The good fortune of the French was now neutralized by the same languor which had marked the movements of Philip after the victory of Saint Quentin.

The time, which might have been usefully employed in following up his success, was now wasted by the Duke in trivial business, or in absolute torpor.

This may have been the result of a treacherous understanding with Spain, and the first fruits of the interview at Peronne.

Whatever the cause, however, the immediate consequences were disaster to the French nation, and humiliation to the crown.
It had been the plan of the French cabinet that Marshal de Thermes, who, upon the capture of Calais, had been appointed governor of the city, should take advantage of his position as soon as possible.

Having assembled an army of some eight thousand foot and fifteen hundred horse, partly Gascons and partly Germans, he was accordingly directed to ravage the neighboring country, particularly the county of Saint Pol.