To enforce the observance of this act knights were appointed in every shire under the name of Conservators of the Peace, a name which as the benefit of these local magistrates was more sensibly felt and their powers were more largely extended was changed into that which they still retain of Justices of the Peace.

So orderly however was the realm that Edward was able in 1286 to pass over sea to his foreign dominions, and to spend the next three years in reforming their government.

But the want of his guiding hand was at last felt; and the Parliament of 1289 refused a new tax till the king came home again.
[Sidenote: "Quia Emptores"] He returned to find the Earls of Gloucester and Hereford at war, and his judges charged with violence and corruption.

The two Earls were brought to peace, and Earl Gilbert allied closely to the royal house by a marriage with the king's daughter Johanna.

After a careful investigation the judicial abuses were recognized and amended.