Page:History of the Kings and Queens of England.pdf/4

 WILLIAM II., surnamed Rufus, from his red hair an florid complexion, was born in the year 1056, and succeeded his father on the 27th o September, 1087. He wa proud, ignorant, and pro fligate; and after a reign of 13 years, he was accidentally wounded in the New Forest, by Walter Tyrrel, his particular favourite. This wound occasioned his death or the 2d of August, 1100 in the 45th year of his age.

In this reign Westminster hall was built; and 500 houses in London were blown down by a tempest.

HENRY I. As William II. left no legitimate issue, the government devolved on his brother Herry, who was crowned on August 5, 1100. This prince was of a middle stature and robust make, with dark brown hair and blue eyes. He had naturally a good capacity, which was so much cultivated, that he acquired the name of Beauclere, or the fine scholar; he was also temperate in his dict, and facetious and affable with his favourites; but these good qualities were sullied by cruelty, avarice, and debauchery. He died on December 1, 1135, after a reign of 35 years; and his body was buried at Reading, in Berkshire.

Under this prince the English were restored to the liberty of using fire and candle by night; and the order of Knights Templars was founded.