William himself was perfectly aware of his danger, and prepared to meet it with calm but mournful fortitude.

[442] Just at this conjuncture Lewis announced his intention to return instantly to Versailles, and to send the Dauphin and Boufflers, with part of the army which was assembled near Namur, to join Marshal Lorges who commanded in the Palatinate.

Luxemburg was thunderstruck.

He expostulated boldly and earnestly.

Never, he said, was such an opportunity thrown away.