[74] In that part of Ireland, meanwhile, which still acknowledged James as King, there could hardly be said to be any law, any property, or any government.

The Roman Catholics of Ulster and Leinster had fled westward by tens of thousands, driving before them a large part of the cattle which had escaped the havoc of two terrible years.

The influx of food into the Celtic region, however, was far from keeping pace with the influx of consumers.

The necessaries of life were scarce.

Conveniences to which every plain farmer and burgess in England was accustomed could hardly be procured by nobles and generals.