sz^ k^ ^ yf y/^ PUBLICATIONS OF J. H. BUTLEB & CO. MITCHELL'S NEW SERIES OF GEOGRAPHIES. THE STANDARD GEOGRAPHICAL SKKIES OF AMJiRlCA. «, and jr with 36 and ^n be S. This 8 2. The dinereni docks are pnniea in a ciear aua ueautilul type, and the illustrations are unequaled in number and artistic execution. 3. The matter is divided into easy and comprehensive periods. I. Tiie paj^es are iree from religious preferences and political prejudices. 5. The topical arrangement of the contents, and the alphabetical indexes of the larger books, eijhance their usefulness. 6. The great historical facts, eventlul epochs, and Important dates, are presented in a lively and pleasing style. 7. The Child's History has the merit of brevity witi mt baldness; the Pictorial U. S., completeness without reduudano 8. All the books of the Series are elegantly and substantially bound. 9. They are all new editions, brought down to the present time. r4^^ \ . PUBLICATIONS OF J. H. BUTLER & CO. ^ BIN&HAMlffRJg. CF APFROYED TEXT-BOOKS. This Series Comprises: BINGHAM'S ENGLISH GRAMMAR. BINGHAM'S LATIN GRAMMAR. BrNGHAM'S L^^^XjRCISES. BINGHAM'S LM\H READER. '^^^'"^'WW&KAM'S OESAR. BINGHAM'S LATIN PROSE COMPOSITION. (In press.) The points of excellence, rendered specially promiuent by the actual test of the Khool-roora, aad embodied in the r«commendations of many of the first educators of the uoantry, may be briefly noted. BINGHAM'S ENGLISH GRAMMAR. " The subject is discussed in the most philosophical manner." — " The conformity of the rules to the Latin Grammar is a step in the right direction." BINGH4M'S LATIN GRAMMAR. 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A New Edition of this "Work, with over 250 Eagravings. What is said of it by exiyriencfd teachers : — " I regard Tenney's Geology as a Model 8chool-bof>k ;" — " Presents the leading facts of the science in a clear and natural manner, and contains all tiiat is required in an ortlinary course of instruction." PROF. COFFEE'S SERIES OF AFPROVED TEXT-BOOKS. By EENEY OOPPfiE, LL.D., President Lehigh University. ^^ COPP^E'S ELEMENTS OF LOGIC. COPPEE'S ELEMENTS OF RHETORIC. COPP^E'S ACADEMIC SPEAKER. Prof. Cnpp6e'R status in educational matters is ample guarantee of the worth of Wb books: thev are being rapidly adopted hy the various Normal Schools and hig^Uer Seminaries throughout the country. 1/ W^- \\ i:^. if^-" 7^ \^ ■■ 1 \ ^^ X ix - > THE STANITA^D Series of Pictorial Histories, By S. a. GOODRICH, (PETER PARLEY) COMPRISES— 1. GOODRICH'S AMERICAN CHILD'S PICTORlM. WjSTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 2. GOODRICH'S PICTORIAL HISTORY OF THE ^NfTED STATES. 3. GOODRICH'S PICTORIAL HISTORY OF ENGI 4. GOODRICH'S PICTORIAli HISTORY OF FRAN^CE." 5. GOODRICH'S PICTORIAL HISTORY OF ROME. ' 6. GOODRICH'S PICTORIAL ; HISTORY OF GREECE. 7. GOODRICH'S COMMON SCHOOL HISTORY OF THE WORLD. 8. GOODRICH'S PICTORIAL iNATURAL HISTORY. 9. GOODRICH'S HISTOIRE UNIVERSELLE. 10. GOODRICH'S HISTOIRE t)ES ETATS-UNIS D'AMERIQUE, PHILADELPHIA: PUBLISHED BY J. H. BUTLER & CO. 1878. ^H^Ui^i .^, . w lUi&i^ %^tnJ«j ^Uwi^Ao Entered according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1845, by S. G. GOODRICH, in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of Massachusetts. Entered according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1854, by S. G. GOODRICH, In the Cleric's Office of the District Court for the Southern District of New York. 5D:iiO'rn..^iiv' \y^f, Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1871, by the HEIRS OF S. G. GOODRICH, in the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. Westcott & Thomson, Stereotypera, Philada. Sherman &. Co. Printers, Philada. XL CONTENTS CUXPTEtt PAGK I. — Introduction. — Importance of the History of England. — Present state of the British Empire 9 II. — Earliest glinjpses of British history. — Ceesar, &c 13 III. — Invasion of Britain by the Romans 15 IV. — Caractacus.— Tlie Druids. — London destroyed. — Boadicea defeated 17 V. — Agricola. — The Scots and Picts. — The Roman wall. — Christianity intro- duced 19 VI. — The Romans abandon Britain. — Sufferings of the Britons 21 VII. — Account of the Saxons 22 YIII. — The Language and Religion of the Anglo-Saxons.— Names of the days of the week. — Introduction of Cliristianity 24 IX.— The Anglo-Saxons. — Their Historians. — Condition of the people 25 X. — Laws of the Anglo-Saxons. — Modes of trial. — The Ordeal 26 XI. — The kingdom of England established. — The Danes. — Saxon race of kings. —Alfred the Great 28 XII.— More about Alfred 30 XIII.— About the architecture of the Anglo-Saxons 33 XIV.— Of the learning of the Anglo-Saxons.— The Clergy 34 XV. — Alfred encourages the arts. — About the English navy. — Death of Alfred. —Reign of Edward the Elder 35 XVI.— Adventures of Aulaff.— The Long Battle.— Athelstan.— His death 37 XVII.— Edmund murdered.— Edred.— St. Dunstan. 38 XVIII.— Tlie Monks and the Secular Clergy 40 XIX. — Edgar the Peaceable. — Edward the Martyr 41 XX. — p:thelred II. — Penances. — Indulgences. — The Butter Tower 42 XXI. — Troubles with the Danes. — Peace made with them 44 XXII. — Massacre of the Danes in England, &c. — Edmund Ironside. — Canute con- quers England .......^ 45 XXIII. — Dress and amusements of the Anglo-Saxons 46 XXIV.— Canute the Great. — Ilis rebuke of his courtiers 48 XXV. — Reigns of Harold Harefoot, and of Hardicanute 50 XXVI. — Edward the Confessor. — Harold. — About the Conquest 51 XXVII. — William I., the Conqueror. — The Saxon nobles degraded 54 XXVIII. — Game Ijaws. — Rebellion of Robert. — Domes-day Book. — Death of Wil- liam 1 56 XXIX. — England after the Norman conquest. — The English language 58 XXX. — The Feudal System. — A Norman castle 59 XXXI. — William Rufus. — The sons of William the Conqueror 61 XXXII.— The Crusades 62 XXXIII. — William obtains large territories by mortgage. — His death 64 XXXIV. — Henry I. usurps the crown. — Dispute between the Pope and the King, &c. 66 XXXV.— Henry.— Edgar Atheling.— Death of Robert 68 XXXVI.— Melancholy condition of the king, &c 69 X-\.XVII. — Battle of Brenneville. — Ancient armor 70 XXXVIII. — Death of Prince William, and many young nobles 71 XXXIX. — Matilda marries Geoffrey Plantagenet. — Death of Henry I. — Stephen usurps the crown 73 XL. — Proceedings of Stephen, &c 74 XLI. — Matilda acknowledges the queen, &c. — Peace restored. — Death of Stephen. 76 Xlill. — Employment of the ladies in the time of Henry II 78 XLIII. — Pages, Esquires, and Knights 79 XLIV. — Surnames. — Education of Henry II., &c. — About the only Englishman that ever was made pope 81 XLV. — More about Henry II. — Queen Eleanor 83 XLVI. — Thomas k Becket. — How he lost his rich cloak. 84 XLVII. — Henry and the clergy. — Death of Becket 85 XLVIII. — Becket canonized by the Pope, &c 88 1* 6 O CONTENTS. JHAPTER ' PAGg XLIX.— Earl Strongbow ^es over to Ireland to assist Dermot MacmonogL .— The English conquer Ireland 89 L. — The sons of Henry rebel 91 LI.— Penance of Henry II.— Fresh rebellions of bis sons.— Death of H enry II. 92 LII. — Of Richard the Lion-hearted 94 LIII.— Exploits of Richard in Palestine '.............. 96 LIV.— Philip returns to Europe.— More of Richard's exploits ..........[.. 97 LV. — Shipwreck of Richard, &c 99 LVI.— Interdict and excommunication.— Richard returns to England...!......"! 101 LYII. — Death of Richard the Lion-hearted...^ 103 LVIII. — John, surnamed Lackland IO4 LIX.— John quarrels with the pope.— About the Jews .'.'."."!....".!!!! 106 LX.— Magna Charta signed.— The French invade England.— Death of John.. 108 LXI. — Henry III. — Coats of .arms, or Armorial Bearings Ill LXII. — Disturbed state of England. — Of benevolences 11-2 LXIII. — The king and pope vs. the churchmen 113 LXIV.— Simon de Blontfort.— The Mad Parliament 115 LXV.— Prince Edward.— Battle of Lewes.— The "Mise" of Lewes 116 LXVI. — A change in the constitution of Parliament. — Prince Edward escapes from imprisonment. — The barons snbdued„ II7 LX VII.— Prince EdM-ard goes on a crusade.— Death of Henry III.— About paint- ing and illuminated manuscripts 119 LXVIII. — Architecture. — Trade and the merchants of England I'il LXIX,— State of learning.— Friar Bacon.— Judicial Astrology.— Trials by combat 12-2 LXX. — Edward I.— Tournaments. — Battle of Chalons 124 JiXXI. — More about Edward.— Conquest of "Wales. — Massacre of the Welsh Bards 125 LXXII. — The Maid of Norway. — Edward interferes in the affairs of Scottand 128 LXXIII. — Wallace. — Edward's vow. — Death of Edward ISO LXXIV.— Edward II.— Battle of Bannockburn, Ac 131 LXXV. — Famines. — Agriculture. — Customs of the time 13.3 LXXVI. — Edward II. receives Hugh Spencer into favor. — He is dethroned and cruelly murdered by Isabella and Roger Mortimer 134 LXXVII.— Edward III.— War with Scotland, Ac- Peace with Scotland 136 LXXVIII. — Edward III.— He makes war on Scotland.— Claims the crown of France. 138 LXXIX.— Edw.^rd III. makes war upon Philip, King of France.— Cannon tised... 140 LXXX.— Battle of Cressy.— Death of the King of Bohemia.— Siege of Calais.— Story of Eizstace de St. Pierre 142 LXXXI.— The Knights of the Garter.— The Charter House School U4 LXXXII.— Dress in the reign of Edward III 146 LXXXIII. — Battle of Poictiers. — King John of France taken prisoner. — Generous conduct of the Black Prince 147 LXXXIV. — Honorable conduct of John, King of France. — Death of Edward III. — The English language adopted, <) 3^ 20 15 VO ^^ :«o .1 Malst ' ?pjS^ :^ii,^. A Lo ng;itude Easl ^om ^VKs^^ x^ E^l \&uvtim* LY, APfilL i, 1832.- m. 38. MARRIOTT'S AEROPLANE COMPANY, For NaviiratlusT tbe Air. OfiSce of the Aeroplane Company for Navigating the Air, 609 chant street. Office hours from 1 to 2 p.m. Mer- Orders for Engraviugr in tlie Ptaoto-Eng-raTing: Process cau now be executed at the '^News liCtter" Office lor less tban balf tbe cost of Wood Engraviagr, and in one-balf tbe time. Uemember, we f uruisb a bard metal Electrotype ready for tbe Press. The liquidation of Overend, Gurney & Co. is not yet completed. Since the failure — in May, 1866 — as much as £6,317,929 has been paid away by the liquidators. Of this sum £4,287,702 was paid to creditors, that part of the business being practically completed in 1870. Then be- jjan a return to solvent shareholders, who have received £453,964 since 1871. Salaries have been continuously paid to part of the old staff, and as much aa £47,138 has been disbursed in law expenses. The liquidators now hold out a hope of speedily concluding the winding-up and dissolu- tion of this unlucky company. We have received numerous requests from lady friends to re-publish the remarks made by Mr. Edward Curtis, at the dinner recently given by the publishers of the Sacramento Bee, in response to the toast, "The Ladies, God Bless Them." Mr. Curtis' remarks were so extended that we fear we will not be able to accommodate them all. However, next week the News Letter will repi-oduce some extracts from Mr. Curtis' utterances. Californians Abroad.— Rome, Italy: Misses and Mrs. S. W. Glu- zier. Miss Houston, Mrs. J. H. Maynard, Mrs. Rosenstock. Parts, France: Mrs. Dussol, Hotel Dominici; Thomas Fisher, Hotel de I'Ath- enee; Miss Haste, H. PI. Pal. Royal. Dresden, Germany: Miss and Mrs. E. Dimon, Mrs. A. Patten and family, Mrs. E. Pillsbury. Lon- don, England: J. Logan, Holborn Viaduct H. — Continental Gazette, March 11th. The Weather.— From the Signal Service Bureau we have the follow- ing report for the week ending last Thursday: On the 24th the highest and lowest temperature was 69 deg. 5 min. and 51 deg. 5 min. ; on the 25th, 71 deg. and 53 deg.; on the 26th, 73 deg. and 57 deg.; on the 27th, 73 deg. and 52 deg.; on the 28th, 64 deg. 5 min. and 50 deg.; on the 29th, 68 deg. 5 min. and 54 deg. ; on the 30th, 61 deg. 5 min. and 51 deg. 5 min. Telegrams report that the Spanish troops have taken possession of the Tawi-Tawi Islands, which are about thirty miles from the N.N.E. coast of the British North Borneo Company's territory. It is presumed, therefore, that they have left the company's territory, where they had landed some time since. 12 « INTRODUCTION. " of the globe, its inhabitants presenting an aspect as revolting as that of its cold and foggy climate.' ^ 4. At the present «iay, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland exhibits the most extraordinary spectacle of national glory which the , world has^^^eV/^yiln^ssed. Kome, in her brightest days, could not c'oihpare \VTth*it',*in point of wealth, power, and civilization. 5. ,Tq file ey-e, of.thG traveilei',' the three kingdoms seem almost Iike4i'mi|^jitj^;gaid^n*,[slrpwn'/5y6>5c^ith cities, palaces, villages, and couhtry-seais. ' Here 'are *tVe iinest roads, and the best travelling vehicles in the world ; railroads and canals cross the country in every direction ; arts and manufactures are carried to the highest degree of perfection ; and commerce brings hither the luxuries of every clime. 6. London, the metropolis of Great Britain, serves to indicate the character of the nation. It has more than 3,000,000 of people, and surpasses any other city in wealth and population. The govern- ment of England exercises a commanding influence, not only in the countries of Europe, but upon the fortunes of the world. Within our own day, China, which has more than one-quarter of the inhab- itants of the globe, has been compelled to bow to the will of this Island Empire. 7. The colonies of Great Britain extend over the whole globe, and contain a population of one hundred and sixty millions. Ir allusion to the immense extent and power of the British Empire, i1 has been spoken of l3y a celebrated orator, as a kingdom that " has dotted the surface of the globe with her possessions and military posts, whose morning drum-beat, following the sun, and keeping company with the hours, circles the earth daily with one continuous and unbroken strain of the martial airs of England." It is the history of this great people, which we are now about to consider. this history interesting to the philosopher ? 4. What of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland at the present day? 5. What do the three kingdoms present to the ■eye of the traveller? What of trade, &c.? 6. What of London? Population of Great Britain? The government? China? 7. The colonies of Great Britain? What has a celebrated orator said? LONDON. EARLY BKITISH HISTORY. 13 CHAPTER II. Earliest Glimpses of British History. — CcBsar. — Manners and Customs of the first Inhabitants of Britain. 1. We must now turn from this brief survey of the present con- dition of the British Empire, and go back to the earliest times of which history gives us any account. 2. Several hundred years before the Christian era, it appears that the Phoenicians visited England. Their chief object was to obtain tin, which was procured from the mines of Cornwall. Hence the Casterides, or Tin Isles, was the ancient designation of the British islands. Settlements are supposed to have been made by the Phoe- nicians in Ireland, and it is conjectured that considerable trade was carried on with the people there. 3. The original inhabitants of England, Ireland, and Scotland seem to have been of the same Celtic stock which first peopled France and Spain, though theywere divided into numerous tribes. The Roman writers mention the names of more than forty in England. 4. Some of these were more savage than others. A few among the southern tribes practised agriculture in a rude fashion, and wore artificial cloths for dress. They had also war-chariots in great num- bers, and were acquainted with some of the first arts of civilized II. — 1. What of the Phoenicians? 2, What name did they give tl)o British Tpies' 3. What of the original inhabitants of England, Ireland, and Scotland? 4. M»o»-"!r« 2 14 MANNERS AND CUSTOMS OF THE BRITONS. life. To the north, the people were mere savages — using the un- dressed hides of cattle for clothing, and tattooing their skins for ornament. 5. The women, like those of our present savages, were practised to basket-making, the material being the twigs of willows. They also sewed together the skins of animals for dress; their thread being made of leather or vegetable fibres, and their needles of pieces of bone. ^ 6. Such was the condition of the people, when Julius Caesar, liaving completed the subjugation of Gaul, now called France, began to think of adding the island of Britain to his conquests. The white chalk cliffs of Dover, from which Britain had also the name of Albion, could be seen from the coast of Gaul, and as Caesar's ambition knew no bounds, he doubtless thought that this strange country invited him to its conquest. 7. Having made up his mind to undertake an expedition against it, he assembled the merchants who had traded to Britain for hides and tin, and made inquiry respecting the manners, customs, and Eower of the people of that island, and such other matters as would e interesting to him in his present situation. 8. The precise answer which the merchants gave to these ques- tions is not recorded. Neither the people of Gaul nor of Britain could write, nor had they any books. Csesar himself, who was an author, as well as a soldier, has told us almost all that we know about them. It appears, however, that the reply of the merchants of whom he made inquiries, was substantially as follows : 9. "The people of Britain have blue eyes, and very fair com- plexions. They are tall and stout, and remarkable for their strength. Their bodies are often ornamented with figures of various animals. For this purpose they submit to a very painful opera- tion. The figure is pricked upon the skin with sharp needles, and then a blue dye, made of a plant called woad, is rubbed in. 10. " Most of them wear no clothing except the skin of an animal which is thrown over the shoulders, and fastened at the breast by a thorn or a sharp-pointed stick. Many of them have flocks and herds, and live upon meat, or on such fruits and plants as the earth produces without cultivation. 11. "The principal drink is milk, but they have also a fermented liquor prepared from honey, and called mead, of which they are very fond. They live in winter in holes in the ground, and in summer in huts made of stakes stuck in the earth, interwoven with osiers, and covered with the boughs of trees. 12. " They are a very hospitable people. The stranger no sooner enters the door than water is presented to him to wash his feet. If he uses it, and at the same time gives his arms to the master of the house, it is understood that he means to pass the night. This creates joy throughout the family. of the people ? 5. What of the women ? 6. Why was England called Albion ? Wh»{ of Caesar? 7. What did he do? 8. To whom are we chiefly indebted for our knowledge of the early Britons? 9. What of their persons? 10. Clothing? Food? 11. Drink? INVASION OF BRITAIN BY THE ROMANS. 15 13. " A feast is prepared. The company sit in a circle upon the ground, with a little hay, grass, or the skins of animals, spread under them. Each person takes the meat set before Wm in his hands, and tears it to pieces with his teeth. If it proves too tough for this, he uses the knife which is placed in the centre for the com- mon benefit. The meat is served up in dishes made of wood, or earthenware, or in baskets made of osiers. 14. " The feast is enlivened by the music of the harp. Some- times the great men give feasts, and he is the most popular who gives the greatest. These last until all the provisions are con- sumed, frequently for several days. A great prince once gave an entertainment, which was kept up without interruption for a whole year, and to which all comers were welcome. 15. " But you Eomans are more interested in knowing what are their weapons of war, and means of defence. They use a shield, and a dagger, and a short spear ; to the lower end of the latter is fastened a bell, which they shake to frighten the horses of their enemies. In battle they make use of chariots with scythes fastened to the axle- trees ; they are drawn by two horses, and driven furiously among their enemies, inflicting horrible wounds, whilst the warrior hurls his spears." Such was the information Caesar obtained, and it gave a true account of the condition of the original inhabitants of Britain. CHAPTER III. Invasion of Britain by the Romans. 1. We may suppose that Caesar had little dread of meeting such a savage people as the Britons would seem to have been, with his well-disciplined troops. He probably learnt, too, that the people were divided into many small tribes, governed by independent rulers, who did not agree very well among themselves. 2. He embarked his troops at Calais, and in a few hours reached the coast of Britain, near Dover. Sailing to the north about eight miles, he determined to land near Deal. The Britons had heard of his coming, and were q^sembled to prevent his landing. Their painted bodies gave them a most terrific appearance, and their eavage yells made even the Romans hesitate to attack them. 3. At last a standard-bearer jumped into the sea, and advanced with the eagle, which was the Roman standard, towards the enemy, crying aloud, "Follow me, soldiers, unless you will betray the Roman eagle into the hands of the enemy. I, at least, will dis- charge my duty to Caesar and to my country." Houses? 12. Hospitality? 13. The feast? 14. Music? Feasts given by great men? 15. Weapons of war? III. — I. What of the government of Britain? 2. Where did Caesar land? What of his troops? o. What roused the spirit of the troops? 4. What success had Caesar? b, 16 INVASION OF BRITAIN BY THE ROMANS. 4. Animated by this speech, and excited by his example, the sol- diers plunged into the sea, and waded to the land, in spite of all the Britons could do. Caesar remained about three weeks upon the island, during which he gained many battles. He then granted a peace to tlie Britons, upon condition that they should pay tribute to the Roman people. • THE ROMANS IN ENGI.AND. 5. The Britons neglected to perform their engagements, and in the year 54. B.C.. r!?psnr no-ain invaded the island. Landing, as before, at Deal, he advanced into the country. The Britons had tiow united their forces under one chief, named Cassivelaugjis. Still they were defeated in eveiy battle. "'"' 6. Having brought the people to submission, and compelled them to give him many of their chief men as hostages — that is, security for the performance of their engagements — Caesar returned to Rome. 7. As no troops were left in Britain to maintain the authority of Rome, the Britons soon threw off all marks of subjection, and the tribute remained vinpaid. The civil dissensions among the Romans themselves, long prevented their taking any measures to compel the payment. • 8. An intercourse was, however, kept up with Rome. Many of the chief persons of Britain visited that city, and some of the young men were educated there. By this means the Britons began to im- prove in their manners and habits. 9. The mantle of skins was replaced by one of cloth, and close trowsers were introduced. They likewise adopted a vest, a tunic, fitting tight to the body and reaching just below the waist. Their When did Caesar return to Britain? The result? 7. What of the obedience of the Britons? 8. What effect had their intercourse with Rome? 9. What change in dress? 10. Wha* of their money ' 11. Their vessels? INVASION OF BRITAIN BY THE ROMANS. 17 shoes were still made of the skin of some animal, with the hair out- 10. Thev also began to coin money. For some ages the trade of Britain had been carried on by barter or exchange. When metals were first used as money, their value was determined by weight. The seller having agreed to accept a certain quantity of gold or sil- ver for his goods, the buyer cut off that quantity from the piece of that metal in his possession, and, having weighed it, delivered it to the seller, and received the goods. 11. The invasion of the Romans had made the Britons acquainted with the use of tools ; and stout galleys took the place of the frail boats made of osiers and the flexible branches of trees, covered with skins of oxen, in which they had hitherto navigated the stormy seas around their islands. CHAPTER IV. Caractacus. — The Druids^ — London destroyed. — Boadicea defeated. CARACTACUS A PKISONKR AT ROME. 1. At length, in the year 43 after the birth of Christ, being 97 years from the first invasion"Ty Caesar, the Romans determined to make another attempt to conquer Britain. An army of 50,000 men was collected and sent into the island, under the command of Aulug. Plautius. 2. The Britons fought bravely for their liberty, but could not IV.— 1. When was the third Ronmn invasion of Britain? 2. Who commanded the 2* 18 THE DRUIDS. withstand the Roman discipline. Their principal chief, named Caractacus, and his family, were taken prisoners. They were all sent to Rome, and the king, his wife, and his two daughters, were made to walk through the streets loaded with chains. 3. Observing the splendor of the great city, Qaxaciaciis could not forbear exclaiming, " Alas ! how is it possible that people possessed of such magnificence at home, should envy me my humble cottage in Britain ?" 4. Notwithstanding their victories, the Romans made little prog- ress in the conquest of the island. Suetonius P;ini1inng one of their most skilful generals, resolved to adopt a new method. He observed that the Druids were the most inveterate enemies of the Romans, and that it was their influence which kept up the spirit of the people. A DRUID ADDRESSING THK PEOPLE. 5. The Druids were the priests and law-givers of the Britons. The chiefs commanded the forces in time of war, but all other power was in the hands of the Druids. The laws of the Britons were composed in verse, and the only record of them was in the memory of the Druids. The old taught them to the young, and thus the knowledge of them was kept up from one generation to another. 6. So great was the veneration in which they were held, that when two hostile armies, with daggers drawn, and spears extended, were about to engage in battle, the request of the Druids was suffi- cient to calm their rage, and to induce them to sheath their daggers, and separate in peace. 7. The Druids believed that it was displeasing to the Deity tc worship within walls, or under roofs. They worshipped, therefore. Britons? What was his fate? 4. What of the Druids? 5. Who were they? What of the laws of Britain ? 6. What of the influence of the Druids? 7, 8. Their temples? DE8TKUCTION OF LONDON. 19 in the open air in groves of particular trees. The favorite was the strong and spreading oak, and in all their ceremonies they were crowiied with garlands of its leaves. 8. In the centre of the grove was a space enclosed with one or two rows of large stones set upright in the ground. In the centre stood the altar upon which sacrifices were olfered. When they wished to erect a temple of particular magnificence, they laid stones of pro- digious weight on the tops of the upright pillars, thus forming a kind of circle in the air, which added much to the grandeur. Some of these temples yet remain ; the most perfect is at Stonehenge. 9. The ofiice of Druid was held by w^omen as well as by men ; the former took part in all the public ceremonies ; to them was assigned the horrible duty of plunging the knife into the breast of the victim prepared for the sacrifice. The victims were not sheep and oxen alone, but the prisoners taken in war were considered as a most acceptable offering. 10. The principal residence of the Druids was in the little island of Anglesea. Suetonius resolved to make himself master of this stronghold. The Britons endeavored to prevent the landing of his troops. The w^omen and priests mingled with the soldiers on the shore, and running about with burning torches in their hands, and tossing their long hair, they terrified the astonished Romans more by their shrieks and bowlings, than by the appearance of the armed forces. 11. But the Romans soon recovered their spirits, and, marching boldly forward, speedily put an end to all resistance. - Meanwhile the Britons took advantage of the absence of Suetonius. Headed by !^Qndirpa, a brave queen, they attacked and destroyed the Roman settlements. There were many of these which were quite flourish- ing. London, which at the first invasion was a forest, had now become a rich and populous city. 12. Suetonius was obliged to abandon this place to the fury of the Britons. It was entirely destroyed, and more than 70,000 Romans and other strangers were put to death. But he soon had a most cruel revenge ; with his little army of 10,000 men, he at- tacked the Britons, and left 80,000 of them dead upon the field of battle. Boadicea^ in despair at this defeat, poisoned herself. CHAPTER V. ^ Agricola. — The Scots and Fids. — The Roman Wall. — Christianity introduced. 1. The Romans now easily established themselves all over Britain and built towns and castles, and were entire masters of the countiy j 9. Were the Druids always men? What part did the women take in the ceremonies? 10. Where did they principally reside?' What did Suetonius do? How did the inhab- itants of the island act? 11. What was the result? What did the Britons do in the absence of the Romans? What of London? 12. What revenge did Suetonius have? 20 THE SCOTS AND PICTS. I J ulius Agric ola, one of their generals, was a very good, as well as a brave man. He took great pains to reconcile the Britons to the Roman government, by introducing their arts and sciences. He encouraged them to engage in agriculture, which the Eomans con- sidered the most honorable employment. He also persuaded them to learn the Latin language. 2. He succeeded so well in his endeavors, that the Britons soon came to esteem it a privilege to be a part of the Roman empire. Indeed, they derived other advantages besides the increase of com- fort which a knowledge of the Roman arts had brought them. 3. The northern part of the island, called Caledonia, and now Scotland, was inhabited by the Scots and Picts, a wild and warlike people, who made incursions into the country of Britain, and after destroying everything that came in their way, retired into their bleak and barren mountains. 4. Whenever they ventured to stand a battle in the open field, they were defeated- by the Romans; but they seldom did this. They generally retired as the Roman troops advanced. As soon as the latter were withdrawn from their neighborhood, they again commenced their depredations. 5. Agricola caused a line of forts to be built across Scotland, thus shutting out the marauders. The country now enjoyed peace for many years, during which the Romans occupied themselves in making roads, many of which are still remaining ; and in building strong and massive castles, the ruins of which are still to be seen. 6. But the forts did not prove a sufficient defence against the Picts and Scots, who renewed their incursions upon the more cul- tivated parts of the island. The Finipprr^r A^ritin who visited Britain, caused a rampart of earth to be erected. This, however, proved too weak, and in the year 2^)7 the "F.p^p fjor Revf^ rns came to Britain, with a determination to conquer Caledonia. 7. The nature of the country, and the bravery of the people, pre- vented his succeeding ; so he contented himself with building an immense stone wall, twelve feet high, and eight feet thick, quite across the country, from the river Tyne to the Solway Frith, many parts of which are still to be seen. 8. For a long time everything went on so quietly, that little men- tion is made of the affairs of this island by any historian. The people were governed by Roman officers, called legates, or vicars. Among the benefits which the conquerors iDcstowed on Britain, was the introduction of Christianity, which there is reason to believe had made considerable progress before the end of the first century. V. — 1. What of Julius Agricola? What did he do for the Britons? 2. What success had he? 3. What was the northern part of the island called? By whom inhabited? 4. What of the Scots and Picts? 5. What did Agricola do to restrain them? How did the Romans occupy themselves ? 6. What new means were tried to keep oflF the Picts and Scots ? What of the Emperor Severus ? 8. What was the state of the island after Severus ? What of Christianity ? SUFFERINGS OF THE BRITONS. 21 CHAPTER VI. The Romans abandon Britain. — Dreadful Sufferings of the Britons. 1. About the year ,4^, the Romans were compelled to withdraw their troops from the distant provinces, and, among the rest, from Britain, to defend their city against the barbarous tribes of tlie north of Europe. 2. Before the Romans left the island, they repaired the wall built by Severus. But as walls are of very little use without brave and well-armed men to defend them, the Roman general instructed the Britons in the art of making and of using the several kinds of arms. 3. He then departed with his troops, telling the people that, as they would never again have assistance from the Romans, they had better learn to take care of themselves. Thus the Romans quitted the island, after having had possession of it nearly 500 years, if we reckon from the first invasion of Julius Caesar. 4. Liberty proved anything but a blessing to the Britons. They were as helpless as so many children turned loose upon the world. They had so long been accustomed to rely upon the Romans for defence as well as for government, that they knew not how to set about either. 5. The Picts and the Scots, learning that the island was deserted by the Romans, approached the wall of Severus. They found it in complete repair, and apparently well defended by armed Britons. But these had profited little by the instructions of their late mas- ters, and they fled at the first attack. 6. The savage invaders now ravaged the whole country. They were like wolves let into a sheep-fold. The wretched Britons fled from their comfortable houses, and sought a refuge in the forests and mountains. Afraid to venture fortli to cultivate their fields, they suffered all the horrors of famine. 7. The land being now barren, and nothing to be gained, the Picts and Scots ceased from their incursions for several years. The Britons who had survived the calamities of their country, once more began ploughing and sowing, and the next year there was an abun- dant harvest. No sooner did the rapacious Scots hear of it, than they all came rushing into Britain. 8. The Britons, for a third time, sent to the Romans to come and help them, and despatched a letter to Aetius, the governor of Gaul : " To Aetius, thrice Consul. The groans of the Britons. The barba- rians drive us to the sea ; the sea throws us back on the swords of the barbarians : so we have nothing left but the wretched choice VI. — 1. When did the Romans withdraw from Britain? 2. What did tliey do for the defence of the Britons ? 3. How long had they possessed the island ? 4. What of the Britons? 5. The Scots and Picts? 6. How' did they treat the Britons? 7. What caused them to suspend their incursions? Why did they renew them? 8. What did the Britons do ? 22 ACCOUNT OF THE SAXONS. of being either drowned or butchered." This melancholy letter did no good, but they received assistance from another quarter, as you shall presently hear. CHAPTER VII. Account of the Saxons. THE DEATH OF HORSA. 1. At the time of which we are now speaking, the shores of the Baltic Sea were inhabited by several tribes of people, nearly in a savage state. In France, and in those parts of the continent of Europe which had been subject to Eome, they were called by the common name of 3fen of the North, or Normans; amongst them- selves they were distinguished by various names, such as Saxons, Danes, and many others. 2. These people were the terror of all the more civilized coun- tries. Launching their light boats, which were made of osiers, cov- ered with skins sewed together, they suffered the wind to blow them to any foreign coast. Landing there, they spread devastation over a wide extent of country, and then returned home laden with booty. 3. It so happened that, in the ypnr 44R during one of their piratical expeditions, a party of about 300 Saxons, under two lead- ers named Ij£iigist.and Hfff ^^n_ landed in Britain, just at the time when the people were suffering from the ravages of the Scots. 4. Vortigern, a prince of the Britons, advised his countrymen to VII,— 1. Who were the Normans? 2. What is said of their expeditions? 3. When did Hengist and Horsa land in Britain ? 4. How did the Britons receive them ? 5. What ACCOUNT OF THE SAXONS. 23 entreat aid from these strangers. This was readily granted. Join- ing their forces, the Britons and Saxons marched against the Scots, who were defeated and driven back. 5. The Saxons, seeing the agreeable nature of the countrj^ uegan to covet the possession of it for themselves. Sending for more of their countrymen, they fell upon the unfortunate Britons, and de- feated them in many battles, in one of which Horsa was killed. 6. Hengist, now become sole commander of the Saxons, took the title of King of Kent. New swarms of Saxons kept pouring in, and by degrees got possession of almost the whole country south of Adrian's wall. Each of the chiefs took possession of what he con- quered, and thus at last arose seven different kingdoms, which are commonly called the Saxon Heptarchy. 7. These seven kingdoms were as follows : — Ke,nt — contpjned the present counties of Kent, and part of Sus- sex. South Saxony, or Sussex — the present county of Surrey, and part of Sussex. West Saxony, or Wessex — included the coast from Sussex to Land's End. Bast Saxony, or Essex. Bast Anglia — so called from a district of Germany, whence a por- tion of the conquering Saxons came, included Norfolk, Suffolk, and Cambridgeshire. Mercia — the midland part of the island. Northumberland — from Mercia to the borders of Scotland. 8. The Britons did not yield without a struggle. Sometimes they were cheered by a momentary success. The most celebrated of their chiefs was the renowned King Arthur, who defeated the Saxons in twelve battles. 9. He used to give great feasts to his brave companions. That there might be no disputes about the seats, he had a round table made, so that all might be equally honorable. King Arthur and the Knights of the Eound Table have been great favorites with story-tellers. 10. But all opposition proved vain. A large number of the Brit- ons were slaughtered by the Saxons. A portion of them crossed over to France, where they settled in the northwestern corner of that country, which has since, from them, been called Brittany. The remainder took refuge in the mountains of Wales and Corn- wall. The present inhabitants of these districts are the descendants of the ancient Britons, and still retain vestiges of their language. «li>l the Saxoiiij do? 6. Wliat was the Heptarchy? 7. Describe the seven kingdoms. 8, 9. What is said of King Arthur? 10. What became of the Britons? 24 CUSTOJp OF TiiE ANGLO-SAXONS. CHAPTEE VIII. The Language and Religion of the Anglo-Saxons. — Origin of the Names of the Days of the Week. — Curious Circumstance which led to the Introduction of Christianity. 1. The people who had now possessed themselves of Britain are called in history Anglo-Saxons. So completely was the country subdued, that no customs, truly British or Roman, were now to be seen ; the language, which had been either Celtic or Latin, was dis- continued, and the Saxon or English only was spoken. 2. The Christian religion also disappeared, for the Saxons were pagans, and worshipped a great number of gods. From the chief of them the days of the week receive their names. Worshipping the Sun, they called the fii^st day Sunday. The second was named Monday, from the Moon. Another god they called Tuisco, or Tiw, and to him they assigned the third day. 3. The next idol which they adored for a god was Woden ; he had been a famous and victorious prince among them, and after his death they worshipped him as the God of Battle. The fourth day was named for him Woden's day, or Wednesday. Not only the Saxons, but all the northern nations worshipped Thor, whose name was given to the fifth day, Thursday. 4. Friday received its name from Friga, who was the same with the Earth, and was esteemed the mother of all the deities. They had another god named Saterne, and to him they consecrated the last day of the week, and called it Saterne's day, or Saturday. 5. But the Anglo-Saxons did not long remain pagans. For the early introduction of Christianity they were indebted to a circum- stance, which furnishes a striking instance that a seeming evil often proves the source of the most lasting good. 6. Slavery, in its worst form, existed among the Anglo-Saxons. With most savage nations, prisoners taken in war are either slain or made slaves of. But few people are so debased as were these conquerors of Britain. To gratify some temporary appetite, indi- viduals would sell themselves into bondage, and parents w^ere known to sell their own children. 7. It happened one day, when Pope Gregory I. was walking in the streets of Rome, that he saw some very beautiful children ex- posed for sale. Asking from whence they came, he was told from England, on which he said they would not be Angli, but Angeli, if they were but Christians. Angli is the Latin word for English, and Angeli, that for Angels. 8. Gregory resolved to attempt this change; so he ordered St. Austin or. Augustine, with forty other Roman monks, to go into VIII. — 1. What were the conquorors of Britain called? What is said of the lan- guage? 2. What of tlie religion of the Saxons? 3, 4. From whom are the days of the week named? 6. What bad custom existed among the Saxons? 7. What attracti-d INTRODUCTION OF CHRISTIANITY. 'ZO Britain and preach the Gosi)el. When these missionaries reached France, the people of which had already been converted to Chris- tianity, they heard such dreadfiu stories of the savage manners of the Anglo-Saxons, that they were afraid to go on, and sent back Augustine to ask the pope's permission to give up the enterprise. 9. But Gregory exhorted them to persevere, and advised them to take some of the French people, then called Franks, as interpreters, for their language was nearly the same as that of the Anglo-Saxons. Augustine proceeded and found the danger much less than he had imagined. 10. Ethelbert, King of Kent, was already well disposed towards the Christian faith, for his wife Bertha was a daughter of Caribert, one of the kings of France. He therefore received the missionaries with kindness. Having heard what they had to say, he told them that he could not without consideration abandon the religion of his ancestors; but as they had come so far on a friendly errand, they might remain in peace, and use their best endeavors to convert his subjects. 11. The monks at once entered on their labors, which were crowned with such success, that in a very short time the king and a great number of his subjects were converted. Augustine bap- tized no fewer than ten thousand on Christmas day, 597, and was soon after made Archbishop of Canterbur}\ CHAPTER IX. The Anglo-Saxons. — 7'heir Historians. — The Condition of the People. 1. In the course of time the manners of the Anglo-Saxons lost somewhat of their fierceness, and their customs and institutions became more civilized. Our knowledge of them is very imperfect. None but the clergy made any j3retensions to learning. Few of these could do more than read their prayer-books and write their names. 2. There were many even among the high clergy who could not do this. There are deeds still extant, made by lord bishops, which are signed by some other persons in their names, because the lord bishops could not write their own names. 3. The earliest historian is Gildas, who lived in the sixtii-^cen- tury . He was so much admired by his countrymen, as to be called by them GMQiMiAJ^i^^e. In the s^y^pth (^pntnry there was another learned luonk, named Bede, or, as he is generally called, the VmP^ciLIe Bede. He was never higher in rank than a simple monk, yet, on the notice of Gregory to Hrit.iiii? 8. Whom did he send to convert it? 9. What did the monks do? 10. Who received the missionaries kindly? 11. What was their suc- cess ? IX. — 1. What is said of tlie nianners of the Anglo-Saxons? Wliat of the state of learning? 3. What is said of Gildivg? 4. AVhat of the government of the Anglo-Saxon«? 26 THE CONDITION OF THE PEOPLE. account of his writings, his fame spread through all li^urope. The pope courted his company, and his advice in the government of the church. 4. From these sources we are able to tell you that the Anglo- Saxons were governed by a king, wlio^e power was very much con- trolled and limited by an assembly of the wise men of the nation, called the WiliSMLg£Mot. The nobility, the high clergy, and all freemen possessing a certain portion of land, were, of right, mem- ber^ of this assembly. 5. The Anglo-Saxons were divided into three orders of men— ^the nobles, the freemen, and the slaves. The nobles formed a very large class. They were called Thanes. The freemen were called Ceorls, and were principally engaged in husbandry, whence a hus- bandman and a ceorl came to be synonymous terms. 6. A ceorl could raise himself to the rank of thane, in various ways. Success in agriculture might furnish him with the means of procuring the requisite quantity of land, with buildings proper to the dignity. If a ceorl acquired learning enough and became a priest, he was esteemed a thane. Success in trade, or in war, raised him to the same rank. Agriculture, commerce, arms, and the church, were considered the only professions for a freeman. 7. The slaves were by far the most numerous class. They were of two kinds, namely, household slaves, who lived in the family, ana performed the ordinary duties of domestic servants, and rustic slaves, who were attached to particular estates, and were transferred with the soil. ' S-C 8. These last were called villani, or v\Ukj^ns, because they dwelt in the villages belonging to their masters, and performed all the servile labors, required upon the land. The clergy made great efforts to improve the condition of the slaves, and to secure the rights which their influence had procured for them. Notwithstanding this, the greater part of the common people remained in abject slavery during the time the Saxons governed the country. V CHAPTER X. The Laws of the Anglo-Saxons. — Modes of Trial. — The Ordeal. 1. Under the Romans, Britain was divided into colonies and governments. By the Saxons the country was parcelled out into counties, or, as they called them, shires, which means divisions. The government of a shire was entrusted to an eorl or eorldorman, whence the present terms earl and alderman. The earl generally exercised this government by his deputy, called the shire-reeve, or sheriff — that is, guardian of a shire. 6. IIow were they diviled? 6. By what means could a man rise in rank? 7. What ia said of the slaves? 8. Who were the villains? Why so called? X. — 1. How was Britiiu divided by the Romans? How by the Saxons? How wa^ LAWS OF THE ANGLO-SAXONS. 27 2. The criminal laws of the Anglo-Saxons were very mild. Every crime might be compensated for in money. We consider the life and limbs of one man as valuable as those of another. But among the Anglo-Saxons the value of a man's life, or of his arm, or his leg, depended u^^on his rank, or his office, and a price was fixed accoi-dingly, which was to be paid by the person who should de- prive him of either. 3. Their mode of proving crimes was singular. Instead of being determined by the evidence of witnesses, they referred the decision to tha judgment of God, as it was called. There were various modes ibf doing this, but the most common was the ordeal. This method was practised either by boiling water, or red-hot iron. 4. The water or iron was consecrated by many prayers and fast- ings, after which the accused person either took up with his naked hand a stone sunk in the boiling water, or carried the heated iron to a certain distance. The hand was then wrapped up, and the covering sealed for three days ; if at the end of the time there ap- peared no marks of burning or scalding, the person was pronounced innocent; otherwise he was declared guilty. 5. Another way of performing the ordeal of hot iron was, by making the person to be tried, to walk blindfold over nine hot ploughshares, placed at certain distances. If he did this without being burnt, he was acquitted. These fiery ordeals were nothing but impositions on the credulity of mankind. 6. The whole was conducted under the direction of the priests, and the ceremony was pertormed in a church. No person was per- mitted to enter except the priest and the accused until the iron was heated, when twelve friends of the accused and twelve of the ac- cuser were admitted, and ranged along the wall, on each side of the church, at a respectful distance. 7. After the iron was taken frum the fire, several prayers were said, and many forms gone through ; all this might take a consider- able time, if the priests were indulgent. It was always remarked that no good friend of the church ever sustained the least injury from the ordeal ; but if any one who had wronged the church was foolish enough to appeal to this mode of trial, he was sure to burn his fingers or his feet, and to lose his cause. 8. I am afraid you will think all this very dull, but these are n atters proper to be known. It may be a little more interesting to hear what officers were considered as necessary in the king's house- hold. The first in dignity was the mayor of the palace, always a prince of the royal family. The priest was the next in rank, who sat at the royal table to bless the meat, and to chant the Lord's prayer. 9. The third was the steward, who had a variety of perquisites, and came in for a large share of every barrel of good ale, and cask of mead. Then came the judge, distinguished for his learning, and the^shire governed? 2. What of the criminal laws of the Anglo-Saxons? 3, How wore trials conducted? 4, 5. Describe the kinds of ordeal, and mode of proceeding. 6. Who ncmdncted these ceremonies ? 8, 9. What officers had the king about him ? -H ^ w Alfred encourages the Arts. — About the English Navy. — Death of Alfred. — Reign of Edward the Elder. 1. Alfred also took great pains to improve his subjects in the useful and ingenious arts, and invited many skilful foreign work- men to instruct them. The English goldsmiths soon became very expert. We have evidence of their skill in a golden ornament of very beautiful workmanship, which was found at Athglimy, and which is supposed to have been worn by Alfred. 2. Atlielney was the place where he concealed himself in his distress, and where he sometimes resided in his prosperity. The ornament is beautifully engraved with various figures, and bears this inscription in Saxon characters: "Alfred commanded me to be made." of Aldhelm? 7. What mode did he adopt to instruct the people? 8. Who possessed all the learning? What of their leai'ning? 9. How did tlie clergy live at first? 10. Wliit of the churches? What is a cathedral ? What a diocese? 11. What change iu their mode of life was caused by the Danes? XV —1. What did Alfred do for the arts? What of the skill of the goldsmiths? Wha< 86 THE ENGLISH NAVY. 3. But the workmen most highly regarded were the blacksmiths because Ihey could make swords, and other instruments of war. Every soldier of rank was constantly attended by his smith, to keep his arms in order. The chief smith was an officer of great dignity at court. At table he sat next to the priest, and was entitled to 'a draught of every kind of liquor brought into the hall. alfup:d thk great, 4. Alfred was very desirous of creating a strong naval force, con- sidering that to be the surest defence against the Danes. But he had great difficulties to struggle with. His subjects knew nothing of ship-building, so he was obliged to get foreign ship-builders. 5. In time his own subjects learned how to build ships, but there was a new difficulty — he liad no sailors. These were also procured from other countries, and at last a considerable fleet was got together. 6. This fleet did not prove a very effectual defence, for the Danes coming in 330 vessels, under a famous leader named Hasting, suc- ceeded in landing in Kent. A long contest ensued. At length the wife and children of Hastings were taken prisoners. Alfred gave them back on condition that all the Danes should leave the country. 7. The remainder of the reign of this truly great king was pros- perous. He lived beloved by his subjects, feared by his enemies, and admired by all mankind. The English — and, as their descend- ants, we — are indebted to the wisdom of Alfred for many very useful laws, and valuable rights. evidence haTO we of it? 3. Who were the workmen most highly regarded? Why? 4. What is said of Alfred's navy? 6. What of a new attack by the Dan«>s? 7. What vain- KJIIGN OF EDWARD THE ELDEK. 37 8. Amongst the rest, he instituted the right of trial by jury ; that is, the right of being tried and condemned by twelve of our eqiials, before we are punished for any offence, or deprived of any estate or privilege. Something like this had existed among the Saxons from the earliest times, but Alfred first reduced it to a regular system, and secured it by positive laws. 9. Alfred died in 901, in the forty-ninth year of his age. He was succeeded by his son Edward, surnamed the Elder, because he was the first king of that name in England. He was equal to his father as a warrior, but greatly inferior to him in science and literature. He had a sister named Ethelfledji, who was as fond of war as himself, and who assisted him in many enterprises. Edward died in 925. CHAPTER XVL t Adventure of Aulaff, — The Long Battle. — Character of Athelstan.— His Death. 1. Edward was succeeded by his eldest son, Athelstan. We have neglected to tell you that all these Saxon names have a meaning. Some of them were undoubtedly given for some personal peculiarity. 2. Thus, Egbert means bright eye; and Alfred's wife's father was called 3Iuci, that is, large. Caprice appears to have dictated the choice oFothers, for as they were bestowed by the parents in infancy, little could have been known of the qualities of the bearers. Thus, we have Ethelred, 7ioble in council; Edward, the prosperous guardian; Edwin, p>rospe7'ous in battle, &c. Athelstan means the noble stone. 3. The reign of Athelstan, like that of his father, was a continual conflict with the Danes. One of their generals, called Aulaff, tried the stratagem that had been practised with so much success by Alfred. He disguised himself like a minstrel, and went into Athelstan's camp. 4. The king was much pleased with his music, acd, thinking he was a poor boy, gave him a piece of money. Aulaff' was too proud to keep it, and when he got out of the king's tent, and thought nobody was in sight, he buried it in the ground. 5. It happened that a soldier saw him, and, thinking this very strange, examined the pretended minstrel's face, and knew him to be Prince Aulaff, but did not attempt to obstruct his departure. When the Danish prince had got to a safe distance, the soldier informed Athelstan of the discovery he had made. 6. The king reproved him for letting such a dangerous enemy escape. " I once served Aulaff," replied the man, " and gave him able right did Alfred secure to the people ? 9. When did Alfred die ? Who succeeded him ? What is said of Edward the Elder ? "When did he die ? XA'I.— 1. Who succeeded Edward? What is said of the Saxon names? 2. Give the meaning of some of them. 3, 4, 5, 6. Relate tlio adventure of Aulaff. 7. What followe*" 38 CHARACTER OF ATHELSTAN. the same faith that I have now given to you ; and if I had betrayed him, what trust weuld you have reposed in my truth? Let him die, if such be his fate, but not through my treachery. Secure yourself from danger, and remove your tent, lest he should assail you unawares." 7. Athelstan was pleased with the honest soldier's answer, and took his advice. It was well he did, for that very night Aulaif, with a chosen band, broke into the camp, and killed a bishop who had pitched his tent upon the spot where the king's had stood. 8. The noise of the attack waked the Saxons, and the battle became general. It lasted all that night, and all the following day, and is distinguished in Saxon history by the name of the long battle. It ended in Athelstan 's gaining a complete victory, which secured to him the peaceful possession of his kingdom, 9. Athelstan is regarded as one of the ablest of the ancient princes. One law which he made certainly affords proof of liberality and enlargement of mind. He decreed that any merchant who had made three long sea-voyages on his own account should be ad- mitted to the rank of a thane. 10. He was most courteous in his manners, and was much be- loved by his subjects. It is related that his hair was bright yellow, and that he wore it beautifully plaited. He died in 941, in the forty-sixth year of his age, and the sixteenth of his reign. CHAPTEK XVII. How Edmund, a brave king, was murdered. — About Edred. — St. Dunstan.^-How he resisted the temptations of the Devil. 1. Edmund, a brother of Athelstan, succeeded to the throne. He was only eighteen years old. The Danes, whom Alfred had permitted to settle in Northumberland, had caused great trouble in the country. They were continually rising in rebellion, and attempting to establish an independent government. 2. Aulaif, whose adventure I have related to you, was now their prince. He had escaped from the long battle, and taken refuge in Ireland. The youth and inexperience of the king gave him hopes of better success in a new attempt. He collected a large army, which was totally defeated by the English under Edmund, and the whole country was reduced to submission. 3. Edmund had displayed so much wisdom and courage, that there was every hope his reign would be a happy one, when a sudden end was put to it. He was sitting at a feast, with all his nobles it? 8. What is the battle which succeeJed called? 9. What of Athelstan? What law (lid he make? 10. When did he die? XVII.— 1. Who succeeded Athelstan ? What of the Northumberland Dane^? 2. What nf AuHfT? What was the success of his new attempt? 3, 4. Relate the manner of ABOUT ST. DUNSTAN. 39 about him, when a notorious robber, named Leolf, whom he had banished from the kingdom, had the audacity to come into the hall, and take a seat at the table. 4. The king ordered him to leave the room, but Leolf refused to obey. Enraged at this fresh insult, the king sprang from his seat, and, seizing him by the hair, threw him down. The robber, upon this, drew his dagger, and stabbed the king to the heart. Thus died this hopeful young prince, when he was only twenty-four years old, in the year 948. 5. Edmund left two little sons, named Edwy and Edgar, but they were so young that Edred, his brother, was acknowledged as king. At the commencement of his reign the Danes again re- belled, but were speedily subdued. He took eifectual means to prevent their disturbing the peace of the kingdom. 6. He no longer allowed them to be governed by a prince of their own race, but placed an English governor over them. English troops were fixed in all the principal towns. 7. Edred would have led, on the whole, a quiet life, if he had not suffered himself to be governed by an ambitious priest called ^ ^UBstan. He was an Englishman, of noble family, who was edu- cated for the church. To acquire a character foj sanctity, he se- cluded himself from the world. He had a cell made, so small that he could neither stand upright in it, nor stretch out his limbs when he lay down. 8. Here he employed himself perpetually, either in devotion, or in making useful and ingenious things of iron and brass. Many foolish stories are told of the temptations to which he was subjected. He fancied that the devil, assuming a human shape, made him fre- quent visits. 9. One day, as he was busily at work, the devil popped his head into the window, and asked him to make something for him. St. Dunstan, soon finding out who it was, seized him by the nose with a pair of red-hot tongs, and held him there, whilst he bellowed most lustily. 10. These, and a thousand other stories equally ridiculous, were seriously told, and implicitly believed by the people, and gained for Dunstan the reputation which he desired. He now appeared in the world again, and soon gained such an influence over Edred, that the king consulted him not only about matters of religion, but en- trusted to him the management of the affairs of state. Ednmrid's death. 5. Who succeeded Edmund? 6. What means did he adopt to keep the Danes in subjection? 7. Who was Dunstan? What did he do to acquire a reputa- tion ? 8, 9. What r idiculons stories are related of him ? 10. What was the consequence of these stories ? / 40 , THE MONKS. CHAPTER XVIII. About the Monks, and the Secular Clergy. — Story of Edwy and Elgivcu — How St. Dunstan gained a great injiaence with the people, 1. Still further to increase his power and influence, Dunstan resolved to make an innovation in the church, as it existed in England. The change had already been made in olher countries. This was by the introduction of a new order of clergy, called monks. 2. These secluded themselves entirely from the world, and lived in monasteries. They were bound by a vow to live according to a certain system or rule. By this they were required to remain un- married, to be content with coarse fare, and hard beds. They were also bound to yield implicit obedience, in all things, to the head of the monastery, who was called the Abbot, or the Superior. 3. The old clergy were called Seculars ; and between the two bodies a furious contest at once arose, which agitated the whole kingdom, and finally produced a civil war. The secular clergy were very numerous and rich, and possessed of all the offices in the church ; but Dunstan wielded all the power of the king, who had become indolent, and helpless from ill health, and permitted him to do whatever he pleased. 4. Edred died in _055. Edwy, the oldest son of Edmund, then succeeded to the throne. He was not above sixteen yeai-s old. He was possessed of virtues and abilities which would have made him a great favorite with the people, had he not, unhappily, engaged in the religious disputes, and taken part with the secular priests, in opposition to the monks. 5. An act of Edwy's was, by the cruelty and hard-heartedness of St. Dunstan, made the means of destroying not only the happiness, but also the life of that prince. Edwy had a beautiful cousin, ;^- giva, whom he loved very dearly, and whom he married. 6. St. Dunstan, and Oda another churchman completely undei his control, declared it tol9e sinful for a man to marry his cousin, and did all they could to disturb their happiness. The king now called upon Dunstan to give an account of the money which he had received as treasurer of the kingdom. Being unable to do this, Dunstan was banished from the country. 7. Tliough absent, he was not idle. He excited Edgar, who was still a boy, to raise a rebellion against his brother, and as soon as he had assembled an army, joined him in person. Meanwhile, Odo contrived to seize on the poor queen, cruelly burned her face with hot irons, in order to destroy her beauty, and then had her carried to Ireland, where she was kept a prisoner. XVIII. — 1. What change did St. Dunstan make in the church? 2. What is said of the monks? By whom were tliey governed? 3. What were the old clergy called? What is said of the two parties? 4. When did Edred die? Who succeeded him? What of Edwy? 5. What did Edwy do? 6. What did Dunstan declare? Why was he banished from the countrj"? 7- What did Dunstan do? What became of KIgiva? 8. What of EDGAR THE PEACEABLE. 41 8. The i^eople regarded Dunstan as a saint, and their superstitious reverence was kept up by pretended messages from heaven. Cruci- fixes, altars, and even horses, were said to have been gifted with the power of spee'ch, in order to harangue in his favor. 9. By the assistance of these pretended miracles, which were fully believed by the people, the monks prevailed. Edwy was deprived of the larger part of his dominions. To complete his afflictions, his beloved Elgiva, having escaped from Ireland, got as fai* as Glouces- ter, on her way to join him ; there she was discovered by her savage persecutors, who put her to deatli. Edwv died of a broken heart, in 959. CHAPTER XIX. Edgar the Peaceable. — Reign and Death of Edward the Martyr. 1. Edgar, the next king, was only sixteen years old when he be- came sole sovereign of the whole kingdom, of a large portion of which his rebellious arms had before made him master. He was completely governed by St. Dunstan, and other meddling monks, who, in return, wrote the history of his life, and praised him as the best king that ever lived. 2. It is difficult to tell how much of their praise he deserved. They represent him not only as a great statesman, and a man of great abilities, but also as a saint and a man of great virtue. . We know that he has no claims to the latter character, but that he was a consummate hypocrite, who, whilst he was falsely charging the secular clergy with various wickednesses, was himself guilty of the most enormous crimes. 3. He seems, however, to have been an active prince, and to have governed his kingdom with wisdom. Many good laws were made by him, and justice was so well administered, that travellers- had no loDger any fear of robbers. We are also told, as a proof of his power, that having occasion to pass by water from one place to anotlier, he was rowed in his barge by eight tributary princes. 4. It also appears certain that he attended diligently to the naval uliairs of his kingdom ; he had so large a tleet, that the Danes never 'entured to molest him. To make his sailors expert, he kept his ships constantly sailing round the island. 5. Whilst he was totally regardless of his own morals, he was very careful about those of his subjects. Instead of setting them a good example, he endeavored to promote religion by laws. Amongst the feelings of the people ? What artifices were xised to excite their feelings ? &. Which party provailod? What became of Elgiva? "When did Edwy die? XIX.— 1. AVho succeeded Edwy? By whom was Edgar governed? 2. What of tlie character of Edgar? 3. What of the state of the kingdom? What instauce of his power? 4. What of the navy? 5. What laAv did he make? r,. What tribftle did \w 4 * 42 REIGN AND DEATH OF EDWARD. — A. D. 975. others, he ordained that every Sunday should be strictly observed, and should begin at three o'clock on Saturday afternoon, and end at sunrise on Monday. 6. Wales, and a great pai't of England, were at thi§ time infested by wolves. To get rid of them, Edgar commanded that instead of the annual tribute in money and cattle, which the Welsh kings were bound to pay him, they should bring three hundred wolves' heads yearly. This plan succeeded so well that in three years the whole race was nearly exterminated. 7. After having reigned seventeen years, Edgar died in 975. His reign was so free from wars and tumults, that he obtained the title of Edgar the Peaceable. He left two sons, Ed^^d, the son of Ms first wife, and Ethelred, whose mother, Elfrida, was yet living. 8. Elfrida was ambftious that her son should be king, instead of his half-brother ; but the influence of that bustling priest, Dunstan, placed the crown on the head of Edward. This poor young man behaved kindly and gently to everybody, and very liberally to his ambitious step-mother ; but this did not prevent her from contriving his death. 9. One day, when he was hunting near Corfe Castle, in Dorset- shire, where Elfrida lived, he rode up to the castle, entirely alone, and unsuspicious of ill, to make the queen a passing visit. Elfrida received him with much pretended kindness, and, as he declined dismounting, she presented him with a cup of wine. 10. While he was drinking, she stabbed him in the back. Edward, finding himself wounded, put spurs to his horse, and galloped off, but, becoming weak from loss of blood, he fell from his horse, and was dragged by the stirrup till he was dead. 11. As Elfrida was the head of the party opposed to the monks, they chose to consider Edward as having fallen in the cause of re ligion, and styled him Edivard the Martyr. They affirmed, and the superstitious people readily believed, that many miracles were per- formed at his tomb. CHAPTER XX. Ethelred II. succeeds to the throne. — About Penance. — Indulgences.— The Butter Tower. 1. Ethelred was only ten years old w'hen the wickedness of his, mother thus raised him to the throne. Being of an amiable disposi- tion, he was much affected by the death of his brother, and shed many tears. This looked like a reproach to his mother, who became very angry ; nothing else being at hand, she seized a large wax can- dle and beat the poor boy almost to death. require of Wales? Why? 7. When did he die? What sons did he leave? 8. Who succeeded him? 9,10. Relate the particuhirs of his death. 11. What was ho surnanied ? XX.- -1. How did Ethelred boav his iirotlipr's death? 2, What did his mother do? ABOUT PENANCE. — ^A. D. 975. 43 2. It is said that Ethelred never forgot this beating, and that to the day of his death he could not bear the sight of a wax candle ! Though his wicked mother had now obtained the object of her am- bition, she was, as we may well believe, anything but happy. 3. In those superstitious times, when any one had committed an offence, instead of making amends for it by sincere repentance, and by repairing, to the utmost, the harm he had done, the monks used to persuade him that it could be completely atoned for by doing penance. 4. To do penance was often to go barefoot, or to sleep on a hard board. The Saxons were very fond of bathing in warm water, but had a great aversion to bathing in cold water. One of the most common penances required of those who had been guilty of great sins was to abstain from the warm bath ; or, if they had been par- ticularly enormous, to substitute cold water for warm. 5. To the rich these penances were of very little consequence, since they might always buy off their punishments. For instance, if a rich man was ordered to fast for a week, as a penance, he was considered to have performed it, if he hired seven men to fast for one day. 6. Indulgences, as they are called, were also to be bought ; that is, permission to commit crimes. It was against the rules of the established church to eat butter during the season of fasting called Lent ; and we have an account of a church at Eouen, in France, one of the towers of which is called the Butter Tower, because it was built with money that was paid for indulgences to eat butter during Lent. 7. Rich sinners were exhorted to build churches and monasteries, and to give them great revenues for the support of the monks, who pretended to pass their whole time in thinking of holy things, and in prayers, and they promised that the benefactors of their respective societies should be constantly remembered in them. 8. The ignorant and superstitious laymen were easily persuaded that the prayers of such holy men must be more eflHcacious than their own. In the course of time a very large portion of the property of the country came into the possession of the churchmen. This was so great an evil tlmt laws were made forbidding any per- son to make gifts of land to the church. 9. Elfrida founded monasteries, performed penances, and did all that the priests required, but none of these things could calm the upbraidings of her own conscience, or restore her peace of mind. At last she retired to a monastery, where she passed the remaind^i of her life in fasting and prayer. What of his mother? 3. How were offences atoned for in those times? 4. What are Bonie instances of penance? 5. How did the rich perform tlieir penances? 6. What were indulgences? Wliat of the Butter Tower? 7. Wliat other things were recom- mended to the ricli? 8. What was the consequence? 9. What further of Elfrida? -^ 44 THE DANES RENEW THIJIR INCURSIONS. — A. D. 1)80. CHAPTER XXI. The Danes renew their Incursions. — They are bribed with money f^ depart, but appear again the next year, — Peace at length made with them. 1. It was now a long time since England had been troubled by- incursions of the Danes. This was in part owing to the good state of preparation for defence in which the kingdom had been kept, and in part to the fact that the Danes found sufficient employment in another quarter. 2. A body of them, under the command of Rollo, had gained a settlement in France. They were called Northmen, or Normans, by the French, and the district of France in which they settled was hence called Normandy. This settlement employed all their super- fluous population for many years. 3. In 980, a small band of adventurers landed upon the coast of England, and, after ravaging the country for some extent, escaped with their booty. These piratical incursions were continued for several years. 4. Emboldened by their success, and encouraged by the dis- tracted state of England, if not by the direct invitation olDunstan, or of his partisans the monks, for he himself died in 988, tl e Danes came in 991 with a great force. Ethelred had sufficient warning, and ample time to prepare, but yet had made no pro\ision for defence. Hence he has been called Ethelred the Unready. 5. The Danes advanced into the heart of the country, and Ethel- red was obliged to resort to the disgraceful expedient of paying them a large sum of money to go away. This, to be sure, at that time they did ; but it was only to return again the next year, in hopes of being again bribed. 6. Ethelred was now better prepared, and would have destroyed their whole fleet, but for the treachery of one of his nobles, who deserted to the enemy, and gave them such information of the plans of the English as enabled them to escape with the loss of only one ship. 7. In their next expedition, the Danes were commanded by Sweyn, their king. They remained two years, pillaging the country in various i)arts. They were at length induced to depart, by the gift of a very large sum of money. But the kingdom gained only one year's rest from these marauders, for they again returned, and were again bribed to leave the country. 8. Sweyn had a sister named Gunilda, who was a woman of great virtue and abilities. She was married to an English nobleman, and XXI. — 1. What of the Danes? 2. IIow had they been occupied? 3. When did they reapptar in England? 4. M hi-n did Dnnstan die: What was Ethelred called? Why? 6. How were the Danes indnc<'d to depart? 6. What was their success the next year! MASSACRE OF THE DANES IN ENGLAND. — A. 1 JU02. 4D had become a Christian. She had long beheld with grief and hor- ror th3 devastations committed by her countrymen. 9. By her intercession, a treaty of peace was made between the English and the Danes. She offered herself, her husband, and her only son, as sureties for the fidelity of the Danes, whose repeated breaches of faith had rendered the English completely distrustful of them. 10. As an additional protection, Ethelred married Emma, daugh- ter of Richard, Duke of Normandy, a descendant of liollo. He w-as one of the most powerful princes of the time, and, besides, he was himself of Danish origin. There was no hardship in this, for Emma was the most beautiful princess in Europe. 7 CHAPTER XXII. Massacre of the Danes in England. — Their death avenged by Sweyn. — Eeign of Edmund Ironside, — Canute the Dane conquers England. 1. I CANNOT give you a better account of the condition of Eng- land than in the words of a report made to Sweyn by one of his ofiicers: "A country^ naturally powerful; a king "asleep, solicitous only about his pleasures, and trembling at the name of war; hated by his people, and laughed at by strangers. Generals envious of each other ; and governors ready to fly at the first shout of battle." 2. But still the measures which had been adopted might have secured peace to England, but for an act of barbarity, as unwise as it was wicked. In the year 1002, the king was persuaded by his counsellors to issue secret orders to his officers, that on the 13th of November, which is the Feast of St. Brice, all the Danes in England should be murdered. The order was barbarously exe- cuted. Men, women, and children, fell indiscriminately in the general slaughter. 3. Amongst the victims was the generous Gunilda. The mon- ster, to whose custody she and her family had been committed, first caused her husband and son, though they were English, to be mur- dered before her eyes, 4. When the assassins approached her, she calmly represented to them the consequences of their conduct. She foretold the total ruin of England, from the vengeance which her brother, who was a great and powerful prince, and to whom she w\as very dear, would not fail to take. Never was prophecy better fulfilled. A few young Danes were fortunate enough to get on board a vessel, and, setting sail, soon reached their native countrv. 7. Who commanded the next expedition ? 8. What of Gunilda? 9. Who procured peace? Whom did Ethelred marry ? What of the Duke of Normandy ? XXII.— 1. What of England in the time of Ethelred? 2. What I.iirbarous act did the king order? When was it executed? 3, 4. What of Gunilda? 6. What did Sweyn dof 46 DRESS AND AMUSEMENTS OF THE ANGLO-SAXONS. 10u6. 5. Sweyn, who had given up all thoughts of making further expe- ditions, was roused to fury by the news of his sister's death, so faith- lessly and ignominiously slain. Collecting a large army, he invaded England. After several years he succeeded in getting entire pos- session of the country, and was acknowledged as king. Ethelred, with his wife and two young sons, took refuge in Normandy. 6. Sweyn died in 1013. As soon as Ethelred heard of his death, he went back to England, and conducted himself with such unex- pected activity and courage, that he compelled the Danes, with their young king, Canute, to return home. If Ethelred had been wise and prudent, he might now have re-established himself upon the throne, but his conduct was such as to alienate the affection of his adherents. 7. Canute now returned, and after the death of Ethelred, in 1016, compelled Edmund, his eldest son and successor, to divide the king- dom with him. Edmund survived this division only one month, when he was murdered by one of his own nobles, and Canute be- came sole king of England. The great personal courage and hardi hood of Edmund have obtained for him the surname of Ironside. CHAPTER XXIII. About the Dress and Amusements of the Anglo-Saxons. — The Gleemen. 1. I WILL now tell you something about the dress and amuse- ments of the Anglo-Saxons. The tunic which they wore very much resembled in its shape the frock worn by our farmers and draymen. These tunics were bound in round the waist with a belt, and usually came no lower than the knee; only kings and nobles wore them down to the feet. 2. People of rank wore, over the other, a short tunic, or surcoat, made of silk, and richly embroidered and ornamented ; a linen shirt, shaped much like a modern shirt, was now an indispensable part of the dress of the rich. The poor wore no shirt, and had only a tunic made of coarse cloth. The slaves wore an iron collar round the neck, and were clad in tunics open at the sides. 3. To judge by the pictures we have of the Anglo-Saxons, they appear generally to have gone bareheaded; though they occasion- ally wore fur caps. The hair was parted in the middle, and hung down on the shoulders in waving ringlets. The beard was shaven on the upper lip, and top of the chin; the rest grew long, was kept very smooth, and was usually divided in the middle and hung down in two points. What became of Ethelred? 6. When did Sweyn die? What did Ethelred then do? 7. When did Ethelred die? Who succeeded him ? What of the kingdom? How did Ed- mund die? What is he surnamed? Who was now king of England? .XXIII. — I, 2. Doscvilie the dress of the Anglo-Saxon men. 3. What of the hair and THE GLEEMEN. — 1006. 47 4. The ladies wore a linen under-dress, with long tight sleeves ; and over that a wide robe or gown, fastened round the waist by a belt, and long enough to conceal the feet. Their head-dress was a square piece of linen, or silk, so put on as to conceal the hair and neck, and showing only the face. 5. Historians talk of their curls and crisping-pins ; but their pic- tures show us nothing but the face peeping through the folds of their cover- chief ; and it ought to be remembered to the honor of the Saxon ladies, that while the men were continually adopting new fashions in dress, there ^vas in three hundred years little or no change in that of the women. 6. Both sexes wore mantles, more or less splendid, according to their rank, and a profusion of gold ornaments, fringes, and bracelets. I had almost forgotten to mention the stockings of the Saxon beaux. They were of gay colors, ©ften red and blue ; at one time they cross- gartered their legs, as the Highland ej*s in Scotland still do. 7. The Anglo-Saxon nobles spent most of their revenues in giving great feasts to their friends and followers. These feasts were more remarkable for their abundance than for their elegance. The meat was generally dressed by boiling. It would seem that they had no grates or fire-places, but made a fire on the ground, and placed the kettle over it. 8. At these feasts they sat on fcng benches, at large square tables, and every person took his place according to his rank. But if any one took a higher place than he was entitled to, he was degraded to the bottom of the table, and all the company had a right to pelt him with bones. 9. These tables were set out with great nicety, and were covered with clean table-linen, and every person had a separate drinking- horn, — for there were no such things as glasses, — and his own mess of broth to himself. They had knives and wooden spoons, but the luxury of forks was unknown. 10. We have already told you that the Anglo-Saxons Avere very ignorant, and could neither read nor write. So yoti may suppose a great deal of their time hung heavily on their hands ; for of feasting, hunting, and fighting, there must be sometimes a cessation. In rainy weather, and winter evenings, when they had played with their dogs, and sharpened their arrows, and brightened their spears, you may suppose they often did not know what to do with themselves. 11. Anybody who could sing a song, or play on the harp, or tell an amusing story, was therefore mu'ch courted and valued; and this occasioned some persons to make it their business to learn all these accomplishments. These persons, whom they called gleemen^ but who are now usually called minstrels, used to rove about the country, from hotise to house, and from castle to castle, singing their songs, and telling their stories, which were commonly in verse, and everybody made them welcome, and was glad to see them. beard? 4, 5. What of tho ladies' dress? 6. What of mantles? Stockings? 7. 8, 9. De- acribe their feasts, and manners at table. 10. Occnpation. 11,12. Who were gleemen? What made their company acceptable? 13. Whence the name backgammon ? 48 ABOUT CJANUTE THE GREAT. 12. Even in times of war, when it was dangerous for other people to travel, they went everywhere without molestation ; for no one would hurt a poor gleeman, who was always so pleasant and so en- tertaining a guest. It was in the character of a gleeman that AU'rec visited the Danish camp. 13. Sometimes the Saxons amused themselves by playing back- gammon, which was invented by the Welsh, and called by them from two words in their language, bach cammon, or little battle. ^ CHAPTER XXIV. About Canute the Great. — His Rebuke of his Courtiers, CANUTK EMBRACING CHRISTIANITY. 1. The English showed, at first, some repugnance to accept for their king a foreigner and an enemy ; but Canute, who was a wise and powerful prince, reconciled all their differences, and peaceably ascended the throne. The two little sons of Edmund were sent into Hungary, where the eldest died ; but the younger, named Edward, lived to grow up, and married Agatha, sister of the Queen of Hun- gary ; you will hear of him again. 2. To show his confidence in his new subjects, Canute sent almost all his Danish troops back to Denmark. He secured himself from XXIV,— 1. What became of the sons of EJiiiund! How did Canute show his cou- ATiOUT CANUTE THE GREAT. 49 any attempt on the part of the Duke of Normandy in favor of the sons of Emma, by marrying that widowed queen. 3. Canute, though brought up a pagan, embraced Christianity, and his conduct was so wise and prudent that he hiis been called by historians Canute the Great. He was large in person, and very strong ; he was of fair complexion, and distinguished for his beauty; his hair was thick and long, and his eyes were bright and sparkling. 4. England, under his government, enjoyed many years of tran- quillity. During this time Canute employed himself in making nesv laws, and in promoting the prosperity of the country. Poetry was the favorite art of the age, and Canute 'did not disdain the character of a poet; the first stanza of a jx)em written by him on hearing the monks of Ely singing, as he was passing by on the water, is still on record : 6. Cheerful sang the monks of Ely, As Canute the king was passing by ; Row to the shore, knights, said the king, And let us hear these churchmen sing. This poem was afterwards sung in the churches, which gives us a curious notion of the sacred poetry of those times. CANUTE REPROVING HIS COURTIERS. 6. The manner in which Canute rebuked the flattery of his cour- tiers is worth relating. They had been extolling him as the greatest ridence in tie English? 3. Wliat of Canute? 4. What of England iiiring his reign? 5 60 REIGNS OF HAROLD HAREFOOT AND OF HARDICANUTE. and most powerful king in the world, and adde i that it was ini- possible for anything to resist his commands. Canute ordered his chair to be placed on the sea-shore while the tide was rising. 7. As the waters approached, he c5mmanded them t© retire and to obey the voice of him who was lord of the ocean. He sat some time, pretending to expect that the waves would obey ; but they continued to rise higher and higher, till they touched the king's feet, when, turning to his courtiei'S, who stood by wondering what it all meant, he made them observe, and acknowledge, that God alone was omnipotent. 8. Canute received many of the English nobles into great favor. The chief of them was Earl Godwin, a powerful and ambitious man, who married his daughter, and whose son afterwards became king, as you will presently hear. Canute died in 1035, having preserved England in peace during the whole of his reign, a term of eighteen years. / CHAPTER XXV. Reigns of Harold Harefoot, and of Hardicannie. 1. Canute left three sons; Sweyn, Harold, and Hardicanute. The succession to the throne of England had been settled on the latter, who was Queen Emma's son ; but he being in Denmark when his father died, Harold seized on the crown, and took pos- session of the late king's treasures. Earl Godwin, and the greater part of tlie English, declared for Hardicanute. 2. The difficulty was settled by a division of the kingdom. It was agreed that the portion assigned to Hardicanute should be governed by Emma, until his return. Harold soon gained Godwin to his interests, by promising to marry his daughter, and to declare her children heirs to the crown. 3. Two sons of Ethelred and Emma were yet living in Normandy, under the protection of their uncle. To get them into his power, Harold forged a letter in the name of Emma, earnestly inviting them to come to England, where, they were told, tliey would be received with joy by the people, and one of them acknowledged as king. Still further to deceive them, the letter was filled with abuse of Harold himself. 4. The letter was written so much in the style of their mother, that the princes were deceived. Alfred, tlie more active of the two, trusting himself with a few Normans on board some ships, sailed for England. Soon after landing he was met by Godwin, who professed the greatest friendship for him, and loaded him with caresses. 5. Repeat a verse written by him. 6, 7. Relate the anecdote of Canute rebuking hif courtiers. 8. Wliat of Earl Godwin? When did Canute die? XXV. — 1. What happe'ied in England upon Canute's death? 2. How were the diflB- cultles settled? 3. What of Harold's stratagem? 4, 5. Relate the particulars of tht EDWARD THE CONFESSOR. 51 6. But«the treacherous earl, taking advantage of his confidence, seized him in the night-time, and sent him to Ely, where he was either actually murdered, or died in consequence of the cruel treat- ment he suffered. 6. As soon as Emma heard of his fate, she fled into Flanders, and Harold took possession of the whole kingdom. He did not, how- ever, long enjoy the fruits of his cruelty and ambition, for he died in 1039. He was remarkable for his swiftness in walking and run- ning, which obtained for him the name of Harold Harefoot 7. As soon as Hardicanute, who had joined his mother in Flan- ders, heard of the death of Harold, he came to England, and was received with joy by the people. But he soon lost the affections of his subjects by his bad conduct. His violent government, however, did not last long, for he died in 1041, having shortened his life by intemperance. CHAPTER XXVI. Edward the Confessor. — Harold. — About the Conquest. QUEEN EMBIA PASSING THE ORDBAIi. 1. The ill conduct of Harold and Hardicanute had disgus^-e^ tVnj English with Danish sovereigns, and they now resolved to restore the Saxon line of princes. Edward, commonly called the Exile, death of Alfred? 6. What did Harold then do? When did he die? What was he sur- named ? 7. Who succeeded Harold ? When did Hardicanute die ? XXVI. — 1. What led to the restoration of the Saxon race of kings? Who was th« 62 EDWARD IHE CONFESSOR. that son of Edmund Ironside who, as we have already related, was taken care of by the King of Hungary, was the nearest heir to the crown. 2. But he was so little known, and at so great a distance, that he was passed by, and Edward, called the Confessor, which is syn- onymous with Saint, the son of Ethelred and Emma, was invited to ascend the throne. Edward, having a timid and unambitious disposition, did not desire to be king, but was prevailed on by Earl Godwin, now the most powerful person in the kingdom, to be crowned. 3. The restoration of the Saxon line caused great joy throughout the kingdom, and was long celebrated by an annual festival, called Hokeday. Edward married Edgitha, daughter of Earl Godwin. He took off a tax which had been first imposed by Ethelred to raise money to bribe the Danes, and hence called Danegelt. 4. Edward, having been brought uj? by the Normans, had many favorites of that nation, who came flocking over to him, and were loaded by him with benefits. He likewise introduced the Norman fashion of wearing loose trowsers, and substituted the Norman title Baron, for the old Anglo-Saxon word Thane, 5. The English nobles, and especially Earl Godwin, took great offence at the king's regard for the Normans. Their jealousies at length became so violent, that the king banished Godwin, and gave his possessions to Norman favorites. Even the queen, because she was the earl's daughter, was very harshly treated, and it is said that to clear herself from some charge, she was compelled to walk over red-hot ploughshares, which she did without being injured. 6. Godwin assembled a large force, and compelled the king to restore to him his possessions, and to banish the Normans, who left the country as quickly and as secretly as possible, to avoid being murdered by the populace. 7. Godwin died soon after, as he was sitting at table with the king. Harold, his eldest son, was quite as ambitious as his father, and had set his heart on succeeding Edward, who had no children, on the throne. But the king, to defeat his ambitious designs, sent for Edward the Exile to come to England. 8. The prince obeyed the summons, but died a few months after his arrival, leaving a little son, named Edgar Atheling,. and two daughters, friendless orphans in a country from which he had him- self been banished forty years. His death strengthened the hopes of Harold, and on the death of Edward the Confessor, in 1066, he was crowned king, 9. He did not find the throne a peaceable possession ; for William Duke of Normandy immediately asserted his right to it, under pre- tence that Edward had left him the kingdom in his will. To main- nearest heir? 2. Who was called to the throne? What of Edward? 3. What of a fes- tival? Whom did Edward marry ? 4. Who were the favorites of Edward? What changes did he introduce? 5. What was tlie consequence? How was Godwin treated? IIow the queen? 6. What' did Godwin do? 7. What of Harold, son of Godwin? Wliom did Edward wish to be his heir? 8. Who was Edgar Atheling? When did Edward .he Confessor die? Who succeeded Edward? 9. Who disputed Harold's possession? SAXON KINGS OF ENGLAND. 53 tain his claim, William went with a large army to England, where he landed on the twenty-eighth of September, 1066. 10. On the fourteenth of October was fought the great battle of Hastings, a battle that completely changed the fate of England, Harold was killed by a wound in the eye from an arrow, and Wil Ham gained a complete victory. The result of this conflict threw the Ensrlish into the utmost consternation. THE PEOPLiE OFFEUI>rG THE THRONE TO WILLIAM. 11. Some of the nobles assembled at London to deliberate on placing Edgar Atheling on the throne ; but before they had time to come to a decision, William the Conqueror was at the gates. The greater part of the nobles, with Edgar Atheling at their head, went forth to meet him, and offered him the vacant throne, which he, with a little pretended hesitation, accepted. He was crowned at Westminster, on Christmas day, 1066, and thus was completed the Conquest of England, as it is called. TABLE OF THE SAXON KINGS OF ENGLAND. Began to reign, 89-7 . 836 . 857 . 866 901 Reigned". 9 . 21 . 5 30 24 Egbert. Ethelwolf, son of Egbert. {sons of Ethelwolf, reigned jointly tiU the death of Ethelwolf. Ethelbert then became sole- king. Ethelred,.son of Ethelwolf. Alfred, son of Ethelwolf. Edward the Elder, son of Alfred. Ethelbald, Ethelbert, 10. When was the battle of Hastings fought? nobles do? When was William crowned? What was the result? 11. What did thj 54 Began to reign 925 . 941 . 948 . 955 . 959 . 975 . 979 . loie . IMX 1035 1039 1066 WILLIAM THE CONQUEROR. Reigned. 16 . 7 . 7 . 4 . 16 . 4 . 37 . 1 . Stan, 1 ind, \ J sous of Edward. 27 Athelstan, Edmund, ^ sons of Edward. Edred, Edwy, Edgar, Edward the Martyr, ) « -r, •, -p*u I 1 *u TT *! r sous of Edsjar. Ethelred the Unready, j ° Edmund Ironside, son of Ethelred. / DANISH KINGS. Canute the Great. Harold Harefoot, ] r- n l Hardicanute, | '«"' ^^ ^^°"^^- SAXON LINE RESTORED. Edward the Confessor, son of Ethelred. Harold, son of Earl Godwin, usurped the throne, though Edgar Atheling, grandson of Edmund Iron- side, was the natural heir. / CHAPTER XXVII. William L, surnamed the Conqueror. — The Saxon Nobles degraded. CROWNING OF WILLIAM THK CONQUEROR. 1. Y/iLLiAM the Conqueror was of middle height, and stoutly made, with great strength of body. He had a stern countenance, XX Vn.— 1, 2. What is said of William the Conqueror? S. What is said of his firrt THE SAXON NOBLES DEGRADED. 56 and ^vas a shrewd, clear-headed man. We can easily believe hia to have been of a grave and thoughtful temper, for we cannot find that he ever indulged in any gayeties or amusements, except hunt- ing, of which he was particularly fond. 2. It is also said that he never admitted any one to intimacy or familiarity. He had a few favorites, and those were well chosen, which was a strong j^roof of his wisdom. He was considered re- ligious, being very exact in the performance of all religious observ- ances. He certainly showed great instances of generosity, but ambition was his ruling passion. 3. William began his reign with so much prudence and modera- tion, that his new subjects thought they had great reason to be sat- isfied. But whilst he treated them with seeming confidence and friendship, he took care to place all real power in the hands of the Normans. He everywhere disarmed the Saxons. He built fort- resses in all the principal cities, and placed Norman soldiers in them. 4. Still he professed the greatest regard for the rights and laws of his English subjects. By this mixture of lenity and rigor, he so subdued and quieted the minds of the people, that he ventured to visit his native country within six months after he left it. The chief of the English nobles accompanied him. 5. These made a display of wealth and magnificence which quite astonished the foreigners. A Norman historian, who was present, speaks with admiration of the beauty of their persons, the costly workmanship of their silver plate, and the elegance of their em- broideries : arts in which the English then excelled. 6. It now became evident that the English were only kept in subjection through fear of the Conqueror. No sooner were they relieved from his presence, than they made an effort to regain their liberty. William hastened back to England, and, by his vigorous measures, disconcerted the plans of the rebels. 7. Many years were passed in unavailing struggles on the part of tl^e English to throw ofi* the Norman yoke. The king, regarding them as inveterate enemies, endeavored to reduce them to a condi- tion in which they should no longer be formidable to his government. 8. The nobles were degraded from their rank, and stripped of the greater part of their possessions. The clergy were also deposed, and their places supplied by foreigners. Amongst the new-comers was one at least worthy of being remembered. 9. This was Lanfranc, an- Italian, who was made archbishop of Canterbury, who, by his wisdom and prudence, and influence over the king, which he employed in moderating the violence of his tem- per, proved himself to be one of the best friends of the poor dejected English. 10. During these troubles, Edgar Atheling had taken refuge with Malcolm, TCin g of S^ot |j^,pflj who married Margaret, one of his measures? 4,5. What of the English nobles? 6. What did the English do in his absence? What did William do? 7. How did William treat the English? 8. What of the nobles? What of the clergy? 9. What is said of Lanfranc? 10. What bocame 56 GAME LAWS ESTABLISHED. sisters, and warmly espoused the cause of the Anglo-Saxons. H<= marched into England with an army, but William soon obliged him to retreat. 11. In 1071, Malcolm being about to make a second attempt tc place Edgar on the throne of England, WiiKam marched against him with a large force. The two armies met on the borders of Scotland, and a battle was about to ensue, when the two king? made peace with one another. 12. One of the conditions was that Edgar should be given up tc William, who promised, if he would renounce all claim to the throne of England, to give him a mark a day— a little more than three dollars — which was considered a very handsome allowance in those days. Edgar assented to these terms, and both he and Wil- liam remained true to their agreement. CHAPTEE XXVIII. Game Laivs established. — Rebellion of Robert. — He is besieged by his Father. — Interesting Incident duriiig the Siege. — The Domes-day Book. — Death of William I. FIGHT BETWEEN ROBERT AND HIS FATHER. 1. We have already stated that William was very fond of hunt- ing. He made many very severe laws against those who interfered with his favorite amusement. A person who killed a deer or a boar of Edgar Atheliiis? Whom did Slalcolm marry? 11. 12. What was the resuJt of Mai- c-ihn's second attempt? XXVIIL— 1. What laws did William make? 2. What of the New Forest? 3. Whai REBELLION OF ROBERT. 67 or even a hare, was punished much more severely than one who killed a man. 2. Not content with the large forests which the former kings had possessed, he drove the inhabitants of more than thirty villages from their homes, and reserved this large district as a habitation for wild beasts, calling it the New Forest. 3. This king enjoyed but little repose. First a conspiracy among his Norman nobles threatened his life, and afterwards the rebellion of his eldest son, Eobert, kept his Norman dominions for many years in a state of disturbance. This prince had long been jealous of the king's affection for his two younger brothers, but a trifling mcident caused him to rise in open rebellion. 4. The three princes, with their father, who happened to be in Normandy, were residing at a certain castle. One day, as Robert was passing through the court-yard, after having been frolicking with his younger brothers, they sportively threw some water upon him, from the window. 5. Robert would have taken it as a continuance of the fun, but for the evil suggestions of one of his attendants, who had personal grounds of offence with the younger princes and their father. He persuaded Robert that it was intended as a public insult, which he ought to resent. 6. The passionate youth, drawing his sword, rushed up stairs, determined to be revenged on his brothers. The whole castle was filled with tumult, which the king himself could hardly appease. Robert, having received, as he thought, no atonement for the insult, left the castle that very night, and openly declared war against his father. 7. Robert was very popular among the Normans, and they joined his standard in great numbers. But after a hard struggle, he was driven out of Normandy, and took refuge in Serberoy, a small castle belonging to the- King of France, to which William imme- diately laid siege. 8. The garrison sallied out, headed by Prince Robert, who selected for his antagonist a knight who appeared in front of the besiegers, in complete armor, and having his face covered with the visor of his helmet. The furious assault of the prince overthrew his antagonist, horse and man. His lance was already at the throat of the fallen knight to take away his life, when, by the voice, he discovered that he was about to kill his own father. 9. His remorse and horror at the thought that he was near 'being guilty of so fearful an act, subdued in a moment his rebellious feel- ings. Springing from his horse, he threw himself upon his knees in an agony of grief, and begged forgiveness for his offences, offer- ing to make any atonement. 10. William was too angiy to forgive him ; after reproaching him bitterly, he departed for his own camp, on Robert's horse, which that prince assisted him to mount. It was a long time eaused disturbance to the king? 4, 5, 6. Relate the incident that was the immediate '•RUse of the robellior 7. What was the result of the war? 8, 9, 10. Relate the occur- 58 STATE OF ENGLAND AFTER THE NORMAN CONQUEST. before he would listen to Robert's contrite entreaties. At last, Queen Matilda, Avho was a very good and pious woman, prevailed tvith the king to pardon his son. 11. William had now a little leisure, of which he took advantage to have a survey made of his English kingdom. The record of the survey was made in a b )ok called Domes-day Book, which is yet preserved in the Tower; and all possessors of estates who are curious to know to whom their land belonged at the Conquest, whether it was ploughed land or pasture, what was then its value, and, in some cases, what cattle it was stocked with, may there get information of all these matters. 12. One would have thought that, after all his turmoils, William would have been glad to have passed the latter part of his life in repose; but, on the contrary, upon some trifling quarrel with Philip I. of France, he led an army into that country, destroying and laying waste everything that came in his way ; every town or village through which he passed was reduced to ashes. 13. This cruelty brought on him its own punishment ; for, after burning the town of Mantes, his horse, flinching from the smoking ashes, made a violent plunge, and the king, being very corpulent, got a bruise which caused his death on the ninth of September, 1087. He was in the sixty-third year of his age, and had reigned twenty- one years in England. ^ ^ r y^vVv//6^ CHAPTER XXIX. State of England after the Norman Conquest. — The English Language. n 1. It may be useful to pause and contemplate the state of Eng- ^nd after the Normans had established their power. The highest in rank after the king were the Norman barons, who were made rich and powerful by the spoils of the Anglo-Saxon nobles. The next class was composed of Norman soldiers, Avho had helped to achieve the Conquest, and who settled as tenants on the lands that had been given to their leaders. 2. With this class gradually became blended the old Anglo- Saxon thanes, or nobles, and also the Anglo-Saxon eorls, or farmers, who, if they liad never taken up arms against the Con- queror, were allowed, on putting themselves under the protection of some Norman baron, to live unmolested. 3. It was not till long after William and his followers were all dead and gone, that the descendants of the two nations could endure each other; the Normans holding in contempt the stupid, ignorant Saxons, and the Saxons detesting their tyrannical oppressors. rptice that led to the submission of Robert. 11. Wliut is the Domes-day Book ? 12. What new war did William engage in? 13. What caused his deatli? When did he die ? What was his age ? What the length of his reign? XXIX.— 1. How was the land distributed after the Conquest? 2. Wliat was the con- dition of the Saxon nobles and fanners? 3. What feelings existed between the NorBians THE FEUDAL SYSTEM. 05* 4. The lowest rank of the people had few, if any, rights of fcheii t»wn. There were some free laborers who worked for hire, as men do now ; but the great proportion of the loAver class were slaves. In towns there was another class of people, called Burghers. These were merchants, or tradesmen, who joined together in little socie- ties ; but in the time of William I. they were not a numerous, or at least not a powerful, body. 5. As a part of his plan for reducing the Anglo-Saxons to com- plete subjection, William used every means to introduce the Nor- man or French language into England, and to eradicate that of the Anglo-Saxons. He altered many of the old Saxon laws, and estab- lished new ones in their stead, which were all written in Norman French ; and he ordered that law business should be carried on in that language. 6. He also required that French instead of Saxon should be taught in the schools. But it is easier to conquer a kingdom than to change a language ; and after an ineffectual struggle, which lasted three centuries, the Saxon got the better at last, and, with some inter- mixture of Norman, forms the basis of our own language. 7. Even the Norman words we retain are often so altered by our way of pronouncing them that a Frenchman would not recognize them. Thus many people are sadly puzzled to find any meaning in the words " yes" with which the crier of our courts commences his proclamations ; for they do not know that the crier's yes is a- corruption of the old Norman word " Oyez"—^^ Hear ]]e" <. CHAPTER XXX. The Feudal System.-^Description of a Norman Castle. 1. The lands which William took from the Anglo-Saxons, he bestowed on his Norman barons, upon condition that they should always be ready to attend him in battle. They were called the king's vassals. The barons distributed their lands among their own followers on the same condition, and thus these became the vassals of the barons. These again had others under them, who held them on the like terms. 2. Thus, whenever the baron marched to war, his vassals marched with him. This sort of bond between the king and his barons, and the barons and their retainers, was called the Feudal System. It had its origin upon the continent, and had been long established in France, before William introduced it into Britain. 3. The barons lived like so many little kings, each in his own castle, with his train of followers, who bore pompous titles, similar to those of the officers of the royal court. This haughty seclusion and Saxons?- 4. What of the lowest class of people? Who were the Burghers ? 5,6. What did William do in reference to the language? With what ultimate success? XXX.— 1. How were the lands of Britain distributed? 2. What was the s.vstr'ni of holding Knds called? 3. How did the barons live? 4. What difference between th« 60 DESCRIPTION OF A NORMAN CASTLE. gave great offence to the Saxon nobles, v/ho were remarkably socia' aiid convivial in their habits. A NOKMAN CASTLP:. 4. They did not care for the shabbiness of their own dwelliiigii, which were only built of wood, and thatched, if they could but eat and drink, and have merry-makings; while the Normans, on the contrary, were frugal in their manner of living, but very extrava- gant in their buildings. 5. These, however, were comfortless, gloomy dwellings. In order to convey an idea of an ancient castle of this period, we may de- scribe that of Rochester in England, which, though a mere ruin, is one of the most perfect now remaining. There is a lofty tower, standing in a garden, surrounded on all sides by high walls, or at least the remains of high walls. 6. The tower was called the heep, in wdiich the baron and his family lived, and in which all the stores and arms and valuable things were kept. Under the keep was the dungeon for prisoners. The chapel also stood in this enclosure, the whole of which was Ciilled the inner bailey. In one corner of the walls is a little ruin- ous tower, through which there is an entrance. 7. Without this garden is another enclosure, taking a larger cir- cuit which may still be traced by the remains of thick solid w^alls, with towers at different distances. The space between the outer and inner walls was called \hQ outer' bailey, and here were the lodg- ings for the soldiers, the stables, and the workshops of the black- smiths, carpenters, and other artificers. Normans and Saxons? 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. Give an account of a castle. What was the keep* ^r)iat the inner bailoy ? What the outer bailey ? What the postern ? WILLIAM RUFUS. 61 8. There was generally a small and concealed entrance to the castle, by which the lord might go secretly in and out. This was called the post eryi. Eochester Castle is now but the shell of a biiild- ing, so that we can only conjecture that the two rooms in the cen- tre part, which have ornamented fireplaces, and pillars on the walls, were the state apartments ; and that the sleeping-rooms w^ere the little dark recesses, which are to be seen as you go up the winding stall's that lead to the battlements. 9. These rooms of state were in the third story, and have great windows, which, however, were j^laced high in the lofty apartments, to secure the occupants against weapons discharged from without. The two lower stories had no windows, but were lighted merely by loop-holes. Such was a Norman castle of the twelfth century. CHAPTER XXXI. William Rufus. — Quarrels betvjeen the Sons of William the Conqueror. — Instances of their Generosity. 1. William the Conqueror left three sons. To Robert, the eld- est, he devised Normandy ; the crown of England he gave to Wil- liam, and to the third, named Henry, he left the fortune of his mother, Matilda. 2. William was twenty-seven years old when he became king. He resembled his father in the sternness of his countenance, as well as in his great bodily strength and activity. His hair w\is red, on which account he obtained the surname of Rufus. He stammered in his speech, especially when he was angry, which, if historians arc to be believed, was very often. 3. He was brave in war, but had not any of the great or good qualities of his father ; for he was irreligious, and a lover of low company and deep drinking. He was very passionate, and had no principles, either of honor or honesty. 4. His father was scarcely dead, when he set out for England, to secure the inheritance which was left him, and to seize upon the royal "reasures. The Anglo-Norman barons were very sorry to have him become king, and engaged in a rebellion, to place his elder brother, Robert, on the throne. 5. William Rufus now found it convenient to make friends with the Anglo-Saxons, and he promised to restore many of their rights and privileges. By their help he speedily subdued the rebellion of the barons, but he never remembered to fulfil his fair pledges to those w^ho had aided him. 6. William and Robert never agreed but upon one occasion, and then they joined to oppress Henry. His inheritance had been XXXI.— 1. IIow did tlie Conqueror dispose of his dominions? 2,3. What is said of William? Wliy called Rufus? 4,5. By whose assistance did he put down the rebel- lion of the barons? 6, 7, 8. On what occasion did Robert and William agroer Rclatt 62 ABOUT THE CRUSADES. left to him in money. Robert, who was very extravagant, had been glad to sell a part of Normandy to him, and now, in concert with William, sought to deprive him of it. 7. Henry would not tamely give it up, and, with a small number of men, retired to a strong castle, called St. Michael's Mount, where he was closely besieged by the united forces of his brothers. He was nearly reduced by the scarcity of water, when Robert, hearing of his distress, granted him permission to supply himself, and also sent him some barrels of wine for his own use. 8. Being reproved by William for this generosity, Robert replied, " What, shall I suffer my brother to die of thirst? Where shall we find another when he is gone?" The king also performed an act of generosity, which, from his character, was not to be expected of him. 9. Riding out alone one day to take a survey of the fortress, he was attacked by two soldiers, and throw^n from his horse. One of them drew his sword, and was about to kill him, when the king ex- claimed, " Hold, knave ! I am the King of England." The soldier suspended his blow, and raised the king from the ground with many expressions of respect. For his forbearance, the man received a handsome reward, and was taken into the king's service. 10. Henry was soon after obliged to surrender, and having thus lost everything, he, with a few faithful followers, who would not forsake him in his distress, wandered from place to place, often in want of food, and always without a home. K CHAPTER XXX [^ The Orusades. 1. It had long been considered an act of great piety to make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, to visit our Saviour's sepulchre. At the decline of the Roman power, Jerusalem had fallen into the hands of the Saracens, who were not only the bravest, but also the most civilized people of Asia, at least of those who had intercourse with Europe. 2. While the Saracens remained masters of the Holy City, the Christian pilgrims were permitted to pay their devotions unmolest- ed. About the year 1065, the Turks, who were at that time a very ignorant and brutal people, became masters of Jerusalem, and treated the pilgrims with great cruelty, and endeavored to prevent their visiting the sepulchre. 3. One of these pilgrims, called Peter the Hermit, though only a poor priest, made himself more famous than the most powerful king of his time. On his return from the Holy Land, inflamed by religious zeal, and by resentment against the Turks, he went about tho instance of Robert's generosity. 9. What of the king? 10. What became of Ileurj' ? XXXII.— 1. What is said of pilgrimages? 2, When did the Turks take Jerusalem? What ytm the consequence? 3. What did Peter the Hermit do? 4. Wliat inducement* ABOUT THE CRUSADES. 63 from country to country, exhorting the princes and nobles to go and fight the pagans, and drive them from Jerusalem. FIGHT BETWEEN THE CKUSADERS AND TURKS. 4. The pope entered warmly into the cause. He promised a complete forgiveness of their sins, however enormous they might be, to all such as should go on this holy expedition. Various tem- poral advantages were offered as inducements. Those who had borrowed money were to pay no interest for it during the time they were absent, and the poor debtor was discharged from all his debts by assuming the cross, as it was called. 5. Every person who engaged in the enterprise had a piece of red cloth in the form of a cross sewed upon the left shoulder of his cloak. Hence it was called a crusade, and those who engaged in it were called crusaders. 6. The French entered most zealously into the cause, and we must refer the reader to the history of that country for a full ac- count of the seveii great expeditions which left Europe to fight against the Infidel^, in the whole of which the French acted a lead- ing part. We will not burden our present history by a repetition of the whole details, but in the following chapters shall speak of tliose only in which the English were conspicuous. 7. It may be necessary to remind the reader that the Crusadera took the city of Jerusalem, and retained possession of it for about one hundred years, when it was reconquered by Saladin, a distin- guished king and general of the Saracens. 3. The rage for crusading continued from the time of Peter the H(;rmit, in 1096, till 1291, a period of nearly two hundred years : du ring which Europe was drained of her wealth, and many millions of lives were sacrificed, without accomplishing the j^roposed object. wore held out by the pope ? 5. Whence the name crusade, and crusaders? 7. How long did Jerusalem remain in the power of the Christians?. Who took it from them? 8. How V-i 64 AVILLTAM RUFUS. 9. But still some good iirose out of all the evil. The Saracens were very superior to the Europeans in their knowledge of the sci- ences, such as mathematics, astronomy, chemistry, &c., and also in many of the arts and elegancies of life. Much of tliis learning was brought home by the crusaders. The Europeans have been im- proving, and gaining knowledge ever since ; but the Turks, and all the people of the East, have either stood still or gone backward. 10. There are some travels in the East written about the year 1440, by De Brocquiere, grand carver to the Duke of Burgundy, and you might suppose them written only last year ; the manners of the people, as he describes them, being in every particular precisely the same as they are now said to be by travellers of our own time. i- CHAPTER XXXIII. William obtains large Territories by Mortgage. — His Death. DEATH OF WJI.J.1AM VLFUS. 1. As might have been expected from his character, Robert of Normandy engaged most zealously in the Holy War, To procure money for the expedition, he lent or mortgaged his territories for five years to his brother William, for a very large sum. 2. William raised the money, though not without some difficulty, and thrtgagod * DEATH OF WILLIAM RUFUS. 6 ft volvecl him in continual wars with the King of France, in which sometimes the French, and sometimes the Normans, had the ad- vantage. 3. The Duke of Guienne also' proposed to mortgage all his dominions to William, who accepted the oifer. But before he could t[ike possession, all his plans of ambition were brought to a sudden end. Whilst he was waiting for a fair wind to sail for France, he used to amuse himself by hunting in the New Forest. 4. One day, as he sat at dinner, six arrows, very long and sharp, were brought to him. Keeping four himself, he gave the other two to Sir Walter Tyrrel, a Norman knight, saying, " Here, Tyrrel, take your two, for you know well how to use them." 5. After dinner they started oif together for the forest. Anxious to show his dexterity, Tyrrel let fly an arrow at a stag which sud- denly started before him ; the arrow hit a tree, glanced and struck the king on the breast, and he instantly expired. 6. Tyrrel did not stop to tell anybody of the accident, but put- ting spurs to his horse, hastened to the sea-coast, and embarked for France, where he joined the crusaders in the expedition to Jeru- salem, as a penance for his involuntary crime. 7. The body of the king was found by some laborers, and car- ried in a coal-cart to Winchester, where it was buried the next day without pomp. The death of William occurred in the year 1100, in the fortieth year of his age, and the thirteenth of his reign. He was never married. 8. There is one memorial of William II., which is still an object of admiration. This is Westminster Hall, in London, which he built ; it is a noble structure, and contains one of the largest rooms in Europe. He also built the Tower of London, or rather he en- larged and strengthened a small fortress, which had been erected by the Conqueror, to keep the citizens in good order. 9. The Tower has been the scene of many memorable events. It has always been used as a prison for the confinement of persons accused of offences against the state, such as rebels, and others who in any way attempt to disturb or interrupt the government. But it has in modern times been much more interesting to most f)ersons, as the place in which the king's menagerie, or collection of ions, tigers, and other wild animals, has been kept. 10. We ought to mention as one of the remarkable occuriences of this reign, that the Norwegians made an incursion into England in 1098. This was the last attempt on that country by any of the northern nations. Those restless people learned about this period the art of tillage, which provided them with food, and gave them occupation at home; this freed the rest of Europe from their piratical invasions. ,^. their territories to William? 4, 5, 6. Relate the particulars of William's death. Ij, When did it happen ? How old was he ? How long had he reigned? 8. What memoriaj of" William remains ? What of the Tower of liondon ? lo. What of the incursions of the Norwegians? a* ^6 HENRY I. USURPS THE CROWN. CHAPTER XXXIV. H^vnji L, sumamed Beaiiclerc, usurps the Crown. — Dispute between the Pope and the King. — Anselm, Archbishop of Canterbury ^ preaches against certain Fashions of Dress. 1. The news of the king's death soon reached the rest of the royal hunting party, who, in the pursuit of game, had become separated from their master. Henry, the conqueror's youngest son, was one of these, and, instead of showing any concern at his brother's death, or even waiting to see his body borne away from the spot where it fell, he put spurs to his horse, and rode directly to Winchester, where he seized on the royal treasure. 2. He then hastened to London ; and, by great gifts, and many promises, disposed the people so much in his favor, that within three days after his brother's death, he was crowned king, in viola- tion of the right of his brother Robert, who had not yet returned from the Holy Land. 3. Henry was of middle height, and well made; he had an agree- able countenance ; his hair was brown, and very thick and bushy. He had received what was considered in those days a learned educa- tion, and, from having performed the great work of translating ^sop's Fables, he acquired the surname of Beauclerc, or the Good Scholar. 4. His character was made up of an extraordinary mixture of good and bad qualities. He was brave, eloquent, and extremely pleasing in his manners ; he governed the kingdom with so much wisdom, and caused justice to be administered with so much im- partiality, that, in spite of his ambition, his avarice, and his wicked conduct to his brother Robert, and that brother's son, William, the English esteem him as among the best of their kings. 5. The Normans would naturally support the claim of Robert to the crown of England; as a matter of policy, therefore, Henry courted the favor of his Anglo-Saxon subjects. He granted them a charter of privileges, or, more propei'ly speaking, he restored Edward the Confessor's code of laws, to which that people were much attached. 6. He tried to conciliate the church by recalling Anselm, Arch- bishop of Canterbury, who had been banished by William II., for refusing to admit the king's authority to invest him with some of the rights of the archbishopric, he considering that authority to belong exclusively to the pope. 7. Before bishops took possession of their dignities, there had formerly been two ceremonies performed ; they received from the hands of the sovereign a ring and a crosier — which was originally a staff, like a shepherd's crook, having the head bent — as symbols XXXIV. — 1. What did Henry do, when lie heard of his brother's death ? 2. What was hia success ? Who was the rightful heir to the crown ? 3. What is said of Henry I. ? What was he surnamed ? Why? 4. What of his character? 5. What coui'se did Henry pursue from policy? 6. What dispute had arisen between the kine- and the ABOUT THE CLERGY. 1100. 67 of their office, or spiritual power ; and this was called the investi- ture. 8. But as they also held great possessions in land, they made those promises and submissions to the king which were required of vassals by the feudal law, and this was called doing homage. In obedience to orders from the pope, the priests, not only in England, but in all countries where the Eoman Catholic religion prevailed (that is, in nearly all Christian countries), refused either to receive investiture from the sovereign, or to do homage to him. 9. The sovereigns stoutly resisted this claim ; but such was the influence of the church over the minds of the superstitious people, that upon the continent of Europe the pope prevailed to the full extent of his claim. Henry was glad to make a compromise ;- he resigned the right of granting investiture, but was allowed to re- tain the homage. 10. We have before told you that the clergy were divided into two parties ; the monks, or regular clergy, and the secular clergy. Though the monks prevailed and obtained all the dignities of the churches, the secular clergy still exercised the duties of the parish priests in the villages. 11. It will be recollected that the monks were not allowed to marry. Having no domestic ties to excite and keep alive their kindly feelings, many of them became hard, unfeeling bigots. Anselm was a monk, and seems to have been wanting in common humanity ; for by his influence a law was made, obliging such of the secular priests as were married to put away their wives, and forbidding them ever to see them, again, or to suffer them to live on any lands belonging to the church, on pain of seeing them reduced to slavery, or otherwise severely punished. 12. Anselm not only conducted arbitrarily in the affairs of the church, but he troubled himself about the dress of the laity. He preached so fi^riously and so successfully against long hair, and curls, which he disapproved of, that the ladies absolutely cut off" their locks in the church. 13. He was not so successful in the attacks he made on the fashionable shoes of the gentlemen ; for, notwithstanding his threat- enings and exhortations, they continued to wear them so enor- mously long, that they were obliged to support them by a chain from the end of the toe, fastened to the knee. pope? 7. What was i??rc.5ert? 4. What did Henry do to secure the crown to his daughter? Who was her 74 ABOUT STEPHEN. — 1135-1140. 5. Why it was given to the house of Anjou, antiquaries are not agreed. One old chronicle tells us, that a prince of that family, hav- ing killed his brother, to obtain his possessions, made a pilgrimage to the Holy Land to expiate his crime ; and as a further penance, flogged liimself every night with a rod of the plant called broom ; whence he became nicknamed planta-genista, ov planta- genet. 6. The great love which Henry had for his own children, bore a striking contrast to his want of affection for his brother and his nephew William. That he might be near his daughter, he spent the latter part of his life in Noniiandy. After living to see her tlip mo':her of three sons, he died on the 1st of December, 1135, in the bixty-seventh year of his age, and the thirty-sixth of his reign. 7. All the precautions which Henry had taken to secure the crown to his daughter proved vain. He had a nephew named Stephen, son of his sister Adela and the Count of Blois. This young man had always been a great favorite with his uncle, who had loaded him with riches and honors. 8. He had been loud in his professions of gratitude, and of his zeal, and fidelity to his uncle's family ; and had been amongst the first to swear to maintain the rights of Matilda to be the successor. But no sooner did he hear of the king's death, than he hastened over to Eng- land, where he soon procured himself to be crowned at Westminster. CHAPTER XL. > Proceedings of Stephen. — Miserable State of the Kingdom. — A Civil 1. We are told that Stephen had a very graceful person ; he was strong and active, and was very courageous. He was also pleasant in his manners, and in his conversation. He had always been a great favorite with the people, and to this he owed the success of his attempt on the crown. He was kind and indulgent to his own family, and profuse in his kindness to his friends and favorites. 2. His usurpation of the throne had been so totally unexpected, that no preparations had been made against it ; and he had time to strengthen himself, before the adherents of Matilda had recovered from their surprise. Malcolm, King of Scotland, was the first to take up arms in favor of his niece. He advanced into England mth an army, but Stephen contrived to win him over by giving up to him a large territory in the north of England. 3. Eobert, Earl of Gloucester, was the most poAverful baron in England at this time, and he was warmly attached to the cause of 3econd husband? 5. What was the surname of her husband? 6. When did Henry die? What was his age? 7. Who was Stephen de Blois? 8. Wliat did he do after his uncle't Jeath ? XL.— 1. What is said of Stephen? 2. Wliat of the friends of IMatilda? \ 4. Whal A CIVIL WAR. — 1140. ^ 75 Matilda; but as the other nobles acknowledged Stephen, he was obliged to yield. But he bound himself to submit to him as king no longer than Stephen kept the promises he had made in favor of all orderss of men. 4. The clergy and barons took the oath of allegiance with the same condition, and the latter required for themselves the right of fortifying their castles. In consequence, England was soon covered with fortresses. In these the barons lived like robbers in their dens, and sallied out only to plunder and fight. 5. Private wars arose among the barons, and were carried on with great fury in all parts of the kingdom; the less powerful found themselves obliged to purchase, at any rate, the protection of some neighboring chieftain; the country was laid waste, and the most shocking cruelties were practised upon those taken captive, in order to make them reveal their treasures. 6. Stephen was at length compelled to adopt some measures to check the wickedness of the barons. This occasioned great discon- tent, which gave courage to Robert of Gloucester, who had now openly espoused the cause of Matilda, to raise the standard of rebellion. 7. Matilda herself soon came over to England, and was kindly entertained by Adelais, the widow of Henry, at her castle of Arun- del. Stephen at once laid siege to this castle, and would soon have taken it, had it not been represented to him, that thus to take a castle belonging to Adelais, the queen-dowager, as the widow of a king is called, would show a great want of respect for her. 8. Stephen, who possessed a great deal of that generous and romantic spirit which led to the institution of chivalry, would do nothing which should injure his reputation as a good knight. He permitted Matilda to come out, and to proceed in safety to Bristol, another castle equally strong with the one which she had left. 9. Matilda made use of the freedom which she owed entirely to the generosity of the king to raise an army against him. England was now for several years desolated by one of the most calamitous wars ever known. War and tumult were spread in every quarter. Instead of an open contest, it was a miserable kind of hostility, and displayed all the worst evils of the feudal system. 10. Each baron, shut up in his own castle with his own retain- ers, kept up a petty war with his nearest neighbor of the opposite party. The land was left untilled, and a grievous famine was the consequence. At length, on the 2d of February, 1141, the king and the Earl of Gloucester met in battle, in which the latter was vic- torious, and Stephen was taken prisoner. did the nobles require ? 5. What is said of the state of the country ? 6. What did Ste- phen do? What WIS tlie consequence? 7. What did Matilda do? 8. What instance of the generosity of St ^phen ? 9. What is said of the war that followed ? 10. What was the result ? r 76 MATILDA ACKNOWLEDGED AS QUEEN. — 1141. ^*^ CHAPTEK XLI. Matilda acknowledged as Queen. — Her Escape from Stephm. — Peaa restored. — Death of Stephen. THE QUEEN OF STEPHEN PRAYING J'OR HIS I^IBEKTY. 1. After this great victory, Matilda, or Maude, as she was called by the Normans, was acknowledged as queen. Instead of acting with prudence, or even with gratitude, she became puffed up with her success, treated her friends very rudely, and her opponents very insolently. She conducted towards Stephen while in prison with great inhumanity, and when his queen begged her to release him, she replied only by insult. 2. She so disgusted all orders of people by her behavior, that even while she was making preparations for her coronation, she was obliged to fly from London, and seek refuge in Winchester. Here she was soon besieged by Stephen's brother, Henry, Bishop of Winchester. 3. The castle being in danger of being taken, she mounted a swift horse, and with difficulty escaped. Robert, Earl of Gloucester, in attempting to follow her, was made prisoner. He was, however, soon after exchanged for Stephen, and thus, by both being taken prisoners, both regained their liberty. 4. Matilda soon after had another narrow escape ; for being pur- sued by Stephen, ^le saved herself by being borne in a litter, like a dead body, to Oxford. Stephen continued before Oxford three months, having sworn not to raise the siege till he had taken Matilda prisoner. XLl. — 1. What was the consequence of the capture of Stephen ? How did Matilda be- have? 2. What was the consequence of her behavior? 3. W)«at procured the release DEATH OF STEPHEN. li54. 77 At last the garrison was reduced to extremity by famine. Still the queen's spirit was too proud to allow her to surrender. 5. It being now the middle of winter, the ground was covered with snow. Matilda and three of her trusty knights, attiring them- selves wholly in white, passed out of the castle by a postern gate. After crossing the frozen river, and walking six miles, they reached Abingdon in safety, where they procured horses to carry them to Wallingford. 6. At this place she was met by Earl Robert, on his return from Normandy, with her son. Prince Henry, a fine, promising boy of eleven years of age ; and she soon forgot all her fatigues and alarms in the joy of that happy meeting. 7. The fatal and ruinous warfare continued for some years longer. Indeedy.it seemed as if the people were become so much accustomed to fighting, that they did not know how to leave ofi^". In 1147, Robert, Earl of Gloucester, died ; on which, Matilda, wearied out with the struggle, resigning her claims to her son Henry, retired to Normandy, and passed the remainder of her life in quiet, seldom interfering in public affairs. 8. Matilda left one memorial of herself in England, which is worth mentioning. Stow, an old chronicler, gives this account of it: "This Matilda, when she saw the forde to be dangerous for them that travelled by the Old Forde over the river Sea (for she had herself been well washed in the water), caused two stone bridges to be builded, of which the one was over the Sea, at the town of Stratford, now called Bow, because the bridge was arched like a bow." 9. This, he tells us, was " a rare piece of worke ; for before that time the like had never been seen in England." All former bridges had been made of wood. In 1153, Prince Henry arrived from Normandy with an army. Stephen, with his forces, met him at Wallingford. 10. The two armies remained near one another for several days without engaging in battle. Some of the barons, who deplored the miseries of the country, had thus an opportunity of proposing an accommodation, to which Stephen the more willingly assented, having a short time before lost his eldest son, Eustace. 11. It was agreed that Stephen should remain king during his life, and that Henry should be his successor. The news of the treaty was received with the greatest joy. Stephen did not long survive. He died on the 25th of October, 1154, upon which Henry II. peaceably took possession of the throne. of Stephen? 5. How did Matilda escape from Oxford? 6. Who met her at Walling- ford? 7. When did Robert, Earl of Gloucester, die? What did Matilda do soon after? 8,9. What memorial remains of her ? When did Henry return to England? 11. How wore the difficulties settled? When did Stephen die? Who succeeded him? 7* 78 LADIES IN THE TIME OF HENRY II. — 1150-1200. CHAPTER XLII. How the Ladies employed themselves in the time of Hemnj II. 1. Our readers may be curious to know how the ladies werr> oc- 2upied during the stormy times we have been describing. The daughters of noblemen were generally educated in nutineries till they were married. These w^ere societies of women, who had taken upon themselves vows similar to those of the monks. 2. These religious houses were respected by both parties, and the young ladies, besides being instructed in the branches then con- sidered essential to female education, such as surgery, needlework, and cookery, were also saved from the dangers to which the violence of the times would have exposed them. 3. After they were married, they lived in their husbands' castles, and were often besieged, and taken prisoners. In times of battle they employed themselves in making salves, and attending upon the wounded. 4. If there were none of these requiring their care, they occupied theniFclves in embroidery and needlework. They used to sit in the great ball, surrounded by their damsels, working with them and setting them their tasks, like the mantua-makers and milliners of the present day. 5. Some specimens of their work are yet preserved. At Caen, in Normandy, there is a very curious piece of the kind, called the Bajrjix tapestry, which is said to have been the work of Queen Matilda, the wife of the Conqueror; though others suppose it to '\ave been the work of her grand-daughter, Maude, or Matilda, of vhos'' disputes with Stephen we have just been telling you. 6. tJpon it is represented the Conquest of England, worked with A'orsted in a series of pictures. The faces are supposed to be por- traits, but it is not possible that they can be very good likenesses. 7. Though the wives of the barons never went out visiting, they were very far from leading a solitary life. Every lady had a num- ber of damsels attendant upon her, who were daughters of inferior nobles, or gentlemen, or perhaps her own relatives. 8. Besides this, the castle of every powerful baron was a school for the young nobles. They had nothing to do with books ; but were instructed in everything that a soldier should know. They were taught to take care of horses, horsemanship, and the use of arms. 9. To every castle belonged an enclosed space called the tilt-yard, where the young men practised all the exercises requisite to make good warriors. Their games were calculated to improve their strength and agility. Eiding at the ring was one of these ; the object of which was, while riding at full speed, to run the point of the lance through a small ring that hung suspended from a high post. XLII. — 1. How were the young ladies generally educated? What is said of nun- neries? 2. In what were young ladies instructed? 3, 4. How were they employed after marriage? 5, 6. What is said of the Bayeux tapestry? 7. By whom were the ladies attended? 8. What is said of the education of the young nobles? 9. What wag PAGES, ESQUIRES, AND KNIGHTS. — 1150-1200. 7£ 10. The favorite game of the younger boys was the quintain. The quintain itself was somewhat like a turnstile, with two arms instead of four. On one arm was painted a board or shield, and to the other hung a bag of sand, or a piece of wood. The play was for the boy to run at the shield, and push it with a long stick. 11. When the shield was struck, of course the arms of the quin- tain to which it was fastened turned round instantly ; and, if the boy was not very quick in his movements, the bag of sand would give him a heavy knock on the^ back before he could get out of the way. -f- CHAPTEE XLIII. Pages, Esquires, and Knights. 1. The young nobles commenced their career as pages or valets. It was the duty of the page to assist his lord in dressing, to wait upon him and his lady and noble guests at table, and to attend him when he rode abroad. After serving the requisite time as page, he was advanced to the rank of esquire. He now practised and perfected himself in all knightly accomplishments. His pres- ent age would make him a more agreeable companion for the ladies. He joined in their dances, and cheered them with his music. In their society he acquired the courtesy and politeness of manners, which were indispensable to a good knight. 2. He was relieved from the services required of the page, but was called upon for more dangerous and responsible ones. He at- tended his lord to battle. He was not expected to take part in the fight, and was in little danger, for, as he wore no armor, it was considered dishonorable for a knight to attack him. 3. He stood ready to render any assistance which his lord might require. If he were overthrown, he helped him to rise ; if he were wounded, he carried him from the field ; if the wound were mortal, he received his lord's dying commands, and after his death, bestowed upon his body an honorable burial. 4. A writer of the reign of Henry II., thus describes the exercises of the youth : " Crowds of noble and sprightly youths, mounted on war horses, admirably trained to perform all their turnings and evolutions, ride into the fields in distinct bands, armed with lances and shields, and exhibit representations of battles. 5. " The hope of victory rouses the spirits of these noble youths ; their fiery horses neigh and prance, and champ their foaming bits. At length the signal is given, and the sports begin. The youths, divided into opposite bands, encounter one another. In one place, the tilt-yard? What was one of the favorite games? 10, 11. What was a favorite game with the boys? Describe the game of the quiutain. XLIII. — 1. What were the duties of a page? What is said of esquires? 2, 3. What were thoir duties ? 4. 5. What does an author of the age of Henry II. say of the exercises 60 PAGES, ESQUIRES, AND KNIGHTS. 1160-1200. some flee, and others pursue, without overtaking them. In another place, one of the bands overtakes and overturns the other." 6. At length the young noble arrived at a proper age to receive that honor, for which he had gone through a course of long and laborious preparation. If he was perfect in his martial exercises, courteous in his demeanor, polite and attentive to the ladies, obe- dient to his superiors, respectful to his elders, was skilled in music and dancing, possessed in short of all knightly accomplishir ents, he was admitted to the order of knights. 7. Every knight had the power of conferring this dignity. Some- times an esquire had an opportunity of performing some gallant action in battle, and was knighted upon the field. This was es- teemed the most honorable mode of obtaining it. Such a one was called a knight-banneret. 8. Kneeling down before the knight who was to bestow the honor, he received a blow on the left shoulder with a sword, from the knight, who said, " In the name of God, of St. George, and of St. Michael the Archangel, rise up. Sir John!" or "Sir Thomas," or whatever else the name might be. 9. But the process was usually longer, and accompanied with much ceremony, and many solemnities. The candidate for knight- hood prepared himself by fasting and prayer. Having bathed and clothed himself in a white garment, as a symbol of the purity and truth that must distinguish his future life, he entered the church, and, advancing to the altar, presented his sword to the priest, who blessed it, and then returned it to him. 10. The novice then, with clasped hands, went and fell upon his knees before the elder knight, who took from him the sword, and administered the oath. He swore to speak the truth ; to maintain the right ; to protect the distressed ; to practise courtesy ; to defend his religion ; to despise the allurements of ease, and to vindicate in every perilous adventure the honor of his name. 11. He was then invested by the knights, or ladies, or damsels present, with the exterior marks of chivalry,— his spurs, his coat of mail, his brassards, (the covering for the arms,) his gauntlets or iron gloves ; and lastly his sword was buckled on. Then the elder knight, rising from his seat, gave him the blow on his shoulder, or accolade, and this was intended as a warning of the sufferings he would be called upon to bear. 12. While giving the accolade, the elder knight repeated the same words as in the former case. The helmet, buckler, and lance, were now given, after which, mounting and curvetting his steed, bran- dishing his lance, and glittering his sword, the new knight paraded about amidst the acclamations of the people. 13. There were some knights w^ho devoted their lives to the pro- tection of the injured and helpless. They were not formed into any regular body, but were quite independent of one another, and trav- of the youth? 6. What were the requisites of a knight? 7. Who had the power of knighting? What was a knight-banneret? 8. With what ceremony were such made knights? 9, 10, 11, 12. Relate the usual process of making a knight. 13. What is 8ai(' of knights-errant? 14. What of chivalry? SURNAMES. 1150-1200. 81 elled about from place to place for the purpose of redressing griev- ances. These were called Icnights-errant. 14. This class of kn.iglits might well do a great deal of good in those lawless times, when might made right. The whole institution of chivalry, as the system was called, of which knighthood was one of the chief characteristics, did infinite service in softening the fero- cious manners of the times. It had its origin in France, and no traces of it have been found among the plain and rustic Saxons. TABLE OF THE NORMAN KINGS. Began to reign. Reigned. . William I., the Conqueror. ; HPrlry If "^"'' } '^^^ ^^ ^^'"^^^^^ *^" Conqueror. , . Stephen, son of Adela, daughter of William the Conqueror, and the Count of Blois. CHILDREN OF HENRY I. William, lost in the White Ship. Matilda, wife of the Emperor of Germany, and afterwards of Geoffrey Plan tagenet, Earl of Anjou. She is commonly called the Empress Maude. 10(]6^ • . 21 1087 i . . 13 1100 . . 35 1135 . . 19 r CHAPTER XLIV. Surnames. — Of the Education of Henry II. — Learned Men of that Age. — About the only Ejiglishjntm that ever was made Pope. 1. When the Normatls went over to England, many of their leaders would naturally have the same Christian name. To distin- guish one from the other, they were called by the name of the place from which they came ; as, for example, Robert d'Evreux, Henry d'Arcy, Walter de Courtenay, &c., which mean Robert of Evreux, Henry of Arcy, &c. 2. Their children wishing to preserve the remembrance of their origin, also called themselves by the same names ; but in the course of time the French word de, meaning of, was eithei dropped en tirely, 6v made part of the last name, as Devreux, Darcy, &c. 3. It was soon found that family names were not only honorable, but convenient ; accordingly they became universal ; but at the time of which we are now speaking, they were assumed only by noble families ; and it was a long time before they were adopted by the lower orders of people. 4. When they began to use them, sometimes they added their father's name with son at the end of it, as, Thomas Johnson; an "3 sometimes their mother's name, as, Horatio Nelson; or, perhaps" XLIV.— 1, 2. What is said of the use of surnames by the Norman nobles? 3,4. Whence were they g-vnerally formed for the other classes? 5. Wliat of the name Plan 82 LEARNED MEN OF THAT AGE. — 1150. they took their father's nickname, as, Hobbs from Robert, Batea from Bartholomew, Hodges from Roger, &c., and hence also Gib- son, Sampson, &c. Some took their name from their trade, or office ; as Smith, Weaver, Walker, (which is Fuller in old English,) Porter, Shepherd, Spencer, (that is, steward.) 5. I have already told you that Geoffrey of Anjou was called Plantagenet, and mentioned a derivation which an old legend gives of that name. The more probable story is, that one of the family wore a sprig of the plant genista, or broom, in his helmet, that his son retained it, and by this means it became the surname of the family. 6. Henry Plantagenet was at this time twenty-one years of age ; of the middle size, and remarkably strong and active. He was very lively, and interesting in conversation. He was rather inclined to grow fat, but he guarded against it by abstemiousness and exercise. 7. He was a very graceful rider, even to the last years of his life. He was educated in the castle of the Duke of Gloucester, one of the most learned as well as virtuous noblemen of the age. Under his care, Henry acquired not only all the common military accomplish- ments of" the times, but the uncommon one of a taste for study. 8. He delighted in the conversation of learned men, and had so good a memory that he remembered- every book he had read, and every face he had seen. The invention or paper had made it less expensive to multiply books, though, as the art of printing was not yet known, it was only to be done by transcribing. 9. Every monastery had its writing-room, whete the younger monks were employed in copying books. Few among the laity could write, and all the authors of this time were monks and priests. There were many learned men, both historians and poets. Of these, the most eminent are William of J^almesbury, Henry of Hunting- don, and Giraldus Cambrensis. 10. In this age lived Nicholas Breakspear, the only Englishman who was ever made pope. When a lad he was a servant in the Abbey of St. Albans. Being reproached for idleness, he left the abbey and went to Paris, where it was the custom for English students to resort, as the University of Paris was then the best in Europe. 11. At Paris he applied himself so earnestly to study, that he obtained the notice of Pope Eugenius III., who, after a time, made him a cardinal, as the highest dignitaries in the Roman Catholic church, under the rank of pope, are called. In 1164 he was chosen pope, and took the name of Adrian IV. tagenet? 6. What of the personal appeamnce of Henry II.? 7. By wliom was he edu- cated? What taste did he acquire? 8. What had made books cheaper? 9. Of what class were the authors. of this age? Who were the most emiuent? 10, 11. What :i ■aid cf Nicholas BreiUspear? - "^M MORE ABOUT HENRY II. 1150. 83 CHAPTER XLV. More about Hem-y Jl. — Conduct and Character of Queen Elearwr. QUEEN ELEANOR AND ROSAMOND. 1. Henhy II. inherited all that was good and admirable in his grandfather's character, without his bad qualities. He was the first king since Edward the Confessor who had come fairly by the crown ; so that the people of England were prepared to receive him with great joy fulness. 2. The Saxon blood which he inherited from his grandmother made him highly acceptable to the English, who were pleased to think that in him the old Saxon line was restored. Henry was very powerful, from his territories on the continent of Europe, before he succeeded to the crown of England. 3. He received possession of Normandy when he was sixteen years old. By his father's death, in 1151, he became possessed of Anjou, Touraine, and Maine. The year after, he married Eleanor, heiress of Guienne and Poitou. She was many years older than himself, and had before been married to the King of France. 4. That monarch had been separated from her for the alleged XLV.— 1. How was Henry received by the English people? 3. What wero his posses- Rinns on the continent of Europe? Whom did h<- marry? 4, What is said of his wifo' 84 CHARACTER OF ELEANOR. reason that she was his fourth or fifth cousin, and marriage between persons even distantly related is forbidden by the Roman Catholic church. But the true reason, doubtless, was that she was a very troublesome woman ; and Henry soon perceived that he had paid a dear price for the rich provinces she had brought him. She was con- stantly exciting his sons to rebellion, and it is said she administered poison to Rosamond, or the " fair Rosamond," as she is called in history, and thus caused her death. 5. The first thing that Henry did on coming to the throne, was to send away all the foreign soldiers that Stephen had brought into England, and to order all the castles that had been built during the civil wars to be demolished. He also confirmed the charter of privileges to the people. It has been said that "no king in so short a time had done so much good, and gained so much love, since Alfred." 6. In 1155 he recovered the territory which Stephen had ceded to the King of Scotland. He then carried his arms against the Welsh, who were very troublesome neighbors, and only granted them peace upon terms favorable to himself. 7. We next find him engaged in a war with the King of France, which, after several years' continuance, was ended by a marriage between his eldest son, Henry, an infant five years old, and Mar- guerite, the daughter of the King of France, who was not yet out of her cradle. 8. In 1165 he received a still further accession of power ; for the Duke of Brittany, finding himself unable to keep in subjection his turbulent barons, resigned his territories to Henry, to hold them in trust for Constantia, his daughter, who was betrothed to Geofirey, the third son of the king. CHAPTER XLVI. Thomas a Bechet. — How he lost his rich Cloak. 1. We must now introduce you to Thomas k Becket, who was at this time a very distinguished person, and whose quarrels with King Henry were a subject of concern and interest even to many foreign potentates. This celebrated man was the son of a citizen of Lon- don, and was the first Anglo-Saxon who had arrived at any kind of eminence since the Conquest. 2. He had early been remarked for his great abilities, and for his attachment to the cause of Matilda. When Henry came to the throne, he selected Becket as his favorite and companion, and at length made him his chancellor, which is the third dignity in the kingdom. 3. Becket now indulged himself in every kind of luxury and mag- 5. What did Henry do in England? 6. In what wars did he engjige? 7. How was the war with France ended? 8. What accession of power did he receive in 1165? XLVI. — 1. Who was Thomas ^ Becket? 2. To what office did Henry appoint him THOMAS A BECKET. 85 nificeiice. He never moved without a numerous train of servants; his ordinary retinue when upon a journey consisted of two hundred knights, each having his own attendants ; there were eight wagons containing provisions, furniture, and clothes, besides twelve pack- horses loaded with plate, books, and money. 4. To each wagon was chained a fierce mastiff, and on each pack- horse sat a monkey. In his dress, Becket was splendid in the ex- treme; the luxury of his table and of his furniture was greater than had ever been seen before. 5. Fitz-Stephen, who was his secretary, and wrote the history of his life, states as an instance of his extreme delicacy, "that in winter his apartments were every day covered with clean hay and straw, and in summer with green rushes, or boughs, that the gentle- men who paid court to him, and who could not, by reason of their number, find seats at table, might not soil their fine clothes by sit- ting on a dirty floor," 6. Though Becket had been admitted to the first order in the priesthood, he considered himself more a layman than an ecclesi- astic, and employed his leisure in hunting, hawking, and similar amusements. He also engaged in military affairs, and conducted 700 knights, at his own expense, to attend the king in his war in France. 7. His house was a place of education for the sons of the chief nobility, and the king was often present at the entertainments he five. As an instance of the familiarity with which the king treated ecket, Fitz-Stephen tells the following story : 8. One day, while they were riding together in the streets of Lon- don, they met a poor beggar shivering with cold. The king made the observation that it would be a good deed to give that poor man a warm coat. The chancellor agreed, and added, " You do well, sir, in thinking of such a good action." 9. " Then he shall have one presently," said the king, and, seizing on the chancellor's cloak, which was of scarlet lined with ermine, he tried to pull it off. The chancellor, not liking to part with it, held it fast, and the king and he were near pulling one another off their horses in the scuffle. At last, Becket letting the cloak go, the king gave it to the beggar, who was not a little astonished at the scene and at the gift. CHAPTEE XLVII. Henry attempts to check the Usurpations of the Clergy. — They resist. — Death of Becket. 1. At the time of which we are now speaking, the usurpations of the clergy had reached such a height as to make it almost a mat- 3, 4. What in said of his style of living? 5. What instance is given of his consideration for his courtiers ? 8, 9. Relate the story of the loss of his cloak. 86 USURPATIONS OF THE CLERGY. ter of doubt, whether the king or the priests, particularly the Arch- bishop of Canterbury, should rule the kingdom. 2. Henry was not of a spirit tamely to submit to the encroacii- ments of subjects. But the obligations which he was under to Theobald, Archbishop of Canterbury, prevented him from taking any measures to check them during the lifetime of that prelate. 3. But after his death, he determined to exert himself with ac- tivity, and, that he might be secure against any opposition, he advanced Becket to that dignity, feeling sure that he could depend on his compliance with his wishes. 5=^ THOMAS A BECKET AS ARCHBISHOP. 4. But no sooner was Becket established in his new dignity, than he seemed changed in character, as well as in condition. He re- noiuiced all his gay and active amusements, and was always seen with a book in his hand, or else absorbed in deep meditation. 5. He affected the greatest austerities ; he wore sackcloth next to his skin, fed upon bread and water, tore his back with whips and scourges, ani every day washed the feet of thirteen poor beggars. In short, the ostentation of affected sanctity made him take a satis- faction in inflicting on himself the severest penances. XLVIL— 1. What of the power of the clergy ? 2, 3. What of Henry's feelings on thfi subject? 4, », 6. What chanjje took place in Becket's conduct? 7. What are the con- DEATH OF BECKET. 1164. 87 6. His conduct towards the king was not less changed. He with- drew from the intimacy with which Henry had treated him, and resigned the office of chancellor, saying he must now devote him- self wholly to his spiritual functions. So far was he from giving any aid to the king's plans for a reformation, that he set himself up as the champion of the church. BECKET'S DEATH. Sft- page 88, 7. But Henry was not to be deterred from the execution cf his Eurpose, of lowering the pride and power of the priests. In 1164, e summoned a general council of the nobility and prelates at Clar- endon. By this assembly certain laws were made, called the Consti- tutions of Clarendon, restraining the power of the clergy, and making them amenable to the laws of the country. 8. The laws were so just, that even Becket was compelled to assent to them. But he knew very well that the pope, to whom they were to be submitted for ratification, would never submit to enactments which in fact abolished his authority in England. It happened as he expected ; the pope rejected the laws, and Becket retracted his assent. 9. The king and the prelate now lived in a state of constant hos- tility. The clergy supported Becket as far as they dared, and the barons espoused the king's party. At one time, Becket was de- prived of his dignities and estates, and banished from the kingdom. 10. But the influence of the clergy over the unenlightened people compelled the king to reinstate him, and, upon one occasion, to submit to the humiliation of holding the stirrup, fs^hilst the haughty prelate mounted his horse. stitirtions of Clarendon ? Why so called? 9, How did the king tivat Becket? 10. What mortification did the king meet with ? 11, 12, 13. Relate the particnlarsof Becket'a death 88 BECKET CANONIZED BY THE POPE. 11 64-1 176. 11. For eight years Henry was kept in a continual ferment. At last, in a moment of irritation, he unhappily exclaimed, " Is there nobody that will rid me of this turbulent priest?" words which were probably forgotten as soon as uttered by him. 12. But they were not forgotten by some who heard them. Four gentlemen of his household, who thought they should do the king an acceptable service, by executing what they fancied to be his wishes, set out immediately from Normandy, where the king then was, for England. When they arrived at Canterbury, they de« manded admittance into the archbishop's palace. 13. The servants, apprehensive of some evil designs, obliged theil master to fly into the cathedral, thinking the sanctity of the place would protect him. But the assassins followed him; and as he would not submit to be their prisoner, they slew him on the steps of the altar, as he knelt before it. CHAPTER XLVIII. BecJcet canonized hxj the Pope. — Miracles performed at his Tomb. — Illustrations of Manners of the Clergy. 1. When Henry heard of this murder, he was so much shocked that he shut himself up for three days, and refused to let any one come near him. At last his attendants forced open the door of his room, and persuaded him to take some refreshment. 2. The king chiefly dreaded the displeasure of the pope. He found means, however, by a well-timed embassy, to divert the re- sentment of his Holiness from himself, and it Avas expended in de- nunciations of the immediate actors. The clergy now magnified the sanctity of Becket, and two years after his death he was canon- ized by the pope, that is, added to the list of saints. 3. His body was then removed to a magnificent tomb which the king caused to be erected in Canterbury Cathedral. This was en- riched by presents from all parts of Christendom, and it is esti- mated that, in one year, more than one hundred thousand pilgrims arrived at Canterbury, and paid their devotions at his tomb. 4. A great many ridiculous stories were told by the priests, and readily believed by the ignorant and superstitious people, of the miracles performed here. At this shrine, not only dead men were said to be restored to life, but also cows, dogs, and horses. ! A story is related of the successor of Becket, which illustrates the fiianners of the times. In 1176, the pope's representative in England, called the pope's legate, summoned an assembly of the clergy, at which he himself presided. Richard, Archbishop of Can- terbury, and Roger, Archbishop of York, both claimed the honor of sitting on the right hand of the legate. 6. The question of precedency created a dispute between them, XLVIII.— 1. How was Heury affected by the news of the murder of Becket? 2. Whai ST. PATEICK. W which ended in the monks and retainers of Aruhlishop Richard falling upon Roger, in the presence of the whole assembly, and throwing him upon the ground ; they then trampled on him, and he was with difficulty rescued from their hands alive. 7. Archbishop Richard, by the payment of a large sum of money to the legate, prevented any notice being taken of this enormity. We may relate another anecdote of this period, which history has preserved. 8. As King Henry was one day riding along, he was met by the monks of St. Swithan, who threw themselves prostrate upon the earth before him, complaining, with many tears and much doleful lamentation, that the Bishop of Winchester, who was their abbot, had cut off three dishes from their tables. 9. "How many has he left you?" said the king. "Ten only," repUed the disconsolate monks. " I myself," exclaimed the king, "never have more than three; and I enjoin your bishop to reduce you to the same number." — r •CHAPTER XLIX. ^ Earl Strongbow goes over to Ireland to assist Dermoi MacmorrogK- The English conquer Ireland. ST. PATRICK IN IKKLANB. 1. In the early part of this volume, we have glanced at the ^tate of the pope 3 resentment? 3, 4. What of his tomb ? 5, 6. What story is related of hi* roccessor? 8, 9. Relate the story of the monks of St. Swithan. 90 THE ENGLISH CONQUER IRELAND. 1171. of Ireland previous to the invasion of Britain by the Romans. Ite history for several centuries is involved in much obscurity, and though we know that many interesting events took place, they are not of a nature to require further notice here. 2. In the fifth century, the history of Ireland becomes more defined. About the year 450, St. Patrick, who was probably a native of France, was carried thither, he being then in his youth. He was made a slave, and occupied for several years in the care of sheep. He at length escaped, and having qualified himself by study, and received an education at Rome, as a bishop, he returned to Ireland and devoted himself with great success to the conversion of the people to Christianity. They had hitherto professed the re- ligion of the Druids, but in the space of a few years the priests and princes yielded, throughout nearly the whole island, to the doc- trines of the gospel as taught by St. Patrick. 3. From that time Ireland w^as a place of refuge for learned men of all countries ; and religion and science flourished till the eighth century, when the island was overrun by the Danes, who destroyed nearly all the churches and monasteries. After the Danes were expelled, the Irish, having no Alfred to govern them, sank back into a state of barbarism, though* they still maintained their inde- pendence of foreign dominion. 4. At the time of which we are now speaking, Ireland was divided into five separate kingdoms. In 1171, Dermot Macmorrogh, one of the five kings, being driven from Leinster, went ov^r to England to implore the assistance of Henry, who gave him some money from the royal treasury, and permitted him to enlist in his cause any of the English whom he could prevail upon to join him. 5. Accordingly the Earl of Pembroke, surnamed Sirongbow, and a few other noblemen, returned with Dermot to Ireland, and with their assistance soon recovered his kingdom. Elated with his suc- cess, Dermot now thought it would be a good thing to possess him- self of the other four kingdoms. 6. But Strougbow did not dare to engage in a plan for the con- quest of the whole island without first asking Henry's consent. Tlie king's answer was for some time delayed. In the mean time the earl collected in England an army of twelve hundred men; but just as he was setting out for Ireland, he received Henry's posi- tive commands not to proceed. 7. Disregarding these orders, he set sail. At Waterford he w^aa joined by Dermot, and there married his daughter Eva, and then proceeded to the conquest of the kingdom of Meath, which was easily effected. The year following, Dermot died, and Earl Strong- bow, in right of his wife, succeeded to his possessions, and thus be- came king of a great part of Ireland. 8. Henry had been greatly displeased at the earl's disobedience ; nor was he appeased till Strongbow went over to England, and XLIX.— 1. What df Ireland in early times ? 2. What of St. Patrick ? 3. Wlmt of Ire- land after the conversion of the people to Christianity? 4. llow was it divided? W^hat lappened in 1171? 5. Who went over to assist Dermot? Wha^id Dermot wish to REBELLION OF HENRY's SONS. 117^-1175. 91 resigned to him all these great acquisitions, a part of which, how- ever, Henry allowed him to retain. 9. To divert the attention of the people from the murder of Becket, Henry determined to go over to Ireland to take possession of the territory already subdued, and to complete the conquest of the island. Accordingly, in 1172, he passed over the channel, accompanied by a fleet of four hundred vessels. The several princes, overawed by such a powerful force, submitted at once, and this important conquest was made without bloodshed. CHAPTER L. Encouraged by their Mother, the Sons of Henry rebel. 1. In the year 1173, Henry appeared to have arrived at the utmost height of gloiy and ambition. He was sovereign of England, Ireland, and of a third part of France. All his dominions were in a state of tranquillity. But his future life was to be embittered, and his government to be disturbed, from a quarter which he might naturally have expected to have been a source of happiness, and to have afforded support. 2. Queen Eleanor, whom he had married for her rich dowry, not only gave him much vexation by her own conduct, but she encour- aged her children to behave undutifully to their father. It was no uncommon thing, in those days, for a king to cause his son to be crowned during his own lifetime, in order to secure to him the suc- cession. 3. In pursuance of this policy, Henry, eldest son of the present king, had been crowned when he was fifteen years old. It is said, that at this ceremony, the king, in order to give greater dignity to it, officiated as one of the retinue; and observed to his son that never was king more royally served. 4. " It is nothing extraordinary," said young Henry to one of his courtiers, " if the son of a count should serve the son of a king." Thi? saying, which passed at the time as an innocent pleasantry, was afterwards remembered as a sign of that aspiring temper of which he soon gave proof. 5. At the instigation of his father-in-law, the King of France, he demanded immediate possession of the crown of England, or else of the Duchy of Normandy. Before his father's refusal to comply with his unreasonable demand, he entered into a conspiracy with the kings of France and Scotland, and other persons who were jeal- ous of Henry's power, to dethrone him. 6. The prince, with his brothers, Eichard and Geoffrey, whom he had persuaded to join him, fled to the court of France; and even do? 6. What did Earl Strongbow do? 7. Whom did Strongbow marry? What did he get in right of his wife? 8. How did he appease Henry? 9. What did Heni-y do? L. — 1. What of Henry's condition in 1173? 2. What of his queen? How did Henry attempt to make sure the succession of his son? 3. 4. What occurred at the ceremony »f coronation ? 6. What demand did the prince make? 6. What Mas the consequence 92 REBELLIONS OF HENRY S SONS. 1175. Queen Eleanor, in the disguise of a man, tried to escape thither also She was, however, discovered, and brought back to Henry, who shut her up in strict confinement. The rebellion now broke out in open war. The King of France and the Earl of Flanders attacked Nor- mandy, Avhile William, King of Scotland, marched into England, and was joined by all the discontented barons. 7. Never did Henry act with more wisdom and vigor. The united efforts of so many enemies were unable to do him serious injury ; and in the year 1175, all their schemes were frustrated by the cap- ture of William, who was surprised and taken without the walls of Alnwick Castle, which he occupied. 8. This place was assailed by about four hundred knights, and William, without waiting for his army to support him, made a gal- lant attempt with only seventy of his knights to repel the enemy. " Now let us see who are the best knights !" cried he, and spurred forward against his opponents ; but his horse was killed at the first onset, and he was taken prisoner. His numerous troops, on hearing of the disaster, fled with the greatest precipitation. CHAPTER LI. Singular Penance of Henry IT. — Fresh Rebellions of his Sons. — Death of Henry 11. — The Reason of his being called "Oiirt ManileJ' st^r '^^ HENRY II. DOING PENAXCK AT BECKET'S TOMB. 1. The great mass of the people considered the troubles whith cf the king's refusal? By whom was Henry attacked? 7. What of his conduct? 8 What happened to William, K!?ig of Scotland? SINGULAR PENANCE OP HENRY II. — 1175-1178. 93 befell Henry, as a proof of the indignation of Heaven for the impious murder of Becket. The king, well knowing the effects of superstition on the minds of men, submitted to a most singu- lar and humiliating penance. 2. Returning from Normandy, which he had been putting in a state of defence, he proceeded at once to Canterbury. When he came within sight of the church he dismounted and walked bare foot to Becket's tomb, prostrated himself before it and remained there fasting all one day and night. 3. He then assembled the monks, and putting a whip into the hands of each, presented his bare shoulders to receive as many lashes as they might think proper to inflict upon his royal back. Next day the priest pronounced his pardon, or absolution, as it is called, and the king went to London, where he soon heard the joyful news of the capture of William. 4. This had been made on the very day that he had received his absolution, and was regarded by the people as a proof that St. Thomas h Becket was satisfied with the atonement. Henry was in bed when the news was brought to him, but he at once arose and called his attendants, that he might tell them the happy tidings. 5. The King of France was now glad to make peace, and thus everything turned out prosperously for England. Henry's gen- erosity to his defeated enemies was much to be admired. He gave liberty without ransom to a large number of noblemen who were made prisoners ; and he gave the King of Scotland his lib- erty on condition that he and his successors should do homage to the kings of England for their crown. 6. He pardoned his sons on account of their youth ; but Prince Henry continued to give his father a great deal of vexation, and at length again openly rebelled. He was actually leading an army against him, when the tumult of his mind threw him into a fever. 7. Finding himself to be dying, he sent a repentant message to his father, entreating forgiveness, and beseeching that he would come and see him. The king, thinking his illness to be pre- tended, refused to visit him, but sent him his ring as a token of pardon, which the prince received with thankfulness. 8. A little before his death he desired to be laid on a heap of ashes, with a halter about his neck, to testify his deep humilia- tion and contrition. This was done, and in this state he expired. Henry's grief, when he heard that his son was dead, was very great indeed, and he bitterly reproached himself for having re- fused to go to him. As Prince Henry left no children, Richaru became the heir to the throne. He was also of a turbulent tem- per, and had behaved very ill to his father. 9. In 1188 the melancholy news reached Europe that the Sara- cens had taken Jerusalem. All the warriors of this quarter were at once animated with the desire of driving the Infidels from the Holy City. LI. — 1, 2, 3. Relate the particulars of King Henry's penance. 4. To what did the people attribute his victory over William? Why? 5. What was the consequence of the capture of William ? How did Henry treat iiis lat^nemies? 6. What more ^s said 94 ABOUT RICHARD THE LION-HEARTED. — 1189. 10. Richard Plantagenet, and Philip, King of France, were among the first to assume the cross. Richard, jealous of the affec- tion of his f[ither for his youngest brother, John, wished to take him with him to the Holy Land; but Henry would not consent to this, and Richard, w^hose fiery temper could not bear contradic- tion, joined Philip in making war upon Henry, instead of leading their troops against the infidels. 11. Henry, being totally unprepared for such an attack, w^as obliged to make a disadvantageous treaty. But what afiiicted him most, was, that John, his favorite son, had joined in the rebellion. This seemed to weigh down the poor king's heart more than any other affliction of his life, and he fell ill of a fever occasioned by anxiety. 12. Feeling himself to be dying, he desired to be carried into a church, and laid before the altar, where he expired, on the 9th of July, 1189, in the fifty-seventh year of his age, and thirty-fifth of his reign. He was the wisest and ablest prince of his time, and the most powerful in the extent of his dominion of any that had filled the English throne. 13. The dress of the nobility was at this period A^er}^ splendid. Some persons wore their cloaks so long that they swept upon the ground ; and the sleeves of the gowns came down over the fingers, to the great inconvenience of the wearers, who could scarcely either walk or use theii hands. But Henry introduced the Anjou fashion of wearing short cloaks, which gained him the surname of Oiiri Mantle. CHAPTER LII. Of Richard the Lion-hearted. 1. We are now about to present to the reader one of the favorite heroes of romance; Richard, surnamed Coeur de Lion, or the Lion- hearted, on account of his undaunted courage. He was very pre- possessing in his appearance. His eyes wefe blue, and his hair, what was then much admired, of a yellow hue. 2. He was tall, and his figure extremely fine ; he had a majestic and stately mien; and this, joined to his great courage and quick- ness of intellect, gave him on all occasions an ascendency over men's minds. He is said by historians to have been a good poli- tician, orator, and poet ; but though he possessed a great deal of talent, he was hot-headed and without judgment. 3. His faults were, perhaps, too suitable to the unruly temper of of Prince Henry ? Who became the heir to the throne ? 9. What happened in 1188 ? 10. What was the cause of Richard's rebellion? 11. What success had the rebels? What chiefly distressed the king? 12. When did Henry II. die? What was his age? How long had he reigned? 13. What is said of the dress of the nobility? Why was Henry called Curt Mantle? ^ Lli. — 1,2. What of Richard the Lion-hearted? 4. How did he treat his mothfi a.od ABOUT KICHARD THE LION-HEARTED. — 3191. 95 tlie time be lived in, to be then considered dangerous or repre- hensible. For his father's death he felt an extreme sorrow, and on seeing his dead body, he exj^ressed an agony of remorse for his un- dutiful conduct. 4. One of the first acts of his reign was to release his mother from her long confinement. He was very generous to his brother John ; but this, instead of inspiring any feelings of gratitude, only enabled him the more to injure his benefactor. 5. Being desirous of acquiring glory, Eichard resolved to go on a crusade. His father had left him a large sum of money, but not enough for his purpose ; so, in order to increase it, he sold the royal castles and estates; and also put to sale the offices of the greatest , trust and power. \ 6. When some of his ministers remonstrated with him on these proceedings, he said, " He would sell London itself if he could find a purchaser." For a large sum of money he absolved the King of Scotland from his vassalage to the King of England, which, as we have stated, was the condition of King William's release. 7. He also compelled his subjects to lend him money, and, in short, resorted to every means of raising funds, no matter how un- just or impolitic they might be. At length his armament was ready, and Eichard nirived at Messina, in Sicily, on the 14th of September, 1190. Here he was joined by Philip, King of France, and it being too late in the season to proceed to Palestine imme- diately, it was agreed to pass the winter in Sicily. 8. There could scarcely be found two persons less alike in charac- ter than these two kings. Eichard, though proud and domineering, was brave and generous. Philip was equally proud, but shy and deceitful. It is not surprising that two such opposite characters should quarrel before their six months' residence in Sicily was over. 9. Eichard had, in his infancy, been contracted in marriage to Adelais, sister of Philip ; but his father had repented of the engage- ment, and would not permit it to be fulfilled while he lived ; and now Eichard, having fallen in love with Berengaria, daughter of the King of Navarre, broke off* his engagement with Adelais. 10. Early in 1191, he prevailed with his mother to bring the Princess Berengaria to Messina. They arrived the day before he was obliged to sail ; but, it being Lent, during which season mar- riages cannot be solemnized in the Catholic Church, the union could not then take place. 11. Eleanor returned to England, and the princess, accompanied by the Queen of Sicily, who was Eichard's sister, embarked for the Holy Land. A violent storm arose, and the ship the two princesses were in, was in great danger. The King of Cyprus, however, re- fused to admit the vessel into his harbors, upon which Eichard laid siege to the island, and in a short time got possession of it. 12. Here he and Berengaria were married ; and leaving a governor his brother? Was his brother grateful to him? 5. What did Richard resolve to do? How did he raise money? 7. When did he arrive at Messina? Who joined hira there? 8. How did Richard and Philip differ in character ? 9, 10, 11, 12. Relate the circum- Btances of the king's marriage. Relate the particulars of his voyage from Sicily. 96 EXPLOITS OF RICHARD IN PALESTINE. 1191-1192. in the island, he sailed for Acre, where the King of France, who had left Sicily some time before, in high displeasure with Richard, had already arrived. CHAPTER MIL Exploits of Bichard in Palestine. — His vioTekt Temper brings him intc 7Vouble. — About the Old Man of the Mountain, and the Assassins. 1. Acre was a large town on the coast of Palestine, in the pos- session of the Saracens, and had been besieged for two years by an army of Christians collected from all parts of Europe. The Chris- tians were now in their turn surrounded and basieged by a large army of Saracens, under the famous Saladin. 2. The arrival of Richard revived the courage of the Christians. He led his troops to the assault in person, and broke down a postern door with his strong hand and weighty battle-axe. Saladin, who saw that Acre must soon fall before such vigorous assaults, gave the citizens permission to make the best terms they could for them- selves. 3. On his own part, he agreed to release all his Christian prisoners, and to restore to the crusacHrs the cross on which our Saviour suf- fered — or, rather, a relic which bore that reputation, and which had been taken by him at a former battle. But Saladin did not, or could not, at once comply with these conditions. 4. The impetuous Richard M^ould hear of no delay, and put to death all his Mohammedan prisoners, to the number of several thou- sand men. On account of this rashness and cruelty, Richard was justly jchayged with the death of as many Christian captives, whom Saladin slaughtered by way of reprisal. 5. Richard exhibited his violent temper upon another occasion, of which he had much personal cause to rue the consequence. When the city of Acre surrendered, Leopold, Duke of Austria, caused his own banner to be displayed from the highest tower. Richard, highly exasperated at what he considered an insult, ordered the standard to be taken down, and being torn in pieces and trampled under foot, it was thrown into the ditch. 6. Leopold felt the indignity, but dissembled his anger, and cir- cumstances gave him an opportunity, as we shall soon relate, of taking an ample revenge, though at the expense of his faith and honor. 7. The knightly qualities of Richard were more agreeable to the spirit of the age than the more statesman-like ones of Philip. The rash valor and brilliant exploits in battle of the former gained him the applause of the multitude. Philip, who was of a jealous temper, LIIL— 1. What of Acre? 2. What did Richard do? 3, 4, 5, 6. What instances of PHILIP RETURNS TO EUROPE. — 1191-1192. 97 took offence a^t this; and his hatred for Richard was continually displaying itself. 8. A contest had arisen between Conrad, Marquis of Montserrat, and Guy of Lusignan, for the empty title of King of Jerusalem, the substantial part, the kingdom itself, being in the possession of the Saracens. Philip espoused the cause of Conrad, whilst Richard maintained the right of Guy. [). Now there was an Arab prince, called The Old Man of the Mou7itain, wlio ruled over a small tribe called Assassins, who dwelt on Mount Lebanon. He had acquired such power over his fanat- ical subjects, that they paid the most implicit obedience to his com- mands; and fancied, when they sacrificed their lives for his sake, the highest joys of paradise would be their certain reward. 10. It was the custom of this prince, when he imagined himself injured, to send some of his subjects secretly against the aggressor, and no precaution was sufficient to guard any man, however power- ful, against the attempts of the subtle and determined ruffians. From these is derived the name of assassin, or secret murderer, which is in common use. 11. Conrad had given offence to this prince, who caused him to be murdered. Everybody in Palestine knew this to be the fact. But Philip affected to believe that Richard was the instigator of this crime, so entirely at variance with his open and manly, though violent character. He therefore selected a new body-guard, and took other precautions, implying dishonomble suspicions of his CHAPTER LIV. Philip returns to Europe. — The wicked Orders he leaves with his Gen- eral. — More of Richard's Exploits. — Termination of his Career of Victory. — He receives news from England which determines him to return. 1. It was not »long before Philip found out that nothing but barren laurels were to be gained in this war with the Saracens, and that but a small share of these would fall to his lot. He sud- denly discovered that the air of Palestine was not favorable to his health, and resolved to return home. 2. But before he went, he made a solemn promise not to make my attempts on the territories of Richard, though at this very time he entertained the full intention of attacking them as soon as he got back. Leaving his troops in Palestine, under the command of the Duke of Burgundy, with secret orders to omit no opportunity of mortifying the English king, he proceeded directly to Rome. 3. Here all his influence was exerted to procure from the pope Richard's violence of temper ? 7. What excited Philip's jealousy of Richard ? 9. What of the Old Man of the Mount.ain? 10. Whence the name of assassin? LIV, — 1. What disco M-y did Philip make? 2. What promise did he make to Richard ! 98 MORE OF RICHARD'S EXPLOITS. — 1191-1192. an absolution from his promise to Richard. But l^s Holiness, if he had not sufficient regard for justice, at least had sufficient regard for appearances, and was politic enough not to sanction such a gross outrage on the rights of one who at that very moment was risking his life in the cause of the church ; he therefore positively refused to comply. 4. In the mean time, Kichard, unsuspicious of these designs, thought only of his open enemies, and was rivalling in the Holy Land the imaginary actions of the heroes of romance. He defied armies with a handful of men, and challenged to combat, on his own pei'son, an extended line of thousands, not one of whom dared to quit the ranks to encounter him. 5. Notwithstanding the obstacles constantly thrown in his way by the adherents of the King of France, Richard at length arrived, after gaining a victory over Saladin, in one of the greatest battles of the age, within sight of Jerusalem, the object of his enterprise. But the French troops positively refused t5 advance to the siege, and Richard, to his great mortification, was compelled to stop short in his career of victory, and return to Ascalon. 6. This march is described as the most painful of all that the army made ; and when at last, worn out by fatigue and famine, it arrived at Ascalon, the place was found to be in so ruinous a con- dition, that it became necessary immediately to repair it. Richard set the example, by working with more ardor than any common laborer. 7. In the mean time, affairs in England had gone on very badly. Those to whom the government had been intrusted, quarrelled among themselves, and the whole kingdom was in a state of dis- turbance. When the King of France reached home, he lo&t no time in inviting Prince John to unite with him in seizing on Richard's temtories. 8. John was obly prevented from doing so by Queen Eleanor, who appears at this time to have acted like a wise and good woman. Philip would then have invaded Normandy with his own forces ; but his barons refused to accompany him in so unjust and ungenerous an attempt. The news of these events reached Ascalon about the middle of April, 1192, and Richard resolved to return home. 9. But while he was making his preparations, he heard that Saladin was besieging Joppa, and that the Christians there were reduced to the last extremity. Giving up, therefore, his design of immediately embarking, he went directly to Joppa, and defeated the pagans in a furious battle. 10. Soon after this, he fell ill, and being unable to take advan- tage of his success, he concluded a truce with Saladin for three years, three months, three weeks, three days, and three hours. 3. What did he do when he arrived at Rorao? 4, 5. What of Richard's exploits ? What compelled him to retreat? 7,8. What was the state of affairs in England? 9. Wba« prevented Richard's retail ? SHIPWRECK OF RICHARD CCEUR DE LION. — 1191-1192. 99 CHAPTER LV. Shipwreck of Richard. — He falls into the hands of his Enemies, atvd suffers Imprisonment. — Story of his faithful Minstrel. RICHARD I. AS A PILGRIM. 1. On the 9th of October, 1192, Richard set out on his dis/^trous voyage. His daring courage had made a deep impression on the minds of the Infidels. Long after he had ceased to trouble the world, the Saracen mothers would bring their stubborn children to obedience by the threat of his coming ; and the horseman would upbraid his starting steed, by the exclamation, "Ha, fool! dost thou think Richard is in the bush ?" 2. After many storms at sea, Richard was at last shipwrecked on the coast of Dalmatia. He now put on the disguise of a pilgrim, hoping to pass through Germany without being known. But the traveller displayed a generosity and profuseness more suitable to the king he was, than to the pilgrim he wished to appear. 3. The intelligence soon spread through Germany, that Hugh the Merchant was no other than Richard Plantagenet. The king arrived, however, without molestation, at Frisak, near Saltzburg; and the governor there sent one of his knights to discover who he was. 4. This man was by birth a Norman, and instantly knew the king ; but instead of betraying him, he presented him with a horse, and entreated him to fly and save himself. Accompanied by a boy and one other attendant, he reached a town near Vienna. LV. — ^1. What impi ^ssion did Richard leave upon the Saracens? 2, P» 4, 5, 6. RelaU k 100 STORY CW/^IS FAITHFUL MINSTREL. — 1191-1192. 5. Here he entered an inn, and that no suspicion might be ex cited concerning his rank, busied himself in turning the spit; but he forgot to conceal a splendid ring which he wore on his finger ; and a man who had seen him at Acre knew him, and gave information to his bitter enemy, the Duke of Austria, who had never forgotten or forgiven the insult offered him after the capture of that city. 6. The duke meanly seized the opportunity ^gf^vengeance, which chance afforded him, and threw the unfortunate pTince into prison. His place of confinement was long kept concealed. There is a very pretty story told of the manner in which itwas discovered ; whether it be true or not we cannot say, but at any rate it is worth repeating. 7. Ei chard was a great friend of the Gay Scietice, as minstrelsy was called, and often practised the arts of song and music himself. Blondel de Nesle, a favorite minstrel, who had attended his person, devoted himself to discover the place of his confinement. He wan- dered in vain from castle to palace, till he had learned that a strong fortress, on the banks of the Danube, was watched with peculiar strictness, as if containing some prisoner of distinction. ;:?mKv ... RICHARD DISCOVERED BY BLONDEL.. 8. The minstrel took his harp, and, approaching the castle aa near as he durst, came so near the walls as to hear the captive Boothing his imprisonment with music. Blondel touched his harp ; the prisoner heard and was silent ; upon this the minstrel played the first part of a tune known to Richard, who instantly played the second part ; and thus the faithful servant knew that the captive was no other than his royal master. his adventure* till his seizure by the Duke of Austria. 7, 8. How was it ascertained, vbere he was confined? 9, 10, 11, 12. Relate his story till his release. INTERDICT AND EXCOMMUNICATION. — 1194. lOl 9. But this knowledge was of littSe 5ttv:ft(Mii'ate advantage to Richard; for when the news reached tlK?*l3nlpcroVof Gertriany, he compelled the duke to surrender li^' pr^ouer.. .TJig ^tv«at^ei\t pf Richard was now worse than before;. l:ie^*YasJcoii>iiitJ:eiljt(i i'^cJo^ilJ^ dungeon and loaded with chains. 10. How long he remained here, we do not exactly know ; but after a while he was taken to the town of Worms, where a meeting of the princes of Germany, called a diet, was to be held. While Richard was on the road to this place, he was met by some persona sent by his mother to attend upon him. 11. He received them very cordially, and inquired with the greatest kindness for all his friends. When they told him of his brother's behavior, of which we shall tell you more particularly in a short time, he was extremely shocked ; but soon recovering his cheerfulness, said, with a smile, " My brother John is not made for conquering kingdoms." 12. The emperor, to justify his conduct, charged Richard before the diet with many crimes committed in Palestine. But Richard defended himself so eloquently, and pathetically, that many persons shed tears on hearing him, and all were convinced of the malice of his accusers. The emperor was compelled to treat him better, and to agree to set him at liberty on payment of a ransom, equal tft about one and a half million of dollars. CHAPTER LVl. Explanation of the terms Interdict and Excommunication. — Richard returns to England. — Pardons his brother John. 1. When the news of this agreement reached France, it threw Philip into the greatest consternation, and he sent a secret message to Prince John, " bidding him take care of himself, for the devil was unchained." Philip and John then tried to bribe the Emperor of Germany to keep Richard a prisoner a year longer. 2. Being exceedingly avaricious, he longed to accept their offer; but he dared not do so, for the pope, considering Richard as the champion of Christendom, threatened the emperor with excommu- nication if he did not fulfil his engagement. 3. There were two punishments by the infliction of which the pope endeavored to maintain his authority. One was by forbidding, or in- terdicting, divine service to be publicly performed. When a nation was wn^QY 2iXi interdict, as it is called, the churches were shut; the bells were not rung, the dead were buried in ditches and holes, without the performance of the funeral service ; diversions of all kinds were for- bidden, and everything wore an appearance of mourning and gloom. LVI.— -1, 2. What did Philip do when ho lieard of the treaty for Richard's release ? What saved Richard from his machinations? 3. What was an interdict? 4. What was excom- 9* 102 RICHARD RETURNS TO ENGLAND. 1194. 4. ExeQmmunic(dipn. \^as ^ worse sentence still, and was levelled at ind^.viduals,,as an'ifrt^rdirft was at a collection of people, such as a village, a state,, or a natipn. A person who was excommunicated was c,onsjde''ed as \ii? Wlj and polluted ; every one was forbidden to come UeavMrn; or* r^der him any fh'endly offices. Thus, if the sentence could have been enforced, it was possible for the most potent monarch to become, by a single mandate of the pope, a miserable outcast. RICHARD FORGIVING HIS BROTHER JOHN. 5. Queen Eleanor, as you may well believe, and everybody in England who loved King Richard, — and there were many who did, —used every means to raise the money required for his ransom. A general tax was levied to procure it, but this not proving suffi- cient, the nobles voluntarily contributed a quarter of their yearly incomes, and the silver that was in the churches and monasteries was melted down. 6. When the money was collected. Queen Eleanor took it her- self to Germany, and had the happiness of receiving her son, and bringing him to England. He landed at Sandwich on the 20th of March, 1194, after an absence of four years. He was received witli overflowings of joy, and in London with such a display of wealth, that the Germans who accompanied him exclaimed, " If ouv empe- ror had known the riches of England, your ransom, king, would have been much greater !" 7. After Richard had settled the affairs of his kingdom, he set munication? 6. When did Richard reach England? 7, 8. How did he treat his brothel John? DEATH OF RICHARD. — IIUJ. 108 out for Normandy, to defend it from an a|tapli wiih whigH it' was threatened by Pliilip. On the morning a;(tjer;H^ }ai!,^ijig at'JB'iiJJeur, Prijice John suddenly rushed into £is apartment^ and, tnrowing himself at his feet, implored his for^ven«:^s.J » >* ;'; ."; ',\ I I ,\ 8. This the king immediately granted', 'thoag]^ 'he'ebuM *nti*fi§el. any affection for such a brother. Indeed, he soon after said to some of his attendants, " I wish I may forget my brother's injurie.'* as soon as he will forget my pard(fn of the^." CHAPTER LVII. Death of Richard the Lion-hearted. K 1. The remainder of Richard's life was passed in a succession of wars and truces with the King of France. At last, through the mediation of the pojjc, negotiations were commenced for a more lasting peace. But these were brought to an abrupt conclusion by the death of Richard. 2. The Viscount of Limoges, a vassal of the king, had found a considerable treasure on his lands. Richard claimed this, as of his i right as sovereign ; and on the viscount's refusing to give up more than a part, declared positively that he would have the whole, and immediately laid siege to the castle of Chalus, where the treasure was supposed to be lodged. 3. The garrison offered to surrender the castle, and all that was in it, provided they might march out with their arms. Richard vindictively refused their offer, protesting he would take the place by force, and put them all to death. 4. On the 28th of March, 1199, as he was taking a survey of the castle, and giving directions for the assault, ^e was wounded by an arrow from the bow of Bertrand de Gourdon. The wound appeared trifling at first, but in a few days the life of the king was despaired of. Before he died the castle was taken, and all the garrison were instantly hanged, excepting Bertrand, whom Richard ordered to be brought into his presence. " What harm have I done to you," said the king to him, " that you should thus have attempted my death?" 5. "You. killed my father and brother with your own hands," replied "ihe n:an ; "and intended to have killed me, and I am ready to suffer any torments you can invent, with joy, since T have been so lucky as to kill one who has brought so many miseries on mankind." 6. Richard, conscious of the truth of this bold reply, bore it with patience, and ordered the man to be set at liberty; but this com- mand was not obeyed, and Bertrand was put to death as soon as the king had expired. Richard died on the 6th of April, 1199, in the LVII.— 1, 2, 3, 4-. Relate the particulars of Richard's death. 6. Relate the particulai;» of the interview between him and his slayer. 6. When did Richard die? How long did he live? How long reign? 7. To whom did he leave his possessions'* 104 ABOUT JOHN, SURNAMED LAOKl^AKD. IZUU. forty-second yet^r ro{t' cjii^ jige, and tenth of his reign, only foui moiii^^'Of which IJajrtitfep" passed in England. 7. He had no^childr,en, and left all his dominions to his brothel JofeKi.,*':li4 J^arf '5{t «on^ tipe appointed Arthur of Brittany, the son • O'l^^iS iiexfybuttgfef'btothejf,' Geoffrey, to be his heir, but on hia deathbed he altered his will, being influenced, as it is supposed, by Eleanor, who had a great hatred to Constance, the mother of Arthur. \ w- CHAPTER LVIII. Account of John, surnamed Lackland. — He takes his Nephew Arthur prisoner, and causes him to be murdered. — His Loss of Normandy. DEATH OK PRINCK AKTHUB. 1. John, surnamed Lackland, because he possessed no territory during the lifetime of his father, was the worst king and the worst man that ever wore the crown of England. Indeed, there are very few persons, whose lives are recorded, who possessed fewer redeem- ing qualities than King John. He was perfidious, cruel, and rapa- cious, and had neither personal bravery nor mental ability to make up for his faults. 2. He had early shown his incapacity for government; for hia father, Henry II., intending that Ireland should be his inheritance, Bent him thither to accustom the people to him. But he insulted LYIII.— 1. What is said of John? Why called Lackland? 2. Wliat instance had he DEATH OF PIIIN(5E ARTHUR. 1202 105 the Irish chiefs, ridiculed their customd^ r^n aii-thW, ^.^tek Ji^', been placed in his hands by Constance. But John found means to persuade Philip that it would be more for his advantage to aban- don Arthur, who was accordingly given up to John, and would iiave been put to death, had he not found means to escape. 4. Three years afterwards, in 1202, Arthur married a daughter of Philip, who then in good earnest set about enforcing his right. Young Arthur broke into Poitou at the head of a small army. Passing near the castle of Mirabel, he heard that his grandmother, Eleanor, his owui and his mother's most determined enemy, was in that place, and made haste to lay siege to it. 5. He had nearly got possession of the castle, when John, acting with a vigor quite unusual to him, came suddenly to his mother's rescue, and took the unfortunate Arthur prisoner, with his sister, called the Damsel of Bretagne, who was carried to England, and kept in perpetual imprisonment in Bristol Castle. 6. Arthur was taken to the castle of Falaise, and of his subsequent fate nothing is known with certainty. The most probable account of it is as follows : the king first proposed to William de la Bray, one of his servants, to murder Arthur, but William replied, that he was a gentleman, not a hangman, and he positively refused compliance. 7. Another instrument of murder was found, and was desi^atched to Falaise ; but Herbert de Bourg, the governor, desirous to save the unhappy young prince, pretended that he would execute the king's order, and sent back the assassin. He placed the prince in concealment, and, announcing that he was dead, had the funeral service publicly performed for him. 8. But the Bretons were so much exasperated at the supposed murder of their prince, that Herbert found it necessary to inform them of his being alive. No sooner did John hear of it than he had Arthur removed to Eouen, where he himself resided. The prince being brought into the presence of his uncle, threw himself on his knees before him, and begged for mercy ; but the barbarous tyrant, making no reply, stabbed him with his own hand. 9. All men were struck with horror at this inhuman deed, and John became an object of universal detestation. The people of Brit- tany laid their complaints before Philip, as their liege lord, and demanded justice for this violence committed on one of the chief vassals of the crown. 10. Philip received their application with pleasure, and sum- moned John to stand a trial before him. John did not appear, and, with the concurrence of the peers of France, he was pro- nounced guilty of murder, and all his territories in France were declared forfeit to his superior lord. Biiown of incapacity to govern? 3. Whose cause did Philip espouse? Why abai.don it? 4. Why rcsumo the support of it? Relate the particulars of Arthur's capture 6, 7, % Wiiat liecame of Artliur? 1(». What did Philip do v hen ho heard of Arthur's munW-f 11. WJiat hocamf of .John's possessions in France? 106 JOHN QUARRELS WITH THE POPE. — 1208. I'ij. «^Wlip prpceyei %t once to execute his sentence. John could make 'but little 'op|)dsitloh; because his barons refused to assist him. No^mg.ncl7; vt^as' Geverefd /join'^the crown of England, after it had 'peen/r^ tti^^pdss^s^ipjxqrf ^the 'descendants of Eollo for three hun- dred years. His mother's inheritance, also, and nearly all the rest of John's territories in France, were yielded up to Philip. CHAPTER LIX. John quarrels with the Pope. — About the Jeivs. — John excommunicated. — He submits to degrading Terms. 1. It would seem that John had diflficulties enough to contend with already; but, in 1208, he must needs involve himself in a dispute with the pope, respecting the choice of an Archbishop of Canterbury. The pope, Innocent III., insisted on the election of Stephen Langton, an Englishman of very superior abilities, but John refused to recognize his right of dictation. 2. The pope then laid the kingdom under an interdict. This, however, was not much regarded by the king, who employed him- self in expeditions against the Welsh and Irish, and in extorting money from his own subjects by many unjust and cruel methods. One of his contrivances was to assemble all the abbots and abbesses at London; and when he had collected them together, he kept them there till they had paid a large sum of money. 3. But the Jews were the special objects of his cruelty. Ever since the taking of Jerusalem by Titus, in the year 72 after Christ, the Jews have been an outcast, though still a separate people. About the time of Henry II., many of them went over and settled in England ; but they were treated with many indignities, and were obliged to wear a square yellow cap to distinguish them from Christians. 4. As they were cut off from all public employments, they devoted themselves to getting money ; and the taking of interest for the loan of money being forbidden to Christians, the Jewish money-lenders, having all the business to themselves, became very rich. In order to distinguish their houses from those of the Christians, they were required to build them with the chimneys over the doors. Houses of this description are yet to be seen in England. 5. They were exposed to many cruelties to extort from them their wealth, as it was considered no sin to plunder or even murder a Jew, more especially if the object was to get money for a crusade; it being deemed that the cause justified the crime. 6. The pope, finding that his interdict made no impression, now resorted to the more severe mode of bringing John to obedience. He LIX.— 1. What new quarrel was John involved in ? 2. How did he get money? 3, 4, B. What of the Jews? 6. What measure did the pope adopt, when he found his inter- COATS OF ARMS, OR ARMORIAL BEARINGS. — 1216, 11] C?I AFTER Lkt'*" • '•' - ' • - Henry III. — Coats of Arms," or. ^irrp^o^^'^eHr^riff^. \ \\ \ ,',\ 1. When King John died, his son Henry, called Henry of Win- chester, was only eight years old. As he grew up, he was found to be in character the opposite of his father. He was gentle, merciful, and humane, kind and affectionate to his family, and liberal to his friends. 2. Had his abilities been equal to his disposition, he would have made a very good king ; but the weakness of his conduct rendered him contemptible. His personal appearance, too, was exceedingly disadvantageous ; for, though he was of a tolerable height, he had no dignity in his manner ; his countenance was not pleasing, and his left eyelid drooped so much as almost to cover the eye. 3. The Earl of Pembroke, who was a sagacious and good man, was made governor of the young king, and protector of the king- dom. By his wise and prudent conduct, the rebel barons were brought back to their allegiance to the king, and Louis soon found himself deserted by all but his French troops. 4. These were soon after defeated by the Earl of Pembroke at Lincoln. In this battle, which decided the fate of Louis in England, only three of the French knights were killed. Indeed, a knight completely armed seldom ran any other risk than that of being dis- mounted, and it could only be by some chance if he was wounded. 5. It is said that Philip, King of France, in a battle with the Germans, after being knocked from his horse, was a long time sur- rounded by the enemy, and received blows from all kinds of weapons without losing a drop of blood. It is even said that while he lay upon the ground, a German soldier wanted to pierce his neck with a dart, but could not accomplish his object. 6. The reader may wonder how people could know one another when they were thus covered up in armor. Each knight orna- mented his helmet, or his shield, with some figure, such as an animal, a flower, a warlike weapon, or any other thing that pleased his fancy. It may be suggested that it would have been as easy for each one to have written his name upon his shield at once. 7. This might have been a good plan, if all had been scholars; but though eveiy man could distinguish an eagle from a lion, there might not have been one in a thousand who could have distin- guished the name of Henry from that of Louis. 8. Before the crusades, every knight adopted what crest on his helmet, and device on his shield, he liked best; but the sons of those who had fought in the Holy Land had a pride in adopting the devices their fathers had borne there ; and thus coats of arms, as they were called, became hereditary in the families of the crusaders. LXI. — 1. Who succeeded John upon the throne? What is said of Honry III.? 3. What of the i)rotector? 4. What was the success of the French invaders? What is said of defensive armor? 6. How wore knights distinguished from one another? Wliy nof write the names ? 8, 9. What of coats ©f arms ? mtfm* i» ^» " " n 112 DISTURBED STATE OF ENGLAND. 1223. 9."Byt'Coats ^f'ar'mSj'bS^ memorial bearings, as they are also called, have long ceased to Ibe confijaed to the descendants of crusaders ; ajjd:\\jhf(t;^s;at'fijfet, ^n/hondfable distinction, is, at present, little rtif6rfe tJiftiT'^rr «TiraeaniAg tJrrtalnent. — — -^^^' chIoter" LXII. / Disturbed State of England after the Death of Pembroke. — By what means the King obtained Money. — Of Benevolences. KING HENRY AND THE NOBLES. 1. After the defeat of the army at Lincoln, Louis was glad to make peace, and to withdraw into France. The Earl of Pembroke continued to govern the kingdom with honor, wisdom, and success, till 1219, when, to the misfortune of England and its king, he died. 2. In 1223, when Henry was sixteen years old, he was declared of age to govern for himself. His want of ability now became ap- parent, and he was found totally unqualified for maintaining a proper sway among the turbulent barons. 3. Those who had been intrusted with the keeping of the royal castles refused to give them up, and broke out into open rebellion when forcible means were used to compel them to do so. The king would then purchase their return to allegiance by concessions. 4. But the nobles were most highly oifended by the favor shown to foreigners by Henry. By the advice of Peter, Bishop of Winchester, LXII.— 1. Whbn did tho Earl of Pembroke die? Wliat was the stHio of thr OF BENEVOLENCES. — 1236. 113 a native of Poictou, the king invited over a great number of the people of that province, and bestowed upon them the chief offices of the state, being persuaded that they were more to be relied on than the English, and that they would serve to counterbalance the great power of the barons. , 5. The resistance of the nobles proved vain ; their measures were disconcerted, and the most violent among them were obliged to flee the kingdom, and their confiscated estates were bestowed upon the odious foreigners. At length the clergy took offence at the conduct of the Bishop of Winchester. The primate, as the Archbishop of Canterbury is called, formally demanded the dismission of all for- eigners, threatening the king with excommunication if he did not comply with the demand. 6. Henry knew full well that an excommunication, in the exist- ing state of public feeling, would be very dangerous to him, and was obliged to submit. The foreigners were banished, and natives were appointed to office in their stead. 7. But the English in vain flattered therhselves that they should be free from foreign influence. In 1236 the king married Eleanor, daughter of the Count of Provence, and immediately raised her re- lations to the highest offices. Many young ladies also came over from Provence, and were married to some of the chief noblemen in England. 8. The king was so profuse in his generosity to these favorites, that his treasures were soon exhausted, and he was often obliged to apply to parliament (as the great council of the nation began about this time to be called) for a supply of money. This body took advantage of his necessity to extort from him a confirmation of the Magna Charta, and the grant of new rights. 9. To render himself independent of them, Henry resorted to various modes of procuring money. He would invite himself to the houses of his subjects, and always expected a present at the door; he extorted from the Jews, wherever he found them ; he demanded benevolences, or forced contributions from his nobility and clergy ; but all these expedients proving insufficient, he was at last obliged to sell his jewels and his plate. CHAPTER LXIII. The King and the Pope unite against the Churchmen. — Illusiraiive Anecdote of the Times. 1. The pope, profiting by the weakness of Henry, made great encroachments on the privileges of the Church of England. The kingdom after his death ? 4. W^hat gave particular offence to the nobles ? 5, 6. What induced the king to banish the foreigners? 7. Whom did the king marry? 8. "What is the parliament? What did the parliament obtain from the king? 9. What were benevolences ? • 10 « • 114 POWER OF THE SEE OF ROME. — 1236. clergy expostulated in vain ; the king, hoping to derive some private advantage therefrom, supported the pope's legate in all his measures. HENRY III. AND THE CLERGY. 2. They mutually supported one another in their exactions. Whenever the king demanded money for himself, the legate took care to make a demand also. At length the prelates, quite tired of remonstrating, resolved to meet and consider of some remedy to prevent the rapacity of the legate. 3. They assembled accordingly, but scarce had they begun to complain to one another of the miseries they suffered, when the legate entered the assembly, and made a demand for more money ; this they considered as such an accumulation of impudence, that they gave him a blunt refusal. 4. An accident happened about this time, which strikingly ex- hibits the submission of the people to the papal power. Some business took the legate to Oxford. He was received and enter- tained there with great magnificence. As the luxury in w^hich these Italian dignitaries lived was great, several scholars of the urdversity, either from curiosity or hunger, entered the kitchen, while the legate's dinner was preparing. 6. After admiring the wealth and plenty which were lavishly dis- played on all sides, one of them, a poor Irish scholar, ventured to ask the cook for a bit of something to relieve his hunger. The cook, in- stead of giving the alms, threw a ladle of boiling water in the face of the petitioner. This action so provoked a Welsh student, who was present, that he drew his bow and shot the cook dead upon the spot. LXIII. — 1. What of the pope's conduct? 2. In what did the pope and Henry agree? 3. What did .the clergy do ? 4, 5, 6, 7. Relate the anecdote about the legate's seiTanI mid the scholar. ABOUT SIMON DE MONTFORT. 115 6. The legate, hearing the tumult, fled in alarm to the tower of Che church and remained there till evening. He then ventured to come forth, and hastening to the king, complained of this killing of his servant. The king fell into a great passion, and offered to put all the offenders to death. 7. The legate at first insisted on taking extreme vengeance, but was at length appeased by proper submission from the university ; all the scholars of that college which had offended were ordered to be stripped of their gowns, and to walk barefoot, with haltere about their necks, to the legate's house, and humbly ask for pardon. K^ CHAPTER LXIV. About Simon de Montfort. — The Mad Parliament. 1. Among the barons of England there was one named Simon de Montfort. He was a son of that de Montfort who made himself so famous in France in the war against the Albigenses, a sect of Chris- tians, against whom the pope got up a crusade. 2. This. Simon de Montfort had once been a great favorite with Henry, who had loaded him with riches and honors. He had raised him to the dignity of Earl of Leicester, and had consented to his marriage with his own sister, Eleanor, a match which gave great offence to her other brother, Richard, and to the English barons. 3. Although he owed the great wealth which gave him the power to injure, to the liberality of Henry, he was the most active in ex- citing opposition to the king. Although he was himself a foreigner, no one was so loud as he in declaiming against the indignity of sub- mitting to the rule of foreigners. 4. He left no means untried to gain the favor of all classes of society. His machinations at length proved successful. The barons resolved to take the government into their own hands. The inten- tion of resisting the king's authority first showed itself at the parlia- ment house, where the barons appeared clad in complete armor, with their swords by their sides. 5. The king at his entry was struck with this unusual appear- - ance, and anxiously inquired what was their purpose, and whether they intended to make him a prisoner. To this they submissively replied, that he was not their prisoner, but their sovereign ; that they intended to grant him large supplies, but they must have some return for them ; 6. That he had frequently made submissions to this parliament, and promised to observe the great charter, but had still allowed him- self to be led into the commission of the same errors, and therefore he must now be subjected to more strict regulations, and delegate LXIV.— 1. Who was SinKm de Montfort? 2,3. Wliat is said of him? 4. What did hp excite the nobles to do? 5, C. With what success? 1, When did tlio new parlia- 116 ABOUT PRINCE EDWARD. 1258 sufficient authority to those who were willing to redress the public grievances. 7. Henry agreed to the demand, and promised to assemble a par- liament at Oxford, to form a plan for the new government. Thia parliament, which was afterwards called the Mad Parliament^ on account of the confusion which resulted from its measures, met on the 11th of June, 1258. 8. Twenty-four barons were chosen by the parliament, at the head of whom was de Montfort, and to these authority was given to reform all abuses. These barons, under this pretext, lorded it over the king, and assumed a right to govern the kingdom. But the people scarcely acknowledging such rulers, or not knowing whom to obey, paid no respect to the laws, and it seemed as if all government were dissolved. 4 CHAPTEE LXV. •/ Character and Conduct of Prince Edward. — Battle of Lewes. — The '' Mise" of Leives. 1. The barons had now enjoyed the sovereign power for three years ; and had employed it, not for the reformation of abuses, which was the pretence upon which they obtained it, but for the aggran- dizement of themselves and their families. They abused their authority so much that all orders of men became dissatisfied. 2. Prince Edward, who had already given evidence of his ability' and courage, was loudly called upon to stand forward and assert his own and his father's rights. But he, as well as his father, had taken an oath to obey these self-constituted rulers, and, although absolved by the pope from his oath, he declared that he would abide by what he had sworn to. 3. This fidelity gained him the confidence of all parties, and en- abled him afterwards to recover the royal authority for his father, and to perform many great actions. The king, however, as soon as he had received the absolution, issued a proclamation, declaring that he had resumed his authority, and was resolved to protect his subjects against the tyranny of the barons. 4. The next three years were passed in fruitless negotiations be- tween the king and them. Treaties were made, which were broken as soon as ratified. Louis IX., King of France, who well merits his title of Saint, for he was one of the most virtuous, as well as one of the most able men who ever lived, pursued a very different policy from that which had actuated his grandfather Philip. 5. He tried to make peace between Henry and his barons. But Henry was too weak, and de Montfort was too ambitious, and all ment meet? What is it called? 8. What did the parliament do? What was the con Bequeiice of their acts ? LXV. — 1. To what purpose did the barons employ their povrer? 2, 3. What of Prince Edward? What did the king do? 4, 5. What of Louis IX.? 6, 7. What was the resuli CHANGE IN THE CONSTITUTION OF PARLIAMENT. — 1264. 117 Louis' endeavors were unavailing. At length both parties had re- course to arms. The hostile forces met at Lewes, May 14th, 1264. 6. The royal troops were formed in three divisions, commanded respectively by Henry, his brother Richard, and Prince Edward. The prince attacked the body of the rebels opposed to him, with such fury, that he drove them before him, and never stopped from the pursuit till he was four miles from the field of battle. 7. On his return from this pursuit, he found that the other two divisions of the royal army had been defeated, and that his father and uncle were prisoners in the hands of the rebels. He en- deavored in vain to prevail on his followers to renew the battle, but was at length obliged to submit to such terms as Leicester would grant him. 8. It was agreed that Edward and his cousin Henry should sur- render themselves as prisoners, in lieu of their respective fathers, who, with all the other prisoners on both sides, were to be released. There were other conditions in this agreement, which is called the Mise of Lewes, from an old French word having that meaning. 9. All the nobility of England who valued themselves upon their Norman descent, and who disdained the language of their native country, made familiar use of the French tongue until this period, and for some time after. CHAPTER LXVI. 4 Change made in the Constitution of Parliament. — Prince Edward makes his Escape from Imprisonment. — The Barons subdued. 1. Leicester, having got the whole royal family into his power, paid no regard to the Mise of Lewes. He still detained the king a prisoner, and used his name for his own lofty purposes. He even formed plans of raising himself to the throne. But his ambition caused his downfall. The Earl of Gloucester, his former associate, and now his rival, secretly planned his ruin. 2. Perceiving himself to be an object of suspicion to the nobles, Leicester sought to increase and to turn to advantage his popularity with the other classes. He summoned a parliament, and, that he might control its measures, he made a change in its constitution. In addition to the noblemen who attended in their own right, as the immediate servants of the crown, he ordered each county to send two discreet knights. 3. Every city and borough, or town, was also ordered to send two of its wisest citizens, and burgesses, as the inhabitants of a borough were called. This is the first mention made in history of the com- of the battle between the king and the nobles? 8. What is the treaty cal'M? 9. What of the language in use? LXVI.— 1. What led to Leicester's ruin? 2. How did he attempt to maintain hla power? What changes did he make in the constitution of the parliament ? 4. Of what 118 PRINCE EDWARD ESCAPES FROM IMPRISONMENT. mons being represented in parliament. Hitherto the prelates and barons only are mentioned as the members. PKINCE KDWAKD SAVING HIS FATHER. 4. At first the nobles and representatives of the counties and towns assembled in one house ; but afterwards they divided t lem- selves into two; and hence arose the House of Lords and the House of Commons ; the one composed of noblemen who attcj id in right of birth, or creation by the king, and the other of gentljmen who are chosen by the people. 5. This parliament met the 20th of January, 1265. The most powerful of the nobles, seeing the use which Leicester intended to make of this new engine, withdrew themselves from London. Amongst others, the Earl of Gloucester, whose power and influence had greatly contributed to the original success of the barons, re- tired to his castle, and put it in a state of defence. 6. He then formed a plan to get Prince Edward out of Leicester's hands, which he contrived to communicate to the prince, and sent him a horse of extraordinary swiftness. The prince, according to Gloucester's plan, pretended to be very ill, and, in a few days, ap- pearing a little better, he obtained Leicester's permission to ride abroad for the benefit of his health. 7. Proceeding slowly, as if weak and ill, he, after some little time persuaded the gentlemen who were his guards to-ride races with one another. When he thought that their horses were sufiiciently tired does the parliament consist? 5. How did the nobles defeat Leicester's project? 6,7 PRINCE EDWARD GOES ON A CRUSADE. 118 with this exercise, he raised himself erect in his saddle, and telling his guards " he had long enough enjoyed the pleasure of their com- pany, and that he now bade them adieu," he put spurs to his horse, and was soon beyond the reach of pursuit. 8. As soon as his escape was known, the loyal barons flocked to him, and he was thus at the head of a numerous army. Leicester obliged the old king to issue a proclamation, declaring the prince a traitor. He also sent for his eldest son, Simon, from London, who accordingly set out to join him with a great reinforcement. 9. But Prince Edward met and defeated him at Kenilworth ; and before Leicester could hear of his son's overthrow, Edward's army appeared in sight, bearing in front the banners taken from young Simon. This led the earl at first to suppose that the reinforcement he was expecting had arrived. 10. But when the prince advanced near enough for him to find out his mistake, he exclaimed, " Now God have mercy on our souls^ for our bodies are Prince Edward's !" The battle soon began, and poor King Henry was placed by Leicester in the front of his army. He received a wound, and was near being killed, but crying out, " I am Henry of Winchester, your king, don't kill me," he was led to his son, who put him in a place of safety. 11. The victory of the prince was complete. Leicester was killed, and the confederacy of the barons was broken up. This important battle was fought at Evesham, May 4th, 1265. One powerful baron, named Adam Gordon, still held out against the king, and the prince was obliged to lead an army against him. 12. He found the rebels in a fortified camp, which he at once attacked. In the ardor of the battle, Edward leaped over the trench, and encountered Gordon in single combat; after a sharp contest, the latter fell from his horse, but the prince generously gave him. his life, and was ever after faithfully served by him. / CHAPTER LXVII. Prince Edward goes on a Crusade. — Death of Henry HI. — About Paintings, and Illuminated Manuscripts. 1. As there was no more fighting to be done at home. Prince Edward, who could not bear to be idle, set out on a crusade against the Infidels. He embarked at Portsmouth, May 4th, 1270, meaning to jcfin St. Louis at Tunis. On his arrival there, he found that Louis had died of the plague. 2. Not discouraged by this event, Edward resolved still to pursue the enterprise with his own little army. Proceeding to the Holj How did Edward effect bis escape? 8. What did the king do ? 10, 11. What of the battle of Evesham? When and between whom was it fought? 12. What auecdoto of Princj" Edward's gallantry ? LXVII.— 1, When did Edward leave England to fight the Infidels? 2. What was hi- 120 DEATH OF HENRY III. Land, he distinguished himself by many acts of valor ; and struct such terror into the Saracens that they employed an assassin to murder him. PRINCE EBWAKD AND THE ASSASSIN. 3. This man, under pretence of having a secret message, was ad- mitted into the prince's. chamber, and then attempted to kill him with ELEANOR SUCKING OUT THE, POISON. a poisoned dagger. Edward wrenched the weapon from the man's hand, but in the scuffle he received a wound in the arm. This might success? 3. Relate the incidents of the attack on his life. 4. What was the state of ARCHITECTURE OF THE AGE OF HENRY III. 1272. 12 J have proved fatal, had not his affectionate wife, Eleanor, who had accompanied him to Palestine, sucked the poison from the wound. 4. Whilst the prince was thus perilling his life in foreign lands, affairs were going on very badly at home. King Henry had become old and feeble ; his government, never much respected, was now totally despised, and riots, robberies, and excesses of all kinds were perpetually committed. 5. At last the king, worn out by infirmities, died on the 16th of November, 1272, in the sixty-fourth year of his age, and the fifty- seventh of his reign, the longest reign in the English annals, except that of George III., and one of the most inglorious. 6. Although Henry was so deficient in the abilities necessary for a ruler, he was not altogether wanting in sense. He was a pro- moter of the fine arts, and the art of painting improved greatly during his reign. It became the fashion to adorn the walls of rooms and churches with historical pictures. 7. Antiquaries are very much puzzled to know what colors were ased in these large paintings. There is reason to believe they were not merely water colors, and yet it is commonly supposed that the art of painting in oils is of much later discovery. 8. The only pictures which we can rely upon, of this age, are those we find in Missals, or Eoman Catholic Prayer Books. These are often ornamented, or, as it is called, illuminated, with paintings, beautiful from the brightness of the gold and colors, and curious from the exceeding delicacy of the execution. Many of these books are still in excellent preservation. CHAPTER LXVIII. Architecture of the Age of Henry III. — Trade and the Merchants of England at the same Period. 1. A CHANGE was^also made in the style of architecture, and some of«the finest Gothic buildings of England were built in the reign of Henry III. The heavy Saxon was now succeeded by one of much greater elegance, and richness of ornament. The pillars, instead of heavy thick shafts, had one small shaft in the centre, surrounded by many slender ones^ so as to form altogether one bulky pillar composed of many parts. 2. The carved work of all kinds was more elaborate, and the out- sides of the churches were adorned with pinnacles, and with loftier steeples than formerly. Such very curious and complicated build- ings could not be executed by common workmen. A number of the best artificers, therefore, incorporated themselves into com- panies, and went about from place to place, as they were required. England during his absence? 5. When did Henry die? What was hia age? How long dldhe reign ? 6. What is said of the art of painting? 7. What of the colors ? 8. Wliut is said of the Missals? LXVIII.— 1. What change had taken place in tlie architecture? 3. What were the 11 122 STATE OF LEARNING. 1272. 3. They lived in temporary huts, near the great buildings they were employed upon, and called themselves free masons ; and this is the origin of the society oifree masons, which has been so greatly extended. 4. Although so much had been done to secure the liberties of the nobles, little change had taken place in the condition of the common people. Slaves were bought and sold at the fairs, and a man would bring a less price than a horse. These fairs were markets, held at stated periods, for the sale of various articles of merchandise ; for (here were no regular shops, and the merchants and traders travelled from place to place, attending the fairs to dispose of their goods. 5. The foreign trade of England at this time was chiefly carried on by Germans. The principal commodities were wool, lead, and tin. These were brought to certain towns in different parts, called the staple towns, where the collectors of the king's customs were appointed to receive the duty. 6. The goods were then sold to the German traders, who were called the merchants of the staple; and these people exported them abroad, and imported gold, silver, and various goods in return. The Lombards, also, were another set of foreigners who settled in England. Their business was chiefly to lend money on interest. 7. The native merchants made a serious remonstrance to Edward, after he became king, begging that the ^^ merchant strangers" might be sent out of the kingdom ; but the answer they received from him was, " I am ol' opinion that merchant strangers are useful to the great men of the kingdom, and therefore I will not expel them." In fact, they not only imported silks, wine, spices, and other luxu- ries, used only by the nobles, but also lent them money. CHAPTEE LXIX. Of the state of Learning in the time of Henry III, — Friar Bacon. — Judicial Astrology. — Trials by Combat, 1, Although four of the present colleges at Oxford were founded \i\ the reign of Henry III., yet learning was still at a very low ebb. There were a great number of students, but they learned little except bad Latin, and worse logic. They disputed without end and without meaning about the plainest truths. These frivolous contests were conducted with so much eagerness, that from angry words the dis- putants sometimes proceeded to blows. 2. But there was one person of this age who is distinguished for more useful inventions than any other man who ever lived. This Avas Roger Bacon, a monk of Oxford, and the most learned man of his time. He applied his learning to the discovery of useful knowledge. free masons? 4. What is said of the condition of the people? 5. IIow was trade carried on? 6. By whom was the foreign trade carried on ? In wliat manner? Wliat were the principal commodities? 7. What did the native merchant.s do to rid themseh/« of the foreigners? What was the king's answer to their application ? LXIX. — 1. What is said of the state of learning? What was taught? '1. WJmt in FRIAR BACON. — JUDICIAL ASTROLOGY. — 1272. 123 3. He invented telescopes, reading-glasses, microscopes, and many other astronomical and mathematical instruments. He discovered gunpowder, but he considered it as an object of mere curiosity, and not applicable to any useful purpose. The same discovery was after- wards made by Swartz, a German monk, about the year 1340, and, as he was the first who applied it to its present uses, he has the credit, and perhaps deservedly, of being the original inventor. FRIAR BACON. 4. Friar Bacon, as he is commonly called, also wrote several books ; and made a map, a thing which excited great admiration. This was not a map of England, as we might suppose, but of Tar- tary ; and was formed from the descriptions he obtained from some travellers, who had been there. 5. In short, his genius soared so far above all his contemporaries, that he was looked upon as a magician, and thrown into prison, where he was kept many years. He at length returned to Oxford, and died there, a very old man, in 1292. 6. At a period a little earlier than this, Judicial astrology, or the science of the stars, was the favorite study. The astrologers pre- tended to foretell events by observing the heavenly bodies. There was hardly a prince, or even a nobleman, in Europe, who did not keep one in his family, 7. The most famous of the astrologers published a kind of alma- nac every year, with a variety of predictions concerning the weather said of Roger Bacon? What; were soifle of liis discovorios ? Who has the credit of inTenting gunpowder? Why? 5. What misfortunes did Bacon's learning bring upon him? When did he die? 6. What is said of judicial astrology ? 7. What did the most V 124 EDWARD I. — 1272. as well as the public events that were to take place. Their predic- tions were generally given in very general and arti al terms. By departing from this prudent conduct, they brought themselves into temporary disrepute. 8. For, in the beginning of 1186, all the great Christian astrologers agreed in declaring, that from some extraordinary positions of the planets, wliich had never happened before and would never happen again, there would arise on Tuesday, the 16th of September, at three o'clock in the morning, a most dreadful storm, which would sweep away great towns and cities. 9. They further predicted that this storm would be followed by a destructive pestilence, bloody wars, and all the plagues that ever afflicted miserable mortals. This direful prophecy spread terror and consternation over Europe, though it was contradicted by the Arabian astrologers, who said there would only be a few shipwrecks, and a little failure in the harvest. 10. When the awful day drew near, the Archbishop of Canter- bury commanded a solemn fast of three days to be observed. But, to the utter confusion of the poor astrologers, the 16th of September was uncommonly calm and pleasant, the whole season remarkably mild and healthy, " and there were no storms that year," says a pleasant writer, " but what the archbishop raised in the church by his own turbulence." 11. We will mention one other incident of the reign of Henry HI., illustrative of the manners of the age — the trial by ordeal. The Normans, although they had hitherto retained this custom of the Saxons, had a method of their own of referring the decision of ques- tions to the Judgment of God. 12. This was by the trial by combat. The parties to a lawsuit, instead of battling in words, fought it out with swords, and he who came oft" best in the contest, gained his cause. Even abstract ques- tions of law were referred to the same decision. A champion was selecte'd to maintain each side of the question, and the decision was given in accordance with the result of the combat. + CHAPTEE LXX. Edward I., surnamed Long-Shanks. — Tournaments. — The little Battle of Chalons. 1. We have already seen enough of Edward I. to know that he proved a king of a very different character from his father. In his person he was unusually tall, and his legs being somewhat out of proportion, he had the surname of Long-Shanks given to him. famous astrologers do each year? 8, 9, 10. Relate the incident which brought tbem into disrepute. 11. What custom was abolished in the reign of Henry III.? 12. What ii said of trial*- by combat ? LXX. — 1. Wbat was Edward I. surnamed? Why? Describe his personal appear TOUKNAMENTS. — 1272. 125 2. He had a fine open forehead, and regular features ; his haii and complexion were fair in his youth, but became darker in his middle age. His air and carriage were very commanding ; he de- lighted in all martial and manly exercises, and was an excellent rider. 3. He had great courage and military skill, and his understand- ing was of a very superior order. He was an excellent son, husband, and father ; and yet this man, with all his fine qualities, was the occasion of infinite misery to many thousands of people. The desire of possessing himself of the whole island of Great Britain had so beset his mind, that every other consideration gave way to it. 4. Edward did not remain long in the Holy Land after the attempt on his life which we have mentioned. He had reached Sicily, on his way home, when he heard the news of his father's death. He set out at once for England. As he passed through Burgundy, he received an invitation from the duke of that country to a tourna- ment which he was then preparing. 5. Edward possessed too much of the spirit of a knight to decline any opportunity of gaining honor, and lie was glad to display his skill in these martial exercises to the foreign nobles. 6. A tournament was a great entertainment given by some king, or rich prince, at which a mock combat was held, for the knights to display their skill in the use of arms. When a prince had resolved to hold a tournament, he sent a messenger, called a herald, to the neighboring courts and countries to publish his design, and to invite all brave and loyal knights to honor the intended solemnity with their presence. 7. This invitation was accepted with the greatest joy, and a vast number of ladies and gentlemen commonly assembled. All the knights who proposed to enter the lists, that is, to take part in the exercises, hung up their shields, each of which, as we before stated, bore the particular device of the knightly owner, on the walls of a neighboring monastery, where they were viewed by all. 8. If a lady touched one of the shields, it was considered as an accusation against its owner, who was immediately brought before the judges of the tournament — who were generally some old knights whose fighting days were past — tried with great solemnity, and if found guilty of defaming a lady, or of having done anything unbe- coming a true and courteous knight, he was degraded and expelled the assembly with every mark of infamy. 9. The lists, as the space enclosed for the combat was called, were surrounded with lofty towers, and scaffolds of wood, in which the kings and queens, princes and princesses, lords, ladies, and knights, with the judges, marshals heralds, and minstrels, were seated in their proper places, all arrayed in their richest dresses. 10. The combatants, nobly mounted and completely armed, were conducted into the lists by the respective ladies in whose honor they ance 3. What of his character? 4. Where did he hear of his father's death ? 5. What dehiyed him on his way home? 6. What was a tournaiDcnt? How was the intention to hold one announced? 7. Wliat did the liniglits do wlio proposed to take part? 8. What followed if a lady touched the shield of any knight? 9. What were the lists? 10. n * J 26 Edward's arrival in England. — 1274. were to fight, with bands of music, and amidst the shouts of the numerous spectators. In these exercises, representations were given of all the different feats of actual war, from a single combat to a general action, with all the different kinds of arms, as spears, Bwords, battle-axes, and daggers. 11. At the conclusion of every day's entertainment, the judges declared the victors, and the prizes were presented to the happy knights by the noblest or most beautiful lady present. The victors were then conducted in triumph to the palace; their armor was taken off by the ladies of the court ; they were dressed in the richest robes, seated at the table of the sovereign, and treated with every possible mark of distinction. 12. These tournaments were considered merely as friendly trials of skill. But the lives of many brave champions were lost in them. Sometimes the passions of the combatants became excited, and the mock combat gave occasion to one of a more serious character. 13. This was the case at the very tournament of Chalons, to which Edward had just accepted an invitation. He and his com- panions were so successful, that the French knights, provoked at their superiority, made a serious attack upon them, which was re- pulsed, and so much blood was idly shed in the quarrel, that it has received the name of the little Battle of Chalons. CHAPTEE LXXI. Edward after his return to England. — Reply of Earl Warrenne to an Inquiry of the King. — Conquest of Wales. — Massacre of the Welsh Bards. 1. Edward did not arrive in England till May, 1274. His first business was to restore order in the kingdom, and to put a stop to the robberies and murders which were being constantly committed in all parts. During the reigns of the late weak monarchs, great encroachments had been made upon the royal estates by the nobles. 2. Edward therefore appointed commissioners to inquire into the titles by which all persons held their estates. Among the first, Earl Warrenne was asked to produce the instrument or title by which he held his. 3. "By this," said he, drawing an old rusty sword out of the scabbard; and added, in a tone of determination, "William of Normandy did not conquer the kingdom for himself alone ; my ances- tor was a joint adventurer in the enterpnsp ; and I am resolved to maintain what has from that period remained without question in What of the combatants? 11. What happened at tlie conclusion of each day's sports? 12. Were lives ever lost at the tournaments? 13. What of the tournament at Chalons? LXXI. — 1. When did Edward arrive in England? What were his first acts? What Inquiry did he set on foot? 3. What was Earl Warrenue's reply to the inquiry? 4 CONQUEST OF WALES. — 1282. 127 my family." This answer made Edward sensible of the danger he was incurring, and he put an end to the inquiry. 4. Edward appears to have always had a great dislike to the Jews, and this was very much increased by his expedition to the Holy Land. One of his first acts after his return was to confiscate all the property, and to banish from the kingdom all the people of that nation. Since that time there have been very few Jews in England, and the business of lending money, which had hitherto been confined to them, was now taken up by the Lombards, and other foreigners. 5. Edward could not long remain without some employment. So he resolved to chastise the Welsh, because they had taken part with the rebels in his father's reign, and because their prince had refused to do homage to himself as his sovereign. 6. Advancing into their country with an army, he completely defeated them in a battle fought December 11th, 1282. Theii prince, named Llewellyn, was slain, and his brother David taken prisoner, and executed like a common traitor. THE DKATII OK JLLEWKLLYN, 7. Edward now took undisputed possession of Wales. Fearing that the Welsh Bards might, by their music and poetry, in which were celebrated the heroic deeds of their ancestors, revive in the minds of their young countrymen the idea of military valor and ancient glory, the conqueror barbarously ordered them all to be put to death' 8. It is said by the old monkish historians, that Edward, having assembled the leaders of the Welsh, promised to give them a prince Wliat is said of the Jews? o. What oxpeditioD did Edward next engage in ? 6. When was the decisive battle fonght in Wales? 7. What of the Welsh Bards? 8. What did Edward promise tlio assembled Welsh leaders? 9. How did he perform his promise* What is the title of the kinfe's eldest son ? 128 THE MAID OF NORWAY. — 1286. of unexceptionable manners, a Welshman by birth, and one who could speak no other language. Captivated by this description, they poured forth violent acclamations of joy, and promises of obedience. THK FIRST PRINCE OF WALES. 9. The king then presented to them his second son, Edward, an infant, who had lately been born in the castle of Caernarvon. The death of his eldest son, soon after, made young Edward heir to the crown ; and from that time the principality of Wales has given the title to the eldest son of the King of England. r CHAPTEE LXXII. The Maid of Norway. — Edward interferes in the Affairs of Scotlafid. 1. We have now shown how well Edward succeeded in part of his plan to unite the whole island under his own dominion. We shall next see how nearly Scotland also was thrown into his grasp. 2. The kings of Scotland and England had lived for a long time in singular harmony, considering how apt neighbors are to quarrel. Alexander III. had married Edward's sister, who died, leaving one child, Margaret, who married the King of Norway, and died, leav- ing an only daughter about three years old, commonly called the Maid of Norivay. 3. Alexander himself died in 1286, and his infant grandchild be- came heiress of his dominions. Edward proposed to the King of Norway that the Prince of Wales should marry his daughter, the little Queen of Scotland. Such early marriages w^ere then not un- LXXII. — 2. Who was the Maid of Norway ? 3. What proposal did Edward make in re- A^F|^A.IKa( OF SCOTLAND. — 12i>6. 129 common. Indeed, Alexander and his queen had been betrothed when neither of them was a year old. 4. The King of K ;rway and the parliament of Scotland agreed to the proposal ; but the death of the young queen, on her voyage to Scotland, put an end to the project. The demise of a girl three years old was never before so much lamented, nor has ever since produced such disastrous consequences. 5. What might have happened had she lived we know not ; but her death prevented the union between the two nations, and plunged Scotland into long and bloody private and public wars. No less than thirteen competitors for the throne appeared. Robert Bruce and John Baliol had the strongest claims, and they agreed to refer the decision to Edward. 6. This was a very common mode of settling disputes in that age. Edward, whose reputation was very high among his contemporaries, had before been selected to decide controversies between states and princes. As the parties to these disputes had been distant, and his own interest was not concerned, his decisions had been wise and equitable. 7. The temptation in the present case was too strong for him to resist. He came to the borders of Scotland with a powerful army, and insisted that his supremacy over Scotland should be acknow- ledged, before proceeding in the cause which had been referred to him. The Scots, after great hesitation, agreed to this. 8. He then required that all the places of strength should be put into his hands ; and when this was done, he gave judgment in favor of Baliol, who was proclaimed King of Scotland. But he obtained only the name of king. Possessing little ability, he was treated like a child by Edward, who usurped all the power, and was disposed to treat the Scots like slaves. 9. But they were not of a temper to submit tamely to this. They took up arms, but were defeated at Dunbar. Edward now treated Scotland like a conquered province. He obliged Baliol to resign his crown, and also ordered all the records and monuments of antiquity to be destroyed, and carried to England with hipa the regalia of Scotland, as the crown, sceptre, and other symbols of royalty are called. 10. But there was one loss which the Scots felt more sensibly than all. That was the stone chair at Scone, in which the kings of Scotland had been wont to sit when they were crowned, and to w]iich a superstitious value was attached. This was carried to England, and is still to be seen in Westminster Abbey. gard to her ? 4. What prevented its execution ? 6. W^ho claimed the crown of Scotland ? To wliose decision were the claims referred? 6. What is said of Edward's decisions in other cases? 7. What did he require before he considered the question? 8. In whose favor did he decide it? How did he treat the Scots? 9. How did the Scots bear his treatment? Where were tliey defeated? What did Edward do after his victory at Dun« bar? 10. What loss did the Scots feel the most? r 130 WILLIAM WALLACE. — 1297. CHAPTER LXXIII. Wallace. — Singular Expedient of an English Nobleman, to inform Robert Bruce of i7npending Danger, — JSdward's Vow. — How it was fulfilled. — Death of Edward. 1. After the battle of Dunbar, Edward appointed Earl War- renne to be governor of Scotland, and gave all the ofiices to Eng- lishmen. The Scots groaned bitterly under this degradation; and in 1297, William Wallace stood forth, though only a private gen- tleman of small property, to rescue his fallen country. 2. He was soon joined by several of the nobility; and notwith- standing the impediments he met with from some of the nobles, he maintained the glorious struggle for eight years, but with various success. At one time he pushed his victorious army into England; but at another, his cause was nearly ruined at Falkirk, where Edward gained a complete victory. At last, in 1305, he was be- trayed into the hands of the English, who j^ut him to death. 3. John Baliol being dead, Robert Bruce, son of the former com- petitor, was generally recognized as the legal heir to the crown of Scotland. Although he was residing at the court of Edward, his heart was with his countrymen, and he was constantly contriving how he might strike the most effective blow for their rights, as well as his own, and for this purpose he corresponded with some patri- otic nobles at home. 4. One of these proved treacherous to the cause, and informed Edward of all their plans. Edward did not at once commit Bruce to prison, for such of the nobles as were not in his power would have taken the alarm, and made their escape. So he put spies upon him, and had all his motions strictly watched. 5. An English noble, Bruce's intimate friend, was apprised of his danger; but not daring, amidst so many jealous eyes, to hold any conversation with him, he hit upon an expedient to give him warn- ing that it was full time he should make his escape. He sent him a pair of gilt spurs, and a purse of gold, which he pretended to have borrowed from him, and left it to the sagacity of Robert to discover the meaning of the present. 6. Bruce immediately contrived the means of escape ; and as the ground was at that time covered with snow, he had the precaution to order his horse to be shod with his shoes reversed, that he might deceive those who should track his path over the open fields and cross roads, through which he proposed to travel. 7. In a few days he arrived at Dumfries, where he fortunately found a great number of the Scottish nobility assembled, and the traitor, John Cummin, among them. They were not a little sur- LXXIII.— 1. What did Edward do after the victory at Dunbar? 2. What is said of William Wallace? 3. Who was Robert Bruce? Relate the particulars of his escape from Edward's court. 7. What did he dn at PumfrieR? 9. Relate the ceremony with EDWARD II. — 1307. 131 prised at Bruce's unexpected arrival, and still more so when he stated to them tlie occasion of his journey. 8. They readily agreed at once to take up arms, with the excep- tion of Cummin, who did all he could to persuade them to remam quietly in subjection to Edward. To punish him for his former treachery, and to prevent his doing any mischief for the future, he was put to death. 9. When Edward heard of these proceedings, he was enraged beyond measure, and vowed the destruction of The Bruce. He began his expedition into Scotland with a singular ceremony. He assembled all his nobles in Westminster Abbey, and, with many solemnities, caused two live swans, adorned with bells of gold, to be brought in. 10. By these swans, he took a solemn oath that he would march into Scotland, and never return till he had brought it into subjec- tion. He kept his vow, but not in the way that he intended ; for he did not subjugate Scotland, and he never returned. He spent many months in a vain pursuit of Bruce and his adherents, who contrived to conceal themselves among the mountains, seizing every opportunity of annoying the English. 11. At last, Edward, exasperated by disappointment, sent for all the forces in his dominions to meet him at Carlisle. Before they could arrive, he was taken very ill. It was reported that he was dead, and, to show the falsehood of the report, he set out from Car- lisle, but after advancing a few miles he was compelled to stop. A tent was set up by the road-side, in which he expired, July 7th, 1307. 12. Before he died, he charged his eldest son, Edward, to send his heart to the Holy Land, to carry his body with the army into Scotland, and not to bury it till he had made a complete conquest of that country; and never to recall Piers Gaveston, a wicked favorite of the son, whom the father had banished. Edward waa seventy years old, and had reigned thirty-five years. CHAPTEK LXXIV. ^-""^ Edward II. — Battle of Bannockburn. — The Effect of the Defeat upon the English. 1. When Edward I. died, his son was twenty-two years of age, and the English had conceived such a good opinion of him, that they thought they should be happy under his government ; but the first acts of his reign, which were in direct disobedience of his father's dying injunction, blasted their hopes. Abandoning the invasion of Scotland, he disbanded his army, and, recalling Gaveston from banishment, he gave himself up to idle amusements. which Edward began his expedition to Scotland. 10. How was his vow kept? 11. Re- late the particulars of his death. 12. What was his charge to his son? How old was he? How long did he reign ? 132 BATTLE OF BANNOCKBURN. — 1314. 2. Edward II. resembled his father in the beauty of his person but not in the qualities of his mind. He was weak, passionate, and irresolute, and addicted to the vice of excessive drinking. He w^a? devotedly attached to his favorites, who were without exception ill chosen and unworthy persons. The only kingly quality he pos- sessed was personal courage; but this, as it was not guided by discretion, was of no service to himself or his country. 3. Gaveston was loaded with honors and riches by the king, of whose favor he was very vain. He treated the nobles with the utmost insolence, and used to divert himself and his royal master by turning them into ridicule, and giving them nicknames. This con- duct gave great offence to the nobles, which was heightened by the king's appointing Gaveston to be guardian of the kingdom, w^hen he went to France to marry Isabella, daughter of Philip the Fair. 4. A confederacy was formed against him, at the head of which was the Earl of Lancaster, the king's cousin, the richest and most powerful baron in the kingdom. The king was required to send Gaveston out of the country, and he affected to comply with the demand; but "instead of sending him home to Gascony, as the barons intended, he made him governor of Ireland. 5. In about a year, Gaveston was recalled to court, where he be- haved as insolently as ever. The nobles, finding remonstrances to be vain, broke out into open rebellion. At last Gaveston was taken prisoner by the rebels and put to death. The king was thrown into agonies of grief by the death of his favorite ; but he had so com- pletely lost the affections of the people, that he had no means of avenging it, and was obliged to accept such terms of peace as the barons chose to offer. 6. In the mean time, Bruce, by his courage and prudence, had nearly rid his country of its invaders. At last Edward resolved to make one vigorous effort, and to reduce Scotland by a single blow. He entered that country at the head of the largest army that had ever marched out of England, and on the 24th of June, 1314, arrived within three miles of Stirling, where he saw the Scottish army drawn up on the banks of the little river Bannock. 7. Bruce had been able to muster only about thirty thousand men to oppose the immense host of the King of England ; but he neglected nothing that could facilitate his success. He placed his army on a rising ground, with a river in front, and a bog on one side ; and to make the approach still more difficult, he caused pits to be dug and filled with sharp stakes, and the tops covered over with turf and leaves. 8. The English halted for the night, and, despising the little army opposed to them, spent the time in feasting and merriment ; while the Scots were occupied in devotion, and in mutual exhorta- tions to conquer or to die. The Earl of Gloucester, who commanded the English cavalry, was the first to advance, and, falling into one of the pits, was the first to die on that disastrous day. LXXIV.— 1. How did Edward II. obey his father's dying commands? 2. What is said of his character? 3. What of Gaveston? 4. What did the nobles do? How did the king comply with their demand ? 5. Wliat became of Gaveston ? 6. What prepara FAMINES. 131R. 133 9. The cavalry, having lost its leader, was thrown into confusion, and completely routed. While the infantry were alarmed with this unfortunate beginning, they observed what appeared to be another army marching leisurely over the heights as if ^ surround them. This was, in fact, a number of the wagoners and boys, whom Bruce had furnished with banners, and who, at a distance, made a very warlike show. 10. The stratagem succeeded completely. The English threw down their arms and fled without striking a blow, and Edward was himself obliged to fly, to avoid being made a prisoner. They were pursued with great slaughter for ninety miles, till they reached Ber- wick. Such was the battle of Bannockburn, which secured the in- dependence of Scotland, and which is remembered as the greatest overthrow which the English have sustained since the Conquest. 11. They did not recover from the effects of this defeat for a long time. They were so much dispirited and cast down, that they lost all courage, so that for several years no superiority of numbers could encourage them to keep the field against the Scots. 12. A little humiliation, probably, did them no harm, for Frois- sart, the French chronicler, tells us, "that the English were so proud and haughty, that they could not behave to the people of other nations with civility." CHAPTER LXXV. Famines, and the causes of their frequency at this period. — Agriculture. — Customs in the Fourteenth Century. 1. To add to the distresses which England suffered from the con- duct of the barons, there occurred, in 1316, a most grievous famine. Provisions became so scarce that the nobles, whose magnificence was -principally shown in the number of their retainers, were obliged to discard many of them. 2. These people, having been accustomed to lead idle lives in the castles of their lords, commonly turned robbers to obtain the means of living ; and this they did in such great numbers, that the country was overrun by them. 3. Famines were of more frequent occurrence in those days than at present, because agriculture was conducted in a very unskilful manner, being left entirely to the lowest classes, and considered be- neath the attention of a gentleman. It was one of the grounds of complaint against Edward II., that he was fonder of agriculture than of war. 4. That sagacious monarch, Edward I., did not think it beneath tioii (lid Edward make a^fiinst Scotland? 7, 8, 9, 10. Relate the particulars of the battle of Bannockburn. 11. What was its effect on the English character? 12. W^hat does Froisnart say of the English? LXXV. — 1. What distressing event occurred in 1316? 2. What vas one consequence? 3. What of famines in those times? 4. What of husbandry? 6. What of horticul- 12 134 HUGH SPENSER. 1822. his consideration, for in a book of laws made in his time, there are very particular directions when and how to till the ground. As the people had no means of fattening cattle in the winter, salted meat was used during the whole time that they could not feed them in the pastures on grass. 5. Horticulture was not entirely neglected. The houses of the nobility had commonly some sort of garden, or ^^ pleasance,'^ attached to them ; and all the monasteries had orchards and gardens, includ- ing a " herberie,^^ or physic garden, the chief medicines of the times being prepared from j.erbs. The list of culinary vegetables at this time was very small, there being few besides carrots, parsnips, and cabbages in general use. 6. Notwithstanding the bad husbandry, the nobles and rich peo- ple contrived to live very sumptuously. Edward II. issued a proc- lamation, forbidding his subjects to have more than two courses at dinner. It is to be hoped that the king set the example by making a reform at court. At a marriage feast of Henry the Third's brother, there were thirty thousand dishes. 7. It was the custom for kings to be attended at the table by their physicians, to tell them what to eat — a necessary precaution, since their banquets were so profuse. There were but two regular meals in the day, dinner and supper. The time of dinner, even at court, was at nine in the morning, and the time of supper at five in the afternoon. 8. These hours were thought to be friendly to health and long life, according to the following verses, which were then often repeated : Lever a cinq, diner a neuf, Souper a cinq, couclier a neuf, Fait vivre dans nonante et neuf. \ To rise at five, to dine at nine, To sup at five, to bed at nine, Makes a man live to ninety-nine. V CHAPTER LXXVI. Edward 11. receives Hugh Spenser into his Favor. — He is dethroned and cruelly murdered by Isabella and Roger Mortimer. 1. Edward II. did not possess strength of mind enough to exist without some favorite. A Welsh gentleman, named Hugh Spenser, succeeded to Gaveston's place in the affection of the king, and in the envy and hatred of the nobles. Edward lavished favors upon him ture? 6. What of the style of living among the nobles? 7. What were the hours foi meala ? LXXVI.— 1. Who succeeded Gaveston in the king's favor? What was the couse" ISABEL].A AND ROGER MORTIMER. 1326. 135 and his father, who was also named Hugh Spenser, as he had upon Ga^ eston, and the Uke consequences ensued. 2. Both parties resorted to arms. At last, in March, 1322, the Earl of Lancaster was taken prisoner. After a short trial, he was condemned to death, and, on the 22d of March, this once powerful nobleman, placed on a miserable horse, and clothed in a shabby dress, was led out of Pontefract, which had been his own chief place of resi- dence* and taken to a hill near the town, where he was beheaded. 3. The question of doing homage for the territories held by the King of England in France had always, as will be recollected, been a source of contention between the two countries. A dispute now arose as to Edward's doing homage for Guienne, which had been restored to the English crown. 4. In 1325 Isabella was sent over to France to accommodate matters between her husband and her brother. She found at Paris a large number of nobles who had been obliged to leave England in the late rebellions. The hatred which she herself felt for the Spensers led to a secret friendship and intercourse with the exiles. 5. One of these, named Roger Mortimer, a man of infamous cha- racter, gained such an influence over her, that, yielding entirely to his counsels, she refused to return to England, and set herself up in rebellion against her husband. By artifice she obtained possession of the person of her son, the Prince of Wales, and then determined to make a hostile invasion of England. 6. As her brother disapproved her conduct, he would yield her no assistance. She applied, therefore, to the Earl of Hainault, and, by promising her son in marriage to his daughter Philippa, procured from him a small fleet and some troops, with which she landed in England, September 24th, 1326. The Spensers were so universally detested, that many nobles joined the queen, merely out of hatred to them. 7. The king, abandoned by everybody, fled into Wales, and sought to conceal himself; but he was soon discovered, and con- fined at Kenilworth Castle. The Spensers, being also taken prison- el's, were put to death without any form of trial. 8. In the mean time, Edward, Prince of Wales, a boy fourteen years old, had been placed by his mother and Mortimer at the head of the rebel army, and declared regent. But as he possessed no authority, the kingdom was in a deplorable state. The mobs of London and other cities committed robberies and murders with impunity, and were called by the name of the Riflers. 9. The queen and Mortimer, having the king in their power, de- clared him incapable of governing, and proclaimed the prince king in his stead. But the latter refused to be king in his father's life- time, without his consent. The parliament, who were completely subservient to the queen and her favorite, sent a deputation to in- form Edward of his deposition. quence? 2. What was tho fate of Lancaster? 3. What was a subject of dispute with France? 4. What did Isabella do? 5. What of Roger Mortimer? 6, What of the queen's attempt to get assistance? 7. What became of the queen? What of tte Spen- sers? 8. What were the Riflers? 9,10,11,12,13. Relate the particulars of the king's treatment. When was he murdered ? How old was he? 186 i:dward hi. — !:!27. 10. As soon as the miserable sovereign saw the deputies, he fainted ; and when he recovered and was told their errand, he said to them that he was in their power, and must submit to their will. Judge Trussel, one of the party, then, in the name of the people of England, renounced all fealty to Edward of Caernarvon, as he was styled from the place of his birth; and Sir Thomas Blount, high steward, broke his staff, and declared all the king's officers dis- charged from his service. . 11. Thus ended the reign of Edward II., a period of nearly twenty years of public disgrace and private calamity. But his own miseries did not end with it. He was committed to the custody of some wretches, who did all they could to kill him by ill usage. They hurried him about from castle to castle, in the middle of the night, and but half clothed. 12. One day, for sport, they ordered him to be shaved in the open fields, with water out of a dirty ditch, and refused to let him have any other. The unhappy monarch shed tears at this treatment, and, while the tears were trickling down his cheeks, said, with a smile of grief, " Here is clean warm water, whether you will or no." 13. But this method of killing him proved very slow, and com- passion for the king's sufferings was working a change in the feel- ings of the people. Mortimer, therefore, gave directions that he should be murdered. These were executed with circumstances of the greatest cruelty, on the 21st of September, 1327, Edward being then in the forty-third year of his age. FAMILY OF EDWARD II. WIFE. Isabella, daughter of Philip the Fair, King of France. SONS. Edward, Prince of Wales, who succeeded to the throne. Tohn, Earl of Cornwall, DAUGHTERS. Jane, married to David Bruce, King of Scotland. Eleanor, married to Reginald, Count of Gueidres. < CHAPTEE LXXVII. ^ Edward III. — War with Scoiland. — Of the Scottish Troops. — Narro\o Escape of Edward. — Peace with Scotland. 1. We have now to tell the story of a king who is esteemed one of the greatest of English sovereigns, though he has been more gen- erally admired for his bravery and military skill than for his many other better qualities. Edward III. was tall and majestic in his per- son, and his countenance bore a very noble expression. LXXVII.— 1. What is said of the person of Edward III.? 2. What of his abilities' WAR WITH SCOTLAND. — Vii-iO. 137 2. His address was pleasing, and he excelled in all the manly and warlike exercises. He was also well versed in the learning of his time, and had an excellent understanding ; but, unfortunately for his country, all the powers of his mind were early engrossed by one ruinous desire, that of making conquests. 3. He had, at the very beginning of his reign, an opportunity of displaying his abilities. As he was only fifteen years old at the time of his father's deposition, the government had been intrusted to a regency consisting of twelve persons. But he was allowed to appear at the head of the army destined to act against the Scots, who thought the present a favorable time to retaliate on the Eng-' lish for all the sufferings they had brought on Scotland. 4. The English army was so much superior in numbers to the Scottish, that in a battle in the open field the former would probably have been successful. But the great difliculty was to obtain this advantage. The larger part of the Scottish troops were light-armed, and all their baggage consisted of a bag of oatmeal, which each sol- dier carried, to be used in case of necessity ; together with a thin plate of iron, on which he instantly baked the meal into cake in the open field. 5. But his chief subsistence was the cattle which he seized, and his cooking was as expeditious as all his other operations. After flaying the animal, he placed the skin, loose, and hanging in the form of a bag, upon some stakes ; he poured water into it, kindled a fire below, and thus made it serve the purpose of a pot. 6. Therse troops, being mounted on small horses, passed rapidly from one place to another even quite distant. The smoke and flame of burning villages would direct the English to the place of their encampment, but before they could arrive there, the Scots were already far away. At one time Edward lost the track of them altogether, and although he offered a large reward to any one who should bring him an account of their movements, it was several days before lie received the wished-for intelligence. 7. Upon one occasion he ran a very narrow risk of being taken himself. Douglas, one of the bravest and most patriotic of the Scot- tish nobles, having obtained the password, and surveyed exactly the situation of the English camp, entered it secretly in the night-time, with a body of two hundred determined soldiers. 8. He advanced directly to the royal tent, but some of Edward's attendants, waking at this critical moment, gave the alarm. His chaplain and chamberlain sacrificed their lives for his safety, and the darkness favored his attempt to escape. 9. Robert Bruce, finding that he had to contend with a far more formidable antagonist than the late king, readily accepted proposals for peace which were made by the regency. All claim to homage was renounced on behalf of the English king, and Eobert was ac- knowledged as independent sovereign of Scotland. To cement the 3. What was his age when he came to the throne? To whom was the govemmc* in- trusted? 4,5. What is said of the Scottish troops? 6. What of Edward's attenif to bring them to battle? 7, 8. Relate the attempt to take Edward. 9. What wer- • *i terms of peace ? 12 * 138 MORTIMER PUT TO DEATH. 1330. union, it was agreed that David, the heir to the Scottish throne, should marry Jane, the sister of Edward. I CHAPTER LXXVIII. Edward IIL, having put Mortimer to Death, governs the Kingdom with great Prudence. — He makes War on Scotland. — Claims tlie Crown of France. 1. In pursuance of the agreement with the Earl of Hainault, Ed- ward was married, in 1328, to his daughter, Philippa. She proved to be a queen of the highest and most irreproachable character, and no less distinguished for her sense and intrepidity, when the occasion called these qualities forth, than for her benevolence and gentleness. 2. Although there was nominally a regency, yet the sovereign power was in fact usurped by Mortimer, who adopted such measures as he pleased without consulting anybody. His wickedness and rapacity made him more deservedly odious than either Gaveston or the Spensers had been. Although the greatest care was taken to conceal them from him, the abuses which were practised could not escape the observation of so sagacious a prince as Edward. 3. When he reached his eighteenth year, feeling himself capable of governing, he determined to make an effort to throw off the yoke of the insolent favorite of his mother. But he was so surrounded by the spies of Mortimer, that he was obliged to use as much secrecy and precaution as if he were plotting treason. 4. He engaged the assistance of many of the nobles, and then de- termined to seize upon the queen and Mortimer, who were residing at Nottingham Castle. This castle was kept closely guarded, and though the king was allowed to enter it, yet it was with very few attendants. The gates were locked every evening, and the keys carried to the queen. 5. But Edward contrived to find an entrance for his friends, through a subterranean passage. In spite of the entreaties of the queen, who called upon her son " to have pity on the gentle Mor- timer," he was seized and carried away prisoner to Westminster. He was soon afterwards hanged at Tyburn ; and Eleanor, being deprived of her ill-gotten riches, was confined, during the rest of her life, to her own house at Eising. 6. Edward now proceeded, with great industry and judgment, in settling the affairs of his kingdom ; but unhappily his love of war soon called him off from the arts of peace. In 1331 he renewed the war with Scotland, and in less than a year, drove David, an infant only seven years old, from the throne which his father had so hardly won. LXXVIII.— 1. Whom did Edward III. marry? When? 2. What is said of Morti- mer? 3. What of the feelings of the king? 4, 5. Relate the fate of Mortimer and the queen. 6. What did Edward proceed to do? When was the war with Scotland re- EDWARD in. CLAIMS THE CROWJ^ OF FRANCE. 139 7. David took refuge in France, and a son of John Bahol was made; King of Scotland, if king he could be called, who was only a tool -n the hands of Edward, and who was placed on the throne and displaced from it, as the party of the English or The Bruce prevailed. 8. At last, Edward, tired of this war, in which no glory was to be g lined, determined to abandon it, and to apply all his strength to eaforce a claim which he asserted to the crown of France. In ;der that the reader may understand the nature of this claim, whi( h was the occasion of long and bloody wars between the two coui tries, we must now deviate a little from the direct paths of history. 9. There is an old law in France, called the Salic Law, one of the provisions of which excludes females from inheriting the crown. For a long series of years no occasion had occurred for applying the rule, so that its very existence came to be questioned. But Louis, oldest brother of .Eletmor, having died and left only one daughter, the matter was brought before the parliament of Paris. The Salic Xaw was declared to be in force, and a brother of the late king succeeded to the crown. 10. Upon his death without male heirs, the third brother mounted the throne. As he died without leaving sons, the crown passed to Philip of Valois, an uncle's son, as being the next male heir. But Edward affirmed himself to be the next male heir, being nephew to the late king, and contended that even if his mother could not be queen, still he might be king, as inheriting through her. 11. But the whole claim had no foundation in law or justice, since if the Salic Law were not in force, then the daughter of Louis was entitled to the crown ; and if his other petition was true, then the son of that daughter was the right heir. 12. Edward did not at once insist on his pretensions, as he did not feel strong enough to contend with Philip, who was a prince distinguished for valor and prudence. He even went so far as to do homage to Philip for Guienne, which was a direct acknowledg- n ent of his title to the (jrown of France — a title which the French themselves considered as indisputable. Biwed? 7. What was the result of this war? 8. What new claiiis did Edward put i "th? 9, Id. State the pretence for these claini-i. 11. What is said of their justice? 12, 1 y what act did Edward himself recognize the title of Philij? Y^ 140 EDWARD III. DEFEATS THE FRENCH FLEET. 134t). CHAPTER LXXIX. Edward III makes War upon Philip, King of France, who is in* formed by his Fool of the Destruction of his Fleet. — Edivard^ Ui^ Black Prince, makes his first appearance at the Battle of Ores6q. Cannon used. EDWARD, THE BLACK PRINCE. 1. At length, some other causes of disappointment against King Philip having arisen, Edward commenced his preparations for the invasion of France. He was thus occupied for two years. In 1338 he landed at Antwerp, but found himself opposed by so formidable an army of Frenchmen, that he was obliged to content himself with, sending King Philip a defiance, and then retreated to England and disbanded his army. 2. Notwithstanding all his mighty preparations had produced no result but to involve him in debt to an immense amount, Edward did not give up the project of conquering France. In 1340 he sailed again, and, meeting the French fleet, completely defeated it. 3. This defeat was so completely unexpected on the part of the French, that no one dared to tell Philip of it, till at last it was hinted LXXIX.— 1, When did Edward III. first invade France? With what success? •_>. What was his success in his next attempt against France? 3,4,5. What is saif" •>/ EDWARD, THE BLACK PRINCE. 134G. 141 to him by his jester. It appears that it was customary in those days for kings and nobles to have amongst their attendants one whose business it was to play the fool, and who was privileged to say or do anything that was ridiculous, for the sake of diverting his master. 4. The fool had an appropriate dress of many different colors ; he also wore a cap, made with two great ears, to resemble asses' ears, and he had little sheep-bells fastened to different parts of his dress. As the jester was generally a favorite with his master, he was fre- quently employed to communicate any news which it was feared might excite the anger of the lord. 5. Upon the present occasion. King Philip's jester said, in his hearing, "O what dastardly cowards those English are!" "How so?" said the king. "Because," rejoined the fool, "they did not jump into the sea, as our brave men have done." The king then demanded an explanation, and heard the whole disastrous story. 6. But this victory did nothing to further Edward's object. He now found himself involved in great difficulties. He had drained the country of money, and was so much involved in debt that he could borrow no more without good security. He had even pledged his crown itself, and the queen's jewels. 7. Still nothing could divert him from his unjust desire to make himself King of France. In 1346 he again landed in that country with an army, and accompanied by his son, who has been called the Black Prince, it is supposed from the color of his armor. 8. The King of France assembled a large army to oppose the invaders. After much manoeuvring, in which Edward displayed great skill, the English army, on the 25th of August, established itself in a very strong position on the plain of Cressy. Philip made his appearance there on the same day, but as his soldiers were fatigued with a rapid march, he ordered them to halt for the night, that they might rest and refresh themselves; but they were too much excited to obey the orders, and continued to advance. 9. The English forces were disposed in the best manner, and had ample time to refresh themselves before the French came up. During this interval, Edward conferred the honor of knighthood on the Prince of Wales, and a large band of noble youths, who were expected so to behave in the approaching combat as to win their spurs; that is, show themselves worthy the distinction they had received. 10. It is said that the front of Edward's army was protected by some pieces of cannon, the first that had yet been made use of in any battle in Europe. These cannon were very clumsy machines. They were composed of bars of iron, held together by hoops, and they commonly burst at the third or fourth discharge. They were at first employed only to shoot off darts and arrows. jesters? 7. Wiy was tho Black Prince so called? 8,9,10. When was tho battle oi Cressy fought ? What is said of cannon ? 142 BATTLE OF CRESSY. 1346. I / CHAPTEE LXXX. Battle of Cressy. — Death of the King of Bohemia. — Siege of Calais.— Story of Eustace de St. Pierre. QUEEN PHIIilPPA AND KING EDWARD. 1. It was about three o'clock in the afternoon when the French advanced troops came up with the English. A short but severe thunder-storm suspended the commencement of the battle for yet half an hour. The sun then burst out brightly, darting his rays on the backs of the English, but full in the eyes of the French. 2. The battle was commenced by archers on botli sides. The superior discipline of the English at once became apparent. During the recent storm their bows had been carefully secured in the cases, and whilst their arrows now fell like hail, and with terrible execu- tion, among the French, those of the latter all fell short of their mark, for their bow-strings were wet and slackened. 3. The battle soon became general. At the first onset, the part where the Black Prince was posted was furiously beset ; and the king, who had taken his station on the top of a windmill, whence he could overlook the whole field, was importuned to go to his succor. 4. "Is my son dead, wounded, or felled to the ground?" said Edward. "Not so, thank God!" was the reply. "Nay, then, he has no aid from me," said the king ; " let him bear himself like a man ; in this battle he must win his spurs." 5. After fighting till the close of evening, the French army were completely discomfited. The king fled, accompanied by only five LXXX. — 2. How did the battle of Cressy commence ? In what was the better disci- pline of the English shown? 3,4. Wh^t occprred in relation to the Black Prince? SIEGE OF CALAIS. — 1346. 143 knights and sixty men-at-arms, leaving dead, on that bloody field, two kings, eleven high princes, eighty knights banneret, twelve hundred knights, and nearly forty thousand private soldiers. 6. The most remarkable death among so many princes was that of John, King of Bohemia, who was blind with age, and not well qualified to mix in the fight. When all seemed lost, the old man inquired for his son Charles, who was nowhere to be seen, having in fact been compelled to fly from the field. 7. The father, getting no intelligence of his son, said to the knights who attended him, " Sirs, ye are my good knights and liege- men ; will ye conduct me so far into the battle that I may strike one good stroke with my sword ?" Four of his faithful attendants determined to gratify this wish, which despair had dictated. 8. Tying the king's bridle-reins to their own, they rushed into the middle of the fight, where they soon met the death which their n'laster seemed to court. The crest of the old king was three ostrich feathers, with the motto Ich dien, which means, I serve. This was adopted by the Black Prince, in commemoration of this victory, and has been borne by the princes of Wales ever since. 9. It was very desirable to Edward to possess some sea-port on the coast of France, through which he might be able at any time to introduce troops into that country ; and securing to himself a place of retreat, in case that should at any time be necessary. The city of Calais was just what he wanted, being, as may be seen on the map, the nearest to England of any port in France. 10. It was likewise a very strong fortress, and easily defended, if the possessors had a fleet strong enough to keep open the access to it by sea. A more favorable opportunity could never occur to Edward for accomplishing his desire, since it must be a long time before Philip could assemble a new army. 11. From the field of Cressy, therefore, Edward proceeded to Calais, which was too sti-ongly fortified to be reduced by anything but famine. He stationed his fleet directly opposite the harbor, and built huts for his troops all around the town. He then waited patiently the result. 12. John de Vienne, the governor of Calais, was a gallant knight, and resolved not to yield, so long as life could be sustained, in the hope that Edward's patience would be tired out, and that he would abandon the siege. After this had lasted eleven months, the garri- son were reduced to the necessity of eating horses, cats and dogs. When these failed, John de Vienne found himself obliged to surrender. 13. After much hesitation, Edward agreed that on condition that six of their principal citizens should come to him barefooted, with ropes about their necks, all ready for execution, and bring him the keys of the town, he would spare the lives of the rest. The people of Calais were greatly distressed when they heard these cruel terms. 5. What was the result uf the battle? What was the French loss? 6, 7, 8. Relate the death of the King of Bohenna. What were his crest and motto ? By whom is this creat now borne? 9, 10. What is said of Calais? 11. What means did Edward adopt to take it? 12. Who was the governor? IIow long did the siege last? 13. What terms did Edward 144 KNKJHTS OF THE GARTER. 1849. 14. Whilst they were deliberating (;n wliat was to be done, Eus- tace de St. Pierre, one of the richest merchants of the town, offered himself as the first of the six victims. His example inspired five others with equal courage, and, after a sorrowful parting with their friends, they appeared before Edward, who ordered them at once to be executed. 15. It was in vain that the Black Prince and the nobles inter- ceded for these victims: the king remained inexorable. At length Queen Philippa, who had just arrived from England, where she had, at the head of the English troops, just gained a great victory over the Scots, and taken King David prisoner, threw herself on her knees before the king, and besought him, as a reward for the service she had done him, that he would pardon them. 16. The king yielded to her solicitations, and she had them con- ducted to her tent, where she entertained them honorably, and sent them back to the town, loaded with presents. Edward took posses- sion of Calais, August 4th, 1347, and, turning out all the old inhab- itants, peopled it entirely with his own subjects. CHAPTER LXXXI. The Knights of the Oarfer. — Strange Fancy of some young Knights. — Origin of the Charter- House School. 1. The successes of Edward in France were checked by the appearance of a terrible pestilence, which raged throughout Europe for six years, and was so terrible as to be called the Black Death. We may take advantage of this pause to suspend our account of battle and bloodshed, and to say something of the manners and cus- toms of this age. 2. Edward III., as we may readily conceive, from his conduct towards his son in the battle of Cressy, had a great deal of the chiv- alric spirit. He sought to inspire his subjects with the like feeling. With this view, he held several pompous tournaments, and loaded such as excelled in these martial sports with honors and rewards. 3. With the same view, he instituted, in the year 1349, an order of knights, called Knights of the Garter. There is a common story, but it is not supported by authority, that at a court ball the Count- ess of Salisbury dropped her garter. The king, seeing the lady's confusion^ good-naturedly took up the garter, and bound it round his own leg, saying, " Hani soit qui mat ypen^e" which means, " Evil to him who evil thinks." 4. It was in memorial of this event, as the story proceeds, that grant on its surrender? 14. Who was the first to offer his life for his fellow-citizens ? 15, 16. What'l>ecame of the six victims? "When did Edward take possession of Calais? tXXXI. — 1. What checked Edward's war in France ? 2. What did Edward do to en- com-age a martial spirit? 3. What is the common stoi'y of the origin of the Knights of fhe Garter? 4. What other origin is assigned to it? 5. What is said of this order? I ORIGIN OF THE CHARTER-HOUSE SCHOOL. — 1341. 145 the order of the Garter was instituted, and the above words adopted as the motto. But a much more honorable, if less gallant origin, is generally assigned to it. It is supposed to be derived from Eichard I., who gave a leathern strap to gird around the knee, as a distinction to some of the brave knights who fought with him in Palestine. 5. Edward limited the number of knights to twenty-five, of whom the Black Prince was the first named, and the others were the most distinguished of his generals. The number of the knights has never been increased, and none but nobles of the highest rank and greatest distinction have ever been admitted to it. There are orders of kniglit- hood in every kingdom, but this is esteemed the most honorable in the world. The knights have sometimes been called Knights of St. George. 6. There is a peculiar dress worn by the knights on state occa- sions, but the particular badges are the garter of blue velvet worn on the left leg, just below the knee, and a golden medal, bearing an image of St. George, sitting on horseback, with the dragon under the horse's feet: this medal is suspended to a blue ribbon worn over the left shoulder, and passing under the right arm. A star of silver and gold, with the red cross of St. George upon it, is worn upon the left breast of the outside garment. 7. The color of the garter and ribbon was originally sky blue, but was changed for a deep blue by Charles II., in compliment to an Italian lady, the Duchess of Mazarine, w4io visited England during his reign ; this kind of blue bejng her favorite color, and from whom it derived its name of Mazarine Blue, 8. These incidents of history will enable us better to understand the allusions which are frequently made to "stars," "garters," and "blue ribbons," in English writings; for these terms are frequently used to denote any honors wliich a nobleman may be supposed to iispire to, and which the sovereign can bestow. 9. The young knights of ancient times sometimes took strange whims into their heads. A number of these, who accompanied Ed- ward in an expedition into France, put a black patch over one eye, each one making a vow not to take it ofi" till he had performed some brave action. One of these, named Walter Maury, proved a very beneficent knight, as well as a very valiant one. 10. Amongst other things, he founded a monastery called the Chartreuse. At the reformation of religion in England, this be- came private property, and was soon afterwards purchased by a rich merchant, named Sutton, who established a public school and hospital there, furnishing them with funds for their perpetual maintenance. This is the origin of the Charter-House /School, an institution which still exists, the name being a corruption of that of the old monks. 6. What of their dress aud badges ? 7. Whence the name of Mazarine Blue? 9. What ridiculous thing did some young knights do ? 10. What was the origi a ( f the Charter House School ? 146 DRESS IN THE REIGN OF EDWARD ITI.^ -1;'>27-I:i77. ») CHAPTER LXXXII. The Dress of fashionable Men and Women in the Beign of Ed- ward II L 1. The dress of a fine gentleman of the age of Edward III. would strike us as rather fantastic. He wore long pointed slioes^ fastened U> his knees by gold or silver chains; a stocking of one color on one leg, and one of another color on the other; short breeches which did ijtot reach to the middle of his thighs; a coat^ one half white, and the other half blue or black; a long beard; a silk hood buttoned under his chin, embroidered with grotesque-figures of animals. 2. The fashionable females are thus described by an old writer : " The tournaments are attended by many ladies of the first rank and greatest beauty, dressed in party-colored tunics. Tlieir tippets are very short, their caps remarkably small, and wrapped about their heads with cords ; their girdles are ornamented with gold and silver, and they wear short swords, like daggers, hanging across their breasts." 3. An old German writer tells us of the English, "that they are very fond of noises, such as the ringing of bells, and the beating of drums." Indeed, all the diversions of the English were of a very noisy character. When a nobleman opened his castle to his guests, on occasions of public festivity, the halls and courts were crowded with minstrels, mimics, jugglers, and tumblers ; and there was a strange confusion of feasting, drinking, dancing, singing, and tumbling. 4. There were at that time no such things as theatres or play- houses. The jugglers and tumblers used to travel about the country, and when they were not invited into private houses, they exhibited their tricks in carts in the open streets. The streets seem to have been scenes of great gayety ; for we are told that the servants of the citizens of London used in summer evenings to dance in the streets before their masters' doors. 5. They were in no danger from the carriages, for such things were not in use. The usual way for ladies, as well as gentlemen, " to go about," was on horseback, both sexes sitting alike, astride the horse; side-saddles not being invented till the next reign. Queens, and persons of high rank, were occasionally conveyed on horse litters ; these were like a bedstead, fastened by shafts before and behind to two horses; something in the manner in which hand- barrows are carried by men. 6. Over the litter there was a canopy held, supported on four lon^ poles, each pole carried by a man on foot; so that this saode of travelling was not a very expeditious one. The lord-m«yor and aldermen of London, on occasion of an annual merrymaking in the country, used to go on horseback, while their wives went in wagons. LXXXII. — 1. Describe the dress of a gentleman of Edward III.'s time. 2. What of the ladies? 3. What of the diversions of the English? 4. What of stage plays' BATTLE OP POICTIERS. — 1366. 147 7. The ardor for study in this reign was very great, fv'.r we are informed that there were 30,000 students at Oxford i lone. But very little attention was paid to useful sciences. Of the ignorance in geography, we may judge from this story. In 1344, Pope Clem- ent VI. qreated Louis of Spain Prince of the Fortunate Isles, mean- ing the Canaries, then newly discovered. 8. The English ambassador at Rome, and his retinue, were seized with an alarm that Louis had been created King of Eng- land, and they immediately hurried home, in order to convey this important intelligence. . CHAPTER LXXXIII. Battle of Foictiers, — King John of France taken Prisoner. — Generous Cond^ict of the Black Prince. EDWARD, THE BLACK PRINCE, WAITING UPON KING JOHN. 1. The animosity between the French and English was so in- tense, that not even the dreadful pestilence could for any length of time prevent its breaking out into open hostilities, and in 1352 the war was renewed, Philip de Valois having been succeeded in 1350 by his son John. 2. For four years the contest went on without any very distin- guished action on either side, the English, however, gradually ex- 6. What yvijs the usual mode of conveyance? 7, 8 What instance of the ignorance of geography ? LXXXIII. — 1. When was the war with France renewed? Who reigned in Franc* 2. When was the battle of Poictiers fought? 3 What were the forces on each side 148 KING JOHN OF FRANCE TAKEN PRISONER. 1356. tending their territories in France. At length, on the 19th of Sep- tember, 1356, a battle was fought at Poictiers, which had a most decisive eiTect on the condition of France. 3. On the 17th of that month, the Black Prince, who, through the whole war, had distinguished himself by his valor and discre- tion, encamped with an army of 12,000 men near the town of Poic- tiers. The same evening, the King of France, with an army of 60,000 men, encamped within a mile of the prince, who, when he saw the French army advance thus unexpectedly upon him, ex- claimed, " God help us ! it only remains for us to fight bravely." 4. The Cardinal of Perigord, who was with the French army, was very desirous to make peace, and rode backwards and forwards several times between John and the prince with that view. The prince said to him, "Save my honor, and the honor of my army, and I will readily listen to any reasonable conditions." But John would consent to nothing, unless the prince and a hundred of his knights would surrender themselves prisoners of war. 5. The reply of the prince to this was, that "he would never be made a prisoner but sword in hand." The cardinal, finding his endeavors unavailing, retired to Poictiers, and the two armies pre- pared themselves for battle. We shall not give you a particular account of this engagement; it will be enough to say that the Eng- lish gained a most complete victory. 6. King John, deserted by the larger part of his knights, fought bravely for his liberty. By his side was his son Philip, scarcely four- teen years old, who did wonders in defence of his father. The king, wearied, and overwhelmed by numbers, might easily have been slain ; but every English gentleman was ambitious of taking alive the royal prisoner, and exhortations to surrender were heard on all sides. 7. The king still cried out, " Where is my cousin, the Prince of Wales ?" and seemed unwilling to surrender to any person of infe- rior rank. But, being told that the prince was at a distance, he at length yielded himself to a French knight, named Morbec, who had been obliged to fly his country for murder. The young prince, Philip, who acquired the surname of the Hardy, from his conduct in this battle, also surrendered. 8. The Black Prince, who was reposing in his tent after the fatigues of the day, felt very anxious about the fate of the French king, and sent the Earl of Warwick to bring him intelligence. That nobleman found the captive at a fortunate moment, for his life was exposed to more danger than it had been during the heat of the action. 9. The prisoner had been taken by force from Morbec by the Eng- lish, and a contest had arisen among the prince's followers, as to whom the prisoner belonged to. Some brutal soldiers, rather than yield the prize to their rivals, had threatened to put him to death. Warwick overawed all parties, and, rescuing the king from their turbulence, led him to the prince, who received him with every mark of respect and sympathy ; seeking by his conduct to soothe and comfort him. 4, Who ried to make petu^e? What prevented its being made? 6. What was th« result a the battle? 6, 7, 8. What was the fate of King John? 9, 10. How was ht GENEROUS CONDUCT OF THE BLACK PRINCE. 14S 10. Having ordered a magnificent supper to be prepared, he himself served at table, as if lie had been one of the retinue. He stood behind the king's chair, declining to sit down in his presence, saying, " he knew too well the diflference of rank between a subject and a sovereign prince." 11. The king, much affected by this generous treatment, so little to be expected from so youthful a conqueror, burst into tears, and declared that though it was his fate to be a captive, he rejoiced that he had fallen into the hands of the most generous and valiant prince alive. 12. The prince, after returning thanks to God for his victory, praised his troops for their conduct, and gave rewards and dig- nities to those who had particularly distinguished themselves. On the 24th of the following April, he sailed with his royal prisoners to England. On their approach to London, they were met by a train of a thousand citizens, in their best array, who conducted them with great state to Westminster. _, /«. 'B./P^ PRINCE EDWARD AND KING JOHN 13. The Black Prince, in a plain dress, and on a little palfrey, rode by the side of the King of France, who was clad in royal robes, and mounted on a stately war-horse. When they arrived at Westminster, King Edward met them, and embraced the captive king with every mark of respect and affection. He and his son were sumptuously lodged, and treated more like visitors than pris- oners, during the three years they remained in England. received and treated by the prince? 11. How was the king affected by this treatment I 12. When did the prince return to England? 13. What is said of the reception of hia and his prisoners there ? 13* I) 150 RANSOM OF KING JOHN. — 1860. CHAPTEE LXXXIV. Honorable Cmdwit of John, King of France. — Edward the Black Prince, and his Wife, the Fair Maid of Kent, hold their Court at Bordeaux. — The Prince becomes ill, and returns to England, and dies. — Death of Edtvard III. — The English Language adopted.- How the King erected his Buildings. —rizSujy, JOHN OF FRANCE. 1. Edward had now two captive monarchs in his kingdom; but he soon after released David Bruce, who had remained a prisoner eleven years, upon payment of a large ransom. After the lapse of three years, and many tedious negotiations, a treaty for the release of John was at length concluded. His ransom was fixed at three millions of gold crowns. 2. Edward accompanied John to Calais, and the two kings, with many expressions of affection and regard, parted on the 24th of October, 1360. One of the hostages who had been given for the payment of John's ransom having escaped, that monarch, who felt that by this breach of faith his own honor was impeached, returned to England, where he died in the year 1364. 3. The government of the provinces conquered in France was given to the Black Prince, who, with his wife, called the Fair Maid of Kent, established his court at Bordeaux. He soon afterwards engaged in a war to replace Pedro on the throne of Spain, in which he was at the time successful. LXXXIV. — ^1. What kings did Edward hold as prisoners? 2. When was John re. leaned? Why did he return to England? When did he die? 3. In what new expedfr DEATH OF THE BLACK PRINCE. 1376. 151 4. After his return from Spain, the Black Prince became subject to such continued ill health, that it was believed he had been poi- soned. His illness had a most unhappy effect on his temper ; from being the most benevolent and generous of men, he became cruel and morose. After some months of constant suffering, he became unable from weakness to mount his horse, and was obliged to give up the command of the army. 5. From this time the glory of England declined ; every expe- dition was unsuccessful. These mortifications, and his continued illness, increased the irritability of his mind. He returned to England, as a last hope, for the recovery of his health ; but, after lingering some time, he died on the 8th of June, 1376, in the forty- seventh year of his age. 6. His loss was felt throughout England, as a private as well as a public loss. The Captal de Bucke, one of his brave companions, was so much afflicted by his death, that he refused to take food, and thus soon followed his lamented master. 7. The loss of his son broke the heart of the poor old king, who did not long survive him, and died at his palace, June 1st, 1377, in the sixty-fifth year of his age, and the fifty -first of his reign. 8. Edward's war with France produced one important effect. Hitherto, the king and nobility had never forgotten their French extraction, and the French language had been the language in common use by them. But they had now acquired such an an- tipathy to the French, that the use of the French language was abolished, and it was ordered by law that none but the English should be employed in the courts of law, and in the public deeds. 9. The condition of the laboring classes in this reign may be best understood from the manner in which Edward conducted the build- ing of the magnificent castle of Windsor. Instead of engaging work- men by contracts and wages, he ordered every county in England to send him a certain number of masons, carpenters, and other artif- icers, in proportion to the number of its inhabitants, just as if he had been levying an army ; and this command was promptly obeyed. TABLE OF THE FAMILY OF EDWARD III. WJFE. Philippa, daughter of the Earl of Hainaalt. SONS. Edward, the Black Prince, who died before his father. Lionel, Duke of Clarence, who died before his father, leaving a daughter, who married ^Edmund Mortimer, Earl of March. John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. Edmund, Duke of York. Thomas, Duke of Gloucester. tion did the Black Prince engage ? 4, 5. What change took place in the Black Prince ? When did he die? 6. What was a consequence of his death? 7. When did Edward III. die ? What was his age? IIow long had he reigned? 8, What change was effected in consequence of the wars witli the French? 9. What circumstance is given aa a siH'ciinon of the condition of tlic poojile? 152 RICHARD II. SUCCEEDS TO THE THRONE. — 1377. DAUGHTERS. Isabel, married to the Earl of Bedford. Joan, married to the King of Castile. Mary, married to the Duke of Brittany. Margaret, married to the Earl of Pembroke. GRANDSONS. Richard, son of the Black Prince, who succeeded to the throne. Henry, son of John of Gaunt, afterwards king, by the name of Henry IV. John Beaufort, son of John of Gaunt, from whom was descended King Hejin VII. Henry Beaufort, son of John of Gaunt, who was Cardinal of Winchester. Richard, son of Edmund of York. 'f CHAPTER LXXXV. r 4 Richard II. succeeds to the Throne. — Character of his three Uncles. Insurrection of the People under Wat Tyler and Jack Straw. About the Templars and the Temple. "WAT TYLER SLAIN. 1. Immediately after the death of his grandfather, the son of the Black Prince was proclaimed king, by the title of Richard II. He was only eleven years old. No regency was expressly appointed, but the king's uncles, the Dukes of Lancaster, York, and Gloucester, governed in the king's name. 2. John of Gaunt, the eldest of these, had a high spirit and great ambition, and even during his father's lifetime had exercised great LXXXV.— 1. Who succeeded Edward III.? Who governed in his name? 2. What was the character of the king's uncles? 3. What lu asure was adopted to raise money f WAT Tyler's insurrection. — i38i 153 authority in the state. The Duke of York was well meaiiug, but indolent and of little ability. The Duke* of Gloucester was turbu- lent, bold, and meddling; but John, being the oldest, had the chief Bway in their councils. 3. Edward left his grandson involved in wars both with France and Scotland, to maintain which, a tax was imposed, in 1381, upon every person above fifteen years of age. This tax excited great discontents among the people, which were raised to the highest pitch by the insolent conduct of the collectors. 4. One of these having insulted the daughter of a tyler at Dept- ford, named Walter, the father knocked down the ruffian with his hammer. The mob applauded the action, and, exclaiming that it was full time to throw off the yoke of servitude, and to take vengeance on their tyrants, flew to arms. Wat Tyler, as he is called, took upon himself the command of the insurgents, and sent messages into all the neighboring counties, inviting the laboring classes to join them. 5. The summons was joyfully obeyed, and quitting their employ- ments, the i3eople hastened to Blackheath, the appointed place of meeting, burning the houses and plundering the estates of the nobility as they passed. The frenzy of the people was encouraged by the declamations of a crazy priest, named John Ball, who went about preaching to them from such texts as this : "When Adam delved, and Eve span, Who was then the gentleman ?" 6. The mob, when assembled at Blackheath, amounted to at least 100,000 men. Wat Tyler and another man, called, from his business as a thresher, Jack Straw, were appointed leaders, and they all set off like hounds in full cry towards London. Rushing into the city, they spread themselves over it, killing every gentle- man who came in their way, and filling every part with terror. 7. They were particularly furious against the Lombards and Flemings; and those who could not pronounce the words ^^ bread and cheese" with a proper English accent, were judged to be for- eigners, and had their heads cut off" on the spot. 8. Their rage was also directed against the lawyers, and the Tem- ple, with all the records that were kept in it, was destroyed. This is the name of a building that was once the residence of the Knights Templars, an order of monkish knights, who took upon themselves the vow of never marrying, and observed other monastic rules. 9. Instead of living in monasteries, and wearing cowls, they put on armor, and devoted themselves to the protection of those who went on pilgrimages to the Holy Land. About the year 1310 the order was dissolved, and Edward III. granted their house, which from them was called the Temple, to the students of law, by whom it is still inhabited. How was it received by the people? 4. What act led immediately to the insni-rection? Who was made the leader? 5. What is said of John Ball? 6. Where did the mob assemble? Who were appointed leaders? What dfd the mob proceed to do? 7. What is said of their treatment of foreigners? 8. What is tlie Temple? What is said of th« Templars? 9. By whom is the Temple now occupied' 154 WAT TYLERS INSURRECTION. — 1381, CHAPTER LXXXVI. The Insurrem m is quelled by the Bravery of William Walworth, and the Presence of Mind of Richard II. KICHARD II. IN THE BARGE. 1. The king's uncles were all absent from the kingdom, and the insurrection was so sudden, that no preparations had been made for checking it. The king, with his mother and chief officers and a small number of the nobles, took refuge in the Tower. Having re- covered from the first surprise, a council was held to devise meas- ures for the general security. 2. Some were for resorting to force, but more peaceful counsels prevailed ; and it was determined that a message should be sent to the insurgents, to say that if they would retire to a certain place without the city, the king would meet them on the next day, and hear their grievances. Accordingly, on the 14th of June, 1381, Richard, with a few unarmed attendants, proceeded to the appointed place, where he found about sixty thousand persons assembled. 3. The king, in a gentle manner, asked them what they wanted. They replied, "they wanted the freedom of themselves and chil- dren." The king promised their desire should be granted, and that, if they would return home, he would give them certificates of freedom. Thirty clerks were instantly set to work to write these certificates, which were given to all who asked for them. Imme- LXXX VI.— 1. Where were the king and his uncles at the breaking ont of the insur. rection? 2. What measure did the king adopt to qnell it? 3. What was his success* THE INSURRECTION QUELLED. — 138L 155 diately the mob dispersed, every one returning contentedly to his home. 4. In the mean time Wat Tyler, with Jack Straw, and the most desperate of the party, supposing that the proposal on the part of the king to meet the people was merely a stratagem to get them out of the city, and having no expectation that he would keep his engagement, instead of going to the appointed place, proceeded to the Tower. 5. They met with little resistance here, and, having gained admit- tance, murdered the Archbishop of Canterbury, and many others whom they found there. But they were disappointed in their prin- cipal object, which was to get possession of the person of the king, whom they had invited to meet them. He went on the river in a barge, but such were the symptoms of violence that he dared not land, and turned back. 6. But the next day, as Richard, attended by William Walworth, the Mayor of London, and about sixty horsemen, was riding through Smithfield, he met Wat Tyler, at the head of nearly thirty thousand of the insurgents. Walter, ordering his companions to keep at a dis- tance, rode up to the king, and conducted himself towards him with such audacity, that Walworth, Imable to endure his insolence, struck him to the ground with his sword. 7. The royal party would undoubtedly have been sacrificed to the fury of the mob, if it had not been for the extraordinary presence of mind of the king. Riding up to the insurgents before they had time to recover from their momentary surprise, he cried out, " My friends, be not concerned for the loss of your unworthy leader; I, your king, will be your leader !" 8. Turning his horse, he rode into the open field at the head of the multitude, who followed him without knowing why. In the mean time, the cry had risen in the city, that the king had fallen into the hands of the rebels, and instantly some thousands of brave men flew to his rescue. 9. When they appeared, the mob, seized with a panic, fell on their knees before the king, imploring his pardon, which he granted them, on condition that they dispersed and returned to their homes. This they all did ; and tlms this insurrection, which appeared to be so formidable, melted away like snow in a sudden thaw. 4, 5. Wha^t did Wat Tyler a 1 his associates do? 6, 7, 8, 9. Relate the particulars of the ileath of Walter, and of the Uspersion of the m >b. 166 CHARACTER OF RICHARD II. — 1381. OHAPTEE LXXXVII. Character of Richard II. — About Chaucer and Robert Langland CHAUCER. 1. Kichard's conduct during this disturbance naturally led hia subjects to hope that he had inherited the courage and vigor of mind of the most distinguished of his ancestors. But the hope was not realized. As he advanced in age, he discovered a weakness and frivolity which made him totally unfit for the government of a king- dom. His person was extraordinarily beautiful. He hated business, and devoted himself to amusement. He was fond of show and mag- nificence ; his household consisted of ten thousand persons ; he had three hundred in his kitchen alone. 2. One of the first acts, after quiet was restored, was to revoke all the certificates of freedom which had been given, and to compel all those to whom they had been granted, to return to their state of ser-^tude, and to perform all their accustomed services to thei'* lords. 3. At the age of sixteen, Richard married Anne of Bohemia, who was long remembered in England by the name of the good Queen Anne. The Duke of Lancaster had some claims, in right of his wife, to the throne of Castile, and in 1386, he sailed for Spain with an army of twenty thousand men to prosecute these. He remained there LXXXVII.— 1. What is 8«>id of the character and person of Richard? 2. What was one of liis first acts after he restoration of quiet? 3. Whom did Ricliard marry! THE POETS CHAUCER AND LANGLAND. r-1380-1440. 157 three years, and the dispute was finally settled I y the marriage of his daughter with the son of the reigning King o " Castile. 4. Lancaster's eldest daughter had married the King of Portugal, and his once turbulent ambition seemed quite satisfied with securing to his posterity the crowns of two kingdoms, for after his return to England he led a private life. In 1394 he married Catherine Swyn- ford, who had been governess to his daughters, and who was the sister of Chaucer, who is sometimes called the Father- of English Poetry, because he was the first English poet of eminence. 5. He was born in 1368, and having a distaste for the profession of the law, for which he was originally intended, obtained a place at the court of Edward III., to whom he made himself very agree- able, and from whom he obtained many substantial marks of favor. Having adopted the religious opinions of Wickliffe, about whom we shall presently speak, Chaucer was obliged to leave the king- dom, to avoid the anger of the clergy. 6. He was at length enabled to return, and the last years of his life were spent in ease and plenty. His chief work is the poem called the Canterbury Tales. Few of the modern poets have equalled him in the excellence of his descriptions; but from the great changes that have taken place in the English language since his time, his poetry is often so obscure, that persons unaccustomed to the old style of writing cannot understand it. 7. Since we have begun upon poetry, we may as well mention Robert Langland, who lived about this time. He wrote a very severe satire against persons of all professions, called the " Vision of Piers Plowman," which is very valuable, for the insight it gives us into the manners of the times. 8. It is not in rhyme, and is written in a very singular kind of verse, which is called alliterative, and which consists in having in the same line as many words as possible beginning with the same letter. Thus, speaking of the magnificence of a monkish dwelling, he says, " I found there A hall for a high king, a household to holden, With broad boards abouten, j^-benched well cleiti; With windows of glass wrought as a church, And chambers with chimneys, and chapels gay CHAPTEE LXXXVIII. Anecdote illustrating the Manners of the Times. 1. The king was frequently engaged in wars with the Scots. During one of the expeditions against them, an incident occurred, What expedition did the Duke of Lancaster engage in? How did it result ? 4. What of the conduct of the duke after his return from Spain ? 5, 6. Wliat is said of Chaucer? 7, ««. What of Robert Langland ? LXXXVIII.— 2, 3. Relate the circumstances of Sir Ralph Stafford's death. 5. What v 14 158 TIMES OF RICHARD II. — 1377-1400. which, as it illustrates the manners of the times, we will relate, Having arrived with his forces at Beverley, Eichard determined to remain there for several days. 2. His army was too numerous to be lodged in the town, and part was, therefore, dispersed in the neighboring villages. A poor German knight, who was one of those who were so dispersed, was looking for a lodging, and trying, in very bad English, to make himself understood. A squire, belonging to the king's half-brother, Sir John Holland, began to abuse the poor German, and laughed at him. 3. An archer of Sir Ealph Stafford's took up the quarrel of the German, and shot the squire. When Sir John Holland heard of the death of his follower, he made a vow that he would neither eat nor drink till it was avenged. Kiding furiously about the lanes in search of the German knight, the innocent cause of the affray, he met Sir Ralph Stafford in a narrow passage, and struck him with his sword as he passed. 4. The blow was mortal ; but Sir John rode on, without perhaps knowing that he had killed him. The king was very angry when he heard of Sir Ralph's death, and would certainly have hanged the murderer, had he not taken refuge in the Sanctuary of St. John at Beverley. 5. In those days, every church, abbey, or consecrated place was a sanctuary; and all persons who had committed crimes, or were otherwise in fear of their lives, might secure themselves from dan- ger by getting into them ; for they were deemed so sacred, that to force a sanctuary, that is, to take any person out by violence who had sought refuge there, was thought a greater crime than murder itself. 6. We remember a story of a nobleman who had taken sanc- tuary in some abbey during the reign of Richard III. The king was on the point of rushing in and seizing his victim, when the abbot presented himself in the gateway, bearing the Holy Sacra- ment in his hand, and Richard turned away, not daring to violate a sanctuary so guarded. 7. We will now return to Sir John. The Princess of Wales, his mother, was so much distressed at her son's danger, that she died of grief. He was afterwards pardoned by the king, and received into favor. Sir Ralph Stafford, the victim of his lawless conduct, was a very accomplished young man, and the only son of an old Lord Stafford, who was then with the army. 8. Lord Stafford, as soon as he had recovered from the first burst of grief at the shocking murder of his son, went to the king, and told him that as he was on his road to fight the Scots, he would not let his grief prevent him from serving his country in the hour of need; "and," added he, "during this expedition I shall not think of my affliction : for I like not that the Scots be rejoiced at the misery of the Earl of Stafford." said of sanctuaries ? 6. What anecr'ote of Richard III.'s respect for them? 7,8,9 R« late thp remainder of the story of S'r John Holland and of Lord Stafford. / / / / JIICHARD RESIGNS TO A REGENCY. 1387. 159 9. The afflicted old man accordingly accompanied the army into Scotland, and performed all the duties of a soldier and commander, as if he had a heart free from sorrow ; but as soon as the expedition was ended, he went on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, and did not iive to return. CHAPTER LXXXIX. The King offends his Nobles, and is obliged to resign his Power to a Regency, but resumes his Authority. — Death of the Duke of Glou- cester, KICHAKD RESIGNING HIS CKOWN. , 1. During the absence of the Duke of Lancaster, the king had made himself very unpopular by giving the principal offices of state to a set of worthless favorites, the chief of whom was Michael de la Pole, the son of a merchant of London. 2. A party was formed against the king, at the head of which was the Duke of Gloucester. This became powerful enough to compel Richard to surrender the government of the kingdom to a council of regency, consisting of fourteen noblemen. Many of the favorites were put to death, and De la Pole, who had been made Earl of Suf- folk, saved his life by flying from the kingdom. 3. Not content with depriving his nephew of all power, Glouces- ter determined to destroy every friend that remained to him. Rich- ard, though he had assembled around him so many vicious characters, had still preserved his respect for Sir Samuel Burleigh, a good and LXXXIX. — 1. How did Richard give oflfence to bis nobles? Wlio was bis chief favor- ite? 2. Wbiit was tlio consequence ol his conduct? 3, 4. What is said about Sir 160 TRIAL BY COMBAT. — 1397. venerable old man, who had been appointed his tutor by the Black Prince. 4. Neither the affection which that prince was known to have had for him, nor his own age and virtue, could preserve him from the malice of Gloucester, who procured his condemnation on a pretended charge of high treason. And though the good Queen Anne remained on her knees three hours before the inexorable Gloucester, begging for his life, he was executed like a common traitor. 5. Richard submitted, quietly to the tyranny of his uncle for about a year and a half, and then, suddenly rousing himself into action, asserted his own right to the sovereign power. He removed the officers appointed by Gloucester, and filled their places with men of ability. He acted with such prudence and vigor that Gloucester and his party were thunderstruck, and relinquished their authority. 6. Richard now sought to purchase the friendship of his uncle by grants of immense value, but the duke was not of a character to remain long in a state of quiet. The king, having information of his plots, determined to be beforehand with him, and caused him to be seized by surprise and carried to Calais. 7. The Duke of Gloucester was accused of high treason, and a parliament was summoned to meet at Westminster, September 17th, 1397, for his trial. So many nobles came to London to attend this, that every lodging in London, and for ten miles around, was filled. 8. When the day of trial arrived, the Governor of Calais was sum- moned to bring his prisoner; but, instead of producing him, he sent word that Gloucester had died in prison. The particulars of hi{» death are not known, but there is every reason to ])elieve that h^ was murdered by the orders of the king. CHAPTER XC. \* Trial by Combat, between the Dukes of Hereford and Norfolk. — Cere monies used on that Occasion. 1. Some of the nobles did not hesitate to charge the king with the murder of Gloucester. The Duke of Norfolk one day expressed this opinion in the hearing of Henry Bolingbroke, a son of John of Gaunt, and of course the cousin of the king. Henry was highly indignant at this charge, and made a formal complaint against the duke for speaking seditious words. 2. It was decreed by the lords in parliament that the matter should be decided by a personal combat between the accuser and the accused ; a common mode of deciding doubtful questions of law or of fact, as we Samuel Burleigh? 5. How long did Richard submit to the rule of his uncle? What did he do then ? 6, 7, 8. Relate the rest of the incidents of the Duke of Gloucester's life. XC. — 1. What was the ground of quarrel betwoon the Dukes of Hereford and Norfolk TRIAL BY COMBAT. — lJ97. 161 have before stated. It may interest the reader to have a descrip' tion of the ceremonies used on the occasion. 3. The accuser first appeared, in full armor, with his drawn sword in his hand, and mounted on a white charger, with housings of greet and blue velvet, on which were embroidered swans and antelopes of gold. When he approached the lists, the marshal demanded. Who he was ? To which he answered, " I am Henry of Lancaste^r, Duke of Hereford, come hither according to my duty, against Thomas Mow- bray, Duke of Norfolk, a false traitor to God, the king, the country, and me." 4. Then, taking the oath that his quarrel was just and true, he desired to enter the lists. This being granted to him, he sheathed his sword, made the sign of the cross upon his forehead, seized his lance, which had hitherto been borne by his squire, and passing the barrier or entrance to the lists, alighted from his horse, and sat down in a chair of green velvet, placed at one end of the lists. 5. He had scarce taken his seat, when the king came into the field, with great pomp, attended by the peers, and ten thousand men-at- arms, to preserve order among the spectators. The king being seated in his chair of state, a herald proclaimed that none but the marshals should presume to touch the lists, under pain of death. 6. Then another herald proclaimed aloud, "Behold here Henry of Lancaster, Duke of Hereford, who has entered the lists to make good his charge against Thomas Mowbray, Duke of Norfolk, on pain of being counted false and recreant." 7. The Duke of Norfolk immediately appeared in arms, mounted upon a horse, with housings of crimson velvet, embroidered with lions of silver and mulberry- trees, his armorial bearings; and having taken his oaths, entered the field, exclaiming aloud, " God defend the right !" 8. Alighting from his horse, he placed himself in a chair of crimson velvet, opposite to his antagonist at the other end of the lists. Then the marshal, having measured their lances, delivered one to the Duke of Hereford, and sent a knight with the other to the Duke of Norfolk ; he then made proclamation that they should prepare for the combat. 9. They immediately mounted their horses, closed the visors of their helmets, and fixed their lances on their rests. The trumpets sounded the charge ; the Duke of Hereford rushed forward with the greatest violence, but before he could reach his antagonist, the king threw down his sceptre, which was a signal for the heralds to inter- pose, and to stop the combat. 10. He ordered their lances to be taken away, and banished the Duke of Hereford for ten years, and the Duke of Norfolk for life. Nothing could have been more ill judged than this measure, which was attributed to the king's cowardice. In those ferocious times, per- sonal courage was considered the greatest virtue a monarch could possess, and the want of it exposed him to the contempt of his sub- jects, and therefore to no little danger. 2. How was it ordered that the dispute. should be settled ? 3, 4, 6, 6, 7, 8. Give aii nccouni 14* 162 RESIGNATION AND DEATH OF RICHARD. 13;^9-1400. 11. The measure gave general dissatisfaction. There was a feel ing of disappointment at the loss of the show, and of indignation at the injustice done to the parties themselves. Henry of Lancaster was a great favorite with the soldiers; was possessed of immense wealth, and related to all the great families of the kingdom. He was a dan- gerous subject to offend ; but still no ill consequences to the king might have ensued, but for some new wrongs inflicted upon him. CHAPTEK XCI. Henry of Lancaster returns to England with an Army, and compels Bichard 11. to resign the Grown. — Death of Richard. 1. In 1399, John of Gaunt died, and Richard at once seized on all his great estates. His son Henry, called Bolingbroke, from the place of his birth, was in France when he heard of this new outrage com- mitted against him. He resolved immediately to reclaim his rights, and being assisted with ships and soldiers by the Duke of Brittany, he landed in England, July 4th, 1399. 2. The king was at that time in Ireland, and his uncle, the Duke of York, governed England during his absence. It is probable that Henry, when he first landed, had no view beyond that of getting back his inheritance; but finding himself joined by some powerful noble- men, he soon began to entertain designs upon the throne itself. 3. The Duke of York was preparing, on the king's part, to make resistance ; but he too, being persuaded by Henry that he had only come to claim his inheritance, joined him with the forces under his command. 4. Richard himself soon after landed at Milford Haven, and finding that his uncle, instead of having an army ready for his service, had gone over to the party of Henry, retired with a few friends to Con- way. After some negotiations, he imprudently agreed to a personal conference with his cousin at Flint Castle, to which Richard at once proceeded, with his few attendants. 5. The next day Henry arrived, attended by his army. Richard, who was watching on the walls for his coming, went down to meet him ; the duke, after some ceremony, entered the castle in full armor, only making bare his head in compliment to the fallen king. 6. Henry, having thus secured the person of Richard, led him in triumph to London. On the road he was subjected to many indignities both from the duke and from the people, and on his arrival at the capital he was committed as a prisoner to the Tower. of the ceremonies used on the occasion. 9. How did the matter end? 10. What did the king do to the parties? 11. IIow was the measure received? XCI.— 1. When did John of Gaunt die ? What became of his estates ? What did Henry do? When did he land in England? 2. Where was the king? By whom wag [lenry joinetl ? 4, 5. What becani":' of Richard ? 6. Ho\> was he treated by Ileury 1 JOHN WICKLIFFE. 13(0-1384. 163 7. Henry now openly declared his design upon the crown, and compelled the king to sign a paper containing a resignation of it. This paper was communicated to parliament, who gave it their ap- proval. Henry was unanimously declared to be the successor, and was led to the vacant throne by the Archbishops of Canterbury and York. 8. Kichard was conveyed to Pontefract Castle, and there put to death in the beginning of the year 1400, in the thirty-fourth year of his age, and the twenty-third of his reign. He is called the last sovereign of the line of Plantagenet; Henry and his successors being styled The Hoiise of Lancaster. FAMILY OF RICHARD II. WIFE. Anne of Bohemia, who died before him. He was espoused to Isabella of France, at the time of his deposition. He left no children. TABLE OF THE KINGS OF THE LINE OF PLANTAGENET. ■ Began to reign. Reigned. . Henry II., grandson of Henry I. . Richard I., Coeur de Lion, son of Henrj' II. . John Lackland, son of Henry II. . Henry III., son of John. . Edward I.," son of Henry III. . Edward II., son of Edward I. . Edward III., son of Edward II. . Richard II., grandson of Edward III. 1154 . 35 1189 . 10 1199 . 17 1216 . 56 1272 ... 35 1307 . 20 1327 . ■ 50 1377 .. . 22 CHAPTER XCII. Account of John Wickliffe, who attempted to produce a Reformation in Religion. 1. In the course of our story we have had frequent occasion to speak of the pride and luxury of the clergy. This was in part the consequence of the idle lives which the liberality of a superstitious people enabled them to lead, and in part to the corrupting doc- trines of the established church. 2. John Wickliffe, born about the year 1324, was the first who dared to protest openly against the errors of the time. He was himself a priest, and had gained great distinction at the University of Oxford, where he was educated, by his abilities and acquire- ments, and more especially by his knowledge of the Scriptures. 3. He first became publicly known in the latter part of the reign of Edward III., by a controversy with the begging friars, an order of monks, who, because our Saviour and his apostles avoided worldly riches and honors, pretended to imitate them by going 7. What did he compel the king to do? What did parliament do? 8. When and where did Richard die? What was his age? How long had he reigned? What line of sov '^reigns ended with him? What were his sticcessors styled? XCII.— 2. When Avas John Wicklifftf born ? 3, - What did he do ? 5. By whom 164 WICKLIFFE J>EFORE AN ECCLESIASTICAL COUNCIL. about begging ; and who seemed to think that poverty ana beggary were the essence of religion. JOHN Wl( KI It J 4. Wickliffe afterwards attacked the corruptions of the monks in general ; and, proceeding by degrees, as his knowledge of the Scrip- tures increased, he came at last to deny the authority of the pope, and the truth of many of the doctrines of the Roman Catholic Church. 5. As he likewise denied the validity of the claims of the clergy to temporal authority, his doctrines were highly acceptable to the nobles, and he was openly favored by John of Gaunt, who, after the death of Edward III., was, as we have before stated, the most powerful man in the kingdom. 6. The boldness and success with which Wickliffe pursued this work excited the alarm of the churchmen ; and he was summoned to appear before an ecclesiastical counsel, to answer for his con- duct in publishing such heretical opinions. 7. At the day appointed he was conducted to St. Paul's Church in London, the place where the council met, by the Duke of Lancaster, and Sir Henry Percy, the Earl-Marshal of England, one of the chief officers of the crown, and attended by an immense concourse of people. 8. We may well suppose that these marks of respect and favor were not very pleasing to the clergy, and many angry words passed between the duke and the Bishop of London. At length the nobles and the clergy took their seats, whereupon the earl-marshal invited Wickliffe to sit down ; " for," said he, " you have much to answer, and need a convenient seat." 9. The rest we will give you in the words of an old historian . vfas he favored? 6. What did the clergy do? 7, 8, 9, 10. Relate what occurred at the HENRY IV. 140U. 165 "The Bishop of London told him that it was against all law and reason, that he who was cited before a council should sit. Hereupon, contumelious words arose between the marshal and the bishop. The duke takes the marshal's part, and sharply reprehended the bishop. 10. "The bishop returns the like to the duke, who, in a great rage, said he would pull down the pride of him, and of all the bishops in England. The duke and the marshal standing thus stiffly for John AVickliife, there was nothing done against him at that time." 11 There were a great many proselytes to the doctrines of Wick- liffe. These were called Lollards, a name given them in derision, the word meaning noisome weed. Various attempts were made to root out the noisome weed of the reformed faith in religion, and even the fire and fagot were used to extirpate it ; but without success. It continued to exist until the reign of Henry VIII., when it was decided by that potentate to be a wholesome plant, and the Roman Catholic belief itself to be the noisome weed. 12. WicklifTe employed many of the latter years of his life in making a translation of the Bible into English. This had been done before by the Venerable Bede ; and the old Saxon bishop, Aldhelm, in the year 706, translated the hook of Psalms into Saxon ; but when the pope began to rule the affairs of the English church, none but Latin Bibles were allowed to be used, and these were to be found only in the hands of the priests. 13. The people were therefore kept from reading the Scriptures, so tKat the priests and monks might make them believe what they pleased. This work of Wiclvliffe, therefore, while it was highly acceptable to the laity generally, was disapproved of by the bishops and all who were attached to the established rules of the church. 14. An attempt was made to obtain an order from parliament for the suppression of the English translation ; but it was unsuccessful, in consequence of the warm remonstrances of the Duke of Lancas- ter, who concluded by saying, " We will not be the dregs of all, see- ing that other nations have the law of God, which is the law of our faith, written in their own language." Wickliffe died, December 31st, 1384. CHAPTER XCIII. Henry IV. keeps the Throne in Defiance of the Eighth of Edmund Mortimer, the true Heir. — He puts down the rebellious Barons. — Owen Glendower. 1. The life of Henry IV. furnishes a striking example of the sudden vicissitudes to which human life is subject. Within the short space of three months, he had been wandering about without a :ouucil. 11. Whence the name Lollard? 12. How did Wickliffe employ the last yeivri of his life ? 13, 14. What a the use of the Bible ? When did Wickliffe die ? ^ 166 CONSPIRACIES AND REBELLIONS. — 1400-1 40;i Lome, an outcast from that country of which he was now the st>v ereign. OWEN GLiENDOWKR. 2. But his situation was far from being an enviable one. His life was made miserable by constant apiDrehensions of plots and con- spiracies, of which he was really in much danger, and the evil was aggravated by his own jealous and suspicious temper. 3. Even after the abdication of Eichard, he had no legal title to the crown, for the undoubted heir was Edmund Mortimer, a descend- ant of Lionel, Duke of Clarence, the elder brother of John of Gaunt. To secure himself from any attempts on the part of Ed- mund, who was only seven years old, to recover his rights, Henry caused him to be confined in Windsor Castle. 4. He had possessed the throne only three months when a very dangerous conspiracy was entered into against him, by some nobles attached to Richard. A man named Maudlin was dressed up to personate him ; but a quarrel having arisen among the leaders, the conspiracy was soon and easily crushed. 5. All the nobles taken in arms were beheaded ; a very different treatment from that which the rebellious barons received in the reign of King John, when they were forgiven as often as they offended This difference of treatment shows the change which had taken place in the relative power of the king and the barons ; for John, had he dared to do so, would have acted precisely as Henry did. 6. To secure himself from any more attempts of this kind, Henry caused Richard to be murdered, as we have already stated ; and to XCIII. — 2. By \rliat was Henry's quiet disturl)ed? 3. Wlio was the true heir to the / BATTLE OF SHREWSBURY. 1403. 167 prevent any one from pretending in future to personate him, made known the certainty of his death, by causing his body to be brought to London, and exposed with the face uncovered for three days. 7. A few months afterwards the king had a very narrow escape. One night he perceived, concealed in his bed, just as he was stepping into it, a steel instrument with three sharp points, which would either have killed him, or wounded him severely, had he laid down upon it. 8. Besides his secret enemies, Henry had a very formidable open foe in Owen Glendower, a Welsh gentleman, of great spirit and courage, who proclaimed himself Prince of Wales, in right of his ancestors, and invited his countrymen to attempt the recovery of their independence. 9. They accordingly flocked to his standard, and Glendower, favored by the mountainous nature of his country, maintained him- self for seven years against all the efforts of Henry to subdue him. \\ CHAPTEK XCIV. Several Bebellioiis against Henry IV. — All finally subdued. — Instance of the Superstition of the People. 1. The Earl of Northumberland and his brother, the Earl of Westmoreland, were two of the most powerful barons in England, and it was chiefly by their means that Henry had been able to ascend the throne. Instead of taking pains to secure their sup- port, he gave them just occasion of offence. 2. The Earl of Northumberland and his son, Henry Percy, de- feated the Scots in a battle fought at Homildon Hill, and made prisoners of Earl Douglas and many others.- Immediately on hear- ing of this victory, Henry sent orders to the earl not to admit any of his prisoners to ransom; an interference with his rights which the Percys highly resented. 3. By conferring together upon the subject, they became more and more angry; and Henry Percy, who was surnamed Hotspur j from his fiery temper, urged on his father and uncle till they re- solved to dethrone King Henry, thinking that they could do this with as little difiiculty as they had found in dethroning Richard. 4. Douglas was released, and engaged to assist them in their en- terprise, and an invitation was also sent to Glendower to jein them Douglas and Hotspur were first in the field, but before they conl\ be joined by Glendower, King Henry was already upon them. 5. A decisive battle was fought at Shrewsbury, July 21st, 1403. Henry commanded his forces in person, assisted by his son Henry. The greatest bravery and skill were shown on both sides, and the event of the contest was long doubtful. throne? 5. What circumstances show the change in the relative power of the king and the barons? 7. Wliat danger did the king escape ? 8, 9. What of Owen GlendoweV? XCIV.— 2. How did Henry offend tVie Earls of Northumberland and Westmoreland ? 3,4, What (lidthair resentment lead them to do? 5. When and where was the decisive 168 SEIZURE OF THE YOUNG PRINCE OF SCOTLAND. 1406. 6. The king had caused several of his attendants to wear armoi resembling his own, and Douglas, who ardently desired to engage with him personally, sought him over the field, and ^ften thought he had fought with him and slain him ; but he as often found him- self deceived, and was at last himself taken prisoner. Hotspur was killed, and the royal army remained masters of the field. 7. The king, remembering the former services of Northumberland, and pitying the poor old man's bereaved condition, granted hipi his life, and soon after restored to him almost all his honors and estates. 8. Scarcely was one rebellion quelled before another broke out, at the head of which were Scrope, Archbishop of York, and Thomas Mowbray, the Earl-Marshal of England. Northumberland had also once more taken up arms against the king ; but before he could join his forces to those of the others, their followers were already dis- persed, and themselves in the power of the king. 9. This was effected by an act of the grossest perfidy and false- hood on the part of the king's general, sanctioned by himself. The chief rebels were beheaded, even Scrope himself; which was the first instance in England of a bishop's being punished with death. 10. The common people looked upon this as an act of gross im- piety, and as the king was soon after afilicted with a loathsome eruption in his face, they considered it as a direct punishment for the offence against Heaven. 11. Northumberland, after several years of exile and wandering, was killed in a last attempt to overthrow the power of Henry. The repeated ill success of these rebellions at length subdued all the king's enemies. Even the Welsh, in despair of recovering their independence, abandoned Glendower, who wandered about in vari- ous disguises during the rest of his life. CHAPTER XCV. Henry seizes the young Prince of Scotland, and keeps him a Prisoner eighteen years. — Character of James L of Scotland, 1, It would be thought very strange, at the present day, if a king should seize upon the infant son of another king, with whom he was at peace, as the prince was passing on the sea from his own country to another, and should keep him a prisoner for a great number of rears: yet such a procedure was in perfect accordance with the iaotions of justice held in the time of Henry IV. 2. Robert III., King of Scotland, was a prince of a very feeble character, and the affairs of the nation were ruled by his brother, the Duke of Albany, a restless and ambitious man, who governed in a battle fought? 6. What expedient did Henry adopt to deceive the enemy? What was the fate of several leaders? 8. Who were engaged in the next rebellion? 9. What was the result of it? What did the common people think of the punishment of Scrope? 11. What became of the rest of the king's enemies ? XCV.— 2 What is said of Robert ITT. of Scotland ? What of the Duke of Albany? ANECDOTE OF PRINCE HENJIY. — 1412. 1G9 most arbitiary manner, and even imprisoned and starved to death the elder of the king's two sons. 3. The youngest son, James, was then ten years old, and the king, being anxious to save him from falling into the hands of his cruel uncle, resolved to send him into France, in charge of the Earl of Orkney. They accordingly embarked, and set sail; but their ves- sel was taken by an English ship. 4. The prince and his attendants were conveyed to Henry, who, on being told by the Earl of Orkney that the young prince was going to France to learn French, said, " I understand French, and therefore ought to be intrusted with his education." He then committed James and his attendants close prisoners to the Tower. 5. The poor old father was thrown into such agonies of grief by the news, that he died in three days. The Duke of Albany then assumed the government of Scotland as regent, but would do nothing to procure the release of James, who, by the death of his father, had become king. It was not until eighteen years afterwards, at the death of the Duke of Albany, that James obtained his liberty, being then ransomed by the people of Scotland. 6. But Henry made some amends for his unjust and cruel con- duct, by giving the young prince the best education the times afforded. He excelled in tilting, wrestling, archery, and all the ex- ercises then practised by young men of rank ; as well as in the more refined studies of oratory, law, and the philosophy of those times. 7. He had also an extraordinary talent for music and poetry; indeed, some say that he was the inventor of that sweet and plaintive style of music which is peculiar to Scotland. His poetry is quite extraordinary, considering the time in which it was writ- ten, and some of his ballads continue to be popular to the present day. In one of his poems he describes very touchingly his manner of life when he was a prisoner. 8. When restored to his kingdom, he proved the best king that ever sat on the Scottish throne. He made excellent laws, and re- formed many abuses. The name of James I. of Scotland is still held in reverence by his countrymen. CHAPTER XCVI. Anecdotes of Prince Heiiry. — Death of Henry 1 V. 1 . Henry had now some respite from his enemies, but he had none from the bitter reflections of his own mind, which was a per- petual prey to remorse and fear. He also suffered greatly fmm ill health. To add to his unhappiness, his son, the " Madcap Harry," 3. Why did Robert wish to send his son to France? Did be reach there? 4. What was done wi til the prince by Henry? 5. How long did the prince remain a prisoner? 6. What amends did Henry make for his conduct? 7. What is said of James's poetry and music ? 8. What of his character as king? XCVI. — 1. What is said of the condition of Henry? 2, 3. Relate the story of Prince 15 170 DEATH OF HENRY IV. 14i:i wlieii not engaged in war, in which he displayed great courage anO ability, led a most disorderly life. :!'''fiinn'{;l!!ll!lll.iiti PRINCE HENRY STRIKING THE JUDGE. 2. One of his companions was arrested for a highway robbery, and brought before the chief justice, Gascoigne, for examination; the evidence was strong against him, but the prince, who was pres- ent, required that lie should be released. Gascoigne refused to comply with this demand; whereupon the prince became so much exasperated as to forget for the moment where he was, and he actually struck the judge as he sat upon the bench. 3. The judge forthwith vindicated the dignity of his office, by sending the prince to prison ; and he, at once acknowledging the impropriety of his own conduct, submitted to the punishment. When this incident was related to the king, he exclaimed, " Happy the monarch who possesses a judge so resolute in the discharge of his duty, and a son so willing to submit to the law V* 4. The king's health now rapidly failed. As his strength de- clined, his fears of rebellions, and of being deposed, increased even to childish anxiety ; he could not sleep imless the crown itself was laid upon his pillow. He became subject to dreadful fits, whicli would cause him to fall down apparently dead. 5. One day, when he was in one of these fits, the prince, who be- lieve4 liiin to he actually dead, took the crown from his pillow, and carried it away. When the king came to his senses he instantly missed it, and sternly asked who had dared to remove it. 6. The prince made a dutiful apology, which pacified the king, llenrj' and the chief justice. 4. What is said of Henry's fears? 5,6,7. Relate th« anecdote of the liing and the prii - \ When did Henry die ? What was his age ? He w tong liad he r