By reason of which
proclamation there was made a great and sorrowful offertory.
"While they were at this offertory within the churches, the Frenchmen
entered into their houses and rifled the same, where were found
inestimable riches and treasures; but especially of ordnance, armor, and
other munitions. Thus dealt the French with the English in lieu and
recompense of the like usage to the French when the forces of King
Philip prevailed at St. Quentin; where, not content with the honor of
victory, the English in sacking the town sought nothing more than the
satisfying of their greedy vein of covetousness, with an extreme neglect
of all moderation."
Within the marches of Calais the English held the two small fortresses
of Guines and Hammes. Guines was defended with obstinate courage by Lord
Grey, and did not surrender till January 20th. His loss amounted to
eight hundred men. From Hammes the English garrison made their escape by
night.
REIGN OF ELIZABETH
A.D. 1558-1603
HENRY R. CLEVELAND
Elizabeth's reign has been regarded by many writers as the most
glorious period of England's career. There were no great land
battles fought by English troops; but at sea those famous
rovers, half pirates, Drake, Raleigh, and their like, definitely
established that maritime supremacy which has ever since been
their country's proudest boast.
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