But when the pinch came it proved as unsubstantial there as elsewhere.

The leaders who had talked most loosely about revolutionary proceedings grew alarmed, as the crisis approached, lest they might be called on to make good their words; and they hastened to repudiate all connection with Burr, and to avow themselves loyal to the Union.

Even the Creole militia,--a body which Claiborne regarded with just suspicion,--volunteered to come to the defence of the Government when it was thought that Burr might actually attack the city.
Collapse of the Conspiracy.
But Burr's career was already ruined.

Jefferson, goaded into action, had issued a proclamation for his arrest; and even before this proclamation was issued, the fabric of the conspiracy had crumbled into shifting dust.

The Ohio Legislature passed resolutions demanding prompt action against the conspirators; and the other Western communities followed suit.