From the flight of James II in 1688 through the early years of the 19th century, Royals in exile include the Old Pretender, the Cardinal Duke of York, bluestocking Countess of Alabany, and more. Romance turns to despondency, as when, in Bonnie Prince Charlie's later, melancholy years of exile in Rome, the Prince degenerated  into a portly drunkard who alienated his miniature court. A combination of wit and learning, with a charming literary style and plenty of entertaining anecdotes. Charles Scribner's Sons. New York. Hb, Dj. 1983. USED. $9.00