The death of Hubert Walter in July, only a few weeks after his protest, removed his most formidable opponent, and the king resolved to neutralize the opposition of the Church by placing a creature of his own at its head.

John de Grey, Bishop of Norwich, was elected by the monks of Canterbury at his bidding, and enthroned as Primate.

But in a previous though informal gathering the convent had already chosen its sub-prior, Reginald, as Archbishop.

The rival claimants hastened to appeal to Rome, and their appeal reached the Papal Court before Christmas.

The result of the contest was a startling one both for themselves and for the king.