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diff --git a/3429-h/3429-h.htm b/3429-h/3429-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..1d72bd0 --- /dev/null +++ b/3429-h/3429-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,11087 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + Saint George for England, by G. A. Henty + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Saint George for England, by G. A. Henty + +<table summary="" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto" cellpadding="4" border="3"> +<tr> +<td> +THERE IS AN IMPROVED ILLUSTRATED EDITION OF THIS TITLE WHICH MAY VIEWED AT EBOOK <big><b><a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/34886"> +[ #34886 ]</a></b></big> +</td> +</tr> +</table> + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Saint George for England + +Author: G. A. Henty + +Release Date: February 25, 2009 [EBook #3429] +Last Updated: March 11, 2018 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SAINT GEORGE FOR ENGLAND *** + + + + +Produced by Martin Robb, and David Widger + + + + + + +</pre> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h1> + SAINT GEORGE FOR ENGLAND + </h1> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + By G. A. Henty + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <p> + <br /> <a href="#link2H_PREF"> PREFACE. </a><br /><br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I: </a> A WAYFARER <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II: </a> THE HUT IN THE + MARSHES <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III: </a> A + THWARTED PLOT <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV: </a> A + KNIGHT'S CHAIN <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V: </a> THE + CITY GAMES <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI: </a> THE + MELEE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII: </a> THE + YOUNG ESQUIRE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII: </a> OFF + TO THE WARS <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX: </a> THE + SIEGE OF HENNEBON <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X: </a> A + PLACE OF REFUGE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI: </a> A + STORMY INTERVIEW <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII: </a> JACOB + VAN ARTEVELDE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII: </a> THE + WHITE FORD <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV: </a> CRESSY + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV: </a> THE + SIEGE OF A FORTALICE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI: + </a> A PRISONER <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER + XVII: </a> THE CAPTURE OF CALAIS <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII: </a> THE + BLACK DEATH <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX: </a> BY + LAND AND SEA <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX: </a> POITIERS + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI: </a> THE + JACQUERIE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII: </a> VICTORY + AND DEATH <br /><br /> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_PREF" id="link2H_PREF"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <h2> + PREFACE. + </h2> + <p> + MY DEAR LADS, + </p> + <p> + You may be told perhaps that there is no good to be obtained from tales of + fighting and bloodshed,—that there is no moral to be drawn from such + histories. Believe it not. War has its lessons as well as Peace. You will + learn from tales like this that determination and enthusiasm can + accomplish marvels, that true courage is generally accompanied by + magnanimity and gentleness, and that if not in itself the very highest of + virtues, it is the parent of almost all the others, since but few of them + can be practised without it. The courage of our forefathers has created + the greatest empire in the world around a small and in itself + insignificant island; if this empire is ever lost, it will be by the + cowardice of their descendants. + </p> + <p> + At no period of her history did England stand so high in the eyes of + Europe as in the time whose events are recorded in this volume. A + chivalrous king and an even more chivalrous prince had infected the whole + people with their martial spirit, and the result was that their armies + were for a time invincible, and the most astonishing successes were gained + against numbers which would appear overwhelming. The victories of Cressy + and Poitiers may be to some extent accounted for by superior generalship + and discipline on the part of the conquerors; but this will not account + for the great naval victory over the Spanish fleet off the coast of + Sussex, a victory even more surprising and won against greater odds than + was that gained in the same waters centuries later over the Spanish + Armada. The historical facts of the story are all drawn from Froissart and + other contemporary historians, as collated and compared by Mr. James in + his carefully written history. They may therefore be relied upon as + accurate in every important particular. + </p> + <p> + Yours sincerely, + </p> + <p> + G. A. HENTY. <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <h2> + CHAPTER I: A WAYFARER + </h2> + <p> + It was a bitterly cold night in the month of November, 1330. The rain was + pouring heavily, when a woman, with child in her arms, entered the little + village of Southwark. She had evidently come from a distance, for her + dress was travel-stained and muddy. She tottered rather than walked, and + when, upon her arrival at the gateway on the southern side of London + Bridge, she found that the hour was past and the gates closed for the + night, she leant against the wall with a faint groan of exhaustion and + disappointment. + </p> + <p> + After remaining, as if in doubt, for some time, she feebly made her way + into the village. Here were many houses of entertainment, for travelers + like herself often arrived too late to enter the gates, and had to abide + outside for the night. Moreover, house rent was dear within the walls of + the crowded city, and many, whose business brought them to town, found it + cheaper to take up their abode in the quiet hostels of Southwark rather + than to stay in the more expensive inns within the walls. The lights came + out brightly from many of the casements, with sounds of boisterous songs + and laughter. The woman passed these without a pause. Presently she + stopped before a cottage, from which a feeble light alone showed that it + was tenanted. + </p> + <p> + She knocked at the door. It was opened by a pleasant-faced man of some + thirty years old. + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “I am a wayfarer,” the woman answered feebly. “Canst take me and my child + in for the night?” + </p> + <p> + “You have made a mistake,” the man said; “this is no inn. Further up the + road there are plenty of places where you can find such accommodation as + you lack.” + </p> + <p> + “I have passed them,” the woman said, “but all seemed full of roisterers. + I am wet and weary, and my strength is nigh spent. I can pay thee, good + fellow, and I pray you as a Christian to let me come in and sleep before + your fire for the night. When the gates are open in the morning I will go; + for I have a friend within the city who will, methinks, receive me.” + </p> + <p> + The tone of voice, and the addressing of himself as good fellow, at once + convinced the man that the woman before him was no common wayfarer. + </p> + <p> + “Come in,” he said; “Geoffrey Ward is not a man to shut his doors in a + woman's face on a night like this, nor does he need payment for such small + hospitality. Come hither, Madge!” he shouted; and at his voice a woman + came down from the upper chamber. “Sister,” he said; “this is a wayfarer + who needs shelter for the night; she is wet and weary. Do you take her up + to your room and lend her some dry clothing; then make her a cup of warm + posset, which she needs sorely. I will fetch an armful of fresh rushes + from the shed and strew them here: I will sleep in the smithy. Quick, + girl,” he said sharply; “she is fainting with cold and fatigue.” And as he + spoke he caught the woman as she was about to fall, and laid her gently on + the ground. “She is of better station than she seems,” he said to his + sister; “like enough some poor lady whose husband has taken part in the + troubles; but that is no business of ours. Quick, Madge, and get these wet + things off her; she is soaked to the skin. I will go round to the Green + Dragon and will fetch a cup of warm cordial, which I warrant me will put + fresh life into her.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, he took down his flat cap from its peg on the wall and went + out, while his sister at once proceeded to remove the drenched garments + and to rub the cold hands of the guest until she recovered consciousness. + When Geoffrey Ward returned, the woman was sitting in a settle by the + fireside, dressed in a warm woolen garment belonging to his sister. + </p> + <p> + Madge had thrown fresh wood on the fire, which was blazing brightly now. + The woman drank the steaming beverage which her host brought with him. The + colour came faintly again into her cheeks. + </p> + <p> + “I thank you, indeed,” she said, “for your kindness. Had you not taken me + in I think I would have died at your door, for indeed I could go no + further; and though I hold not to life, yet would I fain live until I have + delivered my boy into the hands of those who will be kind to him, and this + will, I trust, be tomorrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Say nought about it,” Geoffrey answered; “Madge and I are right glad to + have been of service to you. It would be a poor world indeed if one could + not give a corner of one's fireside to a fellow-creature on such a night + as this, especially when that fellow creature is a woman with a child. + Poor little chap! He looks right well and sturdy, and seems to have taken + no ill from his journey.” + </p> + <p> + “Truly, he is well and sturdy,” the mother said, looking at him proudly; + “indeed I have been almost wishing today that he were lighter by a few + pounds, for in truth I am not used to carry him far, and his weight has + sorely tried me. His name is Walter, and I trust,” she added, looking at + the powerful figure of her host, “that he will grow up as straight and as + stalwart as yourself.” The child, who was about three years old, was + indeed an exceedingly fine little fellow, as he sat, in one scanty + garment, in his mother's lap, gazing with round eyes at the blazing fire; + and the smith thought how pretty a picture the child and mother made. She + was a fair, gentle-looking girl some two-and-twenty years old, and it was + easy enough to see now from her delicate features and soft shapely hands + that she had never been accustomed to toil. + </p> + <p> + “And now,” the smith said, “I will e'en say good night. The hour is late, + and I shall be having the watch coming along to know why I keep a fire so + long after the curfew. Should you be a stranger in the city, I will gladly + act as your guide in the morning to the friends whom you seek, that is, + should they be known to me; but if not, we shall doubtless find them + without difficulty.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, the smith retired to his bed of rushes in the smithy, and soon + afterwards the tired visitor, with her baby, lay down on the rushes in + front of the fire, for in those days none of the working or artisan class + used beds, which were not indeed, for centuries afterwards, in usage by + the common people. + </p> + <p> + In the morning Geoffrey Ward found that his guest desired to find one + Giles Fletcher, a maker of bows. + </p> + <p> + “I know him well,” the smith said. “There are many who do a larger + business, and hold their heads higher; but Giles Fletcher is well esteemed + as a good workman, whose wares can be depended upon. It is often said of + him that did he take less pains he would thrive more; but he handles each + bow that he makes as if he loved it, and finishes and polishes each with + his own hand. Therefore he doeth not so much trade as those who are less + particular with their wares, for he hath to charge a high price to be able + to live. But none who have ever bought his bows have regretted the silver + which they cost. Many and many a gross of arrowheads have I sold him, and + he is well-nigh as particular in their make as he is over the spring and + temper of his own bows. Many a friendly wrangle have I had with him over + their weight and finish, and it is not many who find fault with my + handiwork, though I say it myself; and now, madam, I am at your service.” + </p> + <p> + During the night the wayfarer's clothes had been dried. The cloak was of + rough quality, such as might have been used by a peasant woman; but the + rest, though of sombre colour, were of good material and fashion. Seeing + that her kind entertainers would be hurt by the offer of money, the lady + contented herself with thanking Madge warmly, and saying that she hoped to + come across the bridge one day with Dame Fletcher; then, under the + guidance of Geoffrey, who insisted on carrying the boy, she set out from + the smith's cottage. They passed under the outer gate and across the + bridge, which later on was covered with a double line of houses and shops, + but was now a narrow structure. Over the gateway across the river, upon + pikes, were a number of heads and human limbs. The lady shuddered as she + looked up. + </p> + <p> + “It is an ugly sight,” the smith said, “and I can see no warrant for such + exposure of the dead. There are the heads of Wallace, of three of Robert + Bruce's brothers, and of many other valiant Scotsmen who fought against + the king's grandfather some twenty years back. But after all they fought + for their country, just as Harold and our ancestors against the Normans + under William, and I think it a foul shame that men who have done no other + harm should be beheaded, still less that their heads and limbs should be + stuck up there gibbering at all passers-by. There are over a score of + them, and every fresh trouble adds to their number; but pardon me,” he + said suddenly as a sob from the figure by his side called his attention + from the heads on the top of the gateway, “I am rough and heedless in + speech, as my sister Madge does often tell me, and it may well be that I + have said something which wounded you.” + </p> + <p> + “You meant no ill,” the lady replied; “it was my own thoughts and troubles + which drew tears from me; say not more about it, I pray you.” + </p> + <p> + They passed under the gateway, with its ghastly burden, and were soon in + the crowded streets of London. High overhead the houses extended, each + story advancing beyond that below it until the occupiers of the attics + could well-nigh shake hands across. They soon left the more crowded + streets, and turning to the right, after ten minutes walking, the smith + stopped in front of a bowyer shop near Aldgate. + </p> + <p> + “This is the shop,” he said, “and there is Giles Fletcher himself trying + the spring and pull of one of his bows. Here I will leave you, and will + one of these days return to inquire if your health has taken ought of harm + by the rough buffeting of the storm of yester-even.” + </p> + <p> + So saying he handed the child to its mother, and with a wave of the hand + took his leave, not waiting to listen to the renewed thanks which his late + guest endeavoured to give him. + </p> + <p> + The shop was open in front, a projecting penthouse sheltered it from the + weather; two or three bows lay upon a wide shelf in front, and several + large sheaves of arrows tied together stood by the wall. A powerful man of + some forty years old was standing in the middle of the shop with a bent + bow in his arm, taking aim at a spot in the wall. Through an open door + three men could be seen in an inner workshop cutting and shaping the wood + for bows. The bowyer looked round as his visitor entered the shop, and + then, with a sudden exclamation, lowered the bow. + </p> + <p> + “Hush, Giles!” the lady exclaimed; “it is I, but name no names; it were + best that none knew me here.” + </p> + <p> + The craftsman closed the door of communication into the inner room. “My + Lady Alice,” he exclaimed in a low tone, “you here, and in such a guise?” + </p> + <p> + “Surely it is I,” the lady sighed, “although sometimes I am well-nigh + inclined to ask myself whether it be truly I or not, or whether this be + not all a dreadful dream.” + </p> + <p> + “I had heard but vaguely of your troubles,” Giles Fletcher said, “but + hoped that the rumours were false. Ever since the Duke of Kent was + executed the air has been full of rumours. Then came news of the killing + of Mortimer and of the imprisonment of the king's mother, and it was said + that many who were thought to be of her party had been attacked and slain, + and I heard—” and there he stopped. + </p> + <p> + “You heard rightly, good Giles, it is all true. A week after the slaying + of Mortimer a band of knights and men-at-arms arrived at our castle and + demanded admittance in the king's name. Sir Roland refused, for he had + news that many were taking up arms, but it was useless. The castle was + attacked, and after three days' fighting, was taken. Roland was killed, + and I was cast out with my child. Afterwards they repented that they had + let me go, and searched far and wide for me; but I was hidden in the + cottage of a woodcutter. They were too busy in hunting down others whom + they proclaimed to be enemies of the king, as they had wrongfully said of + Roland, who had but done his duty faithfully to Queen Isabella, and was + assuredly no enemy of her son, although he might well be opposed to the + weak and indolent king, his father. However, when the search relaxed I + borrowed the cloak of the good man's wife and set out for London, whither + I have traveled on foot, believing that you and Bertha would take me in + and shelter me in my great need.” + </p> + <p> + “Aye, that will we willingly,” Giles said. “Was not Bertha your nurse? and + to whom should you come if not to her? But will it please you to mount the + stairs, for Bertha will not forgive me if I keep you talking down here. + What a joy it will be to her to see you again!” + </p> + <p> + So saying, Giles led the way to the apartment above. There was a scream of + surprise and joy from his wife, and then Giles quietly withdrew downstairs + again, leaving the women to cry in each other's arms. + </p> + <p> + A few days later Geoffrey Ward entered the shop of Giles Fletcher. + </p> + <p> + “I have brought you twenty score of arrowheads, Master Giles,” he said. + “They have been longer in hand than is usual with me, but I have been + pressed. And how goes it with the lady whom I brought to your door last + week?” + </p> + <p> + “But sadly, Master Ward, very sadly, as I told you when I came across to + thank you again in her name and my own for your kindness to her. She was + but in poor plight after her journey; poor thing, she was little + accustomed to such wet and hardship, and doubtless they took all the more + effect because she was low in spirit and weakened with much grieving. That + night she was taken with a sort of fever, hot and cold by turns, and at + times off her head. Since then she has lain in a high fever and does not + know even my wife; her thoughts ever go back to the storming of the + castle, and she cries aloud and begs them to spare her lord's life. It is + pitiful to hear her. The leech gives but small hope for her life, and in + troth, Master Ward, methinks that God would deal most gently with her were + He to take her. Her heart is already in her husband's grave, for she was + ever of a most loving and faithful nature. Here there would be little + comfort for her—she would fret that her boy would never inherit the + lands of his father; and although she knows well enough that she would be + always welcome here, and that Bertha would serve her as gladly and + faithfully as ever she did when she was her nurse, yet she could not but + greatly feel the change. She was tenderly brought up, being, as I told you + last week, the only daughter of Sir Harold Broome. Her brother, who but a + year ago became lord of Broomecastle at the death of his father, was one + of the queen's men, and it was he, I believe, who brought Sir Roland + Somers to that side. He was slain on the same night as Mortimer, and his + lands, like those of Sir Roland, have been seized by the crown. The child + upstairs is by right heir to both estates, seeing that his uncle died + unmarried. They will doubtless be conferred upon those who have aided the + young king in freeing himself from his mother's domination, for which, + indeed, although I lament that Lady Alice should have suffered so sorely + in the doing of it, I blame him not at all. He is a noble prince and will + make us a great king, and the doings of his mother have been a shame to us + all. However, I meddle not in politics. If the poor lady dies, as methinks + is well-nigh certain, Bertha and I will bring up the boy as our own. I + have talked it over with my wife, and so far she and I are not of one + mind. I think it will be best to keep him in ignorance of his birth and + lineage, since the knowledge cannot benefit him, and will but render him + discontented with his lot and make him disinclined to take to my calling, + in which he might otherwise earn a living and rise to be a respected + citizen. But Bertha hath notions. You have not taken a wife to yourself, + Master Geoffrey, or you would know that women oft have fancies which + wander widely from hard facts, and she says she would have him brought up + as a man-at-arms, so that he may do valiant deeds, and win back some day + the title and honour of his family.” + </p> + <p> + Geoffrey Ward laughed. “Trust a woman for being romantic,” he said. + “However, Master Fletcher, you need not for the present trouble about the + child's calling, even should its mother die. At any rate, whether he + follows your trade, or whether the blood in his veins leads him to take to + martial deeds, the knowledge of arms may well be of use to him, and I + promise you that such skill as I have I will teach him when he grows old + enough to wield sword and battle-axe. As you know I may, without boasting, + say that he could scarce have a better master, seeing that I have for + three years carried away the prize for the best sword-player at the + sports. Methinks the boy will grow up into a strong and stalwart man, for + he is truly a splendid lad. As to archery, he need not go far to learn it, + since your apprentice, Will Parker, last year won the prize as the best + marksman in the city bounds. Trust me, if his tastes lie that way we will + between us turn him out a rare man-at-arms. But I must stand gossiping no + longer; the rumours that we are likely ere long to have war with France, + have rarely bettered my trade. Since the wars in Scotland men's arms have + rusted somewhat, and my two men are hard at work mending armour and + fitting swords to hilts, and forging pike-heads. You see I am a citizen + though I dwell outside the bounds, because house rent is cheaper and I get + my charcoal without paying the city dues. So I can work somewhat lower + than those in the walls, and I have good custom from many in Kent, who + know that my arms are of as good temper as those turned out by any + craftsman in the city.” + </p> + <p> + Giles Fletcher's anticipations as to the result of his guest's illness + turned out to be well founded. The fever abated, but left her prostrate in + strength. For a few weeks she lingered; but she seemed to have little hold + of life, and to care not whether she lived or died. So, gradually she + faded away. + </p> + <p> + “I know you will take care of my boy as if he were your own, Bertha,” she + said one day; “and you and your husband will be far better protectors for + him than I should have been had I lived. Teach him to be honest and true. + It were better, methinks, that he grew up thinking you his father and + mother, for otherwise he may grow discontented with his lot; but this I + leave with you, and you must speak or keep silent according as you see his + disposition and mind. If he is content to settle down to a peaceful life + here, say nought to him which would unsettle his mind; but if Walter turn + out to have an adventurous disposition, then tell him as much as you think + fit of his history, not encouraging him to hope to recover his father's + lands and mine, for that can never be, seeing that before that time can + come they would have been enjoyed for many years by others; but that he + may learn to bear himself bravely and gently as becomes one of good + blood.” + </p> + <p> + A few days later Lady Alice breathed her last, and at her own request was + buried quietly and without pomp, as if she had been a child of the bowman, + a plain stone, with the name “Dame Alice Somers”, marking the grave. + </p> + <p> + The boy grew and throve until at fourteen years old there was no stronger + or sturdier lad of his age within the city bounds. Giles had caused him to + be taught to read and write, accomplishments which were common among the + citizens, although they were until long afterwards rare among the warlike + barons. The greater part of his time, however, was spent in sports with + lads of his own age in Moorfields beyond the walls. The war with France + was now raging, and, as was natural, the boys in their games imitated the + doings of their elders, and mimic battles, ofttimes growing into earnest, + were fought between the lads of the different wards. Walter Fletcher, as + he was known among his play-fellows, had by his strength and courage won + for himself the proud position of captain of the boys of the ward of + Aldgate. + </p> + <p> + Geoffrey Ward had kept his word, and had already begun to give the lad + lessons in the use of arms. When not engaged otherwise Walter would, + almost every afternoon, cross London Bridge and would spend hours in the + armourer's forge. Geoffrey's business had grown, for the war had caused a + great demand for arms, and he had now six men working in the forge. As + soon as the boy could handle a light tool Geoffrey allowed him to work, + and although not able to wield the heavy sledge Walter was able to do much + of the finer work. Geoffrey encouraged him in this, as, in the first + place, the use of the tools greatly strengthened the boy's muscles, and + gave him an acquaintance with arms. Moreover, Geoffrey was still a + bachelor, and he thought that the boy, whom he as well as Giles had come + to love as a son, might, should he not take up the trade of war, prefer + the occupation of an armourer to that of a bowmaker, in which case he + would take him some day as his partner in the forge. After work was over + and the men had gone away, Geoffrey would give the lad instructions in the + use of the arms at which he had been at work, and so quick and strong was + he that he rapidly acquired their use, and Geoffrey foresaw that he would + one day, should his thoughts turn that way, prove a mighty man-at-arms. + </p> + <p> + It was the knowledge which he acquired from Geoffrey which had much to do + with Walter's position among his comrades. The skill and strength which he + had acquired in wielding the hammer, and by practice with the sword + rendered him a formidable opponent with the sticks, which formed the + weapons in the mimic battles, and indeed not a few were the complaints + which were brought before Giles Fletcher of bruises and hurts caused by + him. + </p> + <p> + “You are too turbulent, Walter,” the bowyer said one day when a + haberdasher from the ward of Aldersgate came to complain that his son's + head had been badly cut by a blow with a club from Walter Fletcher. “You + are always getting into trouble, and are becoming the terror of other + boys. Why do you not play more quietly? The feuds between the boys of + different wards are becoming a serious nuisance, and many injuries have + been inflicted. I hear that the matter has been mentioned in the Common + Council, and that there is a talk of issuing an order that no boy not yet + apprenticed to a trade shall be allowed to carry a club, and that any + found doing so shall be publicly whipped.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't want to be turbulent,” Walter said; “but if the Aldersgate boys + will defy us, what are we to do? I don't hit harder than I can help, and + if Jonah Harris would leave his head unguarded I could not help hitting + it.” + </p> + <p> + “I tell you it won't do, Walter,” Giles said. “You will be getting + yourself into sore trouble. You are growing too masterful altogether, and + have none of the quiet demeanour and peaceful air which becomes an honest + citizen. In another six months you will be apprenticed, and then I hope we + shall hear no more of these doings.” + </p> + <p> + “My father is talking of apprenticing me, Master Geoffrey,” Walter said + that evening. “I hope that you will, as you were good enough to promise, + talk with him about apprenticing me to your craft rather than to his. I + should never take to the making of bows, though, indeed, I like well to + use them; and Will Parker, who is teaching me says that I show rare + promise; but it would never be to my taste to stand all day sawing, and + smoothing, and polishing. One bow is to me much like another, though my + father holds that there are rare differences between them; but it is a + nobler craft to work on iron, and next to using arms the most pleasant + thing surely is to make them. One can fancy what good blows the sword will + give and what hard knocks the armour will turn aside; but some day, Master + Geoffrey, when I have served my time, I mean to follow the army. There is + always work there for armourers to do, and sometimes at a pinch they may + even get their share of fighting.” + </p> + <p> + Walter did not venture to say that he would prefer to be a man-at-arms, + for such a sentiment would be deemed as outrageous in the ears of a quiet + city craftsman as would the proposal of the son of such a man nowadays to + enlist as a soldier. The armourer smiled; he knew well enough what was in + Walter's mind. It had cost Geoffrey himself a hard struggle to settle down + to a craft, and deemed it but natural that with the knightly blood flowing + in Walter's veins he should long to distinguish himself in the field. He + said nothing of this, however, but renewed his promise to speak to Giles + Fletcher, deeming that a few years passed in his forge would be the best + preparation which Walter could have for a career as a soldier. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II: THE HUT IN THE MARSHES + </h2> + <p> + A week later a party of knights and court gallants, riding across the + fields without the walls, checked their horses to look at a struggle which + was going on between two parties of boys. One, which was apparently the + most powerful, had driven the other off from a heap of rubbish which had + been carried without the walls. Each party had a flag attached to a stick, + and the boys were armed with clubs such as those carried by the apprentice + boys. Many of them carried mimic shields made of wood, and had stuffed + their flat caps with wool or shavings, the better to protect their heads + from blows. The smaller party had just been driven from the heap, and + their leader was urging them to make another effort to regain it. + </p> + <p> + “That is a gallant-looking lad, and a sturdy, my Lord de Vaux,” a boy of + about ten years of age said. “He bears himself like a young knight, and he + has had some hard knocks, for, see, the blood is streaming down his face. + One would scarcely expect to see these varlets of the city playing so + roughly.” + </p> + <p> + “The citizens have proved themselves sturdy fighters before now, my + prince,” the other said; “they are ever independent, and hold to their + rights even against the king. The contingent which the city sends to the + wars bears itself as well as those of any of the barons.” + </p> + <p> + “See!” the boy interrupted, “they are going to charge again. Their leader + has himself seized the flag and has swung his shield behind him, just as a + knight might do if leading the stormers against a place of strength. Let + us stop till we see the end of it.” + </p> + <p> + With a shout of “Aldgate! Aldgate!” the leader of the assailants dashed + forward, followed by his comrades, and with a rush reached the top of the + heap. + </p> + <p> + “Well done!” the young prince exclaimed, clapping his hands. “See how he + lays about him with that club of his. There, he has knocked down the + leader of the defenders as if his club had been a battle-axe. Well done, + young sir, well done! But his followers waver. The others are too strong + for them. Stand, you cowards, rally round your leader!” and in his + enthusiasm the young prince urged his horse forward to the scene of + conflict. + </p> + <p> + But the assailants were mastered; few of them could gain the top of the + heap, and those who did so were beaten back from it by the defenders. + Heavy blows were exchanged, and blood flowed freely from many of their + heads and faces, for in those days boys thought less than they do now of + hard knocks, and manliness and courage were considered the first of + virtues. Their leader, however, still stood his ground on the crest, + though hardly pressed on all sides, and used his club both to strike and + parry with a skill which aroused the warmest admiration on the part of the + prince. In vain his followers attempted to come to his rescue; each time + they struggled up the heap they were beaten back again by those on the + crest. + </p> + <p> + “Yield thee prisoner,” the assailants of their leader shouted, and the + prince in his excitement echoed the cry. The lad, however, heard or heeded + them not. He still kept his flag aloft in his left hand. With a sudden + spring he struck down one of his opponents, plucked up their flag from the + ground, and then fought his way back through his foes to the edge of the + battleground; then a heavy blow struck him on the temple, and, still + holding the flags, he rolled senseless to the foot of the heap. The + defenders with shouts of triumph were rushing down when the prince urged + his horse forward. + </p> + <p> + “Cease!” he said authoritatively. “Enough has been done, my young masters, + and the sport is becoming a broil.” + </p> + <p> + Hitherto the lads, absorbed in their strife, had paid but little heed to + the party of onlookers; but at the word they at once arrested their arms, + and, baring their heads, stood still in confusion. + </p> + <p> + “No harm is done,” the prince said, “though your sport is of the roughest; + but I fear that your leader is hurt, he moves not; lift his head from the + ground.” The boy was indeed still insensible. “My lords,” the prince said + to the knights who had now ridden up, “I fear that this boy is badly hurt; + he is a gallant lad, and has the spirit of a true knight in him, citizen's + son though he be. My Lord de Vaux, will you bid your squire ride at full + speed to the Tower and tell Master Roger, the leech, to come here with all + haste, and to bring such nostrums as may be needful for restoring the boy + to life.” + </p> + <p> + The Tower was but half a mile distant, but before Master Roger arrived + Walter had already recovered consciousness, and was just sitting up when + the leech hurried up to the spot. + </p> + <p> + “You have arrived too late, Master Roger,” the prince said; “but I doubt + not that a dose of cordials may yet be of use, for he is still dazed, and + the blow he got would have cracked his skull had it been a thin one.” + </p> + <p> + The leech poured some cordial from a vial into a small silver cup and held + it to the boy's lips. It was potent and nigh took his breath away; but + when he had drunk it he struggled to his feet, looking ashamed and + confused when he saw himself the centre of attention of so many knights of + the court. + </p> + <p> + “What is thy name, good lad?” the prince asked. + </p> + <p> + “I am known as Walter Fletcher.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a brave lad,” the prince said, “and if you bear you as well as a + man as you did but now, I would wish no better to ride beside me in the + day of battle. Should the time ever come when you tire of the peaceable + life of a citizen and wish to take service in the wars, go to the Tower + and ask boldly for the Prince of Wales, and I will enroll you among my own + men-at-arms, and I promise you that you shall have your share of fighting + as stark as that of the assault of yon heap. Now, my lords, let us ride + on; I crave your pardon for having so long detained you.” + </p> + <p> + Walter was some days before he could again cross London Bridge to inform + his friend Geoffrey of the honour which had befallen him of being + addressed by the Prince of Wales. During the interval he was forced to lie + abed, and he was soundly rated by Master Giles for again getting into + mischief. Geoffrey was far more sympathetic, and said “Well, Walter, + although I would not that Gaffer Giles heard me say so, I think you have + had a piece of rare good fortune. It may be that you may never have cause + to recall the young prince's promise to him; but should you some day + decide to embrace the calling of arms, you could wish for nothing better + than to ride behind the Prince of Wales. He is, by all accounts, of a most + noble and generous disposition, and is said, young as he is, to be already + highly skilled in arms. Men say that he will be a wise king and a gallant + captain, such a one as a brave soldier might be proud to follow; and as + the king will be sure to give him plenty of opportunities of + distinguishing himself, those who ride with him may be certain of a chance + of doing valorous deeds. I will go across the bridge tomorrow, and will + have a talk with Master Fletcher. The sooner you are apprenticed, the + sooner you will be out of your time; and since Madge married eight years + since I have been lonely in the house and shall be glad to have you with + me.” + </p> + <p> + Geoffrey Ward found his friend more ready to accede to his request, that + Walter should be apprenticed to him, than he had expected. The bowyer, + indeed, was a quiet man, and the high spirits and somewhat turbulent + disposition of his young charge gave him so much uneasiness, that he was + not sorry the responsibility of keeping him in order should be undertaken + by Geoffrey. Moreover, he could not but agree with the argument, that the + promise of the Prince of Wales offered a more favourable opportunity for + Walter to enter upon the career of arms and so, perhaps, someday to win + his way back to rank and honours than could have been looked for. + Therefore, on the following week Walter was indentured to the armourer, + and, as was usual at the time, left his abode in Aldgate and took up his + residence with his master. He threw himself with his whole heart into the + work, and by the time he was fifteen was on the way to become a skilful + craftsman. His frame and muscles developed with labour, and he was now + able to swing all save the very heaviest hammers in the shop. He had never + abated in his practice at arms, and every day when work was over, he and + his master had a long bout together with cudgel or quarterstaff, sword or + axe; Walter of course used light weapons, but so quick was he with them + that Geoffrey Ward acknowledged that he needed to put out all his skill to + hold his own with his pupil. But it was not alone with Geoffrey that + Walter had an opportunity of learning the use of arms. Whenever a soldier, + returned from the wars, came to have a weapon repaired by the armourer, he + would be sure of an invitation to come in in the evening and take a stoup + of ale, and tell of the battles and sieges he had gone through, and in the + course of the evening would be asked to have a bout of arms with the young + apprentice, whom Geoffrey represented as being eager to learn how to use + the sword as well as how to make it. + </p> + <p> + Thus Walter became accustomed to different styles of fighting, but found + that very few, indeed, of their visitors were nearly so well skilled with + their arms as his master. Some of the soldiers were mortified at finding + themselves unable to hold their own with a boy; others would take their + reverses in good part and would come again, bringing with them some + comrade known to be particularly skilled with his weapons, to try the + temper of the armourer's apprentice. At the age of fifteen Walter had won + the prize at the sports, both for the best cudgel play and the best + sword-and-buckler play among the apprentices, to the great disgust of many + who had almost reached the age of manhood and were just out of their time. + </p> + <p> + On Sundays Walter always spent the day with Giles Fletcher and his wife, + going to mass with them and walking in the fields, where, after service, + the citizens much congregated. Since Walter had gone to work he had taken + no part in the fights and frolics of his former comrades; he was in fact, + far too tired at the end of his day's work to have any desire to do aught + but to sit and listen to the tales of the wars, of the many old soldiers + who pervaded the country. Some of these men were disabled by wounds or + long service, but the greater portion were idle scamps, who cared not for + the hard blows and sufferings of a campaign, liking better to hang about + taverns drinking, at the expense of those to whom they related fabulous + tales of the gallant actions they had performed. Many, too, wandered over + the country, sometimes in twos or threes, sometimes in large bands, + robbing and often murdering travelers or attacking lonely houses. When in + one part or another their ill deeds became too notorious, the sheriffs + would call out a posse of men and they would be hunted down like wild + beasts. It was not, however, easy to catch them, for great tracts of + forests still covered a large portion of the country and afforded them + shelter. + </p> + <p> + In the country round London these pests were very numerous, for here, more + than anywhere else, was there a chance of plunder. The swamps on the south + side of the river had an especially evil reputation. From Southwark to + Putney stretches a marshy country over which, at high tides, the river + frequently flowed. Here and there were wretched huts, difficult of access + and affording good hiding-places for those pursued by justice, since + searchers could be seen approaching a long way off, and escape could be + made by paths across the swamp known only to the dwellers there, and where + heavily-armed men dared not follow. Further south, in the wild country + round Westerham, where miles of heath and forest stretched away in all + directions, was another noted place where the robber vagrants mustered + thickly, and the Sheriff of Kent had much trouble with them. + </p> + <p> + The laws in those days were extremely severe, and death was the penalty of + those caught plundering. The extreme severity of the laws, however, + operated in favour of its breakers, since the sympathy of the people who + had little to lose was with them, and unless caught red-handed in the act + they could generally escape, since none save those who had themselves been + robbed would say aught that would place the pursuers on their traces, or + give testimony which would cost the life of a fellow-creature. The + citizens of London were loud in their complaints against the discharged + soldiers, for it was upon them that the loss mainly fell, and it was on + their petitions to the king that the sheriffs of Middlesex and Hertford, + Essex, Surrey, and Kent, were generally stirred up to put down the + ill-doers. + </p> + <p> + Sometimes these hunts were conducted in a wholesale way, and the whole + posse of a county would be called out. Then all found within its limits + who had not land or visible occupation were collected. Any against whom + charges could be brought home were hung without more ado, and the rest + were put on board ship and sent across the sea to the army. Sometimes, + when they found the country becoming too hot for them, these men would + take service with some knight or noble going to the war, anxious to take + with him as strong a following as might be, and not too particular as to + the character of his soldiers. + </p> + <p> + Walter, being of an adventurous spirit, was sometimes wont of a summer + evening, when his work was done, to wander across the marshes, taking with + him his bow and arrows, and often bringing home a wild duck or two which + he shot in the pools. More than once surly men had accosted him, and had + threatened to knock him on the head if they again found him wandering that + way; but Walter laughed at their threats, and seeing, that though but an + apprentice lad, he might be able to send an arrow as straight to the mark + as another, they were content to leave him alone. + </p> + <p> + One day when he was well-nigh in the heart of the swamp of Lambeth he saw + a figure making his way across. The hour was already late and the night + was falling, and the appearance of the man was so different from that of + the usual denizens of the swamp that Walter wondered what business there + might be. Scarcely knowing why he did so, Walter threw himself down among + some low brushwood and watched the approaching figure. When he came near + he recognized the face, and saw, to his surprise, that it was a knight who + had but the day before stopped at the armourer's shop to have two rivets + put in his hauberk. He had particularly noticed him because of the + arrogant manner in which he spoke. Walter had himself put in the rivets, + and had thought, as he buckled on the armour again, how unpleasant a + countenance was that of its wearer. He was a tall and powerful man, and + would have been handsome had not his eyes been too closely set together; + his nose was narrow, and the expression of his face reminded Walter of a + hawk. He had now laid aside his helmet, and his figure was covered with a + long cloak. + </p> + <p> + “He is up to no good,” Walter said to himself, “for what dealings could a + knight honestly have with the ruffians who haunt these swamps. It is + assuredly no business of mine, but it may lead to an adventure, and I have + had no real fun since I left Aldgate. I will follow and see if I can get + to the bottom of the mystery.” + </p> + <p> + When he came close to the spot where Walter was lying the knight paused + and looked round as if uncertain of his way. For four or five minutes he + stood still, and then gave a shout of “Humphrey” at the top of his voice. + It was answered by a distant “Hallo!” and looking in the direction from + which the answer had come, Walter saw a figure appear above some bushes + some four hundred yards distant. The knight at once directed his steps in + that direction, and Walter crept cautiously after him. + </p> + <p> + “A pest upon these swamps and quagmires,” the knight said angrily as he + neared the other. “Why didst not meet me and show me the way through, as + before?” + </p> + <p> + “I thought that as you had come once you would be able to find your way + hither again,” the man said. “Had I thought that you would have missed it + I would have come ten times as far, rather than have had my name shouted + all over the country. However, there is no one to hear, did you shout + thrice as loud, so no harm is done.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought I saw a figure a short time since,” the knight said. + </p> + <p> + The man looked round in all directions. + </p> + <p> + “I see none,” he said, “and you may have been mistaken, for the light is + waning fast. It were ill for anyone I caught prying about here. But come + in, sir knight; my hovel is not what your lordship is accustomed to, but + we may as well talk there as here beneath the sky.” + </p> + <p> + The two men disappeared from Walter's sight. The latter in much surprise + crept forward, but until he reached the spot where he had last seen the + speakers he was unable to account for their disappearance. Then he saw + that the spot, although apparently a mere clump of bushes no higher than + the surrounding country, was really an elevated hummock of ground. Anyone + might have passed close to the bushes without suspecting that aught lay + among them. In the centre, however, the ground had been cut away, and a + low doorway, almost hidden by the bushes, gave access into a half + subterranean hut; the roof was formed of an old boat turned bottom + upwards, and this had been covered with brown turf. It was an excellent + place of concealment, as searchers might have passed within a foot of the + bushes without suspecting that aught lay concealed within them. + </p> + <p> + “A clever hiding place,” Walter thought to himself. “No wonder the posse + search these swamps in vain. This is the lowest and wettest part of the + swamp, and would be but lightly searched, for none would suspect that + there was a human habitation among these brown ditches and stagnant + pools.” + </p> + <p> + To his disappointment the lad could hear nothing of the conversation which + was going on within the hut. The murmur of voices came to his ear, but no + words were audible; however, he remained patiently, thinking that perhaps + as they came out a word might be said which would give him a clue to the + object of the mysterious interview between a knight and one who was + evidently a fugitive from justice. + </p> + <p> + His patience was rewarded. In the half hour which he waited the night had + fallen, and a thick fog which was rising over the swamps rendered it + difficult to discern anything at the distance of a few paces. + </p> + <p> + “You are quite sure that you can manage it?” a voice said as the two men + issued from the hut. + </p> + <p> + “There is no difficulty in managing it,” the other replied, “if the boat + is punctual to the hour named. It will be getting dusk then, and if one + boat runs into another no one need be surprised. Such accidents will + happen.” + </p> + <p> + “They will be here just before nightfall,” the other said, “and you will + know the boat by the white mantle the lady will wear. The reward will be + fifty pieces of gold, of which you have received ten as earnest. You can + trust me, and if the job be well done I shall take no count of the earnest + money. + </p> + <p> + “You may consider it as good as done,” the other replied. “If the boat is + there the matter is settled. Now I will lead you back across the swamps. I + would not give much for your life if you tried to find the way alone. Who + would have thought when you got me off from being hung, after that little + affair at Bruges, that I should be able to make myself useful to your + worship?” + </p> + <p> + “You may be sure,” the knight replied, “that it was just because I foresaw + that you might be useful that I opened the doors of your cell that night. + It is always handy in times like these to be able to lay one's hand on a + man whom you can hang if you choose to open your mouth.” + </p> + <p> + “Did it not strike you, sir knight, that it might enter my mind that it + would be very advisable for me to free myself from one who stands towards + me in that relation?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly it did,” the knight replied; “but as I happen to be able to + make it for your interest to serve me, that matter did not trouble me. I + knew better than to bring money into this swamp of yours, when I might be + attacked by half a dozen ruffians like yourself; and I took the precaution + of informing Peter, the captain of my men-at-arms, of the spot to which I + was going, bidding him, in case I came not back, to set a hue and cry on + foot and hunt down all who might be found here, with the especial + description of your worthy self.” + </p> + <p> + Walter could hear no more; he had taken off his shoes and followed them at + a distance, and their voices still acted as a guide to him through the + swamp. But he feared to keep too close, as, although the darkness would + conceal his figure, he might at any moment tread in a pool or ditch, and + so betray his presence. Putting his foot each time to the ground with the + greatest caution, he moved quietly after them. They spoke little more, but + their heavy footsteps on the swampy ground were a sufficient guidance for + him. At last these ceased suddenly. A few words were spoken, and then he + heard returning steps. He drew aside a few feet and crouched down, saw a + dim figure pass through the mist, and then resumed his way. The ground was + firmer now, and, replacing his shoes, he walked briskly on. As he neared + the higher ground along which the road ran he heard two horsemen galloping + away in the distance. He now turned his face east, and after an hour's + walking he reached the armourer's. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Walter, you are late,” the smith said. “The men are in bed this hour + or more, and I myself can scarce keep awake. Where hast thou been, my + boy?” + </p> + <p> + “I have been in the swamps and lost my way,” Walter replied. + </p> + <p> + “It is a bad neighbourhood, lad, and worse are the people who live there. + If I had my way the whole posse should be called out, and the marshes + searched from end to end, and all found there should be knocked on head + and thrown into their own ditches. There would be no fear of any honest + man coming to his end thereby; but now to bed, lad. You can tell me all + about it tomorrow; but we have a rare day's work before us, and the fire + must be alight at daybreak.” + </p> + <p> + On his way back Walter had debated with himself whether to inform his + master of what had happened. He was, however, bent upon having an + adventure on his own account, and it was a serious thing in those days for + an apprentice lad to bring an accusation against a noble. The city would + not indeed allow even an apprentice to be overridden, and although + Geoffrey Ward's forge stood beyond the city walls it was yet within the + liberties, the city allowing its craftsmen to open shops just outside the + gates, and to enjoy the same privileges as if dwelling actually within the + walls. + </p> + <p> + On the following afternoon Walter asked leave to cease work an hour + earlier than usual, as he wished to go across into the city. The armourer + was surprised, since this was the first time that such a thing had + happened since the lad had worked for him. + </p> + <p> + “What are you up to, Walter?—some mischief, I will be bound. Go, + lad; you have worked so steadily that you have well earned more than an + hour's holiday should you want it.” + </p> + <p> + Walter crossed the bridge, and seeking out four or five of his old + companions, begged them to bring their bows and clubs and rejoin him at + the stairs by London Bridge. To their laughing inquiries whether he meant + to go a-shooting of fish, he told them to ask no questions until they + joined him. As soon as work was over the boys gathered at the steps, where + Walter had already engaged a boat. There were some mocking inquiries from + the watermen standing about as to where they were going shooting. Walter + answered with some light chaff, and, two of the party taking oars, they + started up the river. + </p> + <p> + “Now I will tell you what we are bent on,” Walter said. “From some words I + overheard I believe that some of the ruffians over in the marshes are this + evening going to make an attack upon a boat with a lady in it coming down + the river. We will be on the spot, and can give them a reception such as + they do not expect.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you know who the lady is, Walter?” + </p> + <p> + “I have not the least idea. I only caught a few words, and may be wrong; + still, it will do no harm should I be mistaken.” + </p> + <p> + The tide was running down strongly, for there had been a good deal of rain + during the preceding week, and all night it had poured heavily. It was + fine now, but the stream was running down thick and turbid, and it needed + all the boys' efforts to force the wherry against it. They rowed by turns; + all were fairly expert at the exercise, for in those days the Thames was + at once the great highway and playground of London. To the wharves below + the bridge ships brought the rich merchandise of Italy and the Low + Countries; while from above, the grain, needed for the wants of the great + city was floated down in barges from the west. + </p> + <p> + Passing the Temple, the boys rowed along by the green banks and fields as + far as Westminster, which at that time was almost a rival of the city, for + here were the abbey and great monastery; here were the king's palace and + court, and the houses of many of his nobles. Then they went along by the + low shores of Millbank, keeping a sharp lookout for boats going down with + the stream. It was already getting dark, for Walter had not allowed for + the strength of the stream, and he was full of anxiety lest he should + arrive too late. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III: A THWARTED PLOT + </h2> + <p> + A boat was rowing rapidly down the stream. It had passed the village of + Chelsea, and the men were doing their best to reach their destination at + Westminster before nightfall. Two men were rowing; in the stern sat a lady + with a girl about eleven years old. A woman, evidently a servant, sat + beside the lady, while behind, steering the boat, was an elderly retainer. + </p> + <p> + “It is getting dark,” the lady said; “I would that my cousin James had not + detained us so long at Richmond, and then after all he was unable to + accompany us. I like not being out on the river so late.” + </p> + <p> + “No, indeed, my lady,” the woman replied; “I have heard tell lately much + of the doings of the river pirates. They say that boats are often picked + up stove in and broken, and that none know what had become of their + occupants, and that bodies, gashed and hewn, are often found floating in + the river. + </p> + <p> + “How horrible,” the girl said; “your tale makes me shiver, Martha; I would + you had said nothing about it till we were on land again. + </p> + <p> + “Do not be afraid, Edith,” the lady said cheerfully; “we shall soon be + safe at Westminster.” + </p> + <p> + There were now only two or three boats to be seen on the river. They were + nearing the end of their journey now, and the great pile of the Abbey + could be seen through the darkness. A boat with several men in it was seen + rowing across the river towards the Lambeth side. It was awkwardly + managed. + </p> + <p> + “Look out!” the steersman of the boat coming down stream shouted; “you + will run into us if you don't mind.” + </p> + <p> + An order was given in the other boat, the men strained to their oars, and + in an instant the boat ran with a crash into the side of the other, + cutting it down to the water's edge. For a minute there was a wild scene + of confusion; the women shrieked, the watermen shouted, and, thinking that + it was an accident, strove, as the boat sank from under them, to climb + into that which had run them down. They were speedily undeceived. One was + sunk by a heavy blow with an oar, the other was stabbed with a dagger, + while the assailants struck fiercely at the old man and the women. + </p> + <p> + At this moment, however, a third boat made its appearance on the scene, + its occupants uttering loud shouts. As they rowed towards the spot their + approach was heralded by a shower of arrows. Two of the ruffians were + struck—one fell over mortally wounded, the other sank down into the + boat. + </p> + <p> + “Row, men, row,” their leader shouted, “or we shall all be taken.” + </p> + <p> + Again seizing their oars, the rowers started at full speed towards the + Lambeth shore. The arrows of their pursuers still fell among them, two + more of their number being wounded before they reached the opposite shore. + The pursuit was not continued, the newcomers ceasing to row at the spot + where the catastrophe had taken place. Walter stood up in the boat and + looked round. A floating oar, a stretcher, and a sheepskin which had + served as a cushion, alone floated. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly there was a choking cry heard a few yards down stream, and Walter + leapt into the river. A few strokes took him to the side of the girl, and + he found, on throwing his arm round her, that she was still clasped in her + mother's arms. Seizing them both, Walter shouted to his comrades. They had + already turned the boat's head, and in a minute were alongside. + </p> + <p> + It was a difficult task to get the mother and child on board, as the girl + refused to loose her hold. It was, however, accomplished, and the child + sat still and quiet by Walter's side, while his comrades endeavoured to + stanch the blood which was flowing from a severe wound in her mother's + head. When they had bound it up they rubbed her hands, and by the time + they had reached the steps at Westminster the lady opened her eyes. For a + moment she looked bewildered, and then, on glancing round, she gave a low + cry of delight at seeing her child sitting by Walter's side. + </p> + <p> + On reaching the steps the boys handed her over to the care of the watermen + there, who soon procured a litter and carried her, she being still too + weak to walk, to the dwelling of the Earl of Talbot, where she said she + was expected. The apprentices rowed back to London Bridge, elated at the + success of their enterprise, but regretting much that they had arrived too + late to hinder the outrage, or to prevent the escape of its perpetrators. + </p> + <p> + Walter on his return home related the whole circumstance to his master. + </p> + <p> + “I would you had told me, Walter,” the latter said, “since we might have + taken precautions which would have prevented this foul deed from taking + place. However, I can understand your wanting to accomplish the adventure + without my aid; but we must think now what had best be said and done. As + the lady belongs to the court, there is sure to be a fine pother about the + matter, and you and all who were there will be examined touching your + share of the adventure, and how you came to be upon the spot. The others + will, of course, say that they were there under your direction; and we had + best think how much of your story you had better tell.” + </p> + <p> + “Why should I not tell it all?” Walter asked indignantly. + </p> + <p> + “You should never tell a lie, Walter; but in days like these it is safer + sometimes not to tell more than is necessary. It is a good rule in life, + my boy, to make no more enemies than may be needful. This knight, who is + doubtless a great villain, has maybe powerful friends, and it is as well, + if it can be avoided, that you should not embroil yourself with these. + Many a man has been knocked on head or stabbed on a dark night, because he + could not keep his tongue from wagging. 'Least said, the sooner mended,' + is a good proverb; but I will think it over tonight, and tell you in the + morning.” + </p> + <p> + When they met again in the workshop the armourer said: “Clean yourself up + after breakfast, Walter, and put on your best clothes. I will go with you + before the mayor, and then you shall tell him your story. There is sure to + be a stir about it before the day is done. As we walk thither we can + settle how much of your story it is good to tell.” + </p> + <p> + On their way over the bridge Geoffrey told Walter that he thought he had + better tell the whole story exactly as it had occurred, concealing only + the fact that he had recognized the knight's face. “You had best too,” he + said, “mention nought about the white cloak. If we can catch the man of + the hut in the swamp, likely enough the rack will wring from him the name + of his employer, and in that case, if you are brought up as a witness + against him you will of course say that you recognize his face; but 'tis + better that the accusation should not come from you. No great weight would + be given to the word of a 'prentice boy as against that of a noble. It is + as bad for earthen pots to knock against brass ones, as it is for a yeoman + in a leathern jerkin to stand up against a knight in full armour. + </p> + <p> + “But unless the lady knows her enemy she may fall again into his snares. + </p> + <p> + “I have thought of that,” Geoffrey said, “and we will take measures to + prevent it.” + </p> + <p> + “But how can we prevent it?” Walter asked, surprised. + </p> + <p> + “We must find out who this knight may be, which should, methinks, not be + difficult. Then we will send to him a message that his share in this + night's work is known to several, and that if any harm should ever again + be attempted against the lady or her daughter, he shall be denounced + before King Edward himself as the author of the wrong. I trust, however, + that we may capture the man of the swamp, and that the truth may be wrung + from him.” + </p> + <p> + By this time they had arrived at the Guildhall, and making their way into + the court, Geoffrey demanded private speech with the Lord Mayor. + </p> + <p> + “Can you not say in open court what is you business?” the Lord Mayor + asked. + </p> + <p> + “I fear that if I did it would defeat the ends of justice.” + </p> + <p> + Retiring with the chief magistrate into an inner room, Geoffrey desired + Walter to tell his story. This he did, ending by saying that he regretted + much that he had not at once told his master what he had heard; but that, + although he deemed evil was intended, he did not know that murder was + meant, and thought it but concerned the carrying off of some damsel, and + that this he had intended, by the aid of his comrades, to prevent. + </p> + <p> + “You have done well, Master Walter, since that be your name,” the + magistrate said. “That you might have done better is true, for had you + acted otherwise you might have prevented murder from being done. Still, + one cannot expect old heads upon young shoulders. Give me the names of + those who were with you, for I shall doubtless receive a message from + Westminster this morning to know if I have heard aught of the affair. In + the meantime we must take steps to secure these pirates of the marsh. The + ground is across the river, and lies out of my jurisdiction.” + </p> + <p> + “It is for that reason,” Geoffrey said, “that I wished that the story + should be told to you privately, since the men concerned might well have + sent a friend to the court to hear if aught was said which might endanger + them.” + </p> + <p> + “I will give you a letter to a magistrate of Surrey, and he will despatch + some constables under your guidance to catch these rascals. I fear there + have been many murders performed by them lately besides that in question, + and you will be doing a good service to the citizens by aiding in the + capture of these men. + </p> + <p> + “I will go willingly,” the smith assented. + </p> + <p> + The Lord Mayor said, after a moment's thought. “It will be quicker; I will + tell the justice that if he will come to the meeting of the roads on + Kennington Common, at seven this evening, you will be there with your + apprentice to act as a guide.” + </p> + <p> + “I will,” the armourer said, “and will bring with me two or three of my + men who are used to hard blows, for, to tell you the truth, I have no + great belief in the valour of constables, and we may meet with a stout + resistance.” + </p> + <p> + “So be it,” the Lord Mayor said; “and luck be with you, for these men are + the scourges of the river.” + </p> + <p> + That evening the armourer shut up his shop sooner than usual, and + accompanied by Walter and four of his workmen, and all carrying stout + oaken cudgels, with hand-axes in their girdles, started along the lonely + road to Kennington. Half an hour after their arrival the magistrate, with + ten men, rode up. He was well pleased at the sight of the reinforcement + which awaited him, for the river pirates might be expected to make a + desperate resistance. Geoffrey advised a halt for a time until it should + be well-nigh dark, as the marauders might have spies set to give notice + should strangers enter the marsh. + </p> + <p> + They started before it was quite dark, as Walter doubted whether he should + be able to lead them straight to the hut after the night had completely + fallen. He felt, however, tolerably sure of his locality, for he had + noticed that two trees grew on the edge of the swamp just at the spot + where he had left it. He had no difficulty in finding these, and at once + led the way. The horses of the magistrate and his followers were left in + charge of three of their number. + </p> + <p> + “You are sure you are going right?” the magistrate said to Walter. “The + marsh seems to stretch everywhere, and we might well fall into a quagmire, + which would swallow us all up. + </p> + <p> + “I am sure of my way,” Walter answered; “and see, yonder clump of bushes, + which you can just observe above the marsh, a quarter of a mile away, is + the spot where the house of their leader is situated.” + </p> + <p> + With strict injunctions that not a word was to be spoken until the bush + was surrounded, and that all were to step noiselessly and with caution, + the party moved forward. It was now nearly dark, and as they approached + the hut sounds of laughter and revelry were heard. + </p> + <p> + “They are celebrating their success in a carouse,” Geoffrey said. “We + shall catch them nicely in a trap.” + </p> + <p> + When they came close, a man who was sitting just at the low mouth of the + hut suddenly sprang to his feet and shouted, “Who goes there?” He had + apparently been placed as sentry, but had joined in the potations going on + inside, and had forgotten to look round from time to time to see that none + were approaching. + </p> + <p> + At his challenge the whole party rushed forward, and as they reached the + hut the men from within came scrambling out, sword in hand. For two or + three minutes there was a sharp fight, and had the constables been alone + they would have been defeated, for they were outnumbered and the pirates + were desperate. + </p> + <p> + The heavy clubs of the armourers decided the fight. One or two of the band + alone succeeded in breaking through, the rest were knocked down and bound; + not, however, until several severe wounds had been inflicted on their + assailants. + </p> + <p> + When the fray was over, it was found that nine prisoners had been + captured. Some of these were stunned by the blows which the smiths had + dealt them, and two or three were badly wounded; all were more or less + injured in the struggle. When they recovered their senses they were made + to get on their feet, and with their hands tied securely behind them were + marched between a double line of their captors off the marsh. + </p> + <p> + “Thanks for your services,” the justice said when they had gained the + place where they had left their horses. “Nine of my men shall tie each one + of these rascals to their stirrups by halters round their necks, and we + will give them a smart run into Richmond, where we will lodge them in the + jail. Tomorrow is Sunday; on Monday they will be brought before me, and I + shall want the evidence of Master Walter Fletcher and of those who were in + the boat with him as to what took place on the river. Methinks the + evidence on that score, and the resistance which they offered to us this + evening, will be sufficient to put a halter round their necks; but from + what I have heard by the letter which the Lord Mayor sent me, there are + others higher in rank concerned in the affair; doubtless we shall find + means to make these ruffians speak.” + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, at the justice's orders, halters were placed round the necks + of the prisoners, the other ends being attached to the saddles, and the + party set off at a pace which taxed to the utmost the strength of the + wounded men. Geoffrey and his party returned in high spirits to Southwark. + </p> + <p> + On the Monday Walter went over to Richmond, accompanied by the armourers + and by the lads who had been in the boat with him. The nine ruffians, + strongly guarded, were brought up in the justice room. Walter first gave + his evidence, and related how he had overheard a portion of the + conversation, which led him to believe that an attack would be made upon + the boat coming down the river. + </p> + <p> + “Can you identify either of the prisoners as being the man whom you saw at + the door of the hut?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” Walter said. “When I first saw him I was too far off to make out his + face. When he left the hut it was dark.” + </p> + <p> + “Should you know the other man, the one who was addressed as sir knight, + if you saw him again?” + </p> + <p> + “I should,” Walter replied. He then gave an account of the attack upon the + boat, but said that in the suddenness of the affair and the growing + darkness he noticed none of the figures distinctly enough to recognize + them again. Two or three of the other apprentices gave similar testimony + as to the attack. + </p> + <p> + A gentleman then presented himself, and gave his name as Sir William de + Hertford. He said that he had come at the request of the Lady Alice + Vernon, who was still suffering from the effects of the wound and + immersion. She had requested him to say that at some future occasion she + would appear to testify, but that in the confusion and suddenness of the + attack she had noticed no faces in the boat which assailed them, and could + identify none concerned in the affair. + </p> + <p> + The justice who had headed the attack on the hut then gave his evidence as + to that affair, the armourer also relating the incidents of the conflict. + </p> + <p> + “The prisoners will be committed for trial,” the justice said. “At present + there is no actual proof that any of them were concerned in this murderous + outrage beyond the fact that they were taken in the place where it was + planned. The suspicion is strong that some at least were engaged in it. + Upon the persons of all of them were valuable daggers, chains, and other + ornaments, which could not have been come by honestly, and I doubt not + that they form part of the gang which has so long been a terror to + peaceful travelers alike by the road and river, and it may be that some + who have been robbed will be able to identify the articles taken upon + them. They are committed for trial: firstly, as having been concerned in + the attack upon Dame Alice Vernon; secondly, as being notorious ill-livers + and robbers; thirdly, as having resisted lawful arrest by the king's + officers. The greatest criminal in the affair is not at present before me, + but it may be that from such information as Dame Vernon may be able to + furnish, and from such confessions as justice will be able to wring from + the prisoners, he will at the trial stand beside his fellows.” + </p> + <p> + Walter returned to town with his companions. On reaching the armourer's + they found a retainer of the Earl of Talbot awaiting them, with the + message that the Lady Alice Vernon wished the attendance of Walter + Fletcher, whose name she had learned from the Lord Mayor as that of the + lad to whom she and her daughter owed their lives, at noon on the + following day, at the residence of the Earl of Talbot. + </p> + <p> + “That is the worst of an adventure,” Walter said crossly, after the + retainer had departed. “One can't have a bit of excitement without being + sent for, and thanked, and stared at. I would rather fight the best + swordsman in the city than have to go down to the mansion of Earl Talbot + with my cap in my hand.” + </p> + <p> + Geoffrey laughed. “You must indeed have your cap in your hand, Walter; but + you need not bear yourself in that spirit. The 'prentice of a London + citizen may have just as much honest pride and independence as the + proudest earl at Westminster; but carry not independence too far. Remember + that if you yourself had received a great service you would be hurt if the + donor refused to receive your thanks; and it would be churlish indeed were + you to put on sullen looks, or to refuse to accept any present which the + lady whose life you have saved may make you. It is strange, indeed, that + it should be Dame Vernon, whose husband, Sir Jasper Vernon, received the + fiefs of Westerham and Hyde.” + </p> + <p> + “Why should it be curious that it is she?” Walter asked. + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” Geoffrey said, rather confusedly. “I was not thinking—that is—I + mean that it is curious because Bertha Fletcher was for years a dependant + on the family of Sir Roland Somers, who was killed in the troubles when + the king took the reins of government in his hands, and his lands, being + forfeit, were given to Sir Jasper Vernon, who aided the king in that + affair.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish you would tell me about that,” Walter said. “How was it that there + was any trouble as to King Edward having kingly authority?” + </p> + <p> + “It happened in this way,” Geoffrey said. “King Edward II, his father, was + a weak prince, governed wholly by favourites, and unable to hold in check + the turbulent barons. His queen, Isabella of France, sister of the French + king, a haughty and ambitious woman, determined to snatch the reins of + power from the indolent hands of her husband, and after a visit to her + brother she returned with an army from Hainault in order to dethrone him. + She was accompanied by her eldest son, and after a short struggle the king + was dethroned. He had but few friends, and men thought that under the + young Edward, who had already given promise of virtue and wisdom, some + order might be introduced into the realm. He was crowned Edward III, thus, + at the early age of fifteen, usurping the throne of his father. The real + power, however, remained with Isabella, who was president of the council + of regency, and who, in her turn, was governed by her favourite Mortimer. + England soon found that the change which had been made was far from + beneficial. The government was by turns weak and oppressive. The + employment of foreign troops was regarded with the greatest hostility by + the people, and the insolence of Mortimer alienated the great barons. + Finally, the murder of the dethroned king excited throughout the kingdom a + feeling of horror and loathing against the queen. + </p> + <p> + “All this feeling, however, was confined to her, Edward, who was but a + puppet in her hands, being regarded with affection and pity. Soon after + his succession the young king was married to our queen, Philippa of + Hainault, who is as good as she is beautiful, and who is loved from one + end of the kingdom to the other. I can tell you, the city was a sight to + see when she entered with the king. Such pageants and rejoicing were never + known. They were so young, he not yet sixteen, and she but fourteen, and + yet to bear on their shoulders the weight of the state. A braver looking + lad and a fairer girl mine eyes never looked on. It was soon after this + that the events arose which led to the war with France, but this is too + long a tale for me to tell you now. The Prince of Wales was born on the + 15th of June, 1330, two years after the royal marriage. + </p> + <p> + “So far the king had acquiesced quietly in the authority of his mother, + but he now paid a visit to France, and doubtless the barons around him + there took advantage of his absence from her tutelage to shake her + influence over his mind; and at the same time a rising took place at home + against her authority. This was suppressed, and the Earl of Kent, the + king's uncle, was arrested and executed by Isabella. This act of severity + against his uncle, no doubt, hastened the prince's determination to shake + off the authority of his haughty mother and to assume the reins of + government himself. The matter, however, was not easy to accomplish. + Mortimer having the whole of the royal revenue at his disposal, had + attached to himself by ties of interest a large number of barons, and had + in his pay nearly two hundred knights and a large body of men-at-arms. + Thus it was no easy matter to arrest him. It was determined that the deed + should be done at the meeting of the parliament at Nottingham. Here + Mortimer appeared with Isabella in royal pomp. They took their abode at + the castle, while the king and other members of the royal family were + obliged to content themselves with an inferior place of residence. + </p> + <p> + “The gates of the castle were locked at sunset, and the keys brought by + the constable, Sir William Eland, and handed to the queen herself. This + knight was a loyal and gallant gentleman, and regarded Mortimer with no + affection, and when he received the king's commands to assist the barons + charged to arrest him he at once agreed to do so. He was aware of the + existence of a subterranean communication leading from the interior of the + castle to the outer country, and by this, on the night of the 19th of + October, 1330, he led nine resolute knights—the Lords Montague, + Suffolk, Stafford, Molins, and Clinton, with three brothers of the name of + Bohun, and Sir John Nevil—into the heart of the castle. Mortimer was + found surrounded by a number of his friends. On the sudden entry of the + knights known to be hostile to Mortimer his friends drew their swords, and + a short but desperate fight took place. Many were wounded, and Sir Hugh + Turpleton and Richard Monmouth were slain. Mortimer was carried to London, + and was tried and condemned by parliament, and executed for felony and + treason. Several of his followers were executed, and others were attacked + in their strongholds and killed; among these was Sir Roland Somers. + </p> + <p> + “Queen Isabella was confined in Castle Risings where she still remains a + prisoner. Such, Walter, were the troubles which occurred when King Edward + first took up the reins of power in this realm; and now, let's to supper, + for I can tell you that my walk to Kingston has given me a marvellous + appetite. We have three or four hours' work yet before we go to bed, for + that Milan harness was promised for the morrow, and the repairs are too + delicate for me to entrust it to the men. It is good to assist the law, + but this work of attending as a witness makes a grievous break in the time + of a busy man. It is a pity, Walter, that your mind is so set on + soldiering, for you would have made a marvellous good craftsman. However, + I reckon that after you have seen a few years of fighting in France, and + have got some of your wild blood let out, you will be glad enough to + settle down here with me; as you know, our profits are good, and work + plentiful; and did I choose I might hold mine head higher than I do among + the citizens; and you, if you join me, may well aspire to a place in the + common council, aye, and even to an alderman's gown, in which case I may + yet be addressing you the very worshipful my Lord Mayor.” + </p> + <p> + “Pooh!” Walter laughed; “a fig for your lord Mayors! I would a thousand + times rather be a simple squire in the following of our young prince.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV: A KNIGHT'S CHAIN + </h2> + <p> + The following morning Walter put on the sober russet dress which he wore + on Sundays and holidays, for gay colours were not allowed to the + apprentices, and set out for Westminster. Although he endeavoured to + assume an air of carelessness and ease as he approached the dwelling of + Earl Talbot, he was very far from feeling comfortable, and wished in his + heart that his master had accompanied him on his errand. Half a dozen + men-at-arms were standing on the steps of the mansion, who looked with + haughty surprise at the young apprentice. + </p> + <p> + “Dame Alice Vernon has sent to express her desire to have speech with me,” + he said quietly, “and I would fain know if she can receive me.” + </p> + <p> + “Here, Dikon,” one of the men cried to another within the hall. “This is + the lad you were sent to fetch yesterday. I wondered much who the city + apprentice was, who with such an assured air, marched up to the door; but + if what thou sayest be true, that he saved the life of Dame Vernon and her + little daughter, he must be a brave lad, and would be more in place among + men and soldiers than in serving wares behind the counter of a fat city + tradesman. + </p> + <p> + “I serve behind no counter,” Walter said indignantly. “I am an armourer, + and mayhap can use arms as well as make them.” + </p> + <p> + There was a laugh among the men at the boy's sturdy self-assertion, and + then the man named Dikon said: “Come along, lad. I will take you to Dame + Vernon at once. She is expecting you; and, my faith, it would not be safe + to leave you standing here long, for I see you would shortly be engaged in + splitting the weasands of my comrades.” + </p> + <p> + There was another roar of laughter from the men, and Walter, somewhat + abashed, followed his conductor into the house. Leading him through the + hall and along several corridors, whose spaciousness and splendour quite + overpowered the young apprentice, he handed him over to a waiting woman, + who ushered him into an apartment where Dame Vernon was reclining on a + couch. Her little daughter was sitting upon a low stool beside her, and + upon seeing Walter she leapt to her feet, clapping her hands. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! mother, this is the boy that rescued us out of the river.” + </p> + <p> + The lady looked with some surprise at the lad. She had but a faint + remembrance of the events which occurred between the time when she + received a blow from the sword of one of her assailants and that when she + found herself on a couch in the abode of her kinsman; and when she had + been told that she had been saved by a city apprentice she had pictured to + herself a lad of a very different kind to him who now stood before her. + </p> + <p> + Walter was now nearly sixteen years old. His frame was very powerful and + firmly knit. His dark brown hair was cut short, but, being somewhat longer + than was ordinary with the apprentices, fell with a slight wave back on + his forehead. His bearing was respectful, and at the same time + independent. There was none of that confusion which might be expected on + the part of a lad from the city in the presence of a lady of rank. His + dark, heavy eyebrows, resolute mouth, and square chin gave an expression + of sternness to his face, which was belied by the merry expression of his + eyes and the bright smile when he was spoken to. + </p> + <p> + “I have to thank you, young sir,” she said, holding out her hand, which + Walter, after the custom of the time, raised to his lips, bending upon one + knee as he did so, “for the lives of myself and my daughter, which would + surely have been lost had you not jumped over to save us. + </p> + <p> + “I am glad that I arrived in time to be of aid,” Walter said frankly; “but + indeed I am rather to be blamed than praised, for had I, when I heard the + plotting against the safety of the boat, told my master of it, as I should + have done, instead of taking the adventure upon mine own shoulders, + doubtless a boat would have been sent up in time to prevent the attack + from taking place. Therefore, instead of being praised for having arrived + a little too late, I should be rated for not having come there in time.” + </p> + <p> + Dame Vernon smiled. + </p> + <p> + “Although you may continue to insist that you are to blame, this does not + alter the fact that you have saved our lives. Is there any way in which I + can be useful to you? Are you discontent with your state? For, in truth, + you look as if Nature had intended you for a gallant soldier rather than a + city craftsman. Earl Talbot, who is my uncle, would, I am sure, receive + you into his following should you so choose it, and I would gladly pay for + the cancelling of your indentures.” + </p> + <p> + “I thank you, indeed, lady, for your kind offices,” Walter said earnestly; + “for the present I am well content to remain at my craft, which is that of + an armourer, until, at any rate, I have gained such manly strength and + vigour as would fit me for a man-at-arms, and my good master, Geoffrey + Ward, will, without payment received, let me go when I ask that grace of + him.” + </p> + <p> + “Edith, go and look from the window at the boats passing along the river; + and now,” she went on, as the girl had obeyed her orders, “I would fain + ask you more about the interview you overhead in the marshes. Sir William + de Hertford told me of the evidence that you had given before the justice. + It is passing strange that he who incited the other to the deed should + have been by him termed 'Sir Knight'. Maybe it was merely a nickname among + his fellows.” + </p> + <p> + “Before I speak, lady,” Walter said quietly, “I would fain know whether + you wish to be assured of the truth. Sometimes, they say, it is wiser to + remain in ignorance; at other times forewarned is forearmed. Frankly, I + did not tell all I know before the court, deeming that peradventure you + might wish to see me, and that I could then tell the whole to your private + ear, should you wish to know it, and you could then bid me either keep + silence or proclaim all I knew when the trial of these evil-doers comes + on.” + </p> + <p> + “You seem to me to be wise beyond your years, young sir,” the lady said. + </p> + <p> + “The wisdom is not mine, lady, but my master's. I took counsel with him, + and acted as he advised me. + </p> + <p> + “I would fain know all,” the lady said. “I have already strange suspicions + of one from whom assuredly I looked not for such evil designs. It will + grieve me to be convinced that the suspicions are well founded; but it + will be better to know the truth than to remain in a state of doubt.” + </p> + <p> + “The person then was a knight, for I had seen him before when he came in + knightly harness into my master's shop to have two rivets put into his + hauberk. I liked not his face then, and should have remembered it + anywhere. I knew him at once when I saw him. He was a dark faced knight, + handsome, and yet with features which reminded me of a hawk.” + </p> + <p> + Dame Vernon gave a little exclamation, which assured the lad that she + recognized the description. + </p> + <p> + “You may partly know, lady, whether it is he whom you suppose, for he said + that he would detain your boat so that it should not come along until + dark, and, moreover, he told them that they would know the boat since you + would be wrapt in a white mantle.” + </p> + <p> + The lady sat for some time with her face hidden in her hands. + </p> + <p> + “It is as I feared,” she said at last, “and it grieves me to the heart to + think that one who, although not so nearly related in blood, I regarded as + a brother, should have betrayed me to death. My mind is troubled indeed, + and I know not what course I shall take, whether to reveal this dreadful + secret or to conceal it.” + </p> + <p> + “I may say, madam,” Walter said earnestly, “that should you wish the + matter to remain a secret, you may rely upon it that I will tell no more + at the trial than I revealed yesterday; but I would remind you that there + is a danger that the leader of yon ruffians, who is probably alone + acquainted with the name of his employer, may, under the influence of the + torture, reveal it.” + </p> + <p> + “That fear is for the present past, since a messenger arrived from + Kingston but a few minutes since, saying that yester-even, under the + threat of torture, the prisoners had pointed out the one among their + number who was their chief. This morning, however, it was found that the + warder who had charge of them had been bribed; he was missing from his + post, and the door of the cell wherein the principal villain had been + immured, apart from the others, was opened, and he had escaped.” + </p> + <p> + “Then,” Walter said, “it is now open to you to speak or be silent as you + will. You will pardon my forwardness if I say that my master, in talking + the matter over with me, suggested that this evil knight might be scared + from attempting any future enterprise against you were he informed that it + was known to several persons that he was the author of this outrage, and + that if any further attempts were at any time made against you, the proofs + of his crime would be laid before the king.” + </p> + <p> + “Thanks, good lad,” the lady said, “for your suggestion. Should I decide + to keep the matter secret, I will myself send him a message to that + effect, in such guise that he would not know whence it comes. And now, I + would fain reward you for what you have done for us; and,” she went on, + seeing a flush suddenly mount upon the lad's face, as he made a half step + backwards, “before I saw you, had thought of offering you a purse of gold, + which, although it would but poorly reward your services, would yet have + proved useful to you when the time came for you to start as a craftsman on + your own account; but now that I have seen you, I feel that although there + are few who think themselves demeaned by accepting gifts of money in + reward for services, you would rather my gratitude took some other form. + It can only do that of offering you such good services that I can render + with Earl Talbot, should you ever choose the profession of arms; and in + the meantime, as a memento of the lives you have saved, you will, I am + sure, not refuse this chain,” and she took a very handsome one of gold + from her neck; “the more so since it was the gift of her majesty, our + gracious queen to myself. She will, I am sure, acquit me of parting with + her gift when I tell her that I transferred it to one who had saved the + lives of myself and my daughter, and who was too proud to accept other + acknowledgment.” + </p> + <p> + Colouring deeply, and with tears in his eyes at the kindness and + thoughtful consideration of the lady, Walter knelt on one knee before her, + and she placed round his neck the long gold chain which she had been + wearing. + </p> + <p> + “It is a knight's chain,” the lady said, smiling, “and was part of the + spoil gained by King Edward from the French. Maybe,” she added kindly, “it + will be worn by a knight again. Stranger things have happened, you know.” + </p> + <p> + Walter flushed again with pleasure. + </p> + <p> + “Maybe, lady,” he said modestly, “even apprentices have their dreams, and + men-at-arms may always hope, by deeds of valour, to attain a knight's + spurs even though they may not be of noble blood or have served as page + and squire to a baron; but whether as a 'prentice or soldier, I hope I + shall never do discredit to your gift.” + </p> + <p> + “Edith, come here,” Dame Vernon said, “I have done talking now. And what + are you going to give this brave knight of ours who saved us from + drowning.” + </p> + <p> + The girl looked thoughtfully at Walter. “I don't think you would care for + presents,” she said; “and you look as if a sword or a horse would suit you + better than a girl's gift. And yet I should like to give you something, + such as ladies give their knights who have done brave deeds for them. It + must be something quite my own, and you must take it as a keepsake. What + shall it be, mamma?” + </p> + <p> + “Give him the bracelet which your cousin gave you last week,” her mother + said; “I would rather that you did not keep it, and I know you are not + very fond of him.” + </p> + <p> + “I can't bear him,” the girl said earnestly, “and I wish he would not kiss + me; he always looks as if he were going to bite, and I will gladly give + his bracelet to this brave boy.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well, Edith, fetch the bracelet from that coffer in the corner.” + </p> + <p> + The girl went to the coffer and brought out the little bracelet, then she + approached Walter. + </p> + <p> + “You must go down on your knee,” she said; “true knights always do that to + receive their lady's gifts. Now hold out your hand. There,” she went on in + a pretty imperious way, “take this gage as a reward of your valour, and + act ever as a true knight in the service of your lady.” + </p> + <p> + Bending down she dropt a kiss upon Walter's glowing cheek, and then, half + frightened at her own temerity, ran back to her mother's side. + </p> + <p> + “And now,” Dame Vernon went on, “will you thank your five comrades for + their service in the matter, and give them each two gold pieces to spend + as they will.” + </p> + <p> + “He is a noble lad,” Dame Vernon had said to herself when Walter had taken + his leave. “Would he had been the son of one of the nobles of the court! + It might have been then, if he distinguished himself in war, as he would + surely do, that the king might have assigned Edith to him. As her lord and + guardian he is certain to give her hand as a reward for valour in the + field, and it may well be to a man with whom she would be less happy than + with this 'prentice lad; but there, I need not be troubling myself about a + matter which is five or six years distant yet. Still the thought that + Edith is a ward of the crown, and that her hand must go where the king + wills, often troubles me. However, I have a good friend in the queen, who + will, I know, exert what influence she has in getting me a good husband + for my child. But even for myself I have some fears, since the king + hinted, when last he saw me, that it was time I looked out for another + mate, for that the vassal of Westerham and Hyde needed a lord to lead them + in the field. However, I hope that my answer that they were always at his + service under the leading of my cousin James will suffice for him. Now, + what am I to do in that matter? Who would have thought that he so coveted + my lands that he would have slain me and Edith to possess himself of them? + His own lands a thrice as broad as mine, though men say that he has dipped + deeply into them and owes much money to the Jews. He is powerful and has + many friends, and although Earl Talbot would stand by me, yet the + unsupported word of an apprentice boy were but poor evidence on which to + charge a powerful baron of such a crime as this. It were best, methinks, + to say nought about it, but to bury the thought in my own heart. + Nevertheless, I will not fail to take the precaution which the lad + advised, and to let Sir James know that there are some who have knowledge + of his handiwork. I hear he crosses the seas tomorrow to join the army, + and it may be long ere he return. I shall have plenty of time to consider + how I had best shape my conduct towards him on his return; but assuredly + he shall never be friendly with me again, or frighten Edith with his + kisses.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Walter, has it been such a dreadful business as you expected?” the + armourer asked the lad when he re-entered the shop. “The great folks have + not eaten you at any rate.” + </p> + <p> + “It has not been dreadful,” Walter replied with a smile, “though I own + that it was not pleasant when I first arrived at the great mansion; but + the lady put me quite at my ease, and she talked to me for some time, and + finally she bestowed on me this chain, which our lady, the queen, had + herself given her.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a knight's chain and a heavy one,” Geoffrey said, examining it, “of + Genoese work, I reckon, and worth a large sum. It will buy you harness + when you go to the wars.” + </p> + <p> + “I would rather fight in the thickest melee in a cloth doublet,” Walter + said indignantly, “than part with a single link of it.” + </p> + <p> + “I did but jest, Walter,” Geoffrey said laughing; “but as you will not + sell it, and you cannot wear it, you had best give it me to put aside in + my strong coffer until you get of knightly rank.” + </p> + <p> + “Lady Vernon said,” the lad replied, “that she hoped one day it might + again belong to a knight; and if I live,” he added firmly, “it shall.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! she has been putting these ideas into your head; nice notions truly + for a London apprentice! I shall be laying a complaint before the lord + mayor against Dame Vernon, for unsettling the mind of my apprentice, and + setting him above his work. And the little lady, what said she? Did she + give you her colours and bid you wear them at a tourney?” + </p> + <p> + Walter coloured hotly. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! I have touched you,” laughed the armourer; “come now, out with the + truth. My lad,” he added more gravely, “there is no shame in it; you know + that I have always encouraged your wishes to be a soldier, and have done + my best to render you as good a one as any who draws sword 'neath the + king's banner, and assuredly I would not have taken all these pains with + you did I think that you were always to wear an iron cap and trail a pike. + I too, lad, hope some day to see you a valiant knight, and have reasons + that you wot not of, for my belief that it will be so. No man rises to + rank and fame any the less quickly because he thinks that bright eyes will + grow brighter at his success.” + </p> + <p> + “But, Geoffrey, you are talking surely at random. The Lady Edith Vernon is + but a child; a very beautiful child,” he added reverently, “and such that + when she grows up, the bravest knight in England might be proud to win. + What folly for me, the son of a city bowyer, and as yet but an apprentice, + to raise mine eyes so high!” + </p> + <p> + “The higher one looks the higher one goes,” the armourer said + sententiously. “You aspire some day to become a knight, you may well + aspire also to win the hand of Mistress Edith Vernon. She is five years + younger than yourself, and you will be twenty-two when she is seventeen. + You have time to make your way yet, and I tell you, though why it matters + not, that I would rather you set your heart on winning Mistress Edith + Vernon than any other heiress of broad lands in merry England. You have + saved her life, and so have made the first step and a long one. Be ever + brave, gentle, and honourable, and, I tell you, you need not despair; and + now, lad, we have already lost too much time in talking; let us to our + work.” + </p> + <p> + That evening Walter recalled to Geoffrey his promise to tell him the + causes which had involved England in so long and bloody a war with France. + </p> + <p> + “It is a tangled skein,” Geoffrey said, “and you must follow me carefully. + First, with a piece of chalk I will draw upon the wall the pedigree of the + royal line of France from Phillip downwards, and then you will see how it + is that our King Edward and Phillip of Valois came to be rival claimants + to the throne of France. + </p> + <p> + “Now, you see that our King Edward is nephew of Charles le Bel, the last + King of France, while Phillip of Valois is only nephew of Phillip le Bel, + the father of Charles. Edward is consequently in the direct line, and had + Isabella been a man instead of a woman his right to the throne would be + unquestionable. In France, however, there is a law called the 'Salic' law, + which excludes females from the throne; but it is maintained by many + learned in the law, that although a female is held to be incompetent to + reign because from her sex she cannot lead her armies to battle, yet she + no ways forfeits otherwise her rights, and that her son is therefore the + heir to the throne. If this contention, which is held by all English + jurists, and by many in France also, be well founded, Edward is the + rightful King of France. Phillip of Valois contends that the 'Salic law' + not only bars a female from ascending the throne, but also destroys all + her rights, and that the succession goes not to her sons but to the next + heir male; in which case, of course, Phillip is rightful king. It is not + for me to say which view is the right one, but certainly the great + majority of those who have been consulted have decided that, according to + ancient law and usage, the right lies with Edward. But in these matters + 'right is not always might.' Had Isabella married a French noble instead + of an English king it is probable that her son's claim to the throne would + have been allowed without dispute, but her son is King of England, and the + French nobles prefer being ruled by one of themselves to becoming united + with England under one king. + </p> + <p> + “At the time of the death of the last king, Edward was still but a boy + under the tuition of his mother, Phillip was a man, and upon the spot, + therefore he was able to win support by presence and promises, and so it + came that the peers of France declared Phillip of Valois to be their + rightful monarch. Here in England, at parliament held at Northampton, the + rights of Edward were discussed and asserted, and the Bishops of Worcester + and Coventry were despatched to Paris to protest against the validity of + Phillip's nomination. As, however, the country was not in a position to + enforce the claim of their young king by arms, Phillip became firmly + seated as King of France, and having shown great energy in at once + marching against and repressing the people of Flanders, who were in a + state of rebellion against their count, one of the feudatories of the + French crown, the nobles were well satisfied with their choice, and no + question as to his right was ever henceforth raised in France. As soon as + the rebellion in Flanders was crushed, Phillip summoned the King of + England to do homage for Aquitaine, Ponthieu and Montreuil, fiefs held + absolutely from the crown of France. Such a proceeding placed Edward and + his council in a great embarrassment. In case of a refusal the whole of + the possessions of the crown in France might be declared forfeited and be + seized, while England was in no condition to defend them; on the other + hand, the fact of doing homage to Phillip of Valois would be a sort of + recognition of his right to the throne he had assumed. Had Edward then + held the reins of power in his hands, there can be little doubt that he + would at once have refused, and would have called out the whole strength + of England to enforce his claim. The influence of Isabella and Mortimer + was, however, all powerful, and it was agreed that Edward should do homage + as a public act, making a private reservation in secret to his own + councillors, taking exception to the right of Phillip. + </p> + <p> + “Edward crossed to France and journeyed to Amiens, where Phillip with a + brilliant court awaited him, and on the appointed day they appeared + together in the cathedral. Here Edward, under certain protestations, did + homage for his French estates, leaving certain terms and questions open + for the consideration of his council. For some time the matter remained in + this shape; but honest men cannot but admit that King Edward did, by his + action at the time, acknowledge Phillip to be King of France, and that he + became his vassal for his estates there; but, as has happened scores of + times before, and will no doubt happen scores of times again, vassals, + when they become powerful enough, throw off their allegiance to their + feudal superiors, and so the time came to King Edward. + </p> + <p> + “After the death of Mortimer and the imprisonment of Isabella, the king + gave rein to his taste for military sports. Tournaments were held at + Dartford and other places, one in Westcheape. What a sight was that, to be + sure! For three days the king, with fourteen of his knights, held the list + against all comers, and in the sight of the citizens and the ladies of the + court, jousted with knights who came hither from all parts of Europe. I + was there each day and the sight was a grand one, though England was + well-nigh thrown into mourning by an accident which took place. The + gallery in which the queen and her attendants were viewing the sports had + been badly erected, and in the height of the contests it gave way. The + queen and her ladies were in great peril, being thrown from a considerable + height, and a number of persons were severely injured. The king, who was + furious at the danger to which the queen had been exposed, would have hung + upon the spot the master workman whose negligence had caused the accident, + but the queen went on her knees before him and begged his life of the + king. The love of Edward for warlike exercises caused England to be + regarded as the most chivalrous court in Europe, and the frequent + tournaments aroused to the utmost the spirits of the people and prepared + them for the war with France. But of the events of that war I will tell + you some other night. It is time now for us to betake us to our beds.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V: THE CITY GAMES + </h2> + <p> + The next evening the armourer, at Walter's request, continued his + narrative. + </p> + <p> + “Soon after the tournament we began to fight again with Scotland. For some + years we had had peace with that country, and under the regency a marriage + was made between David, King of Scotland, son of Robert the Bruce, and the + Princess Joan, sister to our king, and a four years' truce was agreed to.” + </p> + <p> + “But why should we always be fighting with Scotland?” Walter asked. + </p> + <p> + “That is more than I can tell you, Walter. We were peaceful enough with + them until the days of Edward I; but he set up some claim to the throne of + Scotland, the rights of which neither I nor anyone else, so far as I know, + have ever been able to make out. The fact was he was strong, and thought + that he could conquer Scotland. The quarrels between her nobles—most + of them were allied by blood with our own and held possessions in both + kingdoms—gave Edward an excuse to interfere. Scotland was conquered + easily enough, but it was a hard task to hold it. Sir William Wallace kept + the country in a turmoil for many years, being joined by all the common + people. He inflicted one heavy defeat upon us at Stirling, but receiving + no support from the nobles he was defeated at Falkirk, and some years + afterwards was captured and executed here. His head you may see any day + over London Bridge. As he fought only for his country and had ever refused + allegiance to our king, it seems to me that his fate was a cruel one. Then + when all appeared quiet, Robert Bruce raised Scotland again, and was + crowned king. There was war for many years, but at last, at Bannockburn he + inflicted such a defeat upon us as we have never had before. After that + there were skirmishes and excursions, but Edward II was a weak prince, and + it seemed that the marriage of David and the Princess Joan would bring + about a permanent peace between the two countries; but it was not to be + so.” + </p> + <p> + “Many of the English nobles held claims by marriage or grants upon lands + in Scotland. They had, of course, been driven from these when the English + were turned out by Bruce. By the terms of the marriage treaty in 1328 it + was agreed that they should be reinstated. It was a foolish clause, + because it was plain that the King of Scotland could not take these lands + again from the Scotch nobles who had possession of them, many of them + being well-nigh as powerful as himself. At this time Edward Baliol, son of + the great rival of Robert Bruce, was in England. He still claimed the + throne of Scotland as his right. Round him gathered a number of the + English nobles who claimed lands in Scotland. The king offered no + hindrance to the gathering of this force, for I doubt not that he was glad + to see dissension in Scotland, which might give him some such pretext for + interference as that which Edward I had seized to possess himself of that + country. At first Baliol was successful, and was crowned at Scone, but he + was presently defeated and driven out of Scotland. The Scots now made an + eruption across the frontier as a retaliation for Edward's having + permitted Baliol to gather a force here for his war against Bruce. King + Edward was on the point of starting for Ireland, and he at once hastened + north. He defeated the Scots at Halidon Hill, captured Berwick, and placed + Baliol upon the throne. Bruce fled to France, where he was supported and + encouraged by the French king.” + </p> + <p> + “The ill feeling between Edward and Phillip of Valois had gone on + increasing ever since the former had been compelled to take the oath of + allegiance to the latter, but outwardly the guise of friendship was kept + up, and negotiations went on between the two courts for a marriage between + the little Prince of Wales and Joanna, daughter of the French king.” + </p> + <p> + “The aid which Phillip gave to Bruce increased the bad feeling, and Edward + retaliated for Phillip's patronage of Bruce by receiving with the greatest + honour and courtesy Robert of Artois, a great feudatory of France, who had + been banished by King Phillip. For a time, although both countries were + preparing for war, peace was not broken, as Edward's hands were full in + Scotland, where Baliol having bestowed immense possessions upon the + English nobles who had assisted him, the country again rose in favour of + Bruce. During the three years that followed King Edward was obliged + several times to go to Scotland to support Baliol, who held the crown as + his feudal vassal. He was always successful in the field, but directly his + army recrossed the frontier the Scotch rose again. In 1330 a new crusade + was preached, and in October of that year King Phillip solemnly received + the cross and collected an immense army nominally for the recovery of + Jerusalem. Whether his intentions were honest or not I cannot say, but + certainly King Edward considered that Phillip's real aim in creating so + great an army was to attack England. Whether this was so or not would need + a wiser head than mine, Walter, to tell. Certainly Phillip of Valois + invited Edward to cooperate with him in the crusade. The king in reply + stated his belief that the preparations were intended for war in Europe + rather than in Asia; but that if the King of France would agree to + conclude a firm league of amity between the two countries, to restore the + castles and towns of Aquitaine, whose surrender had been frequently + promised but never carried out, and would bind himself by oath to give no + assistance, direct or indirect, to Scotland, he would join him in his war + for the delivery of the Holy Land.” + </p> + <p> + “I must say that King Edward's demands were reasonable, for it was clear + that he could not march away from England with his whole force and leave + Baliol unsupported against the assaults of his Scotch enemies, aided by + France. Phillip was willing to accede to the first two conditions; but in + regard to the third positively declined treating until David Bruce should + be restored to the throne of his father. Now, had the French king openly + supported Bruce from the first, none could have said that his conduct in + befriending a dethroned monarch was aught but noble and generous; but he + had all along answered Edward's complaints of the aid afforded by + Frenchmen to the Bruce by denials that he himself supported him; and this + declaration in his favour now certainly seemed to show that he had at last + determined openly to throw off the veil, and that his great army was + really collected against England. Robert of Artois craftily seized a + moment when the king's indignation against Phillip was at the highest. At + a great banquet held by King Edward, at which all his warlike nobles were + present, Robert entered, preceded by two noble maidens carrying a heron, + which, as you know, Walter, is considered the most cowardly of birds. Then + in loud tones he called upon the knights present each to swear on the bird + to perform some deed of chivalrous daring. First he presented it to King + Edward himself, giving him to understand that he regarded him but as + little braver than the heron for resigning without a blow the fair + heritage of France.” + </p> + <p> + “The moment was well chosen, for Edward was smarting under the answer he + had just received from Phillip. He at once rose and took an oath to enter + France in arms; to wait there a month in order to give Phillip time to + offer him battle, and to accept the combat, even should the French + outnumber him ten to one. Every knight present followed the example of the + king, and so the war with France, which had been for years a mere question + of time, was at last suddenly decided upon. You yourself, Walter, can + remember the preparations which were made throughout England: men were + enrolled and arms prepared. We armourers were busy night and day, and + every man felt that his own honour, as well as that of the country, was + concerned in winning for King Edward the heritage of which he had been + unlawfully robbed by the King of France.” + </p> + <p> + “On the 17th of March, 1337, at the parliament at Westminster, the king + created the little prince, then seven years of age, Duke of Cornwall; and + the prince immediately, in exercise of his new dignity, bestowed upon + twenty of the most distinguished aspirants the honour of knighthood. + Immense supplies were voted by the parliaments held at Nottingham, + Westminster, and Northamton. Half the wool shorn in the summer following + was granted to the king, with a variety of other taxes, customs, and + duties. The revenues of all the foreign priories in England, a hundred and + ten in number, were appropriated to the crown. Provisions of bacon, wheat, + and oats were granted, and the king pawned his own jewels, and even the + crown itself, to hire soldiers, and purchase him allies on the Continent. + So great did the scarcity of money become in the country that all goods + fell to less than half their value. Thus a vast army was raised, and with + this King Edward prepared to try his strength with France.” + </p> + <p> + “Phillip on his part was making great preparations. While Edward had + purchased the assistance of many of the German nobles Phillip raised large + armaments in the maritime states of Italy. Spain also contributed a number + of naval adventurers, and squadrons were fitted out by his vassals on the + sea coasts of Normandy, Brittany, and Picardy. King Edward had crossed + over into Belgium, and after vast delays in consequence of the slowness of + the German allies, at last prepared to enter France at the end of + September, 1339. Such, my lad, is the story, as far as I know, of the + beginning of that war with France which is now raging, and whose events + you know as well as I do, seeing that they are all of late occurrence. So + far, although the English have had the best of it, and have sorely mauled + the French both in the north and south, we have not gained any such + advantages as would lead to a belief that there is any likelihood of an + early termination, or that King Edward will succeed for a long time in + winning back his inheritance of the throne of France.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no doubt that the war weighs heavily upon the people at large. + The taxes are doubled, and the drain of men is heavy. We armourers, of + course, have a busy time of it, and all trades which have to do with the + furnishing of an army flourish exceedingly. Moreover, men of mettle and + valour have an opportunity of showing what they are composed of, and + England rings with the tales of martial deeds. There are some, Walter, who + think that peace is the greatest of blessings, and in some ways, lad, they + are no doubt right; but there are many compensations in war. It brings out + the noble qualities; it raises men to think that valour and fortitude and + endurance and honour are qualities which are something above the mere + huckstering desire for getting money, and for ignoble ease and comfort. + Some day it may be that the world will change, and that war may become a + thing of the past; but to my mind, boy, I doubt whether men will be any + happier or better for it. The priests, no doubt, would tell you otherwise; + but then you see I am an armourer, and so perhaps am hardly a fair judge + on the matter, seeing that without wars my craft would come to an end.” + </p> + <p> + Walter remained in thought for some time. “It seems to me, Master + Geoffrey, that while wars may suit strong and courageous men, women would + rejoice were such things to be at an end.” + </p> + <p> + “Women suffer most from wars, no doubt,” Geoffrey said, “and yet do you + mark that they are more stirred by deeds of valour and chivalry than are + we men; that they are ever ready to bestow their love upon those who have + won honour and glory in war, even although the next battle may leave them + widows. This has been always somewhat of a marvel to me; but I suppose + that it is human nature, and that admiration for deeds of valour and + bravery is ingrained in the heart of man, and will continue until such + times come that the desire for wealth, which is ever on the increase, has + so seized all men that they will look with distaste upon everything which + can interfere with the making of money, and will regard the man who + amasses gold by trading as a higher type than he who does valiant deeds in + battle.” + </p> + <p> + “Surely that can never be,” Walter said indignantly. + </p> + <p> + “There is no saying,” the armourer answered; “at any rate, Walter, it will + matter little to you or to me, for many generations must pass before such + a state of things can come about.” + </p> + <p> + Two days later Walter, who had been across into the city, returned in a + state of excitement. + </p> + <p> + “What do you think, Geoffrey? The king, with the Prince of Wales and all + his court, are coming to the games next month. They say that the king + himself will adjudge the prizes; and there is to be a grand + assault-at-arms between ten of the 'prentices with a captain, and an equal + number of sons of nobles and knights.” + </p> + <p> + “That will be rare,” Geoffrey Ward exclaimed; “but there will be some + broken limbs, and maybe worse. These assaults-at-arms seldom end without + two or three being killed. However, you youngsters will not hit as hard as + trained knights; and if the armour be good, no great damage should be + done.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think that I shall be one of the ten?” Walter asked anxiously. + </p> + <p> + “Just as if you did not know you would,” Geoffrey replied, laughing. “Did + you not win the prize for swordplay last year? And twelve months have + added much to the strength of your arm, to say nothing of your skill with + weapons. If you win this year again—and it will be strange if you do + not—you are like enough to be chosen captain. You will have tough + fighting, I can tell you, for all these young aspirants to knighthood will + do their best to show themselves off before the king and queen. The fight + is not to take place on horseback, I hope; for if so, it will be settled + as soon as it begins.” + </p> + <p> + “No, it is to be on foot; and the king himself is to give orders as to the + fighting.” + </p> + <p> + “You had best get out that helmet and coat of mail of yours,” Geoffrey + said, “I warrant me that there will be none of finer make or of truer + metal in the tourney, seeing that I made them specially for you. They are + light, and yet strong enough to withstand a blow from the strongest arm. I + tried them hard, and will warrant them proof, but you had best see to the + rivets and fastenings. They had a rough handling last year, and you have + not worn them since. There are some other pieces that I must put in hand + at once, seeing that in such a melee you must be covered from head to + foot.” + </p> + <p> + For the next week nothing was talked of in London but the approaching + sports, and the workmen were already engaged in the erection of the lists + and pavilions in the fields between the walls and Westminster. It was + reported that the king would add valuable prizes to those given to the + winners by the city; that there would be jousting on horseback by the sons + of the court nobles, and that the young Prince of Wales would himself + ride. + </p> + <p> + The king had once before taken part in the city sports, and with ten of + the citizens had held his own against an equal number of knights. This was + at the commencement of his reign; but the accident to the queen's stand + had so angered him that he had not again been present at the sports, and + his reappearance now was considered to be an act of approval of the + efforts which the city had made to aid him in the war, and as an + introduction of the young prince to the citizens. + </p> + <p> + When the day arrived there was a general flocking out of the citizens to + the lists. The scene was a picturesque one; the weather was bright and + warm; the fields were green; and Westminster, as well as London, sent out + large numbers to the scene. The citizens were all in their best; their + garments were for the most part of somber colours—russet, murrey, + brown, and gray. Some, indeed, of the younger and wealthier merchants + adopted somewhat of the fashion of the court, wearing their shoes long and + pointed, and their garments parti-coloured. The line of division was down + the centre of the body; one leg, arm, and half the body would be blue, the + other half russet or brown. The ladies' dresses were similarly divided. + Mingling with the citizens, as they strolled to and fro upon the sward, + were the courtiers. These wore the brightest colours, and their shoes were + so long that the points were looped up to the knees with little gold + chains to enable them to walk. The ladies wore headdresses of prodigious + height, culminating in two points; and from these fell, sweeping to the + ground, streamers of silk or lighter material. Cloths of gold and silver, + rich furs, silks, and velvets, were worn both by men and women. + </p> + <p> + None who saw the nobles of the court walking in garments so tight that + they could scarce move, with their long parti-coloured hose, their silk + hoods buttoned under the chin, their hair braided down their back, would + have thought that these were the most warlike and courageous of knights, + men whose personal prowess and gallantry were the admiration of Europe. + Their hair was generally cut close upon the forehead, and the beard was + suffered to grow, but was kept trimmed a moderate length. Many of the + ladies had the coat-of-arms of their family embroidered upon their + dresses, giving them the appearance of heralds' tabards. Almost all wore + gold or silver girdles, with embroidered pouches, and small daggers. + </p> + <p> + Thus the appearance of the crowd who moved about among the fields near the + lists was varied and brilliant indeed. Their demeanour was quiet, for the + London merchants deemed a grave demeanour to belong to their calling, and + the younger men and apprentices restrained their spirits in the presence + of their superiors. For their special amusement, and in order, perhaps, to + keep them from jostling too freely against the court gallants and ladies, + the city authorities had appointed popular sports such as pleased the + rougher classes; and bull baiting, cock-fighting, wrestling for a ram, + pitching the bar, and hand ball, were held in a field some distance away. + Here a large portion of the artisans and apprentices amused themselves + until the hour when the king and queen were to arrive at their pavilion, + and the contests were to commence. + </p> + <p> + Presently a sound of trumpets was heard, and the royal procession was seen + moving up from Westminster. Then the minor sports were abandoned; the + crowd gathered round the large fenced-in space, and those who, by virtue + of rank or position in the city, had places in the various stands, took + their places there. + </p> + <p> + There was a flourish of trumpets as the king and queen appeared in front + of the pavilion, accompanied by the Prince of Wales and many of the nobles + of the court, and a shout of welcome arose from the crowd. The shooting at + a mark at once began. The preliminary trials had been shot off upon the + preceding day, and the six chosen bowmen now took their places. + </p> + <p> + Walter had not entered for the prizes at archery. He had on previous years + shot well; but since he had fully determined to become a man-at-arms he + had given up archery, for which, indeed, his work at the forge and his + exercises at arms when the fires were out, left him but little time. The + contest was a close one, and when it was over the winner was led by the + city marshal to the royal pavilion, where the queen bestowed upon him a + silver arrow, and the king added a purse of money. Then there were several + combats with quarterstaff and broadsword between men who had served among + the contingents sent by the city to aid the king in his wars. Some good + sword-play was shown and many stout blows exchanged, two or three men were + badly hurt, and the king and all present were mightily pleased with the + stoutness with which they fought. + </p> + <p> + The apprentices then came forward to compete for the prizes for + sword-play. They wore light iron caps and shirts of thickly quilted + leather, and fought with blunted swords, for the city fathers deemed + wisely that with these weapons they could equally show their skill, and + that with sharpened swords not only would severe wounds be given, but bad + blood would be created between the apprentices of the various wards. Each + ward sent its champion to the contest, and as these fought in pairs, loud + was the shouting which rose from their comrades at each blow given or + warded, and even the older citizens joined sometimes in the shouting and + took a warm interest in the champions of their respective wards. + </p> + <p> + The iron caps had stout cheek-pieces which defended the sides of the face + and neck, for even a blunted sword can deliver a terrible blow if it fall + upon the naked flesh. It took a long time to get through the combats; the + pairs were drawn by lot, and fought until the king decided which was the + superior. Some were speedily beaten, at other times the contests were long + and severe. It was generally thought by the apprentices that the final + contest lay between Walter Fletcher of Aldgate and Ralph Smith of Ludgate. + The former was allowed to be superior in the use of his weapon, but the + latter was also skilful, was two years older, and greatly superior in + strength. He had not taken part in the contest in the preceding year, as + he had been laid up with a hurt in his hand which he had got in his + employment as a smith, and the lads of Ludgate were confident that he + would turn the tables upon the champion of the eastern ward. Both had + defeated with ease the various opponents whom they had met, but it chanced + that they had not drawn together until the last round, when they remained + alone to struggle for the first and second prizes. + </p> + <p> + The interest in the struggle had increased with each round, and wagers + were freely laid upon the result. According to custom the two champions + had laid aside their leathern shirts and had donned mail armour, for it + was considered that the crowning contest between the two picked young + swordsmen of the city would be a severe one, and greater protection to the + limbs was needed. + </p> + <p> + Before taking their places they were led up to the royal pavilion, where + they were closely inspected by the king and his nobles. + </p> + <p> + “You are sure that this man is still an apprentice?” the king asked the + Lord Mayor, who was seated next to him; “he has the appearance of a + man-at-arms, and a stout one too; the other is a likely stripling, and is, + as I have seen, marvellously dexterous with his sword, but he is but a boy + while the other is a grown man. + </p> + <p> + “He is an apprentice, my liege, although his time will be up in a few + days, while the other has yet three years to serve, but he works for an + armourer, and is famed through the city, boy as he is, for his skill with + weapons.” + </p> + <p> + After a few words to each, exhorting them to do their best in the sight of + the queen and her ladies, the king dismissed them. + </p> + <p> + “I know the young one now!” the Prince of Wales said, clapping his hands + as the apprentices turned away to take their places. “My Lord Talbot, I + will wager a gold chain with you upon the smaller of the two.” + </p> + <p> + “I will take your wager,” the noble answered; “but I am by no means sure + that I shall win it, for I have watched your champion closely, and the + downright blows which he struck would seem to show that he has the muscle + and strength of a man though still but a boy.” + </p> + <p> + The event justified the Prince of Wales's confidence; at the commencement + of the struggle Ralph Smith tried to beat down his opponent by sheer + strength as he had done his prior opponents, but to his surprise he found + that all his efforts could not break down his opponent's guard. Walter + indeed did not appear to take advantage of his superior lightness and + activity, but to prefer to prove that in strength as well as skill he was + equal to his antagonist. In the latter respect there was no comparison, + for as soon as the smith began to relax his rain of blows Walter took the + offensive and with a sweeping blow given with all his strength broke down + his opponent's guard and smote him with such force upon his steel cap + that, blunted as the sword was, it clove through the iron, and stretched + the smith senseless on the ground. A loud shout broke from the assemblage. + The marshal came up to Walter, and removing his helmet, led him to the + royal pavilion, while Ralph was carried to a tent near, where a leech + attended his wound. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI: THE MELEE + </h2> + <p> + “You have won your prize stoutly and well, sir 'prentice,” the king said. + “I should not have deemed it possible that one of your age could have + smitten such a blow, and right glad should I be of a few hundred lads of + your mettle to follow me against the French. What is your calling?” + </p> + <p> + “I am an armourer, my liege,” Walter answered. + </p> + <p> + “And you are as good at mending armour as you are at marring it,” the king + said, “you will be a rare craftsman one of these days. 'Tis a rare pity so + promising a swordsman should be lost to our army. Wouldst like to change + your calling, boy, and take to that of arms?” + </p> + <p> + “It is my hope to do so, sir,” Walter answered modestly, “and his grace + the Prince of Wales has already promised me that I shall some day ride + behind him to the wars.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! Edward,” the king ejaculated, “how is this? Have you been already + enlisting a troop for the wars?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir,” the young prince replied, “but one day, now some four years + since, when I was riding with my Lord Talbot and others in the fields near + the Tower I did see this lad lead his play-fellows to the assault of an + earthen castle held by others, and he fought so well and gallantly that + assuredly no knight could have done better, until he was at last stricken + senseless, and when he recovered I told him that should he choose to be a + man-at-arms I would enlist him in my following to the wars.” + </p> + <p> + The king laughed. + </p> + <p> + “I deemed not that the lads of the city indulged in such rough sports; but + I wonder not, seeing that the contingent which my good city of London + furnishes me is ever one of the best in my army. We shall see the lad at + work again tomorrow and will then talk more of it. Now let us bestow upon + him the prize that he has so well earned.” + </p> + <p> + Walter bent on one knee, and the queen handed to him a sword of the best + Spanish steel, which was the prize given by the city to the victor. The + king handed him a heavy purse of gold pieces, saying: + </p> + <p> + “This may aid in purchasing your freedom.” + </p> + <p> + Walter bowed deeply and murmured some words of thanks, and was then led + off by the marshal. After this many of the young nobles of the court + jousted on horseback, ran at the ring, and performed other feats of + knightly exercise to the great pleasure of the multitude. The marshal on + leading Walter away said to him, “You will be captain of the city band + tomorrow, and I must therefore tell you what the king purports. He has + prepared a surprise for the citizens, and the present show will be + different to anything ever before seen in London. Both to show them + somewhat of the sieges which are taking place on the borders of France and + the Low Countries, in which Sir Walter Manny and many other gallant + knights have so greatly distinguished themselves, and as an exercise for + the young nobles, he has determined that there shall be a castle erected. + It will be built of wood, with battlements and towers, with a moat + outside. As soon as the lists are over a large number of workmen will + commence its erection; the pieces are all sawn and prepared. There will be + machines, ladders, and other appliances. The ten champions on either side + will fight as knights; you will have a hundred apprentices as men-at-arms, + and the court party will have an equal number of young esquires. You, as + winner of today's tourney, will have the choice of defence or attack. I + should advise you to take the defence, since it is easier and requires + less knowledge of war, and many of the other party have accompanied their + fathers and masters in the field and have seen real sieges carried out.” + </p> + <p> + “Can you show me a plan of the castle,” Walter said, “if it be not + contrary to the rules, in order that I may think over tonight the plan of + fighting tomorrow?” + </p> + <p> + “Here it is,” the marshal said. “You see that the walls are 200 feet long, + they are 12 feet in height, with a tower at the end and one over the + gateway in the centre six feet high. There is a drawbridge defended by an + outwork of palisades six feet high. The moat will be a dry one, seeing + that we have no means of filling it with water, but it will be supposed to + be full, and must be crossed on planks or bridges. Two small towers on + wheels will be provided, which may be run up to the edge of the moat, and + will be as high as the top of the towers. + </p> + <p> + “Surely they cannot make all this before morning?” Walter said. + </p> + <p> + “They will do so,” the marshal replied. “The castle has been put together + in the king's courtyard, and the pieces are all numbered. Two hundred + carpenters will labour all night at it, besides a party of labourers for + the digging of the moat. It will be a rare show, and will delight both the + citizens and the ladies of the court, for such a thing has never before + been attempted. But the king grudges not the expense which it will cost + him, seeing that spectacles of this kind do much to arouse the warlike + spirit of the people. Here is a list of the various implements which will + be provided, only it is understood that the mangonels and arblasts will + not be provided with missiles, seeing that many would assuredly be killed + by them. They will be employed, however, to show the nature of the work, + and parties of men-at-arms will be told off to serve them. Crossbows and + arrows will be used, but the weapons will be blunted. You will see that + there are ladders, planks for making bridges, long hooks for hauling men + down from the wall, beams for battering down the gate, axes for cutting + down the palisades, and all other weapons. The ten who will serve under + you as knights have already been nominated, and the city will furnish them + with full armour. For the others, the apprentices of each ward will choose + sufficient representatives to make up the hundred, who will fight as + men-at-arms; these will wear steel caps and breastpieces, with leather + jerkins, and vizors to protect their faces, for even a blunted arrow or + wooden quarrel might well kill if it struck true.” + </p> + <p> + On leaving the marshal Walter joined Giles Fletcher and Geoffrey Ward, who + warmly congratulated him upon his success. He informed them of the + spectacle which the king had prepared for the amusement of the citizens on + the morrow. + </p> + <p> + “In faith,” Geoffrey said, “the idea is a good one, and promises rare + sport, but it will be rough, and we may expect many broken limbs, for it + be no joke to be thrown down with a ladder from a wall even twelve feet + high, and there will be the depth of the moat besides.” + </p> + <p> + “That will only be two feet,” Walter said, “for so it is marked on the + plan.” + </p> + <p> + “And which do you mean to take, Walter, the attack or the defence? + Methinks the king has erred somewhat in making the forces equal, for + assuredly the besiegers should outnumber the besieged by fully three to + one to give them a fair chance of success.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall take the assault,” Walter answered; “there is more to be done + that way than in the defence. When we get home, Geoffrey, we will look at + the plans, and see what may be the best manner of assault.” + </p> + <p> + Upon examining the plan that evening they found that the wall was + continued at an angle at either end for a distance of some twenty feet + back so as to give a postern gate behind each of the corner towers through + which a sortie might be made. Geoffrey and Walter talked the matter over, + and together contrived a plan of operation for the following day. + </p> + <p> + “You will have one great advantage,” Geoffrey said. “The apprentices are + all accustomed to the use of the bow, while the young nobles will know but + little of that weapon; therefore your shooting will be far straighter and + truer, and even a blunt-headed arrow drawn from the shoulder will hit so + smart a blow that those on the wall will have difficulty in withstanding + them.” + </p> + <p> + After the talk was ended Walter again crossed London Bridge, and made his + way to Ludgate, where he found his late antagonist, whose head had been + plastered up, and was little the worse for the conflict. + </p> + <p> + “There is no ill-will between us, I hope,” Walter said, holding out his + hand. + </p> + <p> + “None in the world,” the young smith said frankly. He was a + good-tempered-looking young giant, with closely-cropped hair, light-blue + eyes, and a pleasant but somewhat heavy face. + </p> + <p> + “My faith but what a blow was that you gave me; why, one would think that + your muscles were made of steel. I thought that I could hit a good + downright blow, seeing that I have been hammering at the anvil for the + last seven years; but strike as I would I could not beat down your guard, + while mine went down, as if it had been a feather, before yours. I knew, + directly that I had struck the first blow, and felt how firm was your + defence, that it was all up with me, knowing that in point of skill I had + no chance whatever with you. + </p> + <p> + “I am glad to see that you bear no malice, Ralph,” Walter said, “and hope + that we shall be great friends henceforth, that is, if you will take me as + such, seeing that you are just out of your apprenticeship, while I am not + yet half through mine. But I have come to talk to you about tomorrow. Have + you heard that there is to be a mimic siege?” + </p> + <p> + “I have heard about it,” Ralph said. “The city is talking of nothing else. + The news was published at the end of the sports. It will be rare fun, + surely.” + </p> + <p> + “It will be pretty rough fun,” Walter replied; “and I should not be much + surprised if some lives are lost; but this is always so in a tournament; + and if knights and nobles are ready to be killed, we apprentices need not + fear to hazard our lives. But now as to tomorrow. I, as the winner today, + am to be the leader of the party, and you, as second, will of course be + captain under me. Now I want to explain to you exactly what I propose to + do, and to arrange with you as to your share in the business.” + </p> + <p> + The young smith listened attentively to Walter's explanation, and, when he + had done, exclaimed admiringly: “Why, Walter, you seem to be made for a + general. How did it all come to you, lad? I should never have thought of + such a scheme.” + </p> + <p> + “I talked it over with my master,” Walter said, “and the idea is his as + much as mine. I wonder if it will do.” + </p> + <p> + “It is sure to do,” the smith said enthusiastically. “The castle is as + good as taken.” + </p> + <p> + The next day all London poured out to the scene of the sports, and the + greatest admiration and wonder were expressed at the castle, which had + risen, as if by magic, in the night. It was built at one end of the lists, + which had been purposely placed in a hollow, so that a great number of + people besides those in the pavilions could obtain a view from the + surrounding slopes. The castle was substantially built of heavy timber + painted gray, and looked at a little distance as if constructed of stone. + A flag floated from the central tower, and the building looked so + formidable that the general opinion was freely expressed that the task of + the assailants, whoever they might be—for at present this was + unknown—was quite impossible. At ten o'clock the king and his court + arrived. After they had taken their places the two bands, headed by their + leaders, advanced from the lower end of the lists, and drew up in front of + the royal pavilion. The leaders took their places in front. Behind them + stood ten chosen followers, all of whom, as well as their chiefs, were + encased in full armour. Behind, on one side, were 100 apprentices, on the + other 100 esquires, all attired as men-at-arms. The court party were led + by Clarence Aylmer, son of the Earl of Pembroke. His companions were all + young men of noble family, aspirants for the order of knighthood. They + were, for the most part, somewhat older than the apprentices, but as the + latter consisted chiefly of young men nearly out of their term the + difference was not great. Walter's armour was a suit which the armourer + had constructed a year previously for a young knight who had died before + the armour could be delivered. Walter had wondered more than once why + Geoffrey did not endeavour to sell it elsewhere, for, although not so + decorated and inlaid as many of the suits of Milan armour, it was + constructed of the finest steel, and the armourer had bestowed special + care upon its manufacture, as the young knight's father had long been one + of his best customers. Early that morning Geoffrey had brought it to his + room and had told him to wear it instead of that lent by the city. + </p> + <p> + “But I fear it will get injured,” Walter had urged. “I shall not spare + myself, you know, Geoffrey, and the blows will be hard ones. + </p> + <p> + “The more need for good armour, Walter. These city suits are made for show + rather than use. You may be sure that young Pembroke and his band will + fight their hardest rather than suffer defeat at the hands of those whom + they consider a band of city varlets.” + </p> + <p> + Before issuing from the tent where he and his companions had put on their + mail Walter carefully fastened in the front of his helmet a tiny gold + bracelet. Upon taking their places before the pavilion the king ordered + the two leaders to advance, and addressed them and the multitude in the + following words: + </p> + <p> + “Brave leaders, and you, my people, I have contrived the pastime today + that I may show you on a mimic scale the deeds which my brave soldiers are + called upon to perform in France. It is more specially suited for the + combatants of today, since one party have had but small opportunity of + acquiring skill on horseback. Moreover, I wish to teach the lesson that + fighting on foot is as honourable as fighting on horseback, for it has now + been proved, and sometimes to our cost, in Scotland, that footmen can + repulse even the bravest chivalry. Today each party will fight his best. + Remember that, even in the heat of conflict, matters must not be carried + to an extreme. Those cut off from their friends will be accounted + prisoners, as will those who, being overpowered, throw down their arms. + Any wounded on either side will not be accounted as prisoners, but may + retire with honour from the field. You,” he said, looking at Walter, “as + the conqueror of yesterday, have the choice of either the attack or + defence; but I should advise you to take the latter, seeing it is easier + to defend a fortress than to assault it. Many of your opponents have + already gained credit in real warfare, while you and your following are + new to it. Therefore, in order to place the defence on fair terms with the + assault, I have ordered that both sides shall be equal in numbers.” + </p> + <p> + “If your liege will permit me,” Walter said bowing, “I would fain take the + assault. Methinks that, with my following, I could do better thus than in + defence.” + </p> + <p> + The king looked somewhat displeased. + </p> + <p> + “As you will,” he said coldly; “but I fear this will somewhat mar the + effect of the spectacle seeing that you will have no chance whatever + against an equal force, more accustomed to war than your party, and + occupying so superior a position. However,” he went on, seeing that Walter + made no sign of changing his mind, “as you have chosen, so be it; and now + it is for you to choose the lady who shall be queen of the tourney and + shall deliver the prizes to the victors. Look round you; there are many + fair faces, and it is for you to choose among them.” + </p> + <p> + Smiles passed between many of the courtly dames and ladies at the choice + that was to be made among them by the apprentice lad; and they thought + that he would be sorely puzzled at such a duty. Walter, however, did not + hesitate an instant. He ran his eye over the crowd of ladies in the royal + gallery, and soon saw the object of his search. + </p> + <p> + “Since I have your majesty's permission,” he said, “I choose, as queen of + the tournament, Mistress Edith Vernon.” + </p> + <p> + There was a movement of surprise and a general smile. Perhaps to all who + thought that they had a chance of being chosen the selection was a relief, + as none could be jealous of the pretty child, who, at the king's order, + made her way forward to the front, and took her seat in a chair placed + between the king and queen. The girl coloured brightly; but she had heard + so much of tourneys and jousts that she knew what was her duty. She had + been sitting far back on the previous day, and the apprentice, when + brought up before the king, was too far below for her to see his features. + She now recognized him. + </p> + <p> + “Sir Knights,” she said in a loud, clear, childish voice, “you will both + do your duty today and show yourselves worthy cavaliers. Methinks that, as + queen of the tourney, I should be neutral between you, but as one of you + carries my gage in his helm, my good wishes must needs go with him; but + bright eyes will be fixed on you both, and may well stir you to deeds of + valour.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, she resumed her seat with a pretty air of dignity. + </p> + <p> + “Why, sweetheart,” the king said, “how is it that this 'prentice lad knows + your name, and how is it that he wears your gage, for I know that the + young Pembroke wears the glove of the Earl of Surrey's daughter?” + </p> + <p> + “He saved my life, sir, mine and my mother's,” the child said, “and I told + him he should be my true knight, and gave him my bracelet, which you see + he wears in his helm.” + </p> + <p> + “I recall somewhat of the story,” the king said, “and will question my + Lady Vernon further anon; but see, the combatants are filing off to their + places.” + </p> + <p> + With flags flying and trumpets blowing young Pembroke led his forces into + the castle. Each of his ten knights was followed by an esquire bearing his + banner, and each had ten men-at-arms under his immediate order. Two of + them, with twenty men, remained in the outwork beyond the drawbridge. The + rest took their station on the walls, and towers, where a platform had + been erected, running along three feet below the battlements. The real + men-at-arms with the machines of war now advanced, and for a time worked + the machines, which made pretence at casting great stones and missiles at + the walls. The assailants then moved forward and, unslinging their bows, + opened a heavy fire of arrows at the defenders, who, in turn, replied with + arrows and cross-bows. + </p> + <p> + “The 'prentices shoot well,” the king said; “by our lady, it would be hot + work for the defenders were the shafts but pointed! Even as it is the + knocks must be no child's play, for the arrows, although not pointed, are + all tipped with iron, without which, indeed, straight shooting would be + impossible.” + </p> + <p> + The return fire from the walls was feeble, and the king said, laughing, + “So far your knight, fair mistress, has it all his own way. I did not + reckon sufficiently upon the superiority of shooting of the London lads, + and, indeed, I know not that I ought not in fairness to order some of the + defenders off the walls, seeing, that in warfare, their numbers would be + rapidly thinned. See, the assailants are moving up to the two towers under + shelter of the fire of the archers.” + </p> + <p> + By this time Aylmer, seeing that his followers could make no effectual + reply to the arrow fire, had ordered all, save the leaders in full armour, + to lie down behind the parapet. The assailants now gathered thickly round + each tower, as if they intended to attempt to cross by the bridges, which + could be let down from an opening in the tower level with the top of the + wall, while archers upon the summit shot fast and thick among the + defenders who were gathering to oppose them. + </p> + <p> + “If the young Pembroke is wise,” the king said, “he will make a strong + sally now and fall upon one or other of the parties.” + </p> + <p> + As he spoke there was a sudden movement on the part of the assailants, + who, leaving the foot of the towers, made a rush at the outwork in the + centre. The instant they arrived they fell to work with axes upon the + palisades. Many were struck down by the blows dealt them by the defenders, + but others caught up the axes and in less than a minute several of the + palisades were cut down and the assailants poured in. The defenders fought + gallantly, but they were overpowered by numbers. Some were struck down, + others taken prisoners by main force, and the rest driven across the + drawbridge, just as the gates were opened and Pembroke, at the head of the + defenders, swarmed out to their assistance. + </p> + <p> + There was a desperate fight on the bridge, and it was well that the armour + was stout, and the arms that wielded the weapons had not yet attained + their full strength. Several were knocked off the bridge into the moat, + and these were, by the rules, obliged at once to retire and take no + further part in the contest. Walter and Ralph the smith, fought in front + of their men, and hard as Pembroke and his followers struggled, they could + not drive them back a foot. The court party were galled by the heavy fire + of arrows kept up by the apprentices along the side of the moat, and + finding all his efforts to regain the earth-work useless, Pembroke + withdrew his forces into the castle, and in spite of the efforts of the + besiegers managed to close the gates in their faces. The assailants, + however, succeeded in severing the chains of the drawbridge before it + could be raised. + </p> + <p> + From the tower above, the defenders now hurled over great stones, which + had been specially placed there for the purpose of destroying the + drawbridge should the earthwork be carried. The boards were soon + splintered, and the drawbridge was pronounced by the Earl of Talbot, who + was acting as judge, to be destroyed. The excitement of the spectators was + worked up to a great pitch while the conflict was going on, and the + citizens cheered lustily at the success of the apprentices. + </p> + <p> + “That was gallantly done,” the king said to Queen Philippa, “and the + leader of the assailants is a lad of rare mettle. Not a captain of my + army, no, not Sir Walter Manny himself, could have done it more cleverly. + You see, by placing his forces at the ends of the wall he drew all the + garrison thither to withstand the assaults from them, and thus by his + sudden movement he was able to carry the outwork before they could recover + from their surprise, and come down to its aid. I am curious to know what + he will do next. What thinkst thou, Edward?” he asked his son, who was + standing by his side. + </p> + <p> + “He will win the day,” the young prince said; “and in faith, although the + others are my comrades, I should be glad to see it. He will make a gallant + knight, sir, one of these days, and remember he is engaged to follow my + banner, so you must not steal him from me. See, my liege, they are taking + planks and ladders to the outwork.” + </p> + <p> + “They are doing wrongly then,” the king said, “for even should they bridge + the moat where the drawbridge is, they cannot scale the wall there, since + the tower defends it, and the ladders are but long enough to reach the + lower wall. No, their leader has changed his mind, they are taking the + planks along the edge of the moat towards the tower on the left, and will + aid the assault by its bridge by a passage of the moat there.” + </p> + <p> + It seemed, indeed, that this was the plan. While some of the assailants + kept up the arrow fire on the wall others mounted the tower, while a party + prepared to throw a bridge of planks across the moat. The bridge from the + tower was now lowered; but a shout of triumph rose from the defenders when + it was seen that by some mistake of the carpenters this was too short, and + when lowered did not reach within six feet of the wall. + </p> + <p> + “All the better,” the king said, while the prince gave an angry + exclamation. “Accidents of this kind will happen, and give an opportunity + to a leader to show his resources. Doubtless he will carry planks up to + the tower and so connect the bridge and the wall.” + </p> + <p> + This, indeed, was what the assailants tried to do, while a party threw + planks across the moat, and rushing over placed ladders against the wall + and strove to climb. They strove in vain, however. The ladders were thrown + down as fast as they were placed, while the defenders, thickly clustered + on the walls, drove back those who tried to cross from the tower. + </p> + <p> + “I do not see the leader of the assailants,” the prince said. + </p> + <p> + “He has a white plume, but it may have been shorn off,” the king said. + “Look, the young Pembroke is making a sortie!” + </p> + <p> + From the sortie gate behind the tower the defenders now poured out, and + running down to the edge of the moat fell upon the stormers. These, + however, received them with great steadiness, and while some continued the + attack the rest turned upon the garrison, and, headed by Ralph the smith, + drove them gradually back. + </p> + <p> + “They fight well and steadily,” the king said. “One would have thought + that they had reckoned on the sortie, so steadily did they receive it.” + </p> + <p> + As only a portion of the garrison had issued out they were unable to + resist long the pressure of the apprentices, who drove them back step by + step to the sally-port, and pressing them hard endeavoured to force their + way in at their heels. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII: THE YOUNG ESQUIRE + </h2> + <p> + While the attention of the whole of the spectators and combatants was + fixed upon the struggle at the right-hand angle of the castle, a party of + twenty 'prentices suddenly leapt to their feet from among the broken + palisades of the outwork. Lying prone there they had escaped the attention + of the spectators as well as of the defenders. The reason why the + assailants carried the planks and ladders to this spot was now apparent. + Only a portion had been taken on to the assault of the right-hand tower; + those who now rose to their feet lifted with them planks and ladders, and + at a rapid pace ran towards the left angle of the castle, and reached that + point before the attention of the few defenders who remained on the wall + there was attracted to them, so absorbed were they in the struggle at the + other angle. The moment that they saw the new assailants they raised a + shout of alarm, but the din of the combat, the shouts of the leaders and + men were so loud, that their cries were unheard. Two or three then hurried + away at full speed to give the alarm, while the others strove to repel the + assault. Their efforts were in vain. The planks were flung across the + moat, the ladders placed in position, and led by Walter the assailants + sprang up and gained a footing on the wall before the alarm was fairly + given. A thundering cheer from the spectators greeted the success of the + assailants. Springing along the wall they drove before them the few who + strove to oppose them, gained the central tower, and Walter, springing up + to the top, pulled down the banner of the defenders and placed that of the + city in its place. At this moment the defenders, awakened too late to the + ruse which had been played upon them, came swarming back along the wall + and strove to regain the central tower. In the confusion the assault by + the flying tower of the assailants was neglected, and at this point also + they gained footing on the wall. The young nobles of the court, furious at + being outwitted, fought desperately to regain their lost laurels. But the + king rose from his seat and held up his hand. The trumpeter standing below + him sounded the arrest of arms, which was echoed by two others who + accompanied Earl Talbot, who had taken his place on horseback close to the + walls. At the sound swords dropt and the din abruptly ceased, but the + combatants stood glaring at each other, their blood too heated to + relinquish the fray readily. + </p> + <p> + Already much damage had been done. In spite of armour and mail many + serious wounds had been inflicted, and some of the combatants had already + been carried senseless from the field. Some of the assailants had been + much shaken by being thrown backward from the ladders into the moat, one + or two were hurt to death; but as few tourneys took place without the loss + of several lives, this was considered but a small amount of damage for so + stoutly fought a melee, and the knowledge that many were wounded, and some + perhaps dying, in no way damped the enthusiasm of the spectators, who + cheered lustily for some minutes at the triumph which the city had + obtained. In the galleries occupied by the ladies and nobles of the court + there was a comparative silence. But brave deeds were appreciated in those + days, and although the ladies would far rather have seen the victory + incline the other way, yet they waved their handkerchiefs and clapped + their hands in token of their admiration at the success of an assault + which, at the commencement, appeared well-nigh hopeless. + </p> + <p> + Lord Talbot rode up to the front of the royal pavilion. + </p> + <p> + “I was about to stop the fight, sire, when you gave the signal. Their + blood was up, and many would have been killed had the combat continued. + But the castle was fairly won, the central tower was taken and the flag + pulled down, a footing had been gained at another point of the wall, and + the assailants had forced their way through the sally-port. Further + resistance was therefore hopeless, and the castle must be adjudged as + fairly and honourably captured.” + </p> + <p> + A renewed shout greeted the judge's decision. The king now ordered the + rival hosts to be mustered before him as before the battle, and when this + was done Earl Talbot conducted Walter up the broad steps in front of the + king's pavilion. Geoffrey Ward, who had, after fastening on Walter's + armour in the tent, before the sports began, taken his place among the + guards at the foot of the royal pavilion, stept forward and removed + Walter's helmet at the foot of the steps. + </p> + <p> + “Young sir,” the king said, “you have borne yourself right gallantly + today, and have shown that you possess the qualities which make a great + captain. I do my nobles no wrong when I say that not one of them could + have better planned and led the assault than you have done. Am I not + right, sirs?” and he looked round. A murmur of assent rose from the + knights and nobles, and the king continued: “I thought you vain and + presumptuous in undertaking the assault of a fort held by an equal number, + many of whom are well accustomed to war, while the lads who followed you + were all untrained in strife, but you have proved that your confidence in + yourself was not misplaced. The Earl of Talbot has adjudged you victor, + and none can doubt what the end of the strife would have been. Take this + chain from your king, who is glad to see that his citizens of London are + able to hold their own even against those of our court, than whom we may + say no braver exist in Europe. Kneel now to the queen of the tourney, who + will bestow upon you the chaplet which you have so worthily earned.” + </p> + <p> + Walter bent his knee before Edith Vernon. She rose to her feet, and with + an air of pretty dignity, placed a chaplet of laurel leaves, wrought in + gold and clasped with a valuable ruby, on his head. + </p> + <p> + “I present to you,” she said, “the chaplet of victory, and am proud that + my gage should have been worn by one who has borne himself so bravely and + well. May a like success rest on all your undertakings, and may you prove + a good and valiant knight!” + </p> + <p> + “Well said, Mistress Edith,” Queen Philippa said smiling. “You may well be + proud of your young champion. I too must have my gift,” and drawing a ring + set with brilliants from her finger she placed it in Walter's hand. + </p> + <p> + The lad now rose to his feet. “The prince my son,” the king said, “has + promised that you shall ride with his men-at-arms when he is old enough to + take the field. Should you choose to abandon your craft and do so earlier + I doubt not that one of my nobles, the brave Sir Walter Manny, for + example, will take you before that time.” + </p> + <p> + “That will I readily enough,” Sir Walter said, “and glad to have so + promising a youth beneath my banner.” + </p> + <p> + “I would that you had been of gentle blood,” the king said. + </p> + <p> + “That makes no difference, sire,” Sir Walter replied. “I will place him + among the young gentlemen, my pages and esquires, and am sure that they + will receive him as one of themselves.” + </p> + <p> + Geoffrey Ward had hitherto stood at the foot of the steps leading to the + royal pavilion, but doffing his cap he now ascended. “Pardon my boldness, + sire,” he said to the king, “but I would fain tell you what the lad + himself has hitherto been ignorant of. He is not, as he supposes, the son + of Giles Fletcher, citizen and bowmaker, but is the lawfully born son of + Sir Roland Somers, erst of Westerham and Hythe, who was killed in the + troubles at the commencement of your majesty's reign. His wife, Dame + Alice, brought the child to Giles Fletcher, whose wife had been her nurse, + and dying left him in her care. Giles and his wife, if called for, can + vouch for the truth of this, and can give you proofs of his birth.” + </p> + <p> + Walter listened with astonishment to Geoffrey's speech. A thrill of + pleasure rushed through his veins as he learned that he was of gentle + blood and might hope to aspire to a place among the knights of King + Edward's court. He understood now the pains which Geoffrey had bestowed in + seeing that he was perfected in warlike exercises, and why both he and + Giles had encouraged rather than repressed his love for martial exercises + and his determination to abandon his craft and become a man-at-arms when + he reached man's estate. + </p> + <p> + “Ah is it so?” the king exclaimed. “I remember Sir Roland Somers, and also + that he was slain by Sir Hugh Spencer, who, as I heard on many hands, + acted rather on a private quarrel than, as he alleged, in my interest, and + there were many who avowed that the charges brought against Sir Roland + were unfounded. However, this matter must be inquired into, and my High + Justiciar shall see Master Giles and his wife, hear their evidence, and + examine the proofs which they may bring forward. As to the estates, they + were granted to Sir Jasper Vernon and cannot be restored. Nevertheless I + doubt not that the youth will carve out for himself a fortune with his + sword. You are his master, I suppose? I would fain pay you to cancel his + apprenticeship. Sir Walter Manny has promised to enroll him among his + esquires.” + </p> + <p> + “I will cancel his indentures willingly, my liege,” the armourer answered, + “and that without payment. The lad has been to me as a son, and seeing his + high spirit, and knowing the gentle blood running in his veins, I have + done my best so to teach him and so to put him in the way of winning back + his father's rank by his sword.” + </p> + <p> + “He hath gone far towards it already,” the king said, “and methinks may + yet gain some share in his father's inheritance,” and he glanced at little + Mistress Edith Vernon and then smiled at the queen. “Well, we shall see,” + he went on. “Under Sir Walter Manny he will have brave chances of + distinguishing himself, and when my son takes the field he shall ride with + him. But I am keeping the hosts waiting. Bring hither,” he said to Earl + Talbot, “Clarence Aylmer.” + </p> + <p> + The young noble was led up to the king. “You have done well, Clarence; + though you have been worsted you fought bravely, but you were deceived by + a ruse which might have taken in a more experienced captain. I trust that + you will be friends with your adversary, who will be known to you + henceforth as Walter Somers, son of Sir Roland of that name, and who will + ride to the wars, whither you also are shortly bound, under the standard + of Sir Walter Manny.” + </p> + <p> + The cloud which had hung over the face of the young noble cleared. It had + indeed been a bitter mortification to him that he, the son of one of the + proudest of English nobles, should have been worsted by a London + apprentice, and it was a relief to him to find that his opponent was one + of knightly blood. He turned frankly to Walter and held out his hand. “I + greet you as a comrade, sir,” he said, “and hope some day that in our + rivalry in the field I may do better than I have done today.” + </p> + <p> + “That is well spoken,” the king said. Then he rose and in a loud voice + addressed the combatants, saying, that all had borne themselves well and + bravely, and that he thanked them, not only for the rare pastime which + they had made, but for the courage and boldness which had been displayed + on both sides. So saying, he waved his hand as a token that the + proceedings were ended, and returned with the court to Westminster; while + the crowd of spectators overflowed the lists, those who had friends in the + apprentice array being anxious to know how they had fared. That evening + there was a banquet given by the lord-mayor. Walter was invited to be + present, with Giles and Geoffrey, and many complimentary things were said + to him, and he was congratulated on the prospects which awaited him. After + dinner all the 'prentices who had taken part in the sports filed through + the hall and were each presented with a gold piece by the lord-mayor, in + the name of the corporation, for having so nobly sustained the renown of + the city. + </p> + <p> + After the entertainment was over Walter returned with Geoffrey to the + bowyer's house, and there heard from his two friends and Bertha the + details of his mother's life from the time that she had been a child, and + the story of her arrival with him, and her death. He had still difficulty + in believing that it was all true, that Giles and Bertha, whom he had so + long regarded as father and mother, were only his kind guardians, and that + he was the scion of two noble families. Very warmly and gratefully he + thanked his three friends for the kindness which they had shown to him, + and vowed that no change of condition should ever alter his feelings of + affection towards them. It was not until the late hour of nine o'clock + that he said goodbye to his foster parents, for he was next day to repair + to the lodging of Sir Walter Manny, who was to sail again before the week + was out for the Low Countries, from which he had only returned for a few + days to have private converse with the king on the state of matters there. + His friends would have delivered to him his mother's ring and other tokens + which she had left, but thought it better to keep these, with the other + proofs of his birth, until his claim was established to the satisfaction + of the lord justiciaries. + </p> + <p> + The next morning early, when Walter descended the stairs, he found Ralph + Smith waiting for him. His face was strapped up with plaster and he wore + his arm in a sling, for his armour had been twice cut through as he led + his party in through the sally-port. + </p> + <p> + “How goes it with you, Ralph?” Walter said. “Not much the worse, I hope, + for your hard knocks?” + </p> + <p> + “Not a whit,” Ralph replied cheerfully, “and I shall be all right again + before the week is out; but the leech made as much fuss over me as if I + had been a girl, just as though one was not accustomed to hard knocks in a + smithy. Those I got yesterday were not half so hard as that which you gave + me the day before. My head rings yet with the thought of it. But I have + not come to talk about myself. Is the story true which they tell of you, + Master Walter, that you are not the son of Giles the bowyer, but of a + great noble?” + </p> + <p> + “Not of a great noble, Ralph, but of a gallant knight, which is just as + good. My father was killed when I was three years old, and my mother + brought me to Bertha, the wife of Giles the bowyer, who had been her nurse + in childhood. I had forgotten all that had passed, and deemed myself the + son of the good citizen, but since I have heard the truth my memory has + awakened somewhat, and I have a dim recollection of a lordly castle and of + my father and mother.” + </p> + <p> + “And they say, Walter, that you are going with Sir Walter Manny, with the + force which is just sailing to the assistance of Lady De Montford.” + </p> + <p> + “That is so, Ralph, and the good knight has taken me among his esquires, + young as I am, although I might well have looked for nothing better than + to commence, for two years at least, as a page, seeing that I am but + eighteen now. Now I shall ride with him into the battles and shall have as + good a chance as the others of gaining honour and winning my spurs.” + </p> + <p> + “I have made up my mind that I will go with you, Master Walter, if you + will take me; each squire has a man-at-arms who serves him, and I will + give you good and faithful service if you will take me with you. I spoke + to the smith, my master, last night when I heard the news, and as my + apprenticeship is out next week he was willing enough to give me the few + days which remain. Once out of my apprenticeship I may count to be a man, + and seeing that I am nineteen, and as I may say well grown of my years, + methinks I am fit for service as a man-at-arms, and I would rather fight + behind you than labour all my life in the smithy.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall be glad indeed, Ralph, to have you with me if such be really your + wish, and I do not think that Sir Walter Manny will say nay, for they have + been beating up for recruits through the kingdom, and we proved yesterday + that you have courage as well as strength. If he will consent I should be + glad indeed to have so brave a comrade with me, so we may consider that + settled, and if you will come down to Westminster, to Sir Walter Manny's + lodging, this afternoon, I will tell you what he says touching the matter. + You will, of course, need arms and armour.” + </p> + <p> + “I can provide that,” Ralph replied, “seeing that his worshipful the + lord-mayor bestowed upon me yesterday five gold pieces as the second in + command in the sports. I have already a steel cap and breast and back + pieces, which I have made for myself in hours of leisure, and warrant will + stand as hard a knock as the Frenchmen can give them.” + </p> + <p> + Going across into the city with Geoffrey, Walter purchased, with the + contents of the purse which the king had given him, the garments suited + for his new position. He was fortunate in obtaining some which fitted him + exactly. These had been made for a young esquire of the Earl of Salisbury; + but the tailor, when he heard from Geoffrey for whom they were required, + and the need for instant despatch, parted with them to Walter, saying that + he for whom they were made could well wait a few days, and that he would + set his journeymen to work at once to make some more of similar fit and + fashion. + </p> + <p> + Walter felt strange in his new attire, and by no means relished the + tightness of the garments, which was strictly demanded by the fashion of + the day. His long hose, one of which was of a deep maroon, the other a + bright yellow, came far up above the knee, then came a short pair of + trunks of similar colours divided in the middle. The tight-fitting doublet + was short and circled at the waist by a buff belt mounted in silver, and + was of the same colours as the hose and trunks. On his head was a cap, + peaked in front; this was of maroon, with a short erect feather of yellow. + The long-pointed shoes matched the rest of the costume. There were three + other suits similar in fashion, but different in colour; two like the + first were of cloth, the third was of white and blue silk, to be worn on + grand occasions. + </p> + <p> + “You look a very pretty figure, Walter,” Geoffrey said, “and will be able + to hold your own among the young gallants of the court. If you lack + somewhat of courtly manners it will matter not at all, since you are + leaving so soon for the wars. + </p> + <p> + “The dress sets off your figure, which is fully two years in advance of + your age, seeing that hard work has widened you out and thickened your + muscles. I need not tell you, lad, not to be quarrelsome, for that was + never your way; but just at first your companions may try some jests with + you, as is always the manner of young men with newcomers, but take them in + a good spirit and be sure that, seeing the strength of arm and skill which + you showed yesterday and the day before, none will care to push matters + with you unduly.” + </p> + <p> + One of the journeymen accompanied Walter to Westminster to carry up from + the boat the valise with his clothes and the armour which he had worn in + the sports. Sir Walter received the lad with much kindness and introduced + him to his future companions. They were five in number; the eldest was a + man of some thirty years old, a Hainaulter, who had accompanied Sir Walter + Manny to England at the time when the latter first came over as a young + squire in the suite of the Princess Philippa. He was devotedly attached to + the knight, his master, and although he might several times have received + the rank of knighthood for his bravery in the field, he preferred + remaining in his position as esquire and faithful friend of his master. + </p> + <p> + The other four were between the ages of nineteen and twenty-one, and all + belonged to the families of the highest nobility of England, it being + deemed a distinguished honour to be received as a squire by the most + gallant knight at the court of England. Their duties were, as Walter soon + learned, almost nominal, these being discharged almost exclusively by John + Mervaux. Two of the young esquires, Richard Coningsby and Edward Clifford, + had fought in the melee, having been among the ten leaders under Clarence + Aylmer. They bore no malice for the defeat, but received Walter with + cordiality and kindness, as did the other young men. Walter on his arrival + acquainted the knight with Ralph's wish to follow him, and requested + permission for him to do so. This was readily granted, Sir Walter Manny + telling the lad that although esquires were supposed to wait entirely upon + themselves, to groom their horses, and keep their armour and arms bright + and in good order, yet, in point of fact, young men of good families had + the greater part of these duties performed for them by a retainer who rode + in the ranks of their master's following as a man-at-arms. + </p> + <p> + “The other esquires have each one of their father's retainers with them, + and I am glad that you should be in the same position. After you have + taken your midday meal you had best go across to the Earl of Talbot's and + inquire for the Lady Vernon, who is still staying with him. She told me at + the king's ball last night that she wished to have speech with you, and I + promised to acquaint you with her desire. By the way, dost know aught of + riding?” + </p> + <p> + “I have learnt to sit on a horse, Sir Walter,” the lad answered. “My good + friend Geoffrey, the armourer, advised that I should learn, and frequently + hired from the horse-dealer an animal for my use. I have often backed + half-broken horses which were brought up by graziers from Kent and Sussex + for use in the wars. Many of them abode at the hostels at Southwark, and + willingly enough granted me permission to ride their horses until they + were sold. Thus I have had a good deal of practice, and that of a rough + kind; and seeing that latterly the horses have, for the most part, found + it difficult to fling me when sitting barebacked across them, I think I + could keep my seat in the high-peaked saddles on the most vicious, but I + have had no practice at tilting, or at the ring, or other knightly + exercises.” + </p> + <p> + “That matters not at all,” the knight said. “All these knightly exercises + which you speak of are good in time of peace, for they give proficiency + and steadiness, but in time of war he who can sit firmly in his saddle and + wield sword and battle-axe lustily and skillfully is equal to the best; + but never fear, when this expedition is over, and we have time for such + things, I will see that you are instructed in them. One who has achieved + so much martial skill as you have done at so early an age will have little + difficulty in acquiring what may be termed the pastime of chivalry.” + </p> + <p> + Ralph arrived just as Walter was setting out. The latter presented him to + the knight, who spoke with praise of the gallantry which he had displayed + on the previous day, and then handed him over to John Mervaux, with + instructions to enroll him as a man-at-arms among his followers, to inform + him of his duties, and to place him with those who attended upon the other + esquires. + </p> + <p> + After seeing Ralph disposed of, Walter went across to the Earl of Talbot + and was again conducted to the presence of Dame Vernon. + </p> + <p> + “You have changed since we met last, young sir,” she said with a smile, + “though it is but a month since. Then you were a 'prentice boy, now you + are an esquire of Sir Walter Manny, and on the highway to distinction. + That you will win it I am well assured, since one who risked his life to + rescue a woman and child whose very names were unknown to him is sure to + turn out a noble and valiant knight. I little thought when my daughter + called you her knight, that in so short a time you might become an + aspirant to that honour. I hope that you do not look askance at us, now + that you know I am in possession of the lands of your parents. Such + changes of land, you know, often occur, but now I know who you are, I + would that the estates bestowed upon Sir Jasper had belonged to some other + than you; however, I trust that you will hold no grudge against us, and + that you may win as fair an estate by the strength of your arm and the + king's favour.” + </p> + <p> + “Assuredly I feel no grudge, madam,” Walter replied, “and since the lands + were forfeited, am pleased that of all people they should have gone to one + so kind and so fair as yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “What, learning to be a flatterer already!” Dame Vernon laughed. “You are + coming on fast, and I predict great things from you. And now, Edith, lay + aside that sampler you are pretending to be so busy upon and speak to this + knight of yours.” + </p> + <p> + Edith laid down her work and came forward. She was no longer the dignified + little queen of the tournament, but a laughing, bright-faced girl. + </p> + <p> + “I don't see that you are changed,” she said, “except in your dress. You + speak softly and naturally, just as you used to do, and not a bit like + those little court fops, Uncle Talbot's pages. I am afraid you will not + want to be my knight any more, now that you are going to get great honours + at the war; for I heard my Uncle Talbot tell my lady mother that he was + sure you would gain great credit for yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall be always your knight,” Walter said earnestly; “I told you I + should, and I never break my word. That is,” he went on, colouring, “if + Dame Vernon makes no objection, as she well might.” + </p> + <p> + “If I did not object before, Walter,” she said smiling, “why should I do + so now?” + </p> + <p> + “It is different, my lady; before, it was somewhat of a jest, a sort of + childish play on the part of Mistress Edith, though so far as I was + concerned it was no play, but sober earnest. + </p> + <p> + “It needs no permission from me,” Dame Vernon replied, “for you to wear my + daughter's colours. Any knight may proclaim any lady he chooses the + mistress of his heart, and a reigning beauty will often have a dozen young + knights who wear her colours. However, I am well content that one who has + done me such great service and who has shown such high promise should be + the first to wear the gage of my little daughter, and if in after years + your life fulfils the promise of your youth, and you remain true to her + gage, there is none among all the youths of the court whom I would so + gladly see at her feet. Remember,” she said, as Walter was about to speak, + “her hand will not be at my disposal, but at that of the king. His majesty + is wont to bestow the hands of his wards upon those who most distinguish + themselves in the field. You have already attracted his royal attention + and commendation. Under Sir Walter Manny you will be sure of opportunities + of distinguishing yourself, and the king may well be glad some day at once + to reward your services and to repair a cruel injustice by bestowing upon + you the hand of the heiress of your father's lands. If I mistake not, such + a thought has even now crossed his majesty's mind, unless I misinterpreted + a glance which yesterday passed between him and our sweet queen. I need + not tell you to speak of your hopes to none, but let them spur you to + higher exertions and nobler efforts. Loving my little Edith as I do, I + naturally consider the prize to be a high one. I have often been troubled + by the thought that her hand may be some day given to one by years or + temper unsuited for her, and it will be a pleasure to me henceforth to + picture her future connected with one who is, I am sure, by heart and + nature fitted for her. And now, farewell, young sir. May God protect you + in the field, and may you carry in the battle which awaits you the gage of + my daughter as fairly and successfully as you did in the mimic fray of + yesterday!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII: OFF TO THE WARS + </h2> + <p> + Two days later Walter started with Sir Walter Manny, with a large number + of knights, squires, men-at-arms, and archers, for the Orwell. Walter was + mounted, as were the other squires and men-at-arms, and indeed many of the + archers. Ralph Smith, in the attire of a man-at-arms, rode behind. + </p> + <p> + Walter was in the highest spirits. A brilliant career was open to him + under the most favourable circumstances; he had already distinguished + himself, and had gained the attention of the highest personages in the + realm, his immediate lord was one of the bravest and most chivalrous + knights in Europe, and he had to sustain and encourage him the hopes that + Lady Vernon had given him, of regaining some day the patrimony of his + father. It was a satisfaction to him that he was as well born as those who + surrounded him, and his purse was well lined as any in the company. + Although he had spent the largess which had been bestowed upon him at the + tournament in procuring clothes fitted for his rank, he was yet abundantly + supplied with money, for both Geoffrey Ward and Giles Fletcher, having no + children of their own and being both well-to-do men, had insisted upon his + accepting a sum which would enable him to make a good appearance with the + best. + </p> + <p> + A large number of squires followed the banner of Sir Walter Manny. The + records of the time show that the barons were generally accompanied in the + field by almost as many squires as men-at-arms. The former were men of + good family, sons of knights and nobles, aspirants for the honour of + knighthood, and sons of the smaller gentry. Many were there from pure love + of a life of excitement and adventure, others in fulfilment of the feudal + tenure by which all land was then held, each noble and landowner being + obliged to furnish so many knights, squires, men-at-arms, and archers, in + accordance with the size of his holding. The squires fought in the field + in the front rank of the men-at-arms, save those who, like Walter, were + attached to the person of their leader, and who in the field fought behind + him or bore his orders to the companies under his banner. + </p> + <p> + In the field all drew pay, and it may be interesting in the present day to + know what were the rates for which our forefathers risked their lives. + They were as follows: each horse archer received 6 deniers, each squire 12 + deniers or 1 sol, each knight 2 sols, each knight banneret 4 sols. 20 sols + went to the pound, and although the exact value of money in those days + relative to that which it bears at the present time is doubtful, it may be + placed at twelve times the present value. Therefore each horse archer + received an equivalent to 6s. a day, each squire 12s., each knight 24s., + and each knight banneret 48s. per day. + </p> + <p> + Upon their arrival at the Orwell, where many troops from other parts had + been gathered, the expedition at once embarked on board the numerous ships + which had been collected. As that in which Sir Walter sailed also carried + several of his knights there was not room for all his young esquires, and + Walter and the three other juniors were told off into another ship. She + was a smaller vessel than most of those which composed the expedition, and + only carried twelve men-at-arms and as many archers, together with the + four young squires, and a knight, Sir John Powis, who was in command of + the whole. + </p> + <p> + “Your craft is but a small one,” the knight said to the captain. + </p> + <p> + “She is small, but she is fast,” the latter answered. “She would sail + round and round the best part of the fleet. I had her built according to + my own fancy. Small though she be, I warrant you she will be one of the + first to arrive at Hennebon, and the sooner the better say I, since I am + but paid by the trip, and would fain be back again at my regular work. It + pays better carrying merchants' goods between London and Holland than + taking his majesty's troops over to France.” + </p> + <p> + “Your speed will not be of much avail,” Sir John Powis said, “seeing that + the fleet will keep together.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I know that is the order,” the captain answered; “but accidents + happen sometimes, you know”—and his eye twinkled. “Vessels get + separated from fleets. If they happen to be slow ones so much the worse + for those on board; if they happen to be fast ones so much the better, + seeing that those they carry will arrive long before their comrades, and + may be enabled to gain credit and renown while the others are whistling + for a wind in mid-ocean. However, we shall see.” + </p> + <p> + The next morning the fleet sailed from the Orwell. It contained 620 + men-at-arms, among whom were many of the noblest and bravest of the + country, and 6000 picked archers in the pay of the king. The whole were + commanded by Sir Walter. The scene was a very gay one. The banners of the + nobles and knights floated from the lofty poops, and the sun shone on + bright armour and steel weapons. Walter, who had never seen the sea + before, was delighted. The wind was fair, and the vessels glided smoothly + along over the sea. At evening the knight and his four young companions + gathered in the little cabin, for it was in the first week in March, and + the night was cold. + </p> + <p> + “Will you please tell me, Sir John,” Walter said to the knight, “the + merits of this quarrel in which we are going to fight? I know that we are + going in aid of the Countess of Montford; but why she is in a sore strait + I know not.” + </p> + <p> + “The matter is a mixed one, Walter, and it requires a herald to tell you + all the subtleties of it. John III, Duke of Brittany, was present with his + liege lord, Phillip of Valois, in the last war with England, on the border + of the low country. When the English retired from before Tournay Phillip + dismissed his nobles. The Duke of Burgundy was taken ill, and died at + Caen, in Normandy, on the 30th of April, 1341. Arthur II, his father, had + been twice married. By his first wife he had three sons, John, Guy, and + Peter. John and Peter left no issue. Guy, who is also dead, left a + daughter, Joan. By his second wife, Jolande de Dieux, Duke Arthur had one + son, John, Count of Montford. Thus it happened, that when Duke John died, + his half-brother, the Count of Montford, and Joan, daughter of his second + brother Guy, were all that survived of the family. These were the rival + claimants for the vacant dukedom. In England we have but one law of + succession, which rules through the whole land. In France it is different. + There the law of succession depends entirely upon the custom of the + county, dukedom, or lordship, which is further affected both by the form + of grant by which the territory was conveyed to its first feudal + possessors and by the mode in which the province had been acquired by the + kings of France. This is important, as upon these circumstances alone it + depended whether the son or the granddaughter of Arthur II should inherit + the dukedom. + </p> + <p> + “Joan claimed the duchy as the daughter of the elder brother. The Salic + law of France, which barred females from the right of succession, and in + virtue of which Philip of Valois succeeded to the throne instead of King + Edward, certainly did not obtain in Brittany. Duke John regarded Joan as + his heiress, and married her to Charles of Blois, nephew of the King of + France, thus strengthening her in her position; and he also induced the + provincial parliament of Brittany to acknowledge her husband as his + successor in the dukedom. Altogether it would seem that right is upon + Joan's side; but, on the other hand, the Count of Montford is the son of + Jolande, a great heiress in Brittany. He is an active and energetic noble. + The Bretons love not too close a connection with France, and assuredly + prefer to be ruled by a duke whom they regard as one of themselves rather + than by Charles of Blois, nephew of the French king. Directly Duke John + was dead the Count of Montford claimed the inheritance. Assuming the title + of duke he rode to Nantes, where the citizens did him homage, and then + proceeded to Limoges with a large train of men-at-arms, and there took + possession of the immense treasures which the late duke had accumulated in + the course of a long and tranquil reign. With these sinews of war at his + command he turned to Nantes, where he had left his wife the countess, who + was a sister of the Count of Flanders. He immediately invited the nobility + of Brittany to a grand banquet, but only one knight of any renown + presented himself at the feast, the rest all holding aloof. With the + wealth of which he had possessed himself he levied large forces and took + the field. He first marched against Brest, where the garrison, commanded + by Walter de Clisson, refused to acknowledge him. After three days' hard + fighting the place was taken. Rennes was next besieged, and presently + surrendered. Other towns fell into his hands, and so far as Brittany was + concerned all opposition, except in one or two fortresses, ceased. In the + meanwhile Charles of Blois sought assistance from his uncle the King of + France; the Count de Montford, therefore, crossed to England and besought + the aid of King Edward, and did homage to him as King of France. Edward, + on his part, promised to assist him. The fact that Phillip was sure to + espouse the opposite side was in itself sufficient to decide him; besides + which, the dukes of Brittany have always been in a special way connected + with England and bear the English title of Earls of Richmond. + </p> + <p> + “Believing that his journey, which had been a secret one, was unknown to + the King of France, De Montford went boldly to Paris, where he had been + summoned by the king to an assembly of peers called to decide upon the + succession. He found, however, that Phillip had already obtained news of + his journey to England. His manner convinced De Montford that it was + unsafe to remain in Paris, and he secretly made his escape. Fifteen days + afterwards the peers gave judgment in favour of Charles of Blois. The + Dukes of Normandy, Burgundy, and Bourbon, the Counts of Alencon, Eu, and + Guisnes, and many other French nobles, prepared to lead an army into the + field to support Charles, and the king added a body of 3000 Genoese + mercenaries in his pay. + </p> + <p> + “Knowing the storm that was preparing to break upon him, De Montford put + every town and castle in a state of defence. He himself, confiding in the + affection of the inhabitants of Nantes, remained in that city, while his + wife repaired to Rennes. + </p> + <p> + “The Duke of Normandy advanced from Angiers with an army of 5000 + men-at-arms and a numerous infantry, and after capturing the castle of + Chantoceaux marched to Nantes and laid siege to the city. A sortie was + made by the besieged, led by Henry de Leon, but, being attacked by the + whole of the French army, they were driven back into the town, a great + many of the citizens being killed. A warm altercation took place between + Henry de Leon and De Montford, who attributed to him the evil result of + the sortie. The result was that a large number of the citizens whose + friends had been captured by the French conspired to deliver up the place + to Charles of Blois, and Henry de Leon also entered into private + negotiations with the Duke of Normandy. De Montford, finding that he could + rely neither upon the citizens nor the soldiers, surrendered to the duke + on condition that his life was spared. He was sent to Paris, where he + still remains a prisoner. Winter was coming on, and after putting Nantes + in a fresh state of defence and leaving Charles of Blois there, the Duke + of Normandy dismissed his forces, engaging them to reassemble in the + spring. Had he pushed on at once he would have experienced no resistance, + so great was the panic which the surrender of Nantes and the capture of De + Montford had caused among the latter's partisans. + </p> + <p> + “In Rennes, especially, the deepest despondency was felt. The countess, + however, showed the greatest courage and firmness. Showing herself, with + her infant in her arms, she appealed to the citizens, and by her + courageous bearing inspired them with new hopes. Having restored heart at + Rennes she traveled from garrison to garrison throughout the province, and + filled all with vigour and resolution. Feeling, however, the hopelessness + of her struggle against all France, she despatched Sir Almeric de Clisson, + who had lately joined her party, to England, to ask the aid which the king + had promised. He arrived a month since, and, as you see, our brave king + has not been long in despatching us to her aid; and now, youngsters, to + bed, for methinks that the sea is rougher than it was and that the wind is + getting up.” + </p> + <p> + “Aye, that is it,” the captain, who heard the knight's closing words, + exclaimed. “We are in for a storm, and a heavy one, or my name is not + Timothy Martin, and though with plenty of sea-room the Kitty makes not + much ado about a storm more or less, it's a very different thing in the + middle of a fleet of lubberly craft, which may run one down at any time. I + shall edge out of them as soon as I can, you may be sure.” + </p> + <p> + Before morning a serious gale was blowing, and for the next three or four + days Walter and his companions knew nothing of what was going on. Then the + storm abated, and they staggered out from their cabin. The sea was still + high, but the sun shone brightly overhead. In front of them the land was + visible. They looked round, but to their astonishment not a sail was in + sight. + </p> + <p> + “Why, where is the fleet?” Walter exclaimed in astonishment. + </p> + <p> + “Snug in the Thames, I reckon,” the captain said. “Soon after the storm + came on one of the sailors pretended he saw the lights of recall on the + admiral's ship; but I was too busy to look that way, I had enough to do to + look after the safety of the ship. Anyhow, I saw no more of them.” + </p> + <p> + “And what land is that ahead?” Walter asked. + </p> + <p> + “That is Brittany, young sir, and before nightfall we shall be in the port + of Hennebon; as to the others, it may be days and it may be weeks before + they arrive.” + </p> + <p> + The lads were not sorry at the chance which had taken them to their + destination before their companions and had given them a chance of + distinguishing themselves. Late in the afternoon the ship dropped anchor + off the castle of Hennebon, and Sir John Powis and his following were + conveyed in the ship's boats to shore. The countess received them most + graciously, and was delighted at the news that so strong a force was on + its way to her aid. + </p> + <p> + “In the absence of Sir Walter Manny, madam, I place myself and my men at + your orders. Our horses will be landed the first thing in the morning, and + we will then ride whithersoever you may bid us.” + </p> + <p> + “Thanks, Sir John,” the countess replied. “In that case I would that you + ride by Rennes, towards which the army of the Duke of Normandy is already + advancing. The garrison there is commanded by Sir William of Caddoudal, a + good and valiant knight.” + </p> + <p> + The horses were landed on the following morning, and accompanied by the + four young squires and the men-at-arms, and followed by the twenty archers + on foot, Sir John Powis set out for Rennes. They arrived there, but just + in time, for the assailants were closing round the city. They were + received with the greatest cordiality by the governor, who assigned + apartments to Sir John and the squires, and lodged the men-at-arms and + archers near them. + </p> + <p> + In a day or two the whole of the French army came up, and the siege + commenced. Sir John Powis, at his own request, was posted with his men for + the defence of a portion of the wall which was especially open to the + assaults of the enemy. These soon commenced in earnest, and the Genoese + and Spanish mercenaries endeavoured to carry the place by assault. + Sometimes one point would be attacked, at others points far distant. + Covered by the fire of the French crossbowmen, the Spaniards and Germans + came on to the assault, carrying ladders, with which they strove to climb + the walls, but the defenders plied them so vigorously with quarrels from + their cross-bows and flights of arrows that they frequently desisted + before reaching the walls. When they pushed on, and strove to ascend, + their luck was no better. Great stones were hurled down, and boiling oil + poured upon them. The ladders were flung back, and many crushed by the + fall, and in none of the assaults did they gain any footing in the town. + Machines were used, but these were not sufficiently powerful to batter + down the walls, and at the end of April the city was as far from being + captured as it was on the day of the commencement of the siege. + </p> + <p> + Walter bore his full share in the fighting, but he had no opportunity of + especially distinguishing himself, although Sir John several times + commended him for his coolness when the bolts of the crossbow-men and the + stones from the machines were flying most thickly. But although as yet + uninjured by the enemy's attacks, the prospect of the city holding out was + not bright. The burghers, who had at first fought valiantly, were soon + wearied of the strife, and of the hardships it entailed upon them. The + siege had continued but a short time when they began to murmur loudly. The + force under the command of the governor was but a small one, and it would + have been impossible for him to resist the will of the whole population. + For a time his exhortations and entreaties were attended with success, and + the burghers returned to their positions on the walls; but each time the + difficulty became greater, and it was clear to Caddoudal and Sir John + Powis that ere long the citizens would surrender the place in spite of + them. The English knight was furious at the cowardliness of the citizens, + and proposed to the governor to summon twenty of the leading burghers, and + to hang them as a lesson to the others; but the governor shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “I have but two hundred men on whom I can rely, including your following, + Sir John. We could not keep down the inhabitants for an hour; and were we + to try to do so, they would open the gates and let in the French. No; I + fear that we must await the end.” + </p> + <p> + The following morning Sir John was awoke with the news that in the night + Caddoudal had been seized and thrown into prison by the burghers, and that + a deputation of citizens had already gone out through the gate to treat + with the Duke of Normandy for the surrender of the city. + </p> + <p> + The English knight was furious, but with his little band he could do + nothing, especially as he found that a strong guard of burghers had been + placed at the door of the apartments occupied by him and the esquires, and + he was informed that he must consider himself a prisoner until the + conclusion of the negotiations. + </p> + <p> + Cowardly and faithless as the burghers of Rennes showed themselves to be, + they nevertheless stipulated with the Duke of Normandy, as one of the + conditions of the surrender, that Caddoudal, Sir John Powis, and the + troops under them should be permitted to pass through the French lines and + go whithersoever they would. These terms were accepted. At mid-day the + governor was released, and he with his men-at-arms and the band of + Englishmen filed out from the city gate, and took their way unmolested + through the lines of the French army to Hennebon. + </p> + <p> + They had been for a month in ignorance of all that had passed outside the + walls, and had from day to day been eagerly looking for the arrival of Sir + Walter Manny with his army to their relief. Once past the French lines + they inquired of the peasantry, and heard to their surprise that the + English fleet had not yet arrived. + </p> + <p> + “We were in luck indeed,” Walter said to his companions, “that Captain + Timothy Martin was in a hurry to get back to his tradings with the + Flemings. Had he not been so, we should all this time have been kicking + our heels and fretting on board a ship.” + </p> + <p> + On nearing Hennebon, Sir William Caddoudal, with Sir John Powis and the + squires, rode forward and met the countess. They were the first bearers of + the news of the surrender of Rennes, and the countess was filled with + consternation at the intelligence. However, after her first burst of + indignation and regret had passed, she put a brave face on it. + </p> + <p> + “They shall meet with another reception at Hennebon,” she said. “This is + but a small place, and my garrison here, and the soldiers you have + brought, will well-nigh outnumber the burghers; and we need have no fear + of such faintheartedness as that which has given Nantes and Rennes into + the hands of my enemy. The English aid cannot tarry long. Until it come we + can assuredly hold the place.” + </p> + <p> + All was now bustle in Hennebon. Sir John Powis took charge of a part of + the walls, and busied himself with his men in placing the machines in + position, and in preparing for defence. The countess, attired in armour, + rode through the streets haranguing the townspeople. She urged the men to + fight till the last, and bade the women and girls cut short their dresses + so that they could the better climb the steps to the top of the walls, and + that one and all should carry up stones, chalk, and baskets of lime to be + cast down upon the assailants. Animated by her words and gestures, the + townspeople set to work, and all vied with each other, from the oldest to + the youngest, in carrying up stores of missiles to the walls. Never did + Hennebon present such a scene of life and bustle. It seemed like an + ant-hill which a passer-by has disturbed. + </p> + <p> + Absorbed in their work, none had time to think of the dangers which + threatened them, and a stranger would rather have thought from their + cheerful and animated countenances that they were preparing for a great + fete than for a siege by an army to which the two chief towns in Brittany + had succumbed. + </p> + <p> + Ere long the French army was seen approaching. The soldiers, who had been + labouring with the rest, buckled on their armour. The citizens gathered on + the walls to hurl down the piles of stones which had been collected, and + all prepared for the assault. + </p> + <p> + “Sir John Powis,” the countess said, “I pray you to grant me one of your + esquires, who may attend me while I ride about, and may bear my messages + for me. He will not be idle, nor will he escape his share of the dangers; + for, believe me, I do not intend to hide myself while you and your brave + soldiers are fighting for me. + </p> + <p> + “Willingly, lady,” Sir John answered. “Here is Walter Somers, the son of a + good knight, and himself brave and prudent beyond his years; he will, I am + sure, gladly devote himself to your service.” + </p> + <p> + The French, encouraged by their successes, thought that it would be a + comparatively easy task to capture so small a place as Hennebon, and as + soon as their camp was pitched they moved forward to the attack. + </p> + <p> + “Come with me, Master Somers,” the countess said. “I will mount to one of + the watch-towers, where we may see all that passes.” + </p> + <p> + Walter followed her, and marvelled to see the lightness and agility with + which the heroic countess, although clad in armour, mounted the rickety + ladders to the summit of the watch-tower. The French bowmen opened a heavy + fire upon the walls, which was answered by the shafts of the little party + of English bowmen. These did much execution, for the English archers shot + far harder and straighter than those of France, and it was only the best + armour which could keep out their cloth-yard shafts. So small a body, + however, could not check the advance of so large a force, and the French + swarmed up to the very foot of the walls. + </p> + <p> + “Well done, my men!” the countess exclaimed, clapping her hands, as a + shower of heavy rocks fell among the mass of the assailants, who were + striving to plant their ladders, crushing many in their fall; “but you are + not looking, Master Somers. What is it that you see in yonder camp to + withdraw your attention from such a fight?” + </p> + <p> + “I am thinking, Countess, that the French have left their camp altogether + unguarded, and that if a body of horse could make a circuit and fall upon + it, the camp, with all its stores, might be destroyed before they could + get back to save it.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right, young sir,” the countess exclaimed, “and it shall be done + forthwith.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, she descended the stairs rapidly and mounted her horse, which + stood at the foot of the tower; then riding through the town, she + collected a party of about three hundred men, bidding all she met mount + their horses and join her at the gate on the opposite side to that on + which the assault was taking place. Such as had no horses she ordered to + take them from those in her own stables. Walter was mounted on one of the + best of the count's chargers. Immediately the force was collected, the + gate was opened and the countess rode forth at their head. Making a + considerable detour, the party rode without being observed into the rear + of the French camp. Here only a few servants and horse-boys were found, + these were at once killed or driven out; then all dismounting, set fire to + the tents and stores; and ere the French were aware of what was going on, + the whole of their camp was in flames. As soon as the conflagration was + perceived, the French commanders drew off their men from the attack, and + all ran at full speed towards the camp. + </p> + <p> + “We cannot regain the town,” the countess said; “we will ride to Auray at + full speed, and re-enter the castle when best we may.” + </p> + <p> + Don Louis of Spain, who with a considerable following was fighting in the + French ranks, hearing from the flying camp followers that the countess + herself was at the head of the party which had destroyed the camp, + instantly mounted, and with a large number of horsemen set off in hot + pursuit. A few of the countess's party who were badly mounted were + overtaken and slain, but the rest arrived safely at Auray, when the gates + were shut in the face of their pursuers. + </p> + <p> + The blow was a heavy one for the besiegers, but they at once proceeded to + build huts, showing that they had no intention of relinquishing the siege. + Spies were sent from Auray, and these reported that the new camp was + established on the site of the old one, and that the French evidently + intended to renew the attack upon the side on which they had first + commenced, leaving the other side almost unwatched. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, on the fifth day after leaving the town, the countess + prepared to return. Except Walter, none were informed of her intention, as + she feared that news might be taken to the French camp by friends of + Charles of Blois; but as soon as it was nightfall, and the gates were + shut, the trumpet sounded to horse. In a few minutes the troop assembled + in the market-place, and the countess, accompanied by Walter, placing + herself at their head, rode out from the town. The strictest silence was + observed. On nearing the town all were directed to dismount, to tear up + the horse-cloths, and to muffle the feet of their horses. Then the journey + was resumed, and so careless was the watch kept by the French that they + passed through the sentries unobserved, and reached in safety the gate + from which they had issued. As they neared it they were challenged from + the walls, and a shout of joy was heard when Walter replied that the + countess herself was present. The gates were opened and the party entered. + The news of their return rapidly ran through the town, and the + inhabitants, hastily attiring themselves, ran into the streets, filled + with joy. Much depression had been felt during her absence, and few had + entertained hopes that she would be able to re-enter the town. She had + brought with her from Auray two hundred men, in addition to the party that + had sallied out. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX: THE SIEGE OF HENNEBON + </h2> + <p> + The besiegers of Hennebon were greatly discouraged at the success of the + enterprise of the countess. They had already attempted several desperate + assaults, but had each time been repulsed with very heavy loss. They now + sent to Rennes for twelve of the immense machines used in battering walls, + which had been left behind there on a false report of the weakness of + Hennebon. Pending the arrival of these, Charles of Blois, with one + division of the army, marched away to attack Auray, leaving Don Louis to + carry on the siege with a force considered amply sufficient to compel its + surrender after the arrival of the battering machines. + </p> + <p> + In a few days these arrived and were speedily set to work, and immense + masses of stone were hurled at the walls. + </p> + <p> + Walter continued to act as the countess's especial squire. She had + informed Sir William Caddoudal and Sir John Powis that it was at his + suggestion that she had made the sudden attack upon the French camp, and + he had gained great credit thereby. + </p> + <p> + The effect of the new machines was speedily visible. The walls crumbled + under the tremendous blows, and although the archers harassed by their + arrows the men working them, the French speedily erected screens which + sheltered them from their fire. The spirits of the defenders began to sink + rapidly, as they saw that in a very short time great breaches would be + made in the walls, and that all the horrors and disasters of a city taken + by assault awaited them. The Bishop of Quimper who was within the walls, + entered into secret negotiations with his nephew, Henry de Leon, who had + gone over to the enemy after the surrender of Nantes, and was now with the + besieging army. The besiegers, delighted to find an ally within the walls + who might save them from the heavy losses which an assault would entail + upon them, at once embraced his offers, and promised him a large + recompense if he would bring over the other commanders and nobles. The + wily bishop set to work, and the consequences were soon visible. Open + grumbling broke forth at the hardships which were endured, and at the + prospect of the wholesale slaughter which would attend a storm when all + hope of a successful resistance was at an end. + </p> + <p> + “I fear, Walter,” Sir John said one morning, “that the end is at hand. On + all sides submission is spoken of, and all that I can say to keep up their + spirits is useless. Upon our own little band we can rely, but I doubt if + outside them a single determined man is to be found in the town. In vain + do I speak of the arrival of Sir Walter Manny. Nearly ninety days have + elapsed since we sailed, and all hope of his coming is gone. I point out + to them that contrary winds have been blowing, and that at any moment he + may arrive; but they will not hear me. The bishop has gained over the + whole of them by his promises that none shall be molested in property or + estate should they surrender.” + </p> + <p> + “It is sad to see the countess,” Walter replied; “she who has shown such + high spirit throughout the siege now does nothing but weep, for she knows + that with her and her child in the hands of the French the cause of the + count is lost. If she could carry off the child by sea she would not so + much care for the fall of the town, but the French ships lie thick round + the port, and there is no hope of breaking through.” + </p> + <p> + Two days later the conspiracy came to a head, and the people, assembling + round the countess's house, clamoured for surrender. The breaches were + open, and the enemy might pour in at any time and put all to the sword. + The countess begged for a little further delay, but in vain, and withdrew + to the turret where she had for so many weary weeks watched the horizon, + in hopes of seeing the sails of the approaching fleet. Walter was at the + time with Sir John Powis on the walls. + </p> + <p> + Presently a large body of French were seen approaching headed by Henry de + Leon, who summoned the town to surrender. Many standing on the walls + shouted that the gates should be thrown open; but Sir John returned for + answer that he must consult the countess, and that upon her answer must + depend whether he and his men would defend the breach until the last. + </p> + <p> + “Come with me, Walter,” he said, “we must fain persuade the countess. If + she says no, we Englishmen will die in the breach; but though ready to + give my life for so brave a lady, I own that it is useless to fight + longer. Save our own little band not one in the town will lift a sword + again. Such resistance as we can offer will but inflame them to fury, and + all the horrors of a sack will be inflicted upon the inhabitants. There + she is, poor lady, on the turret, gazing, as usual, seaward.” + </p> + <p> + Suddenly they saw her throw up her arms, and then, turning towards the + city, she cried, as she perceived the English knight: “I see them! I see + them! The English fleet are coming!” + </p> + <p> + “Run up, Walter,” Sir John exclaimed, “maybe the countess is distraught + with her sorrows.” + </p> + <p> + Walter dashed up to the turret, and looking seaward beheld rising over the + horizon a number of masts. + </p> + <p> + “Hurrah! Sir John,” he shouted, “we are saved, the English fleet is in + sight.” + </p> + <p> + Many others heard the shout, and the tidings ran like lightning through + the town. In wild excitement the people ran to the battlements and roofs, + and with cheering and clapping of hands hailed the appearance of the still + far-distant fleet. The church bells rang out joyfully and the whole town + was wild with excitement. + </p> + <p> + The Bishop of Quimper, finding that his plans were frustrated, gathered + around him some of those who had taken a leading part in the intrigue. + These, leaving the city by a gate at which they had placed some of their + own faction to open it to the French, issued out and made their way to the + assailants' camp, to give news of the altered situation. Don Louis at once + ordered an attack to be made with his whole force, in hopes of capturing + the place before the arrival of the English succour. But, animated by + their new hopes, those so lately despondent and ready to yield manned the + breaches and repulsed with great slaughter all attempts on the part of the + French to carry them. While the struggle was still going on, the countess, + aided by the wives of the burghers, busied herself in preparing a + sumptuous feast in honour of her deliverers who were fast approaching, + their ships impelled by a strong and favourable breeze. The vessels of the + French hastily drew off, and the English fleet sailed into the port hailed + by the cheers of the inhabitants. The countess herself received Sir Walter + Manny on his landing, and the townspeople vied with each other in offering + hospitality to the men-at-arms and archers. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! Sir John Powis,” Sir Walter exclaimed, “what, are you here? I had + given you up for lost. We thought you had gone down in the gale the night + you started.” + </p> + <p> + “We were separated from the fleet, Sir Walter, but the master held on, and + we arrived here four days after we put out. We took part in the siege of + Rennes, and have since done our best to aid the countess here.” + </p> + <p> + “And their best has been much,” the countess said; “not to say how bravely + they have fought upon the walls, it is to Sir John and his little band + that I owe it that the town was not surrendered days ago. They alone + remained steadfast when all others fell away, and it is due to them that I + am still able, as mistress of this town, to greet you on your arrival. + Next to Sir John himself, my thanks are due to your young esquire, Walter + Somers, who has cheered and stood by me, and to whose suggestions I owe it + that I was able at the first to sally out and destroy the French camp + while they were attacking the walls, and so greatly hindered their + measures against the town. And now, sir, will you follow me? I have + prepared for you and your knights such a banquet of welcome as our poor + means will allow, and my townspeople will see that good fare is set before + your soldiers.” + </p> + <p> + That evening there was high feasting in the town, although the crash of + the heavy stones cast by the French machines against the walls never + ceased. Early the next morning Sir Walter Manny made a survey of the place + and of the disposition of the enemy, and proposed to his knights to sally + forth at once and destroy the largest of the enemy's machines, which had + been brought up close to the walls. In a few minutes the knights were + armed and mounted. Three hundred knights and esquires were to take part in + the sortie, they were to be followed by a strong body of men-at-arms. + </p> + <p> + As soon as the gates were opened a number of archers issued out, and + taking their place at the edge of the moat, poured a rain of arrows upon + the men working the machine and those guarding it. Most of these took to + flight at once, the remainder were cut down by the men-at-arms, who at + once proceeded to hew the machine in pieces with the axes with which they + were provided. Sir Walter himself and his mounted companions dashed + forward to the nearer tents of the French camps, cut down all who opposed + them, and setting fire to the huts retired towards the city. + </p> + <p> + By this time the French were thoroughly alarmed, and numbers of knights + and men-at-arms dashed after the little body of English cavalry. These + could have regained the place in safety, but in the chivalrous spirit of + the time they disdained to retire without striking a blow. Turning their + horses, therefore, and laying their lances in rest, they charged the + pursuing French. + </p> + <p> + For a few minutes the conflict was desperate and many on both sides were + overthrown; then, as large reinforcements were continually arriving to the + French, Sir Walter called off his men and retired slowly. On reaching the + moat he halted his forces. The knights wheeled and presented a firm face + to the enemy, covering the entrance of their followers into the gate. The + French chivalry thundered down upon the little body, but were met by a + storm of arrows from the archers lining the moat. Many knights were struck + through the bars of their vizors or the joints of their mail. The horses, + though defended by iron trappings, fell dead under them, or, maddened by + pain, dashed wildly through the ranks, carrying confusion with them, and + the French commanders, seeing how heavy were their losses, called off + their men from the assault. Sir Walter Manny with his party remained + without the gate until the enemy had re-entered their camp, and then rode + into the town amid the acclamations of the inhabitants, the countess + herself meeting her deliverers at the gate and kissing each, one after the + other, in token of her gratitude and admiration. + </p> + <p> + The arrival of the reinforcements and the proof of skill and vigour given + by the English leader, together with the terror caused by the terrible + effect of the English arrows, shook the resolution of Don Louis and his + troops. Deprived of half their force by the absence of Charles of Blois, + it was thought prudent by the leaders to withdraw at once, and the third + morning after the arrival of Sir Walter Manny the siege was raised, and + the French marched to join Charles of Blois before the Castle of Auray. + </p> + <p> + Even with the reinforcements brought by Sir Walter Manny, the forces of + the Countess of Montford were still so greatly inferior to those of the + divisions of the French army that they could not hope to cope with them in + the field until the arrival of the main English army, which the King of + England himself was to bring over shortly. Accordingly the French laid + siege to and captured many small towns and castles. Charles of Blois + continued the siege of Auray, and directed Don Louis with his division to + attack the town of Dinan. On his way the Spaniard captured the small + fortress of Conquet and put the garrison to the sword. Sir Walter Manny, + in spite of the inferiority of his force, sallied out to relieve it, but + it was taken before his arrival, and Don Louis had marched away to Dinan, + leaving a small garrison in Conquet. It was again captured by Sir Walter, + but finding it indefensible he returned with the whole of his force to + Hennebon. Don Louis captured Dinan and then besieged Guerande. Here he met + with a vigorous resistance, but carried it by storm, and gave it up to be + pillaged by his soldiers. He now sent back to Charles of Blois the greater + part of the French troops who accompanied him, and embarked with the + Genoese and Spanish, 8000 in number, and sailed to Quimperle, a rich and + populous town in Lower Brittany. + </p> + <p> + Anchoring in the River Leita, he disembarked his troops, and leaving a + guard to protect the vessels marched to the interior, plundering and + burning, and from time to time despatching his booty to swell the immense + mass which he had brought in his ships from the sack of Guerande. + </p> + <p> + Quimperle lies but a short distance from Hennebon, and Sir Walter Manny + with Almeric de Clisson, a number of English knights, and a body of + English archers, in all three thousand men, embarked in the ships in the + port, and entering the Leita captured the enemy's fleet and all his + treasure. The English then landed, and dividing into three bodies, set out + in search of the enemy. + </p> + <p> + The English columns marched at a short distance apart so as to be able to + give each other assistance in case of attack. The news of the English + approach soon reached the Spaniards, who were gathered in a solid body, + for the enraged country people, armed with clubs and bills, hung on their + flanks and cut off any stragglers who left the main body. Don Louis at + once moved towards the sea-coast, and coming in sight of one of the + English divisions, charged it with his whole force. + </p> + <p> + The English fought desperately, but the odds of seven to one were too + great, and they would have been overpowered had not the other two + divisions arrived on the spot and fallen upon the enemy's flanks. After a + severe and prolonged struggle the Genoese and Spaniards were completely + routed. The armed peasantry slew every fugitive they could overtake, and + of the 7000 men with whom Don Louis commenced the battle only 300 + accompanied him in his flight to Rennes, the troops of Sir Walter and de + Clisson pursuing him to the very gates of that city. Sir Walter marched + back with his force to the ships, but finding the wind unfavourable + returned to Hennebon by land, capturing by the way the castle of Goy la + Foret. Their return was joyfully welcomed, not only for the victory which + they had achieved, but because the enemy was again drawing near to the + town. Auray had fallen. The brave garrison, after existing for some time + upon the flesh of their horses, had endeavoured to cut their way through + the besiegers. Most of them were killed in the attempt, but a few escaped + and made their way to Hennebon. + </p> + <p> + Vannes, an important town, and Carhaix quickly surrendered, and the French + force was daily receiving considerable reinforcements. This arose from the + fact that large numbers of French nobles and knights had, with their + followers, taken part with Alfonso, King of Castile and Leon, in his war + with the Moors. This had just terminated with the expulsion of the latter + from Spain, and the French knights and nobles on their way home for the + most part joined at once in the war which their countrymen were waging in + Bretagne. + </p> + <p> + Seeing the great force which was gathering for a fresh siege of Hennebon, + Sir Walter Manny and the Countess of Montford sent an urgent message to + King Edward for further support. The king was not yet ready, but at the + beginning of August he despatched a force under the command of the Earl of + Northampton and Robert of Artois. It consisted of twenty-seven knights + bannerets and 2000 men-at-arms. Before, however, it could reach Hennebon + the second siege of that city had begun. Charles of Blois had approached + it with a far larger army than that with which he had on the first + occasion sat down before it. Hennebon was, however, much better prepared + than at first for resistance. The walls had been repaired, provisions and + military stores laid up, and machines constructed. The garrison was very + much larger, and was commanded by one of the most gallant knights of the + age, and the citizens beheld undaunted the approach of the great French + army. + </p> + <p> + Four days after the French had arrived before Hennebon they were joined by + Don Louis, who had been severely wounded in the fight near Quimperle, and + had lain for six weeks at Rennes. Sixteen great engines at once began to + cast stones against the walls, but Sir Walter caused sandbags to be + lowered, and so protected the walls from the attack that little damage was + done. The garrison confident in their powers to resist, taunted the + assailants from the walls, and specially enraged the Spaniards and Don + Louis by allusions to the defeat at Quimperle. + </p> + <p> + So furious did the Spanish prince become that he took a step unprecedented + in those days of chivalry. He one morning entered the tent of Charles of + Blois, where a number of French nobles were gathered, and demanded a boon + in requital of all his services. Charles at once assented, when, to his + surprise and horror, Prince Louis demanded that two English knights, Sir + John Butler and Sir Hubert Frisnoy, who had been captured in the course of + the campaign and were kept prisoners at Faouet, should be delivered to him + to be executed. “These English,” he said, “have pursued, discomforted, and + wounded me, and have killed the nephew whom I loved so well, and as I have + none other mode of vengeance I will cut off their heads before their + companions who lie within those walls.” + </p> + <p> + Charles of Blois and his nobles were struck with amazement and horror at + the demand, and used every means in their power to turn the savage prince + from his purpose, but in vain. They pointed out to him that his name would + be dishonoured in all countries where the laws of chivalry prevailed by + such a deed, and besought him to choose some other boon. Don Louis refused + to yield, and Charles of Blois, finding no alternative between breaking + his promise and delivering his prisoners, at last agreed to his request. + </p> + <p> + The prisoners were sent for, and were informed by Don Louis himself of + their approaching end. At first they could not believe that he was in + earnest, for such a proceeding was so utterly opposed to the spirit of the + times that it seemed impossible to them. Finding that he was in earnest + they warned him of the eternal stain which such a deed would bring upon + his name. The Spaniard, however, was unmoved either by their words or by + the entreaties of the French nobles but told them that he would give them + a few hours to prepare for death, and that they should be executed in + sight of the walls after the usual dinner hour of the army. + </p> + <p> + In those days sieges were not conducted in the strict manner in which they + are at present, and non-combatants passed without difficulty to and fro + between town and camp. The news, therefore, of what was intended speedily + reached the garrison, whom it filled with indignation and horror. A + council was immediately called, and Sir Walter Manny proposed a plan, + which was instantly adopted. + </p> + <p> + Without loss of time Almeric de Clisson issued forth from the great gate + of Hennebon, accompanied by 300 men-at-arms and 1000 archers. The latter + took post at once along the edge of the ditches. The men-at-arms rode + straight for the enemy's camp, which was undefended, the whole army being + within their tents at dinner. Dashing into their midst the English and + Breton men-at-arms began to overthrow the tents and spear all that were in + them. Not knowing the extent of the danger or the smallness of the + attacking force, the French knights sprang up from table, mounted, and + rode to encounter the assailants. + </p> + <p> + For some time these maintained their ground against all assaults until, + finding that the whole army was upon them, Almeric de Clisson gave order + for his troop to retire slowly upon the town. Fighting every step of the + ground and resisting obstinately the repeated onslaught of the French, + Clisson approached the gate. Here he was joined by the archers, who with + bent bows prepared to resist the advance of the French. As it appeared + that the garrison were prepared to give battle outside the walls, the + whole French army prepared to move against them. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime Sir Walter Manny, with 100 men-at-arms and 500 horse + archers, issued by a sally-port on the other side of the town, and with + all speed rode round to the rear of the French camp. There he found none + to oppose him save servants and camp-followers, and making his way + straight to the tent of Charles of Blois, where the two knights were + confined, he soon freed them from their bonds. They were mounted without + wasting a moment's time upon two spare horses, and turning again the whole + party rode back towards Hennebon, and had reached the postern gate before + the fugitives from the camp reached the French commanders and told them + what had happened. + </p> + <p> + Seeing that he was now too late, because of De Clisson's sortie, Charles + of Blois recalled his army from the attack, in which he could only have + suffered heavily from the arrows of the archers and the missiles from the + walls. The same day, he learned from some prisoners captured in the + sortie, of the undiminished spirit of the garrison, and that Hennebon was + amply supplied with provisions brought by sea. His own army was becoming + straitened by the scarcity of supplies in the country round, he therefore + determined at once to raise the siege, and to besiege some place where he + would encounter less serious resistance. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, next morning he drew off his army and marched to Carhaix. + </p> + <p> + Shortly afterwards the news came that the Earl of Northampton and Robert + of Artois, with their force, had sailed, and Don Louis, with the Genoese + and other Italian mercenaries, started to intercept them with a large + fleet. The fleets met off the island of Guernsey, and a severe engagement + took place, which lasted till night. During the darkness a tremendous + storm burst upon them and the combatants separated. The English succeeded + in making their way to Brittany and landed near Vannes. The Spaniards + captured four small ships which had been separated in the storm from their + consorts, but did not succeed in regaining the coast of Brittany, being + driven south by the storm as far as Spain. The Earl of Northampton at once + laid siege to Vannes, and Sir Walter Manny moved with every man that could + be spared from Hennebon to assist him. + </p> + <p> + As it was certain that the French army would press forward with all speed + to relieve the town, it was decided to lose no time in battering the + walls, but to attempt to carry it at once by assault. The walls, however, + were so strong that there seemed little prospect of success attending such + an attempt, and a plan was therefore determined upon by which the enemy + might be thrown off their guard. The assault commenced at three points in + the early morning and was continued all day. No great vigour, however, was + shown in these attempts which were repulsed at all points. + </p> + <p> + At nightfall the assailants drew off to their camp, and Oliver de Clisson, + who commanded the town, suffered his weary troops to quit the walls and to + seek for refreshment and repose. The assailants, however, did not disarm, + but after a sufficient time had elapsed to allow the garrison to lay aside + their armour two strong parties attacked the principal gates of the town, + while Sir Walter Manny and the Earl of Oxford moved round to the opposite + side with ladders for an escalade. The plan was successful. The garrison, + snatching up their arms, hurried to repel their attack upon the gates, + every man hastening in that direction. Sir Walter Manny with his party + were therefore enabled to mount the walls unobserved and make their way + into the town; here they fell upon the defenders in the rear, and the + sudden onslaught spread confusion and terror among them. The parties at + the gates forced their way in and joined their friends, and the whole of + the garrison were killed or taken prisoners, save a few, including Oliver + Clisson, who made their escape by sally-ports. Robert of Artois, with the + Earl of Stafford, was left with a garrison to hold the town. The Earl of + Salisbury, with four thousand men, proceeded to lay siege to Rennes, and + Sir Walter Manny hastened back to Hennebon. + </p> + <p> + Some of Sir Walter's men formed part of the garrison of Vannes, and among + these was Sir John Powis with a hundred men-at-arms. + </p> + <p> + The knight had been so pleased with Walter's coolness and courage at the + siege at Hennebon that he requested Sir Walter to leave him with him at + Vannes. “It is possible,” he said to Walter, “that we may have fighting + here. Methinks that Sir Walter would have done better to leave a stronger + force. The town is a large one, and the inhabitants ill-disposed towards + us. Oliver Clisson and the French nobles will feel their honour wounded at + the way in which we outwitted them, and will likely enough make an effort + to regain the town. However, Rennes and Hennebon are not far away, and we + may look for speedy aid from the Earl of Salisbury and Sir Walter should + occasion arise.” + </p> + <p> + Sir John's previsions were speedily verified. Oliver Clisson and his + friends were determined to wipe out their defeat, and scattered through + the country raising volunteers from among the soldiery in all the + neighbouring towns and castles, and a month after Vannes was taken they + suddenly appeared before the town with an army of 12,000 men, commanded by + Beaumanoir, marshal of Bretagne for Charles of Blois. The same reasons + which had induced the Earl of Northampton to decide upon a speedy assault + instead of the slow process of breaching the walls, actuated the French in + pursuing the same course, and, divided into a number of storming parties, + the army advanced at once to the assault on the walls. The little garrison + prepared for the defence. + </p> + <p> + “The outlook is bad, Walter,” Sir John Powis said. “These men approach + with an air of resolution which shows that they are bent upon success. + They outnumber us by twelve to one, and it is likely enough that the + citizens may rise and attack us in the rear. They have been ordered to + bring the stones for the machines to the walls, but no one has laid his + hand to the work. We must do our duty as brave men, my lad, but I doubt me + if yonder is not the last sun which we shall see. Furious as the French + are at our recent success here you may be sure that little quarter will + given.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X: A PLACE OF REFUGE + </h2> + <p> + The French, excited to the utmost by the exhortations of their commanders, + and by their desire to wipe out the disgrace of the easy capture of Vannes + by the English, advanced with ardour to the assault, and officers and men + vied with each other in the valour which they displayed. In vain did the + garrison shower arrows and cross-bow bolts among them, and pour down + burning oil and quicklime upon them as they thronged at the foot of the + wall. In vain were the ladders, time after time, hurled back loaded with + men upon the mass below. The efforts of the men-at-arms to scale the + defences were seconded by their archers and crossbow-men, who shot such a + storm of bolts that great numbers of the defenders were killed. The + assault was made at a score of different points, and the garrison was too + weak to defend all with success. Sir John Powis and his party repulsed + over and over again the efforts of the assailants against that part of the + wall entrusted to them, but at other points the French gained a footing, + and swarming up rushed along the walls, slaying all whom they encountered. + </p> + <p> + “All is lost,” Sir John exclaimed; “let us fall back to the castle and die + fighting there.” + </p> + <p> + Descending from the wall the party made their way through the streets. The + French were already in the town; every house was closed and barred, and + from the upper windows the burghers hurled down stones and bricks upon the + fugitives, while parties of the French soldiers fell upon them fiercely. + Many threw down their arms and cried for quarter, but were instantly + slain. + </p> + <p> + For a while the streets were a scene of wild confusion; here and there + little knots of Englishmen stood together and defended themselves until + the last, others ran through the streets chased by their exulting foes, + some tried in vain to gain shelter in the houses. Sir John Powis's band + was soon broken and scattered, and their leader slain by a heavy stone + from a housetop. Walter fought his way blindly forward towards the castle + although he well knew that no refuge would be found there. Ralph Smith + kept close beside him, levelling many of his assailants with the + tremendous blows of a huge mace. Somehow, Walter hardly knew how, they + made their way through their assailants and dashed in at the castle gate. + A crowd of their assailants were close upon their heels. Walter glanced + round; dashing across the courtyard he ran through some passages into an + inner yard, in which, as he knew, was the well. The bucket hung at the + windlass. + </p> + <p> + “Catch hold, Ralph!” he exclaimed; “there is just a chance, and we may as + well be drowned as killed.” They grasped the rope and jumped off. The + bucket began to descend with frightful velocity. Faster and faster it went + and yet it seemed a long time before they plunged into the water, which + was nigh a hundred feet below the surface. Fortunately the rope was + considerably longer than was necessary, and they sank many feet into the + water, still retaining their hold. Then clinging to the rope they hauled + themselves to the surface. + </p> + <p> + “We cannot hold on here five minutes,” Ralph exclaimed, “my armour is + dragging me down.” + </p> + <p> + “We will soon get rid of that,” Walter said. + </p> + <p> + “There go our helmets; now I will hold on with one hand and help you to + unbuckle your breast and back pieces; you do the same for me.” + </p> + <p> + With great efforts they managed to rid themselves of their armour, and + then held on with ease to the rope. They hauled the bucket to the surface + and tied a knot in the slack of the rope, so that the bucket hung four + feet below the level of the water. Putting their feet in this, they were + able to stand with their heads above the surface without difficulty. + </p> + <p> + “This is a nice fix,” Ralph exclaimed. “I think it would have been just as + well to have been killed at once. They are sure to find us here, and if + they don't we shall die of cold before tomorrow morning.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't think they will find us,” Walter said cheerfully. “When they have + searched the castle thoroughly it may occur to some of them that we have + jumped down the well, but it will be no particular business of anyone to + look for us, and they will all be too anxious to get at the wine butts to + trouble their heads about the matter; besides, it must be a heavy job to + wind up this bucket, and it is not likely there will be such urgent need + of water that anyone will undertake the task.” + </p> + <p> + “But we are no better off if they don't,” Ralph remarked, “for we must die + here if we are not hauled out. I suppose you don't intend to try and climb + that rope. I might do twenty feet or so on a pinch, but I could no more + get up to the top there than I could fly.” + </p> + <p> + “We must think it over,” Walter rejoined; “where there is a will there is + a way, you know. We will take it by turns to watch that little patch of + light overhead; if we see anyone looking down we must leave the bucket and + swim to the side without making the least noise. They may give a few turns + of the windlass to see if anyone has hold of the rope below; be sure you + do not make the slightest splashing or noise, for the sound would be heard + above to a certainty.” + </p> + <p> + Ten minutes later they saw two heads appear above, and instantly withdrew + their feet from the bucket and made a stroke to the side, which was but + four feet distant, being careful as they did that no motion was imparted + to the rope. Then though it was too dark to see anything, they heard the + bucket lifted from the water. A minute later it fell back again with a + splash, then all was quiet. + </p> + <p> + “We are safe now, and can take our place in the bucket. They are satisfied + that if we did jump down here we are drowned. And now we must think about + climbing up.” + </p> + <p> + “Aye, that will require a good deal of thinking,” Ralph grumbled. + </p> + <p> + For some time there was silence; then Walter said, “The first thing to do + is to cut off the slack of the rope, there are some twelve feet of it. + Then we will unwind the strands of that. There are five or six large + strands as far as I can feel; we will cut them up into lengths of about a + couple of feet and we ought to be able to tie these to the rope in such a + way as not to slip down with our weight. If we tie them four feet apart we + can go up step by step; I don't see much difficulty about that.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” Ralph said much more cheerfully, “I should think that we could + manage that.” + </p> + <p> + They at once set to work. The rope was cut up and unravelled, and the + strands cut into pieces about two feet long. They then both set to work + trying to discover some way of fastening it by which it would not slip + down the rope. They made many fruitless attempts; each time that a strand + was fastened with a loop large enough for them to pass a leg through, it + slid down the rope when their weight was applied to it. At last they + succeeded in finding out a knot which would hold. This was done by tying a + knot close to one end of a piece of the strand, then sufficient was left + to form the loop, and the remainder was wound round the rope in such a way + that the weight only served to tighten its hold. + </p> + <p> + “Shall we begin at once?” Ralph said, when success was achieved. + </p> + <p> + “No, we had better wait until nightfall. The vibration of the rope when + our weight once gets on it might be noticed by anyone crossing the + courtyard.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think we have sufficient bits of rope,” Ralph asked. + </p> + <p> + “Just enough, I think,” Walter replied; “there were six strands, and each + has made six pieces, so we have thirty-six. I know the well is about a + hundred feet deep, for the other day I heard some of the soldiers who were + drawing water grumbling over the labour required. So if we put them three + feet apart it will take thirty-three of them, which will leave three over; + but we had better place them a little over a yard so as to make sure.” + </p> + <p> + In a short time the fading brightness of the circle of light far overhead + told them that twilight had commenced, and shortly afterwards they + attached the first strand to the rope some three feet above the water. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” Walter said, “I will go first, at any rate for a time. I must put + one leg through the loop, and sit, as it were, while I fasten the one + above, as I shall want both hands for the work. You will find it a good + deal easier to stand with your foot in the loop. If I get tired I will + fasten another loop by the side of that on which I am resting, so you can + come up and pass me. There is no hurry. It ought not to take up above an + hour, and it will not do for us to get to the top until the place becomes + a little quiet. Tonight they are sure to be drinking and feasting over + their victory until late.” + </p> + <p> + They now set to work, and step by step mounted the rope. They found the + work less arduous than they had expected. The rope was dry, and the + strands held tightly to it. Two or three times they changed places, + resting in turn from the work; but in less than two hours from the time + they made the first loop Walter's head and shoulders appeared above the + level of the courtyard. He could hear sounds of shouting and singing + within the castle, and knew that a great feast was going on. Descending a + step or two he held parley with Ralph. + </p> + <p> + “I think, perhaps, it will be better to sally out at once. Everyone is + intent on his own pleasure, and we shall have no difficulty in slipping + out of the castle unnoticed. All will be feasting and riot in the town, + and so long as we do not brush against any one so that they may feel our + wet garments we are little likely to be noticed; besides, the gates of the + town will stand open late, for people from the villages round will have + come in to join in the revels.” + </p> + <p> + “I am ready to try it, Master Walter,” Ralph replied, “for I ache from + head to foot with holding on to this rope. The sooner the better, say I.” + </p> + <p> + In another minute both stood in the courtyard. It was a retired spot, and + none were passing. Going along the passage they issued into the main yard. + Here great fires were blazing, and groups of men sat round them drinking + and shouting. Many lay about in drunken sleep. + </p> + <p> + “Stay where you are in the shade, Ralph. You had best lie down by the foot + of the wall. Anyone who passes will think that you are in a drunken sleep. + I will creep forward and possess myself of the steel caps of two of these + drunkards, and if I can get a couple of cloaks so much the better.” + </p> + <p> + There was no difficulty about the caps, and by dint of unbuckling the + cloaks and rolling their wearers gently over, Walter succeeded at last in + obtaining two of them. He also picked up a sword for Ralph—his own + still hung in its sheath—and then he joined his companion, and the + two putting on the steel caps and cloaks walked quietly to the gate. There + were none on guard, and they issued unmolested into the town. Here all was + revelry. Bonfires blazed in the streets. Hogsheads of wine, with the heads + knocked out, stood before many of the houses for all to help themselves + who wished. Drunken soldiers reeled along shouting snatches of songs, and + the burghers in the highest state of hilarity thronged the ways. + </p> + <p> + “First of all, Ralph, we will have a drink of wine, for I am chilled to + the bone.” + </p> + <p> + “Aye, and so am I,” Ralph replied. “I got hot enough climbing that rope, + but now the cold has got hold of me again, and my teeth are chattering in + my head.” + </p> + <p> + Picking up one of the fallen vessels by a cask they dipped it in and took + a long draught of wine; then, turning off from the principal streets, they + made their way by quiet lanes down to one of the gates. To their dismay + they found that this was closed. The French commanders knew that Sir + Walter Manny or Salisbury might ere this be pressing forward to relieve + the town, and that, finding that it had fallen, they might attempt to + recapture it by a sudden attack. While permitting therefore the usual + licence, after a successful assault, to the main body of their forces, + they had placed a certain number of their best troops on the walls, giving + them a handsome largess to make up for their loss of the festivities. + </p> + <p> + At first Walter and his friend feared that their retreat was cut off for + the night, but several other people presently arrived, and the officer on + guard said, coming out, “You must wait a while; the last batch have only + just gone, and I cannot keep opening and closing the gate; in half an hour + I will let you out.” + </p> + <p> + Before that time elapsed some fifty or sixty people, anxious to return to + their villages, gathered round the gate. + </p> + <p> + “Best lay aside your steel cap, Ralph, before we join them,” Walter said. + “In the dim light of that lamp none will notice that we have head-gear, + but if it were to glint upon the steel cap the officer might take us for + deserters and question us as to who we are.” + </p> + <p> + Presently the officer came out from the guard-room again. There was a + forward movement of the little crowd, and Walter and Ralph closed in to + their midst. The gates were opened, and without any question the villagers + passed out, and the gates were shut instantly behind them. + </p> + <p> + Walter and his comrade at once started at a brisk pace and walked all + night in the direction of Hennebon. Their clothes soon dried, and elated + at their escape from danger they struggled on briskly. When morning broke + they entered a wood, and lay there till evening, as they feared to + continue their journey lest they might fall into the hands of some roving + band of French horse. They were, too, dog-tired, and were asleep a few + minutes after they lay down. The sun was setting when they awoke, and as + soon as it was dark they resumed their journey. + </p> + <p> + “I don't know what you feel, Master Walter, but I am well-nigh famished. + It is thirty-six hours since I swallowed a bit of food, just as the French + were moving to the attack. Hard blows I don't mind—I have been used + to it; but what with fighting, and being in the water for five or six + hours, and climbing up that endless rope, and walking all night on an + empty stomach, it does not suit me at all.” + </p> + <p> + “I feel ravenous too, Ralph, but there is no help for it. We shall eat + nothing till we are within the walls of Hennebon, and that will be by + daylight tomorrow if all goes well. Draw your belt an inch or two tighter, + it will help to keep out the wolf.” + </p> + <p> + They kept on all night, and in the morning saw to their delight the towers + of Hennebon in the distance. It was well that it was no further, for both + were so exhausted from want of food that they could with difficulty drag + their legs along. + </p> + <p> + Upon entering the town Walter made his way at once to the quarters of the + leader. Sir Walter had just risen, and was delighted at the sight of his + esquire. + </p> + <p> + “I had given you up for dead,” he exclaimed. “By what miracle could you + have escaped? Are you alone?” + </p> + <p> + “I have with me only my faithful follower Ralph Smith, who is below; but, + Sir Walter, for mercy's sake order that some food be placed before us, or + we shall have escaped from the French only to die of hunger here. We have + tasted nought since the attack on Vannes began. Have any beside us + escaped?” + </p> + <p> + “Lord Stafford contrived, with two or three others, to cut their way out + by a postern-gate, bringing with them Robert of Artois, who is grievously + wounded. None others, save you and your man-at-arms, have made their way + here.” + </p> + <p> + In a few minutes a cold capon, several manchets of bread, and a stoop of + wine were placed before Walter, while Ralph's wants were attended to + below. When he had satisfied his hunger the young esquire related his + adventures to Sir Walter and several other knights and nobles, who had by + this time gathered in the room. + </p> + <p> + “In faith, Master Somers, you have got well out of your scrape,” Sir + Walter exclaimed. “Had I been in your place I should assuredly have + perished, for I would a thousand times rather meet death sword in hand, + than drop down into the deep hole of that well. And your brains served you + shrewdly in devising a method of escape. What say you, gentlemen?” + </p> + <p> + All present joined in expressions of praise at the lad's coolness and + presence of mind. + </p> + <p> + “You are doing well, young sir,” the English leader went on, “and have + distinguished yourself on each occasion on which we have been engaged. I + shall be proud when the time comes to bestow upon you myself the order of + knighthood if our king does not take the matter off my hands.” + </p> + <p> + A little later Robert of Artois died of his wounds and disappointment at + the failure of his hopes. + </p> + <p> + In October King Edward himself set sail with a great army, and landing in + Brittany early in November marched forward through the country and soon + reduced Ploermel, Malestrail, Redon, and the rest of the province in the + vicinity of Vannes, and then laid siege to that town. As his force was far + more than sufficient for the siege, the Earls of Norfolk and Warwick were + despatched in the direction of Nantes to reconnoitre the country and clear + it of any small bodies of the enemy they might encounter. In the meantime + Edward opened negotiations with many of the Breton lords, who, seeing that + such powerful aid had arrived for the cause of the Countess of Montford, + were easily persuaded to change sides. Among them were the lords of + Clisson, Moheac, Machecoul, Retz, and many others of less importance. + </p> + <p> + The Count of Valentinois, who commanded the garrison of Vannes, supported + the siege with great courage and fortitude, knowing that Charles of Blois + and the King of France were collecting a great army for his relief. + Uniting their forces they advanced towards the town. Before the force of + the French, 40,000 strong, the Earl of Norfolk had fallen back and + rejoined the king, but even after this junction the French forces exceeded + those of Edward fourfold. They advanced towards Vannes and formed a large + entrenched camp near that of the English, who thus, while still besieging + Vannes, were themselves enclosed by a vastly superior force. The King of + France himself arrived at the French camp. The French, although so greatly + superior, made no motion toward attacking the English, but appeared bent + upon either starving them out or forcing them to attack the strongly + entrenched position occupied by the French. + </p> + <p> + Provisions were indeed running short in the English camp, and the arrival + of supplies from England was cut off by a strong fleet under Don Louis, + which cruised off the coast and captured all vessels arriving with stores. + At this moment two legates, the Cardinal Bishop of Preneste and the + Cardinal Bishop of Tusculum, arrived from the pope and strove to mediate + between the two sovereigns and to bring about a cessation of hostilities, + pointing out to them the scandal and desolation which their rivalry caused + in Christendom, the waste of noble lives, the devastation of once happy + provinces, and the effusion of innocent blood. Going from camp to camp + they exhorted, prayed, and reproached the rival sovereigns, urging that + while Christians were shedding each other's blood in vain, the infidels + were daily waxing bolder and more insolent. Their arguments would have + been but of little use had either of the monarchs felt sure of victory. + King Edward, however, felt that his position was growing desperate, for + starvation was staring him in the face, and only by a victory over an + immensely superior force in a strongly entrenched position could he + extricate himself. Upon the part of the French, however, circumstances + were occurring which rendered them anxious for a release from their + position, for they were not without their share of suffering. While the + English army lay on a hill the French camp was pitched on low ground. An + unusually wet season had set in with bitterly cold wind. The rain was + incessant, a pestilence had destroyed a vast number of their horses, and + their encampment was flooded. Their forces were therefore obligated to + spread themselves over the neighbouring fields, and a sudden attack by the + English might have been fatal. + </p> + <p> + Thus distress pressed upon both commanders, and the pope's legates found + their exertions at last crowned with success. A suspension of hostilities + was agreed to, and the Dukes of Burgundy and Bourbon on the one side and + the Earls of Lancaster, Northampton, and Salisbury on the other, met as + commissioners and agreed to a convention by which a general truce was to + be made from the date of the treaty to the following Michaelmas, and to be + prolonged from that day for the full term of three years. It was agreed + that the truce should embrace not only the sovereigns, but all the + adherents of each of them. The truce was to hold good in Brittany between + all parties, and the city of Vannes was to be given into the hands of the + cardinals to dispose of as they chose. It was specially provided that in + the case of any of the adherents of either party in the Duchies of Gascony + and Brittany waging war against each other, neither of the monarchs should + either directly or indirectly meddle therewith, nor should the truce be at + all broken thereby. + </p> + <p> + Immediately the treaty was signed, on the 19th of January, 1343, the King + of France dismissed his army, and Edward sailed for England with the + greater part of his troops. The Countess of Montford and her son + accompanied him, and the possessions of her husband in Brittany were left + to the guardianship of her partisans, with a small but choice body of + English troops. + </p> + <p> + The towns which had fallen into their hands and still remained were Brest, + Quimper-Corentin, Quimperle, Redon, and Guerande; Vannes was handed over + to them by the cardinals, and Hennebon, of course, remained in their + possession. + </p> + <p> + Walter returned to England with Sir Walter Manny, and on reaching London + was received with delight by his old friends Geoffrey Ward and Giles + Fletcher, who were never tired of listening to his tales of the wars. Dame + Vernon also received him with great kindness, and congratulated him warmly + upon the very favourable account which Sir Walter Manny had given of his + zeal and gallantry. + </p> + <p> + The time now for a while passed very quietly. Walter and the other young + squires practised diligently, under the instructions of Sir Walter, at + knightly exercises. Walter learned to bear himself well on horseback and + to tilt in the ring. He was already a skilful swordsman, but he spared no + pains to improve himself with his weapons. The court was a gay one, and + Walter, as a favoured esquire of one of the foremost knights there, was + admitted to all that took place. His courtly education, of course, + included dancing, and when he went down, as he often did, for a long chat + with his old friends, Geoffrey often said, laughing, that he was growing + such a fine gentleman that he hardly liked to sit in his presence; but + although changed in manner, Walter continued to be, as before, a frank, + manly young fellow, and free from the affectations which were so general + among the young men of the court. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI: A STORMY INTERVIEW + </h2> + <p> + Soon after Walter's return from France Dame Vernon returned to her country + estate, and a year passed before he again saw her. During this time the + truce which had been established between England and France had remained + unbroken. It was certain, however, that ere long the two powers would + again come to blows. The King of England had honourably observed the terms + of the treaty. Upon his return home he had entirely disbanded his army and + had devoted his whole attention to increasing the trade and prosperity of + the country. The measures which he took to do this were not always popular + with the people of England, for seeing how greatly they excelled the + English manufacturers Edward encouraged large numbers of Flemings and + other foreign workmen to settle in London, and gave them many privileges + to induce them to do so; this the populace strongly resented. There was a + strong ill feeling against the Flemings and serious popular riots took + place, for the English traders and workmen considered that these + foreigners were taking the bread from their mouths. The king, however, was + wiser than his people, he saw that although the English weavers were able + to produce coarse cloths, yet that all of the finer sort had to be + imported from the Continent. He deemed that in time the Flemings would + teach their art to his subjects, and that England would come to vie with + the Low Countries in the quality of her produce. Such was indeed + afterwards the case, and England gained greatly by the importation of the + industrious Flemings, just as she afterwards profited from the expulsion + from France of tens of thousands of Protestant workmen who brought here + many of the manufactures of which France had before the monopoly. The + relations between England and the Flemings were at this time very close, + for the latter regarded England as her protector against the ambition of + the King of France. + </p> + <p> + But while King Edward had laid aside all thought of war, such was not the + case with Phillip of Valois. He had retired after the signature of the + treaty full of rage and humiliation; for hitherto in all their struggles + his English rival had had the better of him, and against vastly superior + forces had foiled all his efforts and had gained alike glory and military + advantage. King Edward had hardly set sail when Phillip began to break the + terms of truce by inciting the adherents of Charles of Blois to attack + those of De Montford, and by rendering assistance to them with money and + men. He also left no means untried to detach Flanders from its alliance + with England. Several castles and towns in Brittany were wrested from the + partisans of De Montford, and King Edward, after many remonstrances at the + breaches of the conditions of the truce, began again to make preparations + for taking the field. Several brilliant tournaments were held and every + means were taken to stir up the warlike spirit of the people. + </p> + <p> + One day Walter had attended his lord to the palace and was waiting in the + anteroom with many other squires and gentlemen, while Sir Walter, with + some other noblemen, was closeted with the king, discussing the means to + be adopted for raising funds for a renewal of a war with France, when a + knight entered whom Walter had not previously seen at court. + </p> + <p> + “Who is that?” he asked one of his acquaintances; “methinks I know his + face, though it passes my memory to say where I have seen it.” + </p> + <p> + “He has been away from England for some two years,” his friend answered. + “That is Sir James Carnegie; he is a cousin of the late Sir Jasper Vernon; + he left somewhat suddenly a short time after Dame Vernon had that narrow + escape from drowning that you wot of; he betook himself then to Spain, + where he has been fighting the Moors; he is said to be a valiant knight, + but otherwise he bears but an indifferent good reputation.” + </p> + <p> + Walter remembered the face now; it was that of the knight he had seen + enter the hut of the river pirate on the Lambeth marshes. When released + from duty he at once made his way to the lodging of Dame Vernon. Walter + was now nineteen, for a year had elapsed since the termination of the + French war, and he was in stature and strength the match of most men, + while his skill at knightly exercises, as well as with the sword, was + recognized as pre-eminent among all the young esquires of the court. + </p> + <p> + After the first greeting he said to Dame Vernon: “I think it right to tell + you, lady, that I have but now, in the king's anteroom, seen the man who + plotted against your life in the hut at Lambeth. His face is a marked one + and I could not mistake it. I hear that he is a cousin of yours, one Sir + James Carnegie, as you doubtless recognized from my description of him. I + came to tell you in order that you might decide what my conduct should be. + If you wish it so I will keep the secret in my breast; but if you fear + aught from him I will openly accuse him before the king of the crime he + attempted, and shall be ready to meet him in the ordeal of battle should + he claim it.” + </p> + <p> + “I have seen Sir James,” Lady Vernon said. “I had a letter writ in a + feigned hand telling him that his handiwork in the plot against my life + was known, and warning him that, unless he left England, the proofs + thereof would be laid before justice. He at once sailed for Spain, whence, + he has returned but a few days since. He does not know for certain that I + am aware of his plottings against us; but he must have seen by my + reception of him when he called that I no longer regard him with the + friendship which I formerly entertained. I have received a message from + him that he will call upon me this evening, and that he trusts he will + find me alone, as he would fain confer with me on private matters. When I + have learned his intentions I shall be the better able to judge what + course I had best adopt. I would fain, if it may be, let the matter rest. + Sir James has powerful interest, and I would not have him for an open + enemy if I can avoid it; besides, all the talk and publicity which so + grave an accusation against a knight, and he of mine own family, would + entail, would be very distasteful to me; but should I find it necessary + for the sake of my child, I shall not shrink from it. I trust, however, + that it will not come to that; but I shall not hesitate, if need be, to + let him know that I am acquainted with his evil designs towards us. I will + inform you of as much of our interview as it is necessary that you should + know.” + </p> + <p> + That evening Sir James Carnegie called upon Dame Vernon. “I would not + notice it the other day, fair cousin,” he said, in return for her stiff + and ceremonious greeting; “but methinks that you are mightily changed in + your bearing towards me. I had looked on my return from my long journeying + for something of the sisterly warmth with which you once greeted me, but I + find you as cold and hard as if I had been altogether a stranger to you. I + would fain know in what way I have forfeited your esteem.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not wish to enter into bygones, Sir James,” the lady said, “and + would fain let the past sleep if you will let me. Let us then turn without + more ado to the private matters concerning which you wished to speak with + me.” + </p> + <p> + “If such is your mood, fair dame, I must needs fall in with it, though in + no way able to understand your allusion to the past, wherein my conscience + holds me guiltless of aught which could draw upon me your disfavour. I am + your nearest male relative, and as such would fain confer with you + touching the future of young Mistress Edith, your daughter. She is now + nigh thirteen years of age, and is the heiress of broad lands; is it not + time that she were betrothed to one capable of taking care of them for + her, and leading your vassals to battle in these troubled times?” + </p> + <p> + “Thanks, Sir James, for your anxiety about my child,” Dame Vernon said + coldly. “She is a ward of the king. I am in no way anxious that an early + choice should be made for her; but our good Queen Philippa has promised + that, when the time shall come, his Majesty shall not dispose of her hand + without my wishes being in some way consulted; and I have no doubt that + when the time shall come that she is of marriageable age—and I would + not that this should be before she has gained eighteen years, for I like + not the over young marriages which are now in fashion—a knight may + be found for her husband capable of taking care of her and her + possessions; but may I ask if, in so speaking to me, you have anyone in + your mind's eye as a suitor for her hand?” + </p> + <p> + “Your manner is not encouraging, certes; but I had my plan, which would, I + hoped, have met with your approval. I am the young lady's cousin, and her + nearest male relative; and although we are within the limited degrees, + there will be no difficulty in obtaining a dispensation from Rome. I am + myself passably well off, and some of the mortgages which I had been + forced to lay upon my estates have been cleared off during my absence. I + have returned home with some reputation, and with a goodly sum gained in + the wars with the Moors. I am older than my cousin certainly; but as I am + still but thirty-two, this would not, I hope, be deemed an obstacle, and + methought that you would rather entrust her to your affectionate cousin + than to a stranger. The king has received me very graciously, and would, I + trust, offer no opposition to my suit were it backed by your goodwill.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose, Sir James,” Dame Vernon said, “that I should thank you for the + offer which you have made; but I can only reply, that while duly conscious + of the high honour you have done my daughter by your offer, I would rather + see her in her grave than wedded to you.” + </p> + <p> + The knight leapt from his seat with a fierce exclamation. “This is too + much,” he exclaimed, “and I have a right to know why such an offer on my + part should be answered by disdain, and even insolence.” + </p> + <p> + “You have a right to know,” Dame Vernon answered quietly, “and I will tell + you. I repeat that I would rather see my child in her grave than wedded to + a man who attempted to compass the murder of her and her mother.” + </p> + <p> + “What wild words are these?” Sir James asked sternly. “What accusation is + this that you dare to bring against me?” + </p> + <p> + “I repeat what I said, Sir James,” Dame Alice replied quietly. “I know + that you plotted with the water pirates of Lambeth to upset our boat as we + came down the Thames; that you treacherously delayed us at Richmond in + order that we might not reach London before dark; and that by enveloping + me in a white cloak you gave a signal by which I might be known to your + creatures.” + </p> + <p> + The knight stood for a moment astounded. He was aware that the fact that + he had had some share in the outrage was known, and was not surprised that + his cousin was acquainted with the secret; but that she should know all + the details with which but one besides himself was, as he believed, + acquainted, completely stupefied him. He rapidly, however, recovered + himself. + </p> + <p> + “I recall now,” he said scornfully, “the evidence which was given before + the justices by some ragged city boy, to the effect that he had overheard + a few words of a conversation between some ruffian over in the Lambeth + marshes, and an unknown person; but it is new to me indeed that there was + any suspicion that I was the person alluded to, still less that a lady of + my own family, in whose affection I believed, should credit so monstrous + an accusation.” + </p> + <p> + “I would that I could discredit it, Sir James,” Dame Vernon said sadly; + “but the proofs were too strong for me. Much more of your conversation + than was narrated in court was overheard, and it was at my request that + the ragged boy, as you call him, kept silence.” + </p> + <p> + “And is it possible,” the knight asked indignantly, “that you believed the + word of a fellow like this to the detriment to your kinsman? Why, in any + court of law the word of such a one as opposed to that of a knight and + gentleman of honour would not be taken for a moment.” + </p> + <p> + “You are mistaken, sir,” Dame Vernon said haughtily. “You may remember, in + the first place, that the lad who overheard this conversation risked his + life to save me and my daughter from the consequences of the attack which + he heard planned; in the second place, he was no ragged lad, but the + apprentice of a well-known citizen; thirdly, and this is of importance, + since he has recognized you since your return, and is ready should I give + him the word, to denounce you. He is no mere apprentice boy, but is of + gentle blood, seeing that he is the son of Sir Roland Somers, the former + possessor of the lands which I hold, and that he is in high favour with + the good knight Sir Walter Manny, whose esquire he now is, and under whom + he distinguished himself in the wars in France, and is, as Sir Walter + assured me, certain to win his spurs ere long. Thus you see his bare word + would be of equal value to your own, beside the fact that his evidence + does not rest upon mere assertion; but that the man in the hut promised to + do what you actually performed, namely, to delay me at Richmond, and to + wrap me in a white cloak in order that I might be recognized by the river + pirates.” + </p> + <p> + Sir James was silent. In truth, as he saw, the evidence was overwhelmingly + strong against him. After a while he stammered out, “I cannot deny that I + was the man in question; but I swear to you that this boy was mistaken, + and that the scoundrel acted altogether beyond my instructions, which were + simply that he should board the boat and carry you and your daughter away + to a safe place.” + </p> + <p> + “And with what object, sir,” Dame Vernon said contemptuously, “was I to be + thus taken away?” + </p> + <p> + “I do not seek to excuse myself,” the knight replied calmly, having now + recovered his self-possession, “for I own I acted wrongly and basely; but + in truth I loved you, and would fain have made you my wife. I knew that + you regarded me with only the calm affection of a kinswoman; but I thought + that were you in my power you would consent to purchase your freedom with + your hand. I know now that I erred greatly. I acknowledge my fault, and + that my conduct was base and unknightly, and my only excuse is the great + love I bore you. + </p> + <p> + “And which,” the lady said sarcastically, “you have now transferred to my + daughter. I congratulate you, Sir James, upon the possession of a ready + wit and an invention which does not fail you at a pinch, and of a tongue + which repeats unfalteringly any fable which your mind may dictate. You do + not, I suppose, expect me to believe the tale. Still, I own that it is a + well-devised one, and might, at a pinch, pass muster; but fear not, Sir + James. As hitherto I have kept silence as to the author of the outrage + committed upon me, so I have no intention of proclaiming the truth now + unless you force me to do so. Suffice that both for myself and for my + daughter I disclaim the honour of your hand. So long as you offer no + molestation to us, and abstain from troubling us in any way, so long will + my mouth be sealed; and I would fain bury in my breast the memory of your + offence. I will not give the world's tongue occasion to wag by any open + breach between kinsfolk, and shall therefore in public salute you as an + acquaintance, but under no pretence whatever will I admit you to any + future private interview. Now leave me, sir, and I trust that your future + life will show that you deeply regret the outrage which in your greed for + my husband's lands you were tempted to commit.” + </p> + <p> + Without a word Sir James turned and left the room, white with shame and + anger, but with an inward sense of congratulation at the romance which he + had, on the spur of the moment, invented, and which would, he felt sure, + be accepted by the world as probable, in the event of the share he had in + the matter being made public, either upon the denunciation of Dame Vernon + or in any other manner. + </p> + <p> + One determination, however, he made, and swore, to himself, that he would + bitterly avenge himself upon the youth whose interference had thwarted his + plans, and whose report to his kinswoman had turned her mind against him. + He, at any rate, should be put out of the way at the first opportunity, + and thus the only witness against himself be removed; for Lady Vernon's + own unsupported story would be merely her word against his, and could be + treated as the malicious fiction of an angry woman. + </p> + <p> + The following day Dame Vernon sent for Walter, and informed him exactly + what had taken place. + </p> + <p> + “Between Sir James and me,” she said, “there is, you see, a truce. We are + enemies, but, we agree to lay aside our arms for the time. But, Walter, + you must be on your guard. + </p> + <p> + “You know as well as I do how dangerous this man is, and how good a cause + he has to hate you. I would not have divulged your name had I not known + that the frequency of your visits here and the encouragement which I + openly give you as the future suitor of my daughter, would be sure to come + to his ears, and he would speedily discover that it was you who saved our + lives on the Thames and gave your testimony before the justices as to the + conversation in the hut on the marshes. Thus I forestalled what he would + in a few days have learnt.” + </p> + <p> + “I fear him not, lady,” Walter said calmly. “I can hold mine own, I hope, + against him in arms, and having the patronage and friendship of Sir Walter + Manny I am above any petty malice. Nevertheless I will hold myself on my + guard. I will, so far as possible, avoid any snare which he may, as 'tis + not unlikely, set for my life, and will, so far as I honourably can, avoid + any quarrel with which he may seek to saddle me.” + </p> + <p> + A few days later Walter again met Sir James Carnegie in the king's + anteroom, and saw at once, by the fixed look of hate with which he had + regarded him, that he had already satisfied himself of his identity. He + returned the knight's stare with a cold look of contempt. The knight moved + towards him, and in a low tone said, “Beware, young sir, I have a heavy + reckoning against you, and James Carnegie never forgets debts of that + kind!” + </p> + <p> + “I am warned, Sir James,” Walter said calmly, but in the same low tone, + “and, believe me, I hold but very lightly the threats of one who does not + succeed even when he conspires against the lives of women and children.” + </p> + <p> + Sir James started as if he had been struck. Then, with a great effort he + recovered his composure, and, repeating the word “Beware!” walked across + to the other side of the chamber. The next day Walter went down the river + and had a talk with his friend Geoffrey. + </p> + <p> + “You must beware, lad,” the armourer said when he told him of the return + of Sir James Carnegie and the conversation which had taken place between + them. “This man is capable of anything, and careth not where he chooseth + his instruments. The man of the hut at Lambeth has never been caught since + his escape from Richmond Jail—thanks, doubtless, to the gold of his + employer—and, for aught we know, may still be lurking in the marshes + there, or in the purlieus of the city. He will have a grudge against you + as well as his employer, and in him Sir James would find a ready + instrument. He is no doubt connected, as before, with a gang of water + pirates and robbers, and it is not one sword alone that you would have to + encounter. I think not that you are in danger just at present, for he + would know that, in case of your murder, the suspicions of Dame Vernon and + of any others who may know the motive which he has in getting rid of you + would be excited, and he might be accused of having had a share in your + death. Still, it would be so hard to prove aught against him, that he may + be ready to run the risk in order to rid himself of you. Look here, + Walter. What think you of this?” and the smith drew out from a coffer a + shirt of mail of finer work than Walter had ever before seen. + </p> + <p> + “Aye, lad, I knew you would be pleased,” he said in answer to Walter's + exclamation at the fineness of the workmanship. “I bought this a month ago + from a Jew merchant who had recently come from Italy. How he got it I know + not, but I doubt if it were honestly, or he would have demanded a higher + price than I paid him. He told me that it was made by the first armourer + in Milan, and was constructed especially for a cardinal of the church, who + had made many enemies by his evil deeds and could not sleep for fear of + assassination. At his death it came as the Jew said, into his possession. + I suppose some rascally attendant took it as a perquisite, and, knowing + not of its value, sold it for a few ducats to the Jew. However, it is of + the finest workmanship. It is, as you see, double, and each link is made + of steel so tough that no dagger or sword-point will pierce it. I put it + on a block and tried the metal myself, and broke one of my best daggers on + it without a single link giving. Take it, lad. You are welcome to it. I + bought it with a special eye to you, thinking that you might wear it under + your armour in battle without greatly adding to the weight; but for such + dangers as threaten you now it is invaluable. It is so light and soft that + none will dream that you have it under your doublet, and I warrant me it + will hold you safe against the daggers of Sir James's ruffians.” + </p> + <p> + Walter did not like taking a gift so valuable, for his apprenticeship as + an armourer had taught him the extreme rarity and costliness of so fine a + piece of work. Geoffrey, however, would not hear of his refusal, and + insisted on his then and there taking off his doublet and putting it on. + It fitted closely to the body, descending just below the hips, and coming + well up on the neck, while the arms extended to the wrists. + </p> + <p> + “There!” the smith said with delight. “Now you are safe against sword or + dagger, save for a sweeping blow at the head, and that your sword can be + trusted to guard. Never take it off, Walter, save when you sleep; and + except when in your own bed, at Sir Walter Manny's, I should advise you to + wear it even at night. The weight is nothing, and it will not incommode + you. So long as this caitiff knight lives, your life will not be safe. + When he is dead you may hang up the shirt of mail with a light heart.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII: JACOB VAN ARTEVELDE + </h2> + <p> + King Edward found no difficulty in awakening the war spirit of England + anew, for the King of France, in an act of infamous treachery, in despite + of the solemn terms of the treaty, excited against himself the indignation + not only of England but of all Europe. Oliver de Clisson, with fourteen + other nobles of Brittany and Normandy, were arrested by his order, taken + to Paris, and without form of trial there decapitated. This act of + treachery and injustice aroused disgust and shame among the French nobles, + and murmurs and discontent spread throughout the whole country. + </p> + <p> + In Brittany numbers of the nobles fell off from the cause of Charles of + Blois, and King Edward hastened his preparations to avenge the butchery of + the adherents of the house of Montford. Phillip, however, in defiance of + the murmurs of his own subjects, of the indignant remonstrances of Edward, + and even those of the pope, who was devoted to his cause, continued the + course he had begun, and a number of other nobles were seized and + executed. Godfrey of Harcourt alone, warned by the fate of his companions, + refused to obey the summons of the king to repair to Paris, and fled to + Brabant. His property in France was at once seized by Phillip; and + Godfrey, finding that the Duke of Brabant would be unable to shield him + from Phillip's vengeance, fled to the English court, and did homage to + Edward. + </p> + <p> + On the 24th of April, 1345, Edward determined no longer to allow Phillip + to continue to benefit by his constant violations of the truce, and + accordingly sent a defiance to the King of France. + </p> + <p> + De Montford, who had just succeeded in escaping from his prison in Paris, + arrived at this moment in England, and shortly afterwards set sail with a + small army under the command of the Earl of Northampton for Britanny, + while the Earl of Derby took his departure with a larger force for the + defence of Guienne. + </p> + <p> + King Edward set about raising a large army, which he determined to lead + himself, but before passing over to France he desired to strengthen his + hold of Flanders. The constant intrigues of Phillip there had exercised a + great effect. The count of that country was already strongly in his + interest, and it was only the influence of Jacob van Artevelde which + maintained the alliance with England. This man had, by his talent and + energy, gained an immense influence over his countrymen; but his + commanding position and ability had naturally excited the envy and hatred + of many of his fellow citizens, among whom was the dean of the weavers of + Ghent, one Gerard Denis. The weavers were the most powerful body in this + city, and had always been noted for their turbulence and faction; and on a + Monday in the month of May, 1345, a great battle took place in the + market-place between them and the fullers, of whom 1500 were slain. This + victory of the weavers strengthened the power of the party hostile to + Artevelde and the English connection; and the former saw that unless he + could induce his countrymen to take some irretrievable step in favour of + England they would ultimately fall back into the arms of France. + Accordingly he invited Edward to pass over with a strong force into + Flanders, where he would persuade the Flemings to make the Prince of Wales + their duke. King Edward at once accepted the offer, and sailing from + Sandwich on the 3d of July arrived in safety at Sluys. His intention had + been kept a profound secret, and his arrival created the greatest surprise + throughout Flanders. He did not disembark, but received on board a ship + with great honour and magnificence the burgomasters of the various towns + who appeared to welcome him. The king had brought with him the Prince of + Wales, now fifteen years old, who wore a suit of black armour, and was + therefore called “the Black Prince.” + </p> + <p> + Walter Somers was on board the royal vessel. The Prince of Wales had not + forgotten the promise which he had six years before made to him, and had + asked Sir Walter Manny to allow him to follow under his banner. + </p> + <p> + “You are taking my most trusty squire from me, Prince,” the knight said; + “for although I have many brave young fellows in my following, there is + not one whom I value so much as Walter Somers. It is but fair, however, + that you should have him, since you told me when I first took him that he + was to follow your banner when you were old enough to go to the wars. You + can rely upon him implicitly. He cares not for the gaieties of which most + young men of his age think so much. He is ever ready for duty, and he + possesses a wisdom and sagacity which will some day make him a great + leader.” + </p> + <p> + Walter was sorry to leave his patron, but the step was of course a great + advancement, and excited no little envy among his companions, for among + the young esquires of the Prince of Wales were the sons of many of the + noblest families of England. + </p> + <p> + Sir Walter presented him on leaving with a heavy purse. “Your expenses + will be large,” he said, “among so many young gallants, and you must do + credit to me as well as to yourself. The young prince is generous to a + fault, and as he holds you in high favour, both from his knowledge of you + and from my report, you will, I know, lack nothing when you are once + fairly embarked in his service; but it is needful that when you first join + you should be provided with many suits of courtly raiment, of cloth of + gold and silk, which were not needed while you were in the service of a + simple knight like myself, but which must be worn by a companion of the + heir of England.” + </p> + <p> + Walter had hoped that Sir James Carnegie would have accompanied the forces + of either the Earls of Northampton or Derby, but he found that he had + attached himself to the royal army. + </p> + <p> + Ralph of course followed Walter's fortunes, and was now brilliant in the + appointments of the Prince of Wales's chosen bodyguard of men-at-arms. + </p> + <p> + The councils of all the great towns of Flanders assembled at Sluys, and + for several days great festivities were held. Then a great assembly was + held, and Van Artevelde rose and addressed his countrymen. He set forth to + them the virtues of the Prince of Wales, whose courtesy and bearing had so + captivated them; he pointed out the obligations which Flanders was under + towards King Edward, and the advantages which would arise from a nearer + connection with England. With this he contrasted the weakness of their + count, the many ills which his adherence to France had brought upon the + country, and the danger which menaced them should his power be ever + renewed. He then boldly proposed to them that they should at once cast off + their allegiance to the count and bestow the vacant coronet upon the + Prince of Wales, who, as Duke of Flanders, would undertake the defence and + government of the country with the aid of a Flemish council. This wholly + unexpected proposition took the Flemish burghers by surprise. Artevelde + had calculated upon his eloquence and influence carrying them away, but + his power had diminished, and many of his hearers had already been gained + to the cause of France. The burgher councils had for a long time had + absolute power in their own towns, and the prospect of a powerful prince + at their head foredoomed a curtailment of those powers. When Artevelde + ceased, therefore, instead of the enthusiastic shouts with which he hoped + his oration would be greeted, a confused murmur arose. At last several got + up and said that, greatly attached as they were to the king, much as they + admired the noble young prince proposed for their acceptance, they felt + themselves unable to give an answer upon an affair of such moment without + consulting their fellow countrymen and learning their opinions. They + therefore promised that they would return on a certain day and give a + decided answer. + </p> + <p> + The Flemish burghers then took their leave. Van Artevelde, after a + consultation with the king, started at once to use his influence among the + various towns. + </p> + <p> + After leaving the king he bade adieu to the Prince of Wales. “Would you + like,” the young prince said, “that one of my esquires should ride with + you? His presence might show the people how entirely I am with you; and + should you have tidings to send me he could ride hither with them. I have + one with me who is prudent and wise, and who possesses all the confidence + of that wise and valiant knight, Sir Walter de Manny.” + </p> + <p> + “I will gladly take him, your royal highness,” Van Artevelde said, “and + hope to despatch him to you very shortly with the news that the great + towns of Flanders all gladly receive you as their lord.” + </p> + <p> + In a few minutes Walter had mounted his horse, accompanied by Ralph, and, + joining Van Artevelde, rode to Bruges. Here and at Ypres Van Artevelde's + efforts were crowned with success. His eloquence carried away the people + with him, and both these cities agreed to accept the Prince of Wales as + their lord; but the hardest task yet remained. Ghent was the largest and + most powerful of the Flemish towns, and here his enemies were in the + ascendant. Gerard Denis and the weavers had been stirring up the people + against him. All kinds of accusations had been spread, and he was accused + of robbing and selling his country. The news of the hostile feeling of the + population reached Van Artevelde, and he despatched Walter with the + request to the king for a force of five hundred English soldiers as a + guard against his enemies. + </p> + <p> + Had Artevelde asked for a large force, Edward would have disembarked his + army and marched at their head into Ghent. As the rest of the country was + already won, there can be little doubt that this step would at once have + silenced all opposition, and would have annexed Flanders to the British + crown. Van Artevelde, however, believed himself to be stronger than he + really was, and thought with a small party of soldiers he could seize his + principal opponents, and that the people would then rally round him. + </p> + <p> + Upon the arrival of the five hundred men he started for Ghent; but as he + feared that the gates would be shut if he presented himself with an armed + force, he left the soldiers in concealment a short distance from the town + and entered it, accompanied only by his usual suite. At his invitation, + however, Walter, followed of course by Ralph, rode beside him. No sooner + was he within the gates than Van Artevelde saw how strong was the popular + feeling against him. He had been accustomed to be received with bows of + reverence; now men turned aside as he approached, or scowled at him from + their doors. + </p> + <p> + “Methinks, sir,” Walter said, “that it would be wiser did we ride back, + and, joining the soldiers, enter at their head, or as that number would be + scarce sufficient should so large a town rise in tumult, to send to King + Edward for a larger force and await their coming. Even should they shut + the gates, we can reduce the town, and as all the rest of Flanders is with + you, surely a short delay will not matter.” + </p> + <p> + “You know not these Flemings as well as I do,” Van Artevelde replied; + “they are surly dogs, but they always listen to my voice, and are ready + enough to do my bidding. When I once speak to them you will see how they + will smooth their backs and do as I ask them.” + </p> + <p> + Walter said no more, but as he saw everywhere lowering brows from window + and doorway as they rode through the streets he had doubts whether the + power of Van Artevelde's eloquence would have the magical potency he had + expected from it. + </p> + <p> + When the party arrived at the splendid dwelling of the great demagogue, + messengers were instantly sent out to all his friends and retainers. A + hundred and forty persons soon assembled, and while Van Artevelde was + debating with them as to the best steps to be taken, Walter opened the + casement and looked out into the street. It was already crowded with the + people, whose silent and quiet demeanor seemed to bode no good. Arms were + freely displayed among them, and Walter saw men passing to and fro + evidently giving instructions. + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry to disturb you, Master Artevelde,” he said, returning to the + room where the council was being held, “but methinks that it would wise to + bar the doors and windows, and to put yourself in a posture of defence, + for a great crowd is gathering without, for the most part armed, and as it + seems to me with evil intentions.” + </p> + <p> + A glance from the windows confirmed Walter's statements, and the doors and + windows were speedily barricaded. Before many minutes had elapsed the + tolling of bells in all parts of the town was heard, and down the + different streets leading towards the building large bodies of armed men + were seen making their way. + </p> + <p> + “I had rather have to do with a whole French army, Master Walter,” Ralph + said, as he stood beside him at an upper window looking down upon the + crowd, “than with these citizens of Ghent. Look at those men with bloody + axes and stained clothes. Doubtless those are the skinners and butchers. + Didst ever see such a ferocious band of savages? Listen to their shouts. + Death to Van Artevelde! Down with the English alliance! I thought our case + was a bad one when the French poured over the walls into Vannes but + methinks it is a hundred times worse now. + </p> + <p> + “We got out of that scrape, Ralph, and I hope we shall get out of this, + but, as you say, the prospect is black enough. See, the butchers are + hammering at the door with their pole-axes. Let us go down and aid in the + defence.” + </p> + <p> + “I am ready,” Ralph said, “but I shall fight with a lighter heart if you + could fix upon some plan for us to adopt when the rabble break in. That + they will do so I regard as certain, seeing that the house is not built + for purposes of defence, but has numerous broad windows on the + ground-floor by which assuredly they will burst their way in. + </p> + <p> + “Wait a moment then, Ralph; let us run up to the top storey and see if + there be any means of escape along the roofs.” + </p> + <p> + The house stood detached from the others, but on one side was separated + from that next to it only by a narrow lane, and as the upper stories + projected beyond those below, the windows were but six feet distant from + those on the opposite side of the way. + </p> + <p> + “See,” Water said, “there is a casement in the room to our left there + which is open; let us see if it is tenanted.” + </p> + <p> + Going into the next room they went to the window and opened it. It exactly + faced the casement opposite, and so far as they could see the room was + unoccupied. + </p> + <p> + “It were easy to put a plank across,” Ralph said. + </p> + <p> + “We must not do that,” Walter answered. “The mob are thick in the lane + below—what a roar comes up from their voices!—and a plank + would be surely seen, and we should be killed there as well as here. No, + we must get on to the sill and spring across; the distance is not great, + and the jump would be nothing were it not that the casements are so low. + It must be done as lightly and quickly as possible, and we may not then be + seen from below. Now leave the door open that we may make no mistake as to + the room, and come along, for by the sound the fight is hot below.” + </p> + <p> + Running down the stairs Walter and Ralph joined in the defence. Those in + the house knew that they would meet with no mercy from the infuriated + crowd, and each fought with the bravery of despair. Although there were + many windows to be defended, and at each the mob attacked desperately, the + assaults were all repulsed. Many indeed of the defenders were struck down + by the pikes and pole-axes, but for a time they beat back the assailants + whenever they attempted to enter. The noise was prodigious. The + alarm-bells of the town were all ringing and the shouts of the combatants + were drowned in the hoarse roar of the surging crowd without. + </p> + <p> + Seeing that however valiant was the defence the assailants must in the end + prevail, and feeling sure that his enemies would have closed the city + gates and thus prevented the English without from coming to his + assistance, Van Artevelde ascended to an upper storey and attempted to + address the crowd. His voice was drowned in the roar. In vain he + gesticulated and made motions imploring them to hear him, but all was + useless, and the courage of the demagogue deserted him and he burst into + tears at the prospect of death. Then he determined to try and make his + escape to the sanctuary of a church close by, and was descending the + stairs when a mighty crash below, the clashing of steel, shouts, and + cries, told that the mob had swept away one of the barricades and were + pouring into the house. + </p> + <p> + “Make for the stair,” Walter shouted, “and defend yourselves there.” But + the majority of the defenders, bewildered by the inrush of the enemy, + terrified at their ferocious aspect and terrible axes, had no thought of + continuing the resistance. A few, getting into corners, resisted + desperately to the end; others threw down their arms and dropping on their + knees cried for mercy, but all were ruthlessly slaughtered. + </p> + <p> + Keeping close together Walter and Ralph fought their way to the foot of + the stairs, and closely pursued by a band of the skinners headed by Gerard + Denis, ran up. Upon the first landing stood a man paralysed with terror. + On seeing him a cry of ferocious triumph rose from the mob. As nothing + could be done to aid him Walter and his follower rushed by without + stopping. There was a pause in the pursuit, and glancing down from the + upper gallery Walter saw Van Artevelde in the hands of the mob, each + struggling to take possession of him; then a man armed with a great axe + pushed his way among them, and swinging it over his head struck Van + Artevelde dead to the floor. His slayer was Gerard Denis himself. + </p> + <p> + Followed by Ralph, Walter sprang through the open door into the chamber + they had marked, and closed the door behind them. Then Walter, saying, “I + will go first, Ralph, I can help you in should you miss your spring,” + mounted on the sill of the casement. Short as was the distance the leap + was extremely difficult, for neither casement was more than three feet + high. Walter was therefore obliged to stoop low and to hurl himself head + forwards across the gulf. He succeeded in the attempt, shooting clear + through the casement on to the floor beyond. Instantly he picked himself + up and went to Ralph's assistance. The latter, taller and more bulky, had + greater difficulty in the task, and only his shoulder arrived through the + window. Walter seized him, and aided him at once to scramble in, and they + closed the casement behind them. + </p> + <p> + “It was well we took off our armour, Ralph; its pattern would have been + recognized in an instant.” + </p> + <p> + Walter had thrown off his helmet as he bounded up the stairs, and both he + and his companion had rid themselves of their heavy armour. + </p> + <p> + “I would give a good deal,” he said, “for two bourgeois jerkins, even were + they as foul as those of the skinners. This is a woman's apartment,” he + added, looking round, “and nothing here will cover my six feet of height, + to say nothing of your four inches extra. Let us peep into some of the + other rooms. This is, doubtless, the house of some person of importance, + and in the upper floor we may find some clothes of servants or retainers.” + </p> + <p> + They were not long in their search. The next room was a large one, and + contained a number of pallet beds, and hanging from pegs on walls were + jerkins, mantles, and other garments, evidently belonging to the retainers + of the house. Walter and Ralph were not long in transmogrifying their + appearance, and had soon the air of two respectable serving-men in a + Flemish household. + </p> + <p> + “But how are we to descend?” Ralph asked. “We can hardly hope to walk down + the stairs and make our escape without being seen, especially as the doors + will all be barred and bolted, seeing the tumult which is raging outside.” + </p> + <p> + “It all depends whether our means of escape are suspected,” Walter + replied, “I should scarce think that they would be. The attention of our + pursuers was wholly taken up by Van Artevelde, and some minutes must have + passed before they followed us. No doubt they will search every place in + the house, and all within it will by this time have been slaughtered. But + they will scarce organize any special search for us. All will be fully + occupied with the exciting events which have taken place, and as the + casement by which we entered is closed it is scarcely likely to occur to + any one that we have escaped by that means. I will listen first if the + house is quiet. If so, we will descend and take refuge in some room below, + where there is a better chance of concealment than here. Put the pieces of + armour into that closet so that they may not catch the eye of any who may + happen to come hither. The day is already closing. In half an hour it will + be nightfall. Then we will try and make our way out.” + </p> + <p> + Listening at the top of the stairs they could hear voices below; but as + the gallery was quiet and deserted they made their way a floor lower, and + seeing an open door entered it. Walter looked from the window. + </p> + <p> + “There is a back-yard below,” he said, “with a door opening upon a narrow + lane. We are now upon the second storey, and but some twenty-five feet + above the ground. We will not risk going down through the house, which + could scarce be accomplished without detection, but will at once tear up + into strips the coverings of the bed, and I will make a rope by which we + may slip down into the courtyard as soon as it is dark. We must hope that + none will come up before that time; but, indeed, all will be so full of + the news of the events which have happened that it is scarce likely that + any will come above at present.” + </p> + <p> + The linen sheets and coverings were soon cut up and knotted together in a + rope. By the time that this was finished the darkness was closing in, and + after waiting patiently for a few minutes they lowered the rope and slid + down into the yard. Quietly they undid the bolts of the gate and issued + into the lane. The mantles were provided with hoods, as few of the lower + class of Flemings wore any other head-covering. + </p> + <p> + Drawing these hoods well over their heads so as to shade their faces the + two sallied out from the lane. They were soon in one of the principal + streets, which was crowded with people. Bands of weavers, butchers, + skinners, and others were parading the streets shouting and singing in + honour of their victory and of the downfall and death of him whom they had + but a few days before regarded as the mainstay of Flanders. Many of the + better class of burghers stood in groups in the streets and talked in low + and rather frightened voices of the consequences which the deed of blood + would bring upon the city. On the one hand Edward might march upon it with + his army to avenge the murder of his ally. Upon the other hand they were + now committed to France. Their former ruler would return, and all the + imposts and burdens against which they had rebelled would again be laid + upon the city. + </p> + <p> + “What shall we do now?” Ralph asked, “for assuredly there will be no issue + by the gates.” + </p> + <p> + “We must possess ourselves of a length of rope if possible, and make our + escape over the wall. How to get one I know not, for the shops are all + closed, and even were it not so I could not venture in to purchase any, + for my speech would betray us at once. Let us separate, and each see + whether he can find what we want. We will meet again at the entrance to + this church in an hour's time. One or other of us may find what we seek.” + </p> + <p> + Walter searched in vain. Wherever he saw the door of a yard open he peered + in, but in no case could he see any signs of rope. At the end of the hour + he returned to their rendezvous. Ralph was already there. + </p> + <p> + “I have found nothing, Ralph. Have you had better fortune?” + </p> + <p> + “That have I, Master Walter, and was back nigh an hour since. Scarce had I + left you when in a back street I came upon a quiet hostelry, and in the + courtyard were standing half a dozen teams of cattle. Doubtless their + owners had brought hay or corn into the city, and when the tumult arose + and the gates were closed found themselves unable to escape. The masters + were all drinking within, so without more ado I cut off the ropes which + served as traces for the oxen, and have them wound round my body under my + mantle. There must be twenty yards at least, and as each rope is strong + enough to hold double our weight there will be no difficulty in lowering + ourselves from the walls.” + </p> + <p> + “You have done well indeed, Ralph,” Walter said. “Let us make our way + thither at once. Everyone is so excited in the city, that, as yet, there + will be but few guards upon the wall. The sooner, therefore, that we + attempt to make our escape the better.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII: THE WHITE FORD + </h2> + <p> + They made their way without interruption to the wall. This they found, as + they expected, entirely deserted, although, no doubt, guards had been + posted at the gates. The Flemings, however, could have felt no fear of an + attack by so small a force as the five hundred English whom they knew to + be in the neighbourhood. + </p> + <p> + Walter and his companion soon knotted the ropes together and lowered + themselves into the moat. A few strokes took them to the other side, and + scrambling out, they made their way across the country to the spot where + the English had been posted. They found the Earl of Salisbury, who + commanded, in a great state of uneasiness. No message had reached him + during the day. He had heard the alarm-bells of the city ring, and a scout + who had gone forward returned with the news that the gates were closed and + the drawbridges raised, and that a strong body of men manned the walls. + </p> + <p> + “Your news is indeed bad,” he said, when Walter related to him the events + which had taken place in the town. “This will altogether derange the + king's plans. Now that his ally is killed I fear that his hopes of + acquiring Flanders for England will fall to the ground. It is a thousand + pities that he listened to Van Artevelde and allowed him to enter Ghent + alone. Had his majesty landed, as he wished, and made a progress through + the country, the prince receiving the homage of all the large towns, we + could then very well have summoned Ghent as standing alone against all + Flanders. The citizens then would, no doubt, have gladly opened their + gates and received the prince, and if they had refused we would have made + short work of them. However, as it has turned out, it is as well that we + did not enter the town with the Fleming, for against so large and + turbulent a population we should have had but little chance. And now, + Master Somers, we will march at once for Sluys and bear the news to the + king, and you shall tell me as we ride thither how you and your + man-at-arms managed to escape with whole skins from such a tumult.” + </p> + <p> + The king was much grieved when he heard of the death of Artevelde, and + held a council with his chief leaders. At first, in his indignation and + grief, he was disposed to march upon Ghent and to take vengeance for the + murder of his ally, but after a time calmer counsels prevailed. + </p> + <p> + The Flemings were still in rebellion against their count, who was the + friend of France. Were the English to attack Ghent they would lose the + general goodwill of the Flemings, and would drive them into the arms of + France, while, if matters were left alone, the effect of the popular + outburst which had caused the death of Artevelde would die away, and + motives of interest and the fear of France would again drive them into the + arms of England. The expedition therefore returned to England, and there + the king, in a proclamation to his people, avoided all allusion to the + death of his ally, but simply stated that he had been waited upon by the + councils of all the Flemish towns, and that their faithful obedience to + himself as legitimate King of France, was established upon a firmer basis + than ever. + </p> + <p> + This course had the effect which he had anticipated from it. The people of + Flanders perceived the danger and disadvantage which must accrue to their + trade from any permanent disagreement with England. They were convinced by + the events which soon afterwards happened in France that the King of + England had more power than Phillip of Valois, and could, if he chose, + punish severely any breach of faith towards him. They therefore sent over + commissioners to express their grief and submission. The death of + Artevelde was represented as the act of a frantic mob, and severe fines + were imposed upon the leaders of the party who slew him, and although the + principal towns expressed their desire still to remain under the rule of + the Count of Flanders, they suggested that the ties which bound them to + England should be strengthened by the marriage of Louis, eldest son of the + count, to one of Edward's daughters. More than this, they offered to + create a diversion for the English forces acting in Guienne and Gascony by + raising a strong force and expelling the French garrisons still remaining + in some parts of the country. This was done. Hugo of Hastings was + appointed by the king captain-general in Flanders, and with a force of + English and Flemings did good service by expelling the French from Termond + and several other towns. + </p> + <p> + The character of Jacob van Artevelde has had but scant justice done to it + by most of the historians of the time. These, living in an age of + chivalry, when noble blood and lofty deeds were held in extraordinary + respect, had little sympathy with the brewer of Ghent, and deemed it + contrary to the fitness of things that the chivalry of France should have + been defied and worsted by mere mechanics and artisans. But there can be + no doubt that Artevelde was a very great man. He may have been personally + ambitious, but he was a true patriot. He had great military talents. He + completely remodelled and wonderfully improved the internal administration + of the country, and raised its commerce, manufactures, and agriculture to + a pitch which they had never before reached. After his death his memory + was esteemed and revered by the Flemings, who long submitted to the laws + he had made, and preserved his regulations with scrupulous exactitude. + </p> + <p> + Edward now hastened to get together a great army. Every means were adopted + to raise money and to gather stores, and every man between sixteen and + sixty south of the Trent was called upon to take up arms and commanded to + assemble at Portsmouth in the middle of Lent. A tremendous tempest, + however, scattered the fleet collected to carry the expedition, a great + many of the ships were lost, and it was not until the middle of July, + 1346, that it sailed from England. + </p> + <p> + It consisted of about 500 ships and 10,000 sailors, and carried 4000 + men-at-arms, 10,000 archers, 12,000 Welsh, and 6000 Irish. + </p> + <p> + This seems but a small army considering the efforts which had been made; + but it was necessary to leave a considerable force behind for the defence + of the Scottish frontier, and England had already armies in Guienne and + Brittany. Lionel, Edward's second son, was appointed regent during his + father's absence. On board Edward's own ship were Godfrey of Harcourt and + the Prince of Wales. Walter, as one of the personal squires of the prince, + was also on board. + </p> + <p> + The prince had been greatly interested in the details of Walter's escape + from Van Artevelde's house, the king himself expressed his approval of his + conduct, and Walter was generally regarded as one of the most promising + young aspirants to the court. His modesty and good temper rendered him a + general favourite, and many even of the higher nobles noticed him by their + friendly attentions, for it was felt that he stood so high in the goodwill + of the prince that he might some day become a person of great influence + with him, and one whose goodwill would be valuable. + </p> + <p> + It was generally supposed, when the fleet started, that Guienne was their + destination, but they had not gone far when a signal was made to change + the direction in which they were sailing and to make for La Hogue in + Normandy. Godfrey of Harcourt had great influence in that province, and + his persuasions had much effect in determining the king to direct his + course thither. There was the further advantage that the King of France, + who was well aware of the coming invasion, would have made his + preparations to receive him in Guienne. Furthermore, Normandy was the + richest and most prosperous province in France. It had for a long time + been untouched by war, and offered great abundance of spoil. It had made + itself particularly obnoxious to the English by having recently made an + offer to the King of France to fit out an expedition and conquer England + with its own resources. + </p> + <p> + The voyage was short and favourable, and the expedition landed at La + Hogue, on the small peninsula of Cotentin, without opposition. Six days + were spent at La Hogue disembarking the men, horses, and stores, and + baking bread for the use of the army on the march. A detachment advanced + and pillaged and burnt Barileur and Cherbourg and a number of small towns + and castles. + </p> + <p> + In accordance with custom, at the commencement of the campaign a court was + held, at which the Prince of Wales was dubbed a knight by his father. A + similar honour was bestowed upon a number of other young aspirants, among + whom was Walter Somers, who had been highly recommended for that honour to + the king by Sir Walter Manny. + </p> + <p> + The force was now formed into three divisions—the one commanded by + the king himself, the second by the Earl of Warwick, and the third by + Godfrey of Harcourt. The Earl of Arundel acted as Lord High Constable, and + the Earl of Huntingdon, who was in command of the fleet, followed the army + along the sea-coast. Valognes, Carentan, and St. Lo were captured without + difficulty, and the English army advanced by rapid marches upon Caen, + plundering the country for six or seven leagues on each side of the line + of march. An immense quantity of booty was obtained. As soon as the news + of Edward's landing in Normandy reached Paris, Phillip despatched the + Count d'Eu, Constable of France, with the Count of Tankerville and 600 + men-at-arms, to oppose Edward at Caen. The Bishop of Bayeux had thrown + himself into that city, which was already garrisoned by 300 Genoese. The + town was not defensible, and the only chance of resistance was by opposing + the passage of the river Horn, which flowed between the suburbs and the + city. The bridge was barricaded, strong wooden towers were erected, and + such was the confidence of the inhabitants and their leaders that Edward's + promise of protection for the person and property of the citizens was + rejected with scorn, and the whole male population joined the garrison in + the defence of the bridge. Marching through the deserted suburbs the + English army attacked the bridge with such vehemence that although the + enemy defended the barricades gallantly they were speedily forced, and the + English poured into the town. Before the first fury of the attack was over + near 5000 persons were slain. The Count of Tankerville, 140 knights, and + as many squires were made prisoners. The plunder was so enormous as to be + sufficient to cover the whole expenses of the expedition, and this with + the booty which had been previously acquired was placed on board ship and + despatched to England, while the king marched forward with his army. At + Lisieux he was met by two cardinals sent by the pope to negotiate a truce; + but Edward had learned the fallacy of truces made with King Phillip, and + declined to enter into negotiations. Finding that Rouen had been placed in + a state of defence and could not be taken without a long siege he left it + behind him and marched along the valley of the Eure, gathering rich booty + at every step. + </p> + <p> + But while he was marching forward a great army was gathering in his rear. + The Count of Harcourt brother of Godfrey, called all Normandy to arms. + Every feudal lord and vassal answered to the summons, and before Edward + reached the banks of the Seine a formidable army had assembled. + </p> + <p> + The whole of the vassals of France were gathering by the orders of the + king at St. Denis. The English fleet had now left the coast, and Edward + had only the choice of retreating through Normandy into Brittany or of + attempting to force the passage of the Seine, and to fight his way through + France to Flanders. He chose the latter alternative, and marched along the + left bank of the river towards Paris, seeking in vain to find a passage. + The enemy followed him step by step on the opposite bank, and all the + bridges were broken down and the fords destroyed. + </p> + <p> + Edward marched on, burning the towns and ravaging the country until he + reached Poissy. The bridge was as usual destroyed, but the piles on which + it stood were still standing, and he determined to endeavour to cross + here. He accordingly halted for five days, but despatched troops in all + directions, who burned and ravaged to the very gates of Paris. The + villages of St. Germain, St. Cloud, Bourg la Reine, and many others within + sight of the walls were destroyed, and the capital itself thrown into a + state of terror and consternation. Godfrey of Harcourt was the first to + cross the river, and with the advance guard of English fell upon a large + body of the burghers of Amiens, and after a severe fight defeated them, + killing over five hundred. The king himself with his whole force passed on + the 16th of August. + </p> + <p> + Phillip, with his army, quitted St. Denis, when he heard that the English + army had passed the Seine, and by parallel marches endeavoured to + interpose between it and the borders of Flanders. As his force was every + hour increasing he despatched messengers to Edward offering him battle + within a few days on condition that he would cease to ravage the country; + but Edward declined the proposal, saying that Phillip himself by breaking + down the bridges had avoided a battle as long as he could, but that + whenever he was ready to give battle he would accept the challenge. During + the whole march the armies were within a few leagues of each other, and + constant skirmishes took place between bodies detached from the hosts. + </p> + <p> + In some of these skirmishes Walter took part, as he and the other newly + made knights were burning to distinguish themselves. Every day the + progress of the army became more difficult, as the country people + everywhere rose against them, and several times attempted to make a stand + but were defeated with great loss. The principal towns were found + deserted, and even Poix, which offered great capabilities of defence, had + been left unguarded. Upon the English entering, the burghers offered to + pay a large ransom to save the town from plunder. The money was to be + delivered as soon as the English force had withdrawn, and Walter Somers + was ordered by the king to remain behind with a few men-at-arms to receive + the ransom. + </p> + <p> + No sooner had the army departed than the burghers, knowing that the French + army was close behind, changed their minds, refused to pay the ransom, and + fell upon the little body of men-at-arms. Although taken quite by surprise + by the act of treachery Walter instantly rallied his men although several + had been killed at the first onslaught. He, with Ralph and two or three of + the staunchest men, covered the retreat of the rest through the streets, + making desperate charges upon the body of armed burghers pressing upon + them. Ralph fought as usual with a mace of prodigious weight, and the + terror of his blows in no slight degree enabled the party to reach the + gate in safety, but Walter had no idea of retreating further. He + despatched one of his followers to gallop at full speed to overtake the + rear-guard of the army, which was still but two miles distant, while with + the rest he formed a line across the gate and resisted all the attempts of + the citizens to expel them. + </p> + <p> + The approach to the gate was narrow, and the overwhelming number of the + burghers were therefore of little avail. Walter had dismounted his force + and all fought on foot, and although sorely pressed they held their ground + until Lords Cobham and Holland, with their followers, rode up. Then the + tide of war was turned, the town was plundered and burnt, and great + numbers of the inhabitants slain. Walter gained great credit for holding + the gate, for had he been driven out, the town could have resisted, until + the arrival of Louis, all assaults of the English. + </p> + <p> + The river Somme now barred the passage of Edward. Most of the bridges had + been destroyed, and those remaining were so strongly fortified that they + could not be forced. + </p> + <p> + The position of the English was now very critical. On one flank and in + front were impassable rivers. The whole country was in arms against them, + and on their rear and flank pressed a hostile army fourfold their + strength. The country was swampy and thinly populated, and flour and + provisions were only obtained with great difficulty. Edward, on finding + from the reports of his marshals who had been sent to examine the bridges, + that no passage across the river could be found, turned and marched down + the river towards the sea, halting for the night at Oisemont. + </p> + <p> + Here, a great number of peasantry attempted a defence, but were easily + defeated and a number of prisoners taken. Late in the evening the Earl of + Warwick, who had pushed forward as far as Abbeville and St. Valery, + returned with the news that the passages at those places were as strongly + guarded as elsewhere, but he had learnt from a peasant that a ford existed + somewhere below Abbeville, although the man was himself ignorant of its + position. + </p> + <p> + Edward at once called the prisoners belonging to that part of the country + before him, and promised to any one who would tell him where the ford lay + his freedom and that of twenty of his companions. A peasant called Gobin + Agase stepped forward and offered to show the ford, where at low tide + twelve men could cross abreast. It was, he said, called “La Blanche + Tache”. + </p> + <p> + Edward left Oisemont at midnight and reached the ford at daylight. The + river, however, was full and the army had to wait impatiently for low + tide. When they arrived there no enemy was to be seen on the opposite + bank, but before the water fell sufficiently for a passage to be + attempted, Sir Godemar du Fay with 12,000 men, sent by King Phillip, who + was aware of the existence of the ford, arrived on the opposite side. + </p> + <p> + The enterprise was a difficult one indeed, for the water, even at low + tide, is deep. Godemar du Fay, however, threw away part of his advantage + by advancing into the stream. The English archers lined the banks, and + poured showers of arrows into the ranks of the enemy, while the Genoese + bowmen on their side were able to give comparatively little assistance to + the French. + </p> + <p> + King Edward shouted to his knights, “Let those who love me follow me,” and + spurred his horse into the water. Behind him followed his most valiant + knights, and Walter riding close to the Prince of Wales was one of the + foremost. + </p> + <p> + The French resisted valiantly and a desperate battle took place on the + narrow ford, but the impetuosity of the English prevailed, and step by + step they drove the French back to the other side of the river. The whole + army poured after their leaders, and the French were soon entirely routed + and fled, leaving two thousand men-at-arms dead on the field. + </p> + <p> + King Edward, having now freed himself from the difficulties which had + encompassed him on the other side of the river, prepared to choose a + ground to give battle to the whole French army. + </p> + <p> + Louis had advanced slowly, feeling confident that the English would be + unable to cross the river, and that he should catch them hemmed in by it. + His mortification and surprise on finding, when he approached La Blanche + Tache, that twelve thousand men had been insufficient to hold a ford by + which but twelve could cross abreast, and that his enemy had escaped from + his grasp, were great. The tide had now risen again, and he was obliged to + march on to Abbeville and cross the river there. + </p> + <p> + King Edward now advanced into the Forest of Cressy. + </p> + <p> + Hugh de le Spencer, with a considerable force, was despatched to Crotoy, + which he carried by assault after a severe conflict, in which four + thousand of the French men-at-arms were slain. The capture of this city + removed all danger of want from the army, for large stores of wine and + meal were found there, and Sir Hugh at once sent off a supply to the tired + army in the field. + </p> + <p> + The possession of Crotoy and the mouth of the Somme would have now + rendered it easy for the English monarch to have transported his troops to + England, and to have returned triumphant after the accomplishment of his + extraordinary and most successful march through France. The army, however, + was elated by the many great successes it had won, he was now in Ponthieu, + which was one of his own fiefs, and he determined to make a stand in spite + of the immense superiority of the enemy. + </p> + <p> + Next morning, then—Friday the 25th of August, 1346—he + despatched the Earl of Warwick with Godfrey of Harcourt and Lord Cobham, + to examine the ground and choose a site for a battle. + </p> + <p> + The plan of the fight was drawn out by the king and his councillors, and + the king yielded to the Black Prince the chief place of danger and honour + placing with him the Earl of Warwick, Sir John Chandos, and many of his + best knights. + </p> + <p> + The ground which had been chosen for the battle was an irregular slope + between the forest of Cressy and the river Maie near the little village of + Canchy. The slope looked towards the south and east, from which quarters + the enemy was expected to arrive, and some slight defences were added to + the natural advantages of the ground. + </p> + <p> + On the night of the 25th all the principal leaders of the British host + were entertained by King Edward. Next morning, Mass was celebrated, and + the king, the prince, and many knights and nobles received the Sacrament, + after which the trumpet sounded, and the army marched to take up its + position. Its numbers are variously estimated, but the best account puts + it at about 30,000 men which, considering that 32,000 had crossed the + Channel to La Hogue, is probably about the force which would have been + present allowing that 2000 had fallen in the various actions or had died + from disease. + </p> + <p> + The division of the Black Prince consisted of 800 men-at-arms, 4000 + archers, and 6000 Welsh foot. The archers, as usual, were placed in front, + supported by the light troops of Wales and the men-at-arms; on his left + was the second division, commanded by the Earls of Arundel and + Northampton; its extreme left rested on Canchy and the river, and it was + further protected by a deep ditch; this corps was about 7000 strong. + </p> + <p> + The king himself took up his position on a knoll of rising ground + surmounted by a windmill, and 12,000 men under his personal command were + placed here in reserve. + </p> + <p> + In the rear of the Prince's division an enclosure of stakes was formed; in + this, guarded by a small body of archers, were ranged the wagons and + baggage of the army, together with all the horses, the king having + determined that the knights and men-at-arms on his side should fight on + foot. + </p> + <p> + When the army had taken up its position, the king, mounted on a small + palfrey, with a white staff in his hand, rode from rank to rank exhorting + his soldiers to do their duty gallantly. It was nearly noon before he had + passed through all the lines, and permission was then given to the + soldiers to fall out from their ranks and to take refreshments while + waiting for the coming of the enemy. This was accordingly done, the men + eating and drinking at their ease and lying down in their ranks on the + soft grass with their steel caps and their bows or pikes beside them. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime the French had, on their side, been preparing for the + battle. Phillip had crossed the Somme at Abbeyville late on Thursday + afternoon, and remained there next day marshalling the large + reinforcements which were hourly arriving. His force now considerably + exceeded 100,000 men, the number with which he had marched from Amiens + three days previously. + </p> + <p> + Friday was the festival of St. Louis, and that evening Phillip gave a + splendid banquet to the whole of the nobles of his army. + </p> + <p> + On the following morning the king, accompanied by his brother the Count + d'Alencon, the old King of Bohemia and his son, the King of Rome, the Duke + of Lorraine, the Count of Blois, the Count of Flanders, and a great number + of other feudal princes, heard Mass at the Abbey, and then marched with + his great army towards Cressy. He moved but slowly in order to give time + to all the forces scattered over the neighbourhood to come up, and four + knights, headed by one of the King of Bohemia's officers, went forward to + reconnoitre the English position. They approached within a very short + distance of the English lines and gained a very exact knowledge of the + position, the English taking no measures to interrupt the reconnaissance. + They returned with the information they had gathered, and the leader of + the party, Le Moyne de Basele, one of the most judicious officers of his + time, strongly advised the king to halt his troops, pointing out that as + it was evident the English were ready to give battle, and as they were + fresh and vigorous while the French were wearied and hungry, it would be + better to encamp and give battle the next morning. + </p> + <p> + Phillip saw the wisdom of the advice and ordered his two marshals the Lord + of St. Venant and Charles de Montmorency to command a halt. They instantly + spurred off, one to the front and the other to the rear, commanding the + leaders to halt their banners. Those in advance at once obeyed, but those + behind still pressed on, declaring that they would not halt until they + were in the front line. All wanted to be first, in order to obtain their + share of the honour and glory of defeating the English. Those in front, + seeing the others still coming on, again pressed forward, and thus, in + spite of the efforts of the king and his marshals, the French nobles with + their followers pressed forward in confusion, until, passing through a + small wood, they found themselves suddenly in the presence of the English + army. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV: CRESSY + </h2> + <p> + The surprise of the French army at finding themselves in the presence of + the English was so great that the first line recoiled in confusion. Those + marching up from behind imagined that they had been already engaged and + repulsed by the English, and the disorder spread through the whole army, + and was increased by the common people, who had crowded to the field in + immense numbers from the whole country round to see the battle and share + in the plunder of the English camp. + </p> + <p> + From King Edward's position on the rising ground he could see the + confusion which prevailed in the French ranks, and small as were his + forces he would probably have obtained an easy victory by ordering a + sudden charge upon them. The English, however, being dismounted, but small + results would have followed the scattering of the great host of the + French. The English army therefore remained immovable, except that the + soldiers rose from the ground, and taking their places in the ranks, + awaited the onslaught of the enemy. + </p> + <p> + King Phillip himself now arrived on the field and his hatred for the + English led him at once to disregard the advice which had been given him + and to order the battle to commence as soon as possible. + </p> + <p> + The army was divided into four bodies, of which Phillip commanded one, the + Count D'Alencon the second, the King of Bohemia the third, and the Count + of Savoy the fourth. Besides these were a band of 15,000 mercenaries, + Genoese crossbow-men, who were now ordered to pass between the ranks of + cavalry and to clear the ground of the English archers, who were drawn up + in the usual form in which they fought—namely, in very open order, + line behind line, the men standing alternately, so that each had ample + room to use his bow and to fire over the heads of those in front. The + formation was something like that of a harrow, and, indeed, exactly + resembled that in which the Roman archers fought, and was called by them a + quincunx. + </p> + <p> + The Genoese had marched four leagues beneath a hot sun loaded with their + armour and heavy cross-bows, and they remonstrated against the order, + urging that they were in no condition to do good service without some + repose. The Count D'Alencon, furious at their hesitation, ordered them up, + but as they advanced a terrible thunderstorm, with torrents of rain, broke + over the armies, and wetting the cords of the crossbows rendered many of + them unserviceable. At length the crossbow-men were arranged in front, + while behind them were the vast body of French cavalry, and the order was + given for the battle to begin. + </p> + <p> + The Genoese advanced with loud shouts but the English archers paid no + attention to the noise, but waited calmly for the attack. At this moment + the sun, now approaching the west, shone out brightly between the clouds + behind the English, its rays streaming full in the faces of the French. + The Genoese were now within distance, and began to discharge their + quarrels at their impassive enemies, but as they opened fire the English + archers drew their bows from the cases which had protected them from the + rain, and stepping forward poured their arrows among the Genoese. The + crossbow-men were smitten as with a storm, numbers were struck in the face + and other unprotected parts, and they were instantly thrown into + confusion, and casting away their cross-bows they recoiled in disorder + among the horsemen behind them. + </p> + <p> + Phillip, passionate and cruel as ever, instead of trying to rally the + Genoese, ordered the cavalry behind them to fall upon them, and the + men-at-arms at once plunged in among the disordered mass of the + crossbow-men, and a wild scene of carnage and confusion ensued, the + English archers continuing to pour their unerring arrows into the midst. + </p> + <p> + The Count D'Alencon, who was behind, separated his division into two + bodies, and swept round on one side himself, while the Count of Flanders + did the same on the other to attack the Prince of Wales in more regular + array. Taking a circuitous route, D'Alencon appeared upon a rising ground + on the flank of the archers of the Black Prince, and thus, avoiding their + arrows, charged down with his cavalry upon the 800 men-at-arms gathered + round the Black Prince, while the Count of Flanders attacked on the other + flank. Nobly did the flower of English chivalry withstand the shock of the + French, and the prince himself and the highest nobles and simple + men-at-arms fought side by side. None gave away a foot. + </p> + <p> + In vain the French, with impetuous charges, strove to break through the + mass of steel. The spear-heads were cleft off with sword and battle-axe, + and again and again men and horses recoiled from the unbroken line. Each + time the French retired the English ranks were formed anew, and as attack + followed attack a pile of dead rose around them. The Count D'Alencon and + the Duke of Lorraine were among the first who fell. The young Count of + Blois, finding that he could not ride through the wall of steel, + dismounted with his knights and fought his way on foot towards the banner + of the Prince of Wales. For a time the struggle was desperate, and the + young prince, with his household knights, was for a time well-nigh beaten + back. + </p> + <p> + Walter, fighting close beside the prince, parried more than one blow + intended for him, and the prince himself slew the Count of Blois, whose + followers all fell around him. The Count of Flanders was also slain, and + confusion began to reign among the assailants, whose leaders had now all + fallen. Phillip himself strove to advance with his division into the + fight, but the struggle between the Genoese and the men-at-arms was still + continuing, and the very multitude of his troops in the narrow and + difficult field which the English had chosen for the battle embarrassed + his movements. + </p> + <p> + Charles of Luxembourg, King of the Romans, and afterwards Emperor of + Germany, son of the old King of Bohemia, with a large body of German and + French cavalry, now assailed the English archers, and in spite of their + flights of arrows came to close quarters, and cutting their way through + them joined in the assault upon the men-at-arms of the Black Prince. + Nearly 40,000 men were now pressing round the little body, and the Earls + of Northampton and Arundel moved forward with their divisions to his + support, while the Earl of Warwick, who was with the prince, despatched + Sir Thomas of Norwich to the king, who still remained with his powerful + reserve, to ask for aid. + </p> + <p> + “Sir Thomas,” demanded the king, “is my son killed, overthrown, or wounded + beyond help?” + </p> + <p> + “Not so, sire,” replied the knight, “but he is in a rude fight, and much + needs your aid.” + </p> + <p> + “Go back, Sir Thomas, to those who sent you and tell them from me that + whatsoever happens they require no aid from me so long as my son is in + life. Tell them also that I command them to let the boy win his spurs, + for, God willing, the day shall be his, and the honour shall rest with him + and those into whose charge I have given him.” + </p> + <p> + The prince and those around him were filled with fresh ardour when they + received this message. Each man redoubled his efforts to repel the forces + that were incessantly poured down upon them by the French. On all sides + these pressed around them, striving desperately, but ever in vain, to + break through the solid ranks of the English. The French men-at-arms + suffered, moreover, terribly from the attacks of the Welsh infantry. These + men, clad in thick leather jerkins, nimble of foot, accustomed to a life + of activity, were armed with shortened lances and knives, mingled + fearlessly among the confused mass of French cavalry, creeping beneath the + horses' bellies, standing up when they got a chance, and stabbing horses + and men with their knives and pikes. Many were trampled upon or struck + down, but numbering, as they did, 6000, they pervaded the whole mass of + the enemy, and did terrible execution, adding in no small degree to the + confusion caused by the shower of arrows from the archers within the + circle of the men-at-arms. The instant a French knight fell, struck from + his horse with a battle-axe or arrow, or by the fall of a wounded steed, + the half-wild Welsh were upon him, and slew him before he could regain his + feet. + </p> + <p> + The slaughter was immense. The Count of Harcourt, with his nephew the + Count D'Aumale and his two gallant sons, fell together, and at last + Charles of Luxembourg, seeing his banner down, his troops routed, his + friends slain, and the day irreparably lost, and being himself severely + wounded in three places, turned his horse and fled, casting off his rich + emblazoned surcoat to avoid recognition. In the meantime Prince Charles's + father, the veteran King of Bohemia, once one of the most famous warriors + of Europe, but now old and blind, sat on horseback at a little distance + from the fight; the knights around him told him the events as they + happened, and the old monarch soon saw that the day was lost. He asked + them for tidings of his son Charles of Luxembourg, but they were forced to + reply that the banner of the King of the Romans was no longer in sight, + but that, doubtless, he was somewhere engaged in the melee. + </p> + <p> + “Lords,” said the old man, “you are my vassals, my friends, and my + companions, and on this day I command and beseech you to lead me forward + so far that I may deal one blow of my sword in the battle.” + </p> + <p> + His faithful friends obeyed him, a number of knights arranged themselves + around him, and lest they should lose him in the fight they tied their + horses together by the bridles and charged down into the fray. Advancing + directly against the banner of the Prince of Wales, the blind monarch was + carried into the midst of the thickest strife. + </p> + <p> + There the little group of knights fought gallantly, and after the battle + was over, the bodies of the king and his friends were found lying + together, their dead horses still linked by the bridles. + </p> + <p> + During this terrible battle, which had been raging since three o'clock, + Phillip had made strenuous efforts to aid his troops engaged in the front + by continually sending fresh bodies to the assault. It was now growing + dark, terror and confusion had already spread among the French, and many + were flying in all directions, and the unremitting showers of English + arrows still flew like hail among their ranks. As the king made his way + forward, surrounded by his personal attendants to take part himself in the + fight, his followers fell thick around him, and his horse was slain by an + arrow. John of Hainault, who had remained by his side during the whole + day, mounted upon a fresh horse and urged him to fly, as the day was lost. + Phillip, however, persisted, and made his way into the melee, where he + fought for some time with extreme courage, until almost all around him + were slain, the royal standard bearer killed, and himself wounded in two + places. John of Hainault then seized his bridle exclaiming “Come away, + sire, it is full time; do not throw your life away foolishly; if you have + lost this day you will win another,” and so almost forced the unwilling + king from the field. Phillip, accompanied by the lords of Montmorency, + Beaujeu, Aubigny, and Mansault, with John of Hainault, and sixty + men-at-arms, rode to the Castle of Broye, and there halted for a few + hours. At midnight he again set out, and in the morning arrived safely at + Amiens. + </p> + <p> + The Black Prince held his station until night without yielding a single + step to all the efforts of the French. Gradually, however, the assailants + became less and less numerous, the banners disappeared, and the shouts of + the leaders and the clang of arms died away, and the silence which + prevailed over the field at once announced that the victory was complete + and the enemy in full flight. An immense number of torches were now + lighted through the English lines, and the king, quitting for the first + time his station on the hill, came down to embrace his gallant son. Edward + and his host rejoiced in a spirit of humility over the victory. No songs + of triumph, no feastings or merriment were permitted, but a solemn service + of the church was held, and the king and his soldiers offered their thanks + to God for the victory He had given them. The English army lay all night + under arms, and a number of scattered parties of the French, wandering + about in the darkness, entered the lines and were slain or taken + prisoners. + </p> + <p> + The dawn of the next morning was thick and foggy, and intelligence coming + in that a large body of the enemy were advancing upon them, the Earls of + Northampton, Warwick, and Norfolk, with 500 men-at-arms and 2000 archers, + went out to reconnoitre, and came in the misty twilight upon an immense + force composed of the citizens of Beauvais, Rouen, and some other towns, + led by the Grand Prior of France and the Archbishop of Rouen, who were + approaching the field. + </p> + <p> + By some extraordinary accident they had not met any of the fugitives + flying from Cressy, and were ignorant that a battle had been fought. The + English charged them at once. Their advance-guard, consisting of burghers, + was easily overthrown. The second division, which was composed of + men-at-arms, fought bravely, but was unable to withstand the charge of the + triumphant English, and was completely broken and defeated. The Grand + Prior was killed and a vast number of his followers slain or captured. + During the whole of the morning detached parties from Edward's army + scoured the country, dispersing and slaughtering bands of French who still + remained together, and towards night the Earl of Northampton returned to + the camp with the news that no enemy remained in the vicinity that could + offer a show of resistance to the English force. + </p> + <p> + It is said that a far greater number of French were killed upon the second + day than upon the first. This can be accounted for by the fact that on the + first day but a small portion of the English army were engaged, and that + upon the second the English were fresh and vigorous, and their enemy + exhausted and dispirited. + </p> + <p> + The greater number of the French nobles and knights who fell, died in + their attempts to break through the Black Prince's array. Besides the King + of Bohemia, nine sovereign princes and eighty great nobles were killed, + with 1200 knights, 1500 men-at-arms, and 30,000 foot; while on the English + side only three knights and a small number of men-at-arms and infantry + were killed. + </p> + <p> + The body of the King of Bohemia and those of the other great leaders were + carried in solemn pomp to the Abbey of Maintenay. Edward himself and his + son accompanied them as mourners. On the Monday following Edward marched + with his army against Calais, and summoned the town to surrender. John of + Vienne, who commanded the garrison, refused to comply with the demand. The + fortifications of the town were extremely strong and the garrison + numerous, and Edward perceived that an assault would be very unlikely to + succeed, and would entail great loss, while a repulse would have dimmed + the lustre of the success which he had gained. He therefore determined to + reduce it by famine, and the troops were set to work to build huts. So + permanently and strongly were these constructed that it seemed to the + enemy that King Edward was determined to remain before Calais even should + he have to stay there for ten years. + </p> + <p> + Proclamations were issued in England and Flanders inviting traders to + establish stores and to bring articles of trade of all kinds, and in a + short time a complete town sprang up which was named by Edward “New-Town + the Bold”. The English fleet held complete possession of the sea, cutting + off the besieged from all succour by ship, and enabling abundant supplies + for the army to be brought from England and Flanders. Strong parties were + sent out in all directions. The northern provinces of France were scoured, + and the army was amply provided with necessaries and even luxuries. + </p> + <p> + After the first terrible shock caused by the crushing defeat of Cressy, + King Phillip began at once to take measures for the relief of Calais, and + made immense efforts again to put a great army in the field. He + endeavoured by all means in his power to gain fresh allies. The young + Count of Flanders, who, at the death of his father at Cressy, was sixteen + years of age, was naturally even more hostile to the English than the late + prince had been, and he strove to win over his subjects to the French + alliance, while Phillip made them magnificent offers if they would join + him. The Flemings, however, remained stanch to the English alliance, and + held their prince in duresse until he at last consented to marry the + daughter of Edward. A week before the date fixed for the nuptials, + however, he managed to escape from the vigilance of his guards when out + hawking, and fled to the court of France. + </p> + <p> + In Scotland Phillip was more successful, and David Bruce, instead of + employing the time given him by the absence of Edward with his armies in + driving out the English garrisons from the strong places they still held + in Scotland, raised an army of 50,000 men and marched across the border + into England plundering and ravaging. Queen Philippa, however, raising an + army, marched against him, and the Scotch were completely defeated at + Neville's Cross, 15,000 being killed and their king himself taken + prisoner. + </p> + <p> + Walter's conduct at the battle of Cressy gained him still further the + favour of the Black Prince. The valour with which he had fought was + conspicuous even on a field where all fought gallantly, and the prince + felt that more than once he would have been smitten down had not Walter's + sword interposed. Ralph too had fought with reckless bravery, and many + French knights and gentlemen had gone down before the tremendous blows of + his heavy mace, against which the stoutest armour availed nothing. After + the battle the prince offered to make him an esquire in spite of the + absence of gentle blood in his veins, but Ralph declined the honour. + </p> + <p> + “An it please you, Sir Prince,” he said, “but I should feel more + comfortable among the men-at-arms, my fellows. In the day of battle I + trust that I should do no discredit to my squirehood, but at other times I + should feel woefully out of my element, and should find nought for my + hands to do, therefore if it so pleases your Royal Highness, I would far + rather remain a simple man-at-arms.” + </p> + <p> + Ralph did not, however, refuse the heavy purse which the prince gave him, + although indeed he, as well as all the soldiers, was well supplied with + money, so great were the spoils which the army had gathered in its march + before Cressy, and which they now swept off in their raids among the + northern provinces of France. + </p> + <p> + One evening Walter was returning from a banquet at the pavilion of the + Prince of Wales, with Ralph as usual following at a little distance, when + from a corner of the street a man darted suddenly out and struck a dagger + with all his force between his shoulders. Well was it for Walter that he + had taken Geoffrey's advice, and had never laid aside the shirt of mail, + night or day. Fine as was its temper, two or three links of the outer fold + were broken, but the point did not penetrate the second fold, and the + dagger snapped in the hand of the striker. The force of the sudden blow, + however, hurled Walter to the ground. With a loud cry Ralph rushed + forward. The man instantly fled. Ralph pursued him but a short distance + and then hastened back to Walter. + </p> + <p> + “Are you hurt, Sir Walter?” he exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “In no way, Ralph, thanks to my shirt of mail. Well, indeed, was it for me + that I was wearing it, or I should assuredly have been a dead man. I had + almost begun to forget that I was a threatened man; but I shall be on + guard for the future.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish I had followed the fellow,” Ralph said. “I would not have slain + him could I have helped it, but would have left it for the hangman to + extort from him the name of his employer; but, in truth, he struck so + hard, and you fell so straight before the blow, that I feared the mail had + given way, and that you were sorely wounded if not killed. You have oft + told me that I was over-careful of you, but you see that I was not careful + enough, however, you may be assured that if another attempt be made those + who attempt it shall not get off scot free. Do you think of laying a + complaint before the provost against him you suspect?” + </p> + <p> + “It would be useless, Ralph. We may have suspicion of the man from whom + the blow came, but have no manner of proof. It might have been done by any + ruffian camp-follower who struck the blow only with the hope of carrying + off my chain and purse. The camp swarms with such fellows, and we have no + clue which could lead to his detection, unless,” he added, stooping and + picking a piece of steel which lay at his feet, “this broken dagger may + some day furnish us with one. No; we will say nought about it. Sir James + Carnegie is not now in camp, having left a week since on business in + England. We exchange no words when we meet, but I heard that he had been + called away. Fortunately the young prince likes him not, and I therefore + have seldom occasion to meet him. I have no doubt that he credits me with + the disfavour in which he is held by the prince; but I have never even + mentioned his name before him, and the prince's misliking is but the + feeling which a noble and generous heart has, as though by instinct, + against one who is false and treacherous. At the same time we must grant + that this traitor knight is a bold and fearless man-at-arms; he fought + well at La Blanche Tache and Cressy, and he is much liked and trusted by + my lord of Northampton, in whose following he mostly rides; 'tis a pity + that one so brave should have so foul and treacherous a heart. Here we are + at my hut, and you can sleep soundly tonight, Ralph, for there is little + fear that the fellow, who has failed tonight, will repeat his attempt for + some time. He thinks, no doubt, that he has killed me, for with a blow so + strongly struck he would scarcely have felt the snapping of the weapon, + and is likely enough already on board one of the ships which ply to and + fro from England on his way to acquaint his employer that I am removed + from his path.” + </p> + <p> + The next morning Walter mentioned to the Black Prince the venture which + had befallen him, and the narrow escape he had had of his life. The prince + was extremely exasperated, and gave orders that an inquisition should be + made through the camp, and that all men found there not being able to give + a good account of themselves as having reasonable and lawful calling there + should be forthwith put on board ship and sent to England. He questioned + Walter closely whether he deemed that the attack was for the purpose of + plunder only, or whether he had any reason to believe that he had private + enemies. + </p> + <p> + “There is a knight who is evilly disposed toward me, your highness,” + Walter said; “but seeing that I have no proof whatever that he had a hand + in this affair, however strongly I may suspect it, I would fain, with your + leave, avoid mentioning his name.” + </p> + <p> + “But think you that there is any knight in this camp capable of so foul an + action?” + </p> + <p> + “I have had proofs, your highness, that he is capable of such an act; but + in this matter my tongue is tied, as the wrong he attempted was not + against myself, but against others who have so far forgiven him that they + would fain the matter should drop. He owes me ill-will, seeing that I am + aware of his conduct, and that it was my intervention which caused his + schemes to fail. Should this attempt against me be repeated it can scarce + be the effect of chance, but would show premeditated design, and I would + then, both in defence of my own life, and because I think that such deeds + should not go unpunished, not hesitate to name him to you, and if proof be + wanting to defy him to open combat.” + </p> + <p> + “I regret, Sir Walter, that your scruples should hinder you from at once + denouncing him; but seeing how grave a matter it is to charge a knight + with so foul a crime, I will not lay stress upon you; but be assured that + should any repetition of the attempt be made I shall take the matter in + hand, and will see that this caitiff knight receives his desserts.” + </p> + <p> + A short time afterwards Walter accompanied the prince in an excursion + which he made with a portion of the army, sweeping the French provinces as + far as the river Somme. Upon their way back they passed through the + village of Pres, hard by which stood a small castle. It was situated some + forty miles from Calais, and standing upon rising ground, it commanded a + very extensive view over the country. + </p> + <p> + “What say you, Sir Walter?” the prince said to the young knight who was + riding near him. “That castle would make a good advanced post, and a + messenger riding in could bring news of any large movements of the enemy.” + Walter assented. “Then, Sir Walter, I name you chatelain. I shall be sorry + to lose your good company; but the post is one of peril, and I know that + you are ever longing to distinguish yourself. Take forty men-at-arms and + sixty archers. With that force you may make shift to resist any attack + until help reaches you from camp. You may be sure that I shall not be + slack in spurring to your rescue should you be assailed.” + </p> + <p> + Walter received the proposal with delight. He was weary of the monotony of + life in New Town, and this post in which vigilance and activity would be + required was just to his taste; so, taking the force named by the prince, + with a store of provision, he drew off from the column and entered the + castle. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV: THE SIEGE OF A FORTALICE + </h2> + <p> + Walter's first step on assuming the command was to examine thoroughly into + the capabilities of defence of the place, to see that the well was in good + order, and the supply of water ample, and to send out a foraging party, + which, driving in a number of beasts and some cart-loads of forage, would + supply his garrison for some time. The castle he found was less strong + than it looked. The walls were lightly built, and were incapable of + withstanding any heavy battering. The moat was dry, and the flanking + towers badly placed, and affording little protection to the faces of the + walls; however, the extent of the defences was small, and Walter felt + confident that with the force at his command he could resist any sudden + attack, unless made in overwhelming force, so that all the faces of the + wall could be assaulted at the same time. He had a large number of great + stones brought in to pile against the gate, while others were brought into + the central keep, similarly to defend the door should the outer wall be + carried. He appointed Ralph as his lieutenant, and every day, leaving him + in charge of the castle, rode through the country for many miles round, + with twenty men-at-arms, to convince himself that no considerable force of + the enemy were approaching. These reconnaissances were not without some + danger and excitement, for several times bodies of the country people, + armed with scythes, axes, and staves, tried to intercept them on their + return to the castle, and once or twice Walter and his men had to fight + their way through their opponents. Contrary to the custom of the times, + Walter gave orders to his men not to slay any when resistance had ceased. + </p> + <p> + “They are but doing what we ourselves should do did French garrisons hold + our castles at home, and I deem them in no way to be blamed for the + efforts which they make to slay us. In self-defence, of course, we must do + our best, and must kill in order that we may not ourselves be slain; but + when they are once routed, let them go to their homes. Poor people, the + miseries which this war has brought upon them are great, and there is no + wonder that they hate us.” + </p> + <p> + This leniency on Walter's part was not without good effect. When the + country people found that the garrison of the castle of Pres did not carry + fire and sword through the villages around, that they took only sufficient + for their needs, and behaved with courtesy to all, their animosity to a + great extent subsided. No longer did the women and children of the little + villages fly to the woods when they saw the gleam of Walter's approaching + spears, but remained at their avocations, and answered willingly enough + the questions which he asked them as to whether they had heard aught of + the movements of French troops. So far as possible, Walter refrained from + seizing the cattle or stores of grain of the poorer classes, taking such + as he needed from the lands of the wealthy proprietors, all of whom had + left the country, and were either with the French army or sheltering in + Paris. Five of his best mounted men Walter chose as messengers, and one + rode each day to New Town with the news which had been gathered, returning + on the following day, and then resting his horse for three days before + again setting out. + </p> + <p> + Night and day sentries were placed on the walls, for although Walter heard + nothing of any body gathering in his immediate vicinity, a force might at + any moment issue from Amiens and appear suddenly before the place. Such + was indeed what really took place, and at daybreak one morning Walter was + aroused by the news that the sentinels saw a large body of men rapidly + approaching. The horse of the messenger next on duty stood, as usual, + saddled and bridled in readiness, and without a moment's delay Walter + ordered the man to mount and ride to the prince, and to give news that the + castle was assailed, but by how large a force he could not as yet say. + </p> + <p> + The instant the messenger had started through the gates Walter ascended to + the walls; he saw at once that the party was a strong one; for although + still at some distance, and but dimly seen in the gray morning light, he + judged that it must contain at least a thousand men-at-arms. At this + moment a call from the sentry on the other side of the castle was heard, + and hastening thither, Walter saw that another body nearly as numerous as + the first were approaching from the side of Calais, having made a detour + so as to place themselves between the castle and the army, to which news + would naturally be sent of their coming. Walter watched his messenger, who + had now ridden half a mile towards the approaching body. Suddenly he saw + him turn his horse and ride off at right angles to the road. + </p> + <p> + “He sees them,” he said, “and is going to try to ride round them. I fear + that there is but little hope of his escaping, seeing that they are + between him and Calais, and that assuredly some among them must be as well + or better mounted than himself.” As he spoke a party of horsemen were seen + to detach themselves from the flank of the French column and to gallop off + at full speed to intercept the messenger; the latter diverged more and + more from his course, but he was constantly headed off by his pursuers, + and at last, seeing the impossibility of getting through them, he again + turned his horse's head and galloped off towards the castle, which he + reached a few hundred yards only in advance of his foes. + </p> + <p> + “I could not help it, Sir Walter,” he said, as he galloped in at the gate. + “I found that although Robin is fast, some of those horsemen had the turn + of speed of me, and that it was impossible that I could get through; so + deeming that I should do more service by coming to strike a blow here than + by having my throat cut out in the fields, I made the best of my way + back.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite right, Martin!” Walter said. “I should have been grieved had you + thrown your life away needlessly. I saw from the first that your escape + was cut off. And now, men, each to his place; but first pile up the stones + against the gate, and then let each man take a good meal, for it is like + enough to be long before we get a chance of doing so again.” + </p> + <p> + Again ascending to the walls Walter saw that the first body of men-at-arms + he had perceived was followed at a distance by a strong force of footmen + having with them some large wagons. + </p> + <p> + “I fear,” he said to Ralph, “that they have brought machines with them + from Amiens, and in that case they will not be long in effecting a breach, + for doubtless they know that the walls are but weak. We shall have to + fight stoutly, for it may be days before the news of our leaguer reaches + the camp. However, I trust that the prince will, by tomorrow night, when + he finds that two days have elapsed without the coming of my usual + messenger, suspect that we are besieged and will sally forth to our + assistance. And now let us to breakfast, for we shall need all our + strength today, and you may be sure that French will lose no time in + attacking, seeing that assistance may shortly arrive from Calais.” + </p> + <p> + There were but few preparations to be made. Each man had had his post + assigned to him on the walls in case of an attack, and piles of stones had + been collected in readiness to cast down upon the heads of those + attempting an assault. Cauldrons were carried up to the walls and filled + with water, and great fires were lighted under them. In half an hour the + French infantry had reached the spot, but another two hours elapsed before + any hostile movement was made, the leaders of the assailants giving their + men that time to rest after their long march. Then a stir was visible + among them, and they were seen to form in four columns, each about a + thousand strong, which advanced simultaneously against opposite sides of + the castle. As soon as their intentions were manifest Walter divided his + little force, and these, gathering in four groups upon the walls, prepared + to resist the assault. To four of his most trusty men-at-arms he assigned + the command of these parties, he himself and Ralph being thus left free to + give their aid where it was most needed. + </p> + <p> + The assailants were well provided with scaling-ladders, and advanced with + a number of crossbow-men in front, who speedily opened a hot fire on the + walls. Walter ordered his archers to bide their time, and not to fire a + shot till certain that every shaft would tell. They accordingly waited + until the French arrived within fifty yards of the wall, when the arrows + began to rain among them with deadly effect, scarce one but struck its + mark—the face of an enemy. Even the closed vizors of the knights and + chief men-at-arms did not avail to protect their wearers; the shafts + pierced between the bars or penetrated the slits left open for sight, and + many fell slain by the first volley. But their numbers were far too great + to allow the columns being checked by the fire of so small a number of + archers; the front ranks, indeed, pressed forward more eagerly than + before, being anxious to reach the foot of the wall, where they would be + in comparative shelter from the arrows. + </p> + <p> + The archers disturbed themselves in no way at the reaching of the wall by + the heads of the columns; but continued to shoot fast and true into the + mass behind them, and as these were, for the most part, less completely + armed than their leaders, numbers fell under the fire of the sixty English + bowmen. It was the turn of the men-at-arms now. Immediately the assailants + poured into the dry moat and sought to raise their ladders the men-at-arms + hurled down the masses of stones piled in readiness, while some poured + buckets of boiling water over them. In spite of the loss they were + suffering the French raised their ladders, and, covering their heads with + their shields, the leaders strove to gain the walls. As they did so, some + of the archers took post in the flanking towers, and as with uplifted arms + the assailants climbed the ladders, the archers smote them above the + joints of their armour beneath the arm-pits, while the men-at-arms with + pike and battle-axe hewed down those who reached the top of the ladders. + Walter and Ralph hastened from point to point encouraging the men and + joining in the defence where the pressure was hottest; and at last, after + two hours of vain effort and suffering great loss, the assailants drew off + and the garrison had breathing time. + </p> + <p> + “Well done, my men!” Walter said, cheeringly; “they have had a lesson + which they will remember, and if so be that they have brought with them no + machines we may hold out against them for any time.” + </p> + <p> + It was soon manifest, however, that along with the scaling-ladders the + enemy had brought one of their war-machines. Men were seen dragging + massive beams of timber towards the walls, and one of the wagons was drawn + forward and upset on its side at a distance of sixty yards from the wall, + not, however, without those who drew it suffering much from the arrows of + the bowmen. Behind the shelter thus formed the French began to put + together the machine, whose beams soon raised themselves high above the + wagon. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime groups of men dragged great stones laid upon a sort of + hand sledge to the machine, and late in the afternoon it began to cast its + missiles against the wall. Against these Walter could do little. He had no + sacks, which, filled with earth, he might have lowered to cover the part + of the walls assailed, and beyond annoying those working the machines by + flights of arrows shot high in the air, so as to descend point downwards + among them, he could do nothing. + </p> + <p> + The wall crumbled rapidly beneath the blows of the great stones, and + Walter saw that by the following morning a breach would be effected. When + night fell he called his men together and asked if any would volunteer to + carry news through the enemy to the prince. The enterprise seemed + well-nigh hopeless, for the French, as if foreseeing that such an attempt + might be made, had encamped in a complete circle round the castle, as was + manifest by the position of their fires. Several men stepped forward, and + Walter chose three light and active men—archers—to attempt the + enterprise. These stripped off their steel caps and breastpieces, so that + they might move more quickly, and when the French fires burned low and all + was quiet save the creak of the machine and the dull heavy blows of the + stones against the wall, the three men were lowered by ropes at different + points, and started on their enterprise. A quarter of an hour later the + garrison heard shouts and cries, and knew that a vigilant watch had been + set by the French, and that one, if not all, of their friends had fallen + into their hands. All night long the machine continued to play. + </p> + <p> + An hour before daylight, when he deemed that the enemy's vigilance would + be relaxed, Walter caused himself with Ralph and twelve of his men-at-arms + to be lowered by ropes from the wall. Each rope had a loop at the bottom + in which one foot was placed, and knots were tied in order to give a + better grasp for the hands. They were lowered at a short distance from the + spot at which the machine was at work; all were armed with axes, and they + made their way unperceived until within a few yards of the wagon. Then + there was a cry of alarm, and in a moment they rushed forward among the + enemy. The men working the machine were instantly cut down, and Walter and + his party fell upon the machine, cutting the ropes and smashing the wheels + and pulleys and hewing away at the timber itself. In a minute or two, + however, they were attacked by the enemy, the officer in command having + bade a hundred men lie down to sleep close behind the machine in case the + garrison should attempt a sortie. Walter called upon Ralph and four of the + men-at-arms to stand beside him while the others continued their work of + destruction. The French came up in a tumultuous body, but, standing so far + apart that they could wield their axes, the English dealt such destruction + among their first assailants that these for a time recoiled. As fresh + numbers came up, encouraged by their leader they renewed the attack, and + in spite of the most tremendous efforts Walter and his party were driven + back. By this time, however, so much damage had been done to the machine + that it would be some hours before it could be repaired, even if spare + ropes and other appliances had been brought with it from Amiens; so that, + reinforced by the working party, Walter was again able to hold his ground + and after repulsing a fresh onslaught of the enemy he gave the word for + his men to retire at full speed. + </p> + <p> + The French were so surprised by the sudden disappearance of their foes + that it was a moment or two before they started in pursuit, and Walter and + his men had gained some thirty yards before the pursuit really commenced. + </p> + <p> + The night was a dark one, and they considerably increased this advantage + before they reach the foot of the wall, where the ropes were hanging. + </p> + <p> + “Has each of you found his rope?” Walter asked. + </p> + <p> + As soon as an affirmative answer was given he placed his foot in the loop + and shouted to the men above to draw up, and before the enraged enemy + could reach the spot the whole party were already some yards above their + heads. The archers opened fire upon the French, doing, in spite of the + darkness, considerable execution, for the men had snatched up their arms + at the sudden alarm, and had joined the fray in such haste that many of + them had not had time to put on their steel caps. There was noise and + bustle in the enemy's camp, for the whole force were now under arms, and + in their anger at the sudden blow which had been struck them some bodies + of men even moved forward towards the walls as if they intended to renew + the assault of the previous day; but the showers of arrows with which they + were greeted cooled their ardour and they presently retired out of reach + of bowshot. There was a respite now for the besiegers. No longer every few + minutes did a heavy stone strike the walls. + </p> + <p> + The morning's light enabled the defenders of the castle to see the extent + of the damage which the battering machine had effected. None too soon had + they put a stop to its work, for had it continued its operations another + hour or two would have effected a breach. + </p> + <p> + Already large portions of the wall facing it had fallen, and other + portions were so seriously damaged that a few more blows would have + levelled them. + </p> + <p> + “At any rate,” Walter said to Ralph, “we have gained a respite; but even + now I fear that if the Black Prince comes not until tomorrow he will + arrive too late.” + </p> + <p> + The French, apparently as well aware as the garrison of the necessity for + haste, laboured at the repair of the machine. Bodies of men started to cut + down trees to supply the place of the beams which had been rendered + useless. Scarcely had the assault ceased when horsemen were despatched in + various directions to seek for fresh ropes, and by dint of the greatest + exertions the machine was placed in position to renew its attack shortly + after noon. + </p> + <p> + By two o'clock several large portions of the damaged wall had fallen, and + the debris formed a slope by which an assaulting column could rush to the + bridge. As soon as this was manifest the French force formed for the + assault and rushed forward in solid column. + </p> + <p> + Walter had made the best preparation possible for the defence. In the + courtyard behind the breach his men had since morning been driving a + circle of piles, connected by planks fastened to them. These were some + five feet high, and along the top and in the face next to the breach + sharp-pointed spikes and nails had been driven, rendering it difficult in + the extreme for anyone to climb over. As the column of the assailants + approached Walter placed his archers on the walls on either side of the + breach, while he himself, with his men-at-arms, took his station in the + gap and faced the coming host. The breach was some ten yards wide, but it + was only for about half this width that the mound of broken stones + rendered it possible for their enemies to assault, consequently there was + but a space of some fifteen feet in width to be defended. Regardless of + the flights of arrows, the French, headed by their knights and squires, + advanced to the assault, and clambering up the rough stones attacked the + defenders. + </p> + <p> + Walter, with Ralph and three of his best men-at-arms, stood in the front + line and received the first shock of the assault. The roughness and + steepness of the mound prevented the French from attacking in regular + order, and the very eagerness of the knights and squires who came first in + contact with their enemies was a hindrance to them. When the columns were + seen gathering for the assault Walter had scattered several barrels full + of oil and tar which he found in the cellars over the mound in front of + the breach, rendering it greasy and slippery, and causing the assailants + to slip and stagger and many to fall as they pressed forward to the + assault. Before the fight commenced he had encouraged his soldiers by + recalling to them how a mere handful of men had at Cressy withstood for + hours the desperate efforts of the whole of the French army to break + through their line, and all were prepared to fight to the death. + </p> + <p> + The struggle was a desperate one. Served by their higher position, and by + the difficulties which the French encountered from the slipperiness of the + ground and their own fierce ardour to attack, Walter and his little band + for a long time resisted every effort. He with his sword and Ralph with + his heavy mace did great execution, and they were nobly seconded by their + men-at-arms. As fast as one fell another took his place. The breach in + front of them was cumbered with dead and red with blood. Still the French + poured upwards in a wave, and the sheer weight of their numbers and the + fatigue caused by the tremendous exertions the defenders were making began + to tell. Step by step the English were driven back, and Walter saw that + the defence could not much longer be continued. He bade one of his + men-at-arms at once order the archers to cease firing, and, leaving the + walls, to take refuge in the keep, and thence to open fire upon the French + as they poured through the breach. + </p> + <p> + When he found that this movement had been accomplished Walter bade the + men-at-arms fall back gradually. A gap had been left in the wooden fence + sufficient for one at a time to pass, and through this the men-at-arms + retired one by one to the keep until only Walter and five others were + left. With these Walter flung himself suddenly upon the assailants and + forced them a few feet down the slope. Then he gave the word, and all + sprang back, and leaping down from the wall into the courtyard ran through + the barrier, Walter and Ralph being the last to pass as the French with + exulting shouts leapt down from the breach. There was another fierce fight + at the barrier. Walter left Ralph to defend this with a few men-at-arms + while he saw that all was in readiness for closing the door rapidly in the + keep. Then he ran back again. He was but just in time. Ralph indeed could + for a long time have held the narrow passage, but the barriers themselves + were yielding. The French were pouring in through the breach, and as those + behind could not see the nature of the obstacle which arrested the advance + of their companions they continued to push forward, and by their weight + pressed those in front against the spikes in the barrier. Many perished + miserably on these. Others, whose armour protected them from this fate, + were crushed to death by the pressure; but this was now so great that the + timbers were yielding. Walter, seeing that in another moment they would be + levelled, gave the word, sprang back with Ralph and his party, and entered + the keep just as with a crash the barrier fell and the French poured in a + crowd into the courtyard. Bolting the door the defenders of the keep piled + against it the stones which had been laid in readiness. + </p> + <p> + The door was on the first floor, and was approached by a narrow flight of + stone steps, up which but two abreast could advance. In their first fury + the French poured up these steps, but from the loopholes which commanded + it the English bowmen shot so hard that their arrows pierced the strongest + armour. Smitten through vizor and armour, numbers of the bravest of the + assailants fell dead. Those who gained the top of the steps were assailed + by showers of boiling oil from an upper chamber which projected over the + door, and whose floor was pierced for this purpose, while from the top of + the keep showers of stones were poured down. After losing great numbers in + this desperate effort at assault the French drew off for a while, while + their leaders held council as to the best measures to be taken for the + capture of the keep. + </p> + <p> + After a time Walter from the summit saw several bodies of men detach + themselves from the crowd still without the castle and proceed into the + country. Two hours later they were seen returning laden with trunks of + trees. These were dragged through the breach, and were, in spite of the + efforts of the archers and of the men-at-arms with their stones, placed so + as to form a sort of penthouse against one side of the keep. Numbers of + the soldiers now poured up with sacks and all kinds of vessels which they + had gathered from the surrounding villages, filled with earth. This was + thrown over the beams until it filled all the crevices between them and + formed a covering a foot thick, so that neither boiling oil nor water + poured from above could penetrate to injure those working beneath its + shelter. When all was ready a strong body armed with picks and crowbars + entered the penthouse and began to labour to cut away the wall of the keep + itself. + </p> + <p> + “Their commander knows his business,” Walter said, “and the device is an + excellent one. We can do nothing, and it only depends upon the strength of + the wall how long we can hold out. The masonry is by no means good, and + before nightfall, unless aid comes, there will be nought for us but death + or surrender.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI: A PRISONER + </h2> + <p> + As long as it was light an anxious look-out was kept from the top of the + keep towards Calais. There was nothing to be done. The besiegers who had + entered the walls were ensconced in the various buildings in the courtyard + or placed behind walls so as to be out of arrow-shot from above, and were + in readiness to repel any sortie which might be made to interfere with the + work going on under the penthouse. But no sortie was possible, for to + effect this it would be necessary to remove the stones from the door, and + before this could be accomplished the besiegers would have rallied in + overwhelming force, nor could a sortie have effected anything beyond the + slaying of the men actually engaged in the work. The beams of the + penthouse were too strong and too heavily weighted with earth to be + removed, and the attempt would only have entailed useless slaughter. The + penthouse was about forty feet in length, and the assailants were piercing + three openings, each of some six feet in width, leaving two strong + supporting pillars between them. Anxiously the garrison within listened to + the sounds of work, which became louder and louder as the walls crumbled + before the stroke of pickaxe and crowbar. + </p> + <p> + “I shall hold out until the last moment,” Walter said to Ralph, “in hopes + of relief, but before they burst in I shall sound a parley. To resist + further would be a vain sacrifice of life.” + </p> + <p> + Presently a movement could be seen among the stones, and then almost + simultaneously two apertures appeared. The chamber into which the openings + were made was a large one, being used as the common room of the garrison. + Here twenty archers, and the remaining men-at-arms—of whom nearly + one-half had fallen in the defence of the breach—were gathered, and + the instant the orifices appeared the archers began to send their arrows + through them. Then Walter ascended to another chamber, and ordered the + trumpeter to sound a parley. + </p> + <p> + The sound was repeated by the assailants' trumpeter. + </p> + <p> + “Who commands the force?” Walter asked. + </p> + <p> + “I, Guy, Count of Evreux.” + </p> + <p> + “I am Sir Walter Somers,” the young knight continued. “I wish to ask terms + for the garrison. + </p> + <p> + “You must surrender unconditionally,” the count replied from the + courtyard. “In ten minutes we shall have completely pierced your walls, + and you will be at our mercy.” + </p> + <p> + “You may pierce our walls,” Walter replied, “but it will cost you many + lives before you force your way in; we will defend the hold from floor to + floor, and you know how desperate men can fight. It will cost you scores + of lives before you win your way to the summit of this keep; but if I have + your knightly word that the lives of all within these walls shall be + spared, then will I open the door and lay down our arms.” + </p> + <p> + A consultation took place between the leaders below. There was truth in + Walter's words that very many lives would be sacrificed before the + resistance of so gallant a garrison could be overcome. Every minute was of + importance, for it was possible that at any moment aid might arrive from + Calais, and that the table would be turned upon the besiegers. + </p> + <p> + Therefore, after a short parley among themselves, the count replied: + </p> + <p> + “You have fought as a gallant knight and gentleman, Sir Walter Somers, and + have wrought grievous harm upon my leading. I should grieve that so brave + a knight should lose his life in a useless resistance. Therefore I agree + to your terms, and swear upon my knightly honour that upon your + surrendering yourselves prisoners of war, the lives of all within these + walls shall be spared.” + </p> + <p> + Walter at once gave the order. The stones were removed and the door thrown + open, and leading his men Walter descended the steps into the courtyard, + which was now illuminated with torches, and handed his sword to the Count + of Evreux. + </p> + <p> + “You promised me, count,” a tall knight standing by his side said, “that + if he were taken alive, the commander of this castle should be my + prisoner.” + </p> + <p> + “I did so, Sir Phillip Holbeaut. When you proposed this adventure to me, + and offered to place your following at my command, I agreed to the request + you made me; but mind,” he said sternly, “my knightly word has been given + for his safety. See that he receives fair and gentle treatment at your + hand. I would not that aught should befall so brave a knight.” + </p> + <p> + “I seek him no harm,” the knight said angrily; “but I know that he is one + of the knights of the Black Prince's own suite, and that his ransom will + be freely paid, and as my coffers are low from the expenses of the war, I + would fain replenish them at the expense of the English prince.” + </p> + <p> + “I said not that I doubted you, Sir Phillip,” the count said calmly; “but + as the knight surrendered on my word, it was needful that I should warn + you to treat him as I myself should do did he remain in my hands, and to + give him fair treatment until duly ransomed.” + </p> + <p> + “I should be glad, count,” Walter said, “if you will suffer me to take + with me as companion in my captivity this man-at-arms. He is strongly + attached to me, and we have gone through many perils together; it will + lighten my captivity to have him by my side.” + </p> + <p> + “Surely I will do so, Sir Walter, and wish that your boon had been a + larger one. The rest I will take back with me to Amiens, there to hold + until exchanged for some of those who at various times have fallen into + your king's hands. And now to work, men; lose not a moment in stripping + the castle of all that you choose to carry away, then apply fire to the + storehouses, granaries, and the hold itself. I would not that it remained + standing to serve as an outpost for the English.” + </p> + <p> + The horses were brought from the stables. Walter and Ralph took their + horses by the bridle, and followed Sir Phillip Holbeaut through the now + open gates of the castle to the spot where the horses of the besiegers + were picketed. The knight, and his own men-at-arms, who had at the + beginning of the day numbered a hundred and fifty, but who were now + scarcely two-thirds of that strength, at once mounted with their + prisoners, and rode off from the castle. A few minutes later a glare of + light burst out from behind them. The count's orders had been obeyed; fire + had been applied to the stores of forage, and soon the castle of Pres was + wrapped in flames. + </p> + <p> + “I like not our captor's manner,” Ralph said to Walter as they rode along + side by side. + </p> + <p> + “I agree with you, Ralph. I believe that the reason which he gave the + count for his request was not a true one, though, indeed, I can see no + other motive which he could have for seeking to gain possession of me. Sir + Phillip, although a valiant knight, bears but an indifferent reputation. I + have heard that he is a cruel master to his serfs, and that when away + fighting in Germany he behaved so cruelly to the peasantry that even the + Germans, who are not nice in their modes of warfare, cried out against + him. It is an evil fortune that has thrown us into his hands; still, + although grasping and avaricious, he can hardly demand for a simple knight + any inordinate ransom. The French themselves would cry out did he do so, + seeing that so large a number of their own knights are in our hands, and + that the king has ample powers of retaliation; however, we need not look + on the dark side. It is not likely that our captivity will be a long one, + for the prince, who is the soul of generosity, will not haggle over terms, + but will pay my ransom as soon as he hears into whose hands I have fallen, + while there are scores of men-at-arms prisoners, whom he can exchange for + you. Doubtless Sir Phillip will send you over, as soon as he arrives at + his castle, with one of his own followers to treat for my ransom.” + </p> + <p> + After riding for some hours the troop halted their weary horses in a wood, + and lighting fires, cooked their food, and then lay down until morning. + Sir Phillip exchanged but few words with his captive; as, having removed + his helm, he sat by the fire, Walter had an opportunity of seeing his + countenance. It did not belie his reputation. His face had a heavy and + brutal expression which was not decreased by the fashion of his hair, + which was cut quite short, and stood up without parting all over his + bullet-shaped head; he had a heavy and bristling moustache which was cut + short in a line with his lips. + </p> + <p> + “It is well,” Walter thought to himself, “that it is my ransom rather than + my life which is dear to that evil-looking knight; for, assuredly, he is + not one to hesitate did fortune throw a foe into his hands.” + </p> + <p> + At daybreak the march was resumed, and was continued until they reached + the castle of Sir Phillip Holbeaut, which stood on a narrow tongue of land + formed by a sharp bend of the Somme. + </p> + <p> + On entering the castle the knight gave an order to his followers, and the + prisoners were at once led to a narrow cell beneath one of the towers. + Walter looked round indignantly when he arrived there. + </p> + <p> + “This is a dungeon for a felon,” he exclaimed, “not the apartment for a + knight who has been taken captive in fair fight. Tell your master that he + is bound to award me honourable treatment, and that unless he removes me + instantly from this dungeon to a proper apartment, and treats me with all + due respect and courtesy, I will, when I regain liberty, proclaim him a + dishonoured knight.” + </p> + <p> + The men-at-arms made no reply; but, locking the door behind them, left the + prisoners alone. + </p> + <p> + “What can this mean, Ralph?” Walter exclaimed. “We are in the lowest + dungeon, and below the level of the river. See how damp are the walls, and + the floor is thick with slimy mud. The river must run but just below that + loophole, and in times of flood probably enters here.” + </p> + <p> + Phillip of Holbeaut, on dismounting, ascended to an upper chamber, where a + man in the dress of a well-to-do citizen was sitting. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Sir Phillip,” he exclaimed, rising to his feet as the other + entered, “what news?” + </p> + <p> + “The news is bad,” the knight growled. “This famous scheme of yours has + cost me fifty of my best men. I would I had had nothing to do with it.” + </p> + <p> + “But this Walter Somers,” the other exclaimed, “what of him? He has not + escaped surely! The force which marched from Amiens was large enough to + have eaten him and his garrison. + </p> + <p> + “He has not escaped,” the knight replied. + </p> + <p> + “Then he is killed!” the other said eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “No; nor is he killed. He is at present a prisoner in a dungeon below, + together with a stout knave whom he begged might accompany him until + ransomed.” + </p> + <p> + “All is well then,” the other exclaimed. “Never mind the loss of your men. + The money which I have promised you for this business will hire you two + hundred such knaves; but why didst not knock him on head at once?” + </p> + <p> + “It was not so easy to knock him on the head,” Sir Phillip growled. “It + cost us five hundred men to capture the outer walls, and to have fought + our way into the keep, held, as it was, by men who would have contested + every foot of the ground, was not a job for which any of us had much + stomach, seeing what the first assaults had cost us; so the count took + them all to quarter. The rest he carried with him to Amiens; but their + leader, according to the promise which he made me, he handed over to me as + my share of the day's booty, giving me every charge that he should receive + good and knightly treatment. + </p> + <p> + “Which, no doubt, you will observe,” the other said, with an ugly laugh. + </p> + <p> + “It is a bad business,” the knight exclaimed angrily, “and were it not for + our friendship, in Spain, and the memory of sundry deeds which we did + together, not without profit to our purses, I would rather that you were + thrown over the battlements into the river than I had taken a step in this + business. However, none can say that Phillip of Holbeaut ever deserted a + friend who had proved true to him, not to mention that the sum which you + promised me for my aid in this matter will, at present time, prove + wondrously convenient. Yet I foresee that it will bring me into trouble + with the Count of Evreux. Ere many days a demand will come for the fellow + to be delivered on ransom.” + </p> + <p> + “And what will you say?” the other asked. + </p> + <p> + “I shall say what is the truth,” the knight replied, “though I may add + something that is not wholly so. I shall say that he was drowned in the + Somme. I shall add that it happened as he was trying to make his escape, + contrary to the parole he had given; but in truth he will be drowned in + the dungeon in which I have placed him, which has rid me of many a + troublesome prisoner before now. The river is at ordinary times but two + feet below the loophole; and when its tide is swelled by rain it often + rises above the sill, and then there is an end of any one within. They can + doubt my word; but there are not many who would care to do so openly; none + who would do so for the sake of an unknown English knight. And as for any + complaints on the part of the Black Prince, King Phillip has shown over + and over again how little the complaints of Edward himself move him.” + </p> + <p> + “It were almost better to knock him on head at once,” the other said + thoughtfully; “the fellow has as many lives as a cat. + </p> + <p> + “If he had as many as nine cats,” the knight replied, “it would not avail + him. But I will have no violence. The water will do your work as well as a + poinard, and I will not have it said, even among such ruffians as mine, + that I slew a captured knight. The other will pass as an accident, and I + care not what my men may think as long as they can say nothing for a + surety. The count may storm as much as he will, and may even lay a + complaint against me before the king; but in times like the present, even + a simple knight who can lead two hundred good fighting men into the field + is not to be despised, and the king is likely to be easily satisfied with + my replies to any question that may be raised. Indeed, it would seem + contrary to reason that I should slay a captive against whom I have no + cause of quarrel, and so forfeit the ransom which I should get for him.” + </p> + <p> + “But suppose that a messenger should come offering ransom before the river + happens to rise?” + </p> + <p> + “Then I shall anticipate matters, and shall say that what I know will + happen has already taken place. Do not be uneasy, Sir James. You have my + word in the matter, and now I have gone so far I shall carry it through. + From the moment when I ordered him into that dungeon his fate was sealed, + and in truth, when I gave the order I did so to put an end to the + indecision in which my mind had been all night. Once in there he could not + be allowed to come out alive, for his report of such treatment would do me + more harm among those of my own station in France than any rumours + touching his end could do. It is no uncommon affair for one to remove an + enemy from one's path; but cruelty to a knightly prisoner would be + regarded with horror. Would you like to have a look at him?” + </p> + <p> + The other hesitated. “No,” he replied. “Against him personally I have no + great grudge. He has thwarted my plans, and stands now grievously in the + way of my making fresh ones; but as he did so from no ill-will towards + myself, but as it were by hazard, I have no personal hatred towards him, + though I would fain remove him from my path. Besides, I tell you fairly, + that even in that dungeon where you have thrown him I shall not feel that + he is safe until you send me word that he is dead. He has twice already + got out of scrapes when other men would have been killed. Both at Vannes + and at Ghent he escaped in a marvellous way; and but a few weeks since, by + the accident of his having a coat of mail under his doublet he saved his + life from as fair a blow as ever was struck. Therefore I would not that he + knew aught of my having a hand in this matter, for if after having seen me + he made his escape I could never show my face in England again. I should + advise you to bid three or four men always enter his cell together, for he + and that man-of-arms who follows him like a shadow are capable of playing + any desperate trick to escape. + </p> + <p> + “That matter is easily enough managed,” Sir Phillip said grimly, “by no + one entering the dungeon at all. The river may be slow of rising, though + in sooth the sky looks overcast now, and it is already at its usual winter + level; and whether he dies from lack of water or from a too abundant + supply matters but little to me; only, as I told you I will give no orders + for him to be killed. Dost remember that Jew we carried off from Seville + and kept without water until he agreed to pay us a ransom which made us + both rich for six months? That was a rare haul, and I would that rich Jews + were plentiful in this country. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, those were good times,” the other said, “although I own that I have + not done badly since the war began, having taken a count and three knights + prisoners, and put them to ransom, and having reaped a goodly share of + plunder from your French burghers, else indeed I could not have offered + you so round a sum to settle this little matter for me. There are not many + French knights who have earned a count's ransom in the present war. And + now I will take horse; here is one-half of the sum I promised you, in gold + nobles. I will send you the remainder on the day when I get news from you + that the matter is finished.” + </p> + <p> + “Have your money ready in a week's time,” the knight replied, taking the + bag of gold which the other placed on the table, “for by that time you + will hear from me. I hope this will not be the last business which we may + do together; there ought to be plenty of good chances in a war like this. + Any time that you can send me word of an intended foray by a small party + under a commander whose ransom would be a high one I will share what I get + with you; and similarly I will let you know of any rich prize who may be + pounced upon on the same terms. + </p> + <p> + “Agreed!” the other said. “We may do a good business together in that way. + But you lie too far away. If you move up as near as you can to Calais and + let me know your whereabouts, so that I could send or ride to you in a few + hours, we might work together with no small profit.” + </p> + <p> + “I will take the field as soon as this affair of yours is settled,” the + knight replied; “and the messenger who brings you the news shall tell you + where I may be found. And now, while your horse is being got ready, let us + drink a stoup of wine together in memory of old times, though, for myself, + these wines of ours are poor and insipid beside the fiery juice of Spain.” + </p> + <p> + While this conversation, upon which their fate so much depended, had been + going on, Walter and Ralph had been discussing the situation, and had + arrived at a tolerably correct conclusion. + </p> + <p> + “This conduct on the part of this brutal French knight, Ralph, is so + strange that methinks it cannot be the mere outcome of his passions or of + hate against me as an Englishman, but of some deeper motive; and we were + right in thinking that in bargaining for my person with the Count of + Evreux it was more than my ransom which he sought. Had that been his only + object he would never have thrown us into this noisome dungeon, for my + report of such treatment would bring dishonour upon him in the eyes of + every knight and noble in France as well as in England. It must be my life + he aims at, although what grudge he can have against me it passes me to + imagine. It may be that at Cressy or elsewhere some dear relative of his + may have fallen by my sword; and yet were it so, men nourish no grudge for + the death of those killed in fair fight. But this boots not at present. It + is enough for us that it is my life which he aims at, and I fear, Ralph, + that yours must be included with mine, since he would never let a witness + escape to carry the foul tale against him. This being so, the agreement on + which I surrendered is broken, and I am free to make my escape if I can, + and methinks the sooner that be attempted the better. + </p> + <p> + “So let us work to plan how we may best get out of this place. After our + escape from that well at Vannes we need not despair about breaking out + from this dungeon of Holbeaut.” + </p> + <p> + “We might overpower the guard who brings our food,” Ralph said. + </p> + <p> + “There is that chance,” Walter rejoined, “but I think it is a poor one. + They may be sure that this dishonourable treatment will have rendered us + desperate, and they will take every precaution and come well armed. It may + be, too, that they will not come at all, but that they intend us to die of + starvation, or perchance to be drowned by the floods, which it is easy to + see often make their way in here. No, our escape, if escape there be, must + be made through that loophole above. Were that bar removed, methinks it is + wide enough for us to squeeze through. Doubtless such a hazard has not + occurred to them, seeing that it is nigh twelve feet above the floor, and + that a single man could by no possibility reach it, but with two of us + there is no difficulty. Now, Ralph, do you stand against the wall. I will + climb upon your shoulders, and standing there can reach the bar, and so + haul myself up and look out.” + </p> + <p> + This was soon done, and Walter seizing the bar, hauled himself up so that + he could see through the loophole. + </p> + <p> + “It is as I thought,” he said. “The waters of the Somme are but a foot + below the level of this window; the river is yellow and swollen, and a few + hours' heavy rain would bring it above the level of this sill. Stand + steady, Ralph, I am coming down again.” + </p> + <p> + When he reached the ground, he said: + </p> + <p> + “Take off your belt, Ralph; if we buckle that and mine together, passing + it round the bar, it will make a loop upon which we can stand at the + window and see how best we can loosen the bar. Constantly wet as it is, it + is likely that the mortar will have softened, in which case we shall have + little difficulty in working it out.” + </p> + <p> + The plan was at once put into execution; the belts were fastened together + and Walter standing on Ralph's shoulders passed one end around the bar and + buckled it to the other, thus making a loop some three feet in length; + putting a foot in this he was able to stand easily at the loophole. + </p> + <p> + “It is put in with mortar at the top, Ralph, and the mortar has rotted + with the wet, but at the bottom lead was poured in when the bar was set + and this must be scooped out before it can be moved. Fortunately the + knight gave no orders to his men to remove our daggers when we were thrust + in here, and these will speedily dig out the lead; but I must come down + first, for the strap prevents my working at the foot of the bar. We must + tear off a strip of our clothing and make a shift to fasten the strap + half-way up the bar so as not to slip down with our weight.” + </p> + <p> + In order to accomplish this Walter had to stand upon Ralph's head to gain + additional height. He presently, after several attempts, succeeded in + fixing the strap firmly against the bar half-way up, and then placing one + knee in the loop and putting an arm through the bar to steady himself, he + set to work at the lead. The sharp point of the dagger quickly cut out + that near the surface, but farther down the hole narrowed and the task was + much more difficult. Several times Ralph relieved him at the work, but at + last it was accomplished, and the bar was found to move slightly when they + shook it. There now remained only to loosen the cement above, and this was + a comparatively easy task; it crumbled quickly before the points of their + daggers, and the bar was soon free to move. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” Walter said, “we have to find out whether the bar was first put in + from below or from above; one hole or the other must be a good deal deeper + than the iron, so that it was either shoved up or pushed down until the + other end could get under or over the other hole. I should think most + likely the hole is below, as if they held up the bar against the top, when + the lead was poured in it would fill up the space; so we will first of all + try to lift it. I must stand on your head again to enable me to be high + enough to try this.” + </p> + <p> + “My head is strong enough, I warrant,” Ralph replied, “but I will fold up + my jerkin, and put on it, for in truth you hurt me somewhat when you were + tying the strap to the bar.” + </p> + <p> + All Walter's efforts did not succeed in raising the bar in the slightest, + and he therefore concluded that it had been inserted here and lifted while + the space was filled with lead. “It is best so,” he said; “we should have + to cut away the stone either above or below, and can work much better + below. Now I will put my knee in the strap again and set to work. The + stone seems greatly softened by the wet, and will yield to our daggers + readily enough. It is already getting dark, and as soon as we have + finished we can start.” + </p> + <p> + As Walter had discovered, the stone was rotten with the action of the + weather, and although as they got deeper it became much harder, it yielded + to the constant chipping with their daggers, and in two hours Ralph, who + at the moment happened to be engaged, announced to Walter that his dagger + had found its way under the bottom of the bar. The groove was soon made + deep enough for the bar to be moved out; but another hour's work was + necessary, somewhat further to enlarge the upper hole, so as to allow the + bar to have sufficient play. Fortunately it was only inserted about an + inch and a half in the stone, and the amount to be cut away to give it + sufficient play was therefore not large. Then at last all was ready for + their flight. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII: THE CAPTURE OF CALAIS + </h2> + <p> + When the bar was once ready for removal the captives delayed not a minute, + for although it was now so late that there was little chance of a visit + being paid them, it was just possible that such might be the case, and + that it might occur to the knight that it would be safer to separate them. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Ralph, do you go first, since I am lighter and can climb up by means + of the strap, which you can hold from above; push the bar out and lay it + down quietly on the thickness of the wall. A splash might attract the + attention of the sentries, though I doubt whether it would, for the wind + is high and the rain falling fast. Unbuckle the strap before you move the + bar, as otherwise it might fall and I should have difficulty in handing it + to you again. Now, I am steady against the wall.” + </p> + <p> + Ralph seized the bar and with a great effort pushed the bottom from him. + It moved through the groove without much difficulty, but it needed a great + wrench to free the upper end. However, it was done, and laying it quietly + down he pulled himself up and thrust himself through the loophole. It was + a desperate struggle to get through, for it was only just wide enough for + his head to pass, and he was so squarely built that his body with + difficulty followed. The wall was four feet wide, and as the loophole + widened considerably without, there was, when he had once passed through + from the inside, space enough for him to kneel down and lower one end of + the strap to Walter. The latter speedily climbed up, and getting through + the slit with much less trouble than Ralph had experienced—for + although in height and width of shoulder he was his equal, he was less in + depth than his follower—he joined him in the opening; Ralph sitting + with his feet in the water in order to make room for him. + </p> + <p> + The dungeon was upon the western side of the castle, and consequently the + stream would be with them in making for shore. It was pitch dark, but they + knew that the distance they would have to swim could not exceed forty or + fifty yards. + </p> + <p> + “Keep along close by the wall, Ralph, if we once get out in the stream we + might lose our way; we will skirt the wall until it ends, then there is a + cut, for as you saw when we entered, the moat runs right across this neck. + If we keep a bit farther down and then land, we shall be fairly beyond the + outworks.” + </p> + <p> + Ralph slipped down into the water, and followed by Walter swam along at + the foot of the wall. They had already been deprived of their armour, but + had luckily contrived to retain their daggers in their belts, which they + had again girdled on before entering the water. The stream hurried them + rapidly along, and they had only to keep themselves afloat. They were soon + at the corner of the castle. A few strokes farther and they again felt the + wall which lined the moat. The stream still swept them along, they felt + the masonry come to an end, and bushes and shrubs lined the bank. They + were beyond the outer defences of the castle. Still a little farther they + proceeded down the stream in order to prevent the possibility of any noise + they might make in scrambling up being heard by the sentinels on the outer + postern. Then when they felt quite safe they grasped the bushes, and + speedily climbed the bank. Looking back at the castle they saw lights + still burning there. Short as was the time they had been in the water they + were both chilled to the bone, for it was the month of February, and the + water was bitterly cold. + </p> + <p> + “It cannot be more than nine o'clock now,” Walter said, “for it is not + more than four hours since darkness fell. They are not likely to visit the + dungeon before eight or nine tomorrow, so we can rely upon twelve hours' + start, and if we make the best of our time we ought to be far on + travelling on a night like this through a strange country. I would that + the stars were shining. However, the direction of the wind and rain will + be a guide to us, and we shall soon strike the road we traveled yesterday, + and can follow that till morning.” + </p> + <p> + They were not long before they found the track, and then started at a + brisk pace along it. All night they struggled on through wind and rain + until the first dawn enabled them to see the objects in the surrounding + country; and making for the forest which extended to within a mile of the + road, they entered deep into its shelter, and there utterly exhausted, + threw themselves down on the wet ground. After a few hours of uneasy sleep + they woke, and taking their place near the edge of the forest watched for + the passage of any party which might be in pursuit, but until nightfall + none came along. + </p> + <p> + “They have not discovered our flight,” Ralph said at last, “or they would + have passed long before this. Sir Phillip doubtless imagines that we are + drowned. The water was within a few inches of the sill when we started, + and must soon have flooded the dungeon; and did he trouble to look in the + morning, which is unlikely enough seeing that he would be sure of our + fate, he would be unable to descend the stairs, and could not reach to the + door, and so discover that the bar had been removed. No; whatever his + motive may have been in compassing my death, he is doubtless satisfied + that he has attained it, and we need have no further fear of pursuit from + him. The rain has ceased, and I think that it will be a fine night; we + will walk on, and if we come across a barn will make free to enter it, and + stripping off our clothing to dry, will sleep in the hay, and pursue our + journey in the morning. From our travel-stained appearance any who may + meet us will take us for two wayfarers going to take service in the army + at Amiens.” + </p> + <p> + It was not until nearly midnight that they came upon such a place as they + sought, then after passing a little village they found a shed standing + apart. Entering it they found that it was tenanted by two cows. Groping + about they presently came upon a heap of forage, and taking off their + outer garments lay down on this, covering themselves thickly with it. The + shed was warm and comfortable and they were soon asleep, and awaking at + daybreak they found that their clothes had dried somewhat. The sun was not + yet up when they started, but it soon rose, and ere noon their garments + had dried, and they felt for the first time comfortable. They met but few + people on the road, and these passed them with ordinary salutations. + </p> + <p> + They had by this time left Amiens on the right, and by nightfall were well + on their way towards Calais. Early in the morning they had purchased some + bread at a village through which they passed; Walter's Norman-French being + easily understood, and exciting no surprise or suspicion. At nightfall + they slept in a shed within a mile of the ruins of the castle of Pres, and + late next evening entered the English encampment at New Town. After going + to his tent, where he and Ralph changed their garments and partook of a + hearty meal, Walter proceeded to the pavilion of the prince, who hailed + his entrance with the greatest surprise. + </p> + <p> + “Why Sir Walter,” he exclaimed, “what good saint has brought you here? I + have but an hour since received a message from the Count of Evreux to the + effect that you were a prisoner in the bands of Sir Phillip de Holbeaut, + with whom I must treat for your ransom. I was purporting to send off a + herald tomorrow to ask at what sum he held you; and now you appear in + flesh and blood before us! But first, before you tell us your story, I + must congratulate you on your gallant defence of the Castle of Pres, which + is accounted by all as one of the most valiant deeds of the war. When two + days passed without a messenger from you coming hither, I feared that you + were beleaguered, and started that evening with six hundred men-at-arms. + We arrived at daybreak to finding only a smoking ruin. Luckily among the + crowd of dead upon the breach we found one of your men-at-arms who still + breathed, and after some cordial had been given him, and his wounds + stanched, he was able to tell us the story of the siege. But it needed not + his tale to tell us how staunchly you had defended the castle, for the + hundreds of dead who lay outside of the walls, and still more the mass who + piled the breach, and the many who lay in the castle-yard spoke for + themselves of the valour with which the castle had been defended. As the + keep was gutted by fire, and the man could tell us nought of what had + happened after he had been stricken down at the breach, we knew not + whether you and your brave garrison had perished in the flames. We saw the + penthouse beneath which they had laboured to cut through the wall, but the + work had ceased before the holes were large enough for entry, and we hoped + that you might have seen that further resistance was in vain, and have + made terms for your lives; indeed we heard from the country people that + certain prisoners had been taken to Amiens. I rested one day at Pres, and + the next rode back here, and forthwith despatched a herald to the Count of + Evreux at Amiens asking for news of the garrison; but now he has returned + with word that twenty-four men-at-arms and fifty-eight archers are + prisoners in the count's hands, and that he is ready to exchange them + against an equal number of French prisoners; but that you, with a + man-at-arms, were in the keeping of Sir Phillip of Holbeaut, with whom I + must treat for your ransom. And now tell me how it is that I see you here. + Has your captor, confiding in your knightly word to send him the sum + agreed upon, allowed you to return? Tell me the sum and my treasurer shall + tomorrow pay it over to a herald, who shall carry it to Holbeaut.” + </p> + <p> + “Thanks, your Royal Highness, for your generosity,” Walter replied, “but + there is no ransom to be paid.” + </p> + <p> + And he then proceeded to narrate the incidents of his captivity at + Holbeaut and his escape from the castle. His narration was frequently + interrupted by exclamations of surprise and indignation from the prince + and knights present. + </p> + <p> + “Well, this well-nigh passes all belief,” the prince exclaimed when he had + concluded. “It is an outrage upon all laws of chivalry and honour. What + could have induced this caitiff knight, instead of treating you with + courtesy and honour until your ransom arrived, to lodge you in a foul + dungeon, where, had you not made your escape, your death would have been + brought about that very night by the rising water? Could it be, think you, + that his brain is distraught by some loss or injury which may have + befallen him at our hands during the war and worked him up to a blind + passion of hatred against all Englishmen?” + </p> + <p> + “I think not that, your Royal Highness,” Walter replied. “His manner was + cool and deliberate, and altogether free from any signs of madness. + Moreover, it would seem that he had specially marked me down beforehand, + since, as I have told you, he had bargained with the Count of Evreux for + the possession of my person should I escape with life at the capture of + the castle. It seems rather as if he must have had some private enmity + against me, although what the cause may be I cannot imagine, seeing that I + have never, to my knowledge, before met him, and have only heard his name + by common report. + </p> + <p> + “Whatever be the cause,” the prince said, “we will have satisfaction for + it, and I will beg the king, my father, to write at once to Phillip of + Valois protesting against the treatment that you have received, and + denouncing Sir Phillip of Holbeaut as a base and dishonoured knight, whom, + should he fall into our hands, we will commit at once to the hangman.” + </p> + <p> + Upon the following day Walter was called before the king, and related to + him in full the incidents of the siege and of his captivity and escape; + and the same day King Edward sent off a letter to Phillip of Valois + denouncing Sir Phillip Holbeaut as a dishonoured knight, and threatening + retaliation upon the French prisoners in his hands. + </p> + <p> + A fortnight later an answer was received from the King of France saying + that he had inquired into the matter, and had sent a seneschal, who had + questioned Sir Phillip Holbeaut and some of the men-at-arms in the castle, + and that he found that King Edward had been grossly imposed upon by a + fictitious tale. Sir Walter Somers had, he found, been treated with all + knightly courtesy, and believing him to be an honourable knight and true + to his word, but slight watch had been kept over him. He had basely taken + advantage of this trust, and with the man-at-arms with him had escaped + from the castle in order to avoid payment of his ransom, and had now + invented these gross and wicked charges against Sir Phillip Holbeaut as a + cloak to his own dishonour. + </p> + <p> + Walter was furious when he heard the contents of this letter, and the king + and Black Prince were no less indignant. Although they doubted him not for + a moment, Walter begged that Ralph might be brought before them and + examined strictly as to what had taken place, in order that they might see + that his statements tallied exactly with those he had made. + </p> + <p> + When this had been done Walter obtained permission from the king to + despatch a cartel to Sir Phillip de Holbeaut denouncing him as a perjured + and dishonoured knight and challenging him to meet him in mortal conflict + at any time and place that he might name. At the same time the king + despatched a letter to Phillip of Valois saying that the statements of the + French knight and followers were wholly untrue, and begging that a time + might be appointed for the meeting of the two knights in the lists. + </p> + <p> + To this King Phillip replied that he had ordered all private quarrels in + France to be laid aside during the progress of the war, and that so long + as an English foot remained upon French soil he would give no countenance + to his knights throwing away the lives which they owed to France, in + private broils. + </p> + <p> + “You must wait, Sir Walter, you see,” the king said, “until you may + perchance meet him in the field of battle. In the mean time, to show how + lightly I esteem the foul charge brought against you, and how much I hold + and honour the bravery which you showed in defending the castle which my + son the prince entrusted to you, as well as upon other occasions, I hereby + promote you to the rank of knight-banneret.” + </p> + <p> + Events now passed slowly before Calais. Queen Philippa and many of her + ladies crossed the Channel and joined her husband, and these added much to + the gaiety of the life in camp. The garrison at Calais was, it was known, + in the sorest straits for the want of food, and at last the news came that + the King of France, with a huge army of 200,000 men, was moving to its + relief. They had gathered at Hesdin, at which rendezvous the king had + arrived in the early part of April; but it was not until the 27th of July + that the whole army was collected, and marching by slow steps advanced + towards the English position. + </p> + <p> + King Edward had taken every precaution to guard all the approaches to the + city. The ground was in most places too soft and sandy to admit of the + construction of defensive works; but the fleet was drawn up close inshore + to cover the line of sand-hills by the sea with arrows and war machines, + while the passages of the marshes, which extended for a considerable + distance round the town, were guarded by the Earl of Lancaster and a body + of chosen troops, while the other approaches to the city were covered by + the English camp. + </p> + <p> + The French reconnoitering parties found no way open to attack the English + unless under grievous disadvantages. The Cardinals of Tusculum, St. John, + and St. Paul endeavoured to negotiate terms of peace, and commissioners on + both sides met. The terms offered by Phillip were, however, by no means so + favourable as Edward, after his own victorious operations and those of his + armies in Brittany and Guienne, had a right to expect and the negotiations + were broken off. + </p> + <p> + The following day the French king sent in a message to Edward saying that + he had examined the ground in every direction in order to advance and give + battle, but had found no means of doing so. He therefore summoned the king + to come forth from the marshy ground in which he was encamped and to fight + in the open plain; and he offered to send four French knights, who, with + four English of the same rank, should choose a fair plain in the + neighbourhood, according to the usages of chivalry. Edward had little over + 30,000 men with him; but the same evening that Phillip's challenge was + received a body of 17,000 Flemings and English, detached from an army + which had been doing good service on the borders of Flanders, succeeded in + passing round the enemy's host and in effecting a junction with the king's + army. Early the next morning, after having consulted with his officers, + Edward returned an answer to the French king, saying that he agreed to his + proposal, and enclosed a safe-conduct for any four French knights who + might be appointed to arrange with the same number of English the place of + battle. + </p> + <p> + The odds were indeed enormous, the French being four to one; but Edward, + after the success of Cressy, which had been won by the Black Prince's + division, which bore a still smaller proportion to the force engaging it, + might well feel confident in the valour of his troops. His envoys, on + arriving at the French camp, found that Phillip had apparently changed his + mind. He declined to discuss the matter with which they were charged, and + spoke only of the terms upon which Edward would be willing to raise the + siege of Calais. As they had no authority on this subject the English + knights returned to their camp, where the news was received with great + disappointment, so confident did all feel in their power to defeat the + huge host of the French. But even greater was the astonishment the next + morning when, before daylight, the tents of the French were seen in one + great flame, and it was found that the king and all his host were + retreating at full speed. The Earls of Lancaster and Northampton, with a + large body of horse at once started in pursuit, and harassed the + retreating army on its march towards Amiens. + </p> + <p> + No satisfactory reasons ever have been assigned for this extraordinary + step on the part of the French king. He had been for months engaged in + collecting a huge army, and he had now an opportunity of fighting the + English in a fair field with a force four times as great as their own. The + only means indeed of accounting for his conduct is by supposing him + affected by temporary aberration of mind, which many other facts in his + history render not improbable. The fits of rage so frequently recorded of + him border upon madness, and a number of strange actions highly + detrimental to his own interests which he committed can only be accounted + for as the acts of a diseased mind. This view has been to some extent + confirmed by the fact that less than half a century afterwards insanity + declared itself among his descendants. + </p> + <p> + A few hours after the departure of the French the French standard was + lowered on the walls of Calais, and news was brought to Edward that the + governor was upon the battlements and desired to speak with some officers + of the besieging army. Sir Walter Manny and Lord Bisset were sent to + confer with him, and found that his object was to obtain the best terms he + could. The English knights, knowing the determination of the king on the + subject, were forced to tell him that no possibility existed of conditions + being granted, but that the king demanded their unconditional surrender, + reserving to himself entirely the right whom to pardon and whom to put to + death. + </p> + <p> + The governor remonstrated on the severe terms, and said that rather than + submit to them he and his soldiers would sally out and die sword in hand. + Sir Walter Manny found the king inexorable. The strict laws of war in + those days justified the barbarous practise of putting to death the + garrison of a town captured under such circumstances. Calais had been for + many years a nest of pirates, and vessels issuing from its port had been a + scourge to the commerce of England and Flanders, and the king was fully + determined to punish it severely. Sir Walter Manny interceded long and + boldly, and represented to the king that none of his soldiers would + willingly defend a town on his behalf from the day on which he put to + death the people of Calais, as beyond doubt the French would retaliate in + every succeeding siege. The other nobles and knights joined their + entreaties to those of Sir Walter Manny, and the king finally consented to + yield in some degree. He demanded that six of the most notable burghers of + the town, with bare heads and feet, and with ropes about their necks and + the keys of the fortress in their hands, should deliver themselves up for + execution. On these conditions he agreed to spare the rest. With these + terms Sir Walter Manny returned to Sir John of Vienne. + </p> + <p> + The governor left the battlements, and proceeding to the market-place + ordered the bell to be rung. The famished and despairing citizens gathered + a haggard crowd to hear their doom. A silence followed the narration of + the hard conditions of surrender by the governor, and sobs and cries alone + broke the silence which succeeded. Then Eustace St. Pierre, the wealthiest + and most distinguished of the citizens, came forward and offered himself + as one of the victims, saying, “Sad pity and shame would it be to let all + of our fellow-citizens die of famine or the sword when means could be + found to save them.” John of Aire, James and Peter De Vissant, and another + whose name has not come down to us, followed his example, and stripping to + their shirts set out for the camp, Sir John of Vienne, who, from a late + wound, was unable to walk, riding at their head on horseback. The whole + population accompanied them weeping bitterly until they came to the place + where Sir Walter Manny was awaiting them. Here the crowd halted, and the + knight, promising to do his best to save them, led them to the tent where + the king had assembled all his nobles around him. When the tidings came + that the burghers of Calais had arrived, Edward issued out with his + retinue, accompanied by Queen Philippa and the Black Prince. + </p> + <p> + “Behold, Sire,” Sir Walter Manny said, “the representatives of the town of + Calais!” + </p> + <p> + The king made no reply while John of Vienne surrendered his sword, and + kneeling with the burghers, said, “Gentle lord and king; behold, we six + who were once the greatest citizens and merchants of Calais, bring you the + keys of the town and castle, and give ourselves up to your pleasure, + placing ourselves in the state in which you see us by our own free-will to + save the rest of the people of the city, who have already suffered many + ills. We pray you, therefore, to have pity and mercy upon us for the sake + of your high nobleness.” + </p> + <p> + All present were greatly affected at this speech, and at the aspect of men + who thus offered their lives for their fellow-citizens. The king's + countenance alone remained unchanged, and he ordered them to be taken to + instant execution. Then Sir Walter Manny and all the nobles with tears + besought the king to have mercy, not only for the sake of the citizens, + but for that of his own fame, which would be tarnished by so cruel a deed. + </p> + <p> + “Silence, Sir Walter!” cried the king. “Let the executioner be called. The + men of Calais have put to death so many of my subjects that I will also + put these men to death.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment Queen Philippa, who had been weeping bitterly, cast herself + upon her knees before the king. “Oh, gentle lord,” she cried, “since I + have repassed the seas to see you I have neither asked or required + anything at your hand; now, then, I pray you humbly, and require as a + boon, that for the sake of the Son of Mary, and for the love of me, you + take these men to mercy.” + </p> + <p> + The king stood for a moment in silence, and then said: + </p> + <p> + “Ah! lady, I would that you had been other where than here; but you beg of + me so earnestly I must not refuse you, though I grant your prayer with + pain. I give them to you; take them, and do your will.” + </p> + <p> + Then the queen rose from her knees, and bidding the burghers rise, she + caused clothing and food to be given them, and sent them away free. + </p> + <p> + Sir Walter Manny, with a considerable body of men-at-arms, now took + possession of the town of Calais. The anger of the king soon gave way to + better feelings; all the citizens, without exception, were fed by his + bounty. Such of them as preferred to depart instead of swearing fealty to + the English monarch were allowed to carry away what effects they could + bear upon their persons and were conducted in safety to the French town of + Guisnes. Eustace de St. Pierre was granted almost all the possessions he + had formerly held in Calais, and also a considerable pension; and he and + all who were willing to remain were well and kindly treated. The number + was large, for the natural indignation which they felt at their base + desertion by the French king induced very many of the citizens to remain + and become subjects of Edward. The king issued a proclamation inviting + English traders and others to come across and take up their residence in + Calais, bestowing upon them the houses and lands of the French who had + left. Very many accepted the invitation, and Calais henceforth and for + some centuries became virtually an English town. + </p> + <p> + A truce was now, through the exertions of the pope's legates, made between + England and France, the terms agreed on being very similar to those of the + previous treaty; and when all his arrangements were finished Edward + returned with his queen to England, having been absent eighteen months, + during which time almost unbroken success had attended his arms, and the + English name had reached a position of respect and honour in the eyes of + Europe far beyond that at which it previously stood. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII: THE BLACK DEATH + </h2> + <p> + The court at Westminster during the few months which followed the capture + of Calais was the most brilliant in Europe. Tournaments and fetes followed + each other in rapid succession, and to these knights came from all parts. + So great was the reputation of King Edward that deputies came from + Germany, where the throne was now vacant, to offer the crown of that + kingdom to him. The king declined the offer, for it would have been + impossible indeed for him to have united the German crown with that of + England, which he already held, and that of France, which he claimed. + </p> + <p> + Some months after his return to England the Black Prince asked his father + as a boon that the hand of his ward Edith Vernon should be bestowed upon + the prince's brave follower Sir Walter Somers, and as Queen Philippa, in + the name of the lady's mother, seconded the request, the king at once + acceded to it. Edith was now sixteen, an age at which, in those days, a + young lady was considered to be marriageable, and the wedding took place + with great pomp and ceremony at Westminster; the king himself giving away + the bride, and bestowing, as did the prince and Queen Philippa, many + costly presents upon the young couple. After taking part in several of the + tournaments, Walter went with his bride and Dame Vernon down to their + estates, and were received with great rejoicing by the tenantry, the older + of whom well remembered Walter's father and mother, and were rejoiced at + finding that they were again to become the vassals of one of the old + family. Dame Vernon was greatly loved by her tenantry; but the latter had + looked forward with some apprehension to the marriage of the young + heiress, as the character of the knight upon whom the king might bestow + her hand would greatly affect the happiness and well being of his tenants. + </p> + <p> + Sir James Carnegie had not returned to England after the fall of Calais; + he perceived that he was in grave disfavour with the Black Prince, and + guessed, as was the case, that some suspicion had fallen on him in + reference to the attack upon Walter in the camp, and to the strange + attempt which had been made to destroy him by Sir Phillip Holbeaut. He + had, therefore, for a time taken service with the Count of Savoy, and was + away from England, to the satisfaction of Walter and Dame Vernon, when the + marriage took place; for he had given proofs of such a malignity of + disposition that both felt, that although his succession to the estates + was now hopelessly barred, yet that he might at any moment attempt some + desperate deed to satisfy his feeling of disappointment and revenge. + </p> + <p> + In spite of the gaiety of the court of King Edward a cloud hung over the + kingdom; for it was threatened by a danger far more terrible than any + combination of foes—a danger which no gallantry upon the part of her + king or warriors availed anything. With a slow and terrible march the + enemy was advancing from the East, where countless hosts had been slain. + India, Arabia, Syria, and Armenia had been well-nigh depopulated. In no + country which the dread foe had invaded had less than two-thirds of the + population been slain; in some nine-tenths had perished. All sorts of + portents were reported to have accompanied its appearance in the East; + where it was said showers of serpents had fallen, strange and unknown + insects had appeared in the atmosphere, and clouds of sulphurous vapour + had issued from the earth and enveloped whole provinces and countries. For + two or three years the appearance of this scourge had been heralded by + strange atmospheric disturbances; heavy rains and unusual floods, storms + of thunder and lightning of unheard-of violence, hail-showers of + unparalleled duration and severity, had everywhere been experienced, while + in Italy and Germany violent earthquake shocks had been felt, and that at + places where no tradition existed of previous occurrences of the same + kind. + </p> + <p> + From Asia it had spread to Africa and to Europe, affecting first the + sea-shores and creeping inland by the course of the rivers. Greece first + felt its ravages, and Italy was not long in experiencing them. In Venice + more than 100,000 persons perished in a few months, and thence spreading + over the whole peninsula, not a town escaped the visitation. At Florence + 60,000 people were carried off, and at Lucca and Genoa, in Sicily, + Sardinia, and Corsica it raged with equal violence. France was assailed by + way of Provence, and Avignon suffered especially. Of the English college + at that place not an individual was left, and 120 persons died in a single + day in that small city. Paris lost upwards of 50,000 of its inhabitants, + while 90,000 were swept away in Lubeck, and 1,200,000 died within a year + of its first appearance in Germany. + </p> + <p> + In England the march of the pestilence westward was viewed with deep + apprehension, and the approaching danger was brought home to the people by + the death of the Princess Joan, the king's second daughter. She was + affianced to Peter, the heir to the throne of Spain; and the bride, who + had not yet accomplished her fourteenth year, was sent over to Bordeaux + with considerable train of attendants in order to be united there to her + promised husband. Scarcely had she reached Bordeaux when she was attacked + by the pestilence and died in a few hours. A few days later the news + spread through the country that the disease had appeared almost + simultaneously at several of the seaports in the south-west of England. + Thence with great rapidity it spread through the kingdom; proceeding + through Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire it broke out in London, and the + ravages were no less severe than they had been on the Continent, the very + lowest estimate being that two-thirds of the population were swept away. + Most of those attacked died within a few hours of the seizure. If they + survived for two days they generally rallied, but even then many fell into + a state of coma from which they never awoke. + </p> + <p> + No words can describe the terror and dismay caused by this the most + destructive plague of which there is any record in history. No remedies + were of the slightest avail against it; flight was impossible, for the + loneliest hamlets suffered as severely as crowded towns, and frequently + not a single survivor was left. Men met the pestilence in various moods: + the brave with fortitude, the pious with resignation, the cowardly and + turbulent with outbursts of despair and fury. Among the lower classes the + wildest rumours gained credence. Some assigned the pestilence to + witchcraft, others declared that the waters of the wells and streams had + been poisoned. Serious riots occurred in many places, and great numbers of + people fell victims to the fury of the mob under the suspicion of being + connected in some way with the ravages of the pestilence. The Jews, ever + the objects of popular hostility, engendered by ignorance and + superstition, were among the chief sufferers. Bands of marauders wandered + through the country plundering the houses left empty by the death of all + their occupants, and from end to end death and suffering were universal. + </p> + <p> + Although all classes had suffered heavily the ravages of the disease were, + as is always the case, greater among the poor than among the rich, the + insanitary conditions of their life, and their coarser and commoner food + rendering them more liable to its influence; no rank, however, was + exempted, and no less than three Archbishops of Canterbury were carried + off in succession by the pestilence within a year of its appearance. + </p> + <p> + During the months which succeeded his marriage Sir Walter Somers lived + quietly and happily with his wife at Westerham. It was not until late in + the year that the plague approached the neighbourhood. Walter had + determined to await its approach there. He had paid a few short visits to + the court, where every effort was made by continuous gaiety to keep up the + spirits of the people and prevent them from brooding over the approaching + pestilence; but when it was at hand Walter and his wife agreed that they + would rather share the lot of their tenants, whom their presence and + example might support and cheer in their need, than return to face it in + London. One morning when they were at breakfast a frightened servant + brought in the news that the disease had appeared in the village, that + three persons had been taken ill on the previous night, that two had + already died, and that several others had sickened. + </p> + <p> + “The time has come, my children,” Dame Vernon said calmly, “the danger so + long foreseen is at hand, now let us face it as we agreed to do. It has + been proved that flight is useless, since nowhere is there escape from the + plague; here, at least, there shall be no repetition of the terrible + scenes we have heard of elsewhere, where the living have fled in panic and + allowed the stricken to die unattended. We have already agreed that we + will set the example to our people by ourselves going down and + administering to the sick.” + </p> + <p> + “It is hard,” Walter said, rising and pacing up and down the room, “to let + Edith go into it.” + </p> + <p> + “Edith will do just the same as you do,” his wife said firmly. “Were it + possible that all in this house might escape, there might be a motive for + turning coward, but seeing that no household is spared, there is, as we + agreed, greater danger in flying from the pestilence than facing it + firmly.” + </p> + <p> + Walter sighed. + </p> + <p> + “You are right,” he said, “but it wrings my heart to see you place + yourself in danger.” + </p> + <p> + “Were we out of danger here, Walter, it might be so,” Edith replied + gently; “but since there is no more safety in the castle than in the + cottage, we must face death whether it pleases us or not, and it were best + to do so bravely.” + </p> + <p> + “So be it,” Walter said; “may the God of heaven watch over us all! Now, + mother, do you and Edith busy yourselves in preparing broths, + strengthening drinks, and medicaments. I will go down at once to the + village and see how matters stand there and who are in need. We have + already urged upon all our people to face the danger bravely, and if die + they must, to die bravely like Christians, and not like coward dogs. When + you have prepared your soups and cordials come down and meet me in the + village, bringing Mabel and Janet, your attendants, to carry the baskets.” + </p> + <p> + Ralph, who was now installed as major-domo in the castle, at once set out + with Walter. They found the village in a state of panic. Women were + sitting crying despairingly at their doors. Some were engaged in packing + their belongings in carts preparatory to flight, some wandered aimlessly + about wringing their hands, while others went to the church, whose bells + were mournfully tolling the dirge of the departed. Walter's presence soon + restored something like order and confidence; his resolute tone cheered + the timid and gave hope to the despairing. Sternly he rebuked those + preparing to fly, and ordered them instantly to replace their goods in + their houses. Then he went to the priest and implored him to cause the + tolling of the bell to cease. + </p> + <p> + “There is enough,” he said, “in the real danger present to appall even the + bravest, and we need no bell to tell us that death is among us. The dismal + tolling is enough to unnerve the stoutest heart, and if we ring for all + who die its sounds will never cease while the plague is among us; + therefore, father, I implore you to discontinue it. Let there be services + held daily in the church, but I beseech you strive in your discourses to + cheer the people rather than to depress them, and to dwell more upon the + joys that await those who die as Christian men and women than upon the + sorrows of those who remain behind. My wife and mother will anon be down + in the village and will strive to cheer and comfort the people, and I look + to you for aid in this matter.” + </p> + <p> + The priest, who was naturally a timid man, nevertheless nerved himself to + carry out Walter's suggestions, and soon the dismal tones of the bell + ceased to be heard in the village. + </p> + <p> + Walter despatched messengers to all the outlying farms desiring his + tenants to meet him that afternoon at the castle in order that measures + might be concerted for common aid and assistance. An hour later Dame + Vernon and Edith came down and visited all the houses where the plague had + made its appearance, distributing their soups, and by cheering and + comforting words raising the spirits of the relatives of the sufferers. + </p> + <p> + The names of all the women ready to aid in the general work of nursing + were taken down, and in the afternoon at the meeting at the castle the + full arrangements were completed. Work was to be carried on as usual in + order to occupy men's minds and prevent them from brooding over the + ravages of the plague. Information of any case that occurred was to be + sent to the castle, where soups and medicines were to be obtained. + Whenever more assistance was required than could be furnished by the + inmates of a house another woman was to be sent to aid. Boys were told off + as messengers to fetch food and other matters as required from the castle. + </p> + <p> + So, bravely and firmly, they prepared to meet the pestilence; it spread + with terrible severity. Scarce a house which did not lose some of its + inmates, while in others whole families were swept away. All day Walter + and his wife and Dame Vernon went from house to house, and although they + could do nothing to stem the progress of the pestilence, their presence + and example supported the survivors and prevented the occurrence of any of + the panic and disorder which in most places accompanied it. + </p> + <p> + The castle was not exempt from the scourge. First some of the domestics + were seized, and three men and four women died. Walter himself was + attacked, but he took it lightly, and three days after the seizure passed + into a state of convalescence. Dame Vernon was next attacked, and expired + six hours after the commencement of the seizure. Scarcely was Walter upon + his feet than Ralph, who had not for a moment left his bedside, was + seized, but he too, after being at death's door for some hours, turned the + corner. Lastly Edith sickened. + </p> + <p> + By this time the scourge had done its worst in the village, and + three-fifths of the population had been swept away. All the male retainers + in the castle had died, and the one female who survived was nursing her + dying mother in the village. + </p> + <p> + Edith's attack was a very severe one. Walter, alone now, for Ralph, + although convalescent, had not yet left his bed, sat by his wife's bedside + a prey to anxiety and grief; for although she had resisted the first + attack she was now, thirty-six hours after it had seized her, fast + sinking. Gradually her sight and power of speech faded, and she sank into + the state of coma which was the prelude of death, and lay quiet and + motionless, seeming as if life had already departed. Suddenly Walter was + surprised by the sound of many heavy feet ascending the stairs. He went + out into the ante-room to learn the cause of this strange tumult, when + five armed men, one of whom was masked, rushed into the room. Walter + caught up his sword from the table. + </p> + <p> + “Ruffians,” he exclaimed, “how dare you desecrate the abode of death?” + </p> + <p> + Without a word the men sprang upon him. For a minute he defended himself + against their attacks, but he was still weak, his guard was beaten down, + and a blow felled him to the ground. + </p> + <p> + “Now settle her,” the masked man exclaimed, and the band rushed into the + adjoining room. They paused, however, at the door at the sight of the + lifeless figure on the couch. + </p> + <p> + “We are saved that trouble,” one said, “we have come too late.” + </p> + <p> + The masked figure approached the couch and bent over the figure. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” he said, “she is dead, and so much the better.” + </p> + <p> + Then he returned with the others to Walter. + </p> + <p> + “He breathes yet,” he said. “He needs a harder blow than that you gave him + to finish him. Let him lie here for a while, while you gather your booty + together; then we will carry him off. There is scarcely a soul alive in + the country round, and none will note us as we pass. I would not despatch + him here, seeing that his body would be found with wounds upon it, and + even in these times some inquiry might be made; therefore it were best to + finish him elsewhere. When he is missed it will be supposed that he went + mad at the death of his wife, and has wandered out and died, may be in the + woods, or has drowned himself in a pond or stream. Besides, I would that + before he dies he should know what hand has struck the blow, and that my + vengeance, which he slighted and has twice escaped, has overtaken him at + last.” + </p> + <p> + After ransacking the principal rooms and taking all that was valuable, the + band of marauders lifted the still insensible body of Walter, and carrying + it down-stairs flung it across a horse. One of the ruffians mounted behind + it, and the others also getting into their saddles the party rode away. + </p> + <p> + They were mistaken, however, in supposing that the Lady Edith was dead. + She was indeed very nigh the gates of death, and had it not been for the + disturbance would assuredly have speedily entered them. The voice of her + husband raised in anger, the clash of steel, followed by the heavy fall, + had awakened her deadened brain. Consciousness had at once returned to + her, but as yet no power of movement. As at a great distance she had heard + the words of those who entered her chamber, and had understood their + import. More and more distinctly she heard their movements about the room + as they burst open her caskets and appropriated her jewels, but it was not + until silence was restored that the gathering powers of life asserted + themselves; then with a sudden rush the blood seemed to course through her + veins, her eyes opened, and her tongue was loosed, and with a scream she + sprang up and stood by the side of her bed. + </p> + <p> + Sustained as by a supernatural power she hurried into the next room. A + pool of blood on the floor showed her that what she had heard had not been + a dream or the fiction of a disordered brain. Snatching up a cloak of her + husband's which lay on a couch, she wrapped it round her, and with hurried + steps made her way along the passages until she reached the apartment + occupied by Ralph. The latter sprang up in bed with a cry of astonishment. + He had heard but an hour before from Walter that all hope was gone, and + thought for an instant that the appearance was an apparition from the + dead. The ghastly pallor of the face, the eyes burning with a strange + light, the flowing hair, and disordered appearance of the girl might well + have alarmed one living in even less superstitious times, and Ralph began + to cross himself hastily and to mutter a prayer when recalled to himself + by the sound of Edith's voice. + </p> + <p> + “Quick, Ralph!” she said, “arise and clothe yourself. Hasten, for your + life. My lord's enemies have fallen upon him and wounded him grievously, + even if they have not slain him, and have carried him away. They would + have slain me also had they not thought I was already dead. Arise and + mount, summon everyone still alive in the village, and follow these + murderers. I will pull the alarm-bell of the castle.” + </p> + <p> + Ralph sprang from his bed as Edith left. He had heard the sound of many + footsteps in the knight's apartments, but had deemed them those of the + priest and his acolytes come to administer the last rites of the church to + his dying mistress. Rage and anxiety for his master gave strength to his + limbs. He threw on a few clothes and rushed down to the stables, where the + horses stood with great piles of forage and pails of water before them, + placed there two days before, by Walter when their last attendant died. + Without waiting to saddle it, Ralph sprang upon the back of one of the + animals, and taking the halters of four others started at a gallop down to + the village. + </p> + <p> + His news spread like wild fire, for the ringing of the alarm-bell of the + castle had drawn all to their doors and prepared them for something + strange. Some of the men had already taken their arms and were making + their way up to the castle when they met Ralph. There were but five men in + the village who had altogether escaped the pestilence; others had survived + its attacks, but were still weak. Horses there were in plenty. The five + men mounted at once, with three others who, though still weak, were able + to ride. + </p> + <p> + So great was the excitement that seven women who had escaped the disease + armed themselves with their husbands' swords and leaped on horseback, + declaring that, women though they were, they would strike a blow for their + beloved lord, who had been as an angel in the village during the plague. + Thus it was scarcely more than ten minutes after the marauders had left + the castle before a motley band, fifteen strong, headed by Ralph, rode off + in pursuit, while some of the women of the village hurried up to the + castle to comfort Edith with the tidings that the pursuit had already + commenced. Fortunately a lad in the fields had noticed the five men ride + away from the castle, and was able to point out the direction they had + taken. + </p> + <p> + At a furious gallop Ralph and his companions tore across the country. Mile + after mile was passed. Once or twice they gained news from labourers in + the field of the passage of those before them, and knew that they were on + the right track. They had now entered a wild and sparsely inhabited + country. It was broken and much undulated, so that although they knew that + the band they were pursuing were but a short distance ahead they had not + yet caught sight of them, and they hoped that, having no reason to dread + any immediate pursuit, these would soon slacken their pace. This + expectation was realized, for on coming over a brow they saw the party + halted at a turf-burner's cottage in the hollow below. Three of the men + had dismounted; two of them were examining the hoof of one of the horses, + which had apparently cast a shoe or trodden upon a stone. Ralph had warned + his party to make no sound when they came upon the fugitives. The sound of + the horses' hoofs was deadened by the turf, and they were within a hundred + yards of the marauders before they were perceived; then Ralph uttered a + shout and brandishing their swords the party rode down at a headlong + gallop. + </p> + <p> + The dismounted men leaped to their saddles and galloped off at full speed, + but their pursuers were now close upon them. Ralph and two of his + companions, who were mounted upon Walter's best horses, gained upon them + at every stride. Two of them were overtaken and run through. + </p> + <p> + The man who bore Walter before him, finding himself being rapidly + overtaken, threw his burden on to the ground just as the leader of the + party had checked his horse and was about to deliver a sweeping blow at + the insensible body. + </p> + <p> + With a curse at his follower for ridding himself of it, he again galloped + on. The man's act was unavailing to save himself, for he was overtaken and + cut down before he had ridden many strides; then Ralph and his party + instantly reined up to examine the state of Walter, and the two survivors + of the band of murderers continued their flight unmolested. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX: BY LAND AND SEA + </h2> + <p> + Walter was raised from the ground, water was fetched from the cottage, and + the blood washed from his head by Ralph, aided by two of the women. It had + at once been seen that he was still living, and Ralph on examining the + wound joyfully declared that no great harm was done. + </p> + <p> + “Had Sir Walter been strong and well,” he said, “such a clip as this would + not have knocked him from his feet, but he would have answered it with a + blow such as I have often seen him give in battle; but he was but barely + recovering and was as weak as a girl. He is unconscious from loss of blood + and weakness. I warrant me that when he opens his eyes and hears that the + lady Edith has risen from her bed and came to send me to his rescue, joy + will soon bring the blood into his cheeks again. Do one of you run to the + hut and see if they have any cordial waters; since the plague has been + raging there are few houses but have laid in a provision in case the + disease should seize them.” + </p> + <p> + The man soon returned with a bottle of cordial water compounded of + rosemary, lavender, and other herbs. By this time Walter had opened his + eyes. The cordial was poured down his throat, and he was presently able to + speak. + </p> + <p> + “Be of good cheer, Sir Walter,” Ralph said; “three of your rascally + assailants lie dead, and the other two have fled; but I have better news + still for you. Lady Edith, who you told me lay unconscious and dying, has + revived. The din of the conflict seems to have reached her ears and + recalled her to life, and the dear lady came to my room with the news that + you were carried off, and then, while I was throwing on my clothes, roused + the village to your assistance by ringing the alarm-bell. Rarely + frightened I was when she came in, for methought at first it was her + spirit.” + </p> + <p> + The good news, as Ralph had predicted, effectually roused Walter, and + rising to his feet he declared himself able to mount and ride back at + once. Ralph tried to persuade him to wait until they had formed a litter + of boughs, but Walter would not allow it. + </p> + <p> + “I would not tarry an instant,” he said, “for Edith will be full of + anxiety until I return. Why, Ralph, do you think that I am a baby? Why, + you yourself were but this morning unable to walk across the room, and + here you have been galloping and fighting on my behalf.” + </p> + <p> + “In faith,” Ralph said, smiling, “until now I had forgotten that I had + been ill.” + </p> + <p> + “You have saved my life, Ralph, you and my friends here, whom I thank with + all my heart for what they have done. I will speak more to them another + time, now I must ride home with all speed.” + </p> + <p> + Walter now mounted; Ralph took his place on one side of him, and one of + his tenants on the other, lest he should be seized with faintness; then at + a hand-gallop they started back for the castle. Several women of the + village had, when they left, hurried up to the castle. They found Edith + lying insensible by the rope of the alarm-bell, having fainted when she + had accomplished her object. They presently brought her round; as she was + now suffering only from extreme weakness, she was laid on a couch, and + cordials and some soup were given to her. One of the women took her place + at the highest window to watch for the return of any belonging to the + expedition. + </p> + <p> + Edith felt hopeful as to the result, for she thought that their assailants + would not have troubled to carry away the body of Walter had not life + remained in it, and she was sure that Ralph would press them so hotly that + sooner or later the abductors would be overtaken. + </p> + <p> + An hour and a half passed, and then the woman from above ran down with the + news that she could see three horsemen galloping together towards the + castle, with a number of others following in confused order behind. + </p> + <p> + “Then they have found my lord,” Edith exclaimed joyfully, “for Ralph would + assuredly not return so quickly had they not done so. It's a good sign + that they are galloping, for had they been bearers of ill news they would + have returned more slowly; look out again and see if they are bearing one + among them.” + </p> + <p> + The woman, with some of her companions, hastened away, and in two or three + minutes ran down with the news that Sir Walter himself was one of the + three leading horsemen. In a few minutes Edith was clasped in her + husband's arms, and their joy, restored as they were from the dead to each + other, was indeed almost beyond words. + </p> + <p> + The plague now abated fast in Westerham, only two or three more persons + being attacked by it. As soon as Edith was sufficiently recovered to + travel Walter proceeded with her to London and there laid before the king + and prince a complaint against Sir James Carnegie for his attempt upon + their lives. Even in the trance in which she lay, Edith had recognized the + voice which had once been so familiar to her. Walter, too, was able to + testify against him, for the rough jolting on horseback had for a while + restored his consciousness, and he had heard words spoken, before + relapsing into insensibility from the continued bleeding of his wound, + which enabled him to swear to Sir James Carnegie as one of his abductors. + </p> + <p> + The king instantly ordered the arrest of the knight, but he could not be + found; unavailing search was made in every direction, and as nothing could + be heard of him it was concluded that he had left the kingdom. He was + proclaimed publicly a false and villainous knight, his estates were + confiscated to the crown, and he himself was outlawed. Then Walter and his + wife returned home and did their best to assist their tenants in + struggling through the difficulties entailed through the plague. + </p> + <p> + So terrible had been the mortality that throughout England there was a + lack of hands for field work, crops rotted in the ground because there + were none to harvest them, and men able to work demanded twenty times the + wages which had before been paid. So great was the trouble from this + source that an ordinance was passed by parliament enacting that severe + punishment should be dealt upon all who demanded wages above the standard + price, and even more severe penalties inflicted upon those who should + consent to pay higher wages. It was, however, many years before England + recovered from the terrible blow which had been dealt her from the + pestilence. + </p> + <p> + While Europe had been ravaged by pestilence the adherents of France and + England had continued their struggle in Brittany in spite of the terms of + the truce, and this time King Edward was the first open aggressor, + granting money and assistance to the free companies, who pillaged and + plundered in the name of England. The truce expired at the end of 1348, + but was continued for short periods. It was, however, evident that both + parties were determined ere long to recommence hostilities. The French + collected large forces in Artois and Picardy, and Edward himself proceeded + to Sandwich to organize there another army for the invasion of France. + </p> + <p> + Phillip determined to strike the first blow, and, before the conclusion of + the truce, to regain possession of Calais. This town was commanded by a + Lombard officer named Almeric of Pavia. Free communication existed, in + consequence of the truce, between Calais and the surrounding country, and + Jeffrey de Charny, the governor of St. Omer, and one of the commissioners + especially appointed to maintain the truce, opened communications with the + Lombard captain. Deeming that like most mercenaries he would be willing to + change sides should his interest to do so be made clear, he offered him a + large sum of money to deliver the castle to the French. + </p> + <p> + The Lombard at once agreed to the project. Jeffrey de Charny arranged to + be within a certain distance of the town on the night of the 1st of + January, bringing with him sufficient forces to master all opposition if + the way was once opened to the interior of the town. It was further agreed + that the money was to be paid over by a small party of French who were to + be sent forward for the purpose of examining the castle, in order to + ensure the main body against treachery. As a hostage for the security of + the detachment, the son of the governor was to remain in the hands of the + French without, until the safe return of the scouting party. + </p> + <p> + Several weeks elapsed between the conclusion of the agreement and the date + fixed for its execution, and in the meantime the Lombard, either from + remorse or from a fear of the consequences which might arise from a + detection of the plot before its execution, or from the subsequent + vengeance of the English king, disclosed the whole transaction to Edward. + </p> + <p> + The king bade him continue to carry out his arrangements with De Charny, + leaving it to him to counteract the plot. Had he issued orders for the + rapid assembly of the army the French would have taken alarm. He therefore + sent private messengers to a number of knights and gentlemen of Kent and + Sussex to meet him with their retainers at Dover on the 31st of December. + </p> + <p> + Walter was one of those summoned, and although much surprised at the + secrecy with which he was charged, and of such a call being made while the + truce with France still existed, he repaired to Dover on the day named, + accompanied by Ralph and by twenty men, who were all who remained capable + of bearing arms on the estate. + </p> + <p> + He found the king himself with the Black Prince at Dover, where they had + arrived that day. Sir Walter Manny was in command of the force, which + consisted in all of 300 men-at-arms and 600 archers. A number of small + boats had been collected, and at midday on the 1st of January the little + expedition started, and arrived at Calais after nightfall. + </p> + <p> + In the chivalrous spirit of the times the king determined that Sir Walter + Manny should continue in command of the enterprise; he and the Black + Prince, disguised as simple knights, fighting under his banner. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime a considerable force had been collected at St. Omer, where + a large number of knights and gentlemen obeyed the summons of Jeffrey de + Charny. On the night appointed they marched for Calais, in number five + hundred lances and a corresponding number of footmen. They reached the + river and bridge of Nieullay a little after midnight, and messengers were + sent on to the governor, who was prepared to receive them. On their report + De Charny advanced still nearer to the town, leaving the bridge and + passages to the river guarded by a large body of crossbow-men under the + command of the Lord De Fiennes and a number of other knights. At a little + distance from the castle he was met by Almeric de Pavia, who yielded his + son as a hostage according to his promise, calculating, as was the case, + that he would be recaptured by the English. Then, having received the + greater portion of the money agreed upon, he led a party of the French + over the castle to satisfy them of his sincerity. Upon receiving their + report that all was quiet De Charny detached twelve knights and a hundred + men-at-arms to take possession of the castle, while he himself waited at + one of the gates of the town with the principal portion of his force. + </p> + <p> + No sooner had the French entered the castle than the drawbridge was + raised. The English soldiers poured out from their places of concealment, + and the party which had entered the castle were forced to lay down their + arms. In the meantime the Black Prince issued with a small body of troops + from a gate near the sea, while De Manny, with the king under his banner, + marched by the sally-port which led into the fields. A considerable + detachment of the division was despatched to dislodge the enemy at the + bridge of Nieullay, and the rest, joining the party of the Black Prince, + advanced rapidly upon the forces of Jeffrey de Charny which, in point of + numbers, was double their own strength. + </p> + <p> + Although taken in turn by surprise the French prepared steadily for the + attack. De Charny ordered them all to dismount and to shorten their lances + to pikes five feet in length. The English also dismounted and rushing + forward on foot a furious contest commenced. The ranks of both parties + were soon broken in the darkness, and the combatants separating into + groups a number of separate battles raged around the different banners. + </p> + <p> + For some hours the fight was continued with unabating obstinacy on both + sides. The king and the Black Prince fought with immense bravery, their + example encouraging even those of their soldiers who were ignorant of the + personality of the knights who were everywhere in front of the combat. + King Edward himself several times crossed swords with the famous Eustace + de Ribaumont, one of the most gallant knights in France. At length towards + daybreak the king, with only thirty companions, found himself again + opposed to De Ribaumont with a greatly superior force, and the struggle + was renewed between them. + </p> + <p> + Twice the king was beaten down on one knee by the thundering blows of the + French knight, twice he rose and renewed the attack, until De Charny, + seeing Sir Walter Manny's banner, beside which Edward fought, defended by + so small a force, also bore down to the attack, and in the struggle Edward + was separated from his opponent. + </p> + <p> + The combat now became desperate round the king, and Sir Guy Brian, who + bore De Manny's standard, though one of the strongest and most gallant + knights of the day, could scarce keep the banner erect. Still Edward + fought on, and in the excitement of the moment, forgetting his incognito, + he accompanied each blow with his customary war-cry—“Edward, St. + George! Edward, St. George!” At that battle-cry, which told the French + men-at-arms that the King of England was himself opposed to them, they + recoiled for a moment. The shout too reached the ears of the Prince of + Wales, who had been fighting with another group. Calling his knights + around him he fell upon the rear of De Charny's party and quickly cleared + a space around the king. + </p> + <p> + The fight was now everywhere going against the French, and the English + redoubling their efforts the victory was soon complete, and scarcely one + French knight left the ground alive and free. In the struggle Edward again + encountered De Ribaumont, who, separated from him by the charge of De + Charny, had not heard the king's war-cry. The conflict between them was a + short one. The French knight saw that almost all his companions were dead + or captured, his party completely defeated, and all prospects of escape + cut off. He therefore soon dropped the point of his sword and surrendered + to his unknown adversary. In the meantime the troops which had been + despatched to the bridge of Nieullay had defeated the French forces left + to guard the passage and clear the ground towards St. Omer. + </p> + <p> + Early in the morning Edward entered Calais in triumph, taking with him + thirty French nobles as prisoners, while two hundred more remained dead on + the field. That evening a great banquet was held, at which the French + prisoners were present. The king presided at the banquet, and the French + nobles were waited upon by the Black Prince and his knights. After the + feast was concluded the king bestowed on De Ribaumont the chaplet of + pearls which he wore round his crown, hailing him as the most gallant of + the knights who had that day fought, and granting him freedom to return at + once to his friends, presenting him with two horses, and a purse to defray + his expenses to the nearest French town. + </p> + <p> + De Charny was afterwards ransomed, and after his return to France + assembled a body of troops and attacked the castle which Edward had + bestowed upon Almeric of Pavia, and capturing the Lombard, carried him to + St. Omer, and had him there publicly flayed alive as a punishment for his + treachery. + </p> + <p> + Walter had as usual fought by the side of the Prince of Wales throughout + the battle of Calais and had much distinguished himself for his valour. + Ralph was severely wounded in the fight, but was able a month later to + rejoin Walter in England. + </p> + <p> + The battle of Calais and the chivalrous bearing of the king created great + enthusiasm and delight in England, and did much to rouse the people from + the state of grief into which they had been cast by the ravages of the + plague. The king did his utmost to maintain the spirit which had been + evoked, and the foundation of the order of the Garter, and the erection of + a splendid chapel at Windsor, and its dedication, with great ceremony, to + St. George, the patron saint of England, still further raised the renown + of the court of Edward throughout Europe as the centre of the chivalry of + the age. + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding many treaties which had taken place, and the near alliance + which had been well-nigh carried out between the royal families of England + and Spain, Spanish pirates had never ceased to carry on a series of + aggressions upon the English vessels trading in the Bay of Biscay. Ships + were every day taken, and the crews cruelly butchered in cold blood. + Edward's remonstrances proved vain, and when threats of retaliation were + held out by Edward, followed by preparations to carry those threats into + effect, Pedro the Cruel, who had now succeeded to the throne of Spain, + despatched strong reinforcements to the fleet which had already swept the + English Channel. + </p> + <p> + The great Spanish fleet sailed north, and capturing on its way a number of + English merchantmen, put into Sluys, and prepared to sail back in triumph + with the prizes and merchandise it had captured. Knowing, however, that + Edward was preparing to oppose them, the Spaniards filled up their + complement of men, strengthened themselves by all sorts of the war + machines then in use, and started on their return for Spain with one of + the most powerful armadas that had ever put to sea. + </p> + <p> + Edward had collected on the coast of Sussex a fleet intended to oppose + them, and had summoned all the military forces of the south of England to + accompany him; and as soon as he heard that the Spaniards were about to + put to sea he set out for Winchelsea, where the fleet was collected. + </p> + <p> + The queen accompanied him to the sea-coast, and the Black Prince, now in + his twentieth year, was appointed to command one of the largest of the + English vessels. + </p> + <p> + The fleet put to sea when they heard that the Spaniards had started, and + the hostile fleets were soon in sight of each other. The number of + fighting men on board the Spanish ships was ten times those of the + English, and their vessels were of vastly superior size and strength. They + had, moreover, caused their ships to be fitted at Sluys with large wooden + towers, which furnished a commanding position to their crossbow-men. The + wind was direct in their favour, and they could have easily avoided the + contest, but, confiding in their enormously superior force, they sailed + boldly forward to the attack. + </p> + <p> + The king himself led the English line, and directing his vessel towards a + large Spanish ship, endeavoured to run her down. The shock was tremendous, + but the enemy's vessel was stronger as well as larger than that of the + king; and as the two ships recoiled from each other it was found that the + water was rushing into the English vessel, and that she was rapidly + sinking. The Spanish passed on in the confusion, but the king ordered his + ship to be instantly laid alongside another which was following her, and + to be firmly lashed to her. Then with his knights he sprang on board the + Spaniard, and after a short but desperate fight cut down or drove the crew + overboard. The royal standard was hoisted on the prize, the sinking + English vessel was cast adrift, and the king sailed on to attack another + adversary. + </p> + <p> + The battle now raged on all sides. The English strove to grapple with and + board the enemy, while the Spaniards poured upon them a shower of bolts + and quarrels from their cross-bows, hurled immense masses of stone from + their military engines, and, as they drew alongside, cast into them heavy + bars of iron, which pierced holes in the bottom of the ship. + </p> + <p> + Walter was on board the ship commanded by the Black Prince. This had been + steered towards one of the largest and most important of the Spanish + vessels. As they approached, the engines poured their missiles into them. + Several great holes were torn in the sides of the ship, which was already + sinking as she came alongside her foe. + </p> + <p> + “We must do our best, Sir Walter,” the prince exclaimed, “for if we do not + capture her speedily our ship will assuredly sink beneath our feet.” + </p> + <p> + The Spaniard stood far higher above the water than the English ship, and + the Black Prince and his knights in vain attempted to climb her sides, + while the seamen strove with pumps and buckets to keep the vessel afloat. + Every effort was in vain. The Spaniard's men-at-arms lined the bulwarks, + and repulsed every effort made by the English to climb up them, while + those on the towers rained down showers of bolts and arrows and masses of + iron and stone. The situation was desperate when the Earl of Lancaster, + passing by in his ship, saw the peril to which the prince was exposed, + and, ranging up on the other side of the Spaniard, strove to board her + there. The attention of the Spaniards being thus distracted, the prince + and his companions made another desperate effort, and succeeded in winning + their way on to the deck of the Spanish ship just as their own vessel sank + beneath their feet; after a few minutes' desperate fighting the Spanish + ship was captured. + </p> + <p> + The English were now everywhere getting the best of their enemies. Many of + the Spanish vessels had been captured or sunk, and after the fight had + raged for some hours, the rest began to disperse and seek safety in + flight. The English vessel commanded by Count Robert of Namur had towards + night engaged a Spanish vessel of more than twice its own strength. His + adversaries, seeing that the day was lost, set all sail, but looking upon + the little vessel beside them as a prey to be taken possession of at their + leisure, they fastened it tightly to their sides by the grappling irons, + and spreading all sail, made away. The Count and his men were unable to + free themselves, and were being dragged away, when a follower of the count + named Hennekin leapt suddenly on board the Spanish ship. With a bound he + reached the mast, and with a single blow with his sword cut the halyards + which supported the main-sail. The sail fell at once. The Spaniards rushed + to the spot to repair the disaster which threatened to delay their ship. + The count and his followers, seeing the bulwarks of the Spanish vessel for + the moment unguarded, poured in, and after a furious conflict captured the + vessel. By this time twenty-four of the enemy's vessels had been taken, + the rest were either sunk or in full flight, and Edward at once returned + to the English shore. + </p> + <p> + The fight had taken place within sight of land, and Queen Philippa, from + the windows of the abbey, which stood on rising ground, had seen the + approach of the vast Spanish fleet, and had watched the conflict until + night fell. She remained in suspense as to the result until the king + himself with the Black Prince and Prince John, afterwards known as John of + Gaunt, who, although but ten years of age, had accompanied the Black + Prince in his ship, rode up with the news of the victory. + </p> + <p> + This great sea-fight was one of the brightest and most honourable in the + annals of English history, for not even in the case of that other great + Spanish Armada which suffered defeat in English waters were the odds so + immense or the victory so thorough and complete. The result of the fight + was, that after some negotiations a truce of twenty years was concluded + with Spain. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX: POITIERS + </h2> + <p> + After the great sea-fight at the end of August, 1350, England had peace + for some years. Phillip of France had died a week before that battle, and + had been succeeded by his son John, Duke of Normandy. Upon the part of + both countries there was an indisposition to renew the war, for their + power had been vastly crippled by the devastations of the plague. This was + followed by great distress and scarcity owing to the want of labour to + till the fields. The truce was therefore continued from time to time; the + pope strove to convert the truce into a permanent peace, and on the 28th + of August, 1354, a number of the prelates and barons of England, with full + power to arrange terms of peace, went to Avignon, where they were met by + the French representatives. The powers committed to the English + commissioners show that Edward was at this time really desirous of making + a permanent peace with France; but the French ambassadors raised numerous + and unexpected difficulties, and after lengthened negotiations the + conference was broken off. + </p> + <p> + The truce came to an end in June, 1355, and great preparations were made + on both sides for the war. The King of England strained every effort to + furnish and equip an army which was to proceed with the Black Prince to + Aquitaine, of which province his father had appointed him governor, and in + November the Prince sailed for Bordeaux, with the advance-guard of his + force. Sir Walter Somers accompanied him. During the years which had + passed since the plague he had resided principally upon his estates, and + had the satisfaction of seeing that his tenants escaped the distress which + was general through the country. He had been in the habit of repairing to + London to take part in the tournaments and other festivities; but both he + and Edith preferred the quiet country life to a continued residence at + court. Two sons had now been born to him, and fond as he was of the + excitement and adventure of war, it was with deep regret that he obeyed + the royal summons, and left his house with his retainers, consisting of + twenty men-at-arms and thirty archers, to join the prince. + </p> + <p> + Upon the Black Prince's landing at Bordeaux he was joined by the Gascon + lords, the vassals of the English crown, and for three months marched + through and ravaged the districts adjoining, the French army, although + greatly superior in force, offering no effectual resistance. Many towns + were taken, and he returned at Christmas to Bordeaux after a campaign + attended by a series of unbroken successes. + </p> + <p> + The following spring the war recommenced, and a diversion was effected by + the Duke of Lancaster, who was in command of Brittany, joining his forces + with those of the King of Navarre, and many of the nobles of Normandy, + while King Edward crossed to Calais and kept a portion of the French army + occupied there. The Black Prince, leaving the principal part of his forces + under the command of the Earl of Albret to guard the territory already + acquired against the attack of the French army under the Count of + Armagnac, marched with 2000 picked men-at-arms and 6000 archers into + Auvergne, and thence turning into Berry, marched to the gates of Bourges. + </p> + <p> + The King of France was now thoroughly alarmed, and issued a general call + to all his vassals to assemble on the Loire. The Prince of Wales, finding + immense bodies of men closing in around him, fell back slowly, capturing + and levelling to the ground the strong castle of Romorentin. + </p> + <p> + The King of France was now hastening forward, accompanied by his four + sons, 140 nobles with banners, 20,000 men-at-arms, and an immense force of + infantry. Vast accessions of forces joined him each day, and on the 17th + of September he occupied a position between the Black Prince and Guienne. + The first intimation that either the Black Prince or the King of France + had of their close proximity to each other was an accidental meeting + between a small foraging force of the English and three hundred French + horse, under the command of the Counts of Auxerre and Joigny, the marshal + of Burgundy, and the lord of Chatillon. The French hotly pursued the + little English party, and on emerging from some low bushes found + themselves in the midst of the English camp, where all were taken + prisoners. From them the Black Prince learned that the King of France was + within a day's march. + </p> + <p> + The Prince despatched the Captal de Buch with 200 men-at-arms to + reconnoitre the force and position of the enemy, and these coming upon the + rear of the French army just as they were about to enter Poitiers, dashed + among them and took some prisoners. The King of France thus first learned + that the enemy he was searching for was actually six miles in his rear. + The Captal de Buch and his companions returned to the Black Prince, and + confirmed the information obtained from the prisoners, that the King of + France, with an army at least eight times as strong as his own, lay + between him and Poitiers. + </p> + <p> + The position appeared well-nigh desperate, but the prince and his most + experienced knights at once reconnoitered the country to choose the best + ground upon which to do battle. An excellent position was chosen. It + consisted of rising ground commanding the country towards Poitiers, and + naturally defended by the hedges of a vineyard. It was only accessible + from Poitiers by a sunken road flanked by banks and fences, and but wide + enough to admit of four horsemen riding abreast along it. The ground on + either side of this hollow way was rough and broken so as to impede the + movements even of infantry, and to render the maneuvers of a large body of + cavalry nearly impracticable. On the left of the position was a little + hamlet called Maupertuis. Here on the night of Saturday the 17th of + September the prince encamped, and early next morning made his + dispositions for the battle. His whole force was dismounted and occupied + the high ground, a strong body of archers lined the hedges on either side + of the sunken road; the main body of archers were drawn up in their usual + formation on the hillside, their front covered by the hedge of the + vineyard, while behind them the men-at-arms were drawn up. + </p> + <p> + The King of France divided his army into three divisions, each consisting + of 16,000 mounted men-at-arms besides infantry, commanded respectively by + the Duke of Orleans, the king's brother, the dauphin, and the king + himself. With the two royal princes were the most experienced of the + French commanders. In the meantime De Ribaumont, with three other French + knights, reconnoitered the English position, and on their return with + their report strongly advised that as large bodies of cavalry would be + quite useless owing to the nature of the ground, the whole force should + dismount except 300 picked men designed to break the line of English + archers and a small body of German horse to act as a reserve. + </p> + <p> + Just as the King of France was about to give orders for the advance, the + Cardinal of Perigord arrived in his camp, anxious to stop, if possible, + the effusion of blood. He hurried to the King of France. + </p> + <p> + “You have here, sire,” he said, “the flower of all the chivalry of your + realm assembled against a mere handful of English, and it will be far more + honourable and profitable for you to have them in your power without + battle than to risk such a noble array in uncertain strife. I pray you, + then, in the name of God, to let me ride on to the Prince of Wales, to + show him his peril, and to exhort him to peace.” + </p> + <p> + “Willingly, my lord,” the king replied; “but above all things be quick.” + </p> + <p> + The cardinal at once hastened to the English camp; he found the Black + Prince in the midst of his knights ready for battle, but by no means + unwilling to listen to proposals for peace. His position was indeed most + perilous. In his face was an enormously superior army, and he was moreover + threatened by famine; even during the two preceding days his army had + suffered from a great scarcity of forage, and its provisions were almost + wholly exhausted. The French force was sufficiently numerous to blockade + him in his camp, and he knew that did they adopt that course he must + surrender unconditionally, since were he forced to sally out and attack + the French no valour could compensate for the immense disparity of + numbers. He therefore replied at once to the cardinal's application, that + he was ready to listen to any terms by which his honour and that of his + companions would be preserved. + </p> + <p> + The cardinal returned to the King of France and with much entreaty + succeeded in obtaining a truce until sunrise on the following morning. The + soldiers returned to their tents, and the cardinal rode backward and + forward between the armies, beseeching the King of France to moderate his + demands, and the Black Prince to submit to the evil fortune which had + befallen him; but on the one side the king looked upon the victory as + certain, and on the other the Black Prince thought that there was at least + a hope of success should the French attack him. All, therefore, that the + cardinal could obtain from him was an offer to resign all he had captured + in his expedition, towns, castles, and prisoners, and to take an oath not + to bear arms against France for seven years. This proposal fell so far + short of the demands of the French king that pacification soon appeared + hopeless. + </p> + <p> + Early on the Monday morning the cardinal once more sought the presence of + the French king, but found John inflexible; while some of the leaders who + had viewed with the strongest disapproval his efforts to snatch what they + regarded as certain victory from their hands, gave him a peremptory + warning not to show himself again in their lines. The prelate then bore + the news of his failure to the Prince of Wales. “Fair son,” he said, “do + the best you can, for you must needs fight, as I can find no means of + peace or amnesty with the King of France.” + </p> + <p> + “Be it so, good father,” the prince replied, “it is our full resolve to + fight, and God will aid the right.” + </p> + <p> + The delay which had occurred had not been without advantages for the + British army, although the shortness of provisions was greatly felt. Every + effort had been made to strengthen the position. Deep trenches had been + dug and palisades erected around it, and the carts and baggage train had + all been moved round so as to form a protection on the weakest side of the + camp, where also a rampart had been constructed. + </p> + <p> + Upon a careful examination of the ground it was found that the hill on the + right side of the camp was less difficult than had been supposed, and that + the dismounted men-at-arms who lay at its foot under the command of the + Dauphin would find little difficulty in climbing it to the assault. The + prince therefore gave orders that 300 men-at-arms and 300 mounted archers + should make a circuit from the rear round the base of the hill, in order + to pour in upon the flank of the Dauphin's division as soon as they became + disordered in the ascent. The nature of the ground concealed this maneuver + from the enemies' view, and the Captal De Buch, who was in command of the + party, gained unperceived the cover of a wooded ravine within a few + hundred yards of the left flank of the enemy. By the time that all these + dispositions were complete the huge French array was moving forward. The + Black Prince, surrounded by his knights, viewed them approaching. + </p> + <p> + “Fair lords,” he said, “though we be so few against that mighty power of + enemies, let us not be dismayed, for strength and victory lie not in + multitudes, but in those to whom God give them. If He will the day be + ours, then the highest glory of this world will be given to us. If we die, + I have the noble lord, my father, and two fair brothers, and you have each + of you many a good friend who will avenge us well; thus, then, I pray you + fight well this day, and if it please God and St. George I will also do + the part of a good knight.” + </p> + <p> + The prince then chose Sir John Chandos and Sir James Audley to remain by + his side during the conflict in order to afford him counsel in case of + need. Audley, however, pleaded a vow which he had made long before, to be + the first in battle should he ever be engaged under the command of the + King of England or any of his children. The prince at once acceded to his + request to be allowed to fight in the van, and Audley, accompanied by four + chosen squires, took his place in front of the English line of battle. Not + far from him, also in advance of the line, was Sir Eustace D'Arnbrecicourt + on horseback, also eager to distinguish himself. + </p> + <p> + As Sir James rode off the prince turned to Walter. “As Audley must needs + fight as a knight-errant, Sir Walter Somers, do you take your place by my + side, for there is no more valiant knight in my army than you have often + proved yourself to be.” + </p> + <p> + Three hundred chosen French men-at-arms mounted on the strongest horses + covered with steel armour, led the way under the command of the Marechals + D'Audeham and De Clermont; while behind them were a large body of German + cavalry under the Counts of Nassau, Saarbruck, and Nidau, to support them + in their attack on the English archers. On the right was the Duke of + Orleans with 16,000 men-at-arms; on the left the Dauphin and his two + brothers with an equal force; while King John himself led on the + rear-guard. + </p> + <p> + When the three hundred elite of the French army reached the narrow way + between the hedges, knowing that these were lined with archers they + charged through at a gallop to fall upon the main body of bowmen covering + the front of the English men-at-arms. The moment they were fairly in the + hollow road the British archers rose on either side to their feet and + poured such a flight of arrows among them that in an instant all was + confusion and disarray. Through every joint and crevice of the armour of + knights and horses the arrows found their way, and the lane was almost + choked with the bodies of men and horses. A considerable number, + nevertheless, made their way through and approached the first line of + archers beyond. Here they were met by Sir James Audley, who, with his four + squires, plunged into their ranks and overthrew the Marechal D'Audeham, + and then fought his way onward. Regardless of the rest of the battle he + pressed ever forward, until at the end of the day, wounded in a hundred + places and fainting from loss of blood, he fell from his horse almost at + the gates of Poitiers, and was borne from the field by the four faithful + squires who had fought beside him throughout the day. + </p> + <p> + Less fortunate was Sir Eustace D'Ambrecicourt, who spurred headlong upon + the German cavalry. A German knight rode out to meet him, and in the shock + both were dishorsed, but before Sir Eustace could recover his seat he was + borne down to the ground by four others of the enemy, and was bound and + carried captive to the rear. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime the English archers kept up their incessant hail of arrows + upon the band under the French marshals. The English men-at-arms passed + through the gaps purposely left in the line of archers and drove back the + front rank of the enemy upon those following, chasing them headlong down + the hollow road again. The few survivors of the French force, galloping + back, carried confusion into the advancing division of the Dauphin. + </p> + <p> + Before order was restored the Captal De Buch with his six hundred men + issued forth from his place of concealment and charged impetuously down on + the left flank of the Dauphin. The French, shaken in front by the retreat + of their advance guard, were thrown into extreme confusion by this sudden + and unexpected charge. The horse archers with the captal poured their + arrows into the mass, while the shafts of the main body of the archers on + the hill hailed upon them without ceasing. + </p> + <p> + The rumour spread among those in the French rear, who were unable to see + what was going forward, that the day was already lost, and many began to + fly. Sir John Chandos marked the confusion which had set in, and he + exclaimed to the prince: + </p> + <p> + “Now, sir, ride forward, and the day is yours. Let us charge right over + upon your adversary, the King of France, for there lies the labour and the + feat of the day. Well do I know that his great courage will never let him + fly, but, God willing, he shall be well encountered.” + </p> + <p> + “Forward, then, John Chandos,” replied the prince. “You shall not see me + tread one step back, but ever in advance. Bear on my banner. God and St. + George be with us!” + </p> + <p> + The horses of the English force were all held in readiness by their + attendants close in their rear. Every man sprang into his saddle, and with + levelled lances the army bore down the hill against the enemy, while the + Captal De Buch forced his way through the struggling ranks of the French + to join them. + </p> + <p> + To these two parties were opposed the whole of the German cavalry, the + division of the Dauphin, now thinned by flight, and a strong force under + the Constable de Brienne, Duke of Athens. The first charge of the English + was directed against the Germans, the remains of the marshal's forces, and + that commanded by the Constable. The two bodies of cavalry met with a + tremendous shock, raising their respective war-cries, “Denis Mount Joye!” + and “St. George Guyenne!” Lances were shivered, and horses and men rolled + over, but the German horse was borne down in every direction by the charge + of the English chivalry. The Counts of Nassau and Saarbruck were taken, + and the rest driven down the hill in utter confusion. The division of the + Duke of Orleans, a little further down the hill to the right, were seized + with a sudden panic, and 16,000 men-at-arms, together with their + commander, fled without striking a blow. + </p> + <p> + Having routed the French and German cavalry in advance, the English now + fell upon the Dauphin's division. This had been already confused by the + attacks of the Captal De Buch, and when its leaders beheld the complete + rout of the marshals and the Germans, and saw the victorious force + galloping down upon them, the responsibility attached to the charge of the + three young princes overcame their firmness. The Lords of Landas, + Vaudenay, and St. Venant, thinking the battle lost, hurried the princes + from the field, surrounded by eight hundred lances, determined to place + them at a secure distance, and then to return and fight beside the king. + The retreat of the princes at once disorganized the force, but though many + fled a number of the nobles remained scattered over the field fighting in + separate bodies with their own retainers gathered under their banners. + Gradually these fell back and took post on the left of the French king's + division. The Constable and the Duke of Bourbon with a large body of + knights and men-at-arms also opposed a firm front to the advance of the + English. The king saw with indignation one of his divisions defeated and + the other in coward flight, but his forces were still vastly superior to + those of the English, and ordering his men to dismount, he prepared to + receive their onset. The English now gathered their forces which had been + scattered in combat, and again advanced to the fight. The archers as usual + heralded this advance with showers of arrows, which shook the ranks of the + French and opened the way for the cavalry. These dashed in, and the ranks + of the two armies became mixed, and each man fought hand to hand. The + French king fought on foot with immense valour and bravery, as did his + nobles. The Dukes of Bourbon and Athens, the Lords of Landas, Argenton, + Chambery, Joinville, and many others stood and died near the king. + </p> + <p> + Gradually the English drove back their foes. The French forces became cut + up into groups or confined into narrow spaces. Knight after knight fell + around the king. De Ribaumont fell near him. Jeffrey de Charny, who, as + one of the most valiant knights in the army, had been chosen to bear the + French standard, the oriflamme, never left his sovereign's side, and as + long as the sacred banner floated over his head John would not believe the + day was lost. At length, however, Jeffrey de Charny was killed, and the + oriflamme fell. John, surrounded on every side by foes who pressed forward + to make him prisoner, still kept clear the space immediately around + himself and his little son with his battle-axe; but at last he saw that + further resistance would only entail the death of both, and he then + surrendered to Denis de Montbec, a knight of Artois. + </p> + <p> + The battle was now virtually over. The French banners and pennons had + disappeared, and nothing was seen save the dead and dying, groups of + prisoners, and parties of fugitives flying over the country. Chandos now + advised the prince to halt. His banner was pitched on the summit of a + little mound. The trumpets blew to recall the army from the pursuit, and + the prince, taking off his helmet, drank with the little body of knights + who accompanied him some wine brought from his former encampment. + </p> + <p> + The two marshals of the English army, the Earls of Warwick and Suffolk, + were among the first to return at the call of the trumpet. Hearing that + King John had certainly not left the field of battle, though they knew not + whether he was dead or taken, the prince at once despatched the Earl of + Warwick and Lord Cobham to find and protect him if still alive. They soon + came upon a mass of men-at-arms, seemingly engaged in an angry quarrel. On + riding up they found that the object of strife was the King of France, who + had been snatched from the hands of Montbec, and was being claimed by a + score of men as his prisoner. The Earl of Warwick and Lord Cobham + instantly made their way through the mass, and dismounting, saluted the + captive monarch with the deepest reverence, and keeping back the multitude + led him to the Prince of Wales. The latter bent his knee before the king, + and calling for wine, presented the cup with his own hands to the + unfortunate monarch. + </p> + <p> + The battle was over by noon, but it was evening before all the pursuing + parties returned, and the result of the victory was then fully known. With + less than 8000 men the English had conquered far more than 60,000. On the + English side 2000 men-at-arms and 1500 archers had fallen. Upon the French + side 11,000 men-at-arms, besides an immense number of footmen, had been + killed. A king, a prince, an archbishop, 13 counts, 66 barons, and more + than 2000 knights were prisoners in the hands of the English, with a + number of other soldiers, who raised the number of captives to double that + of their conquerors. All the baggage of the French army was taken, and as + the barons of France had marched to the field feeling certain of victory, + and the rich armour of the prisoners became immediately the property of + the captors, immense stores of valuable ornaments of all kinds, especially + jewelled baldrics, enriched the meanest soldier among the conquerors. + </p> + <p> + The helmet which the French king had worn, which bore a small coronet of + gold beneath the crest, was delivered to the Prince of Wales, who sent it + off at once to his father as the best trophy of the battle he could offer + him. + </p> + <p> + Its receipt was the first intimation which Edward III received of the + great victory. + </p> + <p> + As the prince had no means of providing for the immense number of + prisoners, the greater portion were set at liberty upon their taking an + oath to present themselves at Bordeaux by the ensuing Christmas in order + either to pay the ransom appointed, or to again yield themselves as + prisoners. + </p> + <p> + Immediately the battle was over, Edward sent for the gallant Sir James + Audley, who was brought to him on his litter by his esquires, and the + prince, after warmly congratulating him on the honour that he had that day + won as the bravest knight in the army, assigned him an annuity of five + hundred marks a year. + </p> + <p> + No sooner was Audley taken to his own tent than he called round him + several of his nearest relations and friends, and then and there made over + to his four gallant attendants, without power of recall, the gift which + the prince had bestowed upon him. The prince was not to be outdone, + however, in liberality, and on hearing that Audley had assigned his + present to the brave men who had so gallantly supported him in the fight, + he presented Sir James with another annuity of six hundred marks a year. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI: THE JACQUERIE + </h2> + <p> + ON the evening after the battle of Poitiers a splendid entertainment was + served in the tent of the Prince of Wales to the King of France and all + the principal prisoners. John, with his son and six of his highest nobles + were seated at a table raised above the rest, and the prince himself + waited as page upon the French king. John in vain endeavoured to persuade + the prince to be seated; the latter refused, saying, that it was his + pleasure as well as his duty to wait upon one who had shown himself to be + the best and bravest knight in the French army. The example of the Black + Prince was contagious, and the English vied with each other in generous + treatment of their prisoners. All were treated as friends, and that night + an immense number of knights and squires were admitted to ransom on such + terms as had never before been known. The captors simply required their + prisoners to declare in good faith what they could afford to pay without + pressing themselves too hard, “for they did not wish,” they said, “to + ransom knights or squires on terms which would prevent them from + maintaining their station in society, from serving their lords, or from + riding forth in arms to advance their name and honour.” + </p> + <p> + Upon the following morning solemn thanksgivings were offered up on the + field of battle for the glorious victory. Then the English army, striking + its tents, marched back towards Bordeaux. They were unmolested upon this + march, for although the divisions of the Dauphin and the Duke of Orleans + had now reunited, and were immensely superior in numbers to the English, + encumbered as the latter were, moreover, with prisoners and booty, the + tremendous defeat which they had suffered, and still more the capture of + the king, paralysed the French commanders, and the English reached + Bordeaux without striking another blow. + </p> + <p> + Not long after they reached that city the Cardinal of Perigord and another + legate presented themselves to arrange peace, and these negotiations went + on throughout the winter. The prince had received full powers from his + father, and his demands were very moderate; but in spite of this no final + peace could be arranged, and the result of the conference was the + proclamation of a truce, to last for two years from the following Easter. + During the winter immense numbers of the prisoners who had gone at large + upon parole, came in and paid their ransoms, as did the higher nobles who + had been taken prisoners, and the whole army was greatly enriched. At the + end of April the prince returned to England with King John. The procession + through the streets of London was a magnificent one, the citizens vying + with each other in decorating their houses in honour of the victor of + Poitiers, who, simply dressed, rode on a small black horse by the side of + his prisoner, who was splendidly attired, and mounted on a superb white + charger. The king received his royal prisoner in state in the great hall + of his palace at Westminster, and did all in his power to alleviate the + sorrows of his condition. The splendid palace of the Savoy, with gardens + extending to the Thames, was appointed for his residence, and every means + was taken to soften his captivity. + </p> + <p> + During the absence of the Black Prince in Guienne the king had been + warring in Scotland. Here his success had been small, as the Scotch had + retreated before him, wasting the country. David Bruce, the rightful king, + was a prisoner in England, and Baliol, a descendant of the rival of Robert + Bruce, had been placed upon the throne. As Edward passed through Roxburgh + he received from Baliol a formal cession of his rights and titles to the + throne of Scotland, and in return for this purely nominal gift he bestowed + an annual income upon Baliol, who lived and died a pensioner of England. + After Edward's return to England negotiations were carried on with the + Scots, and a treaty was signed by which a truce for ten years was + established between the two countries, and the liberation of Bruce was + granted on a ransom of 100,000 marks. + </p> + <p> + The disorganization into which France had been thrown by the capture of + its king increased rather than diminished. Among all classes men strove in + the absence of a repressive power to gain advantages and privileges. + Serious riots occurred in many parts, and the demagogues of Paris, headed + by Stephen Marcel, and Robert le Coq, bishop of Leon, set at defiance the + Dauphin and the ministers and lieutenant of the king. Massacre and + violence stained the streets of Paris with blood. General law, public + order, and private security were all lost. Great bodies of brigands + devastated the country, and the whole of France was thrown into confusion. + So terrible was the disorder that the inhabitants of every village were + obliged to fortify the ends of their streets, and keep watch and ward as + in the cities. The proprietors of land on the banks of rivers spent the + night in boats moored in the middle of the stream, and in every house and + castle throughout the land men remained armed as if against instant + attack. + </p> + <p> + Then arose the terrible insurrection known as the Jacquerie. For centuries + the peasantry of France had suffered under a bondage to which there had + never been any approach in England. Their lives and liberties were wholly + at the mercy of their feudal lords. Hitherto no attempt at resistance had + been possible; but the tremendous defeat of the French at Poitiers by a + handful of English aroused the hope among the serfs that the moment for + vengeance had come. The movement began among a handful of peasants in the + neighbourhood of St. Leu and Claremont. These declared that they would put + to death all the gentlemen in the land. The cry spread through the + country. The serfs, armed with pikes, poured out from every village, and a + number of the lower classes from the towns joined them. Their first + success was an attack upon a small castle. They burned down the gates and + slew the knight to whom it belonged, with his wife and children of all + ages. Their numbers rapidly increased. + </p> + <p> + Castle after castle was taken and stormed, palaces and houses levelled to + the ground; fire, plunder, and massacre swept through the fairest + provinces of France. + </p> + <p> + The peasants vied with each other in inventing deaths of fiendish cruelty + and outrage upon every man, woman, and child of the better classes who + fell into their hands. Owing to the number of nobles who had fallen at + Cressy and Poitiers, and of those still captives in England, very many of + their wives and daughters remained unprotected, and these were the + especial victims of the fiendish malignity of the peasantry. Separated in + many bands, the insurgents marched through the Beauvoisis, Soissonois, and + Vermandois; and as they approached a number of unprotected ladies of the + highest families in France fled to Meaux, where they remained under the + guard of the young Duke of Orleans and a handful of men-at-arms. + </p> + <p> + After the conclusion of the peace at Bordeaux, Sir Walter Somers had been + despatched on a mission to some of the German princes, with whom the king + was in close relations. The business was not of an onerous nature, but + Walter had been detained for some time over it. He spent a pleasant time + in Germany, where, as an emissary of the king and one of the victors of + Poitiers, the young English knight was made much of. When he set out on + his return he joined the Captal De Buch, who, ever thirsting for + adventure, had on the conclusion of the truce gone to serve in a campaign + in Germany; with him was the French Count de Foix, who had been also + serving throughout the campaign. + </p> + <p> + On entering France from the Rhine the three knights were shocked at the + misery and ruin which met their eyes on all sides. Every castle and house + throughout the country, of a class superior to those of the peasants, was + destroyed, and tales of the most horrible outrages and murders met their + ears. + </p> + <p> + “I regret,” the Count de Foix said earnestly, “that I have been away + warring in Germany, for it is clear that every true knight is wanted at + home to crush down these human wolves.” + </p> + <p> + “Methinks,” the Captal rejoined, “that France will do well to invite the + chivalry of all other countries to assemble and aid to put down this + horrible insurrection.” + </p> + <p> + “Aye,” the Count said bitterly; “but who is to speak in the name of + France? The Dauphin is powerless, and the virtual government is in the + hands of Marcel and other ambitious traitors who hail the doings of the + Jacquerie with delight, for these mad peasants are doing their work of + destroying the knights and nobles.” + </p> + <p> + The villages through which they passed were deserted save by women, and in + the small towns the people of the lower class scowled threateningly at the + three knights; but they with their following of forty men-at-arms, of whom + five were followers of Walter, fifteen of the Captal, and twenty of the + Count de Foix, ventured not to proceed beyond evil glances. + </p> + <p> + “I would,” de Foix said, “that these dogs would but lift a hand against + us. By St. Stephen, we would teach them a rough lesson!” + </p> + <p> + His companions were of the same mind, for all were excited to fury by the + terrible tales which they heard. All these stories were new to them, for + although rumours had reached Germany of the outbreak of a peasant + insurrection in France the movement had but just begun when they started. + As far as the frontier they had traveled leisurely, but they had hastened + their pace more and more as they learned how sore was the strait of the + nobles and gentry of the country and how grievously every good sword was + needed. When they reached Chalons they heard much fuller particulars than + had before reached them, and learned that the Duchess of Normandy, the + Duchess of Orleans, and near three hundred ladies, had sought refuge in + Meaux, and that they were there guarded but by a handful of men-at-arms + under the Duke of Orleans, while great bands of serfs were pouring in from + all parts of the country round, to massacre them. + </p> + <p> + Meaux is eighty miles from Chalons, but the three knights determined to + press onward with all speed in hopes of averting the catastrophe. Allowing + their horses an hour or two to rest, they rode forward, and pressing on + without halt or delay, save such as was absolutely needed by the horses, + they arrived at Meaux late the following night, and found to their delight + that the insurgents, although swarming in immense numbers round the town, + had not yet attacked it. + </p> + <p> + The arrival of the three knights and their followers was greeted with joy + by the ladies. They, with their guard, had taken up their position in the + market-house and market-place, which were separated from the rest of the + town by the river Maine, which flows through the city. A consultation was + at once held, and it being found that the Duke of Orleans had but twenty + men-at-arms with him it was determined that it was impossible to defend + the city walls, but that upon the following morning they would endeavour + to cut their way with the ladies through the peasant hosts. In the night, + however, an uproar was heard in the city. The burghers had risen and had + opened the gates to the peasants, who now poured in in thousands. Every + hour increased their numbers. + </p> + <p> + The market-place was besieged in the morning, and an hour or two + afterwards a large body of the ruffians of Paris, under the command of a + brutal grocer named Pierre Gille, arrived to swell their ranks. + </p> + <p> + The attack on the market-house continued, and the Duke of Orleans held a + consultation with the three knights. It was agreed that against such a + host of enemies the market-place could not long be defended, and that + their best hope lay in sallying out and falling upon the assailants. + Accordingly the men-at-arms were drawn up in order, with the banners of + the Duke of Orleans and the Count de Foix, and the pennons of the Captal + and Sir Walter Somers displayed, the gates were opened, and with levelled + lances the little party rode out. Hitherto nothing had been heard save + yells of anticipated triumph and fierce imprecations and threats against + the defenders from the immense multitude without; but the appearance of + the orderly ranks of the knights and men-at-arms as they issued through + the gate struck a silence of fear through the mass. + </p> + <p> + Without an instant's delay the knights and men-at-arms, with levelled + lances, charged into the multitude. A few attempted to fight, but more + strove to fly, as the nobles and their followers, throwing away their + lances, fell upon them with sword and battle-axe. Jammed up in the narrow + streets of a small walled town, overthrowing and impeding each other in + their efforts to escape, trampled down by the heavy horses of the + men-at-arms, and hewn down by their swords and battle-axes, the insurgents + fell in vast numbers. Multitudes succeeded in escaping through the gates + into the fields; but here they were followed by the knights and their + retainers, who continued charging among them and slaying till utter + weariness compelled them to cease from the pursuit and return to Meaux. + Not less than seven thousand of the insurgents had been slain by the four + knights and fifty men, for ten had been left behind to guard the gates of + the market-place. + </p> + <p> + History has no record of so vast a slaughter by so small a body of men. + This terrific punishment put a summary end to the Jacquerie. Already in + other parts several bodies had been defeated, and their principal leader, + Caillet, with three thousand of his followers, slain near Clermont. But + the defeat at Meaux was the crushing blow which put an end to the + insurrection. + </p> + <p> + On their return to the town the knights executed a number of the burghers + who had joined the peasants, and the greater part of the town was burned + to the ground as a punishment for having opened the gates to the peasants + and united with them. + </p> + <p> + The knights and ladies then started for Paris. On nearing the city they + found that it was threatened by the forces of the Dauphin. Marcel had + strongly fortified the town, and with his ally, the infamous King of + Navarre, bade defiance to the royal power. However, the excesses of the + demagogue had aroused against him the feeling of all the better class of + the inhabitants. The King of Navarre, who was ready at all times to break + his oath and betray his companions, marched his army out of the town and + took up a position outside the walls. He then secretly negotiated peace + with the Duke of Normandy, by which he agreed to yield to their fate + Marcel and twelve of the most obnoxious burghers, while at the same time + he persuaded Marcel that he was still attached to his interest. Marcel, + however, was able to bid higher than the Duke of Normandy, and he entered + into a new treaty with the treacherous king, by which he stipulated to + deliver the city into his hands during the night. Everyone within the + walls, except the partisans of Marcel, upon whose doors a mark was to be + placed, were to be put to death indiscriminately, and the King of Navarre + was to be proclaimed King of France. + </p> + <p> + Fortunately Pepin des Essarts and John de Charny, two loyal knights who + were in Paris, obtained information of the plan a few minutes before the + time appointed for its execution. Arming themselves instantly, and + collecting a few followers, they rushed to the houses of the chief + conspirators, but found them empty, Marcel and his companions having + already gone to the gates. Passing by the hotel-de-ville, the knights + entered, snatched down the royal banner which was kept there, and + unfurling it mounted their horses and rode through the streets, calling + all men to arms. They reached the Port St. Antoine just at the moment when + Marcel was in the act of opening it in order to give admission to the + Navarrese. When he heard the shouts he tried with his friends to make his + way into the bastille, but his retreat was intercepted, and a severe and + bloody struggle took place between the two parties. Stephen Marcel, + however, was himself slain by Sir John de Charny, and almost all his + principal companions fell with him. The inhabitants then threw open their + gates and the Duke of Normandy entered. + </p> + <p> + Walter Somers had, with his companions, joined the army of the duke, and + placed his sword at his disposal; but when the French prince entered Paris + without the necessity of fighting, he took leave of him, and with the + Captal returned to England. Rare, indeed, were the jewels which Walter + brought home to his wife, for the three hundred noble ladies rescued at + Meaux from dishonour and death had insisted upon bestowing tokens of their + regard and gratitude upon the rescuers, and as many of them belonged to + the richest as well as the noblest families in France the presents which + Walter thus received from the grateful ladies were of immense value. + </p> + <p> + He was welcomed by the king and Prince of Wales with great honour, for the + battle at Meaux had excited the admiration and astonishment of all Europe. + The Jacquerie was considered as a common danger in all civilized + countries; for if successful it might have spread far beyond the + boundaries of France, and constituted a danger to chivalry, and indeed to + society universally. + </p> + <p> + Thus King Edward gave the highest marks of his satisfaction to the Captal + and Walter, added considerable grants of land to the estates of the + latter, and raised him to the dignity of Baron Somers of Westerham. + </p> + <p> + It has always been a matter of wonder that King Edward did not take + advantage of the utter state of confusion and anarchy which prevailed in + France to complete his conquest of that country, which there is no + reasonable doubt he could have effected with ease. Civil war and strife + prevailed throughout France; famine devastated it; and without leaders or + concord, dispirited and impoverished by defeat, France could have offered + no resistance to such an army as England could have placed in the field. + The only probable supposition is that at heart he doubted whether the + acquisition of the crown of France was really desirable, or whether it + could be permanently maintained should it be gained. To the monarch of a + country prosperous, flourishing, and contented, the object of admiration + throughout Europe, the union with distracted and divided France could be + of no benefit. Of military glory he had gained enough to content any man, + and some of the richest provinces of France were already his. Therefore it + may well be believed that, feeling secure very many years must elapse + before France could again become dangerous, he was well content to let + matters continue as they were. + </p> + <p> + King John still remained a prisoner in his hands, for the princes and + nobles of France were too much engaged in broils and civil wars to think + of raising the money for his ransom, and Languedoc was the only province + of France which made any effort whatever towards so doing. War still raged + between the Dauphin and the King of Navarre. + </p> + <p> + At the conclusion of the two years' truce Edward, with the most + splendidly-equipped army which had ever left England, marched through the + length and breadth of France. Nowhere did he meet with any resistance in + the field. He marched under the walls of Paris, but took no steps to lay + siege to that city, which would have fallen an easy prey to his army had + he chosen to capture it. That he did not do so is another proof that he + had no desire to add France to the possessions of the English crown. At + length, by the efforts of the pope, a peace was agreed upon, by which + France yielded all Aquitaine and the town of Calais to England as an + absolute possession, and not as a fief of the crown of France; while the + English king surrendered all his captures in Normandy and Brittany and + abandoned his claim to the crown of France. With great efforts the French + raised a portion of the ransom demanded for the king, and John returned to + France after four years of captivity. + </p> + <p> + At the commencement of 1363 Edward the Black Prince was named Prince of + Aquitaine, and that province was bestowed upon him as a gift by the king, + subject only to liege homage and an annual tribute of one ounce of gold. + The prince took with him to his new possessions many of the knights and + nobles who had served with him, and offered to Walter a high post in the + government of the province if he would accompany him. This Walter begged + to be excused from doing. Two girls had now been added to his family, and + he was unwilling to leave his happy home unless the needs of war called + him to the prince's side. He therefore remained quietly at home. + </p> + <p> + When King John returned to France, four of the French princes of the + blood-royal had been given as hostages for the fulfilment of the treaty of + Bretigny. They were permitted to reside at Calais, and were at liberty to + move about as they would, and even to absent themselves from the town for + three days at a time whensoever they might choose. The Duke of Anjou, the + king's second son, basely took advantage of this liberty to escape, in + direct violation of his oath. The other hostages followed his example. + </p> + <p> + King John, himself the soul of honour, was intensely mortified at this + breach of faith on the part of his sons, and after calling together the + states-general at Amiens to obtain the subsidies necessary for paying the + remaining portion of his ransom, he himself, with a train of two hundred + officers and their followers, crossed to England to make excuses to Edward + for the treachery of the princes. Some historians represent the visit as a + voluntary returning into captivity; but this was not so. The English king + had accepted the hostages in his place, and was responsible for their + safe-keeping, and had no claim upon the French monarch because they had + taken advantage of the excess of confidence with which they had been + treated. That the coming of the French king was not in any way regarded as + a return into captivity is shown by the fact that he was before starting + furnished by Edward with letters of safe-conduct, by which his secure and + unobstructed return to his own country was expressly stipulated, and he + was received by Edward as an honoured guest and friend, and his coming was + regarded as an honour and an occasion for festivity by all England. + </p> + <p> + At the same time that John was in London the King of Cyprus, the King of + Denmark, and the King of Scotland were also there, and the meeting of four + monarchs in London was the occasion of extraordinary festivities and + rejoicing, the king and his royal guests being several times entertained + at sumptuous banquets by the lord-mayor, the ex-mayor Henry Pickard, and + several of the aldermen. + </p> + <p> + Six weeks after John's arrival in London he was seized with illness at the + palace of the Savoy, and died on the 8th of April, 1364. The Dauphin, + Charles, now succeeded him as Charles V, and the war between the houses of + Navarre and Valois was carried on with greater fury than ever. The armies + of Navarre were commanded by the Captal de Buch, who was a distant + relation of the king; while those of Charles were headed by the Marechal + de Boucicault and Bertrand du Guesclin, one of the most gallant of the + French knights. A great battle was fought near Cocherel. Contrary to the + orders of the Captal, his army, which consisted principally of + adventurers, descended from the strong position he had chosen, and gave + battle in the plain. They were completely defeated, and the Captal himself + taken prisoner. + </p> + <p> + In Brittany John of Montford and Charles of Blois had renewed their + struggle, and King Charles, seeing the danger of Brittany falling into the + hands of De Montford, who was a close ally of England, interfered in + favour of Charles of Blois, and sent Du Guesclin to his assistance. + </p> + <p> + This was a breach of the treaty of Bretigny, and De Montford at once sent + to the Black Prince for assistance. The Prince did not treat the conduct + of Charles as a breach of the treaty, and took no part himself in the war, + but permitted Sir John Chandos, who was a personal friend of De Montford, + to go to his aid. De Montford's army, after the arrival of Chandos with + 200 spears, amounted to but 1600 men-at-arms and from 800 to 900 archers, + while Charles of Blois had 4000 men-at-arms and a proportionate number of + infantry. De Montford tried to negotiate. He offered to divide the + dukedom, and to agree that in case he died childless it should revert to + the family of Charles. Charles, however, refused all terms, even to grant + his adversary's request to put off the battle until the morrow, so as to + avoid violating the Sabbath; and having given orders that all prisoners + taken in the battle should be hung, he advanced upon De Montford. + </p> + <p> + Both forces were divided in four bodies. The first on De Montford's side + was commanded by Sir Robert Knolles, the second by Oliver de Clisson, the + third by Chandos and De Montford, the fourth by Sir Hugh de Calverley. Du + Guesclin led the front division of Charles's army, the Counts of Auxerre + and Joigny the second, Charles himself the third, and the Lords of Roye + and Rieux the reserve. The ducal arms of Brittany were displayed on both + sides. + </p> + <p> + By slow degrees the two armies closed with each other in deadly strife. + Both parties had dismounted and fought on foot with lances shortened to + five feet. Du Guesclin and his division attacked that of Knolles. Auxerre + fell upon De Clisson, while the divisions of the two rival princes closed + with each other. After desperate fighting numbers prevailed. De Montford + was driven back, but Calverley advanced to his aid, fell upon the rear of + the French, threw them into disorder, and then having rallied De + Montford's men, retired to his former position in readiness to give + succour again where it might be needed. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime Clisson had been engaged in a desperate struggle with the + Count of Auxerre, but was obtaining no advantage. Clisson himself had + received the blow of a battle-axe which had dashed in the vizor of his + helmet and blinded for ever one of his eyes. He was still leading his men, + but the enemies' superior numbers were pressing him back, when Chandos, + the instant the assistance of Calverley had relieved De Montford's + division, perceiving his danger, drew off a few men-at-arms, and with them + fell upon the rear of the Count of Auxerre, and dashing all who opposed + him to the ground with his battle-axe, cleft his way to the very centre of + the enemy. Pressed by De Clisson in front and broken by the sudden attack + of Chandos in the rear, the French division gave way in every direction. + Auxerre was desperately wounded, and he and Joigny both taken prisoners. + </p> + <p> + Chandos then returned to De Montford, who had gallantly followed up the + advantage gained by the confusion into which Charles's division had been + thrown by the attack of Calverley. Charles was routed; he himself struck + down and slain by an English soldier, and the division defeated with great + slaughter. De Montford's whole force now gathered round Du Guesclin's + division, which now alone remained, and after fighting gallantly until all + hope was gone, the brave French knight and his companions yielded + themselves as prisoners. + </p> + <p> + The battle of Auray terminated the struggle between the houses of Blois + and Montford. More than 1000 French men-at-arms died on the field, among + whom were many of the noblest in Brittany. Two counts, 27 lords, and 1500 + men-at-arms were made prisoners. De Montford now took possession of the + whole of Brittany, and at the suggestion of King Edward himself did homage + to Charles V for the duchy, which he afterwards ruled with wisdom. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII: VICTORY AND DEATH + </h2> + <p> + While the Black Prince was with difficulty governing his province of + Aquitaine, where the mutual jealousies of the English and native officers + caused continual difficulties, King Edward turned all his attention to + advancing the prosperity of England. He fostered trade, commerce, and + learning, was a munificent patron of the two universities, and established + such order and regularity in his kingdom that England was the admiration + of all Europe. Far different was the state of France. The cessation of the + wars with England and the subsequent disbandment of troops had thrown upon + their own resources great numbers of men who had been so long engaged in + fighting that they had no other trade to turn to. The conclusion of the + struggle in Brittany after the battle of Auray and the death of Charles of + Blois still further added to the number, and these men gathered in bands, + some of which were headed by men of knightly rank, and scattered through + France plundering the country and extracting heavy sums from the towns. + </p> + <p> + These “great companies,” as they were called, exceeded 50,000 men in + number, and as almost all were trained soldiers they set the king and his + nobles at defiance, and were virtually masters of France. The most + tempting offers were made to them to lay down their arms, and the pope + sent legates threatening excommunication, but the great companies laughed + alike at promises and threats. At last a way of deliverance opened to + France. Pedro, named the Cruel, of Castile, had alienated his people by + his cruelty, and had defeated and driven into exile his half-brother, + Henry of Trastamare, who headed an insurrection against him. Pedro put to + death numbers of the nobles of Castile, despoiled the King of Arragon, who + had given aid to his brother, plundered and insulted the clergy, and + allied himself with the Moors. + </p> + <p> + His quarrel with the clergy was the cause of his ruin. The pope summoned + him to appear before him at Avignon to answer to the crimes laid to his + charge. Pedro refused to attend, and the pope at once excommunicated him. + The King of Arragon and Henry of Trastamare were then summoned to Avignon, + and a treaty of alliance was concluded between them, and the pope declared + the throne of Castile vacant owing to the excommunication of Pedro, and + appointed Henry to it. + </p> + <p> + These measures would have troubled Pedro little had it not been that + France groaned under the great companies, and the French king and the + pontiff at once entered into negotiations with them to support Henry in + his war against his brother. It was necessary that a leader in whom the + companies should have confidence should be chosen, and Du Guesclin, still + a prisoner of Chandos, who had captured him at Auray, was selected, and + the pope, the King of France, and Don Henry, paid between them the 100,000 + francs demanded for his ransom. Du Guesclin on his release negotiated with + the leaders of the great companies, and as the pope and king promised them + large gratuities they agreed to march upon Spain. They were joined by a + great number of French knights and men-at-arms. + </p> + <p> + The expedition was under the nominal command of John of Bourbon, but the + real guidance was in the hands of Du Guesclin. As the army marched past + Avignon they worked upon the terrors of the pope until he paid them + 200,000 francs in gold. France was filled with joy at the prospect of a + riddance of the free companies which had so long been a prey upon them. + They were, too, eager to avenge upon the cruel King of Spain the murder of + his queen, who was a princess of France. The same feeling animated the + people of Aquitaine, and Calverley, D'Ambrecicourt, Sir Walter Hewitt, Sir + John Devereux, Sir John Neville, and several other distinguished knights, + with a large train of men-at-arms, joined the adventurers. The great army + moved through Arragon, whose king in every way facilitated their progress. + As they entered Castile the whole people declared in favour of Henry, and + Pedro, deserted by all, fled to Bordeaux and besought aid from the Prince + of Wales. + </p> + <p> + Between Pedro and the English court a firm alliance had existed from the + time when the former so nearly married the Princess Joan, and immediately + the king heard of the expedition against him he issued orders that no + English knights should take part in it. The order, however, came too late. + The English knights had already marched into Spain with Du Guesclin. As + for the English who formed no inconsiderable portion of the great + companies, they had already declined to obey the king, when, at the + insistence of the pope and the King of France, he had ordered them to + disband. + </p> + <p> + On Pedro's arrival at Bordeaux with his three daughters and his son, they + were kindly received by the Black Prince, courtesy and kindness to those + in misfortune being among the leading characteristics of his nature. + Pedro, cruel and ruthless as he was, was a man of great eloquence and + insinuating manners, and giving his own version of affairs, he completely + won over the prince, who felt himself, moreover, bound in some degree to + support him, inasmuch as he, an ally of England, had been dethroned by an + army composed partly of English. Pedro made the most magnificent promises + to the prince in return for his aid, ceding him the whole of the province + of Biscay, and agreeing to pay the British troops engaged in his service + when he regained his throne, the Black Prince engaging to pay them in the + meantime. + </p> + <p> + King Edward aided his son by raising an army in England, which sailed for + Bordeaux under the command of the prince's brother, John of Gaunt, Duke of + Lancaster. Walter formed part of this expedition. The king had issued his + writs to him and other barons of the southern counties, and the Black + Prince had himself written to ask him to join him, in memory of their + former deeds of arms together. + </p> + <p> + As it was now some years since he had taken the field, Walter did not + hesitate, but with thirty retainers, headed by Ralph, joined the army of + John of Gaunt. + </p> + <p> + The Black Prince's first step was to endeavour to recall the Englishmen of + the free companies, estimated to amount to at least 30,000 men. The news + that he was taking up arms and would himself command the army caused + Calverley and the whole of the other English knights to return at once, + and 10,000 of the English men-at-arms with the great companies also left + Don Henry and marched to Aquitaine. The road led through the territory of + the King of Navarre, and the Black Prince advanced 56,000 florins of gold + to pay this grasping and treacherous king for the right of passage of the + army. + </p> + <p> + By Christmas, 1366, the preparations were complete, but the severity of + the weather delayed the advance for some weeks. Fresh difficulties were + encountered with Charles the Bad, of Navarre, who, having obtained the + price for the passage, had now opened negotiations with Don Henry, and the + governors of the frontier towns refused to allow Sir Hugh Calverley and + the free companies, who formed the advance, to pass. These were not, + however, the men to stand on ceremony, and without hesitation they + attacked and captured the towns, when the King of Navarre at once + apologized for his officers, and renewed his engagements. As, however, the + Black Prince had received intelligence that he had formed a plan for + attacking the English as they passed through the terrible pass of + Roncesvalles, he compelled him to accompany the army. The invitation was + couched in language which was friendly, but would yet admit of no denial. + </p> + <p> + On the 17th of February the English army, 30,000 strong, reached the pass. + It marched in three divisions, the first commanded by the Duke of + Lancaster and Lord Chandos, the second by the Black Prince, the third by + the King of Majorca and the Count of Armaguac. The divisions crossed over + on different days, for the pass was encumbered by snow and the obstacles + were immense. Upon the day when the prince's division were passing a storm + burst upon them, and it was with the greatest difficulty that they + succeeded in crossing. On the 20th of February, however, all arrived safe + on the other side of the Pyrenees. Du Guesclin, who, seeing the storm + which was approaching from Aquitaine, had returned to France and levied a + French army, was nigh at hand, and kept within a few miles of the English + army as it advanced, avoiding an engagement until the arrival of Don + Henry, who was marching to join him with the great companies and 60,000 + Spanish troops. + </p> + <p> + Du Guesclin kept up secret communications with the King of Navarre, who + was still forced to accompany the English army. The latter accordingly + went out from the camp under pretence of hunting and was captured by a + detachment of French troops. + </p> + <p> + On the 1st of April, the Spanish army having joined the French, the Black + Prince sent letters to Don Henry, urging him in mild but dignified + language to return to obedience, and to resign the throne he had usurped, + offering at the same time to act as mediator between him and his brother, + and to do all in his power to remove differences and abuses. Henry, + confident in his strength, replied haughtily and prepared for battle. + </p> + <p> + The forces were extremely unequal. The Black Prince had under him 30,000 + men; while under Don Henry were 3000 men-at-arms on mail-clad horses, + 20,000 men-at-arms on horses not so protected, 6000 light cavalry, 10,000 + crossbow-men, and 60,000 foot armed with spear and sword. + </p> + <p> + The night before the battle the Black Prince lodged in the little village + of Navarretta, which had been deserted by its inhabitants. Walter had been + his close companion since he started, and occupied the same lodging with + him in the village. + </p> + <p> + “This reminds me,” the prince said, “of the day before Cressy. They + outnumber us by more than three to one. + </p> + <p> + “There were greater odds still,” Walter replied, “at Poitiers, and I doubt + not that we shall make as good an example of them.” + </p> + <p> + “They are more doughty adversaries,” the prince replied. “There are nigh + 20,000 English in their ranks—all veterans in war—and they are + led by Du Guesclin, who is a host in himself.” + </p> + <p> + “Their very numbers will be a hindrance to them,” Walter replied + cheerfully; “and never did I see a better army than that which you have + under you. I would we were fighting for a better man, for Don Pedro is to + my mind treacherous as well as cruel. He promises fairly, but I doubt if + when he has gained his end he will keep his promises. He speaks fairly and + smoothly, but his deeds are at variance with his words.” + </p> + <p> + “It may be, my lord,” the prince replied, “that I am somewhat of your + opinion, and that I regret I so quickly committed myself to his cause. + However, he was my father's ally, and having fulfilled all his engagements + had a right to demand our assistance. I am a bad hand, Walter, at saying + no to those who beseech me.” + </p> + <p> + “It is so, Sir Prince,” Walter said bluntly. “Would that your heart had + been a less generous one, for your nobleness of disposition is ever + involving you in debts which hamper you sorely, and cause more trouble to + you than all your enemies!” + </p> + <p> + “That is true enough,” the Black Prince said with a sigh. “Since I was a + boy I have ever been harassed with creditors; and though all Aquitaine is + mine, I verily believe that there is not a man in my father's dominions + who is so harassed and straitened for money as I.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet,” Walter said, smiling, “no sooner do you get it than you give it + away.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” the prince laughed, “I cannot deny it. It is so much pleasanter to + give than to pay, that I can never find heart to balk myself. I am ever + surrounded by suitors. Some have lost estates in my cause, others have + rendered brilliant services in the field, some have burdened themselves + with debts to put their retainers in arms—all have pleased to urge, + and for the life of me I cannot say them nay. I trust, though,” he added + more seriously, “that Don Pedro will fulfil his promises to pay my army. I + have bound myself to my soldiers for their wages, besides advancing large + sums to Pedro, and if he keeps not his engagements I shall indeed be in a + sore strait.” + </p> + <p> + “There is one thing,” Walter said; “if he fail to keep his promises, we + will not fail to oblige him to do so. If we win a kingdom for him, we can + snatch it from him again.” + </p> + <p> + “We have not won it yet,” the prince said. + </p> + <p> + “We will do so tomorrow,” Walter rejoined confidently. “I hope the + fortunes of the day may bring me face to face with Du Guesclin. I am + thrice as strong as when I fought at Cressy, and I should like to try my + hand against this doughty champion.” + </p> + <p> + The next morning the two armies prepared for battle, the Black Prince + dividing his army as before. The divisions were commanded as in the + passage of the Pyrenees, and each numbered 10,000 men. + </p> + <p> + Don Henry had also divided his force in three parts. In the first + division, commanded by Du Guesclin, were 4000 veteran French knights and + men-at-arms with 8000 foot-soldiers; the second was led by the prince's + brother, Don Tillo, with 16,000 horse; while he himself commanded the + third, in which were a multitude of soldiers, making up the gross total of + 100,000 men. + </p> + <p> + As on the night preceding the battle of Poitiers, the English army had + lain down supperless. Soon after midnight the trumpets sounded, and the + troops soon moved forward. At sunrise the prince and his forces reached + the summit of a little hill, whence was visible the approaching host of + Spain. The first division, under the Duke of Lancaster and Lord Chandos, + immediately quickened its pace and charged the division of Du Guesclin, + which received it with great steadiness, and a desperate conflict ensued. + The Black Prince charged the division of Don Tillo, which gave way at the + first attack, and its commander, with 2000 horse, at once fled. The + remainder of the division resisted for some time, but was unable to + withstand the steady advance of the English, who without much difficulty + dispersed and scattered it from the field. The King of Majorca now joined + his division with that of the Black Prince, and the two advanced against + the great division led by Don Henry. + </p> + <p> + The Spanish slingers opened upon the advancing force and for a time + annoyed them greatly, but when the English archers arrived within bow-shot + and opened fire they speedily dispersed the slingers, and the men-at-arms + on both sides advanced to the attack. The conflict was long and desperate, + and both sides fought with great gallantry and determination. Don Pedro—who, + although vicious and cruel, was brave—fought in the ranks as a + common soldier, frequently cutting his way into the midst of the + Spaniards, and shouting to Don Henry to cross swords with him. Henry on + his part fought with great valour, although, as he had the burden of + command upon him, he was less able to distinguish himself by acts of + personal prowess. Though fighting in the thickest of the press, he never + lost his grasp of the general purpose of the battle. Three times, when his + troops wavered before the assaults of the Black Prince and his knights, he + rallied them and renewed the fight. + </p> + <p> + While this battle was raging, a not less obstinate fight was proceeding + between the divisions of Lancaster and Du Guesclin. For a long time + victory was doubtful, and indeed inclined towards the side of the French. + The ranks of both parties were broken, and all were fighting in a confused + mass, when, in the midst of the melee, a body of French and Spaniards + poured in upon the banner of Chandos. He was struck to the ground, and a + gigantic Castilian knight flung himself upon him and strove to slay him as + he held him down. Chandos had lost sword and battle-axe, but drawing his + dagger, he held with one hand his opponent's sword-arm, and at last, after + repeated strokes with his dagger, he found an undefended part of his + armour and pierced him with his dagger to the hilt. The Spaniard relaxed + his hold, and Chandos, throwing him off, struggled to his feet and + rejoined his friends, who had thought him dead. They now fought with more + enthusiasm than ever, and at last, driving back the main body of the + French knights, isolated a body of some sixty strong, and forced them to + surrender. Among these were Du Guesclin himself, the Marshal D'Audenham, + and the Bigue de Vilaines. + </p> + <p> + As these were the leaders of the division, the main body lost spirit and + fought feebly, and were soon completely routed by Lancaster and Chandos. + These now turned their attention to the other part of the field where the + battle was still raging, and charged down upon the flank of Don Henry's + army, which was already wavering. The Spaniards gave way at once on every + side, and ere long the whole were scattered in headlong rout, hotly + pursued by the English. The greater portion fled towards the town of + Najarra, where they had slept the previous night, and here vast quantities + were slaughtered by the English and Gascons. A number of prisoners were + taken, and the palace and town sacked. The pursuit was kept up the whole + day, and it was not until evening that the leaders began once more to + assemble round the banner of the Prince of Wales. Among the last who + arrived was Don Pedro himself. Springing from his charger he grasped the + hand of the Prince of Wales, thanking him for his victory, which he felt + would restore him to his throne. + </p> + <p> + “Give thanks and praise to God, and not to me,” the prince replied, “for + from Him, and not from me, you have received victory.” + </p> + <p> + About 8000 men fell in the battle, the loss of the English, French, and + Spaniards being nearly equal; but many thousands of the latter fell in the + pursuit, and as many more were drowned in endeavouring to cross the river + Ebro. Don Henry escaped after fighting till the last, and reaching the + French territory in safety took refuge in the Papal court of Avignon. + </p> + <p> + Upon the morning after the battle Don Pedro requested the Black Prince to + give him up all the Castilian prisoners, in order that he might put them + to death. The prince, however, was always opposed to cruelty, and asked + and obtained as a boon to himself that the lives of all the Spanish + prisoners, with the exception of one whose conduct had been marked with + peculiar treachery, should be spared, and even induced Pedro to pardon + them altogether on their swearing fealty to him. Even Don Sancho, Pedro's + brother, who had fought at Najarra under Don Henry, was received and + embraced by Pedro at the request of the Prince of Wales. The city of + Burgos at once opened its gates, and the rest of the country followed its + example, and resumed its allegiance to Pedro, who remounted his throne + without further resistance. + </p> + <p> + As Walter had fought by the side of the Black Prince his desire to cross + swords with Du Guesclin was not satisfied; but his valour during the day + won for him the warm approbation of the prince. Opposed to them were many + of the great companies, and these men, all experienced soldiers and many + of them Englishmen, had fought with great stubbornness. Walter had singled + out for attack a banner bearing the cognizance of a raven. The leader of + this band, who was known as the Knight of the Raven, had won for himself a + specially evil notoriety in France by the ferocity of his conduct. + Wherever his band went they had swept the country, and the most atrocious + tortures had been inflicted on all well-to-do persons who had fallen into + their hands, to extract from them the secret of buried hoards or bonds, + entailing upon them the loss of their last penny. + </p> + <p> + The Knight of the Raven himself was said to be as brave as he was cruel, + and several nobles who had attempted to oppose his band had been defeated + and slain by him. He was known to be English, but his name was a mystery; + and the Black Prince and his knights had long wished to encounter a man + who was a disgrace alike to chivalry and the English name. When, + therefore, Walter saw his banner in the king's division he urged his horse + towards it, and, followed by Ralph and some thirty men-at-arms, hewed his + way through the crowd until he was close to the banner. + </p> + <p> + A knight in gray armour spurred forward to meet him, and a desperate + conflict took place. + </p> + <p> + Never had Walter crossed swords with a stouter adversary, and his opponent + fought with as much vehemence and fury as if the sight of Walter's banner, + which Ralph carried behind him, had aroused in him a frenzy of rage and + hate. In guarding his head from one of his opponent's sweeping blows + Walter's sword shivered at the hilt; but before the Gray Knight could + repeat the blow Walter snatched his heavy battle-axe from his saddle. The + knight reined back his horse for an instant, and imitated his example, and + with these heavy weapons the fight was renewed. The Knight of the Raven + had lost by the change, for Walter's great strength stood him in good + stead, and presently with a tremendous blow he beat down his opponent's + axe and cleft through his helmet almost to the chin. + </p> + <p> + The knight fell dead from his horse, and Walter, with his band pressing + on, carried confusion into the ranks of his followers. When these had been + defeated Walter rode back with Ralph to the spot where the Knight of the + Raven had fallen. + </p> + <p> + “Take off his helmet, Ralph. Let me see his face. Methinks I recognized + his voice, and he fought as if he knew and hated me.” + </p> + <p> + Ralph removed the helmet. + </p> + <p> + “It is as I thought,” Walter said; “it is Sir James Carnegie, a recreant + and villain knight and foul enemy of mine, a disgrace to his name and + rank, but a brave man. So long as he lived I could never say that my life + was safe from his machinations. Thank God, there is an end of him and his + evil doings!” + </p> + <p> + Walter was twice wounded in the fight, but upon neither occasion + seriously, and he was soon able to take part in the tournaments and games + which the Prince of Wales instituted partly to keep his men employed, + partly for the amusement of the citizens of Burgos, outside whose walls + his army lay encamped. + </p> + <p> + The prince was now obliged to remind the king of his promise to pay his + troops; but nothing was farther from the mind of the treacherous monarch + than to carry out the promises which he had made in exile. He dared not, + however, openly avow his intentions; but, trusting to the chapter of + accidents, he told the prince that at Burgos he could not collect a + sufficient sum; but if the army would march into Leon and take up their + quarters near Valladolid, he himself would proceed to Seville, and would + as soon as possible collect the money which he had bound himself to + furnish. The plan was adopted. Edward marched his troops to Valladolid, + and Don Pedro went to Seville. + </p> + <p> + Some time passed on without the arrival of the promised money, and the + prince was impatient to return to Aquitaine. Don Henry had gathered a + force in France, secretly assisted by the French king, and had made an + inroad into Aquitaine, where he obtained several successes, and was joined + by many of the disinterested nobles of that province. + </p> + <p> + “You were right,” the prince said to Walter one day; “this treacherous + king, who owes his kingdom to us, intends to break his plighted word. I + know not what to do; my men are clamorous for their pay, and I am unable + to satisfy them. Don Pedro still sends fair promises, and although I + believe in my heart that he has no intention of keeping them, yet I can + hardly march against him as an enemy, for, however far from the truth it + may be, his pretext that the treasury has been emptied by his brother, and + that in the disturbed state of the kingdom no money can be obtained, may + yet be urged as valid.” + </p> + <p> + Scarcely had the army encamped before Valladolid when a terrible + pestilence attacked the army. For a while all questions of pay were + forgotten, and consternation and dismay seized the troops. Neither rank + nor station was of avail, and the leaders suffered as severely as the men. + Every day immense numbers died, and so sudden were the attacks, and so + great the mortality, that the soldiers believed that Don Pedro had + poisoned the wells in order to rid himself of the necessity of fulfilling + his obligations. + </p> + <p> + The Black Prince himself was prostrated, and lay for some time between + life and death. A splendid constitution enabled him to pull through, but + he arose from his bed enfeebled and shattered, and although for some years + he lived on, he received his death-blow at Valladolid. His personal + strength never came to him again, and even his mind was dulled and the + brightness of his intellect dimmed from the effects of the fever. When he + recovered sufficiently to inquire into the state of his forces, he was + filled with sorrow and dismay. Four-fifths of the number were either dead + or so weakened as to be useless for service again. The prince wrote + urgently to Don Pedro for the money due; but the king knew that the + English were powerless now, and replied that he had not been able to + collect the money, but would forward it to Aquitaine, if the prince would + return there with his army. Edward knew that he lied, but with only 6000 + or 7000 men, many of whom were enfeebled by disease, he was not in a + position to force the claim, or to punish the base and ungrateful king. + Again, therefore, he turned his face north. + </p> + <p> + Charles of Navarre had now allied himself with Don Henry, and refused to + allow the remnants of the army to pass through his dominions, although he + granted permission to the prince himself and his personal attendants and + friends. The southern route was barred by the King of Arragon, also an + ally of Don Henry; but with him the prince was more successful. He had a + personal interview with the monarch, and so influenced him that he not + only obtained permission for his troops to pass through his dominions, but + detached him from his alliance with Don Henry, and induced him to enter + into a friendly treaty with Pedro. + </p> + <p> + A greater act of magnanimity was never performed. In spite of the base + ingratitude with which he had been treated, and the breach of faith which + saddled him with enormous liabilities and debts, which weighed him down + and embittered the rest of his life, Edward remained faithful to the cause + of his father's ally, and did his best to maintain him in the position + which English valour had won for him. He himself with a few companions + passed through Navarre, and arrived safely in Bordeaux, where his wife + awaited him, and where he was received with rejoicings and festivities in + honour of his glorious campaign in Spain. + </p> + <p> + His health was now irreparably injured. Troubles came thick upon him in + Aquitaine, and he had no longer the energy to repress them. Risings took + place in all directions, and the King of France renewed the war. In + addition to his own troubles from the debts he had incurred, and the + enemies who rose against him, he was further shaken by the death of his + mother Philippa, whom he tenderly loved. His friend Chandos, too, was + killed in a skirmish. Unhappily, while thus weakened in mind and body the + treachery of the bishop and people of Limoges, who, having bound + themselves by innumerable promises to him, surrendered their city to the + French, caused him to commit the one act of cruelty which sullied the + brightness of an otherwise unspotted career, for at the recapture of the + town he bade his soldiers give no quarter. + </p> + <p> + This act, although common enough at the time, is so opposed to the + principles of mercy and humanity which throughout all the previous acts of + his life distinguished the conduct of the Black Prince that it cannot be + doubted that his brain was affected by the illness which was fast hurrying + him to the grave. Shortly afterwards he returned to England, and busied + himself in arranging the affairs of the kingdom, which his father's + failing health had permitted to fall into disorder. For the remaining four + years of life he lived in seclusion, and sank on the 8th of June, 1376. + </p> + <p> + Walter, Lord Somers, returned home after the conclusion of the campaign in + Spain, and rode no more to the wars. + </p> + <p> + Giles Fletcher and his wife had died some years before, but the good + citizen Geoffrey the armourer, when he grew into years, abandoned his + calling, and took up his abode at Westerham Castle to the time of his + death. + </p> + <p> + In the wars which afterwards occurred with France Walter was represented + in the field by his sons, who well sustained the high reputation which + their father had borne as a good and valiant knight. He and his wife lived + to a green old age, reverenced and beloved by their tenants and retainers, + and died surrounded by their descendants to the fourth generation. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Saint George for England, by G. A. Henty + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SAINT GEORGE FOR ENGLAND *** + +***** This file should be named 3429-h.htm or 3429-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/3/4/2/3429/ + +Produced by Martin Robb, and David Widger + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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