Chapter 193 - How Nuno Álvares was made constable, and concerning some aspects of his way of life

Summary

The Master having been elected and thus raised to [the rank of] king, the naming of a constable for the war was immediately discussed, as King Fernando, for the first time, had done when the English had come to Portugal during his reign. The king ordained that it be his very loyal and faithful servant Nuno Álvares Pereira, who was then twenty-four years, nine months and twelve days old and whom he knew to be of chaste habits, and very well versed in feats of chivalry.

Consequently, in view of his prudent and remarkable discernment, it could well be said of him that, although in this life blind fortune fails to reward many a deserving man, in his case it was not ungrateful, exalting him to a great and honourable office in the wars and hosts of the kingdom; and he so exercised it that, gaining stature day by day through chivalric actions, as you will see, he awakened in many the desire to emulate his greatness. That is because, if fortitude is the courageous desire, sustained by beneficial toil, to achieve great things, then this man, fearing neither rough nights of hardship nor adverse days, did not flinch at undertaking any adventurous mission in order to gain a victory over his enemies. This was not because he had the pride and temerity to despise the number of their forces but because no ancient wisdom passed down the ages could equal the acumen of this young warrior. Moreover, he was never boastful nor exalted his fortunate conquests.

He was so astute in organising his plans that no one else could understand the purpose of his strategy, other than those with whom he discussed it.

He was so endowed with astuteness and discipline, wherein lies what most matters in a war, that anyone seeking someone like him among mortals would find it a difficult task indeed. That is why it is written of him that he was a mighty and powerful rampart, and a second arm in the defence of the realm. Consequently, people said of him with great conviction that no one but he could have been chosen for a like honour who would have brought such benefit to the realm and to the king's majesty.