of France to all thofe lords that chofe to hear hlny and of what importance-it was to the three countries* that is to fay, Flanders, Brabant, and Hainault, when clofely united. He fpoke fo clearly, and with, fo much eloquence, that he was praifed by all, who agreed that he was worthy to exercife the dignity of earl of Flanders. Thefe lords then took their leave, and agreed to "meet in eight days time at Ghent, to fee the king. He received them all moft courteoufly, as did the queen, who was but lately recovered froin her lyingin of a fon, called John, afterwards duke of Lancafter, in the right of his wife, the lady Blanche, daughter of Henry duke of Lancafter. A day of conference was then appointed to be held at Vilvprde. CHAP. L. ROBERT, KING OF SICILY, ENDEAVOURS TO MAKE PEACE BETWEEN THE KINGS OF FRANCE AND ENGLAND. ^7ΉΕ Ν king Philip of France heard of the defeat of his fleet, and that the king of England was quietly landed in Flanders, he was much enraged; but as he could not amend it, he immediately decamped, and retreated towards Arras. He difmifled the greater part of his army, until he Ihould receive other news : but he fent fir Godemar du Fay to Tpurnay, to advife them in any difficulties, and to fee that the city was well provided, for he was mofe in fear · of the Flemings than of any other people. He