George Bancroft, History of the United States from the Discovery of the American Continent, Vol. 7, 4th edition.

‘ [352] We long ago made up our own mind to the results

Chap. Xxxiii} 1775 July

which are now observed; we saw with regret that the crisis was drawing near; we have a presentiment that it may be followed by more extensive consequences. We do not disguise from ourselves the aberrations which enthusiasm can encourage, and which fanaticism can effectuate.’

The subject, therefore, grew in magnitude and interest for the king and his cabinet. The contingent danger of a sudden attack bn the French possessions in the West Indies, required precaution; and Louis the Sixteenth thought it advisable at once to send an emissary to America, to watch the progress of the revolution. This could best be done from England; and the embassy at London, as early as the tenth of July, began the necessary preliminary in-

July. 10.

quiries. ‘All England,’ such was the substance of its numerous reports to Vergennes, ‘is in a position, from which she never can extricate herself. Either all rules are false, or the Americans will never again consent to become her subjects.’

So judged the statesmen of France, on hearing of the retreat from Concord, and the seizure of Ticonderoga.