Agents were dispersed in all directions--offers the most tempting held out to induce the wavering to join the Chevalier's standard.

Plots were hatched in the provinces, where many of the old and wealthy Catholic families resided, whose zeal for the martyr of their religion (as the Chevalier was esteemed), sharpened by the persecutions they themselves endured, rendered them hearty and efficient allies.

Arms, horses, and accoutrements were secretly purchased and distributed; and it is not improbable that, if the unfortunate prince, in whose behalf these exertions were made, and who was not deficient in courage, as he proved at the battle of Malplaquet, had boldly placed himself at the head of his party at an earlier period, he might have regained the crown of his ancestors.

But the indecision, which had been fatal to his race, was fatal to him.

He delayed the blow till the fortunate conjuncture was past.