There was, however, one man in Henry's kingdom--his Lord Chancellor
(S145), Thomas Becket--who was always ready to serve him. At his own
expense the Chancellor now equipped seven hundred knights, and,
crossing the Channel, fought valiantly for the suppression of the
rebellion in Toulouse (S161) in the south of France. (See map facing
p. 84.)
Shortly after Becket's return from the Continent Henry resolved to
appoint him Archbishop of Canterbury. Becket knew that the King
purposed beginning certain Church reforms with which he was not in
sympathy, and declined the office. But Henry would take no denial.
At last Becket consented, but he warned the King that he should uphold
the rights of the clergy. He now became the head of the Catholic
Church in England. He was the first man of English birth called to
that exalted position since the Norman Conquest.
This promotion made a decided change in Becket's relation to the King.
So long as he was Chancellor he was bound to do what the King ordered,
but as soon as he was made Archbishop he became the servant of the
Church. Again, on his assumption of this sacred office Becket
underwent a remarkable charge of character. He had been a man of the
world, fond of pomp and pleasure. He now gave up all luxury and show.
He put on sackcloth, lived on bread and water, and spent his nights in
prayer, tearing his flesh with a scourge.