If the constitution gave him the command of the forces of the State, the constitution gave him also the direction of the foreign relations of the State.

On what principle then can it be maintained that he was at liberty to exercise the former power without consulting any body, but that he was bound to exercise the latter power in conformity with the advice of a minister?
Will it be said that an error in diplomacy is likely to be more injurious to the country than an error in strategy?
Surely not.

It is hardly conceivable that any blunder which William might have made at the Hague could have been more injurious to the public interests than a defeat at the Boyne.

Or will it be said that there was greater reason for placing confidence in his military than in his diplomatic skill?
Surely not.

In war he showed some great moral and intellectual qualities; but, as a tactician, he did not rank high; and of his many campaigns only two were decidedly successful.