We only introduce this little siege on account of a particular
circumstance attending it. Whilst the English invasions of France
have been more than one, and the sieges and captures of her cities
numerous, Dover we believe to be the only English city that has been
besieged by the French. We of course except the Conquest, because we
do not consider William of Normandy a Frenchman at all: the Normans,
or Northmen, were a race of the most successful adventurers of that
age, and, not much more than a hundred years before their expedition to
England, had gained, in an almost similar manner, an establishment in a
remote province of France.
The English barons, disgusted with the levity and tyranny of John, very
inconsiderately offered the crown of England to Louis, son of Philip
Augustus, and heir to the kingdom of France. This prince, who did not
want for spirit, in spite of the anathemas of the court of Rome, under
the protection of which the weak John had placed himself, embarked with
an army on board a fleet of seven hundred vessels, landed at Sandwich,
and took possession of the county of Kent, with the exception of Dover.
This place was well provided against an attack, and was governed by
Hubert du Bourg, an intrepid and skilful soldier. Louis being unable to
overcome his firm resistance, had recourse to more seductive advances,
offering him a considerable bribe; but to his honour, Du Bourg repulsed
it more indignantly and quite as firmly as he had resisted his arms.
The French were obliged to raise the siege.
“This England never did (nor never shall)
Lie at the proud foot of a conqueror.”