Langton hurried to Rome, and his absence left the barons without a head at a moment when the very success of their efforts was dividing them.

Their forces were already disorganized when autumn brought a host of foreign soldiers from over sea to the king's standard.

After starving Rochester into submission John found himself strong enough to march ravaging through the Midland and Northern counties, while his mercenaries spread like locusts over the whole face of the land.

From Berwick the king turned back triumphant to coop up his enemies in London while fresh Papal excommunications fell on the barons and the city.

But the burghers set Innocent at defiance.