Front matter (continued 4)

'Item, the king will renounce the alliance he had formed with the emperor against the duke of Burgundy, as well as all others with different princes and lords to the same effect, provided the duke of Burgundy shall do the same with his alliances; and the king will also hold himself bounden, and will promise the duke of Burgundy to assist and support him against all who may be inclined to make war against him or otherwise injure him. And in like manner shall the duke of Burgundy engage his promise, saving, however, the exemption of his personal service as has been before declared.

'Item, the king consents to grant letters, that in case he shall violate the articles of the present treaty, his vassals and subjects shall be no longer bound to obey and serve him, but shall be obliged to serve and assist the duke of Burgundy and his successors against him. In this case, all his subjects shall be absolved from their oaths of fidelity toward king Charles, Without at any time hereafter being called to account for so doing; and from this moment king Charles absolves them from all fidelity to him, in case such violation of the treaty shall take place,—and that the duke of Burgundy shall do the same in regard to his vassals and subjects.

'Item, all these promises, obligations, and submissions, of king Charles, respecting the due fulfilment of this treaty, shall be made before the lord cardinal of Santa Croce, legate from the holy father the pope, the lord cardinal of Cyprus, and the other ambassadors from the holy council of Basil, in the most ample manner that can be devised, and on pain of excommunications, interdicts, and all the most weighty punishments of the church, to the utmost power which the said lords cardinals may possess from the pope, provided that the duke of Burgundy shall act in a similar manner.

'Item, the king will give to the duke of Burgundy not only his own declaration, sealed with his seal, but the declarations and seals of the princes of his blood and under his obedience,—namely, the seals of the duke of Anjou, his brother the lord Charles, the duke of Bourbon, the count of Richemont, the count of Vendôme, the count of Foix, the count of Auvergne, the count of Perdiac, and others,—which declarations of the princes shall be incorporated with that of the king, who shall with them promise faithfully to maintain the contents of the said declarations; and should they be infringed on the part of the king, they do severally promise to aid and assist the said duke of Burgundy and his friends against the king. In like manner shall the duke of Burgundy deliver in his declarations.

'Item, the king shall also cause to be given to the duke of Burgundy similar declarations under the seals of such churchmen, nobles, and principal towns of the realm under the king's obedience as the duke of Burgundy shall name, under penalties both corporal and pecuniary on failure, together with such securities for the due performance of their engagements as the lords cardinals and prelates commissioned by the pope may think proper and advisable.

'Item, should it happen hereafter that omissions, infractions, or attempts to infringe any of the said articles should arise, notwithstanding the present treaty, they shall remain in full force and vigour, and the peace shall not be considered as broken or annulled; but such omissions, infractions and attempts, shall be instantly amended and corrected, according to the virtual meaning of what has been before declared,—and the guarantees thereof shall see that it be done.

'Item, as we have been again earnestly exhorted and pressed by the said cardinals, and by the ambassadors from the holy council, to incline our ears and attend to the proposals made to us respecting a peace,—which proposals they think just and reasonable, and such as ought not to be refused by us,—remonstrating also with us, that we should make peace with king Charles of France from our love to God, and according to reason and honour, notwithstanding any alliances, oaths or engagements entered into with our very beloved and dear lord the king of England lately deceased,—the said cardinals and others, ambassadors from the holy council of Basil, urging us to a compliance by many reasons and arguments,—

'We, therefore, principally through reverence to God, and from the pity and compassion we feel for the poor people of France, who have been such great sufferers in these troubles and divisions within that realm, and in compliance with the admonitions and urgent entreaties of the said cardinals, and the ambassadors from our holy father the pope and the council, which we consider as commands to a catholic prince and obedient son of the church, have, after calling to our aid and council the highest lords of our blood and lineage, with others of our most faithful vassals and counsellors, made for ourselves and our successors a firm, loyal, and solid peace and re-union with our lord the king and his successors, according to the tenour of the articles above recited, which, on the part of the said king, he and his successors are bounden to fulfil toward us.

'The whole of these articles, so far as they regard us, we approve of and accept; and from this moment consent to and make all the renunciations, promises, submissions, and every other concession demanded from us in the above articles; and we acknowledge our aforesaid lord king Charles of France as our sovereign lord, in as much as regards the lands and lordships we hold in that kingdom, promising for ourself and our heirs on our faith and bodily oath, on the word of a prince, on our honour, and on the loss of our expectations in this world and in that to come, to hold inviolate this treaty of peace, and the whole of the articles contained in the said treaty, without attempting to invalidate the same either by word or deed, openly or secretly.

'For the further maintenance of this peace by ourself, and by all others, we submit ourself and them to whatever regulations and ordinances it may please our holy father the pope, and the holy council now assembled at Basil, to promulgate by the lords cardinals and the ambassadors from the said council now present; and we are willing to suffer any censures from the church, should we fail in the due fulfilment of all the articles contained in the said treaty. We renounce all exemptions, whatever may be alleged to the contrary, more particularly to that rule in law which declares that a general renunciation is not equally valid with an especial one, the whole to be fulfilled without fraud, deceit, or any chicanery whatever.

'That this treaty may have every due formality, and be perfectly stable, we have caused our signet to be affixed to these presents. Given at our town of Arras the 21st day of September, in the year 1435.' It was also signed by the duke of Burgundy, in the presence of his council.

When the two parties had finally concluded a peace with each other, and when every formality of signing and sealing was finished, the peace was proclaimed with great solemnity through the town of Arras. We need not inquire if this caused the utmost joy, and spread happiness among the people. In general, the clergy, nobles, citizens, and a multitude of peasants who had entered the town, were not content with one day's rejoicing, but made many, shouting and singing carols through the streets.

Very grand entertainments were given at the palace of the duke of Burgundy to the knights, esquires, the ladies and damsels of both parties, as well in eating and drinking as in dancings and other amusements. In the apartment where this business had been concluded, the cardinal of Santa Croce, having placed the holy sacrament on an altar and a cross of gold on a cushion, made the duke of Burgundy swear thereon, that he would never more call to his remembrance the death of his late father, and that he would evermore maintain peace with king Charles of France, his sovereign lord, and his allies. After which, the duke of Bourbon and the constable of France, touching the cross with their hands, begged pardon, in the king's name, of the duke of Burgundy for the death of his said father, who gave them his pardon for the love of God. Then the two cardinals, having laid their hands on the duke, absolved him from the oath he had made to the English. In like manner were absolved many great lords of his party, who, with others of the duke's alliance, swore to be on friendship with king Charles and with his allies. In the number was the lord de Launoy, who said aloud, 'Here I am who have heretofore taken oaths for the preservation of peace five times during this war, not one of which has been observed,—but I now make promise to God, that this shall be kept on my part, and that I will not in any degree infringe it.'

CHAP. LXXXIX.

THE ENGLISH LAY SIEGE TO THE TOWN OF ST DENIS, WHICH IN THE END SURRENDERS TO THEM BY CAPITULATION.

During the time the English and their allies were in the Isle de France, they besieged the town of St Denis with a very powerful force. The principal commanders of this enterprise were the marshal de l'Isle-Adam, the lords Talbot, Willoughby, and Scales, George de Richammes, Waleran de Moreul, sir John bastard of St Pol, his brother Louis de Luxembourg, sir Ferry de Mailly, Robert de Neufville, the bastard de Thian a french knight, the Arragonian, with other notable and expert men at arms of France and England, having under them about six hundred combatants. They carried on their attacks with great diligence, and pointed many cannons against the walls and gates to batter them down.

They were frequently visited by Louis de Luxembourg, bishop of Therounne, chancellor of France for king Henry, and governor of Paris and the surrounding country, who was their chief adviser, and urged them on to the completion of the business.

Within the town, on the part of the king of France, were the marshal de Rieux, sir John Foucault, sir Louis de Vaucourt, sir Regnault de Saint Jean, Artus de la Tour, and many more valiant men at arms, together with six hundred combatants. On the approach of their enemies, they made every preparation for resistance; and the greater part lodged themselves on the walls, where they remained day and night, to be always ready for their defence.

The walls and gates, however, were greatly damaged by the cannon of the English in so many places that their captains resolved to make several attacks on the town at the same time, with the hope of gaining it by storm. In consequence, having armed their men, they formed several divisions, and marched, with scaling ladders and other warlike instruments, to the ditches, which were filled with water. These the men at arms crossed, though the water was up to their necks, and, carrying their ladders with them, placed them against the walls, which they ascended without sign of fear. The besieged seeing this, and considering that if the place were taken by storm, they should not only lose the town but their lives also, began to prepare for a vigorous defence.

The marshal de Rieux had posted on different parts of the ramparts detachments under captains, with orders not to quit their posts whatever they might see or hear,—and he had a body of men at arms ready to succour such places as should be distressed. The attack was very fierce and bloody, and lasted for two hours, when many gallant acts were done on both sides.

The new knights created on this occasion were Louis de Luxembourg, bastard of St Pol, who behaved excellently well, Jean de Humieres, Robert de Neufville, and some others. When the assailants had had about four score men, or more, slain in the ditches and under the walls, they perceived they could not carry their point without too serious a loss, and their captains sounded a retreat, carrying off their dead and wounded. The besieged suffered also greatly, and were much alarmed lest the enemy, by continuing the attack, should constrain them more. They nevertheless, in hopes of succour from the constable of France, who was attending the convention at Arras, with many of his officers, repaired the walls and gates, that had been broken, and prepared to defend themselves as well as circumstances would permit.

The constable, on the conclusion of the peace at Arras, departed thence, accompanied by numbers of the nobility, and went to Senlis. He was anxious to collect a sufficient force to raise the siege of St Denis; but when he examined his powers, he found that he was unable to do so.

The marshal de Rieux, therefore, knowing that the constable was unable to afford him relief, entered into negotiations with the English that he and his captains would surrender the place, on having their lives and fortunes spared, and would also give up the prisoners they had made, among whom was the new knight sir Jean de Humieres. This offer was acceded to,—and the French marched off, escorted by about sixteen hundred cavalry.

The english army likewise broke up, and returned to different towns under their obedience, leaving behind such of their captains and men as had been killed in St Denis. Among the first were sir Louis de Vaucourt, sir Regnault de St Jean, Artus de la Tour, one called Josselin, and others, whose deaths caused great grief. The town of St Denis was now under the government of king Henry.

Shortly after this event, the Picards, who had been informed of the peace concluded between the duke of Burgundy and king Charles, took leave of the english captains as soon as they could, and returned without loss to their own country. At the same time, the French took by storm the bridge of Meulan, and put to death about twenty English who guarded it. This success much vexed the Parisians, because it cut off the communication with Normandy, and would prevent them from receiving hence any provisions.

CHAP. XC.

ISABELLA, QUEEN OF FRANCE, DIES IN THE CITY OF PARIS.

In the month of September of this year, Isabella queen of France, and mother to king Charles then on the throne, was taken grievously ill at her apartments in the king's hôtel of St Pol. She had for some time lived in great poverty, owing to the distresses and troubles of the war,—and her disorder increased so much that it caused her death. She was buried in the church of St Denis, but not with the solemnity and state usual at the funerals of queens of France. When the duke of Burgundy heard of her decease, he had a grand and solemn service performed for her in the church of St Waast at Arras, which he personally attended, dressed in mourning. The duke was supported by the count d'Estampes, the count de Vendôme, the heir of Cleves, and many other ecclesiastical and secular lords in mourning. The service was performed by the bishop of Arras.

CHAP. XCI.

THE CARDINALS, AND THE AMBASSADORS FROM THE COUNCIL, LEAVE ARRAS.—THE DUKE OF BURGUNDY APPOINTS DIFFERENT OFFICERS TO THE TOWNS AND FORTRESSES THAT HAD BEEN CONCEDED TO HIM BY THE PEACE.

Soon after peace had been proclaimed in Arras, the cardinals, and those who had accompanied them, departed thence, after having been most honourably entertained by duke Philip. In like manner did all those who had come thither as ambassadors from the holy council and from king Charles.

The duke now, while in Arras, appointed many new officers to the towns and castles on the river Somme and to those within Picardy, which had long appertained to the crown of France, but had been yielded to him by king Charles, according to the articles of the treaty lately concluded. Prior to this peace, Arras was in the hands of king Henry; but now the duke appointed other officers, displacing those of king Henry at his pleasure, laying hands on all the public money, nominating new receivers, and causing the inhabitants to swear allegiance to him.

The english officers were much surprised at these proceedings of the duke, for it was through his means that king Henry had obtained possession of the town, and he had lately acknowledged him for his legal and sovereign lord. Seeing that they could no way prevent it, they suffered patiently all that was done.

Among others, master Robert le Jeune, who had for a long time been bailiff of Amiens, and had ruled with a high hand all Picardy in favour of the English, and had even been their council at the convention of Arras, and their chief adviser, finding that the tide was now turning against them (through means procured by money) managed so well that he continued in favour with the duke of Burgundy, who made him governor of Arras in the room of sir David de Brimeu, who had held that appointment.

Thus in a few days was a total change made in the public affairs of France and England, and just contrary to what had before been.

CHAP. XCII.

IN CONSEQUENCE OF THE PEACE OF ARRAS, THE DUKE OF BURGUNDY SENDS SOME OF HIS COUNCIL, AND HERALDS, TO THE KING OF ENGLAND, TO REMONSTRATE AND EXPLAIN THE CAUSES OF THE PEACE HE HAD CONCLUDED WITH THE KING OF FRANCE.

On the conclusion of the peace at Arras, the duke of Burgundy sent his king at arms of the order of the Golden Fleece, with another of his heralds called Franche-comté, to England with letters from the duke to king Henry. These letters contained strong remonstrances to induce the king and his council to conclude a peace with the king of France,—and were also explanatory of the causes which had induced the duke, by the exhortations of the legates from the holy see and from the council of Basil, in conjunction with the three estates of his dominions, to make a peace with king Charles his sovereign lord, and to renounce the alliance he had formerly concluded with the late king Henry of England.

They were accompanied by a mendicant friar, a doctor of divinity, who had been charged by the two cardinal-legates to remonstrate publicly with the king of England and his council on the infinite cruelty of prolonging so bloody a war, which laid waste Christendom, and to harangue on the blessings that would ensue if a lasting peace could be concluded between the two kings.

They all three travelled together as far as Calais, and crossed the sea to Dover; but there they received orders from king Henry, forbidding them to proceed further. Their letters were demanded, given up, and carried to the king at London,—and soon after they were conducted thither. They were met on the road by a herald and a secretary to the lord treasurer, who escorted them to their lodgings in London, at the house of a shoemaker, where they remained, and only went to hear mass, under the care of some heralds and pursuivants at arms, who visited them often; for they were forbidden to stir out of their lodgings without a licence or permission. They were therefore very much alarmed lest they might personally suffer for the disagreeable news they had brought.

Notwithstanding the mendicant friar and the two heralds had made many requests to those who attended on them, that they might be permitted to address the king and council on the subjects they had been charged with by the two cardinals and their lord, they never could obtain an audience.

The lord treasurer of England, however, to whom the letters from the duke of Burgundy had been given, assembled, in the presence of the king, the cardinal of Winchester, the duke of Glocester, with many other princes and prelates, members of the council, so that the meeting was numerously attended, and laid before them the letters which the duke of Burgundy had written to the king and his council,—but their address and superscription were not in the style he was wont to use. In this, he simply styled him king of England—high and mighty prince—his very dear lord and cousin; but forbore to acknowledge him as his sovereign lord, as he heretofore always had done in the numerous letters he had sent him.

All present were very much surprised on hearing them read; and even the young king Henry was so much hurt at their contents that his eyes were filled with tears, which ran down his cheeks. He said to some of the privy counsellors nearest to him, that he plainly perceived since the duke of Burgundy had acted thus disloyally toward him, and was reconciled to his enemy king Charles, that his dominions in France would fare the worse for it. The cardinal of Winchester and the duke of Glocester abruptly left the council much confused and vexed, as did several others, without coming to any determination. They collected in small knots and abused each other as well as the duke of Burgundy and the leading members of his council.

This news was soon made public throughout London; and no one who was well bred was sparing of the grossest abuse against the duke of Burgundy and his country. Many of the common people collected together and went to different parts of the town to search for Flemings, Dutchmen, Brabanters, Picards, Hainaulters, and other foreigners, to use them ill, who were unsuspicious of deserving it. Several were seized in the heat of their rage and murdered; but, shortly after, king Henry put an end to this tumult, and the ringleaders were delivered up to justice.

Some days after, the king and his council assembled to consider on the answers they should send to the duke of Burgundy's letters, when their opinions were divided: some would have war declared instantly against the duke, while others would have him regularly summoned, by letter or otherwise, to answer for his conduct. While this was under discussion, news was brought to the king, that in consequence of the pacification between the duke and king Charles, the duke was to have given up to him the towns, lordships, castles and forts, of St Quentin, Corbie, Amiens, St Riquier, Abbeville, Dourlens and Montrieul, which had been in the possession, and under the obedience of king Henry, who had received their oaths of fidelity, and had appointed officers for their government.

This intelligence made bad worse, and the council determined not to send any answer. Upon which, the lord treasurer went to the three messengers at their lodgings, and told the heralds, Toison and Franche-comté, that the king, with the princes of his blood and his council, had seen and examined the letters they had brought,—and that they had been equally surprised at their contents as at the conduct of the duke, for which, if it pleased God, the king would provide a remedy.

The messengers were very anxious to have an answer in writing,—but could not obtain one, although they frequently made this request. They were told, they might return to their own country,—and finding they could not do more, re-crossed the sea, and reported verbally to their lord the duke every thing that had passed.

The mendicant doctor went to those who had sent him, without having had an opportunity of employing his talents. The messengers were very much afraid they should have been ill treated,—for on their journey home, they heard in several places their lord much and loudly abused by the common people, who did not receive them with that civility they used formerly to do.

CHAP. XCIII.

THE POPULACE OF AMIENS RISE AGAINST THE LEVYING OF SOME TAXES WHICH WERE INTENDED TO BE LAID ON THEM.

At this period, the inhabitants of Amiens deputed an advocate, called master Tristan de Fontaines, to the duke of Burgundy, to endeavour to obtain the remission of a sum of money which the town owed to the duke, or to some of his partisans,—but he was unsuccessful. King Charles and the duke issued new ordinances, ordering that the taxes and subsidies which that place had before paid should be continued on the same footing as formerly.

Master Tristan, on his return to Amiens, had these ordinances proclaimed at the usual places,—when a large body of butchers and others of the populace, being discontented thereat, suddenly collected together, with arms and staves according to their condition.

They went thus armed to their mayor, and plainly told him, that they were determined not to pay these taxes, for he well knew that good king Charles would not that they should pay more than other towns under his obedience. The mayor, seeing their rude and bold behaviour, assented to all they said, appeasing them by gentle words; and as they were the masters, he agreed to go with them wherever they pleased through the town.

They made captain over them one Honoré Cokin, and went first to the house of master Tristan, with the intent to put him to death; but he, having had from his friends intelligence of this, had escaped. They broke, however, many doors and windows in search of him,—and thence went to the house of one called Pierre le Clerc, provost of the Beauvoisis, who, during the time that master Robert le Jeune was bailiff of Amiens, had enjoyed great power, committed many extortions, and ill treated several of the inhabitants of that place and the country about, which had caused him to be much hated. They sought him every where, but in vain,—for, having heard of the tumult, he had hidden himself. They demolished his house and furniture, and drank in one night eighteen pipes of wine which he had in his cellars. They also made his nephew their prisoner, and confined him in the belfry.

They committed numerous disorders in the town; and went in large bodies to the houses of the rich, who were forced to give them great sums of money, but more particularly meat and wine. Pierre le Clerc was all this time hidden in the hen-roost belonging to a poor man; but he was discovered to the mob, who went in great solemnity to seek him, and confined him in the town prison, whence they soon after dragged him to the market-place and cut his throat: his nephew suffered the like death. There was not a man now in Amiens who dared to oppose their will and pleasure.

News of these proceedings were carried to the duke of Burgundy, who sent to Amiens John de Brimeu, the new bailiff, and shortly after the lord de Saveuses, who had been lately appointed the governor, with orders to inquire into and correct these abuses. They were followed by the count d'Estampes, with many knights, esquires and cross-bows; and again the lord de Croy was sent thither with a large force: he also carried with him the archers of the duke's household. Forces from different parts drew toward Amiens, and all the principal lords of Picardy, under pretence of besieging the castle of Bonnes, whither had retreated a body of pillagers.

Honoré Cokin did not securely rely upon his companions, and was doubtful if they would not play him false, notwithstanding that they had been with the count d'Estampes, the governor and bailiff, to excuse themselves and him for what had passed. They had received courteous answers, and promises, that if they would behave well for the future, they should obtain their pardon.

The lords having deliberated on the business, and taken possession of the belfry, with a sufficient guard, (who were to ring the alarm bell on the first sign of tumult, when all the commonalty were to assemble and join them) advanced to the market-place, having sent detachments to various parts of the town well armed, to prevent any disorders in future.

The lord de Saveuses and the bailiff were then ordered to scour the streets with the troops, and to arrest all who refused to retire to their homes. When these regulations had been made, the count d'Estampes, attended by many noble lords and knights, remained in the market-place, which was filled with multitudes of people, and caused a new ordinance to be proclaimed in the names of king Charles and the duke of Burgundy, ordering the late subsidies and taxes to be continued, and, at the same time, pardoning all past offences, with the reserve of some few of the ringleaders, who would be named and punished.

When this proclamation was made, Perrinet Chalons, one of the principal rioters, was present, and, hearing its contents, took to his heels,—but orders were instantly given to seize him. He was pursued into the church of Saint Germain, and found kneeling beside a priest saying mass; but, notwithstanding this, he was taken and carried to the belfry. On the other hand, Honoré Cokin, knowing of this meeting, had armed himself, with some of his associates, to attend it; but he was met by the governor and the bailiff, who instantly arrested him and sent him also to the belfry. Twenty or thirty other rebels were made prisoners, in different parts of the town; and this same day Honoré with seven others, his companions, had their heads cut off with a cooper's adze. Perrinet Chalons and two others were hanged and quartered on a gibbet: one was drowned, and about fifty banished the town. There were, afterward, several executed, for the same cause, at different times; and among them a celebrated pillager, who had been very active in his occupation. These executions brought the inhabitants of Amiens under the most perfect obedience.

CHAP. XCIV.

THE FRENCH OVERRUN AND PILLAGE THE COUNTRY OF THE DUKE OF BURGUNDY AFTER THE PEACE OF ARRAS.—THE MARSHAL DE RIEUX TAKES MANY TOWNS AND CASTLES FROM THE ENGLISH IN NORMANDY.

When the French ambassadors were returned to king Charles, and had shown him the treaty they had concluded at Arras with the duke of Burgundy, by which, among other articles, the duke acknowledged the king as his sovereign lord, he was much pleased, and ordered peace to be proclaimed in all the usual places.

Soon after, the French in the town of Rue marched away,—and the government of it was given up to the commissaries of the duke of Burgundy. Another party of French, however, collected in Santerre, and in the Amiennois, where they plundered many places belonging to the duke of Burgundy and his friends: they even robbed all they met in those parts, nobles and others. The duke, therefore, ordered some troops to march against these marauders, who, hearing of it, retreated from that country.

The English at this period laid siege to the bridge of Meulan, which the French had lately won, but, from some obstacles that arose, gave it up. In another quarter, the marshal de Rieux and Charles des Marêts gained the town of Dieppe, and some others in Normandy, in the following manner.

Soon after the conclusion of the peace at Arras, several valiant French captains, such as the marshal de Rieux, Gaucher de Boussach, the lord de Longueval, and others, having with them from three to four hundred tried soldiers, marched, by the invitation of Charles des Marêts, on the Friday preceding All-saints-day, to escalade the strong town of Dieppe, seated on the sea-coast, and in the plentiful country of Caux. Charles des Marêts entered the town secretly, with about six hundred combatants, on the side toward the harbour, and thence hastened to destroy the gate leading toward Rouen,—by which the marshal watered with his men at arms on foot, and with displayed banners.

It was about day-break when they arrived at the market-place, shouting out, 'Town won!' which cry greatly surprised the inhabitants, who began to shoot and to throw stones from the house-tops. As there were many in the town and on board of the vessels in the harbour, the French waited until nine or ten o'clock before they began to attack the houses,—but they were all won, with little loss to the French.

The lieutenant-governor, Mortimer, fled with many others of the English, but the lord de Bloseville was taken. At the first onset, only three or four of the English garrison were killed,—but several were made prisoners, with all those who had supported their party. The property of the inhabitants was confiscated, excepting, however, those willing to take the oaths of fidelity and allegiance to king Charles.

There were in the harbour numbers of vessels, the greater part of which fell into the hands of the French. The day the town was taken, proclamation was made for all foreigners to leave it, except such as were willing to take the oaths,—and Charles des Marêts was unanimously appointed governor for the king of France.

The whole of the English throughout Normandy were greatly troubled and vexed at this capture, and not without cause, for the town of Dieppe was wonderous strong and excellently situated in one of the most fertile parts of that country.

Shortly after, a body of French cavalry, to the amount of from three to four thousand, arrived at Dieppe and in the neighbourhood, under the command of Anthony de Chabannes, Blanchefort, Poton le Bourguignon, Pierre Regnault and other captains. They were soon joined by Poton de Saintrailles, John d'Estouteville, Robinet his brother, the lord de Montrieul Bellay, with other noble lords and commanders. To them came also a leader of the common people, called Le Kirennier, with about four thousand of the norman peasantry, who united themselves with the French forces, and took oaths, in the presence of the marshal de Rieux, to wage a perpetual warfare against the English.

When these troops had been properly arranged, they took the field in good array on Christmas-eve, and marched to Fécamp,[23] which by means of the lord de Milleville was surrendered to the marshal, on promise of remaining unmolested. John d'Estouteville was made governor thereof; and on the morrow of Christmas-day the army advanced to Monstier Villiers, which was also surrendered by a Gascon called Jean du Puys, who had been placed there by the English. The marshal made a person called Courbenton its governor.

The successes were now increasing on all sides in Normandy,—and many of the nobles took the oaths of fidelity to the marshal. The army was now marched to Harfleur, and made on it a vigorous assault; but they were repulsed by the garrison, with the loss of forty of their men killed,—the principal of whom were the lord de Monstrieul-Bellay and the bastard de Langle.

The marshal had determined to renew the attack on the morrow; but the townsmen concluded a treaty to surrender, on condition that the four hundred English in the place should depart in safety with their baggage and property. The English captain, called William Minors, conducted his men and baggage out of the town,—and the inhabitants took the oaths of allegiance.

At the same time, the following towns surrendered to the king's obedience, Le Bec Crespin, Tancarville, Gomerville, Les Loges, Valmont, Grasville, Longueville, Lambreville, and very many forts, with little loss to the French.

The count de Richemont, constable of France, now joined this army, to whom, on his arrival, the towns and castles of Charles-Maisnil, Aumarle, St Germain sur Cailly, Fontaines le bourg, Préaux, Blainville and others, surrendered, in all of which garrisons were placed; and thus, at this season, was the greater part of the country of Caux conquered by the French. It is true, that they were forced from want of provision to leave these parts,—but their captains, before they departed, posted strong garrisons along the frontier.

Charles des Marêts and Richarville were present at all these conquests: they took the field from Dieppe, and joined the marshal de Rieux, the lord de Torsy, Poton le Bourguignon, Broussart, Blanchefort, John d'Estouteville, and other captains renowned in war. To them, likewise, attached himself Le Kerennier with six thousand of the peasantry, to accomplish their work of driving the English out of the country.

FOOTNOTES:

CHAP. XCV.

THE ENGLISH SUSPECT THE BURGUNDIANS WHO ARE WAGING WAR WITH THEM AGAINST THE KING OF FRANCE: THEY NO LONGER CONVERSE OR KEEP COMPANY WITH THEM.—OTHER MATTERS BRIEFLY SPOKEN OF.

When the English in France were perfectly assured that a treaty had taken place between the duke of Burgundy and king Charles, they became very suspicious of the Burgundians, and guarded as much against them as they had done before against the French. Notwithstanding they had been on the greatest intimacy together, they had no longer confidence in each other,—and although there was no open warfare between them, the English and Burgundians were mutually taking measures in secret to gain advantages over each other.

The English guarding the frontier toward Calais even attempted to take the town of Ardres by surprise,—and the Burgundians in Ponthieu made a similar attempt in regard to the castle of Crotoy, keeping outwardly fair appearances. Each were, however, much displeased at these attempts, and made preparations for open war.

During this time, La Hire was quartered at Gerberoy;[24] and, in conjunction with Poton de Saintrailles and sir Regnault de Fontaines, collected about six hundred combatants, whom they led toward Rouen, in the hope of entering that town by means of friends within it,—but they failed in their enterprise. They and their men, being much tired, retreated to a large village, called Le Bois, to refresh themselves, but not without sir Thomas Kiriel, and the other English captains in Rouen, gaining intelligence thereof. He and his companions therefore speedily armed, and fell on the French at this village unexpectedly, with about a thousand combatants, who soon put them to the rout; for the French had not time to mount their horses, nor draw up in battle-array.

The greater part fled the way they had come,—but a few of their leaders, attempting to rally them, were conquered by the English. Among the prisoners were the lords de Fontaines, Alain Geron, Alardin de Monssay, Jean de Bordes, Garnarde and many others, to the amount of upward of sixty. Eight or ten only were killed: the rest saved themselves by flight. La Hire was wounded, and lost his equipage. The English gained almost all their horses,—for the greater part dismounted, and escaped into a wood hard by.

At this time, king Henry of England sent an embassy to the emperor of Germany; but the ambassadors, passing through Brabant, were arrested by the officers of the duke of Burgundy: they were, however, as I was informed, soon set at liberty, because the king of England and the duke had not declared war against each other. About this time also, by the exertions of sir John de Vergy, and some French captains under him, the English were driven out of the two strong towns they held in Champagne, on the frontiers of Bar, namely, Nogent le Roi and Montigny.

In like manner, those of Pontoise surrendered their town into the hands of the lord de l'Isle-Adam, which had before been under the command of the English; for though this lord de l'Isle-Adam had carried on the war for the English, and had even been made marshal of France by king Henry, within a short time he had turned against him. The English lost also the castle of Vincennes, and other places they held in the Isle de France, and now began to perceive how much they suffered from the duke of Burgundy having quitted them, and from his union with France. They therefore conceived a greater hatred against him and his friends than against their ancient enemies the French.

FOOTNOTES:

CHAP. XCVI.

KING HENRY SENDS LETTERS TO THE HOLLANDERS, TO DRAW THEM TO HIS PARTY.—A COPY OF THESE LETTERS.

In this year, king Henry of England sent letters, sealed with his seal, to the mayor, sheriffs, counsellors, burghers and commonalty of the town of Ziric-zee, to entice them over to his party against the duke of Burgundy, a copy of which follows.

'Henry, by the grace of God, king of England, lord of Ireland, to our very dear and great friends the burgomasters, sheriffs, counsellors and commonalty of the town of Ziric-zee, health, and perpetual love and affection. Very dear and great friends, how much advantage and profit arises to kingdoms from an uninterrupted alliance and confederation between kingdoms and great lords their prosperity fully evinces, and of which you have had experience. In recalling to mind the very ancient friendship and alliance that has so long subsisted between our predecessors the kings of this realm and the princes who have ruled over Holland, Zealand and Frizeland, we have observed that commerce has flourished and public tranquillity been preserved through means of this friendship, to the overthrow of hatreds, jealousies, and internal divisions.

'Being most heartily desirous that such an alliance and friendship may continue, we shall pursue the steps of our predecessors, as well through affinity of blood as from old attachment to those princes of Zealand, who have worn our order of the Garter in the same manner that emperors and other royal persons, through affection to us, have done.

'Having taken this opportunity of notifying to you that our friendship and love continue the same, and which we shall ever cultivate, preferring old friends to the making of new ones, as being far more honourable as well as profitable,—we frankly inform you, that we understand that, under pretence of a peace, divers novelties and changes have taken place in our kingdom of France, to the great prejudice of us and of our state, by infringing the general peace of the two realms, so loyally and faithfully concluded between our late very dear lords, our father and grandfather, the kings Henry and Charles lately deceased, whose souls may God pardon! and between the greatest nobles of the two kingdoms, as we have in full remembrance.

'From this cause, various rumours are abroad, as if some countries were about to break off their confederations and alliances with us, but for which we know not of any reasons that should induce them so to do. We are anxious, therefore, for our satisfaction, to learn your intentions on this subject, as we make known ours to you,—and most affectionately entreat you to accept of our wish that our former friendship may be preserved, and that you will inform us of your intentions by the bearer of these presents, whom we send purposely to you; or should you be willing to send any envoys to notify to us your inclinations, we shall attend to them with a hearty good will. Very dear and great friends, may the Holy Spirit have you under his protection.

'Given under our privy seal, at our palace of Westminster, the 14th day of December, in the year of Grace 1435, and of our reign the 14th.'

The address on the letter was, 'To our very dear and great friends the burgomasters, sheriffs, counsellors and commonalty of the town of Ziric-zee.'

On the receipt of this letter, the only answer the burgomasters gave the messenger was, that they would consider of it,—and then they sent it to the duke of Burgundy and his council, who were very much displeased at the conduct of the English toward him and his country, in this as well as in other matters.

CHAP. XCVII.

THE DUKE OF BURGUNDY DETERMINES TO MAKE WAR ON THE ENGLISH.

While affairs were growing worse every day between the English and Burgundians, the duke and some of his most able counsellors thought that it would be more advisable to consider on some private means to prevent the two countries going to war,—for that it would be better for all parties the duke should remain in peace, and neuter as to the war with France. To accomplish this, sir John de Luxembourg count de Ligny, who had not as yet taken the oaths of fidelity to king Charles, was sent for to the duke. At his request, sir John offered to write to his brother the archbishop of Rouen, who was one of the principal advisers of king Henry, and his chancellor for the kingdom of France.

The business was immediately commenced, and the archbishop dispatched to king Henry in England. It was there resolved, that for the welfare of the two countries, they would remain in peace; and the archbishop sent word to his brother, that his request would be complied with,—and that England would give good security not to undertake any enterprise against the territories of the duke of Burgundy, provided the duke would give similar security to king Henry.

Sir John de Luxembourg, on receiving this information in writing, sent it to the duke of Burgundy, and desired to know by the messenger whether he were willing to proceed further in the matter. The duke made answer, by the bishop of Tournay, that he would not; for that the English had of late behaved in a very hostile manner toward him and his subjects, and in various parts had defamed his person and his honour. They had overthrown from four to five hundred of his combatants on the borders of Flanders, and had also attempted to gain the town of Ardres by surprise. This had been confessed by four of the party who had been beheaded for it in that town. They had also done many other acts of hostility, which could not longer be passed over in silence.

When the bishop of Tournay had given this answer to the messengers from the count de Ligny, they requested of the duke to have it in writing, which he complied with, and signed it with his own hand; but before the messengers were departed, the duke was strongly exhorted, by several of his council, to make preparations for a war against the English, in defence of his honour.

In consequence, he shortly after had letters written and sent to king Henry of England, in which he stated the acts done on his part against himself and his subjects since the signing of the peace at Arras, which were so disagreeable and offensive to his honour that they could not longer be borne nor dissembled. He added, that if any thing should have been done inimical by him, no one ought to be surprised; for he had received too many insults and neglects not to warrant him therein, which had been very displeasing to him.

When these papers had been examined by king Henry and his council, they were perfectly convinced that a war with the duke of Burgundy was inevitable, and gave immediate orders for the reinforcement of all the frontiers of the Boulonnois and of Crotoy, and warned those countries to be ready for whatever attempts might be made on them. In like manner did the duke of Burgundy strengthen all his towns on the frontier.

The king of England sent declaratory letters to several parts of France, and the principal towns, to explain the cause of quarrel between him and the duke of Burgundy, which in substance contained excuses for the charges made against him by the duke, of the hostilities carried on against himself and subjects. He also stated the letter sent to Ziric-zee, as an instance of his wish to avoid any quarrel. With regard to the alliance he was desirous of forming with the emperor of Germany, he had a right so to do without being called to an account for it; and as for the summons that had been issued to raise a large army to wage war against the duke, he did not deny but that such summons was issued, though no cause for it was mentioned,—and he had a right to assemble an army, and employ it wheresoever he pleased. He concluded by saying, that the charges made against him by the duke of Burgundy were groundless, as would be apparent to all from the acts done against him and his subjects by the said duke and his allies. This declaration shall, if it please God, be thrown back on him from whom it came.

CHAP. XCVIII.

THE DUKE OF BURGUNDY, BY THE ADVICE OF HIS PRIVY COUNSELLORS, RESOLVES TO MAKE AN ATTEMPT TO CONQUER CALAIS.

Soon after the duke of Burgundy had sent his dispatches to England, charging king Henry and his subjects with the many hostile acts they had done against him, he knew that a war must take place, and held many councils to consider on the best means of conducting it.

The council were much divided in their opinions: some were for the duke beginning the war, and assembling the whole of his forces, not only to oppose the English but to make an attempt to conquer Calais, which was his own inheritance. Others were of a different opinion, for they thought again and again on the commencement, and what might be the end of the war,—saying, that the English were so near many parts of their country that they could invade it with advantage whenever they pleased; and they knew not what dependance and aid could be expected from king Charles, his sovereign, and the princes he was now connected with, in case any misfortunes should befal him.

This matter having been debated for many days, it was at length determined that the duke should commence hostilities, and require the assistance of his countries of Flanders, Holland, and the rest, to aid him in the conquest of Calais and the county of Guines. The principal advisers of this measure were master Jean Chevrot bishop of Tournay, the lord de Croy, master Jean de Croy his brother, sir Jean de Hornes, seneschal of Brabant, the lord de Chargny, the lord de Crevecoeur, Jean de Brimeu, bailiff of Amiens, and many others.

Several great lords, who had constantly served the duke of Burgundy in his wars, were not called to this council,—such as sir John de Luxembourg, the lord d'Antoing, the vidame of Amiens, the bastard of St Pol, the lord de Saveuses, Hugh de Launoy, the lord de Mailly, and several others of high rank and power, as well in Picardy as in the other territories of the duke, who thought that, since they had been thus neglected, they were not bound to serve with their vassals in the ensuing war with that alacrity they would have done had they been summoned.

When war had been resolved on, the duke went to Ghent, and assembled in the banqueting hall the sheriffs and deacons of the trades. He caused them to be harangued by master Goussenin le Sauvage, one of his counsellors at the castle of Ghent, how the town of Calais had belonged to his predecessors, and that it was his lawful inheritance, as part of his county of Artois, although the English had long held it by force, and against his right: of this they might be truly informed, by examining the report formerly made by Collart de Comines, high bailiff of Flanders, or by others of his counsellors: that the English, since the peace of Arras, had done many hostile acts against him and his subjects, which had much vexed him; and that they had, in various proclamations, defamed his person and honour, which he could not longer, without disgrace, suffer from them. For this reason he had visited them, to request that they would afford him aid in men and money to conquer the town of Calais, which, as master Goussenin added, was very prejudicial to all Flanders; for that the Flemings who went thither to purchase wool, tin, lead or cheese, were forced to pay in money according to what alloy the English pleased to put on it, or in ingots of refined gold and silver, which was not done in other countries, and this the deacons of the trades vouched to be true.

When this harangue, which was very long, was concluded, the majority of the sheriffs and deacons, without deliberation, or fixing a day to consult with the other members of their body, consented to support the war, and would not listen to some wise and ancient lords, who were of a contrary opinion. But what is more, when news of this was spread through the other towns of Flanders, the whole country was eager for war; and it seemed to many to proceed too slowly,—for they were impatient to display how well provided they were with arms and warlike habiliments. They proceeded thus arrogantly and pompously,—for in truth it seemed to them that Calais could not be able to withstand their arms.

The duke of Burgundy made similar applications to the other towns and castlewicks in Flanders for their aid in the war, and all liberally supported him. He also went to Holland, to solicit from the Hollanders shipping against Calais, who complied with the greater part of his demands. He thence returned home to make great preparations for his war against the English, and to conquer Calais.

While these matters were going forward, several enterprises had been undertaken by the English and Burgundians against each other. The duke of Burgundy on his return to Picardy sent thence six hundred combatants, under the lord de Ternant, sir Simon de Lalain and other captains, to reinforce the lord de l'Isle-Adam at Pontoise, and to guard the frontier against the English, who were making a sharp attack on that town, although it was but lately won from them by the lord de l'Isle-Adam. A party of French joined these Picards, and made frequent attempts to gain the city of Paris.

During this time, king Charles's queen was brought to bed of a son, to whom the king gave the baptismal name of Philip after the duke of Burgundy. The sponsors for the duke were Charles duke of Bourbon and Charles d'Anjou, brother to the queen. When the christening was over, the king sent a pursuivant with letters to the duke of Burgundy, to inform him of what he had done, and to express a wish that it might be agreeable to him. The duke was much pleased with the news, and made the pursuivant presents becoming a prince.

The duke, in the mean time, continued to make requests throughout his dominions for succours of men and money, to carry on with effect his war against the English.

[A.D. 1436.]

CHAP. XCIX.

THE CITY OF PARIS IS REDUCED TO THE OBEDIENCE OF CHARLES KING OF FRANCE.

At the beginning of this year, the count de Richemont, constable of France, the bastard of Orleans, the lords de la Roche, de l'Isle-Adam, de Ternant, sir Simon de Lalain, his brother Sausse, with other french and burgundian captains, collected a force of about six thousand combatants, and marched from Pontoise toward Paris, in the hope of gaining admittance through the intrigues of the lord de l'Isle-Adam with the partisans of the burgundian faction within that city.

Having remained there from four to five hours, seeing they could not succeed, they quartered themselves at Aubervilliers, Montmartre, and other places around. On the morrow, they attacked the town of St Denis, wherein were from four to five hundred English, and won it by storm.—About two hundred English were slain,—and the rest fled to the abbey, where they were besieged, but soon surrendered on having their lives spared, with the reservation of some of the natives, who were to remain at the discretion of the conquerors.

The next day, which was a Thursday, sir Thomas Beaumont, lately arrived at Paris with six hundred fighting men from Normandy, marched from Paris to St Denis, to inquire into the state of the French. When they perceived him, they made a sally with a large force, and almost immediately defeated him. Three hundred and eighty were killed or made prisoners, and among the last was sir Thomas: the rest escaped by flying to Paris, pursued to the very gates.

The Parisians most inclined to the duke of Burgundy, namely, those in the quarter of the market-place, and some few of the university, with Michael Lallier and others of the principal citizens, seeing the great loss the English had suffered, and so large a force of French and Burgundians under their walls, assembled in parties, and resolved to drive out the English and admit the others into their town. This they made known to the lord de l'Isle-Adam, that he might inform the other captains of their intentions. He sent notice thereof to the constable and the nobles, who, eager to gain Paris, marched from St Denis in handsome array, very early on the Friday morning.

In the mean time, Louis de Luxembourg, bishop of Therouenne, the bishops of Lisieux and of Meaux, the lord Willoughby, and others of the english party, suspecting that the commonalty were about to turn against them, posted their men in the street of St Antony, near to the bastille, which they filled with provision and warlike stores. They kept their men armed, and on their guard, to retreat thither should there be occasion.

When the French and Burgundians were come before Paris, to the gate of St James, on the other side of the Seine toward Montlehery, they sent the lord de l'Isle-Adam to hold a parley with the inhabitants on the ramparts. He displayed to them a general amnesty from king Charles for all that was passed, sealed with his great seal,—admonishing them, at the same time, to surrender instantly to their lawful king and lord, at the request of the duke of Burgundy, as they were now reconciled, for that they had been ever steadily attached to the duke, and under his government they would still remain. The Parisians, hearing these soft speeches from the lord de l'Isle-Adam and his confederates, were so much pleased, that they agreed, shortly after, to admit them into the city.

Ladders were now hastily placed against the walls, by which the lord de l'Isle-Adam mounted and entered the town. He was followed by the bastard of Orleans and numbers of their men. A large body of the Burgundy-faction and of the commonalty met them, shouting, 'Peace! Long live king Charles, and the duke of Burgundy!'

Soon after, the gates were thrown open, and the constable entered, with the other lords and their men at arms. They advanced toward the bastille, whither the bishops, and those of the english party, had retreated, with a show of making some resistance; but it was vain, for their enemies were too numerous. They were, therefore, repulsed at the first onset, and a few killed and made prisoners. Barriers were now erected before the gate of the bastille with large timber, and men at arms posted in the Tournelles and adjoining parts, to prevent the English from making any sallies. All their effects were now seized and plundered,—and those who had been their principal supporters were imprisoned, and their property confiscated. New officers were also appointed, in the name of king Charles, for the government of the town.

The bishop of Therouenne, lord Willoughby, and the others in the bastille, held a parley with the French; and, by means of the lord de Ternant and sir Simon de Lalain, it was concluded that, on the surrender of the bastille, those within should be allowed to depart in safety, with all their effects. They had a passport from the constable, under which they went by land and water to Rouen.

The Parisians, at their departure, set up a grand shouting at them, crying out 'à la queue[25]!' Thus was the city of Paris reduced to the obedience of king Charles. The English, after passing the gate leading to the country, went round to embark at the back of the Louvre. The bishop of Therouenne lost all the rich ornaments of his chapel; and the greater part of his jewels and valuable rings fell to the lot of the constable. However, he was much favoured by the lord de Ternant and sir Simon de Lalain; and they restored to him some of his wealth, which was dispersed in different parts of the town.

The standard of the duke of Burgundy was displayed at all the gates, as an inducement for the Parisians to turn to his party. Some new knights were created on this occasion by the constable, from the country of Picardy, namely, Sausse de Lalain and Robert de Neufville, with others of the French.

The constable remained for a long time in Paris after this conquest,—and with him the lord de Ternant, who was made provost. The aforesaid sir Sausse de Lalain, the bastard of Orleans, and others of the French and Picards, now returned to the places they had come from.

FOOTNOTES:

CHAP. C.

ARTHUR COUNT DE RICHEMONT, CONSTABLE OF FRANCE, MAKES WAR ON THE HEIR OF COMMERCY.

In this year, the count de Richemont, constable of France, advanced into Champagne with a large body of troops to make war on the heir of Commercy and others, who were disobedient to king Charles, and had greatly annoyed that and the surrounding countries.

On his arrival, he took Laon, some leagues from Rheims, and thence marched to Braine[26], belonging to the lord of Commercy; but as it was too strong and well garrisoned, and refused to submit, he passed on to Saint Menehoud, in the possession of Henry de la Tour, who gave it up on capitulation.

The constable was here joined by the youth Everard de la Marche, who made an agreement with him for his men to lay siege to Chavensy[27]. The constable gave him several of his captains and their men: with these he commenced the siege of Chavensy about eight days after Easter, by erecting a strong block-house, wherein he quartered about four hundred of his troops and a number of common people, who came thither at times from the low countries.

Everard had with him the constable's lieutenant named Jean de Malatrait, sir John Geoffry de Conurant, and the provost of the marshals, Tristan de l'Hermite, and also Pierre d'Orgy, Yvon du Puys, the Arragonian, Estienne Diest, le grand Pierre, and others, men of renown, who remained full four months carrying on a severe war against this garrison, which, nevertheless defended themselves with prudence and ability.

While this was going forward, a party of the besieging army kept the open country, with the intent of harrassing in other places the heir of Commercy, who was always on his guard, and well attended by men at arms. He learnt from his spies, that his adversaries were quartered at the village of Romaigne[28], in Champagne; and before they could be prepared to resist him, he made a sudden attack on them at eight of the clock in the morning, and totally defeated them. About sixty were slain, among whom were Alain Geron bailiff of Senlis, Geoffry de Morillon, Pierre d'Orgy, Alain de la Roche, Olivier de la Jouste, the bastard of Villebranche, and many other gentlemen. Six score were made prisoners,—and in the number was one Blanchelaine.

The heir of Commercy retreated after this defeat,—and when news of it was carried to the besiegers of Chavensy, they were greatly surprised. Everard de la Marche was not cast down by this misfortune, but gained to his party the count de Vernembourg, who in person, attended by his two sons, and accompanied by four or five hundred combatants, went to this siege. He carried with him, likewise, sir Hugh Tauxte and sir Herault de Gourgines, governors of Ainville[29], the children of Brousset, and many more great lords, who remained at this siege until the night of St John's day,—when the besieged made a grand sally, and set fire to the quarters of the besiegers. They were successful in throwing the enemy into confusion, and slew from two to three hundred, among whom were Estienne Diest and the Arragonian. Another skirmish took place, when one of the sons of the count de Vernembourg was killed, and the great block-house set on fire by means of rockets. The besiegers, having suffered severely in these sallies, decamped, when their quarters were burnt.

Angillebert de Dolle and Girard de Marescoup commanded in Chavensey, during this siege, for the Lord de Commercy, with about two hundred fighting men.

During this time, the constable had reduced to obedience the towns of Nampteuil-sur-Aine[30], Han-les-Moines[31], Bourg[32], and other castles, on his presenting himself before them.

FOOTNOTES:

CHAP. CI.

THE BISHOP OF LIEGE AND THE LIEGEOIS DESTROY BOUSSEUVRE[33], AND OTHER FORTS THAT HAD MADE WAR AGAINST THEM.

At the end of the month of April, the bishop of Liege raised a large force to combat and reduce to obedience several forts in the forest of the Ardennes, held by a set of plunderers, who had done much mischief to the inhabitants of his territories. The principal leaders and supporters of these marauders were Jean de Beaurain, Philipot de Sergins, the lord d'Orchimont and others, who made the castle of Boussenoch, Villers opposite to Mousson, Aubigny, Beaurain, Orchimont, and several other castles in these parts, their retreats.

Some of them gave out that they were attached to the king of France, others to the duke of Burgundy, but the greater part to sir John de Luxembourg, count de Ligny; while two of them, John de Beaurain and Philipot de Sergins, made war on their own account, to recover sums due to them for services they had done the Liegeois.

The bishop, through the aid of the nobles of the country, assembled from two to three thousand horse, and from twelve to sixteen thousand infantry, well equipped, and armed each according to his rank: he had also three or four thousand carts laden with provision, military engines, and stores of all kinds. The bishop, on quitting Liege, advanced to Dinant[34], and thence across the river Meuse. Having marched through woods for five leagues, his forces halted two days at Rigniues,[35] to wait for the baggage, which travelled slowly on account of the badness of the roads. At this place, the bishop formed his army into four divisions, namely, two of cavalry, and the same number of infantry,—and, riding down their fronts, admonished every one to perform his duty well.

He dispatched part of his cavalry to post themselves before the castle of Boussenoch, while he followed with the main body, and on his arrival surrounded it on all sides, placing his bombards and engines against the walls and gates of the castle, in which were about twenty pillagers, greatly surprised to see so large an army before the gates.

The Liegeois set instantly to work, and soon drained the ditches by sluices which they cut, while others brought faggots and filled them, so that they began to storm the place with such vigour that the bulwark was instantly won. Those within retreated to a large tower, and defended themselves for a long time; but it was of no avail, for they were overpowered by fire and arrows, and surrendered at discretion to the bishop, who had them all hanged on trees near to the castle, by a priest who acted as their captain,—and he, after hanging his companions, was tied to a tree and burnt, and the castle razed to the ground.

The bishop, after this exploit, marched away toward the upper Châtelet; but many of his army wanted to march to Hirson[36] and other places of sir John de Luxembourg,—because, they said, he was the supporter of those they were now making war on. But this same day the bastard of Coucy met the bishop, and said that he was sent by sir John de Luxembourg to assure the bishop that sir John was only desirous of living on neighbourly terms with him, and to request that he would not suffer any injuries to be done to his country or vassals; that if any thing wrong had been done to the Liegeois by those who gave out that they were dependant on him, he wished to be heard in his defence, and would refer the matter to friends of either side as arbitrators. At the same time, letters were brought from the duke of Burgundy to the bishop, to require that he would not do any injury to sir John de Luxembourg, nor to the lord d'Orchimont, which put an end to their intended plan.

The bishop, with a part of his army, then marched to the castle of Aubigny, when, finding that the garrison had fled through fear of him, he ordered the castle to be burnt. From Aubigny he went to upper Châtelet, wherein a body of his men were, for the garrison had abandoned it,—and it was destroyed as the others had been.

The bishop had intended marching to Villiers; but his intention being known to the inhabitants of Mousson and Ivoy, they destroyed the castle of Villiers, fearful of the damages that would be done to the country should the Liegeois once enter it. On hearing this, the bishop took the road to Beaurain, which castle John de Beaurain, its lord, had lately repaired and strengthened with the addition of four towers: one he called Hainault, another Namur, the third Brabant, and the fourth Rethel, because it was from those countries he had gotten the money to build them. However, when he heard of the march of the Liegeois, he was afraid to wait their coming, and fled with his men, but not before he had set the castle on fire. This did not prevent the bishop from completely demolishing it to its foundations; then, without proceeding further, he marched his men back to their own country, and went himself to the city of Liege.

At this season, the town of Gamaches in Vimeu, which had long been held by the English, surrendered to the lord d'Aussi and to sir Florimont de Brimeu, seneschal of Ponthieu, by means of certain friends they had in the town. The seneschal re-garrisoned it with men at arms for the duke of Burgundy. In like manner, the English were driven out of Aumarle, which surrendered to a gentleman called David de Reume, attached to king Charles.

About the same time, the constable laid siege to Creil, in the possession of the English, and erected a block-house at the end of the bridge on the road to the Beauvoisis, wherein he remained for a long time, but at length marched away in disgrace, which grieved him much,—for he had lost many men, together with very large quantities of military stores and artillery.

FOOTNOTES:

CHAP. CII.

THE TOWN AND CASTLE OF ORCHIMONT ARE DESTROYED BY EVERARD DE LA MARCHE.

Bernard de Bourset kept quiet possession of the town of Orchimont and its castle,—but one day, having as usual sent out a detachment of about fifty to lay waste and plunder the country of Liege, they were observed and pursued by the Liegeois, under the command of the provost of Rebogne. Their passage being cut off on the way they meant to have returned, they fled for Dinant, and entered Bouvines, thinking they should be safe there, but were mistaken, inasmuch as they were detained prisoners. Although the officers of justice from Liege made frequent applications to those of Bouvines to have them punished according to their deserts, they were set at liberty, for these two towns did not much love each other.

While this matter was passing, Everard de la Marche, who was in alliance with the bishop of Liege, and had also many subjects of complaint against these pillagers, assembled in haste as many men as he could,—and, being joined by some forces from Dinant and the surrounding country, advanced to Orchimont, and took the town by storm. Bernard had at this moment but few men with him, and therefore retreated to the castle, whither he was gallantly pursued by the Liegeois. They pressed him so hardly that, at the end of four days, he surrendered, on capitulation, to Everard de la Marche.

The castle and town were after this razed to the ground, to the great joy of all the neighbouring country,—for they had been inhabited by a set of wicked vagabonds, who had annoyed all within their reach.

CHAP. CIII.

THE ENGLISH MAKE EXCURSIONS FROM CALAIS TOWARD BOULOGNE AND GRAVELINES.—LA HIRE CONQUERS GISORS, AND LOSES IT SOON AFTERWARDS.

While the war was on the point of breaking out between the English and Burgundians, for each party was now watching the other, the English suddenly came before Boulogne, thinking to win it by surprise,—but it was too well defended. They burnt part of the shipping in the harbour, and then retreated to Calais with all they could collect, without loss.

Shortly after, they again assembled a force of five or six hundred combatants, and set out on a foraging party toward Gravelines. The Flemings in that quarter collected, and attacked the English, contrary to the will and advice of the gentlemen who commanded them, namely, Georges des Ubes and Chery Hazebrouch. The consequence was, that they were conquered,—from three to four hundred killed, and full six score prisoners, whom the English carried with them and their forage to Calais, and to other places under their obedience. The remainder saved themselves by flight as speedily as they could.

At this time, La Hire was posted at Beauvais and Gerberoy,—and, by means of intelligence which he had kept up in the town of Gisors, he gained admittance, with the forces under his command, and won the place. Part of the garrison retired into the castle, and hastily sent off messengers to Rouen, and to other towns, to state their situation and demand succours. On the third day, so strong a reinforcement came, the town was reconquered,—and La Hire and his companions marched off at a quicker step than a pace, with the exception of twenty or thirty who had remained behind. These were put to death or detained prisoners by the English, together with a great number of the inhabitants, because they had afforded assistance to their enemies.

CHAP. CIV.

THE MEN OF GHENT, AND THE FLEMINGS, MAKE GREAT PREPARATIONS FOR THE SIEGE OF CALAIS.

The men of Ghent were not idle all this time. They issued a summons throughout their castlewicks and dependances, for all burghers, whatever their rank might be, (reserving, however, the vassals of their prince) to appear within three days before the sheriffs of Ghent, and have their names and surnames inrolled, under pain of losing their franchises. They were also ordered to provide themselves with arms and all necessary habiliments for war. They likewise caused it to be proclaimed, that those who had for their misdeeds been condemned to perform certain pilgrimages, would be excused from doing them until their return from the war, and fourteen days after; and also that those who had quarrels should be placed under the safeguard of the law, and all who dared to infringe it should be punished according to the custom of the town of Ghent. It was also forbidden for any one of that country, whatever his rank, to carry, or have carried away, any armour, or habiliments for war, under pain of banishment for ten years.

When these proclamations were issued, there was much bustle in Ghent and its dependances in preparations for the war,—and every town and village knew exactly how many men they were to provide to make up the quota of seventeen thousand, which the city of Ghent had promised to deliver to their prince in the course of the present year; and each family knew also the exact amount of the taxes it was to pay for the support of the war. Summonses were next issued through their castlewicks, that a third more carts and waggons were to be provided than had been necessary for the late expedition to Hamme on the Somme; and these demands were proclaimed in all the usual places by officers sent from Ghent. But as these matters did not seem to the men of Ghent to be pushed forward with the expedition they expected, they sent another proclamation to their officers, declaring, that if within three days from the date thereof there were not sent to their commissary in Ghent the number of carriages required, they would order the deacon of the black hoods and his attendants to the different towns and villages to seize on all the best carts and carriages without exception, and at the expense of those who should neglect to send them to Ghent by the time specified. This second proclamation caused such an alarm among the farmers and peasants, lest the black hoods should be sent, that they made such dispatch in forwarding their carriages to the appointed place that the townsmen of Ghent were well satisfied with them.

The regulations for their arms were as follow: each was to provide himself with a short mallet of lead or iron, having points on its head and a lance; that two mallets would be reckoned as equal to one lance; that without such arms they would not pass muster,—and those who should be found defective would be punished.

The inhabitants of Bruges, and the other towns, made likewise very grand preparations to join the army; and for two months the majority of such as had been ordered on this service had not done a single day's work at their trades. Thus the greater part of their time was occupied in spending their money in large companies at taverns and ale-houses, which very frequently caused quarrels, when several were killed or wounded.

The duke of Burgundy, in the mean while, was busily employed in preparing for his attack on Calais.

During this time, there lived one Hannequin Lyon, a native of Dunkirk, but who, for his demerits, had been banished from Ghent, and, becoming a fugitive, turned pirate, and, by his good fortune and activity, increased in wealth, so that he now possessed eight or ten vessels, well armed and victualled, under his command. He made war indiscriminately on the flags of all nations, and was much feared on the coasts of Holland and Flanders. He called himself The Friend of God and the Enemy of all Mankind.

At length, he met with the fate that people of his way of life generally experience,—for, when he was at the highest pinnacle of his fortune, he lost his life and his wealth in a tempest at sea.

CHAP. CV.

SIR JOHN DE CROY, BAILIFF OF HAINAULT, IN CONJUNCTION WITH OTHER CAPTAINS, ATTACK THE ENGLISH AND ARE DISCOMFITED BY THEM.

At this time, sir John de Croy, bailiff of Hainault, assembled, on the borders of Picardy and the Boulonnois, about fifteen hundred combatants, the principal leaders of whom were the lord de Waurin, sir Baudo de Noyelle, sir Louis de Thieubronne, Robert de Saveuses, Richard de Thieubronne, the lord Deulez, the bastard of Roucy, with several more, well experienced in war. They intended to march them against Calais and other places dependant on the English, and for this reason had their rendezvous at a village called le Wast, two leagues from St Omer.

They marched thence one night to forage the country of the enemy,—but this same night the English had formed an expedition to do the like in the Boulonnois, to the amount of about two thousand men. Neither of them knew of the other's intent, nor did they take roads likely to meet; but on sir John de Croy's approaching the English border, he dispatched some expert men at arms, well acquainted with the country, to gain intelligence. They fell in with the rear of the English detachment near the bridge of Milay, about day-break, and, on reconnoitring them, found that they were very numerous. When returned to sir John, they made him acquainted with what they had seen, and that the English were advancing toward the Boulonnois. A council of the captains was called to determine how they should act, when it was resolved to pursue and attack them during the time they would be engaged in plundering the villages, if they could overtake them in time—otherwise to combat them wherever they should meet.

It was ordered that sir John de Croy, accompanied by a body of the most able men at arms, should advance with the greater part of the archers, and that the main body should follow near, under the banner of sir Louis de Thieubronne.

Scouts were again sent forward, who rode long before they saw the fires which the enemy had made by burning different villages and small towns. Some prisoners whom they had taken had given information to the English of their being abroad, who in consequence had collected their men on a small eminence between Gravelines and Campagne[37]. It might be at this time about ten o'clock, but the greater part of the English were assembled lower down, and could not well be seen.

The main body of the Burgundians, on perceiving the enemy, were very eager for the combat, because the advanced party had already begun the engagement, and from sixty to eighty of the English on the hill were slain and the others put to flight; but when, on advancing, they perceived so large a body on the other side of the declivity rallying the runaways, they were surprised and fearful of the event, and halted for the arrival of the main body.

In the mean time, the English recovered courage on seeing the enemy afraid to follow up their victory, and made a well ordered and firm charge upon them. The Burgundians could not withstand the shock, were thrown into confusion, and, instantly wheeling round, fled in haste for the castles under their obedience.

The English, who had been half conquered at the first onset, pursued them, full gallop, as far as the town of Ardres, and even within the barriers. Upwards of a hundred were slain or made prisoners: among the first was Robert de Bournonville, surnamed the Red. In the last were Jean d'Estreves, Bournonville, Galiot du Champ, Maide, Houttefort, Barnamont, and many others, men of note. The English pursued their enemies with such eagerness that five or six were killed close to the ditches of the town,—and among them was one of very high rank.

The lord de Waurin, sir Baudo de Noyelle, sir Louis de Thieubronne, Robert de Saveuses, who had that day been knighted, and several more, saved themselves in Ardres. Sir John de Croy had been wounded by an arrow at the first onset, and his horse killed. He and the lord Deulez retired to the abbey of Lille, much troubled and hurt at his defeat. The others escaped to divers forts and castles in the neighbourhood.

When the English had ceased pursuing, they collected together, and returned with their prisoners to Calais, and to other places under their government. The count de Mortaigne came out of Calais to meet them, and gave them a most joyful reception, blaming greatly, at the same time, those who by flying had put them in such imminent danger.

FOOTNOTES:

CHAP. CVI.

THE FLEMINGS MARCH TO THE SIEGE OF CALAIS—AND MARCH BACK AGAIN.

At the beginning of the month of June, duke Philip of Burgundy having completed his preparations for the siege of Calais, as well in men as in warlike stores, went without state to Ghent and other places in Flanders, that he might hasten the march of the troops from that country.

On the Saturday after Corpus-Christi-day, a general muster was made in Ghent before the duke, of all who were to join his army from that town and its dependances, namely, from the towns of Alost, Grammont, Dendermonde and Mene[38], (with those of the five members of the county of Alost, containing seventy-two country towns and lordships) of Boulers, Sotengien, Tournay, Gaures and Rides, with those from Regnaits, and the regalles of Flanders, situated between Grammont and Tournay. These troops remained in the market-place, where they had been mustered, from eight o'clock in the morning until noon, when they marched out of the town, taking the road to Calais. The duke accompanied them as far as the open country, where he took leave of them and went to Bruges, to hasten their contingent of men.

The weather was so exceedingly oppressive that two of the ghent captains died of the heat. They were named Jean des Degrez, deacon of the watermen, and Gautier de Wase-Reman, captain of Westmonstre, with several others of low degree. The commander in chief of this division of the flemish army was the lord de Comines; of that of Bruges, the lord de Fienhuse; of those from Courtray, sir Girard de Guistelles; of those from the Franc, the lord de Merque; of those from Ypres, Jean de Comines.

The first night they halted at Deijnse and Peteghem, which are not far distant from Ghent, and remained there on the morrow to wait for their baggage and stores. On the ensuing Monday they departed, and continued their march until they came to the town of Armentieres, when they quartered themselves in the meadows without the town with those from Courtray and Oudenarde, who were within the castlewick of Ghent, and had joined them on the march. The lord d'Antoing was their leader and commander in chief, as being hereditary viscount of all Flanders.

When they remained at Armentieres, twenty-one of their men were arrested, and hung on trees in front of head-quarters, for having robbed some peasants. The ghent division then advanced to Hazebrouch, in the country of Alleu, where they destroyed the mill of d'Hazebourch, because he had, as they said, led on the Flemings ungallantly when they were lately defeated by the English near to Gravelines; but he excused himself by declaring, they would not attend to his advice, nor obey his orders.

Thence they advanced to Drinchaut[39], where they were met by their prince the duke of Burgundy, and the count de Richemont, constable of France, who had come thither to wait on the duke. Both of them visited the ghent men, and partook of a collation at their head-quarters. The army marched through Bourbourg, and quartered themselves near to Gravelines, where they destroyed the mill of Georges de Wez, for the same reason they had done that of Cherry de Hazebourch.

At this place they were joined by the forces from Bruges, Ypres, the Franc and other towns in Flanders, and formed an handsome encampment, placing the tents regularly according to the towns they came from—which made a fine sight, and at a distance had the appearance of a large town. The carriages were innumerable to convey these tents, baggage and stores; and on the top of each was a cock to crow the hours. There were also great numbers of peasants to drag the culverines and other engines of war; and the majority of the Flemings wore plain armour, according to the custom of their country.

On their departure, they all mustered under arms before the duke and constable, who viewed them with much pleasure,—and on this day a wolf ran through the ranks of the division from Bruges, which caused a great alarm and a cry of 'To arms!' on which the whole took the field, when there might be full thirty thousand wearing helmets. They crossed the river at Gravelines, and fixed their quarters at Tournehem, not far distant. The weather was at this time dreadfully severe, with rain and such high winds that they could not pitch their tents, but were forced to lie on the ground. Three Picards were arrested and hanged by the ghent men, for robbing the landlord of an hôtel of his provisions.

The count d'Estampes here joined the army of Flanders with the men at arms the duke of Burgundy had ordered on this expedition,—and on a Friday the whole encamped before the castle of Oye[40], in possession of the English. This place soon surrendered to the duke and to the men of Ghent, who ordered nine and twenty to be hanged the same day in front of the castle; and afterward twenty-five suffered the like sentence, with the exception of three or four that were respited at the request of the duke. The castle was on its surrender burnt, and razed to the ground.

With regard to the Picards and Burgundians now with the army, although very expert plunderers, they could not lay hands on any thing; for the flemish commanders would on no account suffer such things, or, when known, pass them over with impunity,—and, what was worse, when they chanced to get any things from the enemy, it often happened that, with their spoil, their own private property was taken from them also. When they complained of this, they only received additional blows, which obliged them to be silent and suffer all, from the greater power of the Flemings, but it was most impatiently.

The Flemings were so presumptuous that they thought nothing could be done without them, and even imagined that the English, from fear of them would abandon Calais and fly to England. This was frequently the subject of their conversations with the Picards, adding, that they well knew that, when the English should be informed of their lords of Ghent being in arms against them, they would not run the risk of being conquered by them, but make a timely retreat; that it was negligence in the fleet not to have advanced prior to their arrival, before the port of Calais, to cut off their escape.

They needed not have been so uneasy on this head, for the English were well inclined to defend themselves,—and in truth, king Henry and all England would just as soon have lost their thirty-year's conquests in France as the single town of Calais, as I have been credibly informed, and as they full well showed by their defence shortly afterward.

When the castle of Oye had been demolished, the whole army decamped, to take post between the castle of Marque and Calais. At the same time, the duke of Burgundy and his men at arms made an excursion before the town of Calais, whence issued out a party of horse and foot, and a considerable skirmish took place,—but in the end the English were repulsed, and the Picards and Flemings drove away a large booty in cows, sheep, horses, and other things.

The duke staid with his men at arms some time near Calais, until the armies were returned to their quarters, and then went to his own tent before the castle of Marque, as the Picards were about to make a serious attack on it. The bulwark was won, to the great astonishment of the garrison, who displayed on the side toward Calais the banner of St George, ringing at the same time all their bells, and making the most horrid noises and cries.

The assailants, fearful that the garrison would escape by night, placed a strong guard all around; and, on the morrow, pointed many great engines against the walls, which damaged them in several places. They were then jointly attacked by the Picards and Flemings; but they defended themselves obstinately by throwing down stones from the battlements, with which and with arrows they killed and wounded so many that the assailants were glad to retreat. The besieged demanded a truce for a parley, which was granted them, when they offered to surrender to the duke on the sole condition of not being hanged,—but that they would submit in other respects unconditionally. These terms were accepted, and all persons forbidden to enter the castle under pain of death, unless ordered so to do.

The garrison was conducted by the four chief flemish officers to the head-quarters of the ghent division; and it was determined to make reprisals, in order to have some flemish prisoners in Calais exchanged. In consequence, one hundred and four English were delivered over to the bailiff of Ghent, who carried them thither to be imprisoned.

The greater part of the common men now entered the castle and took whatever they could find; but some of the ghent men, placing themselves at the gates, seized on all articles that had been taken, as they repassed, and laid them in a heap, saying they were so ordered by the sheriffs of Ghent,—but, when night came, they loaded the whole on carts, and carried it whithersoever they pleased. They were, however, charged with this before the sheriffs, and were banished from Ghent, and the country of Flanders, for fifty years. This sentence raised great murmurings, and was nearly the cause of a general mutiny among the Flemings.

On the following day, several men were beheaded because they had been taken with the English: six were Flemings, and the seventh a Hollander; after which, the castle was demolished and razed to the ground.

The army now decamped, and fixed their quarters on the spot where, it was said, Jacques d'Artavelle was formerly encamped when king Edward won Calais after the decisive battle of Cressy. Duke Philip was encamped hard by with his chivalry and men at arms, but nearer to Calais. A severe skirmish took place this day with the English, in which many were killed and wounded on both sides. La Hire, who had come to visit the duke of Burgundy, was wounded by an arrow in the leg. Many engines were also pointed, to throw stones and balls into the town of Calais, which were returned with such interest from the ramparts, that the enemy were glad to retreat to a greater distance.

The duke of Burgundy was encamped on the downs, among the sand hills; and as he was one day riding, with few attendants, to reconnoitre the towns, a cannon-shot fell so near him that it killed a trumpeter and three horses, one of which belonged to the lord de Saveuses.

The English made frequent sallies on horseback and on foot, and many severe skirmishes happened between the two parties, the details of which would be tedious to relate, or to make mention of those who behaved the worst or best: but I have heard from very good authority, that the lords de Habourdin, de Crequi, and de Waurin, were much applauded for their conduct in these several skirmishes, as well as other valiant men of note from Picardy. The English, however, carried off the palm of the day. At times, the Picards repulsed them back to the barriers, in visible confusion.

With regard to the Flemings, they were not much afraid of these English,—and thought, that if there were but three Flemings against one Englishman, they should easily gain their point. The duke of Burgundy was attended, on this occasion, by his nephew of Cleves, the count d'Estampes, the lord d'Antoing, commander of the Flemings, the lord de Croy, the lords de Crequi, de Fosseux, de Waurin, de Saveuses, de Habourdin, de Humieres, d'Inchy, de Brimeu, de Launoy, de Huchin, the brothers de Hastines and de Fremessen, with numbers of other lords and gentlemen of his household from Burgundy, Flanders, Brabant, Hainault, Artois and other parts of his dominions; but the duke had not assembled half of his forces from Picardy, in regard to men at arms. He had even sent back great part of those who were mustered, to the surprise of many who wished him well; for they thought that it would have been more to his advantage to have retained them than double the number of common men.