CHAP. I. How King Frederick and his Queene walking to take the ayre , were assaulted by a company of Out-lawes , & how the Queene was deliuered of a child in the Forrest .

YOU may read in the Chronicles of Denmarke , of the great loue betwéene King Frederick , & the famous Allisonne , Countesse of Flaunders . And how that after a long contention , betwéene the said Frederick , and Griffory Duke of Holland , the King married her in the great Cittie of Gaunt , to the extreame griefe of the said Griffory , who therevpon gaue ouer all martiall exercises for a season , vntill such time as hée was reuenged , as you may more at large read of in the said Chronicle , written by one Cleonido a Dane .

Not long after the said marriage , the King hauing setled the estate of that Earledome , returned into Denmarke with his beautifull Quéene , where at the arriuall , they were receiued with great honour and triumph by his subiects , who loued him as intirely , as it was possible for any subiects to loue their Prince , as appeared by their solemne processions , ringing of bells , staitly pagants , and other gallant shewes , which were presented vnto him in euery Towne hée passed through . But comming into Maiance , which then was the chiefe Cittie of the kingdome , hee was presented with such varietie of pleasing shewes , that it passeth my capacitie to describe them , likewise there were many excellent and learned Orations , pronounced by the chiefe schollers of the Vniuersity of Maiance , setting foorth the great loue of the people toward their Prince , and the ioy conceaued of his marriage with so excellent a Lady as was his Quéene . On the otherside , the King to gratefie his subiects louing mindes , shewed himselfe bountifull and liberall vnto all , to some by gifts , to others by promises and fayre words , and to all by pleasing iestures , so that one might rightly say , there was in him the liuely portrature of a most graue and prudent Prince , and in them the true shew of faithfull and louing subiects .

But as it alwaies hapneth , when men think themselues in greatest felicitie , then whether it be by the instabilitie of Fortune , or else that the Fates and destinies haue so appointed it , they are oftentimes suddenly tumbled downe , into griefe and miserie . Euen so it hapned with the King and Quéene , who liuing a while in this content , were suddenly driuen into great cares and perplexitie . Wherby we may perceiue , the diuine power of God to be such , that hée can pull downe Princes from their thrones , and restore them againe at his pleasure , as sometimes he did by Nabucadnezar and others , to the setting foorth of his glorie and power .

Now was it hard about the Month of May , when as the fields and woods were deckt with Floras broode , and on each spray sate louely birds , resounding heauenly harmonie . The pretie Nitingall , setting her speckled breast against a bryer , regarded not fond Terius foule desire , but chaunted forth her pleasant ditties . When as the King and Quéene , accompanied with a small traine of Lordes and Ladies whom they loued , one morning early stale forth of the Court secretly , to disport themselues in the forrest , which was hard adioyning vnto the Citty walls , where they had not long remained , beholding the broad-shaded Okes , and stately loftie Pines , before that a company of Out-lawes , who were banished the Kingdome of Fraunce , had espyed them , and séeing they were no better prouided , set on them . Where one might haue beheld the Quéene and her Ladies so affrighted with this sudden accident , fling vp & downe , some hiding themselues in one bush , some in another . Others againe béeing more timerous , suncke downe where they stoode , not béeing able to flie away . But all was one , flie or tarry , for béeing pursued , they were all taken , and brought backe , sauing onely the Quéene , who béeing carried forwards with the wings of feare , made such hast that shée escaped them all , béeing so appointed by the prouidence of God .

The King likewise & Noblemen béeing amazed at this vnlooked for euent , knew not well suddenly what to determine , but in the end , séeing no other remedy , resolued to defend themselues as well as they might . The King being at that time one of the most accomplished Knights in all Europe , layd on such blowes amongst them , that hee made an euident shew that hee was determined to sell his life at an extreame déere rate . But beeing vnarmed , and hauing no other weapon but his sword , and all his company beeing slaine out-right sauing two , who were likewise grieuously wounded , was forst perforce to yéelde to theyr pittilesse mercy : who hauing obtaind victory , stript them all , as well Lords as Ladies of their coyne , and abilliments which were ought worth . And binding those whom they thought might any waies worke them displeasure , as by raysing power to pursue them , or vnbinding their fellows , they determined spéedily to depart towards the Sea coast , where some of their company remained , with two small Barks , wherewith they crost the seas . But as they were ready to depart , it came into one of their mindes , that some of them whom they had robbed , might peraduenture be such persons , for whose raunsome , they might get more coyne then all theyr booty was worth : wherefore demaunding of one of the Ladies whom they had bound , what they were , was giuen to vnderstand , that hee who made the greatest resistance was the King , the other two which were liuing , both noble men of his Court. Then calling to his mind , the great hate betwéene the said King , and Griffory Duke of Holland , determined if he could , to cary him with him , and to present him to the Duke , of whom he hoped to receiue some great reward . Wherefore intreating his fellowes , who knew not whom they had robbed , so grant him so much fauour , as to permit him to haue that Knight for his prisoner , in regard as knowing him heeretofore in Fraunce , fayning that there he had doone great despight to a friend of his , in reuenge whereof hee would deliuer him into his hands , whom he knew would kéepe him in eternal prison for his former offence . Nowe if they would be contented to grant this vnto him , hee would séeke for no other part of their bootie .

They all béeing more gréedy of pray then of prisoners , who they thought might rather be a charge , then profit vnto them , were content to graunt vnto his request . Who presently went and vnbound the King , and so led him directly towards theyr shipping . And hauing winde at will , presently wayed Ancor , and set into the Sea , where wee will leaue them for awhile , and returne to the Quéene , who by her swift flight , mist the hands of the thieues , but fell into as great or greater ill . For whilst the King and the other Lords held the thieues somewhat short , by defending themselues , as is before declared , the fearefull Quéene flying into the wood for safety , strayed two and fro shee wist not whether . At length , béeing wearied with running , and fainting still with feare , shée sate her downe vnder a Iuniper bush , to refresh her selfe , where after shee had awhile rested her selfe , shée began to call to mind , and consider in what great danger shée had left her Lord & husband , then reprouing herselfe , for that she had not rather made choyce to haue stayed and ended her dayes with him , then thus to haue romed she wist not whether . Then rising vp , shee determined to haue returned to the same place where she left them fighting , but strayed further , so that tracing and trauersing vp and downe the wood , shee spent the whole day to her no small griefe . And now darke night hauing spred her sable mantle ouer the face of the earth , the sorrowfull Quéene , not knowing what to doe , or whether to goe , determined to take vp her lodging for that night , vnder a broade branched Oake , fast by a fountaines side , wheras the wild beasts of the Forrest did commonly resort to drinke , where good Lady shée was forced to content herselfe with a hungry pittance , teares béeing her daintiest dish , whereon shée fedde , sometimes exclayming on cruell fortune , whom shée accused to haue brought her into these miseries : then presently her husbands portrature séemed to appeare vnto her minde , whom she thought to be murdred by those robbers , which was such a griefe vnto her , that many times she was minded to haue slaine her selfe , had not God mightily preserued her to a further setting forth of his glory .

Thus past shée away most part of the night with weeping and lamentations , vntill such time that Somnus with his leaden wings seased her eye-lids , and caused her for a while to slumber . In which sléepe , shee thought an Angell sent from God , being clothed all in white rayment , appeared vnto her , saying , Bee of good hart and feare not , for these crosses which now are come vpon thée , the Lord hath sent to proue thée with all , and therefore it behooueth thée to beare it patiently , vntill such time as the Lord shall ease thée of them . As for the King thy husband he liueth , but yet in bands , and shall doe still , vntill such time as the childe that now is in thy wombe , shall be his deliuerer , whom thou at his birth shalt name Euordanus , this nowe am I sent to tell thee , because thou shouldest not dispayre .

The Quéene héereat awaked out of her slumber , and looking about if she might sée any body , but could not , then perceiuing it to be a dreame , or vision , meruailed what it might signifie , & was greatly troubled with deuising thereof : so that all the night after shee could take no rest , sometimes thinking of her husband , and sometimes what the childes deliuerance might meane , at length determined to referre all to the mercifull prouidence of God . Thus sits shée poore sorrowfull Lady , till such time as by the singing of the chéerefull Larke , & by the roaring of the wild beasts , shée was preparing to forsake Dame Thetis lodging , and that nights sable mantle was changed into a hoary gray . When loe , as was their wont , the sauage beasts came vnto the well to drink , there did shee with feare beholde the statelie Vnicorne , with the cruell Tiger , the roaring Beare , and gaudy Panther , the bellowing Bull , & foming Bore , the rauening Wolfe , and craftie Foxe , with diuers more , which put her in such feare , that she had thought presently to haue béen deuoured , when falling on her knées , and holding vp her hands , she said these or such like words .

O most mercifull Lord God , I doe here acknowledge before thy diuine maiestie , my manifolde and innumerable sins committed against thy diuine maiesty both in thought , word , and déed , O Lord I am not worthy so much as once to looke vp to heauen , much lesse to receiue any thing at thy hands O Lord . Yet mercifull Father , trusting in the merits of thy déerely beloued sonne , our Lord and Sauiour Christ Iesus , I come vnto thée in his name , crauing forgiuenesse of all my sinnes and iniquities . And further , O Lord God , I humbly beséech thée to saue and deliuer mée , from this present danger , and perrill of my wretched life , O Lord bow downe thy heauenly eye , and behold mee thy wofull handmaide , and likewise this poore infant that is within my wombe , defend it , O Lord , and grant that according vnto the vision which thou by thy holy Angell hast shewed mee , it may liue to set foorth thy glory and power , and in the end , when it shall be thy blessed will , to call vs out of this wretched vale of wickednes , thou wilt receiue and place vs in thy Celestiall kingdome , whether O Lord for thy sonnes sake bring vs I beséech thée .

These , or such like were the words , which she distressed Lady then vttered : when behold a mightie surious Lyon came rushing out of the wood towards her , bringing in his mouth a cake of Bread , which he most gently layd downe at her féete , fawning vpon her , as if of long time he had bin acquainted with her , and would not depart from her . At length , somewhat to recomfort herselfe , then smoothing his rough bristles with her tender hand , she made much of him laying his head on her lap , wherat he séemed to take great content . Then taking vp the cake of bread which hee had brought her , and giuing thanks vnto God , imagining as sometimes in the wildernes hee had sent Rauens to feede the Prophet Elias , so likewise had hee now sent the Lion to comfort and bring her foode , she refreshed therwith her hungry stomacke . After which repast , the Lyon very softly paced towards the wood againe , euer casting backe his head , as if he looked whether the Lady followed him or not , which shée at length perceiuing , determined to follow him , hoping thereby either to get out of the wood , or else to finde some better place of safety . Thus went they together , till at last he brought her vnto a Caue vnderneath the ground , with a very narrow entrance in , but béeing entred , shée found it a reasonable large roome . Thus determining for a while to remaine th●● 〈◊〉 such time as God should send her better fortune , passing away the time some whiles with walking about the woods néere the Caue , otherwhiles with playing with the Lyon , who euery day brought her in meate , such as he got abrode in the Forrest , which she sometimes scorched and dryed in the sunne , otherwhiles was forced to eate it raw , vntill such time as by hap one day walking abroad , she found a flint stone , with which afterwards shee vsed to strike fire , and therewith would broyle her meate . Thus continued she , vntill such time , that according to the naturall course of women , her time of childe-birth was come . When as good Lady , féeling the paines thereof , to her most strange and extreame , not hauing any to comfort and help her , she fell againe into her wonted passion of dolour , complaining of her cruell fortune , which had depriued her of all helpe and comfort , & had brought her into this extreame sorrow & paines . But euen then , in the midst of her complaints , God pittying her griefe , sent her safe deliuerance of a most goodly and beautiful boy , which when she beheld , according to the saying of the Scripture , she forgate all her former sorrow , reioycing that a man child was borne into the world : and giuing thanks vnto God , she tooke the child vp in her armes , and beholding it , she imagined that in him she saw the liuely figure of the King her husband . And making such shift as shee could to wrap him vp in clothes , shee beheld on his right shoulder a well proportioned crosse , which séemed farre redder then the rest of his body , wherat shée greatly meruailed : then calling to minde her vision , she hoped that in time he should prooue a famous man , and a scourge vnto the enemies of the Christian faith , as shee thought the signe of the Crosse did already foreshew , then likewise remembring the name which the Angell had tolde her in her vision , as soone as she had recouered strength to goe , went with her sonne to the fountaine , where shee baptized him , naming him as she was willed , Euordanus , then returned she againe to the Caue , where wee will leaue her for a while with her young Infant , and returne to speake of the King her husband .

CHAP. II. How King Fredericke being carried away by the Out-lawes , after a great storme at sea arriued in Holland , whereas he was sold to his mortall enemie , the Duke Griffory .

AFter the Out-lawes had brought theyr bootie and good King aboord , and had set sayle , minding to haue gone for some place of Fraunce , where they might haue secretlie stolne ashore , to learne some newes of theyr owne affayres , and hauing the wind large , determined to haue landed in a small cricke not farre from Rotchell , because most of them were héeretofore inhabitants of that Towne , but euen as they were come within the sight of Land , on a sudden the Skyes began to ouercast , the sunne was clowded , and the face of heauen was so darkned , that one could not discerne at that present time , beeing about no one dayes from the darkest midnight : the winds began to blow on all sides , as if that Eolus had vnstopped all his ayrie Caue , and had determined with one assault to haue subdued Neptunes Regiments . Or as when the angry Goddesse Iuno gréeuing at the quiet passage of the poore vanquisht Troians , desired Eolus to sinke them in the sea : so fared it with them , by reason that the seas on all sides béeing so assaulted of the windes , did so cruelly rage and storme , that sometimes theyr small Barks did séeme to touch the very clowdes , and presently againe were throwne downe vnto the sands , euery man imagining that to be the last houre of theyr liues . Some , as is commonlie the custome of such people béeing in extremity , fel to prayer , othersome to cursing and swearing : the Maister cries in with the sayles , others cry downe with the Mast , some againe , to lighten their Barke of her burthen , the more yarly to rise with the Seas , beginne to throw ouer boord all whatsoeuer comes to hand , hoping thereby , as with a pleasing sacrifice , to appease the angry Seas .

But euen as they were thus busied , some on one thing , others on another thing , a mighty gust in manner of a Whirlewind , comming out of the South-west , beares both masts and sayles by the burden . The Barke wherein the King was , hauing spent both their fore and maine Mast , were forced to put to hull , yéelding themselues to the pittilesse mercy of the wind and seas , which euery minute was ready to haue deuoured & swallowed them vp . Thus continued the storme by the space of thrée dayes , the wind sometimes in their forshyp , then in theyr poupe , nowe in the quarter , and presently againe in theyr bowe , continuing with such force , that the best man aboord was scarcely able to stand on the hatches . But at length , as euery storme hath an end , so now Neptune rousing himselfe out of his fayre Quéene Amphitries bosome , and beholding she poore distressed Marriners , tooke pitty on theyr miseries , and lifting his hoary head aboue the waters , asswaged them , and with his thrée-forked Mace rebuked the Windes , threatning to punish theyr arrogant presumption , if he héereafter hapned to find them with the like offence .

The storme béeing thus broken vp , and the Sunne beginning againe to lighten the earth with his splendant beames , the weather-beathen Marriners looking abroade for theyr comfort , espied the Land , which after they had a while with ioy beheld , they made to be the Land of Holland . Who then so glad as Martinus , for so was hée called which had the King to his prisoner , for whom he hoped ere long to receiue such a summe of money , as for euer should make him rich : the King on the other side was in as great perplexity , knowing that they were arriued on the coast of his greatest enemy , yet comforting himselfe somewhat with the hope of not beeing knowne , as also of not knowing Martinus meaning , he shewed himselfe the more chéerefull . Thus betwéene hope and feare , they altogether passed away the time , in merry discourses of theyr former danger , till such time as they were come on land , at a Port called Alentmaer , where Martinus fayning himselfe to be verie ill at ease , by reason of the late storme , craued leaue of the rest of his company , to goe with his prisoner vnto the Citty of Hanstance , which was not passing thrée leagues of , now called Ansterdam : where hee determined to rest himselfe , vntill such time as hee found himselfe throughly amended , which they soone graunted him , not knowing his intent , and beeing also willing to be ridde of his company , because of his double charge .

So departed Martinus with his prisoner , whom he swore so continue true vnto him : as fearing his escape , being to trauell but they two together , but the King being in his enemies country , durst not make himselfe knowne , which he must needes , if he had made any resistance . Thus trauelling on together towards Hanstance , they ariued there at such time , as the blushing sunne plucking in his smiling beames , making his steedes to mende their wonted place , and plunging downe into the Ocean streames , there in the frothy waues did hide his face , leauing the earth couered with nights darksome shade : wherefore that night they tooke vp their lodging , Martinus learning of his haost , how Duke Griffory hauing euer since she marriage of the King of Denmarke , and the faire Lady Allison of Flaunders , giuen ouer all pleasure , was withdrawne from his Court into the Country , some eight miles distance from the Cittie : where hauing built a lodge in a maruilous solitarie place , hee passed the time in mellancholly humors , somewhiles playing on the Lute some mournefull ditties , otherwhiles , ingrauing in the trees on the ground Verses and Sonnets , féeding his humors with such vaine toies , to the great griefe of all his subiects : and how in all that time he neuer had sufferd any one to come into his presence , or to speake with him , sauing a smale company of his attendants , which remained there with him . When Martinus had heard all this , he determined the next day to goe thether , and to make knowne vnto him those things , which should soone put him out of his melancholy dumpes . The next morning very early he was rissen vp , and comming to the King , told him how that hee had some occasion of busines in the Country , which would cause him to be away a day or two , wherefore hee was determined in the meane time , leauing him behind him , to cause him once more to sweare vnto him , to remaine vntill his returne , which if hee refused , that then he would commit him vnto some prison within the Cittie , whereas hee should bee alwaies foorth comming at his pleasure . The King listning attentiuely vnto his speech , was driuen into a thousand imaginations , not knowing what was best for him to doe , at length considering his former oath , which rather then he would violate , he would chuse to indure any death whatsoeuer , so much did he estéeme of his Kingly oath : hee answered him thus . I knowe not what your meaning may bee , in this sort to doubt my former promise , and to goe about by a new oath to assure your selfe of me : if to set me to ransome , I heere fréely proffer my selfe to goe a long with you into any place , out of this accursed region , and there to remaine , vntill such time that the same bee payed vnto you , although it should amounte vnto an hundred thousand pounds , rather then that you should deliuer me , into the hands of the Gouernor of this accursed Country , who is my mortall enemie .

Nay , nay , replied Martinus , being blinded with couetousnes , and hoping for a greater summe of monie : there is no such matter ment , but I haue not farre off a friend , whose councell I minde to followe heerein : in the meane time chuse whether you will remaine in prison , or vppon your oath . The King séeing no remedie , sware vnto him againe to continue his true prisoner , although it cost him his life .

Then departed Martinus , towards the Dukes lodge , where béeing arriued , and desiring conference with his grace , touching such matters as néerely concerned him , he was at length brought into a garden , in forme much like vnto an endlesse laborinth , so many were the diuers and sundry walkes and allies , couered with many kinds of trees , which yeilded such a close shadow , that the Sunne with his splendant beames could scarse shinne through : and passing thus from one walke into another , he came at length where the Duke sate in an Arbor of Baies , beeing clothed all in blacke , signifying his great sorrowe which he sustained , and hauing a Lute in his hand , was playing a mornefull dittie , which he euen then had framed , to which Martinus and his guide a while listned , vnséene by reason of the thicknes of the Arbor .

At length comming néerer , and with reuerence saluting his excellencie , Martinus spake as followeth .

Most mightie and puissant Prince , I cannot but wounder that you who heeretofore , were wont to spend your time in most honorable exercises , as Tilt and Turnie , and following hautie déedes of Chiualrie , should so giue your selfe ouer vnto this solitarie kind of life , neither regarding your owne estate , nor the estate of your louing subiects and Country : which would spend their very liues to worke your content . But if I bee not deceaued , this strange humor wherewith you are possest , procéedeth from contrarie occasions , the one is the extreame hate you beare vnto the King of Denmarke , the other ouer much loue towards the beautifull Quéene his wife , not knowing with your selfe what way to be reuenged of him , nor how to regaine her loue . But suppose most mighty Prince , I should worke the meanes of your reuenge , by deliuering him into your hands , would not it content you ? yea would you not more reioyce thereof , then to haue gained the greatest Cittie in Christendome , and likewise reward him , that should effect the same to his content : speake O worthy Duke , were not these the occasions of thy griefe , and would not this likewise be the chiefest medicine to sease thy sorrowe .

Scarce were these last words vttered , when the Duke starting vp , and staring him in the face , as one wakned out of sound sléepe , thus replied . Friend , whatsoeuer thou art that séekest by a fayned and filed tale , to driue me out of my sad passions ; knowe that to iest with Princes is not tollerable : But if thou canst performe , that whereof thou hast made showe of , I will not be slacke in rewarding thée for thy paines , though thou shouldest demaunde halfe my Dukedome . Therefore tell me by what meanes this may be accomplished : then effect and bring it to passe , and I will reward thée to thy owne content . Worthy Duke replied Martinus , if I performe it not , then let my head bee striken from my shoulders , conditionally that if I doe deliuer into thy hands , that vnhappie King , I may haue for my reward the Citty of Hanstance during my life , with the profits thereof : and this confirme vnto mee before your Nobilitie , and then I will deliuer him into your hands , within this eight daies next comming .

The Duke being filled with ioy , with this his so comfortable newes , consented vnto whatsoeuer he demanded , and calling for a Knight which was néerest vnto him , willed him to sommon his Counsell the next day , to bee attendant to heare a matter of importance , which he would show vnto them : which was foorthwith accomplished , euery one the next day at their houre appointed , beeing ready in the Counsell chamber , to heare what should be their Princes will : euery one greatly meruailing what soden motion , was entred in his head , considering that by the space of a yéere before , he had neuer conferred with them of any matter , no nor once suffered them to come into his presence . They being as I haue sayd gathered together in the Counsell chamber , the Duke leading Martinus by the hand , came vnto them , where he declared his intent , with the promise of Martinus : all which was consented vnto by them , hoping thereby to haue their Prince in his former estate of content : Assuring vnto Martinus vnder their hands and seales , that whatsoeuer the Duke had made promise of , they would see it performed , so soone as hée should deliuer the King of Denmarke into their hands . Héere will I leaue them to tell of the great griefe , made through all Denmarke , for the losse of their King and Quéene .

CHAP. III. How the King and Queene beeing found missing , were sought for , and how the Lords and Ladies that were with them were found .

THe same morning that the King and Quéene went to recreate themselues in the forrest , as is before declared , they were not found missing , till such time as the tables being spred for diner , and many Lords and Ladies , Knights , Squiers , and Gentlemen , being assembled together to giue their attendance on his Maiestie , maruailed that hee was so long , before he came downe into the great Hall , contrarie to his vse , which was alwaies wont to be by tenne of the clocke , where he remained vntill dinner time , passing away the time with mirth and pleasant disports . At length hauing expected his comming vntill twelue of the clocke , and séeing that he came not , the Lord Treasure , whose name was Sir Henault , musing what the cause might be , and doubting that all was not well , in regard hee neither came himselfe , neither any of the Squiers , which were attending néerest vnto him were séene to come downe , to declare the cause , at length went vp vnto the Kings bed-chamber , where hee found the Chamberlin with diuers other Gentlemen , which alwaies attended on the Kings owne person . And demaunding of them where his Maiestie was , that he came not downe in the Hall as he was accustomed , they all gaue him answere , that the King and Quéene , accompanied with the Lord Gwaltero his Cosin , the Lord Bewdall , and the Lord of Menew , with some Ladies and attendants , in the morning very early went forth at the Posterne , towards the Forrest to take the fresh aire , and that since that time they were not returned , neither did they know farther what was become of them , but doubted least that they had strayed so farre within the wood , that they had lost their way forth . When Sir Henault had hard this , he was much amased , & greatly troubled in mind , fearing least there had béene some treason wrought against his Maiestie : wherefore causing the reporters of these newes , to be in sure kéeping , he went downe , and declared the same to the rest of the nobility , and taking counsell together , they determined forthwith to make ageneral search , as well for the King and Quéene , and nobles found wanting , as also for all suspected persons , which might bée thought any waies guilty towards their absence : likewise they determined , to make a generall search throughout all the Forrest , least peraduenture , they were hapned to goe astray , and could not find the ready way backe againe , or if that they were any way distressed , either by théeues or wild beasts , that then they might rescue them , or find what was become of them .

Thus hauing determined , they armed themselues , to the number of thrée thousand , Knights and Gentlemen , and being mounted on their horses , they tooke the way directly towards the Forrest , where beeing ariued they seperated themselues into diuers companies , séeking vp and downe , and looking almost in euery bush , but could not find them whom they sought for , at length Sir Henault with his companie hapning to passe that way , wherein the morning the fight had béene , chaunced first to finde some of the dead bodies , and looking farther , sawe whereas the Lords and Ladies lay bound , being almost dead with the paine and griefe which they sustained , the Lords by reason of their wounds , and Ladies by the feare wherein they were put : then comming more néere vnto them , they found the Lord Gwaltero , and the Lord of Menew grieuously wounded , the Lord Bewdall with some foure or fiue other Gentlemen slaine out right , which sight strake such a griefe and sorrow into the harts of all the beholders , especially of Sir Henault , that he had much to doe to sit on his horse , yet at length recouering his sences , and causing them to be vnbound , he demaunded what was become of the King and Quéene , and by what misfortune they were brought into this pittifull case .

The Lord Gwaltero hauing his wounds bound vp , and being somewhat refreshed and reuiued with such restoratiues , as some of the companie had brought with them , answered , how that walking to take the aire , and to view those pleasant shades , they were sodenly and vnawares set on by forty théeues or Outlawes , whom by their apparrell and spéech , they iudged to be frenchmen , where defending themselues as well as they might , were in the end thus ouercome and wounded : and as for the King , after they had bound vs and were departing away , hauing before stripped vs of the wealth we had about vs , they returned and tooke him with them , towards the sea-side . But of the Quéene , we knowe no certainty , for whilst we were fighting she fled into the wood , with the rest of the Ladies , who were all brought back againe saue the Quéene only , by some of the Outlawes who persued them : more I knowe not , but feare least they likewise hapned on her , and haue carried her with them : wherefore he thought it fit that pursute might be made after them to the seawards , where if they were not already gone , it might so fortune as they might recouer the King and Quéene againe , otherwise there would be no hope left for séeing them in hast .

When Sir Henault had heard this discourse made by the Lord Gwaltero , he was so grieued inwardly , that with extreame sorrowe he fell from his horse in a trance , and being brought againe to himselfe , séeing all things were to be followed according to the occasion and time , first he commaunded , some part of his companie to conuaie the Lords and Ladies to the Court , whereas they that were wounded might find helpe for to cure the same : and they likewise that were slaine , might euery one haue buriall according to their estates : himselfe in the meane space being accompanied with a hundred Knights , would followe after the théeues , hoping that if they were not put to sea before their comming , not only to rescue the King , but also to giue them such a reward as for euer should bee an example , to those who should goe about to attempt the like . With this determination they rode on towards the sea side , whereas they arriued , about the time , when Vesperus , in the west had set the cunning watch , and silent night richly attended by his twinckling traine , sent sléepe and slumber to possesse the world , and fantazie for to hazan idle heads , whereas they found their labor fruitlesse , by reason that they were departed long before : and séeing the night beginne to wax darke , they all together determined on the plaine , hard by the sea side for that night to rest themselues , making fiers and great lights to cause the rest of their companies to come vnto them , who likewise had made a long and bootlesse search in the wood , and at length being almost all come together , where Sir Henault remained , they determined the next day to make preperation to follow them by sea , whom they could not recouer on shore .

CHAP. IIII. Of the generall lamentation that was made throughout all the Kingdome , and how that after a councell held for the gouerning thereof , the Knights and noble men tooke on them the search of the King .

THE next day , no sooner had darke night taken his leaue , and that the day began to appeare in the East , but Sir Henault with the rest of his company , were mounted on horsback , taking their way towards the sorrowfull Cittie of Maiance , where béeing arriued , they found the Citty all full of heauines , by reason of the late newes , which at their comming was so much the more augmented , being returned without any certaine knowledge what was become of the King and Quéene . There might you haue séene the true discription of sorrow , not in one onelie creature , but in generall through the whole Cittie : some fell to shutting vp their doores and windowes , as minding for very griefe to inclose themselues prisoners in their own houses , shunning the day light , which had giuen light to those Robbers , who had dispoyled them of their ioy and comfort . Others againe clad in blacke mournfull attire , with their chéeks be spred with teares , which like streames trickled downe from the fountaines of their eyes , went vp and downe lamenting and bewailing the losse of theyr so louing and gracious Prince . The late costly shewes , and stately Pagants , were turned into sadde obiects : yea , no noyse was heard through the whole Cittie , but wéeping and lamentation , so that the sorrow sustained by the Troians , for the losse of their chiefe Champion Hector , when by the Gréeks , at the commaundement of cruell Achilles , he was thrée times dragd about their Cittie walls , béeing before hand cowardly slaine with his accursed Speare , was not to bee compared with this of Maiance . The graue and modest Matrons , were séene with theyr garments rent , and their haire dispersed about their shoulders , in most dolefull manner to repayre to the Temples , where before the most Highest , they poured foorth theyr prayers for their Soueraigne , bathing themselues with the teares which fell from their eyes . The young damsels pleasant songs , which with cléere and chéerfull brests they were wont to record , were now turned into sad & mournfull ditties , bewailing the losse of their Countries protector . Yea , so generall was the gréefe vnto all manner of estates , that for the space of fortie dayes together , there was neither shops opened , nor any wares or merchandise solde in their markets . So that the towne , which was wont to be so filled with all sorts of people , now séemed in a manner to be voyde & desolate , none , or very few séene at any time to walke in the stréets . Neither was the griefe in the country any lesse , yea throughout the whole kingdome : so generally was he beloued of all his subiects , that hee was counted not onely a iust Prince , but also a louing Father to his Country , alwaies defending the poore from the oppression of the rich , and the desolate widdowes and Orphans , from the violence of those , who by any meanes sought to wrong them .

Sir Henault , as we haue before said , béeing returned to Maiance , caused foorthwith some small Barkes to be well manned and sent foorth after the Pyrats , with commaund not onely to scoure their owne Coast , but also to pursue them vnto the borders of Fraunce : where they tooke many , but could not méet with any of them which they sought for . Then calling a generall Counsell of all the Nobility and Péeres of the Land , where after a long & learned Oration by him pronounced , describing vnto them , the fickle and dangerous estate wherein their Country now stoode , by reason of this sudden and vnlooked for alteration of crooked Fortune , with the mutabilitie of the minds of the common people , whose natures are alwaies to listen after nouelties . which things being considered , it could not chuse but to appeare vnpossible , to kéepe the Common-wealth in safetie : without some certaine forme of gouernment to be established . Desiring all of them to bend and ioyne theyr willing minds together , to deuise some course or meanes for the same , vntill the King might againe be heard of and recouered . Which hee thought could by no meanes better be effected , then by a generall search made by a chosen number of Knights , who should trauell through all the Dominions and kingdoms of Christendome , and else-where , as by them it should be thought fit and conuenient : of which number , he himselfe God willing intended to be one , who would either finde him out , or end his dayes in the search .

This his spéech was listned vnto of all , but especiallie applauded and commended by the Lord Gwaltero , and the Lord Menew , who as then were indifferently recouered of their wounds , which they receiued at the losse of theyr King : and béeing both young and valerous , especiallie Gwaltero , who was then the absolute best Knight in all the kingdome of Denmarke , hoped by this meanes not onely to find out their King , if so be he liued , but also to winne to themselues eternall renowne , by their haughtie déedes of Chiualrie , which they hoped to obtaine in strange Countries , where their fortunes should conduct them . But as for the gouernment of the Common-wealth , in theyr conceits , they thought none more fit then Sir Henault himselfe , who béeing both sage and discréete , and also béeing as we haue said before , Lorde Treasurer , & alwaies in great fauour with their late King , had in a maner the whole managing of the affaires of the Kingdome in his owne hands , by which meanes , as they supposed , he knew how , better then any other , to continue the same in the former estate , which would be farre better then to alter the same , by any other order of gouernment .

This their opinion was held for currant of many , and consented vnto by most of those that were present , who desired no alteration , but thought their former manner of rule to be best , and without fault .

But as there is no man so vertuous , but shall haue some that will enuy at his goodnes , especially great and mightie men , who no sooner grow into the good liking and fauour of the people , be it by neuer so iust or well deserued occasion , ( yea though by him onely the Common-wealth hath béen in a manner preserued and defended from the inuasiue power of their enemies , ( yet shall you haue some , like dogges in a manger , that will neither doo good themselues , nor willingly heare of others well dooings , ) beeing prickt forwards with enuy , will not stick to turne any his good deseruings into euill , and all their counsels , be they neuer so profitable to the Common-wealth , they will goe about to perswade , that it is rather to benefit & rayse themselues , then to doe good to their Countries : yea further , let them accomplish any notable péece of seruice for their country , they will not be afraide to whisper into mens eares , that it was doone but for vaine glory . ) Euen such there were in this Counsell , who not onely for enuie , disliked the choyse which the Lord Gwaltero and the rest had made , but also disliked of the search which Sir Henault had motioned for the séeking of the King , alleaging that by making such a quest , they should not onely dispoyle themselues of theyr chiefe Captaines and leaders , but also leaue theyr Country naked , and ready for euery inuasion of the enemy , when it would be too late to call home those for theyr defence whom they should not know where to find . Some againe thought it better to send forth Embassadors into diuers Nations , thereby hoping to gaine knowledge , what was become of him : thinking that if the Out-lawes had kept him aliue , that then they had sold him to some Prince , who would be content to put him to raunsome . Others held , that to send foorth spyes , which by diligent inquirie might heare of him , would be the best course . Thus diuers men were of diuers minds , sitting a long while in counsell to no end , neither determining any order for the gouernment of the Common-wealth , nor meanes to find out their King and Quéene . But at length , by the meanes of the Archbishop of Maiance , who desired change and alteration , they grew to determine of their gouernment , which should be in this manner following .

First , they should chuse of the most sufficienst of the Nobilitie , and Laitie of the Realme , the number of sixe-score , out of which number by lot they should chuse tenne , and of the Clergie thirtie , out of which number likewise they should chuse two by lot , so that of the Nobility there should be alwaies tenne , and of the Clergie two , which twelue so elected , should haue the gouernment of the whole kingdom for a yéere , and at the yéeres end , to giue vp an account vnto the other sixe-score and eighteene , of the imployment of the treasure belonging to the Crowne : and then other twelue to be chosen in the same manner , for the next yere . And this order and manner of gouernment to be kept inuiolate , vntill such time as they should heare some certaine newes , either of the Kings death , or returne . To this they all consented , setting thereto their hands & seales , presently making choyse of those whose happe should be first to gouerne this their new deuised state . The Lots béeing cast , the first twelue to whom the gouernment lighted , was of the Clergie , the Archbishop of Maiance , and the Bishop of Odelstoe : and of the Nobilitie , the Duke of Louenborge , the Duke of Newmister , the Lord Harding , the Count Hermes , the Countie of Mildorpe , the County of Opencade , the Lord of Londen , the Lord Itzenho , the Lorde of Newstat , and the Lord of Rensborge . These twelue , according to former agréement , tooke on them the gouernment of the kingdome , first setting all things in quiet within the kingdome , and making diuers lawes and statutes for the preseruation thereof . And then made preparation for the defending of the same , if so be that any neighbor Prince should now in the alteration of their gouernment , make any war or inuasion vppon them , thereby not to be taken vnprouided . They therefore fortified diuers Castles , and strong Holds vppon the borders of the Kingdome , repairing those that were weake , and erecting new where they thought any néede to be , placing garrisons in them all , for the defence thereof . Likewise they tooke order , for the defence and sure kéeping of the Country of Flaunders in their subiection , fearing least vppon the report of the losse of the King and Quéene , there might be some alteration mooued , either by some neighbour Potentate , or the inhabitants themselues , who at that time were giuen altogether , to desire change and alteration .

Now amongst all these discourses wee must not forget the Lord Gwaltero , the Lord Menew , and Sir Henault , whose heroicke mindes not being able to bee contained within the confines of Denmarke , missing their onely comfort and solace , their noble Prince , whose presence was more déere to them , then any thing in the world besides : prouided according to their former determinations , to trauell in his quest throughout the whole world , but that they would either find him out , or heare some certaine newes of him , which being made knowne , to diuers other Lords and Knights , there were to the number of a hundred , all of the minde , bent either to find him out , or neuer to returne . Thus euery one in the best manner they could , made preperation for their iourney , fitting themselues both with armor , and store of money for their néedefull expences in their trauell . And being all in a readines to depart , they deuided themselues , some into one Country , and some into another , appointing where many times to méete , being in strange Countries , where wee will leaue them , to declare what befell to the King and Martinus , being in his enemies Country , as is before mentioned .