March 1634

[Ymbert Montgomery]

The Greasy Pole with Sieur Matheus Mallette

An exciting time for Monsieur Balls at the races, as his horse Big Brown achieved first place in a competitive finish. There will be much rejoicing in the Balls household. Elsewhere at the races, Lord Lagarde de Bearne and Lord de la Azur were seen in the company of the Crown Prince, having a rollicking time of it! It at least was better than the play by the Duc's Men in the first week of the month, also attended by Monsieur Balls. The play has been described by attendees as "less of a play and more of a sermon". Even the first night party was dry, much to the disgust of Madame Balls!

Rarely, Baroness Valanon had something of a quiet social month, aside from a quick visit to court to see Sieur D'Eath be titled. Perhaps she can be forgiven, considering the advanced state of her condition.

And finally, the newly titled Sieur De'Ath has returned to his role as King's Executioner. It seems he has something of a taste for blood... Perhaps that's why the ladies stayed away this month?

[Ymbert Montgomery]

The Downs Results

1st Big Brown
2nd The King’s Sword
3rd Sir Cat
4th Athena
5th Gloria
6th Wilting Thistle
7th Black Rose
8th Stiletto
9th Sassy Sea
10th White Gold
11th Boris

[Ymbert Montgomery]

Reports from the Front by General Georges Boulle (rtd.)

As the Spring Campaign starts, Lord Bougiedure has been given leave to postpone his livre counting in order to take control of the 1st Brigade at the Savoy Frontier.

Spanish Frontier

Significant number of casualties with no breakthrough. We'll be continuing to defend against the Spanish offensive next month.

Flanders Frontier

The last signs of enemy resistance have been mopped up, thanks to the brave lads of the Frontier Regiment.

Lorraine Frontier

The enemy tried an ambush here, but we fought them back.

Savoy Frontier

An excellent month here, with the enemy pushed back.  Once again Lord Bougidure's trademark cautious tactics paid fruit, keeping brigade casualties to a minimum. Lieutenant de L'Hopital however seems to have no concept of "caution" with his near reckless charges against the enemy sending panic through their ranks.  He's been recognised for his bravery and has got a promotion to Captain, where he'll be taking control of the 1st Squadron. Let's just hope he lives long enough to enjoy it.  The enemy have scaled back operations, but we're remaining cautious just in case.

Promotion: Maurice de L'opital

Mention in Dispatches: Maurice de L'opital

Next month:

Spanish Frontier HL 8 Invasion Defence

Flanders Frontier HL 2 Garrison Garrison

Lorraine Frontier HL 3 On Alert Field

Savoy Frontier HL 3 On Alert Defence

[Ymbert Montgomery]

Court Circular

Doctor D'Eath has been reappointed to Royal Executioner and raised to the nobility. He has been given a small estate in Brittany to go with the title.


April

Location: Fontainbleu

Week 1 Nothing (King at Races!)
Week 2 Minor Envoy
Week 3 Government
Week 4 Hunt

May

Location - The Spanish Frontier

Week 1 Travel
Week 2 Government
Week 3 Government
Week 4 Travel Home