CHAP. XXV.
GREAT DISORDERS ARE COMMITTED BY THE FRENCH IN THE AMIENNOIS, SANTERRE AND VIMEU.
At this time, Blanchefort, who held the castle of Breteuil for king Charles of France, did infinite mischief to the countries of Amiens, Santerre and Vimeu, by fire, sword and pillaging,—insomuch that most of the inhabitants had deserted the country, and retired within the fortified towns; for they were by these means deprived of the power of paying the tributes levied on them for forbearance.
This party had also repaired some of the castles in Vimeu such as Araines, Hornoy and others, in which they posted garrisons, who much annoyed the adjacent parts. They were likewise harassed by those of the Burgundy-faction. The poor labourers knew not whither to fly, for they were not defended by the lords of either party; and what added to their distress, sir Philibert de Vaudray and the lord d'Amont, on their return from serving the duke of Bedford, took possession of Pont de Remy, by driving away the lord de Saveuses' men, who had the guard of it.
The lord de Saveuses was very indignant at this conduct, and assembled his friends and dependants to expel them thence; but as he found they were superior to him in numbers, he gave up the attempt,—and they remained in the quiet possession of the post, to the great annoyance of the country round.