Merciful queen, your generous pity for the stricken foe shall ever be the brightest jewel in your crown. In ages to come men will cherish the fame of your womanly tenderness, and will tell their children in many a tale and song the glorious story of your gracious clemency.
Edward the Third at the Siege of Calais.
(From the painting by Sir John Gilbert, R.A. By permission of the Corporation of London.)
THE BLACK PRINCE.
“Witness our too much memorable shame,
When Cressy battle fatally was struck,