The history of that most victorius monarch, Edward IIId, King of England and France, and Lord of Ireland, and first founder of the most noble Order of the Garter being a full and exact account of the life and death of the said king : together with that of his most renowned son, Edward, Prince of Wales and of Aquitain, sirnamed the Black-Prince : faithfully and carefully collected from the best and most antient authors, domestick and foreign, printed books, manuscripts and records / by Joshua Barnes ...

CHAPTER the FOURTH. * 1.1

The CONTENTS.

I. Don Henry the Bastard, understanding how the Prince's Affairs began to be embroi∣led, takes Heart and returns into Spain with an Army against his Brother Don Pedro. He finds the King of Majorica sick at Valladolid, takes him Prisoner, and having re∣ceived many Cities and Towns, goes and lies down before Toledo. II. Don Pedro goes hastily against him with a great Army, but being met unawares is beaten, flies into the Castle of Montiel and is there closely besteged. III. For want of Provision he is forced to seek an Escape, but being taken is soon after murder'd by the Bastard's own Hands: the Bastard reigns in his stead. IV. The Discontented Gascogners urge the French King to summon the Prince of Wales to answer unto their several Complaints in the Chamber of Peers. V. At last King Charles by the perswasions of his Council, un∣der much Caution, venters to summon the Prince; and so the first seeds of War are cast again. William of Wickham made Bishop of Winchester, with some Observati∣ons concerning him. VI. The Black-Prince in the midst of his Warlike Preparations, is taken with an unknown and incurable Distemper. VII. The Gascogne Lords begin the War against the Prince, who sends the Lord Chandos to oppose them. VIII. The French King lulls King Edward into security by his subtle Negotiations, till being ready he might surprise Ponthieu before-hand: Whereto when things are ripe, he also sends his Defiance to King Edward. IX. Hereupon King Edward sends forthwith to secure Ponthieu, but all too late; the King of France had been there before him. X. King Edward having taken all the Care he could for Scotland and Ireland, calls a Parliament, wherein he resumes the Title of France, changes his Seals, and obtains a Mighty Aid for his Wars. XI. Edward the Black-Prince creates the Valiant Lord John de Greilly Captal of Busche, Earl of Bigorre, which Creation is afterwards con∣firmed by the King his Father.

I. NOW a 1.2 of the Affairs of Prince Edward and of Aquitain, were all the Kings his Neighbours well informed, especially Don Pedro King of Aragon, and Don Henrique the Bastard, who took particular care to understand, how Matters went with the Prince. And when they heard that the Barons of Gascogne had applied themselves to the Court of France, and began already in a man∣ner to rebel against him, they were not a little pleased therewith. But chiefly the Ba∣stard was comforted at this News, for now he saw the Prince of Wales entangled with Domestick Troubles, he hop'd the more easily to reconquer the Realm of Castille, which before he had lost by the Prince's means. Whereupon he took his leave of the King of Aragon, and departed from Valencia with the Vicount of Rochebreton, and the Vi∣count of Rodez, and 3000 Horse and 6000 Foot in his Company, besides certain Ge∣nourse, whom he retained for Wages. Thus he rode into Spain, and came before the good City of Burgos, which open'd her Gates and yielded unto him, acknowledging him for her Rightfull Lord and Sovereign. Thence he went to Valladolid, for he un∣derstood, how the King of Majorica was still there, being not yet fully recover'd of his sickness, which rendred him unable to go along with Prince Edward when he left Spain. The Inhabitants of Valladolid, who heard how the great City of Burgos had yielded up, thought not to offer to resist him; wherefore they also received him, and paid Homage unto him. Being enter'd the City, enquiring for the King of Majorica, he was shew'd his Lodgings, and went up himself into the Chamber, where he lay not yet quite well, and accosted him in this manner,

Sir King of Majorica, You have been our Enemy, and to∣gether with the Prince of Aquitain and a great Army have invaded this our Realm of Castille; wherefore We have Reason to seize upon You, and You must yield your self our Prisoner, or You are but Dead.

When the King of Majorica saw himself in such a Case, and that it would be to no purpose to offer Resistance, he answer'd,

Sir King, truly I am but Dead, if it so please You; and therefore I am ready to yield my self unto You, but to no other Man living. And Sir, if you are minded to deliver me to

any other Man, let me know it now. For I had rather die here, than once come into the Hands of the King of Aragon, my most Mortal Enemy. Sir (replied Don Hen∣ry) don't you fear any such Matter: I will be no otherwise than Just unto You; and if I should not do so I were to blame. You shall become my Prisoner, either to acquit you freely, or for a Ransom at my pleasure.

Thus was the King of Majorica surprised and taken by Don Henry, who caused him to be kept there still, thô under a sure Guard, because of his Infirmity, and then he marched to the City of Leon, which im∣mediately open'd unto him; and while he was here, all the Country and the Marches of Galizia submitted unto him, and many great Lords and Barons, who had lately done Homage to Don Pedro, came now in to Don Henry: For whatever Loyalty they had pretended to the other, in presence of the Prince of Wales, they loved him not in their hearts, because of his former Cruelties, to which they doubted he would quick∣ly return again. But King Henry on the other side was popular, obliging and gracious to all Men, and moreover made large Promises to those who would own his Cause; so that in a manner all the Country acknowledged him for their Lord, only the great City of Toledo in New Castille would not obey his Summons, nor own him for her King. Wherefore Don Henry went thither with all his Forces, and began to lay Siege thereto, it being the only Considerable Place that had refused to admit him. All this while Sr. Bertram of Clequin was not with him; but now seeing the Duke of Anjou had lately ended his War in Provence, and quitted the Siege of Tarascon upon Compo∣sition, Sr. Bertram took his leave of him, and with divers Knights and Esquires of France, and 2000 fighting Men in his Company, made hast after King Henry, whom he found at the Siege before Toledo.

II. News was presently brought to Don Pedro, who was then in Andaluzia about Seville, and toward the Marches of Portugal, where he was not over-much beloved, how the Country fell away to the Bastard his Brother, whereat he was horribly incen∣sed both against the Bastard, and all his Subjects of Castille, because they forsook him so disloyally. And he sware a great Oath, that he would take so cruel a Revenge on all those false People, as to leave a terrible Example to all false Traytors for the fu∣ture. Then he sent forth his Summons to those whom he had most Confidence in, but many of them came not at all; they had more mind to follow King Henry, to whom they sent their Homages, and proffer'd their Service. When Don Pedro saw, that most of his expected Friends began to fail him, he had less assurance, and asked Coun∣sel of Don Hernando del Castro, who never fail'd him to the last. Don Hernando ad∣vised him to muster as many as he could get for Love or Money, both Moors and O∣thers, and so immediately to march against the Bastard before he conquer'd further in the Country. Accordingly King Don Pedro sent presently to Ferdinando King of Portugal, who was his Cosen German, and also to the Kings of Granada, and of Bel∣marine and Tremissen, with which Three, thô Heathen Princes, he made a strict and perpetual Alliance, and they sent him about 30000 Moors and Saracens to his Assist∣ance: So that at last Don Pedro had gather'd together in the Marches of Seville, an Army of above 40000 Men, Moors, Jews and Christians together. And being fur∣nished with these Forces, he became so well assured, that without tarrying for Sr. Hugh Calverley, who was coming to his Aid with 6000 Companions, all Chosen Men, he began to march against the Bastard his Brother, toward the City of Toledo, which was distant about seven Days journey from him.

Don Henry had News, how his Brother was coming against him with a great Army, and thereupon presently called a Council of War, wherein were all the Captains of France and of Aragon, especially Sr. Bertram of Clequin, by whom he was chiefly swayed. And at this time his Advice was, that he should march forth immediately to fight his Brother, and in what Condition soever he found him, presently to set upon him:

For (says he) Sir, I hear He comes against us with a great Power: And if We tarry here waiting for him, it may turn much to our Disadvantage; not only by reason of his Multitudes, but also because of this City which will be then at our backs, and may by one brisk Sally ruine your Affairs utterly. Wherefore Sir, let us suddenly come upon him; 'tis great odds, but we find him out of Order, and if once we have that Advantage of him, he is certainly ours for ever.

This Counsel of Sr. Bertrams was received, and so King Henry went one Evening from the Camp with a Chosen number of the Best Knights and Captains, and about 6000 Select Men; the rest of the Army being left to carry on the Siege, under the Command of his Brother the Earl of Sancelloni. Thus he rode forth against King Don Pedro, sending before him seven Spies well mounted, who were always successively coming and going, and bringing him

word from Don Pedro where he was, how far Advanced, and in what Posture He and his Army were. But of all this was Don Pedro unawares, for he imagined his Bro∣ther to be before Toledo still, and so he came forward in a more careless manner, without any good Order.

On the b 1.3 14 of March early in the Morning, King Henry and his Forces came up with Don Pedro, who had lain that Night in the Castle of Montiel, about 30 Leagues from Toledo, where he found good Acceptance, and was well entertain'd. But now ha∣ving newly left the Place he continued his March towards Toledo, little imagining to be met withall by any Enemy that Day. When suddenly there came upon him Don Henry, with his Brother Sancho and Sr. Bertram of Clequin, whose Conduct he chiefly rely'd on, and also the Beague of Vilain, the Vicount of Rochebreton, the Vicount of Rodez and their Retinues: All who riding wisely together in close Order came sudden∣ly upon their Enemies, crying aloud —"Castille for King Henry and our Lady of Cle∣quin, and so they presently discomfited and put back the Vaward of Don Pedro's Ar∣my; of which many were overthrown and slain without pitty, for Sr. Bertram of Cle∣quin had before advised, that none should be taken to Ransom, because of the great Numbers of Moors that were there.

When Don Pedro, who was in the Main Battail among his Men, heard how his Van was assayled and beat back by his Bastard-Brother and the Frenchmen, he was strange∣ly surprised, and saw too late, that he was betrayed and deceived by his Scouts, and in great Danger to lose all: For his Men were very much scatter'd abroad, and out of Or∣der, against all Rules of Military Discipline. Notwithstanding like a Good Hardy Knight he kept the Field undauntedly, and caused his Banner to be unrolled to draw his People together, and sounded a Charge, and sent Post to hasten forward those who were behind, because he was fighting with his Enemies: So that his Men advanced with all the speed they could. The mean while there was a terrible Slaughter among the Foremost of Don Pedro's Men; for King Henry and Sr. Bertram of Clequin fought with so much Vigour and Resolution, that none were able to endure them. But yet the Victory was not presently obtain'd: For Don Pedro fought like a Lion, and encoura∣ged and ••••ied his Men with great Bravery; and indeed he was above Six to one a∣gainst the Bastard, but he was so suddenly taken, that all his Numbers availed little, they rather added to the Confusion.

So for a while there was a desperate Battle fought, the Spaniards, Frenchmen, and Ara∣gonians contending against other Spaniards, Moors, Saracens, Jews and Portugese. Don Henry fought most valiantly indeed, and so did Sr. Bertram of Clequin, Sr. Geoffry de Ricons, Sr. Arnold of Limosin, Sr. Guy Bailleul, the Beague of Vilain, Sr. Alan of St. Paul, Sr. Eliot of Carhais, the Vicount of Rochebreton, the Vicount of Rodez and Others, who all performed their Parts with much Gallantry, as indeed it was necessary for them to do, for they found a fierce and strong People to oppose them. As for the Jews of King Pedro's Army they turned their Backs presently, and fled without striking one Stroke, but the Moors of Granada, of Belmarine and Tremisen, with the Portugese fought obstinately with their Bows and Swords, and did that Day much Mis∣chief, and in the thickest of the Battle you might ever observe King Don Pedro, who like a Valiant Knight bestir'd himself all the while so stoutly, with a sharp Axe of Massie Steel in his Hands, that no Man durst abide his Strokes. But when the Ban∣ner of Don Henry his Brother met and encountred his, each Party crying their appoin∣ted Cries, then Don Pedro's firmest Battail began to open and give Ground, at which time Don Hernando del Castro, who was Chief Counsellour to King Don Pedro, seeing all things grow Desperate, said to the King his Master,

Sir, save Your Self in time, and return to your Castle of Montiel, for there You will be in safeguard! But if You are ta∣ken here, You are a dead Man without Mercy.

King Don Pedro took this Counsel, and left the Field as soon as he could, and rode back towards Montiel, whither he came in such good time, that he found the Gates open, and so entred with only twelve Per∣sons more in his Company. But all this while his Men fought in the Field scatter'd, and out of Order as they were, for to submit was in vain, none were taken to Mercy. The Moors especially did what they could in their own Defence, for they were unacquainted with the Country, and therefore thought it vain to fly. But now Word was brought to King Henry and Sr. Bertram of Clequin, that Don Pedro was fled, and had got into the strong Castle of Montiel, and that the Beague of Vilain had follow'd in Chace after him even to the very Castle, to the which there was but one Passage, and before that the said Beague had already pitched his Standard. Of this News King Henry and Sr. Bertram was very glad, and so fought their way toward the said Castle, beating down

and slaying their Enemies by heaps, till they were even weary of Killing. The Chace endured for three Hours, so that above 14000 Men were slain, besides those who were wounded, and toward the end of the Fight taken to Mercy; but few escaped, ex∣cept such as knew the Passages of the Country. This Battle was thus fought in a place called Campo di Montiel, not far from Montiel, which divides the Realm of Valentia from that of New Castille, on the 14 Day of March, in the Year of our Lord MCCCLXIX.

The Victory being thus obtain'd, Don Henry went and laid Siege round about the Castle of Montiel, wherein King Don Pedro was, sending at the same time to the Siege before Toledo, for his Brother the Earl of Sancelloni, commanding him to break up there, and to come with all his Power unto him, where the Head of all the Business lay. These Orders were obey'd, and the Earl of Sancelloni, with his Brother Sancho (who had been sent to fetch him) quitted the Siege before Toledo, and went to the King, their Brother, who lay before Montiel. This Castle was exceeding strong and able to have held out against them all a long while; if it had been well provided with Vi∣ctuals and other things necessary. But it was so bare of Provision, that there was scarce enough in the Castle to serve a fortnight: Whereat King Don Pedro and his small Company were extreamly surprised; for they were so narrowly watched Day and Night, that a Bird could not come out of the Castle without notice. Upon which account King Don Pedro, seeing himself thus beset round by his Implacable Enemies, and that it was impossible to come to any accommodation, was very much cast down: Till at last all things duly consider'd, and their small stock of Victuals being ready to fail, he was advis'd to go away privily at the Hour of Midnight, only with 12 Persons, and Don Hernando del Castro in his Company; and so to commit himself to God, and the direction of such Guides, as were appointed to bring him into some better place of security.

III. Accordingly on the 23 of March, c 1.4 being a Friday, about the time of Mid∣night, King Don Pedro and Twelve other Persons departed in great silence from the Castle of Montiel, in hopes to escape away unseen of their Enemies. The Night in∣deed was very Dark; but the Beague of Vilaine kept watch without, be 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the En∣trance of the Castle with 300 Men; and as the unhappy King, being come out of the Castle with his Company, was going down an High-way, as closely as could be, this Beague of Vilaine who was always jealous, lest he should escape, and therefore kept the stricter Watch, thought he heard some Noise, and said to his Men, that were about him,

Sirs, hold you all still: For methinks I hear the treading of Horses down the High-way; We will go and learn, who they are, and what they intend hereabouts at this time of Night: It may be, they are some, who are come to Victual the Castle.

And therewithall he stept forth with his Dagger in his Hand, and came to One, next before Don Pedro, and said, "Who are You? But he rushed forward with his Horse from him, and passed by. Then he stepped to Don Pedro, and took him by the Bri∣dle; for he was resolved not to lose him, as he had the other, and said,

Who are You? Tell me your Name, or You are but a Dead Man.

When Don Pedro saw such a Company of Armed Men before him, and that it was impossible he should escape; he said,

Sir, I am Don Pedro, King of Castille; I yield my self your Prisoner, and commit me and my Company which consists but of Twelve Persons into your Hands. Only, Sir, I require You, as a Man of Honour, not to deliver me into the Hands of the Bastard, my Brother; but to secure my Life unto me, and I will pay You what Ransome You will ask; for I thank God, I have enough.

Then the Beague answer'd, as it was said,

Sir, I shall bring You and your Men into a place of safety; and your Brother shall know nothing of You for me.

And therewithall he conveyed him into his own Pavilion, where also Sr. Lewis of Carlonet was lodged with him. Thô others say, d 1.5 that Sr. Bertram of Clequin was the Man, that took the King, and that Don Pedro offer'd him 200000 Crowns of Gold to secure his Life; the Matter is all one, be it one, or t'other. But however Don Pedro had not been in the Tent a full hour, when King Henry and the Earl of Rochebreton, and some others came into the Tent, King Henry calling aloud,

Where is that son of a Whore, the Jew, who calls himself King of Castille?

Don Pedro, who was a Couragious and Hardy Prince, could not contain himself at this; but stept forth boldly, and said,

Nay, thou art a son of an Whore, and I the Son of King Alphonso.

And therewithall he grappled with his Brother Henry, and took him in his Arms and overthrew him on a Bench, and began to lay his Hand on his Dagger, and had most certainly slain him upon the spot, and it not been for the Vicount of Rochebreton; who at that instant took Don Pedro by the Leg,

and turned him upside Down; so that King Henry was now uppermost: Who imme∣diately drew out a long knife, wherewith he strack King Don Pedro into the Body, and so flew him, at which time many of Don Henry's Men came in to his Assistance. There was slain together with him an English Knight, called Sr. Ralph Helmes, who formerly had been termed the Green Esquire, and another Esquire, named James Row∣land; because they made Resistance. But as for Don Hernando del Castro, he had this Reward of his Constant Loyalty, as only to remain a Prisoner of War with the Beague of Vilaine, till King Henry took him into his Favour; and the same Success had the Rest, who attended Don Pedro in this his last Action.

Thus ended King Don Pedro of Castille, sirnamed the Cruel, after he had lived 34 Years and 7 Months, whereof he Reigned 19 Years within three Days; being now slain by his Bastard Brother, as it had been foretold unto him. His Body was left unburied for three Days; which was no less a Crime in the Bastard, than his very Murther: Except that it might seem in Policy necessary, thereby to convince all Men the better, that he was really Dead. The next Day the Governour of Montiel yielded up the Town and Castle to King Henry, who took him to Mercy, as he did all others that turned unto him. The News of Don Pedro's Death ran all abroad, whereat, as his Friends were sad, his Enemies rejoyced: But especially the French King, the King of Aragon, the Pope, and the Duke of Anjou, were glad at this Success of Don Henry. He for his part, being now fully Established in his Throne, liberally Rewarded all his Friends and Assistants; as Sr. Bertram of Clequin, whom he made High-Constable of Spain, and gave him Lands in and about the City of Soria, to the yearly Value of 20000 Franks, and to his Nephew Sr. Oliver Manny, other Lands worth half as much, and to others proportionably. And so he began his Reign over Castille, which his Po∣sterity enjoy to this Day; a e 1.6 greater Right being afterward brought unto his Grand∣son, Henry, Prince of Astorga, Son and Heir of John, King of Castille, Son and Heir of this Henry, the Bastard, by his taking the Lady Catherine, sole Daughter and Heiress of John of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster, by his Second Wife, the Lady Constance, Eldest Daughter to the said Don Pedro, the True and Lawfull King of Castille and Leon.

IV. But it is now high time to look nearer home, and take notice what Ill Effects followed that Foüage, which the Prince of Wales intended to levy in Aquitaine; the Frenchmen cunningly working upon the Discontents of a Few, till they had again kindled as great a Combustion, as ever was before between the Two Nations. Now f 1.7 those of the lower Marches, as of Bourdelois, Sainctogne, Poictou, and Rochellois, readily agreed to the Matter, because they were nearer to the France's Court, and were generally accounted more firm and Loyal to him, than those of farther Parts: But as for others, especially those of Gascogne, they thought it too heavy a Burthen, and made many Remonstrances against it. So that the Prince held several Parliaments at Niort, at Angoulesme, Poictiers, Bourdeaux, and Bergerac; but still the Rebel Gas∣cogners by their Letters and Messengers maintained, and said, how they could not suffer this Foüage to run in their Country; declaring, that their Resort, and Appeal, had ever been in the Chamber of France. At this mention of Resort, the Prince was extreamly offended, and argued against it, telling them, how they ought not to make any Resort there for the future: For he affirmed,

that the French King had quitted for himself and his Heirs for ever, all Resorts and Jurisdictions whatsoever, when he resigned those Lands entirely, and absolutely unto the King of England; as is plainly appa∣rent from the Tenor of the Charter of the Peace; Wherein those Matters are so clearly explain'd, that there is not the least Clause of any One Article, where there is any Reserve for the French King in time of Peace.

These Words of the Prince were sent to those Lords of Gascogne, that refus'd to come to his Parliament; for from those, who were present, he had little or no opposition. But they answer'd again by their Letters,

that it was not in the Power of the French King to acquit them of their Resort to his Court; for the Prelates and Barous of the Cities and Good Towns of Gascogne, would never have suffer'd it, nor ever will they, if it were to do again; thô the Realm of France should remain in perpetual War thereby.

Thus the Prince and the Lords of Gascogne maintain'd each their own several Opinions; but the latter abode still at Paris with the French King; such as the Earl of Armagnac, the Lord of Albret, the Earl of Perigort, the Earl of Cominges, the Vicount of Carmaine, the Lords of Can∣de, De la Barde, and Pincornet; all who made heavy Complaints to the King,

how the Prince of meer Pride and Presumption would tread them under his Feet, and raise new and unheard of Taxes upon their Lands, which they said, they would

never suffer, considering their Resort was to the Chamber of France: Wherefore they humbly desired, that the Prince might be summon'd to make his Appearance in the Parliament Chamber before the Peers of France, there to Answer concerning those Grievances and Innovations, which he had began to exercise against them.

The French King was not unwilling to entertain these Gascogners, who thus required Justice of him, as of their Sovereign Lord, lest otherwise they should seek for Redress in some other place and so he should for ever lose the Sovereignty over them. And on this account he at last condescended to their Request, thô half against his Will; for he could not but see, that an open War would ensue thereby, which he was very loath to move first, at least without some plausible Pretence. Besides at that time he saw his Realm not a little molested with the Companions; and other Enemies; and also he consider'd, that his Brother, the Duke of Berry, with many others, were still Hostages in England: Wherefore he thought to deal wisely, and get first his Hostages home, and be fully provided of all things, and to try the Hearts of the People thoroughly, before he could absolutely resolve to summon the Prince of Wales. And accordingly there were such subtle devices used, that before any open Breach was made, most of the Hostages got out of King Edward's Power, as we shall see hereafter. Particularly, Prince John g 1.8 Duke of Berry, having received a private hint of these Matters, ob∣tain'd of King Edward to return into France, and there to recreate himself among his Friends and Relations for the space of One Year; but he order'd his Affairs so cunning∣ly by his frequent excuses and the like, that he drove off the time, till the War was open; and then he thought himself freed from all obligations of Returning. And the Lord Guy of Luxemburgh, Earl of St. Pol made shift by much subtlety to get into France without taking his leave of King Edward. This Man was an Implacable Ene∣my to the English Nation, so that he could neither endure to hear, nor speak a good Word of them; and now he urged on King Charles, as much as he could, to take the Gascogne Lords into his Protection; for he verily believed, that if once the Prince of Wales should be summon'd, a War would most certainly ensue. And to this Opinion of the Earl of St. Pol agreed several of the Chief Prelates, Earls, Barons, and Knights of France, who added, how the King of England had not truly kept the Peace, to which he had sworn and sealed, according to the Tenor of the Treaty made at Bre∣tigny, near Chartres, and afterwards confirmed at Calais. For they said, it was mani∣fest, how the English had hated and molested the Realm of France more, since the Peace was made, than ever they had done before.

And Sir (said they) what We now averr, You shall find to be true, if it will please You to cause the Charters of the Peace to be inspected and read before You; even such, as the King of England and the Prince his Son, are by Faith and Oath obliged to perform.

Hereupon King Charles, to be the better enformed of all the Truth, and that he might not suffer any Encroachment up∣on the Rights of his Realm, caused all the Charters of the Peace to be brought into the Council-Chamber, and heard them read over more than once, the better to consi∣der and weigh the Point and Articles therein comprised. Among others there was found One Letter, on which the King and Council stood most, because it seem'd to speak more clearly and plainly of what they now look'd for, the Tenor whereof ran thus, viz.

EDWARD, by the Grace of God, King of England, Lord of Ireland, and Duke of Aquitaine,

to all, who shall see these present Letters, Greeting.

Know, that in the final and last Accord and Peace made between Us and our Right Dear Brother, the French King, are contained two Articles, comprised in the form following.

The First, Where it is said, how the foresaid Kings are bound to cause to be con∣firmed all the said Articles, comprised in the Peace by the Bishop of Rome, they to be deliver'd from the Court of Rome, confirmed by Sentence, touching the full Perfection and Accomplishment of this present Treaty unto each of the said Parties, at least within three Weeks, after the French King shall be arrived at Ca∣lais: and also, how to the intent, that these Articles and Treaties passed, may be more firm and stable, there shall be made certain Bonds, and deliver'd, as followeth; that is to say, Letters sealed with the Seals of both the Kings and their Eldest Sons, such as should be devised by the Councils of both the Kings. And also the said Kings and their Children, and others of the Prime Nobility, to the Number of Thirty on either Part, should swear, that they would strictly observe, and cause to be ob∣served to their Power, all the said Articles, accorded and agreed on, and perform the same without fraud or deceit. And also, that both the Kings and all their Friends and Allies should do their utmost, to bring all Rebels to Obedience, according to

the form and true Intent of the Peace: And also that both the Kings should sub∣mit themselves and their Realms to the Correction of the Bishop of Rome, to the end, that he should oblige by Ecclesiastical Censures those, who should otherwise refuse to comply with this Peace and Accord. And further both the Kings and their Heirs by Oath and Promise should renounce all Graces and Absolutions of any thing herein agreed to by them. And thô by Disobedience, Rebellion, or Force of any of the Subjects of the French King, the said King should be hindred from performing all the said Articles, yet neither shall the King of England, nor his Heirs for all that, make any War upon the Realm of France; but both Kings shall joyn together to bring those Rebels to Obedience, and to acquiesce in the said Peace and Concord. And thô the Subjects of the King of England should refuse to yield up any Towns, Castles, or Fortresses, which they held in the Realm of France, and which by reason of the Peace ought to be deliver'd, or what any other Cause should hinder, that the King of Eng∣land could not perform what he ought, by reason of this Treaty, to perform, yet the King of France shall not make War therefore upon the Dominions of the King of England; but both the Kings shall joyn together to reduce those Rebels to Obedi∣ence, and by force to recover such Towns, Castles and Fortresses, and to deliver them to whom they ought to be deliver'd. And of this there should be made Obliga∣tions and Bonds as sure and perfect, as can be devised, as well by the Bishop of Rome and the College of Cardinals, as by others.

There was also another Article in the same Treaty, which ran thus,

Item, In to∣ken and perfect Assurance, that We desire and intend to have, and to nourish per∣petual Peace and Love between Us and our Brother of France, We shall renounce, and by these Presents do renounce; all Graces, and other Process of Deed against our said Brother, his Heirs and Successors of the Realm of France, and Subjects thereof, and do promise, swear, and have sworn on the Body of our Lord Jesus Christ, for Us and for our Heirs and Successors, not to do, nor suffer to be done, either by Word or Deed any thing against this Renuntiation, or against any thing contained in the foresaid Articles: And if We do, or suffer to be done the Contrary any manner of way, (which God forbid) then We will, that We be reputed for false and forsworn, and incurr such blame and infamy, as a King Sacred ought to incurr in such a Case. And We positively Renounce all Dispensations and Absolutions of the Pope, and if any be obtained, We will, that they stand for nought, be of no force, nor avail Us in any manner of case. And the more firmly to uphold the said Articles, We herein submit our selves, our Heirs and Successors, to the Jurisdiction and Correction of the Church of Rome, and Will and Consent, that the Bishop of Rome confirm all the said Treaty, and ordain Monitions and General Commands against Us, our Heirs and Suc∣cessors, and against our Subjects, Commons, Universities, Colleges, or any other Bo∣dies Politick, or single Persons, whatsoever they be, in giving Sentence General of Excommunication, Suspension, or Interdiction, to run upon Us, or any of them, as soon as We, or They, shall do, or attempt any thing against the said Treaty, in occu∣pying, or withholding any Towns, Castles or Fortresses, or any other thing doing, Ra∣tifying, or giving Counsel, Comfort, Favour, or Aid, privily or apertly, against any of the said Articles. And further, We have caused our Most Dear Eldest Son Ed∣ward Prince of Wales, to swear unto the same; and also our Younger Sons, Lionel Earl of Ulster, John Earl of Richmond, and Edmund of Langley; together with our Right Dear Cousin, Philip of Navarre, and the Dukes of Lancaster and of Bre∣tagne, the Earls of Stafford and Salisbury, the Captal of Busche, the Lord of Mon∣ferrant, Walter Manny, James Audley, Roger Beauchamp, John Chandos, Ralph Fer∣rers, Edward Spencer, Thomas Felton, William Felton, Eustace Dambreticourt, Frank van Hall, John Mowbray, Bartholomew Burwash, Henry Piercy, and divers others; and also, as soon as We can conveniently, We shall cause to swear, all our other Children, and the Major part of the great Prelates, Earls, Barons, and other Nobles of our Realm of England.

In Witness whereof We have put our Seal to these Presents; Given at our Town of Calais, the 24 day of October, in the Year of Grace MCCCLX.

Among many other Writings that had been made, as well at Bretigny near Chartres, as at Calais, when King John was there, this said Chapter being one, was chiefly now insisted on, and was well read and examin'd by King Charles in presence of his Coun∣cil; and after they had spent their Thoughts thereon, then the Prelates and Barons of France said unto him,

Sir, it is most evident, that the King of England and his Son the Prince, have not duly kept the said Peace, but have taken Towns and Castles, and do still hold them to the infinite Dammage of this your Realm; and they Ransom and

Pillage your People, because the Money for the King your Fathers Redemption is yet in part unpaid. Wherefore Sir, You and your Subjects have good Right and just Cause to break the Peace, and to make War against England, and to endeavour to take out of their hands all that they hold on this side the Water.

Also certain of his Council advised him secretly upon mature Deliberation,

Sir, boldly undertake this War, for there is good Reason You should so do: For as soon as ever You have once o∣pen'd the War, you shall see and find, that all the Dutchy of Aquitain will turn to your side, as well Prelates, Barons, Earls, Knights and Esquires, as the Burgesses of the Good Towns. You may see Sir, how the Prince would have proceeded in raising of his Foüage, but he cannot bring his purpose about, and yet thereby he hath lost the Hearts of all Men, for those of Poictou, Rochellois, Sainctogne, Quercy, Limosin and Rou∣vergue are of such a Nature, that they can by no means love the Englishmen, nor the Englishmen them (they are so proud and presumptuous) nor never did. And besides all this the Princes Officers commit such Extortion among the People of Sainctogne, Poi∣ctou and Rochellois (for they take all at Random) and raise so much in the Prince's Name, that no Man is sure of any thing that is his own. And further the Gentry and Chief Men of the Country are disgusted, because they can attain to no Office of Dignity or Profit: For the Englishmen and the Prince's Servants run away with all.

By such Words as these was the French King encouraged to begin the War, and espe∣cially he was instigated and moved thereto by his Brother the Duke of Anjou, who lay at Tholouse, wishing nothing more than to see the War open. For he could never endure the Englishmen, because of such Displeasures as they had done Him and His for∣merly. And frequently the Gascogne Lords would say to the King,

Most Dear Sir, We are obliged to have our Resort in your Court, wherefore we all humbly require, that you would please to do us Right and Law, and as you are the most Just Prince in the World, let us have Justice against the great Extortions, Grievances and Oppressi∣ons, that the Prince of Wales and his Men have and would put upon us. For Sir, if you refuse to do thus much for us, we must then seek some other Remedy elsewhere, and shall be obliged to yield and submit our selves to the Jurisdiction of such a Lord, as shall see We have Reason done us: Whereby you will lose your Sovereignty over us for ever.

The French King, who was extream loath to let them part (as also he was doubtfull of embracing their Interest) knowing that by them his Realm would receive much Strength and Advantage, answer'd these Complainants very courte∣ously;

Surely Gentlemen (says he) for want of Love and good Counsel you shall not need to make your Resort to any other Court, but only to Ours: But yet in a matter of this Consequence we ought to move with much Caution and Deliberation.

And thus the King drove them off for the space of well-nigh a Year, but kept them still with him at Paris, and paid for all their Expences, and gave them many Rich Gifts and Jew∣els. And still he set men secretly to enquire among them, as it were of their own Heads, what they would really do, if the Peace were once broken between England and France, whether they would stand firm to the latter or no. And they always re∣ply'd,

That if the War were once open, the French King should not need to trouble him∣self about any such thing: For they said, they themselves were strong enough to me∣nage the War against the Prince and all his Power; and that when once they were own'd by the King of France, they would like good Subjects live and die in his Quarrel.

Be∣sides all these Conferences, which that Wise Prince held, before he would venture upon a Breach of the Peace, he tamper'd also secretly with many others of other Parts, that were then under the English Dominion; as particularly with the Burgesses of Abbeville, a strong and fair City of Ponthieu in Picardy, to sift out whether or no on such an Oc∣casion they would admit of the French Government; and they answer'd, how they desi∣red nothing so much in all the World, if they durst, they hated the English so mor∣tally. Thus the French King cunningly gat him Friends on all hands, or else he durst never have done what he did: For he knew it was no small matter to hold War a∣gainst King Edward, and his Son the Prince of Wales, who had put his Father and Grandfather to so much Trouble. And for these his Fine Dealings he obtain'd of the French Nation the Title of Charles le Sage, or the Wise, thô surely the Title of his Father was more worthy of a Christian Monarch, for that was le Bon, the Good. A little before this, namely h 2.1 on the 3^d of December in the preceding Year, being the first Sunday in Advent, was born unto King Charles of France his Eldest Son Charles, who was baptised by that Name on the Wednesday following, being the 6 of Decem∣ber, and the Feast of St. Nicolas the Bishop and Confessor, in the Church of St. Paul, near Paris. And within a few Days after was born unto the Lord of Albret his Eldest

Son also: At the Birth of which Two, who were Cosen Germans, all the Realm of France rejoyced, but especially the King himself.

V. Thus the French i 2.2 King being on all hands urged and perswaded, did at last suf∣fer Letters of Citation to be framed, therewith to summon the Prince of Aquitain forth∣with to make his Personal Appearance before Him in his Chamber of Peers, to answer to the Complaints there to be made against him. And this Letter was principally de∣vised by the Earl of Armagnac, the Lord of Albret, the Earl of Perigort, the Earl of Cominges, the Vicount of Carmain, the Lord de la Barde, the Lord of Pincornet, and the rest of the Malecontents of Gascogne, who had been the principal Occasion of all this. And when the Letter of Summons was drawn up, and duly corrected by all the Greatest Heads in France, then it was concluded by the King and his Council, that it should be sent unto the Prince without any more ado. And two Persons were pitch'd upon to execute this Office, the one named Bernard Pelot, who was Judge Criminal of Tholouse, and the other a Knight of Beausse, called Sr. John Chapponeau. Which two with their Servants departed accordingly from Paris, and took their way toward Poictou, and so passed thrö Tourain, Poictou and Sainctogne, till they came to Blaye, where they crossed the Garonne, and so proceeded to Bourdeaux, where at that time the Prince and Princess held their Court. And still in all Places where they came, they declared, how they were Messengers from the French King, upon which account they gain'd the better Welcome every where. Being come to Bourdeaux they took up their Lodgings for that Night, and the next Morning at a convenient Hour went to the Abby of St. Andrews, where the Prince kept his Court, and were received handsomly. When the Prince heard, that Messengers from the French King were arrived at his Court, he caused them to be brought before him: And they being come into his Pre∣sence kneeled down to pay their Reverence, and so deliver'd unto him first their Cre∣dentials. The Prince having read these Letters said,

Gentlemen, You are welcome! Let us now know the business, you are charged with unto Ʋs.

Then the Doctor be∣gan,

Right Dear Sir, here is another Letter, which being deliver'd unto us at Paris by our Lord the French King, we promised on our Allegiance to publish openly in your presence; For Sir, they concern your Person nearly.

At this the Prince began to change Colour, as wondring what the Matter might be (as also did all the other Lords and Knights that were about him) nevertheless He refrained Himself and said,

Speak on Sirs, what you have to say! Good Tidings We would be glad to hear.

Hereupon the Doctor took the Writing forth, and began to read it aloud, and distinctly word for word, this being the k 2.3 Tenor thereof, viz.

CHARLES, by the Grace of God King of France,

to our Nephew the Prince of Wales and of Aquitain, Greeting.

Whereas divers Prelates, Barons, Knights, Ʋniversities, and Colleges of the Marches and Limitations of the Country of Gascogne, dwelling and in∣habiting on the Borders of our Realm, with several others of the Country and Dutchy of Aquitain, have withdrawn themselves unto Ʋs in our Court, to have Right of cer∣tain Grievances and undue Molestations, which You by weak Counsel and slight Infor∣mation have purposed to do unto them; and at which thing we are surprised with won∣der: To obviate therefore and remedy the said Matters, We l 3.1 are so strictly engaged unto them, that by our Majesty Royal and Sovereignty, We command You to come to our City of Paris in proper Person, and there to shew and present Your Self before Ʋs in our Chamber of Peers, to hear Right concerning the said Complaints and Griefs moved by You, to do upon your People, who claim to have and to hear Resort in our Court; And that herein there be no fail, but that it be done as speedily as you can, after sight of these Letters.

In witness whereof We have set our Seal to these Pre∣sents. Given at Paris the Twenty fifth Day of the Month of January.

When the Prince had heard and seen these Letters, he was horribly incensed, and shook his Head for Anger, and beheld the Frenchmen with Eyes flaming with Fury, and having pau∣sed a little to correct his Passion somewhat, he returned this Answer,

Gentlemen, We will gladly go to Paris to our Ʋncle, since he hath thus handsomly invited Ʋs, but I'll assure you, that shall be with Helmet on our Head, and sixty thousand Men in our Company.

At this the two Frenchmen kneeling down in great Fear said,

Ah! Thrice Dear Sir, for Godsake refrain your Anger, and take not this Summons in such evil part, neither be displeased at us: Sir, we are but Servants sent by our Lord the FrenchKing, whom we are bound to obey, as your Subjects in like manner ought to obey You. And as it was our Duty to obey his Commands, so Sir, whatsoever you shall please to give us in Charge to say, we will fully declare it unto the King our Lord and Master. Nay (said the Prince) Sirs, I am not displeased with you, but with them

that have sent you hither. And the King your Master is lead by weak Counsel and simple Information, thus to offer to combine himself with our Subjects, or to make him∣self a Judge, where he hath nothing to do by any manner of Right or Title. For it shall be evidently shew'd, that in the Rendring up, and putting the King my Father into Possession of the Dutchy of Aquitain, both his Father and He, for Them and their Heirs for ever, utterly disclaimed and quitted all manner of Resort or Jurisdiction, So that those who have occasion'd this Summons to be made against me, have no other Resort of Right, but in the Court of England before the King my Dear Father, and before it shall be otherwise, I assure you it shall cost the Lives of an 100000 Men.

And with that the Prince flung away into another Room, and left the Frenchmen still there, to whom certain of the Prince's Servants, who understood his Pleasure, came and said,

Gentlemen, you may e'n go about your business when you please: You have duly performed your Errand: But you are to look for no other Answer than what you have heard.

With that the Knight and the Doctor went to their Inn, and having there dined, made ready their Carriages in all hast, and took Horse with all their Servants, and went from Bourdeaux the way to Tholouse-ward, for they design'd to shew the Duke of An∣jou what they had seen and done. The Prince was extreamly displeased at the Inso∣lence of these Summons, and so were all the Lords and Knights of his Council, most of whom had advised Him to hang the two Messengers for their Pains, thô the Prince charged them to the contrary; and yet he had many a shrew'd Imagination against them. But when it was told him, how that they were gone without any other Li∣cence then what was given by word of Mouth, and how they took their way toward Tholouse, he called unto him Sr. Thomas Felton Seneschal of Aquitain, and Sr. Thomas Wake Seneschal of Rouvergue, his Chancellor the Bishop of Rodez, Sr. Richard Pontchardon, and Sr. Thomas Percy, of whom he demanded, whether the French Mes∣sengers had any safe Conduct or no; and they answer'd, how they knew of none they had.

No more have they (said the Prince shaking his Head) but sure it is not con∣venient, that they should thus easily get off, and go and make their jangling to the Duke of Anjou, who is but a small Friend of ours, and will laugh heartily, that they have thus summon'd Ʋs in our own House. I believe, all things consider'd, they are rather Messengers from my own Subjects, as the Earl of Armagnac, the Lord of Albret, the Earl of Perigort, Cominges and Carmain, than from the French King. Wherefore because of the signal Affront that hath been put upon Ʋs, We wish they were overtaken and clapt up in prison. At this Motion all the Prince's Council were well pleased, only they said, Sir, we fear You have been too slow as to this Resolve.

Immediately the Seneschal of Agenois was commanded to take along with him Sr. William Molineux a Worthy Eng∣lish Knight, and so ride Post after the French Messengers, and stop them till further Or∣der. These two and certain of their Men took Horse accordingly, and pursued so di∣ligently, that at last they overtook them in the Land of Agenois, and so arrested them, pretending another Occasion; for when they seized them, they spake not a word of the Prince's Command, but said, how their Host, where they lay last, complained of them for an Horse, which he said they had changed. The Knight and the Doctor won∣der'd much at this Accusation, and began seriously to excuse themselves, but all in vain, for they were presently brought back to the City of Agen, and there clapt up in Prison. But several of their Servants were suffer'd to go their way, who passing thrô the City of Tholouse, told the Duke of Anjou of all that was done. At which he was not a whit sorry: For he knew, that from hence another Occasion of Hatred and Dissension being given, things would at last be brought to Extremi∣ty; and accordingly he prepared for War, thô with all the Caution and Dissimulation imaginable.

Certain of these Pages soon after went to Paris and told the French King of all the Premises, whereat he took great Indignation, especially when he heard the Words, wherewith the Prince had threatned him, saying,

how he would come and make his Per∣sonal appearance before his Ʋncle; but that should be with his Helmet on his Head, and 60000 Men at his Heels.

To withstand all which, the French King made covertly vast preparation; for he well knew, it was no light Matter to wage War against the King of England and his Power: Seeing in times past he had put his Predecessors to so much pain and difficulty. Upon which account he was at first so backward to begin the War; but he was so importun'd by the Lords of Gascogne, and also hardly prest by many of his own Council, who shew'd unto him the Extortions and other frequent Oppressions of the English, and that they were dayly like to grow more insupportable, as likewise, that King Edward was in his Declining Age, and his Son, the Prince, sick of an Incu∣rable

Disease; that at last he yielded to the War, thô much against his Will, consider∣ing the Destruction of many thousand poor souls, which he saw, would necessarily en∣sue thereby.

Upon this he ventur'd first to send his Summons, which every Man knew would ne∣ver be obey'd, but would occasion a Breach of the Peace between the two Realms; And now because of this fierce Answer of the Prince, King Charles and his Council made vast preparation, but as secretly as was possible: Thô for all his fine Conveyance, the Prince of Wales, who ever had his Eyes open toward that Quarter, since the Lords of Gascogne had been entertain'd in the Court of France; saw all along the close train of these subtle Devices, and m 3.2 sent in good time his Letters to his Father into England, warning him

not to give too much Credit to any smooth Words or fair Overtures of the French King, for he saw evidently, that he intended nothing but a Breach of the Peace, and only had not yet begun the War for want of a fit opportunity.

But King Edward could not think, that Charles, n 3.3 who was no Man of his Hands, durst ever presume to defie him, who had obtain'd so many Victories against him and his An∣cestors, and he also believed, that the late Peace had been so solemnly confirmed, as to be inviolable with all those, who had not quite abandon'd all sense both of Honour and Religion. But especially he was perswaded by many of his Council, that the Prince only spake these things of Prejudice, as Young, Bold and greedy of Arms, and impatient of Peace, and therefore had too freely taxed the French Kings Honour, because he de∣sired nothing more than War, and an opportunity of entring into Action. Upon these accounts King Edward gave but small Credit to his Sons Letters; especially because King Charles all the while with design nourished Security in him; by making frequent Remonstrances and Overtures, how to continue for ever their present good Correspon∣dence, and to cut off all occasions of Complaints, Jealousies, and Misconstructions for the future. For it was his Design to use these Cautious Methods, till by his Verbal Negotiations, his Enemies being rock'd asleep, and his own Affairs grown ripe, he might by Degrees get the rest of the Prisoners and Hostages at liberty, and then of a sudden be ready to Bite, as soon as he should threaten. And first, o 3.4 John Duke of Berry, one of the Principal Hostages, made shift, as we intimated before, to depart as lightly, as his Brother, the Duke of Anjou, had done before him. For having the last Year obtained leave of King Edward to visit his Friends in France for one whole Year, when once he saw the War open, he look'd upon himself as excus'd, notwithstanding his Oath, from ever returning again. An Opinion directly contrary to that of the Ge∣nerous Roman, Attilius Regulus, who voluntarily return'd himself into his Captivity, even when he knew Death and Torments were prepared for him, and thô in a time of War; because his Ransome was not paid. Earl John of Harcourt also found means to get out of England about the same time; King Edward granting him leave for certain Months, at the instant Request of his Uncle, the Lord Lewis of Harcourt, who was then at liberty in Ponthieu, and was a Friend to the Prince. And this Earl Harcourt intended to keep Word with the King of England; but upon his Return he fell sick and fortunately continued Ill, till the War was begun; so that He never rendred him∣self back again. The Lord Guy of Blois, who was then but a young Esquire; and Bro∣ther to John Earl of Blois, had a more Honourable, free, and easie way, whereby he gat off. For when he saw the French King, for whom he was an Hostage, not at all to mind his Deliverance, he fell in Treaty with the Lord Ingleram de Concy, Earl of Bedford, who having Married the Lady Isabella, King Edward's Daughter, had upon that account an Annual Allowance out of England. And this Treaty was so menag'd between King Edward and his said Son-in-Law on the One part, and the Lord John of Blois and his Brother Guy on the Other part, with the Consent also of the French King; that the Earldom of Soissons was deliver'd up into the King of England's Hands, for him to give the said Earldom to his Son-in-Law, the Lord of Coucy, in considera∣tion of which Gift, the Lord of Coucy should acquit King Edward of 4000 l. Annual Pension; which hitherto he had allow'd him. And when all these Covenants were made, engrossed, and interchangeably deliver'd, the Young Lord Guy of Blois was whol∣ly acquitted for ever. And as for the Earl of Alenson, he also obtain'd Licence of King Edward to return into France for a certain time: But he made so many excuses, that at last the War was begun, and so he never return'd into England; thô some are of Opinion, that at last he paid 30000 Franks to be wholly acquitted. Some two Years before, Lewis Duke of Bourbon, who was also one of the Hostages, gain'd such Fa∣vour in the Eyes of King Edward, that he obtain'd his good leave to go and see his Friends in France for a while. Now it happen'd, that during his stay at Paris with

the French King, William Edington Bishop of Winchester deceased; whereupon King Edward, designing to advance William of Wickham, who was then his Chaplain, as also his Principal Secretary and Keeper of the Privy Seal, unto that Dignity, wrote into France to this Duke of Bourbon, "desiring him for his sake to intercede with Pope Ʋrban, to allow, that this his Chaplain, who had been already elected by the Prior and Convent, might be admitted Bishop of Winchester, promising withall unto the Duke, to use him favourably as to the Business of his Ransome, if he would stir effectually in this Matter. The Duke of Bourbon was overjoyed at the sight of these Letters, and shew'd them to the French King, who advis'd him to apply himself im∣mediately to the Pope about that Affair. Accordingly he went to Avignon, and ob∣tain'd a Bull with a Grant of the Bishoprick of Winchester for the said Candidate; with which he return'd into France, and soon after into England, where he first treated with the King and his Council about his own Deliverance, before he would produce the Pope's Bull unto them. In short, for the sake of this Priest the Duke of Bourbon was wholly set free, paying only 20000 Franks, and William of Wickham was made Bi∣shop of Winchester, and soon after Lord Chancellor of England. This Great p 3.5 Prelate new built the Body of Winchester Church, Founded New-College in Oxford, and that Glorious Seminary of Winchester-College. He also built a Chappel at Tichfield, and left many other Monuments of Piety behind him, being by his own Vertue and the King's Favour not meanly advanced; for besides his being Lord Chancellor and Bishop of Winchester, he is said to have held in Commendum the Archdeacomy of Lincoln, the Proyostship of Wells, the Parsonage of Manyhant in Devonshire, and no less than 12 Prebends. Having sued the Executors of his Predecessor for Dilapidations, he reco∣ver'd of them 1662 l. 10 s. besides a 1556 Head of Great Cattle, 3876 Weathers, 4717 Ewes, 2521 Lambs, and 127 Swine; all which stock, it seems, belong'd to the Bishoprick of Winchester at that time. But of his Family and Name, of his Rise and Offices, of his Eminence and Buildings, and other Great Marks of his Munificence and Liberali∣ty, I am forbid in this place to speak more largely by the Laws of History; and there∣fore shall refer the Curious Reader to the several Authors above quoted, and to our Common English Chronicles. Where they will find in this Man a most Notable In∣stance of Providence, and a strong Incentive to Industry, by beholding in him an Ex∣ample to what Height of Eminence, Preferment, and Dignity, Laborious Vertue can ascend, thô little advantaged by Birth or external Splendour: And also what an Ex∣cellent way those Men take, as well of Instructing Posterity, as of preserving and em∣balming their own Names to future Generations, who by Charitably disposing of the Goods of Fortune toward the Advancement of Piety, Learning, and Good Manners, treasure up unto themselves a Rich Reward both of Worldly Fame, and of Eternal Glory. But to return to our Purpose.

VI. While q 3.6 thus Matters began apace to ripen towards a War, the Prince of Wales, who was fully resolv'd to come Personally to Paris in the Head of a Great Army the next Summer, sent word to all the English Captains and Gascogners, whom he knew his Friends, to be ready by such a time to come to his Service; and also to those Cap∣tains of the Companions, who came out of Spain, and were now about the River Loire, he sent word, that they should not leave those Parts; because he expected very shortly to find Work for them; of which News they were all very glad. But so it was, that this Great Soul, which us'd so well to inform these Warlike Bodies, began now to bend beneath his own Weight, and bore about him a Mortal War of his own; a certain Fatal Distemper, which some r 3.7 say, was brought upon him by Charms and Incantations; others, that he contracted it first in Spain, either by reason of the Infe∣ction of that Air, or from some lingring Poison; which 'tis thought, that Perfidious and Ungratefull Tyrant Don Pedro gave him for a Requital of that Crown, to which he had restored him. I know, there are some, who have not stuck to say, that this Poi∣son was given him by his Brother John of Gaunt, so to make way for himself to come to the Crown: But surely at that time, when the Prince was last with John of Gaunt, Prince Lionel, an Elder Brother to John, was alive; and besides, that the Prince had two Sons now living, the said Lionel had a Daughter also; all who were before him, as to the Succession. I cannot, nor dare, so readily admit Popular slanders against the Persons of such Noble Princes: But however it was, Prince Edward was by this time so reduced; that he could hardly endure to ride on Horseback; whereat his Men were extreamly cast down, and his Enemies took the greater Courage. For the French King was fully informed of his Distemper (however it came) and the Physicians and the Chirurgeons of France began already to pronounce boldly; that the Prince was sick of an Incurable Dropsie.

VII. Now when Sr. John Chapponeau and the Doctor were taken and arrested by the Seneschal of Agenois, and Sr. William Molineaux, and clap'd up in Prison, as we shew'd before; the Gascogne Lords, upon whose account they suffer'd, as the Earl of Armagnac, the Lord of Albret, the Earl of Cominges, the Earl of Perigort, the Vi∣count of Carmain, the Lord Bertram of Cande, the Lord de la Barde, and the Lord of Pincornet, being now in their own Country, and hearing of this Arrest of the Messen∣gers, took it in horrible Disdain; for in their Name, and for their cause were they sent: Wherefore they all concluded to revenge it, as soon as they might, and to begin the War; for they said, so great an Affront was not to be suffer'd. Within a while they understood, how Sr. Thomas Wake, the Seneschal of Rouvergue, was to ride to Rodez, the Chief City of that Province, to strengthen his Fortress there, and for that purpose on such a Day to come with 60 Spears from Agenois: Upon this Information at the time appointed, they laid an Ambush of 300 Spears to make sure of Sr. Thomas and his Company. But of all this the Seneschal knew nothing; so that at the expected time he came riding on with 60 Spears and 200 Archers, till a little beyond Molieres, he fell into the Ambush, which suddenly brake out upon him and presently discomfited his Men, most whereof were slain, or taken; but s 3.8 Du Chesne speaks too largely, when he says, that he and all his Men were cut in pieces: For many of his People, after the Civil Custom of those days, were taken to Ransome, and he t 3.9 himself by the Good∣ness of his Horse escaped away alive, and got to the Castle of Montauban; and so the Gascogne Lords return'd home again for that time with their Prisoners. The Prince of Wales was then at Angoulesme, whither the News presently slew, that his Seneschal of Rouvergue was discomfited by the Earl of Perigort, and others, who had occasion'd him so disgracefully to be summon'd into the Court of France. He was highly dis∣pleased at the Report, and sware, that it should be dearly Revenged on those, who had done him this signal Affront, and on their Lands and People. Then he wrote presently to the most Valiant Lord John Chandos, who at that time resided in Coutantine at St. Saviour le Vicount, commanding him immediately upon sight of his Letters, to come unto him. Sr. John Chandos, who was always ready to obey, where it was his Duty, made all the Expedition imaginable, and came to Angoulesme to the Prince, who was very glad of his Arrival. Soon after the Prince sent him with certain Troops of Men of Arms, and Archers to reinforce the Garrison of Montauban, and thence to make War upon the Gascogners and Frenchmen, who dayly encreased, and overran his Lands. At his coming Sr. Thomas Wake left Montauban, and went, as before he had intended, to Rodez, and Victuall'd, and New-fortified the City and Castle, as also he did to the strong City and Castle of Millaud on the Tarne, in the Marches of Mompellier in Languedoc; and in all places, where he saw most need, he set good store of Archers and Men of Arms.

The mean while the Lord John Chandos lay at Montauban to keep the Marches and Frontiers there against the French, and with him were several other Great Lords and Captains, such as the Prince had sent thither along with him; namely, the most Noble and Warlike Lord John de Greilly, Captal of Busche, the two Brethren of Pamiers, Sr. John and Sr. Henry, the Soldiche de L'Estarrac, the Lord of Partenay, the Lord of Pons, Lewis Earl of Harcourt, the Lord of Pinant, the Lord of Taniboton, Sr. Ri∣chard of Pontchardon. All which Lords and Knights made frequent Inroads into the Lands of the Earl of Armagnac, and of the Lord of Albret, who by Aid of o∣ther Lords of their Gang made shift to keep the Frontiers against them. So that sometimes this side had the Advantage, and sometimes the other, as evermore the ad∣ventures of War are various.

VIII. But all this while the subtle Duke of Anjou lay still at Tholouse, and made not the least offer to stirr for any News that he heard, for so the King his Brother had strictly charged him, by no means to make any War against the Prince, till he should receive express Order so to do. And all the while this Politick King was getting toge∣ther good Captains and Souldiers in the most secret manner that it was possible; and particularly he wan to his side certain of the Companions, whom he sent into the Marches of Berry and Auvergne, permitting them to live there upon the Country something loosely, that they might not be suspected for Friends, but withall he com∣manded them to make no War upon the Prince, till they had his express Word for it. For he took all the Care in the world not to create the least Suspition, that he inten∣ded a War, till all his Designs against the Earldom of Ponthieu should be ripe. Nor without cause: For if the King of England could but have guessed, that the French King would have broke the Peace, he could have very easily prevented the Losses,

which he received afterwards in Ponthieu; and especially he would have made such good Provision for the City of Abbeville, and all the other Garrisons in that Country, that he should still have kept the Soveraignty thereof, maugre all the Power of France. And yet at that time the Seneschal of that County for King Edward was a Valiant English Gentleman, named Sr. Nicolas Louvain, who was in great Favour with the King his Master, as he well deserved: For he was so True, Loyal and Couragious, that he would rather have been drawn in pieces by wild Horses, than consent to any thing that might reflect upon his Faith and Honour. Yet not only he, but King Edward and all others were deceived at this time by the overreaching Devices of the French King, who the more to amuse King Edward, had a little before sent over the Earl of Sale∣bruche, and Sr. William Dorman, to adjust Matters fully with him and his Council; and these Men the better to conceal the Malice they intended, complained of Wrongs done, as they said, unto them; for they declar'd unto the King and his Council, how on their Part the Peace was but slightly kept at the best, not only by reason of the War which the Companions, who were generally Subjects of England, had kept in France for about six whole Years, but also upon divers other Accounts, whereat the King their Master had no small cause to be disgusted. These Embassadors King Ed∣ward detain'd in England for about two Months, during which time (thô he expected to settle a right Understanding between the two Realms) they only made many frivo∣lous Complaints to delay time, which almost tired the Kings Patience, but they were not much concerned at that, because they knew they did but follow the Commission they had from their Master. However they u 3.10 made unto the King a Present of cer∣tain Vessels of Choice Wines and other Gifts from the French King, as a Token of his Brotherly Love and Good will. The mean while King Charles having understood for certain, that the Inhabitants of Abbeville were willing to own his Interest, and that the Wars were already open in Gascogne, and all his Friends stood ready to strike, as soon as ever they had the Word for it, resolved now to put things to the issue. Yet however, either being secure of the Advantage he had by taking this Start of King Edward, or desirous as far as he might, to avoid all Reproach, lest Posterity might cry shame of him, if he should invade any of the King of England's Lands, or the Prince's, without Defiance, he resolv'd by Advice of his Council, to send and defie the King of England and all his Adherents; and so he did by his Letters Sealed, which to his great reproach he gave to a mean Valet to carry. And yet before this, even while King Edward was giving his Audience of Leave to the French Ambassadors, he heard a Ru∣mour, that the French King had sent Men of War into Ponthieu, and that he had no∣toriously broken the Peace by certain overt Acts of Hostility; whereupon in great In∣dignation he bad the Ambassadors get them Home with their Deceitfull Presents to their Deceitfull Master; and commanded them to tell him, how he detested from his Heart and Soul the dishonourable and unprincely Falseness which he had shewn: For which he doubted not, by the Grace of God, but to make him repent before long. Away went the Ambassadors with all speed, and at Dover they met with the Valet, who was come with the Defiance from France; the Substance whereof he secretly told them, as he was enjoyned to do, that they might make hast Home. But for all that they x 3.11 were met with upon the Sea by some Men of War belonging to Calais, who knowing the War was already begun on that side by the Frenchmen, set upon them, and took away their Wines and other Presents, which King Edward had refused to accept, and brought them to Calais, the Earl of Salebruche and Sr. William Dorman escaping a∣way to Boulogne.

IX. A little before this the y 3.12 Prince of Wales had sent Sr. Guischard Dangle to Rome, whither Pope Ʋrban z 3.13 was then gone for some while, to confer with his Holiness about certain Matters relating to Aquitain, and having found the Pope very comply∣ing in all his Concerns, about this time he returned homeward; when being upon the way he heard for certain, how the Gascogners and Frenchmen made War upon the Prince, and had already invaded the Principality. He was extreamly surprised at the News, and began to doubt how he should get home without being entrapped by his E∣nemies; however first he went to the Valiant and Noble Earl of Savoy, whom he found in the City of Pignerol in Piedmont, making War against the Marquess of Sa∣luzzo. The Earl entertain'd Him and all his Company very honourably, and gave the Chief of them many rich Gifts, especially to Sr. Guischard Dangle, whom he re∣spected more particularly for the sake of his Abilities in War, of which he had heard ample Commendations. Having here taken his leave, as he drew near to France, he heard more and more of the Difference between the Prince of Wales and the French

King: So that he saw it impossible for him to return openly into Guienne, he was so generally known. Wherefore he gave the Charge of his Company to his Son-in-Law Sr. John of Issoire, and he himself, being disguised like a poor Priest in evil Ha∣bit, and on an old Hackney, took another way, and so at last with much adoe came safe to Angoulesme to the Prince, who received him with much joy.

But 'tis now time to return to this French Valet, who after the departure of the Earl of Salebruche and Dr. William Dorman out of England, rode strait for London: Where understanding, that the King was then holding his Parliament at Westminster, he obtained to be admitted into the Painted-Chamber, where then the King sat with the Chief Lords of his Council. Before whom, having declared, that he was an Esquire sent from the French King with Letters to the King of England, he kneeled down to the King and deliver'd him the Letters. The Valet being then dismist, the King, who was very desirous to hear News from France, especially to know the Purport of these Letters, caused them immediately to be open'd and read. All that were present won∣dred extreamly, when they heard the Defiance, and saw the Seal and other sufficient Marks of its Authority: But King Edward was mightily astonished, that a Prince who was no a 3.14 Man of his Hands, should ever dare to defie Him, and admired whence this strange Confidence should arise; little thinking what crafty Measures had been taken, while he was lull'd asleep by their subtle Overtures. However for the present he gave order to tell the Valet, how he had perform'd his Duty very punctually, and might now e'n go about his Business, for he should have no hindrance at all. But both the King and his Council took it in great Indignation, that so mean a Fellow should be sent with this Defiance, and they all agreed,

That it was neither Reason nor Deco∣rum, that a War between two such Princes, as the King of England and the French King, should be published by a contemptible Valet:

It was more fitting to have been done by the hands of some Eminent Prelate, or some Valiant Man, either a Baron or a Knight at least. And indeed this Indignity put upon so Great a Monarch, was not well resented by many, that were Friends to France; but the French Ambassadors b 3.15 excused it to the Pope and to the Emperour, that therefore their King chose to make his De∣fiance unto the King of England by Letters, because he was but a Vassal unto France for the Lands of Aquitain and Poictou. However King Edward, who own'd no such Matter, as knowing himself Absolute Lord of those Countries by the Tenor of the Peace, took this Affront in great Despite: But now it was past, and no Remedy could be had. Wherefore the Lords advised the King to send forthwith a Considerable Army into Ponthieu to keep the Frontiers there, and especially to take Care of the good City of Abbeville, which they knew to be in great Danger of loosing. This Mo∣tion the King approved of, and presently appointed the Lord Henry Percy, the Lord Ralph Nevil, the Lord William Windsor, and one Lord more to go thither with 300 Men of Arms, and a 1000 Archers in their Company. But as these Lords made themselves ready with all the Expedition imaginable, and were even now at Dover ready to cross the Seas, there came other News into England. For the French King had play'd his Cards too sure to be baffled now, so that as soon as by all likelihood it might be con∣jectur'd, that King Edward had received the Defiance, Guy Earl of St. Paul, and Sr. Hugh de Chastillon Master of the Crossbows of France, drew toward the Parts of Ponthieu, having secretly sent Command to all the Lords, Knights and Esquires of Artois, Hai∣nalt, Cambresis, Picardy and Vermandois, such as were their Friends, to come to them immediately. Wherefore being of a suddain reinforced with above sixscore Spears, they came to Abbeville early in the Morning, as they had determin'd before by pri∣vate Agreement with the chief Burgesses, and finding the Gates ready open for them, went in directly without the least Opposition, not doing any harm or violence in the World. But Sr. Hugh de Chastillon one of the chief Leaders, marched straight forward without any noise, and surprised Sr. Nicolas Louvain the Seneschal of Ponthieu, and to∣gether with him the Treasurer of Ponthieu, a Valiant Gentleman, thô of the Clergy. Thus the Frenchmen took many a Rich Prisoner with ease, and the Englishmen lost all that ever they had in the City of Abbeville. That same Day another Party of French∣men ran up to St. Valery and Crotoy, and enter'd both Places, and took them, together with another Town on the Sea side called Noyelle sur Mer. A little after the Earl of St. Paul with another Party went to Pont de Remy on the Soame, whither certain Eng∣lish had withdrawn themselves. The Earl assaulted them briskly, and was well received by the Defendants, so that a fierce and notable Skirmish arose, at which time the Earl Knighted his Eldest Son Valeran, who shewed that Day by his Exploits how worthy he was of that Honour. In short, the English being both too inconsiderable in Number,

and also surprised, were put to the Worse, being all either routed, slain or taken, to∣gether with the Town and Fortress. And thus in a manner all the Country and Earl∣dom of Ponthieu was of a sudden cleared of the English, so that they were now no more Formidable in those Parts.

Now there were still in England sundry of the French Hostages, as the Earl Dauphin of Auvergne, the Earl of Porcien, the Lord of Roye, the Lord of Mauliverer and di∣vers Others, besides most of those of the Good Towns of France, who were all much troubled when they heard of the Defiance; but now when News was brought, how all Ponthieu was revolted, overrun and conquer'd, they were in a wofull Taking, not know∣ing what King Edward would do with them in such a Case. And surely when He heard the News from Ponthieu he was horribly incensed, that the Country had so trea∣cherously revolted from him, and had many an Hard Thought against the French Ho∣stages, who remained still with him at London. But yet he consider'd with Himself, how it would be but fruitless Cruelty, and a sign of Irrational Revenge to wreak his Displeasure upon them: Wherefore he only resolved to keep them shorter of their Li∣berty, and not permit them to take their pleasure as formerly; and so he sent the Bur∣gesses of the Cities and Towns of France into divers strong Fortresses about in seve∣ral parts of England. Nevertheless the Earl Dauphin of Auvergne he released for a Ransom of 30000 Franks, and the Earl of Porcien for 10000. But the Lord of Roye could not be admitted to any Ransom: For he was not at all beloved either by the King or any of his Court; wherefore he was still detain'd a Prisoner in great fear and sorrow, till by good Fortune he also happen'd to be delivered, as we shall shew hereafter.

X. When the King of England c 3.16 saw, that he was not only Defied by the French King, but had also actually lost the greater Part of Ponthieu, for the safety whereof it had cost him more than an 100000 Franks, besides the Revenues which the Country yielded to his Exchequer, in repairing of Towns and Castles: He saw plainly, that it was high time to have an Eye on all Parts; for he found his Adversary of France wan∣ted no Cunning nor Industry whereby to oppose him. And he heard particularly, how the Scots also had engaged against him in a new Alliance with the French King, and design'd to give him a Diversion at the Back-door; Whereat he was grievously displeased, for he doubted the Scots more than the Frenchmen, not only because they were a more im∣placable and obstinate People, and kept their former Losses in mind; but also because they were his near Neighbours, and could do him an Injury more easily, and escape Revenge more securely. Wherefore first he sent a considerable Number of Men of Arms, Archers and Others to the Frontiers of Scotland, as to Newcastle, to Caerlile, to Barwick, to Roxborough and other Places. Besides which he rigged forth a good Fleet, which was to ply about Southhampton, Jernsey and the Isle of Wight. For he heard, how the French King was setting forth a great Navy to Sea, which was to come and invade England, or as others said Ireland; wherefore thither also he was ob∣liged to send no small Reinforcement under the Command of the Lord William Wind∣sor, d 3.17 who being at the same time constituted Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, had in con∣sideration thereof for his better Support in the Kings Service, a Grant of a 1000 Marks per annum, to be paid him out of the Kings Exchequer, untill such a time as the King should settle upon him Lands and Rents of that Value for Him and his Heirs for ever, and immediatly thereupon he had a Grant of the Mannor and Castle of Dun∣garvan, as also the Castle called the Black-Castle, to Him and the Heirs of his Bo∣dy. With him went in this Irish Expedition, e 3.18 the Lord Thomas Fauconberg, and other Persons of Rank and Conduct; for King Edward not knowing on which side the storm would fall, was obliged to take Care on all Sides: Though indeed he him∣self was not without some anxious Thoughts, by reason of the unexpectedness of this Alarum.

But having thus for the present provided for all as well as he could, he calls toge∣ther his High Court of Parliament, f 3.19 which according to the Summons met at West∣minster in the Octaves of the Holy Trinity. At which time William of Wickham, Bi∣shop of Winchester and Lord Chancellor of England, declared in the Painted Cham∣ber, in Presence of the King, Lords and Commons, the Reasons of their present Assem∣bly, saying,

How the King had always in his greatest Affairs used their Advice and Counsel, and especially in making the last Peace with the French, which was yet made on Condition, that by such a Day the French King should surrender up unto him certain Countries beyond the Seas, that within such a time he should pay unto the King certain Sums of Money; and that he should never pretend for the future to a∣ny

Jurisdiction or Soveraignty over Gascogne or the Parts thereabouts; in Conside∣ration whereof the King of England should from thenceforth lay by the Stile of France, which he had accordingly done. That whereas he for his Part had not slack∣ed his Duty, the French King had done the quite Contrary: for neither had he made a full and due Payment of the said Monies; and also he had summon'd the Earl of Armagnac, the Lord of Albret and Others, who were of the Kings Allegiance, to answer to certain Appeals at Paris; nay further, he had summon'd the Prince of A∣quitain himself (who was also of the Kings Allegiance) to appear among the Rest. Besides all which he had sent certain Troops into Ponthieu, where he had surprised several of the Kings Garrisons and Forts: Whereupon the Prince of Wales and of Aquitain, by Advice of his Council had sent to the King his Father, wishing him to Resume the Title and Stile of France. And therefore the Chancellor desired the Lords and Commons to take Counsel in the Matter, and to advise the King to the best of their Power about the Premises.

Then there were appointed Receivers of Petitions for England, Ireland, Wales and Scotland, and also for Gascogne, and other Foreign Places and Isles, and after that Triers of the said Petitions for all the said Pla∣ces. On the Wednesday after, the Bishops, Lords and Commons answered the King with one Consent,

That considering the Premises, He might with a Good Consci∣ence take up again the Stile and Name of King of France, and use his Arms as before.

Accordingly the King at that instant took upon him the Name, Stile and Dignity of France, and on the Eleventh Day of June, being a Monday and St. Barnabas Day, his Seal of England being safely laid up, another Seal engraven with the Stile and Arms of France was taken and used, and several Patents, Charters and Writs therewith sea∣led; and the same Day all the Kings other Seals were Changed, one g 3.20 being circumscri∣bed with the Word Franciae in the first Place, and the other with Angliae, as at the Beginning. From which Time even to this Day, the Kings of England his Successors, continue their Arms Quarter'd with France, in token of that Right, to which King Ed∣ward so justly now renew'd his Claim.

After this, upon a full Account given of the Kings great Necessities, the Lords and Commons granted unto him for Three Years following, of Denizens for every Sack of Wooll Fourty Three Shillings Four Pence, of every Twenty Dozen of Fells Four∣ty Three Shillings Four Pence, and of every Last of Skins Four Pounds. But of Ali∣ens for every Sack of Wooll Fifty Three Shillings Four Pence, of every Twelvescore Fells as much, and of every Last of Skins Five Pounds Six Shillings Eight Pence, over and above the Old Customs.

Then it was Enacted, That all the Kings Forts and Fortresses should be surveyed, repaired and edified: And it was caution'd by another Statute, that no Religious Aliens should be left in a Capacity to discover the Secrets of the Realm; and now again were all the Lands of Religious Aliens seized into the Kings Hands, and lett to Farm to the Sovereigns of the same. That Remedy may be had against the excessive Selling of Armour, and the unreasonable Demands of Horse-Coursers. The King will appoint the Officers of every Town to provide therefore. That the Time of Prescription may be from the Coronation of King Edward the First. The Old Law shall stand. That Syl∣va Caedua may especially be declared. The Statute shall be observed. That Sheriffs be no further charged than they shall receive. The Party grieved upon Complaint shall have Remedy. That the Indicted upon any Trespass or Felony, may upon Issue joyned have a Nisi Prius against the King. So the same concerneth Treason, the Chancellor or Keeper of the Privy Seal shall therein do Right. That such as dwell upon the Sea-Coasts, may set up Poles or other Instruments, whereby Men may know the Encrease or Decrease of the Sea. In time of War the same may be to less harm, and after taken away. That the Acquittance of the Co-Executors refusing Administration may be void. The Law shall be used as heretofore. It is agreed, that no Man be punished contrary to the Statute. Such Commissions, as were to enquire of Scotch Labourers within the Realm, were repealed. The Print touching the Pardon of Forest Matters Chap. 4. a∣greeth with the Record. The Print touching the Staple to be removed from Calais, be∣cause of the Wars, and to be held in England Chap. 1. differs much in Form from the Record, quod nota. The next Day being the Twelfth of June, the King gave his Thanks to the Lords and Commons for their great Pains, and for the Aid they had given him: And in some sort of Recompence, promised to all such as should pass over Sea with him against the French, that they should enjoy and possess all such Towns, Castles, Possessions, Persons, Names, Arms and Honours as they should obtain, win, conquer or take

of the French, to them and their Heirs in Fee, saving unto the King all Regalities, and the Lands of the Church, and that every Person should have Charters of his own Prowess and Conquest. And further the King commanded, that all the Bishops should not only muster their own Servants and Tenants, but also all Parsons, Vicars, and other Religious Persons of the Clergy, all who were to be in a readiness upon Occasion to re∣sist the Common Enemy. And then the Parliament brake up.

XI. One thing here We must not omit, namely, a Matter concerning the Bounty of the Generous Black-Prince extended to the truly Loyal and Valiant Gentleman, the Lord John Greilly, that Famous Captal of Busche: To whom he granted about this time the whole County of Bigorre in tail, reserving yearly at Christmas a Faulcon and a Tercel Gentle to be paid at his Castle of Bourdeaux, besides the known Services due out of that County; whereof he gave him his Charter, h 3.21

EDWARD, Eldest Son of the King of England, Prince of Aquitaine, and of Wales, Duke of Corn∣wall, and Earl of Chester, Lord of Biscay, and of the Castle of Ordiales,

to all, who shall see, or hear, these Letters,

We give to know: That for the good and agreeable Services, which our Right Dear and Loyal Cousin, John de Greilly, Cap∣tal of Busche, hath rendred unto Us heretofore, and which He and his may ren∣der unto Us and Ours in time to come, We have given and granted, and by these Presents do give and grant to Him and his Heirs Male Lawfully begotten, the Coun∣ty of Bigorre, with the Cities, Towns, Castles, Lands, Seignories, Homages, Juris∣dictions, High, Mean, and Low, Meer and Mixt Empire, Rights, Cens and Rents, Revenues, and other Profits, Emoluments, and Appurtenances of the said County: He rendring unto Us and our Heirs every Year for ever, at our Castle of Bourdeaux, at the Feast of Christmas, a Faulcon and a Tercellet Gentle, and doing unto Us and our Heirs Liege Homage, and Oath of Fealty, Resorts, and other Duties, which ought to be done to Us for the said County. In Witness of which We have cau∣sed to be put to these our Letters Patents our Great Seal,

Given at our City of An∣goulesme the 27 day of June, in the Year of Grace MCCCLXIX.

This Grant of the Prince's to that Noble Lord, was in i 4.1 April following confirmed by the King, his Father, under the Great Seal of England; only reserving to the King and his Heirs, Kings of England, the Liege Homage of the said John, and of his Heirs for the said County; and also the Sovereignty and Resort of the said Earldom, and all other Du∣ties, to Him, as Superior Lord, due therefrom. And so Command was sent from the King to all States, and Officers in that County, to be obedient and answerable to the said John Greilly, as to the Earl of the said Earldom of Bigorre, in all things pertain∣ing to the said Earldom.

Notes

• * 1.1

  AN. DOM. 1369. An. Regni Angliae XLIII.
• a 1.2

  Frois. c. 251. f. 144.
• b 1.3

  Vid. Odor. Rainal. ad hunc ann. §. 11. Me∣zeray p. 78. Ma∣riana l. 17. c. 13. & Frois. ibid.
• c 1.4

  Lit. Dom. G. vid. Odor. Rai∣nal. &c. ut ante.
• d 1.5

  Odor. Rainal. ut ante.
• e 1.6

  Vid. Sand∣ford's Geneal••g. Hist. l. 4. c. 1. p. 253. & Dugd. 2 Vol. p. 118.
• f 1.7

  Frois. c. 242. f. 146. sed Gal∣lue f. 199.
• g 1.8

  Frois. c. 244.
• h 2.1

  〈…〉〈…〉 Chron. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. ad ann. 1, 68.
• i 2.2

  Frois. c. 243. Du Chesne & Du Serres.
• k 2.3

  Frois. c. 243. f. 147. b. & Da Chesne l. 15. p. 699. D.
• l 3.1

  Nous nous sommes ahers & aherdons avec eux.
• m 3.2

  Walsing. hist. p. 177. n. 43.
• n 3.3

  Mezeray p. 80.
• o 3.4

  Frois. c. 244.
• p 3.5

  De eo Vid. in Vitá G••lielmi Wickh••uni à Tho. Marten Edit. Lond. 1597. & Chan∣dler de Vitâ e∣jusd. & Trus∣sel's Continuat. ad Daniel's hist. in Henr. IV. p. 77. ad An. 1404. & An∣ton. Wood An∣tiqu. Oxon. l. 2. p. 126. & Wee∣vers Fun. Mon. & Godwin's Catal. Bish. in Winchester, &c.
• q 3.6

  Frois. c. 245.
• r 3.7

  Du Chesne 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Walsingh. sed nil tale apud Wals.
• s 3.8

  Du Chesne p. 700.
• t 3.9

  Frois. c. 246.
• u 3.10

  Walsing. hist. p. 177. & 178.
• x 3.11

  Walsing. hist. p. 178. n. 10.
• y 3.12

  Frois. c. 246. fol. 149.
• z 3.13

  Vid. Oder. Rainald ad hunc aun. 1367. §. 2. &c.
• a 3.14

  Mezeray p. 80.
• b 3.15

  Dinothi Ad∣vers. p. 278.
• c 3.16

  Frois. c. 248.
• d 3.17

  Dugd. 1 Vol. p. 509. ex Pat. 43. Ed. 3. p. 1. m. 27.
• e 3.18

  Dugd. 2 Vol. p. 4. ex Pat. 43. Ed. 3. p. 1. m. 32
• f 3.19

  M.S. Rot. Par. p. 103. Sr. Rob. Cottons Abridg. p. 108.
• g 3.20

  Ashmole p. 665.
• h 3.21

  Extant Galli∣co idiemate a∣pud Selden's Titles of Ho∣nour. Part. 2. c. 3. §. 13. p. 518.
• i 4.1

  Rot. Vasc. 44. Ed. 3. m. 8. n. 4.