Page "Isabella of France" Paragraph 17

Tensions mounted steadily over the decade.

In 1312, Isabella gave birth to the future Edward III, but by the end of the year Edward's court was beginning to change.

Edward was still relying upon his French relatives – Isabella's uncle, Louis d ' Évreux, for example had been sent from Paris to assist him – but Hugh Despenser the elder now formed part of the inner circle, marking the beginning of the Despensers ' increased prominence at Edward's court.

The Despensers were opposed to both the Lancastrians and their other allies in the Welsh Marches, making an easy alliance with Edward, who sought revenge for the death of Gaveston.