V -

o ,

DANIEL O'CONNELL

VOL. I.

PRINTED BY

SPOTTIS'WOODE AND CO., NEW-STREET SQUARE LONDON

COBBE SPONDE NCE

OF

DANIEL O'CONNELL

THE LIBEEATOE

EDITED WITH NOTICES OF HIS LIFE AND TIMES

BY W. J. FITZPATEICK, F.S.A.

AirrHOH OP ' THE LIFE, TIMES, AND CORRESPONDENCE OF BISHOP DOYLE ' 'LIFE AND TIMES OF LORD CLONCURRY ' ETC.

IN TWO VOLUMES — VOL. I.

portrait

LONDON

JOHN MUREAY, ALBEMABLE S TEE ET .<.<''

1888

All rights reserved

Once to my sight the giant thus was given,

Walled by wide air, and roofed by boundless heaven :

Beneath his feet the human ocean lay,

And wave on wave flowed into space away.

Methought no clarion could have sent its sound

E'en to the centre of the hosts around;

And, as I thought, rose the sonorous swell,

As from some church-tower swings the silvery bell;

Aloft and clear from airy tide to tide

It glided easy, as a bird may glide.

To the last verge of that vast audience sent,

It played with each wild passion as it went.'

(SiE EDWAED LYTTON BULWEB'S description of O'Connell as an orator.)

PBEFACE.

IT has been remarked by the historian Lecky that ' who- ever turns over the magazines or newspapers of the period must at once perceive how grandly O'Connell's figure dominated in politics — how completely he had dispelled the indifference that had so long prevailed on Irish questions — how clearly his agitation stands forth as the great event of the time.'

D'Aubigne says that ' the only man like Luther — in the power he wielded — was O'Connell.' But Luther was never Master of Cabinets and a great personality in the govern- ment of an Empire. The political power of Napoleon has often been compared to that of O'Connell ; but ' the un- crowned monarch of Ireland,' without the effusion of a drop of blood, governed a people more absolutely than Napoleon did, was idolised while he ruled, and received a ' Tribute ' envied by kings.

Mr. Fagan, M.P., a biographer of O'Connell, describes him as ' the greatest man this or any other country ever produced.' This statement may be open to question: however, the truth of Greville's words will, at least, be re- cognised : ' History will speak of him as one of the most remarkable men who ever existed; he will fill a great space in its pages ; his position was unique ; there never was before, and there never will be again, anything at all resembling it.' l

1 Greville Memoirs, vol. iii. p. 386, Vic.

[6]

PREFACE

The secret thoughts and acts of one who played a part so important cannot be without interest to the reader, or value to the historian. My purpose has been to discover and preserve a record of those thoughts, not to write a detailed life of the Liberator, which has been already done by various hands.

The letters of O'Connell here embraced — with the exception, perhaps, of some to Dr. MacHale published by Miss Cusack — are unknown to his biographers, and show the frequent inaccuracies of their detail. Persons who are aware that various interesting letters, headed ' The O'Con- nell Papers,' appeared in an Irish serial,1 may confound the two undertakings. But they are utterly different in their character. In the case of the magazine, the editor found ready to his hand a selection from such letters addressed to O'Connell by friends and strangers as the recipient hap- pened to preserve. My labours in collecting the letters written by O'Connell began more than twenty years ago. A gifted daughter of his had previously attempted the task, but failed. The most important portion of the corre- spondence was confined to a few who guarded it as a sacred deposit ; and in more than one instance death had to be waited for ere I could hope to acquire the coveted treasure.

' This is a mere collection of letters,' some readers may exclaim. It would be far easier for me to write a ' Life of O'Connell ' than to amass the literary wealth here pre- sented. No one but he who has himself tried can form an idea of the toil involved in this effort. The apathy, the prejudices, the scruples, the narrow fears and objections, the false sense of etiquette that have to be argued against and overcome, are obstacles and worries unknown to the popular author, who throws off his books currente calamo. The tardily given promise to search for and furnish letters 1 The Irish Monthly.

PREFACE [7]

is too often succeeded by procrastination ; and when certain packets of papers are at last opened to me, and the best parts carefully transcribed, permission to publish has then to be obtained from other parties who claim to have a joint ownership in the letters, attended by a new and tedious correspondence full of the old difficulties ; the whole sug- gestive almost of the labour of Sisyphus.

To explain, by copious notes, passages or allusions, often designedly obscure, necessitated an examination of the newspapers of the day, reference to the archives of contem- porary statesmen and politicians, and to other out-of-the- way sources. In most collections of letters notes are few, as critics have not failed trenchantly to point out. Many of my notes have been more than once recast, and for this reason — it was not easy to read O'Connell's fevered words without catching contagion from them ; and though a cer- tain warmth would not be deemed, perhaps, much out of place or surprising in one whose mind has been long satu- rated with O'Connell's correspondence, I thought it well to confine my comments within strictly historic lines.

As regards O'Connell's own language, his style is so well known that probably no apology is needed for its strength. No man was more fiercely denounced by him than Lord Cloncurry, who, in a public letter to Smith O'Brien in 1847, said : ' These outbursts were a part of his nature, otherwise so kindly and so good.' Cloncurry added that, throughout the fiercest of these sallies, he always loved O'Connell. Political feeling ran high at that day; and O'Connell's words are indeed not more strong than the language employed by the highest Tory organs, notably the Quarterly, Blackivood, and the Times.

The late P. V. FitzPatrick possessed from 1830 the Liberator's confidence to a most remarkable degree. To him O'Connell would write, often twice in one day,

[8] PBEFACE

unbosoming his inmost thoughts, and detailing facts — interesting at the time, and of historic value now. 'It lightens my heart to write to you,' he says, on March 11, 1833 ; and in these volumes countless confidential utter- ances will be found. To no other man did he open his mind so freely. Without him the great Agitator's power would have been much less ; for FitzPatrick held not only ' the sinews of war,' but certain diplomatic agencies capable of producing wonderful effects. How necessary ' The Tribute ' was to carry on the Agitation and to reimburse O'Connell, a glance at p. 212 infra will show. Partly to stimulate FitzPatrick hi organising ' The Tribute ' — which rose to 16,OOOL a year, and is stated by Dr. Madden to have sometimes reached 30,OOOZ. — O'Connell paid him the compliment of all others the most prized.

O'Connell's prestige stood so high that it is not easy now to realise its fulness ; and the confidence he reposed in FitzPatrick was enough to intoxicate a mind less strong.

It will be seen that Eichard Barrett — a Protestant and a Tory — became the staunch disciple of O'Connell, and started a newspaper which was long the organ of his policy. To fan Barrett's fervour O'Connell conferred on him — though to a less extent — the same class of compliment that made FitzPatrick so envied. O'Connell knew the men on whom to bestow that vital connection which may be styled the very nerves and arteries of friendship. His letters to Barrett came into my hands so far back as the year 1859.

I desire to thank the Eight Hon. the Earl of Bess- borough, who gave me many important letters addressed to his late father, Lord Duncannon, when a member of the Grey Cabinet. Some of these and other letters are marked confidential: but the family of O'Connell are of opinion

PREFACE [9]

that, however private such letters were at the time, they may be now, without scruple, given to the world.

In thorough contrast to his wrathful tone on public questions are the tender letters to his wife and daughter. I gratefully acknowledge the kindness of the latter in placing her father's letters in my hands; equal acknowledgment is due to Daniel O'Connell, Esq., D.L. of Darrynane, grandson of the Liberator, who made some interesting transcriptions and entrusted me with many curious papers.

The Knight of Kerry courteously threw open to me the archives of his family. The same remark applies to the late Earl of Donoughmore, the Eight Hon. the O'Conor Don, and the representatives of the Eight Hon. Anthony Eichard Blake.

N. S. O'Gorman, Esq., placed at my disposal the letters addressed to his late father, Nicholas Purcell O'Gorman, ' Secretary to the Catholics of Ireland.' Mrs. Morgan John O'Connell furnished letters addressed to John O'Connell, of Grena, by his brother Dan ; and I must also thank the representatives of Sir Thomas Wyse — James Dwyer, Q.C., M. Crean, and Major MacNamara. The letters to Staun- ton I got from himself.

The Eight Hon. the Secretary of State had the kindness to cause search to be made in the archives of the Home Office, and, aided by the Master of the Eolls, to furnish the result. Lord Stanley of Alderley has also been very kind. From Lords Lansdowne and Normanby I was not fortunate in obtaining any reply.

O'Connell, on December 21, 1818, and again on June 15, 1819, assures O'Conor Don that he is ' the very worst letter-writer in the world.' That, in face of this fact, I should have succeeded in gathering so many letters, will be acknowledged as satisfactory. See also vol. i., p. 297, where Sir W. King complains that 101. he sent O'Connell

[10] PREFACE

for his defence was never acknowledged. Even the letters of great ecclesiastics were often left unnoticed. Dr. Dono- van, Domestic Prelate to the Pope, is told (December 18, 1825) :—

' You will attribute to the proper cause — extreme hurry — my not answering letters. If I had time yours would be certainly one of the first.' And O'Connell only writes to him then to beg that he would influence Bishop Doyle on a very delicate point.

These letters throw light not only on the personal life and thoughts of O'Connell, but on Courts and Cabinets — the intrigues of public men, and the subtleties of political organisations. Few periods of greater moment in England's history have yet arisen. The papers referring to the youth- ful Princess and Queen have special interest at a time when public attention is being re-directed to the early stage of the Victorian Era ; and even ' Mr. Punch ' re-issues his cartoons exhibitive of the Young Queen, O'Connell, and Lord Melbourne. Every document not possessing some public interest, or revealing a personal trait, has been weeded out.

Two letters written by O'Connell's sons are introduced as helping to complete the political history of the hour ; also a few from his chaplain, Dr. Miley, supplying, in remarkable words, facts known only to himself. Lord Duncannon's letters come within the former category.

For the assistance I received from John Murray, Esq., junior, while these volumes were passing through the press, I desire to record my appreciation.

49 FiTzWiLLiAM SQTJAEK, DUBLIN : October 1, 1888.

CONTENTS

THE FIEST VOLUME.

CHAPTEE I.

I

Birth and Boyhood — St. Omer — Douay — Outburst of the French Revolution — John Sheares — Flight from France — Maira-ni-Dubh — London and Logic — Bar Studies— Continental Politics — ' Called ' and ' Chosen ' — Anecdote — Marriage — The Machinery for Catholic Agitation laid — The Knight of Kerry — Repeal of the Union — Catholic Leaders bribed and debauched — The Convention Act — The Catholic Delegates of 1811— Wellesley Pole — Arrest of Lord Fingall, Dr. Sheridan, and Mr. Kirwan — A Struggle — Trial and Defence of John Magee — A Labyrinth of Litigation — Delegation annihilated — O'Conor Don — Fatal Duel with D'Esterre — The Viceroy Whitworth

CHAPTER II.

Grattan becomes a Vetoist — Mr. Tierney, Sir H. Parnell, Mr. Plunket — Mr. Addington — Philip Whitfield Harvey — Lord Hutchinson — O'Connell's Affair of Honour with Peel — The ' Second ' challenged by Peel — A Footpad shot dead — O'Connell arrested in London- — A Duel ends in a Dance — A ' Castle Bishop ' — O'Connell's domestic Character vindicated by his Wife — Death of Curran — Lord Fingall — O'Connell in Difficulties — O'Conor Don — ' Honest Ned Hay ' — The Duke of Leinster — 'Jack Gifford ' — The Dog in Office — 'Now or Never ' is the time to strike for Emancipation— Charges against the Secretary to the Catholic Board — O'Connell and Grattan reconciled — Visit of George IV. to Ireland — O'Connell sends his Son to fight under Bolivar —Lord Cloncurry — ' The Agitator ' appointed Attorney- General to the Queen— Catholic Belief Bill of 1821 — Shell's Syco- phancy,— Lord Donoughmore— O'Connell'a Cap .

35

[12]

CONTENTS OF

CHAPTEE III.

i

Lord Norbury and Mr. Saurin — A Discovery — Weak and Vacillating Policy of Lord Wellesley — The Viceroy's Path strewed with Insults — Matin Devotions — Catholic Emancipation offered — Belief Bill prepared — Deputation to London — Full Details in O'Connell's Letters to his Wife — His Parliamentary Examination — Lionised and feasted — The Great Men he met — Attends the Levee — The Catholics duped — The Cup dashed from their Lips —Bill to suppress the Catholic Association — O'Connell refuses Reimbursement for Time and Toil — The Catholic Bent — Dr. Doyle's Coolness with O'Connell — ' The Wings ' — The Duke of York — Bibbonism active ....

80

CHAPTER IV.

Continuance of Agitation — Beception at Bathkeale — A Picturesque Picture — Forensic Triumphs — Succeeds to Darrynane— A Woman hanged under horrible circumstances — Dismal Week at the Cork Assizes — Bevolt of the Forty Shilling Freeholders — The Waterford Election of 1826 — Beresford beaten — Election Biot — Another Duel — The Order of Liberators — Lord Cloncurry Grand Master — Ludicrous Scene at a Ball — The Knight of the Bueful Visage — The Church Establishment — Death of the Duke of York — Lord Lans- downe — Defeat of Sir F. Burdett's Motion — Death of the Prime Minister, Lord Liverpool— Canning takes the Beins — Hope burns brightly in Ireland — O'Connell helps to make the Government — Lord Chancellor Manners — Lord Norbury again — Death of Canning — The Goderich and Wellington Administrations — Lord Anglesey Viceroy— Simultaneous Meetings

116

CHAPTER V.

Lord Lansdowne and O'Connell — The Hibernian Bank — The Clare Election — John Keogh — The New Daly's Club — Apathy of former Friends — The Catholic Cause formidably Opposed — The March to Ballibay — Conciliation tried by rendering Personal Service to Orangemen — Hunt, the English Radical, assails O'Connell — Law Reform begun by O'Connell — Vesey Fitzgerald — O'Connell returned for Clare — George IV. and O'Connell — Brougham — Bishop Doyle — Securities proposed as an adjunct to Emancipation — Difficulties in taking his Seat — A Duel— Villiers Stuart vacates Waterford — Lord George Beresford seeks O'Connell's Help— Pierce Mahony — O'Connell and the Knight of Kerry alienated— Otway Cave — Lord F. L. Gower — The ' Shave-beggars ' — Thomas Attwood — Reform . . .

154

THE FIRST VOLUME

[13]

CHAPTEB VI.

FAGB

The New Association formed, but suppressed — The O'Connell Tribute — His Gratitude— 'Long live King William ' — A Sting for Staunton — Eichard Barrett — Wellington again at the helm — Goulburn and O'Connell — General Cloney— O'Connell, M.P. for Waterford— John condemns his Brother Dan for agitating ' Eepeal ' — Late Hours in the House — A New King for Belgium — Bevolution in France — Con- tinued Attempt to suppress his Meetings by Proclamation — Affair of Honour with Sir H. (afterwards Lord) Hardinge —Staunton again — The Northumberland Viceroyalty — The Leinster Declaration — The Repeal Struggle — Primate Curtis — National Education — Alarming Outlook — A Rush upon the Banks for Gold advised — A Spy in the Camp — Marcus Costello— The Second Viceroyalty of Lord Anglesey — Effort to induce O'Connell to take Office— Doherty made Chief Justice — A Slumbering Volcano — Lady Glengall — Mr. Wallace, Q.C 201

CHAPTER VII.

Excitement at white heat — ' Liberator, say the word ' — Arrest of O'Connell— Another Affair of Honour— The Traversers — 300,000 Men ready to March on Dublin — Overtures from the Government — T. O'Mara — The Government outmanoeuvred — Lord Duncannon's Election — Letters to him — Mr. Blackburne — Mr. Stanley — Victory in the House — The O'Connell Fund — Bishop Doyle again — Major Sirr— Electioneering Plans — Charles Bianconi — Further Letters to Lord Duncannon — Election Rows — Press Prosecutions — Reform — Conference at Lord Althorp's — Creation of New Peers — Home Rule under the British Crown — Trades Unions — Commotion in Paris — Reform Bill — Cessation of Tax-paying — Office offered to O'Connell — Renewed Correspondence with Lord Duncannon — Patent of Pre- cedence—The Cholera — James Dwyer — ' Times to try Men's Souls ' — Massacre at Newtownbarry — O'Connell assaulted — Remigius Sheehan — Resignation of Ministers — O'Connell and The Times — ' The Thunderer ' — Sir A. Bradley King's Gratitude — Pat Costello

241

CHAPTEB VIII.

Qualifying for an Attorney-Generalship — Election for Dublin — Tories coalesce with O'Connell — Edward Southwell Ruthven — Tithe War- fare— Louis Perrin — Con MacLoughlen — Progress of Repeal — Foot- Simon and Fat-Simon — To Lord Duncannon — ' The Volunteers for Repeal of the Union ' — The Cabinet puzzled — Coercion Bill of Earl

[14] CONTENTS OF

PAGE

Grey — A Tory O'Connell — Dr. Boyton, F.T.C.D — Attempted Coali- tion with Orangemen — ' A Delightful Vision ' — Lord Anglesey's threat to blockade the Irish Ports — Agrarian Outrages — ' Luttrel Lambert ' — Bishop Doyle —O'Connell calumniated —A Great Struggle — ' The Die is cast : we are Slaves ' • 300

CHAPTEE IX.

The Bun on the Banks — James Silk Buckingham — The Volunteers — Sir John Cam Hobhouse — ' The Algerine Ministry ' — Confusion in the Camp — The Whigs beaten — Negro Emancipation — Barrett tried and imprisoned — The Ambition of O'Connell's Life — Bemarkable Avowal — Eeform Bill thrown out by the Lords — Resignation of Ministers tendered — The Throes of a Bevolution — A Crisis — O'Connell helps the Whigs by Voice and Vote — Cordial Relations — Mr. Secre- tary Littleton — Called to Order — Anonymous Gifts of Gold — A Laby- rinth of Laws swept away— Mr. P. Lavelle — O'Connell's Speeches ' Burked '—Queen Adelaide — Feargus O'Connor — F. W. Conway — Ship Canals through Ireland — The Church Bill — A Judge holds his Court at Midnight — ' The Tories are gone for ever ! ' . . . 338

CHAPTER X.

The Crisis over — The Orangemen — The True Sun — O'Connell's Quarrel with the Reporters — Dr. Baldwin — ' Ninety M.P.s would bring about the Repeal ' — Office again offered — ' Littleton is a famous fellow ' — Darrynane — Second Viceroyalty of Lord Wellesley — Corporate Reform — Agitation raised against the House of Lords — Direct Over- tures by the Ministry to O'Connell — Refusal to be bought — ' A Domestic Legislature the only solid good for Ireland ' — Rintoul and the Spectator — Harassing pecuniary engagements — Archbishop Murray — Tithes — Stirling, of The Times — The Press prosecuted again — Ireland ravaged by Cholera — ' Who is the Traitor ? ' —Parlia- mentary Inquiry — Startling Words— Shiel exonerated — ' Hurrah for Old Ireland 1 ' — O'Connell moves for the Dismissal of Baron Smith ....... .374

CHAPTEE XI.

Dungarvan Election — Motion of Censure on Baron Smith — Secretary Littleton again — Ireland ravaged by Cholera — Destructive Fire — Burial Service rudely prevented — Catholic Cemeteries projected — ' O'Connell's Brewery ' — Great Commercial Distress — Canterbury Cathedral — Sir Emerson Tennent — Motion in Parliament on Repeal — Anxious Preparations for Oratorical Contest with Spring Rice — He Desponds— The Tug of War — Result — James Magee — Tom

THE FIRST VOLUME [15]

PAGE

Reynolds — The Agitation for Repeal Suspended — Sharman Crawford — B. More O'Farrell — 'My Tithe Plan is shaking the Cabinet' — The Derby Dilly— The Irish National Bank started— The Beporters refuse to take down O'Connell's Speeches — A Bow and its Besult — Private Understanding between the Irish Government and O'Connell — Scene between Littleton and the Liberator — An Exposi — Althorp, Grey, and Littleton resign 405

CHAPTER XII.

A Note of Triumph — The Banking Scheme — Cadwallader Waddy— Barrett liberated — A Plan to unite all sections of Irishmen — The Agricultural Bank — Stanley of Alderley — Dublin Castle swept clean of Orangeism — Jubilee — The Coercion Bill as renewed — Letters inter- cepted— Cahircon — Effort to eject Blackburne fails — At Oxford — Poor Laws for Ireland — Letters to Lord Duncannon — Lord Durham — Judge Crampton and the Bribe— Sir M. O'Loghlen — Baron Greene — Judge Perrin — A grave Indictment — A Dilemma — Robert Holmes — O'Connell saves a man from the scaffold — The Monks of La Trappe — Houses of Parliament burned — Barrett's abstracted Mind — Ludicrous Scene — Downfall of the Melbourne Ministry — Peel and Wellington again — Orange Orgies — Lord Haddington Viceroy — 'G. P. O.' — Joseph Hume— William Cobbett — Attwood— Charles Phillips again — An Intrigue at Rome foiled — A Struggle for the Speaker's Chair — A Bad Fall for the Tories — ' Tictory ! Victory ! ' — Mr. Abercromby — Peel beaten — Terms with the Whigs — Correspon- dence with the Home Secretary — William Ford — Joe Hume — Lord Kenmare— O'Connell suffers ' Mental Agony ' — ' A Bay of Hope ' — Ronayne and the Pikes 448

APPENDIX.

The Catholic Association — William Cobbett — How to Tranquillise Ireland 533

POBTRUT OF DAJOEL 0'Cos>T:ix Frontispiece

Errata.

Page 483, note ' not forthcoming, should be omitted. „ 487, line 1 of note, for Carthusian read Cistercian.

THE

PRIVATE CORRESPONDENCE

OF

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

CHAPTER I.

Birth and Boyhood — St. Omer — Douay — Outburst of the French Revolution — John Sheares — Flight from France — Maira-ni-Dubh — London and Logic — Bar Studies— Continental Politics — ' Called ' and ' Chosen ' — Anecdote — Marriage — The Machinery for Catholic Agitation laid — The Knight of Kerry — Eepeal of the Union — Catholic Leaders bribed and debauched — The Convention Act— The Catholic Delegates of 1811 — Wellesley Pole — Arrest of Lord Fingall, Dr. Sheridan, and Mr. Kirwan— A Struggle — Trial and Defence of John Magee — A Labyrinth of Litigation — Delegation annihilated — O'Conor Don — Fatal Duel with D'Esterre — The Viceroy Whitworth.

DANIEL O'CONNELL, the son of Morgan O'Connell and Kate O'Mullane, was born on August 6, 1775, at Carhen, near Cahirciveen, county of Kerry.1 Daniel and a younger brother received their earlier education at Cove, near Cork, and are afterwards found at St. Omer and Douay ; but the outburst of the French Re volution gravely retarded their studies. Their uncle, Maurice O'Connell, of Darrinane,2 familiarly

1 It appears from some marriage licences preserved in the Eecord Office, Dublin, that in 1771 Morgan O'Connell of Carhen was married to Miss O'Mullane in a Protestant church at Cork. Both were good Catholics, and for some time de- signed their son Dan for the priest- hood. The marriage by a parson may have been due to the terrorism of the Penal Code under which, not long previously, priests had been outlawed.

2 The O'Connells were an old stock. By letters mandatory of James I, dated April 25, 1635, Daniel M'Geoffery O'Connell of Aghgort was

VOL. I.

constituted High Sheriff of Kerry. Further search in the Eecord Office discovered the Subsidy Eoll for Iveragh, with the names of those on whom the tax in support of Charles II. was levied, and it appears that in 1667 Maurice O'Connell and Daniel O'Connell contributed 101. each.

The General Count O'Connell, born at Darrinane in 1743, a dis- tinguished officer of the Irish Bri- gade in the service of France. He finally became colonel of one of the British regiments, into which the Brigade was formed, at the restora- tion of the Bourbons.

B

2 COBEESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. i.

known as ' Old Hunting Cap,' had no children, and Dan was now generally regarded as his heir. ' Hunting Cap's ' es- critoire still occupies its original niche at Darrinane and contains letters addressed to him by his nephews Daniel and Maurice ; also their school accounts, and the reports of their preceptors. The Eev. Dr. Stapleton, afterwards Bishop and Vicar Apostolic of the Midland district of England, thus gives his opinion of Dan in January, 1792 : — ' I never was so much mistaken in my life as I shall be unless he [Dan] is destined to make a remarkable figure in society.'

After this pronouncement the following letters — written in the large hand of a child — may disappoint students of epistolary culture. But the crumbling relics have an interest all their own :—

St. Omer : Feb. 3rd, 1792.

My dear Uncle, — Since I had the pleasure of hearing from you last, I received a letter from my Uncle in Paris : he desired us learn mathematicks, logick and rhetoric ; as soon as I received his letter, I went to the President to in- form him of it ; he told me that the price of learning the mathematicks here is a Guinea a month, upon which I wrote to my Uncle to let him know the President's answer. I also told him that if he wished we should follow that system of Education, it would be better send us elsewhere, where we may go thro' a regular course of studies. Not that I find the smallest fault with this colledge, where every thing that is taught in it is sufficiently attended to ; the boys taken very good care of, and the living good enough.

In this Colledge are taught the Latin and Greek authors, French, English, and Geography, besides lessons given during recreation hours in Music, dancing, Fencing, and drawing. I have not yet inquired about rhetoric, but will do it (please God) as soon as I receive an answer from my Uncle.

We have composed for the second time since I came here. I got second in Latin, Greek and English, and eleventh in French ; before the places are read out there is a scene or two of play acted on a small stage, which is in the Colledge, by one of the four first schools (each in its turn) ; these they

1792 AT ST. OMEB 3

call Orations, and of them there are eight in the year. Of consequence we compose eight times ; there is a whole play acted in the month of August.

As our trunk was too large to get into our dormitory, we were obliged to get a small wooden box from the Pro- curator, nailed against the wall of the play yard ; these are here called houses, we keep in it the books and other little things we brought with us. The President told me that he would give the £W we brought here to the Procurator to be given to us at the rate of Qd. ster1 a fortnight.

I should not mention these particulars but that I thought you would be pleased at our letting you know every circum- stance that may happen, therefore we are resolved not to let any slip unnoticed.

I have just received your affectionate letter and return you sincere thanks for it. We hope, my dear Uncle, to be able to shew our gratitude by our ready obedience to all your commands, and by our application to our studies. I have delivered your letter to the Procurator, who receives the boys' pension. — I remain, my dear Uncle,

Your affectionate and dutiful Nephew,

DANL. O'CONNELL.

It is curious to observe that several of these letters are marked ' 6s. postage ' and all addressed to ' Darinane, near Tralee.' In point of fact, a wild district extending over forty miles intervenes between Darrinane and Tralee. In course of time the Anglicised form of spelling Darrynane came to be adopted by O'Connell himself.3

To Maurice O'Connell, Darinane.

St. Omer : April 16th, 1792.

My dear Uncle, — I received your affectionate letter the beginning of this month, but could not answer it before now, as there was since a suspension of studies, during which I had no place to retire to from whence I might write to you.

3 Darinane signifies ' the oak of the O'Connell residence. Dair grove of Finan,' whose ancient is the Irish for oak. church is shown within a few miles

4 CORRESPONDENCE of DANIEL 0' CONN ELL CH. i.

I hope you have long since received the different letters we wrote to you since the 17th of Feb., they were one of the first of March, and another of the 27th or thereabouts of the same month ; they contained an account of an order we received from my Uncle Daniel to learn mathematicks, together with the price of learning them here, which is a Guinea a month ; my Uncle desired us to ask your advice about the matter and not to begin until we received an answer.

As the Easter examen is just over, our studies begin again on another footing, instead of the books I mentioned before we now read Mignot's harangues, Cicero, and Caesar, those are our Latin authors, tho' they are read over without any study beforehand, Caesar is given us chiefly to turn into Greek ; our Greek authors are Demosthenes, Homer, and Xenophon's Anabasis ; our French one is Dagaso's speeches.

I return you thanks for your kindness in informing us of the news of the country. We hope, my dear Uncle, that our conduct will merit a continuation of your unparallelled friendship towards us ; you may be convinced that we do our utmost endeavours for that purpose, and, as we know that you require no more, we hope (with God's assistance) to be able to succeed.

Present our love and duty to our dear Grandmother, Father and Mother and all other friends. — I am, my dear Uncle,

Your grateful, dutiful, and affectionate Nephew,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

P.S. — Philosophy is not taught publickly in this Col- ledge. "We had leave to eat meat during this Lent.

St. Omer : June 30th, 1792.

My dear Uncle, — Our school goes to-morrow to our country house. We are to remain there four days, which are by far the pleasantest in the year. The house is situated in a beautiful valley about a league from the town. All

1792 AT DOUAY 5

the boys go there once a fortnight and remain a day; this renders the summer very agreeable [torn],

I have learned some other particulars relative to the colledge [at] Douay since my last, which are that French is paid no great attention to there, nay, almost totally neglected. Arithmetic also, it is said, will soon be entirely laid aside. In that science my brother is in Practice', I am in Interest.

It is said that all the letters which leave this kingdom are first sent to Paris, where they are opened. If this is the case, it may in some measure account for the great length of time our letters take before you receive them.

Douay : Sep. 14, 1792.

My dear Uncle,— My Brother wrote to you about a week after we arrived here. I was then in the infirmary, being taken with some slight fits of the ague.

We left St. Omer about the 18th Ult°, and arrived here the same day. The procurator only gave us a crown each, which was barely sufficient for the road as we left St. Omer before breakfast time and did not arrive here until very late in the evening. As soon as we arrived we got each a room in which there was no furniture except a bed, for every boy is supposed to bring money with him to furnish his room : we were in great distress for the first night, next morning a young man, a Mr. Duggan, from near Newmarket in the County Cork, came to us, spoke to us very civilly and told us he would chuse furniture for us : we immediately told him how our affair stood and asked his advice. He told us we should go to the procurator and tell him our case and that he may depend upon the payment of any thing reasonable advanced us. Upon our doing so the procurator advanced us a Guinea and a half, with which we bought most of the little things necessary for our rooms such as looking glasses, candlesticks, washing basons &c. ; we likewise were obliged to buy buckles (as the St. Omer's College buckles were small iron ones) for about 4s. ster. each. But as we had not money enough to buy knives

6 CORRESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. i.

forks &c. for refectory Mr. Duggan forced us to borrow half a Guinea of him for that purpose.

Mr. Baymont, the procurator, sent for me a few days ago, and told me that, as he depended on the credit you had given him, he would provide us with furniture even before we got a letter from you, so that we have already got tables. The furniture consists of a desk and cupboard, a table, a small table for washing, poudering,4 &c. on, and four chairs. The pension here is twenty five Guineas a year ; we get very small portions at dinner ; most of the lads (those who are on Bourses excepted) get what they call seconds, that is, a second portion every day, and for them they pay 3 or ^4 a year extraordinary. We would be much obliged to you for leave to get them, but this as you please. I hope, my dear Uncle, that you will not think me trouble- some in saying so much on those heads : you may be con- vinced that it is only a desire of satisfying you and of letting you know in what way your money is spent that makes me do so. I have been to the president about our beginning philosophy, he desired me write to you again and inform you that the course of philosophy began last Whitsuntide, and that we would in commencing so be under a great dis- advantage. Ehetorick began at the same time, so that we are no better off there. We have already learnt the first principles of the last mentioned science, and before we can get an answer from you, we will (please God) get so far as to be able to study it privately by ourselves. If we go into philosophy now, we will save a whole year. We study, in our leisure hours, the beginning of Philosophy ; Mr. Duggan has got us books and instructs us in any difficulty. We can get lessons wherever we study the law and learn more Ehetorick in one month (the lessons being commonly given in English) than here in a whole year. It is therefore my opinion (which I entirely submit to your superior judgement) that it would be much better for us go strait

4 It was the fashion of the day the students in natural philosophy

to powder the hair. An old priest, used hair powder, and Monsignor

Archdeacon MacMahon, remem- Kennedy assures me that the prac-

bers that at Maynooth College tice was not confined to that class.

1792-3 LOUIS XVI. EXECUTED 1

into philosophy than remain any longer in Ehetorick. — I remain, my dear Uncle,

Your sincerely affectionate, grateful,

and dutiful Nephew,

DL. O'CONNELL.

We are obliged to pay for the washing ourselves. At St. Omers everything was done for the boys, here the boys are obliged to do everything themselves. This college is much better in every respect than the other.

A considerable nutter now agitated the schools. A letter to Uncle Maurice, dated ' Douay, January 17, 1793,' re- marks : — ' The present state of affairs in this country is truly alarming; the conduct the English have pursued with regard to the French in England makes us dread to be turned off every day. In case of a war with England, this is almost inevitable.'

Uncle Maurice at once ordered his nephews home. John Sheares — afterwards hanged in the Eebellion of '98 — chanced to be their travelling companion from Calais to Dover, and the future Liberator was shocked to see him draw from his pocket, and exultingly exhibit, a handkerchief which he had soaked in the blood of Louis XVI., as it flowed from the scaffold.5

Daniel O'Connell left France in a state nearly approach- ing, as he often said, to that of a Tory at heart, and as soon as the English packet-boat got under way, he tore from his hat, and flung into the sea, the tricolour cockade which regard for personal safety made it indispensable to wear on French soil. Some French fishermen, rowing past, cursed him as they reverently rescued the cockade.

To Maurice O'Connell, Darinane.

London : March 21st, 1793.

My dear Uncle, — I send you by my Uncle Dan's orders, although it is not a month since Maurice wrote, the ac- counts, as they came from Douay. We left most of our

5 Mr. John O'Connell mentions the date of the execution of Louis this fact in the sketch of his father's XVI. as December 21, 1793, instead life (p. 9), but strangely errs in giving of January 21, 1793 .

8 CORRESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. i.

furniture, together with my violin,6 to be sold, but they have been seized by the Municipality, as was every other article which had no particular owner then present — all such goods being considered as national property. Thus the College has been deprived of all its ... plate . . . &c. &c.

When we came to London we had every single article of wearing apparel to buy, and as things are excessively dear

here, a large sum of money is soon expended. We got

[Here a long list of articles were enumerated.]

Your most dutiful and affectionate Nephew,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

P.S. — We are satisfied in every respect with our present situation.

To Maurice O'Connell, Darinane.

London : 8bre 21st, 1793.

My dear Uncle, — I wrote to you at the beginning of the month. Circumstances, such as intervened, and which I did not then expect, make me write to you again.

I was a little surprised this morning on Mr. Fagan in- forming me that he could no longer go on with the plan he had laid down for himself in the beginning of the year — in short, that he could no longer keep school. I instantly went to Mr. Pagan,7 who told me he would place me in the same house with my brother until we had received orders from you how to proceed. Accordingly I am to go thither in a few days. I will (please God) trouble my Uncle with a letter as soon as I am settled, which will inform you both what I am studying.

6 It has been often stated that O'Connell, like Dr. Johnson, had no appreciation for music, and could not distinguish ' Garryowen ' from ' Eule Britannia.' The allusion to his violin disproves this assertion. Further, the man who made the remark recorded below cannot have been without soul and ear : —

' It may interest you to learn that

my father always considered Moore's Melodies had been of much service in raising and encouraging the agi- tation for Catholic Emancipation.' — Daniel O'Connell to W. J. Fitz- Patrick. London, April 18, 1887.

7 A relative of the O'Connell family, afterwards an officer in the East India Company's service.

1793-5

MAIBA-NI-DTJBH

9

Mr. Waters — Count Rice's nephew — and I are the only constant boarders that Mr. Fagan has had [for some] time past. The smallness of our number, and the dearness of the different articles of life — increased since the war began — led him to such a step as he has been at last obliged to take for his own protection. Mr. Fagan, on the whole, thinks that will turn as much to my advantage — as I have got pretty near the end, and over almost if not all the diffi- culties of Logic.

Please to present my duty to my dear Grandmother,8 Uncle, Father and Mother, and love to my brothers and sisters, and all other friends.

Your sincerely affectionate and grateful Nephew,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

To Maurice O'Connett, Darinane.

Chiswick, near London : December 10th, 1795.

My dear Uncle, — I delayed answering your letter until I should have it in my power to inform you that I had changed my place of residence, in conformity to your desire.

On calculating the expenses of retiring to a cheaper spot, and of returning to keep my term in January, I found it would not answer ; so I have dropped the scheme. I am now only four miles from town, yet perfectly retired. I pay the same price for board and lodging as I should in London; but I enjoy many advantages here, besides air

8 This remarkable woman, known as Maira-ni-Dubh, daughter of O'Donoghue of the Lakes, married O'Connell of Darrinane early in the last century. She was recognised as a person of vigor- ous intellect, whom friends with mingled reverence and awe would constantly consult. Her caustic sarcasm and strong denunciation of all who sought to thwart her views are still vividly described by her kinsfolk. Her son, Maurice O'Con- nell of Darrinane, ' Old Hunting Cap,' died at the age of ninety-seven. The long time which has elapsed

since ' Maira-ni-Dubh ' lived, and the wonderful permanence of the im- pression left by her strong will, may thus be inferred. When paying servitors their wages she always exclaimed in Irish : ' May God prosper or melt away your wages according as you earned them.' This letter corrects the family tombstone, which represents Maira-ni-Dubh as having died in 1792.

The Great Agitator is considered to have inherited from ' Maira-ni- Dubh ' his muscular mind and power of invective.

10 COBBESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL

CH. I.

and retirement. The society in the house is mixed ; I mean, composed of men and women, all of whom are people of rank and knowledge of the world ; so that their conversation and manners are perfectly well adapted to rub off the rust of scholastic education ; nor is there any danger of riot or dissipation, as they are all advanced in life — another student of law and I being the only young persons in the house. This young man is my most intimate acquaintance, and the only friend I have found amongst my acquaintance. His name is Bennett.9 He is an Irish young man of good family connections and fortune. He is prudent, and strictly economical. He has good sense, ability, and application. I knew him before my journey to Ireland. It was before that period our friendship commenced; so that, on the whole, I spend my time here not only very pleasantly, but, I hope, very usefully.

The only law books that I have bought as yet, are the works of Espinasse, on the trials of Nisi Prius. They cost me £1 10s., and contain more information on the prac- tical part of the law than any other work I have ever met. "When in Dublin, I reflected that carrying any more books than were absolutely necessary would be incurring expense ; so I deferred buying a complete set of reports until my return thither.

I have now two objects to pursue — the one, the attain- ment of knowledge ; the other, the acquisition of all those qualities which constitute the polite gentleman.1 I am con-

9 Eichard Newton Bennett, who continued through life the attached friend of O'Connell. He was present at O'Connell's duel with D'Esterre (p. 28, infra), and later on is recom- mended for promotion (p. 149). Ben- nett became a Colonial Chief Justice.

1 O'Connell does not use the word ' polite ' in the sense of suave. The following letter of the same time shows that he early began to speak his mind freely, and to provoke the penalty that, later on, brought him into hostile relations with Peel, D'Esterre, Disraeli and Alvanley : —

' To Danl. O'Connel (sic).

' Chiswick : Deer. 18th, 1795. ' Sir, — Unless you make a point of disclosing to me the Eeason of your Expressions last night I shall most certainly look upon and treat you as every one deserves who deviates so much from the character and manners of a Gentleman. Depend upon it no- thing but the Idea of the Mortification it would have been to Genl. Morrison prevented me from treating you at that moment as you justly deserved.

' I am, &c., ' DOUGLAS THOMPSON.'

1795 CAPTUEE OF MANNHEIM 11

vinced that the former, besides the immediate pleasure which it yields, is calculated to raise me to honours, rank, and fortune ; and I know that the latter serves as a general passport or first recommendation : and as for the motives of ambition which you suggest, I assure you that no man can possess more of it than I do. I have, indeed, a glowing and — if I may use the expression — an enthusiastic ambition, which converts every toil into a pleasure, and every study into an amusement.

Though nature may have given me subordinate talents, I never will be satisfied with a subordinate situation in my profession. No man is able, I am aware, to supply the total deficiency of abilities, but everybody is capable of improving and enlarging a stock, however small, and in its beginning, contemptible. It is this reflection that affords me most consolation. If I do not rise at the Bar, I will not have to meet the reproaches of my own conscience. It is not because I assert these things now, that I should conceive myself entitled to call on you to believe them. I refer that conviction which I wish to inspire to your experience. I hope, nay, I flatter myself, that when we meet again, the success of my efforts to correct those bad habits which you pointed out to me will be apparent. Indeed, as for my know- ledge in the professional line, that cannot be discovered for some years to come ; but I have time in the interim to prepare myself to appear with greater eclat on the grand theatre of the world.

You have heard of the capture of Mannheim. The Austrians continue to advance rapidly on the French side of the Ehine. They are said to be marching towards Luxemburg. In the meantime the French are evacuating Holland. Whether this event will be favourable to the Stadtholder is as yet uncertain. The Ministry, who are become unpopular, owing in particular to the two Bills of which you must have heard, and in general to the ill success of the war, already tottered in their seats ; but the brilliant victories of the Austrians have secured them at least for some time. That we shall soon have peace is no

12 CORRESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. i.

longer a question. Everybody believes it, and the King's messages to Parliament confirm the belief. — I am, dear Uncle* Your affectionate and dutiful Nephew,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

O'Connell soon after returned to Ireland, and in 1798 was called to the Bar. There is a great break in his corre- spondence from this date. The troubled times had begun, mail-coaches were stopped, few letters were written or pre- served. He read hard, fell sick, nearly died, rallied, went on circuit, and pulled troops of clients through. A Kerryman named Sigerson, against whom he accepted a brief, was so stung by the young ' counsellor's ' answer to evidence that he called him 'a purse-proud blockhead.' 'I have no purse to be proud of,' said O'Connell ; ' and if I am a blockhead all the better for you, as I am counsel against you.' He won. The discomfited man wrote him a challenge ; but a second letter came saying, 'I find that your name occurs in a valuable lease, therefore I cannot afford to shoot you unless you insure your life for my benefit ! ' 2

Daniel O'Connell made a love-match. On June 23, 1802, he married his cousin Mary, daughter of Dr. 0 Connell, of Tralee. The nuptials were privately solemnised in Dublin at the lodgings of her brother-in-law. Dan, it will be re- membered, was regarded as the heir of Old Hunting Cap. Mary O'Connell had no fortune, and the immediate kins- folk of her admirer strongly opposed the match. Various letters, seeking to dissuade him from it, are now before me.

A daughter of the subsequent ' Liberator ' mentions that Uncle Maurice never forgave ' Dan ' for not marrying Miss Mary Ann Healy,3 of Cork, and that he left elsewhere much that would otherwise have been hers. Maurice sur- vived until the year 1825, when he died, aged ninety-seven.

2 For a notice of other cases in which O'Connell was engaged, see Appendix.

3 Miss Healy was a mature spinster, short in stature, but fa- mous for her long purse — and nose. This organ threatened to militate so gravely against the future pros- pects of the lady, that her uncle, when writing his will, was urged to make her fortune larger ' on account of her nose.' Miss Healy, this dis-

appointment notwithstanding, con- tinued to maintain to the end friendly relations with ' Dan ' and his house- hold, and at the balls at 30 Merrion Square — the Liberator's residence — she was long a familiar and most amusing figure. Her appearance was so grotesque that the younger members of the family, as they as- sure me, always felt ashamed of her. Miss Healy died unmarried.

1802 A LOVE LETTEE 13

The following letter from O'Connell to his wife, dated ' November 1802,' is addressed, in a disguised hand, to ' Miss O'Connell, Tralee,' and, as appears from the post- mark, cost the fair recipient sixpence on delivery ; but she would as readily have given diamonds for such precious words. Considering that the secret was mainly dependent on a lady, it seems to have been marvellously well kept.

Dublin : November 25, 1802.

Darling, — I can write you but a few lines as it is grown so late, and my time is small. I was finishing some law business which I had solemnly promised to dispose of this night.

You will know, my heart's dearest treasure, that whether I write few or many words, there certainly is not in the world a man who more fondly doats on, or who so anxiously longs for the arms of his wife. Day and night you are continually present to my fond thoughts, and you always increase my happiness or lessen my cares. With you I could live with pleasure in a prison or a desert. You are my all of com- pany, and if I can but preserve your love I shall have in it more of true delight than can be imagined by any but he who sincerely loves. Sweet Mary, I rave of you ! I think only of you ! I sigh for you, I weep for you ! I almost pray to you !

Darling, I do not — indeed I do not — exaggerate. If there be more of vehemence in my expressions, believe me that vehemence has its justification in my heart — a heart that is devoted to the most enticing of her sex. Indeed you are a dear, charming little woman.

Your last letter I have read again and again and again. It is in every respect a most pleasing letter to me ; not only from the heart-flowing strain of tenderness in which it is written, but the saucy gaiety of some of the passages show me how much recovered my love is. ... Mary, how fondly I shall cherish the little stranger coming ! I hope it may be a daughter, and as like you as possible. Oh God ! how I then will love her ! How sincerely will I express my affection to themotherin the caresses I bestow on the child. Dearest, sweetest wife, I can thus hope to be able to prove

14 CORRESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. i.

to you the ardour and the purity of the pleasing affection — to me at least most pleasing affection — with which my whole soul doats on you.

Dearest, I am writing with great rapidity, but still my thoughts run much faster than my pen. I could praise you a thousand times faster than I write, as I love you a thousand times more than I can tell.

I shall soon see you, dearest darling. Love to dear mother. Ever your devoted Husband,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

In a week we shall be able to fix the time of our departure. Happy, happy moment that gives me my sweet wife again.

O'Connell, when conversing with his secretary, Mr. Daunt, in 1843, said : ' I never proposed marriage to any woman but one — my Mary. I told her I would devote my life to. make her happy — and she deserved that I should. I thought my uncle would disinherit me. But I did not care. I was richly rewarded by subsequent happiness. She had the sweetest, the most heavenly temper, and — the sweetest breath.'

He added a shrewd remark which deserves to be remem- bered : ' It is unwise on the part of a lover to offer marriage at an early period of his courtship. By this precipitation he loses the advantage which female curiosity must other- wise afford him, and in sapping his way to her heart discards a powerful auxiliary.'

To the Knight of Kerry.4

Westland Row, Dublin : May 14, 1807.

Dear Sir, — I had the honour of receiving your letter this morning, and should have been happy to have contri- buted to your re-election were it in my power. I do assure you you would have found my exertions most zealous and cordial, however unable I might have been to render them useful.

4 The Knight of Kerry, the Eight his native county, gave efficient sup- Hon. Maurice Fitzgerald, during port to the Catholic claims. O'Con- thirty-five years that he represented nell's extensive correspondence with

1807

THE CATHOLIC PETITION

15

I have no doubt you will receive all the support my family can give. They all concur with me in thinking that no person can have such claims on that support either from reasons of personal respect or motives of public principle.

I have, &c.,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

From the year 1805 O'Connell took a lead in the E. C. Party of Action in opposition to Pitt, Fox and Grattan, and even the old Catholic leader Keogh, who were anxious that the question should wait.

To the Knight of Kerry.

Westland Eow, Dublin : Dec. 26, 1807.

My dear Sir, — I have a request to make of you to which I am urged by several of the gentlemen here who have been active in preparing the Catholic petition. Your zeal in our cause5 would alone be sufficient to justify the applica- tion to you ; but, besides any consideration of that kind, I confess to you I should not of myself feel any difficulty in taking the liberty.

The object arises thus : a petition was prepared last year for presenting, but postponed 6 on account of the change of administration. That petition has since got into print, and we are induced to believe that, having been once printed and published, it cannot, according to the humours of the House of Commons, be presented. Now, as the Speaker is bound to know the law of the House, and, as we conceive,

this eminent Irishman, who finally held high posts in the Government, will be found during the years that immediately preceded Emancipation. Born 1772; died 1849.

5 The Catholic claims.

6 By a letter of January 12 fol- lowing it appears that Grattan ad- vised further postponement, while Lords Grey and Ponsonby, Sir John Newport, Sir H. Parnell, and others were in favour of pressing the ques- tion. During the following year the Government saw with some alarm

the progress made by the Catholic Question under the organising arm of O'Connell. They did not hesitate even to bribe one, if not more, of his colleagues at the Board. Sir Arthur Wellesley, writing to Dublin Castle from London on November 17, 1808, says : ' I think that, as there are some interesting Catholic questions afloat just now, you might

feed with another £100.' (See

Civil Correspondence of the Duke of Wellington [Ireland, 1807-9]. London : John Murray, 1860, p. 485.)

16 CORRESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. i.

to communicate it to any of the members, we are anxious in our request to you to ascertain the matter as speedily as may suit your convenience.

As soon as Lord Fingal comes to town we shall hold our first general meeting, and there certainly shall be a petition presented early in the session.

Allow me to take this opportunity of assuring you that among your constituents, none can be found who could subscribe himself with more sincere respect and zeal, Your faithful Servant,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

Connell O'Connell was a handsome southern solicitor, known to the Limerick lasses by the sobriquet ' Look and Die.' He gave briefs to the promising barrister, continued his staunch friend through life, and in the duel with D'Esterre stood by his side.

To Connell O'Connell.

Maryborough : 14th January, 1809.

My dear Connell, — After I wrote in an angry mood my note about the instructions for the declarations I found them where I did not look for them — locked up carefully, and then I received your affectionate letter.

My object now is not to indulge my feelings as to the return I would make if I could for your valuable friendship. I may use the word ' valuable ' in a mercantile sense, but you know I employ it in a kindlier one. It has been the strange colour of my life to have been of eminent use to many persons from some of whom I never received the gratitude of an acknowledgement — from others I have learned the inestimable benefit of mutual friendship — but you are the only being from whom I have received gratuitous — I may call it — kindness ; because to you alone have I been able to make no other return than the barren declarations of zeal and anxiety to be useful. I am thus pouring out to you the effusions of my heart, whilst I should return to my subject. It is to beg of you to suffer me to mention to Dan your real

1809-10 BEPEAL OF THE UNION 17

disorder . . . Take perfect care of yourself — command my little mare as if she were altogether your own, and of all things avoid cold ... I will indeed be happy to bear the good news you promise me, but first and of all things take care of your health. I am proud that so many people love you as well as

Your most affectionate

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

In 1800 O'Connell opposed the Union, and the day-dream of his life was its repeal. This was sternly demanded in 1810 by the Dublin Corporation, then held by ultra-Tories ; and O'Connell hailed with joy the probable junction of Orange and Green. At a public meeting he declared that, were the Premier ' to offer me to-morrow the repeal of the Union upon the terms of re-enacting the entire Penal Code, I declare it from my heart, and in the presence of my God, that I would most cheerfully embrace his offer.'

Among the letters that passed between O'Connell and the Corporators was the following, addressed to the High Sheriff, Sir James Eiddall : —

Limerick : 7th January, 1810.

Dear Sir, — Business, which has brought me from Dublin since I accepted your kind invitation for Friday next, prevents me from returning to town until after that day. I am thus deprived of the pleasure of waiting on you, which I very sincerely regret, not only from the respect I bear you per- sonally, but because I entertain a very strong and, I will add, a very grateful sense of that patriotic zeal which insti- gates you to bring together your countrymen of every per- suasion upon every occasion in your power. Believe me, I should feel sincere pleasure in any efforts of mine, however humble, to co-operate in the desirable result of combining all classes in mutual affection and in the common defence of our common country.

I have, &c.,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

VOL. I.

°l

18 CORRESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. i.

To his Wife. Limerick : Wednesday, 20th March, 1811.

My own Love, — ... I am impatient to hear whether you have come to any determination as to the new study.7 It certainly will very much contribute to your comforts, and though you will not believe it, darling, yet it would really give me pleasure to make you feel comfortable. Besides, until you have a sitting parlour, it is quite impossible that you should be able to have your drawing-rooms in anything like neat and perfect order.

I shall write to 8 as you desire, but indeed, indeed,

heart, I could wish that you would be more peremptory with him. One effort would reduce him to perpetual obe- dience. You might punish him by confining him to the nursery, or excluding him from your dinner-table, or in any other manner of that kind, but you ought not to suffer him to impose on you.

Your most tenderly fond

DANIEL O'CoNNELL.

To the Knight of Kerry.

Merrion Square : Monday [January 1812] .

My dear Sir, — I cannot defer acknowledging the deep ob- ligation which you have laid on me and on the Catholic body at large by our exertions on Saturday. The conduct of the Attorney-General [Saurin] will, I hope, remain distinctly in your recollection. It Was certainly unprecedented, as no Law officer ever before postponed information on the subject of Treason.9 I am delighted that you pressed, and, in fact,

Theatre, Dublin, replied: 'Why, my Lord, this is a direct accusation of High Treason, and he who would assert it of me, I would brand with the foulest epithets. I defy the slightest proof to be given of its veracity.' Mr. Pole's allusion to a treasonable element in the Catholic Committee is explained by his private letter, from the archives of the Home Office, cited in the Appendix.

7 O'Connell had just removed to No. 30 Merrion Square South, the house now occupied by Dr. Kidd.

8 One of his sons, then aged seven years.

9 Mr. Pole declared in Parliament that ' if gentlemen would read the debates of the [Catholic] Committee, they would find separation openly and distinctly recommended.' O'Connell, on February 29, 1812, at a meeting in Fishamble Street

1812 HIS OWN DEAR MARY 19

extorted an interview for us. It is, I think, exactly the best thing that has occurred in our cause.

We saw him and Mr. Pole to-day. He — the Attorney- General — made an awkward apology for the delay. We stated our facts — gave him names and dates — were met with great politeness, and left those gentlemen — being ourselves quite satisfied that the thing has been managed for us, and by us, as it ought. We have certainly done our duty. Will the administrators do theirs? I hope we may find the connecting link of the chain.

Yours faithfully,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

To Ms Wife.

Ennis : 5th March, 1812.

My dearest Mary, — I was a little impertinent in my letter of yesterday, and the reason was because I found myself decidedly in more business than any other individual here ; and so, heart, I avenged myself upon you, which was poor spite. I, however, now forgive you, darling, because you promise me so faithfully to take care of yourself and grow fat in my absence.

Seriously, love, I am quite in a temper to indulge vanity, but in nothing more so than in you and my sweet, sweet babes. Darling, you have no idea of the time I take in thinking of you and them, and in doating upon both. Kiss them a thousand times for their father, and tell them that he will not be happy until he has his three little girls on his knees, and his three boys looking at him there.

The business here is over — compleatly over.1 I was concerned in every record, not left out of one, and I was the only counsel so circumstanced. I am apt to think I shall not be able to leave this to-morrow. Between chamber business and a Popish Aggregate,2 it is likely that I shall be detained till Saturday, but on that I mean to write to you from Limerick.

1 The Clare Assizes.

2 A public meeting for the redress of Catholic grievances.

c 2

20 COEEESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. i.

Will you take care and keep Cobbett3 for me safely. If you entrust this commission to anybody else, you may depend on it that some of the numbers will be missed. Call on Mr. Hay,4 love, and tell him from me that the members of the board in this county are very anxious to get copies of the petition in order to proceed for signa- tures.— Believe me, darling love, with the sincerest affec- tion,

Your tender and doatingly fond

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

Tell each and every of my babes how I love them. Ask John if he ever intends to get a tooth.

To his Wife.

Limerick : 7th August, 1813.

My darling Heart, — Your letter and Charles' account of you give me fresh life and spirits, but I thought you would have written to me again, heart's treasure, and I felt lonely and disappointed at not hearing from you by this day's post. Upon consideration I have blamed myself for it, because I ought to have written to you every day, but I will do so in future, my sweetheart Love, and you must follow my example. Do, then, my own Mary, let me have the happiness to hear that you are thoroughly well. Take the kindliest care of my Kate, and, better still, more care of yourself for my own darling love. The business has become excessive upon this circuit — mine is increasing almost beyond endurance — but I never was in such good health, and have no anxiety but what relates 'to my own dearest, dearest darling. I wish to God you knew how fervently I doat on you. Kiss sweet saucy Kate for me.

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

The Irish Government had long sought to sap the strength of the Catholic Board by subsidising and corrupt- ing certain popular orators. A bolder course was now de-

3 Cobbett's Register.

4 Secretary to the Catholic Board.

1813 CATHOLIC DELEGATES PROSECUTED 21

termined upon. The Government commenced a campaign against the Catholic delegates. In 1793, Lord Clare, with the object of foiling the United Irishmen, had succeeded in passing a penal measure known as the Convention Act. For eighteen years it had lain a dead letter, but through Mr. Wellesley Pole, the Irish Secretary, it was now revived. A Proclamation, dated Dublin Castle, February 12, 1811, required every Sheriff and Magistrate throughout Ireland, in pursuance of Lord Clare's Act, to arrest all persons con- nected either actively or passively in the late elections for members or delegates fco the General Committee of the Catholics of Ireland. Lord Fingall and several of his col- leagues were placed under arrest.5 The incautious resolu- tion which entrapped the Catholics had been passed during O'Connell's absence from Dublin ; however, he made the best of the matter by managing some litigation which grew out of it. Dr. Sheridan and Mr. Kirwan — two delegates who had been put upon their defence — were acquitted by a Dublin jury ; but, in the flush and vanity of an unexpected triumph, they embarked in a new contest by proceeding against Chief Justice Downes for false arrest. Judgment was given against the Catholics, and delegation became annihilated from that day. It was not until 1879 that Mr. P. J. Smyth succeeded in getting the Convention Act repealed.

To 0' 'Conor Don.

4 Capel Street,6 13th July, 1813.

Dear Sir, — The legal protection which the Board has given to so many individuals selected for prosecution by the Law Officers of the Crown, and to so many others suffering under the violence of Orange persecutions, has been attended with so much expense, that it will be impossible to transmit our present petitions without the aid of every individual in our body.

A Parochial subscription has been considered as that most likely to be efficacious. You are earnestly requested

s Two letters of the Lord-Lieu- and should be read by those who

tenant, addressed to the Home care to study the history of the

Secretary, marked ' Secret and Con- time.

fidential,' and now first published, • The office of the Catholic Corn- appear in the Appendix to this work, mittee.

22 CORRESPONDENCE of DANIEL 0' CONN ELL CH. i.

to commence in your own parish, and to extend the sub- scription to every other parish within the reach of your influence. The committee, gratefully acknowledging the payment of your contribution of five guineas in pursuance of its vote, do not, at present, call upon you personally for any further sum, but they entreat your personal exertions to induce others to follow your example.

The accounts of the Board are kept with the utmost accuracy, and the books are open to all the Members of the Catholic body.

I have the honor, &c.,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

In 1813, John Magee, proprietor of the Dublin Evening Post, was subjected to prosecution, fine, and imprisonment for having published an article reflecting on the Irish Government. The defence of Magee was O'Connell's ablest bar effort. It was a bold arraignment of the clique who in that day ruled in Dublin Castle. Again Magee was taken from his cell and indicted on a new charge : that of publishing in his paper O'Connell's speech. If it is important that an advocate should be true to his client, so should the client be faithful to his advocate. Magee signally failed in this respect. Mr. Wallace, K.C., on his behalf, called upon the Court to substitute the advocate for the defendant, and saddle on O'Connell the penalties of offences said to have been committed by Magee. The litigation and worry which grew out of these proceedings would fill a volume if detailed.

To John Magee.

Merrion Square : 2nd May, 1814.

My dear Magee, — I beg of you to read attentively a letter which I have written to your brother. I should be glad to know whether you think that the request I make of him is unreasonable. It consists merely of my entreaty that he should distinctly state what he expects from me, if anything, on the supposed case of my words having been totally mistaken in the report in question.

If I am to judge from the great reluctance your brother exhibited yesterday to answer the question, without an

1814 THE TRIAL OF JOHN MAGEE 28

answer to which it is impossible for me to form an estimate of what, under existing circumstances, I should do, I much fear that the Attorney-General 7 will succeed in one of his objects — increasing dissension amongst the few who remain devoted, in intention and design at least, to the unfortu- nate land of our birth. But for my part I am determined not to have to blame myself. I am ready to do that which I think reasonable. If more be required of me, is it not fair that I should know what that is? I do, therefore, entreat of you to procure for me an answer to the question I put to your brother.8

Believe me, &c.,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

To N. Purcell 0' Gorman.9 (Private and confidential.) (No date.)

My dear Purcell, — I wish to God I could settle this business of Magee's. I am anxious for it on your account and on account of the cause. I could get the thing closed for £700, payable annually. And as you being under any tie to pay it, arises from your being a public man. I think your friends ought to contribute. If your uncle would pay the first £100, allow me to say that I would cheerfully pay the second, your brother may perhaps pay the third, and then you should be prepared with the remainder. I repeat, however, that as a private gentleman, I do not think you bound to pay anything. But I reckon on it that the cause requires of you to make this payment.

Excuse me if I take a liberty with you in making this offer, but you will easily appreciate my motives, and those motives will probably serve to shew you that I always am Yours most sincerely,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

John O'Connell, in a collection of his father's speeches from 1800 to 1823, records that ' the year 1814 closed amid

7 Mr. Saurin. 9 A prominent member of the

8 James Magee, afterwards ap- Catholic Board, and afterwards Sec- pointed a police magistrate. retary to the Catholics of Ireland.

24 COEEESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. i.

considerable gloom as regards the political prospects of the Catholics,' and that ' the autumn and winter were passed in attending provincial meetings and half-private consul- tations in Dublin.' How O'Connell could smile through his tears the following shows. Charles Phillips, a Protes- tant barrister, had now nobly espoused the largely deserted Catholic cause.

To his Wife, at Cork.

Killarney : 13 Septr. 1814.

My darling Love, — I am more alarmed than I wish to say about your flight from Mallow.1 It was, I am sure, more occasioned by your own illness than by my sweet Nell's toothache. You will get, I trust, well from the Cork air ; but at all events Dublin is a certain restorative.

Have you seen or heard anything of Phillips ? 2 I never knew a man so altered and, indeed, so insane with love. It seems that the lady promised to write to him on Thursday ; she forgot the promise, and he was very uneasy that day. Friday came and no letter ; Saturday, no letter ; Sunday also without a letter ! And off he set on Monday morning in the day coach. I never saw anybody so dull and stupid, nor have I seen so much agony as he exhibited as he was daily disappointed of a letter. He has suffered a great deal, and has, as you may imagine, not a little disappointed public expectation here.

The meeting took place this morning. John was in the chair, Lord Kenmare having been obliged to go off to see his sister, who had met with an accident near Cork. The meeting was the most numerous and respectable that ever met in Kerry. I hope you will be satisfied with our resolutions. I was the only orator; I spoke very badly.

With kindest love to my sweet darlings,

Ever your fondest

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

1 A then popular spa in the County Cork.

2 Charles Phillips, author of

Curran and his Cotemporaries, not the least amusing portion of which is his account of Daniel O'Connell.

1814 DELEGATION DESTROYED 25

Delegation as an engine of political strength was now destroyed, but O'Connell continued to keep the flame of agitation legally alive by holding meetings for the purpose of preparing petitions to Parliament. Traces of these efforts are found in his correspondence with 0' Conor Don.

To O'Conor Don.

Merrion Square : 14th Novr. 1814.

My dear Friend, — It is intended to have a meeting held at No. 4 in Capel Street at two o'clock in the afternoon of Saturday, the 26th instant. The gentlemen who purpose meeting on that day have many of them differed as to the manner of conducting our petitions, but they mutually acknowledge and respect the purity of intention of those who entertained different opinions, and all agree in the propriety, nay, the necessity, of combining the efforts of all the petitioners to the furtherance of our great object — free- dom of conscience.

It is intended to meet on that day merely as individuals, and for the purpose of collecting individual opinions, so as to shape all further proceedings in the mode most likely to deserve and insure unanimity.

Will you be so good as to let me know whether we may expect you at this meeting ? Much, very much, may be done if we restore unanimity and, to use a vulgar phrase, pull together.3 Everybody regards and respects you, and if you were here I think you could contribute largely to bring together every honest Irishman, of whom there are in truth more than our friends think or our enemies suspect.

To Lord Fingall.

[1814.]

My Lord, — I had the honor of receiving this morning your letter of yesterday, and feel very much indebted to the politeness of your Lordship's attention to my circular.

I am sorry you augur so ill of the meeting of Saturday

3 The Veto controversy (vide pp. 50, 72, infra) threatened to divide the Catholics this year.

26 COBBESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. I.

as to believe that the mode of proceeding about to be adopted is not the most likely to promote unanimity ; 4 that is at present matter of prophecy, in which I hope your Lordship will have the pleasure of finding yourself mistaken ; but, at all events, I am quite sure, my Lord, that if you were pleased to point out, either by letter or personally, any mode likely to attain that great object, unanimity, any suggestion coming from you must be received with all the deference due to a person having so many personal and hereditary claims on Catholic confidence.

I have the honor to be, &c.,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

The value of O'Connell's patriotic activity was enhanced by the fact that all this time his professional practice left him few moments that he could call his own. I owe to his grandson, Daniel O'Connell, Esq., D.L., an early memoran- dum of ' receipts ' which he has found at Darrynane. It ends with 1814. After that date O'Connell's business in- creased so much that it was impossible to keep an account of it.

Beceipts.

£	s.	d.
From May 19, 1798, to Jan. 1, 1801 . 331	0	3
„ Jan. 1, 1801	1802 .		255	18	9
1802	1803 .		346	18	9
1803	1804 .		465	5	9
1804	1805 .		715	9	9
1805	1806 .		840	14	0
1806	1807 .		1077	4	3
, 1807	1808 .		1713	1	6
Besides my fee, as assessor to the Sher	iff o
Kerry in May, 1807, at the election, of	150Z
from each candidate, being .		450	0	0
From Jan. 1, 1808, to Jan. 1, 1809 .		2198	15	6
Besides fee as assessor to Sheriff of Clare		400	0	0
From Jan. 1, 1809, to Jan. 1, 1810 .		2736	16	6
„ 1810 „ 1811 .		2951	16	3
„ 1811 „ 1812 .		3047	7	3
„ „ 1812 „ 1813 .		3028	0	6
(N.B. — I lost the Cork Spring Assizes.)
„ Jan. 1, 1813, to Jan. 1, 1814 . . . 3808	7	0

4 See Pagan's O'Connell (i. 161-2) for an account of the contrite atonement offered to O'Connell by Lord Fingall shortly before his

death, ' for not having always sup- ported him as I now feel he should have been supported.'

1815 DUEL WITH D'ESTEEBE 27

The year 1815 witnessed a very remarkable incident in the life of O'Connell— his duel with Mr. D'Esterre. The former, speaking at a Catholic meeting in January, said : ' I am convinced that the Catholic cause has suffered by neglect of discussion. Had the Petition been last year the subject of debate, we should not now see the beggarly cor- poration of Dublin anticipating our efforts by a Petition of an opposite tendency. The Duke of Sussex in the Lords, and Mr. Whitbread in the Commons, appear to me persons worthy to be entrusted with our petition.'

The Dublin Corporation was at that day an Orange stronghold, and D'Esterre, who represented at its Council the Guild of Merchants, sought to resent O'Connell's words. He was a brave, wiry man, who had served in the British Navy5 — one well skilled in dealing death with cutlass or musket ; and it is told of him that during the Mutiny at the Nore he refused to fraternise, though a rope was put round his neck as a threat. The scene now shifts to Dublin, where D'Esterre is found following the trade of a provision merchant and contractor ; but reverses had overtaken his house, and in 1815 he was all but bankrupt. It has been often stated that some Orange zealots egged him on with the object of putting O'Connell out of the way, but I can find no reliable authority for this statement. However, it is notorious that men like Thorpe, who had already opposed O'Connell, obtained the grateful tribute of lucrative posts, and, further, were presented with the freedom of the Cor- poration. This at least is quite possible, that D'Esterre, finding ruin staring him in the face, harboured the desperate design of cutting his way to fortune by means of a quarrel with O'Connell. His letter seems to resent, on behalf of the Corporation, the word ' beggarly,' but it cannot be doubted that, though not avowed, he felt it almost as a personal taunt.

Mr. D'Esterre to Daniel O'Connell.

11 Bachelors' Walk [Dublin] : 26th January, 1815.

Sir, — Carrick's paper of the 23rd instant (in its report of the Debates of a meeting of Catholic Gentlemen, on the subject of a Petition) states that you have applied the

5 So Fagan states. The impression of O'Connell's son is that D'Esterre had been in the Eoyal Marines.

28 COEEESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. i.

appellation of beggarly to the Corporation of this City, calling it a beggarly Corporation ; and therefore, as a mem- ber of that body, and feeling how painful such is, I beg leave to enquire whether you really used or expressed your- self in any such language? I feel the more justified in calling on you on this occasion as such language was not warranted or provoked by anything on the part of the Corporation ; neither was it consistent with the subject of your Debate, or the deportment of the other Catholic Gentlemen who were present ; and though I view it so in- consistent in every respect, I am in hopes the Editor is under error, and not you. I have further to request your reply in the course of the evening, and remain, Sir, your obedient Servant,

J. N. D'ESTERRE.

O'Connell to Mr. D'Esterre.

Merrion Square : January 27th, 1815.

Sir, — In reply to your letter of yesterday, and without either admitting or disclaiming the expression respecting the Corporation of Dublin in the print to which you allude, I deem it right to inform you that, from the calumnious manner in which the religion and character of the Catholics of Ireland are treated in that body, no terms attributed to me, however reproachful, can exceed the contemptuous feelings I entertain for that body in its corporate capacity ; although doubtless it contains many valuable persons, whose conduct as individuals (I lament) must necessarily be con- founded in the acts of a general body. I have only to add that this letter must close our correspondence on this subject.

I am, &c.,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

Mr., afterwards Sir James, O'Connell, Bart., to Mr. D'Esterre.

Merrion Square : Friday evening.

Sir, — From the tenor of your letter of yesterday, my brother did not expect that your next communication would

1815 DUEL WITH D'ESTERRE 29

have been made in writing. He directed me to open his letters in his absence. Your last letter, bearing a different address from the former one, was opened by me ; but upon perceiving the name subscribed I have declined to read it, and by his directions I return it to you enclosed and unread. I am, Sir, your obedient Servant,

JAMES O'CONNELL.

On Sunday a letter reached James O'Connell from D'Esterre containing observations calculated to provoke a breach of the peace ; and James at once sent his friend Captain O'Mullane to say that when the affair with Daniel was adjusted he would bring D'Esterre to account for his conduct to himself.

To N. Purcell O'Gorman.

Saturday [January 28, 1815].

My dear Purcell, — This is perhaps the only moment when you could be of singular use to me, and it happens unluckily that you are out. I implore of you to send me word on your return when I could see you.

Yours very faithfully,

[Endorsed ' Haste.'] DANIEL O'CoNNELL.

O'Connell, in a later letter to his fast friend Bichard Newton Bennett, tells him that, although MacNamara and O'Gorman would be on the field, he was determined that the duel should not go on unless in Bennett's presence. Bennett gave ready help and even drew up a programme. Further, he possessed a pair of duelling pistols that had belonged to his uncle, and one of which had shot Captain Pounden through the head.

To Richard Newton Bennett.

Tuesday.

My dear Bennett, — Your general notion is exact — the detail perhaps long. The Euffian appeared in the Hall 6 for a moment with a whip. The instant I heard of it I left the King's Bench and he disappeared. He paraded the quay

8 The Hall of the Four Court?.

30 CORRESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. i

with his whip. Eichard O'Gorman met him — asked him did he want me — for that I told him I would fight him (D'Esterre) in three minutes whenever he chose ; that he had but to send me a message and that he should instantly be met. D'Esterre said the message ought to come from me, at which O'Gorman laughed. The fellow then took post at Brian Diebson's, in College Green. I came here with my friend Major MacNamara, but the delinquent had fled. His companions there, before I came up, were young Saurin,7 Sir Eichard Musgrave,8 and Abraham Bradley King,9 the Alderman.

The crowd accumulated so fast that I took refuge in Exchequer Street, where Judge Day followed me and bound me to keep the Peace on my Honour. Was there ever such a scene ?

Yours ever,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

The ipsissima verba which passed between O'Gorman and D'Esterre were not communicated to O'Connell. Mr. S. O'Gorman, J.P., nephew of the former, informs me that when D'Esterre vowed that he would horsewhip O'Connell, Gorman said : ' He is a large man, you are a small one, and he may destroy you. Call him out.' ' The man is a poltroon, and will never fight,' replied D'Esterre. O'Gorman said : ' I'll undertake to have O'Connell on the ground, and if he fails to fight, I'll take his place.'

When Judge Day said that he would be satisfied if he had the guarantee of O'Connell's honour to proceed no fur- ther in the business, the reply he received was : ' It is not my duty as a duellist to be the aggressor. I therefore pledge my honor that I shall not be the aggressor. Further, however, I must tell you, no human consideration will induce me to go.'

An extraordinary amount of publicity and delay attended this quarrel. The journals of the day record that between

7 Son of the Orange Attorney- General.

8 A zealous supporter of Orange ascendancy.

9 Ditto. But how Sir Abraham became O'Connell's most grateful

servant in the end affords a curious episode. (See letter of July 19, 1832, infra.)

James O'Connell complained that one of D'Esterre's bodyguard sought to sting him by sneering gestures.

1815 DUEL WITH D'ESTERRE 31

O'Connell's house in Merrion Square and the Courts he was, for near a week, pursued by D'Esterre, whip in hand ; and that crowds filled the streets anxious to see how O'Connell would make his way to his place of vocation ; and that the Castle Chamberlain, Sir Charles Vernon, took up position in a spot from which he could command a good view of the expected collision.

The ' friend ' retained by D'Esterre was Sir Edward Stan- ley. At last it was arranged that the parties should meet at Bishopscourt, near Naas — not in the Phoenix Park, as Father Tom Burke states in his ' Lecture on the Irish People.' Major MacNamara, O'Connell's second, was, like Bennett, a Protestant ; the only Catholic non-relative who accompanied O'Connell was Purcell O'Gorman.1 Alderman Smyth was on the ground, and the impression of his son is that all the Corporation were present. ' The Orange adherents of D'Esterre seemed to think that there would be a pitched battle, for my father counted no less than thirty-six pairs of pistols among them,' observes O'Gorman's son, addressing the present writer. O'Connell was perfectly cool, and recognising in the crowd Jerry MacCarthy, a kinsman, exclaimed, 'Ah, Jerry, I never missed you yet from an aggregate meeting.' MacNamara remarked to Sir Edward Stanley that, as the duellists had no personal quarrel or any private animosity, he presumed all parties would be satisfied when each gentleman discharged one pistol. Sir Edward's reply was that if they fired twenty shots D'Esterre would never leave the ground until O'Connell made an apology. 'Well, then,' exclaimed the Major with an oath, ' if blood be your object, blood you shall have.' While Bennett loaded O'Connell's pistols MacNamara prepared for action with the coolest generalship. Lest D'Esterre' s eye should be at- tracted in its aim by any conspicuous object in his adversary, he removed a large bunch of seals which hung from O'Con- nell's fob and substituted a black stock for his white cravat. He proceeded to give a number of directions to O'Connell,

1 O'Connell mentioned to O'Neill gave the chaise a sudden turn which

Daunt, as a good joke, that Baron nearly capsized it. ' These fellows

Power, when going to commit suicide have no regard for a man's life,'

by drowning, carried an umbrella said Dan, grasping his brother's arm

because the day was wet. But some- to save himself from concussion,

thing almost as inconsistent occurred James thought the speech absurd

when ' Dan ' and his brother James for a man going into the jaws of

were hurrying in a postchaise to the death. — Communicated by Morgan

scene of the duel. The postilion O'Connell, Esq.

32 CORRESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. i.

who, interrupting him, said, with much solemnity : ' I have one earnest request to make of you.' MacNamara bent anxiously to hear his friend's last message. O'Connell paused. ' What is it, my dear fellow ? ' asked MacNamara. ' Let me beg of you,' said O'Connell, ' not to say another

word to me until the duel is over.' Meanwhile D'Esterre

most foolishly excited himself by making a speech, in which he disclaimed all hostility to members of the Eoman Catholic persuasion. He fired first and missed : O'Connell's shot followed and took effect below D'Esterre's hip. Surgeon Peile was immediately by his side, found that the ball had traversed the hip and passed through the bladder, but all attempts to find it failed. A false report reached Dublin that O'Connell had fallen, and a party of dragoons were despatched to protect D'Esterre from popular violence. They cantered into Bishopscourt while D'Esterre, in a dying state, was being removed from the field. O'Connell's anguish was great on realising the tragic issue of the business. He declared that his object in aiming low was lest he should wound D'Esterre in a mortal part. The un- fortunate man lingered for two days, and with his last breath confessed that O'Connell was blameless in the matter. There can be no doubt that, had the victor been killed or wounded, many duels would have been the consequence, with possibly serious riots. How he escaped was a marvel. Dr. Brennan, in a contemporary portrait, thus describes him :—

The counsellor's tall and he's big to be sure, As in Kerry they'd say he's the full of the door.

Lord Whitworth 2 was now closing, as Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland, a long diplomatic career begun in Poland. The Sentinel, an independent Dublin journal, addressed a series of letters to him, stating that the most memorable event which occurred in his Viceroyalty was this duel. It had

2 During the Whitworth Vice- royalty efforts were made, by finesse and force, to crush Catholic agita- tion. In April 1814, Quarantotti's Eescript was obtained, giving the Crown a veto in the appointment of bishops. On June 3, 1814, was ful- minated Lord Whitworth's Pro- clamation suppressing the Catholic Board as an ' assembly which pre-

tended to prepare petitions to Parlia- ment on behalf of the Catholics of Ireland,' declaring that it ' would only tend to serve the ends of fac- tious and seditious persons,' and forewarning that ' all continuing to act as members of the same would be proceeded against according to law.'

1815 EFFECT ON O'CONNELL 33

engrossed the attention of Ireland, and ought to engross that of Parliament also. Everyone asked why the outrage which led to the catastrophe being so public and protracted had not been restrained by some one of the many members of his Government who had observed it. But vainly the friends of peace inquired why D'Esterre had not been placed under arrest.3

The ground was white with snow and the oil lamps dimly burning when O'Connell and his brother returned in solemn silence to Dublin. At last Daniel broke it. He told James to go to Archbishop Murray and say how deeply he deplored the occurrence ; and in the next place to retain Richard Pennefather for his defence. The need for this proceeding was, however, obviated by the following letter :—

Sir Edward Stanley to O'Connell.

Eoyal Barracks : 4th February, 1815.

Sir, — Lest your professional avocations should be inter- rupted by an apprehension of any proceeding being in con- templation in consequence of the late melancholy event, I have the honor to inform you that there is not the most distant intention of any prosecution whatever, on the part of the family or friends of the late Mr. D'Esterre, Your obedient humble Servant,

EDWAED STANLEY.

O'Connell to Sir Edward Stanley.

Merrion Square : 5th February, 1815.

Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of yesterday, and I beg of you to accept my sin- cere thanks for your very polite and considerate attention. It is to me a mournful consolation to meet such generous sentiments from those who must be afflicted at the late un- happy event. But, believe me, my regret at that event is most sincere and unaffected, and if I know my own heart, I can with the strictest truth assert, that no person can feel

3 Mr. Peel, the Irish Secretary, writer's that his father had arranged

challenged O'Connell some weeks to use Lord Whitworth's pistols,

after this event, and the present Sir Lord Whitworth died in 1825, and

Eobert Peel told a friend of the his peerage has long been extinct.

VOL. I. D

34 COEEESPONDENCE of DANIEL 0' CON NELL CH. i.

for the loss society has sustained in the death of Mr. D'Esterre with more deep and lasting sorrow than I do. Allow me again to thank you, sir, for the courtesy of your letter — a courtesy quite consistent with the gentlemanly demeanour of your entire conduct in this melancholy transaction. I have, &c.,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

The surviving members of O'Connell's family say that the remembrance of this tragedy embittered his existence, interweaving itself with every joy, and only mitigated by the consolations yielded by religion.

O'Connell offered to secure a handsome annuity for D'Esterre's widow — or rather, ' to share,' as he himself observed, 'his income with her.' This Mrs. D'Esterre declined. But he prevailed upon a daughter of the deceased to accept an annuity, which was regularly paid until O'Connell's death. When proceeding to Court, it often suited his convenience to go by the Bachelors' Walk, and it was observed that in passing D'Esterre's house he would raise his hat and move his lips in silent prayer. Some years after, O'Connell, to his great delight, found himself in a position to render great service to Mrs. D'Esterre. A letter came to him from Father England, stating that the plaintiff in a case about to be tried at the Cork Assizes was no other than D'Esterre's widow, and that a favourable issue was of paramount importance to her and her children. O'Connell at that juncture held briefs in Dublin of very considerable importance, but he threw them up, returned the heavy retaining fees, and posting down to Cork, pleaded her cause and won the verdict.4

4 Perhaps an incident or two in connection with the duel may be mentioned here. The first comes from Mr. Baker, F.E.C.S.I. Surgeon Peile, who hurried to Bishopscourt for the purpose of affording pro- fessional assistance to D'Esterre if required, is described in the Direc- tory of the day as ' Dep. Inspector- General to the Forces.' He gener- ally travelled in a showy carriage with a rich hammer -cloth, and at- tended by footmen. He kept ap- prentices, as was usual at that day, and one chancing to hear from the coachman that 'the master had

ordered his carriage to attend the duel,' conceived a strong desire to be present, and privately arranged that he should wear the dress of a footman and go. He did so, and in after years often referred to the ad- venture. By a decree of the Council of Trent all principals in duels or parties thereto are excommunicated. Father O'Mullane, an eccentric priest, at war with his bishop, and, of course, under censure, repaired also to Bishopscourt, and remained in an adjacent cabin, prepared to give absolution in articulo mortis to O'Connell.

35

CHAPTEE II.

Orattan becomes a Vetoist — Mr. Tierney, Sir H. Parnell, Mr. Plunket — Mr. Addington — Philip Whitfield Harvey — Lord Hutchinson — O'Con- nell's Affair of Honour with Peel — The ' Second ' challenged by Peel — A Footpad shot dead— O'Connell arrested in London — A Duel ends in a Dance — A ' Castle Bishop ' — O'Connell's domestic Character vindicated by his Wife — Death of Curran — Lord Fingall — O'Connell in Difficulties — O'Conor Don — ' Honest Ned Hay ' — The Duke of Leinster — ' Jack Gifford ' — The Dog in Office — ' Now or Never ' is the time to strike for Emancipation — Charges against the Secretary to the Catholic Board— O'Connell and Grattan reconciled — Visit of George IV. to Ireland — O'Con- nell sends his Son to fight under Bolivar — -Lord Cloncurry — 'The Agitator ' appointed Attorney-General to the Queen — Catholic Eelief Bill of 1821 — Shell's Sycophancy — Lord Donoughmore — O'Connell's Cap.

SOME Crown lawyers had proposed that the Protestant King should exercise a veto in the appointment of Catholic Bishops. It surprised and disappointed O'Connell to find that Grattan, the old and warm friend of Catholic Emanci- pation, had now begun to favour securities of this sort. ' Would to God,' said O'Connell, ' that I could revive in the mind of Mr. Grattan his former feelings for the Catholics of Ireland — that I could rouse him to that energy with which he once advocated our cause ! What securities had he ever spoken of in the Irish Parliament — where were his alarms in 1793 ? What was in the English air to alter the mental vision, so that it should see gorgons, and hydras, and chimeras dire, where before it saw nothing but the pleasant prospect of unity, strength, and social security ? '

These words gave offence. In April, 1815, Grattan declined to take charge of the Petition of the Catholics of Ireland for Emancipation. O'Connell asked the Knight of Kerry to allow him to commit it to his care. The latter readily assented, and, conjointly with Sir H. Parnell, did good work in the cause of Civil and Keligious Freedom.

To the Knight of Kerry.

Merrion Square : 15 May, 1815.

My dear Sir, — Will you allow me to entreat your kind attention to the support of Sir Henry Parnell at the present

D 2

36 CORRESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. n.

most interesting period ? It is easy to see that, except from you and some few others who are attached to the principle of Keligious Freedom, we can expect no cordiality of co-opera- tion. The hackneyed part of the opposition, led by Mr. Tierney, seem disposed to take him in flank, whilst he is met by Abbot and Banks in front, and harassed in the rear by that most ridiculous of all possible casuists, Cox Hippisley. Add to these the confident assertion of Mr. Plunket that the Petition does not speak the sense of the Catholics of Ireland. I am greatly astonished at Mr. Plunket. He cannot but know that the fact is otherwise, and little as I am disposed to respect the entire of his political life, I did not imagine he was so destitute of that feeling which should place him so far beyond any deviation from truth as to allow him thus to assert. With respect to Kerry, you cannot, with your decisive evidence to contradict that gentleman. You will find to the Petition the name of every Catholic of property in the county — the Galweys and D. Mahony, who hold places, and Hussey, who wishes for at least one, only excepted.

It is, perhaps, a most imperative duty to contradict Mr. Plunket upon this point. As Emancipation of some sort is probably not very distant — with restrictions, besides being wrong in principle — it would be useless in effect without restrictions — it would tend to make Ireland what Scotland is — as Ireland is what Scotland was — an im- poverished and discontented people. If they enact re- strictions, the effect will be worse than the present state of affairs. The Crown Priests will be despised and deserted by the people, who will be amply supplied with enthusiastic anti-anglican friars from the Continent. There is a ten- dency already to substitute friars for any Priests who are supposed to favour the Veto. It is very marked in Dublin already, and they know little of Ireland who suppose that they could abolish friars by Law. There really is but one resource — to bestow a generous Emancipation that would at once take the people out of the hands of us agitators and of every species of enthusiasts, and by destroying the cause of excitement terminate the fever in the public mind.

1815 PROGRESS TO EMANCIPATION 87

Dr. Addington l and his medical school may recommend bleeding and boiling water, but the patient is already too strong for these remedies.

I have written an inexcuseably long letter to Sir H. Parnell, and am half disposed to bestow my tediousness equally on you. Will you pardon me for doing so, and for again — I am sure unnecessarily — hoping your attention to assist Sir Henry, and to protect him and us from our friend Mr. Plunket ? It would amuse me very much to have an opportunity of reasoning with that acute and very sagacious personage.

Believe me, &c.,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

The following letter has been found in MS. without any explanation other than that afforded by internal evidence. Mr. Staunton conducted the Freeman's Journal for its owner, Philip Whitfield Harvey, from 1813. This journal had been subsidised by the Crown previous to that date.

To Michael Staunton.

Merrion Square : 9th June, 1815.

Sir, — I have little leisure for letter-writing at this period of the term, but my answer to your letter shall be explicit. I am wholly unconscious of any claims Mr. Harvey, the proprietor of the Freeman's Journal, can have on me. It seems he has published from the Cork Chronicle a report of a speech attributed to me, and this without any interference or encouragement on my part, without any connection subsisting between us or other inducement save those which I presume usually regulate the Proprietor of a newspaper. It would be strange indeed if such a Proprietor, governed solely by views of emolument — as far as I can perceive — should be deemed entitled to turn round upon

1 Henry Addington, better known meetings, and the Cato Street con- as Lord Sidmouth, was the son of a spiracy gave him a good deal to do. general medical practitioner, and With characteristic energy he op- filled the post of Home Secretary posed and overcame them. Born during the Liverpool Administration. 1757, died 1844. The Spa-Fields, the Manchester

88 COEEESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. n,

the Individual without any previous intercourse, and to exact from him an indemnity against what is called the Law of libel as administered by the Law officers in Ireland.

But this claim must appear the more strange and its object mysterious, after the Proprietor has deliberately pro- claimed in his paper that the article in question is a heinous libel, and after he has thus not only bespoke a conviction for himself, but gratuitously criminated other persons.

Indeed, what can be the serious objects of a trial under those circumstances ? To talk of a trial after so complaisant a plea of ' guilty ' would be but a mockery. He has thrown himself on the mercy of an Attorney-General, and as far as in him lay implicated and prejudged the remaining objects of vengeance.

There may possibly be ulterior objects of a trial, but surely Mr. Harvey's defence ceases to be one.

Of the conversation you allude to my recollection is wholly different from the statement in your letter, so is that of Mr. Phillips, who was present. I did more than once express my regret for the apprehension you felt for the probable loss of your situation under Mr. Harvey. And certainly I was perfectly willing to do my utmost towards compensating you personally for any pecuniary inconvenience arising from the publication of a speech which you conceived to be mine. This was a leading object in my mind at the time. I apprehend that the error into which you have fallen proceeds from your mis- taking this sentiment towards you for a sense of obligation towards the Proprietor. But I have never felt or avowed any such obligation. There was no room for it between Mr. Harvey and me.

If he seriously conceives himself to have any well- founded claim on me, let him bring it forward distinctly and in person, and if in the judgment of any impartial Gentleman of honor acquainted with the facts it shall be deemed a well-founded claim in Jionor or justice, it shall be yielded to. I make this offer as my final answer, and you will allow me, in conclusion, to express my hope and wish

1815 LORD HUTCHINSON 89

that any future communication on this subject may proceed from him alone.

I am, Sir, &c.,

DANIEL O'CoNNELL.2

To Nicholas Mahon.3

Limerick : 19th March, 1815.

My dear Friend, — You have at the other side a letter to Lord Hutchinson, the best I can compose. Alter it as you please and put my name to it. I have not as yet heard from Ponsonby,4 but I expect to be able to give you satis- factory information from him before the close of the week* The truth is that the late news has, I believe, postponed all communication.

Believe me, &c.,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

(ENCLOSUEE.)

March, 1815.

My Lord, — We are quite convinced that your Lordship will at least excuse the liberty we take in addressing you on a subject mightily interesting to us, as you cannot mis- take the motives which induce us to address you ; they are easily to be found in the entire and unlimited confidence which we, in common with all the other Catholics of Ireland, place in your hereditary attachment to religious liberty, and in that high and ever untarnished honour which has dis- tinguished every member of your noble house.

We have been appointed by the Catholic Association to procure our Petition to the Commons to be presented by a member of that House who concurs with the Earl of Donoughmore, and with us in the propriety of a discussion,

2 Staunton replied, and O'Con- became good friends, as will be

nell, in a second letter, said : ' Your Been.

statement of facts is so very wide of 3 A prominent member of the my conception of them that, as I Catholic Board, and almost a mil- have neither leisure nor inclination liouaire.

for polemics, I must assert my right ' The Eight Hon. George Pon-

to close the correspondence with sonby, a patriotic member of the

this letter.' In after years they late Irish Parliament.

40 COREESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. n.

on our claims, during the present session. We feel the great importance to our cause of entrusting our Petition to the member between whom and the Earl of Donoughmore a cordial communion of sentiments and co-operation of ar- rangements may be expected. We, however, feel a delicacy in applying to that noble Lord on this subject, ' but the causes of that delicacy not applying to your Lordship, we take the liberty of requesting your advice and assistance upon this occasion. We entreat the honour of a reply addressed under cover to Nicholas Mahon, Merchants' Quay, Dublin. That reply, as well as the contents of this letter, shall ever remain under the seal of confidential and inviolable secrecy.5

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

Mr., afterwards Sir Eobert, Peel, who was destined to play an important part as Prime Minister, rilled at this time the post of Chief Secretary for Ireland. His sympa- thies were so openly given to the Party of Ascendancy that some folk gave him the sobriquet of 'Orange-Peel.' The E. I. Constabulary Force is due to his energy, and the people, to mark their sense of this effort to keep them quiet, nicknamed the police ' Peelers.' At a meeting of Roman Catholics in August, 1815, O'Connell said : ' All I shall say of him (Mr. Peel) by way of parenthesis is, that I am told he has, in my absence, and in a place where he was privileged from any account, grossly traduced me. I said, at the last meeting, in presence of the note-takers of the police, who are paid by him, that he was too prudent to attack me in my presence. I see the same police-informers here now ; and I authorise them carefully to report these my words, that Mr. Peel would not dare, in my presence, or in any place where he was liable to personal account, use a single expression derogatory to my interest or my honour.1

This passage caught Peel's eye, and he at once sent Sir Charles Saxton to demand an explanation. Some delay in the pending arrangements occurred, and Saxton then published a statement in the papers.

5 Major-General Hutchinson re- died 1832. He succeeded his brother ceived his peerage for having driven as Earl of Donoughmore in 1825. the French from Egypt. Born 1757,

1815 AFFAIR OF HONOUR WITH PEEL 41

To the Editor of ' Carriers Post.'

Merrion Square : Sept. 3rd, 1815.

Sir, — The very novel and extraordinary course pursued by Mr. Peel and Sir Charles Saxton having terminated in a newspaper publication, I beg of you to publish the enclosed, which I received from my friend Mr. Lidwill.

The dexterity of my adversary in publishing on Satur- day evening has given him what I suppose he estimates highly — one day's talking at me. This paltry trick he resorts to ; and yet he declares that he ' feels anxious for an early statement of a transaction ' which occurred two days before ! ! !

The conversation between Sir Charles Saxton and me is very inaccurately stated by that gentleman in the Corre- spondent. I will only notice two particulars: first, his omitting to mention that on my expressing my own opinion on the fitness of my sending to Mr. Peel, I added, ' any friend would disappoint my hopes and wishes who should advise me not to call on Mr. Peel ; ' and secondly, his inserting the last reply which he has attributed to him- self— not one word of which did he utter in my presence.

For the rest, I leave the case to the Irish public. I have disavowed nothing; I have refused the gentleman nothing. I have only to regret that they have ultimately preferred a paper war. I am, &c.,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

Dublin Castle : Sept. 4, 1815, six o'clock.

Sir, — Having seen in a newspaper of this evening a letter bearing your signature, connected with a communica- tion which I have recently made to you, imputing to me ' a paltry trick,' and concluding with the expression of your regret that I had 'ultimately preferred a paper war,' I have to request that you will appoint a friend who may make with Colonel Brown, the bearer of this letter, such arrange- ments as the case requires. I am, Sir, &c.,

ROBERT PEEL.

Daniel O'Connell, Esq. .

42 COEEESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. n.

George Lidwill, a Protestant, proffered his services as 1 second ' to O'Connell. Several letters having passed, Lidwill wrote urging O'Connell to have ' horses ready for an immediate meeting in a field near Celbridge.'

To George Lidwill.

Harcourt Street: Friday.

My dear Friend, — Do just as you please. I only think the County of Kildare ought to be the place. I care not where there. Everything will be ready expeditiously. My family would be less alarmed if we postpone it till morning ; but do just as you please. I will remain here.

Yours,

D. O'CONNELL.

To the Knight of Kerry, M.P. (Private.) Merrion Square : Monday evening [September, 1815].

My dear Sir, — I want a friend most sadly and venture to think of you. Mr. Lidwill cannot assist me, for he is himself involved with Sir Charles Saxton.6 My affair is, as you may imagine, with Mr. Peel. He has just sent me a well-written challenge from the Castle, and if you would allow me to trespass upon you, I would wait on you as early as you pleased in the morning and explain to you how the matter stands. A Colonel Browne is the person who has called on me from him. His address is Stephen's Green North.

Should you have any difficulty or delicacy in granting me this favour — and there are a thousand reasons which may most properly prevent you — let me have a line by the bearer to say so. If the contrary, let me know at what hour in the morning I could see you. The sooner this affair is over the better.

I am, &c.,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

8 Lidwill met Sir Charles Saxton at Calais, received his fire, and then discharged his own pistol in the air.

1815 ARREST OF O'CONNELL 43

To the Knight of Kerry.

Tuesday.

I wish to see you to express my sincere gratitude for your kindness, and to take your friend's advice on my present most unfortunate predicament. The triumph of those who will now traduce me ought to be but short- lived. However, I must say that I am very awkwardly cir- cumstanced, and require more than ever your friendly aid. I wish it may be possible for me to express to you how truly grateful I am for your kindness.

To the Knight of Kerry.

Merrion Square : 5 Sep. 1815.

My dear Sir, — I cannot go out in the morning — at least before twelve o'clock, and yet I wish very much to see you. The very kind and active interest which you took in my affair this day will be ever remembered by me, and induces me to ask you to favour me, if possible, with a call in the morning, or to be at home for me at three in the afternoon. I want not a little to speak to you.7

I am, with sincere regard, &c.,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

A letter from O'Connell to E. N. Bennett is preserved redolent of rural seclusion, and suggesting a ruse for baffling the pursuit of men who were evidently on the watch for him.

I find another addressed to his Wife, telling her to send him some things, but without entering into any explanation. The seconds finally arranged that Peel and O'Connell should proceed to the Continent and there fight. O'Connell suc- ceeded in reaching London without detection, but he was at last secured — not in bed at his lodgings, as some chronicles say, but when stepping into a chaise for Dover.

The following letter is addressed to his brother-in-law, James Connor. This gentleman had conformed to the Protestant Church so as to qualify to become an attorney ;

7 These letters, besides being in- notes made by Mr. Justice Keogh,

teresting, are important, as placing that Peel, after attacking O'Connell

in its true light the affair with Peel. in Parliament, sent a message im-

In Croker's Memoirs, it is erroneously plying his readiness to accept a chal-

stated, on the authority of some lenge.

44 COBEESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. n.

but he reared his children Catholics, and shortly before his death returned to the creed of his fathers. One night Brennan, the noted highwayman, stopped Connor's chaise on the Curragh and demanded his money or his life. Con- nor feigned to grope for his pocket-book, but producing a pistol shot him dead.

To James Connor, Attorney, Tralee.

Holilands, Strand, London : 19 Sept. 1815.

My dear James, — You will find with this a letter from Mary, and the newspapers will tell you of the ludicrous ter- mination of our once serious affair. Prepare Mary for my letter before you hand it to her. Lidwill was arrested the moment of his arrival here, and I escaped until I was putting my foot into the chaise for Dover this morning. After all, I do not think our enemies have the smallest triumph, nor is there any reason for regret, as we did all hi our power to give to the gentlemen a meeting, and that it has been prevented is altogether occasioned by that Govern- ment of which they are the representatives in Ireland. They, too, were the challengers, so that any injury they have to complain of remains unredressed.8

I will stay in London this night to refresh myself, and then be back to my family and trade as speedily as possible. A thousand and a thousand loves to all with you. Your affectionate Brother,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

To his Wife.

Merrion Square : 30th Sept. 1815.

My darling Heart, — Here I am again, surrounded by my babes, and thinking of my own darling, their mother. Nell 9 is greatly improved, even in the short space I have

8 O'Connell was charged with inconsistency for having maintained friendly relations with Peel during the mission to London, in 1825. His reply, in the Dublin Evening Post of November 3rd following, admits that friendly intercouse did take

place, expresses regret for the affair of 1815, and praises Peel's later policy. This letter has been over- looked by the biographers of both.

9 His eldest daughter, afterwards Mrs. FitzSimon, a highly cultured poetess.

1815 O'CONNELL' S BETUBN 45

been away. Betsey and John are delightfully well and most excellent children. How the doats cling to me ! — and our sweetest little Eicarda l is just the greatest treasure in the world. It will cheer you to see what a woman she is grown. I left London on Monday and posted to Shrewsbury, and travelled thence in the day-coach to Holyhead. We reached the Head on Thursday at one o'clock, and sailed at three. The night came to blow tremendously and the packet was crowded to excess. Not a berth could be had for love or money. I lay on the cabin floor as sick as a dog, with three gentlemen's legs on my breast and stomach, and the sea water dripping in on my knees and feet. I was never so conipleatly punished, and of all the wretched nights that we ever spent it really was the most miserable. We, however, got in rather early yesterday. I tumbled into bed as soon as I breakfasted, and am as well this day as ever I was in the whole course of my life — so much so that, but for Bess' letter, I should have set off to-day for Kerry. Bess says you will be here on Tuesday. Darling, I shall remain till Monday, and unless I hear by that day's post of you, I will be off for Tralee by the way of Limerick. Kiss my darling Kate for me, and believe me beyond the power of words Your doatingly fond

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

Addressed ' Mrs. Counsellor O'Connell, Killarney.'

When writing to James Connor he little guessed the source from whence the whisper of betrayal came.

To Colonel Brown.

Mr. O'Connell presents his compliments to Colonel Brown, and with the utmost concern begs to inform him that the delay to which his letter alludes has been caused by a circumstance of the most painful nature — his having been put under arrest by the Sheriff — which is still aggra- vated, in his feelings, from having been done at the instance of Mrs. O'Connell, who, agitated by the publications in

1 Mrs. O'ConnelTs niece, after- appears that O'Connell had a daugh- wards the wife of Mr. John Primrose. ter named Eicarda, born in May, From the family Bible, however, it 1815, who died young.

46 CORRESPONDENCE of DANIEL 0' CONN ELL CH. n.

the newspapers, sent privately, and after he had gone to bed, to the Sheriff. Mr. O'Connell will, the first possible moment, send a friend to Colonel Brown, to make such ar- rangements as the present state of things renders necessary.

O'Connell, after his arrest, returned to Dublin, having been bound in heavy recognisances to keep the peace every- where, and told by Justice Le Blanc that if he and Peel fought afterwards, and either were killed, the survivor would be tried and assuredly hanged for murder.

But Peel seemed bent on having blood, and Lid will, months later, received the following letter from him : —

Calais : Nov. 29, 1815.

Sir, — In one of the Dublin newspapers of the 4th Sept- ember a letter was published with your signature attached to it, purporting to contain an account of what had occurred in conversation between Sir Charles Saxton and you upon the subject of a transaction in which I was concerned.

If you had strictly confined yourself to a report of that which passed at your interviews with Sir Charles Saxton, I should not have thought it necessary to address you ; but you have thought fit to make, in addition, some offensive comments upon my conduct, which will be pointed out by Colonel Brown, the bearer of this letter, and for which I must demand ample reparation.

Peel's bitterness towards Lidwill is explained by the fact that the Protestant Emancipators of that day were more odious to the Ascendancy than the Catholic agitators themselves. Cooke Taylor, the biographer of Peel, says that they were regarded as renegades to their religion, and traitors to the cause of their brethren. Happily Peel and Lidwill never afterwards met. Peel dreaded lest his father should resent the attitude in which he posed, and instructed Croker to keep the affair out of the Courier, the paper which the old gentleman read.

Daniel O'Connell to his son Morgan.

Merrion Square : 19 May, 1815.

My dear Morgan, — Your mother and I are greatly pleased at the regularity with wrhich Maurice and you write

1815-16 DOMESTIC AFFAIRS 47

to us, and \ve have a notion that it is a greater compliment from you than from Maurice, because he has at least the appearance of being more attentive. I am quite sure that you, my dear child, are as affectionate as he is, and you cannot possibly take any better method of proving that you are so than by attending to your improvement.

John and the girls are in great spirits at finding that you and Maurice consider yourselves so happy and com- fortable at College.2 I, too, am myself very much pleased at that circumstance. I will contrive to see you both in a very few days ; sooner I could not do it, as the Courts have continued to sit all the latter part of this week.

To his eon Maurice.

Merrion Square : 2d June, 1815.

My dearest "Maurice, — I have time to write but little to you this day, and would not write at all only that your Mama has fixed on Sunday for christening your little Sister, so that I can not go down to see you until Sunday week. Your uncle Maurice is out for a fishing rod and flies for you, as I am most happy to give you and your brother any indulgence which your Superiors in the College think you may deserve or be permitted to have. I am also very well pleased that you had nothing to do with the shameful plot to turn the professors into ridicule. I hope Morgan kept himself quite free of it also. Tell him I will write to him shortly, and that his little sister is as compleat a Fox as he is.

Your tenderly affectionate Father,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

To his son Morgan.

Limerick : 6 Aug. 1816.

My darling Morgan, — I was greatly pleased with your letter. It delighted me to find that you were advanced in your class. The truth is, that if you took it into your red

2 Morgan was at Clongowes Wood College, county Kildare, at this time.

48 COEEESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. n.

head you could easily be head of the class. I am quite sure you could, but a little laziness and a little carelessness combine to keep you "down. At all events it is pleasing to see that you are rising in the class, and makes me hope you will soon determine to be first of it. Do, my sweet Morgan, take the trouble for one examination, and I promise you that you never will think it a trouble again.

Did you hear of the great duel in Ennis between Charles O'Connell and Mr. Wall ? The latter abused a relation of Charley's, a Mr. Blood, and Charley knocked Wall down. They then fought, fired a shot each, came home safe and arm-in-arm together, got tipsy in company with each other, went together to the ball and danced till morning.

I am glad, very glad to find that you and Maurice are very fond of your sweet little sisters and my good John. John, you must know, is a most excellent boy ; there cannot be a better, and sure you all doat down, down on my sweet little red duck. Upon you she has a particular claim, because she is a sister of the fox breed, and will be as great a rogue as possible.

Give my tenderest love, my love beyond expression in softness and constancy, to your sweet mother, the best darling that ever blessed man with delightful children. Tell her that this is my birthday, and I rejoice in that birth because she has made my life happy. Kiss the sweet red rogue for me. Then there will be, I believe, two red rogues kiss- ing.

Your most affectionate Father,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

24 Novemb. 1816.

My dearest Morgan, — I intended to have gone down to you on Thursday, but, finding that it will not be in my power to see you till next week, I write lest you should be disappointed. The fact is, my child, I have too much cause to fear that I shall hear the most melancholy account of your poor grandmother — my ever dear and beloved mother. I promise to go down next week and to take Mr.

1816-17

THE BISHOPS AND THE VETO

49

Phillips 3 to see you. Tell my darling Maurice that I shall bring down the books he wishes for. If you or he want anything write instantly to your mother, and she will have it carefully packed for me to carry.

Professional hurry makes me forget those things, but your mother does not love you better or more tenderly than I do. Let your letter contain a distinct list of everything you and Maurice want, and repeat again the books, &c., he has already written for, that nothing may be forgotten.

To Edward Hay.4

Limerick : 27th July, 1817.

My dear Friend, — I perceive ' the pliant Trojan ' 5 has got Dr. Murray's 6 support for the Veto. Their publication of their letter to you was intended to intimidate other Bishops from that zealous opposition to the Veto which the people look for, and the times require. The person I am most surprised at is you. Why did you not instantly ' counteract the poison, by publishing all such replies as you received reprobatory of the Veto, and favorable to Domestic Nomination ? 7 I presume you are waiting for more, but as the war began at the other side, you ought at once to havp published every publishable letter.

I conjure you to let Dr. Coppinger's and Dr. O'Shaugh- nessy's letters see the day as soon as possible.8 Discretion will injure, not serve us on this point.

Pope by Napoleon, Monsignor, after- wards Cardinal, Quarantotti, acted as> the Vicegerent of His Holiness. In- 1814 he addressed to Dr. Poynter, B..C. Bishop of the London District, a- Bescript conceding the Veto, where- upon Dr. O'Shaughnessy, Bishop of Killaloe, wrote : ' The result of this.' pernicious document, if acted upon, would be fatal to the Catholic re- ligion ; therefore I hasten to protest against it, and while I have breath' in my body will continue to do so.' Dr. Coppinger, Bishop of Cloyne, was not less outspoken. He pro- nounced ' Mr. Quarantotti's decree a very dangerous document,' adding*

3 The late Mr. Commissioner Phillips, author of Curran and his Contemporaries.

* Secretary to the Catholic Board.

5 This alludes to JEneas Mac- Donnell, who was generally at is- sue with O'Connell. But ..Eneas wrestled with Achilles. Dr. Troy had showed some hospitable attention to MacDonnell, and one evening Lord Norbury exclaimed : ' Behold pious ./Eneas coming from the Sack of Troy ! '

8 Archbishop Murray.

7 Of Bishops.

8 During the imprisonment of the

VOL. I.

50 CORRESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. n.

I am, I own, greatly shocked at the part Dr. Murray is taking.9 I had the highest opinion of him, and the greatest respect for him. But I see he wishes, with Dr. Troy's see, to inherit the patronage of the Catholic Church of Ireland. Oh ! it is melancholy to think of his falling off — he who compared the Vetoists to Judas. As to Dr. Troy, better could not be expected from him. His traffic at the Castle is long notorious. But the sneer at the Board, and the suppressed anger of those prelates, would be ludicrous if the subject were not too important and vital. Are they angry because we urge not the name, but the reality of Domestic Nomination ? Alas, the fact is, that is just the cause of their ill temper and the source of their attack upon us.

You cannot conceive anything more lively than the ab- horrence of these Vetoistical plans amongst the people at large. I really think they will go near to desert all such Clergymen as do not now take an active part on the ques- tion. The Methodists were never in so fair a way of making •converts. Publish, my dear friend, publish. The Ennis Aggregate l was the most numerous ever known. Send me by return the Address of all the Bishops.

Yours most sincerely,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

O'Connell's personal bitterness as a politician drew upon him an amount of ill-feeling rarelv equalled. The voice of scandal spoke at his expense. In prose and verse even his domestic character was impugned, the privacy of his home invaded, and the happiness and purity of his married life denied. Many stories not deficient in humour became

4 In common with every real friend to the integrity of the Catholic re- ligion in Ireland, I read it with feel- ings of disgust and indignation.'

8 O'Connell, in some lines now before me, and penned long subse- quent to the date of the above, records hig high estimate of Dr. Murray. ' A more intimate acquaintance since that period has confirmed these sen- timents. If any man were peculiarly

in

formed to conquer prejudice and abash calumny, that man is Dr. Murray.' This ecclesiastic, who filled the archiepiscopal see of Dublin, survived until 1852. He was assis- tant prelate to Archbishop Troy — cum jure successionis — from 1809 to the death of the latter in 1823.

1 Aggregate meeting of the Catholics of Clare.

1817 O'CONNELL'S FAMILY CIRCLE 51

current at the time, and as some of them have been re- vived in a recent compilation, it may be well to show on authentic evidence how untenable they are. Here is one letter — and a hundred such could be adduced — recording Mrs. O'Connell's opinion of the man after a conjugal experience of near fifteen years. Composition was not the forte of the little Kerry girl, whom he was all but disin- herited for marrying, but her words have an earnestness all their own.

Clifton : July the 14th, 1817.

My own darling Dan, — I assure you, my darling, you are our continual subject. When a kind husband or Father is spoken of, Ellen and Kate will exclaim, ' Mamma, sure he is not so good a husband or Father as our Father.' You may guess, darling, what my reply is. You know what you deserve, and you are aware that in existence I don't think there is such a" Husband and Father as you are and always have been. Indeed, I think it quite impossible there could, and if the truest and tenderest affection can repay you, believe me that I feel and bear it for you. In truth, my own Dan, I am always at a loss for words to convey to you how I love and doat of you. Many and many a time I exclaim to myself, ' What a happy creature am I ; how grateful should I be to Providence for bestowing on me such a husband ! ' And so, indeed, I am. We will, Love, shortly be fifteen years married, and I can answer that I never have had cause to repent it. I have, darling, experienced all the happiness of the married state without feeling any of its cares, thanks to a fond and indulgent husband.

To Charles Phillips.

Bath : 16th October, 1817.

My dear Charles, — I got letters from both the Currans yesterday, containing the melancholy intelligence of their father's death. I will go up to the funeral the moment I hear from you or them. William, in his letter, promises to write again this day. What a man has Ireland lost ! His utility, to be sure, was in his very latter days neutralised by

B2

52 CORRESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. n.

illness and absence ; but what a man was lie ! Of all — the only incorrupted and faithful. . . .

There is a loneliness and heaviness over me when I think of this great man whom we have lost. Charles, there never was so honest an Irishman. His very soul was Eepublican Irish. Look to his history in 1778, in '82, in 1798 — at the Union — at all times — in all places. Look to it, my dear friend — even for your own sake, but, above all, for his : you must erect a monument to both.

Write to me the moment you receive this letter and just say how long I can remain here, and be in full time for the funeral. All the Irish in London, of all classes, must be invited. The upper ranks by cards — the lower, thus : — A printed bill must be sent to all the public houses resorted to by the working Irish, to mention the hour when the funeral will commence, and to request that all persons will fall in, two by two, as they arrive, at the remote end of the proces- sion. I think it would be as well that all persons were re- quired to wear a shamrock. Perhaps this may be said to be too fantastical ; but I think it would be well. On his coffin should be laid a broken harp and a wreath of shamrock. I rather think there should be a committee formed to make arrangements. Whether I go to town or not on Saturday, or wait until Monday, will depend on young Curran's letter of this date. It would affect you to see how sensibly my little girls feel his death. There have been some wet eyes, I promise you. Remember me most kindly to both the Currans, and believe me always,

Yours, &c.,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

The remains of Curran obtained burial in Paddington Graveyard, but in 1839 were removed to the Roman Catholic Cemetery at Glasnevin, near Dublin, where a classic monu- ment to his memory has since been raised.

O'Connell had now become so popular that I find a handsome medal struck by Mossop to commemorate his services. It bears a fine likeness of the man of the people,

1817 PECUNIABY STEAITS 53

•with a wreath of oak leaves and shamrock surrounding the words, ' Erin ma vourneen.'

To J. Charles Lyons, Attorney.

Merrion Square : 18th Dec. 1817.

My dear Friend, — Will you be so kind as to look at the account at the other side, and if it be correct send me the amount by the bearer. Excuse me for writing to you so pressingly, but I know you will readily accommodate me, if quite convenient, as I have a very large and unexpected payment to make this day or rather to-morrow. Do what you can for me in that respect and you will oblige Yours most faithfully,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

The account appended was a long one — embracing a number of items, from drafting an answer in Chancery (£3 8s. 3d.) to ' Case directing plaintiff's proofs' (£1 2s. 9d.) At the foot of the account O'Connell marks it ' Paid, and I owe seven shillings.'

The Earl of Fingall, a Catholic peer of irreproachable character, possessed a patient and conciliatory temperament, and deprecated, as injudicious, the zeal of O'Connell.

In 1817 the 0 'Conor Don addressed a private letter to his lordship, in which, after many other remarks, he said : ' Wishing, as I do, to see a nobleman I so much esteem and respect at our head, and anxious as I am to enjoy the same privileges with my Protestant neighbours, and believing that unanimity is necessary, I am sure you will give me credit for good intentions.'

A copy of this letter was submitted to O'Connell, who returned it with the following words : —

'My dear Friend, — I wish my approbation was of any value, for I much approve of your letter. I hope we will not much longer suffer the misery of being a degraded and inferior class.'

Preserved with the letters addressed to Connell O'Connell are a sheaf of original acceptances, showing how severe

54 CORRESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. IK

were the early struggles through which the future Liber- ator passed. His labours in organising the torpid Catholics involved him in a heavy expenditure, for which long after he was tardily reimbursed. Connell O'Connell was a kinsman of Dan's : their professional relations were those of attorney and counsel.

To Connell O'Connell.

Merrion Square : 18th May, 1818.

My dear Connell, — Indeed, indeed you annoy me very very much. Did I not tell you most explicitly that I was very grievously pressed for money this day ? and surely if I could do without it I would not draw on you.

With respect to the balance you mention it was allowed you in my computation of fees, for it was I who took up the last bill I drew upon you for that purpose, and if you had accepted the two bills I drew on you we should not be more than just clear. I do conjure you to accept them and to send them to me by the bearer. If you wish to serve and oblige me you will do it — or give me the £100 in cash and accept the longer bill of the two. I had reckoned on you most confidently, and am sure, when you recollect the pressure that is on me, you will not refuse me. I therefore again beg of you to send me at least one of the bills accepted and the cash, or both bills accepted. Pray, pray now da not disappoint me.

Yours sincerely,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

I again repeat that it is the actual want of the money makes me thus urge you. And I again beg of you to give me this lift.

To Michael Staunton, Esq.

Killarney : 24 August, 1818.

My dear Staunton, — You will oblige by getting the Freeman's Journal directed to me for the next month to 1 Darrinane, near Cahirciveen.'

1818 THE DUKE OF LEINSTEB 55

For God's sake, who is Milesius ? An admirable writer at all events. I have been and am exerting myself to get your paper into the clubs here. You are now the ' longe et facile primus ' of the Irish press. I think you ought to encourage the painters to join in their petitions against the window tax. If they act separately they will fritter away their strength. Besides, the little Parliament is of infinite value, and will habituate the people to form an organ to express the public sentiment on affairs of greater moment.

In the Cork Mercantile Chronicle of about a week ago there was a little poem of my son's, entitled ' The Shamrock/ I wish you could give it a corner. It is not destitute of some merit,

To Mathias O'Kelly.

[Water mark 1818.]

My dear Friend, — Enclosed you have the requisition for a Catholic meeting. I entreat of you to get — this day and to-morrow, and until two o'clock on Monday — as many signatures of respectable people as you can. Bring it to me to Court on Monday.

Saturday morning.

To O'Conor Don.3

Monday, 27th August, 1818.

My dear Friend, — I am organising a dinner in aid of civil and religious liberty.

The Duke of Leinster will be in the chair. Lords Meath and Fingall, Yice-Presidents. The latter will be asked by deputation. It will be a grand and, I hope, a useful affair.

2 The poem, occupying fifty lines, The matchless melodies of Erin's is devoted to praise of Moore, and lyre.

begins :— It will be remembered that O'Connell

Oh 1 for the harp of him whose regarded Moore's Melodies as a

genius bore valuable aid in the effort to accom-

The Teian bard to Erin's emerald plish Catholic Emancipation.

shore, 3 Then editor of the Freeman's

Who linked in one bright chain Journal.

those lays of fire —

56 COEEESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. n. To 0' Conor Don.

2nd Novr. 1818.

My dear Friend, — I have been all day at Green Street (Court House) defending a Eaper. I have the pleasure to tell you that on Saturday you will find Lord Fingall 4 and his friends at D'Arcy's. For the sake of the cause be here on Friday. I have just heard from a credible person in London that Emancipation is certain. I believe it. — In

haste,

Ever yours, &c.,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

To 0' Conor Don.

Merrion Square : 21st Deer. 1818.

My dear Friend, — I am just the very worst letter- writer in the world, and I cannot give a stronger proof of it than that I have left the letters of, believe me, one of the persons in the world for whom I entertain the most sincere regard and esteem, so long unanswered — and those letters too on a topic the most interesting. Pray excuse me, and if you do blame me, let it not be on the imputation of want of those sentiments which would induce me to shew the very kindest and most respectful attention to anything that comes from you.

I entirely agree with you in your present view of Catholic affairs. We must do without Lord Fingall, and, in truth, I am sincerely sorry for it, because he is an excellent gentleman, and personally as pure as gold, but unhappily subject to some influence from less clean quarters. No matter, we must do without him. But we must not arraign his motives. I am decidedly for petitioning. If I petition alone, I will petition. The question seems to be how that can be done effectually. The [Catholic] Board is defunct. Honest Ned Hay5 has outlawed us all. He makes no distinctions. There are many debts due — there

4 The head of the Catholic laity 5 Mr. Hay had filled the post of

of Ireland. D'Arcy's was an hotel Secretary to the Catholic Board, in which they met.

1818 TEEACHEEY IN THE CAMP 57

is a great indisposition to organize. Yet there is not want- ing among the people zeal and anxiety. But what is to be -done ? I am ready to concur with you in any plan you think best. I will join in anything you choose, or set on foot any system as far as I can that strikes you as likely to .succeed. In the meantime I have thrown together hastily a letter to the Catholics of Ireland. After I have cooled on my first impressions, I will print it in the Weekly Register of the 2nd of January and send you a paper. I mean to put my name to it. This should not, however, suspend any plan you may form. Pray shew that you forgive my silence by answering this. Eequesting my kind regards to your family, and wishing most sincerely to you and them many happy returns of the season, I remain, faithfully yours,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

O'Connell had already heard whispers of treachery in the Catholic body, and was sensitively alive to any act which could be strained to look ugly. In the Wellington Correspondence a letter appears from Sir A. Wellesley to Lord Hawkesbury, dated January 8, 1808, and stating :

' The extracts of letters sent to you by Lord Grenville

were sent to us by , the Catholic orator, two months

ago. The mentioned is a man who was desirous of

being employed by Government as a spy ; and his trade

is that of spy to all parties. He offered himself to ,

Lord Fingall, and others, as well as to us, and we now watch him closely.' 6

Who this man is we are not informed.

In November, 1819, O'Connell brought several charges against the Secretary of the Catholic Board, Mr. Hay, one of which was that, without authority, he opened communica- tion in writing with a Cabinet Minister. Carriers Morning Post, of December 11, 1819, contains a long reply from Mr. Hay, in which, however, I do not find any attempt to meet this allegation.7

6 London, 1860. Civil Corre- must hope ' honest,' though O'Con- spondence, p. 291. nell, in a foregoing letter, uses the

7 Hay was a fussy, smart, and, adjective ironically. Hay had at times, an indiscreet man, but one worked for thirty years as secretary

COLLEGE DE MONTREAU

58 COEEESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. n,

In estimating at its due value O'Connell's unpaid services to the Catholic cause, it is well to know that all this time his Bar business was so great that from morning till night he had no -leisure to break his fast. This state- ment is not framed on oral testimony, which is prone to exaggerate. The fact transpires in letters from his wife. One dated ' Dublin, llth April, 1817,' and written to her husband when attending the Cork Assizes, goes on to say : —

Mrs. O'Connell to her Husband.

My dearest Love, — I wish to God you could contrive to get out of Court for a quarter of an hour during the middle of the day to take a bowl of soup or a snack of some kind. Surely, though you may not be able to spare time to go to a tavern, could not James get anything you wished for from the Bar mess at your lodgings, which is merely a step from the Court House ? Do, my heart, try to ac- complish this ; for, really, I am quite unhappy to have you fasting from an early hour in the morning until nine or ten o'clock at night. I wish I was with you to make you take care of yourself. I am quite sure there is not another barrister on your circuit would go through half the fatigue you do without taking necessary nourishment. . . .

To 0' Conor Don.

Merrion Square : 6th January, 1819.

My dear Friend, — We are thinking of agitating again. All is arranged to wait on the Duke of Leinster on Sunday next to beg his signature to a requisition to the Lord Mayor for a Protestant meeting in our favour. Lord Charlemont, Lord Cloncurry, &c. &c., will sign. We hope Lord Fingall will be one of the party to the Duke. I wish to God you were

to the Catholics of Ireland, but was state in which Hay's large family

superseded at this time in favour of were left, admitted the great services

Nicholas Purcell O'Gorman, after- which for a lengthened period he

wards a County Court judge. Hay had rendered to the Catholic cause,

died of actual want in 1826. It is and then and there opened a fund

due to all parties to record that for their relief. Hay's History of

O'Connell brought before the the Rebellion of 1798 is a valuable

Catholic Association the destitute personal narrative.

1819

JACK GIFFOBD

59

here. Indeed we put the journey off till Sunday in hopes you may come up.

I enclose you the last letter I got from Lord Fingall. You see that he would come to meet a few of us. He will be in town in a few days. This would be an additional reason for your coming up, but that, I fear, would be quite inconvenient at this season.

I got Staunton 8 to send you a paper with my address. I had but one object in writing it — to shew that it was possible to call the Catholics together without introducing one irrelevant or irritating topic. I was as tame as Church music in order to achieve that purpose. But did you see how your friend of the Dublin Journal attacked me ? Many a ludicrous and curious incident has occurred to me in the Catholic cause, but anything so wanton and malignant as this miserable Scotch pedlar's attack was never known. The barking of a cur dog 9 is sense compared with it. I am perfectly right in everything he contradicts. The fellow told Lawless * that he expected to increase the circulation of his paper by assailing me, even amongst the Catholics. Upon my soul I should not be surprised if he did ; but that shall never make me relax. On the contrary, it puts me in spirits for further exertion.

Yours most faithfully,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

8 Mr. Staunton had now started the Register, an influential Catholic organ.

9 The editor of the Dublin Jmir- nal was Jack Gifford, familiarly known as ' the dog in office.' It appears, from the Wellington Corre- spondence, that Pitt deemed him of sufficient importance for promotion. Every friend of civil and religious liberty was assailed in his paper. Grattan, having been accused of trea- sonable designs, retorted in a way which shows that, although he had a great command of language, yet in this instance language had the com-

mand of him : ' It proceeds from the hired traducer of his country, the ex- communicated of his fellow-citizens,, the regal rebel, the unpunished ruf- fian, the bigoted agitator. In the city, a firebrand ; in the court, a liar ; in the streets, a bully ; in the field, a coward. And so obnoxious is he to the very party he wishes to espouse, that he is only supportable by doing those dirty acts the less vulgar refuse to execute.'

1 John Lawless, afterwards known in the struggle as ' Honest Jack Lawless,' edited the Ulster Magazine at this time.

60 CORRESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. n. To 0' Conor Don.

Merrion Square : llth February, 1819.

My dear Friend, — Are you not delighted that you did not stay in the country and plead, as you might, busi- ness, &c. &c. ?

Get the signatures you mention, and as fast as you can.

Could you not contrive to make me and the Grattans acquainted ? It was a Grecian patriot that said, ' Strike, but hear ! ' I was going to swear that Ireland has as true patriots.2 I would cringe to no man, but I would join every man who wishes well to Ireland. See whether, without derogating, we could all join.3

I return your congratulations on the day. — In some haste, but in great sincerity, &c.,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

To 0' Conor Don.

Merrion Square : 15th June, 1819.

My dear Friend, — I should have written to you from circuit. Allow me now to ask whether you can, without inconvenience, come to town before Saturday next ? We have wanted you for some time, but I was unwilling to be

2 O'Connell, in his letters written during the struggle for Emancipa- tion, never counts on the help of his archbishop, Dr. Troy. Eickard O'Connell, B.L., addressing the pre- sent writer, says : —

' Of Dr. Troy I remember hearing him tell, so long ago as 1822, that the patriot Lord Cloncurry of that day told him he was but twice in his life at the Castle when he had urgent business, and on both occa- sions he saw Dr. Troy in the Vice- regal antechamber. In fact the Liberator looked on Dr. Troy then as quite a Castle bishop, ready for the Veto or Quarantotti's Kescript, or any measure of that sort pleasing io the Government.'

Dr. Troy, it should be added, lived

in critical tunes, and were it not for his influence with the Castle, the Catholic chapels in his diocese would, it is said, have been sum- marily closed in '98.

3 The great Grattan of 1782 had become old and querulous at this time. In a public speech he said that O'Connell, in enumerating the grievances of Ireland, had failed to include its greatest grievance — him- self. Shortly before his death, in the following year, a deputation from the Catholic Association, headed by O'Connell, waited on him, when the old patriot became seemingly reconciled to the coming Liberator. With Grattan's sons, Henry and James, O'Connell maintained cordial relations to the end.

1819 PEOMPT MEASURES NEEDED 61

instrumental in bringing you from home until the utility of your honesty, conciliatory temper, and admitted respect- ability became obvious. If you can come up, you will, I think, be the means of a perfect Union. It seems to many honest men necessary so to recommence operations as to be certainly before the next meeting of Parliament, or at least in the first week of their sitting. We have been materially injured by the late period in which the question has always come on.

Affectionately yours,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

To 0' Conor Don.

Merrion Square : 21st Octr. 1819.

My dear Friend, — Whose fault will it be if we are not emancipated this session ? I think our own. One grand effort now ought to emancipate us, confined, as it should be, exclusively to our own question. After that I would, I acknowledge, join the reformer's hand as well as heart, unless they do now emancipate. By they, of course I mean the Parliament.

I intend instantly to set the cause in motion. This great experiment is worth making. I think you will let me have your assistance. I write by this post to Lord Fingall. I am strongly prompted by our friends in Parlia- ment. I wish to God you could come up at once to help me. If we shew out before the Eegent's speech is prepared, perhaps we may be remembered in it. If you agree with me that this time requires a sacrifice you will come up.4 My own opinion is that we will be emancipated now or never.

I came to town only yesterday, and already I have many irons in the fire to raise the blaze which should lead us to victory. I want you much, and the cause wants you more. — Believe me ever, &c.,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

4 The 0' Conor Don resided in Connaught.

62 COEBESPONDENCE of DANIEL 0' 'CONN 'ELL CH. n.

Extract from another Letter of the same date.

' The period is at length arrived when we may ascertain, and place beyond any doubt, whether it be determined that we are for ever to remain a degraded and inferior class in our native land, and so to remain, without any one rational cause, or even any one avowable pretext. We may now reduce the enemies of liberty of conscience to this dilemma — either now to grant us Emancipation, or to proclaim to us, and to the world, that as long as the Parliament shall be constituted as it is at present, so long all hope of Emancipa- tion is to be totally extinguished.

' To this dilemma our enemies may be reduced, and it is a precious advantage to be able, for the first time in the history of Catholic affairs, to place them in a situation in which emancipation cannot be refused without an avowal of stern, unrelenting, and inexorable bigotry ; or of worse, of a disposition to make use of bigotry as an instrument to perpetuate the divisions, dissensions, and consequent degra- dation and oppression of Ireland.'

O'Connell, writing to FitzPatrick on May 14, 1839, casually remarks that he never will get due credit for achieving Emancipation, ' for posterity never can believe the species of animals with which I had to carry on my warfare with the common enemy ; ' and in the same letter he calls them ' crawling slaves.' From such beings it is pleasant to turn to a better specimen of manhood.

To General Bolivar.

Dublin, Ireland : 18th April, 1820.

Illustrious Sir, — A stranger and unknown, I take the liberty of addressing you. I am encouraged to do so by my respect for your high character, and by my attachment to that sacred cause which your talents, valour, and virtue have gloriously sustained — the cause of Liberty and national independence.

Hitherto I have been able to bestow only good wishes upon that noble cause. But now I have a son able to

1820 GENEEAL BOLIVAR 63

•wield a sword in its defence, and I send him, illustrious Sir, to admire and profit by your example, and, I trust, under your orders and auspices, to contribute his humble but zealous exertions for the success of the arms of the youthful but already renowned Eepublic of Columbia.

The delusions of paternal affection may well cause me to appreciate beyond their value the services which are now offered to you. But even I may be permitted to say that those services are disinterested and pure, and that they ori- ginate in sentiments of which you could not but approve, because they are congenial to those which have actuated your high and mighty soul in all your exertions and sacri- fice for the independence of your native land.

To such sentiments of love of liberty are superadded two other powerful motives. The first is, that I feel I owe to the cause of liberty to give you the best proof in my power of the devotion with which your fame and character are ad- mired and cherished in remote regions. The second is, that my son may be enabled to form one link in that kindly chain which will, I hope, long bind in mutual affection the free people of Columbia and the gallant but unhappy natives of Ireland.

Actuated by these views, my son tenders to you his ser- vices. Deign to accept them in the spirit in which they are offered. He accompanies to your shores my gallant and honourable friend General D'Evereux, under whom he will always be proud to serve.

That you, illustrious Sir, will imitate the virtues of Washington — may, like him, live to see the enemies of your country confounded and defeated, and to enjoy the heartfelt gratification of beholding your country perfectly free ; that in your life you may be honoured and revered like Washington, your great prototype ; and that after a long, useful, and glo- rious career upon earth your fame and your memory may be embalmed in the tears and affections of the wise, the good, and the patriotic of all nations, is the fervent prayer of Yours most obediently,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

64 CORRESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. n.

Mr. Morgan O'Connell duly served in the South Ame- rican Army of Independence.

Although anticipating, it may perhaps be added here that on December 20, 1824, O'Connell was arrested for a speech on Bolivar. ' Oppression drives the wise man mad,' he said : ' it has not yet had that effect upon the Irish people ; it has never driven them to the extremity of desperate resistance, and Heaven forbid it should; but if such an event come to pass, may another Bolivar and the example of Greece animate their efforts.'

To 0' Conor Don.

Merrion Square : 5th May, 1820.

My dear Friend, — I wish it were your convenience to come to town. We are getting up another struggle, and we of course want you. Besides, there is the dinner to Alderman McKenny,5 for which I have reserved for you the ticket No. 1. There are so few who honestly and with a clear conscience labour for ' the antient Faith ' that I feel very lonely when you are not with us. Be so kind as to say whether you expect to be in town.

With great truth, &c.,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

To Lord Cloncurry.6 (Private.) Merrion Square : 14th May, 1820.

My dear Lord, — I am so delighted that you had an opportunity at the dinner of seeing the manner the people cherish you because you are honest. It really is better to be so than to take part with the enemy. But now you see that you owe us a debt in return ; and I call on you to pay it on the double.

In the first place, there is the ' Irish National Society for Education.' I enclose you a prospectus — first, for your

5 Alderman, afterwards Sir been usually understood that the

Thomas, McKenny was the only office of chief magistrate conferred

Lord Mayor of Dublin who, in those dignity on the man, but as O'Connell

days, favoured the Catholics by said, in respect to McKenny, the man

giving them an opportunity to ex- conferred dignity on the office, press a sense of the grievances 6 From Personal Recollections

under which they laboured. It had of Cloticurry, published in 1848.

1820 LOED CLONCUBRY 65

own advice and correction ; and then, when you have made it conform to your sentiments, to entreat that you will lay it before the Duke of Leinster, for his approbation and sanction. I am winding up the Eoman Catholic prelates, and making every arrangement to have a public meeting as speedily as possible. We have not an hour to lose, because we should be before Parliament if possible to share the grant. I pray your most speedy attention to this subject. If we can have the Duke as patron, and you as one of the presidents, we shall get on rapidly. . . .

The second thing I would submit to you is our ' Society for Parliamentary Information.' Let us, if you please, begin it. If you will put your name to it, and get me one half-dozen Protestants, I pledge myself to get you a batch of Papists of the first water. If it were once on foot it would accumulate rapidly. . . . Let us not postpone making some efforts for Ireland. We may be calumniated ; but do we not deserve reproach if we tamely crouch beneath our miseries, and leave this ' loveliest land on the face of the earth ' a prey to faction and the victim of unopposed op- pression ? Reflect on this, and let us make an attempt to combine good and honest men in an exertion for the country. Believe me to be, with the most sincere respect and regard, my dear Lord,

Your very faithful and obedient Servant,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

To Lord Cloncurry.1

Merrion Sqre : 16th Novr. 1820.

My dear Lord, — I want a place, and what is more, I want you to help me to get it ; but it is a place for a Eadical, which I am, and ever shall remain.

Will you allow me to ask you whether you deem it wrong to write for me to the Duke of Leinster, to solicit his in-

7 It was the pride of Lord Clon- found almost at all times in the

curry, though belonging by birth and ranks of the people. Died 1853. station to the aristocracy, to be

VOL. I. F

66 CORRESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. ir.

fluence with the Queen8 to appoint me her Attorney-General in Ireland ? She certainly has a right to such an officer, and I have a right to fill the office if she condescends to appoint me. There is not one shilling of public money attached to it ; nor is it in any sense inconsistent with my principles, which are, and ever shall be, favourable decidedly to a complete — say, a radical reform.

I feel I am taking a liberty with you in asking your assistance, but I do hope you know me too well not to believe I would not, for any consideration, ask you to do anything which I was conscious was in any respect incon- sistent with your feelings. If I be wrong in my request, pray excuse me, and do not think the worse of me. I know of no event which would afflict me more than to lose any way in your good opinion.

The truth is, that my leading motive in looking for this office is to annoy some of the greatest scoundrels in society, and, of course, the bitterest enemies of Ireland. I have the honor to be, my Lord, &c.,

DANIEL O'CoNNELL.9

To F. W. Comvay, Journalist.

Merrion Sq. : 17th June, 1820.

Sir, — The short report of the proceedings of the Catholics who met at D'Arcy's on Wednesday last, which you gave in your paper, is correct as far as it goes, but it does not contain the whole truth. It is, I think, my duty to give

8 Caroline of Brunswick. On George IV. ascending the throne in 1820, the Ministry offered her £50,000 a year and the title of Queen of England, if she agreed to reside abroad. This proposal she rejected, and entered London cheered by the people. O'Connell obtained the short-lived office.

9 The above letter appears in the Personal Recollections of Lord Clon- curry, but a correspondence passed between O'Connell and Brougham at this time of which Cloncurry knows nothing. Brougham, after

conferring with Denman, writes to ask O'Connell what precedents he could furnish of a Queen Consort appointing an attorney-general ; whether these appointments were disputed or admitted by the Courts ; did the precedent extend to solicitors- general, and if so, what Protestant barrister would O'Connell recom- mend for that office in the event of the ' Agitator ' holding the other. In reply he urges the claims of Bichard Newton Bennett. (See pp. 10, 43.)

1820 THE CHURCH IN DANGER 67

some further information on the subject. This duty seems to me imperative, because I think we are on the eve of another struggle, to preserve from all encroachment the discipline of the Catholic Church in Ireland.

I may be much mistaken, but it is my firm and decided belief, that the greatest peril which that Church has in these latter years encountered now awaits her. I may also be laughed at for raising the cry of ' The Church in danger ! ' but I am quite content to endure any portion of ridicule, provided I am of any utility in rousing the Catholic people of Ireland from the destructive apathy in which they are now sunk.

The gentlemen who have been in the habit of meeting at D'Arcy's, in Essex Street, and many who have not been in the habit of meeting there, have on the death of Mr. Grattan resolved to give him a successor. We have, I believe, no kind of authority for doing so, save our wish to avoid the difficulty of another aggregate meeting. A committee was accordingly appointed to consider of, and report a fit person to present our petition to Parliament. These three resolu- tions were unanimously passed : —

'1st. That a delegation should wait on Mr. Plunket l respectfully to inquire if he would support the prayer of our petition for relief, unconnected with, and unqualified by, any ecclesiastical restrictions or regulations.

' 2nd. That such delegates should report, in writing, to the committee the answer of Mr. Plunket.

' 3rd. That in case Mr. Plunket should not think fit to give a distinct answer in the affirmative, the committee would report the Knight of Kerry as a fit person to present our petition.'

1 Mr. Plunket, grandfather of law ' : these included the Veto. The the present Lord Archbishop of securities which O'Connell foresaw Dublin, had made some splendid were finally embodied in Mr. Plun- orations — few and famous — in sup- ket's Bill of 1821. Instead of a gene- port of Catholic Emancipation and rous relief bill it might be critically for the relief of Dissenters. How- pronounced a bill of pains and ever, he seems to have been of penalties. That Bill passed the opinion that 'conditions and se- Commons, but was thrown out by curities were necessary in the event the Lords. (See Life of Dr. Doyle, of a Catholic Eelief Bill becoming vol. i. pp. 155 et seq.)

F 2

68 CORRESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. n.

The delegation was appointed ; they had the honour of an interview with Mr. Plunket ; they were received by him with great courtesy, and they obtained from him a written reply.

Of that reply I have a copy ; it was read repeatedly at the last meeting, but it cannot be published ; it is im- possible we should publish it, and I deeply and bitterly regret that it is so, because it contains matter, in my humble judgment, of vital importance. But it is impossible to publish it for this reason, that, in answer to a question from one of the delegation on the subject of publishing, Mr. Plunket expressed an opinion that it ought not to be pub- lished, and the delegation expressly agreed not to publish it. This is a compact which cannot be violated.

I am therefore constrained from giving any of its con- tents. But I may say what it does not contain — and it certainly does not contain an affirmative reply to the question in the foregoing first resolution, or anything at all like an affirmative reply to that question. The duty, consequently, of the committee was at an end ; they were bound by their own unanimous resolution to have reported the Knight of Kerry as a person to be applied to in order to present our petition. That was then: plain duty under these circum- stances— ' sed Diis aliter visum.' Without rescinding the former resolution, a motion was made to report Mr. Plunket ; a division took place ; there were seven for the motion, seven against it, and it was decided in the affirmative by the casting vote of the chairman, Lord Fingall. Upon this contradictory proceeding some other gentlemen, with me, seceded from the committee, and repaired to the general meeting, where I moved an adjournment until Wednesday next, the 21st inst., which, after along and most desultory debate, was carried in the affirmative, as already mentioned.

There cannot be a more efficient advocate than Mr. Plunket. I have no difficulty in saying that he is beyond any comparison the most powerful advocate in either country, England or Ireland. The only possible objection to him

1820 W. C. PLUNKET 69

can arise from his opinions on the subject of legislating, not for civil rights, but for the religious doctrine or discipline of the Catholic Church in Ireland — no man in existence more fit for the one, and there cannot, in my judgment, be any person more unfit for the other ; and the reason why I think him thoroughly unfit to legislate for the religion or discipline of the Catholic Church is one which does him no discredit. It is because he entertains conscientious objec- tions to the allowing our ecclesiastical discipline to remain in its present state. I respect his conscience, but I will preserve my own.

To my judgment, no emancipation can be of any avail but such as shall be satisfactory to all parties. It should not participate in any even if the slightest degree of a victory by the Catholics over the Protestants. On the contrary, it should come as a kind concession from the Protestants, and be received in the spirit of affectionate gratitude by the Catholics. It should, in short, be precisely similar to the relief granted in 1778, to that conceded in 1782, to that bestowed in 1792, and, finally, to that of 1793. In those years there was no mention of any interference with the discipline of the Catholic Church. The Irish Parliament felt that, as Protestants, they were incompetent to form a just notion of the details of our religion, and as legislators, that the best and only security for the state was in our affection and allegiance.

The experience of upwards of forty years has shown that the Irish course of emancipation was as secure as it was beneficent. "Why should it be now departed from ?

For the present, I shall only add — that our first duty seems to be to procure emancipation as Catholics if we can, and if we cannot, then, as Catholics, to remain unemanci- pated. In either event, to remain Catholics in discipline as well as in doctrine.

I have, &c.,

DANIEL O'CoNNELL.

70 COEEESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. n.

Plunket's Catholic Belief Bill of 1821, while giving full eligibility, enacted, with the object of allaying hostile fears, first, that no persons shall assume the functions of bishop or dean in the Catholic Church whose loyalty and peaceable conduct shall not have been previously ascer- tained to the satisfaction of His Majesty ; secondly, that all bills and rescripts from Eome should be submitted to a board of commissioners. Sydney Smith sought by most comical argument to prove the harmless character of this inquisition. ' The portmanteau which sets out every quarter for Eome, and returns from it, is a heap of ecclesiastical matters, which have no more to do with the safety of the country than they have to do with the safety of the moon ; and which, but for respect to individual feelings, might all be published at Charing Cross. Mrs. Flanagan, intimidated by stomach complaints, wants a dispensation for eating flesh. Cornelius O'Bowell has intermarried by accident with his grandmother, and finding that she is really his grandmother his conscience is uneasy. Three or four schools full of little boys have been cursed for going to hear a Methodist preacher. Bargains for shirts and toe-nails of deceased saints — surplices and trencher-caps blessed by the Pope. These are the fruits of the double allegiance — the objects of our incredible fear and the cause of our incredible folly.'

To the Knight of Kerry.

Cork : 8 Apl. 1821.

My dear Sir, — The information you have hitherto given me respecting the Bill has been very satisfactory and correct. It is not your fault if it has passed in its present shape. There are, indeed, some of our friends who surprised us a good deal. Young Eice 2 cannot well escape imputa- tions which I should be truly sorry to countenance. But the Catholic Clergy in Limerick told me early that he would take the precise part he did. The truth is, some people imagine that ice think as little about our religion as they naturally do.

If the Bill passes in its present shape it will tend to

2 Afterwards created Lord Monteagle.

1821 THE CATHOLIC RELIEF BILL 71

exasperate and render matters worse in point of popular tranquillity than they are at present. But I strongly sus- pect that the re-establishment of Legitimacy in Italy will do more to throw out the Bill in the Lords than the eloquence not only of a Master in Chancery 3 but of the Chancellor 4 himself, pathetic as well as poetic although his Lordship be.

I see there is an Assistant Barrister 5 Bill in agitation for England, leaving the trial by jury. I think the plan promises well, and that with modifications it would be highly useful in Ireland. The present Irish system is productive of the vilest perjury, and does more to demoralise our peasantry than all the details of Law and Religion can. be calculated to prevent.

Believe me,

DANIEL O'CONNELL

To his Wife.

Cork : 14th April, 1821.

My sweetest Mary, — I am most sincerely grieved that the pressure of my business here will not allow me to leave this before Monday evening at the soonest. You, sweetest, know how miserable it makes me to be kept away from you, when all my happiness in this world rests in my family. The truth is, I have such an immense pressure, I cannot tear myself away or work through it sooner. I have been obliged to swear that I would return papers before I left this town, and I cannot go away without keeping faith.

I wish with all my heart that the present rascally Catholic Bill was flung out. While I am travelling on Monday morning the rascals will be debating. Yours, with the tenderest fondness,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

3 Mr. Ellis, a prominent anti- 5 County Court judges were at Catholic, is referred to. first styled assistant barristers.

4 Lord Eldon.

72 COEBESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. n. To Cornelius McLouglilin, Dublin.

Cork : 10th April, 1821.

My dear and excellent Friend, — Get as many honest names to the enclosed as you can for some day next week. I have sent one to Dr. Sheridan ; let us do the best we can. Do not despair, the people are honest. I expect to be in Dublin on Saturday night.

Believe me always, &c.,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

'We, the undersigned, request a meeting of the Catholics of Ireland on , the day of April,

to take into consideration the measures necessary to be adopted upon subjects of the most vital importance to the Catholic religion. The place and hour of meeting in this City will be specified in a future advertisement.

' Dublin : April, 1821.'

On April 2, 1821, 216 members of the House of Commons voted for the third reading of the Catholic Belief Bill ; 197 voted against it. Lord Eldon opposed it in the Lords ' on account of the danger with which it threatened the State.' The Prime Minister, Lord Liverpool, deprecated the Bill on every ground ; in the first place, it far from gave satis- faction to the Catholics themselves. The Bill was at last thrown out by the Lords.

To 0 'Conor Don.

Merrion Square : 23rd April, 1821.

My dear Friend, — What is to be done now ? That is the question. Everyone agrees that we should meet. Some are for addressing the King, some for declaring against any further petition, some for proclaiming reform. But I think all agree to meet. It would be desirable to heal the miserable little schism which has arisen amongst ourselves. It can be done only by coming together. Even the Vetoists must admit that securities do no good, because we are kicked out as unceremoniously with them as without them.

.1821 SHEIL'S SYCOPHANCY 73

I send you a copy of the requisition 6 at the other side, and entreat you to allow me to put your signature to it. I hope, too, it will be your convenience to attend the meeting, I think there is no person who could contribute so much as you to prevent the collision of parties. The fact is you are respected and loved by everybody, and your unaffected kindliness of heart and soundness of understanding may, I think, help us out of our present dilemma.

We are cast down by our enemies, and we may make ourselves despicable by either a stupid acquiescence, or by absurd dissension. I care not, however, what quantity of abuse they may fling on myself. I am consoled in my honesty.

To J. D. Mullen.

July 18th, 1821.

My dear Mullen, — I am just told that Sheil 7 has pre- pared an address for the aggregate meeting full of the worst politics, rejoicing at the downfall of the spirit of democracy, & kind of ode in prose in favor of the Pitt system. I entreat of you to exert yourself to bring as many honest ' men as possible to the meeting to enable us to control any political rascality. Perhaps we are in more danger than you imagine.

Believe me, &c.,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

To the Earl of Donoughmore.

Mr. O'Connell had the honour of waiting on Lord Don- oughmore from several Catholic gentlemen respectfully to solicit his Lordship's kind counsels (which have always been so readily and usefully bestowed) on the subject of the ' out-

6 It requested ' a meeting of tragic dramatist. Conscious of his the Catholics of Ireland at Dublin own power, and anxious to reach on Monday, the 7th of May, 1821, to Emancipation and its boons by a take into consideration the present short cut, he was a Vetoist at this state of Catholic affairs, and the time, and willing to give the Crown measures best suited to the wants securities which, some theologians and wishes of the Catholics of Ire- said, would have the effect of land.' undermining and finally subverting

7 Afterwards the Bight Hon. B. religion. L. Sheil, then chiefly known as a

74 COEEESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. ir.

rage ' committed on their feelings by Mr. Alderman Darley having revived the obnoxious and insulting toast at the Mansion House.8 The Catholics apprehend much jealousy on the one hand, and great encouragement to dissension on the other, if the Government shall continue in office and leave unpunished a person who has thus a second time violated the good understanding between all parties. At the same time they are unwilling to take, unadvisedly, any such public proceeding as may increase the interruption of har- mony. Mr. O'Connell will have the honour to call again at any hour Lord Donoughmore will be so good as to signify.

4 o'clock, Saturday.

A long reply from Lord Donoughmore went on to say:—

In the celebration of the treaty of conciliation between the Corporation of this city and some very respectable per- sons of the E.G. body, and at which kind mention waa made both of the living and of the dead who had the honour of being selected as their parliamentary advocates, though Lord Donoughmore was thrown overboard altogether, or perhaps placed by common consent as the first offering upon the altar, in token of the entire oblivion of all inconvenient recollections on both sides, Mr. O'Connell is quite justified

in considering Lord D 's best counsel and most zealous

exertions at all times the property of his E.G. countrymen, whenever occasions shall arise to call for either one or the other for their service.

To Lord Donoughmore.

Merrion Square : 9th Sept. 1821.

My Lord, — I delayed acknowledging the receipt of your letter until I could have the honour of informing you that I had transmitted it to the Earl of Fingall as the proper channel to communicate its contents to the gentlemen who conferred with me on the occasion which induced my visits

8 ' The glorious, pious, and im- of the King's visit to Ireland at this mortal memory ' of William of time, that all past feuda should Orange. A sort of compact had merge into a cordial spirit of con- been entered into, on the occasion oiliation.

1821

LOBD DONOUGHMORE

75

to your Lordship. The advice you, my Lord, were pleased to give, was that which everybody recognises to have been the most suitable to the occasion. Allow me to return your Lord- ship most respectful thanks not only in my own humble name, but in the name of all the gentlemen who acted with me on that occasion. Indeed, the Catholics must always feel the deepest sense of gratitude towards your Lordship, although they may find it impossible to evince that gratitude in par- ticular circumstances. For myself personally, I am under obligations to your Lordship and your family which no time can weaken, nor can any opportunity ever occur to enable me sufficiently to testify my sense of the favours which I have received. Believe me, my Lord, that no event has taken place to give your Lordship just reason to suspect any portion of the Catholics of neglect, and if I were not un- willing to trespass on your time by going into details I would, I think, satisfy your Lordship on that subject.

To Frederick William Conway.9

Cork : October 1st, 1821.

Sir, — As my travelling cap ' seems destined to make part of history, I may be permitted to request that you will be so good as to give the most unequivocal contradiction in my name to the person, whosoever he be, who has accused me of asserting ' that I got it from the King.' 2

I incline strongly to think that no earthly consideration would be sufficient to induce me to say so in earnest ; and to say so in jest would be a dull joke — indeed, dull beyond the proverbial insipidity of bar jesting, where there is ' laughter much at little jest.1

9 An influential journalist.

A London paper of the day gave prominence, as ' From Our Own Correspondent,' to the following, dated ' Dublin, September 16, 1821 : Counsellor O'Connell is now travelling on circuit, with a fur cap and gold band, which he says is a present from the King, who certainly wore such a cap on his landing in

Ireland.'

- O'Connell had presented alaurel crown to George IV. when leaving Dunleary, now Kingstown, after his conciliatory visitin 1821 ; and, touch- ing a proposition from Lord Car- bery, pledged himself to give twenty guineas annually from his own in- come to help in building an Irish palace for the King.

76 COEBESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. n.

I cannot refrain from adding that I am astonished to find that even in London there could exist a newspaper so exquisitely silly as to notice the fur cap. With which I have the honor to be,

Your very obedient,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

To his Wife.

Cork : 12th Oct. 1821.

My Heart's Darling, — I got your very affectionate letter of Wednesday, and felt the extreme happiness of having so tender a partner of every care and every joy. I could write something like poetry to my own darling if I thought that it would express more strongly what I feel. I see I could easily encourage you to come to Limerick, and I am greatly, greatly tempted to encourage you. But no, I must stay here until Tuesday. I then run off to Darrinane for three or four days, and, indeed, I will make no delay but a very short one in Tralee, just to settle my accounts and be off ; so that if you were to come down we would have little more than the happiness of travelling together. That, to be sure, would be to me exquisite happiness, but then, sweetest, it would be making you run a terrible risk at this season, and if you were but one hour ill I would never, never forgive myself. I cannot tell you how my heart languishes to be with you or to express that kind of seethings of the heart which I feel at being so long absent from you, but I will, indeed, hasten to meet you. It is in the meantime im- possible to tell you how dearly, how tenderly I doat of you. Lay it to your heart, darling, that there never was a woman so loved.

I enclose you £50 for the house. Oh, how happy I should be to allow you to meet me on Tuesday in Limerick if I dared ; but the shortness of the time, the badness of the weather, and one thousand apprehensions drive it out of my head, in particular the desperate road to Tralee from Limerick. It is in a frightful state. It would be better to <3ome here at once ; but this is all idleness.

1821 HIS CAP 77

The assizes are now quite over, and I spent this day arbitrating. To-morrow I will be busy writing one thousand things, but I will, please God, write to my sweet Betsey,3 and you may expect a letter from me every day while I am here. I had a great and glorious assizes. I believe I am at the top of the wheel, for which I thank God. I must conclude, darling, with wishing you and my children every blessing, and assuring you of the fondest love Of your ever true

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

I had great fun at the county meeting. You never saw or heard of anything that took better than my hit at Mahon in reply to his attack on my cap. I concluded by saying ' I would call my cap the cap of unanimity, but then the cap would not fit Mr. Mahon.'

To his Wife.

Tralee : 30th Oct. 1821.

My own Love, — I do not, darling, deserve your lecture,, and I love you with a tenderness which nothing can ever abate, and which I check myself from expressing because, if I were to indulge in the expression of it, the terms are too fond which I should use, and yet they could not convey the idea of the excess with which I love you.

Darling, your son and I arrived here yesterday from Carhen. We had a delightful day of it riding to Killorglin ; then we were jumbled in a carriage over the worst of all possible bad roads. Your son was excessively tired, as he had been dancing the night before at Primrose's4 until two in the morning in great spirits, but to a most miserable piper. He every day endears himself more and more to his father, of which, I suppose, you are a good deal sur- prised.

I am extremely hurried here, as you may imagine, and am now on the point of going into the Connor's affairs. I

3 His youngest daughter, still common.

alive. She married N. J. Ffrench, 4 Mr. John Primrose married the

Esq., of Fortwilliam, county Eos- niece of Mrs. O'Connell.

78 CORRESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. n.

wish they were over, that I may be off for my sweetest darling love and her darling girls and boys. Tell my sweetest Daney 5 that he is the greatest of all possible doats, and that his father will give him leave to be as bold as he chooses for a full week after his return to Dublin. I wish I had time to write to my dear John. Tell him that I do not love him the less for not writing to him.

To his Wife.

Ennis : 12th March, 1822.

My darling Love, — I wrote two letters to you yesterday. Serjeant Lefroy arrived here about one o'clock this day and tried one record. To-morrow a great case of a Priest, a friend of mine, comes on for defamation. And the next day another great cause, after which I will, please God, go to Tipperary on my way to Wexford. I mean to be back in Limerick early on Monday morning, before the jury can be sworn. I should be very grateful to Providence, which has given me so strong a constitution as to enable me to resist all fatigue. Blessed be His holy name !

Your alarms about the county of Limerick are greatly exaggerated — the people attack only their enemies. Besides, darling, I travelled at hours in which they never attack any- body. And the military force is immense. You need, in truth, be under no kind of uneasiness for me.

It is not surprising that O'Connell should have been idolised by his family and highly regarded by friends when we read what W. H. Curran, an Irish Protestant, says of him about this time. After describing his tall expanded frame, such as befits a man of the people, Curran adds : ' In his face he has been equally fortunate ; it is extremely comely. The features are at once soft and manly : the florid grow of health and a sanguine temperament are diffused over the whole countenance, which is national in the outline, and beaming with national emotion. The expression is open and confiding, and inviting confidence ; there is not a trace of malignity or wile — if there were, the

5 Then aged six years.

1822

HIS COMELINESS

79

^bright and sweet blue eyes, the most kindly and honest- looking that can be conceived, would repel the imputation.' Dr. E. E. Madden once described W. H. Curran as ' a man who would freeze you.' The impression which O'Connell left on this keen student of character is, therefore, to be prized.

80 COEBESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. m.

CHAPTEE III.

Lord Norbury and Mr. Saurin — A Discovery — Weak and Vacillating Policy of Lord Wellesley — The Viceroy's Path strewed with Insults — Matin Devotions — Catholic Emancipation offered — Belief Bill prepared— De- putation to London — Full Details in O'Connell's Letters to his Wife — His Parliamentary Examination— Lionised and feasted — The Great Men he met — Attends the Levee — The Catholics duped— The Cup dashed from their Lips — Bill to suppress the Catholic Association — O'Connell re- fuses Eeimbursement for Time and Toil — The Catholic Eent — Dr. Doyle's Coolness with O'Connell — ' The Wings ' — The Duke of York — Eibbonism active.

ONE evening the well-known Chief Justice Lord Norbury thrust under the seat of his arm-chair a letter which had reached him when enjoying by the fireside well-earned rest after a day of toil. The chair was subsequently sent to an upholsterer for repair, and the letter came to light. The writer was the Orange Attorney-General Saurin, who urged the Chief Justice to exert the influence of his official posi- tion, whilst going on circuit as judge, to personally mingle in political conversations with the Grand Jury, in order to check the progress of the Catholic question. It had often been- suspected, but this letter now proved that poison had been poured into the very fountains of Justice.1 It found its way to O'Connell, who was shocked at the contents.

1 The following is the letter in

question : —

' Dublin : August 9.

' Dear Lord Norbury, — I tran- scribe for you a very sensible part of Lord Eosse's letter to me : —

' " As Lord Norbury goes our Circuit, and as he is perfectly ac- quainted with the Gentlemen of our country, a hint to him may be of use. He is in the habit of talking individually to them in his Chamber at Philipstovvn ; and if he were to

impress upon them the consequence of the measure, viz. — that however they may think otherwise, the Catholics would, in spite of them, elect Catholic Members, and then have the nomination of the Sheriffs, and, in many instances perhaps of the Judges ; and that the Protestants would be put in the background as the Catholics were formerly, I think he would bring the effect of the measure home to themselves, and satisfy them that they could scarcely

1822 NOEBUBY'S LETTER TO SAUBIN 81

To N. P. O'Gorman, Secretary to the Catholics of Ireland.

Merrion Square : 22 June, 1822.

My dear O'Gorman, — I beg leave to deposit the enclosed letter with you as a document of great importance to the Catholics of Ireland. I deposit it with you in your capacity of Secretary to the Catholics and for public purposes, and I request you, as such secretary, to call a meeting of such noblemen and gentlemen as take a part in managing our affairs, to consider the propriety of either petitioning Parlia- ment or instituting a prosecution on the subject of this letter, and of the conspiracy which it proves to convert the judicial office into an engine of calumny and bigotry. Very faithfully yours,

DANIEL O'CONNELL.

P.S. — Acknowledge the receipt of this. I think the meeting should be private.

To the Eight Hon. W. C. Plunket, M.P., Attorney -General.

Merrion Square : 1st July, 1822.

My dear Sir, — I had the honor to receive your letter of the 25th of June, and am sincerely sorry to see that you think the plain evidence of a foul and most dangerous crime — the perversion of the administration of Justice to political purposes — should be sacrificed to some notion of etiquette. I am indeed very sorry for it.

I hope and trust that, if any Catholic had been guilty of an attempt to corrupt a judge and to pervert the administra-

submit to live in the country if it stitution, they shall infallibly lose

were passed." theirs, it would alter their conduct,

* So far Lord Eosse ; but what he though it could neither make them

suggests in another part of his honest nor respectable." letter : — ' If you will judiciously administer

' " That if Protestant Gentlemen a little of this medicine to the King's

who have votes, and influence, and County or any other Members of

interest, would give these venal Parliament that may fall in your

Members to understand that if they way, you will deserve well, will purchase Catholic votes by be- ' Affectionately and truly yours,

traying their Country and its Con- ' WM. SAUBIN.'

VOL. I. G

82 COBBESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. in.

tion of so sacred a thing as public justice to any purpose injurious to the State, or even to the meanest Protestant in that state, such Catholics would be prosecuted with the utmost rigour of the law. In the case of a Catholic so offending I should be desirous that the usual modes of obtaining evidence of secret conspiracies, namely, the giving rewards to any associate who would betray and prove guilt, would be resorted to. Such crimes require and justify the hiring, at wages, of that kind of treachery which all honest men abhor, but must make use of, otherwise secret con- spiracies would go unpunished. In the case of an offending Catholic I should hope that his crime would be thus sifted, detected, and punished. I am not so foolish or so uncandid as to assert that the case of a Protestant who conspires to injure the Catholics can in the present temper of Society in these countries, and under the present system, with at least one half the administration in both decided enemies of Catholic rights and liberties — I am not, I say, so foolish and uncandid as to assert that under such a system the crimes of Catholics and Protestants against each other should be weighed in the same scales of gold ; neither theory nor practice warrant me to say so. But yet this is so plain, so distinct, so enormous an offence ; the evidence of it has been procured in so guiltless a way — no reward, no price has or can by any remotest possibility be now or here- after paid for it ; it is handed to us by that kind of chance which is sometimes absurdly, and at other times perhaps piously, called ' providential ; ' it furnishes so strong, so striking a feature in the causes of Irish misery that I can- not bring myself to believe but that on reflection you will see the necessity, or at least the propriety, of not allowing these offenders to escape.

Under those circumstances I feel it to be my duty again, and in the most respectful manner possible, to tender you the copy of this letter and to offer you the proof of the original, and also of the manner in which it has been procured.

I am happy that, as this letter is addressed to you merely

1822 LORD WELLESLEY 83

as a public man on a public subject, it does not require from you any reply. The contents are dictated by perhaps a mistaken, but certainly a strong as well as painful sense of public duty. I wish the manner of performing that duty could sufficiently express the unfeigned respect with which

I have the honour to be, &c., ™/~(

DANIEL 0 CONNELL.

O'Connell then appealed to Brougham, who did not hesi- tate to animadvert in Parliament on Saurin's letter, espe- cially as it was connected with the return of members to the House. Peel replied that he would rather be the writer than he who, having found the letter, made so base a use of it. Both Saurin and Norbury were then alive. The point has no force now.

In 1821 Lord Wellesley became Viceroy — the first Irish- man who for centuries had filled that post. Having advo- cated the Catholic claims, his appointment was a popular one, and some said that Lord Liverpool designed it to divert O'Connell from his proposed alliance with the English Eadicals. Orangeism had long held high festival in the land, and strong party-toasts were constantly given at its feasts. This practice Lord Wellesley mildly deprecated, but the intimation was not well taken, and hopes were cherished that his tenure of office might soon end. At a dinner of the Beefsteak Club (an Orange Body) the chairman slyly pro- posed ' The exports of Ireland ! ' Among those present were three Castle officials, whom Lord Wellesley next day dis- missed ; but in cooler moments he magnanimously an- nounced his intention of himself dining with the offending Club. He was most gracious. The entire company rose when he moved to retire, and he passed out bowing through files of Orangemen. But he had scarcely reached the door when ' The exports of Ireland ! ' was given and received with a roar of vivacious acclamation, and the Viceroy descended the stairs, stung by an insult which was destined later on to widen.2 His policy towards the Orangemen continued weak and vacillating. Alderman Kingston James, an aggressive Corporator, was made a Baronet. Patronage, instead of

2 Great license of language dis- devil pelting priests at him.' ' Sup- figured these reunions. Lord Monck, pose you substitute monks for or, as he was familiarly called, priests,' said Sir P. Bellew, who ' Moncks,' gave, as chairman : ' The chanced to be present as a guest, pope in the pillory of Hell and the

G 2

84 COBRESPONDENCE of DANIEL O'CONNELL CH. in,

being equally distributed, flowed in the old channels. The celebration of ' July the Twelfth ' — the date of the defeat of James — had long been a time-honoured observance in Dublin. The statue of William in College Green — dressed with symbolic trappings and painted in orange and blue— became a scene of theatric triumph, followed often by midnight disorder and outrage. O'Connell felt — rightly or wrongly — that he had been cajoled by Lord Wellesley,3 who blandly asked the Agitator's aid in his efforts to tranquillise Ireland. The oil of flattery temporarily calmed the troubled sea of our Tribune's thoughts ; but the effect had now passed away, and the following letter affords sufficient record of the change.

To the Marquis Wellesley, dec. dec. dec.

Merrion Square : July llth, 1822.

My Lord, — To-morrow will finally decide the character of your administration. The oppressed and neglected Catholics of Ireland had fondly hoped that they might have obtained from a Jriend placed in the exalted situation which your Excellency occupies, a recommendation in favour of their claims. You took an early opportunity to crush that hope for ever. In your reply to the Address of the Catholics of the county of Clare, you told the Irish people that you came here to ' administer the laivs, not to alter them.'

My Lord, but a few weeks elapsed, when you deemed it expedient to recommend the Insurrection Act, and the Act to suspend the Habeas Corpus. That the latter was not wanting, is now admitted by everybody; and that any necessity is a justification of the former, remains, in my humble judgment, to be proved. But let these pass.

It still remains for your Excellency to administer the laws. Hitherto the Catholics have felt no advantages from your Excellency's administration. The system by which we are governed, the cold system of exclusion and distrust,

3 Times have changed. The fused to keep in repair the Statue of Freeman's Journal of June 13, 1888, King William or to permit its re- publishes a letter complaining that moval. the Corporation of Dublin has re-

1822

AN ORANGE FESTIVAL

85

is precisely the same with that of the most rigid of your predecessors. One principal actor,4 to be sure, has been withdrawn from the scene, and we may deem the alteration a compliment ; but I am yet to learn what benefit we are to derive from it ; and I appeal to your Lordship, whether the change to which I allude has not been amply compensated for, to the exclusionists, by the removal of the mildest, kind- liest, and best public man Ireland has yet ever seen, Mr. Grant.5

Your Excellency came to administer the laws. My Lord, I most respectfully, but at the same time most firmly, call upon you to administer them. The exhibition intended (it is said) for to-morrow, is plainly a violation of the law. It is an open and public excitement to a breach of the peace — it is a direct provocation to tumult — it obstructs the public street, by collecting on the one side an insulting, and on the other an irritated, concourse of persons. It is, my Lord, for these, and other obvious reasons, a manifest violation of the law.

I pledge myself to prove, before any Court, or to any impartial Jury, that the usual annual exhibition on the 12th of July is illegal ; I make this pledge under no small risk ; I have certainly as large, probably a larger profes- sional income than any man in a stuff gown ever had at the Irish Bar; an income depending mainly upon the public notion that I understand something of my profes- sion. I could not afford to forfeit that public confidence, and yet I freely consent to forfeit it all, unless I am able to demonstrate to any judicial tribunal that the annual ex- hibitions of the IZth of July are illegal.

Having given this pledge, I again respectfully call upon your Excellency to vindicate the exalted character you have

4 ' Bushe is one of the first men