_Sirnamed Conquerour_.
Robert Duke of _Normandie_, the sixth in descent from _Rollo_, riding
through _Falais_ a towne in _Normandie_, espied certaine yong persons
dauncing neere the way. And as he stayed to view a while the maner of
their disport, he fixed his eye especially vpon a certaine damosell
named _Arlotte_; of meane birth, a Skinners daughter, who there daunced
among the rest. The frame and comely carriage of her body, the naturall
beautie and graces of her countenance, the simplicitie of her rurall
both behauiour and attire pleased him so well, that the same night he
procured her to be brought to his lodging; where he begate of her a
sonne, who afterward was named _William_.
I will not defile my writing with memory of some lasciuious behauiour
which she is reported to haue vsed, at such time as the Duke approched
to embrace her. And doubtfull it is, whether vpon some speciall note of
immodestie in herselfe, or whether vpon hate towards her sonne, the
English afterwards adding an aspiration to her name (according to the
naturall maner of their pronouncing) termed euery vnchast woman
_Harlot_.
It is remembred by some, rather seruile then fond in obseruations, who
will either finde or frame predictions for euery great action or euent;
that his mother before the time of her deliuery had a dreame, that her
bowels were extended ouer _Normandie_ and _England_. Also, that at the
time of his birth, he fell from his mothers body to the ground; and
there filled both his hands with rushes, which had bene cast thicke vpon
the floore, and streined them with a very streit gripe. The wiues
laughed at large, and soone grew prodigall of idle talke. But the
Midwife somewhat more soberly said; That he should not onely hold well
his owne, but graspe somewhat from other men.
When he was about 9. yeeres of age, his father went vpon deuotion to
_Hierusalem_; and in his returne died at the Citie of _Nice_. So
_William_ at that age succeeded his father; hauing then very generous
and aspiring spirits, both to resist abroad, and to rule at home. Hee
was committed to the gouernment of two of his vnckles; and the French
King was entreated by his father to take vpon him the protection, both
of his person and State. But his vnckles pretended title to his
dignitie, by reason of his vnlawfull birth; the King of France also
desired much and had often attempted to reduce _Normandie_ to his
absolute subiection, as it was before the inuasion of the _Normans_. So
as it may seeme he was committed to these Tutors, as a Lambe should be
committed to the tutelage of wolues. The onely meanes of his
preseruation consisted in a factious Nobilitie, deuided into so many
parts, as there were parties: Some contending for possession of the yong
Dukes person; others, of his authoritie and power; all of them
incompatible to endure either equals, or els superiours: All of them
vnited against a common enemie; all deuided among themselues.
Here it may be demanded how he being vnlawfully borne, could succeed his
father in the dutchie of _Normandie_; his father leauing two brothers
borne in lawfull marriage, and much other legitimate kindred behind him.
_Will. Malmesburie_[5] and some others haue reported, that albeit hee
was borne out of marriage, yet Duke _Robert_ his father did afterwards
entertaine his mother for lawfull wife: which by the Law of that
Countrey, agreeable in that point to the Ciuill and Canon Lawes,
sufficed to make the issue inheritable, although borne before.
And further, it was a generall custome at that time in France, that
bastards did succeed, euen in dignities of highest condition, no
otherwise then children lawfully begotten. _Thierrie_ bastard of
_Clouis_, had for his partage with the lawfull children of the same
_Clouis_, the Kingdome of _Austrasie_, now called _Lorraine_.
_Sigisbert_ bastard of King _Dagobert_ the first, had his part in the
Kingdome of France, with _Clouis_ the 12. lawfull sonne to _Dagobert_.
_Loys_ and _Carloman_ bastards of King _Loys le Begue_, succeeded after
the death of their father. So likewise in _England_, _Alfride_ bastard
sonne of _Oswine_, succeeded his brother _Egfride_. So _Adelstane_ the
bastard sonne of _Edward_ the elder, succeeded his father, before
_Edmund_ and _Eldred_ his yonger brothers; notwithstanding they were
lawfully begotten. So _Edmund_, surnamed the _Martyr_, Bastard sonne to
King _Edgar_, succeeded him in the state, before _Ethelbred_ his lawfull
issue. Afterward, _Harold_ surnamed _Harefoote_, bastard to _Canutus_,
succeeded him in the kingdome, before _Hardicanutus_, his lawfull sonne.
The like custome hath been obserued in _Spaine_, in _Portugale_, and in
diuers other countreys. And it is probable that this vse was grounded
vpon often experience, that bastards (as begotten in the highest heate
and strength of affection) haue many times been men of excellent proofe,
both in courage and in vnderstanding. This was verified[6] in
_Hercules_, _Alexander_ the Great, _Romulus_, _Timotheus_, _Brutus_,
_Themistocles_, _Arthur_: in _Homer_, _Demosthenes_, _Bion_,
_Bartholus_, _Gratian_, _Peter Lumbard_, _Peter Comestor_, _Io.
Andreas_, and diuers of most flourishing name: among whom our
_Conquerour_ may worthily be ranged.
And yet in the third race of the Kings of _France_ a law was made, that
bastards should not inherite the Crowne of the Realme. This custome was
likewise banished out of _England_, and other countreys of _Europe_.
Notwithstanding in _France_, other bastards of great houses were still
aduowed.
The exercises of this Duke from his verie youth were ingenuous, manly,
decent, & such as tended to actiuitie and valure: Hee was of a working
minde and vehement spirit, rather ambitious then onely desirous of
glory: of a piercing wit, blind in no mans cause, and well sighted in
his owne: of a liuely and present courage; neither out of ignorance, or
rash estimation of dangers, but out of a true iudgement both of himselfe
and of them. In peace he was politicke: In warre valiant and very
skilfull, both to espie, and to apprehend, and to follow his aduantages:
this valure and skill in militarie affayres, was alwayes seconded with
good successe. He was continually accustomed both to the weight and vse
of armour, from his very childhood. Oftentimes hee looked death in the
face with a braue contempt. He was neuer free from actions of armes;
first vpon necessity to defend himselfe, afterwards vpon ambition to
offend and disturbe the possessions of others.
In his first age he was much infested with rebels in _Normandie_; who
often conspired both against his life, and against his dignitie and
State; traducing him, as a bastard, as a boy, as borne of a base ignoble
woman, as altogether vnworthy to be their Prince. Of these, some he
appeased and reconciled vnto him: others he preuented, and dispersed
their power before it was collected: others hee encountred in open
field, before he had any haire vpon his face; where hee defeated their
forces in full battell, then tooke their strongholds, and lastly chased
them out of his dominion.
And first _Roger Tresnye_, hauing gained exceeding great both fauour and
reputation by his seruices against the _Sarasins_ in _Spaine_, made
claime to the duchie of _Normandie_; as one lawfully descended from
_Rollo_ their first Duke. And albeit many others were before him in
title, yet (said he) if they will sit still; if they, either through
sloath, which is ill, or through feare, which is worse, will abandone
the aduenture, he alone would free the _Normans_ from their infamous
subiection. He was followed by many, partly vpon opinion of his right,
but chiefly of his valour. But when he brought his cause to the
arbitrement of Armes, hee was ouerthrowne in a strong battaile, wherein
his claime and his life determined together.
After this, _William_ Earle of _Arques_, sonne to _Richard_ the second,
and vnckle to Duke _William_, vpon the same pretence declared himselfe
against his nephew. And albeit the _Normans_ were heauie to stirre in
his fauour, yet hee so wrought with the French King, by assuring him
great matters in _Normandie_; that with a mightie armie of his owne
people, hee went in person, to place him in possession of that dutchy.
The way which the King tooke, led him to a large valley, sandie and full
of short bushes and shrubs; troublesome for horsemen either to fight or
to march. On either side were rising hils, very thicke set with wood.
Here the Armie entred with small aduisement, either for clearing the
passage, or for the safetie of their carriages. The Vaward consisted
chiefly of battle-axes and pikes. In the right wing were many _Almans_
among the _French_. In the left were many of _Aniou_ and _Poictou_.
After these followed the baggage, with an infinite number of scullians,
carters and other base drudges attending vpon it. Next came the French
King with the maine battaile, consisting for the most part of valiant
and worthy Gentlemen, brauely mounted. The lances and men at Armes
cloased the Rereward.
When they were well entred this valley, the _Normans_ did liuely charge
vpon them in head; they deliuered also their deadly shot from the hils
on both sides, as thicke as haile. Notwithstanding the Vantgard, casting
themselues into a pointed battaile in forme of a wedge, with plaine
force of hand made themselues way; and marching in firme and close order
through the thickest of their enemies, gained (albeit not without great
losse) the top of a hill, and there presently encamped themselues. The
like fortune happily might the residue haue had, if they had followed
with the like order and courage. But failing herein, the right wing was
hewed in pieces: the left wing was broken and beaten vpon the carriages;
where ouerbearing and treading downe one an other, they receiued almost
as much hurt from themselues, as they did from their enemies. The maine
battaile and Rereward aduancing forward to rescue the carriage, were
first miserably ouerwhelmed with a storme of arrowes from the hill on
both sides: and the gallant horses once galled with that shot, would no
more obey or endure their riders; but flinging out, either ouerthrew or
disordred all in their way. And the more to encrease the miserie of that
day, the dull and light sand which was raised, partly by the feete of
horses and men, and partly by violence of the wind, which then blew full
in the faces of the _French_, inuolued them all as in a thicke and darke
cloud; which depriued them of all foresight and direction in gouerning
their affaires. The valiant was nothing discerned from the coward, no
difference could be set betweene contriuance and chance: All laboured in
one common calamitie, and euery one encreased the feare of his fellow.
The _Normans_ hauing well spent their shot, and perceiuing the _French_
in this sort both disordered and dismayed, came downe from the hils
where they houered before; and falling to the close stroke of
battaile-axe and sword, most cruelly raged in the blood of their
enemies. By whom if any sparke of valour was shewen, being at so great
disaduantage, it was to no purpose, it was altogether lost; it was so
farre from relieuing others, that it was not sufficient to defend
themselues. And doubtlesse no thing so much fauoured the state of the
_French_ that day, as that the number of the _Normans_ sufficed not to
enclose them behind. For then they had bene entrapped as Deere in a
toile; then not one of them could haue escaped. But the entrance of the
valley remayning open, many fled backe to the plaine ground; tumbling
together in such headlong hast, that if the _Normans_ had sharply put
vpon them the chase, it is certaine that they had bene extreemely
defeated. But the Duke gaue ouer the execution vpon good aduise. For
knowing himselfe not to be of force vtterly to vanquish the _French_, he
assayed rather by faire forbearance to purchase their friendship.
Here the French king assembled his broken companies, and encamped them
for that night so well as he could. The ioy of their present escape
expelled for the time all other respects. But after a little breathing,
their remembrance began to runne vpon the losse of their cariages;
whereby they had lost all meanes to refresh themselues. Of their Vaward
they made a forelorne reckoning, and the like did the Vaward of them.
Many were wounded, all wearied; and the _Normans_ gaue notice by
sounding out their instruments of warre, that they were at hand on euery
side. The rudest of the Souldiers did boldly vpbraid this infortunitie
to the King; one asked him where his Vaward was, where were his wings,
where were the residue of his battell, and Rereward. Others called for
the cariages, to preserue those in life who had not been slaine. Others
demanded if he had any more mouse-traps to leade them into. But most
sate heauy and pensiue, scarce accounting themselues among the liuing.
The King swallowed downe all with a sad silence, sometimes he dissembled
as though he had not heard; sometimes hee would fairely answere; _Good
words, good souldiers; haue patience a while, and all will be well_:
which was indeede a truer word then he thought it possible to bee when
he spake it.
In this extremity the King assembled the chiefe of his commanders, to
aduise with them what was best to be done. It was generally concluded,
that in staying their case was desperate; and dangerous it was to
stirre. But here lay the question; whether it was least dangerous to
remoue together, or euery man to shift for himselfe. Whilest this point
was in debating, whilest they expected euery minute to be assailed,
whilest no man saw any thing but death and despaire; behold, a messenger
came from the Duke, not to offer but to desire peace; and to craue
protection of the French king, according to the trust which _Robert_ the
Dukes father reposed in him. There needed not many words to perswade.
Peace was signed, protection assured, in a more ample maner then it was
required. Then the messenger with many good words appeased the Kings
heauinesse, telling him, that his Vaward was safe, his cariages not
touched, and that he should be furnished with horses both for burthen
and draught, in stead of those that had been slaine. These words, as a
sweete enchantment, rauished the _French_ King with sudden ioy. But when
they came to gather vp their baggage, a spectacle both lamentable and
loathsome was presented vnto them. The valley couered, and in some
places heaped with dead bodies of men and horses: many not once touched
with any weapon, lay troden to death, or else stifled with dust and
sand: many grieuously wounded, reteined some remainder of life, which
they expressed with cries and groanes: many not mortally hurt, were so
ouerlaid with the slaine, that they were vnable to free themselues:
towards whom it is memorable, what manly both pitie and helpe the
_Normans_ did affoord. And so the _French_ King more by courtesie of his
enemies, then either by courage or discretion of his owne, returned in
reasonable state to _Paris_.
Vpon these euents of open hostilitie, _Guy_ Earle of _Burgogne_, who had
taken to wife _Alix_, daughter to Duke _Richard_ the second, and Aunt to
Duke _William_, conspired with _Nicellus_ president of _Constantine_,
_Ranulph_ Vicecount of _Bayon_, _Baimond_, and diuers others, suddenly
to surprise the Duke, and slay him in the night. A certaine foole,
(nothing regarded for his want of wit) obseruing their preparations,
secretly got away, and in the dead of the night came to _Valogne_, where
the Duke then lay; no lesse slenderly guarded with men, then the place
it selfe was sleight for defence. Here he continued rapping at the
gate, and crying out, vntill it was opened, and hee brought to the
presence of the Duke. To whom he declared the conspiracie, with
circumstances of such moment, that the Duke foorthwith tooke his horse,
and posted alone towards _Falais_, an especial place for strength for
defence. Presently after his departure the conspirators came to
_Valogne_, they beset the house, they enter by force, they search euery
corner for the Duke: And finding that the game was start, and on foote,
in hote haste they pursued the chase.
About breake of day the Dukes horse tired, and he was ignorant of his
right way. He was then at a little village called _Rie_, where the
chiefe Gentleman of the place was standing at his doore ready to goe
abroad. Of him the Duke enquired the next way to _Falais_. The Gentleman
knew the Duke, and with all duetie and respect desired to know the cause
of his both solitarie and vntimely riding. The Duke would willingly haue
passed vnknowne; but perceiuing himselfe to be discouered, declared to
him the whole aduenture. Hereupon the Gentleman furnished him with a
fresh horse, and sent with him two of his sonnes to conduct him the
direct way to _Falais_.
No sooner were they out of sight, but the conspirators came, and
enquired of the same Gentleman (who still remained at his doore) whether
he saw not the Duke that morning: as if, forsooth, they were come to
attend him. The Gentleman answered, that he was gone a little before,
and therewith offered them his company to ouertake him. But he lead them
about another way, vntill the Duke was safely alighted at _Falais_. And
thus the more we consider these and the like passages of affaires, the
lesse we shall admire either the wisdome, or industry, or any other
sufficiencie of man. In actions of weight it is good to employ our best
endeuours; but when all is done, he danceth well to whom Fortune doeth
pipe.
When the conspirators vnderstood that their principall purpose was
disappointed, they made themselues so powerfull in the field, that the
Duke was enforced to craue ayde of the King of _France_; who not long
before was his greatest enemie. The King preferring to his remembrance
the late honourable dealing of the Duke, came in person vnto him; by
whose countenance and aide the Duke ouerthrew his enemies in a full
battell, in the vale of _Dunes_: albeit not without great difficultie,
and bold aduenture of his owne person. _Guy de Burgogne_ escaped by
flight, and defended himselfe in certaine castles which he had fortified
in _Normandie_ for his retreite; but in the end hee rendred both
himselfe and them to the Dukes discretion. The Duke not onely pardoned
him, but honoured him with a liberall pension; which he did afterward
both with valiant and loyall seruice requite.
Not long after, the French King had wars against _Ieoffrey Martell_, and
Duke _William_ went with a faire companie of Souldiers to his ayde. In
this seruice he so wel acquited himselfe, both in iudgement and with
hand, that the French King was chiefly directed by him; onely blaming
him for too carelesse casting himselfe into the mouth of dangers;
imputing that to ostentation, which was but the heate of his courage and
age. Oftentimes hee would range from the maine battell with very fewe in
his company; either to make discoueries, or to encounter such enemies as
could not bee found with greater troupes. Once hee withdrew himselfe
onely with foure, and was met with by fifteene of the enemies. The most
forward of them he strake from his horse, and brake his thigh with the
fall. The residue hee chased foure miles; and most of them being hurt,
tooke seuen prisoners. Hereupon _Ieoffrey Martell_ then said of him;
that he was at that time the best souldier, and was like to prooue the
best commander in the world.
And as hee was both fauourable and faithfull towards them who fairely
yeelded, so against such as either obstinately or scornefully caried
themselues, he was extreamely seuere, or rather cruell. When hee
besieged _Alencon_, which the Duke of _Aniou_ had taken from him, the
defendants would often crie from the walles, _La pel, La pel_;
reproaching him thereby with the birth of his mother. This base
insolencie, as it enflamed both his desire and courage to atchieue the
enterprise, so did it his fury, to deale sharpely with them when they
were subdued; by cutting off their hands and feete; and by other
seuerities which were not vsuall.
Besides these, some others of his owne blood prouoked _Engelrame_ Earle
of _Ponthieu_ to moue against him in armes: but the Duke receiued him
with so resolute valour, that the Earle was slaine in the field, and
they well chastised who drew him to the enterprise. The _Britaines_ did
often feele the force of his victorious armes. Hee had many conflicts
with _Ieoffrey Martell_ Earle of _Aniou_, confederate with the Princes
of _Britane_, _Aquitaine_, and _Tours_; a man equall vnto him both in
power and in skill to command, but in fortune and in force of arme much
inferiour. Many excellent atchieuements were performed betweene them;
insomuch as their hostilitie seemed onely to bee an emulation in honour.
Once the Duke fell into an ambushment addressed for him by the Earle of
_Aniou_; wherewith he was so suddenly surprized, that he was almost in
the midst of the danger before he thought any danger neere him. An
exceeding great both terrour and confusion seazed vpon his souldiers;
because the more sudden and vncertaine a perill is, the greater is it
alwayes esteemed. Many of his brauest men were slaine; the residue so
disordered, or at least shaken, as they began to thinke more of their
particular escape, then of the common either safety or glory.
When they were thus vpon the point to disband, the Duke rather with
rage then courage cried vnto them, _If you loue me not Souldiers, yet
for shame follow me; for shame stand by mee; for shame let not any of
your friends heare the report, that you ran from mee and left me
fighting._ With that he threw himselfe into the thickest throng of his
enimies, and denounced those either traitours or cowards who would not
follow. This example breathed such braue life into his Souldiers, that
they rallied their loose rankes, and in close order seconded him with a
resolute charge: encouraging one another, that it was shameful indeede
not to fight for him, who so manfully did fight with them. The Duke
brandishing his sword like a thunderbolt, dung downe his enemies on
euery side; made at Earle _Martell_ in the midst of his battallion,
strake him downe, claue his helmet, and cut away one of his eares. This
so diuerted the _Aniouans_ to the rescue of their Earle, that they let
the other part of the victorie goe. The Earle they recouered againe to
horse, and so left the Duke master of the field. Verely, it is almost
impossible, that a commander of such courage should haue, either faint
or false hearted Souldiers.
Now it happened not long before, that _Fulc_ Earle of _Aniou_ hauing
drawen _Herbert_ Earle of _Maine_ vnder faire pretenses to _Xantonge_,
cast him in prison, from whence he could not be released vntill he had
yeelded to certaine conditions, both dishonourable and disaduantageable
vnto him. _Hugh_ succeded _Herbert_; from whom _Ieoffrey Martell_ Earle
of _Aniou_ tooke the citie of _Maine_, and made himselfe lord of all the
countrey. _Hugh_ hauing lost his dominion, left both his title and his
quarrell to his sonne _Herbert_: who hauing no issue, appointed Duke
_William_ to bee his heire. Hereupon the Duke inuaded _Maine_, and in
short time subdued the whole countrey, and built two fortifications for
assurance thereof; hauing first sent word to the Earle of _Aniou_, vpon
what day the worke should begin. The Earle vsed all diligence and means
to impeach the buildings; but hee not onely failed of that purpose, but
further lost the countie of _Medune_.
Againe, _Henry_ King of _France_ did many other times with great
preparation inuade his Countrey; sometimes with purpose to winne vpon
him, and sometimes to keepe him from winning vpon others. Vpon a time
the King led his troupes ouer the foord of _Dine_; and when halfe his
army had passed, the other halfe by reason of the rising of the Sea, was
compelled to stay. The Duke apprehending the aduantage, came vpon them
with a furious charge, being now deuided from the chiefe of the Armie;
and either slew them or tooke them prisoners, in the plaine view of
their King. After this they concluded a peace, whereof the conditions
were, That the Duke should release such prisoners as he had taken; and
that hee should retaine whatsoeuer he had wonne, or afterwards should
winne from the Earle of _Aniou_. And yet the King did againe enterprise
vpon him, with greater forces then at any time before: But the Duke
entertained his Armies with so good order and valoure, that the King
gained nothing but losse and dishonour: and the greater his desire was
of victorie and reuenge, the more foule did his foiles and failings
appeare; which so brake both his courage and heart, that with griefe
thereof (as it was conceiued) hee ended his life. And thus during all
the time that he was onely Duke of _Normandy_, he was neuer free from
action of armes: in all his actions of armes hee was caried with a most
rare and perpetuall felicitie.
As he grew in yeeres, so did he in thicknesse and fatnesse of body: but
so, as it made him neither vnseemely, nor vnseruiceable for the warres;
and neuer much exceeding the measure of a comely corpulencie. He was
most decent, and therewith terrible in armes. He was stately and
maiesticall in his gesture; of a good stature, but in strength
admirable: in so much as no man was able to draw his bow, which hee
would bend sitting vpon his horse, stretching out the string with his
foot. His countenance was warlike and manly as his friends might terme
it; but as his enemies said, truculent and fierce. He would often sweare
_By Gods resurrection and his brightnesse_: which he commonly pronounced
with so furious a face, that hee strooke a terrour into those that were
present. His head was bald; his beard alwayes shauen; which fashion
being first taken vp by him, was then followed by all the _Normans_. Hee
was of a firme and strong constitution for his health; so as he neuer
was attached with sicknesse, but that which was the summons of his
death: and in his age seemed little to feele the heauie weight and
burthen of yeeres.
In his first age he was of a mild and gentle disposition; courteous,
bountifull, familiar in conuersation, a professed enemie to all vices.
But as in Fortune, as in yeres, so changed he in his behauiour; partly
by his continuall following the warres (whereby he was much fleshed in
blood) and partly by the inconstant nature of the people ouer whom he
ruled: who by often rebellions did not onely exasperate him to some
seueritie, but euen constraine him to hold them in with a more stiffe
arme. So hee did wring from his subiects very much substance, very much
blood; not for that he was by nature either couetous or cruell, but for
that his affaires could not otherwise be managed. His great affaires
could not be managed without great expence, which drew a necessity of
charge vpon the people: neither could the often rebellions of his
Subiects be repressed or restrained by any mild and moderate meanes. And
generally as in all States and gouernments, seuere discipline hath
alwayes bin a true faithfull mother of vertue and valour; so in
particular of his _Normans_ he learned by experience, and oftentimes
declared this iudgement: That if they were held in bridle, they were
most valiant, and almost inuincible; excelling all men both in courage,
and in strength, and in honourable desire to vanquish their enemies. But
if the reines were layd loose vpon their necke, they were apt to runne
into licentiousnes and mischiefe; ready to consume either themselues by
riot and sloath, or one another by sedition: prone to innouation and
change; as heauily mooued to vndertake dangers, so not to bee trusted
vpon occasion.
He tooke to wife _Matilde_ daughter to _Baldwin_ Earle of _Flanders_, a
man for his wisedome and power, both reuerenced and feared euen of
Kings; but because she was his cousin Germane, he was for his marriage
excommunicate by his owne vnckle _Mauger_ Archbishop of _Roan_. Hereupon
he sued to Pope _Victor_, and obteined of him a dispensation: and
afterwards so wrought, that by a prouinciall Councell his vncle _Mauger_
was depriued of his dignitie. But by this meanes both he & his issue
were firmely locked in obedience to the Sea of _Rome_; for that vpon the
authoritie of that place the validitie of his marriage, and consequently
the legitimation of his issue seemed to depend.
When he was about 50. yeeres of age, _Edward_ King of _England_ ended
his life. This _Edward_ was sonne to _Egelred_ King of _England_, by
_Emma_, sister to _Richard_ the second Duke of _Normandie_, who was
grandfather to Duke _William_: so as King _Edward_ and Duke _William_
were cousins germane once remoued.[7]
At such time as _Egelred_ was first ouercharged with warres by the
_Danes_, he sent his wife _Emma_, with two sonnes which she had borne
vnto him, _Alphred_ and _Edward_, into _Normandie_ to her brother; where
they were enterteined with all honourable vsage for many yeeres.
Afterward giuing place to the malice of his Fortune, he passed also into
_Normandie_, and left his whole state in the possession and power of
_Swanus_ King of _Denmarke_. But after the death of _Swanus_, partly by
the aide of the _Normans_, and partly by fauour of his owne people, he
recouered his Kingdome, and left the same to his eldest sonne _Edmund_,
who either for the tough temper of his courage and strength, or for that
he almost alwayes liued in Armes, was surnamed _Ironside_.
Hereupon _Canutus_ the sonne of _Swanus_ made sharpe warre, first
against _Egelred_, then against _Edmund_: and finally after many
varieties of aduenture, but chiefly by the fauour of the Clergie of
_England_ (because they had sworne allegiance to his father) spread the
wings of his victory ouer the whole Kingdome. He expelled out of the
Realme _Edwine_ and _Edward_ the two sonnes of King _Edmund_: of whom
_Edwine_ married the Kings daughter of _Hungarie_, but died without
issue; _Edward_ was aduanced to the marriage of _Agatha_, daughter to
the Emperour _Henry_, and by her had issue two sonnes, _Edmund_ &
_Edgar_, and so many daughters, _Margaret_ and _Christine_. The same
_Canutus_ tooke _Emma_ to wife, who had bene wife to King _Egelred_; by
whom he had a sonne named _Hardicanutus_.
After the death of _Canutus_, _Alphred_ the sonne of _Egelred_ came out
of _Normandie_, and with fiftie saile landed at _Sandwich_: with purpose
to attempt the recouerie of his fathers kingdome. In which enterprise
hee receiued not onely encouragement, but good assurance from many of
the _English_ Nobilitie. But by Earle _Goodwine_ he was abused and
taken; his company slaine, his eyes put out, and then sent to the Ile of
_Elie_, where in short time hee ended his life. _Edward_ also arriued at
_Hampton_ with 40. ships, but finding the Countrey so farre from
receiuing, as they were ready to resist him, he returned into
_Normandie_, and attended the further fauour of time. So after _Canutus_
succeeded in _England_, first _Harold_ sirnamed _Harefoot_, bastard
sonne to _Canutus_; and after him _Hardicanutus_, sonne to _Canutus_ by
_Emma_, mother also to King _Edward_.
_Hardicanutus_ being dead, the Nobilitie of the Realme sent into
_Normandie_ for _Edward_ to be their King; whereto also he was appointed
as some haue written by _Hardicanutus_. But because _Alphred_ his
brother vpon the like inuitation had bene traiterously taken and slaine
before, _William_ at that time Duke of _Normandie_ would not permit him
to depart, vntill he had receiued for pledges of his safety, _Woolnoth_
son to Earle _Goodwine_, and _Hacon_ sonne to _Swaine_, Earle _Goodwins_
eldest sonne. Vpon this assurance he was furnished by the duke his
cousin, with all meanes fit both for his enterprise and estate. And so
hee passed the Seas, arriued in _England_, and with generall ioy was
receiued for King. He tooke to wife _Edith_ the daughter of Earle
_Goodwine_; but whether vpon vow of chastitie, or whether vpon
impotencie of nature, or whether vpon hatred to her father, or whether
vpon suspition against herselfe (for all these causes are alleaged by
seuerall writers of those times) he forbore all priuate familiaritie
with her.
When he was well locked into the chaire of State, Duke _William_ came
out of _Normandie_ to see him, to shew his magnificence to the _English_
people; to shew to the _English_, both that he loued their King, and
that he was of power to relieue him, in case his necessities should so
require. Here, besides honourable enterteinement, besides many rich
gifts both to himselfe and to his followers, the King hauing neither
hope nor desire of issue, promised him, in regard of his great fauours
and deserts, that hee should be his next successour in the Kingdome. And
for further assurance thereof, sent him also the like message into
_Normandie_, by _Robert_ Archbishop of _Canterburie_.
After this _Harold_ sonne to Earle _Goodwine_ passed the Seas into
_Normandie_, to deale for the discharge of his brother _Wolnoth_ and
_Hacon_ his nephew, who had bene deliuered for hostages to the Duke. In
his passage he was much tossed with troublesome weather, and in the end
was cast vpon the coast of _Ponthieu_, and there taken by the Earle and
committed to prison. But at the request of the Duke of _Normandie_, hee
was released with honourable respect, and by the Earle himselfe
accompanied to the Duke; who enterteined him with great magnificence at
_Roan_. The Duke was then going in Armes against the _Britaines_; in
which iourney _Harold_ did accompany him, and shewed himselfe a man,
neither rash in vndertaking, nor fearefull in perfourming any seruices
of the field. After prosperous returne, the Duke declared to _Harold_,
the purpose of King _Edward_ concerning the Dukes succession to this
Crowne. _Harold_ did auow the same to be true; and promised to affoord
thereto the best furtherance that he could. Hereupon the Duke assembled
a Councell at _Boneuill_; where _Harold_ did sweare fidelitie vnto him:
and promised likewise by oath, that after the death of King _Edward_, he
would keepe the Realme of _England_ to the vse of the Duke: that he
would deliuer vnto him the castle of _Douer_, and certaine other pieces
of defence, furnished at his owne charge. Hereupon the Duke promised
vnto him his daughter in marriage, and with her halfe the Realme of
_England_ in name of her dower. He also deliuered to him his nephew
_Hacon_; but kept his brother _Wolnoth_ as an hostage, for performance
of that which _Harold_ had sworne.
In short time after King _Edward_ died, and _Harold_ being generall
commander of the forces of the Realme, seized vpon the soueraignetie,
and without any accustomed solemnities set the crowne vpon his owne
head. The people were nothing curious to examine titles; but as men
broken with long bondage, did easily entertaine the first pretender. And
yet to _Harold_ they were inclinable enough, as well vpon opinion of his
prowesse, as for that hee endeauoured to winne their fauour, partly by
abating their grieuous paiments, and partly by increasing the wages of
his seruants and Souldiers; generally, by vsing iustice with clemencie
and courtesie towards all. About this time a blasing starre appeared and
continued the space of seuen dayes;[8] which is commonly taken to
portend alteration in States. Of this Comet a certaine Poet, alluding to
the baldnesse of the _Norman_, wrote these verses.
_Caesariem Caesar tibi si natura negauit,
Hanc Willielme tibi stella comata dedit._
Duke _William_ sent diuers Ambassadours to _Harold_; first to demaund
perfourmance of his oath, afterward to mooue him to some moderate
agreement. But ambition, a reasonlesse and restlesse humour, made him
obstinate against all offers or inducements of peace. So they prepared
to buckle in armes; equall both in courage and in ambitious desires,
equall in confidence of their fortune: but _Harold_ was the more
aduenturous, _William_ the more aduised man: _Harold_ was more strong in
Souldiers, _William_ in Alies and friends.
_Harold_ was seated in possession, which in case of a kingdome is
oftentimes with facilitie attained, but retained hardly: _William_
pretended the donation of King _Edward_, and that he was neere vnto him
in blood by the mothers side.
Now there wanted not precedents, both ancient and of later times, that
free kingdomes and principalities, not setled by custome in succession
of blood, haue been transported euen to strangers by way of guift.
_Attalus_ king of _Pergamus_[9] did constitute the people of _Rome_ his
heire; by force wherof they made his kingdome a part of their empire.
_Nicomedes_ King of _Bithynia_[10] made the people of _Rome_ likewise
his heire; whereupon his kingdome was reduced to the forme of a
Prouince. So _Alexander_ King of _Egypt_,[11] gaue _Alexandria_ and the
kingdome of _Egypt_; and so _Ptolemie_ gaue the kingdome of _Cyrene_ to
the same people of _Rome_. _Prasutagus_[12] one of the kings of great
_Britaine_, gaue the kingdome of the _Iceni_ to _Caesar Nero_, and to his
daughters. Yea, in the Imperial state of _Rome_, _Augustus_ designed
_Tiberius_ to be his successour; and by like appointment _Nero_ became
successour to _Claudius_; _Traiane_ to _Nerua_; _Antonius Pius_ to
_Adrian_; and _Antoninus_ the Philosopher to another _Antoninus_. When
the Emperour _Galba_[13] did openly appoint _Piso_ for his successour,
he declared to the people, that the same custome had been obserued by
most approued and ancient Princes. _Iugurth_ being adopted by
_Mycipsa_,[14] succeeded him in the kingdome of _Numidia_; and that by
the iudgement as well of _Mycipsa_ himselfe, as of the Senate and people
of _Rome_.
The holy histories report that _Salomon_[15] gaue twentie cities to
_Hiram_ king of _Tyre_: and if the argument be good from the part to the
whole, he might in like sort haue disposed of all his kingdome. Who
hath not heard of the donation falsly attributed to _Constantine_ the
great, being in trueth the donation of _Lewis_, sirnamed the pious;
whereby he gaue to Pope _Paschal_ the citie of _Rome_, and a large
territorie adioyning vnto it; the instrument of which gift
_Volaterrane_[16] doth recite. So the Ladie _Matild_, daughter to
_Roger_ the most famous Prince of _Cicilie_, and wife to king _Conrade_,
sonne to _Henrie_[17] the 4. Emperour, gaue the Marquisate of _Apulia_
to the Bishop of _Rome_: which when the Emperour _Otho_ the 4. refused
to deliuer, hee was for that cause excommunicate by the Pope. In like
sort the countrey of _Daulphin_[18] was giuen by Prince _Vmbert_ to the
King of _France_, vpon condition, that the eldest sonne of _France_
should afterward be called _Daulphine_. Lastly, the Dukes first
auncestor _Rollo_, receiued the Dukedome of _Normandie_ by donation of
_Charles_ King of _France_: And himselfe held the Countie of _Maine_ by
donation of Earle _Herebert_, as before it is shewed. And by donation of
the King of _Britaine_, _Hengist_ obtained _Kent_; the first kingdome of
the English Saxons in _Britaine_. After which time the Countrey was
neuer long time free from inuasion: first, by the English and Saxons
against the Britaines, afterward by the seuen _Saxon_ kingdomes among
themselues, and then lastly by the _Danes_. By meanes whereof the
kingdome at that time could not bee setled in any certaine forme of
succession by blood, as it hath been since; but was held for the most
part in absolute dominion, and did often passe by transaction or gift:
and he whose sword could cut best, was alwaies adiudged to haue most
right. But of this question more shall hereafter be said, in the
beginning of the life of King _William_ the second.
Touching his propinquity in blood to King _Edward_ by the mothers side,
he enforced it to be a good title: because King _Edward_ not long before
had taken succession from _Hardicanutus_, to whom hee was brother by the
mothers side. And although King _Edward_ was also descended from the
_Saxon_ Kings, yet could not he deriue from them any right: For that
_Edgar_ and his sisters were then aliue, descended from _Edmund
Ironside_, elder brother to King _Edward_. Hee could haue no true right
of succession, but onely from _Hardicanutus_ the _Dane_. So _Pepine_,
when he was possessed of the State of _France_, did openly publish, that
hee was descended of the blood of _Charles_ the Great, by the mothers
side. And albeit the said _Edgar_ was both neerer to King _Edward_ then
the Duke of _Normandie_, and also ioyned to him in blood by the fathers
side; yet was that no sufficient defence for _Harold_. The vsurped
possession of _Harold_[19] could not be defended, by alleaging a better
title of a third person. The iniurie which hee did to _Edgar_, could not
serue him for a title against any other.
These grounds of his pretence, beautified with large amplifications of
the benefits which he had done to King _Edward_, he imparted to the
Bishop of _Rome_; who at time was reputed the arbitrator of
controuersies which did rise betweene princes. And the rather to procure
his fauour, and to gaine the countenance of religion to his cause, hee
promised to hold the kingdome of _England_ of the Apostolike Sea.
Hereupon _Alexander_ then Bishop of _Rome_ allowed his title, and sent
vnto him a white hallowed banner, to aduance vpon the prowe of his ship:
also an _Agnus Dei_ of gold, and one of S. _Peters_ haires, together
with his blessing to begin the enterprise.
But now concerning his further proceedings, concerning his victorious
both entrance and continuance within the Realme of _England_, two points
are worthy to be considered: one, how he being a man of no great either
power or dominion, did so suddenly preuaile against a couragious King,
possessed of a large and puissant State. The other is, how he so secured
his victorie, as not the English, not the Britains, not the Danes, not
any other could dispossesse or much disturbe him & his posteritie, from
enioying the fayre fruits thereof. And if we giue to either of these
their true respects, wee shall find his commendation to consist, not so
much in the first, as in the second: because that was effected chiefly
by force, this by wisedome only; which as it is most proper to man, so
few men doe therein excell. Hee that winneth a State surmounteth onely
outward difficulties; but he that assureth the same, trauaileth as well
against internall weaknes, as external strength. To attaine a Kingdome
is many times a gift of Fortune; but to prouide that it may long time
continue firme, is not onely to oppose against humane forces, but
against the very malice of Fortune, or rather the power and wrath of
time, whereby all things are naturally inclineable to change.
For the first then, besides the secret working and will of God, which is
the cause of all causes; besides the sinnes of the people, for which
(the Prophet saith,) _Kingdomes are transported from one Nation to
another_: King _Edward_ not long before made a manifest way for this
inuasion and change. For although he was _English_ by birth, yet by
reason of his education in _Normandie_, he was altogether become a
_Normane_, both in affection and in behauiour of life. So as in
imitation of him, the _English_ abandoned the ancient vsages of their
Country, and with great affection or affectation rather, conformed
themselues to the fashions of _France_.[20] His chiefe acquaintance and
familiar friends were no other then _Normans_; towards whom being a
milde and soft spirited Prince, he was very bountifull, and almost
immoderate in his fauours. These he enriched with great possessions;
these he honoured with the highest places both of dignitie and charge.
Chiefly he aduanced diuers of them to the best degrees of dignitie in
the Church: by whose fauour Duke _William_ afterward was both animated &
aided in his exploit. Generally as the whole Clergie of _England_
conceiued a hard opinion of _Harold_; for that vpon the same day wherein
King _Edward_ was buried, he set the Crowne vpon his owne head, without
Religious Ceremonies, without any solemnities of Coronation: so they
durst not for feare of the Popes displeasure, but giue either
furtherance or forbearance to the Dukes proceedings; and to abuse the
credite which they had with the people, in working their submission to
the _Normans_. Now of what strength the Clergie was at that time within
the Realme, by this which followeth it may appeare.
After that _Harold_ was slaine, _Edwine_ and _Morcar_ Earles of
_Northumberland_ and _Marckland_, brothers of great both authoritie and
power within the Realme, had induced many of the Nobilitie to declare
_Edgar Athelinge_ to be their King: but the Prelates not onely crossed
that purpose, but deliuered _Edgar_ the next heire from the _Saxon_
Kings to the pleasure of the Duke.
Againe, when the Duke after his great victorie at _Hastings_ aduanced
his armie towards _Hartford-shire_; _Fredericke_ Abbot of _S. Albanes_
had caused the woods belonging to his Church to be felled, and the
trees to be cast so thicke in the way, that the Duke was compelled to
coast about to the castle of _Berkhamstead_. To this place the Abbot
vnder Suerties came vnto him; and being demanded wherefore he alone did
offer that opposition against him, with a confident countenance he
returned answere: that he had done no more then in conscience and by
Nature he was bound to doe: and that if the residue of the Clergie had
borne the like minde, hee should neuer haue pierced the land so farre.
Well, answered the Duke, I know that your Clergie is powerfull indeed;
but if I liue and prosper in my affaires, I shall gouerne their
greatnesse well ynough. Assuredly, nothing doeth sooner worke the
conuersion or subuersion of a State, then that any one sort of Subiects
should grow so great, as to be able to ouerrule all the rest.
Besides this disposition of the Clergie, diuers of the Nobilitie also
did nothing fauour King _Harold_ or his cause: for that he was a
manifest vsurper, naked of all true title to the Crowne, pretending
onely as borne of the daughter of _Hardicanutus_ the _Dane_. Yea he was
infamous both for his iniurie and periurie towards the Duke, and no
lesse hatefull for his disloyaltie in former times, in bearing Armes
with his father against King _Edward_. Hereupon the Nobilitie of the
Realme were broken into factions. Many (of whom his owne brother _Tosto_
was chiefe) inuited _Harold_ King of _Norway_ to inuade; with whom
whilest _Harold_ of _England_ was incountring in Armes, the residue drew
in Duke _William_ out of _Normandie_. And these also were diuided in
respects. Some were caried by particular ends, as being prepared in
diuers maner by the _Normane_ before hand: others vpon a greedy and for
the most part deceiueable ambition, in hunting after hazard and change:
others were led with loue to their Countrey, partly to auoyd the tempest
which they saw to gather in clouds against them, and partly to enlarge
the Realme both in dominion and strength, by adioyning the Country of
_Normandie_ vnto it. In which regard, (because the lesse doeth alwayes
accrue to the greater) they thought it more aduantageable to deale with
a Prince of an inferiour state, then with a Prince of a state superiour
or equal.
As for _Edgar Atheling_, the next successour to the Crowne in right of
blood, he was not of sufficient age; of a simple wit and slow courage;
not gracious to the _English_, as well for his imperfections both in
yeeres and nature, as for that he was altogether vnacquainted with the
customes and conditions of their Countrey: vnfurnished of forces and
reputation, vnfurnished of friends, vnfurnished of all meanes to support
his title. So Duke _William_ hauing better right then the one, and more
power then the other, did easily cary the prize from both.
Now touching the state of his owne strength, albeit _Normandie_ was but
little in regard of _England_, yet was it neither feeble nor poore. For
the people, by reason of their continuall exercise in Armes, by reason
of the weightie warres which they had managed, were well inabled both in
courage and skill for all Militarie atchieuements. Their valour also had
bene so fauoured by their Fortune, that they were more enriched by
spoile, then drawne downe either with losses or with charge. Hereupon
when preparation was to be made for the enterprise of _England_,
although some disswaded the Duke from embracing the attempt; affirming
that it was a vaine thing to streine at that which the hand is not able
to conteine, to take more meat then the stomacke can beare; that he who
catcheth at matters too great, is in great danger to gripe nothing: Yet
did others not onely encourage him by aduise, but enable him by their
aide. Among which _William Fitz-Auber_ did furnish 40. ships with men
and munition; The Bishop of _Baieux_ likewise 40: the Bishop of _Mans_
30: and in like sort others, according to the proportion of their
estates.
And yet he drew not his forces onely out of _Normandie_, but receiued
aide from all parts of _France_; answerable not onely to his necessitie,
but almost to his desire. _Philip_ King of _France_ at that time was
vnder age, and _Baldwine_ Earle of _Flanders_ was gouernour of the
Realme; whose daughter the Duke had taken to wife. By his fauour the
Duke receiued large supplies from the state of _France_, both in
treasure and in men of warre: for countenance whereof it was giuen
foorth, that the Duke should hold the Realme of _England_ as hee did the
Duchie of _Normandie_, vnder homage to the Crowne of _France_. Hereupon
diuers Princes of _France_ did adioyne to his aide; and especially the
Duke of _Orleance_, the Earles of _Britaine_, _Aniou_, _Boloigne_,
_Ponthieu_, _Neuers_, _Poictou_, _Hiesmes_, _Aumale_, and the Lord of
_Tours_. Many other of the Nobilitie and Gentlemen did voluntarily
aduenture, both their bodies and whole estates vpon the euent of this
enterprise. So greatly had he either by courtesie wonne the loue, or by
courage erected the hopes of all men: yea of many who had bin his
greatest enemies. With these also the _Emperour Henry_ 4. sent him
certaine troupes of Souldiers, commanded by a Prince of _Almaine_. Hee
receiued also many promises of fauour from _Swaine_ King of _Denmarke_.
And who can assure (for the sequele maketh the coniecture probable) that
he held not intelligence with _Harold Harfager_ King of _Norway_, to
inuade _England_ with two armies at once. So partly by his owne
Subiects, and partly by supply from his Alleys and friends, hee amassed
a strong Armie, consisting chiefly of _Normans_, _Flemings_, _French_
and _Britaines_, to the number of fiftie thousand men; and brought them
to S. _Valeries_, before which Towne his ships did ride. Here he stayed
a certaine time attending the wind, as most writers doe report; but
rather as it may be coniectured, to awaite the arriuall of _Harold
Harfager_ K. of _Norway_: knowing right well, that the inuasion of
_Harold_ of _Norway_ vpon the North parts of the realme, would draw away
_Harold_ of _England_ to leaue the coasts towards the South vndefended.
During his abode at S. _Valeries_, certaine English espials were taken,
whom King _Harold_ had sent to discouer both the purposes and power of
the Duke. When they were brought to his presence, with a braue
confidence he said vnto them: _Your Lord might well haue spared this
charge; hee needed not to haue cast away his cost to vnderstand that by
your industrie and faith, which my owne presence shall manifest vnto
him; more certainly, more shortly then he doth expect. Goe your wayes,
goe tell him from me, If he find me not before the end of this yeere, in
the place where hee supposeth that hee may most safely set his foote,
let him neuer feare danger from mee whilest hee liue._ Many _Normans_
disliked this open dealing of the Duke: preferring to his iudgement the
valour and experience of King _Harold_; the greatnesse of his treasure;
the number and goodnes of his men; but especially his strong Nauie, and
expert Saylers; accustomed both to the fights and dangers of the Sea,
more then any other people in the world. To these the Duke turned, and
sayd: _I am glad to heare this opinion run, both of his prowesse and of
his power; the greater shall our glory bee in preuailing against him.
But I see right well that I haue small cause to feare his discouery of
our strength, when you, who are so neere vnto mee, discerne so little.
Rest your selues vpon the Iustice of your cause and foresight of your
Commaunder. Who hath lesse then hee, who can iustly tearme nothing his
owne? I know more of his weakenesse, then euer he shall know of my
strength, vntill he feele it. Performe you your parts like men, and he
shall neuer be able to disappoint either my assurance, or your hopes._
Now _Harold_ King of _England_ had prepared a fleet to resist the
inuasion of the duke of _Normandie_: but by reason of his long stay at
S. _Valeries_, speeches did spread, whether by error or subornation,
yea, assured aduertisement was sent out of _Flanders_, that he had for
that yeere abandoned his enterprise. In the meane time _Harold Harfager_
King of _Norway_, then whom no man was esteemed more valiant, hauing
assured both intelligence and aide out of _England_, arriued in the
mouth of _Humber_: and from thence drawing vp against the streame of
the riuer _Owse_, landed at a place called _Richhall_. Here he
Marshalled his Armie, and marched foorth into the Countrey: and when hee
came neere vnto _Yorke_, he was encountred by the _English_, led by
_Edwine_ and _Morchar_ the principall commanders of all those quarters.
The fight was furious, but in the end the _English_ were ouerthrowne,
and with a great slaughter chased into _Yorke_.
Vpon aduertisement hereof, _Harold_ King of _England_ caried all his
forces against _Harfager_. His readinesse was such, and such his
expedition, that the fifth day after the fight before mentioned he gaue
him battell againe; wherein _Harold Harfager_ was slaine, and so was
_Tosto_ the King of _Englands_ brother: _Tosto_ by an vncertaine enemie,
but _Harfager_ by the hand of _Harold_ of _England_. Their armie also
was routed, and with a bloody execution pursued, so long as day and
furie did last. Here a certaine Souldier of _Norway_ was most famous
almost for a miracle of manhood. He had been appointed with certaine
others, to guard the passage at _Stamford_ bridge. The residue vpon
approach of the English forsooke their charge; but hee alone stepped to
the foote of the Bridge, and with his Battle-axe sustained the shocke
of the whole armie; slew aboue fourty assailants, and defended both the
passage and himselfe, vntill an English Souldier went vnder the Bridge,
and through a hole thereof thrust him into the bodie with a Launce.
If this victory of King _Harold_ had been so wisely vsed as it was
valiantly wonne, he should haue neglected the spoyle, and returned with
the like celeritie wherewith he came. But hee gaue discontentment to his
Souldiers, in abridging their expectation for free sharing the spoile;
and hauing lost many in that conflict, he retired to _Yorke_, and there
stayed; as well to reforme the state of the Countrey, greatly disordered
by meanes of these warres, as also both to refresh and repaire his
armie.
In the meane time the Duke of _Normandie_ receiuing intelligence, that
the Sea-coasts were left naked of defence, loosed from S. _Valeries_
with three hundred, or, as some writers report, 896, or, as one _Norman_
writer affirmes, with more then one thousand saile: and hauing a gentle
gale, arriued at _Pemsey_ in _Sussex_, vpon the 28. of September. The
ship wherein the Duke was caried is said, (as if it had runne for the
garland of victory) to haue outstripped the rest so farre, that the
sailers were enforced to strike saile, and hull before the winde to haue
their companie. When hee first stepped vpon the shoare, one of his feete
slipped a little. The Duke to recouer himselfe stepped more strongly
with the other foote, and sunke into the sand somewhat deepe. One of his
Souldiers espying this, sayd merrily vnto him: _You had almost fallen my
Lord, but you haue well maintained your standing, and haue now taken
deepe and firme footing in the soyle of_ England. _The presage is good,
and hereupon I salute you King._ The Duke laughed; and the souldiers,
with whom superstition doth strongly worke, were much confirmed in
courage by the ieast.
When he had landed his forces, he fortified a piece of ground with
strong trenches, and discharged all his ships; leauing to his souldiers
no hope to saue themselues, but by onely by victory. After this he
published the causes of his comming in armes, namely:
1 To chalenge the kingdome of _England_, giuen to him by his cousin King
_Edward_, the last lawfull possessor at that time thereof.
2 To reuenge the death of his cousin _Alfred_, brother to the same K.
_Edward_, and of the _Normans_, who did accompanie him into _England_;
no lesse cruelly then deceitfully slaine by Earle _Goodwin_ and his
adherents.
3 To reuenge the iniurie done vnto _Robert_ Archbishop of Canterburie;
who by the practise (as it was then giuen foorth) of _Harold_, had been
exiled in the life time of King _Edward_.
This last article was added either to please the Pope, or generally in
fauour of the Cleargie: to whom the example grew then intollerable, that
an Archbishop should bee once questioned by any other then by
themselues.
So the Duke, leauing his fortification furnished with competent forces
to assure the place, as wel for a retreit, as for daily landing of fresh
supplies, marched forward to _Hastings_; and there raised another
fortresse, and planted likewise a garison therein. And in all places he
restrained his Souldiers, either from spoyling or harming the Countrey
people, for feare that thereby they would fall into disorder: but giuing
forth, that it were crueltie to spoile them, who in short time should be
his Subiects. Here the Duke, because he would not either aduenture or
trust his Souldiers, went foorth in person to discouer the Countrey,
with 15. horsemen in his company, and no more. His returne was on foote,
by reason of the euill qualitied wayes: and when _Fitz-Osberne_ who went
with him, was ouerwearied with the weight of his armour, the Duke eased
him by bearing his helmet vpon his shoulder. This action may seeme of
slender regard; but yet did gaine him, both fauour and dutie among his
Souldiers.
K. _Harold_ hearing of these approches, hasted by great iourneyes
towards _London_; sending his messengers to all places, both to
encourage and entreate the people to draw together for their common
defence. Here he mustered his Souldiers; and albeit hee found that his
forces were much impaired by his late battaile against _Harfager_, yet
he gathered an able armie, countenanced and commanded by diuers of the
Nobilitie, which resorted vnto him from many parts of the Realme. The
Duke in the meane time sent a messenger vnto him, who demanded the
Kingdome in so stout maner, that he was at the point to haue bene euill
entreated by the King. Againe the King sent his messenger to the Duke,
forbidding him with loftie language, to make any stay within that
Countrey; but to returne againe no lesse speedily, then rashly he had
entred. The Duke betweene mirth and scorne returned answere; That as he
came not vpon his entreaty, so at his command he would not depart. But
(said he) _I am not come to word with your King, I am come to fight, and
am desirous to fight: I will be ready to fight with him, albeit I had
but 10000. such men as I haue brought 60000._
K. _Harold_ spent little time, lost none (vnlesse happely that which hee
might haue taken more) both in appointing and ordering his Armie. And
when he was ready to take the field, his mother entreated him, first
moderately, then with words of passion and with teares, that he would
not aduenture his person to the battaile. Her importunitie was admired
the more, for that it was both without any apparant cause, and not
vsuall in former times. But _Harold_ with vndaunted countenance and
heart, conducted his Armie into _Sussex_, and encamped within seuen
miles of the _Normans_: who thereupon approched so neere to the
_English_, that the one Armie was within view of the other.
First, espials were sent on both sides, to discouer the state and
condition of their enemies. They who were sent from the English made a
large report, both of the number, and appointment, and discipline of the
_Normans_. Whereupon _Girth_, yonger brother to King _Harold_ presented
him with aduise, not to play his whole State at a cast; not to bee so
caried with desire of victory, as not to awaite the time to attaine it:
that it is proper to Inuaders presently to fight, because they are then
in the very pride and flourish of their strength; but the assailed
should rather delay battell, rather obserue only and attend their
enemies, cut off their reliefe, vexe them with incommodities, weary
them, and weare them out by degrees: that it could not be long before
the Dukes armie, being in a strange Countrey, would be reduced to
necessities; it could not bee long but by reason it consisted of diuers
nations, it would draw into disorder: that it was proper to an armie
compounded of different people, to be almost inuincible at the first,
whilest all contend to excell or at least to equal other in braue
performance; but if they be aduisedly endured, they will easily fall
into disorders, and lastly of themselues dissolue. _Or if_ (sayd he)
_you resolue to fight, yet because you are sworne to the Duke, you shall
doe well to withdraw your presence; to imploy your authoritie in
mustering a new armie, to bee readie to receiue him with fresh forces.
And if you please to commit the charge of this incounter vnto me, I will
not faile to expresse, both the loue of a brother, and the care and
courage of a Commander. For as I am not obliged to the Duke by oath, so
shall I either preuaile with the better cause, or with the quieter
conscience die._
Both these counsailes were reiected by _Harold_: The first out of a
violent vehemencie of these Northerne nations, who doe commonly esteeme
delay of battell a deiected cowardise, a base and seruile deflouring of
time; but to beare through their designes at once, they account a point
of honourable courage. The second he esteemed both shamefull to his
reputation, and hurtfull to the state of his affaires. For what honour
had he gained by his former victories, if when he came to the greatest
pinch of danger, hee should fearefully shrinke backe? with what heart
should the Souldiers fight, when they haue not his presence for whom
they fight? when they haue not their Generall an eye witnesse of their
performance? when they want his sight, his encouragement, his example to
enflame them to valour? The presence of the Prince is worth many
thousands of ordinarie Souldiers: The ordinary Souldier wil vndertake
both labour and danger for no other respects so much, as by the presence
of the Prince. And therefore he did greatly extenuate the worth of the
_Normans_, terming them a company of Priests; because their fashion was
to shaue their faces: But whatsoeuer they were, as he had (hee said)
digested in his minde the hardest euents of battell; so either the
infamie or suspicion of cowardise in no case hee would incurre. Hee
resolued not to ouerliue so great dishonour; he resolued to set vp as
his last rest, his Crowne, and Kingdome; and life withall. And thus
oftentimes Fortune dealeth with men, as Executioners doe with condemned
persons; she will first blindfold, and then dispatch them.
After this the _Norman_ sent a Monke to offer the choise of these
conditions to _Harold_; Either to relinquish his kingdome vpon certaine
conditions; or to hold it vnder homage to the Duke; or to try their
cause by single combate; or to submit it to the iudgement of the Pope,
according to the Lawes of _Normandy_ or of _England_, which he would.
Againe, some conditions were propounded from K. _Harold_ to the Duke:
But their thoughts were so lifted vp both with pride and confidence, by
reason of their former victories, that no moderate ouerture could take
place: and so they appointed the day following, which was the 14. of
October, to determine their quarrell by sentence of the sword. This
happened to be the birth day of K. _Harold_, which for that cause by a
superstitious errour, he coniectured would be prosperous vnto him.
The night before the battaile for diuers respects was vnquiet. The
_English_ spent the time in feasting and drinking, and made the aire
ring with showtings and songs: the _Normans_ were more soberly silent,
and busied themselues much in deuotion; being rather still then quiet,
not so much watchful as not able to sleepe. At the first appearance of
the day, the King and the Duke were ready in Armes, encouraging their
Souldiers, and ordering them in their arrayes; in whose eyes it seemed
that courage did sparckle, and that in their face and gesture victorie
did sit. The Duke put certaine reliques about his necke, vpon which King
_Harold_ had sworne vnto him. It is reported that when he armed, the
backe of his Curasses was placed before by errour of him that put it on:
some would haue bin dismayed hereat, but the Duke smiled, and said;
Assuredly this day my Fortune will turne, I shall either be a King, or
nothing before night.
The _English_ were knit in one maine body on foot; whereof the first
rancks consisted of _Kentishmen_ (who by an ancient custome did
challenge the honour of that place,) the next were filled with
_Londoners_; then followed the other _English_. Their chiefe weapons
were pole-axe, sword and dart, with a large target for their defence.
They were paled in front with paueises in such wise, that it was thought
impossible for the enemie to breake them. The King stood on foot by his
Standard, with two of his brothers, _Girth_ and _Leofwine_; as well to
relieue from thence all parts that should happen to be distressed, as
also to manifest to the Souldiers, that they reteined no thought of
escaping by flight. On the other side, the _Normans_ were diuided into
three battailes: The first was conducted by _Roger Montgomerie_, and
_William Fitz-Osborne_; it consisted of horsemen of _Aniou_, _Maine_ and
_Britaine_, commanded by a _Britaine_ named _Fergent_; It caried the
Banner which the Pope had sent. The middle battaile consisting of
Souldiers out of _Germanie_ and _Poictou_, was led by _Geoffrye
Martell_, and a Prince of _Almaine_. The Duke himselfe closed the last
battaile, with the strength of his _Normans_ and the flowre of his
Nobilitie. The Archers were diuided into wings, and also dispersed by
bands through all the three battails.
Thus were both sides set vpon a bloody bargaine; ambition, hope, anger,
hate, enflaming them to valour. The duke edged his Souldiers, by
declaring vnto them the noble Acts of their ancesters, the late
admirable atchieuement of their fellow _Normans_ in subduing the
Kingdome of _Sicill_, their owne braue exploits vnder him; by shewing
them all that pleasant and plentifull Countrey, as the purchase of their
prowesse, as the gaine and reward of their aduenture: by putting them in
minde, that they were in a Countrey both hostile & vnknowne, before them
the sword, the vast Ocean behind, no place of retreit, no surety but in
valour and in victory; so as they who would not contend for glory, were
vpon necessitie to fight for their liues: Lastly, by assuring them, that
as he was the first in aduise, so would he be the foremost in aduenture,
being fully resolued either to vanquish, or to die. The King encouraged
his men, by presenting to their remembrance, the miseries which they
susteined not long before, vnder the oppression of the _Danes_; which
whether they were againe to endure, or neuer to feare, it lieth (said
he) in the issue of this field. The King had the aduantage both for
number of men, and for their large able bodies; The Duke both in Armes,
(especially in regard of the Bow and arrowes,) and in experience and
skill of Armes; both equall in courage; both confident alike in the
fauour of Fortune, which had alwayes crowned their courage with victory.
And now by affronting of both the Armies, the plots and labours of many
moneths, were reduced to the hazard of a few houres.
The _Normans_ marched with a song of the valiant acts of _Rowland_,
esteeming nothing of perill in regard of the glory of their aduenture.
When they approched neere their enemies, they saluted them first with a
storme of Arrowes: _Robert Fitz Beaumonte_ a yong Gentleman of
_Normandie_, beginning the fight from the right Wing. This maner of
fight as it was new, so was it most terrible to the _English_, so were
they least prouided to auoyd it. First, they opened their rancks, to
make way for the Arrowes to fall; but when that auoydance did nothing
auaile, they cloased againe, and couered themselues with their Targets,
ioyned together in maner of a pendhouse; encouraging one another, to
hast forward, to leape lustily to hand-strokes, and to scoure their
swords in the entrailes of their enemies. Then the Duke commanded his
horsemen to charge: but the _English_ receiued them vpon the points of
their weapons, with so liuely courage, in so firme and stiffe order,
that the ouerthrow of many of the foremost, did teach their followers to
aduenture themselues with better aduise. Hereupon they shifted into
wings, and made way for the footmen to come forward. Then did both
armies ioyne in a horrible shocke, with Pole-axes, & the Prince of
weapons the sword: maintaining the fight with so manlike furie, as if it
had bene a battaile of Giants, rather then of men. And so they continued
the greatest part of that day, in close and furious fight; blow for
blow, wound for wound, death for death; their feet steadie, their hands
diligent, their eyes watchfull, their hearts resolute; neither their
aduisement dazeled by fiercenesse, nor their fiercenesse any thing
abated by aduisement.
In the meane time the horsemen gaue many sharpe charges, but were
alwayes beaten backe with disaduantage. The greatest annoyance came from
the Archers; whose shot showred among the _English_ so thicke, as they
seemed to haue the enemy in the middest of their Armie. Their armour was
not sufficiently either compleate or of proofe to defend them, but euery
hand, euery finger breadth vnarmed, was almost an assured place for a
deepe, and many times a deadly wound. Thus whilest the front was
maintained in good condition, many thousands were beaten downe behind;
whose death was not so grieuous vnto them, as the maner of their death,
in the middest of their friends, without an enemie at hand, vpon whom
they might shew some valour, and worke some reuenge.
This maner of fight would soone haue determined aswell the hopes as the
feares of both sides, had not the targets of English been very
seruiceable vnto them; Had not King _Harold_ also with a liuely and
constant resolution, performed the part, not onely of a skilfull
commander, by directing, encouraging, prouiding, relieuing; but of a
valiant Souldier by vsing his weapon, to the excellent example of his
Souldiers. In places of greatest danger hee was alwayes present;
repayring the decayes, reforming the disorders, and encouraging his
company, that in doing as men, whether they preuailed, or whether they
perished, their labour was alwayes gloriously employed. So they knit
strongly together, and stood in close and thicke array, as if they had
been but one body: not onely bearing the brunt of their enemies, but
making such an impression vpon their squadron, that the great bodie
began to shake. The Duke aduentured in person so farre, moued no lesse
by his naturall magnanimitie, then by glory of the enterprise, that
besides his often alighting to fight on foote, two, or (as some report)
three horses were slaine vnder him. And hauing a body both able by
nature, and by vse hardened to endure trauaile, hee exacted the greater
seruice of his Souldiers: commending the forward, blaming the slow, and
crying out (according to his nature) with vehement gesture and voice
vnto all; that it was a shame for them who had been victorious against
all men with whom they dealt, to be so long held by the _English_ in
delay of victory. So partly by his authoritie, and partly by his
example, he retained his Souldiers, and imposed vpon them the fayrest
necessitie of courage; whilest euery man contended to win a good opinion
of their Prince.
Then the fight entred into a new fitte of heate; nothing lesse feared
then death, the greatnesse of danger making both sides the more
resolute: and they who could not approach to strike with the hand, were
heard to encourage their fellowes by speach, to pursue the victory, to
pursue their glory, not to turne to their owne both destruction and
disgrace. The clashing of armour, the iustling of bodies, the resounding
of blowes, was the fairest part of this bloody medley: but the
grislinesse of wounds, the hideous fals and groanes of the dying, all
the field defiled with dust, blood, broken armour, mangled bodies,
represented Terrour in her foulest forme. Neuer was furie better
gouerned; neuer game of death better played. The more they fought the
better they fought; the more they smarted, the lesse they regarded
smart.
At the last, when the Duke perceiued that the _English_ could not be
broken by strength of arme, he gaue direction that his men should retire
and giue ground; not loosely, not disorderly, as in a fearefull and
confused haste, but aduisedly and for aduantage; keeping the front of
their squadron firme and close, without disbanding one foote in array.
Nothing was more hurtfull to the _English_, being of a franke and noble
spirit, then that their violent inclination caried them too fast into
hope of victory. For, feeling their enemies to yeeld vnder their hand,
they did rashly follow those who were not hasty to flee: And in the
heate of their pursuit, vpon a false conceit of victory, loosed and
disordered their rankes, thinking then of nothing but of executing the
chase. The _Normans_ espying the aduantage to be ripe, made a stiffe
stand, redoubled vpon the _English_, and pressing on with a furie equall
to their fauourable fortune, with a cruell butchery brake into them. On
the other side it is scarce credible with what strength both of courage
and hand the _English_ euen in despight of death, sustained themselues
in this disorder; drawing into small squadrons, and beating downe their
enemies on euery hand, being resolued to sell their liues with their
place.