Lansdowne MS 285/44

44. A singular narration, or as it is elsewhere termed, a challenge, being in substance as follows:-On the 3d of February 1462, the Duke of Burgundy being at the hotel of Madame de Berghes, at Brussels, with a numerous party of Lords and Ladies, at the commencement of the feast there entered the hall two Heralds, introducing a stranger, who said that he brought with him letters of credence from a noble Lady his mistress. There being read purported to be, that the said Lady complained of a certain powerful neighbour, who had threatened to dispossess her of her lands, unless she could find some Knight who would successfully defend her against him in single combat, and within a year. A boon is then demanded of the Duke by the stranger, and, before it is heard, accorded. The request is, that he should procure for the Lady three French Knights, to be immediately trained to arms. That out of these one should be chosen for her champion by the Lady, who would then disclose her name. The stranger adds, on his own part, some other requests; one of which is, that the Duke's son, Mons. de Charolois, be umpire of the combat. The terms, or articles, of the combat are next read; and, at the conclusion, three Knights instantly present themselves as candidates for the honour of defending the unknown fair one, among whom is the celebrated Antony, Bastard of Burgundy. These put their seals to the articles and here the account concludes. fo. 52. (French.)