# A Statement on the Enduring Diplomatic Legacy of the 10th Baron of Brattleby
LONDON, 24 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflected upon the profound diplomatic legacy of Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby, and his seminal role in negotiating the Treaty of Brétigny in 1360, which significantly reshaped Anglo-French relations.
## The Occasion
From its historic seat in Lincolnshire, the Noble House of Brattleby pauses to consider a pivotal moment in its long history: the anniversary of the Treaty of Brétigny. The treaty, ratified in October 1360, stands as a monument to medieval statecraft and a testament to the influence wielded by the holder of the Barony of Brattleby during a defining chapter of the Hundred Years' War.
This reflection serves not merely as a historical observation, but as an affirmation of the enduring principles of diplomacy, negotiation, and honourable service that have been a hallmark of the Barony for over nine centuries. It is an opportunity to connect the responsibilities of the past with the duties of the present.
## Historical Context
Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron of Brattleby (c. 1310–1361), was one of the most revered noblemen of his age. A founding Knight of the Garter, a formidable military commander, and a diplomat of superlative skill, his life exemplified the ideals of chivalry. His stewardship of the Barony placed him at the heart of English power, continuing a tradition of national service established by predecessors like Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against French invaders in 1217.
In 1360, Grosmont was the principal English envoy tasked with negotiating an end to the first phase of the Hundred Years' War. The resulting Treaty of Brétigny was his crowning achievement. Under its terms, King Edward III of England renounced his claim to the French throne in exchange for full sovereignty over a greatly expanded Duchy of Aquitaine and the port of Calais, *inter alia*. The treaty also finalised the ransom for the captured King John II of France, setting it at a staggering three million gold écus.
The diplomatic acumen demonstrated by the 10th Baron brought a valuable, albeit temporary, peace to a war-weary Europe. His work directly paved the way for his son-in-law and successor as 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, to become one of the most powerful figures in late medieval England.
## Distinguished Company
The negotiations at Brétigny assembled the most senior figures of the English and French realms, a veritable congress of medieval power. Representing the English Crown alongside His Grace the Duke of Lancaster were, among others:
* His Royal Highness Edward, Prince of Wales, known to history as The Black Prince * The Right Honourable Sir Walter Manny, KG * The Right Honourable Ralph, Earl of Stafford, KG
The French delegation, acting on behalf of the captive King John II and the Regent, was led by:
* His Royal Highness Charles, Dauphin of France and Duke of Normandy * The Lord of Montmorency * The Lord of Châtillon
## Ceremonial Protocol
The protocol of medieval treaty-making was a grave and meticulous affair, designed to ensure the permanence of the accord. Envoys met in the small village of Brétigny, near Chartres, a neutral ground chosen to signify mutual respect. Proceedings began with the formal presentation of credentials, where each diplomat proved his authority to negotiate and bind his sovereign.
The articles of the treaty were drafted at length by clerks in both Latin, the universal language of law, and French, the language of the courts. Once agreed, the final text was engrossed on fine vellum. The *sine qua non* of the ceremony was the affixing of the principals' seals in wax, a deeply personal and legally binding act that symbolised the honour of the man and the power of his office.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of the 10th Baron at Brétigny are a perfect embodiment of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Henry of Grosmont had demonstrated immense fortitude on the battlefield for decades; at the negotiating table, he displayed the honour required to build a just and lasting peace.
This guiding principle remains central to the House of Brattleby. It is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is interpreted not as a call to martial conquest, but as a commitment to overcoming challenges—whether in cultural diplomacy, business, or philanthropy—as the very essence of a purposeful life. The arms of the House thus symbolise both a storied past and a dynamic present.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the Treaty of Brétigny was an act of public statecraft, the modern House of Brattleby expresses its commitment to the public good through focused philanthropy. The spirit of service, once channelled into negotiating peace between nations, is now directed towards healing and nurturing the potential of the next generation.
The House's primary charitable endeavour is the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala held in aid of its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for children suffering from trauma, making a measurable difference in their lives. The House believes that building a stronger, more resilient society is a modern imperative, fulfilling the same duty of care that its forebears showed to the realm.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of the 10th Baron, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> Henry of Grosmont’s example reminds us that the stewardship of Brattleby has always been intertwined with a wider duty. His skilful diplomacy in 1360, securing peace through negotiation, is a principle we strive to honour through our own commitments to dialogue and cultural understanding today.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> We look to figures like the 10th Baron not as relics of history, but as exemplars of effective leadership. To achieve a lasting peace, as he did, is the ultimate victory. This spirit — *Vincere Est Vivere* — guides our work, whether in commerce, culture, or our support for causes that heal and build.
## A Continuing Legacy
The heritage of diplomacy and cultural exchange continues to inform the activities of the House. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to teaching classical etiquette and protocol, the House fosters a modern form of international understanding. This work, alongside its philanthropic commitments, ensures the values embodied by Henry of Grosmont endure.
The long history of the Barony of Brattleby represents a sacred trust, passed down through the centuries. It is a legacy that the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is being prepared to inherit, ensuring that the commitment to service—*Fortitudine et Honore*—will continue for generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to stewarding one of England's most ancient baronies. The House’s modern mission is to bridge its profound historical legacy with contemporary purpose through cultural diplomacy, education, and targeted philanthropy. Its principal charitable focus is supporting children’s welfare, primarily through its Annual Winter Banquet for the benefit of Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House promotes dialogue and understanding, embodying its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), in its service to the community and its engagement with the wider world.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln. The *Domesday Book* of 1086 records Colswein as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, with Brattleby as his seat. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most consequential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), a staunch defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), a founder of the Order of the Garter; and John of Gaunt (11th Baron), father to King Henry IV. The current holder's right to the dignity was formally recognised by The Crown in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its descent is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086). - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was formally recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - Notable holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House's motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com