The claims of Lescure, la Rochejaquelein, d'Elbee, Bonchamp, Cathelineau, and Stofflet were almost even.

Each had a large band of followers.

All had been unwearied in their devotion to the cause.
It is probable that Lescure would have been chosen.

He was the largest landed proprietor, and was of the highest rank--with the exception of Rochejaquelein, who had, although the idol of the army, scarcely experience and ballast enough to take so responsible a position.

Lescure himself, however, proposed that Cathelineau should be chosen.