J. C. Holt described the Chronicler as "The most intelligent and valuable"[1] and "perceptive" [2] writer of his time.
The Chronicler gives the fairest account of the reign of King John of England of any contemporaries[3] describing him as a "great prince".
The Chronicler disliked foreigners and regrets John's use of foreign mercenaries, blaming them for the initial failures against the French invasion in 1215.
[3] The Chronicle implies John's failure was due to bad luck.
[4] The Chronicler also wrote of the reign of Henry III, regarding the struggle against the rebel barons as a crusade against infidels,[5] and comments upon the increasing French acculturation in Scotland.