Link LinkTo encourage all valorous hearts, and to show them honourable examples, I John Froissart, will begin to relate, after the documents of master John le Bel, formerly canon of St. Lambert's in Leige, as followeth: That whereas various noble personages have frequently spoken of the wars between France and England, without knowing any thing of the matter, or being able to assign proper reasons for them; I, having perceived the right foundation for the matter, shall neither add nor omit, forget, corrupt, nor abridge my history: but rather will enlarge it, that I may be able to point out and speak of each adventure from the nativity of the noble king Edward of England, who so potently reigned, and who was engaged in so many battles and perilous adventures, and other feats of arms and great prowess, from the year of Grace 1326, when he was crowned in England.
Although he, and also those that were with him in his battles and fortunate encounters, or with his army when he were not there in person, which you will hear as we go on, ought to be accounted valiant; yet as of these there is a multitude some should be esteemed supereminent. Such as the gallant king himself before named; the prince of Wales, his son; the duke of Lancaster; sir Reginald lord Cobham; sir Walter Manny of Hainault, knight; sir John Chandos; sir Fulke Harley; and many others who are recorded in this book for their worth and prowess; for in all the battles by sea or land, in which they were engaged, their valour was so distinguished that they should be esteemed heroes of highest renown - but without disparagement to those with whom they served. In France also was found good chivalry, strong of limb and stout of heart, and in great abundance; for the kingdom of France was never brought so low as to want men ever ready for the combat. Such was king Philip of Valois, a bold and hardy knight, and his son king John; also John, king of Bohemia, and Charles, count of Alencon, his son; the count of Foix; the chevaliers de Santré, d'Arnaud d'Angle, de Beauveau, father and son, and may others that I cannot at present name; but they shall all be named in due time and place: for to say the truth, we must allow sufficient bravery and ability to all who were engaged in such cruel and desperate battles, and discharged their duty, by standing their ground till the discomfiture.
