The campaign of 1339 brought with it a crushing debt: that of 1340 proved yet more costly.
Edward attributed his failure to the slackness of his ministers in sending money and supplies, and this to their silent opposition to the war.

But wroth as he was on his return, a short struggle between the ministers and the king ended in a reconciliation, and preparations for renewed hostilities went on.

Abroad indeed nothing could be done.

The Emperor finally withdrew from Edward's friendship.

A new Pope, Clement the Sixth, proved even more French in sentiment than his predecessor.