CHAP. I. The beginning of the War in Aragon. Many Rebellious Nobles in Castile put to Death. The War between Castile and Aragon carried on by Sea and Land.

VVE shall now write of a War betwixt two Kingdoms Ally'd by several Mar∣riages. A War bloody and destructive, which consum'd many Noble Per∣sons; and lastly him that began it, giving a new Race of Kings to Castile, and restoring Peace. The motives of this War consider'd singly and apart, were inconsiderable; but concurring all together, made a mighty Flood of Discontents. Both the Kings of Castile and Aragon were Princes of high Spirits, alike in Conditions and * harshness of Nature; yet he of Castile as the younger, was hottest. The Aragonian com∣plain'd, that the Castilian countenanc'd his Brothers in raising Seditions in his Kingdom, and was offended that his Brother Ferdinand had put Castilian Garrisons into his Forts of Alicant and Orihuela. The King of Castile was incens'd; for that the Galleys of Aragon had taken certain Ships laden with Corn at the mouth of Guadalquivir, which made the want there was be∣fore more grievous; besides that, the Out-laws of Castile were protected in Aragon; and also, that the Aragonian Knights of Calatrava and Santiago, would not obey their Masters in Castile. Another new Complaint was added to all these, which was, That the King having reduc'd Castile went to Sevil, and thence for his Diversion, in a Galley to •ee the Fishery at Almadra∣vas, near S. Lucar. Two Ships lay then at Anchor in that Port: Ten Galleys of Aragon bound to the Assistance of the French, against the English, Coasting that way, spy'd those two Ships, and carry'd them away before the King's Face. This was a hainous Affront, and *Gutierre de Toledo was sent to demand satisfaction. The Aragonian Commander answer'd, that those Ships belong'd to Genoeses, with whom they were then at War, and might there∣fore lawfully be made Prize. Having receiv'd this positive Answer from the Admiral, the King of Castile sent Giles Velazquez de Segovia Embassador into Aragon, to demand Restitution of the Ships taken; and that the Commander of the Galleys should be deliver'd up to him. At that time the King of Aragon was fitting out a Fleet at Barcelona, to subdue the Rebels of Sardinia, and therefore return'd a favourable Answer, saying, He would give Satisfaction to the King of Castile, would banish his Fugitive Subjects out of Aragon, and punish the Admiral at his Return. But as for the Knights of Santiago and Calatrava, that they being Religious Men, he would stand by whatsoever the Pope should decree in that case. Giles Velazquez was not satisfy'd with this Answer; and therefore in his King's Name, declar'd War. The King of Aragon reply'd, he thought there was no sufficient ground for a War; and therefore would not commence it, but did not doubt, if invaded, to repulse it. Thus the War broke out. Many Catalonian Merchants resided at Sevil, in a moment they were all secur'd, and their Effects seiz'd upon. Both Kingdoms made Preparations, and endeavour'd to obtain Foreign Aids. Particularly Luis Brother to the King of Navarre, then a Prisoner in France, was so∣licited by both Parties, but he would declare for neither, tho he rather inclin'd to the Ara∣gonian. Incursions were made three several ways, into the Kingdom of Valencia. Prince Ferdinand of Aragon hoping that Kingdom would rebel, but he was deceiv'd, for they were terrify'd with Punishment. Thus the War was carry'd on at the end of August, with great Desolation of the Country. Near the same time was the memorable Battle of Poitiers in France, in which the whole power of that Kingdom was discomfited by a small Number of English,* the King of France, and his younger Son Philip taken, and a great number of Nobility slain. That famous Battel was fought on the 19th of September, 1356. Upon occasion of this defeat, the King of Navarre broke Prison, and getting to Paris, headed the People against the Dau∣phin.* There in a great Assembly he complain'd of the Wrongs done him, and pleaded his right to the Crown, as Grand-Son to King Luis Hutin, whereas the King of England was Son to the Lady Elizabeth that King's Sister. This had been a ground of new Confusions, but that the King of Navarre wanted Power. However he prevail'd so far as to have all that was his own restor'd to him, with an addition of the Lordships of Page  276Mascon and Bigorre. Yet he could not obtain the Earldoms of Champagne, Brie, and Burgundy, to which he pretended to have right. Heny Earl of Trastamara, escap∣ing from that Fight, fled to the King of Aragon, being invited by him. This was the first step he rose towards obtaining the Crown of Castile. It was agree'd betwixt the King of Aragon and him, That Count Henry should renounce his Country, and take an Oath of Fide∣lity to the Aragonian, and that the King should give him pay for 600 Horse, and as many * Foot, who were to serve under him. At the beginning of the Year 1357, the War went on with various Success on the Frontiers of Castile and Aragon. The Arigonians took Alicant,* the Castilians Embite and Bordalva. Chief Commanders for the King of Aragon were Count Henry, D. Peter de Exerica, and Count Lope Ferdnandez de Luna. For the King of Castile D. Frederick Master of Santiago, the two Princes of Aragon, and D. John de la Cerda. Those of Aragon serv'd their Master with greater Fidelity than those Castile, who at last were all drawn over by the Enemy. D. John de la Cerda, and Alvar Perez de Gusman were the first that deserted the King of Castile, remembring the death of D. Alonso Coronel whose Daugh∣ters they had marry'd, and who was kill'd by the King's Order, as also fearing the King had a Mind to Da. Aldonça, Wife to Alvar Perez. They fled to Andaluzia, hoping to raise a Re∣bellion there. At this time the King of Castile, laid Siege to a Castle on the Borders of Castile and Aragon, call'd Tebat, or as others write Silamo, there he receiv'd the News that those Gentlemen were fled into Andaluzia: He pursu'd them a while, but finding it impossible to overtake them, return'd to the War with more fury than before: He took some Towns of small Note, and with the same Violence enter'd Taraçona, a noble City near Navarre, on the 9th of March. The Citizens seeing the upper part of the Town lost, surrender'd upon promise of Life and Goods, and were suffer'd to depart to Tudela. It was said, this City was lost through the Cowardise of the Governour Michael de Guerrea, who not knowing how to answer it, with∣drew with his Family to Navarre. The King peopled the Town with Castillian Souldiers, di∣viding the Houses and Lands among them. This City being lost, the King of Aragon thought not himself safe in Zaragoça, especially for that, at the same time D. John de la Cerda was defeat∣ed and kill'd, by the Forces of the Council of Sevil, commanded by D. John Ponce de Leon, Lord of Marchena, and Gilos Bocanegra the Admiral. From France came the Earl of Faux with many Gentlemen of Note, to serve the King of Aragon. His Enemy the Lord La Brie came with a number of Lances to King Peter. Pope Innocent's Legate, the Cardinal of Bolonia sent to that purpose labour'd much to bring them to Peace, and at last obtained a Truce for 15 Months. Mean while Bernard de Cabrera, and John Fernandez de Hinestrosa were ap∣pointed Commissioners, the first for Aragon, the other for Castile, to treat. All Places ta∣ken on both sides were deliver'd in Trust to the Cardinal Legate, who excommunicated him that should offer to break the Truce. This Agreement was made on the 18th of May. This Month dy'd Alonso the IIId, King of Portugal, Aged 77 Years and a Half. He reign'd * 31 Years, 5 Months and 20 Days, and was buried by his Queen Beatrix, in the Cathedral of that City. His Son Peter call'd the Cruel, succeeded him. About a Month before he had a Son born to him of Da. Teresa Gallego, whom he kept after his Father, caus'd the Lady Ag∣nes de Castro to be put to death. She was graceful, but had no other good quality, her Son was call'd John, to whom Heaven had reserv'd the Crown of Portugal, as shall appear in its Place. The Truce concluded betwixt the Crowns of Castile and Aragon, the Aragonian de∣liver'd up to the Legate the Places he had taken, being but few, but King Peter could never be induc'd to draw the Souldiers out of Taraçona, to whom he had given Houses there. He went away to Sevil, to settle Andaluzia, and set out a Fleet to infest the Coast of Aragon, for he neither expected nor desir'd Peace. At Sevil he was so taken with the Lady Aldonça Coronel, that he made no account of Da. Maria de Padilla. The Legate offended at his course of Life, excommunicated him, and laid an Interdict upon all Castile. This was an extrava∣gant Action of the Legate, therefore the Pope call'd him out of Spain. All was contriv'd by the King of Aragon to make King Peter odious. Another Displeasure befel him. The Lady Joanna. Wife to Count Henry, was convey'd into Aragon, to her Husband by Peter Ca∣rillo, a Servant of his, which cut off all hope of Peace. The other Brothers Frederick and Tello were willing to rebel, but fear'd they could have nothing in Aragon equivalent to the Estates they must leave in Castile. Prince Ferdinand of Aragon kept the Town of Jumilla ta∣ken from the Aragonians, he dealing underhand with Bernard de Cabrera, went over to the King of Aragon upon conditition to be made Vicar of the Kingdom, and have all his Estate re∣stor'd. The Revolt of Count Henry, and Prince Ferdinand, as it was the Life of Aragon so it * prov'd fatal to their Brothers, as shall be seen here after. Mathew Doria dying in Sardinia, advanc'd the King of Aragons Interest, for tho Marianus of Arborea was not quiet, his Pow∣er alone was inconsiderable. Luis of Naples was possess'd of the greatest part of Sicily. Frederick call'd the Simple, who two Years before, succeeded his Brother Luis, was Young and Weak, as well in Judgment as Forces, and preserv'd the Title of King in the City Cata∣nea. The Power of the French daily increasing, he was so dismay'd, that he freely made over all his Dominions of Sicily, Athens, and Neopatria to his Sister Ellenor, Wife to the King of Aragon, to whom he sent a publick Instrument of this donation, to oblige him to send Forces to his Aid, but the Aragonian had his Hands so full at Home, that he could not relieve his Brother-in-Law. The Affairs of Sicily reduc'd to this miserable Condition, Page  277 were up-held by the Valour of D. 〈◊〉 de Aragon, Earl of Mistreta, and Lord Justice of Sici∣ly, who overthrew the Enemy in Battel, punish'd some Rebels, and redu'd others.

CHAP. II. The Kings of Castile and Aragon both call the Moors to their assistance. The War is car∣ry'd on vigorously on both sides. The Castilians treacherous to their King. He punishes many of them. The computation of time in Aragon alter'd.

REvenge carry'd the King's of Castile and Aragon headlong to their Ruin, and so blinded them, that they call'd the Moors to their assistance. The King of Granada sent a Body of * Horse to the Service of Castile, as was agreed betwixt them. The King of Aragon call'd over the King of Morocco. Pope Innocent by Letter grievously complain'd of this Action, but in vain. The Nobles of Castile were wrought upon by the Aragonians, and forsook their Prince. The first was Prince Ferdinand of Aragon, as was said above. Yet Jumilla by him betray'd, was retaken at the beginning of the Year 1358, by D. Frederick Master of Santiago. This done he went away to the King then at Sevil, who caus'd him to be put to death in his pre∣sence, * by his Guards, understanding he dealt underhand with the Aragonians. From Sevil the * King went with great speed to Biscay, designing the same Fate for the other Brother D. Tello, who suspecting it fled by Sea into France, and thence into Aragon. D. Tello being gone, Prince John of Aragon begg'd of the King he would put him into Possession of the Lordship of Biscay, to which he had right by his Wife the Lady Elizabeth, Daughter to D. John Nun̄ez de Lara. The King knowing he was associated with the rebellious Peers, caus'd him to be slain by his Guards in his presence, and his Body to be thrown out at a Window, and say'd to some Biscayners that look'd on, Behold him that would have been your Lord. His Body was carry'd to Burgos, there cast into the River, and never after seen. Queen Ellenor that Prince's Mother and the Lady Elizabeth his Wife, were sent Prisoners from Roa to the Castle of Castroxeriz. Six Heads of Men of Note were brought to him to Burgos from several Places. He had resolv'd to execute others at Valladolid, but was prevented by the Incursions, Count Henry and Prince Ferdinand made into his Territories, the former wasted all the Country of Campos, Soria and Almaçan, the other, the Kingdom of Murcia. From Osma the King went to Burgos, to pro∣vide against these Irruptions. Thence he sent to complain to the King of Aragon, that he had broke the Truce. That King answer'd, the Truce had been broken in retaking Jumilla, and calleng'd him to decide the Quarrel with 20, 50, or 100 Men of a side. King Peter made small account of his Challenge, but sent D. Gutierre Gomez de Toledo, lately made great Prior of St. John to secure the Kingdom of Murcia, others had other Commands given them. He himself went away to Sevil, where he had fitted 12 Galleys, which were joyn'd by 6 from Genoa, with which he design'd to scour the Coast of Valencia, and attempt the Maritime Towns. These Galleys took the Town of Guardamar, belonging to Prince Ferdinand, but were pre∣vented from taking the Castle, by a suddain Storm in which they all perish'd, except two that were out at Sea. This loss no way discourag'd the King, who burnt the Town, and march'd away to Murcia. Thence he sent his Favourite Martin Yanez to Sevil, to equip an∣other Fleet, and he having gather'd an Army from all parts, march'd away to Almaçan, and thence into the Enemies Country, where he took several Towns. Winter drawing on, he return'd to Sevil, resolving to fit out a great Fleet, to which purpose the King of Portugal his Uncle, sent him Ten Galleys, and he of Granada Three. This Year was remarkable for the Birth of the Lady Ellenor, Daughter to Peter King of Aragon, and of D. John Son to Count Henry, whom Heaven had decreed should be marry'd together, and inherit the Crown of Castile. This Year also it was ordain'd in the Cortes of Valencia, that the computation of * Years should no longer be taken from the Era of Cesar, but from the Birth of Christ. At the beginning of the Year 1359, the King of Aragon laid Siege to the strong Town of Medina Celi, but it being well defended, return'd to Zaragoça without any Success. The King of *Castile being on the way to relieve Medina Celi, understood the Cardinal of Bolonia, the Pope's Legate, was arriv'd at Almaçan. In that place the Legate had Audience, and earnestly ex∣horted the King in the Pope's Name, to incline to Peace with the Christians, and employ his Arms against the Infidels. The King answer'd he had been already impos'd upon by the King of Aragon, under pretence of Peace, and therefore was resolv'd to give no more Ear to it, unless the Aragoman would banish the out-Laws of Castile, restore the Towns wrongfully taken, during his Grand-fathers Minority, and pay 500000 Florins for the Charge of War. With this Answer the Legate went to the King of Aragon who excus'd himself, and laid the blame upon his Enemy, as is usual. The time was spent in Messages to and fro, and yet not so much as a truce could be concluded.

All hopes of Peace being laid aside, the King of Castile at Almaçan, declar'd Prince Ferdinand* and the two Brothers Count Henry and D. Tello Traytors. Queen Ellenor was put to death in Prison, and soon after the Lady Joanna de Lara. Her Sister the Lady Elizabeth was sent with Qu. Blanch from the Castle of Siguença to Xerez de la Frontera. This done the King imbarqu'd aboard Page  278 a Fleet of 41 Galleys, and 80 Ships, so well stord, and carrying so powerful an Army, that they were provided for any great Enterprize. By the way he took a mighty Venetian Garack, only because it resisted; it was carry'd to Cathagena, and all its rich Lading secur'd. The Fleet sail'd to Guardumar, and took both the Town and Castle by Storm. Alicant was aban∣doned by the Aragonians. D. Gutierre de Toledo was left with a good Force to secure the Towns taken. The King with the rest of the Fleet sail'd to Tortosa, at the Mouth of the Ri∣ver Ebro. There the Legate came aboard his Galley, and again made some Overtures of Peace, but in vain. Thence he sail'd to Barcelona, where he found 12 Galleys of Aragon, which he twice attempted to carry off but could not, because they lay near the Shore, and were bravely defended by the Catalonians. Thus disappointed he sail'd for the opposite Islands. He landed at Yviça, and tho he assaulted the Town of that Name, could not take it. Mean while the King of Aragon having gather'd 40 Galleys sail'd over to Majorca, de∣signing to Fight the Castilian Fleet. The King at the Request of his People stay'd in the Island, and sent the Fleet under the command of Bernard de Cabrera, his Admiral, and the Viscount to find out the Enemy, who leaving Yviça were come to Calpe with the same Reso∣lution. The Aragonian Fleet lay at the Mouth of the River that falls into the Sea, neat Denia, both Parties seem'd desirous to Ingage, yet both were cautious, so all this threaten'd Storm vanish'd. The Aragonians put into Barcelona, and the King of Castile from Cartagena sent his Fleet to Sevil, and went by Land himself to Tordesillas, to see Da. Maria de Padilla, who was there deliver'd of a Son call'd Alonso. The King's Joy for his Birth was not lasting, for he dy'd soon after. In the Fields of Araviana, at the foot of the Mountain Moncayo, Count Henry and his Brother D. Tello with 700 Aragonian Horse charg'd a Party of Castile, and * overthrew them, killing about 300, and taking many Men of Note. Among the rest was killed John Fernandez de Hinestrosa, the Commander in Chief. The King of Castile in a rage caus'd two Bastard Brothers he kept Prisoners to be put to Death, which were John and Pe∣ter. It is likely they were convicted of keeping Correspondence with the Rebels, yet this Action terrify'd the whole Kingdom. All the great Ones trembled, but doubtless it was their Guilt made them do so, for many Men of Quality not thinking themselves secure in Castile fled into Aragon. The King was charg'd with Cruelty, but the Subject consider'd not how many frequent Rebellions oblig'd him to make Examples of Justice. Having Intelli∣gence that 12 Venetian Galleys were ready to pass out of the Streights, the King sent 20 to Intercept them, but a Storm disappointed the Design. This is represented as a hainous Crime, without reflecting that is was say'd before the Venetians were in League with Aragon, and might therefore be justly looked upon as Enemies to Castile. But it was the Misfortune of this King to have all his Actions misrepresented, and to have those things call'd Cruelty in him, which were but just Punishment of Rebels. Yet because a Bastard prevail'd against him, that Bastard was applauded as lawful King, and the true King stiled a Tyrant. Such is the Judgment of the World, that Mis∣fortunes make the best King a Tyrant, and success Crowns the vilest Ʋsurper with the Name of a Lawful Prince. The Cardinal Legate took much pains to set on Foot a Treaty of Peace, which he compass'd at the beginning of the Year 1360. Embassadors were sent on both sides with full Power, and the King was near a Conclusion. Yet neither at Tudela, nor at Sadua, where * the Treaty was renew'd and continu'd, could any thing be brought to Perfection; for the Aragonians were incourag'd with their late Success, and the King of Castile after so many Disappointments would not yield the least Point. Yet finding so much Falshood among his People he knew not who to trust, and therefore every Day chang'd the Officers of his House∣hold and Army. This was the unhappy condition of King Peter.

CHAP. III. The Death of Queen Blanch, and Da. Maria de Padilla. Peace betwixt Castile and Aragon. The War with the Moors, and Death of their King. The King of Ara∣gon's Daughter marry'd to the King of Sicily.

THE Treaty of Peace was so carry'd on, that still fresh Preparations for War were made on both Sides. The King of Castile went from Sevil towards Leon in speed to appre∣hend *Peter Nun̄ez de Guzman Lieutenant of that Kingdom, but he having Notice of the King's approach fled to Portugal, a sign he was not Innocent. Peter Alvarez Osorio being at Dinner with D. James Garcia de Padilla Master of Calatrava was put to Death by two of the King's Guards. From Leon the King went to Burgos, where he put to Death, James Arias Maldo∣nado the Archdeacon, for keeping a Correspondence with Count Henry. Many others sav'd their Lives by the sudden Irruptions of the Aragonians under Count Henry, D. Tello, and the Count de Osona, into the Territory of Rioja, where they took the Town of Haro, and City Najara, killing a great Number of Jews, and making great Slaughter and Destructions. In this heat they advanc'd as for as Pancorvo. Gonzalo Gonzalez de Lucio, Governour of Tara∣çona for the King of Castile deliver'd it up to the Aragonians. The King of Castile march'd towards the Enemy then at Najara, and encamp'd near a small Town call'd Azofra. Here Page  279 a Priest came to tell him he had a Revelution that his Bastard Brother, Count Henry would kill him unless he mended his Life; but the King for his Intelligence caus'd him to be pub∣lickly Burnt in the Camp. From Azofra the King march'd towards Najara, and there to∣tally routed the Aragonians, who fled to the City, which might have been taken, but the King could not be perswaded to besiege it. Within two or three Days the Aragonians aban∣don'd Haro and Najara, and the King put Garrisons into them. Having secur'd the Fron∣tires he return'd to Sevil, and there agreed with the King of Portugal, that each should de∣liver up the Out-laws that fled from the other. The King of Portugal put to Death one Pe∣ter*Coello, and another because they had murder'd the Lady Agnes de Castro. James Lopez Pacheco, who had a Hand in her Death fled to Count Henry, who afterwards for his good Service gave him an Estate in Castile, and he was the Founder of the Noble Family of Pacheco. Others were deliver'd to the King of Castile, who put them to Death at Sevil. One of these was Peter Nun̄ez de Guzman, the Lieutenant of Leon. Another was Gomez Carillo beheaded in a Galley, as he was going by the King's Order from Sevil to Algozira, upon pretence of being Governor of that Place. Gutierre Fernandez de Toledo was put to Death at Alfaro, for favouring the Party of Count Henry. Gutierre Gomez and Toledo, and James Gomez Brother to the deceas'd, understanding he was Executed, fled to Aragon. D. Vasco, Arch-bishop of Toledo was banish'd the Kingdom without allowing him time to change his Cloaths. He went to Coimbra, where in a Monastery of Dominicans he ended his Days holily. Some Years af∣ter his Body was Translated to the Cathedral of Toledo. Many call this Archbishop Blase. It is suppos'd D. Vasco resign'd the Archbishoprick as soon as he was Banish'd, for the same Year we find D. Gomez Manrique succeeded him. Whilst these things happen'd in Castile, the King of Aragon sent 4 Galleys well equipp'd, to the Assistance of the King of Tremecen his Ally. They met 5 Galleys of Castile, which took and carry'd them to Sevil, there many of them with their Commander Mathew Merzero were put to Death by the King's Order. Samuel Levi a Jew was the King's Treasurer, and had the diposal of all the Revenue, where∣by he gather'd great Riches, which now prov'd his Ruin. He was accus'd of many Frauds, and being put to the Wrack dy'd upon it. The King seiz'd upon his Estate, valu'd at 400000 Ducats, others say more, besides Moveables and Jewels. At the end of this Year Mahomet*Lagus was expell'd his Kingdom by his own Subjects. Mahomet Aben Alhamar was set up in his Place, and from the Colour of his Hair, and Beard, call'd the Red. They said the Crowa appertain'd to him as being descended of the Antient Kings of Granada. Hence en∣su'd new Wars, for the King of Castile was a Friend to him that was depos'd, who fled to Ronda, a Town belonging to the King of Morocco. The King of Castile resolv'd to stand by his old Friend. On the other side the new King to strengthen himself sought the Friendship of the Aragonian, which, and calling King Abohanen out of Africk, cost him his Life. At the end of this Year, the Lady Constance, Daughter to the King of Aragon was sent into Si∣cily to be marry'd to King Frederick. Olfo Prochita, Governour of the Island Sardinia com∣manded the Fleet that carry'd her. The Marriage was celebrated on the 11th of April 1361, * at Catanea. From that time the Affairs of the Island began to be more Successful; the Neo∣politans being vanquish'd and expell'd the Kingdom. Of this Queen was born the Lady Ma∣ry, who was afterwards Queen of Aragon, and had in Dower the Kingdom of Sicily. At length by the Industry of the Cardinal Legate, Peace was concluded in Castile, yet so that none thought it would be lasting. The Articles were, That all Places taken on both Sides should be restor'd, and that the Out-laws of Castile should be expell'd Aragon, provided the * King pardon'd them. On the 18th of May the Peace was Proclaim'd at Deza, where the King of Castile was then encamp'd. This Peace was forwarded by the fear of the War the King of Granada then made upon Castile. For the greater security it was agreed that cau∣tionary Towns on both sides should be put into the Hands of King Charles of Navarre, who was then coming out of France into Spain very Joyful, for that his Queen had brought him a Son call'd Charles. Mean while his Brother Prince Luis Govern'd the Kingdom. Peace con∣cluded, the King of Aragon went away to Zaragoça, and he of Castile to Sevil, Count Henry and his Brothers into France, hoping to renew the War. Many Nobles of Castile were rea∣dy to take up Arms upon pretence of protecting Queen Blanch; which heightned the King's hatred towards her. It was said he caus'd her to be Poison'd in the Prison where he kept * her. She was doubtless the most unfortunate Queen of Spain. There is a report that the King being a Hunting near Medina Sidonia, there met him a Shepherd of a terrible Aspect, threatning him if he had not Compassion of Queen Blanch, and that the King sending pre∣sently to see whether it was not some body employ'd by her, she was found at Prayers, and closely Guarded. The Shepherd being releas'd out of Prison, was never after seen. Doubt∣less were this a Vision, he had never been put into Prison. The Lady Elizabeth de Lara, Daughter to D. John de Lara, was also Poison'd in Prison at Xerez. An Historian who stiles himself head Caterer to Queen Ellenor of Castile, in certain Commentaries he writ upon what happen'd in his Time, says, Queen Blanch dy'd at Ʋren̄a near the City Toro in old Castile. This uncertainty as to the Place of her Death makes it appear, the manner of it is not so cer∣tain, tho the Malice of Authors, who all humour'd the Success of Henry the Bastard, caus'd all Crimes to be laid to his Predecessor Peter, because he was Unfortunate.

Page  280 The publick Grief for so many Calamities was somewhat asswag'd by the Death of D^a.*Maria de Padilla, who ended her Days at Sevil in July. A Woman, laying aside her Inconti∣nency, in all other Respects worthy to be a Queen. Her Funeral-Rites were perform'd throughout the Kingdom, with the same Magnificence as if she had been Queen. She was bury'd in the Monastery of S. Mary de Estudilla, which she built in old Castile. The Body of Queen Blanch was deposited in the Cathedral of Tudela, by some French Gentlemen, who came to the Assistance of Count Henry, in order to carry it into France. In the Monastery of Dominican Nuns at Toledo there are 3 Tombs, one of the Lady Teresa, by whom King Peter had a Daughter called Mary, who was many Years Prioress in that Monastery, and lies in the 2d Tomb. In the 3d are D. Sancho, and D. James, Sons of King Peter, by the Lady *Elizabeth. At this time the King of Portugal solemnly declar'd in Lisbon, that the Children he had by the Lady Agnez de Castro, were born in lawful Wedlock, and as such capable of inheriting the Crown, and as Witnesses of his Marriage, he produc'd Giles Bishop of Guardia, and Stephen Lovata his Master of the Robes. The King and Witnesses made Oath of the Truth of their Assertion, in the Presence of all the Nobility, and of John Alonso Tello the year before created Earl of Barcelos, and was the first that obtain'd that Honour in Portugal. Mean while the War of Granada was carry'd on with great Heat. The Forces of Castile ravag'd the Territories of the Moors, and laid Siege to Antequera, formerly call'd Syngilia, a strong and well Garrison'd Town, whence they were Repuls'd. Having wasted the Plain of Granada, they return'd Home without performing any memorable Action. Soon after 600 Moorish Horse, and 2000 Foot broke into the Lieutenancy of Caçorla, and took a great Booty of Cattle. The Gentry of Jaen, and the Neighbouring Places assembling recovered the Prey, killing many of the Enemy, and putting the rest to Flight. A more dangerous War was expected from France; which the Cardinal Legate endeavour'd to prevent, and to that effect spent the Summer at Pamplona. He labour'd to perswade King Peter to pardon the Out-laws of Castile, and reverse their Attainder of Treason. The King would not hear of it, therefore the Cardinal at the Solicitation of the King of Aragon took upon him to de∣clare their Attainder Void. This provok'd the King of Castile, who resolv'd to take Re∣venge * as soon as he had put an end to the War with the Moors. On the 18th of February 1362, the Moors obtain'd a notable Victory over the Christians near Guadix. D. James Garcia de Padillu, Master of Calatrava, and Henry Enriquez, Lieutenant of the Frontiers of Jaen, with * other Gentlemen entred the Moorish Territories, with 1000 Horse, and 2000 Foot, design∣ing * to Attack Guadix. A great Number of Men was put into that Place unknown to the Christians, who sent some Troops to Plunder the Fields, call'd Val de Alhama. The Moors perceiving they were divided, fell upon those with great Fury that remain'd behind. The Fight lasted all Day, but the Number of Moors prevailing, many of our Men were kill'd, many taken, and among them the Master of Calatrava, who was carry'd to Granada, and that King being desirous to appease King Peter, sent him away without any Ransom. King Peter believing this Courtesy proceeded from fear, assembling his Forces, enter'd the King∣dom of Granada, took several Towns, and return'd to Sevil with a rich Booty. To this Misfortune of the Moorish Kings another was added, which was, that many Men of Note forsook him, and favour'd his Adversary, Mahomet Lagus, who was in Banishment. The King fearing he should be expelled the Kingdom, consulted with his Friends what was best to be done, and by the advice of one Edriz a constant follower of his Fortunes, having obtain'd a Pass, came away to Sevil with 400 Horse, and 200 Foot, to put himself under the Protection of the King of Castile. The King receiv'd him Honourably in the Palace of Sevil, and having heard him, promis'd all should be well. Then he was sent to Sup with D. Gar∣cia*de Toledo, the Master of Santiago; whilst they were at Supper the Moorish King was ap∣prehended, and a few Days after being Cloath'd in his Royal Robes, which were Scarlet, was carry'd out upon an Ass, with 37 of his Gentlemen, to the publick Place of Execution, which is near the City, and is call'd Tablada. There they were all put to Death. It was given out their Riches were the Cause of their Death, and some Authors say King Peter himself slew the Moorish King with a Spear. His Body was sent to his Competitor, Mahomet Lagus, who immediately recover'd his Kingdom, and sent away all the Christians taken at the Fight of Guadix, without Ransom.

CHAP. IV. Castile and Navarre joyn in League. The War is carry'd on Successfully against Ara∣gon, by King Peter of Castile, who declares the Lady Mary de Padilla to have been his lawful Wife. The Death of John King of France, and Constance Queen of Aragon.

THE War with the Moors being ended, the King of Castile bent his Thoughts against Ara∣gon, but gave out that the Preparations he made were to defend himself against France. He resolv'd to make a League with England, fearing the King of France would take Revenge * for the Wrongs done his Neece, Queen Blanch. At Soria he had a Meeting with the King of Navarre, and they made a League against Aragon, the Navarrois pretending to take Re∣venge, for that the Aragonian being his Brother in Law and Ally, had not assisted him when he was Prisoner in France. Having therefore assembl'd all the Force of his Kingdom, he lay'd Siege to the Town of Sos in Aragon, and took it after a vigorous Resistance made. At the same time the King of Castile with an Army of 10000 Horse, and 30000 Foot entred Aragon, resolving to besiege Calatayud. By the way he took Hariza, Ateca, Cetina, and Al∣hama, and in June sat down before the strong City of Calatayud, within it was a numerous and resolute Garrison. The King of Aragon considering the Danger the Besieg'd were in, sent the Count de Osona, Son to Bernard Cabrera, D. Peter de Luna, his Brother D. Artal, and other Gentlemen to attempt getting into the Town, that they might encourage the Besieg'd till he could send them Relief. They being come to Miedes, a Town near Calatayud, King Peter who had notice of it surpriz'd the Place, and carry'd them away Prisoners to the Camp. The King of Aragon being unprovided sent to desire Aid in France, and to call Count Henry and his Brother D. Tello to his Assistance. Relief was long a coming, and the City no longer able to hold out, was surrendred upon the 29th of August, upon Condition the Inhabitants should remain free in their Persons and Estates, as they had been under the Crown of Aragon. This City being taken, and a good Garrison put into it, under the com∣mand of the Master of Santiago, the King return'd to Sevil. Here before he went to Cala∣tayud he had held the Cortes or Parliament, in which he publickly declar'd and vouched that D^a. Maria de Padilla had been his lawful Wife, he being privately Marry'd to her long be∣fore Queen Blanch came into Spain, which made his Marriage with that Lady void. That * he had not discover'd it before, fearing the Malice of the Nobility; but thought himself now oblig'd in Conscience to do it, as also for the sake of the Children he had by her. He order'd she should for the future be call'd Queen, and bury'd among the Kings. On the 17th of October following dy'd his Son Alonso, whom he design'd his Heir. On the 18th of November the King made his Will, in which he orders himself to be bury'd with the Habit of S. Francis, betwixt D^a. Maria de Padilla, and his Son Alonso. It appears he was not so re∣mote from godly Thoughts as his Enemies represent him, tho his violent Nature often trans∣ported him. By this Will he appoints his Daughters by D^a. Maria de Padilla successively his Heiresses, and after them his Son John, by the Lady Joanna de Castro. The Witnesses of the Marriage produc'd, were of undoubted Reputation, such as D. Garcia de Padilla, Master of Calatrava, John Fernandez de Hinestrosa, one John Alsonso de Mayorga, and John Perez a Priest, who all made Oath upon that Matter. In one Article of his Will, he forbid his Daughters on pain of incurring his Curse, and forfeiting the Crown, marrying of Prince Ferdinand of Aragon, or Count Henry, or D. Tello his Bastard Brothers; but order'd Beatrix the Elder to marry Ferdinand Prince of Portugal; and that the Crown of Castile should be her Dower. D. Garci Alvarez de Toledo, Master of Santiago, was appointed her Tutor. He also ordain'd that D. James de Padilla, Master of Calatrava, and D. Suero Martinez, Master of Alcantara should be supported in their Estates, Honours, and Dignities. Having setl'd all things in the dead of Winter, being the beginning of the Year 1363, the War was carry'd on with * great Vigour. Levies were made throughout the Kingdom, and a League with the King of *England. Malvenda, Aranda, and Borgia, with other Towns of less Note were taken, and Taraçona besieg'd. On the other side the King of Navarre made an Incursion into Aragon, and destroy'd all the Country wherever he came. Luis, Brother to the King of Navarre, Giles Fernandez Carvallo, Master of Santiago in Portugal, with 300 Horse, and some French Gentlemen came to serve the King of Castile. The King of Aragon courted him of Granada to make War in Andaluzia, but he refus'd, acknowledging the Favour lately receiv'd. He also solicited the African Moors, and excus'd himself for so doing, by the Example of the King of Castile, whom Farax Reduan serv'd with 600 Moorish Horse, sent by the King of Gra∣nada. Count Henry was daily expected out of France with 3000 Lances, yet all the Power of Aragon was Inferior to that of Castile, wherefore Taraçona, Tervel, Segorbe, Exerica, and ma∣ny other Places surrender'd. The Castilians without Opposition peirc'd into the Heart of the Kingdom, and took Monviedro. On the 20th of July they besieg'd Valencia. In Aragon they gave themselves for lost, when Count Henry arriving reinforc'd their Army, so that they durst advance towards the Enemy. But the Army of Castile being much weaken'd with Page  282 Garrisoning the Towns taken, the King would not hazzard a Battel, and therefore retir'd to Monviedro. The Aragonian perceiving he could not draw the Enemy to a Battel, retir'd to Burrlanna a strong Town. 2000 Horse were sent by the King of Castile to disturb their March, but they did nothing worth taking notice of. Whilst these Things were in Agitati∣on in Spain, King John of France dy'd at London, whether he went to ransom the Hostages left there when he was releas'd. His Son Charles the Vth. succeeded him. Charles the * new King was an utter Enemy to him of Navarre, therefore as soon as he was possess'd of the Kingdom, he sent Bertran Claquin, a famous General with an Army to invade his Ter∣ritories in France. This General took several Towns, and overthrew in Battle Philip the King's Brother, who soon after dy'd. His death mov'd the King of Navarre to propose a Peace betwixt the Kings of Spain. Besides, he began to pity his Kinsman, the King of Aragon, and was envious of the Success of the Castilian. Hereupon Luis the King of Navarre's Brother, and the Abbot of Fuscan, the Popes Nuncio, went to treat with the King of Ca∣stile, and found with him the Count de Denia and Bernard de Cabrera, Embassadors from the King of Aragon. These Gentlemen mollify'd the King of Castile's Heart, especially by pro∣posing two Matches, one for him with Joanna Daughter to the King of Aragon, the other for his Daughter Beatrix, with John Duke of Girona, Heir of that Crown. This is what was propos'd publickly. Underhand the death of Henry Earle of Trastamana, and Prince Ferdinand of Aragon were contriv'd, but the King of Aragon was unwilling to condescend. Never∣theless whether it was to please the King of Castile or for any other Reason, Prince Ferdinand was put to death at Castellon, a Town near Burriana. The old Animosities were reviv'd, and he was about making his escape into France, with some Castilians that follow'd him. His Wife flying towards Portugal, was taken by the way, and afterwards sent to her Father. Count Henry was not a little pleas'd at the death of Prince Ferdinand, as being thereby deli∣ver'd of a powerful Competitor in his pretensions to the Crown of Castile. But his Joy had like to be but short, for the next day he was in evident Danger of his Life, without knowing any thing of it. The Kings of Aragon and Navarre had agreed to meet together, with Count Henry, in the Castle of Ʋncastel, belonging to the Aragonian, on the Borders of Navarre, and there to kill him. The Count tho ignorant of the Design was jealous, and would not go into the Castle. To satisfy him, John Ramirez de Arellano was made Governour of the Place, in whom doubtless the Count had some Confidence, and went thither upon his patole. Some say this Meeting was at Sos, on the Frontiers of Navarre. This Caution sav'd Count Henry's Life, for the Kings could not prevail with the Governour to suffer him to come to any harm. He said the Count was his Friend; and besides, he had ingag'd his Honour to him, and therefore on no account would blast his Reputation, with the Name of Treachery. About this time Constance Queen of Sicily, ended her days at Catanea. She left one Daughter * called Mary, who afterwards inherited her Father's Kingdom, which in her right came to Martin Her Husband, the Son of another Martin Duke of Monblanc, and lastly, King of Ara∣gon. The Treaty of Peace being broke up, the King of Aragon went to Catalonia, to provide for his defence. He of Castile return'd to Sevil with such eager Desire of renewing the War, that about the end of the Year, he enter'd the Kingdom of Valencia, took the Towns of Ali∣cant, Muela, Gallosa, Denia, Gandia and Oliva, and in the Month of December laid Siege to Valencia the Metropolis of that Kingdom.

CHAP. V. Count Henry proclaimed King of Castile. King Peter expelled the Kingdom. Re∣fus'd entertainment in Portugal, gathers a Fleet in Galicia, and flies into France to the protection of the English.

THE King of Aragon who kept his Christmas at Lerida, was much surpris'd at this Ad∣vance of the Castilians. On the 23d of February 1364, he had a Conference with the King of Navarre at Sos. Count Henry was there, being reconcil'd to the Two Kings, or ** what is likelyest, not knowing what had been design'd against him. They make a Confede∣racy which was not lasting. Castile they divided among themselves: The King of Navarre was to have Biscay, and old Castile; he of Aragon, the Kingdoms of Murcia and Toledo, Count Henry all the other parts. Only Bernard de Cabrera lik'd not these Proceedings, therefore they resolv'd to kill him, which was not so private, but he had some notice of it, and fled to Navarre. Count Henry sent some Officers after him, by whom he was apprehended at Car∣castillo, and deliver'd to the King of Aragon. That King having gather'd his Forces, march'd to raise the Siege of Valencia. The Castilians would not come to a Battel, but kept within their Intrenchments, and so the Aragonians got into Valencia. The Fleet of Castile consisting of 24 Galleys, and 46 Ships sail'd to Monviedro, there they understood that the Viscount Car∣dona was with 17 Galleys of Aragon, in the River of Cullera. The King of Castile made thi∣ther resolving to take them, but at the Mouth of the River, a sudden Tempest forc'd him back to the Port from whence he set out. The King himself was in great Danger, and Page  283 therefore as soon as he Landed went in Pilgrimage to the Church of our Lady del Puch, to give Thanks. He is said to have done this Barefoot and in his Shirt, which shews he was not so ungodly as he is represented. After this, the King of Aragon return'd to Barcelona, he of Castile to Murcia, and thence to Sevil, in the Heat of Summer. On the 26th of July, Bernard de Cabrera was publickly put to death at Zaragoça, the King himself giving Sentence against him, and consiscating all his Lands. This was doubtless a cruel Act, for he had serv'd well, * was Innocent, and had been the King's Tutor, all his Crime was speaking the Truth to the King's Advantage; but Kings love Flatterers. The Queen, the King of Navarre, Count Henry, and Count de Ribagorça contriv'd his death. The War continu'd hot. Ayora in the Kingdom of Valencia was taken by the King of Castile. D. Gutierre de Toledo Master of Cala∣trava, leading a Convoy to Monviedro, was defeated and kill'd by the Aragonians. Martin Lopez de Cordova, succeeded him. The King of Castile thought to make himself Master of Orihuela, but the Aragonian offering him Battel, and he refusing, the place was relieved, and the Aragonian return'd home. At the beginning of the Year 1365, the King of Aragon be∣sieg'd *Monviedro, and had it surrender'd to him. On the other side the Castilians after a long Siege took Orihuela. D. Gomez de Porras Prior of St. John, either because he fear'd King Pe∣ter, for loosing Monviedro, or to curry favour with Count Henry, deserted to the Aragonians with 600 Horse that were in that Town. From this time the Forces of Castile began to de∣crease, and there being Peace betwixt France and England, many French came to serve the King of Aragon. These were no better than common Robbers, to whom the Pope and King * of France gave great Summs of Mony to purchase their absence. They were invited into Spain by Count Henry. This Body was made up of English and Germans, as well as French, to the Number of 12000: Frossarte a French Historion says 30000. Bertran Claquin and Hugo Carbolaye were their chief Commanders. On the First of January 1366 their advanc'd Parties came to *Barcelona, the rest of them soon after. The King of Aragon receiv'd them joyfully, distribu∣ted a Summ of Mony among them, and promised much more. Bertran Claquin he made Earl of Borgia. The King of Castile held his Cortes or Parliament at Burgos, and demanded supplies of Mony. Monsieur de la Brie who came out of France to serve him; advis'd to buy off the Strangers that follow'd Count Henry, and undertook to manage that affair, but King Peter being a Man without fear, gave no attention to his Counsel. Count Henry and the King of Aragon met at Zaragoça where the foreign Forces were. There the League betwixt them was renew'd, the limits of their Dominions in case they succeeded determin'd, and it was agreed that D. John the Count's Son should marry Ellenor the King's Daughter. This done the King stay'd at Zaragoça, and Count Henry having assembled all his Army enter'd Castile by the way of Alfaro. Ynigo Lopez de Horosco was Governour of that Town, which was very strong, therefore the Army stay'd not to besiege it, but march'd towards Calahorra, the chief City in those parts, seated on the River Ebro. Ferdinand Bishop of that place, and Fernan Sanches de To∣var the Governour open'd the Gates to the Count on the 16th of March. Here a Councel was held to consider how to proceed. Some were for marching directly to Burgos, the chief City of Castile. Others advis'd Count Henry to take the title of King, that so there might remain no hope of reconciliation, with King Peter of Castile. Bertran Claquin spoke much to this pur∣pose, and all the chief Officers of the Army siding with him, they easily perswaded him to ac∣cept * of the Title, and immediately proclaim'd him about the Streets. The new-made King was bountiful of what was not his own, giving Towns and Cities to all present. To Bertran Claquin he gave Trastamara, and to Hugo Carbolaye Carrion with the Title of Earls. To his Brother D. Tello he restor'd Biscay, to D. Sancho he gave Albuquerque, the Master-Ship of San∣tiago to Gonçalo Mexia, that of Calatrava to Peter Muniz, to D. Alonso de Aragon that King's Uncle, the Marquisate of Villena, and all that belonged to D. John Manuel, and as much more to many others.

Thus Castile was divided betwixt two Kings striving for the Crown. Nothing kept the people in their Obedience to King Peter but fear, tho his was the undoubted Right, the other * being a Bastard. Henry advanc'd towards Burgos, leaving Logron̄o as believing it in vain to at∣tempt it. Navarrete and Bribiesca surrendred. King Peter was at Burgos, doubtful that course to take, as confiding but little in his People. At length he resolv'd to go to Sevil, for there were his Children and Treasure. The People of Burgos offer'd to stand by him, he thank'd them, but would not then make use of their Zeal, and absolv'd them from their Oath of Fidelity, that if they were put to Streights, they might receive Count Henry without being look'd up∣on as Rebels. Before his departure he put to death John Fernandez de Tovar, Brother to him that deliver'd up Calahorra. On the 28th of March he set out from Burgos, sending Orders by the way to the Commanders of the conquer'd places in Aragon to burn them, and with * all Speed march to meet him at Toledo. Thus all he gain'd in some Years, was lost in one Day. He stay'd some time at Toledo to secure that City, and left D. Garci Alvarez de Toledo Master of Santiago, to command there. No sooner was King Peter gone from Burgos but the Citizens sent to invite Count Henry thither. They stil'd him Count, but offer'd him the Crown, if he would take it in that City, according to ancient Custom. He accepted their Offer, march'd thither and was Crown'd in the Monastery of Huelgas. After the Example of Burgos, most Cities in that Kingdom within 25 Days submitted to him. Thus his Power became equal to his Adversary, the Nobility and Commonalty striving to gain the Favour of the new King. Page  284 The Affairs of Castile and Leon being setled, he remov'd to Toledo, where he was receiv'd with joy. Garci Alvarez de Toledo, resign'd the Mastership of Santiago, in lieu thereof, and for deserting his Master, had Oropisa and Valdecorneja given him. Count Henry being pos∣ses'd of Toledo all the rest was easy, so that King Peter durst not stay longer in the Kingdom, but imbarq•ing his Children and Treasure aboard a Galley, fled to Portugal. The King of Portugal would not receive him. Ferdinand his Son favour'd Count Henry, and kept correspon∣dence with him. Yet King Peter had no Wrong offer'd him, but was suffer'd to pass quietly through that Kingdom into Galicia, where he design'd to gather a Fleet in order to sail to Bay∣onne. At Compostella he caus'd D. Suero Arch-Bishop of that See, and the Dean to be put to death. Having got together Twenty two Ships and some smaller Vessels, he set Sail for France, carrying with him his Son D. John, and two Daughters, for Beatrix the eldest was dead tho Polydore writes she dy'd at Bayonne. There he arriv'd safe; that place being then in the Hands of the English, with a considerable part of his Treasure, for the rest which his * Treasurer Martin Yanez had in a Galley, was taken by the People of Sevil to please Count Henry, who after the surrender of Cordova was expected at Sevil. The new made King Henry being come to Sevil, concluded Peace with the Kings of Portugal and Granada. That done, as if nothing more remain'd to do, he disbanded his Army, retaining only 15000 Lances of the Foreignes, under the command of Bertran Claquin, and Bernal Son to the Earl of Faux. His Wife and Daughter-in-Law, the Princess Ellenor came to him but of Ara∣gon, and with them D. Lope Fernandez de Luna, Arch-Bishop of Zaragoca, and several other Men of Note. It was requisite to settle the Kingdom and raise Mony, for it was not doubted but a Storm threaten'd from France. Therefore the Cortes were assembled at Burgos, and there John the Son of the new King Henry was sworn Heir to the Crown, after his Fathers Decease. The Tenth of all things sold, was here given him without any limitation of time. Their hatred to King Peter binded them, so as not to reflect how heavy a Burden they lay'd up∣on the Country. King Henry gave to the City Burgos, for their Service at his Coronation, the Town of Miranda de Ebro. D. Dominick was at this time Bishop of Burgos, who Ele∣ction was remarkable. His Predecessor Ferdinand dying, the Chapter could not agree who should succeed. It was therefore resolv'd to stand the Decision of this Dominick, being then one of the Canons. He without regarding the Competitors said, Since there must be a Bishop let Dominick himself be Bishop. All the Chapter rejoye'd at his Choice, and he was according∣ly consecrated. About this time D. Lope de Luna the Archbishop, came again into Castile, being sent Embassador by the King Aragon, to demand Performance of Covenants, and a great Summ of Mony he had lent Count Henry. The new King acknowledg'd the Debt and all that was demanded to be due, but said the Kingdom being not yet setled, he could not alinate so great a part of it without exposing himself to extraordinary Danger, yet as∣soon as he were well fixed, he would perform all Articles, and in the mean while look'd upon the King of Aragon as his Father and Preserver. This he said to amuse that King, be∣being resolv'd to part with nothing. Thus Princes devote themselves to their Interest without regarding Promises or Oaths.

CHAP. VI. The War betwixt France, Navarre, and Aragon. King Peter of Castile supported by the English in France: Is brought into Spain by the Prince of Wales with an Army; Overthrows Henry the Ʋsurper, and recovers his Kingdom.

THE War commenc'd three Years befor this, betwixt France and Navarre, still conti∣nu'd with disadvantage to the latter, who lost several Towns. At Toulouze a League* was concluded betwixt the Kings of France and Aragon, wherein it was agree'd that the Ara∣gonian should make War upon Navarre, to which effect the King of France was to assist him with 500 Lances maintain'd at his own cost. This being known to the King of Navarre, he stay'd in Spain, to make head against the Aragonian, by whose command Luis Coronel was al∣ready wasting the Frontiers of that Kingdom. He sent the Queen his Wife, tho with Child, into France, to try if she could bring that King her Brother to Composition. Her Journey pro∣ved in vain for the King of France was resolv'd to seize all that the Navarrois possess'd in France. At Evreux in Normandy, the Queen was brought to Bed of her Second Son call'd Peter, who was Earl of Mortaine. With him in the heat of Summer, she return'd to Navarre, not lik∣ing her Entertainment in France. It was requisite for the King of Navarre to seek some new Allyes; he thought it convenient to joyn with King Peter then in Banishment, who made him great Offers, as Men commonly do in distress. King Peter of Castile was then busy soli∣citing for Succours to recover his Kingdom, and particularly apply'd himself to Edward Prince of Wales who then govern'd Guienne for his Father. They met at Cabreron, a Town not far from Bayonne; King Charles of Navarre was with them. The Prince invited them to Dinner, * King Peter was seated on the Right Hand, and the Prince next to him; on the left sat King Charles by himself. There they swore to the Articles of Allyance made betwixt them, which were, Page  285 That King Peter should be restored to his Kingdom: That the Prince for his Service there∣in should have Biscay, the King of Navarre Logron̄o; and, That King Peter should leave his Daughters in Guienne, as Hostages for performance of Articles, and payment of Mony, lent him to defray the Army. The King of Aragon renew'd his League with France. He of Na∣varre fearing all the Burden of the War would fall upon him, chang'd his Mind, and meeting Henry, the new-made King of Castile at Campeio, concluded a League with him by which it was Articled, That the King of Navarre should not give Passage to the English through his Dominions: That he should assist Henry against them, and deliver up certain Towns for Se∣curity of Performance: That Henry should give him the Town of Logron̄o, promis'd to him not long before by King Peter. About this time Luis, Brother to the King of Navarre mar∣ry'd Joanna, Dutchess of Durazzo in Macedonia, as eldest Daughter and Heiress to Duke Charles, to whom Pope Ʋrban the VIth some time after gave the Investiture of the Kingdom of Naples. Because there is generally a mistake made in the Genealogy of these Princes I thought good to set it down here. Charles the IId, King of Naples was Father to John Duke of Durazzo; John had Charles and Luis. Charles was Father to John and Margarite. Luis the other Son to John had Charles that came to be King of Naples, and Joanna who we said mar∣ry'd Luis, Brother to the King of Navarre. On the 18th of January 1367, (some Authors * say a Year later) King Peter of Portugal dy'd at Estremoz. He liv'd 46 Years, 9 Months, * and one Day; and reign'd 9 Years, 9 Months, and 28 Days. His Body was bury'd with great Pomp at Alcobaça near to the Lady Agnes de Castro. He left a Revenue for Chaplains to pray for his Soul, and those of his Predecessors, was a rigorous observer of Justice, and much lamented by his People. He order'd that nothing should be taken up for his Use up∣on trust, but paid for at the full Value with ready Mony; made wholsome Laws to curb the Avarice of Judges and Lawyers, was most Severe against Malefactors, particularly for Adul∣tery, insomuch that he is say'd to have struck the Bishop of Porto on that Account, and us'd Yearly to distribute a considerable Sum of Mony among his Servants according to the Merits of every Man. His Son Ferdinand succeeded him, who concluded a Peace with the King of *Aragon's Embassadors. This King kept the Lady Ellenor de Meneses, whom he took from her Husband Laurence Vasquez de Acuna, who therefore fled to Castile, and is said always to have worn in his Cap a pair of Silver Horns denoting the King's Lust, and his own Shame.

All France and Spain resounded with Warlike Preparations. Henry the new-made King * was at Burgos gathering an Army to oppose the Enemy, who had passed the Mountains at Ronoesvalles, and without meeting any Opposition advanc'd to Pamplona, that King being de∣tain'd a Prisoner at Burgid, by Oliver de Mani, who held that Place for Bertran Claquin, and took the King as he was Hunting. From Burgos Henry set out with a great Number of Foot, and 4500 Horse compos'd of all the Gentry of Castile, with the French and Aragonians that came to his Assistance. At the Wood of Ban̄ares he held a Council of War. The French Embassadors, and Bertran Claquin were against Fighting, and gave several Reasons for this their Opinion. Others more hot would not hear of Delays. The worst Advice was taken and the Army march'd towards Alava to oppose some Parties of Horse that spoil'd that Country. Near Saldrian they encamp'd in Sight of the Enemy upon an Advantagious Ground, the Rear cloas'd up with Mountains. The English perceiving that Advantage, march'd away towards Logron̄o, which was for King Peter, resolving to draw the Enemy to a Battle, or else to pierce into the Heart of the Kingdom. Henry understanding their Design mov'd back∣wards towards Najara, made famous by the Battle fought there. Some Letters pass'd be∣twixt the Princes, but the Difference being a Crown, it was impossible to reconcile them, and therefore they order'd their Battles. On the right Henry plac'd the French, and his Bro∣ther *Sancho with most of the Nobility of Castile, on the left his Brother D. Tello, and the Earl of Denia: He and his Son D. Alonso commanded the main Body. On the Enemies side who consisted of about 10000 Horse, and as many Foot, the Duke of Lancaster led the Van, with Hugo Carbolaye, who was gone over to the English; the Count de Armagnac, and Mon∣sieur de la Brie, commanded in the Body; the Rear was brought up by King Peter, the Prince of Wales, and Jayme Son to the King of Majorca, who after he escap'd out of Prison had mar∣ry'd Joanna Queen of Naples. Charles King of Navarre sent 300 Horse under Martin Enri∣que to serve King Peter. Henry had pass'd a River that ran between the two Armies, and drawn up his beyond it. Here both Armies met with great Fury. The Right of Henry's Army where Claquin commanded, stood firm, and seem'd to have the better, but D. Tello on the Left fled without so much as giving a Charge. Thus Bertran, and D. Sancho being encompass'd on all Sides, were easily Overthrown, with a great Slaughter of the No∣bility and Commanders. Henry did all that could be expected, to stop and rally his Man, but seeing all lost, fled to Najara, and thence into Aragon, with a few Men of Note that follow'd him. He made no stay, fearing that King, but went quite through into France. His Army was so dispersed, that no one Body was to be found in any Place. After the Fight, * King Peter put to Death some of the Prisoners, others were protected by the English, and the Prince of Wales is say'd to have blam'd him for that Severity. Peter Lopez de Ayala, who writ the History of King Peter, was one of the Prisoners, and therefore deserves little Cre∣dit; having writ Maliciously, as being Attainted of Treason at Alfaro. This Battle was fought upon a Saturday, being the 3d of April 1367. D. Tello carry'd the News of the defeat Page  286 to Burgos, and the Lady Joanna, Wife to Henry, with the Archbishops of Toledo, and Zara∣goça, fearing King Peter, fled to Aragon, where they were not well receiv'd for that King was resolv'd to side with the Conqueror. To that purpose Hugo Carbolaye was already in Aragon, and because it requir'd more time to settle a Peace, a Truce was for the present concluded. King Peter with all his Army march'd to Burgos, where he apprehended the Arch-bishop of Braga for s•ding with his Enemy, and put him into a Dungeon. The King was perplex'd about performing what he had Covenanted: It was hard to deliver up Biscay to the Prince of Wales, because that People would never condescend to be Subject to a Stranger, and it was no less difficult to raise so great a Sum of Mony as was due to the Eng∣lish. In order to raise the Mony, he went to Toledo, and thence to Cordova, where he caus'd 16 Men of Note to be Executed, for admitting his Enemy. Others were executed at Sevil.* Among them Da. Ʋrraca de Osorio was Burnt, and a Maid of hers is said to have cast her self voluntarily into the Fire. The King of Navarre after the Fight came from Borgia, where he had been Prisoner to Tudela, and kept Mossen Oliver Prisoner, till he deliver'd him his Son Prince Peter, left as a Hostage for Performance of what was agreed betwixt them. This same Year, on the 24th of August dy'd the Cardinal D. Giles de Albornoz, a Man of great Parts, and much in Favour with 3 Popes. He recover'd the Patrimony of the Church, from those that had usurp'd it, and by that means made way for the Popes to return to Rome. His Body was deposited at Assis, and thence translated to the Cathedral of Toledo. The Pope granting Indulgence to such as should carry him upon their Shoulders. People came flock∣ing out of the Towns that lay in the way, and in that manner he was carry'd to Toledo.

CHAP. VII. King Peter Excommunicated and Absolv'd. Count Henry returns into Spain, is again receiv'd by many Places. Toledo opposes him, and is Besieg'd. King Peter comes to its Relief, is overthrown, betray'd to, and Murder'd by Henry the Bastard.

THE Author we have above spoken of, who calls himself Q. Ellenor's Caterer, make smention of the Master of S. Bernard taken in the Battle of Najara, and put to Death by King Pe∣ter.* No other Historian mentions it, nor have we any the least Memory remaining of such a Dignity. This Master must needs have been a Churchman, for on his Account, King Peter was Excommunicated. Pope Ʋrban the Vth, because the King had killed that Master, and bannish'd the Bishops of Culahorra, and Lugo, sent an Archdeacon to notify the Sentence of Excommuni∣cation to him. This Archdeacon fearing to trust to the Mercy of King Peter, came up the Ri∣ver to Sevil in a swift Galliot, and waited there till the King coming that way, he asked if he would hear some News from the Levant. The King drawing near to hearken to him, he pro∣nounc'd the Sentence of Excommunication and immediately, fled down the River. The King in a Rage spurred his Horse into the River, and went so far, he had been drown'd, had not a Boat brought him off. He vow'd to be revenged of the Pope, and immediately gave orders for fitting out a great Fleet, and raising a powerful Army. The Pope dreading the Anger of King Peter, sent the Cardinal of S. Peter his Nephew to appease and absolve him. They were re∣concil'd by the Legate upon these Conditions, That the Dignity of Master of S. Bernard being extinct, all the Towns belonging to it should as before be call'd Behetrias, and be annex'd to the Crown, so as never to be alienated: That the 3d part of Ecclesiastical Revenues then pay'd to the Pope should be given to the King towards the Charges of the War with the Moors: That the Pope without the King's Consent, should not in his Dominions dispose of Bishopricks, Ma∣sterships of Military Orders, the Grand Priorship of S. John, or other considerable Benefices.

Count Henry was well receiv'd and entertain'd in France, by the Count de Faux, yet not * without Apprehensions of the English. Thence he went to Villeneufe, near Avignon, where Luis the King of France's Brother lent him Mony, and advis'd him to send an Embasly to the King, begging his Assistance for recovering of Castile. That King easily condescended to favour, him in Hatred to the English, and King Peter. He gave him the Castle of Perapertuse, on the Borders of Russillon, for his Wife and Children, who were fled from Aragon to live in, and the Earldom of Sesene to subsist on till he receiv'd the Crown. Many Prisoners who were ransom'd, and had been protected by the English came daily to him. Among them was Bernal, Son the Earl of Faux, whom afterwards King Henry created Earl of Medina Celi; he marry'd the Lady Elizabeth de la Cerda, Daughter to Luis, and Grandchild to D. Alonso de la Cerda, from whom King Sancho usurp'd the Crown, from them the present Dukes of Mc-dina Celi are Lineally descended. It happen'd well for Count Henry, that the Prince of Wales return'd to Guienne much offended at King Peter, for that he neither gave him the Lordship of Biscay, as had been agreed, nor pay'd him the Money lent, or the Army their Arrears. Besides in Castile many great Men declar'd for him, as did the Provinces of Guipuscoa and Bis∣cay, and the Towns of Segovia, Avila, Palencia, Sulamanca, Valladolid, and others in the Kingdom of Toledo. Henry having gather'd an Army, enter'd Aragon, at the Pass of the Pyreneans call'd Valde∣andorra,* and march'd with such swiftness that he was in Castile before the Aragonian could stop Page  287 him, tho he endeavour'd it. On the Banks of Ebro he ask'd whether that were the Dominion of Castile, and being told it was, that a solemn Oath never more to go out of Castile, but rather to die. Then he mov'd to Calahorra the first City of Castile, and was receiv'd there with great Joy. From Calahorra he went to Burgos, where the Bishop, Clergy, and Townsmen met him in Procession. He releas'd D. Philip de Castro a Nobleman of Aragon, marry'd to his Sister Jo∣anna, who was Prisoner in the Castle, and put into his place D. Jayme King of Naples, and Son to him of Majorca, left there with the Governour Alonso Fernandez, by King Peter. Ma∣ny other places follow'd the example of Burgos, and Henry march'd to Leon, which was sur∣render'd to him upon the last Day of April 1368. In Toledo some were for Henry, but the * greater part for King Peter. In the City was a good Garrison of Crossbow-Men, and 600 Men at Arms under the command of the Governour Ferdinand Alvarez de Toledo. Hen∣ry's Army consisted of 1000 Men, at Arms, and a great number of Foot. He laid Siege to Toledo believing nothing would withstand him, that City once taken. He in∣camped on the Plain, that lies on the North Side, and secur'd the Passes beyond the River Ta∣gus which encompasses the City on three sides. To secure the communication he built a Wooden-Bridge, which prov'd very useful. The Townsmen held out couragiously dread∣ing King Peter, who had carry'd away the principal Men as Hostages. Cordova had now rebell'd, and King Peter ask'd Aid of the King of Granada to besiege it. Mahomet sent a good body of Horse, with whom, and his own Forces he laid Siege to that City, and press'd it so hard, that the Moors scal'd the Walls and took the old Palace; but the Citizens dreading the King if the Town were taken, fought so desperately, they again drove out the Moors, killing many; the very Women assisting the Men. The two Kings despairing of Success rais'd the Siege. King Peter went to Sevil to provide for the War, meeting with greater dif∣ficulties than he had imagin'd. The King of Granada plunder'd Jaen and Ʋbeda, which were in Rebellion; he also wasted all the Country of Andaluzia, carrying away a vast mul∣titude of Captives, in so much that it is said above 11000 Souls were taken, in only the Town of Ʋtrera.

King Peter in cave for the City Toledo, resolv'd with what Forces he had to give the Ene∣my * Battel; the People of Sevil advis'd him to stay till his Army was recruited, and his Friends could joyn him, but he was running to his Ruin; at this Conjuncture another misfortune befel him, which was that Vitoria, Salvatierra, and Logron̄o, that had adher'd to him were taken by the King of Navarre, being assisted by D. Tello, who tho an Enemy to King Peter, was at variance with his Brother Henry, and therefore kept in Biscay. The Siege of Toledo continu'd, and the Citizens being divided, the Faction that was for Henry, attempted to secure a Tower opposite to the Camp, and being disappointed, thought to give the Ene∣my entrance over S. Martins Bridge; the other Party having Notice of it, they came to Blows, and many Townsmen were kill'd. King Peter hearing of these Tumults, made the more hast to relieve the City. His Sons Sancho and James, with all his Treasure, he put into Carmona a strong Town near Sevil. Then gathering his Army, he prepar'd to march to Toledo. He had 3000 Horse, but half of them were Moors, and therefore no great Con∣fidence was repos'd in them. At the time of his departure he is said to have consulted a Moor call'd Benagarin, who foretold his death, out of Merlin's Prophecy, but these Prophecies al∣ways come to light, after the Event. King Peter march'd to Montiel a strong Town in that part of Spain, call'd La Mancha. Henry being inform'd of his approach, left Gomez Manrique Arch-Bishop of Toledo, to continue the Siege, and march'd away in hast to meet King Peter, without expecting the Foot. At Orgaz five Leagues from Toledo, Bertran Claquin joyn'd him with 600 Foreign Horse, a considerable reinforcement, they being old try'd Soldiers. Several Noblemen came thither to him. With this Body Henry march'd all Night, and at break of Day discover'd the Enemy, who knew not that they were remov'd from Toledo. This caus'd a great Consternation among them, but the Officers gather'd their Men, who were dispersed in the Villages about Montiel, and at Sun-rising both parties form'd their Bat∣tels, and encourag'd their Soldiers. The first Onset was furious; but King Peter's Moors be∣taking * themselves to flight, the Castilians could not stand it long, but retir'd with King Peter into the Castle of Montiel. Many of the Moors were kill'd, of the Christians only one Gentleman. This Battel was fought on Wednesday to 14th of March, 1369. Henry perceiv∣ing King Peter had shut himself into the Town, immediately encompass'd it with a dry Wall, * of Stone, without Mortar, that he might not escape. Want pinch'd the besieged, and the King began to study how to make his escape. Men Roriguez de Sanabria a very Loyal Gentle∣man of Trastamara was with him, this Man was employ'd to offer Bertran Claquin many Towns, and 200000 Castilian Doubles, to leave the service of Henry, and carry the King off. Bertran re∣fus'd, but being press'd consulted with some Friends, who advis'd him to acquaint Henry with the Proposal. He did so, and Henry thanking him for his Fidelity, perswaded him to carry on that Design, and secure King Peter at his Quarters. King Peter accordingly came with only a few Gentlemen to Bertran, and said it was time to be gone. At the same time Henry enter'd the Tent, and stood some time as it were astonish'd, at the sight of the King, * till a Frenchman pointing at him, said to Henry, Take notice, that is your Enemy. King Peter with his natural fierceness, answer'd, I am, I am. Then Henry taking out his Dagger, wounded him in the Face, they clasped one another, and both fell to the Ground, but HenryPage  288 was undermost, till Bertran turning them, Henry got uppermost, and then stabb'd the King several times till he dy'd. A horrid sight to behold, a lawful King descended of Kings murder'd by a Bastard. Frossarte a French Historian, writes that as Henry enter'd the place, where the King was, he said, Where is this Jewish Son of a Where who calls himself King of Castile? and at that the King answer'd, Then art the Son of a Where, for I am the lawful Son of King Alonso. King Peter dy'd on the 23d of March, in the flower of his Age, being but 34 Years and 7 Months old; he reign'd 19 Years lacking 3 Days. His Body was carry'd without any Pomp to Alcoçer, and there deposited in the Church of S. James. Afterwards he was translated by King John the IId, to the royal Monastery of Dominican Nuns at Madrid. After the King's death, several of his Followers were apprehended.

CHAP. VIII. Several Foreign Princes pretenders to the Crown of Castile. War with Aragon, Por∣tugal, and Granada. Affairs of Aragon, Sardinia, and Navarre. The League be∣wixt Portugal and Aragon.

MOntiel immediately submitted, and Toledo upon the News of the King's Death was sur∣render'd. * Among foreign Princes there arose a Dispute, concerning the succession of the Crown. All agreed that Henry being a Bastard, could have no Right, and every one strove to make his Advantage of the Troubles of Castile. The King of Navarre, as has been said, had already taken several good Towns belonging to Castile. Molina, Can̄ete and Requena were betray'd by their Governours to the Aragonian. The King of Portugal call'd himself King of Castile and Leon, being great Grandson to King Sancho, and Grandson to Beatrix his Daughter. He was already possess'd of Cuida Rodrigo, Alcantana, and Tuy. The King of Granada, always a Friend to King Peter, hop'd to make his Advantage. Yet the greatest Storm was threaten'd from England and Guienne; for John Duke of Lancaster, Brother to the Prince of Wales, had marry'd Constance Daughter to King Peter, and the Earl of Cambridge another Brother, had to Wife Elizabeth the younger Sister, both Daughters to Da. Maria de Padilla. The only remedy against all these Evils that hung over the new King Henry was to secure the Affections of the Nobility, and Commons of the Kingdom. Therefore he immediately went away to Sevil, where he was receiv'd with the usual Joy of the Rabble; thither all the Cities of Andaluzia sent to make their Submission, except Carmona, where King Peter had left his Children and Treasure, under the Care of Martin Lopez de Cordova,* Master of Calatrava, who still continu'd faithful to his dead Master. At Sovil King Henry not without Infamy endeavour'd to settle a Truce with the King of Granada, but could not ob∣tain it. Therefore having secur'd the Frontiers, he went to Toledo, knowing his Wife and Son were come thither from Burgos. Here it was taken into Consideration how to raise Mony, to pay the Arrears due to the Foreigners, and what was promis'd to Bertran Claquin at Mon∣tiel, for his good Service, or rather infamous Treachery. All that could be gather'd of the King's Revenue was but a small Summ, towards satisfying the Foreigners, who boasted they had put the Crown upon Henry's Head. To supply this want two new sorts of base Coin were invented, the one call'd Cruzados, the other Royals, which caus'd all things to grow excessive dear. The Kings of Aragon and Portugal at this time infested the Frontiers. Pero Gonzalez de Mendoça, and Alvar Garcia de Albornoz were sent with an Army to oppose the Aragonians, and recover'd Requena from them. Henry himself march'd towards Galicia, where he heard the Portugueses did much harm: By the way he attempted Zamora, yet stay'd not to take it but enter'd Portugal between the Rivers Duero and Min̄o, burning and destroying all the Country, and taking Braga, and Bragança. This done he return'd into Castile. His Brother Sancho was with him, having been ransom'd from the English, who took him at the Battel of Najara. The King of Portugal was too weak to give Battel, and Henry drew off with much hast, upon the News that the King of Granada wasted all Andaluzia, having taken Algezira, and so demolish'd it, that it was never after Rebuilt. Be∣sides, he was forc'd to return to Castile, to raise Mony for Payment of the foreign Souldiers, and discharging of Bertran Claquin, who was courted by the King of Ara∣gon to go over into Sardinia, against Marianus the Judge of Arborea, who had again re∣bell'd * and taken many Towns. D. Peter de Luna had been sent against him before, who re∣duc'd him to secure himself in the City Oristan, whence watching his Opportunity he sally'd, and surprising his Besiegers, put the whole Army to flight, killing the General and his Bro∣ther Philip. Some Days after Brancaleon Doria who was of the Lord of Arborea his Party, was reconcil'd to the King, but the Rebels made even for this loss, by taking the City Sacer the Capital of the Island. Berengarius Carroz, Earl of Quirra, was sent as General to put some stop to the Proceedings of the Rebels, and Bertran Claquin was sollicited to accept of that Command. Bertran was about to accept of that Offer, when another more impor∣tant War drew him away. The People of Guienne weary of the English Government, solli∣licited the King of France to assist them in their Rebellion. He gladly condescended, and Page  289 sent for Claquin to command his Army in that Expedition. At the same time he desir'd the King of Navarre to assist him. That King resolv'd to go into France, tho he had but then * sent John Cruzate Dean of Tudela, into Aragon to settle a Confederacy. He left his Queen to govern Navarre, and went to his own Estate in Normandy, resolving not to trust the King of France, but to make his advantage of those Wars. The King of France sent Em∣bassadors to him, and at last they had a Meeting at Vernon, on the Seine. Here they agreed the Navarrois should deliver up Mante, Meùlan, and the County of Longeuville, about which they were at variance, and in lieu thereof should have the Lordship of Montpelier. These things were done later in the Year 1375, therefore let us return to Castile.

King Henry's Joy for his Success was somewhat abated by the many Enemies he had yet to * deal with, for still King Peter's Party was not extinct. The Portugueses had a strong Garri∣son in Cuida Rodrigo, and thence infested all the neighbouring Country. This place King Henry laid Siege to at the beginning of the Year 1370, but the Portugueses defended it so bravely that he was forc'd to quit that Design for the present, and march away to Medina*del Campos. Here he held the Cortes or Parliament. The chief Thing done at this Meeting, was the granting of an extraordinary Subsidy towards the War. There was due to Bertran Claquin 120000 Doubles promis'd him for betraying of King Peter at Montiel; this was a vast Summ in those Days. Jayme King of Naples was deliver'd to him as payment of 60000, the * Queen his Wife offering so much for him, the rest was paid down in Gold. Besides the King gave him the Towns of Soria, Almaçan, Aciença, Montagudo, Molina, and Seron. This done he return'd into France where he was made Constable, and serv'd well against the English. In July the Aragonians and Navarrois concluded a League only defensive as was given out, but in reality design'd against Henry of Castile. Then the Towns of Salvatierra, and La Re∣al formerly belonging to Aragon, were restor'd to that Crown by the Queen of Navarre. In Ca∣stile, Peter Manrique Lieutenant of that Kingdom, and Peter Ruiz Sarmiento Lieutenant of Galicia, were order'd with some Forces to defend Galicia, where the Portugueses had taken Compostella, Tuy, and the Port of Corun̄a. D. Tello King Henry's Brother was also commanded thither. This done King Henry went away to Sevil with the best of his Army, for there was the greatest need of it, because the Moors made War on that side. Carmona still held out, and the Portuguese Fleet, kept the Mouth of the River Gaudalquivir, Henry was much pleas'd that the Masters of Santiago and Calatrava concluded a Truce with the King of Granada; for he could not have with∣stood so many Enemies, at once. The Portuguese fleet consisted of 16 Galleys, and 24 Ships. King Henry order'd 20 Galleys to be lanch'd, but they could not all be fitted, because King Peter had laid up the Tackling at Carmona; therefore a Fleet was order'd to come from Biscay, which the Portuguese understanding, durst not stay to give them Battel, but return'd to Portugal, having lost three Galleys and two Ships. The Portuguese Fleet was at that time weaken'd, having sent some Galleys to Barcelona, to carry the Embassadors, who went to make a League with the King * of Aragon. They concluded the Confederacy upon these Terms. That the Kingdom of Murcia, and City of Cuenca, with all its Dependencies should belong to the Crown of Ara∣gon, all the other Dominions of Castile, should fall to the King of Portugal, who already call∣ed himself King of Castile. That the King of Portugal should marry the Lady Ellenor, Daugh∣ter to the Aragonian, her Dower to be 100000 Florins. This Contract came to nothing, for the King of Portugal fell in love with, and marry'd the Lady Ellenor Tellez de Meneses, Daugh∣ter to Alonso Tello Count of Barceols, and the Aragonian, taken up with the War of Sardinia, had no leisure to attend that of Castile. On the 15th of October dy'd D. Tello King Henry's Brother, Lord of Biscay. Some say he was poison'd; others deny it. The King gave the Lordship of Biscay and Lara, belonging D. Tello, to his own Son John, and ever since they have been annex'd to the Crown of Castile. The Body of D. Tello was bury'd with great Pomp in the Monastery of S. Francis at Palencia.

CHAP. IX. The Siege of Carmona. The King of Portugal marries the Lady Ellenor de Meneses. Peace betwixt Castile, Portugal and Nevarre.

KIng Heny eas'd of two great Troubles, by the Truce made with the Moor, and the removal of the Portuguese Fleet, laid Siege to Carmona, the only Refuge of King Peter's Friends, in the * Spring of the Year 1371. This Siege lasted long, and many notable Exploits were perform'd by the Besieged, who kept their Gates always open, making continual Salleys. One Day just at Noon, the Heat being very great, the besieged observ'd the Enemy to keep very close in their Tents, and thereupon sallying furiously enter'd their Trenches, and went directly to the * King's Tent, resolving by his death to put an end to the War. He was in extream Danger, but that some Gentlemen came to his rescue, and stop'd the Fury of the besieged, till the Army gathering, they were repuls'd with considerable Loss: After this King Henry attempted by Night to scale the Walls; about 40 Men at Armes got up, and secur'd a Tower, but the Towns∣men taking the Alarm, fell on them with such Bravery, that the Ladders not able to bear them, Page  290 going down broke, and those that were in the Tower were left behind. Martin Lopez de Cordeva the Governour, who was out of the Town that Night, returning caus'd them all to be put to Death. Provision failing, the Governour was at last forc'd to Surrender upon Ar∣ticles, * which were basely broken, and the brave Governour Martin Lopez de Cordova, pub∣lickly put to Death, or rather murder'd at Sevil by the King's Command. The Treasure and Innocent Children of King Peter fell into the Hands of King Henry, who kept those guiltless Persons in perpetual Imprisonment. This done King Henry caus'd the Bones of his Father King Alonso to be translated to the Royal Chappel of the Cathedral of Cordova. At the Siege of Carmona he receiv'd the News that Peter Fernandez de Velasco had taken the City Zamora from the Portugeses, and his Liuetenant, Peter Manrique, and Peter Ruiz Sarmiento pacify'd Galicia, having defeated D. Ferdinand de Castro, the chief Man that favour'd the Por∣tugeses, who having lost the Battle fled to Portugal. King Ferdinand of Portugal discourag'd at these Losses gave ear to Peace propos'd to him on the behalf of King Henry, by Alonso Perez de Gusman, chief Alguazil of Sevil. The Treaty was concluded on the 1st Day of March,* upon these Articles, That the King of Castile restore the Towns taken, during the War: That the King of Portugal marry. Ellenor, Daughter to him of Castile, whose Dower was to be Cuidad Rodrigo, Valencia de Alcantara in Estremadura, and Monreal in Galicia. The Love the Portuguese bore the Lady Ellenor de Meneses (as has been said before) prevented this Match, and he sent an Embassy to excuse himself, and deliver'd up all the Places he had be∣longing to Castile. His Excuses were easily allow'd, and he publickly marry'd the Lady E∣lenor*de Meneses, which prov'd an unhappy Match, and produc'd Wars betwixt Castile and Portugal. Before the King was marry'd his Design being known at Lisbon, the People mu∣tiny'd to prevent it, but the King stole away privately to Porto, and was there solemnly mar∣ry'd. He setl'd on her many Towns, and commanded the Nobles there present to kiss her Hand, as their Queen, which all did, even the King's Brothers, except only Denis, who re∣fuss'd, which at the King was so incens'd, that he ran at him with his Dagger. D. Denis fled and absconded for some time, till he got into Castile, where he serv'd that King. From this time the Queen govern'd the Kingdom absolutely. The Gentlemen of the Family of Vasquez de Acun̄a fled, knowing she bore them a Grudge, for the Mutiny of Lisbon, whereof they were the Authors. Her Kindred and Relations were all preferr'd and honour'd. The King and Queen's greatest Favourite was D. John Fernandez de Andewo, a Nacive of Galicia, who in the Wars of that Country came over to the King, and was created Earl of Oren. The Queen was very Familiar with this Gentleman, and us'd to be alone with him in Private, for which reason it was suspected their Friendship was dishonest, and it was publickly say'd, the Children she had were not got by the King, but by D. John. These were the malicious Suggestions of the Multitude. At the end of this Year King Henry held the Cortes at Toro, where it was decreed the Army should be sent to recover the Places taken by the Navarrois, since the Portuguese had restor'd those in his Possession; It was also order'd, that the Jews who liv'd intermix'd with the Christians should wear a Mark of Distinction. The Cruzados and Royals coin'd before, were cry'd down to a lesser Value, but not quite forbid to pass, because the Treasury was exhausted. The King would have had those Towns call'd Behetrias, which did not belong before to the Master of S. Bernard, given to some Great Men, but he could not carry it. When the Cortes broke up, King Henry sent his Army into Navarre, where after a few Days it was agreed with the Queen Regent, that those Towns about which they were at Variance should be put into the Hands of Pope Gregory the XIth, who this Year * was elected in the Place of Ʋrban the Vth. This Pope restor'd the Apostolick See to Rome. The first Cardinal he created was, Peter Gomez Barroso, Archbishop of Sevil, who dy'd 4 Years after at Avignon. D. Peter de Luna, a Noble and Learned Aragonian was made Cardi∣nal by him. It was agreed that the Pope's Legate who was daily expected, should be Arbi∣trator betwixt Castile and Navarre. These Towns were put into the Hands of John Ramirez de Arellano, a Navarrois, made Lord of Cameras by King Henry, for that he would not deli∣ver him up at the Congress of Ʋncastel, or Sos. This Gentleman took an Oath to hold them for his Holiness, and to deliver them to whom they should be adjudg'd by him. Thus for the present the War betwixt Castile and Aragon ceas'd, yet soon after King Henry sent his Army contrary to what had been agreed, and to ••Salvatierra and Santa Cruz de Campezo. No Faith is to be had in Usurpers, for they can never be true to Strangers, who are false to their Sovereign. Logrono and Victoria continu'd firm to the King of Navarre.

A more dangerous War was fear'd from Aragon, that King being offended upon many Accounts, and particularly for that D. Jayme, King of Naples had been releas'd, contrary to what he had sent the Archbishop of Zaragoça to desire. That King fear'd he should en∣deavour to recover the Island of Majorca taken from his Father. Therefore a League was design'd with the Duke of Lancaster against King Henry, but it came to nothing, because the English were engag'd in a War with France, and the Aragonian was in Care for Sardinia, be∣sides he fear'd the Prince of Majorca would invade Russillon with French Forces, as was con∣fidently Reported. Pope Gregory the XIth sent the Cardinal of Cominges to compose these Dif∣ferences. He prevail'd with them to ratify the Promise they had made to one another, and threaten'd severe Penalties to him that should break the Truce concluded on the 4th of January 1372. Yet King Henry fearing the Pope, would favour the Aragonian, delay'd the Page  291 Conclusion of this Affair, hoping to find some other means of Accomodation. About this time King Henry besieg'd and took the City Tuy; which Men Rodriguez de Sanabria, and other banish'd Men of Castile held for the King of Portugal. He also sent 12 Galleys, under the Command of Micer Ambrosio Booanegra his Admiral, to the Assistance of the King of France. These having join'd the French near Rochel, defeated the English, took several Ships, and the * Earl of Pembrook, with many other Men of Note, and much Mony. All was sent to the King then at Burgos. From this Ambrose Bocanegra, are descended the Earls of Palma. The King of Aragon had 3 Children by his Wife Queen Ellenor, Daughter to the King of Sicily; these were Prince John the Heir of the Crown, Martin and Constance, who as has been said, was marry'd to Frederick King of Sicily. In June Prince Martin marry'd the Lady Mary de Luna, Heiress to the Earl D. Lope de Luna, her Dower was the Earldoms of Luna and Sogorve; the King gave him the Barony of Exerica made an Earldom, and soon after appointed him Con∣stable of the Kingdom. Prince John marry'd Martha, Sister to the Earl of Armagnac, and had with her 150000 Francs. Of them was born the Princess Joanna, marry'd afterwards to Matthew Earl of Faux. On the 22d of August D. Bernardine de Cabrera, Grandson to Bernard de Cabrera was restor'd to all his Grandfather's Estate, except the Town of Vique, and the Country a League about it. The War broke out again betwixt Castile and Portugal, on Ac∣count that the Portugueses took certain Ships belonging to Biscay. King Henry was then at *Zamora, whence he sent Embassadors to demand Reparation of Dammages, and in case of Denial to declare War. D. Alonso King Henry's Bastard-Son was sent to make War in Por∣tugal, on the Side of Galicia, and to besiege Viana. Bocanegra the Admiral was order'd to equip 12 Galleys at Sevil, and scour the Coast of Portugal. King Ferdinand of Portugal was at Variance with his Subjects, therefore King Henry laying hold of this Opportunity, en∣ter'd Portugal with a great Power, Burning and Plundering all the Country, and took the Towns of Almeyda, Panel, Celorico, and Linhares. This was about the end of the Year. He now receiv'd Letters from Guido, Cardinal of Bolonia, sent by Pope Gregory to fettle Peace betwixt him and Portugal. King Henry sent to desire him to expect his coming at Guadala∣jara, where the Queen was. The Cardinal answer'd it was not fit for him to neglect what he came about, which was putting an end to the War, and therefore made hast to Cuidad Rodrigo designing to speak with both Kings. Mean while Portugal was consum'd, for at the beginning of the Year 1373, King Henry took the City Viseo, march'd in sight of Coimbra,* but would not stay to besiege it, resolving to advance towards his Enemy, who was incamp'd at Santaren. The King of Portugal being too weak for his Enemy kept himself within the Walls, and King Henry march'd away to Lisbon. At his first coming he enter'd and burnt the Suburbs, but the City being strong and well defended, could not be taken. However some Ships were burnt in the River, and others taken by the Fleet of Castile, a great Num∣ber of Prisoners, and a rich Booty was carry'd away. Mean while the Legate ceas'd not to labour for Peace, and at last brought the two Kings together into a Boat upon the River Tagus, on the 28th of March, and they agreed to these Conditions, That the King of Portu∣gal* by a certain Day should banish his Kingdom the Gentlemen that fled from Castile, who were about 500 in Number: That all Places taken during that War should be restor'd on both Sides: That Beatrix, Sister to the King of Portugal should be marry'd to D. Sancho, Brother to King Henry, and Earl of Albuquerque, and Elizabeth, Bastard Daughter to the King of Portugal, to Alonso the Bastard of King Henry. King Ferdinand gave Hostages for Security of Performance. D. Sancho, and the Lady Beatrix were presently marry'd at San∣taren. The Lady Elizabeth being but 8 Years of Age, was delivered to King Henry, and then the two Kings parted. King Henry march'd directly against Navarre, but the Pope's Legate reconcil'd those two Kings also. The Navarrois restor'd the Towns of Victoria, and Logron̄o. Charles his Son was contracted to Ellenor, Daughter to the King of Castile, her Portion 120000 Crowns of Gold. The Kings met at Briones, a Town on the Fron∣tiers, where the Princes were marry'd, and the King of Navarre gave his younger Son Peter to him of Castile, as a Hostage. When the King of Navarre return'd out of France, he found that Bernard Bishop of Pamplona, and Cruzate Dean of Tudela, whom he had joyn'd in Commission with the Queen, had not discharg'd their Trust faithfully. They understand∣ing the King's Displeasure fled, the Bishop got to Avignon, but the Dean was kill'd by the way, as was suspected by the King's order. The Bishop went on to Rome, where he dy'd.

CHAP. X. Peace concluded betwixt Castile and Aragon. Several Matches of Princes. French and Spaniards besiege Bayonne in vain. The Papal Chair restor'd to Rome. Death of Frederick King of Sicily.

FRom Briones the King of Castile return'd to the Kingdom of Toledo, he of Navarre to his Court, whence he sent the Queen into France to appease that King, who was highly of∣fended suspecting the Navarrois had employ'd People to Poison him. Then the King of Navarre went in Person to Madrid to perswade King Henry to forsake the French, and side with the English; Offering if he would pay the Arrears due to the Prince of Wales, and his Army from King Peter, that the English would quit their Claim to the Crown of Castile, and lay down all other Animosities. King Henry answer'd he would never depart from the Inte∣rest of France, where he had found Relief in his Distress; but that if the English would make Peace with France, he would join in it, and pay them as much as should be adjudg'd by impartial Judges. Thus nothing was concluded, and the Navarrois return'd to Pam∣plona, the Castilian to Andaluzia. The Lady Mary, Daughter to D. Ferdinand de la Cerda, marry'd in France to the Earl of Alençon, sent to demand of King Henry the Lordships of Biscay and Lara, as of right appertaining to her: He reply'd if she would send two of her Sons to reside at his Court, they should be put into Possession; but having better Estates in France they never came. In October, Balthasar Spinola, a Genoese, came into Aragon as Em∣bassador from the English, to conclude a League against Castile. They offer'd him if the Kingdom were conquer'd, the Cities of Murcia, Cuenca, and Soria, with all their Dependen∣cies, but the King of Aragon could not be prevail'd upon. In February happen'd a great * Earthquake in the Earldom of Ribagorça, in which many Towns were wholly swallow'd up. Luis Duke of Anjou came to Carcassonne to endeavour to settle a Peace betwixt Castile and Aragon, fearing lest the English, the mortal Enemies of France should become Masters of Ca∣stile. After much debating it was resolv'd to referr the Dicision of their Differences to Guido, Cardinal of Bolonia, the Pope's Legate. On the 15th of October Pope Gregory the XIth confirm'd the Order of the Fryers of S. Hierome, first invented by certain Italian Hermits, near * the City Toledo. Some Years after the Order of the Isidorians was taken from this same. In December, tho Peace could not be concluded, a Truce was agreed upon till the Feast of Pentecost. In the Year 1374, John Duke of Lancaster landed with an Army at Calis, and * being join'd by the Duke of Britany, march'd across the Country to Bourdeaux, with a De∣sign to conquer Castile. He sent Embassadors to the Kings of Aragon and Navarre, to ask Supplies, but they thought it safest to look on as Neuters. King Henry fearing this Storm, went to Burgos, where he made all possible Preparations to withstand it. D. Sancho his Bro∣ther endeavouring to appease a Sedition among the Souldiers, was wounded in the Face with a Spear, and dy'd. The Lady Beatrix his Wife left with Child was deliver'd of a Daughter called Ellenor, who was marry'd to Prince Ferdinand, afterwards King of Aragon. King Henry near Ban̄ares made a review of his Forces, and found 1200 Horse, and 5000 Foot, a small Number, but good Men. The English Forces consum'd by their long March, when they came to Bourdeaux were not above 6000 strong, and therefore had lay'd aside the De∣sign of entring Spain. Luis Duke of Anjou thinking this a good Opportunity to expel them France, advis'd King Henry to joyn his Forces with him, and besiege Bayonne. King Henry* took his Advice and besieg'd the Place, but was forc'd by the Rains and want of Provisions to quit it. Beltran de Guevara, Lord of On̄ate, did good Service in this Expedition, for which the King at his return gave him the Valley of Leniz. In August the Prince of Major∣ca enter'd the Country of Russillon with a powerful Army, yet did nothing considerable. On the other side the Lord of Bearne and Godfrey Recco a Breton, made an Incursion into the Territory of Borgia, and destroy'd all they came near. The King of Aragon sent Francis de Perellas, Viscount Roda to conclude a League with the Duke of Lancaster. A violent Storm cast him upon the Coast of Granada, where he was made Prisoner by that King in revenge for certain Vessels of his taken by the Aragonians, and to please the King of Castile. A new Em∣bassy was sent by King Henry to Barcelona, to establish Peace with the Aragonian. On the 3d of November dy'd in Normandy, Joanna, Queen of Navarre at whose Request her Brother the King of France often pardon'd her Husband. She now dy'd of Grief, because he refus'd her. Her Body was bury'd among the Kings at S. Denis. The King her Husband made himself odious by persecuting the Kindred of those who had been against him. Aragon be∣sides the Wars this Year suffer'd by Famine, which was somewhat abated, by bringing Corn from Africk, and did some good by forcing the Enemy to depart the Kingdom. Jayme King of Naples, who marched into Castile with his Army to look for Provisions dy'd there at the beginning of the Year 1375. His Sister Elizabeth, who was with him led the Army back into France, there she resign'd all her Claims against the House of Aragon to Luis the King * of France his Brother, which caus'd new Troubles. Now the Peace betwixt Castile and Ara∣gon was concluded on the 12th of April, the Conditions were, That the Lady Ellenor before promis'd to Prince John should be marry'd to him, her Dower 200000 Florins lent by the Page  293Araganian to King Henry, at the beginning of the Civil Wars: That Molina should be re∣stored to Castile, and, That the Aragonian should pay 12000 Florins towards the Charge of the War. This Agreement was celebrated with great Joy in both Kingdoms.

This Year was Fortunate to all Christendom, as well as Spain, because Pope Gregory the *XIth return'd to Rome, after the Popes his Predecessors had resided 70 Years at Avignon. Ber∣tran Claquin having for his good Service got the Earldom of Longueville in France• sold his Lands in Spain to King Henry for 260000 Doubles. At Soria on the 27th of May; Prince Charles of Navarre marry'd Ellenor, King Henry's Daughter, and on the 19th of June Prince John his Son took to Wife Ellenor, Daughter to the King of Aragon. News was now brought that D. Ferdinand de Castro, who the last Year fled to Portugal, was dead in England. Also that Ferdinand de Tovar, Admiral of Castile had done much harm along the Coasts of that Island. From Soria King Henry went to Burgos. He design'd to assist the French with all his Power against the English. His Son Alonso Earl of Gijon, to avoid marrying Elizabeth, Daughter to the King of Portugal fled into France, but was soon brought back by his Father. At the end of this Year dy'd D. Gomez Manrique, Arch-bishop of Toledo. The Chapter having chosen two to succeed him, the Decision of the Controversy was left to the Pope, who allow'd of neither of them, but gave that Dignity to Peter Tenorio, then Bishop of Coimbra. About this time dy'd some Men of Note of Navarre: Particular∣ly D. Roderick Ʋrriz, a Man of a great Estate and Interest, was by the King's Command ap∣prehended, * and Beheaded in Pamplona, at the latter end of March 1376. Some private Cor∣respondence he held with the King of Castile was the cause of his Death. It was Reported he intended to betray the Castles of Tudela, and Caparroso, but it is not likely they should so soon design to disturb the Peace. D. Bernard Folcaut, Bishop of Pamplona dy'd on the 7th of July, in Banishment at Agnani in Italy. D. Martin Calva, a most learned Man, was chosen to succeed him. Frederick King of Sicily departed this Life at Messina, on the 26th* of July. His Daughter the Lady Mary was left sole Heiress of that Kingdom, and the Dutchies of Athens and Neopatria, which produc'd Differences betwixt several Princes aspiring to marry her. This also administred to the Aragonians a fair Opportunity of enlarging their Dominions.