My son here leads the first division of my army.

This is his first battle, and sure I am he will quit himself like a man.

Do you the same, and God will give us the victory." With such encouraging and confident words the king addressed his men, who cheered him and the brave prince long and loud.
Then every man took his helmet and his bow, and waited for the enemy.
The morning passed, but still no foe appeared.

But the distant murmur was now grown to a loud and ever-increasing din; and as they sat the English could hear shouts and the neighing of horses and the tumult of many voices, which betokened the near approach of the host of King Philip of France.
It was not till about three in the afternoon that the French army came in sight of Crecy.

They had had a rapid and fatiguing march since daybreak, and were now in no condition, even with their vastly superior numbers, to grapple with the refreshed and inspirited Englishmen.