August 1216 A.D. – Dorset – Loading Up

Corfe Castle dominated the Dorset hill on which it had been built. Initially constructed by William the Conqueror, King John had spent a fortune on adding considerably to its defences. It had become a comfortable and secure royal residence. The King stayed here frequently and there were regular arrivals of carts with supplies and goods. This made it an ideal location to assemble his war chest.

The war with Prince Louis of France was proving difficult. It seemed likely that King John would need to procure the services of additional mercenary knights. He intended to have the means to secure their loyalty with him at all times. In this dangerous and precarious period, he was not willing to rely on Letters of Credit from Templars or from monasteries. He’d reviewed this plan with the Earl of Pembroke. In fact if he remembered correctly, William Marshal had actually suggested it.

Allard was pleased with the security arrangements. He was looking round the castle’s cellar, which acted as the King’s Repository, with the King’s Treasurer. The man was nervous and anxious. He was sharing his concerns with the Templar. As he listened, Allard gazed around at the assembled goods and thought the man was right to be nervous. He could never have imagined riches such as this. And they were all gathered in one place.

Stacked carefully in the far corner were the Regalia of the Lady Empress Mathilda. There were collections of jewellery and enamel. Next to those was a great crown, a dark purple royal pallium with encrusted belt, a sceptre and golden wand, a gold cup, gold cross and several swords.

Along the far wall was a second set of crown jewels. This included a red belt with precious stones, a jewelled collar, a red samite jewelled tunic, ten pairs of basins and various pairs of gloves, shoes and sandals.

The King had gathered all his deposited treasure from the religious houses around the country and they were in a separate pile in the centre of the room. The extent of this wealth was such that Allard couldn’t count it all, but a glance at the Treasurer’s inventory helped him out.

On the document were listed amongst others, one hundred and forty cups, fourteen goblets, fifty-two rings, two thimbles and three gold combs. The list went on and on. Finally the King’s man pointed out four rings which had been presented to King John by His Holiness Innocent III ten years ago. They were set with emerald, sapphire, garnet and topaz. The Treasurer turned to the Templar.

“The preparations are complete. It is time to bring up the cart and start to load the valuables. You have secured trusted men?”

Allard nodded.

“I will carry the treasure myself. The cart is strong and should suffice for the entire collection. Two of my fellow knights will accompany me at all times.”

“Very well.”

The Treasurer drew his cloak round him and briskly climbed the stairs at the entrance to the cellar. With a final glance around, Allard followed.