that there were now, comparatively, but few of the lower orders remaining in bondage; and the agricultural labourers were paid for their labour, as well as the artisans and mechanics.
55. Their wages were, in general, from twopence to threepence a day, but you must remember that twopence, at that time, was equal, in purchasing the necessaries of life, to about one shilling and eightpence of our money, and would buy much more than sufficient food for a whole family.
56. They lived chiefly on meat, brown bread, and ale; for there were no vegetables for the table, cultivated by the people in England, till the time of Henry the Eighth; nor any potatoes, till that of Queen Elizabeth; and then they were considered a dainty dish, and only seen at the tables of very rich people.
57. However, there were gardens, orchards, and vineyards, belonging to the monasteries, and to persons of high rank and fortune.
QUESTIONS.
1. Who succeeded king John?
2. What were the consequences of the king's misconduct?
7. What great change was made in parliament, and how?
9. Who first brought a carpet into England?
10. How long did Henry the Third reign? and by whom was he succeeded?
