The antagonism between the early settlers and the ” new English ” was in evidence as early as the time of the visit of Prince John and his arrogant courtiers. But the distinction between the ” English by descent ” and the ” English by birth ” was first officially ratified by the decree of 1341.

That decree, as has been seen, was withdrawn in the following year. Its offensive spirit was more definitely and insultingly proclaimed after a lapse of twenty years.

The occasion of this was the first visit of Prince Lionel, the son of Edward III, who was sent over as Lord Lieutenant in 1361— to save ” our Irish dominions ” from being totally lost, said the King. This prince had married the infant daughter of the murdered Brown Earl of Ulster* and in her right he now put forward the claim to the De Burgh possessions in ” Ulster ” and Connacht which had been anticipated by Ulick and Edmond Albanach.

The attempt to govern Ireland without Kildare was a failure.When he had been dismissed from office, the Geraldine had withdrawn his protection from the Pale, with the result that the Irish continually raided the settlers in Meath.   Kildare’s brother had attacked the English at Carlow, and when the Earl was  arrested his sons attacked those in Kildare.  

Sir James Butler attacked the rival Butlers, harassed the friends of the Geraldines and exacted ” coyne and livery.”  

Poynings and the ” English by birth ” were unable to keep order.   Besides, Warbeck was being strongly supported, and the King of Scotland was intriguing with O’Donnell. While he was in England the Great Earl married, as his second wife, a cousin of the King.When he was eventually brought to trial he won over Henry.