Bringing Sir James Audley to the Prince
After the battle, the Black Prince wanted to honor the brave knights around him. He learned that Sir James Audley was seriously injured. The prince sent knights to check on him, and they confirmed that he was lying in a litter, unable to move easily. The prince wished to see him and show respect for his courage. Sir James was brought to the prince’s location, and despite his weakness, the prince embraced him warmly, praised his bravery, and thanked him for his service during the battle. This gesture lifted Sir James’s spirits greatly Approaching Poitiers After the Battle.
Rewarding Bravery
The Black Prince recognized that Sir James’s actions had brought honor to all the English forces. To reward him, the prince granted him a yearly income of five hundred marks from his English lands. Sir James, in turn, showed his generosity by giving the gift he received from the prince to his four loyal squires. This act of sharing demonstrated the knightly values of the time: loyalty, generosity, and honor. Everyone present admired this noble behavior and praised the fairness of the prince’s recognition.
Hosting the French King
After arranging rewards for his men, the Black Prince prepared a special supper for the French king and other captured nobles. The French king, his son, and several lords and knights were seated at one table, while other prisoners and nobles sat at separate tables. In a show of respect, the prince personally served the French king. He refused to sit at the king’s table, saying that he was not worthy of being with so great a prince. This humble behavior, combined with generosity and courtesy, impressed both the French and the English, demonstrating the prince’s wisdom and manners Ephesus Tours.
Encouraging Peace and Honor
During the supper, the Black Prince spoke kindly to the French king. He reminded him not to be upset over the day’s defeat, emphasizing that courage and honor had been displayed on both sides. The Frenchmen were impressed by the prince’s noble words, realizing that he would grow to be a great and fair leader. That evening, many prisoners were ransomed and allowed to leave, showing the prince’s fairness and respect for knightly conduct. This careful treatment strengthened the reputation of the English army as both strong and honorable.
