Ballad: Hongree And Mahry. A Recollection Of A Surrey Melodrama

In the picturesque setting of Aquitaine, under the enchanting Wizard’s Oak, Hongree, a Sub-Lieutenant of Chassoores, and Mahry Daubigny, affectionately known as the Village Rose, share a clandestine rendezvous. Unknown to them, their intimacy is witnessed by Lieutenant-Colonel Jooles Dubosc, Hongree’s rival in love, who harbors intentions to wed Mahry and thrust her into a life of sophistication— a life for which her rustic simplicity is unsuited.

Jooles Dubosc’s brutish pursuits starkly contrast with Hongree’s genteel demeanour and genuine love for Mahry. Amidst the tender love story, the backdrop of a fierce war between Gallia and England unfolds, encapsulated by the Treaty of Troyes. Both Hongree and Dubosc are tasked by Charles of France to confront the English forces led by the Sixth Henry in 1429, aiming to reclaim Aquitaine.

After his secret meeting with Mahry, Hongree returns to his camp, only to receive a daunting mission from Dubosc—to lead the ‘forlorn hope’ in a night attack against an overwhelmingly superior English camp, an assignment tantamount to a death sentence. Hongree, loyal both to his heart and king, questions the authority and motive behind Dubosc’s orders. He resolves only to act on commands directly from his king or Mahry, leading him to a daring decision.

Disguising himself, Hongree infiltrates the English camp, skillfully eluding detection. He seeks an audience with the Duke of Bedford, revealing his identity as a French sub-lieutenant and disclosing Dubosc’s plans to attack. Hongree’s revelation stems from a devoted allegiance to his king and country, driven by a belief that such reckless military endeavours would not have the sanction of King Charles. His actions reflect a deep-rooted integrity and a nuanced understanding of honor, transcending mere obedience to expose a strategy he deems detrimental to the true interest of his homeland.

This chapter, a blend of chivalric romance and war-time intrigue, showcases the complexities of loyalty, love, and the moral dilemmas faced by those caught in the crossfire of power and passion.