Proclamation upon the Distribution of the Prizes for the Tilt, Tourney and Barriers (early 16th century)

Form of Proclamation to be made by the King-at-Arms in the Presence Chamber, upon the Queen’s distribution of the Prizes to them, who had best exercised the Feats of Arms at the Tilt, Tourney and Barriers

Moreover that all such Triumphs as are agreed upon by the Challenger and allowed by the Prince, shall be published by the King of Arms of the Province in such places as shall be appointed by the Prince. And also that the next night after any such triumph is ended the gift of the Prizes is to be proclaimed by the said King of Arms in the presence chamber after the second Course be served the manner whereof hereafter followeth.

Oyez Oyez Oyez, we let to understand to all Princes and Princesses, Lords, Ladies and Gentlewomen of this noble Court and to all others to whom it appertaineth that the Nobles that this day have exercised the feats of Arms at the Tilt, Tourneys and Barriers have everyone behaved themselves most valiantly in showing their prowess and valor worthy of great praise.

And to begin as touching the brave entry of the L. Lo. made by him very gallantly, the K. Majesty more brave then he, and above all the Earl F. unto whom the prize of a very rich ring is given by the Q. Majesty by the advice of other Princesses Ladies and gentlewoman of this noble Court.

And as touching the Valiantness of the Pikes the D. M. hath very valiantly, behaved himself, the Earl of P. better then he and above all others the Earl of D. unto whom the prize of a ring of gold with a ruby is given by the most high and mighty Princess the Queen of England by the advice aforesaid.

And as touching the valiantness of the sword Sir G. H., Knight hath very well behaved himself, the Earl A. better then he, and Sir J. P., Knight, above all the rest unto whom is given the prize of a ring of gold with a diamond by the Queen’s most excellent Majesty by the advice of other Princesses Ladies and Gentlewomen.

And as touching the valiantness of the sword at the toyle Sir W. H. Knight hath very valiantly behaved himself, the Marquess T better then he, and above all others the K. Majesty unto whom was given the prize of a ring of gold with a diamond by the Queen’s Majesty by the advice of other Princes Ladies and Gentlewomen.

Finally touching the Valiancy of the pike the point abated Thomas P. hath well and valiantly behaved himself Charles C. better then he, and above others R. S. unto whom was given by the Queen’s Majesty a ring of gold by the advice of other Princes Ladies and Gentlewomen.

Harleian MS. 69. fo. 23b, in Cripps-Day, appendix, p.lx