Its fall caused general consternation throughout France, for it opened the road to Paris, and during the winter Louis made strenuous efforts to obtain peace; but the terms demanded by the allies were so onerous that the negotiations were broken off.
In spite of the general distress throughout the country, the wedding was a gay one.
Desmond had written to the Duke of Berwick, who was now in Paris, saying that he was fit for duty, and would report himself at the end of the month; and, on the day before he was about to leave Pointdexter, he received a reply from him.
It ran as follows: Dear Monsieur Kennedy: I am heartily glad to hear of your restoration to health.

I mentioned you to His Majesty today, who was pleased to speak very highly of you.
The campaign is virtually at an end, for the present year.

His Majesty has informed me that various changes will be made in the spring.

Marshal de Villars is to replace the Duke of Vendome in the command of the northern army.

The latter has been unfortunate, and misfortune on the part of a soldier is regarded as next door to a crime.