"It would have been much wiser for him to have abstained, altogether, from interference in the matter.

It was, of course, a different thing when he attempted to land in Scotland.

Then he would have been leading the loyal portion of his subjects, against those whom he considers rebels against his authority.

That was quite a different thing from acting, without cause or reason, as a volunteer in the French army, against those whom he regards as his countrymen and subjects.
"I am afraid, Desmond, that, though it may shock you to think so, these Stuart princes of yours are not wise men.

Legitimate monarchs of England though they may be, they do not possess the qualities that endear kings to their people.