The cause of their forming this armament was, that the Africans had

attacked the country of Genoa, plundering the islands belonging to them,

and carrying off such from the coasts of Genoa as were not on their

guard, by which they were kept under continual alarms. They possessed

also a town, situated on the sea-shore of Barbary, which is beyond

measure strong, and called Africa, surrounded with high walls, gates,

and deep ditches. Like as the strong town of Calais is the key to France

and Flanders, and whoever is master of it may at all times enter those

countries, and from thence may be sent a powerful force by sea, to do

mischief to their neighbors; just so is the town of Africa the

stronghold of the inhabitants of Barbary, Bugia, and Tunis, and other

infidel countries. The Genoese, who are rich merchants, bore great

hatred to this town; for its corsairs frequently watched them at sea,

and, when strongest, fell on and plundered their ships, carrying their

spoils to this town of Africa, which was, and is now, their place of

deposit, and may be called their warren.

The Genoese, to put an end to such conduct, and satisfy the complaints

of their subjects, that were daily made to them, determined to make

their situation known to the court of France, and to offer to such

knights as would undertake an expedition against the infidels, vessels

of provision, with a passage thither and back free of all costs,

provided that one of the king’s uncles, or his brother the Duke of

Touraine (who, being young, ought to labor to gain renown), would take

the chief command. They likewise offered the aid of pilgrims, from

foreign parts to assist them, twelve thousand select Genoese crossbows,

and eight thousand infantry armed with spears and shields, all at their

expense. They imagined, that as now there was a truce between France,

England, and their allies, their knights would, from having nothing to

do, be glad to join in this warfare, and that they should have numbers

of them from those kingdoms.

When this intelligence was first brought to the French knights, they

were much rejoiced, in hope of gaining honor; and the ambassadors from

Genoa were told they should not return without their business being

attended to, and succor afforded them, for their anxiety to extend the

Christian faith was very praiseworthy. They waited at Paris, while it

was under deliberation of the council who should be appointed

commander-in-chief. The Duke of Touraine offered his services to the

king and council; but they, as well as the Dukes of Berry and Burgundy,

remonstrated, that this command was not fit for him. They considered,

that as the Genoese insisted on the king’s brother, or one of his

uncles, taking the command, the Duke of Bourbon would be the most proper

person, and that he should have for his second the Lord de Coucy. The

Genoese ambassadors having received a favorable answer from the king,

and certain assurances of being assisted with knights and men at arms

from France, under the command of the Duke of Bourbon, in the course of

the year, were greatly contented. They took leave of the king, and

returned to their own country, to relate the good news, and make

preparations accordingly.

Reports of an invasion of Barbary were soon spread throughout France. To

some knights and squires it was agreeable, to others the contrary. All

who were desirous of going thither could not, as it would have been at

their own charges, for no lord paid for any but those of his own

household. It was also ordered, that no one from France should make part

of this expedition but such as had the king’s leave, for the council

wished not the realm to be void of defence; and the Genoese were

expressly bound not to suffer any servants to embark, but solely such as

were gentlemen, and who could be depended upon. It was, besides, meant

as a compliment to the knights and squires of other nations who might

wish to join in the enterprise. This regulation gave pleasure to all

foreign knights who heard of it. The Duke of Bourbon, having accepted

the command, sent his servants to Genoa, where they were to embark, to

make the necessary preparations for him and his household. The gallant

Count d’Auvergne, who was likewise of the expedition, did the same. The

Lord de Coucy, Sir Guy de la Tremouille, Sir John de Vienne, and all the

great barons and knights of France who had obtained leave to make part

of this army, were not behindhand in sending thither purveyances

suitable to their state. The Lord Philip d’Artois, Count d’Eu, Sir

Philip de Bar, the Lord de Harcourt, Sir Henry d’Antoing, did so

likewise. From Brittany and Normandy many great lords made preparations

for this expedition to Barbary, as well as from Hainault; among the last

were the Lord de Ligne and the Lord de Havreth. Several knights came

from Flanders; and the Duke of Lancaster had a bastard son, called Henry

de Beaufort, whom, through devotion, he sent thither. He had him well

accompanied by many knights and squires of rank in England.

The Count de Foix was unwilling his bastard son, Evan of Foix, should

remain behind, and had him properly attended by knights and squires, as

he wished him to keep his state grandly. Every one had taken care to

send beforehand all he should want; and those at the greatest distance

from Genoa left their countries the middle of May, but it was about a

month before all were assembled. The Genoese were well pleased on their

arrival, and made handsome and rich presents to the chiefs, the better

to secure their affections. As the knights arrived, they were posted

adjoining each other, and, on being mustered by the marshals, amounted

to fourteen hundred knights and squires. They were embarked on board of

ships and galleys, that had been properly equipped for the voyage, on

St. John Baptist’s Day, in the year of grace 1390.

It was a beautiful sight to view this fleet, with the emblazoned banners

of the different lords glittering in the sun and fluttering in the wind:

and to hear the minstrels and other musicians sounding their pipes,

clarions, and trumpets, whose sounds were re-echoed back by the sea.

When all were embarked, they cast anchor, and remained that night at the

mouth of the harbor; but the servants and horses were left behind on

shore. A horse worth fifty francs was on their embarkation sold for ten,

as many of the knights and squires were uncertain when, or if ever, they

should return, and the keep of five horses at Genoa was upward of a

franc a day: they therefore, on departing, made of them what money they

could, but it was little enough.

There were about three hundred galleys to transport the men at arms and

archers, and upward of one hundred vessels for the purveyances and other

necessaries. On the morrow, at daybreak, they weighed anchor, and rode

coastwise that and the succeeding night. The third day they made

Port-fino, where they lay that night: at sunrise they rowed to

Porto-Venere, and again cast anchor. The ensuing morning they weighed,

and took to the deep, putting themselves under the protection of God and

St. George. When they had passed the island of Elba, they encountered a

violent tempest, which drove them back by Gorgona, Sardinia, and

Corsica, into the Gulf of Lyons, a position always dangerous; but they

could not avoid it, for the tempest was so violent, that the ablest

mariner could not do any thing to prevent their running the utmost risk

of destruction: they waited therefore the will of God. This storm lasted

a day and night, and dispersed the fleet. When the weather became calm,

and the sea tranquil, the pilots, who were acquainted with those seas,

steered as directly as they could for the island of Commeres, which is

but thirty miles from the town of Africa, whither they bent their

course. The masters of the vessels had held a council before they

entered the Gulf of Lyons, and determined, that, should they part

company, they would rendezvous at the island of Commeres, and wait there

until they were all assembled. This plan was adopted; and it was upward

of nine days before all were collected, so much had they been scattered.

The island of Commeres, though not large, is very pleasant. The lords

there refreshed themselves, and praised God for having all met again

without essential loss or damage. When on the eve of departure, the

French lords, who took the lead, held a council on their future

proceedings, as they were now so near the port of Africa.

CHAPTER II.

THE CHRISTIAN LORDS WEIGH ANCHOR, AND LEAVE THE ISLAND OF COMINO,

IN ORDER TO LAY SIEGE TO THE TOWN OF AFRICA.--THE MANNER IN WHICH

THEY CONDUCT THEMSELVES.

They addressed the masters of the galleys as follows: “Gentlemen, we are

now on the nearest land to the strong town of Africa, whither, if it

please God, we will go, and besiege it. We must therefore consult with

you how we may enter the harbor and disembark. We propose to send in

advance our smaller vessels, called brigandines, to amuse the enemy,

while we remain at the mouth of the harbor: on the following day we will

at our leisure land, through God’s grace, and encamp ourselves as near

the town as possible, out of the reach of their bricolles.[35] The

Genoese crossbows shall be drawn up, and ready for defence or attack. We

suppose that, on our debarkation, a multitude of your young squires will

demand to be knighted, for increase of honor and advancement. Instruct

them gently how they ought to act, for you are very capable of doing it;

and know, gentlemen, that we are well inclined to acquit ourselves

handsomely toward you; and, to show our eagerness to annoy the enemy, we

shall take every possible pains that this town of Africa may be won. It

has done you too great damage to be longer endured, and is, besides, the

key to the empire of Barbary and the surrounding kingdoms of Africa,

Morocco, and Bugia. Should God, of his goodness, permit us to conquer

it, all the Saracens will tremble, as far as Nubia and Syria, and we

shall be everywhere talked of. With the assistance of the princes of

Christendom, who are the nearest to us, we may re-enforce it with men,

and victual it again; so that, if once we gain possession, it will

become a place for all knights and squires to adventure themselves in

arms against the enemies of God, and conquer their lands.”--“My lords,”

replied the masters of the vessels, “we shall never pretend to teach you

how to act, but give our opinions with all modesty and humility; for you

are too noble, wise, and valiant, for us to pretend to lay down rules

for your conduct.” The Lord de Coucy said, “We should, however, wish to

have your opinions, for we have observed nothing but what is

praiseworthy in you; and, as it is you who have brought us hither, to

accomplish deeds of arms, we shall never act without having your

advice.” Such were the conversations held in the presence of the Duke

of Bourbon, the Count d’Eu, and some of the great barons of France, with

the captains of the Genoese vessels, before they sailed for the coast of

Africa.

When all was ready, and the men at arms had re-embarked on board their

galleys, with a good will to meet their enemies the Saracens, the

admiral gave orders for the trumpets to sound, and the fleet to get

under way. The sea was now calm, and the weather fine: it was a pleasure

to see the rowers force their vessels through its smooth surface, which

seemed to delight in bearing these Christians to the shores of the

infidels. Their fleet was numerous and well ordered; and it was a fine

sight to view their various banners and pennons, emblazoned with their

arms, fluttering with the gentle gales, and glittering in the sun. Late

in the evening, the Christians saw the towers of Africa, as pointed out

to them by the sailors, which, as they advanced, opened more to their

view. Every one was rejoiced at this sight, and not without cause, as

they had in part accomplished the object of their voyage. If the

Christians, on thus seeing Africa, conversed much concerning the war

they were about to commence, the Saracens, who had so plainly observed

them from their town, and were on the watch, did the same. They were

astonished at the great number of vessels, of all descriptions, and

concluded they had a very large army on board to besiege the town. They

were not cast down with this, for they knew the place was strong, well

fortified with towers, and plentifully stored with artillery and

provisions.

On their first noticing the fleet, they sounded, according to custom, a

number of bells on the towers, to alarm and inform the country that an

enemy was on the coast. There were encamped near the town a large body

of barbarians and infidels, whom the kings of Tunis and Bugia had sent

thither to defend the coast, and prevent the Christians from making any

progress into the interior of the country. The noise of the trumpets and

drums announced the arrival of the Christians; and, in consequence, they

formed their army according to their manner, and sent some of the ablest

captains to the shore to observe the motions of the enemy, and the

manner of their debarkation. They also posted their most expert men at

arms on the towers and battlements of the town, that they might not be

taken by surprise; for it was strong enough to resist every thing but a

long siege, if they were on their guard.

As I, John Froissart, the author of these Chronicles, was never in

Africa, I sought all the information I could from those knights and

squires who had been on this expedition, and made several journeys to

Calais to learn the truth of all that passed. [Having inquired as to the

size and form of the town of Africa, some who had been there figured it

out to me, and said it was in the form of a bow, like to Calais,

extending its arms toward the sea. This town of Africa, at the time the

lords of France and other nations were before it with an anxious desire

to win it, was wonderfully strong, surrounded with high walls at proper

distances. The entrance of the harbor was defended by a tower larger

than the rest, on which was placed a bricolle to cast large stones and

quarrels, with which it was well provided.

When the Christians approached the harbor, the walls of the town seemed

to be hung with cloths or tapestry, somewhat similar in appearance to

coverlets of beds. They cast anchor about one league distant from the

port, where they remained until the morrow. The night was clear and

serene, for it was the month of July, about Magdalen-tide; and they made

themselves comfortable, rejoicing that, through God’s pleasure, they had

so far succeeded as to have the town of Africa now before them.

The Saracens, who were on the opposite shore watching the Christian

fleet, held this night a council on their future mode of proceeding, for

they knew the town would be besieged. They thus conversed among

themselves: “Our enemies are now arrived: they will, if they can, land,

and lay siege to Africa, which is the key to the adjoining kingdoms. We

must therefore consider well our plans for opposing them: otherwise we

shall be greatly blamed, and especially if we should not at first

dispute their landing.” It was proposed by a valiant Saracen, called

Mandifer, to resist their landing, as being the most honorable; and to

oppose them instantly with their whole force, or they would probably

have fault found with them. This was strongly supported by many, as it

seemed the most courageous plan; when an ancient Saracen began to speak,

who had great influence among them, as he showed. This lord came from a

town in Africa called Maldages, and his name was Bellius. He gave his

opinion quite contrary to that of Mandifer, and supported it with the

following reasons: “Gentlemen, we are sent hither to guard the coast,

and defend this country; but we have no orders from the kings of Tunis

or of Bugia to attack our enemies without having maturely considered the

consequences. What I have to propose, I will maintain by such reasons as

these: First, you must suppose that this army of Christians has been

long in preparation, and is provided with all things necessary. Their

captains, you may also believe, are perfect men at arms, as able in

council as in the field, with the greatest ardor to perform deeds of

arms. If we meet them on the shore, they will advance their Genoese

crossbows, for you may be assured they have brought numbers of them. It

will be against them who have such excellent crossbows, that we must

support the first attack; and we are not armed, nor have we shields to

guard us against their arrows. Our men, finding themselves wounded, will

draw back, and refuse the combat, so that these Genoese will make good

their landing in spite of us. Their men at arms, desirous of displaying

their courage, will leap from their boats, and, observing our disorder,

will attack us with lances, and gain a victory. Should this happen, the

town of Africa is irrecoverably lost, for any thing we can do to prevent

it. Those within will be so much discouraged by our defeat, that, before

our men can be rallied, the place will be taken by storm or

capitulation, and be so well guarded that we shall have the greatest

difficulty to regain it. The French, and those with them, are very

expert and subtle in arms. I therefore maintain, that it will be more to

our advantage that the enemy should be ignorant of our force at the

onset; for at this moment we have not a sufficiency to offer them

battle, though our strength is daily increasing. I advise, that we

suffer them to disembark at their ease; for, as they have no horses to

advance into the country, they will remain where they land, suspicious

of our intentions.] The town of Africa is not afraid of them, nor of

their attacks; for it is tolerably strong, and well provided with every

thing. The air is now warm, and will be hotter. They will be exposed to

the heat of the sun, while we shall be in the shade. Their provisions

will be destroyed, without hopes of having a supply, if they make any

long stay, and we shall have abundance from our own country: we will

frequently beat up their quarters; and, should they be unfortunate in

these skirmishes, they will be worn down. We must avoid all general

engagements, otherwise we cannot conquer them; but we shall do it by

this plan, and trusting to the climate, which is contrary to the nature

of their constitutions. [They will not have any re-enforcements, and we

shall have many. The extreme heat of the sun, and the fatigue they will

undergo from being always armed in fear of us, will very soon bring on

disorders which will carry numbers to the grave; and thus shall we be

revenged without striking a blow.] Such is the plan I propose; and, if I

knew of any better, I would lay it before you.”

All those in the council, who had been used to arms, adopted the advice

the old Saracen lord had given. It was in consequence forbidden, under

pain of death, for the army to attack or skirmish with the Christians on

the sea-shore; but they were ordered to remain quietly in their

quarters, and suffer them to land and encamp themselves without any

opposition. None dared infringe these orders. They sent a body of their

archers into the town of Africa, to assist in its defence; and never

made any movement until the morrow, so that the country seemed

uninhabited.

The Christians having lain this night, as I have said, at anchor at the

mouth of the harbor, made themselves ready the next day, which was a

clear bright morning, for approaching the town, being very desirous to

land. Trumpets and clarions began to sound and make a loud noise on

board the different galleys and ships. When it was about nine o’clock,

and the Christians had drunk a cup, and partaken of soup made of Grecian

or Malmsey wines, with which they had abundantly provided themselves, to

cheer their hearts and raise their spirits, they began to execute the

plan they had laid down while at the island. They sent, as it seems to

me, some light vessels called brigandines, armed with bricolles and

cannons, first toward the harbor. When they were properly drawn up in

array, they entered the haven, and saluted the town with arrows and

stones; but the walls were hung with wet carpeting to deaden the blows.

These brigandines entered the port without damage, and were followed by

the galleys and other vessels in such handsome order as to make a

pleasant show. In turning into the harbor, there was a large castle with

towers, and on one larger than the rest was placed a bricolle, for the

defence of the place, which was not idle, but threw quarrels among the

fleet. On each of the towers on the walls was a bricolle which shot

well; and, to say the truth, the Saracens had laid in stores for a long

time, from the expectation of a siege.

When the Christians entered the port of Africa, to disembark, the

weather was so beautiful, and their order so well preserved, that it was

delightful to see it. Their trumpets and clarions made the air resound,

and were echoed back by the waves. Many knights both from France and

from other countries now displayed their banners, and several knights

were created; the first of whom was John, Lord de Ligny, in Hainault: he

was knighted by his cousin Sir Henry d’Antoing; and the Lord de Ligny

there first displayed his banner, which was emblazoned with his arms on

a field or, having a bend gules; he was accompanied by his cousin-german

the Lord d’Havreth in Hainault. All the knights and squires disembarked

in view of the Saracens, on a Wednesday, the vigil of Magdalen Day, in

the year of grace 1390, and, as they landed, encamped according to

orders from the marshals. Thus they took possession of the land of their

enemies, who, noticing their camp, could not avoid highly praising the

good order of it. Those in the larger galleys, that could not lie near

the shore, were put into boats, and conveyed to land, under the banner

of Our Lady. The Saracens, both within and without the town, allowed

them to land peaceably, for they were not in numbers sufficient to

oppose them; and the French advanced with displayed banners, on which

were emblazoned their arms, to places marked out for their lodgings by

the marshals.

The Duke of Bourbon, as commander-in-chief, was lodged in the centre of

his army, with all honor, and powerfully guarded. The device on his

banner, powdered over with flowers-de-luce, was a figure of the Virgin

Mary in white, seated in the centre, and an escutcheon of Bourbon at her

feet. I will name those lords of rank who were quartered on the right of

the duke, looking toward the town: first Sir William de la Tremouille,

and his brother, with a pennon; the Lord de Bordenay, with a banner; Sir

Helion de Lignac, with a pennon; the Lord de Tours, the same. Then were

placed the Hainaulters, whose standard bore the device of the Lord

William of Hainault, at that time Count d’Ostrevant, eldest son of Duke

Albert of Bavaria, Count of Holland, Hainault, and Zealand, which device

was a harrow or, on a field gules. There was the Lord d’Havreth with his

banner; the Lord de Ligny, with his; and then the Lord Philip, Count

d’Artois, with his banner; the Lord de Mathefelon, with his banner; the

Lord de Calan, with a pennon; the seneschal d’Eu, with the same; the

Lord de Linieres, with a banner; the Lord de Thim, with the same; the

Lord d’Ameval, with the same; Sir Walter de Chastillon, with a pennon;

Sir John de Châteaumorant, with a banner; the brother to the Marshal de

Sancerre, with a pennon; the Lord de Coucy, with his banner, and better

supported than any except the Duke of Bourbon; the Lord de Licques, with

a pennon; Sir Stephen de Sancerre, with the same; and then the pennon

of the King of France, blazoned with his device. Beside it was Sir John

le Barrois, with his pennon ornamented with his arms; Sir William

Morles, with his banner; the Lord de Longueval, with a pennon; Sir John

de Roye, with a banner; the Lord de Bours, with a pennon; the Viscount

d’Ausnay, with a banner; and Sir John de Vienne, Admiral of France, with

his banner.

Those on the left hand of the Duke of Bourbon were, the Lord d’Ausemont,

with a banner; Sir John Beaufort, bastard to the Duke of Lancaster, a

banner; Sir John le Bouteiller, an Englishman, a pennon; Sir John de

Crama, a banner; the Souldich de l’Estrade, a pennon; Sir John de

Harcourt, a banner; the Lord Berald, Count de Clermont, and Dauphin of

Auvergne, a banner, and with good array; Sir Hugh Dauphin, his brother,

a pennon; the Lord de Berthencourt, a pennon; the Lord de Pierre

Buffiere, a banner; the Lord de St. Semere, a banner; the Lord de

Louvart, marshal of the army, a pennon; the Begue de Beausse, a pennon;

the Lord de Louvy, a banner; Sir Gerard de Louvy, his brother, a pennon;

the Lord de Saint-Germain, a banner; and then the pennon on a standard,

with the device of the Duke of Bourbon; the Lord Philip de Bar, a

banner; Sir Lewis de Poitiers, a pennon; Sir Robert de Calobre, the

same; the Viscount de Les, a banner; the Lord de Nogent, the same; the

Lord de Villeneuve, a pennon; Sir William de Moulin, the same; the Lord

de Longwy, a pennon; Sir Angorget d’Amboise, the same; Sir Alain de la

Champaigne, a pennon.

All these banners and pennons that I have named were placed in front of

the camp, facing the town of Africa. But there were many knights and

squires, of great courage and ability, who were quartered in the

fields, whom I cannot name; and, if I could, it would take up too much

space, for they were in the whole fourteen thousand, all gentlemen. This

was a handsome army, able to perform many gallant deeds, and support a

hard warfare, if the Saracens had ventured an attack, which they did

not, contenting themselves this day with throwing large bolts, not

meaning to act contrary to their plan. When the Christians were

encamped, it was necessary for them to be careful of the provision they

had brought; for they could not now venture to forage in this country,

nor collect wood nor boughs for huts, as they would have run many risks

by foolishly venturing themselves for such objects.

The knights were lodged under tents and pavilions of cloth, which they

had procured at Genoa. The Genoese crossbows formed two wings, enclosing

within them the principal lords; and, from their numbers, they occupied

a great deal of ground, turning toward the sea-shore. All their

provision was on board the vessels, and there were boats continually

employed in bringing different articles from them, as they were wanted.

When the inhabitants of the neighboring islands, such as Sicily and

others, as well as those in the kingdom of Naples, la Puglia, and

Calabria, heard the Christians were laying siege to Africa, they exerted

themselves to supply them with every sort of provision: some from a

desire of gain, others from affection to the Genoese. However, these

purveyances did not come regularly; for at times the supply was most

abundant, at others they were in great distress from want.

CHAPTER III.

THE CONDUCT OF THE SARACENS DURING THE SIEGE OF THE TOWN OF

AFRICA.--THEY SEND TO DEMAND FROM THE FRENCH THE CAUSE OF THEIR

MAKING WAR AGAINST THEM.

I will say something of the Saracens, for it is but just they should be

equally spoken of as the Christians, that the truth may be more

apparent. You must know that these infidels had, for a long time, been

menaced by the Genoese, and were expecting the town of Africa to be

besieged, in which they were not disappointed. They had made

preparations for resistance, when they heard of the arrival of the

Christian fleet, an event that had been long looked for by the

neighboring nations; for they are not prudent nor well advised, who fear

not their enemies, however small they may be. The Saracens, however, do

not hold the Christians cheap: on the contrary, they consider them as

men of courage and enterprise, and much fear them. The better to resist

their enemies, they assembled the most experienced warriors from the

kingdoms of Bugia, Morocco, and Tunis, in which last the town of Africa

is situated, and encamped on the downs near the sea-shore. They took

advantage of a large and thick wood in their rear, to avoid any danger

from ambuscades or skirmishes on that side. The Saracens showed much

ability in thus posting themselves. They amounted, according to the

estimate of able men at arms, to thirty thousand archers and ten

thousand horse. Others thought they were more; but their exact numbers

were unknown, for the Christians supposed many were lodged in the wood.

They were very numerous, for they were in their own country, and could

come and go from their army at their pleasure without danger. They

received continual supplies of fresh provision, which was brought on the

backs of camels.

The second day after the Christians had landed, the Saracens, about

dawn, came to attack the camp; Sir Henry d’Antoing having the command of

the guard of two hundred men at arms and one thousand Genoese crossbows.

The skirmish lasted more than two hours, and many gallant deeds were

done in shooting and thrusting the lance, for there was not any

engagement with the sword hand to hand. The Saracens did not foolhardily

risk themselves, but fought with valor and more prudence than the

Christians. When they had skirmished some time, the Saracens retreated;

for the army began to be in motion, and some of the French barons had

come to witness the action, and observe the manner of their enemies’

fighting, that they might be prepared to meet them another time. The

Saracens retired to their camp, as did the Christians to theirs; but,

during the whole time of this siege of Africa, the Christians were never

left quiet, for their camp was every night or morning attacked by the

enemy.

Among the Saracens was a young knight, called Agadinquor Oliferne,

excellently mounted on a beautiful courser, which he managed as he

willed, and which, when he galloped, seemed to fly with him. From his

gallantry he showed he was a good man at arms; and when he rode abroad

he had with him three javelins, well feathered and pointed, which he

dexterously flung, according to the custom of his country. He was

completely armed in black, and had a kind of white napkin wrapped round

his head. His seat on horseback was graceful; and, from the vigor and

gallantry of his actions, the Christians judged he was excited thereto

by his affection to a young lady of the country. True it is, he most

sincerely loved the daughter of the King of Tunis, who, according to the

report of some Genoese merchants who had seen her, was very handsome,

and the heiress of his kingdom. This knight called Agadinquor was the

son of Duke Oliferne; but I know not if he ever married this lady. I

heard that during the siege he performed many handsome feats of arms, to

testify his love, which the French knights saw with pleasure, and would

willingly have surrounded him; but he rode so good a horse, and had him

so well in hand, that all their efforts were vain. The Christian lords

were very anxious to make some Saracens prisoners, to learn from them

the real state of their army; but they could not succeed, and, having

noticed their intent, the Saracen chiefs gave orders accordingly. The

Saracens were much afraid of the Genoese crossbows: they shielded

themselves as well as they could against their bolts, but they are not

armed so strongly as the Christians; for they know not the art to forge

armor like theirs, nor have they workmen who could make such. Iron and

steel are not common among them; and they wear light targets hanging on

their necks, covered with boiled leather from Cappadocia, that no spear

can penetrate if the leather has not been overboiled. Their manner of

fighting, according to what I heard, was to advance on the Christians,

and shoot a volley of arrows at the Genoese the moment they made their

appearance, and then to fall down under shelter of their shields, by

which they avoided the bolts from the crossbows that went over them:

they then rose, and either shot more arrows, or launched their javelins

with much dexterity.

Thus, for the space of nine weeks that the siege lasted, were continual

skirmishes made; and on both sides many were killed and wounded, more

especially such as ventured too rashly. The Christians imitated the

Saracens by avoiding a close combat; and the lords from France and other

countries took delight in their manner of fighting, for, to say the

truth, novelty is always pleasing. The young lords of these infidels

were greatly struck with the glittering armor and emblazoned banners and

pennons of their enemies; and, when returned to their camp, they

conversed much about them. They were, however, astonished at one thing,

which I will now relate. The Saracens within the town of Africa were

anxious to know on what pretence the Christians had come with so large

an army to make war on them; and to learn the reasons they resolved, as

I was told, in council, to send a person that could speak Genoese, and

gave him the following orders: “Go and take the road to the camp of the

Christians [and manage, before thou returnest, to speak with some lords

in their army], and demand in our name why they have brought so powerful

a force against us, and taken possession of the lands of the King of

Africa, who has not done any thing to offend them. True it is, that in

former times we were at war with the Genoese, but that should no way

concern them; for they come from very distant countries, and the Genoese

are our neighbors. Our custom has been, excepting in times of truce, to

seize mutually all we can from each other.”

Having received these instructions, the messenger departed, and rode on

to the camp. The first person he met was a Genoese, to whom he said that

he was sent by the Saracens to speak with some baron from France. The

Genoese to whom he had addressed himself was called Antonio Marchi, a

centurion of crossbows, who took him under his care, to his great joy,

and conducted him instantly to the Duke of Bourbon and the Lord de

Coucy. They both listened very attentively, and what they did not

understand the centurion interpreted in very good French. When he had

finished all he had been ordered to say, he asked for an answer. The

French lords told him he should have one as soon as they had considered

the purport of his message. Twelve of the greatest barons of the army

assembled in the Duke of Bourbon’s tent; and, the messenger and

interpreter being called in, the last was ordered to tell him from the

lords present, “That in consequence of their ancestors having crucified

and put to death the Son of God, called Jesus Christ, a true prophet,

without any cause or just reason, they were come to retaliate on them

for this infamous and unjust judgment. Secondly, they were unbaptized,

and infidels in the faith to the holy Virgin, mother of Jesus Christ,

and had no creed of their own. For these and other causes they held the

Saracens and their whole sect as enemies, and were come to revenge the

injuries they had done to their God and faith, and would to this effect

daily exert themselves to the utmost of their power.” When the messenger

had received this answer, he departed from the army unmolested, and

returned to report to his masters what you have just read. The Saracens

laughed heartily at hearing it, and said they made assertions without

proofs; for it was the Jews who had crucified Jesus Christ, and not

they. Things remained on the former footing: the siege was continued,

and each army on its guard.

[Illustration: How a wonderful Apparition terrified the Saracens.]

CHAPTER IV.

SOME MIRACLES ARE SHOWN TO THE SARACENS AS THEY ATTEMPT TO ATTACK

THE CAMP OF THE CHRISTIANS.--SEVERAL SKIRMISHES DURING THE

SIEGE.--THE CLIMATE BECOMES UNWHOLESOME, AND OTHER ACCIDENTS BEFALL

THE BESIEGERS.

Shortly after this message, the Saracens determined in council to remain

quiet for seven or eight days, and during that time neither to skirmish

nor any way to annoy the Christians, but, when they should think

themselves in perfect security, to fall on their camp like a deluge.

This was adopted; and the ninth evening, a little before midnight, they

secretly armed their men with their accustomed arms, and marched

silently in a compact body toward the Christian camp. They had proposed

making a severe attack on the opposite quarter to the main guard, and

would have succeeded in their mischievous attempt if God had not watched

over and preserved them by miracles, as I will now relate. As the

Saracens approached, they saw before them a company of ladies dressed in

white; one of whom, their leader, was incomparably more beautiful than

the rest, and bore in front a white flag having a vermilion cross in the

centre. The Saracens were so greatly terrified at this vision, that they

lost all strength and inclination to proceed, and stood still, these

ladies keeping steadily before them. The Genoese crossbows had brought

with them a dog, as I heard, from beyond sea; but whence, no one could

tell, nor did he belong to any particular person. This dog had been very

useful to them; for the Saracens never came to skirmish, but by his

noise he awakened the army; and as every one now knew that whenever the

dog barked, the Saracens were come or on their road, they prepared

themselves instantly. In consequence of this the Genoese called him the

dog of Our Lady. This night the dog was not idle, but made a louder

noise than usual, and ran first to the main guard, which was under the

command of the Lord de Torcy, a Norman, and Sir Henry d’Antoing. As

during the night all sounds are more easily heard, the whole army was in

motion, and properly prepared to receive the Saracens, who they knew

were approaching.

This was the fact; but the Virgin Mary and her company, having the

Christians under their care, watched over them; and this night they

received no harm, for the Saracens were afraid to advance, and returned

the way they had come. The Christians were more attentive to their

future guards. The Saracen knights and squires within the town were much

cast down at the sight they had seen, more especially those who were

advanced near this company of ladies; while, on the other hand, the

Christians were greatly exerting themselves to win the place, which was

courageously defended. At this period the weather was exceedingly hot;

for it was the month of August, when the sun is in its greatest force,

and that country was warmer than France, from being nearer the sun, and

from the heat of the sands. The wines the besiegers were supplied with,

from La Puglia and Calabria, were fiery, and hurtful to the

constitutions of the French, many of whom suffered severely by fevers

from the heating quality of their liquors. I know not how the Christians

were enabled to bear the fatigues in such a climate, where sweet water

was difficult to be had. They, however, had much resource in the wells

they dug, for there were upward of two hundred sunk through the sands

along the shore; but at times even this water was muddy and heated. They

were frequently distressed for provision, for the supply was irregular

from Sicily and the other islands: at times they had abundance, at other

times they were in want. The healthy comforted the sick, and those who

had provision shared it with such as had none; for in this campaign they

were all as brothers. The Lord de Coucy, in particular, was beloved by

every gentleman: he was kind to all, and behaved himself by far more

graciously in all respects than the Duke of Bourbon, who was proud and

haughty, and never conversed with the knights and squires from foreign

countries in the same agreeable manner the Lord de Coucy did.

The Duke was accustomed to sit cross-legged the greater part of the day

before his pavilion; and those who had any thing to say to him were

obliged to make many reverences, and address him through the means of a

third person. He was indifferent whether the poorer knights and squires

were well or ill at their ease: this the Lord de Coucy always inquired

into, and by it gained great popularity. It was told me by some foreign

knights who had been there, that, had the Lord de Coucy been

commander-in-chief instead of the Duke of Bourbon, the success would

have been very different; for many attacks on the town of Africa were

frustrated by the pride and fault of the Duke of Bourbon: several

thought it would have been taken if it had not been for him.

This siege lasted, by an exact account, sixty-one days, during which

many were the skirmishes before the town and at the barriers: they were

well defended, for the flower of the infidel chivalry was in the town.

The Christians said among themselves, “If we could gain this place by

storm or otherwise, and strongly re-enforce and victual it during the

winter, a large body of our countrymen might then come hither in the

spring, and gain a footing in the kingdoms of Barbary and Tunis, which

would encourage the Christians to cross the sea annually, and extend

their conquests.”--“Would to God it were so!” others replied; “for the

knights now here would then be comfortably lodged, and every day if they

pleased they might have deeds of arms.” The besieged were alarmed at the

obstinacy of their attacks, and redoubled their guards. The great heat,

however, did more for them than all the rest, added to the uncertainty

of being attacked; for the policy of the Saracens was to keep them in

continual alarms. They were almost burnt up when in armor; and it was

wonderful that any escaped death, for during the month of August the air

was suffocating. An extraordinary accident happened, which, if it had

lasted any time, must have destroyed them all. During one week, from the

heat and corruption of the air, there were such wonderful swarms of

flies, the army was covered with them. The men knew not how to rid

themselves of these troublesome guests, which multiplied daily, to their

great astonishment; but through the grace of God, and the Virgin Mary,

to whom they were devoted, a remedy was found in a thunder and hail

storm, that fell with great violence, and destroyed all the flies. The

air, by this storm, was much cooled, and the army got to be in better

health than it had been for some time.

Knights who are on such expeditions must cheerfully put up with what

weather may happen, for they cannot have it according to their wishes;

and, when any one falls sick, he must be nursed to his recovery or to

his death.

CHAPTER V.

A CHALLENGE IS SENT BY THE SARACENS TO OFFER COMBAT OF TEN AGAINST

TEN CHRISTIANS.--THE SARACENS FAIL IN THEIR ENGAGEMENT.--THE TOWN

OF AFRICA IS STORMED, BUT UNSUCCESSFULLY, AND WITH THE LOSS OF MANY

WORTHY MEN.

The besiegers and their enemies studied day and night how they could

most effectually annoy each other. Agadinquor Oliferne, Madifer de

Tunis, Belins Maldages, and Brahadin de Bugia, and some other Saracens,

consulted together, and said, “Here are our enemies the Christians

encamped before us, and we cannot defeat them. They are so few in number

when compared to us, that they must be well advised by their able

captains; for in all our skirmishes we have never been able to make one

knight prisoner. If we could capture one or two of their leaders, we

should acquire fame, and learn from them the state of their army and

what are their intentions. Let us now consider how we may accomplish

this.” Agadinquor replied, “Though I am the youngest, I wish to speak

first.”--“We agree to it,” said the others. “By my faith,” continued he,

“I am very desirous of engaging them; and I think, if I were matched in

equal combat with one of my size, I should conquer him. If you will

therefore select ten valiant men, I will challenge the Christians to

send the same number to fight with us. We have justice on our side in

this war, for they have quarrelled with us without reason; and this

right, and the courage I feel, induce me to believe that we shall have

the victory.” Madifer de Tunis, who was a very valiant man, said,

“Agadinquor, what you have proposed is much to your honor. To-morrow,

if you please, you shall ride as our chief toward the camp of the

Christians, taking an interpreter with you, and make a signal that you

have something to say. If you be well received by them, propose your

combat of ten against ten. We shall then hear what answer they give;

and, though I believe the offer will be accepted, we must take good

counsel how we proceed against these Christians, whom we consider as

more valiant than ourselves.”

This being determined on, they retired to rest. On the morrow, as usual,

they advanced to skirmish; but Agadinquor rode on at some distance in

front with his interpreter. The day was bright and clear, and a little

after sunrise the Saracens were ready for battle. Sir Guy and Sir

William de la Tremouille had commanded the guard of the night, and were

on the point of retiring, when the Saracens appeared in sight about

three bowshots distant. Agadinquor and his interpreter advanced toward

one of the wings, and made signs to give notice that he wanted to parley

with some one. By accident he came near the pennon of a good squire at

arms called Affrenal, who, noticing his signs, rode forward a pace, and

told his men to remain as they were, “for that he would go and see what

the Saracen wanted: he has an interpreter with him, and is probably come

to make some proposition.” His men remained steady, and he rode toward

the Saracen.

When they were near each other, the interpreter said, “Christian, are

you a gentleman, of name in arms, and ready to answer what shall be

asked of you?”--“Yes,” replied Affrenal, “I am: speak what you please,

it shall be answered.”--“Well,” said the interpreter, “here is a noble

man of our country who demands to combat with you bodily; and, if you

would like to increase the number to ten, he will bring as many of his

friends to meet you. The cause for the challenge is this: They maintain,

that their faith is more perfect than yours; for it has continued since

the beginning of the world, when it was written down, and that your

faith has been introduced by a mortal, whom the Jews hung and

crucified.”--“Ho!” interrupted Affrenal, “be silent on these matters,

for it does not become such as thee to dispute concerning them; but tell

the Saracen, who has ordered thee to speak, to swear on his faith that

such a combat shall take place, and he shall be gratified within four

hours. Let him bring ten gentlemen, and of name in arms, on his side,

and I will bring as many to meet him.” The interpreter related to the

Saracen the words that had passed, who seemed much rejoiced thereat, and

pledged himself for the combat.

This being done, each returned to his friends; but the news had already

been carried to Sir Guy and to Sir William de la Tremouille, who,

meeting Affrenal, demanded how he had settled matters with the Saracen.

Affrenal related what you have heard, and that he had accepted the

challenge. The two knights were well pleased, and said, “Affrenal, go

and speak to others, for we will be of your number ten.” He replied,

“God assist us! I fancy I shall find plenty ready to fight the

Saracens.” Shortly after, Affrenal met the Lord de Thim, to whom he told

what had passed, and asked if he would make one. The Lord de Thim

willingly accepted the offer; and of all those to whom Affrenal related

it, he might, if he pleased, have had a hundred instead of ten. Sir

Boucicaut the younger accepted it with great courage, as did Sir Helion

de Lignac, Sir John Russel, an Englishman, Sir John Harpedone, Alain

Boudet, and Bouchet. When the number of ten was completed, they retired

to their lodgings, to prepare and arm themselves. When the news of this

combat was spread through the army, and the names of the ten were told,

the knights and squires said, “They are lucky fellows, thus to have such

a gallant feat of arms fall to their lot.”--“Would to Heaven,” added

many, “that we were of the ten!” All the knights and squires seemed to

rejoice at this event, except the Lord de Coucy. I believe the Lord de

Thim was a dependent on, or of the company of, the Lord de Coucy; for,

when he repaired to his tent to arm, he found him there, and

acknowledged him for his lord. He related to him the challenge of the

Saracen, and that he had accepted being one of the ten. All present were

loud in praise of it, except the Lord de Coucy, who said, “Hold your

tongues, you youngsters, who as yet know nothing of the world, and who

never consider consequences, but always applaud folly in preference to

good. I see no advantage in this combat, for many reasons: one is, that

ten noble and distinguished gentlemen are about to fight with ten

Saracens. How do we know if their opponents are gentlemen? They may, if

they choose, bring to the combat ten varlets, or knaves; and, if they

are defeated, what is the gain? We shall not the sooner win the town of

Africa, but by it risk very valuable lives. Perhaps they may form an

ambuscade, and, while our friends are on the plain waiting for their

opponents, surround them and carry them off, by which we shall be

greatly weakened. I therefore say, that Affrenal has not wisely managed

this matter; and, when he first met the Saracen, he should have

otherwise answered, and said, ‘I am not the commander-in-chief of our

army, but one of the least in it; and you Saracen, who address yourself

to me, and blame our faith, are not qualified to discuss such matters,

nor have you well addressed yourself. I will conduct you to my lords,

and assure you, on my life, that no harm befall you in going or in

returning, for my lords will cheerfully listen to you.’ He should then

have led him to the Duke of Bourbon and the council of war, when his

proposal would have been heard and discussed at leisure, his intentions

been known, and answers made according as they should think the matter

deserved. Such a combat should never be undertaken but after great

deliberation, especially with enemies like to those we are engaged with.

And when it had been agreed on, and the names and qualities of each

combatant should be declared, we would then have selected proper persons

to meet them, and proper securities would have been required from the

Saracens for the uninterrupted performance of the combat, and a due

observance of the articles. If matters had been thus managed, Lord of

Thim, I think it would have been better. It would be well if it could be

put on this footing; and I will speak to the Duke of Bourbon and the

principal barons in the army, and hear what they shall say on the

subject.” The Lord de Coucy then departed for the tent of the Duke of

Bourbon, where the barons were assembled, as they had heard of this

challenge, to consider what might be the probable event of it. Although

the Lord de Coucy had intended his speech to the Lord de Thim as advice

for his benefit, he did not the less arm himself: when fully equipped,

he went with his companions, who were completely armed, and in good

array, with Sir Guy de la Tremouille at their head, to meet the

Saracens.

During this there was conversation on the subject between the lords in

the tent of the Duke of Bourbon: many thought the accepting such a

challenge improper, and supported the opinion of the Lord de Coucy, who

said it ought to have been ordered otherwise. But some, and in

particular the Lord Philip d’Artois, Count d’Eu, and the Lord Philip de

Bar, said, “Since the challenge has been accepted by our knights, they

would be disgraced were the combat now broken off; and in the name of

God and Our Lady let them accomplish it the best manner they can.” This

was adopted; for it was now too far advanced to be stopped. It was

therefore ordered to draw out the whole army properly arrayed, that, if

the Saracens had formed any bad designs, they might be prepared to meet

them. Every one, therefore, made himself ready: the whole were drawn up,

as if for instant combat, the Genoese crossbows on one side, and the

knights and squires on the other; each lord under his own banner or

pennon emblazoned with his arms. It was a fine sight to view the army

thus displayed; and they showed great eagerness to attack the Saracens.

The ten knights and squires were advanced on the plain waiting for their

opponents. But they came not, nor showed any appearance of so doing;

for, when they saw the Christian army so handsomely drawn out in

battle-array, they were afraid to advance, though they were thrice their

numbers. At times they sent horsemen, well mounted, to ride near their

army, observe its disposition, and then gallop back; which was solely

done through malice, to annoy the Christians.

This was the hottest day they felt, and it was so extremely oppressive

that the most active among them were almost stifled in their armor: they

had never suffered so much before; and yet they remained expecting the

ten Saracens, but in vain, for they never heard a word from them. The

army was ordered to attack the town of Africa, since they were prepared,

and thus pass the day; and the ten champions, in regard to their honor,

were to remain on their ground to the evening.

The knights and squires advanced with great alacrity to the attack of

the town. But they were sorely oppressed with the heat, and, had the

Saracens known their situation, they might have done them much damage;

probably they might even have raised the siege, and obtained a complete

victory, for the Christians were exceedingly weakened and worn down.

True it is, they gained by storm the wall of the first enclosure, but no

one inhabited that part; and the enemy retired within their second line

of defence, skirmishing as they retreated, and without any great loss.

The Christians paid dear for an inconsiderable advantage: the heat of

the sun and its reflection on the sands, added to the fatigue of

fighting, which lasted until evening, caused the death of several

valiant knights and squires; the more the pity.

Now consider how great was this loss; and, had the advice of the gallant

Lord de Coucy been followed, it would not have happened, for the army

would have remained quietly in its camp as it had hitherto done. The

whole army was dismayed at it, and each bewailed the loss of his friend.

They retired late to their camp, and kept a stronger guard than usual

during the night, for fear of the Saracens. It passed, however, without

further accident, and more prudent arrangements were made. The Saracens

were ignorant of what their enemies had suffered: had they known it,

they would have had a great advantage over them; but they were in dread

of the Christians, and never ventured to attack them but in skirmishes,

retreating after one or two charges. The person among them who had shown

the most courage was Agadinquor Oliferne. He was enamoured with the

daughter of the King of Tunis, and, in compliment to her, was eager to

perform brilliant actions.

Thus was the siege of Africa continued; but the relations and friends of

the knights and squires who had gone thither, from France and other

countries, received no intelligence, nor knew more of them than if they

were dead. They were so much alarmed at not having any news of them,

that many processions were made in England, France, and Hainault, to the

churches, to pray God that he would bring them back in safety to their

several homes. The intention of the Christians was to remain before the

town of Africa, until they should have conquered it by storm, treaty, or

famine.

CHAPTER VI.

THE SIEGE OF AFRICA IS RAISED.--THE CAUSE OF IT.--THE KNIGHTS AND

SQUIRES RETURN TO THEIR OWN COUNTRIES.

You have before heard what pains the Christians took to conquer the town

of Africa; for they thought if they succeeded they should gain renown,

and be able to withstand, during the winter, all the forces the infidels

could bring against them, until they should be re-enforced from Europe,

especially by the King of France, who was young and fond of arms; and

there were still two years to run of the truce with England. The

Christians had therefore laid siege to Africa, as being the most

convenient entrance into Barbary. The infidels, suspicious of such being

their intentions, well victualled the place, and re-enforced it with a

new garrison, the better to guard it.

The siege still continued, although, after the beforementioned loss on

the part of the Christians, little advantage was gained, and the men at

arms were greatly discouraged; for they could not obtain any opportunity

of changing the tiresomeness of their situation, and of revenging

themselves on the enemy. Many, in consequence, began to murmur, and say,

“We remain here in vain, for, if we do nothing more effectual than

skirmishing, we shall never gain the town: if by accident we kill one

infidel by our arrows, they supply his place with ten more, as they are

in their own country, and have provision and stores in abundance, while

ours are brought with much difficulty and uncertainty. What will become

of us if we stay longer? The cold nights of winter freeze and benumb us

to death. We shall be in a most disagreeable state, for many reasons:

First, at that time of the year the sea will be so tempestuous, no one

will venture on it. We have now but eight days’ provision; and should

the stormy weather set in, and prevent any vessels arriving, we must

inevitably perish. Secondly, suppose we have provision and stores in

plenty, how can the army support for so long a time the fatigue of a

regular guard? The danger will be too great; for the enemy is on his own

ground, and well acquainted with the country, and may attack us in the

night-season, as we have already seen, and do us infinite damage.

Thirdly, should we be infected with any disorder, from want of better

air and fresh provision, it may be contagious, and we shall drop off one

after another, for we have not any remedies to guard against such a

misfortune. Besides, should the Genoese, who are a treacherous race,

wish to return without us, they might embark in the night-time; and when

once on board their vessels we could not prevent them, and they would

leave us here to pay the reckoning. It will be right that we

remonstrate with our lords, who are enjoying their ease, on these our

suspicions; for the Genoese do not conceal their opinions of us. Some of

their talkers have said to our men, ‘You Frenchmen are odd men at arms:

when we sailed from Genoa, we thought you would have conquered this town

of Africa within a week or a fortnight after your landing; but we have

been here nearly two months, and nothing has been done: by the assaults

and skirmishes you make, the town need not fear you these two years;

and, at the rate you go on, you will never conquer the kingdoms of Tunis

or Africa.’”

The Genoese had so frequently held this language to the varlets and

others of the army, that it reached the ears of their lords, and was

repeated to the Lord de Coucy, who was wise and prudent, and to whom the

whole army looked up. He considered a while, and then said to himself,

“The conversations of these Genoese are but too well founded in truth:

to put a stop to them, a full assembly of the principal knights must be

held, to consider how we are to proceed, for winter is fast

approaching.” At this council, which was held in the Duke of Bourbon’s

tent, various plans were proposed; but the conclusion was, that they

would, for this season, break up the siege, and every person should

return home the way he had come. The chief lords secretly made

preparations accordingly, and, calling to them the masters of the

galleys and other vessels, acquainted them with their intentions. The

captains were much surprised, and said, “My lords, do not harbor any

suspicions of us; for we are pledged to you by our honor and oaths, and

we will most loyally and honestly acquit ourselves. Had we pleased, we

might have accepted the favorable offers that were made us by the

Africans; but we refused to enter into any treaty with them, from our

attachments and engagements to you.”

“We have no doubts of you, gentlemen,” replied the Lord de Coucy, “for

we look on you as loyal and valiant men. But we have considered our

situation: winter is at hand, and we have a scarcity of provision.

Should it be God’s good pleasure that we return to France, we will

inform the king, who is young and fond of war, of the state of this

country. At this moment he knows not where to employ his force; for he

and the King of England are at peace. He is unhappy when idle; and we

shall advise him to undertake an expedition hither, as well to have the

pleasure of meeting the King of Sicily as to conquer this country from

the Saracens. Prepare and make ready your galleys, for we shall leave

this coast in a very few days.” The Genoese were not well pleased with

the French lords for thus breaking up the siege of the town of Africa;

but, as they could not amend it, they were forced to bear with it as

well as they could.

There was a rumor current in the Christian camp, that the Genoese were

treating with the Saracens to betray and deliver up to them the

remainder of the army. It was firmly believed by many; and they said,

“Our principal commanders, the Duke of Bourbon, the Dauphin of Auvergne,

the Lord de Coucy, Sir Guy de la Tremouille, Sir Philip de Bar, and Sir

John de Vienne, are well acquainted with this plot; and for this reason

they have determined suddenly to break up the siege.” When it was

proclaimed that every one was to embark on board the galleys or other

vessels, in an orderly manner, you would have seen the varlets in the

greatest bustle packing up the purveyances of their different lords, and

conveying them on board the ships which lay at anchor off the shore.

When all things were embarked, the knights entered the galleys that had

brought them thither. Many had bargained with the captains to carry them

to Naples, others to Sicily, Cyprus, or Rhodes, thence to perform a

pilgrimage to Jerusalem.

After having remained sixty-one days before the town of Africa, they

broke up the siege, and set sail from that country in sight of the

Saracens from the walls. This gave them such joy, that they sounded

horns, and beat drums, and made so great a noise by their shoutings, as

to be heard in the army of the Saracens. Several young knights mounted

their horses, and galloped to the place where the camp had been, to see

if they could find any thing left behind. Agadinquor d’Oliferne and

Brahadin de Tunis were the first to arrive; but the Christians had so

completely cleared the camp, that there was nothing for them to carry

away. The Saracens left their station to examine the camp, and remained

more than two hours noticing the manner and form of it. They praised

much their subtlety in sinking wells for fresh water, and, having for

some time viewed the galleys under sail, they returned to visit their

friends in the town of Africa. But they did not know the great losses

the Christians had suffered until that day, and I will tell you by what

accident it happened. In the camp of the Christians was found, lying on

the ground, a Genoese varlet, who was too ill with a fever to be removed

when the sailors sought for their men to embark on board the barges. The

Saracens were delighted on finding this man, and ordered no harm to be

done him. They carried him to the principal commanders of their army,

and told them where they had found him. An interpreter was sent for, to

examine him; but at first he would not make any answers, considering

himself as a dead man, and desiring they would put him out of his pain.

The chiefs of the army, such as Agadinquor d’Oliferne and Brahadin de

Tunis, thought they should gain nothing by his death; and to induce him

to answer truly, without any equivocation, what questions should be put

to him, they promised to spare his life, and send him safe and well to

his own country on board of the first galley that should come thither

from Genoa or Marseilles, with a present of a hundred golden besants.

The varlet, hearing this, was freed from his fears of death, and made

easy, for he knew that these Saracens never break their words; and, as

every one dies as late as he can, he said to the interpreter, “Make them

all swear on their faith to keep what they have promised, and I will

truly answer whatever you may ask.” The interpreter repeated this to the

lords, who having consented to his demand, the varlet said, “Now ask

what questions you please, and I will answer them.” He was first asked

who he was, and his place of residence, and replied, “Portevances [that

his name was Simon Mollevin, and son to a captain of a galley at

Portevances”], then as to the commanders of the Christian army. He named

several; for, having kept company and drank with the heralds, he had

often heard their names mentioned, and remembered some of them. He was

asked if he knew the reasons why they had so suddenly raised the siege,

and departed. To this he made a very prudent reply, by saying he was

ignorant of it, as he was not present at the council of war when it was

determined on, and could only tell them what was the common report in

the army. It was said that the French suspected the Genoese of a design

to betray them; but the Genoese declared this was false, and wrongfully

imputed to them by the French. They had left the coast because they

were afraid to winter in this country, and risk the loss of as many

knights as they had once done. “Ask him,” said the lords to the

interpreter, “to explain this.” He replied, “So great was the loss on

the day the combat was to have taken place between ten of your knights

with ten of ours, that upward of sixty knights and squires, men of

renown, died that day; and it was solely on this account,” as the

Genoese said, “the siege was raised.” The Saracen chiefs seemed very

much pleased on hearing this, and made no further inquiries, but

punctually kept the promise they had made him.

On his return to Portevances and Genoa, he related all that had passed

and what answers he had made, for which he was no way blamed. The

Saracens said among themselves, “We have been very negligent in not

taking better measures against this union of the French and Genoese;

for, though they have been this time unsuccessful against Africa, we

must henceforward put our coast in a better state of defence (which we

may easily do); and we must, in particular, guard the Straits of Morocco

so strongly that neither the Genoese nor Venetians shall carry their

merchandise to Flanders through this strait, without paying so great a

toll as to make all the world wonder thereat, and even then it shall be

considered as a matter of favor.”

What these Africans had proposed, they executed; and all the kingdoms to

the south, west, and east, formed an alliance, such as Africa, Tunis,

Bugia, Morocco, Benmarin, Tremeçen, and Granada, with a resolution of

well guarding their coasts, and equipping such a fleet of galleys as

should make them masters of the sea, through hatred to the French and

Genoese for their late siege of Africa. They interrupted so much the

navigation of the Venetians and Genoese, that merchandise from

Alexandria, Cairo, Damascus, Venice, Naples, or Genoa, was difficult to

be had in Flanders for money; and, in particular, every sort of spicery

was enormously dear.

CHAPTER VII.[36]

DEATH AND BURIAL OF KING RICHARD II.

Now consider, ye kings, lords, dukes, prelates, and earls, how very

changeable the fortunes of this world are. This King Richard reigned

twenty-two years in great prosperity, and with much splendor; for there

never was a king of England who expended such sums, by more than a

hundred thousand florins, as King Richard did in keeping up his state,

and his household establishments. I, John Froissart, canon and treasurer

of Chimay, know it well; for I witnessed and examined it during my

residence with him for a quarter of a year. He made me good cheer,

because in my youth I had been secretary to King Edward his grandfather,

and the Lady Philippa of Hainault, Queen of England. When I took my

leave of him at Windsor, he presented me, by one of his knights called

Sir John Golofre, a silver gilt goblet, weighing full two marks, filled

with a hundred nobles, which were then of service to me, and will be so

as long as I live. I am bound to pray to God for him, and sorry am I to

write of his death; but, as I have dictated and augmented this history

to the utmost of my power, it became necessary to mention it, that what

became of him might be known.

When King Richard was born, his father was in Galicia, which Don Pedro

had given him to conquer. A curious thing happened on my first going to

England, which I have much thought on since. I was in the service of

Queen Philippa; and when she accompanied King Edward and the royal

family, to take leave of the Prince and Princess of Wales, at

Berkhampstead, on their departure for Aquitaine, I heard an ancient

knight, in conversation with some ladies, say, “We have a book called

Brut, that declares neither the Prince of Wales, Dukes of Clarence,

York, nor Gloucester, will be kings of England, but the descendants of

the Duke of Lancaster.” Now I, the author of this history, say that,

considering all things, these two knights, Sir Richard de Pontchardon,

and Sir Bartholomew Burghersh, in what they said, were both in the

right; for all the world saw Richard reign for twenty-two years in

England, and saw the crown then fall to the house of Lancaster. King

Henry would never have been king, on the conditions you have heard, if

his cousin Richard had treated him in the friendly manner he ought to

have done. The Londoners took his part for the wrongs the king had done

him and his children, whom they much compassionated.

When the funeral car of King Richard had remained in Cheapside two

hours, it was conducted forward, in the same order as before, out of the

town. The four knights then mounted their horses, which were waiting for

them, and continued their journey with the body until they came to a

village, where there is a royal mansion, called Langley, thirty miles

from London. There King Richard was interred. God pardon his sins, and

have mercy on his soul!

* * * * *

Charles Scribner’s Sons’ New and Standard Books for Young Readers for

1895-96

A NEW BOOK BY MRS. BURNETT

TWO LITTLE PILGRIMS’ PROGRESS

A STORY OF THE CITY BEAUTIFUL. By Mrs. FRANCES HODGSON BURNETT.

Illustrated by REGINALD B. BIRCH. Uniform with “Fauntleroy,” etc. Square

8vo, $1.50.

The largest and most notable children’s book that Mrs. Burnett has

written since “Fauntleroy.” It is a charming story of a little boy and

girl, who, taking their small savings, leave home to visit the World’s

Fair. This is their Pilgrims’ Progress; and their interesting adventures

and the happy ending of it all Mrs. Burnett tells as no one else can. It

is in the author’s best vein and will take place in the hearts of her

readers close beside “Fauntleroy.”

MRS. BURNETT’S FIVE FAMOUS JUVENILES

=LITTLE LORD FAUNTLEROY.= Beautifully illustrated by REGINALD B. BIRCH.

Square 8vo, $2.00.

“In ‘Little Lord Fauntleroy’ we gain another charming child to add to

our gallery of juvenile heroes and heroines; one who teaches a great

lesson with such truth and sweetness that we part from him with real

regret.”--LOUISA M. ALCOTT.

=SARA CREWE=; OR, WHAT HAPPENED AT MISS MINCHIN’S. Richly and fully

illustrated by REGINALD B. BIRCH. Square 8vo, $1.00.

“It is a story to linger over in the reading, it is so brightly,

frankly, sweetly, and tenderly written, and to remember and return to.

In creating her little gentlewoman, ‘Sara Crewe,’ so fresh, so simple,

so natural, so genuine, and so indomitable, Mrs. Burnett has added

another child to English fiction.”--R. H. STODDARD.

=LITTLE SAINT ELIZABETH=, AND OTHER STORIES. With 12 full-page drawings by

REGINALD B. BIRCH. Square 8vo, $1.50.

“Four stories different in kind, but alike in grace and spirit.”--SUSAN

COOLIDGE.

=GIOVANNI AND THE OTHER=: CHILDREN WHO HAVE MADE STORIES. With 9 full-page

illustrations by REGINALD B. BIRCH. Square 8vo, $1.50.

“Stories beautiful in tone, and style, and color.”--KATE DOUGLAS WIGGIN.

=PICCINO=, AND OTHER CHILD STORIES. Fully illustrated by REGINALD B.

BIRCH. Square 8vo, $1.50.

“The history of Piccino’s ‘two days’ is as delicate as one of the

anemones that spring in the rock walls facing Piccino’s

Mediterranean.... The other stories in the book have the charm of their

predecessor in material and matter....”--Mrs. BURTON HARRISON.

* * * * *

BOOKS BY HOWARD PYLE

_A NEW BOOK JUST PUBLISHED_

=BEHIND THE GARDEN OF THE MOON.= A REAL STORY OF THE MOON ANGEL. Written

and illustrated by HOWARD PYLE. Square 12mo, $2.00.

Underneath the charm of this original and delightful fairy tale of Mr.

Pyle’s is a mystical moral significance which gives it the dignity of

true literature in addition to its interest of adventure. Out of the

truth that great deeds are achieved and high character moulded by entire

spiritual consecration, rather than by direct and interested effort, the

author has evolved a winning and delightful piece of fanciful fiction,

and has illustrated it copiously in his happiest and most

characteristically poetical vein.

=THE MERRY ADVENTURES OF ROBIN HOOD= OF GREAT RENOWN IN NOTTINGHAMSHIRE.

With many illustrations. Royal 8vo, $3.00.

“This superb book is unquestionably the most original and elaborate ever

produced by any American artist. Mr. Pyle has told, with pencil and pen,

the complete and consecutive story of Robin Hood and his merry men in

their haunts in Sherwood Forest, gathered from the old ballads and

legends. Mr. Pyle’s admirable illustrations are strewn profusely through

the book.”--_Boston Transcript._

=OTTO OF THE SILVER HAND.= With many illustrations. Royal 8vo, half

leather, $2.00.

“The scene of the story is mediæval Germany in the time of the feuds and

robber barons and romance. The kidnapping of Otto, his adventures among

rough soldiers, and his daring rescue, make up a spirited and thrilling

story. The drawings are in keeping with the text, and in mechanical and

artistic qualities as well as in literary execution the book must be

greeted as one of the very best juveniles of the year, quite worthy to

succeed to the remarkable popularity of Mr. Pyle’s ‘Robin

Hood.’”--_Christian Union._

THE BUTTERFLY HUNTERS IN THE CARIBBEES

By Dr. EUGENE MURRAY-AARON. With 8 full-page illustrations. Square 12mo,

$2.00.

“Our author only reproduces the incidents and scenes of his own life, as

an exploring naturalist, in a way to capture the attention of younger

readers. The incidents are told entertainingly, and his descriptions of

country and the methods of capture of butterflies and bugs of rare

varieties are full of interest.”--_Chicago Inter-Ocean._

A NEW MEXICO DAVID

AND OTHER STORIES AND SKETCHES OF THE SOUTH-WEST. By CHARLES F. LUMMIS.

Illustrated. 12mo, $1.25.

“Mr. Lummis has lived for years in the land of the Pueblos; has

traversed it in every direction, both on foot and on horseback; and it

is an enthralling treat set before youthful readers by him in this

series of lively chronicles.”--_Boston Beacon._

STORIES FOR BOYS

By RICHARD HARDING DAVIS. With 6 full-page illustrations. 12mo, $1.00.

“It will be astonishing indeed if youths of all ages are not fascinated

with these ‘Stories for Boys.’ Mr. Davis knows infallibly what will

interest his young readers.”--_Boston Beacon._

* * * * *

THE KANTER GIRLS

By MARY L. B. BRANCH. Illustrated by HELEN M. ARMSTRONG. Square 12mo,

$1.50.

The adventures of Jane and Prue, two small sisters, among different

peoples of the imaginative world--dryads, snow-children, Kobolds,

etc.--aided by their invisible rings, their magic boat, and their

wonderful birds, are described by the author with great naturalness and

a true gift for story-telling. The numerous illustrations are very

attractive, and in thorough sympathy with the text.

THE WAGNER STORY BOOK

FIRELIGHT TALES OF THE GREAT MUSIC DRAMAS. By WILLIAM HENRY FROST.

Illustrated by SIDNEY R. BURLEIGH. 12mo, $1.50.

“A successful attempt to make the romantic themes of the music dramas

intelligible to young readers. The author has full command of his

subject, and the style is easy, graceful, and simple.”--_Boston Beacon._

ROBERT GRANT’S TWO BOOKS FOR BOYS

=JACK HALL=; OR, THE SCHOOL DAYS OF AN AMERICAN BOY. Illustrated by F. G.

ATTWOOD. 12mo, $1.25.

“A better book for boys has never been written. It is pure, clean, and

healthy, and has throughout a vigorous action that holds the reader

breathlessly.”--_Boston Herald._

=JACK IN THE BUSH=; OR, A SUMMER ON A SALMON RIVER. Illustrated by F. T.

MERRILL. 12mo, $1.25.

“A clever book for boys. It is the story of the camp life of a lot of

boys, and is destined to please every boy reader. It is attractively

illustrated.”--_Detroit Free Press._

CZAR AND SULTAN

THE ADVENTURES OF A BRITISH LAD IN THE RUSSO-TURKISH WAR OF 1877-78. By

ARCHIBALD FORBES. Illustrated. 12mo, $2 00.

“Very fascinating and graphic. Mr. Forbes is a forcible writer, and the

present work has the vigor and intensity associated with his name. It is

sure to be popular with youthful readers.”--_Boston Beacon._

JOSEPH THE DREAMER

By the author of “Jesus the Carpenter.” 12mo. _In Press._

The story of Joseph, told in the same popular, interesting, and

realistic manner as that of Jesus in the author’s former book; not only

setting forth truthfully and graphically the life of Joseph, but

picturing as well the marvelous state of Egypt in which he lived.

JESUS THE CARPENTER

By A. LAYMAN. 12mo, $1.50.

“I think the idea of this book--the aim and the intention--excellent and

the execution beautiful.”--Prof. A. B. BRUCE.

* * * * *

A NEW BOOK BY KIRK MUNROE

AT WAR WITH PONTIAC

OR, THE TOTEM OF THE BEAR. A Tale of Redcoat and Redskin. By KIRK

MUNROE. With 8 full-page illustrations by J. FINNEMORE. 12mo, $1.25.

A story of old days in America when Detroit was a frontier town and the

shores of Lake Erie were held by hostile Indians under Pontiac. The

hero, Donald Hester, goes in search of his sister Edith, who has been

captured by the Indians. Strange and terrible are his experiences: for

he is wounded, taken prisoner, condemned to be burned, and contrives to

escape. In the end there is peace between Pontiac and the English, and

all things terminate happily for the hero. One dares not skip a page of

this enthralling story.

THE WHITE CONQUEROR

A TALE OF TOLTEC AND AZTEC. By KIRK MUNROE. With 8 full-page

illustrations by W. S. STACEY. 12mo, $1.25.

“The story is replete with scenes of vivid power; it is full of action

and rapid movement; and he must be deficient in receptive faculty who

fails to gain valuable historical instruction, along with the pleasure

of reading a tale graphically told.”--_Philadelphia Bulletin._

STORIES OF LITERATURE, SCIENCE, AND HISTORY By HENRIETTA CHRISTIAN

WRIGHT.

_A NEW VOLUME JUST ISSUED._

=CHILDREN’S STORIES IN AMERICAN LITERATURE=, 1660-1860. 12mo, $1.25.

Miss Wright here continues her attractive presentation of literary

history begun in her “Children’s Stories in English Literature.” Elliot,

the translator of the Bible into the English language, Irving, Cooper,

Prescott, Holmes, Longfellow, Hawthorne, Mrs. Stowe, Whittier, Poe, and

Emerson are here considered, bringing the history of the subject down to

the period of the Civil War, and treated with constant reference to that

side of their works and personalities which most nearly appeals to

children.

=CHILDREN’S STORIES IN ENGLISH LITERATURE.= Two volumes: TALIÈSIN TO

SHAKESPEARE, SHAKESPEARE TO TENNYSON. 12mo, each, $1.25.

“It is indeed a vivid history of the people as well as a story of their

literature: and, brief as it is, the author has so deftly seized on all

the salient points, that the child who has read this book will be more

thoroughly acquainted than many a student of history with the life and

thought of the centuries over which the work reaches.”--_The

Evangelist._

=CHILDREN’S STORIES OF THE GREAT SCIENTISTS.= With portraits. 12mo, $1.25.

“The author has succeeded in making her pen-pictures of the great

scientists as graphic as the excellent portraits that illustrate the

work. Around each name she has picturesquely grouped the essential

features of scientific achievement.”--_Brooklyn Times._

=CHILDREN’S STORIES OF AMERICAN PROGRESS.= Illustrated. 12mo, $1.25.

“Miss Wright is favorably known by her volume of well-told ‘Stories in

American History’: and her ‘Stories of American Progress’ is equally

worthy of commendation. Taken together they present a series of pictures

of great graphic interest. The illustrations are excellent.”--_The

Nation._

=CHILDREN’S STORIES IN AMERICAN HISTORY.= Illustrated. 12mo, $1.25.

“A most delightful and instructive collection of historical events, told

in a simple and pleasant manner. Almost every occurrence in the gradual

development of our country is woven into an attractive story for young

people.”--_San Francisco Evening Post._

* * * * *

G. A. HENTY’S POPULAR STORIES FOR BOYS

New Volumes for 1895-96. Each, crown 8vo, handsomely illustrated, $1.50.

Mr. Henty, the most popular writer of Books of Adventure in England,

adds three new volumes to his list this fall--books that will delight

thousands of boys on this side who have become his ardent admirers.

“Mr. Henty’s books never fail to interest boy readers. Among writers of

stories of adventure he stands in the very first rank.”--_Academy_,

London.

“No country nor epoch of history is there which Mr. Henty does not know,

and what is really remarkable is that he always writes well and

interestingly. Boys like stirring adventures, and Mr. Henty is a master

of this method of composition.”--_New York Times._

A KNIGHT OF THE WHITE CROSS

A TALE OF THE SIEGE OF RHODES. With 12 full-page illustrations.

Gervaise Tresham, the hero of this story, joins the Order of the Knights

of St. John, and leaving England he proceeds to the stronghold of

Rhodes, and becomes a page in the household of the Grand Master.

Subsequently, Gervaise is made a Knight of the Grand Cross for valor,

while soon after he is appointed commander of a war-galley, and in his

first voyage destroys a fleet of Moorish corsairs. During one of his

cruises the young knight is attacked on shore, captured after a

desperate struggle, and sold into slavery in Tripoli. He succeeds in

escaping, however, and returns to Rhodes in time to take part in the

splendid defence of that fortress. Altogether a fine chivalrous tale, of

varied interest and full noble daring.

THE TIGER OF MYSORE

A STORY OF THE WAR W\WITH TIPPOO SAIB. With 12 full-page illustrations.

Dick Holland, whose father is supposed to be a captive of Tippoo Saib,

goes to India to help him to escape. He joins the army under Lord

Cornwallis, and takes part in the campaign against Tippoo. Afterwards he

assumes a disguise; enters Seringapatum, the capital of Mysore, rescues

Tippoo’s harem from a tiger, and is appointed to high office by the

tyrant. In this capacity Dick visits the hill fortresses, still in

search of his father, and at last he discovers him in the great

stronghold of Savandroog. The hazardous rescue which Dick attempts, and

the perilous night ride through the enemy’s country are at length

accomplished, and the young fellow’s dangerous mission is done.

THROUGH RUSSIAN SNOWS

A STORY OF NAPOLEON’S RETREAT FROM MOSCOW. With 8 full-page

illustrations and a map.

The hero, Julian Wyatt, after several adventures with smugglers, by whom

he is handed over a prisoner to the French, regains his freedom and

joins Napoleon’s army in the Russian campaign, and reaches Moscow with

the victorious Emperor. Then, when the terrible retreat begins, Julian

finds himself in the rear guard of the French army, fighting

desperately, league by league, against famine, snow-storms, wolves, and

Russians. Ultimately he escapes out of the general disaster, after

rescuing the daughter of a Russian count; makes his way to St.

Petersburg, and then returns to England. A story with an excellent plot,

exciting adventures, and splendid historical interests.

* * * * *

G. A. HENTY’S POPULAR STORIES FOR BOYS

Each, crown 8vo, handsomely illustrated, $1.50.

=IN THE HEART OF THE ROCKIES.= A STORY OF ADVENTURE IN COLORADO.

“One of the most interesting and attractive stories for boys. It is a

tale of adventure thrilling enough for the most daring

readers.”--_Boston Journal._

=WULF THE SAXON.= A STORY OF THE NORMAN CONQUEST.

“An unusually realistic picture of the times. The scenes and incidents

which Mr. Henty introduces are calculated to awaken fresh interest in

the influence of the battle of Hastings upon the destiny of

mankind.”--_Boston Herald._

=WHEN LONDON BURNED.= A STORY OF RESTORATION TIMES AND THE GREAT FIRE.

“An exciting story of adventure, at the same time dealing with historic

truths deftly and interestingly.”--_Detroit Free Press._

=ST. BARTHOLOMEW’S EVE.= A TALE OF THE HUGUENOT WARS.

“Exciting enough to interest even the dullest of readers.”--_Boston

Transcript._

=THROUGH THE SIKH WAR.= A TALE OF THE CONQUEST OF THE PUNJAUB.

“Not only interesting but instructive. It is related with great spirit

and animation.”--_Boston Herald._

=A JACOBITE EXILE.= BEING THE ADVENTURES OF A YOUNG ENGLISHMAN IN THE

SERVICE OF CHARLES XII. OF SWEDEN.

“Remarkable for its thrilling adventures and its interesting historical

pictures.”--_Herald and Presbyter._

=BERIC THE BRITON.= A STORY OF THE ROMAN INVASION.

“It is a powerful and fascinating romance.”--_Boston Post._

=IN GREEK WATERS.= A STORY OF THE GRECIAN WAR OF INDEPENDENCE--1821-1827.

“It is a stirring narrative, wholesome and

stimulating.”--_Congregationalist._

=CONDEMNED AS A NIHILIST.= A STORY OF ESCAPE FROM SIBERIA.

“A narrative absorbing and thrilling. The scenes of Siberian prison-life

give the book a peculiar value.”--_Christian Advocate._

=REDSKIN AND COWBOY.= A TALE OF THE WESTERN PLAINS.

“Though it is full of hairbreadth escapes, none of the incidents are

improbable. It is needless to say that the adventures are well

told.”--_San Francisco Chronicle._

=THE DASH FOR KHARTOUM.= A TALE OF THE NILE EXPEDITION.

=HELD FAST FOR ENGLAND.= A TALE OF THE SIEGE OF GIBRALTAR.

⁂ _The above are Mr. Henty’s latest books. A full descriptive list

containing all of Mr. Henty’s books--now 47 in number--will be sent to

any address on application. They are all attractively illustrated and

handsomely bound._

* * * * *

SAMUEL ADAMS DRAKE’S HISTORICAL BOOKS

=THE MAKING OF THE OHIO VALLEY STATES.= 1660-1837. Illustrated. 12mo,

$1.50.

=THE MAKING OF VIRGINIA AND THE MIDDLE COLONIES.= 1578-1701. Illustrated.

12mo, $1.50.

=THE MAKING OF NEW ENGLAND.= 1580-1643. With 148 illustrations and with

maps. 12mo, $1.50.

=THE MAKING OF THE GREAT WEST.= 1812-1853. With 145 illustrations and with

maps. 12mo, $1.50.

“The author’s aim in these books is that they shall occupy a place

between the larger and lesser histories of the lands and of the periods

of which they treat, and that each topic therein shall be treated as a

unit and worked out to a clear understanding of its objects and results

before passing to another topic. In the furtherance of this method each

subject has its own descriptive notes, maps, plans, and illustrations,

the whole contributing to a thorough, though condensed, knowledge of the

subject in hand.”--_New York Mail and Express._

POEMS OF CHILDHOOD BY EUGENE FIELD

=LOVE SONGS OF CHILDHOOD.= 16mo, $1.00.

=WITH TRUMPET AND DRUM.= By Eugene Field. 16mo, $1.25.

“His poems of childhood have gone home, not only to the hearts of

children, but to the heart of the country as well, and he is one of the

few contributors to that genuine literature of childhood which expresses

ideas from the stand-point of a child.”--_The Outlook._

THE NORSELAND SERIES By H. H. BOYESEN.

=NORSELAND TALES.= Illustrated. 12mo, $1.25.

=BOYHOOD IN NORWAY=: NINE STORIES OF DEEDS OF THE SONS OF THE VIKINGS.

With 8 illustrations. 12mo, $1.25.

=AGAINST HEAVY ODDS=, AND A FEARLESS TRIO. With 13 full-page illustrations

by W. L. TAYLOR. 12mo, $1.25.

=THE MODERN VIKINGS=: STORIES OF LIFE AND SPORT IN THE NORSELAND. With

many full-page illustrations. 12mo, $1.25.

The four above volumes in a box, $5.00.

“Charmingly told stories of boy-life in the Land of the Midnight Sun,

illustrated with pictures giving a capital idea of the incidents and

scenes described. The tales have a delight all their own, as they tell

of scenes and sports and circumstances so different from those of our

American life.”--_New York Observer._

TWO BOOKS BY ROSSITER JOHNSON

=THE END OF A RAINBOW.= AN AMERICAN STORY. Illustrated. 12mo, $1.50.

“It will be read with breathless interest. It is interesting and full of

boyish experience.”--_The Independent._

=PHAETON ROGERS.= A NOVEL OF BOY LIFE. Illustrated. 12mo, $1.50.

* * * * *

MRS. BURTON HARRISON’S TALES

=BRIC-A-BRAC STORIES.= With 24 illustrations by WALTER CRANE. 12mo, $1.50.

“It is to be wished that every boy and girl might become acquainted with

the contents of this book.”--JULIAN HAWTHORNE.

=THE OLD FASHIONED FAIRY BOOK.= Illustrated by ROSINA EMMET. 16mo, $1.25.

“The little ones, who so willingly go back with us to ‘Jack the Giant

Killer,’ ‘Bluebeard,’ and the kindred stories of our childhood, will

gladly welcome Mrs. Burton Harrison’s ‘Old-Fashioned Fairy

Tales.’”--FRANK R. STOCKTON.

BOOKS OF ADVENTURE BY ROBERT LEIGHTON

=OLAF THE GLORIOUS.= A STORY OF OLAF TRIGGVISON, KING OF NORWAY, A.D.

995-1000. Crown 8vo, with numerous full-page illustrations, $1.50.

=THE WRECK OF THE GOLDEN FLEECE.= THE STORY OF A NORTH SEA FISHER BOY.

Illustrated. Crown 8vo, $1.50.

=THE THIRSTY SWORD.= A STORY OF THE NORSE INVASION OF SCOTLAND, 1262-65.

With 8 illustrations and a map. Crown 8vo, $1.50.

=THE PILOTS OF POMONA.= A STORY OF THE ORKNEY ISLANDS. With 8

illustrations and a map. Crown 8vo, $1.50.

“Mr. Leighton as a writer for boys needs no praise, as his books place

him in the front rank.”--_New York Observer._

THINGS WILL TAKE A TURN

By BEATRICE HARRADEN, author of “Ships That Pass in the Night.”

Illustrated. 12mo, $1.00.

The charm of this tale is its delicate, wistful sympathy. It is the

story of a sunny-hearted child, Rosebud, who assists her grandfather in

his dusty, second-hand bookshop. One cannot help being fascinated by the

sweet little heroine, she is so engaging, so natural: and to love

Rosebud is to love all her friends and enter sympathetically into the

good fortune she brought them.

AMONG THE LAWMAKERS

By EDMUND ALTON. Illustrated. Square 8vo, $1.50.

“The book is a diverting as well as an instructive one. Mr. Alton was in

his early days a page in the Senate, and he relates the doings of

Congress from the point of view he then obtained. His narrative is easy

and piquant, and abounds in personal anecdotes about the great men whom

the pages waited on.”--_Christian Union._

EVENING TALES

DONE INTO ENGLISH FROM THE FRENCH OF FREDERIC ORTOLI, BY JOEL CHANDLER

HARRIS. 12mo, $1.00.

“It is a veritable French ‘Uncle Remus’ that Mr. Harris has discovered

in Frederic Ortoli. The book has the genuine piquancy of Gallic wit, and

will be sure to charm American children. Mr. Harris’s version is

delightfully written.”--_Boston Beacon._

FOOTNOTES:

[1] Froissart’s own cunning little poem of _Le Débat dou Cheval et dou

Levrier_, recently printed for the first time by M. Buchon, gives such

a picture of himself:--

“Froissars d’Escoce revenolt

Sus un cheval qui gris estoit;

Un blanc levrier menoit en lasse.”

[2] Froissart’s Chronicles were written in four volumes, or books. The

parts I have taken from the first book cover a period of about thirty

years, counting from the coronation of the young King Edward the Third

of England in the year 1326 to the battle of Poitiers in the year 1356.

The times covered by the other three books will be given as we come to

them.

I have thought that the young readers of Froissart would care to know

exactly how it was that such a wonderful amount of fighting had to be

done during the fourteenth century, in England, France, and Flanders,

as is described in this book; and I have therefore devoted the first

forty or fifty pages to such extracts as would inform them upon the

causes of these terrible and long-continued wars.--ED.

[3] The young readers of Froissart will be interested in some

particulars of this exploit not given by our author. When Douglas made

his first impetuous onset, it seemed as if he would be successful, even

alone. The Saracens retreated in confusion, and Douglas and his party

were tempted into a hot pursuit. “Taking the casket from his neck”

(says Hailes, in the Annals of Scotland), “which contained the heart of

Bruce,” Douglas “threw it before him, and cried, ‘Now pass thou onward,

as thou wast wont; and Douglas will follow thee, or die.’” Presently

the Saracens rallied, and surrounded the Scotch with overwhelming

numbers. “Douglas fell while attempting to rescue Sir William Clare

of Roslin, who shared his fate. Robert and Walter Logan, both of them

knights, were slain with Douglas.... His few surviving companions

found his body in the field, together with the casket, and reverently

conveyed them to Scotland. The remains of Douglas were interred in the

sepulchre of his fathers, in the church of Douglas; and the heart of

Bruce was deposited at Melrose.”

[4] Who, although he had been the chief supporter of Philip for the

crown, had afterwards become the object of Philip’s violent hatred, and

had been banished the kingdom.

[5] But it is to be hoped that every young reader of Froissart will

heartily despise such cunning. This act of Sir John Norwich was mean

and small beyond all decent words; for he took the basest advantage

of the Duke of Normandy’s honorable confidence in his fidelity to the

sacred obligations of a truce.--ED.

[6] Boys who accompany King Edward on this expedition will be glad to

know, at the outset, that they are not to be fobbed off with a few

skirmishes and a retreat of both armies--as on the preceding ones. In

fact, we are now on the way to fight the great battle of Crecy.--ED.

[7] French for _a harrow_.

[8] The mark “-“ over a letter denotes an _m_ or an _n_ added: thus

“cāe” = _came_, “thē” = _them_.

[9] yᵗ = _that_.

[10] wᵗ = _with_.

[11] = _amonge_.

[12] That is, _had been there dead if_ (and = _an_) _it had not been

for his page_.

[13] _almaygnes_ = _Allemands_ = _Germans_.

[14] That is, _makes him ready_.

[15] _Ensigns._

[16] _Two._

[17] _Mild maid_,--the Virgin Mary.

[18] _They._

[19] _Fly._

[20] _’gan_,--began.

[21] _Ay_,--yea.

[22] _Feod_,--one who owes fealty.

[23] The narrative has advanced five years since the last chapter. King

John keeps his oath: he “sets out after” the prince, and in a short

time brings on the great battle of Poitiers.--ED.

[24] Some say it was composed of sulphur, naphtha, pitch, gum, and

bitumen; others, that the ingredients are not now known. It was

invented by Callinicus of Heliopolis, in the seventh century, to

destroy the ships of the Saracens.--ED.

[25] It was Arnaut (i.e., Arnold) de Cervolle who was surnamed the

Archpriest.--ED.

[26] After the battle of Poitiers the wretched land of France was

tormented by all the ills of lawlessness. This chapter, and the next

three, particularly those describing the Jacquerie, will show every

boy the frenzies to which a people may be driven when the law is weak.

In this case the arm of the law--King John--was wholly lacking in

France.--ED.

[27] Of Normandy.--ED.

[28] That is, Jack Goodman.--ED.

[29] Froissart’s Chronicles having been composed in four volumes, the

peculiar nature of his work makes it well to preserve this division,

aside from the general advantage of giving in unaltered form, so far as

possible, the parts presented.--ED.

[30] This is King Charles the Sixth of France, called “the Maniac.” The

narrative has here advanced twenty-four years since we left King John

in England, a prisoner, after the battle of Poitiers. John has died,

and been succeeded by Charles V.,--“the Wise,”--who has reigned sixteen

years, and died. We now go on to see how his successor, young Charles

the Sixth, fares in his wars with Philip von Artaveld to recover the

rights of the Earl of Flanders. I have chosen these special chapters

because they give us lively pictures of manners and customs among

a different people from those illustrated by the selections of the

first book. The insurrection of Wat Tyler, of which Froissart gives

such a lively account in this book, ought really to begin these first

chapters, since it occurred in 1378,--two years before the coronation

of King Charles,--in the reign of Richard II. of England. The period

covered by my extracts from this second book is therefore from 1378 to

1382, when the battle of Rosbecq was fought.--ED.

[31] I devote my selections from this book mainly to showing the manner

in which the good canon Froissart picked up matter for his Chronicles

from the conversation of chance travellers as he rode on his way;

together with a glimpse of the handsome person and brilliant court of

the great Béarnese lord Gaston Phœbus, Count de Foix. The time is the

year 1388.--ED.

[32] His mother had been sent by her husband to bring home her dowry,

in the hands of her brother the King of Navarre. The latter refused to

send it; and the lady therefore remained in his country, fearing the

anger of her husband if she should return without it.--ED.

[33] The young readers of Froissart may remember this passage when

they come to read Chaucer’s account of the young squire who “Carf

byforn his fadur at the table” (i.e., _carved before his father at the

table_).--ED.

[34] For the sake of further variety I extract from Froissart’s fourth

volume a lively picture of a crusade against the Saracens. The time

is the last decade of the fourteenth century; more particularly, two

months of the year 1390.--ED.

[35] Machines for throwing stones.--ED.

[36] Which I have selected for a concluding chapter because it is the

last but one of Froissart’s book, and brings before us several persons

who have figured in the history, as _dramatis personæ_ come forth at

the last act of the play. Here are King Edward, with whose coronation

my abridgment begins; Queen Philippa, whom we saw him marry; and

King Richard II., whom we last beheld in front of Wat Tyler and his

rebels.--ED.