Hi Bernard,

Have just re-read and really enjoyed the ‘Grail Quest’ books together with ‘Azincourt’ as a sort of post script.

The English army’s use of the longbow showed that this was such a devastating and decisive weapon in it’s time.Victories such as Crecy ,Agincourt and right through to Tudor times such as Flodden were achieved against large odds due to its use.The archers themselves must have been incredible men.I made the fateful attempt at a history fair of attempting to fire a replica bow.I didn’t move the bowstring but my shoulder and arms knew about it for a few days later.

In view of the bow’s dominance do you have any theories as to why the French did not appear to use this weapon.I’m aware of the heavy French use of the crossbow-presumably these were easier to mass produce and also to some extent easier to use.

On a final point it was sad to hear recently of the death of Robert Hardy.He was a fine actor but also such an expert on the history and use of the longbow.I believe he was used as a primary expert on the bows and indeed archer’s skeletons that were found when the Mary Rose was lifted to the surface.I remember a documentary he did in my pre-teen years in the 1960’s on the longbow,Part of the film involved him firing arrows at sheets of steel etc to replicate armour and the various arrowheads that were used..The sight of an arrow penetrating sheet steel has left a lasting impression.Mr Hardy’s expertise must have been a geat help when you were doing your research.

Thanks for all the pleasure you’ve given to me over the years and I look forward to your further books Best wishes to you and yours

Keith.