The king, Edward the Fourth, was but a boy of nineteen; and decisive as his march upon London proved, he had as yet given few signs of political ability.

His luxurious temper showed itself in the pomp and gaiety of his court, in feast and tourney, or in love-passages with city wives and noble ladies.

The work of government, the defence of the new throne against its restless foes, he left as yet to sterner hands.

Among the few great houses who recalled the might of the older baronage two families of the northern border stood first in power and repute.

The Percies had played the chief part in the revolution which gave the crown to the House of Lancaster.