New hints ???????????????

[caravel]

The French send me emissaries every two turns so I might be tempted to switch side and take Burgundy and Tyrol (I already have Provence) before the French do (the AI apparently loves to build a chapter house in Burgundy).

Could be worthwhile. Don't accept their offers yet, but check if you have heirs that need marrying and if the French have available princesses.

I nevertheless have to restrain myself otherwise the campaign might be basically over before the GH appears

Spoken like a true master.