Thereupon the court, of which a majority were his opponents, declined to allow his departure on the grounds assigned.

Vane saw his mistake and reverted to his private estate.

The court then consented to his departure, and a court of elections was called for December 15 to supply the vacancy caused by his resignation.
Before this time arrived the religious drama took a new turn.

The friends of Mrs.Hutchinson knew the value of having the head of the government with them, and would not dismiss Vane from the church, whereupon he withdrew his resignation altogether.

Till the next election in May the colony was more divided than ever.