Middle+Ages+Letter

Duke William Normandy January 23, 1045

Dear Edward,

I have received your letter covering the dilemma of your successor. You previously asked me if I would become the King of England. Before you read my response, I would like you to know my history, not to change your mind, but to show you who you are asking to be the next king of your land. When I was only eight, my father, Duke Robert of Normandy was leaving on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem in 1035. Before he left, he convinced the nobles to let me become his successor. Upon his return, my father died and I was to become the Duke of Normandy. Because I was too young, the nobles got the chance to rule for almost nine years, but when I became fifteen, I decided to play a bigger role in Norman affairs. I was trained solely in the field of warfare, though I was illiterate. I still considered myself smart because I knew the importance of strong allies, and won the support of King Henry I of France. Eventually, the relationship between me and him thinned as I began to gain more power. I also gained the help of count Baldwin V of Flanders, who was also allies with Henry I. I got this connection through the marriage of the count’s daughter, Matilda. I kicked her to death. When Henry I died, I sprang upon the advantage of the new king who had less experience. At almost the same time, the count of Anjou died, so I conquered Maine leaving a weakness for the new count. I accept your offer to become the king of England, though Harold Godwineson looks like he is out to get the throne too. I may have to battle him for it.

Sincerely,

William William