What step was he next to take?
He must either advance or recede: and it was impossible to advance without peril, or to recede without humiliation.

At one moment he determined to put forth a second order enjoining the clergy in high and angry terms to publish his Declaration, and menacing every one who should be refractory with instant suspension.

This order was drawn up and sent to the press, then recalled, then a second time sent to the press, then recalled a second time.

[371] A different plan was suggested by some of those who were for rigorous measures.

The prelates who had signed the petition might be cited before the Ecclesiastical Commission and deprived of their sees.
But to this course strong objections were urged in Council.