It is curious to note that this series of revolts by the people was followed by a series of deposi tions of ruling sovereigns by their subjects and by a corresponding series of civil wars. The deposi tion of Richard II. Of England at the hands of the House of Lancaster, as Shakespeare has cleverly shown in his historical plays, led to the Wars of the Roses, which, however, were delayed by the suc cess of Henry V.' in draining all military forces out of the Kingdom by engaging them in a war with France. That campaign of Agincourt gave the House of Lancaster a respite, which, however, the youth and weakness of Henry VI. Prevented from being of much' avail.