Ownership of land was the basis of political power in the later Middle Ages. It was possible for those without much land to wield power through office-holding, manipulation of the law, and perceived power and influence at court, but such rule was usually temporary, difficult to pass on to an heir, and often resented by those under its sway. There were obviously exceptions, when such power did not lead to opposition: William, Lord Hastings, whose mediocre territorial endowment was greatly supplemented by royal grants of land and office, dominated much of the midlands during the second half of Edward IV's reign, without much local hostility. Normally, however, ownership of land in a county or region, provided the owner was no fool, was the basis of local influence and power. As well as producing cash for the conspicuous consumption that was the hallmark of the higher nobility, ownership of estates drew neighbours and tenants into the orbit of the owner, and fostered patterns of service among them. Social bonds were generated amongst the gentry serving a lord and between the lord and knight or esquire, through feasting, hunting, hospitality and shared experience on campaign, though these are more difficult for the historian to trace. Cash additionally allowed the payment of that still controversial expense, the bastard feudal retaining fee.