Cal._, iii., 80.] [Footnote 390: Erroneously called "Field of _the_ Cloth of Gold"; cloth of gold is a material like velvet, and one does not talk about "a coat of _the_ velvet".] [Footnote 391: See Michelet, x., 137-38.] [Footnote 392: _Ibid._, p.

312.] The Field of Cloth of Gold was the last and most gorgeous display of the departing spirit of chivalry; it was also perhaps the most portentous deception on record.

"These sovereigns," wrote a Venetian, "are not at peace.

They adapt themselves to circumstances, but they hate each other very cordially."[393] Beneath the profusion of friendly pretences lay rooted suspicions and even deliberate hostile intentions.
Before Henry left England the rumour of ships fitting out in French ports had stopped preparations for the interview; and they were not resumed till a promise under the broad seal of France was given that no French ship should sail before Henry's return.[394] On the eve of the meeting Henry is said to have discovered that three or four thousand French troops were concealed in the neighbouring country;[395] (p.

143) he insisted on their removal, and Francis's unguarded visit to Henry was probably designed to disarm the English distrust.[396] No sooner was Henry's back turned than the French began the fortification of Ardres,[397] while Henry on his part went to Calais to negotiate a less showy but genuine friendship with Charles.