After the bloody battle was fought at Wakefield, where your brave father drew his last breath, news was brought to me of your loss and his death as swiftly as the messengers could carry it. And now, to add even more to your misery, I am here to tell you what's happened since. I cried after hearing this news ten days ago. I cheer'd them up with justice of our cause, With promise of high pay and great rewards: But all in vain they had no heart to fight, And we in them no hope to win the day So that we fled the king unto the queen Lord George your brother, Norfolk and myself, In haste, post-haste, are come to join with you: For in the marches here we heard you were, Making another head to fight again. Short tale to make, we at Saint Alban's met Our battles join'd, and both sides fiercely fought: But whether 'twas the coldness of the king, Who look'd full gently on his warlike queen, That robb'd my soldiers of their heated spleen Or whether 'twas report of her success Or more than common fear of Clifford's rigour, Who thunders to his captives blood and death, I cannot judge : but to conclude with truth, Their weapons like to lightning came and went Our soldiers', like the night-owl's lazy flight, Or like an idle thresher with a flail, Fell gently down, as if they struck their friends. I, then in London keeper of the king, Muster'd my soldiers, gather'd flocks of friends, And very well appointed, as I thought, March'd toward Saint Alban's to intercept the queen, Bearing the king in my behalf along For by my scouts I was advertised That she was coming with a full intent To dash our late decree in parliament Touching King Henry's oath and your succession. After the bloody fray at Wakefield fought, Where your brave father breathed his latest gasp, Tidings, as swiftly as the posts could run, Were brought me of your loss and his depart.

Ten days ago I drown'd these news in tears And now, to add more measure to your woes, I come to tell you things sith then befall'n.

Bear brave 2 bore