We made but a poor hand of it, last time; and the chances of success are vastly smaller now.

Then it was but a comparatively short time since the Stuarts had lost the throne of England, and there were great numbers who wished them back.

Now the Hanoverian is very much more firmly seated on the throne.

The present man has a considerable army, and the troops have had experience of war on the Continent, and have shown themselves rare soldiers.

Were not my brother Lord Marischal of Scotland, and my name somewhat widely known, I should not hang back from the adventure, however desperate; but our example might lead many who might otherwise stand aloof to take up arms, which would bring, I think, sure destruction upon them.
Therefore we shall restrain our own inclinations, and shall watch what I feel sure will be a terrible tragedy, from a distance; striking perhaps somewhat heavier blows than usual upon the heads of Turks, Moors, Frenchmen, and others, to make up for our not being able to use our swords where our inclinations would lead us.
"The King of France will assuredly give no efficient aid to the Stuarts.