Small Group of Secret Plotters

Small group of secret plotters crossword clue. A Daily Mail on Sunday quick crossword clue on Monday, 23 July 2017. 5 letters

Answer: CABAL

Cabal meaning
a secret political clique or faction.
synonyms: clique, faction, coterie, cell, sect, junta, camarilla;

The name of one of them, Thomas Conway, an Irish soldier of fortune from the French service, is attached to what is called “Conway’s Cabal,” a scheme for superseding Washington by General Horatio Gates, who in October 1777 succeeded in forcing Burgoyne to capitulate at Saratoga, and who had been persistent in his depreciation of the commander-in-chief and in intrigues with members of Congress.