Each consisted of some fourteen
thousand men. Douglas and Hotspur had taken their place in the centre
of their line, having behind them a party of their best knights. These
charged with fury down upon the king's standard, which stood in the
centre of his array. Hotspur and Douglas, his former rival, were
accounted two of the best knights in Christendom, and the fury of their
charge was irresistible. The centre of the royal line was cleft in
sunder, the king's guards were at once dispersed; and, had not Henry
taken the precaution of arraying himself in plain armour, while two of
his knights had put on royal surcoats, the battle would at once have
been decided.
As it was, the two knights were both killed, as were the Earl of
Stafford and Sir Walter Blount. The royal standard was overthrown, and
the young Prince of Wales sorely wounded in the face.
He had already shown signs of great military talent; and, in spite of
his wound, now showed a courage and presence of mind that justified the
confidence his father had shown, in giving him important commands. He
rode hither and thither among the disorganized troops, saw that the gap
in the centre was again closed up, and was ever to be met where the
fight was hottest.
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