"You are a leader of the rebels?" interrogated Sudbury.
"I am, your grace," replied Oakley.
"Which division of the kerns do you command?"
"The commons of Essex."
"What! all?" interrupted Richard.
"My liege, I am leader of fifty thousand men."
"Then what is the design of this rising?" again asked Sudbury.
"To free the bond—to acquire land at a low rent—to be at liberty to buy and sell in all cities and towns, without toll or interruption;—and lastly, to obtain a pardon for this insurrection."
"By my faith!" said Sir Robert Hales, "these are bold demands, which the sword alone must decide."
"Peace! Sir Robert," said Sudbury.—"What have you to suggest which may benefit the realm, sir leader?" he continued.