the condition of english rule in ireland at this time has been described as "a chronic state of imbecility, folly and corruption". talbot was at least prepared to act firmly: in 1419 he arrested christopher preston, 2nd baron gormanston and other members of the nobility on suspicion of treason, although nothing came of these charges. inevitably he made enemies: in 1426 he was deprived of the lord chancellorship but he was soon restored to office. a more serious crisis arose in 1429 when he was accused of fomenting rebellion, and summoned to london to account for his actions. clearly the privy council was satisfied with his defence since he was not deprived of office.