The true discourse of the wonderful victory, obtained by henry the fourth, the French King, and King of Nauarre, in a battle against those of the League, near the town of Yurie, on the plain of Saint Andrew, the fourteenth day of March( according to the French account) In the year 1590.  
Added thereto first, certain news that happened since the said overthrow of the Duke of main.  
Also an extract of things registered in the Court of Parliament.  
And further, an act of Parliament against such as harbour and aid Rebells and theeues, helping them to pass and repass the riuers.  
Compiled and sent hither by one of the principal Officers of the Kings majesty.  Psal. 68. verse 21. 
God shall wound the head of his enemies: and the hairy scalp of such a one as goeth on still in his wickedness.  
AT LONDON Printed by Thomas Orwin for Thomas Man. 1590.   

THE true discourse, OR setting down of the wonderful victory obtained by Henry the fourth French King, and of Nauarre, in a battle given against the rebels of the League, near to the town of Yury, in the plain of S. Andrew, on the fourteenth day of March( according to the French account). In the year of our Lord. 1590.  
war and fire haue such resemblance together, that when as the one of thē meeteth with a matter that is of itself fit& ready to burn, it slaketh not to set it on a flamme; and contrariwise if it come to the stub of a three that is moist and earthy, it maketh it moulder to ashes before that any sparkle can be seen: likewise when the other( namely war) once inflameth a valorous mind, it maketh a man take great pains, and adventure vpon many perils, never staying until he make his valour known: but war maketh a coward more cowardly minded; and the nearer that he is to danger, the less force and valour is in him to help himself. proofs whereof daily haue been seen in the dealings betwixt the king& his enemies, so as there hath not escaped a day since his coming to the crown, but trial hereof hath been made. But among al examples, that of this happy victory which it pleased GOD to give him over them in the battle which was near Yurie on the fourteenth day of this month, exceedeth the residue, and is so famous and memorable, that it is well worthy to be set forth in writing,& that this writing be confirmed with good testimonies. For otherwise the truer that the thing shall be, the less credit will be given thereto.  
whilst that the king by sieges and assaults recovered in less then a month eight or ten of the best towns of base normandy, the Duke of main threatened and boasted daily, that he needed not come thether with his army, and make him raise his siege, for he would meet himself at the town of Honfleur, which is a haven town by the sea: but he never went about any such matter. His majesty on the contrary part never threatened, but having recovered the said town of Honfleur, came to make him raise his siege. He had then, about fifteen dayes before, the town and fort of Meulan, being distant from the said Honfleur about threescore miles: and there having offered him battle, which he had great reason to accept( for his forces were as great as any that the king could then haue; yet the said Duke of main, not respecting this his advantage, which was sufficient to haue encouraged him, would not at that time join battle; but understanding that fifteen hundred Launciers, and four or five hundred arquebusiers on horseback, that were sent him out of the Low Countries, were now entred into France, he went to muster them.  
And while the kings majesty resolved himself to take the first opportunity offered him to besiege the town of Dreux, whereas were assembled my maisters the Prior and Marshal of Aumont, and the Lord of Giury, who brought him good companies of soldiers. A little before he came to the said siege, even as he was giuing the onset, word was brought him, that the Duke de main having joined with him his said forces of strangers, whose leader and general was the connte Egmond, had given out speeches that he would go and encounter forthwith with the kings Army, promising and assuring his partakers, that he would bid the king battle wheresoever he could meet him. And in deed his majesty understood that he was turning toward the river of Seyne, so to pass over the Bridge of the town of Mante, which held on their side, being from Dreux but seuenteen or eighteen miles.  
Hereupon his majesty, albeit he considered, that as for the Duke of main, whose forces were but borrowed, he had no other way but to go forward now speedily,& to adventure now or never; and as for him, staying for a time might bring him advantage; that he had forces of strangers in Champagne coming to meet him, that would bee as good as those of Flanders that the enemy had gotten: that the hazard of war was dangerous, especially in those quarters where he was so far from succour, and considering that those which offer the injury are commonly more desperate in assaults then they that withstand the injury: notwithstanding all this he had other reasons moving him which were more forcible and substantial, whereof the most certain( as I think) was the sure confidence that he reposed in the goodness of God, and equity of his cause, hoping also well, by means of the knowledge that he had of those with whom he had to deal,( they of Arques and other places, who had always kept their possessions, being for his sake now driven to fly and suffer wrong, who he resolved not to make loose their labour.) And being now certainly informed that the said Duke of main and his army, was wholly passed and come to the town of Dammartin, which was but four miles before; his majesty departed from before Dreux on Monday being the twelfth day, and began to make his army march thence in battle ray, in such sort as those of the town were well pleased to see them thus marching away as they stood on the walls.  
The same day came his majesty and lodged in the town of Nonencourt, which town he had won a little before. This he did because he would cut off the passage of a little river that runneth thereby. As soon as he was come thether, he caused warning to be given that on the next morning every body should be in a readynes; that evening and night his majesty devised and set in order the maner and plot of his battle, which in the morning he declared to Monsieur Montpensier my Lords the Marshals of byron and of Aumont, Baron byron Lord Marshall of the field, and other the principal Captaines of the said army, who all with one voice allowed thereof so well, and that with such iudgement and military wisdom, as they would change nothing thereof. He then gave in charge to the said Lord byron for to set every man in his place and order. He choose the said morning the Lord of which, who is one of the ancient maisters of the field for the footmen in France, Sergeant of the battle. Which choice was liked and commended of all men, for because he was a man well worthy of that charge.  
This being done, his majesty was willing to begin this great work with an holy prayer, which he made openly unto God, calling him there to witness that he knew the purpose of his heart,& well understood whether it were for desire of blood, longing for reuenge, or any desire of glory or ambition which made him resolute to this battle; that he was his judge and witness vnreproueable, that nothing moved him hereto but the tender love that he did bear to his poor people, whose peaceable& quiet good estate he esteemeth more than the safety of his own life: he besought God, so to direct his will as he should best see to be good for the benefit of christendom: and as for himself, he prayed God so to save and help him as he should know to be good& profitable to the weal and quiet of that estate, and not otherwise. This Prayer, eloquent in words, but more passing pure and devout in meaning; did so ravish all those that were nigh, that every man after his example did the like.  
Then was seen in Nonencourt the Churches full of Princes, Lords, Gentlemen and soldiers of all nations, hearing mass, communicating, and playing the catholics. Those of the Religion made their humble prayers and supplications unto God.  
This being done, a man would haue judged by their countenances, that every one had received an assured revelation from his several good angel, of the happy success that every each of them should obtain. His majesty then caused a summons of yielding to be made unto the town of S. Andrew, being from Nonencourt aforesaid eight miles, in the way going to Yurie, where he supposed that the enemy and his army was lodged. About the said town vpon a great plain standing in the sight of certain other villages, and of a little wood called La Haye des press, all the said companies came: his majesty with the Marshals byron and Aumont and the foresaid Lord Baron byron Marshall of the field, began to set the battle in order, following the plot that they had agreed vpon before; the maner whereof was thus.  
His majesty who had tried in other battailes and skirmishes before, that it is more advantage for to make the horsemen fight in squadrons then in ryngs, especially his that haue no lances, divided all his said horsemen into seven Regiments, ranged in so many squadrons, and all his footmen to the flanks of the said squadrons, every one of which had a company of forlorn footmen. The front of the said army was as it were in a rightlyne, yet making a little difference at the two ends. The first squadron on the left side, was that of Monsieur the Marshall of Aumont, which might be of some three hundred good horsemen, having on his two sides twelve Regiments of French footmen. The second was that of Monsieur Montpensier, which also was of three hundred horses, and had on his left side four or five hundred Lansquenets; on the right side a Regiment of swissers, every one of the said strange forces being lined with French footmen. A little before the said squadrons was that of the light horsemen in two companies, the one wherein was Monsieur the great Prior colonel thereof, and in the other the Lord of Giurie Marshall of the field of the said light horsemen, which was able to make four hundred good horses: a little more toward the left hand was the artillery, which was 4. Canons& 2. Culuerins. The fourth squadron was that of the said Lord Baron of byron, which might be of 250. horses: and in the same rank or order a little on the left hand, toward Monsieur Montpensier was a company of light horsemen. The fift squadron, was the kings, which made five ranks, in every one of which was six score good horse: he had on the left side two Regiments of swissers of the Cantons of Glaris and of Grisons, and on his right side a great battaillon of two other Regiments of swissers, the one of the Canton of Soleurre, and the other of the colonel Balthasar: which was in the whole of eighteen ensigns: every of the said battaillons having his wings, to wit, on the right hand the Regiment of the guards of Brigueux, on the left wing those of Vignols and of S. John. Then was the company of the Marshall of byron, which was of two hundred and fifty good horse, having with him two Regiments of French footmen. Then were the Reisters which had joined with them French footmen, like as other companies had.  
Things being thus set in order, the king and my said lords the Marshall and Baron byron so plied the matter, that in less than an hour all was so ordered and disposed, as none could haue more lyuelie portrayed the same,& while his majesty had thus set in order his battle, came the Prince of Contie, with his horsemen& some footmen. There came also the Lord of Guiche, great master of the ordinance, and the Lord of Plessis Mornay, to whom, vpon deliberation had, was granted a place in his majesties squadron.  
In the mean while, were sent light horsemen for spies on the left side of the battle, supposing that the enemy lay at Yurie, which is a great town having a Bridge over the river Dure, thinking there to go and set vpon them: but they had not passed half a mile, before they perceived and understood, that the enemy was more ware of the matter than they thought, and was passed the river Dure, and that he began to show himself in battle ray. But this his speed in passing the river was not, for that he thought to haue found the kings army so near. And contrariwise, the King hearing of their going to Verneuill, thought to haue met them there, and so went thither, whither indeed the enemy had sent his harbingers for to take up lodgings, even near the place where his majesties army lay.  
As soon as these news of the enemies showing himself in the field came, there was seen great ioy throughout the whole army, and his majesty then caused his companies to march on a little from the place where he was, and had not gone far, but that he espied, not far off and between both the armies there was a village holden by the enemy, which the King made strait way yield unto him. His majesty having thus given them occasion to offer him battle, yet the enemies did not stir.  
The King now seeing, that it grew to be late and near the sun setting, and having not yet descried the maner of their lodging their camp, gathered notwithstanding by some likelihoods, that they lay now at some advantage, whereupon he was advised not to march then any further with his army, but stayed there, sending skoutes for to descry the enemy, and to make continual skirmishes with them: But the valour and resolution of those on the Kings side,& those of the enemy, was unlike, for twelve of the Kings men were too hard for four and twenty of the enemy. There were prisoners taken, who reported, that the number of their soldiers was greater than they were ware of, and that they were given to understand, howe that those on the Kings side were come thither rather for a fashion than minding to bid battle.  
In the mean while came companies from the garrisons of deep, and from Arch,& other companies of lords and gentlemen from normandy, to the value of two hundred good horse and more, which were placed, some in the regiment of Monsieur Montpensier, and some of them under the king, and some with Seigneur byron.  
The two armies lay all a whole day thus in sight the one of the other, not meddling the one with the other, except it were some odd skirmishes, and the taking of the village aforesaid. In the end night drew on, and they were constrained to take up their lodgings. The King himself was lodged at Foncrainuille, which is a little village on the left hand of the plain aforesaid, whereas the army of the King was first set in battle ray. The residue of the army was lodged in other Villages, which those of the league had thought to haue surprised the same day. The King as he was the first in the morning that offered battle, so he he was the last that was at evening in the field, and would not depart thence before that he saw the manner of the enemies lodging,& had set al his watches in order.  
His majesty being in the end come to his lodging, which was two houres within night, and having a little refreshed himself, sent word unto his men, that every one of them should be in a readiness against the morning: and he was stirring in the morning very early himself: for when he had lain but two houres vpon a pallet, he presently sent to inquire news of the enemy. And first word was brought him, that the enemy seemed to be passed the river, because that in the place where the army lay, were fires, and no body could be discerned. He sent the second time, and then word was brought him, that undoubtedly the enemy was not passed the river, but they were lodged in the villages that lye about the river ewer behind the said place where their army was supposed to haue been. And moreover it was reported, that they were not like now to pass the river; for if they would haue done it, they would haue passed in the night time. These news cheered his majesty, who did not omit this occasion offered. He began this day as he did the other afore, with a most devout prayer unto God, and that before his men, for he liveth among men, as thinking that he is continually seen and heard of God.  
Day light being come, the Princes and my said Lords the Marshals came to his majesty& set their men in battle ray the best that they could devise. Then his majesty went to breakfast: the said Princes, Marshals and other Lords having heard mass and done their deuotions, went to refresh themselves. And albeit this night had been troublesone to the most, for that they were driven to lie in the field. Yet they hearing certain news, that the same day they should join battle, did so rejoice, as the joyful thinking on that day did drive away all the remembrance of the pains and trouble that they had taken the same night and the day before. About nine of the clock, the King came into the field, and a little before were all the companies in order, vpon warning given by two Canon shot that were discharged at eight of the clock: and every man at his coming knew his place, so as by ten of the clock in the forenone all the army was in order.  
The host of the enemies was at the same time raised and removed a little further off than it was the day before. The order and manner of setting the battle was like that of his majesty saving the wings which were a little more outward than those of the King: But as the cornet of his majesty was in the midst of his squadrons, so was that of the Duke of main, but his cornet was in the midst of two squadrons of launces of those that were come out of flanders, which might be of some twelve or thirteen hundred horse. The said cornet of the foresaid duke of main might be of two hundred and fifty horse, and as many of the Duke of Nemours, which came to join with him: which made a third squadron in the middle of the other two squadrons of launces, and the whole might be eighteen hundred horses which marched still together. And hereupon the Duke of Nemours and knight of Aumale thought themselves very sure in this great squadron, the one of them being colonel of the light horsemen, the other of the footmen. On the sides of the said squadron were their two regimentes of swissers being also lined with French footmen. Then were there two other squadrons of launces: on the right hand were light horsemen, some French, some Albanoys, and some Italians: on the left side were walloons, and Spaniards: in the middle between both were footmen as well French as lansquenets. The two wings were two great companies of Reisters, which might be on the right wing seven hundred horse, and on the left five hundred. They had but two Culuerines, and two bastard Culuerines, which lay on their left wing.  
The King understanding, that the enemy was wilfully bent and would not come forward, was resolute, and went toward them: and having marched about a hundred and fifty paces, got by that mean advantage both of sun and wind( which else would haue not a little troubled his men, and is a great advantage in war) Drawing near, he and his captaines perceived that his enemies were more in number than they thought: for they were judged to be four thousand horse, and ten or twelve thousand footmen: yet this did but increase their courage the more.  
The army of those of the league was the more charged with gold and silver, that of the King rather with iron and steel: and there could not be a more terrible sight than to see a two thousand gentlemen in complete armor from top to the to, burning in affection vpon so good an occasion as this, to do their King and country good service,& by this mean to seek the conservation of their goods and houses, which they saw then like to be made a pray for strangers.  
This their resolution, as it proved, was better than twice so much force: for it is not the number that maketh the matter. His majesty being in the forefront of his squadron( the fore rank of which was of Princes, earls, and knights of the holy Ghost, and other principal lords and Gentlemen of the chief houses in France) began again to pray unto God, and exhorted every one to do the like, as indeed they did with so fervent a zeal as pierced into heaven. The King then went from his squadron, and walked up and down his army, encouraging every one with great modesty, showing himself resolute and undoubted of the victory. he was no sooner come to his place again, but Monsieur Marriuault was come thither, who did bring news, that certain companies of picardy, which were under the leading of Monsieur de Humiers, Monsieur de Moüy, and other Lords and gentlemen( which might bee of some two hundreth horse) were within two miles of them. hereupon, as if he had been directed by the Spirit of God, who should set him down his hour when to begin, he would not drive off a jot, but sent commandement to the Lord of Guich, to cause him shoot, which he did strait ways, and that with such advantage, as the enemies received thereby, great hurt; for there were discharged on the Kings side, nine canon shot before that the other could begin.  
After three or four volees of shot passed on the one side and the other, the squadron of their ancient light horsemen, as well French, and Italians, as Albanoys, which might be of some five or six hundred horse, came to give charge to Monsieur the Marshall of Aumont, carrying with them the Lansquenets which were on their sides. But the said Lord Marshall willing to begin the combat, set vpon the enemy so hardly, as that he made them scatter, so as within a while a man could see nothing but their backs and horse tails, chasing them to a little wood on the back side, whereas the said lord Marshall stayed, attending the kings coming, like as he had in charge. During this chase came the company of the Reisters on the right hand, intending to haue come toward the artillery, but they found there light horsemen ready, which made them soon retire. Then came an other squadron of lances of walloons and Flemings, seeing the said light horse of the Kings a little off, by means of the combat between them and the company of Reisters, meaning to haue given them another charge: but the foresaid Lord Baron byron shewed himself in field, and though he could not meet with the forefront of the enemies battle, yet he so set on the reregarde, as that he shrewdly troubled them; and was there hurt himself both in the arm and face.  
My foresaid Lord Montpensier seeing so great an army being of seven hundred Spanish lances, and about four hundred Carbines, arquebusiers on horseback, having curets and murrions, under three great standards that were under the government of connte Egmond, set forward marching toward them, and gave them such a charge, as that albeit he at the first was unhorsed, yet he quickly got up again, and behaved himself so as that he broke their ray, and abode master of the field. At the same time the great squadron of the Duke of main( which notwithstanding was not so great, as that it could with any advantage encounter with the kings squadron) came marching to the battle, having on the left wing four hundred arquebusiers on horseback, which they call Carbines, who gave a volee of shot a five& twenty paces of from his majesties squadron. This volee of shot being ended, the head of the said great squadron gave battle to the Kings squadron; in which the King behaved himself so valiantly, that whereas before in other matters he seemed to haue played the part of a great King and captain, in commanding and ordering of things, he in this fight seemed to play the part of a lusty brave soldier. This was a great and furious assault, and yet the great terrible forest of their lances could not break his majesties ray; and on the contrariwise, that of the enemy was by him scattered and followed vpon with victory: but for a quarter of an hour there was hard fighting on both sides.  
In a short space this great company of the enemies began so to weaken and to scatter, that whereas before they so lustilie shewed their faces in the battle, they now began to turn the back, and armed as they were, began to show their heels.  
This beginning of victory could not yet well like the Kings army, because that they had lost the sight of the King; but within a while they espied him coming all bewrayed with the blood of his enemies, and( God bee thanked) not having lost one drop of his own blood, and yet he was a marked man: for he had in his headpiece a great white bunch of feathers, and another sticking in his horse forehead: which gave a terror to the enemy, and made his friends greatly to rejoice, seeing him thus to escape from the skirmish. But he was so beset, that as he was retiring to his company, having with him not past twelve or fifteen men, he was set vpon by two battaillons of swissers enemies, three companies of walloons, and certain other who did wear read crosses; whom his majesty did so courageously set vpon, that he took away their Cornets, and killed there those that carried and guarded them. When the King was thus come again to his place, there was throughout the army( as it were in token of thankes giuing unto God for his safe return) a general cry; God save the King.  
Being come, there came and joined with him the foresaid Lord Marshall of Aumont, with a great company that he had gotten together, and among other came the Lord great Prior aforesaid with his men. At the same time also came Baron byron, whom the King going to meet, found with his company whole& well, whereat the enemy was not a little discouraged, knowing well that this old general, who had been at the beginning of many a battle in his life time, could good skill to end and break this that was already so sore shaken.  
The King was well apaied to see the field thus covered with the dead bodies of the enemies, and that none were left then in order but the swissers, who had also lost their horsemen both on their right and left wings, and yet they still set a good countenance on the matter. He was once minded to haue sent French footmen to haue broken their ray on the right wing, which yet had not fought; but remembering the old friendship and league that had been betwixt those of this nation always and the crown of France, was contented, and having sent Marshall byron back again his men, offered them grace, and in stead of death which he might haue offered, he sent them life, which they received in great mercy. Then having laid down their arms, they passed by his majesty: and the French that yielded, found the like mercy.  
At the same instant when as he had joined with the said Lord Marshall of byron, there met him the companies aforesaid out of picardy. Then like as first he had played the part of a good captain and soldier, so he would now show himself a right general of an army, in pursuing a main the victory. Therefore he setting forward the said Lord great Prior with a company on the left side, and the foresaid Lord Baron byron with another company on the right side, and having with him the residue of horsemen that were gathered together, and the foresaid companies that were come out of picardy, he followed on the victory, having in his company my Lords the Princes of Contie and of Montpensier, the connte S. paul, and my foresaid Lords the Marshals of Aumont and of Trimouille, with infinite other Lords, Captaines and Gentlemen of the said army, leaving Marshall byron with a great company marching after.  
If the battle was not greatly honourable to those of the League, their retiring was less honourable, for it was without order, not having in it any thing worthy the marking, saving that fear seemed to make them at their wits end, and whereas they should haue marched toward the Kings power, they were seen running away from it. The said retiring was in two parts: the Duke of Nemours, Bassompiere, the viscount of Tauanne, Rosne and certain other took to Chartyes, the Duke of main and a great sort of other took the way to Yurie, thinking to pass that river. And they had thought to haue carried also away their Ordinance, but that was not so speedily to bee removed, wherefore they were driven to leave it behind, as also they did all their baggage.  
The kings staying to pardon the swissers, gave the enemy great advantage in their flying: so that when his majesty came at Yurie, he found that the Duke of main was passed a little before, and had broken the bridge after him, which caused the death and destruction of a great many of his men, especially of the Reisters, a great sort of which were drowned, some fearing to haue been taken by those that followed them in the chase, were glad to kill their horses for to help stop up the passages in the streets. The bridge of Yurie being thus broken, and the passage there over the bridge being dangerous, his majesty was advised to go and pass over the river by a place called Annet, which is a great deal the better way, and was a three miles about: yet as he went he found the ways full of such as fled, who could not, by reason of their hast, be so well advised of their way, as those on the kings side, which then did all things with discretion. Those that thought to haue escaped in the woods, fell into the hands of the country people, who used them more cruelly than the souldiers would haue done. His majesty pursued them unto the Town of Mante so hotly, that none of them turned face back once to see who followed him: and had the townsmen stood unto their first resolution, which was, not to haue opened the gates, there had not been left a man but he had been either slain or taken. In the end, they being overcome by the prayers and entreaties of the said Duke of main, yielded to let him in, vpon condition that his retinue should pass by ten and ten that night over the bridge, if they would regard their safety. His majesty understanding hereof, went and took up his lodging at Rosny, a two mile from Mante aforesaid, as meanly provided for that night as were the enemies.  
A man may rightely say, that this discomfiture was such as had not lightly been seen, for there was not a man on the kings side of any account but won honor; and on the other side they all went away with shane and loss. All the footmen were cut off saving those that yielded, and of them but a few saved. Of their horsemen were slain and drowned above fifteen hundred, and four hundred taken prisoners.  
amongst those that were slain were known for principal, the connte Egmond knight of the order of the Fleece, colonel of the companies that the Prince of Parma sent: the young earl of brunswick, the Lord of Chastaigneray, and many other, whose names are not known. Of prisoners were taken the earl of Austfrist, of the house of Austfrist, which was with the Reisters, and many lords strangers, as well Spaniards, Flemings, and Italians, as Frenchmen: the Lords of Boisdauphin Sigongne, who bare the white Cornet of the said Duke of main: Mesdauid, fountain, martel, Lochant, Lodon, Huguessan, Falandre; the maisters of the field, Tenisay, Castelliere Descuneux and infinite other. There were above twenty Cornets of horsemen stayed, among which were their white Cornet; the great standard of the general of the Spaniards and Flemings, and the Colonels Cornets of the Reisters, above threescore ensigns of footmen, as well French and Flemings as lansquenets, besides four and twenty ensigns of swissers that yielded themselves.  
Of his majesties army were slain the Lords of Clermont, of Antragnes one of the Captaines of his majesties guards, who deceased near to the kings person, the Lord Tif Chombert, who having aforehand commanded and governed great charges of men himself, was now content to serve as a common soldier in his majesties Cornet, the Lords of Longaulnay of normandy, being of three score and ten yeares of age, of Crenay who was Cornet to Monsieur Montpensier, of Vienne who was lieutenant to the Lord of Benuron, which had that day a Cornet because his ensign was not there, of Manneuille Vallois, Feiquiers, and a twenty other gentlemen at the most. There were hurt, the lord Marques of nest, who albeit he was captain over a company of soldiers, yet he would needs fight in the fore rank of the light horsemen, the earl of Choisy, who had brought a good company with him, the Lords of O, the earl of Lude, Montlonet, Lauergne, Rosny, and it may be a twenty other Gentlemen, most of which were not greatly hurt, nor had not any danger of death in them.  
The nobility of france hath shewed itself hereby most apparently nothing at all degenerate or swerving from the steps of their ancestors: but always most affectionate towards their king and lawful Prince, so that it may evidently appear if any rebellion be, it must needs spring from the off-scome and race of rascall people, stirred up by the factions and drifts of strangers, not so much by fear as by ambition. If ever any subiects did make their Prince beholding unto them, it may now be said, that the king is much bound and beholden unto his nobility, who came so voluntarily unto his aid, without pay, without furniture, and almost without any warning at all, and haue done him so great a signal service. The King hath also made all his nobility much beholding unto him, to haue given them so great an occasion to employ themselves, and to make trial of their fidelity and valour, raising the honor and reputation of al their ancestors out of the dust. But every man did amply testify their gratefulness one to an other; first, the king unto his subiects, in giuing them honors and preferrements according to their deserts; and then the subiects, in showing the affection that they bear naturally unto his majesty.  
In this combat two or three things haue fallen out so extraordinary and miraculous, that they may seem to be verily wrought by the finger of God. The first is, that this Prince hath always had so firm a resolution to give his enemies a battle by all means possible, with firm confidence, that the field and victory should be his, and that no human reason or policy might dissuade him the contrary: albeit a man in other affairs very tractable, and one that referreth himself, and hearkeneth very much to the sage aduise and counsel of others. The other was that in the place where the battle was given, and even at the instant when the fight began, it seemed that men as thick as hops came from all parts to do him service very well armed at all points. For over night, and upon the day of battle, arrived more than six hundred horses: yet he was resolved without them there to fight it out: and the third is, that two thousand French Gentlemen( whereof never more than twelve hundreth fought) overthrew and disordered a whole army of four thousand horse, and twelve thousand foot, their horsemen fresh soldiers, bravely mounted, and well armed at all points.  
But the wrongful cause they took in hand to defend, may be onely their excuse; for otherwise they can by no means diminish and impair the glory of the conquerors, but by confessing that they were first overthrown by their own consciences before they came ever to the field to combat, whither they came like criminal persons condemned to die, who by guiltiness of conscience go, as it were, half dead to the place of execution. For the very conceit and apprehension of punishment, is no less painful than the pain itself, and most certain it is, that he that seeks pains, suffereth pain: and he that deserveth it, seeketh it. France is in this beholding to them to thank them that they are the cause, that strangers who never in thirty yeres before drew their sword against the nobility of France, may now certify their Princes for truth, that the very children strike as well as the fathers: and from henceforth they may content themselves to live quiet at home, rather than to come to die here with dishonour, and to want christian butiall. The French that rest of this overthrow, haue yet this comfort, that it is fallen out to them for the best to be overcome: for now they may with evident reason and persuasion, void of all lightness and rashness, resolve to withdraw themselves from the wicked counsels and practises which they had taken in hand before. The people acknowledging that the drifts of their Captaines are for their own peculiar commodity, and not for the matter they pretend and cloak. The Captaines having made experience, that honours and envies of people may be held just of one account,& that as a man should not afflict himself for the one, so he should not advance himself too much by the other. In fine, that it is not with walls, but with men that war must be made: besides that, they feel already what they haue lost, and that before they recover it, they must feel some smart in open field, and it will be a long while before it come to that pass.  
But the greatest motive that they ought to haue to make them resolve to take this fruit of their evil lucke is, the clemency and mercifulness of the king, who hath in him no choler or gull inwardly hidden, who breatheth nothing but bounty and all sweetness and mercy, who spareth to spill the blood of his people more than his own: that they may confess that he hath in him all the good partes and qualities of a mighty and great King,& of a great and puissant captain: and that God, who hath exercised & preserved him in so many extraordinary dangers of war& combats, hath undoubtedly reserved him for some great matter extraordinary: certainly to be some Hercules to save and deliver us from al dangers: to be an Alexander to unknit the knots of all leagued conspiracies, intricate complots, and confederat practices, wrapped, linked, and fastened together. If they look a far off, they shall see& confess, that all their enterprises bended against him from time to time, haue served to none other purpose, but to fortify him, and make him still greater: So might this rebellion speed, the longer it lasteth, such success might it haue, and no better. But it is greatly to be feared, that this great clemency, that his good nature doth offer now to his disobedient subiects, if it now be neglected and refused of them, in the end do not turn into a rigorous execution of iustice( as the wine, the sweeter it is, the more sooner it doth make the vinegar.) Let them look and take heed to this, if they be well advised.  
The easiest and gainest way for reconcilement is by repentance, the greatest crimes make the best laws: as they haue been cause of evil, so must they bee of good, and so may they also bee, and in such sort, that the fruit that shall come thereof, shall extinguish quiter the remembrance of all our mischiefs passed and gone. God also himself doth give us so to understand most manifestly, helping the infirmity of our iudgement, by miracles wought on earth, and signs shewed from heaven, as he did in the time when the faith was in his first age.  
It resteth now that God give us his grace, to comprehend all things a right, and that we know also how to use well the bounty and clemency of our king, as he knoweth how to use his victory, whereof, it cannot bee truly said that the issue and effect hath so much pleased him, as the cause doth displease him. Those of the towns of Mante and Vernon where are two of the chiefest bridges over the river of Seyne, who yielded themselves first unto his clemency, shalbe good witnesses whether their estate and condition bee pared or bettered. GOD grant that the rest may follow this good example, and that the reunion unto the obedience of his majesty may be as ready, as the means of revolting and separation haue been swift and violent: that yet we may keep this age from being remarkable to the posterity, as it hath been threatened heretofore by this of particides and murtherers of their country.   

news happened since the overthrow of the Duke of main.  
PAngrola the Legate and Monsieur de Ville-Roy, two colleagues& chief Agents of the League, seeing their affairs to haue ill success, came incontinentlie after the victory to busy the King a little, if by any means they might, making as much speed as they might in the mean time so to fortify their party, that without aid from spain they might at their own devotion and greater advantage, make truce and peace when they listed.  
It is surmised that Ville-Roy doth promise to safeguard his own houses. Pontaise had thereof intelligence. Monsieur de Plessis came to a parley with him, handled him very roughlie, and set him beneath him at dinner. He offereth to justify himself, but Monsieur Beau-lieu( who is his sworn enemy) opposeth himself to his reasons, and condemneth his faire promises by his practices with his old master, so that it is looked still when execution and iustice shall be done according to the Kings Edict.  
The Legate coming to parley with Monsieur the Marshall of byron, after many salutations and blessings, wondered very much that so great a troupe of catholics could follow an heretical King. Whereunto Monsieur the Marshall made answer, that it nothing behoved them to look so near into that matter, that he held him for the true heir of the crown of France, that he had maintained their laws vnuiolate, that he had for enemies none but strangers thrust forward by ambition, who under show and pretext of religion, went about to overthrow all good laws, and to give an entrance to the Spanish King, and to set open the door to all atheism. Whereupon he protested, that his master was free from meddling in any of all those enterprises: but the whole story hath been so well averred, and vowed by al the actions and parts past of his embassage, and by his conversation with Don Bernardin Mendoza, that he could deny nothing. Thereupon he demanded the Marshall how they being by profession catholics, made so light account of his holiness purposes,& carried arms against other their catholic brethren. To that he answered, that herein he was of the Venetians minds: that they had a just cause to defend, and in so doing, it should bee very good for the Pope to look somewhat nearer to his own estate, that if he encroached too much on them, they could excommunicate him quickly; that there were diuers Prelates in France as good Catholiks as the Pope, who would be very glad to be made patriarchs in their several provinces, and should find holy Scripture for the confirmation of their authority. Vpon this point they disputed a little, but Pangrola could not answer. In fine, he desired very much to haue a good peace concluded, and that the conversion of the King might bee sought, wishing that he might bee employed thereabout: and so they departed at that time without doing any good one with another.  
The Parisians haue suffered their governor to take in swissers and Launce-knights into their city, and the people is more hardened than ever before. They haue found out all means possible to prolong and entertain this war. They haue now found out all the relics for the purpose, but a great deal thereof is worth but little money. The better sort and likeliest men are gone out of the city, none abideth but the vulgar race of people, the very scum, and those that are almost driven to despair, the which, I fear, will hazard the prophecy to be fulfilled of them: Al things are very dear, and the Commons know not what to do for lack of traffic.  
Bellieure came to find the King, and was very well received; in the end the King  told him, that he thought in his conscience, that he was an honest man before the queen Mother had got him to her side, and the company of Ville-Roy had spoyled him. Brullard also came to the king, and was received with much favour, and diuers others of Paris that pleaded their own innocency.  
coming hither we passed by Cheureuse, where the King gave a protection, and left behind him for governor Sourdis the duchess of Guises man. We came hither on saturday, much ado had we to enter, and we were first resisted: but the morrow after wee entered where the king stayed to hear some news from Melan and Laigny which are summoned. The Deputies of Laigny are come, the rest stand to their tackling, and are wilful, and the cannon shall depart to morrow: but they are obstinate& stand vpon this point, for that they assure themselves, that the duke of main hath forces in Champagne, and hath promised them within fifteen days, either to bid the king battle, or else to put him to flight.  
It is most certain, that he hath written to Paris himself: it is also most true, that he assembleth all his forces, and craveth aid from all partes; Ballagny doth promise him fifteen hundred horses out of picardy onely: he thinketh to recover an other army of thirty thousand men. Our Normans and others to the number of fifteen hundred horses retired themselves on sunday last.  
The Duke of Langueuille and Monsieur de Tinteuille are arrived with the Reisters, and are in number more than eight thousand men, so that the K. is too strong for the enemy, and also sufficiently fortified for all their enterprises.  
It is certain, that all matters are driven to this issue, that if the Duke of main do not fight with us speedily, all the authority of the league is ruined; for it must needs be, that Paris yield for fear of famine, the passages round about being seized, or else it must be relieved, for it shall stand them somewhat vpon, being constrained thereunto by necessity. But how his carriage shall hold out, I doubt, if despair do not make him run mad altogether, having lost a battle, for the loss whereof he hath been astonied these many daies, and hath not doubted to confess openly in Mante, that the king of Nauarre was always lucky in all his attempts.  
In Auergne Monsieur de Rendan asseeging Issore hath had the repulse& been overthrown in plain field, fourscore Gentlemen of mark and quality being slain in the place, the Artillery taken, and little of the infantry escaped. This overthrow was given by the Seigneur of Chasseran and Rochemaine.  
Another overthrow was given nere unto Metz, where Monsieur de Rieux took the artillery of the Duke of Lorraine.  
In base normandy Viques and the Leaguers are overthrown,& Monsieur d'Allegre sent the King word, that two Castles about the forest of Lyhons are yielded to his obedience.  
In brittany diuers Regiments of Duke Mercure were cut in pieces, but that is not sufficient to answer the loss of S. Malo, the death of the governor, and an hundred thousand crownes found in his coffers. All the towns begin to listen, and if no speedy aid come not from spain( for other succour or contribution may not be hoped for) without doubt all the business of the League shall bee utterly overthrown quickly.  
This day is arrived a Post from Rome, with a Mandamus from the Pope to all Dukes, Counties and Barons, that they shall obey the King, and with express commandement to all the people to pray unto God for him, and for the same purpose hath he sent unto them a certain form of prayer. I do not know whether in this case the dealing and labouring of monsieur of Luxembourg or the holy ghost hath inspired him, but certain it is, that the Pope is now become a Frenchman, highly offended with his Legate, but a great deal more with the League, and demandeth an account of fifty thousand Crownes that he hath disbursed in the cause. Thereby you may see how the King is favoured of GOD, and without doubt born for the ruin of the King of spain. His majesty is happy to haue his cause joined with Gods in this contention, and to haue aided it in the beginning, when no body else put to his hand.  
The company of la Chastre was overthrown by Rubenpré.  
Corbeil and Melun are taken.  
Ville-Roy was with the Duke de main at Soissous. Monsieur du Plessis is gone to meet with him at Laigny: at his return we shall know more certain news.  
The governor of Daulphiné, and the Lord of Diguieres and others the Kings servitors haue taken in Grenoble, and reduced the rest of the province into his majesties obedience.   

An Extract of things registered in the Court of Parliament.  
VPon relation made by the Kings Proctor general, that as well by the Edicts of his majesty, as also by the Acts of Parliament, hath been set down and enjoined to all Bailiefes, their lieutenants and other Iudges, to proceed diligently to the seizing of goods movables and immovables appertaining to the Leaguers& Rebels, their complices and adherents, and to the sale of the said movables and immovables for the behoof and profit of the King: albeit the said Bailiefes and their lieutenants haue hitherto so negligently proceeded in the executions thereof, that little or nothing at all is yet come into the hands of the receivers, the said Proctor general requiring, that it would please the court of Parliament to take some order herein.  
The said Court doing iustice herein, hath enjoined and set down very straitly to all Bailiefes of this company, and to their deputies in every viscounty, that they shall forthwith, all other affairs set apart, proceed to the seizing of all the goods movables or immovables, debts and actions of Leaguers and Rebels, their complices and adherents, as well clergy men and Nobles, as other inferior peasants, and to sell the said movables or immovables to him that proffereth most for the same: and the deniers that shall arise thereof, to bee put by them into the hands of the Kings ordinary receivers of his Demaine in every viscounty: upon pain to the contrary, that the said Bailiefes and their deputies in case of negligence, forbearance or collusion in the execution of this present Act, shalbe condemned in their proper and private names in sums counteruaillant the valour and estimation of the said movables, and revenue of the immovables, and express Commissioners to bee sent at their charges to execute the said Arrest vpon the places, according to the form and tenor. And to the end that this be not without effect; the said Court hath ordained and enjoined to all the said Bailiefes and deputies, to sand every month to the clerk of the same the verbal process of all seisies and sales of movables& immovables that shall bee made, and the account of such deniers which shall arise thereby, and the which they haue put into the hands of the receivers of the Kings yearly domains of every of the said Vicounties, vpon like penalty as aforesaid. And to the end that no man pretend any ignorance herein; the Court hath ordained that this Edict shall bee printed and sent throughout all Bayliwickes, that in every of their jurisdictions it may bee published and registered, and a copy of the said publication to be sent unto the clerk of the said Court, that recourse may bee had thereunto when need shall require. Proclaimed at Caen in open Parliament, the 24. day of March. 1590.  
Signed, Godfroy.   

An act of Parliament against those that harbour Rebels and Theeues, and help them to pass and repass the Riuers.  
HEnry, by the grace of God, king of france, and of Nauarre: To all our bailiffs, Stewards,& provosts, or to their Lieutenants, Generals, and counsellors, to the first Porter of our Court of Parliament, or to any other of our Sergeants sendeth greeting: That whereas our Proctor general hath made declaration to our Court, that diverse rebells and other theeues, enemies of the peaceable estate of the common weal, do run over countries, take prisoners and commit diverse robberies and pillages on our poor liege subiects, and do carry them away with them prisoners into the towns and places detained by the said rebells, and are also for the same cause favoured by diuers Gentlemen, who give them aduise, and are privy to their dealings, and do take and receive them into their houses and castells: Likewise, how that by boatmen and other ferry men which pass and repass them over the riuers and waters, so that they haue great safety in their journeys and ways, demanding that some order may be herein taken. Our said Court hath made inhibition and defence to all Seigneurs, Gentlemen, and other persons, of what quality or estate soever they be, to take in at any time, or receive into their houses or forts the said Rebels, Theeues, and others of naughty life, to give them any aduise, force, or aid in any sort whatsoever. But also to the contrary are enjoined them to set vpon them, and to deliver them into the hands of the Iustice, if it be possible, or otherwise to cut them in pieces, vpon pain to be severely punished themselves, as adherents of the said rebels, and infractors of the arrests of our said Court; hath made also express defence& inhibition to al boatmen& ferrimen to pass or repass the said Rebells, Theeues, and others of naughty life over the river of Loire at any time, or to receive thē, or to do any message for them, vpon pain of being broken on a wheel, hath declared and doth declare from henceforth as then, and then as now, and for ever hereafter, all the said theeues, and all their said receivers, favourers, and complices to be traitors in the highest degree. doth ordain and ratify, that all castells and forts that haue served them for places of retreat, to be beaten down and battered, and all other mansions and territories that thereto belong: also that all and every of their goods shall be tied and retailed to our demaine without any hope ever hereafter to be severed again. Hath enjoined and doth enjoin to all bailiffs, provosts, Vicestewards, their deputies and other officers, to proceed against the said Rebells, Theeues, and all shall withstand and take their partes, and to punish them as aforesaid: and following the statutes and ordinances in this behalf established; wee command all Gouernours of towns and Castles to help them, and to carry the Cannon before the said place, if need so require. And we command expressly the deputies and substitutes of our said proctor general, and the receivers of our domains to look well hereunto, and to keep and render a just account of the receipt of all such deniers as shall arise of the said domains to be employed in case of war, vpon pain to answer the contrary in their own names and persons. And the said deputies shalbe bound from fifteen dayes to fifteen dayes, to advertise our said Court of that which shall bee done in the execution of this Act, the which our said Court doth ordain and command to be red and published throughout all Bailiwikes, jurisdictions of Stewards, and provosts, passports, and other places of like resort where are any sittings, or pleas held, in all parish Churches, and to be set up by proclamations on the gates of the palaces& auditories at the labour and travel of the said deputies of our said Proctor general, to the end, that no resistance be made herein,& that no cause of ignorance be hereafter pretended. At the request of our said Proctor general, we command to put the said Arrest in full execution, according to his form and tenor: Constraining all those to whom it shall appertain to execute and obey the same. Also we expressly command and enjoin al our Iustices, Officers, and other subiects, to obey unto you herein. given at Tours in our Court of Parliament the 27. Ian. the year of Grace 1590. and in the first year of our reign.  
Signed: La chamber Denis.