articles of this convention were maintained by the conquerors in good
faith. Never was a more signal error. The capitulation was made late
at night, on the 20th September, without the provision which Charles IX.
had hoped for: the massacre, namely, of De la None and his companions.
As for Genlis and those who had been taken prisoners at his defeat,
their doom had already been sealed. The city was evacuated on the 21st
September: Alva entered it upon the 24th. Most of the volunteers
departed with the garrison, but many who had, most unfortunately,
prolonged their farewells to their families, trusting to the word of the
Spanish Captain Molinos, were thrown into prison. Noircarmes the butcher
of Valenciennes, now made his appearance in Mons. As grand bailiff of
Hainault, he came to the place as one in authority, and his deeds were
now to complete the infamy which must for ever surround his name.
In brutal violation of the terms upon which the town had surrendered,
he now set about the work of massacre and pillage. A Commission of
Troubles, in close imitation of the famous Blood Council at Brussels, was
established, the members of the tribunal being appointed by Noircarmes,
and all being inhabitants of the town. The council commenced proceedings
by condemning all the volunteers, although expressly included .in the
capitulation. Their wives and children were all banished; their property
all confiscated. On the 15th December, the executions commenced. The
intrepid De Leste, silk manufacturer, who had commanded a band of
volunteers, and sustained during the siege the assaults of Alva's troops
with remarkable courage at a very critical moment, was one of the
earliest victims. In consideration "that he was a gentleman, and not
among the most malicious," he was executed by sword. "In respect that he
heard the mass, and made a sweet and Catholic end," it was allowed that
he should be "buried in consecrated earth." Many others followed in
quick succession. Some were beheaded, some were hanged, some were burned
alive. All who had borne arms or worked at the fortifications were,