There is no reason to doubt that an attempt to rescue Mitchel would have been a failure in its object.

But there are occasions when it is wiser to attempt the impossible than to acquiesce.

The unchallenged removal of Mitchel in chains from Ireland had a moral effect on the country that was worth 20,000 additional troops to the Government.
Thereafter, the Confederation vacillated in its policy and finally permitted itself, in its desire for Unity as the potent weapon, to be extinguished in favour of an Irish League which was to combine O'Connellites and Young Irelanders.

The Irish League met once, and died.
The Confederation had been hoodwinked.

Doheny who opposed the amalgamation, retired to Cashel, severing his connection with the former Confederation.