In twenty-two counties there were concerted efforts to keep the war at arm's length. Some of the proposed discussions were not genuine; they were really delaying tactics. Most notable of the attempts to hold back the tide of war were those in Staffordshire, Lincolnshire and Cheshire. In Staffordshire the JPs, who included both parliamentarians and royalists, assembled in special session during November and decided to create a 'third force' to repel intrusions from either side. This prompted Charles's attempt to re-assert control in the north Midlands by sending the high sheriffs of Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire and other local activists to the region. At the level of high politics, both King and Parliament initiated discussions aimed at ending the war during the winter. However, the King was not prepared to compromise, particularly as good news came in from his commanders in the provinces. However, Waller's Plot, as it became known, was exposed and its perpetrators were dealt with harshly.