The feeble government of Edward established these abuses.

He could find no method of humbling one subject grown too great, but by aggrandizing in the same excessive degree some others.

Thus, he endeavored to balance the power of Earl Godwin by exalting Leofric, Duke of Mercia, and Siward, Duke of Northumberland, to an extravagant greatness.

The consequence was this: he did not humble Godwin, but raised him potent rivals.

When, therefore, this prince died, the lawful successor to the crown, who had nothing but right in his favor, was totally eclipsed by the splendor of the great men who had adorned themselves with the spoils of royalty.