A.D. 1260. HEÎTBY CELEBRATES THE LORD'S NATIVITY. 373 So that year passed, not very fertile in corn, and very sparing as to its supply of fruit, and, as has often been seen, very unlike and contrary to the preceding year. England, however, which had been long languid, lying exposed, as it were, to the authority and injuries of different kings, in this year began to enjoy some sort of respite, as justice derived vigour from the application of new remedies. During this year, and especially in the autumn season, there was such fine weather, and a dry time, that though the crops were thin, they were nevertheless got in in good time, to the farmer's wish. And while a little before, the crop had been so great that if it had been all saved, there would have been enough for two years, and yet it was all so utterly spoilt, that within the year there was actual scarcity, and many were in danger from that reason ; now in this year, though the crop was but moderate, there nevertheless was such abundance, that owing to the dry season of the harvest, there was a very sufficient provision made quite unexpectedly. Moreover, while this year was in England one of scanty crops, in France the vineyards were utterly spoilt by the rain. As to other matters, it was to the English in many respects a desirable year, and to the French one of peace and harmony. For the council of England was persevering manfully with reforms which it had commenced, and the lord the king having visited the country of France with the view of establishing peace between the kings of France and England, and their kingdoms, was detained for a considerable time in that country. The count of Brittany espouses the daughter of the king of Engfond. Concerning the Romans who were shin in London. Quarrels between the nobles of the land. A.D . 1260, which is the forty-fourth of the reign of king Henry the Third, the aforesaid king was, at the feast of the Nativity of the Lord, at Paris, with many nobles of hie train, and there he celebrated the usual solemnities in a most sublime and splendid manner with the king of France and his nobles, both nations feasting with one another in turn, and diligently discussing the question of peace between them, and other necessary matters ; for there was in each kingdom a considerable number endowed with wisdom and discretion ; among whom was the lord Henry de Wengham, bishop elect of London, and chancellor of the lord the king, who had been ordained priest