Here was an opportunity to measure arms at advantage with the great captain of the age.

To relinquish the prize, which the fortune of war had now placed within reach of their valor, was a thought not to be entertained.

Here was the great Constable Montmorency, attended by princes of the royal blood, the proudest of the nobility, the very crown and flower of the chivalry of France, and followed by an army of her bravest troops.

On a desperate venture he had placed himself within their grasp.

Should he go thence alive and unmolested?
The moral effect of destroying such an army would be greater than if it were twice its actual strength.