Parliamentary Reform.

Chapter XVII.

1831-1833.

**Renewed Agitations and Party Struggles - The Parliamentary Reform Question - Negociations for a Peace with Mr. O’Connell - Letters; from Mr. O’Mara, from Mr. O’Connell - Memorandum by the Earl of Meath - Mr. O’Connell re-opens his Campaign

• Letter from Mr. O’Mara - Subsequent Reconciliation with Mr. O’Connell - Letters; from Mr. O’Connell, from Mr. Wm. Murphy, from Lord Anglesey - Manly Struggles of the Lord Lieutenant - Letters from him - Termination of Lord Anglesey’s Second Viceroyalty -His Intercepted Letter to Lord Grey - His Irish Policy - Letters; from Mr. Littleton, from Lord Anglesey - Created an English Peer - Letters; from Myself; from the Duke of Leinster; from Mr. George Villiers.**

The mischief with which (to use Lord Anglesey’s expression) Mr. O’Connell was charged when he set out for Ireland to prepare a reception for the Noble Marquis, in December, 1830, exploded with a vengeance in the ensuing year. During it the Anti-Tithe, and Repeal, and half a dozen other agitations, reached their highest stages; and the miserable scenes of Newtown-Barry, Castle-Pollard, and Carrickshock were enacted. On the other side, there was no want of an equally violent reaction. The Tory lords and squires saw the miserable advantage afforded them by the imprudence of their emancipated serfs, and they lost no time in employing it in an endeavour to regain their former power. Great Protestant meetings were held, and it was determined by the leaders that they would rejoin the Orange Association, even at the expense of lowering their dignity by an alliance with the middle and lower classes of Protestants, without whose assistance they were fully sensible that they could do nothing.

These latter took the bait, and forgetting how often they had been sold by their aristocratic allies, they not only declared for a renewal of that struggle for ascendancy which had ruined their common country, but consented to allow themselves, their votes and interest, to be handed over to the anti-Reformers of England, as a consideration for the support by that party of the objects of the Irish Tory leaders. Parliamentary reform thus became converted into an Irish religious question, without, I believe, the mass of the people caring much about it in its civil aspect.

The Roman Catholic masses shouted for Reform, because it was denounced by their old oppressors. The Protestant tradesmen, shopkeepers, and small gentry clamoured and voted against it for the equally valid reason that it was supported by Daniel O’Connell and his tail, never reflecting that they who lived in the country; who throve in its prosperity, and suffered in its distress, who could not bring it to market for a ribbon, or a title, or a commissionership - that they were the parties most interested in securing for Ireland a fair share of influence in the imperial legislature.

This position of affairs much impeded the stable settlement of the Reform question, in so far as related to Ireland. It prevented ‘at the time the obtaining of the best terms that might have been obtained, and it left behind it a new party division among Irishmen, that has contributed much to hold them in that position of subserviency to England, into which a similar cause - the split upon parliamentary reform-plunged them on the very morrow of the birth of the Irish nation, in 1782. For my part, having seen, as I had, the mischiefs of a corrupted and narrow representative system, I threw myself zealously into the reform movement; and, in the hope of advancing it, listened with pleasure to a proposition for peace with Mr. O’Connell, made to me through a neighbour of mine and a relation of his, the particulars of which, though in the end it came to nothing, are worth reading, as throwing some light upon the character of that extraordinary man. The story will be best told in the words of the correspondence that took place upon the occasion:- *

T. O’Mara, Esq., to Lord Cloncurry.

*[Mr. O’Mara was a well-known solicitor, whose warlike habits caused his services to be much sought for at contested elections. A story was told of him in reference to one of those occasions, which, if not *vrai, *was generally supposed to be *vraisembleble. *When his principal remonstrated with him upon the serenity of temper with which he endured certain exhibitions of zeal on the part of the opposing agent, “Excuse me,” said Mr. O’Mara, “your fee wasn’t a fighting one.”]

Dublin, 20th January, 1531.

“My good Lord - I think I may say, with Dan, that the fate of the country is in your hands.

Lord Meath called at Lisaniskea this morning; and after the interview with him, I put all forms on one side, and went to Dan, who has agreed to act in conformity *with *the *wishes *of Lord Meath and *your *Lordship, and has pledged himself to me to that effect. After seeing Dan, I went to Lord Meath, and told him, who seemed delighted with the prospects of peace, and desired I should instantly write to your Lordship; and desired me to say that he would meet your Lordship and Dan any day most your convenience, at Lisaniskea. I promised to let him hear from me as soon as I heard from your Lordship. I have the honour to be,

Your Lordship’s faithful servant,

T. O’Mara.” *

Daniel O’Connell, Esq., to T. O’Mara, Esq.*

22nd January, 1831.

“My dear O’Mara - I do most anxiously wish to confer with Lords Meath and Cloncurry on the present awful position of public affairs, and the possibility of calming the public mind. I would wish that this desire of mine should be communicated to their Lordships in the manner most respectful to them both, and to each of them individually.

I have had a communication with a person in the confidence of the ministry, in England, but whose name I cannot disclose, who states distinctly, that all the ministry desire is to postpone the Union question, until those of reform, abolition of corporate monopoly, and reformation of Church abuses, are disposed of - thus leaving “the Union” for the last.

I think this may be done by Lord Cloncurry and Lord Meath, in such a manner as to carry with them, the public mind, preserving only just so much, or rather so little, of popular agitation, as would *continue *the confidence of the people in the prospect of legitimate redress; such prospect being, in my mind, the only mode of preventing violence and outrage, and *probable *rebellion. I think that Lords Meath and Cloncurry are the only persons in Ireland who can *certainly *save us all from scenes too horrible to be thought of but which will be accelerated by shutting the eyes to their imminent and approaching danger.

I would wish respectfully to offer my assistance to Lords Cloncurry and Meath: they should have that assistance cordially and sincerely. I would either appear prominent, or stay in the background, precisely as they wished. I would either agitate with them, or leave the entire and exclusive management of the necessary quantity of salutary agitation to them. I think I could give them much aid; and I am, most desirous of throwing into their hands the full direction of all the influence which I may possess, whatever that be. In short, I would desire to converse with them on these subjects; and if I be wrong in any of my views of the present position of affairs in Ireland, there are no men living whose mature judgments would have more influence over mine. I would also be glad to communicate to them all the facts that have come to my knowledge respecting the state of popular feeling.

In fine, I am deeply convinced that Lords Meath and Cloncurry have it in their power to put themselves at the head of the popular party in Ireland, and to do more good to the country, and prevent more evil, than any two persons ever had before.

I need not add that no part of this correspondence, nor any communication that may follow, shall ever be disclosed, save by their directions; it being understood that an honourable secrecy is the basis of our meeting.

I am yours very faithfully,

Daniel O’Connell.” *

T. O’Mara, Esq., to Lord Cloncurry.*

Lis-an-Iskea, Monday night, 24th Jan.

“My good Lord - Maurice O’Connell mistook his father’s message yesterday.

I saw O’Connell this day, who desired me inform you, that you may keep the letter as long as you like.

I never witnessed anything so turbulent and angry as the populace were in Dublin this day - not even in the height of ‘98.

Let what will come, my highly-valued countryman, while I can draw a sword or a trigger, you will find me

Your attached faithful friend,

T. O’Mara.” *

Daniel O’Connell, Esq. to Lord Cloncurry.*

Merrion-square, 25th January, 1831.

“My Lord - I heard yesterday with much regret that Mr. O’Mara totally mistook the meaning of a verbal message which I sent him, and, in consequence of that mistake, called on your Lordship to return the letter I addressed to him *nominally, *but to you and Lord Meath *really. *That letter I made your property, and, of course, could not reclaim it - heaven knows it would be but little worth my while to trouble you about it.

The demand of Mr. O’Mara having arisen from a mere mistake-you are at liberty to do *anything *or *nothing *with the letter as your own judgment dictates.

I gladly avail myself of this opportunity to assure you of the pride and pleasure I feel at being again able to address you, and to assure you, that I am, with great respect, my Lord,

Your very faithful and obedient servant,

Daniel O’Connell.” *

Memorandum by the Earl of Meath.*

“Some time previous to the 22nd January last, a particular friend and relative of Mr. O’Connell called on me and stated, that he, O’Connell, was most anxious to have a communication with Lord Cloncurry and me, and to put himself entirely under our advice and direction as to the conduct he should pursue under existing circumstances; he further stated that he conceived, that by our not declining to meet Mr. O’Connell, we should have it in our power to put a stop to the evils which threatened, and that we should be instrumental in saving the country; he also asked me whether I was likely soon to see the Lord Lieutenant, as he thought that if his Excellency knew that such a meeting was to take place, it might have the effect of suspending any harsh proceeding which might make Mr. O’Connell the less inclined to follow any suggestions that might come from us.

After a consultation on the subject with some friends, Lord Cloncurry and I agreed to comply with Mr. O’Connell’s request, and, accordingly, fixed to meet him at Lord Cloncurry’s house, on the 22nd of January, having previously requested of his friend to get Mr. O’Connell to put in writing what the object of the meeting was to be - this Mr. O’Connell did (see his letter). We then met him, and after much conversation, in which Mr. O’Connell gave us to understand that he was anxious to cease all agitation (being much alarmed for the state of the country), and stated that he had received a letter from a person high in the confidence of ministers, declaring their determination to do everything required for Ireland this session, short of a Repeal of the Union, provided he (O’Connell) would give up the question for the present; he, therefore, proposed to Lord Cloncurry and me, that he should give up all agitation, and to use his influence to allay the present ferment, provided we would join the Society for the Improvement of Ireland, and discuss political subjects therein, especially the reform question, the abolition of corporations, and the new application of the temporalities of the Church, not interfering with present incumbents; also, that we should promote county reform meetings, and that we should pledge ourselves to the future support of the Repeal; we, of course, declined entering into any such engagement; a proposal was then made to him, that he should sign a certain paper drawn up by us; he said, that his signing it would have no earthly effect, and that, on the contrary, it would diminish his power of preserving the peace, which, of all things, he chiefly desired.”

Thus ended that affair; and, immediately *after *its conclusion, Mr. O’Connell re-opened his battery of abuse, and worked it with his accustomed vigour, during the entire of that year, until as it would appear from the following communication, his friends began to tire of the war:- *

T. O’Mara, Esq., to Lord Cloncurry.*

Lis-an-Iskea, 1st January, 1832.

“My valued and esteemed good Lord-I should not trespass on you with this note, but from a feeling that it may ease and soothe the mind of your amiable, attached, affectionate partner, Lady Cloncurry, by knowing that your name is not again to be mentioned at public meetings.

I had a long interview with Mr. O’Connell yesterday, and after accusing him of attacking friends and foes indiscriminately, I mentioned his attack on Lord Anglesey, Lord Cloncurry, &c. &c.

Lord Cloncurry, or the warmest friend of Lord Anglesey, could not give a more honourable description of the high-minded soldier’s private worth and character. But he wants him to get rid of Mr. B---, &c. &c. He wants Lord Cloncurry to come to his place, at the head of his countrymen, and endeavour to obtain justice for his country.

What passed between him and me would be too much for a letter, but on your Lordship’s return I will give you the entire, and am confident you will be pleased with it.

Mr. O’Connell has assured me that until the reform bill shall be passed, he will act bring before the public (at his meetings), the name of any friend.

I am well aware that this letter contains nothing of any value for your Lordship. But I am aware that it contains a soothing reflection for your amiable wife, whose life and soul are wrapped up in everything that contributes to your peace and happiness.

Wishing you, my Lord, your Lady, and your dear boys, many, many, happy new years, I remain your attached,

Faithful friend, to command, whilst

T. O’Mara.”.

As I had but little intercourse with Mr. O’Connell from this period until the close of his life, I may as well finish here what I have to say concerning him. We continued in estrangement and coolness, now and then warmed up by a burst of vituperation on his part, until the arrival of Lord Mulgrave in Ireland, in 1835. It seemed to his Excellency that the policy of his administration would be rendered more practicable if Mr. O’Connell and I became reconciled; and as no unkind feelings existed in my mind with regard to him, I was easily induced to receive an advance. Mr. (now Chief Baron) Pigot and Mr. Wm. Murphy were the internegociators; and it was not long before an arrangement between “the high contracting parties” was effected through their exertions. Characteristic traits are exhibited in the following letters, which were among those that passed upon the occasion:- *

Daniel 0’Connell, Esq., to Lord Cloncurry.*

Merrion-square, 12th October, 1835.

“My Lord - I do not know how to express my feelings of satisfaction and delight at the kind manner in which, *after all, *you so kindly received my advances towards a reconciliation.

I do assure you, my Lord, I do bitterly regret having ever forfeited that kindness. If I knew how to atone to you, I certainly would do so in the most respectful manner that words could assume, and with the most cordial anxiety to satisfy you in every respect. But, perhaps, a recollection of the circumstances in which I was placed at the time - the natural irritation and excitement of my mind at a prosecution which I neither expected or deserved - may, perhaps, furnish to your Lordship’s indulgent mind, a better excuse for me than I could otherwise possibly make.

Yet, I should certainly not have forgotten your long-tried zeal and fidelity in the cause of Ireland-the persecution you endured for the far greater part of your life, because you had the undeviating manliness to prefer the cause of the people to the interests of the malignant but governing faction by which that people were oppressed. Perhaps, too, I was the more easily led into violent courses by the confidence placed at that time by the ministry on men in this country, who naturally belonged to that faction, and who, under the hypocritical pretence of liberality, were betraying the government under whom they served, and the country which they treacherously affected to cherish. I do appeal to you, my Lord, whether it was not natural I should feel deeply indignant at the appointments made by the Whig ministry in ireland-at the blindness with which they fell into the snares, and even into the arms of their mortal enemies, and of those of our wretched country. But, surely you who were honest in the worst, the very worst of times, will, from your own attachment to Ireland, appreciate the state of my feelings at that unhappy period, and whilst you are willing to palliate my fault, I; on the other hand, am ready to make you every reparation in my power. I cheerfully acknowledge myself to have been in the wrong, and I seek for your forgiveness upon your own terms.

We are come to a period when you can be eminently useful to Ireland. All that is wanting now is that the friends of constitutional freedom amongst the nobility and leading gentry, commercial as well as agricultural, should take their natural station in support of the King’s government, at the head of the people.

The Irish people have been too well taught by the experience of centuries of oppression, not to perceive that there is at length a new day opening upon this unfortunate land. They are convinced that in the stability of the present ministry is placed the only prospect of that reign of justice which shall destroy the rule of the sanguinary, mendacious, and insolent Orange faction, and give to Ireland a participation upon terms of perfect equality of all the advantages of the more favoured parts of the British empire. Need I say how desirable it is that you, my Lord, should become a prime leader in that popular movement, which would, peaceably but firmly, aid the Lord Lieutenant and government of Ireland in that system of conduct which would blot out the miseries of this country, by terminating that cruel and emaciating misrule which has marked the history of the Tory and Orange domination over the Irish people at all former periods.

Pardon me, my Lord, for the length of this letter. I take up an idea which the celebrated popular leader, John Keogh, endeavoured to realise more than 40 years ago - the taking the government of Ireland out of the hands of the ascendancy faction, and identifying it with the Irish nation at large. If we be true to ourselves, the time is come to have that choice made once and for always. Every former administration have chosen the “worse part” - the faction. They have governed Ireland by the faction-through the faction-and for the benefit of the faction.

It is time that Ireland should be managed wisely and kindly by the friends of her people, and for the exclusive but comprehensive benefit of that people. The choice is-the faction on the one hand-Ireland on the other. This, therefore, is just the time when every man who loves his native land should rally all the liberal and enlightened part of the aristocracy, of the landed gentry, and of the commercial wealth and intelligence of the Island, in one common cause with the people at large, to give efficient support to the government which has, at length, made a salutary and wise choice-has disclaimed faction, and preferred the people of Ireland.

How sincerely do I wish you would place yourself prominent in producing such a combination. Need I add, that if you will accept of my co-operation, you shall command it with a sincerity written on my heart’s core. I have the honour to be, my Lord, most respectfully,

Your most faithful and obliged servant,

Daniel O’Connell.” *

Wm. Murphy, Esq., to Lord Cloncurry.*

Mount Merrion, Wednesday night.

My dear Lord - Mr. Pigot and I delivered your Lordship’s letter this evening to O’Connell. I never saw a man more delighted than he was on reading it. On finishing the first paragraph he struck the table, and exclaimed in a loud voice,

May God bless him.” He said it was a letter he should keep carefully by him as long as he lived. At another time he said, “Good God ! how could I ever have quarrelled with such a man!” My dear Lord, I trouble you with this merely that you should know how your letter was received. Pigot says that it is one of the best letters he ever read; that it could only be written by the best of Irishmen. I am, my dear Lord,

Most truly and faithfully yours,

W. M.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

Beaudesert, October 20th, 1835.

“My dear Cloncurry - I received the *Dublin Evening Post *of the 15th, containing your correspondence with O’Connell, and directed to me by you.

All I shall say upon it is, that if this reunion tends to the benefit of Ireland, there is no one who will more sincerely rejoice in it than I shall. His flings at me are certainly innocuous. He knows as well almost as you do how unjust they are. Certainly they will never do me so much injury as his former fulsome flattery did. *

You *know him well enough not to calculate upon his friendship longer than it suits the convenience of the moment; but if it lasts long enough to give poor Ireland a good lift, I again say I shall rejoice. With all your courteous expressions towards him, you have nevertheless hit him hard as regards me, and he will remember you for it. I go up to see Lady *A. *to-morrow.

Sincerely yours,

Anglesey.”

The finish was put to the work of reconciliation by Mr. O’Connell and I meeting at dinner at Lord Mulgrave’s table; and from thenceforward I do not recollect that he ever renewed the war with me personally, although he continued to render a cordial co-operation between us impossible, by turning his arms against a very near and dear relative of mine, who ventured to entertain and to express opinions at variance with his own.

In the midst of all the turmoil, and in the face of all the difficulties I have adverted to, Lord Anglesey held on his course with a manliness and devotion, which it is impossible to think of without admiration. Thwarted, upon the one hand, by his colleagues, and more especially by his Chief Secretary, whom, in an evil hour, he had allowed to be placed above him, by being admitted to a seat in the cabinet; and confronted, on the other, by the popular leader who earnestly strove to render it impossible for him to serve the cause of the people, his Excellency still fought gallantly on; and in the years of his viceroyalty more was accomplished towards the amelioration of Ireland than had been done in as many previous centuries.

Of the great Irish measures carried, or rendered immediately inevitable, during the viceroyalty of Lord Anglesey, I have already spoken, in my remarks upon the Roman Catholic, the Education, and the Church questions; but grand as may be the notion entertained of the magnitude of these results, and hard as their attainment may seem to the ordinary observer, they furnish but an imperfect means of estimating the vastness of the work of government and the amount of the difficulties undertaken and striven with by the Lord Lieutenant during those few years. With the view of throwing some light upon the events of that bold struggle, and knowing that any amount of illumination that can be brought to bear upon the character of my noble friend will serve but to render it more illustrious, I venture to select, from the bulky mass of his correspondence, the following few memorials of his varied labours, and of his constant love for Ireland:-

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.

Phoenix Park, July 15th, 1831.

“My dear Lord Cloncurry - Can you dine with me to-day? I have much to talk to you about. I also ask Blake. Be prepared for Education - Poorlaws - Employment

• Newtownbarry - Castlepollard - Orangemen - Yeomanry - and the d---l else besides.

Yours truly,

A.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

Phoenix Park, July 16th, 1831.

“My dear Lord Cloncurry - I return the letters you sent me. I have just received your statement respecting what passed about the baronetcy of the L--- M---. I confess I do not recollect any promise to the L--- M--- himself. I fully determined to use every possible exertion to get it for him, in the event of his resigning in favour of P---, and in that event only; and I did write to this effect to Lord G. However, I will not persevere in this conclusion; and I do trust, from Lord Grey’s last letter to me, that he will be enabled to make H--- a baronet at the coronation.

I am most anxious to see you about the Deputy-Lieutenancies of counties. When can you without inconvenience call? I am, I fear, going to have a serious attack: I feel very unwell. Lady Anglesey and the girls, and Lady L. Cadogan, arrived this morning, all well. Will you, and Lady C., and your son, dine here to-morrow?

Captain Warren, and a Lieutenant R. N., are arrived to survey Kingstown Harbour, at my request. Will you give them every assistance, and show them all reports and previous opinions? It is possible they may call upon you to-morrow morning. I have asked them to dine here; yet I doubt if I shall be forthcoming.

Truly yours,

Anglesey.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

P P., Nov. 23rd, 1831.

“My dear Cloncurry - Really P---‘s nervousness and want of confidence in us is very worrying. The Attorney-General *will not prosecute *H---; but do not mention it. He thinks other-wise about B--- M---, which really would be most disastrous, and I will stave it off, if I can, and have just written to urge Stanley to avert it; but I understand the A--- G--- feels that the PEREMPTORY order of the House of Commons is not to he got rid of. He strongly nrges the necessity of the ex-candidates using every exertion to bring forward *cases in a tangible shape, *and as soon as possible, as a set-off, and which may cool the courage of the other party; but of course B--- must not be known to give this advice, which is *strictly *confidential.

Truly yours,

Anglesey.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

Phoenix Park, 27th January, 1832.

“My dear Cloncurry - I am so hurried for the post, that I am obliged to dictate, and cannot write particularly about the strange conduct of Doctor F---. So I enclose you the copy of my letter to Stanley upon the subject, sent yesterday. Return it to me. I hope to be able to write more to-morrow.

There is a horrid murder of a parson at Golden. Innishowen district is in a frightful state. I am remarkably well, and

Ever yours,

Anglesey.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

Phoenix Park, January 31st 1832.

“My dear Lord Cloncurry - I have had the inclination, but really I have not had the time to write to you, on account of the great pressure of business, and the numerous persons I have had to see. I seize a moment of calm, and will begin with what I know you will consider the best news I can send you. I am remarkably well, and able thoroughly to enjoy myself. I ride, I talk, I eat, and I drink, without the least difficulty; and Mr. M--- seems to be doing wonders.

Of your dear country I can hardly tell you anything that you do not know. It is in a most feverish state; and yet in one from which it may be extricated, if it is judiciously treated, and if we do not lose time in consultation, without action. Innishowen is in a blaze, and I have sent my *firemen *to extinguish it; and in default of magistrates, I am employing officers. I do not fear the result, and I only hope the law will not fall too severely upon that praiseworthy body of distillers who put forth the real crater.

I have appointed Gould Master in Chancery, and P--- serjeant. There is no pacifying poor D---. If you could see my letters to him, you would hardly believe he would write the answers he does. Poor man! He is worked up to such a pitch of excitement that I fear it will be fatal to him.

Have you seen Stanley, and calmly conversed with him upon the Irish Reform Bill? I have begged him to cultivate you, and also the Irish members. I fear ministers are inexorable upon numbers. I am pressing Lord Grey hard upon the subject of tithe and bishops’ lands. *The *plan, if carried into immediate effect, would save a world of difficulties.

I am interrupted, and must break off.

Ever sincerely yours,

Anglesey.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

Phoenix Park, February 1st, 1832.

“My dear Cloncurry - I return you Mr. C---‘s letter. I was interrupted yesterday, and am not better off to-day. The fact is, I am persecuted; and were I to think of *self *alone, I would rejoice in the truth of your report of Lord Carlisle being sent to relieve me. Yet while I have life and hope, no disgust at my treatment, either on this side of the Channel or on yours, shall divert me from using my best energies for Ireland; and O’Connells “deplorable Lord Lieutenant,” and Marcus Costello’s “weak and silly Lord Anglesey,” shall still work on at his up-hill and almost hopeless game and drudgery. Mine is, indeed, a laborious and a thankless charge; and I am constantly open to abuse which I know I do not deserve, and which, if I were to expose the truth, would soon change the tone of my traducers.

I cannot quite go your length with respect to S., but I do not think he is very anxious to uphold me, and I do believe he would prefer a more *submissive master. *You must see that I work at great disadvantage. He knows all *my *schemes, and I know few of his, until he finds himself in a difficulty. Thus all my projects, when laid before the Cabinet, if he does not go the *whole *length with me (and half-measures are worse than useless), are probably thwarted by him. He tells his own story, and I have no one to support and back my views. The post time is come.

I can only say sincerely yours,

Anglesey.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

Phoenix Park, February 7th, 1832.

“My dear Lord Cloncurry - I am sorry to observe that your last letter to me is written in a state of despondency about your country and yourself. Let me beg of you to put yourself above the mean, pitiful abuse you meet with, who well know that every word they write or utter against you are positive falsehoods. It is, to be sure, very distressing that men who are exerting their best energies, with no other object but to serve their country, should be the victims of the most abominable misrepresentations. But the best way to meet the calumnies is, utterly to despise them; this is my course, and I defy my detractors to ruffle me by their abuse. Take my advice, and follow the same course. Something must be *in the wind *on your side of the Channel, of which I know nothing, for I have been long without a word either from Lord Grey or Stanley; and I have written upon important subjects, which require early attention. I had, indeed, a hasty line from the latter yesterday, merely enclosing a copy of a foolish letter of the Duke of Buckingham to the Home Secretary, calling upon government to collect his Grace’s rents. In confidence, I send you a copy of my reply. I do not think Parnell’s secession is a great loss. He is a busy good man of business, but he is terribly un homme a *systeme, *and a too rigid parer of cheese and candles’ ends. They are taking everything from poor Ireland. I fear *he *has suggested the withdrawing of King’s plates. Every guinea taken from expenditure in this impoverished country is very pernicious economy. In what you say of the understrappers of the Castle I fully concur; but there is no means of freeing ourselves from them. It is impossible to fix anything upon them which would justify dismissal, and few of them could be discharged without pension; and you well know that it is impossible to propose the grant of any. I return you M---‘s *blarney. *He, too, must not expect a pension; but I am most ready to reward him handsomely for his most useful services. I continue perfectly well, and *up to anything. *I hope Donegal is quite restored to tranquillity, and I am now going to set to with Tipperary and Kilkenny. I am interrupted.

Sincerely yours,

Anglesey.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Mr. Secretary Stanley.*

Phoenix Park, February 6th, 1832.

“My dear Stanley - I have just received your hasty note of the 4th, and have only a moment *merely *to acknowledge it.

As is usual with all the complaints against me, hastily and inconsiderately made, I have the satisfaction of being able to state that I can scatter them all to the winds.

His Grace of Buckingham has been completely anticipated; and the very depositions which he sends to the Home Secretary are those with which, by my directions, his agent was furnished.

Informations, *not sworn to, *were sent up; the priest’s *name *was omitted; and the magistrates could not induce Geohagan to swear to them if it was introduced.

The magistrates were informed that I would afford G. ample protection, and that he should not be a sufferer, if he would swear to the facts of the case.

Geohagan accordingly swore to the informations; and conceiving that his life, after taking such a step, might be subjected to hazard if he remained at his residence, I desired that he might come to Dublin, where he might be taken care of. Here he received 16 shillings a-week; but, anxious to return to his family, he has left Dublin; and this day we have application from Mr. Uniacke, J.P., requesting me to continue G.’s allowance, as he could not follow his usual occupations.

In the meantime, the opinion of the Attorney-General was taken upon the legality of prosecution; and his first impression has been, that the government could not act without the agent of the Duke of Buckingham coming forward; and to effect this the Attorney-General has been in communication with that agent.

As it is possible that the Duke of Buckingham may take some opportunity of casting censure upon this government in the House, I wish you would at once show this outline of facts to Lord Grey, that he may be enabled to repel them. To-morrow documents shall be forwarded upon this subject.

You speak of strong measures being about to be adopted against lawless combinations. If these are coupled with healing measures - if the tithe and Church land plan recommended from hence - if the poor be provided for as proposed - and if the various other projects for the improvement of this country be vigorously pushed forward - there will be no need of much coercion; but if all this is not done (and that promptly) then I have no hesitation in saying, that my military means are wholly inadequate, and that less than an addition of 20,000 men cannot secure the tranquillity of Ireland.

In the hope and expectation that the legislative measures to which I have made allusion would soon be carried into effect, it has been my object to temporise; to induce the clergy, as much as possible, to refrain from the exaction of tithe; and by pouring in troops rapidly, wherever disturbances broke out, to overawe the people. Hitherto insurrection, at least, has been fended off; and wherever the clergy, in despite of the advice given, have persevered in the collection of their rights, not an instance has occurred in which they have not received protection. But the consequence is, that the troops are greatly harassed ; and, therefore, unless the country is brought to tranquillity and good feeling, by the effect of healing measures, the army must be largely augmented.

For myself, I am persecuted on all sides by the hostility of open foes, and by the unreasonableness of professed friends; and there is an impertinence of dictation on the part of the old ascendancy faction that exceeds all belief

What is settled about the Lieutenancy of Tipperary, in case D--- should persevere? I wrote strongly to Lord Grey, in recommendation of Lord Lismore; and I am anxiously awaiting his reply, in order to be able to bring this tiresome matter to a dose. I remain,

Very sincerely yours,

(Signed) Anglesey.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

Phoenix Park, February 11th, 1832.

“My dear Lord Cloncurry - I am just going to take up my residence in the Castle.

What you relate is, I fear, but too true. Thank God I have nothing upon my conscience. I have exerted every means within my power to effect measures of conciliation, redress, and amelioration, if possible before, but, at all events, simultaneous with any new law or measure of coercion.

I well know the consequence of the latter having the precedence. The country is at this moment *all but *in a state of rebellion; and the course which is, I fear, about to be pursued, will probably produce a crisis that will shake the empire.

I really have anticipated *all *your remarks, and have given the strongest opinions; and have shown what additional force will be immediately necessary, which I have rather under than overrated; and I conscientiously believe that if *our *tithe plan were instantly adopted and acted upon, at the same time that a firm determination were shown to enforce the actual laws whilst they last, bad as they are, the country might yet be saved. If we are to act upon a contrary system, I have no hope.

Blake goes over immediately. He is perfectly equal to show the practicability of overcoming all the difficulties put forth by Stanley. Indeed answers to his objections are already sent over to Lord Grey, which I should hope would have due weight. In the meantime, I tremble at every day’s post. I cannot cover the whole country, and can only subdue two or three counties at a time, and then fall upon others. But, what a miserable state of things!

1 really doubt if my presence here can be much longer of use. Personally I have nothing to complain of with ministers. All with whom I communicate are apparently full of kindness and confidence. Still there is something, or somebody, too powerful for me to counteract, and, therefore, I expect mischief. I will not, however, abandon the sinking vessel; and I call upon you to make no rash declaration - to take no hasty step.

Peers must be made; but I know not how many will be made from hence. I shall very much regret Milltown’s not being one. I would say Knmare, Gormanstown, Landaff, Lismore, Milltown (why not Killeen?), and Rossmore. He is a wild one; but he would tame the other wild elephants. He is acting judiciously in his county.

Ever sincerely yours,

Anglesey.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

Dublin, February 22nd, 1832.

“My dear Lord Cloncurry - I have not written to you lately, but I have written to those who would communicate with you.

I had a letter from Lord Grey a few days ago, which gave me satisfaction, because it told me that you were satisfied with the proceedings of the Committee. I replied that I rejoiced so true a lover of Ireland, and so good a judge of its interests, should be in good humour about it; that such an opinion from such a man would make me appear unreasonable in *not *being satisfied, which I professed not to be. I then went on to say that nothing less than our *whole *plan would do permanent good; that I thought the proposed arrangements of the bishops’ lands were a *sine qua non; *that without it the whole question would be reopened; and that then, when they would have to fight their battle single-handed, they would be defeated, and pulled off the bench, &c. &c. &c.

To Stanley I strongly put the policy of giving more members to Ireland, and not giving an additional one to the College. But I have not time to tell you all I wrote. Suffice it to say, that I feel confident you would approve of every word.

I am prepared at all points in Kilkenny; but I sincerely hope the unhappy, misguided people will not drive me to extremities. One guarantee against violence is, that O’Connell will be there, and he will not venture to risk his sacred person.

I rejoice that your health is improving. Lady Anglesey informs me that you are in the hands of Dr. Maton, of whom I have a high opinion.

As the *Mail *and the *Pilot *failed in spoiling the levee, I imagine they were deterred from trying their hands at the theatre last [night] when I went in *form. *It was a full and particularly respectable house; and the attempts for O’Connell first, and then for *Repute, *had no success.

There was a most respectable dinner of the Bar last week, of which, no doubt, C--- or some of your friends will give you particulars. You will, no doubt, see Blake. I have a very satisfactory and interesting letter to thank him for; and I beg him, and you too, to write all that concerns us here. With best regards to Lady Cloncurry, I remain

Most sincerely yours,

Anglesey.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

Dublin, February 28th, 1832.

“My dear Lord Cloncurry - The affair of the *Pole *is in the true spirit of the *Old Castle! *Fire drawn upon one in a case of the most complete insignificance; as if it signified whether the fellow was here, or anywhere else! Yet I must *father *it all, although I did not give it a moment’s consideration. They merely told me that he would be sent packing without any trouble. For my part his presence and his absence are alike indifferent to me. He is not likely to do good to Ireland; and the only harm he can do is what any other sturdy arm (if his, in fact, be such) may be equal to.

I rejoice that you think favourably upon tithe and Church matters.

We *must *have very hot assizes. If we get well over these, we may go on well; but I sadly fear there will be many broken heads. I have taken all the precautions within my power.

I am exceedingly distressed at the unfavourable report you make of yourself. I wish M--- was alongside of you.

My best regards to Lady Cloncurry, and always

Sincerely yours,

Anglesey.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

Phoenix Park, May 5th, 1832.

“My dear Lord Cloncurry - I do not know that I have had anything particular to relate; for it is not at all particular that the factions should continue to vie with each other in virulence, in envy, in hatred, and in malice, and, I can well add, in *all *uncharitableness! It is shocking!!!

Of course you have seen Mr. B---‘s letter. It is false nearly from the beginning to the end. I forwarded to Lord Lansdowne copies of letters from Tickell, and from the Crown Solicitor, upon the facts, enough to satisfy every reasonable mind. I sent them to him, because there was matter in them connected with Mr. P---, his agent, who, although a good man, is liable to be misled and imposed upon. *

Per contra, *the Conservatives are outdoing themselves; and the league of almost the whole of the gentry against the government is every day more strongly manifesting itself. Traps are laying for me every hour. A certain Colonel P~, for instance, of Meath, repeating certain expressions in my speech, in regard of the *combining *of the good against the bad, demands *arms *for the chosen spirits whom *he *shall select! In other words, he wants to arm Orangemen. If I *do, *you know the consequences; if I *do not, *you know the tone he will take! Oh! they are a precious set. But I should make volumes if I entered into particulars; so I have done.

What I want to engage the gentlemen to is, to call upon the best part of the people to assemble and associate with whatever weapons they may have (and nothing is better than a good bludgeon), and to sally forth with them, by day as well as by night, occasionally, always accompanied and supported by a certain body of the military by police, or both. I am convinced that a little occasional vigour of this sort would soon alter the appearance of things; but I despair of accomplishing it. Next week *entre nous, *I make a grand sweep for arms and culprits, at the same instant, in the King’s and Queen’s Counties, in Kilkenny, and Carlow. I propose immediately afterwards to visit these counties, and to talk to the gentlemen; and a special commission is about to issue.

If all this is of no avail, we shall have nothing for it but coercion laws. Will you believe it, when I state, that clergymen, with their eyes open to the measures them, and when the odium of collecting imposed upon the government, are daily persecuting me for military aid to enforce payment of dues? This is *not *Christian patience. Will you believe this, too: whilst the Christian clergy are pursuing the most exemplary course, in attending the dying in hospitals, and even taking up their abode amongst them, Protestants were crying out for spiritual comfort, and no one could be found to give it. At length their services have been bought!!!

Tuyll has this instant walked in. He gives a dismal account of Reform, and says you are low about it. Courage! we must carry it. Even our bill brought out by our adversaries would not go down. Judge then what would be the fate of one of their concoctions.

If the King wavers he is lost. I will not give him up. I think he will be firm. Best regards to Lady Cloncurry, and always

Truly yours,

Anglesey.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

Phoenix Park, Monday, 19th.

“My dear Cloncurry - I returned here last night in much suffering, and unable to follow field sports. I have many pressing affairs of state upon me, which become more overwhelming every hour, and I am anxious for your assistance without loss of time. I hear that you are at Lyons, but coming away this evening. Could not you and Lady Cloncurry, and your boy if you please (but mine are not here), come and dine here to-day, and take your bed? It would be a great comfort to me.

Ever truly yours,

Anglesey.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

Abbeyleix, June 20th, 1832.

“My dear Cloncurry - I must return to-morrow, and propose to take an early dinner with you, *en passant. *I have written to desire C--- to meet me, because you will be most useful in advising with us as to the course to be pursued in a case of investigation in which I am employing him. I know you will excuse this liberty; indeed, I know you will be glad of the opportunity of seeing C---. As I believe five o’clock is your hour, I will be with you by that time; and Lady Cloncurry will, I know, tolerate us without any attempt to adorn our persons. Colonel Rochfort, whom I meant to go on to, has been summoned to London, and almost all the magistrates are out of the country. However, oven with the few I have seen, I trust that this trip will not be wholly useless. I am afraid I shall not see C--- the elder; and as for C--- the younger, I fear he is not worth seeing. If I find that I pass close by the former, and have time, I will call.

Most truly yours,

Anglesey.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

Phoenix Park, Jane 22nd, 1832.

“My dear Cloncurry - I send you letters from the Dean of F---. He is angry and inconsiderate. Surely I might express a hope that he had been misled in respect of the conduct of an individual, without impeaching his character for veracity. I did not even hint at voracity.

Can you not frame me two or three lines, which may accompany my letter, when I return him his precious papers? When M--- calls upon you, you may show him my remarks upon his proposition. You will like to read Holland; send him back.

Truly yours,

Anglesey.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

Maretimo, July 14th, 1832.

“My dear Cloncurry - I return Mr. R--- C---‘s letter. I have thought long that this person is a firebrand, working from vanity, and for his own private objects - exaggerating every statement; and therefore an enemy to Ireland of the worst description. My interview with his respectable father quite confirmed me in that view; and therefore I always read with suspicion and distrust whatever comes from his pen, either publicly or privately.

That *you *may have suffered from being *my *friend, as I formerly suffered by being yours, is indeed likely enough; but this entirely proceeds from the infamous falsehoods which are set abroad by rash agitators on both sides, in regard to my conduct formerly and now. It affects me only with pity for the people they mislead, and contempt for themselves. But the time is come when they will find that I will not treat them *with contempt alone. *Let them look to it. The difficulties of the country are not brought on by me. I could and would have avoided them by passing better laws; but the force of circumstances have not allowed this; and I will now see that the laws, such as they are, shall not be broken with impunity.

I trust nothing will prevent your all coming on Tuesday. Sir Frederick and the aid-de-camp have lodgings; and so I hope the boys and all will come to *my *house. Just starting for Council; perhaps I may meet you there.

Ever sincerely yours,

Anglesey.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

“Phoenix Park, August 1st, 1832. 8. 30. p.m.

“My dear Cloncurry - Your proposal is tempting; but after much consideration, I fear the *embassy *would be too late to be of service. Nevertheless, if you think otherwise, I would willingly write to Lord Lansdowne, and furnish C--- with credentials.

I enclose a letter I hastily scratched this morning to Lord Grey, but I was too late for the post. Do read it, and give your opinion; and add or erase as you may think best. Even if it went, it need not preclude C---‘s going also. Could you not come here early to-morrow, and talk over this, and pick up C---, and bring him with you? I will have an orderly with you by eight o’clock to-morrow morning, to bring back any thing you may have to say, and (if you choose to summon C---) to convey a letter to him to that effect, as the orderly returns through Dublin.

Ever sincerely yours,

Anglesey.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

Phoenix Park, August 25th, 1832.

“My dear Cloncurry - Read the enclosed little tract. There are a few false statements, but in general there is good sense in it. Coming from Cork, after the late *to do *there, might it not be well that my secretary should express my assent to it, pointing out perhaps, an error or two, which, if they strike you, I would request you to observe upon, that I may adopt them.

Sincerely yours,

Anglesey.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

Phoenix Park, September 8th, 1832.

“My dear Cloncurry - *Quand finira donc mes tourmens? *To please Lord M---, I desired that Mr. H--- might (although I believe he had done his duty) be removed from a scene where he had given offence to some persons.

Read all this trash and impertinence. Removed he shall now be; but where shall I send him? Is Lord M--- really anxious about this, and has he just grounds?

I vow to God life is not long enough to get through these petty broils. Truly yours.

Anglesey.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

Dublin, December 15th, 1832.

“My dear Cloncurry - I have just received the enclosed from dear Holland. It was evidently not written to meet *your *eye; but as there is a little gentle *throw *at you, that is not altogether undeserved, I send it to you. Llet me have it again, for I read it in such haste that I should like to see it again.

Most sincerely yours,

Anglesey.

Lady A. has told me several times that she has a letter from you to show me, but it has not yet been produced. Why do you keep moping and growling down there, just because things do not go altogether according to your fancy? Good God! if I were to act so, how long ago should I have rejected public employment! We must expect injustice and ingratitude. It is inevitable; but we are bound to bear up against it.

A.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

Dublin, January 18th, 1833.

“My dear Cloncurry - Where are you, and what are you about? Oh, what a life is mine! What numberless things would I wish to consult with you about, but my lips must be hermetically sealed.

I opened the enclosed, as you desired. Lord Garvagh withdraws. How I wish for honest Lismore’s success; but I cannot expect it.

Most sincerely yours,

Anglesey.”

Towards the close of the year 1833, Lord Anglesey’s connexion with Ireland finally terminated. The multifarious difficulties that beset his administration may be imagined from the insight afforded by the foregoing letters into the conduct of his friends and of his foes. Coupled with a hostile colleague in his government, surrounded by hostile subordinates, virulently assailed by the leaders of the people in whose cause he was struggling, and underworked by intriguers within the cabinet which he served, he held out manfully for nearly three years; and as his concluding act, put upon record, in a private letter to Lord Grey, a summary of that comprehensive policy, the bearings of which I have endeavoured, in some small degree, to exhibit. In it was put forward an urgent expression of the noble Marquis’s deliberate opinion, founded upon his experience of Irish government during the four years comprised in his viceroyalties, that peace could not be established, or prosperity initiated in Ireland, unless her English rulers could make up their minds to carry out a system including-

1. A complete arrangement of the Church question, whereby the Protestant religious Establishment would be brought into conformity with the wants of its members, and the ecclesiastical property made subservient to the general good of the community.

2. A satisfactory arrangement of Grand and Petty Juries.

3. A system of Poor Laws.

4. A system of Labour Rates.

5. A suppression of party processions and demonstrations.

6.* *The organisation of a force of special constables.

7. The regulation of the possession of arms, and

8. The payment of the Clergy of the Roman Catholic Church.

Several months after that remarkable letter was written, it was made public, by means never explained, and respecting which I have never been able to form a satisfactory conjecture. The following letters refer to the subject, though without throwing any light upon the course by which a secret despatch from the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland to the Prime Minister of England came to appear, without the consent of either, in the columns of a public print:- *

Mr. Secretary Littleton (now Lord Hatherton) to Lord Cloncurry.*

Brighton, May 20th, 1834.

“My dear Lord - I will inquire into Mr. M---‘s case, and do what I can on it. I shall also talk to Lord Melbourne on the whole class of cases to which his belongs.

Lord Anglesey’s habit of showing his correspondence was so incautious, that the publication of his excellent letter to Lord Grey did not surprise me. The publication will do no harm; as, except that one must regret such a dishonourable act as that by which it has been produced to the public, I cannot but feel gratified that his real sentiments should have become known to the world.

Ever, my dear Lord, faithfully yours,

E. J. Littlejon.” *

The Marquis of Anglesey to Lord Cloncurry.*

Naples, June 7th, 1834.

“My dear Cloncurry - I have received your kind letter. The publication of mine to Lord Grey is abominable, be the treachery where it may; but I feel confident, and have told them all I would stake my life upon it, that no one connected with me has had any hand it. For myself I care not a straw. I hold the advice I gave to have been excellent, and I stand to it; and I do not mind any abuse that may be heaped upon me by bigots, who, because I will not go their stupid lengths, and risk their Establishment by perpetuating its abuses, will consider me, or rather misrepresent me, as a wild Reformer, hostile to the Protestant Establishment.

What does greatly annoy me is, that ministers, and Lord Grey in particular, may possibly have been put to some inconvenience by the appearance of the document. It seems, however, to me, that one of them (Lord J. R.) holds precisely the same opinions as I do. Pray assure my dear friends T---, S---, and C---, if you see them - and indeed any who can by possibility have seen the letter - that I know them to be incapable of showing any paper of mine without my consent. Indeed, excepting the latter, who is the faithful depositary of all my papers, and who is truth, and honour, and honesty personified, they could not have had the means. Had my general *opinions *upon public matters been merely quoted, I would not have been surprised, as you know it has ever been my principle to elicit opinions from able men, by stating my own; but that a *verbatim *copy of a whole letter should have appeared is inexplicable.

I have been suffering very much, indeed, and continue very ill. It takes off all enjoyment, and checks my excursions. I shall, however, try to move on Monday to Sicily, probably for a few days, to see what change of air will do. I long to see that your son is restored to you in health. Lady A. is far from well; the young ones in high *force. *All join in best regards to you and Lady Cloncurry. Let me hear from time to time how things go on. Truly yours,

Anglesey.”

Shortly after the commencement of the second viceroyalty of Lord Anglesey, I was made a Privy Councillor for Ireland; and in September of the year 1831, a few days after the coronation, it pleased the King to raise me to the peerage in England. This honour it had been determined, without solicitation on my part, to confer upon me in the previous June, at the time when the Earls of Fingal and Leitrim were created Barons of the United Kingdom; but I had reason to believe it was then postponed through the operation of influences acting “from behind the throne.” There were quarters in which any interruption to the consistency of a persecution was looked upon with disfavour; and there, I believe, nothing was left undone that was thought likely to prevent the bestowal upon me of a mark of royal favour, which might be recognised as an authoritative, though somewhat tardy, censure upon the conduct of my persecutors. The design, however, did not succeed; and although the triumph was not then, and is not now, of much value in my estimation, I cannot deny myself the pleasure of putting upon record the subjoined memorials of the light in which it was at that time viewed by myself and others:- *

Lord Cloncurry to Earl Grey.*

“My Lord - I beg of you in the most dutiful terms to express to his Majesty my humble gratitude for his favour.

It is doubly valued, as a proof of the royal approbation of the zeal and perseverance with which I have, through life, endeavoured to advocate the interests of his loyal and faithful subjects, the people of Ireland. I have the honour to be, with respect, my Lord,

Your Lordship’s faithful, humble servant,

Cloncurry.” *

The Duke of Leinster to Lord Cloncurry.*

6, Carlton-House Terrace, 10th Sept., 1831.

My dear Lord Cloncurry - I have received your letter of the 7th, this morning; and again repeat my congratulations, not only on your account, but on account of Ireland, at your being created an English Peer. You have so long taken an interest in the affairs of Ireland, that I know you will be of use; therefore you ought to feel happy at your creation on her account.

I am not in general an advocate for county meetings; but at this moment I think petitions ought to be sent to the House of Lords in favour of reform. Ours from the county of Kildare has not yet been presented. Do you think a new meeting requisite?

By the enclosed note from Lord Brougham, which I received too late for the post last night, I fear your presence will be wanted. I am sorry you are brought from your home: but every exertion must be made at this moment to assist the Government to carry this great measure. As we shall so soon meet, I will not answer the other subjects in your letter, but sincerely thank you and Lady Cloncurry for your kindness to our children. I am, my dear Lord Cloncurry,

Yours ever sincerely,

Leinster.

This will be my last frank to you.” *

The Hon. George Villiers (now Earl of Clarendon) to Lord Cloncurry.*

Cleveland Court, September 14th.

“My dear Lord Cloncurry - I can with all sincerity say, that I remember few circumstances in my life (not immediately personal) that have given me more hearty satisfaction than the one upon which I now beg you to accept my congratulation. Having been honoured with your acquaintance, and possessing some knowledge of your deeds as well as opinions, it has always been with sorrow, not unmingled with shame, that I have reflected upon the injustice to which you have so long been made the victim. I only hope that this act of justice may, however tardily, compensate you for the mortified and indignant feelings with which you have for years seen every act of yours for the benefit of your country misrepresented and distorted. As an Englishman, as a friend of yours, my dear Lord, and, above all, as an ardent friend to Ireland, I shall rejoice to hear that one of her best champions feels cause for satisfaction; for the public will view the honour that has been conferred on you in its true light - as a testimony borne to your public worth.

I hear you have published your opinions upon a poor-law in Ireland. You would much oblige me by giving me a copy, or informing me where I can procure one in London. During a late very severe and long illness, I have been giving much attention to this intensely interesting subject; and any light upon it from you would be most valuable.

Pray present my best respects to Lady Cloncurry; and believe me, my dear Lord, with great regard,

Most faithfully and sincerely yours,

George Villers.

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