Paoli resolved to defend the independence of his country against France, as he had defended it against Genoa.

For several months now French garrisons had occupied the places still submitting to Genoa; when they would have extended themselves into the interior, Paoli barred their passage; he bravely attacked M.de Chauvelin, the king's lieutenant-general, who had just landed with a proclamation from Louis XV.

to his new subjects.

"The Corsican nation does not let itself be bought and sold like a flock of sheep sent to market," said the protest of the republic's Supreme Council.

Fresh troops from France had to be asked for; under the orders of Count Vaux they triumphed without difficulty over the Corsican patriots.