Chapter VI: Part 6

He marched to Troyes in Champagne, and remained there about three weeks. His men were quartered in the towns and villages in the open country round,--but the greater part were sent to Auxerre, Tonnerre, and to the borders of Burgundy, where they harrassed the country much. During his stay at Troyes, many towns and castles, which had formerly waged a severe warfare against him, submitted to his obedience. He also put an end to the quarrels between the house of Bar and Lorraine and that of Vaudemont, and received into favour the heir of Commercy, and several lords on the borders of Burgundy, who had incurred his indignation.

Having finished these matters, the king went to his town of Bar-sur-Aube, whither came the bastard of Bourbon, with a large train of men at arms, whom he had long maintained in the field. On his arrival, he was instantly accused of treasonable practices against the king; and, after the affair had been examined into, he was tried, and condemned to be sewed in a sack, and thrown into the river and drowned, which sentence was executed. His body, when dead, was taken out of the river, and buried in holy ground.

It was currently reported, that this execution had taken place because that, during the quarrel between the king and the dauphin, he had joined his brother the duke of Bourbon with a large force, and had been the principal actor in separating the dauphin from his father. It was also said, that on the failure of the expedition to raise the siege of Harfleur, where he had served under the count d'Eu, he had gone to St Omer, and offered his services to the duke of Burgundy, should he at any time have occasion for them, in compliment to the duke's brother-in-law the duke of Bourbon. This execution gave great alarm to many of the captains who had for a long time been under arms, on pretence of forming part of the king's army, lest they should in like manner be punished for their wicked deeds.

CHAP. XLIV.

THE ENGLISH IN THE CASTLE OF FOLLEVILLE[81] DO MUCH DAMAGE TO THE COUNTRY ROUND AMIENS.--THEY DEFEAT SOME PICARD LORDS AND THEIR MEN.

The english garrison in the castle of Folleville did, at this time, much mischief to the countries round Amiens, Corbie, and in Santois, where they alarmed the town of Mondidier. They were about one hundred warriors, who kept the neighbourhood in such awe that most of the towns were forced to pay them monthly a certain sum as protection-money, and a stipulated quantity of wheat, to the great oppression of the poor farmers[82].

They even made an attack one day on the town of Dours[83] on the Somme. In the castle was the lord of the town,--but, not having a sufficient force to resist them, he hastily mounted his horse and rode to Amiens, to demand succour. He found there the lord de Saveuses, the governor of Amiens, and many gentlemen and warriors, who unanimously agreed to accompany him in the pursuit of the English. They overtook the English near to Folleville, whither they were retreating in handsome array, carrying with them the immense plunder they had taken.

It was ordered, that the lord de Saveuses should lead the infantry,--and the lord de Dours, the lord de Contay, the lord de Tilloye, Guichart de Fiennes, and other gentlemen, should gallop up to the English, and cry out to them to halt and fight with their enemies on horse and on foot; but these orders were not observed,--for those on horseback, eager to engage their adversaries, made a full charge without waiting the coming up of the infantry, which turned out very unfortunately for them.

The English seeing the enemy approach, and being more numerous, formed two divisions, placing their horses in the rear, that they might not be attacked on that quarter, and defended themselves so valiantly that most part of the French were slain. In this number were the lord de Dours, Guichart de Fiennes, John de Beaulieu, and other noble gentlemen. The principal among the prisoners, was sir Martel d'Antoch lord of Tilloye. The remainder escaped by flight,--not, however, without having some of their horses wounded and killed from fatigue.

The lord de Saveuses, seeing the unfortunate issue of the day, kept the infantry under his command together as well as he could, and rallied some of the horse who were flying homeward. He marched them back to Amiens, very much afflicted at their ill fortune. Shortly after, by a treaty with the English, they obtained the naked bodies of the dead, to inter them in their own sepultures. Some of the relations and friends of the slain would have thrown the blame of this defeat on the lord de Saveuses, saying that he did not advance fast enough with the infantry to support the cavalry when engaged. He answered this charge by declaring, that as the infantry had been put under his command by the unanimous consent of the captains then present, he could not advance faster than he did without leaving his troops behind him.

FOOTNOTES:

[Footnote 81: Folleville,--a village in Picardy near to Bretueil.]

[Footnote 82: This protection-money was well known on the borders of England and Scotland, under the name of Black Mail.]

[Footnote 83: De Dours. Q. Dourcha? which, in Bleau's atlas, is on the Somme; but I cannot find Dours, or Dourcha, in the Gazetteer of France.]

CHAP. XLV.

SOME OF THE GARRISONS OF THE COUNT DE ST POL ROB THE KING OF FRANCE'S SERVANTS AS THEY WERE CONDUCTING WARLIKE STORES FROM THE CITY OF TOURNAY.--THE REPARATION THE COUNT DE SAINT POL MAKES FOR THIS CONDUCT.

During the stay the king of France made in Champagne, he had ordered some of his most confidential servants to go to the town of Tournay, and to Flanders, to purchase artillery and warlike stores, which they were to convey to Paris, to be ready in case they should be wanted. Those whom he had intrusted with this commission executed it faithfully; and having laden carts and waggons with the artillery and stores, conducted them without any hindrance through the territories of the duke of Burgundy, from the city of Tournay, until they came to a town called Ribemont[84], where they were stopped by the garrison in that place for the count de St Pol.

The chiefs of the garrison were John lord of Thorante, Guyot de Bethune, Hoste de Neufville, with several others, as well men at arms as archers. They robbed these servants of the king of France, carrying into the town of Ribemont the contents of the carts and waggons, which they there divided among themselves and wasted; but the whole of this conduct was without the knowledge or consent of the count de St Pol, who was much displeased thereat.

When intelligence of this robbery came to the king of France, he was very indignant, and swore that he would have ample amends for it; and that he would wage war on the count de St Pol, unless he made full restitution for the things stolen, and did homage to him for the lands he held within his realm.

During the king's residence in the town of Bar-sur-Aube, gentlemen came daily to offer their services to him,--and having staid there some time, he departed, through Châlons and Rheims, to the city of Laon. Wherever he passed, he was received most honourably, and in the manner in which obedient subjects usually show to their sovereign lord.

From Laon he dispatched the greater part of his captains with their men,--namely, La Hire, Anthony de Chabannes, Joachim Rohault,--to make war on the towns and castles dependant on the count de St Pol. The count had heard of this plan, and consequently had reinforced his different places as strongly as he could, and had retired to the castle of Guise, in Tierrache, to be ready to succour such as might stand most in need of it.

It happened, that those of the garrison of Ribemont, whom I have before named, on hearing of the near approach of the king's army, were so much frightened, from dread of the French, that they suddenly left the town in the utmost disorder, and without waiting for each other, abandoning the command of it and the castle to the common people. This caused great confusion; and they mostly withdrew to Guise and other fortified places of the count, who was much enraged at their cowardice, more especially with those to whom he had intrusted its defence.

On this same day, or on the morrow, the French came before Ribemont, to whom, in the name of king Charles, was the town surrendered, and admittance given them. They found it full of wealth, and helped themselves to it at their pleasure; and Joachim Rohault entered with the rest, as governor of the place.

Shortly after, the French advanced to the town of Marle[85], which they surrounded on all sides with their whole force. The governor in the town for the count de St Pol was a gentleman diligent and expert in war, called George de Croix, having with him sixty combatants, including those of the town. He was regularly and often summoned to surrender the place to the king of France; but he always replied, that without the knowledge and consent of the count de St Pol, he would not yield it up.

The besiegers, in consequence, sent on their heavy artillery, and pointed many cannon against the walls and gates, which damaged them so much that they intended very soon to storm it. In the mean time, the count de St Pol, considering that it would be impossible for him to hold out against the power of France, especially as he had been told that he must not look for aid from the duke of Burgundy, began to turn his thoughts to the best means of appeasing the king, particularly as the principal gentlemen about him advised him, by all means, to negotiate a peace and remain in the quiet possession of his estates.

The countess-dowager, his mother, first opened the business, with others of his friends, who had a little before gone to wait on the king at Laon.--The count went also thither himself, and was graciously received by the king and the dauphin, and by the lords of the court. He shortly after requested and obtained from the king a suspension of arms between the army before Marle and the garrison, until a fixed day, when a treaty should be opened to accommodate the business.

A treaty was concluded, after the king had holden several councils, and after the count de St Pol had been heard in his defence. It was agreed, that the count should remain in the good graces of the king, on consideration that he did immediate homage for the lands he held in France, and also for those of the countess of Marle and of Soissons, his lady, in the usual manner in which homage was done by other vassals. He was likewise to place the town of Marle under the king's obedience, and deliver it to such commissioners as should be appointed, sending those now within it away. He was beside to give certain declaratory letters, signed and sealed by him, the contents of which shall be specified farther on.

When this matter had been finished, the king sent commissioners to take possession of the town of Marle: they carried with them passports for George de Croix and his men, who, on their departure, marched to La Ferté-sur-Oise, by orders from the count de St Pol. The commissioners on entering Marle, received the obedience of the inhabitants; and having executed all they had been commanded, the town was, soon after, restored to the count de St Pol, with the king's approbation, on the same terms on which he had before held it.

The army now dislodged, and advanced further into the Vermandois, Hainault and Cambresis, greatly oppressing the poor people. The count de St Pol, after the conclusion of the peace, increased much in favour with the king and the dauphin: he was particularly beloved by the latter, whom he promised to serve faithfully, henceforth, in all his wars with the English. The count remained at Laon a considerable time; and before he quitted it, delivered to the council the declaratory letter before mentioned, the tenour of which was as follows.

'Louis de Luxembourg, count de St Pol, de Ligny, de Conversan, de Braine and de Guise, lord of Anghien and of Beaurevoir, and Castellan of Lille, to all to whom these presents shall come, greeting.

'Be it known that I have promised, and by these presents do promise, on my faith and corporal oath, and under penalty of confiscation of all my effects, full and entire obedience to the king our lord, and to all his officers, as well legal as civil, touching his finances, taxes, and other matters respecting his royal domains, and to put an entire end to all bonds of alliance in opposition to him that I may have contracted within these last twenty years.

'I also promise, by these presents, to make restitution to the king, or to whomsoever he may appoint, of what remains of the artillery, and other stores, that were taken from the king's servants, by the garrison of Ribemont, and what may remain of the king's horses and carts taken by those of Marle.

'I likewise promise to make answer in the court of parliament to whatever the king's attorney shall maintain and require from me, touching the succession of my late lord, the count de Ligny, my uncle, whose soul may God pardon! as well in regard to the personal effects of my said uncle, on the day of his death, as to the inheritances which have fallen to me as his heir in the countries of Ligny, Guise, and elsewhere; and I hold myself bounden to obey whatever judgement that court shall pronounce.

I have, in consequence, fixed on the 15th day of July, at which time I hold myself adjourned to appear before the said court of parliament, to make my reply to the king's attorney, that he may instantly proceed thereon.

'I do promise generally, by these presents, to conduct myself toward the king my sovereign lord, in a manner becoming a loyal subject,--and that I will not suffer the smallest damage to be done, by any of my garrisons, to any of the king's vassals, or to his territories. I also promise faithfully to restore all I may hold that belongs to others on account of the war; and in regard to Montaigu, my full powers shall be exerted for its restoration.

'All these things I promise most strictly to perform, without the infringement of any one article. In testimony whereof, I have signed these presents with my own hand, and sealed them with the seal of my arms, this 20th day of April, in the year 1441.'

FOOTNOTES:

[Footnote 84: Ribemont,--a town in Picardy, four leagues from St Quentin.]

[Footnote 85: Marle,--a town in Picardy, five leagues from Guise.]

CHAP. XLVI.

THE DUCHESS OF BURGUNDY WAITS ON THE KING OF FRANCE AT LAON, TO MAKE SOME REQUESTS TO HIM.--OTHER MATTERS.

In the month of April, in this year, the duchess of Burgundy, daughter to the king of Portugal, waited on king Charles at Laon, honourably attended by knights, ladies and damsels. As her health was but indifferent, she was carried in a litter. The constable, who had married a sister of the duke of Burgundy, came out a league from Laon to meet her, and conducted her to the town, and to the king, who, as well as the dauphin and courtiers, received her with every attention.

After this ceremony, she retired to the abbey of St Martin, where she was lodged. She had several interviews with the king, respecting a general peace, and also respecting the duke of Orleans.

At this time, the castle of Montaigu was held by Villemet de Hainault, and others that had belonged to the late sir John de Luxembourg, who had boasted that they would not surrender it to the king's commissioners without the consent of the duke of Burgundy. In consequence of this refusal, a large detachment had been ordered thither to reduce it to obedience, and, if necessary, to besiege it. This had, however, been delayed, in the expectation that an accommodation would have been brought about before the duchess should leave Laon,--who indeed had made many requests to the king, but few, if any, were granted her. Nevertheless, she celebrated Easter there, kept great state, and was visited by the nobles and other persons of note in the king's household.

In like manner was the king visited while at Laon by Jeanne de Bethune, countess of Ligny and viscountess of Meaux, who did him homage for her lands. The king was well pleased at her coming, and received her most kindly. She concluded a treaty, through her commissioners, respecting the personal effects which her late husband had left her, which it was said were confiscated because he had died while an enemy to the king, and paid down for their release a sum of money: by this means she remained unmolested, and received letters patent confirming the agreement. During the time she staid at Laon, she was strongly urged to remarry with the count d'Eu,--but she excused herself from compliance. Soon after she had finished her business, she departed for her castle of Beaurevoir, and thence to Cambray.

During this time, persons came daily to do homage to the king, and to offer him their services, whom he retained, promising to be very liberal toward them,--for he was then occupied with a plan of raising a very large army, to combat his ancient enemies the English.

In this year, one of the esquires of the stables, named Dunot, was charged before the duke of Orleans with an attempt to poison him, at the instigation, as it was said, of some of the great lords of the king of France's household. He was closely examined, and severely tortured, and afterward drowned by night in the river Loire. Little, however, was made public of the reality of the charges against those who had been suspected.

About this period, eight score pillagers from the household of king Charles went to a town in Hainault, called Haussy[86], which had a fair castle, wherein they quartered themselves for three days. Many of the adjacent towns and villages, as well in Hainault as in the Cambresis, paid them protection-money to a large amount.

While this was passing, sir John de Croy, bailiff of Hainault, assembled some men at arms in Quênoy, and advanced to attack them. Part of them instantly retired within the castle, which was directly stormed,--in the doing of which, an elderly gentleman of much note, called Lordennois d'Ostern, was slain. They capitulated with the bailiff to depart, on leaving all they had received behind, and to pay a sum of money down for liberty to march away in safety. Many of them were killed, that had not taken shelter in the castle. On their march toward Laon, they were met near the bridge of Nouvion, by a party of the count de St Pol's men, who robbed them of all they had, and slew the greater part of them beside.

FOOTNOTES:

[Footnote 86: Haussy,--near Quênoy.]

[A.D. 1441.]

CHAP. XLVII.

THE DUCHESS OF BURGUNDY LEAVES KING CHARLES AT LAON, AND RETURNS TO THE DUKE HER LORD AT QUÊNOY.

King Charles, having celebrated the festival of Easter at the bishop's palace at Laon, held several councils on the requests which the duchess of Burgundy had made, at the conclusion of which (as I have before said) few if any were granted. She was much displeased at this, and saw clearly, as well as those who had accompanied her, that the king's ministers were not well inclined toward the duke of Burgundy or his concerns.

Perceiving that her stay was no longer profitable, she took leave of the king, and thanked him for the honourable reception he had given her,--but added, 'My lord, of all the requests I have made you, and which seemed so very reasonable, you have not granted me one.' The king courteously replied, 'Fair sister, this has weighed on my mind more than you conceive, and I am much hurt that it cannot be otherwise; for, having laid the whole of them before my council, where they have been fully discussed, they have determined that it would be very much to my prejudice were I to accede to them.'

After this conversation, she took her leave of the king and the dauphin, and went to St Quentin with her attendants. She was escorted by the constable, and others, a considerable way. From St Quentin, she departed on the morrow to dine at the castle of Cambresis. While she was there, some of the king's men had entered Hainault on a foraging party, and were carrying away great numbers, of cattle, sheep, horses, and other effects; but they were sharply pursued by the duchess's men, who killed three or four on the spot: the rest saved themselves by flight, except two, who were overtaken, made prisoners, and carried to Quênoy, where they suffered death.

The duchess pushed forward to Quênoy, where the duke was, to whom she related all that had passed between her and the king and his ministers. In truth, the greater number of the nobles who had accompanied her were not so much attached to the french interest on their return as they were when they had set out, on account of what they had seen and heard while at Laon.

The duke weighed well these matters in his own breast, and considered with his council on the best means of securing his dominions, which seemed likely on the first fair opportunity, to be attacked. He had, however, about him many prudent and valiant men, who exerted themselves to the utmost to preserve peace and union,--and in particular, on the part of the French, the archbishop of Rheims, lord chancellor of France, was very active to preserve the peace from being infringed. And although the duchess of Burgundy had left the king in an ill humour, there were daily communications between well-intentioned men on both sides, to bring to an amicable conclusion what differences might exist between the king of France and the duke of Burgundy.

CHAP. XLVIII.

THE FORTRESS OF MONTAIGU[87], BELONGING TO THE LORD OF COMMERCY, IS DESTROYED, AND RAZED TO THE GROUND, BY ORDERS FROM THE DUKE OF BURGUNDY.

Sir Robert de Sallebruche, lord of Commercy, pressed the king of France and his council for the restoration of his castle of Montaigu; but this lord de Commercy was not in the good graces of the duke of Burgundy, whose indignation he had incurred by injuries done to his country and subjects. He would not therefore consent that this castle should be restored in its present state, and insisted on its being demolished.

The towns of Laon, Rheims, St Quentin, and others joined in this request, because the garrison had made very oppressive inroads on all the country round. It was, therefore, concluded, with the king's approbation, that those within it should give security to the king for its due surrender in the beginning of June in such state, entire or demolished, as it might please the duke of Burgundy.

The duke instantly sent a numerous train of workmen, to destroy the castle: but, while this was doing, the lord de Commercy practised secretly to get possession of it from those to whose care it was intrusted by means of bribes. It was discovered,--and those suspected of being concerned were arrested, four of whom were beheaded: one of them was the governor of the town of Montaigu. In revenge for this attempt, the fortress was razed to the ground. It was seated very strongly on a high mountain, and the adjacent countries had suffered greatly from it.

FOOTNOTES:

[Footnote 87: Montaigu,--a town in Picardy, near Laon.]

CHAP. XLIX.

THE KING OF FRANCE LAYS SIEGE TO, AND CONQUERS, THE TOWN OF CREIL[88].

When the king of France had resided about a month in Laon, he departed thence, and went, through Soissons and Noyon, to Compiégne, where he tarried some time to wait for his army that he was raising to march to Creil.

Although William de Flavy, governor of the town of Compiégne, had obtained his pardon from the king for the death of the lord de Rieux, marshal of France who had died in his prisons, he would not appear before the king,--and, from fear of the marshal's friends, went off with the lord d'Offemont, for the greater security of his person.

The king was joined at Compiégne, by numbers from all parts of France, in obedience to his summons; and a few days after he quitted Compiégne, and went to Senlis, where he made a short stay, and thence marched his army before Creil, then held by the English. He fixed his quarters near the town, on the side toward Paris,--and the constable and other captains posted themselves on the opposite side, in front of the bridge.

Many skirmishes took place on their arrival; but soon after, when the king's artillery, that had been pointed against the walls and gates, opened their batteries, the fortifications were so much damaged that the garrison began to fear the event of a storm,--so that, at the end of twelve days, they desired to capitulate, which was granted to them.

They agreed to surrender the town and castle to the king, on condition of being allowed to march away in safety with all their money, and as many of their effects as they could carry on their backs. Having received passports, they marched out on foot through the gate leading to the bridge, taking the road toward Beauvais. Their commander was sir William Chamberlain.

On the departure of the English, the king entered the castle,--and the other captains were lodged in different parts of the town. Yvon du Puys was appointed captain of the garrison.

FOOTNOTES:

[Footnote 88: Creil,--a town on the Oise, and on the road from Amiens to Paris.]

CHAP. L.

THE KING OF FRANCE MARCHES TO BESIEGE THE TOWN AND CASTLE OF PONTOISE.

When the king of France had resided some days at Creil, he marched his whole army to Pontoise and arrived there about the middle of May. He was lodged in the abbey of Maubuisson, a noble convent having many fine edifices. His household was quartered there with him, and also the constable and marshals of France, namely the lord de Solignes[89] and de Lohiac: the other commanders were lodged in divers parts.

The artillery was soon brought to bear on a large bulwark at the end of the bridge, opposite to Maubuisson[90], which so much damaged it that it was taken by storm. From fourteen to sixteen were killed on the kings side, and many wounded: the English suffered nearly an equal loss. The king had this bulwark repaired and strengthened, and gave the guard of it to sir Denis de Chailly, and Michael Durant, with their men.

In another quarter, a bridge was thrown over the river Oise, opposite to the abbey of St Martin, which was surrounded by a low wall, and fortified like a blockhouse. The lord Charles d'Anjou and the lord de Cotivy[91], admiral of France, took possession of it with three or four thousand combatants. A strong blockhouse was also erected at the end of this new bridge, for its defence. The French could now pass over the river at their pleasure, without fear of danger from the enemy.

While these approaches were carrying forward, the king was joined by great numbers of nobles and gentlemen, and likewise by the burghers from the chief towns, in obedience to his summons. In the number were six score combatants from the city of Tournay, all picked men, and excellently appointed. These were chiefly cross-bow men, and under the command of three persons of note in Tournay, namely Symon de St Genoix, Robert le Boucher, and John de Cour, who were most graciously received by the king. Numbers came from Paris handsomely equipped, and from all the other great towns; and, as they arrived, they were received by the king's officers, and suitably lodged.

Louis de Luxembourg, count de St Pol and de Ligny, who had been some time assembling his men, arrived before Pontoise about a week after Midsummer-day, with six hundred men well appointed and arrayed. As the weather was very hot, he drew up his men in order of battle near to the king's quarters, who, with several of the princes and others, came to see him and were greatly rejoiced at his arrival. The king feasted him much, and was profuse his thanks to him for having come thither with so handsome a company.

There came with the count de St Pol the lord de Vervins, sir Colart de Mailly, Louis d'Anghien, sir Ferry de Mailly, John de Hangest, sir Daviod de Poix, Jacotin de Bethune and his brothers, George de Croix, and many more gentlemen, who suffered much this day from the excessive heat; insomuch that one gentleman, called Robert de Frisomen, died of it.

After the king had reviewed them they went to lodge at a village hard by, and shortly after encamped with the besieging army. The count de Vaudemont came also thither with one hundred or six score combatants, with whose arrival the king was well pleased. In truth, there were at this siege most of the great lords of France,--such as the dauphin, the count de Richemont constable of France, the two marshals and the admiral, before named, the lord Charles d'Anjou, the counts d'Eu de la Marche, de St Pol de Vaudemont, d'Albreth, de Tancarville de Joigny, the vidame de Chartres, the lord de Châtillion, the lord de Moreul in Brie, Poton de Saintrailles, the lord de Bueil, La Hire, the lord de Ham, sir Heincelin de la Tour, the lord de Mouy, Claude de Hangest, Regnault de Longueval, the lord de Moyencourt, the lord de la Suze, sir Theolde de Valberg, Anthony de Chabannes, Charles de Flavy, sir Giles de St Simon, Hugh de Mailly, Olivier de Cointiny, the lord de Pennesach, Blanchefort, Floquet, Broussach, Joachim Rohault, Pierre Regnault, the lord de Graville, sir John de Gapondes, Geoffry de la Hire, the bastard de Harcourt, and many others of great weight and authority,--so that, according to an estimate made by persons well informed, it was thought that the king's army amounted to from ten to twelve thousand combatants, the flower of his chivalry, each of whom was personally anxious to conquer the town and castle of Pontoise.

While the French were thus employed, the duke of York, the lord Talbot, and others of the english commanders then at Rouen, took council together how they could best relieve their companions in Pontoise. It was resolved that the lord Talbot should first attempt to revictual it, and reconnoitre the position and appearance of the French. In consequence lord Talbot marched away with about four thousand fighting men, as well horse as foot, and had with him a long train of carts and cattle for the supply of the garrison.

After some days march, he took up his quarters at a town called Cheurin[92], not far distant from Pontoise, where he lay two nights,--and, during that time, threw his supplies into Pontoise without hinderance from the French; for the king had determined in council to avoid combating the English, unless he could do so highly to his advantage.

Having accomplished this business, lord Talbot retreated to Mantes[93], and quartered his men without the town: thence he returned to Normandy.

In the mean time, the artillery of the king of France, as well in the blockhouse of St Martin as elsewhere, played continually on the walls and gates of Pontoise, and damaged them greatly; but the besieged repaired them in the night, as well as they could, with beams of wood and old barrels: they also made frequent sallies, in which several were killed and wounded on both sides. The king was desirous of inclosing the town all round,--but could not well do it from the danger of an attack from the english army, and of his troops being cut off from succouring each other when thus separated; for he knew how near the enemy were, and in great force, preparing to make him raise the siege. It was from this cause that the French delayed surrounding the town closely on all sides. A huge blockhouse was ordered to be instantly built in the forest of Compiégne, and floated down the Seine to Pontoise, where they would fix it as they should judge expedient,--and William de Flavy was commanded to see that this was immediately done.

Some time after, the lord Talbot came a second time and revictualed the town, and supplied it with all sorts of stores in abundance. Each time, he took away those who had been wounded, leaving reinforcements, from his own men, and, as before, met with no interruption or opposition in his return.

The king, observing those measures of his adversaries, became very melancholy; for he saw no end to a siege when the town was so continually and uninterruptedly reinforced. Nevertheless, he was personally active in strengthening his leaguers, and in providing them with all necessary stores, in case the enemy should advance to attack them.

FOOTNOTES:

[Footnote 89: Solignes,--Jaloignes.--Du Cange.]

[Footnote 90: Maubuisson,--a convent in the diocese of Beauvais.]

[Footnote 91: Cotivy,--Coitiny.--Du Cange.]

[Footnote 92: Cheurin. Q. Ennery?]

[Footnote 93: Mantes,--capital of the Mantois, on the Seine, 19 leagues from Rouen.]

CHAP. LI.

THE DUKE OF YORK, GOVERNOR OF NORMANDY FOR THE KING OF ENGLAND MARCHES AN ARMY TO PONTOISE, TO FORCE THE KING OF FRANCE TO RAISE THE SIEGE.

The duke of York, commander in chief and lieutenant-general for king Henry in the marches of France and Normandy, had assembled from six to seven thousand combatants,--among whom were the lord Scales, the lord Talbot, sir Richard Woodville, who had married the duchess of Bedford, sister to Louis de Luxembourg count of St Pol, and many other captains, then at Rouen, but whose names I have not been told. There were likewise collected a large train of carts and horses, laden with artillery and provision, together with a great number of live cattle.

The duke of York began his march about the middle of July, and in a few days, came near to Pontoise, the lord Talbot commanding the vanguard of three thousand men. The duke fixed his quarters at Cheuery[94], half a league from Pontoise; and the van were lodged at Hetonville[95] where they remained for three days and reinforced and revictualled Pontoise most abundantly.

When this was done, the duke sent to tell the king, that he was come to offer him and his army combat, if he would give him an opportunity. But the king was not inclined to comply; for his council had repeated the advice they had given on other occasions, that he would act imprudently to risk his army and person against men of such low degree,--adding, that the battles that had formerly taken place with the English during his reign had cost him too dearly, and that it was more advisable to let them for this time run their career and guard the fords of the river, for that the English could not long remain where they were without danger from want of provisions for so large a force.

This resolution was adopted,--and many captains, with their men, were detached along the river Oise, even farther than Beaumont[96] and the king and the rest of his army remained in their quarters.

The English, finding they would not hazard a battle, resolved, if possible, to cross the Oise and advance into the isle of France, and even attack the king's quarters. They decamped therefore on the fourth day from their arrival, and marched in a body to Chanville-haut-Vergier[97]; but as they heard that all the passes on the river were guarded, they determined to execute their plan by night, and they had with them on carts small boats of leather and wood, with cords and other necessaries. They ordered a large detachment to advance to Beaumont, under pretence of their crossing the river and to make a prodigious noise, that the guards at the other passes might be, drawn off to resist their attempt at Beaumont, while the remainder of the army should proceed silently along the river to find out a proper place to cross.

A place was found according to their wish, opposite to the abbey of Beaumont, whence the guards had gone; for all the soldiers near were attracted by the noise at Beaumont, as it had been planned by the English, who, when they saw numbers had been collected, pretended to make an attempt to force a passage, which was quite impracticable should any tolerable defence be made.

The other party of English now launched a boat into the river, and with difficulty three or four passed over, when, having fastened two strong cords to each bank with staves of wood between them, from forty to fifty crossed by this means, and instantly fortified themselves with sharpened palisades, as was their usual custom.

Now, consider the extreme danger the first party that crossed would have been in had only ten Frenchmen staid to guard this pass, who would easily have defended it against the whole power of the duke of York; and this may serve for an example to those who are intrusted with similar commands, never to place any guards but such as they know may be depended on, and such as will have a proper regard to their own honour,--for by neglect the greatest misfortunes may happen.

Shortly after, the men of Floquet, who had had this part of the river in charge, returning from Beaumont, whither they had gone on hearing the shoutings of the English, noticed them crossing the river, and instantly gave the alarm, along the banks, as far as Beaumont, where the greater part of their captains were quartered. They lost no time in mounting their horses, and hastened to where the English were, intending to combat them; but it was lost labour, for they were too numerous, although some skirmishing passed between them.

In these skirmishes, a very valiant man was slain, called William du Châtel, nephew to sir Tanneguy du Châtel, and with him two or three more.

On this bridge of cords the English conveyed over their baggage, carts and stores; and when the French saw that they could not prevent them, they retreated to Pontoise, to inform the king of what had passed, who was greatly displeased at the intelligence. Some of his council, being fearful of the event turning out more disastrous and to their greater shame, had all the artillery and stores moved into the large blockhouse of St Martin, and made every preparation for immediately decamping with the whole army, should it become necessary.

The English, having passed the Oise at their ease, lodged that night on the spot, and there created some new knights,--such as the two brothers of lord Stafford, one of whom styled himself count d'Eu[98]. On the morrow, they dislodged, and marched in handsome order toward Pontoise, and were quartered in two villages. The king, on receiving intelligence of the approach of the English, was advised to remove his quarters from Maubuisson, and march his whole army to Poissy[99], with the reserve of those in the great blockhouse, to the amount of two or three thousand combatants, under the command of the lord de Coetivy, admiral of France. He had also with him La Hire, Joachim Rohault, John d'Estouteville and his brother Robinet, sir Robert de Bethune lord of Moreul in Brie, the lord de Châtillon, the lord de Moyencourt, Regnault de Longueval, the lord de la Roche-Guyon, the lord de Moy in the Beauvoisis, and other gentlemen of renown.

Those who had been sent from Tournay remained there likewise, and great plenty of provision and stores of all sorts had been carried thither. The king, on his departure, had promised to relieve them so soon as possible. With regard to the bulwark at the end of the bridge, the French had abandoned it.

The duke of York continued his march to Maubuisson, but arrived after the king's departure. He found great abundance of provision and other things, which the merchants had not had time to remove. The duke fixed his quarters there, and lord Talbot at a town a league distant, on the Oise, between the towns of Pontoise and Conflans. They remained there for three days, and went into Pontoise by the bridge which the garrison had repaired, as well as the bulwark that had been abandoned, without any opposition whatever from the French; and those of the town went in and out at their pleasure, without hinderance.

The French in the blockhouse were every day expecting and hoping for an attack, as they were determined to defend themselves well; but the English had no thoughts of risking the attempt, considering that their affairs were growing worse, and that they could not foresee the end of them. The enemy, however, threatened to attack them, but offered to let them march away in safety, with part of their baggage,--which, like men of sense, they ought gladly to have accepted of, since their king had abandoned them in such danger. But they had no such inclination, and replied, that they would not accept of terms, as they were not afraid of their attempts. While this kind of parley was going forward, several skirmishes took place, but more between the archers than with any others.

On the fourth day, the duke of York dislodged from Maubuisson, and marched to the quarters of Talbot, who had made a bridge over the Oise with cords and hurdles, on which full fifty cars and carts crossed that river. On this same day, Poton de Saintrailles had left Poissy, accompanied by a numerous escort, with provisions to revictual the blockhouse of St Martin. He was followed by the constable, the count de St Pol, and other captains, to support him, should there be occasion. Having learnt that the English had recrossed the river, they sent orders to Poton to hasten his return,--but he sent back the messenger, to tell them to cross the river at Meulan, and return to Poissy on the other side, which they did.

The duke of York, having recrossed the Oise, advanced his whole army in battle-array before Poissy, wherein were the king of France, the dauphin, and the greater part of his nobles and captains. A very great skirmish took place, in which two of the archers of the constable, and one belonging to the count de St Pol, were made prisoners.

The duke thence marched to Tourtie sur Seine, and on the morrow returned to Mantes,--and the king went to Poissy and Conflans with a part of his army. The constable, the count de St Pol, and others, passed through St Cloud to Paris, where they staid two days, and then retired with their men at arms into the isle of France, where different towns were delivered up to them for the quarters of their men, each according to his rank.

The king afterwards went, with his attendant lords, to St Denis, and remained there until the middle of August, when he returned to Conflans, and caused a bridge to be constructed over the Seine to an island in that river, and another bridge thence to the main land, with a strong blockhouse, and ditches round at that end, wherein he posted a body of troops. In the mean while, lord Talbot plundered the convent of Poissy, and carried away the effects of the nuns to Mantes.

Shortly after, the town of Pontoise was again revictualled, for the fourth time; and the men of the duke of York remained there in the room of the lord Talbot's, which vexed the king greatly,--for he saw but little hope of his accomplishing his enterprise. He thought, however, that should he depart without having gained Pontoise, after lying before it so long, and at such a prodigious expense, he would be disgraced, and the people would cry out against him and his ministers, more especially the Parisians, who had advanced large sums of money for this purpose.

He was likewise informed that the nobles of his realm, and even the princes of his blood, were much dissatisfied with his government, and that there was to be a meeting of them, which could not be meant for his welfare: he had, therefore, enough to think on. Nevertheless, he determined, with his most faithful advisers, to return to Maubuisson and prosecute the siege, which he did on the twelfth day from the time he had quitted it, and quartered his troops in their former situations.

Soon after his return, a grand skirmish took place with the constable's division, between Maubuisson and Pontoise, in which Claude de Hangest, lord of Ardilliers, was killed by a cannon-shot. Various and frequent skirmishes passed between the French and English,--but it would be tiresome to enter into a detail of each: in one of them, the lord Charles d'Anjou was wounded by an arrow. Very little worth noticing took place in the main business of the siege.

The count de St Pol's men having been much harrassed, and having expended large sums of money, were desirous of returning home, and entreated of him permission so to do: upon this, he took leave of the king and the dauphin, who, on his going away, made him handsome presents, and returned him their thanks for the services he had done them.

The count de St Pol marched with his men from before Pontoise, to cross the river Oise at Pont St Maixence. At the entrance of the bridge, the captain of the fort came out to meet the count,--when, sharp words arising between them, the count would have seized the captain, had he not made haste to retire within his fort, whence he instantly discharged the cannon and cross-bows on him and his men. The horse of sir Ferry de Mailly was killed under him by a shot, and another man at arms had his arm broken. The count retreated with his army and crossed the Oise at Compiégne, and thence returned to his own country. The garrison of the bridge before mentioned followed a party of the count's men who were marching toward Mondidier, overtook and pillaged them.

On the same day, the count de Vaudemont marched his men from before Pontoise, as did several other great lords, and left the king in the state you have heard, to his no small displeasure, although he did not suffer it to appear, for he could not help it; and he was forced to bear all things patiently which God was pleased to send him. He daily employed his cannon and other engines against the walls and gates of the town, and also against the church of our lady, without, the walls, but possessed by the English, and held by them for a long time.

The walls of this church were so battered that, on the 16th day of September, the king resolved in council to storm it, which took place on a Saturday, and all within were put to the sword or made prisoners. This church was very high, and so near to the town that from the top could be seen almost every thing the English were doing,--and they could be thence annoyed with small cannons, culverines, and even cross-bows.

The church being won, it was ordered, that on the ensuing Tuesday, a general storm should be made on the town, to see if they could not conquer it. This was executed; and on the Tuesday, the king and his lords, having well armed their men, urged them on with shouting, 'St Denis! Town won!' A large party having forced an entrance, the townsmen fled to the churches and other strong places; but about five hundred of the English were soon put to the sword, and the remainder, to the amount of four hundred, made prisoners. Among the slain was an English knight called sir Nicholas Burdet,--but the governor of the town was taken prisoner. Only forty, or thereabout, were killed on the king's side at the attack, or died afterward of their wounds. Many new knights were made on the occasion: among whom were the brothers, John and Robert d'Estouteville, Regnault de Longueval, le bon Roly, and others.

With regard to the person who first mounted the tower du Frice[100], he was much praised by all for his valour, and was ennobled, himself and his successors, by the king, who also gave him large estates to support his rank. The king entered the town with those who had stormed it, and, on its being gained, issued his orders that no harm should be done to the inhabitants who had retired into the churches, excepting such as had borne arms. On his arrival with his banner in front of the great church, an Englishman issued forth and surrendered himself to him. He was mercifully received, and not only delivered without ransom, but the king made him handsome presents. He entered the church, and devoutly offered up his prayers and thanksgivings at the great altar, to God his Creator, for the good success he had experienced.

The French sought day and night after the English who had hidden themselves, and put them to death or made them prisoners. Thus did Charles VII. king of France, reconquer his town of Pontoise by a most gallant attack, notwithstanding the many and severe skirmishes that took place before it. In respect to the nobles, as well knights as esquires, and other captains, who were there in great numbers, very many behaved themselves valiantly and prudently,--but I was told that sir Charles de Bosqueaux was much praised by all.

FOOTNOTES:

[Footnote 94: Cheuery. Q. Ennery?]

[Footnote 95: Hetonville. Herouville, near Pontoise.]

[Footnote 96: Beaumont,--a seigniory in the isle of France, near to Melun.]

[Footnote 97: Chanville-haut-Vergier. Q. Chambly?]

[Footnote 98: See Dugdale's Baronage.]

[Footnote 99: Poissy,--in the Isle of France, two leagues from Meulan, seven from Paris.]

[Footnote 100: Du Frice. Du Fresche.--Du Cange.]

CHAP. LII.

THE DUKE OF ORLEANS RETURNS TO THE DUKE OF BURGUNDY FROM FRANCE.

The duke of Orleans this year returned from France to the duke of Burgundy, then residing at Hêdin--and who no sooner heard of his coming than he went out with a large company to meet him. The duke of Burgundy showed him every mark of friendship, and entertained him handsomely during the eight days he remained at Hêdin, where he celebrated the feast of All-saints.

The two dukes held frequent and secret conferences on the state of their own and the public affairs,--and agreed to meet the other princes and nobles of France, who were shortly to assemble at Nevers. The duke of Orleans, on departing thence, passed through St Pol to the town of Arras, where he was most honourably received and entertained by the magistracy, who made him also rich presents. He went thence to Paris and to Blois.

The duke of Burgundy having assembled a body of men at arms, was escorted by them toward Burgundy. A number of the burgundian nobles came to meet him at Troyes in Champagne, when he dismissed his Picards, who had escorted him thither, with strict orders not to oppress or hurt the country or subjects of the king of France.

The fortress of the lord de Commercy, namely, the castle of Montaigu, was a second time destroyed,--for the lord de Commercy had rebuilt it.

CHAP. LIII.

REMONSTANCES ARE SENT TO KING CHARLES OF FRANCE BY THE NOBLES ASSEMBLED AT NEVERS[101].

The nobles assembled having considered the four propositions made to them by the king's commissioners at Nevers, with the answers to each, then remonstrated on the necessity of a general peace for the kingdom of France, according to the terms the king had assented to; adding, that he ought, in order to avoid expense, to continue the negotiations at the usual place, without making objections to its situation, which were not of sufficient interest to hinder the conferences from being holden,--and they recommended that the appointment for the relief of Tartas[102] should also be kept.

FOOTNOTES:

[Footnote 101: Nevers,--capital of the Nivernois, 17 leagues from Bourges.]

[Footnote 102: Tartas,--a town in Gascony, seven leagues from Dax.]

CHAP. LIV.

THE ANSWERS OF THE KING OF FRANCE AND OF HIS GREAT COUNCIL TO THE REMONSTRANCES OF THE NOBLES OF FRANCE ASSEMBLED AT NEVERS.

With regard to the first point, it need not be noticed,--for it has not been repeated in the answers made by the nobles at Nevers to the lord chancellor of France, and to sir Louis de Beaumont, and others, deputed thither by the king.