuring him, that their love and good affection should never fail to do him faithful service. But in the end, the matter proceeded so far, that such as were most familiar with the King, and nearest about him, being unable to brook the pride and over-daring insolency of the Duke of Gloucester (for he hated all those whom the King favoured) protested plainly, that in regard of his seditious practices, they could no longer continue their places without great danger of their lives, and hazard of their estates. And thereupon diverse were seen, and those of the chiefer sort, to abandon the Court, and retire themselves to their country dwellings: for it was no hard matter to foresee to what issue all things tended. To be short, the King moved with with these speeches concurring with so manifest presumptions, after much deliberation, under a politic pretence of great kindness, alured his uncle from his own house to ride abroad with him a hunting. Who being by this means trained forth with a small company, was by the Earl Martial suddenly arrested in the King's name, and conveyed in great secrecy to the Castle of Calais. When he had remained there a while, much mistrusting what should become of him, one day as he was entered into the great chamber, and about to wash his hands before dinner, four lusty fellows, appointed by the King's commandment, cast a towel about his neck, and winding it strongly a cross two at the one end, and two at the other, overthrew him to the ground, and strangled him. Then stripping off his clothes, and closing his eyes, they laid him The duke of Glow ester murdered in the castle of Calais. 1397. in his bed, and presently gave it forth in the Castle, how the Duke that night died suddenly of an apoplexy. Within two days after, his death was published: but there were few or none, either in France or England that greatly bewailed him. For such was his desert, as he had long since purchased every man's ill affection, by reason of his turbulent spirit, which was altogether bend to move unquietness and contention. Nevertheless the Londoners took his death in very ill part, and so did the kings other uncles, especially the Duke of Lancaster, who could well have found in his heart to revenge this cruel outrage committed upon his brother, but that he feared the king's puissance, now greatly increased by reason of his marriage. After the murder of the duke of Gloucester, certain others also were executed at London as accessary to his treason and Richard earl of Arundel. conspiracy. The Earl of Warwick a man much respected in the commonwealth, should likewise have tasted of the same cup, but that by intercession of his friends, the king's rigour was somewhat mitigated, and so he was banished into the I'll of Wight. The duke of Gloucester left a son under age, and therefore the king took all his lands into his own custody, and appointed his mother to give attendance upon the Queen. It is the custom of England, that the king hath the wardship of all Noble men's heirs, and the use of their lands till they come to one and twenty years of age. The king who knew well how grievously he had offended his uncles by killing their brother, growing now suspicious of all men, kept continually a Guard of two thousand archers about him for the defence of his person. Henry Earl of Derby the Duke of Lancaster's son, a man highly in favour of the people, in private and familiar conference between him and the Earl Martial, cast forth certain speeches over-liberally against the king. The Marshal, to win favour with the king, uttered all their communication Thomas Mow bray Duke of Norfolk. in an assembly of the Lords, appeaching him of treason, and proffering the combat. The Earl on the contrary part, retorted the treason upon himself, and accepted his challenge. The King in whose presence all this had passed, was marvelously displeased, and leaving the company, with drew himself into his chamber. Many thought the King much too blame, in that he suffered the matter to proceed so far (for the Champions were at great charge to furnish themselves against the day of combat) esteeming it his peculiar duty, to have used his authority for restraining of such quarrels as these, whereby occasions of much trouble might ensue afterward. When the King understood that such speeches were given forth, and withal, how it was generally ill taken in the behalf of the Earl of Derby, to the intent to give satisfaction both to the Lords and the Commons who loved not the Earl Martial, he took the matter into his own hands, and gave sentence, that the duke of Lancaster's son should be The Earl of Derby & the Earl Marshal banished. banished for ten years, and the Earl Martial for ever. At the Earl of derbi's departure, the King of his own accord, released four years of his banishment: and the Earl following his father's counsel, repaired to the french king, who gave him very courteous and honourable entertainment. Great sorrow and discontentment was showed by the Londoners when he departed, and from that time forward all things there tended to a bloody and sorrowful conclusion. After the Lords of France were ransomed from the Turks and returned into their country, the French King much moved with the Earl of Nevers discourse, to the The Duke of Burgoignes son. intent to establish concord in the Church, addressed Letters forthwith to the Emperor, earnestly requesting his assistance in that behalf. By mutual consent a day was appointed for their meeting at Rheims. Other matters were devised and given forth for the occasion of their coming thither, that the true cause of that assembly, which they were desirous to conceal, might for a time be kept secret. After a solemn interview and great consultation, it was agreed, that the Bishop of Cambray should be directed to Pope Boniface then lying at Rome to exhort him, that for the general quiet and welfare of the Church, he would be content to resign his office, not for ever, but only till such time as by the determination of Princes and learned Divines, a resolution of all controversies might be established. The Pope answered gently, that he would take the advise of his Cardinals. But the people of Rome in the mean while having learned the cause of the Ambassadors coming, and perceiving it would turn greatly to their discommodity, persuaded the Pope that he should not for any respect of Kings or Princes whosoever, abase himself so much, but rather stand in defence of his right to the uttermost. The Pope therefore dissembling his purpose, at his next communication with the Ambassador, told him, that for his part he would not refuse to accomplish the Emperors and the King's request, so as his adversary would be content to do the like. Being dismissed with this answer, the Ambassador returned to the Emperor, whom he found at Confluence, and when he had delivered his message, departed from thence into France. The Divines there were of opinion, that the like motion should be made to Benedict, as had been before to Boniface. And upon this determination the same Bishop being sent by the King to Avinion, declared the minds and intentions of the Princes to the Pope. Who answered plainly and peremptorily, that he would condescend to no such matter. Notwithstanding when he had propounded it to his Cardinals, they were of sundry opinions, according as they were moved by their several dispositions and affections. And when no certaintic could be concluded, by reason of the difference amongst them, their assembly broke up. Then the Ambassador pressing into the Pope's presence, required his resolution. The Pope proudly answered, how he was lawfully and orderly promoted to that holy dignity, which he would in no wise forego as long as he lived, neither was any man living so dear unto him for whose pleasure he would depart from his right, and much less did he fear any force or violence in that behalf. The Ambassador seeing no other answer could be gotten, returned homewards, and by the way showed the success of his affairs to the Marshal of France, whom the king had sent with an army to second his proceedings. The Marshal as soon as he understood the Pope's obstinate resolution, made haste to Avinion, and foraged all the country about, dividing his forces into diverse companies, to keep all conveyance of victual from the town. He himself encamped before the City, threatening the inhabitants to destroy all their houses, and their vineyards which they had abroad in the country, unless they yielded. The townsmen well considering there was little help in the Pope, and that the King was of great puissance, took counsel with certain French Cardinals, and by their advise set open their gates. The Pope suffered himself to Pope Benedict besieged, and taken prisoner by the Frenchmen. be besieged in his palace, hoping to have been rescued by his cousin the King of Arragon: but the King of Arragon was too wise to incur the offence of so mighty a Prince for the Pope's pleasure, from whom he could expect small succour again if occasion should serve hereafter. Many of his Cardinals exhorted him to a milder kind of carriage, but the Pope full of pride and arrogancy stood firm in his first resolution, seeming as it were secure of his estate, and altogether careless what should become of him. He was plentifully furnished of all necessaries, saving only fuel, the want whereof, together with the incessant importunity of the Cardinals, compelled him at length to yield up the place. The Marshal bound him by oath, that he should not depart out of the City before such time as an union were established in the Church, and to be sure he should not falsify his promise, appointed a sufficient guard to attend him, and caused the Cardinals and rich Citizens of Avinion to become sureties for his foorth-comming. The French King having written the whole discourse of these proceedings to the Emperor, solicited the King of England, that following their example, he should likewise take part with neither of the Popes, but stand indifferent for a time, till some remedy might be provided. The King was very willing to have satisfied his father in laws request. But when the matter was propounded in parliament, he not only effected nothing of his desire, but more and more vehemently incensed the people against him, whom it exceedingly offended, that he should be so addicted to the French men, that to do them a pleasure, it seemed he would have condescended to any thing. And they told him, that howsoever they had been otherwise well contented to set aside all partiality of affection, either to the one party, or the other, yet in regard the French King so earnestly desired it, they would not agree to his request, nor in any wise allow that he should prescribe articles of religion in England. About this time died the Duke of Lancaster, a virtuous The death of John of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster. 1399. and prudent prince; of whose death as a thing desired, the king of England very joyfully sent news into France. As for his son, who sojourned the same time in the French court, he was so far from recalling him again to receive his father's inheritance, that he also seized it into his own hands, as appertaining to himself till the time of the earls banishment were expired. And not content herewith, he distributed many of the Duke of Lancaster's goods among such persons as no man loved, but himself. The Earl of Derby was highly favoured and respected by the French King, in regard of his noble carriage and generous disposition. And because he was also a man of great possessions, there was a match motioned between him and the Duke of Berry's daughter which was then a widow. Whereof as soon as the King of England had intelligence, he sent an Ambassador forthwith to interrupt their proceedings; informing his father in law and his uncles, that he with whom they intended to contract affinity, was a wicked person and a traitor. The Earl from whom all this was kept secret, to the intent to learn what the Ambassador had done (for he mistrusted somewhat because he had not seen him all the time of his being there) fell in communication again with the French King and his brothers, concerning the marriage. And they not thinking good to hold him longer in suspense, declared what report they had heard of him from the King of England. How much the Earl was grieved and discontented herewithal, any man out of his own judgement may easily conjecture. All the nobility of England for the most part, with the Londoners, were exceedingly displeased at this his unworthy and injurious accusation, for they knew assuredly it proceeded of mere malice & hatred. King Richard the same time made preparation for another voyage into Ireland, assembling to the number of ten thousand archers, and two thousand horsemen: and he banished twoonoble men of great account, Henry Percy earl of Northumberland and his son because they refused to accompany him in that journey. For those Lords having spoken somewhat boldly of the King, when they understood by their friends that he had knowledge thereof, they thought it better to disobey his command, than, by coming when he sent for them, to put their lives and estates in manifest peril: and thereupon sentence of banishment was pronounced against them. To be short, many causes concurred together at one time to aggravate the people's hatred against the King. By occasion whereof, certain ill disposed persons taking advantage of the time, when they saw the king both busied in war, and irrecoverably deprived of the love of his subjects, assembling together in routs and companies, made spoil of the husbandmen, robbed the Merchants, and ranged over all the country, doing great violence and mischief, insomuch that many to avoid the danger of their outrage, were forced to convey themselves into London, and other places of security. When the king had thus utterly lost the hearts of his people, Thomas Arundel. the Archbishop of Canterbury, by general consent of the State, was addressed to the Earl of Derby, to bring him again into England, upon most assured hope and expectation of the Crown. The Bishop undertook and performed this charge so secretly, that none knew of his going, save those that were interessed in the action, and when he came into France, not any man there could conjecture the true cause of his coming. The Earl of Derby politicly dissembling the matter, requested leave of the French King to go into Britain to visit the Duke, with whom he made no long tarriance, but took shipping, and within few days after arrived in England. By reason of the Archbishop's presence and authority, he found no interruption in his passage, but traveled along towards London. And when they approached near the city, they sent a messenger before to give notice of their coming. At which tidings the Citizens suddenly surprised with joy; came flocking out of the gates in great companies to welcome the Earl; from thenceforth covenanting to receive him for King of England. Soon after, a certain number well appointed were sent forth against king Richard, to apprehend him and bring him to London. Many of the King's followers when they understood of the Londoners coming, soon changed their service, and chose them new Masters. At first the King made some show of resistance, but seeing his people forsake him, by counsel of his friends, he retired into the castle of Flint. When the Earl drewnigh, accompanied with some two hundredth men and the rest of his army following after, he approached the Castle gate and sent word to the king how he required to speak with him, whereupon himself only and twelve more were admitted entrance. As soon as he saw the King, without yielding him any reverence; Sir (said he) you must this He should have used the benefit of opportunity. day prepare towards London, for so the people are fully purposed. What should he do in this distress? Being destitute of succour and beholding his enemy's forces before his face, to escape the fury of the people, he yielded himself to the Earl's mercy. As they carried him towards London, he requested one thing very earnestly, which was, that he might not be led through the City. His request was granted, but the people much offended. As soon as he came thither, he was conveyed to prison. New officers and servants were placed about the Queen, and other Ladies and Gentlewomen appointed to attend her, all the French being dismissed, and sent home into their country. The Earl having brought his matters to this pass, the first thing he did, he recalled the Earl of Warwick and certain others that were banished. And shortly after he caused to be beheaded four of the chief that had been about King Richard, by whose counsel he confessed himself to have been principally ruled in those matters which were objected against him. They were drawn to their execution under the prospect of his window, of purpose that he might see them. The Lords that accompanied him in prison bewailed their miserable estates, and the King himself with the consideration of his heavy misfortune, burst forth into abundance of tears, and with bitter sighs cursed the day and hour that ever he was borne, to come to such an end as now entered into his cogitation. He was persuaded by his partners in misery, that to appease his adversary, and to purchase the assurance of his own safety, and such as were about him, he should renounce his royal state and dignity. Hereupon he required to have communication with the Earl, to whom when he had declared his mind, after the acceptance of his offer, the Earl fell into a bitter reproof of his former life, making a large repetition of his offences, and beside, upbraided him with bastardy: for many reported that he was begotten by a Priest. Within few days after King Richard in open assembly 1399. King Richard deposed. of the Lords at the Tower of London, with all ceremonies and solemnities incident to such occasions, resigned the Crown and Sceptre, with all his right and interest in the kingdom, to Henry of Lancaster, reducing himself into a private estate, without assurance of his life, after he had reigned two and twenty years. This alteration of the State in England so troubled the French King, that he fell again into his old disease. But the Counsel of France sent certain Ambassadors to visit the Queen his daughter, and to understand in what state she remained. The Duke of Bourbon was likewise sent into the country of Burdeloys: which signory, since King Richard (to whom the people in those parts were wonderfully affected) was fallen into this calamity, the French men went about to recover again to themselves. But when the chief of the Cities had propounded the matter to the Commons, they could not prevail. For the people feared much to be oppressed again with the often taxes and ●allages which they had endured of old t●me under the French men. Certain great Lords of England had secretly conspired against Henry their new King, but their practice being discovered, they were all put to death. The French King raising a puissant army, determined to have invaded England. But it happened about the same time that King Richard ended his life at London. My Author reporteth that he could not learn certainly by what means he came to his death: but that Henry the late crowned king was incessantly called upon by the people to dispatch him out of the way, because otherwise the realm should never want matter of trouble and dissension. Nevertheless he addeth further, that the King in regard he had given him a faithful promise of his life, would not condescend to their requests. Now when the matters between France and England seemed thus to tend toward a sorrow full issue, by mediation of good men a truce was obtained and confirmed for six and twenty years. The French men were the rather inclined to peace, by reason of their King's infirmity. Mention hath been made of the earl Martial of England banished by king Richard, upon occasion of his quarrel with the Earl of Derby. As soon as he understood that Henry of Lancaster had obtained the Crowned, and that King Richard was dead, he conceived so great grief and displeasure thereupon, that incontinently he fell sick and died, at Venice. Moreover Pope Benedict, because that after so many advertisements he would not incline to the will of the Princes, was deprived of his honour and Pontifical dignity.