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WILLIAM II.

Born 1056. Began to Reign Sept. 10, 1087. Died August 2,1100. Reigned 12 Years.

Surnamed Rufus, from his red hair and florid complexion, was the second surviving son to the Conqueror, and was by his father's will appointed his successor. The Norman barons being displeased with this, and looking on his brother Robert as the proper owner, a powerful conspiracy was therefore formed against William by his uncle Odo. William, sensible of his danger, was soon in the field at the head of a powerful army. Robert lost his opportunity by not assisting his friends, who had taken fortresses on the hopes of his assurances, and who, when William appeared before them, had to imploro his mercy. He was accidentally shot through the heart with an arrow, by Sir Walter Tyrrel, a French knight, while shooting at a deer.

Eminent men in this reign.--Odo, bishop of Bayeux; Flamlards, bishop of Durham.