The End of the Seige of Calais
The nobles and knights present also begged the King to show mercy, including the brave Sir Walter, yet still the King refused. “The people of Calais have killed so many of my men that it is only proper that these six should die in their turn.”
At this point the Queen of England, Phillipa, who was present during these events, was moved to intercede. Though she was pregnant at the time, she fell to her knees before the King and weeping said, “My lord, since I crossed the sea to join you, at great danger to myself, I have never asked of you a single favor, but now I ask you in all humility, in the name of the Son of the Blessed Mary and by the love you have for me, to have mercy on these six men.”
The King remained silent for a time and finally spoke saying, “My lady, I might wish you were anywhere but here. Nevertheless I cannot refuse your request, though it be against my will. These men are yours to do with what you like.”
And with that the Queen thanked her husband the King, and had the halters taken from the necks of the prisoners. They were presented new clothes and fed an ample dinner. Whereupon they were given safe passage through the English army and released to freedom.
Though this story happened over 600 years ago (the siege ended on August 3, 1347), its lessons are timeless. Intercession on behalf of those less fortunate is indeed a hallmark of mercy.
From True Life Encounters, used with permission.
Category: Church History
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