Note 1087 — Chapter V · THE YOUNG KING 1223–1227
Reading edition
Ib. pp. 229, 230. If Llywelyn thought the Pope was at the back of the attack on Bedford and the excommunication of Falkes, he was mistaken. On 17th August Honorius wrote to Henry reproaching him for his neglect of previous admonitions to treat his subjects gently, and especially for his ingratitude to Falkes, and pointing out the inexpediency of spending on civil war forces that were urgently needed for external defence (ib. p. 544). On or about the same date he addressed a very sharp letter to Archbishop Stephen, reproving him for his share in the matter, and ordering him to recall the sentence which he was reported to have passed upon Falkes and to stop the King’s action against that personage. On the justice of that action Honorius passes no judgement; what he insists upon is its inopportuneness (ib. pp. 543, 544).