The chronicles of Enguerrand de Monstrelet, Vol. 01 [of 13]

Chapter 2: TO HIS GRACE JOHN DUKE OF BEDFORD, &c. &c. &c.

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About This Book

A chronological, chaptered narrative records turbulent medieval politics and warfare, detailing civil strife between rival noble factions, episodes of foreign occupation and their reversal, diplomatic negotiations, sieges and battles, naval actions, tournaments, and public ceremonies. The text assembles proclamations, challenges and deeds of arms, ecclesiastical and administrative notices, and concise biographical sketches, frequently with close attention to regional actors and military detail. Its episodic, documentary approach emphasizes shifting allegiances, legal actions, and the interplay of martial and courtly life, offering a continuous historical account of political events and social practices across the period it covers.

TO

HIS GRACE

JOHN DUKE OF BEDFORD,

&c. &c. &c.

MY LORD,

I am happy in this opportunity of dedicating the Chronicles of Monstrelet to your grace, to show my high respect for your many virtues, public and private, and the value I set on the honour of your grace’s friendship.

One of Monstrelet’s principal characters was John duke of Bedford, regent of France; and your grace has fully displayed your abilities, as regent, to be at least equal to those of your namesake, in the milder and more valuable virtues. Those of a hero may dazzle in this life; but the others are, I trust, recorded in a better place; and your late wise, although, unfortunately, short government of Ireland will be long and thankfully remembered by a gallant and warm-hearted people.

I have the honour to remain,

Your grace’s much obliged,

Humble servant and friend,

Thomas Johnes.

CASTLE-HILL,

March 13, 1808.