They, however, confirmed the news that Charette was reported to be marching north to join Cathelineau.
"That is the worst part of the whole business," Jean said, bitterly.

"Our generals have no control over their men.

They will fight when they want to fight, and return home when they choose.

If Cathelineau had come along with a big force, he would have been joined by numbers of Bretons on the way and, if he had captured Nantes, by the greater part of Southern Brittany.

Now that so many of his men have left him, it is quite possible that his attack may fail; and in that case the result will be disastrous.