The personal despotism which John had striven to build up, the imperial autocracy which had haunted the imagination of Henry the Third, were alike set aside.

The rule of Edward, vigorous and effective as it was, was a rule of law, and of law enacted not by the royal will, but by the common council of the realm.

Never had English ruler reached a greater height of power, nor was there any sign to warn the king of the troubles which awaited him.

France, jealous as it was of his greatness and covetous of his Gascon possessions, he could hold at bay.

Wales was growing tranquil.