August 2nd 1101
Until recently war seemed a real possibility in the unharvested fields around Alton. Two armies were facing off after weeks of manoeuvring. We have followed the progress of Duke Robert of Normandy’s invasion of England since July when he landed with an armed force at Portsmouth harbour and challenged his brother, Henry, to a showdown. Since then the country has been poised for the outbreak of war, everyone braced for the worst, every day tension and fear showing in people’s faces as news of battle was hourly expected.
But in recent days rumours have been circulating that the two leaders, who are also brothers, have been persuaded to the negotiating table by their advisers. But sources are uncertain and there is a general lack of reliable information.
One certainty is that there is no love between these two sons of the Conqueror and both have laid claim to the English throne since the death of their father in 1087. As we know, William Rufus then settled the question with his 13 year reign but his death last year has reopened the issue. Since the Conqueror never made his wishes clear about the terms of the inheritance in any will or legal instrument, it was thought inevitable that the matter would be settled by war. Now it looks like that terrible outcome might have been averted.
Who is behind the talks?
Has Duke Robert of Normandy, who returned from campaigning in the east last year, simply grown tired of war? Has he been advised by trusted counsellors to come to the table? Has he been tempted by an offer from Henry? All these are genuine possibilities.Another possibility is that Ranulf Flambard is behind this development. Flambard has been in operational command of Duke Robert’s affairs since February and was instrumental in raising troops, rallying allies and gathering a fleet which he successfully disembarked at Portsmouth in July.
Ranulf Flambard – mastermind and strategist
Having been imprisoned in 1100 by King Henry for offences committed in the previous reign, forty-one year old Flambard escaped from the Tower at the beginning of February this year and headed for Normandy from where he masterminded the present invasion. While no battle has yet been fought, the duke’s army has successfully maneoeuvred itself into an attacking position outside Alton, having earlier withdrawn from Winchester. So why, when on the very point of victory, is the Duke prepared to come to the table?
Rumours from both sides
Duke Robert, having played the warrior for three years in the east, and having mortgaged his duchy to do it, is in a precarious financial position. Both contenders know that war is expensive as well as unpopular. Not yet having reigned as king for one year, it is likely Henry does not want to earn a reputation as a warmonger. He would therefore be open for constructive talks, as long as they did not damage his reputation, or risk his throne.
Alton talks produce results
Yesterday reliable sources were suggesting that the talks have been ‘productive’. After the main session with counsellors from both sides putting their views, the brothers withdrew to speak privately. What was said in this momentous meeting remains a mystery. No-one knows what passed between them yet there can be no doubt that they have been discussing the most momentous issue of the decade.
Late last night it was announced that an agreement had been reached. Undoubtedly this is a cause for unrestrained celebration. For the moment at least, there will be no war. Some sort of deal has been proposed and agreed. The belligerents have withdrawn to Winchester where the details of the agreement will be announced and a peace treaty will be signed today.
Look out for details of the Treaty in further reports.