The retreat continued, the King making towards Flanders, yet at the same time gradually approaching the shores of the English Channel, so as to be able to re-embark should he find himself hemmed in by the hordes of infuriated Frenchmen.
As the English came on swiftly and in good order, a considerable force, under Godemar de Faye, fell back before them, seeking a favourable chance to hinder their advance, while in their rear came the hundred thousand armed men of King Philip, who had meantime found means of crossing the Seine and were swiftly pursuing.
At length the English reached the valley of the Somme. Here the same difficulty awaited them. The bridges were broken down by the redoubtable Godemar, after he had crossed and drawn up his troops on the right bank to oppose the passage of the retreating army.
Edward was sore puzzled with the problem of how to effect a crossing, till a miserable Norman peasant, one Gobin Agace, was brought before him. Not by threats, but by promises of rich reward, was this unworthy Frenchman induced to betray his country; and, on his informing the King of a certain ford, the order for a general advance was at once given.
Led by the peasant, the English rushed towards the ford. In front flowed the river, lapping over the white stones and shingle as it babbled along, an apparently peaceful stream, towards the sea.
On the opposite bank lay the troops of Godemar; but not for one moment did the King hesitate. Commanding the archers to pour a heavy covering fire into the masses of Frenchmen, he drew his sword, and setting himself at the head of his knights and mounted troops, Edward dashed across the river. Short and fierce was the conflict, but unable to withstand the fierce onslaught, the Frenchmen gave way, and were soon in headlong flight.
"Haste, sir," exclaimed Sir John Chandos; "command the main body to cross." And even as he spoke the dark outlines of the pursuing army appeared on the crest of a distant hill.
Never was a ford crossed with such celerity. The waggons were dragged or lifted by the united efforts of crowds of archers, and though waist-deep in water, the whole army crossed in safety.
Then the order was given to resume the march, the Hampshire companies being given the post of honour—the task of covering the retreat.
As Raymond stood with his men watching the advancing Frenchmen, their innumerable banners waving like a reed-covered pond, the archers had slipped into a long, extended line, and quietly, yet resolutely, awaited the oncoming enemy.