No troubles came that we could not outlive, till this year brought them; then came they all at once, as one might say, and overwhelmed us.

Years ago the lord of the manor planted certain fruit trees on our farm; in the best part of it, too--a grievous wrong and shame--" "But it was his right," interrupted the king.
"None denieth that, indeed; an the law mean anything, what is the lord's is his, and what is mine is his also.

Our farm was ours by lease, therefore 'twas likewise his, to do with it as he would.

Some little time ago, three of those trees were found hewn down.

Our three grown sons ran frightened to report the crime.
Well, in his lordship's dungeon there they lie, who saith there shall they lie and rot till they confess.