After Sir James Audley was brought safely to his lodging, he wanted to share the good news of his reward with his closest family and friends. He sent for his brother, Sir Peter Audley, and several noble relatives: Lord Bartholomew of Burghersh, Lord Stephen of Cossington, Lord Willoughby d’Eresby, and Lord Ralph Ferrers. All of these men were part of his family or lineage Tour Guide Sofia.
Then he called before them the four squires who had faithfully served him during the battle. These young men had fought bravely and remained loyal throughout the day.
A Generous Gift
Sir James spoke to the lords and his squires with humility and honor. He said, “Sirs, it has pleased my lord, the Prince of Wales, to give me five hundred marks of yearly revenue as a reward for my service. Yet, I have done him only small service with my body compared to what I owe him. Behold these four squires, who have served me faithfully, especially today. Their bravery has earned me the honor I have received. Therefore, I wish to reward them.”
He continued, “I give and resign to them the gift that the prince has given me. This five hundred marks of yearly income I pass to them and to their heirs forever, exactly as it was given to me. I disinherit myself of this gift and make them my heirs, without any condition or restriction Lord Audley Returns to His Lodging.”
Witnesses to Nobility
The lords and others present were deeply impressed. They looked at one another and whispered, “This is a great act of nobility and generosity.” Then, together, they said to Sir James, “Sir, be it as God wills. We will bear witness to this deed wherever we go.”
With that, they departed, honoring the generosity and fairness of Sir James. The squires, now heirs to the income, had their loyalty and courage fully recognized.
A Feast for the French Prisoners
After this, some of the lords went to the Prince of Wales, who was preparing to entertain the French king and other prisoners with a supper that same night. The English soldiers had captured many wealthy and noble prisoners during the battle. Their victuals and supplies had been scarce for days, and many had not eaten bread in three days.
Now, with the spoils of the French, they were able to provide a feast for the prisoners and themselves. The prince showed honor and courtesy to the French king by hosting the meal and serving him personally. This act of generosity demonstrated not only the prince’s skill in battle but also his wisdom and kindness in victory.
Reward, Loyalty, and Honor
This scene shows the values of chivalry during the Hundred Years’ War. Courage and loyalty were rewarded, not only by the prince but also by fellow knights like Sir James Audley, who shared his rewards with his faithful squires.
It also reflects the importance of generosity and hospitality, even toward enemies. By feeding and honoring the French king and other prisoners, the Prince of Wales showed that victory could be tempered with respect and civility. Nobility, bravery, and fairness were celebrated on both sides, leaving a lasting impression of honor that went beyond the battlefield.
