Ratification of an update to the Treaty of Bretigny
On 13 March 1363 John II ratified a new Treaty with England. The terms of the Treaty of Bretigny required the French to make regular ransom payments for the release of John II. John’s release in 1360 had been undertaken based on these payments being made, certain lands being ceded, and hostages being held in England as guarantees of French compliance. However, France struggled to raise the amounts due to England.
Problems with payments
In 1362 the issue had become a political and diplomatic headache. France was well behind with the payments. There were 4 Royal Princes being held as hostages in England. The Royal Princes were desperate to return to France. The French King could not keep up with payments. The English demanded the terms were met.
Lands as security
A high level embassy led by a French Cardinal opened the door to an alternative. It would use additional French lands as security, ceded should any default occur. The matter could not be agreed though. King John II was unable to collect enough tax because of the Free Companies, most of which were English or Gascon.
A revised Treaty
The Royal Princes decided to take matters into their own hands. They concluded a treaty with Edward III and the English Council in November 1362.
This new version of the Treaty set new dates for the ceding of territories. Payment schedules were altered. The four princes also provided the territorial guarantees in the shape of castles. 5 held by the Duke of Orléans and 3 other major castles, within the borders of King John’s realm, were used as guarantees.
Failure of the new terms
King John II was presented with the Treaty as a fait accompli. On March 13th he signed it. Despite the guarantees, the treaty did not hold firm. It was soon repudiated, the Duke of Anjou failing to return from an approved parole. The issue of the ransom payments was to rumble on for years to come.
Image Credit
John II of France. Via Picryl.
