The attempt to govern Ireland without Kildare was a failure.When he had been dismissed from office, the Geraldine had withdrawn his protection from the Pale, with the result that the Irish continually raided the settlers in Meath.   Kildare’s brother had attacked the English at Carlow, and when the Earl was  arrested his sons attacked those in Kildare.  

Sir James Butler attacked the rival Butlers, harassed the friends of the Geraldines and exacted ” coyne and livery.”  

Poynings and the ” English by birth ” were unable to keep order.   Besides, Warbeck was being strongly supported, and the King of Scotland was intriguing with O’Donnell. While he was in England the Great Earl married, as his second wife, a cousin of the King.When he was eventually brought to trial he won over Henry.