I have found a connection between the first and third books of the Sir Anthony Standen Adventures, other than Sir Anthony, and myself, the author. The Battle of Arques was a significant military engagement that took place in September 1589, during the French Wars of Religion. It was fought between the forces of Henry IV of France and the Catholic League, led by Charles, Duke of Mayenne. The battle occurred near the town of Arques in Normandy, France, and had a profound impact on the outcome of the conflict.
The French Wars of Religion were a series of conflicts that engulfed France in the 16th century. These wars were primarily fought between the Catholic majority and the Protestant Huguenots, who sought religious freedom and political power. The Battle of Arques was a pivotal moment in this struggle, as it marked a turning point in Henry IV’s bid for the French throne.
Henry IV, a Huguenot, had inherited the crown of France in 1589 but faced fierce opposition from the Catholic League, which sought to prevent a Protestant ruler. The Catholic League was led by the Duke of Mayenne and had the support of Spain and other Catholic powers. Mayenne’s forces outnumbered Henry’s, but the Battle of Arques would showcase Henry’s military prowess, strategy, and English support.
Spoiler alert! The Suggested Assassin is inspired by the assassination of Henry IV of France. Henry was keeping Mayenne’s forces at bay with artillery, but his forces were being rapidly depleted. Then English forces arrived under the command of Sir Roger Williams, and Mayenne decided to retreat, leaving Henry victor of the Battle of Arques. I first came across Sir Roger Williams while researching The Spy who Sank the Armada. I was reading Daphne du Maurier’s Golden Lads, a study of Anthony Bacon, Francis Bacon and their friends. Both Sir Anthony Standen and Sir Roger Williams feature. She cites a wonderful moment when Queen Elizabeth I comes across Sir Roger wearing a new pair of boots. She clapped her hand to her nose and said, ‘Fah, Williams, I prythee begone, thy boots stink.’ Williams replied, ‘Tut, tut, madam, tis my suit that stinks.’ I had to use that in The Spy who Sank the Armada.
So the Battle of Arques connects The Spy who Sank the Armada and The Suggested Assassin.