Throughout the country, the supply was even more precarious.

The Government had in their own hands the uncontrolled power of preventing the arrival of a single grain of corn; and, if so minded, could starve the island in a fortnight, supposing the people were even able to possess themselves of all the cattle in the country.
These were some of the considerations which influenced the decision of Mr.Mitchel's comrades.

Whether the opinion were or were not a correct one, they acted on the conviction that, under all circumstances, any attempt to rescue him would eventuate in a street row which would entail not only defeat but disgrace.

If they could but persuade themselves that a blow might be struck, even though defeat and death followed, they most certainly would have attempted it.

It was generally understood, on the day before the trial, that the idea of a rescue was abandoned; and the trial commenced amidst gloomy presentiments and blighted hopes.