A conspiracy of his own barons which was detected at this time, appeared a more serious concern, and engrossed all his attention.

{1095.} Robert Moubray, earl of Northumberland, was at the head of this combination; and he engaged in it the count d'Eu, Richard de Tunbridge, Roger de Lacy, and many others.
The purpose of the conspirators was to dethrone the king, and to advance in his stead Stephen, count of Aumale, nephew to the Conqueror.
William's despatch prevented the design from taking effect, and disconcerted the conspirators.

Moubray made some resistance; but being taken prisoner, was attainted and thrown into confinement, where he died about thirty years after.

{1096.} The count d'Eu denied his concurrence in the plot, and to justify himself, fought, in the presence of the court at Windsor, a duel with Geoffrey Bainard, who accused him.

But being worsted in the combat, he was condemned to be castrated, and to have his eyes put out.