Finding that he was in earnest they warned him of the eternal stain which such a deed would bring upon his name.

The Spaniard, however, was unmoved either by their words or by the entreaties of the French nobles but told them that he would give them a few hours to prepare for death, and that they should be executed in sight of the walls after the usual dinner hour of the army.
In those days sieges were not conducted in the strict manner in which they are at present, and non-combatants passed without difficulty to and fro between town and camp.

The news, therefore, of what was intended speedily reached the garrison, whom it filled with indignation and horror.

A council was immediately called, and Sir Walter Manny proposed a plan, which was instantly adopted.
Without loss of time Almeric de Clisson issued forth from the great gate of Hennebon, accompanied by 300 men-at-arms and 1000 archers.

The latter took post at once along the edge of the ditches.