King Henry and Emperor Charles had signed a treaty on December 31, 1543, pledging to invade France in person by June 20, 1544; each is to provide an army of no less than thirty-five thousand infantry and seven thousand cavalry for the venture.

Against this, Francis can muster about seventy thousand men in his various armies.

The campaign cannot begin, however, until Henry and Charles resolve their personal conflicts with Scotland and the German princes, respectively.

The Earl of Hertford on May 15 informs Henry that Scotland, after his raids, is no longer in a position to threaten him.

Henry now begins to prepare for a personal campaign in France—against the advice of his council and the Emperor, who believe that his presence will be a hindrance.

Charles has meanwhile reached an understanding with the princes at the Diet of Speyer, and the Electors of Saxony and Brandenburg have agreed to join his invasion of France.