-presents-

The Siege of Chartres

1568

A scenario for

Left to right: Conde, Coligny, and Guise

-The Situation-

It is near the end of the Second Civil War, but neither side knows it; both are near bankrupt.
The Royal army sits in Paris unable for want to supplies to hazard much, while at the same
time fearful of fighting the Huguenot's German Mercenary "Reiters", since even a victory against
them is likely to lead to enormous casualties, especially among the noble cavalry, while doing
little for the country. The Huguenots, having lifted a feeble enemy siege of Orleans previously,
is now searching for a way to force an advantageous peace on the King while finding a way
to pay their increasingly turbulent mercenaries.

The answer to both their problems is Chartres, the rich cathedral town, important enough to
the government to fear losing it and rich enough to satisfy the Germans with the plunder within
its walls. The Huguenots lack heavy guns and steady infantry, but have numbers; the Catholics
have just heavily reinforced the city with turbulent Gascons. Present is the young Duke of Guise,
looking to make a name for himself and avenge his murdered father- he will prove a force to be
reckoned with. Time however, is working against both sides.......

The Town is on a River (the Eure) and it is surrounded by a Dry Ditch.
Roll for Terrain normally.

-Historical Outcome-

The Huguenots arrived in mid-February just missing a huge reinforcement which was able to
slip into the city. Working frantically against time, the besiegers quickly set up their lines, and
planted batteries facing the north wall focusing against the Drouaise gate. There were numerous
and damaging sorties, many led by the duke of Guise, who swore he would never stop until he
had an honourable scar to show the ladies of Paris. Within a week a breach was made and
ferociously assaulted, but the attack was repulsed and the townsfolk attempted to fill the breach
with any materials to hand, including beds and bolts of cloth.

After several more attempts, Conde realized he had to choose a new section of the city to attack.
Faced with numerous desertions, and his treasury emptier than ever, he entered into negotiations
with the crown. On the 13th of March a truce was brokered, and on the 24th, a peace treaty
favourable to the Huguenots was compounded.
 

From the Captain-

We hope you enjoy this little scenario. If you can come up with one, please write us, and we'll post it!
Some rules need to be added. Conde placed his batteries on a hill which caused more damage, and
the Huguenots actually diverted the river! Food for thought.....

Home to the Spanish Fury page