A general cry was raised for the convocation of the states-general.

The ambitious hoped thus to open a road to power; the public looked forward to it for a return to legalized government.

No doubt Anne would have preferred to remain more free and less responsible in the exercise of her authority; for it was still very far from the time when national assemblies could be considered as a permanent power and a regular means of government.

But Anne and her advisers did not waver; they were too wise and too weak to oppose a great public wish.

The states-general were convoked at Tours for the 5th of January, 1484.