After meeting with the Prince of Wales, Lord Audley, still weak and tired from his injuries, took his leave. His servants carefully carried him back to his lodging, making sure he traveled safely. Even though he had fought bravely, his body was feeble and needed rest The Prince Hosts a Supper for the Prisoners.
Once Lord Audley was settled, the Earl of Warwick and Lord Cobham returned to the prince. They brought with them the French King, who had been captured during the battle. The prince showed great respect, bowing low to the king and treating him with honor. Wine and spices were brought, and the prince personally served the king, showing courtesy and goodwill despite him being a prisoner.
The End of the Battle
The Battle of Poitiers was fought near the fields of Maupertuis, about two leagues from Poitiers, on the 12th day of September in 1356. The battle began in the morning and ended at noon. However, not all English soldiers had returned from pursuing the French, so the prince’s banner was left on a bush to gather his men back together.
By evening, the last soldiers returned. The battle had been devastating for France. Reports said that many of France’s finest men were killed, including seventeen counts, numerous barons, knights, and squires. In total, around five to six thousand men on both sides had died.
Handling the Prisoners
After the battle, the English soldiers found themselves with twice as many prisoners as they had men. This made it difficult to manage them all. It was decided that many prisoners would be ransomed immediately on the battlefield. This meant the prisoners promised to pay money or return to Bordeaux by Christmas Sofia Daily Tour.
The prisoners were treated courteously by the English and Gascon soldiers. Those who had taken prisoners were free to release them or arrange their ransom as they chose. Soldiers were careful to unarm prisoners for safety, but they treated them with respect and hospitality.
Wealth and Honor from Victory
The victory brought great rewards. Soldiers who fought with the prince became rich in both honor and goods. They received money from ransoms and collected gold, silver, jewelry, and valuable items left by the French. Many of the French soldiers had come to battle richly armed, expecting to win, and now their wealth fell into English hands.
Even beyond material wealth, the battle increased the fame of those who fought. Knights like Lord Audley were honored for their bravery, while ordinary soldiers gained prestige and recognition for their courage.
A Day of Triumph
The Battle of Poitiers was a remarkable event in the Hundred Years’ War. The English army defeated a much larger French force, captured the king, and won enormous wealth. Yet, the soldiers treated their prisoners with fairness, following the rules of chivalry.
This combination of bravery, discipline, and respect for honor made the victory not only a military success but also a story of courage and chivalry remembered for generations. The prince’s leadership ensured that the army remained united, disciplined, and rewarded, making the day one of both triumph and glory.
