The King's Evil

By Crusader1307

A strange disease affected many thousands in 16th Century France, the illness produced ''black lesions on the neck, face and back''. Not Plague, Physicians and Healers were at a loss. Some thought it may be a "Curse from God", for the sufferings and losses of the on-going Hundred Years War. It was a problem. However, King Henry IV was said to have "a cure".  As a "anointed" Ruler through the "Grace of God", it was said that the King could remove the disease. This was done simply by Henry "touching" a coin, which was then given to the sufferer. The victim would rub the coin on the affected area. Miraculously, was was "cured" within several weeks! It was said in 1580, The King "healed" 1,500 persons. Today, the disease is speculated at being Scrofula (Tuberculin Family). Unlike it's more "famous" relative that attacks the lungs, Scrofula manifests as tumors on the skin. It is still unclear how coins cured the affliction or what "Power" Henry "had". It was well documented. The practice is related to "The Royal Touch"  that Kings and Queens could "Bless or Heal", with a touch.