Moreover, Saint-Foix’s error was also that of a portion of the English nation, who, through idolizing Monmouth, came to disbelieve in the fact of his death, just as Saint-Foix did through attachment to his theory. The popular affection survived even the generation who had espoused his cause;[166] and the hero, adorned with all the seductive qualities that had made him the idol of the people, and clothed by time with qualities which he the least[167] possessed, speedily became a legendary character. In Dorsetshire and the neighbouring counties, many, during the remainder of their lives, cherished the hope of seeing him again; and for very many years, on the occasion of any important event, the old men used confidently to announce in whispers that the time was approaching when King Monmouth would reappear. Several ballads foretold this return:--[168] “Though this is a dismal story Of the fall of my design, Yet I’ll come again in glory, If I live till eighty-nine; For I’ll have a stronger army, And of ammunition store.” Again-- “Then shall Monmouth in his glories Unto his English friends appear, And will stifle all such stories As are vended everywhere. They’ll see I was not so degraded, To be taken gathering pease, Or in a cock of hay up braided. What strange stories now are these!” In many poor families trifling objects which had belonged to him have been preserved as precious relics even to our own days, and two impostors having on different occasions travelled about the country under the name of Monmouth, found everywhere among the lower orders the most cordial reception, as well as encouragement, assistance, and evidence of the most touching and constant affection.