The Prince and Princess of Wales and other members of the Royal Family were in the theatre at the time.

Colonel Deveil, justice of the peace, who was also present, after attempting in vain to read the Riot Act ("he might as well have read Caesar's 'Commentaries,'" observed a facetious critic), caused some of the ringleaders to be arrested, and thirty of them were sent to Newgate.

While in prison, they were supported by the subscriptions of their sympathising brethren.

Meanwhile, anonymous letters were thrown down the areas of people of fashion, denouncing vengeance against all who attempted to deprive the footmen of their liberty and property.

A further attack upon the theatre was expected.