This enactment produced great agitation throughout society.

The adherents of the exiled dynasty hoped and confidently predicted that the recusants would be numerous.

The minority in both Houses, it was said, would be true to the cause of hereditary monarchy.

There might be here and there a traitor; but the great body of those who had voted for a Regency would be firm.

Only two Bishops at most would recognise the usurpers.