Ralph de Gauder inherited his title and lands in England and Brittany from his father. As Earl of Norfolk and Suffolk and Constable of Norwich Castle, he was responsible for the initial work on the earth and timber construction around 1067. He also founded, together with William I, a Norman-French borough laid around a central marketplace in the city. Ralph's relationship with the King turned sour in 1075, because the King would not consent to his marriage to Emma fitz Osberne. A rebellion quickly floundered as the King's forces fought back. Ralph escaped to Norwich and then travelled to Denmark to gain support from his continental allies. By 1076, Norwich Castle was siezed and William chased Ralph to Brittany. Despite being stripped of his properties and title, Ralph eventually made peace with the King and remained powerful in Brittany.