The art of war in those days resolved itself into the art of riding.

Any idea of marching along converging lines, of concentrated movements, of a campaign methodically planned, of a prolonged effort with a view to some great result was unknown.
Military tactics were nothing more than a collection of peasants' stratagems and a few rules of chivalry.

The freebooters, captains, and soldiers of fortune were all acquainted with the tricks of the trade, but they recognised neither friend nor foe; and their one desire was pillage.

The nobles affected great concern for honour and praise; in reality they thought of nothing but gain.

Alain Chartier said of them: "They cry 'to arms,' but they fight for money."[96] [Footnote 96: Alain Chartier, _Oeuvres_, ed.