Note 564 — BOOK THE FIFTH.

Before the battle, says Molinet (i. 229.) he inquired how many men there were in his army. “The Count of Chimay, a very eloquent, wise, and discreet man, told him in gentle and amiable language, that the captains had made inquiries, and that there were not more than 3000 men in a condition to fight. ‘I deny what you say,’ replied the duke, in great anger; ‘but if I were to fight alone I would fight all the same. You are what you are, and show clearly that you are sprung from the house of Vaudemont.’ The count prudently and gently replied, that his deeds should show that he was sprung from an honourable line, and that, although he saw no chance of overcoming the enemy, he would remain faithful to the duke.”