History of the FranksGregory, Bishop of Tours, Saint
History
History of the Franks
Gregory, Bishop of Tours, Saint
France -- Church history -- To 987; France -- History -- To 987; Franks -- History -- To 768
39. Now Leudeghisel, on his return to the camp with Mummolus,
Sagittarius, Chariulf and Waddo, sent messengers secretly to the king
to ask what he wished done with them. And he gave orders to put them
to death. But Waddo and Chariulf by that time had left their sons as
hostages and gone off. When the word about their death had come and
Mummolus heard of it, he put on his armor and went to Leudeghisel’s
hut. And Leudeghisel saw him and said to him: “Why do you come thus
as if ready to flee?” And he answered: “The word that was given is
not to be kept, I see; for I know that I am close to death.” But
Leudeghisel replied: “I will go out and settle everything.” He went
out and immediately by his command the house was surrounded in order
that Mummolus might be killed. But he made a long resistance against
his assailants and at last came to the door and as he stepped out
two with lances struck him on each side, and so he fell and died.
On seeing this the bishop was overwhelmed with fear and one of the
bystanders said to him: “Behold with your own eyes, bishop, what is
being done. Cover your head to escape recognition and make for the
woods and hide for a little time, and when their anger passes you can
escape.” He took the advice, but while he was trying to get away with
his head covered, a certain man drew his sword and cut off his head,
hood and all. Then each and all returned home, plundering and killing
along the way. In these days Fredegunda sent Chuppan to Toulouse to
bring her daughter thence as best he could. Now many said that he
was sent in case he found Gundovald alive to entice him with many
promises and bring him to her. But since Chuppan could not do this he
took Rigunda and brought her back from that place amid great scorn
and contempt.
[40. Mummolus’s treasures, amounting to two hundred and fifty-two
talents of silver and a greater value in gold, are taken. 41. A giant
“two or three feet taller than the tallest men” is taken to king
Gunthram. 42. The count of Bourges attempts to fine “St. Martin’s
men” for not taking part in the expedition against Gundovald. 43.
Desiderius, Waddo, and Chariulf escape.]
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