1 Now it came to pass that the land had rest for seventeen years.
2 For the Britons had subdued their enemies, even the French, and restored peace to all the Continent.
3 Nevertheless the people groaned by reason of oppression, and of the multitude of taxes which was laid upon them to support the rich and the great with pensions and rewards.
4 And they cried and petitioned for redress, but their prayers were not heard.
5 And George the Fourth was gathered to his fathers, and William reigned in his stead.
6 Now there was at this time a mighty man of renown called Arthur.
7 And he gained the confidence of the King, and abused his ear with falsities respecting the people.
8 And the people were much displeased with the power of this man of war, for he ruled them as he had done his soldiers.
9 And their eyes were turned towards a certain nobleman whose possessions lieth north of the Tyne.
10 Arthur feeling that he could rule no longer, resigned his authority, and the King elected that nobleman, even Grey, whose possessions lieth north of the Tyne, to be ruler under him over the people.