that his fhield was fplit by it, and his arm broken, which forced him to retire to his quarters ; and, owing to this accident, for a long time he could not give any affiftance. The attack was pufhed on with vigour, and the town defended by the garrifon with much valour ; which was indeed neceffary, as their aflailants were many ; and, had it not been for the gentlemen who had entered Aubenton, it would have foon yielded. However, at length the town was taken by force 5 the palifades, which were only of wood, were broken down. Sir John of Hainault and his banner firft entered the town, with greatftioutings, and noife of men at arms. Then the vidame of Chalons retired towards the church with fome knights and efquires, where they formed themfelves, with difplayed banners and pennons, to the intent of combating as long as their honour demanded : but the lord of Brefne and his banner withdrew in a diforderly manner ; for he knew well how much fir John of Hatnault was enraged againft him, and, if he had him in his power, would not admit of any ranfom; fo he mounted hisfteed, and galloped off. Whenfir John of Hainault found that he who had done fo much damage to his lands at Chimay was gone off towards Ver vins, he puifued him with part of his company ; but the lord of Brefne made greater hafte, and,finding the gate of the town open, rufhed in and faved himfelf. Sir John had followed him fo farfword in hand ; but, when he found that he had efcaped, he returned fpeedily by the great road to Aubenton : however, his people meeting thofe who were