Ctfccii HaYeoJi^ai t l& Deal \ f J > 05 ^ ^ HISTORY OF THE IRISH INSURRECTION OF 1798, GIVING AN AUTHENTIC ACCOUNT OF THE VARIOUS BATTLES FOUGHT BETWEEN THE INSURGENTS AND THE KING'S ARMY, AND A GENUINE HISTORY OF TRANSACTIONS PRECEDING THAT EVENT. WITH A VALUABLE APPENDIX. BY EDWARD HAY, ESQ., MEMBER OF THE ROYAL IKISH ACADEMY. A NEW EDITION ; TO WHICH HAVE BEEN ADDED ABSTRACTS FROM PLOWDEX, TEELING, GORDON, AND MADDEN. " I will a round, unvarnish'd tale deliver." " Nothing extenuate, Nor set down aught in malice." Shaksveare. BOSTON: PATRICK DONAHOE, No. 1 Spring Lane. BOSTON ( OLLEGtt LIBRARY CHESTNUT HILL, MASS. O'NEILL LIBRARY -BOSTON COLLEGE H4-H 2^ cuy. CONTENTS Page. Introduction, 7 Geographical description of the county of Wexford, .... 51 Institution of the Volunteers of Ireland, 62 Meeting of the county on the 22d of September, 1792,. . 67 : ■ on the 11th of January, 1703, ... 69 Ri-)ts in the year 1793, 70 Meeting of the county on the 23d of March, 1795, on the recall of Earl Fitzwilliam, 80 Loss of the former independence of the county of Wex- • ford, 83 Melancholy effects produced by the riots in the^ county of Armagh, in 1795, 88 Causes of the present state of Ireland, 91 Conduct of the troops in Ireland censured by Sir Ralph Abercromby, commander-in-chief, 97 Proclamation of sixteen parishes in the county of Wex- ford, 28th of November, 1797, 100 Conduct of the North Cork militia on their arrival in the county of Wexford, 10.3 The whole of the county of Wexford proclaimed on the 27th of April, 1798. i 1 Meeting of the magistrates of the county, 23d of May, . . 121 Sudden insurrection on the 27th of May, 137 Battle of Oulart, on the 27th of May, .". 138 Battle at Enniscorthy, 28th of May, 139 Retreat of the troops to Wexford — general confusion, . . 141 Deputation to the insurgents on Vinegar Hill, 146 Defeat at the Three Rocks — surrender and abandonment of Wexford to the insurgents, on the 30th of May,. . . 153 Conduct of the troops on their retreat to Duncannon Fort, 164 General arrangements of the insurgents, 177 Abandonment of Gorey — conduct of the inhabitants, . . . 179 1981 4 CONTENTS. Page. Battles of Newtownbarry and Ballycanow, on the 1st of June, 1798, 185 Lord Kingsborough, Captains O'Hea and Bourke taken prisoners, 2d of June, 189 Battle of Clough or Tubberneering, 4th of June, 194 Battle of Ross, 5th of June, 198 Dreadful abomination at Scullabogue, 201 Battle of Arklow, 9th of June, 227 Attack at Bonis, 236 Proposals of accommodation from Lord Kingsborough, 14th of June, 241 Skirmish at Tinnahely, 16th of June, 245 Insurgents surprised on Lacken Hill — their retreat, 19th, 248 Critical situation of Wexford — dreadful massacre !!!... 251 Battle of Horetown or Fooks's-mill, 20th, 273 Battle of Enniscorthy, 21st, •. . . 274 Wexford surrendered to Lord Kingsborough — his con- duct and dispatches, 277 Major-general Moore's approach to Wexford, 21st, .... 287 Pursuit of the insurgents from Gorcy, and their progress out of the county, 295 Trials and executions in Wexford, 297 Progress of the Wexford insurgents in the counties of Carlow and Kilkenny, 302 Progress of the Wexford insurgents in the countv of Wicklow, 304 Progress of the Wexford insurgents closed by surrender, 311 Commanders and court-martials appointed, 312 Conduct of General Hunter — his superior discrimination, 310 Intended extermination of the inhabitants of the Maco- mores, 319 Conduct, of the people on the landing of the French at Killala, 328 Conflagration of a Protestant church and Catholic chapels, 340 Conclusion, 350 ABSTRACTS FROM PLOWOEN, TKELING, ETC. Landing of the French at Killala, county Mayo, August 22d, 1798, 351 Battle with the yeomen and fencibles who were defeated by the French, 351 Gen. Humbert takes possession of Ballina, from whence the garrison fled, 352 CONTENTS. O Page Shameful defeat of near 6000 British soldiers at Castle- bar, 353 Battle between the advanced guard of Humbert, and Col. Vereker, at Coloony, county Sligo, 353 Humbert's march to Drummahair, towards Manorhamil- ton, county Leitrim, 353 Action between Crawford's troops and Humbert, be- tween Drumshambo and Ballinamore, 353 The French cross the Shannon at Ballintra, 354 Cornwallis crosses the same river at Carrick-on-Shannon, 354 Battle of Granard, between some thousands of West- meath and Longford United men, and the British troops, 354 Battle of Ballynamuck, and surrender of Gen. Humbert, 354 Battle of Ballynascarty, county Cork, June 19th, 1798. . 355 Battle of Antrim, June 7th, and repulse of Major-general Nugent, 355 Death of Lord O'Neil, who was mortally wounded, .... 350 Assault on the town of Larne, and at Ballymena and Ballycasile, 356 Occupation of Saintfleld, county Down, by the United troops, 356 Attack on Portaferry by the men of Ards, 356 Battles of Windmill Hill and Ednevady, 356 Battle of Ballynahinch, June 13th, 1798, 357 Battle of Prosperous, county Kildare, May 23d, and slaughter of the ancient Britons, 358 Attack of NaaSj by nearly 1000 men, 358 A body of 800 men take up arms in the town of Cahir, county Tipperary, 359 Mr. Wright seized at Clonmel, and received 500 lashes, 359 Battle of Tara, county Meath, 359 Rathangan, county Kildare, 360 Kilcullen " " 360 Surrender of about 2000 United men to Gen. Dundas, on Knockawin Hill, and the murder of above 700 of them by Jocelyn's Fox-hunters, 360 Bergen tortured to death in Drogheda, county Louth,. . . 360 APPENDIX. I. Speech of Captain Sweetman, on the 22d of Sep- tember, 1792 361 1* O CONTENTS. Faee Account of the county meeting at Wexford, S8G> Resolutions of the Catholics of Wexford, 38*2 II. Requisition of the magistrates of the county ©f Wexford, ..'... 383 Resolutions of the county meeting, January 1 1th, 1793 383 III. Certificate of Solomon Richards, Esq., ........ 385" Affidavit of Mr. Taylor, an Englishman, 389 IV. Extract from the debates of the House of Lords, 10th of July, 1793, 391 V. Resolutions of the Catholics in Wexford, July 30th, 391 VI. Requisition to the high-sheriff and magistrates of the county of Wexford, 394 Resolutions at the county meeting, 23d of March, 1795, on the recall of Earl Fitzwilliam, 396 Petition to the king, 398 Address to his excellency Earl Fitzwilliam, 400 VII. Lord Gosford's address to the magistrates of the county of Armagh, with the resolutions entered into, on the 28th of December, 1795, 402 VIII. General orders of Sir Ralph Abercromby, 26th of February, 1798, 406 IX. Oaths during the insurrection, 407 X. The address of the inhabitants of the Macomores to Major Fitzgerald, 409 to General Hunter, 409 Letter to Major Fitzgerald, 411 XI. Affidavit of Mr. Stephen Lett, jun., 412 Letter from Lieutenant Murphy, 413 Affidavit of Edward Roche, 413 Letter from Captain Bourke, 414 Letter from Lord Kingston, 419 Letter from Major Fitzgerald, 420 Affidavit of Margaret Breen, 421 Letter from Armstrong Browne, Esq., 423 XII. Testimony of Doctor Jacob, 424 XIII. Letter to the Rev. Mr. Gordon, with his answer, 427 Conclusion, 431 THE IRISH REBELLION. INTRODUCTION. I would not obtrude myself on public attention were I not earnestly solicited by numerous and re- spectable friends (who have at length prevailed) to give a genuine account of the transactions in the county of Wexford, during the insurrection, in the year 1798 ; in order to counteract the baleful effects of the partial details and hateful misrepresentations, which have contributed so much to revive and con- tinue those loathsome prejudices that have, for cen- turies, disturbed and distracted Ireland. It is con- ceived, that a fair and impartial account, by dissipa- ting error, may operate as a balm to heal the wounds of animosity ; for let the candid reader be of what political principles he may, I am confident he must be sensible, that no adherent of either of the contend- ing parties in this unhappy country, can in justifica- tion feel himself authorized to assert, that his own party was perfectly in the right, and the other egre- giously in the wrong ; and yet there are partisans to be found on either side, endeavoring to maintain that this is actually the case. But if these zealots could be induced calmly to listen to the melancholy tales or enormity that can unfortunately be told of both parties, they might be prevailed upon to relax a little in their prejudices, li the spirit of intolerance and 8 • INTRODUCTION retaliation be still held up, no kind of social inter- course or harmony can exist in Ireland. With a view, therefore, of establishing concord, by showing from what has happened, that it will be of universal advantage to forget the past, and to cultivate general amity in future, I have undertaken the arduous task of endeavoring to reconcile ; pointing out errors by a genuine relation of facts, and I hope this may even- tually prevail upon neighbors of all descriptions to cherish the blessings of union and mutual benevo lence, which cannot fail 7# 78 HISTORY QF THET number of these could be collected, it was discOverec? that the soldier had been the perpetrator of the horrid deed himself, and had been induced to cut off his fingers to prevent his going abroad with his regi- ment, then under orders for foreign service. Had it not been for the prudent exertions of the officers, it is more than probable that this imposture would have been attended with dreadful consequences before the real discovery could be made. The peace of the county was attended to with the greatest activity and vigilance by the association ; but, in fact, after the affair at Wexford on the 11th of July, 1793, before detailed, no apparent symptom or even a disposition to riot could be traced. At the meetings of the association, I perceived with regret an insidious spirit, eager and active, to attach the entire odium of the disturbances exclu- sively on the Catholics ; although the damning pub- lic spectacle, on the exposure of the killed at Wex- ford, should surely ever have deterred barefaced cal- umny and prejudiced misrepresentation from future exhibition. Yet, the malignant traducers of their countrymen to foreigners believed, or affected to be- lieve, this vile reproach on mere assertion. In any other part of the world the uttering of such gross de- traction would bring down public execration, and' perhaps endanger the personal safety of the hated reptile that would dare, in this unqualified manner, to denounce a whole community. Ireland, however, which, by a peculiar providence, is freed from any other, abounds with these monsters in human form, who batten on the ruin of public prosperity. These groundless insinuations were carried to such lengths, that, even in the House of Lords, in the assemblage of the peers of £he realm, Lord Farn- ham asserted, with confidence, that the riots in the IRISH REBELLION. 79 county of Wexford had become seriously alarming ; that the people held nightly meetings, and from par- ish to parish had sworn not to pay rents, tithes, or taxes, and that the lower orders of Catholics had risen in consequence of a disappointed expectation of receiving ten pounds a year, as the consequent advantage of their emancipation, which they had been promised by their delegates. This Lord Farnham alleged in the most solemn manner, on the authority of letters received by himself from a quarter the most respectable, he said, in the county of Wexford.* My surprise w r as great, indeed, on finding such allegations thus strongly asserted and become the subject of parliamentary discussion ; knowing, as I did, that the riots had never assumed this serious complexion, nor had in any degree furnished ground for such exaggerated statement. Being a Catholic delegate for the county, I naturally felt an anxiety to discover whence originated this extraordinary infor- mation ; and thought the best appeal, at the time, would be to a meeting of the association, composed of almost all the respectable gentlemen of the county. Here I complained that the country was calumniated, and requested to know, if I could be informed who it was that had conveyed such strange and unwar- ranted intelligence to Lord Farnham ? I took the liberty also to declare that, let him be who he may, if the facts existed to his conviction, he should have produced satisfactory evidence of that conviction to the association, the natural and avowed guardians of the peace of the county. I further urged, that not above one-eighth of the county had ever been in a state of disturbance ; that the rioters appeared to be a motley multitude of all persuasions, to whom * See Appendix, No. IV. 80 HISTORY OF THE religion appeared to be an object of the least con- cern. The result was, after a most minute investigation, that the monstrous charge was deemed a gross and unfounded calumny; and whatever latitude preju- diced conversation might have taken at the festive tables of some gentlemen, not one of them presumed to come forward in support of the principles of bigot- ry against stubborn truth and undeniable facts. But had not this inquiry been instituted, it is very prob- able that the unrefuted calumnies against the county of Wexford might have led to consequences as fatal and deplorable as happened, from like causes, in the counties of Meath and Louth. These, however, I will not attempt to detail, having limited myself, for the present, to the transactions of my native county, awaiting an opportunity of general information. The Catholics of the county met at Wexford, on the 30th of July, for the purpose of publicly avow- ing their sentiments and principles. To this effect they adopted resolutions which were given to the world in all the public papers of the day.* In the year 1795, when Lord Fitzwilliam's recall from the government of Ireland was made known, the freeholders and other inhabitants of the county of Wexford were summoned to meet on purpose to deliberate on this unexpected event. In the absence of the sheriff, the summons was signed by Cornelius Grogan, Isaac Cornock, Thomas Grogan Knox, Harvey Hay, and John Grogan, magistrates of the county. The meeting, which was held in the county court-house of Wexford, on the 23d of March, was very numerously attended. Unanimous resolutions were entered into ; a petition to the king was voted ; * See Appendix, No. V. IRISH REBELLION. 81 and Cornelius Grogan, Edward Hay, and Beau- champ Bagnal Harvey, Esqrs., were appointed dele- gates to present it to his majesty.* An address to Lord Fitzwilliam was also voted, and Sir Thomas Esmonde, and Sir Frederick Flood, Baronets, and William Harvey, Esq., were appointed, and they set off instantly for Dublin, to present it to the lord lieu- tenant, who was hourly expected to leave the coun- try. The regret felt on the recall of this nobleman, even whose good intentions produced such cordiality and harmony among all ranks and descriptions of people, is scarcely credible. From that period may be dated the origin of that dreadful state of calamity and misfortune in which Ireland has been since in- volved ; for it is now evident to all, that had the measures intended to be carried into effect by him been adopted, the nation would have continued its happy career of uncommon, progressive prosperity. It was proposed to his lordship by the British cabinet to carry the union, at a time that he had got the money bills passed, and was pledged to the country to have the popular measures alluded to brought forward in parliament. It was even suggested, that these measures might go hand in hand with the oth- er ; but he preferred being recalled to giving his support to a business that so strongly met his disap- probation ; nor, indeed, is it at all probable that the Irish legislature and people would have consented at that day to yield up the dignity of independence for any consideration the ministry could pretend to offer. The removal of Lord Fitzwilliam must ever be considered as one of the greatest misfortunes that, in the revolution of ages, has befallen this devoted na- * See Appendix, No. VI. 82 HISTORY OF THE tion. It originated a train of calamitous circumstan- ces, which the disclosing information of every day renders more and more lamentable to the friends of Ireland. The great majority of the people was in- sulted ; public faith was violated ; the cup of redress was dashed from the lips of expectation, and it can- not be wondered at that the anger of disappointment should have ensued. Had the healing balm been applied at the critical moment, the fever of commo- tion had long since passed its crisis. Had the be- nevolent measures intended by that nobleman as the basis of his administration, been effected, the rank- ling wounds of division and distraction were forever closed, nor would the poison of prejudice and party- spirit still threaten convulsion and confusion ; but harmony, confidence, and peace, would reign through- out the land. Being one of those who had been chosen to pre- sent the petition of the county of Wexford to his majesty, I proceeded as far as Dublin, on my way to London, with my companions in appointment. Here it was thought most advisable to get individual signa- tures to the petition, rather than bear it with those of the chairman and secretary, who had signed it by the unanimous order of the county meeting. My brother delegates declined going back, and I under- took the task alone, at the moment I was going into the packet-boat to sail for England : my having sailed was even announced in the public papers. I return- ed to the county of Wexford, was indefatigable in my exertions, and no greater proof can be adduced of the general public approbation of the measure, and of the unanimity of sentiment prevalent on the occasion, than the account of my success. In the space of one week, I was able to procure twenty-two thou- sand two hundred and fifty-one signatures, among IRISH REBELLION. 83 whom were all the independent and respectable gen- tlemen of the county. I then proceeded to London, and had the honor of presenting the petition, with all the signatures, to his majesty, on the 22d of April, 1795, at the levee at St. James's, along with my brother delegates, and we met with a gracious recep- tion.* Not many years ago the county of Wexford could boast of independent principles, and the public spirit of its gentry was conspicuous. This, it may be ob- served, was chiefly owing to the great number of res- ident landlords, whose properties were so equally divided, that there were comparatively but few over- grown fortunes among them. While this state of easy parity prevailed, so long lasted the peace and prosperity of the county. At that time respectable characters voluntarily engaged themselves to pre- serve and maintain public order, and it is easy to conceive that the laws of a country will be well and cheerfully obeyed, w r hen the police is undertaken by a body of uninfluenced gentlemen, whose interest and inclinations induce them to watch, with incessant vigilance, over its tranquillity. The unbiased exer- tions of such men must always ensure what the Irish have ever yearned after, an impartial administration of justice ; without which, laws, even of the best de- scription, are nothing better than instruments of tyranny. But the times have changed, and other men and other measures have succeeded. Of these we shall presently have occasion to make mention. The principle of volunteering, while it was produc- tive of social and liberal intercourse, appears to have diffused a spirit of conviviality throughout the coun- try ; and so far were the pleasures of the table in- * See Appendix, No. VI. 84 HISTORY OF THE dulged, that the fortunes of many were thereby im- paired, and their distresses obliged them to resign their independence. Representatives and their most zealous friends and adherents fell into a dereliction and abandonment of public concerns, at the same time that they neglected their private interests ; and hence the county may date the loss of its indepen- dent character. Of this a most striking instance can be adduced. At an election, some years back, one of the candidates, who was esteemed by his party a stanch patriot, came forward and declared to the people on the hustings, that " no human considera- tion should ever induce him to accept of a place or a pension, if he became their representative." This declaration, however, as will appear by the sequel, he seems to liave thought no more about than if he had swallowed a poached egg ; (a memorable ex- pression of his own on a late occasion.) He was chosen a knight of the shire, and at a subsequent meeting he was actually absolved from this solemn and voluntary engagement ; nay, truly, it was re- quested he ivould accept of some employment ; and he shortly after meekly condescended to gratify their wishes, by accepting of a pension and a place, which he still comfortably retains, and is likely to retain as long as he lives. It must be here observed, by the by, that the object of such a plenary indulgence must be greatly endeared to such attached and ac- commodating constituents ; the pleasing effect of convivial talents among constant companions, who thus constitute their favorite the king of his com- pany ; a situation so fascinating to some dispositions, that they will risk all possible hazards for its main- tenance. It will not be easily impressed on ingenu- ous minds, that men who would fain uphold in the highest degree the dignified character of indepen- IRISH REBELLION. 85 dence, should so far forget themselves as to hold forth to the world, in a public paper, such a memorial of total indifference to that character. Yet in the case before us the fact is incontrovertible. It has been too common a foible with some of our gentry to aim at equal splendor and expense with their superiors in fortune. Such men, before being aware of their situation, have incautiously expended largely above their incomes. A system of such care- less dissipation and extravagant squandering must destroy the most ample resources ; and men long in the habit of indulging those propensities, on finding their means abridged, and themselves deeply in- volved, have still an aching reluctance to give up any share of their ideal consequence. Instead, therefore, of resorting to any rational plan of economy, they en- deavor to get within the circle of some lord or great man, supposed to be possessed of extensive patron- age. They court his smiles, and if their efforts are crowned with any degree of success, they instantly conclude, that all their misapplied expenditure must be amply reimbursed by this very often empty spec- ulation. They count upon places and employments of great emoluments, for themselves and their chil- dren ; and thus they abandon all idea of the certain pursuits of industry, trade, and honorable profession. They launch into the lottery of patronage, and yield up their spirit of independence, and all their actions, (out of the circle of their families,) to the utter con- trol and directing will of their adopted patron. It is presumed, that any person acquainted with the state of Ireland must perceive that this system has unfor- tunately been but too largely pursued, and too much acted upon ; and it is also pretty notorious, that the county of Wexford has been for some time past what is not unaptly termed lord-ridden. Slaves to their 8 86 HISTORY OF THE superiors, but tyrants to their inferiors, these needy adventurers become the tools of prevailing power. Justices of the peace are selected from this class, and these, by this degree of elevation, (certainly to them the station is an exalted one,) think themselves raised to a level of equality with the most respectable gen- tlemen in the country. But their ignorance is so pre- posterous, and their behavior so assuming, that men of education, talents, and fortune, are induced to withhold themselves from a situation they would otherwise grace, as it might oblige them to confer with fellows with whom they would not by any means hold communion or keep company. Thus are the very men who ought to be the magistrates of the country, and who would cheerfully accept the office were they to associate with proper companions in duty, deterred from holding commissions of the peace ; while the justice and police of the communi- ty is left to ignorant, presuming, and intemperate upstarts, devoid of all qualification and endowment, except that alone, if it may be termed such, of un- conditional submission and obedience to the control- ling nod of their boasted patrons. If they faithfully adhere to this, they may go all lengths to raise their consequence, and enhance their estimation with the multitude. These creatures have therefore the ef- frontery to push themselves forward on every occa- sion ; and after a series of habitual acts of turpitude, whenever an opportunity offers itself, they become the scourges and the firebrands of the country. It is much to be lamented that there are but too many ex- amples of this melancholy truth, and that in too many instances these wretches have been set on to commit flagrant acts of outrage, to answer the political pur- poses of their patrons, who shrink from appearing personally concerned in these deeds of shame. On IRISH REBELLION. 87 such occasions, from behind the curtain, the hireling crew are sent out to riot on the public stage, and dreadful are the consequences that follow; while the vile understrappers are utterly ignorant of the cause, and never question the motive of their subornation. In the beginning of the year 1795, parties of con- tending rioters, denominated Peep-o'' -day -Boys, and Defenders, disturbed different parts of the province of Ulster, by acts of violence and outrage against each other. Some say their animosities originated from electioneering. To these succeeded, in the summer of the same year, a description of public disturbers, calling themselves Orangemen, who now made their first appearance in the county of Ar- magh. Their object appears to have been, not to suffer a Catholic to remain within the limits of their sphere of action. They posted up on the doors of the Catholics peremptory notices of departure ; spe- cifying the precise time, a iveek at the farthest, pretty nearly in the following words : — " To hell or to Connaught with you, you bloody Papists ! and if you are not gone by" (mentioning the day) " we will come and. destroy yourselves and your properties. We all hate the Papists here." They generally were as good as their words. The Catholics at first saved themselves by flight ; but those who received notices at a later period were able to take some of their properties along with them. It is astonishing to think that such events could take place, where there were any men of intelligence, honesty, or public spirit ; and still the facts are indubitable ; nay, these enormities seem to have been connived at, or totally overlooked, until many thousands of the Catholics were thus driven from that part of the country, and that it became necessary to find occu- piers for the lands they had been obliged to aban- 88 HISTORY OF THE don. Even the gentlemen of landed interest in the county did not exhibit, by any public testimony, a disavowal of these horrid atrocities, until the period of setting the forsaken territory roused them from their slumbers. Then they discovered, to their amazement and dismay, that among the few bidders who appeared, not one was found to offer more for any lot, than about half what was paid for the same before by the Catholic tenant. Then, indeed, and not till then, did the banishment of the Catholics appear alarming. It was seriously alarming to gen- tlemen, thus in a moment to lose half their incomes; but until this fatal discovery was made, the number of wretched poor, proscribed and violently driven from their homes, deprived of their cabins and their all, was a circumstance unworthy of these gentle- men's notice. To counteract this calamity as much as possible, a numerous meeting of the magistrates of the county of Armagh was held at the special instance of the governor, Lord Viscount Gostord, on the 28th day of December, 1795. To this assemblage, on taking the chair as president, his lordship spoke a pointed address on the occasion ; which, together with the proceedings, was published in The Dublin Journal of the 5th of January, 1796.* A circumstantial detail of these occurrences in the north would be inconsistent with my original in- tention of confining myself, for the present, to the transactions in the county of Wexford ; but I have been led into this, I hope excusable digression, in order to account to the reader, in a great measure, for the dreadful impression made on the minds of the people, at a future period, by the rumors, that * See Appendix, No. VII. IRISH REBELLION. 89 Orangemen were sworn for the destruction of the Catholics ! Were these rumors to be grounded only on Lord Gosford's statement, (too authentic to admit a possibility of denial,) and true only in the extent his lordship has allowed them, with what terrible apprehensions must they fill the minds of a simple, op- pressed, and degraded people, such as the Irish peas- antry are generally known to have been for ages past ? But when it is considered, that the horrid acts them- selves have never been disavowed ; and the reports of them have rung in the ears of every individual throughout the nation, (perhaps with aggravated cir- cumstances, as it usually happens,) the reflecting reader is referred to his own judgment, to estimate how much the woful tale of the forlorn sufferers, by its reverberation from one end of the island to the other, must affect the mind, alarm the imagination, and inflame the resentments of an irritated, insulted, and violated community. What advantage might not be taken of a ferment thus excited, by designing men — perhaps, too, by the greatest enemies of the people ? For such frequently assume the mask of friendship and condolence, and apparently affect counteracting the sinister designs of their minions, in order to accomplish their private views, through a show of popularity. Various, as has been observed, were the descrip- tions of the disturbers of the public peace in Ulster. Numbers went about in the night, searching houses, and taking away all the arms they could find, with- out violating any other property. This becoming generally known, the houses were usually opened upon the first summons. This easy mode of admit- tance was afterwards taken advantage of by com- mon robbers, who at first only assumed the charac- ter of disarmers, to come at their prey with less 90 history of th£ trouble and more certainty. After a continued se- ries of similar circumstances of violence and out- rage, arising from a nation's greatest curse, the dis- union of its people, but which our limits will not permit us to detail at present, General Lake issued his proclamation for disarming the inhabitants of the north of Ireland, on the 13th of March, 1797; and on the 21st of the same month, Mr. Grattan, after a speech delivered with his usual force of talent and brilliant ability, moved for an inquiry into the causes which produced this proclamation ; but his motion was unfortunately rejected. The persecutions in the county of Armagh were so flagrant, and the con- duct of many of the magistrates so contrary to law, that applications were made to the Court of King's Bench for attachments against several of them, but a bill of indemnity prevented a judicial investiga- tion of their conduct ; and thus they were screened from merited punishment. This total disregard of their grievances, and inattention to their complaints, added to the barbarous outrages afterwards com- mitted by the military in the northern counties, very much exasperated the feelings of the suffering party. They resorted for temporary relief to private sorrow and secret lamentation. In this sad state, bordering on despair, every injured person sympathized with his neighbor in affliction ; and their united resent- ments, like a raging flame, suppressed but not ex- tinguished, were the more likely to burst forth with sudden fury and unexpected violence. It may not be impertinent to remark, that in all cases of popular commotion, an inquiry into the alleged grievances ought to go hand in hand with the measures of rigor and coercion. These two principles are far from being incompatible, and any government acting IHISH REBELLION. 91 upon them must be certain of conciliating obedience and affection, respect and attachment. The Earl of Moira, with that dignified humanity which has ever graced his noble character, brought the distresses of Ireland before the British house of lords, on the 22d of November, 1797; when he gave a heart-rending description, in his native strain of elevation, of the savage cruelties practised by the military against the people, and offered, at the mo- ment, to produce at the bar incontrovertible proof of his assertions. He concluded his able statement by moving an address to the sovereign, the principal purport of which was, " humbly hoping that his majesty might be graciously pleased to take into his paternal consideration the disturbed state of Ireland, and to adopt such lenient measures as might appear to his royal wisdom and benignity best calculated to restore tranquillity and excite affection." But sad to tell, his lordship was not more fortunate in the British house of lords, than was Mr. Grattan, the preceding March, in the Irish house of commons. Both motions had the same unlucky fate of rejec- tion. On the following day, (the 23d of November,) Mr. Fox made a similar benevolent and patriotic effort, (and who is unacquainted with his powers ?) in the British house of commons, but with the like success. He concluded a lucid and animated speech with the following pointed and emphatic quotation from Cicero, which I cannot resist inserting : — " Carum esse civibus, bene de re-publica mereri, laudari, coli, diligi, gloriosum est ; metui vero et in odio esse, i?ividiosu?n, detestabile, imbecillum, cadu- cum :" — To be dear to one's countrymen, to deserve well of the commonweal, to be praised, to be re- spected, to be beloved, is glorious ; but to be feared 02 HISTORY OF TUB and encompassed with hatred is invidious, is detes- table, is tottering, is ruinous. The appointment of General Sir Ralph Abercrom- by, on the 12th of December, 1797, to the chief command of the forces in Ireland, gave general satisfaction, and afforded a ray of hope to drooping despondency. The subsequent display of his emi- nent virtues evinced the justice of favorable expec- tation. Having been quartered in Ireland through most of his gradations of well-merited promotion, he possessed a perfect local knowledge of the country ; and he now resolved in person to visit every district, and thus he made a tour of observation through the whole island. After a strict review of every object worthy of his attention, he published on his return to Dublin general orders to the several military com- manders, wherein, after having reprobated the irregu- larities of the soldiery, he directed the necessary re- straint for their disorderly conduct. These orders were issued from the adjutant-general's office, in Dublin, on the 26th of February, 1797.* The Earl of Moira, animated by the same gener- ous motives that always influenced his conduct, made his last effort to avert the impending storm. With this benevolent intention, on the 19th of February, 1798, he moved in the Irish House of Lords, " That an humble address be presented to his excellency the lord-lieutenant, representing, that as parliament hath confided to his excellency extraordinary powers for supporting the laws and defeating any traitorous combinations which may exist in this kingdom, this house feels it, at the same time, its duty, as those powers have not produced the desired effect, to re- commend the adoption of such conciliatory measures * See Appendix, No. VIII. IRISH REBELLION. 93 as may allay the apprehensions and extinguish the discontents unhappily prevalent in this country." This motion was introduced after an affecting speech of uncommon energy, but it was negatived without further investigation — a circumstance that furnishes strong ground for the opinion of many intelligent men, that the door was shut, at that time, against all in- quiry, for purposes not then known, or even imagined by the public ; but which, however, were foretold, as if from a spirit of inspiration, even in the minutest circumstances, by those elevated geniuses whose comprehensive views in regard to the concerns of their country were unlimited. The great measure was still in reserve, and not to be brought forward until the country should be completely paralyzed. This unhappy crisis, it is thought, was long in agita- tion and deeply premeditated. I crave the reader's permission, while I endeavor to sketch a brief out- line of the manner in which it is supposed to have been finally effected. During the American war, at one time, nearly all the troops on the Irish establishment were drawn off to support that unfortunate contest. The combined fleets of France and Spain were riding triumphant in the Channel, and our shores were every moment threatened with a formidable invasion. In this peril- ous situation Ireland was advised by the British min- istry to defend herself as well as she could, as she was now left no other resource. The latent spirit of the nation was roused at the approach of danger. Upwards of one hundred thousand heroes instantly appeared, self-clothed, self-armed, perfectly equipped and appointed, ready to oppose with dauntless cour- age the menacing foe that would rashly venture to insult our coast. These were the ever memorable and ever glorious volunteers of Ireland. Our ene- 94 HISTORY OF THE mies were all at once completely scared, they shrunk into their ports ; and our shores, then too command- ing for an attempt to land, were left unmolested. Our people were united in harmonious resolution ; every breast glowed with patriotic ardor, and the sal- vation of Ireland, otherwise left to inevitable destruc- tion, was the consequence. The hour of security and social intercourse produced reflection. The saviours of their country quickly discovered that they existed in a state of thraldom to the British parlia- ment. They demanded a redress of grievances ; it could not be refused ; and the national legislature was consequently declared independent. This great event took place in 1782, and a rapid increase of national prosperity succeeded ; our commerce, being less shackled, became more extensive, and the capi- tal of the island improved in splendor and magnifi- cence. But it was with the utmost reluctance, and under circumstances of imperious necessity, that these concessions seemed to be made by the British cabinet, while the most malignant envy rankled in the bosoms of the enemies of Ireland. But there was no alternative. A diffusion of liberal sentiment and a unity of interests had combined men of all ranks and persuasions in the common cause. The unhallowed monster of religious bigotry could no longer be introduced to foment prejudice and sow baleful division ; all was concord and unanimity. But the object of creating disunion and annulling the benefits obtained was never lost sight of; and the happy state of Ireland continued uninterrupted only until the dissolution of the volunteer associations, (and this was contrived as speedily as possible,) and till other schemes were put in practice to dissipate the union of sentiment which so happily prevailed. Much time was not lost, therefore, to put every en- lftiSH REBELLION. 95 gine at work for this detested purpose. In 1786, a set of commercial regulations, denominated proposi- tions, was drawn up in the Irish House of Commons, and transmitted for the consideration of the British parliament. From thence they were returned so altered, that the Irish minister of the day found it expedient not to press them forward. It was assert- ed that the propositions so garbled, went the full length of annihilating by implication the independence so lately acquired ; and this proceeding excited no small degree of irritation. The same year, among other means of disturbing the harmony of the people, the Right Rev. Doctor Woodward, late Bishop of Cloyne, taking advantage of some disturbances, ex- cited by the exactions of tithe farmers in Munster, fulminated a pamphlet pronouncing the church and state in danger. The trump of discord thus delibe- rately blown, was resounded by an intemperate wri- ter, under the assumed name of " Theophilus." This scurrilous publication (at first acknowledged, but afterwards denied by its reputed author) was al- ways with good reason attributed to a civilian engaged in the service of the established church, and now at the head of its judicial concerns. This author's pub- lication is notorious for virulent abuse, for gross and foul invectives against Catholics in public — though he had a Catholic of the gentler sex the wedded partner of his existence, and though in private life endeavoring to maintain habits of intimacy with many of the Catholic clergy. But what reliance is to be placed on the declamations of a man whose practice is so contrary to his professions ? But he may well play the ambidexter, when his pleadings have heaped on him a multiplicity of profitable situations, (which he does not admit to be places or employments,) and in his convivial moments he is foully belied if he 96 HISTORY OF THE does not mightily enjoy the joke. These, and such* like productions, dictated by the spirit of discord, were refuted by several able pens of the day, but particularly convicted by the irresistible force of the benevolent O'Leary's dignified ridicule. This di- vine, professing the true spirit of the Gospel, excited by the purest motives of patriotism and Christian charity, steps forward, and by his exhortations and example, contributed more effectually to quiet the minds of the people and appease the tempest, by bringing them back to a sense of their religion, and, without the loss of a life, effected more than a host prompted by prejudiced coercion, or a formidable army. The happy effects of the exertions of this extraordinary man, whose talents were so eminently useful at this critical period, attracted the notice of majesty, and with becoming gratitude, unsolicited on his part, received a small annuity as a token of royal favor ; his talents were considered too conspicuous to lie dormant, and very advantageous offers were made to him to write for a periodical publication that militated against his principles ; he had no other property, yet he rejects it with scorn, although he was certain thereby to incur the displeasure of the ruling powers in Ireland, that would do all in their power to injure him, which he preferred to the prostitution of his heavenly talents, and he retires from his native coun- try and repairs to England, where the enviable bless- ings of the constitution are experienced infinitely more than in Ireland. Yet all these exertions did not allay the public ferment, and the hateful and mel- ancholy effects of religious dissension were but too general ; and hence may be deduced the most la- mentable misfortunes to Ireland — the revival of re- ligious enmity. No means were omitted thenceforward by the IRISH REBELLION. 97 principal actors on the occasion, of cherishing the animosities thus excited ; confident that this proce- dure alone would best bear them to their end. This may be fairly concluded from what dropped in the debate on the famous propositions. A leading per- son, then high in confidence and official situation, and who, before the final object was attained, arrived at the chief judicial capacity of the land, pronounced in the moment of exasperated disappointment, that " the Irish were a besotted people, easily roused,, and easily appeased ;" and, in terms unfit for decency to utter, he is said to have threatened to tame their re- fractory spirits. In truth, he then delivered the sen- timents of his party, as well as his own determina- tion, to which he strictly adhered ever after. This man of narrow politics omitted no occasion of ac- complishing the humiliation of his native country. Opposing, with licentious petulance, all rational schemes of reform ; reprobating with plebeian ribald- ry the justice of Catholic claims; and provoking public anger by insulting public feeling, he saw with gloomy satisfaction, before his premature dissolution, his ruthless system carried into woful effect. The trampled populace were goaded to resistance ; their smothered resentments burst into a flame that was not very easily extinguished ; the nation was dis- tracted ; and the long premeditated measure of in- corporating union succeeded, after a spirited but in- effectual resistance ; and thus ended the political drama of Ireland. But to return. Sir Ralph Abercromby, after the publication of his general orders, and the knowledge he had ac- quired in his general view of the country, endeavored in vain to impress the minds of those in power with his own well-founded opinion, that coercive measures, in the extent determined on, were by no means ne- 9 98 HISTORY OF THE cessary in Ireland. Unwilling, therefore, to tarnish his military fame, or risk the loss of humane and manly character by leading troops to scenes of cold- blood slaughter and civil desolation ; sooner than sanction b}^ his presence proceedings so abhorrent from his nature, he resigned the chief command of the army in Ireland, on the 29th of April, 1798. His departure has, indeed, been a sore misfortune to this unhappy nation ; and had any casualty detained him here but one month longer, it would have been prov- idential, for when the insurrection had actually bro- ken out, he could not so well have resigned the com- mand ; and his dignified authority w r ould have re- strained the soldiery from the horrid excesses they afterwards committed. He was too good and too great a blessing for this ill-fated land to possess at that time ; ke did all in his power to prevent the woful calamities that followed ; his splendid exploits in Egypt have rendered his fame immortal ; and his death, though glorious, has left an aching pang in the bosom of every true lover of this distracted coun- try. May the olive-branch which he waved in Ire- land be never forgotten among his unfading laurels ! A strong confirmation, if further proof were at all necessary, of the great discrimination of General Abercromby's comprehensive mind, is his marked selection of a dignified character with whom to share his confidence, as second in command, when going on the expedition to Egypt. His choice could not have fallen more judiciously than on Lord Hutchin- son, whose brilliant achievements and splendid tri- umphs have since so largely added to Irish fame, and adorned himself with merited honors. This nobleman appears to have rivalled his great friend as well in humanity as glory. Their opinions re- specting Ireland strictly coincided. Witness his IJilsn REBELLION. 99 lordship's well-known sentiment of " I abominate the torture," delivered in the winter of 1798, in the Irish parliament, in the debate on the bill of in- demnity, for screening the violent proceedings of the ■sheriff of the county of Tipperary ; and it is happy such sentiment did not deprive him of command . The opposition of the entire Hutchinson family to oppressive measures was conspicuous on this occa- sion ; and their exertions were indefatigable for the maintenance of peace and order throughout the whole of the arduous period of disturbance. They all breathed the same sentiment of benevolence and humanity. The Earl of Deneughmore exerted all his power and influence to throw open the gates of mercy to the wretched people ; and his brother, the Hon. Francis Hely Hutchinson, who succeeded Mr. Judkin Fitzgerald as sheriff of the county of Tippe- rary, was eminent in support of abhorrence of the torture. In short, the affable demeanor, the kind and conciliating manners of this entire family, fascinated the minds of the people, and thus prevented shock- ing scenes of dreadful devastation, wherever they possessed influence or had command, particularly in the counties of Tipperary, Cork, and Galway, much more effectually than any measures of violence or coercion could ever accomplish. I hope, at a future period, to be enabled to do more justice, to the great merits of this family, by faithfully recording their generous actions in Minister in 1798, a task that must be grateful to every lover of humanity, and of Ireland, and those of other celebrated characters, that the limits of my present publication permits me only to glance at. Immediately on the departure of General Aber- cromby, the military were sent out at free quarters in the county of Kildare and parts of the counties 100 HISTORY OF THE of Carlow and Wicklow. What hardships, what calamity, what misery must not the wretched people sutler, on whom were let loose such a body as the soldiery then in Ireland are described to be in the general orders before alluded to of the 26th of April, 1 798 ! They became masters of every house in the country ; the real owners were obliged to procure them every necessary they thought proper to de- mand ; and, as their will was then the only law — and a very imperious and tyrannical law it was — the people dare not, except at the risk of their lives, complain of any outrage or brutality of which their savage disposition prompted them to be guilty. The inevitable consequence was, that such horrid acts were perpetrated, such shocking scenes were exhib- ited, as must rouse the indignation and provoke the abhorrence of all not dead to humane feeling, or not barbarized by unnatural hatred of their fellow-crea- tures ! At this period of confusion, the first public intima- tion of disturbance in the county of Wexford was from a meeting of magistrates held at Gorey, on the 28th of November, 1797. There the proclaiming of sixteen parishes out of one hundred and forty-two, of which the county consists, was voted by a majori- ty, of which my information does not afford me the number; but the measure was strongly opposed by eight of the magistrates present, including Lord Mountnorris, who must be naturally supposed to feel substantial reasons for his opposition to have the part of the county proclaimed wherein his property principally lay ; and it is to be fairly presumed, (whatever ground may be had by some reflecting people for thinking otherwise,) that his lordship was not influenced, on this occasion at least, by motives of opposition to Lord Ely, his successful rival in the IRISH REBELLION. 101 patronage of the county. Shortly after this meeting at Gorey, I spent some days at Camolin-park, the seat of Lord Mountnorris, while he was soliciting the people from parish to parish to take the oath of allegiance. His lordship requested I would use what influence I might possess with the priests in my neighborhood, to induce them and their flocks to join in this general test of loyalty, in order, as he said, to put the Catholic interest in the county of Wexford on the most respectable footing ; suggest- ing at the same time, that from his " great conse- quence and influence, his representation of facts must counteract and outiveigh the misrepresentations of others." He also showed me the oaths he usually administered on these occasions, and which he stated himself to have improved from time to time by sev- eral alterations ; he produced one, in particular, which he conceived to be wrought up to the highest perfection of loyalty. Although I agreed with his lordship so far as really to think the county was then in a state of perfect peace and tranquillity, (and therefore thought this overweening parade unneces- sary,) yet I never believed him. notwithstanding all his lordship's strong professions to that effect, a sin- cere friend to Catholics : I was rather strongly of opinion, that he affected a show of concern for their interests at this critical period in mere opposition to the noble lord his competitor for influence. I therefore took the most civil means in my power of declining the interference to which his lordship would have directed my exertions. Lord Mount- norris, however, was not singular in courting Catho- lic popularity at that time, for all the newspapers of the day teemed with addresses from the Catholics throughout the island, published, not at the desire or at the expense of the subscribers, but by the political 9* 1 02 HISTORY OF TITET manceuvrers who took the trouble of procuring themv to answer their private purposes, by playing them off against the schemes of ether opponents. Previous to the spring assizes of 1798, several prisoners were transmitted from Wexford to abide their trials at Wicklow, on the prosecution of an in- former, whose real name was Morgan, and who had been transported some years before for robbery, but had returned to the country under the assumed name of Cooper. This miscreant was encouraged by some magistrates of the county of Wicklow, to swear informations against United Irishmen ;. and this he did most copiously. On producing him, however, at Wicklow, his character appeared so infamous, that the gentlemen of the bar were unreserved in decla- ring that the baseness of such a nefarious villain re- flected not a little on those magistrates that encour- aged him to come forward. All the prisoners were consequently acquitted, and it was therefore not deemed expedient to bring him on to prosecute at Wexford, where there were also some prisoners con- fined on his information. At this assizes, also, one man of the name of Col- lins, otherwise M'Quillen, was brought to trial for spreading false news and alarming the country ; it was clearly proved, that this man circulated a report of the arrival of the French off Bantry, and that the yeomen or Orangemen (indifferently supposed by the people to be the same) were to march to resist the invasion ; and that it was designed by them previ- ously to commit a massacre upon the Catholics of the country. Such implicit belief did the report gain, that every person from Bray to Arklow, between four and five and twenty miles extent, abandoned their habitations and slept in the open fields ; and some women were even delivered in that exposed condi- IRISH REBELLION. 103 tion. It is worthy of remark, that these people must have from some previous cause been led to form so bad an opinion of their neighbors, when they gave credit with so much facility to these reports. Several had been confined in Wexford as United Irishmen, to be prosecuted by an informer of a de- scription quite different from that of the Wicklow ruffian. The name of this second informer was Jo- seph Murphy, a creature of such idiot aspect, that it was impossible, even at first view, not to conclude him destitute of common intellect, so that it appeared strange that any magistrate of the least discrimina- tion could venture to produce him : yet, this was the man chosen craftily to insinuate himself to be sworn a United Irishman, and then to develop this whole scheme of the combination to a magistrate of the county, who had employed him for that purpose, as he afterwards asserted in the most solemn manner ; and his testimony on the trial, when he was pro- duced as an informer, sufficiently warrants this con- fession. Only one trial was ventured on by the crown-solicitor at the prosecution of this man, and on hearing his evidence the prisoner was instantly ac- quitted, and the remainder of those against whom he had given information were turned out of the dock, without any trial whatever. I should not dwell up- on these apparently trivial circumstances, but that the public can judge of the truth only by a faithful rela- tion of facts ; and these facts also tend to prove that the system of the United Irishmen had not diffused itself through the county of Wexford to the extent so confidently affirmed by an author, whose veracity in almost every other instance appears equally question- able. The truth is, that no authentic proof existed at the time to support these arrogant assertions ; and subsequent information confirms how little the coun- 104 HISTORY OF THE ty of Wexford was concerned in that conspiracy, as no return appears of its being organized, in the dis- coveries of the secret committees of the Houses of Lords and Commons. It would be as contrary to truth, however, to say there were no United Irishmen in the county of Wexford ; but by every statement worthy of credit, that has ever appeared, their num- bers were comparatively fewer in this than in any other county in Ireland ; and such as were of that description here seem to have been privately sworn in the detached unconnected manner of the first pro- gress of that business, before it assumed the form of regular organization. According to this system, now so universally known, the United Irishmen of the county of Wexford, considering the means whereby those were urged into the conspiracy, do not appear to come strictly under that denomination ; for their first inducement to combine was, to render their party strong enough to resist the Orangemen, whom they actually believed to be associated and sworn for the extermination of the Catholics, and " to ivade ankle deep in their blood /" What dreadful notions of ter- ror and alarm must have filled the minds of people believing themselves thus devoted to inevitable de- struction I so strongly, indeed, was it endeavored to impress the horrid belief, that it was frequently re- ported through the country, that the Orangemen were to rise in the night-time to murder all the Catholics. Reports of an opposite kind also went abroad, as it appears, by a public advertisement, that a reward of one hundred guineas was offered by the Roman Catholic inhabitants of the neighborhood of Gorey, for the discovery of some wicked and designing persons who had circulated a malevolent and detestable ru- mor, that all the churches were . to be attacked on Sunday, the 29th of April, and that a general massa- IRISH REBELLION. 105 ere of the Protestants was to follow. The advertise- ment was signed by the priests and principal inhabit- ants of the place, with Sir Thomas Esmonde, Baro- net, at their head ; and thus did the Catholics do all in their power to satisfy the minds of their Protest- ant brethren. These reports certainly occasioned a great deal of mischief among the ignorant and unin- formed of all descriptions, whose minds were wrought up to such fury and animosity, that the opposite par- ties united for mutual defence and hostility to their opponents. On the 30th of March, 1798, all Ireland was put under martial law, and officially declared to be in a state of rebellion by a proclamation from the lord lieutenant and privy council of the realm. In this proclamation the military were directed to use the most summary method of repressing disturbances. The orange system made no public appearance in the county of Wexford, until the beginning of April, on the arrival there of the North Cork militia, com- manded by Lord Kingsborough. In this regiment there were a great number of Orangemen, who were zealous in making proselytes, and displaying their devices ; having medals and orange ribands trium- phantly pendent from their bosoms. It is believed, that previous to this period there were but few actual Orangemen in the county ; but soon after, those whose principles inclined that way, finding themselves sup- ported by the military, joined the association, and publicly avowed themselves, by assuming the devices of the fraternity. It is said, that the North Cork regiment were also the inventors — but they certainly were the introdu- cers, of pitch-cap torture into the county of Wexford. Any person having his hair cut short, (and there- fore called a croppy, by which appellation the sol- 106 HISTORY OF THE diery designated a United Irishman, on being pointed out by some loyal neighbor, was immediately seized and brought into a guard-house, where caps either of coarse linen, or strong brown paper, besmeared inside with pitch, were always kept ready for service. The unfortunate victim had one of these, well heated, compressed on his head, and when judged of a pro- per degree of coolness, so that it could not be easily pulled off, the sufferer was turned out amidst the horrid acclamations of the merciless torturers ; and to the view of vast numbers of people, who generally crowded about the guard-house door, attracted by the afflicted cries of the tormented. Many of those persecuted in this manner experienced additional an- guish from the melted pitch trickling into their eyes. This afforded a rare addition of enjoyment to these keen sportsmen, who reiterated their horrid yells of exultation on the repetition of the several accidents to which their game was liable upon being turned out ; for in the confusion and hurry of escaping from the ferocious hands of these more than savage bar- barians, the blinded victims frequently fell, or inad- vertently dashed their heads against the walls in their way. The pain of disengaging this pitched cap from the head must be next to intolerable. The hair was often torn out by the roots, and not unfrequently parts of the skin were so scalded or blistered as to adhere and come off along with it. The terror and dismay that these outrages occasioned are inconceivable. A sergeant of the North Cork, nicknamed Tom the Devil, was most ingenious in devising new modes of torture. Moistened gunpowder was frequently rubbed into the hair cut close, and then set on fire ; some, while being sheared for this purpose, had the tips of their ears snipped off; sometimes an entire ear, and often both ears were completely cut off; and many lost IRISH REBELLION. 107 part of their noses during the like preparation. But, strange to tell, these atrocities were publicly prac- tised without the least reserve in open day, and no magistrate or officer ever interfered, but shamefully connived at this extraordinary mode of quieting the people ! Some of the miserable sufferers on these shocking occasions, or some of their relations or friends, actuated by a principle of retaliation, if not of revenge, cut short the hair of several persons whom they either considered as enemies, or suspect- ed of having pointed them out as objects for such desperate treatment. This was done with a view that those active citizens should fall in for a little ex- perience of the like discipline, or to make the fash- ion of short hair so general that it might no longer be a mark of party distinction. Females were also ex- posed to the grossest insults from these military ruf- fians. Many women had their petticoats, handker- chiefs, caps, ribands, and all parts of their dress that exhibited a shade of green (considered the national color of Ireland) torn ofT, and their ears assailed by the most vile and indecent ribaldry. This was a cir- cumstance so unforeseen, and of course so little pro- vided against, that many women of enthusiastic loy- alty suffered outrage in this manner. Some of these ladies would not on any account have worn any thing which they could even imagine partook in any degree of croppyism. They were, however, unwarily in- volved, until undeceived by these gentle hints from these kind guardians of allegiance. Great as the apprehensions from Orangemen had been before among the people, they were now mul- tiplied tenfold, and aggravated terror led them in numbers to be sworn United Irishmen, in order to counteract the supposed plan of their rumored ex- terminators. The fears of the people became so 108 HISTORY OF THE great at length, that they forsook their houses in the night, and slept (if undfcr such circumstances they could sleep) in the ditches. These facts were noto- rious at the time, and had the magistrates and gen- tlemen of the country been actuated by the feelings that humanity naturally excites on such occasions, they might, with very little trouble, have convinced the deluded populace of the fallacy of such reports, and they should have promised them public protection. In general, however, the fact was otherwise. The melancholy situation of the people was regarded with the utmost indifference ; few individuals felt any concern or gave themselves any trouble about what they thought ; and no effort whatever was made to allay their apprehensions, or at all to unde- ceive them. Their minds were left to the operation of their fears, to dissipate which if any pains had been taken, it is certain that these horrid conceptions entertained of Orangemen could never have taken such strong hold of their scared imaginations, and that violence would have been repressed in its origin. I had the good fortune to succeed so far, in my own neighborhood, as to induce the people to remain in their houses at night ; and the trouble it gave me to effect so much cannot be conceived without actual experience. I was much amazed to find that this notion was so firmly entertained by some people of respectability, that I believe myself to have been the only person that slept in a house wherein I was on a visit. The fears of the family had been so great, that they had formed a plan of escape, in case of any attempt by the Orangemen to murder them in the night, and with this plan I was made acquainted the next morning. I endeavored to inculcate my own fixed opinion of the impossi- IRISH REBELLION. 109 bility of a Christian harboring the thought of putting to death an unoffending fellow-creature. The dis- position is too shocking for any Christian to cherish against another ; but more especially so for a Chris- tian boasting that of all persuasions his own disposes most to liberality. I rejected the odious, infernal thought with abhorrence, and railed at the weakness that would give it a moment's reception in the mind; and I succeeded in dispelling the fears of some of my friends. The minds of the people being thus greatly irri- tated, (particularly by the impunity of the acts of outrage already related,) and their alarms having made them abandon their houses at night, they col- lected in great numbers in their lurking-places. Measures of self-defence were naturally suggested in consequence of their apprehensions, and they weie readily led to adopt the means that were deemed best calculated to ensure security. The United Irishmen eagerly advanced the arguments most likely to in- duce the body of the people to embrace their system, and they met with powerful support and co- operation from those of the opposite faction ; whose violent conduct and zealous persecutions proved more efficacious in urging on the people, than any allurements whatsoever. Men thus desperately cir- cumstanced uphold and stimulate each other's con- fidence, and all consideration of the weakness of individual exertion is removed by a reliance on col- lective force. In this state man is no longer con- nected in the way of civil society, but finds himself surrounded by one convulsed and half dissolved, and a fever of the mind ensues that banishes all idea of calm circumspection. A soul thus impressed cannot abide in solitude, and is therefore led by ir- 10 1 10 HISTORY OF THE resistible impulse to adopt any plausible project that holds out additional means of preservation, protec- tion, or defence. On the 25th day of April, 1798, an assembly of twenty-seven magistrates was held at Gorey, where it was resolved, that the whole county of Wexford should be forthwith proclaimed ; and this accord- ingly took place on the 27th. From this period forward, many magistrates of the county made themselves conspicuous in practising the summary mode of quieting the country, by the infliction of all kinds of torture. They seem, indeed, to have emulated, or rather rivalled, the conduct of the magistrates of other counties, who had made trial of the salutary effects of persecution somewhat sooner. In the several neighborhoods of Ross, En- niscorthy, and Gorey, the people suffered most, as in each of these towns a magistrate started up, eager for the glorious distinction of outstripping all others, each by his own superior deeds of death, deflagra- tion, and torture ! But it is to be observed, that none of these men had ever before possessed either talents or respectability sufficient to entitle him to take a leading part ; yet, if burning houses, whip- ping and half-hanging numbers, hanging some all out, and shooting others, with attendant atrocities, constitute the characteristic of loyal and good magistrates, they must be allowed strong claims to eminence. In the mean time it must be observed, also, that such proceedings, however sanctioned, are contrary to the spirit of the constitution, a principal part of the excellence of which is the exclusion of all torture. In all the riots and disturbances that took place in England, does it appear, in any one instance, that an infliction of torture was ever at- tempted ? Yet have we heard of associations there, IRISH REBELLION. 1 1 1 as alarming in their tendency as any that can be im- puted to United Irishmen, although no one has been found possessed of sufficient hardihood there to try this desperate experiment. Would the most power- ful, the richest, or the most violent man in England be hazardous enough to treat the meanest subject with the barbarous severity practised, in numberless instances, on respectable as well as humble individ- uals in Ireland ? The attempt would be too danger- ous. I apprehend the result would prove, that the people would rise in a mass in resistance to such oppressive treatment ; and it is submitted to the de- termination of the candid and impartial, if the feel- ings of the people of England would not yield to such tyranny without meeting it with the most violent opposition, whether it be not natural to sup- pose, that it must have roused the resentments of the people of Ireland ? I am firmly persuaded, that the conduct of the magistrates before alluded to, (and of some others not entitled to quite such re- nown in this cause,) supported by the yeomen under their control, together with the co-operation of the military, occasioned, or rather forced, the rising of the people in the county of Wexford. While I en- deavor to establish the truth of this assertion, I beg the reader's attention to the particular dates of the several outrages, and of the respective periods at which different parts of the county joined the insur- gents, as it will be necessary to take them in regular order, to form an adequate and impartial opinion. The proclamation of the county of Wexford having given greater scope to the ingenuity of magistrates to devise means of quelling all symptoms of rebel- lion, as well as of using every exertion to procure discoveries, they soon fell to burning of houses wherein pikes or other offensive weapons were dis- 112 HISTORY OF THE covered, no matter how brought there. But they did not stop here, for the dwellings of suspected persons, and those from which any of the inhabitants were found to be absent at night, were also con- sumed. This circumstance of absence from the houses very generally prevailed through the country, although there were the strictest orders forbidding it. This was occasioned at first, as was before ob- served, from apprehension of the Orangemen, but afterwards proceeded from the actual experience of torture, by the people, from the yeomen and magis- trates. Some, too, abandoned their homes for fear of being whipped, if, on being apprehended, confes- sions satisfactory to the magistrates could either be given or extorted ; and this infliction many persons seemed to fear more than death itself. Many un- fortunate men, who were taken in their own houses, were strung up, as it were to be hanged, but were let down now and then to try if strangulation would oblige them to become informers. After these and the like experiments, several persons languished for some time, and at length perished in consequence of them. Smiths and carpenters, whose assistance was considered indispensable in the fabrication of pikes, were pointed out, on evidence of their trades, as the first and fittest objects of torture. But the sagacity of some magistrates became at length so acute, from habit and exercise, that they discerned a United Irishman, even at the first glance ! And their zeal never suffered any person whom they deigned to honor with such distinction, to pass off without convincing proof of their attention. The two following instances are selected from " An Ac- count of the Late Rebellion," by Mr. Alexander, a Protestant inhabitant of Ross, who keeps an academy in that town — IRISH REBELLION. 113 1 1 now heard of many punishments of suspected persons, both by flogging and strangulation, being put into execution in the barrack-yard, (in Ross,) to extort confession of guilt. There were two of these victims brought from the barrack to the court-house to undergo a repetition of former punishments. One of them, of the name of Driscol, was found in Cam- lin Wood, near Ross, where he said he generally wandered as a hermit. Upon him were found two Roman Catholic prayer-books, with which it is sup- posed he administered oaths of disloyalty. He had been strangled three times and flogged four times during confinement, but to no purpose ! His fellow- sufferer was one Fitzpatrick of Dunganstown, near Sutton's parish. This man had been a Newfound- land sailor, but long utterly disqualified to follow that occupation, by reason of an inveterate scurvy in his legs. He therefore commenced abecedarian, near Sutton's parish. It happened that a magistrate who was a yeoman, and others of his corps, passed by his noisy mansion, which was no other than a little thatched stable, that, like a beehive, proclaimed the history of its inhabitants. The magistrate enter- ed, followed by the other yeomen. ' Here is a man/ says the magistrate, speaking of the master, as I shall call him, though his authority was now for some months to have an end — and a severe vacation it was — ' Here is a man who, I presume, can have no ob- jection to take the oath of allegiance. What do you say, Mr. Teacher V — ' O dar a leoursa,' (i. e. by this book,) ' I will take it, sir, and thank you for bringing it to me.' So saying, he took the book, which the magistrate held forth, and not only took the oath with the most cordial emphasis, but added another expressive of his loyalty at all times. Upon this, the magistrate regarded his companions with a " 10* 114 HISTORY OF THE look of dry humor, and observed, that this must be d loyal man indeed. ' Well, then, my loyal friend, I suppose you will readily swear to all the pikes, and to the owners and possessors of them, of which you have any knowledge V The man swore he had no certain knowledge of the kind ; and that he never saw a rebel's pike in his life, or a pike of any kind since the rebellion. ' Then,' says the magistrate, * you shall swear that you will, to the utmost of your future knowledge or information this way, give, in the best manner you can, all such information to a lawful magistrate, or other officer in his majesty's service/ * No, sir,' answered Filzpatrick, ' I will not swear that : I will bring no man's blood on my head ; and if I do inform, who will support and protect me when I have lost all my scholars, and my neighbors turn upon me V Upon this he was immediately appre- hended and escorted to Ross ; he was not strangled, however, but flogged with great severity ; and it was not with dry eyes that I saw the punishment inflicted on this humble pioneer of literature. About a month after the battle, both these men were tried before General Cowley, and matters appearing no further against them than I have stated, they were liberated from a close and filthy confinement. The general presented both with a small sum of money, express- ing a good-natured concern, that he could not then give them any greater pecuniary assistance. He also gave them written protections, expressive of his opinion of their being peaceably disposed. I never once heard an authentic account of any immediate good effect produced by these punishments. How- ever, it is most certain, that the severities in general served to accelerate the rebellion, and thereby, very considerably, to weaken its progress."* * See Alexander's account of the rebellion, pages 28, 29 IRISH REBELLION. 115 Many innocent men were thus taken up while peaceably engaged in their own private concerns, walking along the road, or passing through the mar- ket in the several towns, without any previous accu- sation, but in consequence of military whim, or the caprice of magisterial loyalty ; and those who had been at market, and were passed by unnoticed, had the news of a public exhibition to bring home ; for the unfortunate victims thus seized upon, were in- stantly subjected, at least, to the torture of public whipping. People of timid dispositions, therefore, avoided going to market, fearing that they might be forced to display the like spectacle. Provisions of course became dear, for want of the usual supply in the market-towns ; and the military, to redress this evil, went out into the country and brought in what they wanted, at what price they pleased, the owners thinking themselves well treated if they got but half the value of their goods ; and in case of a second visit, happy if they escaped unhurt, which, however, was not always the case ; and thus were the minds of the people brought to admit such powerful im- pressions of terror, that death itself was sometimes the consequence. The following is a strong instance of this melancholy fact, related by the Rev. Mr. Gordon : " Whether an insurrection in the then existing state of the kingdom, would have taken place in the county of Wexford, or, in case of its eruption, how far less formidable and sanguinary it would have been, if no acts of severity had been committed by the soldiery, the yeomen, or their supplementary as- sociates, without the direct authority of their supe- riors, or command of the magistrate, is a question which I am not able positively to answer. In the neighborhood of Gorey, if I am not mistaken, the 116 HISTORY OF THE terror of the whippings was in particular so great, that the people would have been extremely glad to renounce forever all notions of opposition to govern- ment, if they could have been assured of permission to remain in a state of quietness. As an instance of this terror, I shall relate the following fact : On the morning of the 23d of May, a laboring man, named Denis M'Daniel, came to my house with looks of the utmost consternation and dismay, and confessed to me that he had taken the United Irishman's oath, and had paid for a pike, with which he had not yel been furnished, nineteen-pence-halfpenny, to one Kilty, a smith, who had administered the oath to him and many others. While I sent my eldest son, who was a lieutenant of yeomanry, to arrest Kilty, I ex- horted M'Daniel to surrender himself to a magis- trate, and make his confession ; but this he positively refused, saying that he should, in that case, be lashed to make him produce a pike, which he had not, and to confess what he knew not. I then advised him, as the only alternative, to remain quietly at home, promising that if he should be arrested on the infor- mation of others, I would represent his case to the magistrates. He took my advice, but the fear of arrest and lashing had so taken possession of his thoughts, that he could neither eat nor sleep ; and on the morning of the 25th he fell on his face and expired in a little grove near my house."* The Rev. Mr. Gordon, from whose history I have quoted the foregoing narrative, is a clergyman of the Established Church, who resided in the neighbor- hood of Gorey, as a curate, for twenty-three years ; and as he was an eye-witness, his relation of the fact deserves the utmost credit. He had every op- * See Gordon's History of the Irish Rebellion, pp. 87, 88. IRISH REBELLION. 117 portunity of watching the approach of the insurrec- tion, and I sincerely wish there were many like him possessed of liberal sentiments and benevolent feel- ings for the delusions and sufferings of the people. With regard to his opinion, that they would remain quiet in the neighborhood of Gorey, if they were certain of being left in peace at home, I perfectly coincide with him ; and I can confidently assert the same of the neighborhood in which I resided. It was not possible that the convulsed state of the country could escape the observation of any humane or intelligent person : an inquiry into the cause would naturally succeed such notice, and the result must be the consequent conviction of this truth. I have also reason to believe, that such was the dis- position throughout the whole county, as I have heard several respectable magistrates and other per- sons of veracity from various parts of it express the same sentiment ; and, as each individual was un- doubtedly the best judge in his own neighborhood of the conduct of the inhabitants, the inference to be collected from these several uniform statements must be conclusive evidence for the establishment of a fact, to which subsequent events afford a strong cor- roboration. While the minds of the people were in this state of distraction and alarm, numbers, condemned to transportation by the magistrates of other counties, daily passed through the county of Wexford on their way to Duncannon fort. Groups of from twelve to fifteen carloads at a time have gone through Ross alone. These terrifying examples added if possible to the apprehensions already entertained, and the precedent was soon after put in practice in the coun- ty of Wexford itself. Great as the atrocities already related may appear, 118 HISTORY OF THE (and surely they are very deplorable,) enormities still more shocking to humanity remained to be per- petrated. However grating to generous and benev- olent feeling the sad detail must prove, imperious truth imposes the irksome necessity of proceeding to facts. Mr. Hunter Gowan had for many years distin- guished himself by his activity in apprehending rob- bers, for which he was rewarded with a pension of £100 per annum, and it were much to be wished that every one who has obtained a pension had as well deserved it. Now exalted to the rank of magis- trate, and promoted to be captain of a corps of yeo- men, he was zealous in exertions to inspire the peo- ple about Gorey with dutiful submission to the magistracy, and a respectful awe of the yeomanry. On a public day in the week preceding the insurrec- tion, the town of Gorey beheld the triumphal entry of Mr. Gowan at the head of his corps, with his sword drawn, and a human finger stuck on the point of it. With this trophy he marched into the town, para- ding up and down the streets several times, so that there was not a person in Gorey who did not wit- ness this exhibition ; while in the mean time the tri- umphant corps displayed all the devices of Orange- men. After the labor and fatigue of the day, Mr. Gowan and his men retired to a public-house to re- fresh themselves, and, like true blades of game, their punch was stirred about with the finger that had graced their ovation, in imitation of keen fox-hunt- ers, who tvhisk a bowl of punch with the brush of a fox before their boozing commences. This captain and magistrate afterwards went to the house of Mr. Jones, where his daughters were ; and, while taking a snack that was set before him, he bragged of hav IRISH REBELLION- 119 ing blooded his corps that day, and that they were as stanch bloodhounds as any in the world. The daughters begged of their father to show them the croppy ringer, which he deliberately took from his pocket and handed to them. Misses dandled it about with senseless exultation, at which a young lady in the room was so shocked that she turned about to a window, holding her hand to her face to avoid the horrid sight. Mr. Gowan perceiving this, took the finger from his daughters, and archly drop- ped it into the disgusted lady's bosom. She instantly fainted, and thus the scene ended ! ! ! Mr. Gowan constantly boasted of this and other similar heroic actions, which he repeated in the presence of Brigade- major Fitzgerald, on whom he had waited officially ; but, so far from meeting with his wonted applause, the major obliged him instantly to leave the com- pany. Enniscorthy and its neighborhood were similarly protected by the activity of Archibald Hamilton Ja- cob, aided by the yeomen cavalry, thoroughly equip- ped for this kind of service. They scoured the country, having in their train a regular executioner, completely appointed with his implements — a hang- ing rope and a cat-o'-nine-tails. Many detections and consequent prosecutions of United Irishmen soon followed. A law had been recently enacted, that magistrates upon their own authority could sentence to transportation persons accused and convicted be- fore them. Great numbers were accordingly taken up, prosecuted, and condemned. Some, however, appealed to an adjournment of a quarter-session held in Wexford, on the 23d of May, in the county court- house ; at which three and twenty, magistrates from different parts of the county attended. Here all the private sentences were confirmed, except that of one 120 HISTORY OF THE man who was brought in on horseback that morning, carrying a pike with a handle of enormous length through Wexford town, on his way to the jail. This exhibition procured him the reversion of his sentence, at the instance of the very magistrates who had con- demned him. In the course of the trials on these appeals in the public court-house of Wexford, Mr. A. H. Jacob appeared as evidence against the prison- ers, and publicly avowed the happy discoveries he had made in consequence of inflicting the torture : many instances of whipping and strangulation he particularly detailed with a degree of self-approba- tion and complacency, that clearly demonstrated how highly he was pleased to rate the merits of his own great and loyal services. From the construction of the new law regarding the discretionary power of magistrates, the ratifica- tion of these sentences did not surprise me, except, in two instances, at the discussion of which I was actually present. One was that of a Roman Catholic priest of the name of Dixon, taken up shortly before by Captain Boyd, on the information of a gardener, who averred he had been in Wexford on a market- day, in a public-house, where he met with the priest, who spent a considerable time, he said, to induce him to become a United Irishman ; very plausibly relating a train of circumstances tending to that ef- fect. In contradiction to this man's testimony, there appeared three credible witnesses, describing the situation of the house and the several companies there assembled at the time specified ; by which it was manifest, that the particulars stated by the pros- ecutor were utterly unfounded, as they could not possibly have taken place without their knowledge. The other was that of a man named William Gra- ham, servant to Lieutenant Joseph Gray, of the IRISH REBELLION. 121 Wexford yeomen cavalry. He was taken up for be- ing out of his master's house at eleven o'clock at night, and was supposed to be a United Irishman. His defence was a good character given him by dif- ferent gentlemen, and that although the general pro- clamation of the county prohibited all persons from being out of their dwellings at night, yet from the peaceable demeanor of the inhabitants of the town of Wexford, so rigorous and strict an adherence to its literal tenor had not been insisted on in any one instance but against him. However, the alleged ne- cessity of public example was a sufficient excuse with the majority of the magistrates to condemn these men to transportation. The magistrates, after this public discussion, re- tired to the grand-jury room to deliberate, from whence the following public notice was issued, printed, and distributed through the county — " Notice. " We, the high sheriff and magistrates of the county of Wexford, assembled at sessions held at the county court-house in Wexford, this 23d day of May, 1798, have received the most clear and un- equivocal evidence, private as well as public, that the system and plans of those deluded persons who style themselves, and are commonly known by the name of United Irishmen, have been generally adopted by the inhabitants of the several parishes in this county, who have provided themselves with pikes, and other arms, for the purpose of carrying their plans into execution ; and whereas we have received information, that the inhabitants of some parts of this county have, within these few days past, returned to their allegiance, surrendering their arms, and confessing the errors of their past mis- 11 122 HISTORY OF THE conduct. Now we, the high sheriff and magistrates, assembled as aforesaid, do give this public notice, that if within the space of fourteen days from the date hereof, the inhabitants of the other parts of this county do not come in to some of the magistrates of this county, and surrender their arms or other offen- sive weapons, concealed or otherwise, and give such proof of their return to their allegiance as shall ap- pear sufficient, an application will be made to government to send the army, at free quarters, into such parishes as shall fail to comply, to enforce due obedience to this notice. Edward Percival, sheriff, Edward D'Arcy, Courtown, John Heatly, John Henry Lyster, John Grogan, James Boyd, Archibald Jacob, George Le-Hunte, Edward Turner, Thomas Handcock, Isaac Cornock, John James, Cornelius Grogan, John Pounden, Francis Turner, Hawtrey White, William Toole, James White, Richard Newton King, Ebenezer Jacob, Charles Vero. William Hore, " Resolved unanimously, That the thanks of this meeting be given to Archibald Jacob, Esq., for his manly, spirited, active, and efficacious exertions as a magistrate for the establishment and preservation of the public peace." I have heard some of these very magistrates give opinions so totally contrary to what is publicly de- clared in this resolution of thanks, that it is with the utmost surprise I saw their names annexed to a document, whereby they publicly approved of con- duct whereof in private they expressed the strongest detestation. But it often happens that well-disposed IIUSH REBELLION. 123 men are led thus to sanction proceedings they abhor; aiot possessing sufficient firmness of mind to main- tain their own sentiments, and fearing that their •humanity should appear to derogate in any degree from their loyalty. It is remarkable, that on this very day the rebellion broke out in the county of Kildare, the news of which, running as it were with the wind, quickly reached the county of Wexford. The people in this county, however, who were pos- sessed of pikes, or other arms, were continually crowding in to the different magistrates throughout the whole county, for the purpose of surrendering them, conformable to the notice before mentioned ; and following the like example . set them by the county of Wicklow, where it appears there had been leaders (afterwards imprisoned) who made dis- coveries which led the public to believe that all idea of a rising was at that time given up. As this notice specified that there were fourteen days allowed for the return of the people to their allegiance, it was reasonably concluded the protec- tion of such as would submit within that time was guarantied by the magistrates who had signed it ; and it was also natural to imply, that all measures would cease, during that interval, which might tend in any degree to subvert the peaceable intentions of the people. Would to God that even at this pe- riod the spirit of this publication had been adhered to ! for, in such an event, it is very probable that the county of W^exford would have escaped the dreadful misfortune of open insurrection. In Enniscorthy, Ross, and Gorey, several persons were not only put to the torture in the usual manner, but a greater number of houses were burnt, and measures of the strongest coercion were practised, although the peo- ple continued to flock in to the different magistrates 124 HISTORY OF THE for protections. Mr. Perry, of Inch, a Protestant gentleman, was seized on and brought, a prisoner to Gorey, guarded by the North Cork militia ; one of whom — the noted sergeant nicknamed Tom the Dev- il — gave him woful experience of his ingenuity and adroitness at devising torment. As a specimen of his savoir fane, he cut off the hair of his head very closely, cut the sign of the cross from the front to the back, and transversely from ear to ear, still closer ; and, probably a pitched cap not being in readiness, gunpowder was mixed through the hair, wdiich was then set on fire, and the shocking process repeated until every atom of hair that remained could be easily pulled out by the roots ; and still a burning candle was continually applied, until the en- tire was completely singed away, and the head left totally and miserably blistered ! At Carnew things were carried to still greater length ; for, independent of burning, whipping, and torture in all shapes, on Friday, the 25th of May, twenty-eight prisoners were brought out of the place of confinement, and deliberately shot in a ball-alley, by the yeomen, and a party of the Antrim militia ; the infernal deed being sanctioned by the presence of their officers ! Many of the men thus inhumanly butchered, had been confined on mere suspicion ! ! ! Lord Courtown is said to have been for adopting lenient measures ; and although it might be reason- ably thought that his rank and character ought to have had due influence in the neighborhood of Gorey, yet his benevolent intentions were overpow- ered by the disposition to severity of most of the magistrates ; and consequently, the measures of the most violent were adopted. The following is the Rev. Mr. Gordon's representation of his lordship's conduct : — " As the Earl of Courtown had per- IRISH REBELLION. 125 formed much in providing a force to obviate or sup- press rebellion, so his treatment of the common people, by his affable manners, had been always such as was best adapted to produce content in the lower classes, and prevent a proneness to insurrec- tion. I consider myself as bound in strictness of justice to society, thus far to represent the conduct of this nobleman. Doubtless, the people in the neighborhood of Gorey were the last and least vio- lent of all in the county of Wexford, in rising against the established authority; and certainly the behavior of the Stopford family in that neighborhood has been always remarkably conciliating and hu- mane." — page 104. Can any thing be more convincing than this tes- timony, to show of what inestimable value it is for any country to possess good men ; but especially for Ireland, where it is a prevalent system to treat in- feriors with the utmost cruelty and contempt, as if they were a different and odious species of being ? If one family could effect so much good by their affable and conciliating manners, is it not painful to reflect on the consequences of a contrary behavior to a people, who, of all others in the world, are the most generous and open-hearted, and want only the fostering hand of humanity, due encouragement, and a cultivation of their natural talents, to vie in excel- lence with any race of men on the globe ? Having spent Friday, the 25th of May, with Mr. Turner, a magistrate of the county at Newfort, he requested of me to attend him next day at Newpark, the seat of Mr. Fitzgerald, where, as the most cen- tral place, lie had appointed to meet the people of the neighborhood. 1 accordingly met him there, on Saturday the 26th, where he continued the whole day, administering the oath of allegiance to vast 11* 126 HiSTOKY OF TSB numbers of people : a certificate was given to every person who took the oath, and surrendered any of- fensive weapon. Many attended who offered to take the oath, and also to depose that they were not United Irishmen, and that they possessed no arms of any kind whatever ; and earnestly asked for cer- tificates. But so great was the concourse of these,, that considering the trouble of writing them out, il was found impossible to supply them all with such- testimonials at that time. Mr. Turner, therefore,, continued to receive surrendered arms, desiring such as had none to wait a more convenient opportunity* Numbers, however, still conceiving that they would not be secure without a written protection, offered ten limes their mtrinsic value to such as had brought pike blades to surrender; but these, being unwilling to forego the benefit of a written protection for the moment, refused to part with their weapons on any- other consideration. Among the great numbers as- sembled on this occasion were some in.cn from the village of Balkighkeen, who had the appearance of being more dead than alive, from the apprehensions- they were under of having their bouses burnt, or themselves whipped? should they return home. These apprehensions had been excited to this degree, be- cause that on the night of Thursday the 24th, the Enniscorthy cavalry, conducted by Mr. Archibald Hamilton Jacob, had come to Ballaghkeen ; but on hearing the approaching noise, the inhabitants ran out of their houses, and fled into large brakes of furze, on a hill immediately above the village, from whence they could hear the cries of one of their neighbors, who was dragged out of his house, tied up to a thorn-tree, and while one yeoman continued flogging him, another was throwing water on his back. The groans of the unfortunate sufferer,, from. IRISH REBELLION. 127 ihc stillness of the night, reverberated widely through the appalled neighborhood ; and the spot of execution these men represented to have appeared next morning, " as if a pig had been killed there." After this transaction, Mr. Jacob went round to all the rest of the houses, and signified, that if he should find the owners out of them, on his next visit, he would burn them. These men, whose countenances exhibited marks of real terror, par- ticularly from apprehension of flogging, which they seemed to dread more than death itself, offered to surrender themselves prisoners to Mr. Turner, who did all in his power to allay their fears, offering to give them all certificates, the production of which to Mr. Jacob, he was sure would afford them protec-' tion ; but they still persisted in preferring to remain as prisoners with Mr. Turner, rather than to place any confidence in Mr. Jacob. Mr. Turner then gave them certificates, declaring their absence from home to be by his permission, to be left with their families, and told them they might come to his house if they pleased. Mr. Turner's feelings ap- peared but too sensibly affected at the recital of these excesses. He lamented that such scenes had been exhibited, and said he had conceived that all coercive measures were to cease, during the four- teen days allowed by the magistrates for the people to surrender their arms ; adding, that he greatly feared that very desirable object would be much re- tarded by such violence, which would prove the more lamentable on account of the recent news from the county of Kildare. On this very day, too, we had the mortification to be informed that the furniture and effects of a shopkeeper at Ennis- corthy were brought out and burned in the public street ; and, on the next morning, a man was hanged 128 HISTORY OF TliE there, and his body dragged up and down several times through the market-place, with shocking inhu- manity and inefficient cruelty ! I remained the whole day with Mr. Turner, who did not go home till after ten o'clock. We indulged the fond hope at parting, that the county of Wexford would remain quiet, from the disposition generally shown by the people, and we separated with the ex- pectation of being able to pay our friendly visits to each other as usual. Indeed, all over the county of Wexford, the people had now given up all thought of insurrection, of which nothing can afford a more convincing proof than the general surrender of arms ; and I have heard respectable magistrates, to whom they were surrendered, declare their conviction to the same effect. Mr. Richards, of Solborough, captain of the Enniscorthy cavalry; Mr. Beauman, of Hyde Park, captain of the Coolgreny cavalry ; Mr. Cor- nock, captain of the Scarawalsh infantry ; and the Rev. Mr. Colclough, of Duffrey Hall, distinguished themselves by their anxiety to satisfy and calm the agitated minds of the populace ; and were busily employed in granting certificates to such as surren- dered their arms. Many other magistrates attended at different places for the same purpose. Mr. Bag- nal Harvey had collected the arms of all his tenant- ry and neighborhood, and on this very day (Saturday, the 26th of May) brought them into Wexford. As it was late when he delivered them up, he did not return home that night, but remained in town ; and just as he was going to bed, he was arrested by Captain Boyd, and lodged in the jail. Mr. Perci- val, the high sheriff, and Captain Boyd, with a strong party of the Wexford cavalry, proceeded on the same night to Newpark, the seat of Mr. Fitzgerald, to take him prisoner. I had remained there that IRISH REBELLION. 129 night, and was alarmed and roused from my bed by a loud rapping at the door about midnight, which I soon discovered to be the party before mentioned, who came to arrest Mr. Fitzgerald. I requested per- mission to accompany my friend, which was granted ; but as these gentlemen refused taking the pikes and other arms that had been surrendered at the place the day before to Mr. Turner, and had remained there, I dispatched a messenger to him with the intelligence of what had happened, before we set out with this escort, which met with no other delay, but while they chose to continue rummaging Mr. Fitzgerald's papers, among which, by the by, they could discover nothing that could in the remotest degree criminate him. We arrived a little after daylight in Wexford, where Mr. Fitzgerald was lodged in the jail. The Wexford cavalry then set off to Ballyteigue, ten miles from town, from whence they brought Mr. John Henry Colclough prisoner in the course of the day, and lodged him also in the jail. Early on this morning, being Whitsunday, I saw Mr. Turner on his entrance into Wexford. He brought the first intelligence of the rising of the peo- ple, from whom, he said, he could not have been so fortunate as to escape, but for my messenger, who had called him up before day ; otherwise he would have been at home when his house was attacked by the multitude for arms, as were all the houses through- out the whole neighborhood at that time. When he had 'given notice of the fact to the officer command- ing in the barracks, I accompanied him to the jail, and after having seen our friend, set out with him to Castlebridge, where, finding the insurrection much more serious than was at first imagined, all kind of parleying being deemed ineffectual, on consultation with the officers present, I returned to Wexford, as 130 HISTORY OF THE they considered my situation would be too perilous should I accompany them in colored clothes. The Shilmalier cavalry, commanded by Colonel Le- Hunte, had already assembled, before the arrival of one hundred and ten of the North Cork militia, who took route by the lower road along the sea-side, while the yeomen had taken the upper road by Castle- bridge. Both met at Balhfanock, and proceeded to- gether as far as Ballinamonabeg, where Mr. Turner not finding a man of the name of Darby Kavanagh, who kept a public-house there, at home, and having remembered that he had surrendered a pike the day before, he ordered his house to be set on fire, after getting what spirits and beer it contained to refresh the soldiers, who were much fatigued after their hasty march through heavy sandy roads. A propo- sal was made to burn the chapel of Ballinamonabeg just adjoining, which was overruled, particularly by Armstrong Browne, Esq., who observed it would be a very indifferent compliment to pay the Catholics to burn their place of worship, while a considerable part of the force then assembled were of that per- suasion,* which sentiment actually prevented the burning of the chapel. Having halted here for some time, they proceeded three miles further, and came in sight of the insur- gents collected in great numbers on the hill of Ou- lart, distant about ten miles from Wexford. Colonel Foote of the North Cork, seeing their position so, strong and commanding, thought it advisable not to * Shilmalier cavalry present, viz., Colonel Le-Hunte, Lieutenant Armstrong Browne, Lieutenant Kavanagh, Colonel Watson, Ser- geant Edward Turner, Henry Hatchell, Samuel Maude, Richard Gainfort, Maurice Jones, and Richard Williams, Protestants ; Ni- cholas Dixon, Ignatius Rosseter, Walter Redmond, James Lambert, Michael Waddick, Richard Kinselagh, Charles Dunn, Patrick Dixon, and Murphy, Catholics. IRISH REBELLION. 131 attack them ; but Major Lombard, of the same regi- ment, being of a contrary opinion, orders were given to burn two houses, situated in a hollow, between the army and the insurgents, and Mr. Turner volun- teered his service for that purpose. This was done with a view to stimulate the insurgents to revenge, and thus, if possible, to induce them to abandon the advantage of their situation. This feint, however, not succeeding, and Colonel Foote still persisting in his opinion, Major Lombard instantly addressed the sol- diers in terms animating them at once to attack the insurgents, who, he said, would fly at their approach. His words had the effect of making them advance. They descended from the small eminence which they occupied, and crossing the valley between, began to ascend the hill of Oulart, while the Shilmalier caval- ry took a circuitous route, round the hill to the left, with the intention of preventing a retreat, but in fact they caused numbers to rally, who attempted to run off, on perceiving the approach of a serious engage- ment. This also contributed to make the insurgents rush in greater numbers, and with accumulated force, on the North Cork, who were charging up the hill. They had fired but two volleys when they were to- tally discomfited. This success of the insurgents was much promoted by the address of a servant boy, who, as the military were ascending the hill, advised such of the insurgents as were then about him, to lie down under cover of the ditches, and wait the close approach of the military. By this manoeuvre these were suddenly surprised by a force not greatly out- numbering themselves, but the impetuosity of the attack occasioned their total overthrow, while the fact was, at the instant, utterly unknown to the great body of the insurgents, who attended their commanders on the other side of the hill. Of the North Cork party, 132 HISTORY OF THE Major Lombard, the Hon. Captain de Courcy, Lieu- tenants Williams, Ware, Barry, and Ensign Keogh, were left on the field of battle. In short, none es- caped except Colonel Foote, a sergeant, who mount- ed the majors horse, a drummer, and two privates. It may not be unworthy of remark, that there was a fool who followed the North Cork, and who, when he saw the major fall, ran to the body and embraced it, then took the major's sword and with it dispatched two men before he fell himself. The insurgents had but five men killed, and two wounded. The Shil- malier cavalry, and Colonel Foote, made a precipitate retreat to Wexford. A large party of the Wexford cavalry also, who had no share whatever in the ac- tion, were involved in this retreat. Having lodged Mr. Colclough in jail, they set out on another excur- sion to Ballimurrin. ]\\ their course they shot some stra< r < r lino; men, and burned two houses, on finding two men killed near them. They were thus employ- ed in scouring the country when informed of the de- feat at Oulart, and this determined them without hesitation to retreat with all speed homeward. The remainder of the North Cork regiment were instantly under arms in the barracks, when informed of the defeat of that part of their body which had gone out to action. Burning for revenge, they actu- ally marched to the bridge, as if determined to pro- ceed and meet the insurgents ; but they were induced to return by some gentlemen, who endeavored to dis- suade them from so headlong and unsafe an under- taking. The great suspense felt by the inhabitants of Wex- ford, during the whole of this day, on account of so sudden an insurrection, now grew into serious alarm, such as unexpected news like this must inspire. The lamentations ol the unfortunate widows and or- IRISH REBELLION. 133 phans of the soldiers who had fallen in the encounter, increased the general consternation. These, » clap- ping their hands, ran about the streets quite frantic, mixing their piteous moanings with the plaintive cries of their children, and uttering their bitterest maledic- tions against the yeomen, whom they charged with having run away, and left their husbands to destruc- tion ! Letters were dispatched to Duncannon Fort and to Waterford with these disastrous accounts, and requesting reinforcements. Those of the North Cork militia then in the town, vowed vengeance against the prisoners confined in the jail, particularly against Messrs. Harvey, Fitz- gerald, and Colclough, so lately taken up ; and so explicitly and without reserve were these intentions manifested, that I myself heard a sergeant and others of the regiment declare that they could not die easy if they should not have the satisfaction of putting the prisoners in the jail of Wexford to death, particularly the three gentlemen last mentioned. Nor was this monstrous design harbored only by the common sol- diers ; some of the officers declared the same inten- tions. I communicated all to the jailer, who informed me that he had himself heard the guards on the jail express their hostile intentions. He was so alarmed and apprehensive of their putting their threats into execution, that he contrived means to get them out, then locked the door, and determined to defend his charge at the risk of his life. He then, with a hu- manity and presence of mind that would have be- come a better station, communicated his apprehen- sions to all the prisoners, whom he advised to remain close in their cells, so as to avoid being shot in case of an actual attack. He armed the three gentlemen, and formed so judicious a plan of defence, that in the event of their being overpowered, their lives could 12 V 134 HISTORY OF THE not be had at a cheap rate. Of this scene I was my- self an eye-witness, having permission from the high sheriff to pay every attention to my friend and*rela- lion, Mr. Fitzgerald. The latter gentleman gave me his watch, pocket-book, and every thing valuable about him ; and we took leave, as if we expected never to see each other more. Several of the North Cork came to the jail door, but were refused admit- tance. At last a party of them came with a woman, or one who feigned a female voice, begging admit- tance ; and the door being opened, the soldiers in- stantly rushed forward to get in, but were prevented by a half-door that remained still shut. The whole door was then closed, and it jammed in a soldier's arm, who desisted not from his design, until his bay onet, with which he attempted to stab the jailer sev- eral times, was wrested from him. A number of soldiers went round the jail several times, as if to re- connoitre, and were overheard threatening the prison- ers with certain destruction, if they could but get in: and I verily believe that, had it not been for the in- defatigable exertions of the jailer, the prisoners would have been all massacred ; and dreadful it is to think what consequences must have ensued ! The alarms of the three gentlemen already named were so much increased by these circumstances, as well as by other reports, that they made every disposition of their prop- erties, as if on the point of death. The rising of the people in the county of Wexford, took place in the direction from Carnew to Oulart, for fear, as they alleged, of being whipped, burned, or exterminated by the Orangemen ; hearing of the numbers of people that were put to death, unarmed and unoffending, through the country — the deliber- ate massacre and shooting of eighl-and-twenty prison- ers in the ball-alley of Carnew, without trial, and IRISH REBELLION. 135 some under sentence of transportation, who stopped there on their way to Geneva ; among these was a Mr. \yilliam Young, a Protestant, who was ordered to be transported by a military tribunal. At Dunla- vin, thirty-four men were shot without trial, and among them the informer, on whose evidence they were arrested. Strange to tell, officers presided to sanction these proceedings ! A man escaped by feigning to be killed ; he was one out of eighteen of the corps of Captain Saunders, of Saunders-grove, Baltinglass. These reports, together with all the dreadful accounts from the county of Kildare, roused their minds to the utmost pitch of alarm, indignation, and fury. They were forming from the evening of the 26th during the whole of the night, in two bodies. One assembled on Kilthomas-hill, against whom marched from Carnevv, on the morning of the 27th, a body of yeomen cavalry and infantry, who pro- ceeded boldly up the hHl, where the insurgents pos- sessed a strong and commanding situation, if they knew how to take advantage of it ; but they were panic-struck, and fled at the approach of the milita- ry, who pursued them with great slaughter. They spared no man they met, and burned at least one hundred houses in the course of a march of seven miles. The Rev. Michael Murphy had been so alarmed on hearing of the rising of the people, that he tied in- to the town of Gorey early on Whitsunday ; on his arrival not finding Mr. Kenny, with whom he had lodged there, he was induced to return for him and his family, for which purpose, not being able to pro- cure a driver, he himself led a horse and car, and pursued a by-road, to get, if possible, unobserved in- to Ballecanow, by which means he did not meet some yeomen and others, that had gone on the high 136 HISTORY OF THE road to Gorey, after they had torn up the altar, broken the windows, and otherwise damaged the Roman Catholic chapel ; uttering the most violent threats against the priest and his flock, which specimens were very unlikely to remove the dreadful reports of the intended extermination of the Catholics. These depredations had so much weight on the Rev. Mi- chael Murphy as to induce him to alter his original intentions not to fly to such men for protection, and he was then led on by the multitude to Kilthomas- hill ; the Rev. John Murphy had, from similar un- foreseen occurrences, joined the insurgents. These two clergymen had been remarkable for their exhor- tations and exertions against the system of United Irishmen, until they were thus whirled into this po- litical vortex, which, from all the information I have been able to collect, they undertook under the appre- hension of extermination. The Rev. John Murphy was acting coadjutor of the parish of Monageer ; and, impressed with horror at the desolation around him, took u\) arms with the people, representing to them that they had better die courageously in the field, than to be butchered in their houses. The insurgents in this quarter now began their career by imitating the example that had been set before them. They commenced burning the houses of those who were most obnoxious to them. Every gentleman's house in the country was sum- moned to surrender their arms, and where any resist- ance was offered, the house was attacked, plun- dered, and burnt, and many of the inhabitants killed in the conflict. The Camolin cavalry were the first that attacked these insurgents. In the action, Lieu- tenant Bookey and some privates lost their lives — the rest retreated to Gorey. On the 27th of May, Captain Hawtrey White led out two troops of horse IRISH REBELLION. 137 from Gorey, determined to revenge the death of their companions. They came in sight of the insurgents on the north side of the hill of Oulart ; but they ap- peared in such force that they thought it not prudent to attack them, but returned to Gorey, burning the houses of suspected persons, and putting every strag- gler to death on their way. Numbers were called to their doors and shot, while many more met the like fate within their houses, and some even that were asleep. Thus it appears that the insurrection broke out at first in a line from west to east, pretty nearly across the middle of the county, unsupported by the inhabi- tants either north or south of that direction. These were the tracts whose natives appeared most peace- ably inclined, and who thought to avoid joining in the insurrection. The yeomanry of the north of the country proceeded on the 27th against a quiet and defenceless populace ; sallied forth in their neighbor- hoods, burned numbers of houses, and put to death hundreds of persons who were unarmed, unoffend- ing, and unresisting, so that those who had taken up arms had the greater chance of escape at that time. I cannot avoid mentioning a circumstance, though not a singular one, that took place amidst these ca- lamities. Mr. William Hore, of Harperstown, on his return home from Wexford, was induced to set fire to the house of Miles Redmond, of Harvey's Town, a lime-burner. This occasioned his subse- quent confinement, and afterwards his death on the bridge of Wexford. He had offered to build him a better house, which Mrs. Hore, his widow, notwith- standing her irretrievable loss, has since actually performed. Such was the state of the northern part of the county, which continued, during the whole of Whit- sunday, isnorant of the state of the south. 12* 138 HISTORY OF THE On the evening of the 26th, Captain John Grogar?, perceiving, from a height near his house, several nouses on fire between Enniscorthy and Oulart, as- sembled as many of his yeomen as he could muster, and proceeded with them to Enniscorthy, whence he accompanied Captain Solomon Richards, of the En- niscorthy cavalry, to meet the insurgents, who were committing great devastation throughout the country, in retaliation, as they alleged, for what they had pre- viously suffered. In fact, there seemed to exist be- tween the parties an emulation of enmity, as they endeavored to outdo each other in mischief, by burn- ing and destroying on both sides those whom they deemed their enemies. The Roman Catholic chapel of Boolevogue was burnt, as was the house of the Rev. John Murphy, already mentioned ; and several houses were set on fire, and some of the inhabitants consumed within them. No man that was seen in colored clothes escaped the fury of the yeomanry. In and about Ferns, a party of the North Cork militia and some yeomen pursued the like conduct, as well as in the course of their retreat from thence to Ennis- corthy, where they arrived on the morning of the 27th. The Shilmalier infantry, commanded by the Right Hon. George Ogle, were then in Enniscorthy also. They took an excursion to Darby Gap, and on their return they marched home. Captain John Grogan escorted Sergeant Stanley as far as Water- ford, on his way to Cork as judge of assize. The town of Enniscorthy was crowded by great numbers of people who fled into it from the country — Catho- lics among the rest. Some of the latter were put into confinement in the castle, notwithstanding the deplorable evils of which that impolitic system had been already productive ; and although it must be naturally imagined, that a greater proof could not be IRfSH REBELLION. 139 given of not wishing to join the insurgents than that of flying into the town for refuge. On Monday morning, the 28th of May, every pre- paration was" made for defence, and every precaution observed in the town. Part, of the North Cork mili- tia, commanded by Captain Snowe, Captain Cornock, and Captain Pounden's infantry corps, with their supernumeraries, and the Enniscorthy cavalry, com- manded by Captain Richards, (the whole military force in the town,) were on the alert, and under arms, in expectation of an immediate attack. Many of the inhabitants of the town offered their services, and armed themselves as well as they could to contribute to the general defence. Some of the most respect* able were permitted to join the troops ; but most of those who had offered their assistance were, during the battle, ordered to ground their arms and retire into their houses, out of which they were perempto- rily warned not to stir, on pain of death. Good God ! what miserable policy in such times, to brand them as Catholics with disaffection, when their actions be- spoke so much the contrary, and thus to force them into the ranks of the insurgents ! After the battle of Oulart, the insurgents encamped for the night at Carrigrew, from whence they set out at seven o'clock on Monday morning, the 28th, to Camolin, from thence to Ferns, where, meeting with no interruption, or any military force to oppose them, they crossed the Slaney by the bridge at Scarawalsh, halted for some time on the hill of Ballioril, and from thence they proceeded to attack Enniscorthy, where they arrived about one o'clock, driving before them a great number of cattle, with a view of overpowering the yeoman infantry that had proceeded to the Duffrey Gate, where the attack commenced. The assailants, posting themselves behind the ditches that enclose 140 HISTORY OF THE the town-parks, kept up a severe but irregular fire of musketry, intermixed with pikemen, who were twice charged by the Enniscorthy cavalry along the two roads leading into the town, with little or no effect. The battle lasted with various success for four hours ; Captain Snowe not considering it pru- dent to quit his situation on the bridge to support the yeomen at the Duffrey Gate, who then fell down by degrees into the town, leaving the suburbs, composed of thatched houses, unprotected, which then were set fire to, (each party accusing the other for doing so,) and, as it turned out, nothing could be more conducive to the success of the insurgents during the confusion the conflagrations occasioned, from which each party retreated, the military taking their station in the town. Had they marched out to meet the insurgents, and given them battle where they might have had the advantage of the ditches, their superiority in discipline and fire-arms might have enabled them to break and dissipate the tumultuary body opposed to them, that had every ad- vantage over those placed in a hollow. The insur- gents made an attempt to cross the river at the island above the bridge, from whence they were so galled as to oblige them to wade through the Slaney higher up at Blackstoops : some were proceeding to Vinegar Hill, which, from its commanding situation immedi- ately above the town, gave them every advantage of observation, while their numbers afforded a suf- ficiency to attack the town on all sides. The mili- tary were at length overpowered by the impetuosity and intrepidity of the insurgents, many of whom fell in the gallant defence made against them ; but the soldiers having no cannon to support them, and the suburbs of the town being on fire in several places, they at last sounded a retreat. While the town was IRI3H REBELLION. 141 thus circumstanced, a proposal was made to Captain Snovve to put the prisoners to death before the evacu- ation of the place ; but he, like a truly brave man, would not listen to such a diabolical proposal, and rejected it with scorn and abhorrence ; notwithstand- ing which a party went to the castle determined to put all confined therein to death. An ineffectual at- tempt was made to break open the door, the keeper having forgot to leave the key, with which he had set off towards Wexford ; and this circumstance providentially saved the lives of the prisoners, as it became too dangerous for the yeomen to wait any longer to put their threats in execution — threats which they constantly repeated the whole of that morning while they stood guard over their prisoners. Indeed, so assured were the prisoners themselves of being put to death, that they had continued for hours on their knees at prayer, in preparation for that awful event, when the victors re- leased them from confinement. Captain John Poun- den, of the Enniscorthy supplementary infantry, Lieutenant Hunt of the Enniscorthy yeomen, and Lieutenant Carden of the Scarawalsh infantry, with about eighty of the military, and some supplementary men, fell in this action. A regular retreat being sounded, gave the military an opportunity of bringing away their families and friends, together with a great many men, women, and children, who proceeded in the best manner they could to Wexford. The only opinion prevailing in the latter town, for some hours, was, that Enniscorthy and all its inhabitants were to- tally destroyed. This was occasioned by the arrival in Wexford of Lieutenant Archibald Hamilton Jacob, and a private of the Enniscorthy cavalry, who had been so fortunate as to effect their escape, and who came in with their horses all in a foam, so as to be- 142 HISTORY or T/ffi speak the most precipitate flight. At the same time, tremendous clouds of smoke were observed over En- niscorthy, which is distant only eleven miles from Wexford, and no news arriving for several hours, left room for no other conjecture, but seemed to confirm the account given by these fugitives. The military in their retreat were very confused at first; however, self-preservation urged their keeping together, sug- gested by a private in the yeomanry. Officers had been induced to tear off their epaulets, and every other mark that could distinguish them from the pri* vates, considering themselves in more danger if they were recognised as officers. However, not being attacked, there was sufficient leisure to escort those that accompanied them, and who were in such a piteous plight as to excite on their arrival the hearty commiseration of all the inhabitants of Wexford, who invited them indiscriminately to their houses, and supplied them with every comfort and necessary in their power, and of which they stood so much in need. How distressing must be the situation of many ladies who were glad to get up behind or be- fore any person that might be tender enough, in the general consternation, to take them on horseback ! Some had their clothes scorched about them, others wanted their shoes and other parts of their dress, which had been lost or torn off; besides, the great heat of the day made it doubly distressing to delicate females, many of whom had the additional charge of the burden and care of their children. It was very de- plorable to observe the anguish and misery of these fu- gitives, so suddenly and violently torn from their homes and family endearments ; while each in mel- ancholy detail dwelt upon the relation of private ca- lamity. Great as the apprehensions of the inhabitants of IRISH REBELLION. 143 Wexford had been before, they were much height- ened by the mournful appearances and heart-rending recitals of these unhappy sufferers. All dreaded that their houses, their properties, and themselves, should share the fate of Enniscorthy and its inhabit- ants. At this critical period, the Shilmalier infantry, commanded by the Right Hon. George Ogle, march- ed from their homes into Wexford. Every possible preparation was now made for defence. The sev- eral avenues leading into the town were barricaded, and cannon were placed at the different entrances. The inhabitants universally manifested a zeal to de- fend their habitations, their properties, and their families against the insurgents ; and numbers offer- ed themselves for the ranks, and to perform military duty. Upwards of two hundred were consequently embodied, there being arms for no more, under the command of gentlemen who had been in the army, and officers of the militia then in the town on leave of absence. These occasional soldiers mounted guard in the same manner with the more regular troops of militia and yeomen ; and every precaution was taken to guard against a nocturnal surprise, which was strongly apprehended. The gentlemen confined in the jail were visited by numbers of those in town, who entreated Messrs. Harvey and Col- clough to write to their tenants and neighbors, to in- duce them to remain quiet at their homes, and to avoid joining the insurgents from the other side of the Slaney. This the gentlemen readily complied with, in the presence of those who besought them, urging it in the most strenuous and persuasive terms they could ; and messengers were accordingly dis- patched to every person, who, it was suggested to them, possessed influence enough for the purpose, or who was imagined capable of contributing to keep 144 HISTORY OP THE the inhabitants of the baronies of Forth and Bargy from rising. On the morning of the 29th, the dispositions for the defence of the town were continued with unaba- ti ng vigor. Two hundred men of the Donegal mi- litia, commanded by Colonel Maxwell, with a six- pounder, marched in at eight o'clock in the morning, and were billeted throughout the town to get re- freshment, of which they stood in great need, having marched all night from Duncannon Fort, accom- panied by the Healthfield cavalry, commanded by Captain John Grogan. This gentleman having es- corted Sergeant Stanley to Waterford, returned to Duncannon Fort, where he met General Fawcett, whose determination he now announced of coming to the assistance of Wexford with an additional force as soon as possible. With this detachment also ar- rived Colonel Colville, Captain Young, and Lieuten- ant Soden, officers of the thirteenth regiment, giving the glad tidings of the approach of their body with General Fawcett, and the Meath militia. A gentle- man was, however, dispatched to the general, to urge in the most pressing terms the immediate ne- cessity of the reinforcement. The Taghmon cavalry, under the command of Captain Cox, arrived in town in the course of the day. The apprehensions of the inhabitants increased every moment. Every boat in the harbor was busily employed in the conveyance of women and children, with the most valuable ef- fects, on board ships, w r hich now were in great re- quisition, occasioned by the vast numbers of people who crowded these vessels, in order to escape from the town, which it was dreaded would be burnt. To guard against such a disastrous event, all the fires in the town were strictly ordered to be put out at different intervals ; and, during the prohibited IRISH REBELLION. 145 time, even the bakers were not allowed to heat their ovens. A further measure of precaution adopted on this occasion was, that of stripping all the thatched houses within the walls of the town, which last, by the by, were still standing in full preservation, ex- cept the gateways, that had been long broken down for public convenience, but were now strongly bar- ricaded. In short, the utmost activity prevailed for purposes of defence. The guards were augmented, and patrols of cavalry were constantly sent out to reconnoitre. The widows of those of the North Cork militia who had fallen in the action at Oulart, still continued inconsolable about the town, uttering their piteous lamentations. The bodies of the offi- cers who were slain on that occasion were this day brought in by Major Lombard's servant, who had gone out for that purpose ; and this contributed not a little to dispirit the military in the town. Some of my friends then in Wexford intimated to me, that it seemed to be the general wish of all the gentlemen in the place that I should go out to the people, and endeavor to induce them to disperse — my great popularity and family influence, it was suggested, pointing me out as the fittest person to undertake such a mission ; which from these cir- cumstances it was hoped might prove successful. My answer was, that I would not refuse to do any thing that was imagined to be for the general good, although I thought the experiment most hazardous, provided a magistrate whose honor might be depend- ed on would accompany me ; besides, that I should have my directions in writing, a copy whereof I would leave with my friends, in order that if I should fall in the enterprise, nothing might be left in the power of misrepresentation to state to my dishonor. No magistrate being found, as I suppose, that would 13 146 HISTORY OF THE venture on this dangerous service, it was then in- quired whether the liberation of Messrs. Harvey, Fitzgerald, and Colclough, might not appease the people ? On this question I declared myself incom- petent to decide. I was then asked, whether if en- larged on bail, but particularly Mr. Fitzgerald, whose residence lay in the country then disturbed, they would undertake to go out to the insurgents and en- deavor to prevail on them to disperse ? On this in- quiry my opinion was, that as the lives of these gen- tlemen were in danger from the fury of the soldiery while they continued in prison, I thought they would comply with this requisition. The matter now be- came public, and the prisoners were accordingly vis- ited by the most respectable gentlemen in the town ; several requesting of me to accompany them to the prison, for the purpose of introduction. Indeed, so marked was the attention paid to them on this occa- sion, that an indifferent spectator would be led to consider them rather as the governors of the town, than as prisoners. On the 28lh and 29th, I had many conversations on this subject with the officers and gentlemen of the place ; and at length I was my- self, together with five other gentlemen, (two for each of the three prisoners,) bound in five hundred pounds severally ; and Messrs. Harvey, Fitzgerald, and Colclough themselves individually in one thou- sand pounds security for their appearance at the next assizes. It was further conditioned, that although they were all three bailed, two only should be at large at any one time ; but that they might take their turns of going abroad interchangeably at their discre- tion, provided that one should always remain in jail as a guarantee for the return of the rest. This com- pact was entered into with Captain Boyd particular- ly. Mr. Harvey was then fixed on to remain, and IRISH REBELLION. 147 Messrs. Fitzgerald and Colclough were immediately liberated, and sent out to endeavor to prevail on the people to disperse. They were escorted from the jail by several gentlemen, who conducted them be- yond the outposts ; and then a yeoman was sent to attend them till they passed the patrols, and so they set off towards Enniscorthy. The entire military force at this time in Wexford consisted of three hundred of the North Cork militia, commanded by Colonel Foote ; two hundred of the Donegal militia, under the direction of Colonel Max- well ; five troops of yeomen cavalry, viz. those of Wexford, commanded by Captain Boyd — the Ennis- corthy, by Captain Richards — the Taghmon, by Captain Cox — the Healthfleld, by Captain John Gro- gan — and the Shilmalier, by Colonel Lehunte : the infantry yeomen were those of Wexford, under Cap- tain Jacob, M. D. ; the Enniscorthy, under Captain Pounden ; the Scarawalsh, under Captain Cornock ; and the Shilmalier, under the Right Hon. George Ogle, with their supplementary men, altogether as many as their original number, and two hundred of the townsmen, amounting on the whole to twelve hundred men under arms ; who, as the town-wall was in good condition, might defy as many thousand assailants, not supported by a great superiority of ordnance. It would be difficult to state who held the chief command then in Wexford ; but Colonel Watson, (formerly lieutenant-colonel in the army,) who now filled the rank of sergeant in the Shilmalier cavalry, seemed to take the lead more than any other person in the place in stationing the different posts ; and really, from the ability he displayed, seemed the fittest of all present to be intrusted with the direction of affairs, having left nothing undone, as far as the exigency of the moment would allow, to put the 148 HISTORY OF THE town in as complete a stale of defence as possi- ble. The insurgents, after having taken Enniscorthy on the 28th, encamped that evening on Vinegar Hill. Several parties were dispatched from thence during the night, to bring in all the respectable persons re maining in the county, with menaces of death in case of refusal ; their recent successes having ren dered them altogether imperious. One party was particularly directed to Newcastle, for Mr.. John Hay, in whose professional talents they placed great confidence, as he had been an officer in the French service. On being summoned out of his bed to come to camp, he endeavored to expostulate, but all in vain ; and at last he absolutely refused going, not withstanding the most violent threats uttered against him. At length, however, menaces proceeded to such extremity, that his house should be set on fire, and he and his family consumed within it ; and preparations w r ere instantly making to put their threats in actual execution, when turning, with looks of anguish and despair, towards his wife and daugh ter, whom he loved most passionately, with the ten- derest emotions he surrendered his judgment for their safety, and was led to Vinegar Hill, where he met several who had been summoned thither out of their beds, as unexpectedly as himself; for, as the military had abandoned the whole country, the in- surgents, who were now the generality of the peo- ple, had every one who remained under uncontrol- lable command. Mr. John Hay finding, upon in- quiry, that the multitude had no ammunition, no warlike stores, nor any degree of preparation, strongly remonstrated on their defenceless situation, representing that they could not possibly stand against a regularly appointed military force, as any IRISH REBELLION. 149 soldiery, knowing their duty, must cut them to pieces. Various and confused were the consulta- tions that ensued in this tumultuous assemblage. It was at once proposed, by different persons, to attack Ross, Newtownbarry, and Gorey, as each lay more contiguous to their several homes; for Wexford was then considered too formidable to be at all at- tempted ; while others labored to persuade the whole body to proceed to their respective neighbor- hoods, to protect them from the ravages of the mil- itary ; and each party persisted so obstinately in their several determinations, as not to yield or listen to any reasoning from another side, in opposition to their favorite opinions ; no kind of concert, no unity of design, no sort of discipline or organization appearing to influence their councils or their con- duct ; which distraction sufficiently indicates that no preconcerted or any digested plan of insurrection existed in the county, previous to the rising; — -for in such case, the populace w r ould have been rendered, in some, degree at least, subordinate to some con- stituted authority ; whereas they now acted, even after considerable successes, not obedient to any control, but with the greatest anarchy, violence, and confusion. In fine, each individual dreaded the devastation of his house or his properly. Most of the multitude was dispersed, and on their way to their several homes, in all directions, from Vinegar Hill, when some of them met Messrs. Fitzgerald and Colclough (whose arrests were publicly known) near the village of St. John's, and finding them lib- erated, and sent out to them, they were immediately welcomed by a general shout, which, communicating from one to another, like electricity, was re-echoed all the way to Enniscorthv, and so on to the top of Vinegar Hill, and thence through all the county 13* 150 HISTORY OF THE round. The reverberation of the shouts thus widely diffused, arrested the attention of the astonished multitude, who instantly returned to discover the cause of such sudden exultation ; so that when the deputed gentlemen arrived on Vinegar Hill, the camp, so deserted but a moment before, now be- came as thronged as ever. Were it not sufficiently established by the universal acknowledgment of a\\ the inhabitants of the county of Wexford, officers and men, who bore a part in this insurrection, that there was no concert between this rising and the plan of a general insurrection in and about Dublin ; and that it was no more than a tumultuary and momentary exertion of popular resistance to a state of things found, or considered insupportable, the sole object of which was an attempt to get rid of oppressions, and to retaliate, with equal violence, what they had been for some time experiencing ; this inclination of each man, and every body of men, to return home, and apply the general force to the correction of their individual sufferings, would fur- nish a strong proof of the fact ; as otherwise the idea of some general system, however confused, would be floating in their imagination ; and it is the confirmed opinion of most impartial people, that I have heard discuss the subject, that the insurrection in the county of Wexford must have subsided at that period, but for this intelligence extraordinary from the town by the deputation of the prisoners, who, of necessity, informed the people, that they had been liberated, and sent out for the express pur- pose of remonstrating with them ; for this served only to concentrate their wavering opinions, and to point to some object their previously fluctuating determinations. It was but the resolution of a mo- ment to. march in a body to attack Wexford. Mr IRISH REBELLION. 151 Fitzgerald they detained in the camp, and Mr. Col- clough they sent back to announce their hostile in- tentions. Mr. Colclough arrived in Wexford early in the evening, and waited in the bull-ring (a small square in the town so denominated) until the officers and other gentlemen in the place had there assembled, when he informed them, in a very audible voice, from on horseback, that having gone out, according to their directions, to the insurgents on Vinegar Hill, he found, as he had already suggested before his departure, that he possessed no influence with the people, who had ordered him to return and announce their determination of marching to the attack of Wexford ; adding, that they had detained Mr. Fitz- gerald. Mr. Colclough then requested to be informed if it was intended to make further trial of his ser- vices, or to require his longer attendance, as other- wise they must be sensible how eager he must be to relieve the anxiety of his family by his presence. He was then entreated to endeavor to maintain tran- quillity in his own neighborhood, which having promised to do as much as in his power, he called at the jail to visit Mr. Harvey, with whom he agreed (according to the compact with Captain Boyd) to return next day and take his place in the jail, and then set off, through the barony of Forth, to his own dwelling, at Ballyteigue, distant about ten miles from Wexford. If any thing could add to the general consterna- tion in Wexford, it was to learn the determination of the insurgents to come to attack the town. Ships became in greater requisition than ever, and all the vessels in the harbor were stowed with amazing numbers ; the streets were quite deserted, and the shops and lower windows of all the houses were 152 HISTOliY OF THE shut up. Late in the evening, as two of the Tagh- mon yeomanry were going home, and had pro- ceeded as far as Areandrish, about four miles from Wexford, they descried the advanced-guard of the insurgents ; with which intelligence they imme- diately posted back with all speed to the town, which was already in expectation of being attacked every instant. Every degree of vigilance and pre- caution was now exerted, and the military kept on the alert all night. The portcullis, on the remark- able wooden-bridge over the Slaney, was hoisted, whereby the greater part of it was left defenceless, while one piece of cannon would have perfectly protected the whole ; and this mismanagement be- came the more to be regretted, as about break of day, the toll-house on the country side, on the end of it, was discovered to be on fire, and burned with great fury, the materials being of deal ; and pitch and tar had been spread over the entrance of the bridge, to increase the rapidity of the flames Some boat-loads of sailors from the harbor w r ere the first that ventured to extinguish the fire, having taken their buckets for the purpose. These found the place deserted, as the business had been exe- cuted by a party of about twelve insurgents, who fled at their approach. The sharp smoke from the burning wood, drifted by the wind, which blew right along the bridge, retarded much the progress of some yeomen, who at length moved towards the fire ; but these, leaving the sailors to their own ex- ertions, made a cut across the bridge, at some dis- tance from the conflagration. The fire, however, was soon put out, and none of the oak-beams, that principally support the bridge, were burned through ; the floor and railings only, which were of deal, being consumed. The cries of the women and IRISH REBELLION. 153 children throughout the town were so dismal and alarming as to rouse the military from their beds, when they had scarcely time to have fallen asleep, since they had retired from their several posts, to which they were thus summoned back in a hurry, to repel the attack of an enemy which was every moment expected. The insurgents were now en- camped on the Three-rocks — -the end of the low ridge of the Mountain of Forth, about three miles from Wexford, — and did not seem so willing to ad- vance as was apprehended in the town. General Fawcett having ordered his forces to fol- low, set out alone from Duncannon Fort, on the evening of the 29th, and stopped at Taghmon, where lie lay down to rest until his advanced guard should arrive. Captain Adams, of the Meath militia, with seventy men of his regiment, and Lieutenant Birch, of the artillery, with two howitzers, arrived from Duncannon Fort in the course of the night, at Taghmon, where not finding, as they expected, the thirteenth regiment, nor Meath militia, and not knowing any thing about the general, after a short halt they marched on towards Wexford, apprehend- ing no kind of interruption. They had already as- cended the road alono; the side of the mountain of Forth, when perceived by the outposts of the in- surgents, who poured down upon them with such rapidity, that they were in a few minutes cut off, except Ensign Wade and sixteen privates, who were taken prisoners. The magazine was blown up in the conflict, which circumstance rendered the howitzers not so great a prize as they otherwise would have been to the victors. General Fawcett, on getting out of bed, having learned the fate of his advanced guard, ordered the thirteenth and the rest of the troops, who had by this time come up, to re- 154 HISTORY OF THE treat to Duncannon Fort, whither he also set off in great haste himself. From Wexford, in the course of the morning, vast crowds of people were observed assembling on the high ground over Ferry-bank, at the country-side of the wooden-bridge, which contributed not a little to heighten the alarm already prevailing in the town. The different posts on the town-wall were guarded with the utmost vigilance, and intrusted to the pro- tection of the yeomen infantry, supplementaries, and armed inhabitants, while the North Cork mi- litia undertook to defend the barracks. It was ex- pected that General Fawcett, now supposed on his march from Taghmon to Wexford, must fall in with the insurgents, and thus keep them so well em- ployed on that side as to afford a favorable oppor- tunity for a sally from the town to attack them on the other. It was, therefore, resolved to try the success of this manoeuvre, and accordingly, Colonel Maxwell, with two hundred of the Donegal militia, and Colonel Watson, with the Wexford, Ennis- corthy, Taghmon, Healthfield, and Shilmalier yeo- men cavalry, marched out to the encounter. They had advanced as far as Belmont, when Colonel Watson, eager to reconnoitre, proceeded up the hill farther than prudence would permit, and was shot from one of the outposts of the insurgents. The Donegal militia then retreated to Wexford, preceded by the cavalry, who pressed upon them very much along the road. Immediately after this, a hasty council of war was held, at which it was determined to evacuate the town. A general and gloomy consternation now pre- vailed ; every countenance appeared clouded and distrustful, and every person was cautious and cir- cumspect how he spoke or acted, as all confidence IRISH REBELLION. 155 was entirely done away, and each individual thought only of his own personal safety. Some yeomen and supplementaries, who during the whole of the morning had been stationed in the street, opposite the jail, were heard continually to threaten to put all the prisoners to death, which so roused the atten- tion of the jailer to protect his charge, that he bar- ricaded the door, and on hearing of a surrender, to manifest more strongly the sincerity of his inten- tions, he delivered up the key to Mr. Harvey. This gentleman was, indeed, so apprehensive of violence, that he had climbed up inside a chimney, where he had lain concealed a considerable time, when some gentlemen called upon him, but could not gain ad- mittance until they gave the strongest assurances of their pacific intentions. Upon being admitted at length, they still found him up the chimney'^and while so situated, entreated him to go out to the camp of the insurgents, and announce to them the surrender of the town, on condition that lives and properties should be spared. Mr. Harvey made an- swer, that as the insurgents on the Three^rocks were not from his neighborhood, and as he was not himself at all known to them, he imagined he could have no kind of influence with them, adding, that they might possibly consider him even as an enemy. He was then requested to write to them, which he declared himself willing to do in any manner that might be judged most advisable. When he had thus consented, it became a task of no little diffi- culty to bring him out of his lurking-place, as in the descent his clothes were gathered up about his shoulders, so that it required good assistance to pull him out of the chimney by the heels. When he had arranged his apparel, and adjusted himself so as to put off the appearance of a chimney-sweeper, about 156 HISTORY OF THE two hours before the troops retreated from Wexford, Right Hon. George Ogle, captain of the Shilmalier infantry ; Cornelius Grogan ; John Grogan, captain of the Healthfield cavalry ; James Boyd, captain of the Wexford cavalry ; Solomon Richards, captain of the Enniscorthy cavalry ; Isaac Cornock, captain of the Scarawalsh infantry, and Edward Turner of the Shilmalier cavalry — all magistrates — along with Lieutenant-colonel Colville of the thirteenth regi- ment of foot, and Lieutenant-colonel Foote of the North Cork militia, visited Mr. Harvey in the jail, and at their express request, he wrote the following notice to the insurgents on the mountain of Forth : " I have been treated in prison with all possible humanity, and am now at liberty. I have procured the liberty of all the prisoners. If you pretend to Christian charity, do not commit massacre, or burn the property of the inhabitants, and spare your prison- ers' lives. "B. B. Harvey. "Wednesday, 30th May, 1793." This note was undertaken to be forwarded by Doyle, a yeoman of the Healthfield cavalry, who of- fered to volunteer on this hazardous service, when the proposal was made to his corps by Captain John Grogan. He had the precaution to put off his uni- form, and to dress himself in colored clothes : but when ready to set off he was discovered to be a Ro- man Catholic, and therefore reflected upon, for so the whisper went about, " How could a papist be trusted ?" The yeoman finding his zeal meet with a reception so contrary to his expectation, again put on his uniform and retreated with his captain ; thus proving himself to the full as loyal as any of IRISH REBELLION 157 those who on the occasion displayed their illiberality ; which even common policy, it might be well im- agined, should repress at so critical a juncture. Dr. Jacob then proposed the enterprise to his corps, and Counsellor Richards with his brother Mr. Loftus Richards, were appointed to go out to the Three- rocks on this expedition, to announce the surrender of the town to the insurgents, whose camp they reached in safety, though clad in full uniform. Scarcely had these deputies set out upon their mis- sion, when all the military corps, a part of one only excepted, made the best of their way out of the town. Every individual of them seemed to partake of a general panic, and set off whithersoever they im- agined they could find safety, without even acquaint- ing their neighbors on duty of their intentions. The principal inhabitants whose services had been accept- ed of for the defence of the town were mostly Catho- lics, and, according to the prevalent system, were subject to the greatest insults and reflections. They were always placed in front of the posts, and cau- tioned to behave well, or that death should be the consequence. Accordingly, persons were placed be- hind them to keep them to their duty, and these were so watchful to their charge, that they would not even permit them to turn about their heads ; and yet these determined heroes were the very first to run off on the apprehended approach of real danger. Thus were the armed inhabitants left at their posts, abandoned by their officers, and actually ignorant of the flight of the soldiery, until the latter had been miles out of the town, and were therefore left no possible means of retreating. Lieutenant William Hughes of the Wexford infantry, with a few of his corps, was, it seems, the only part of the military left uninformed ot the intended retreat, and this was owing to his be- 14 158 HISTORY OF THE ing detached with these few yeomen to defend a dis- tant part of the town-wall, and he and they were ap- prized of their situation, as were also the armed in- habitants, only by the approach of the insurgents ; so that Mr. Hughes and his few yeomen, together with the armed inhabitants, are the only people that can be said not to have abandoned their posts in Wex- ford on this occasion. The confusion and dismay which prevailed were so great, as no kind of signal for retreat had been given, that officers and privates ran promiscuously through the town, threw off their uni- forms, and hid themselves wherever they thought they could be best concealed. Some ran to the dif- ferent quays, in expectation of finding boats to con- vey them off, and threw their arms and ammunition into the water. All such as could accomplish it em- barked on board the vessels in the harbor, having previously turned their horses loose. Some ran to 1 he jail to put themselves under the protection of Mr. Harvey. Officers, magistrates, and yeomen of every description thus severally endeavored to escape popu- lar vengeance; and in the contrivance of changing ap- parel, as there was not a sufficiency of men's clothes at hand for all those who sought safety by this means, female attire was substituted for the purpose of dis- guise. In short, it is impossible that a greater ap- pearance of confusion, tumult, or panic could be at all exhibited. The North Cork regiment on quitting the barracks set them on fire, which, however, was immediately put out. Lieutenants Bowen and Paye, with Ensign Harman, and some sergeants and pri- vates of this regiment, remained in the town. It has been already observed, that thousands of peo- ple were seen to assemble, during the entire morning, on a hill over Ferry-bank, marching and countermarch- ing in hostile appearance, and seemingly waiting only IRISH REBELLION. 159 for the moment that the town would be abandoned by the military, to take possession of it themselves ; but their entrance, when this took place, was retard- ed, until boards were procured to supply the place of the flooring of the wooden-bridge where it had been burnt. In the mean time, Messrs. Richards, after having run great risk, arrived at the camp at Three- rocks, and making known that they were deputed to inform the people that the town of Wexford would be surrendered to them on condition of sparing lives and properties ; these terms would not be complied with, unless the arms and ammunition of the garri- son were also surrendered. Mr. Loftus Richards was therefore detained as a hostage, and Counsellor Richards and Mr. Fitzgerald were sent back to the town, to settle and arrange the articles of capitulation ; but these gentlemen on their arrival, to their great as- tonishment, found the place abandoned by the mili- tary. The bridge being at this time nearly made passable, the vast concourse of people that, had col- lected at the other side of the Slaney, was just ready to pour in and take unconditional possession of the town. It was therefore necessary to treat with these, (it being yet unknown who they were,) in order to prevent the mischiefs likely to ensue from such a tu- multuary influx of people. Doctor Jacob, then may- or of the town and captain of the Wexford infantry, therefore entreated Mr. Fitzgerald to move towards the bridge, and announce to the people rushing in that the town was surrendered ; and to use every other argument, that his prudence might suggest, to make their entry as peaceable as possible. Mr. Fitz- gerald complied, and instantly after this communica- tion thousands of people poured into the town over the wooden-bridge, shouting and exhibiting all marks of extravagant and victorious exultation. They first 160 HISTORY OF THE proceeded to the jail, released all the prisoners, and insisted that Mr. Harvey should become their com- mander. All the houses in town not abandoned by the inhabitants now became decorated with green boughs, or green ornaments of one description or an- other. The doors were universally thrown open, and the most liberal offers made of spirits and drink of every kind, which, however, were not as freely ac- cepted, until the persons offering had first drunk themselves, as a proof that the liquor was not poi- soned, a report having prevailed to that effect ; and which was productive of this good consequence, that, it prevented rapid intoxication, and of course, in the beginning, lamentable excesses. The insurgents having now got complete posses- sion of the town of Wexford, many persons who had been yeomen, after having thrown off their uniforms, affected a cordial welcome for them, and endeavored by an exhibition of all the signs and emblems of the United Irishmen, to convince them of their sworn friendship ; and it is indeed not a little remarkable, that many of those who, in this change of affairs, boldly marched out as occasion demanded, to meet the king's forces, now display themselves as stanch Orangemen of unimpeachable loyalty Almost every person in the town threw open their doors with offers of refreshment and accommodation to the insurgents ; and the few who did not suffered by plunder, their sub- stance being considered as enemies' property. Some of all descriptions indeed suffered in their property by plunder, on deserting their houses, and leaving none to protect or take care of them. The house of Captain Boyd was a singular exception. It was, though not deserted, pillaged, and exhibited marks of the hatred and vengeance of the people. As the station of the insurgents' camp on the Three- IRISH REBELLION. 161 rocks, on the eastern end of the mountain of Forth, only three miles from Wexford, commanded a full view of the conflagrations and other excesses com- mitted by the military, it required the utmost exer- tion and prudential efforts of their chiefs, and of others in whom they placed any confidence, to pre- vent them from rushing into the town and taking in- considerate vengeance, being utterly ignorant of its abandonment by the troops, and unacquainted with the fact of its being possessed by a different party. They entered the town, however, in tolerable temper, but all moderation was banished upon discovering that the arms and ammunition had not been surren- dered, so that it was with the utmost difficulty the town was preserved from being set on fire and con- sumed ; the inhabitants being charged with treason for not insisting on and seeing this article executed. After various scenes of disorder, hurry, and confu- sion, naturally attendant on such occasions, parties were dispatched in boats to bring on shore all the men, arms, and ammunition they could find in the ships, and other vessels in the harbor, which in the morning had fallen down towards the bar, neither wind nor tide being favorable ; two only out of the whole had actually sailed for Wales. By these means, all the men, as well yeomen as other inhab- itants, were directly brought on shore in the evening, and the vessels with the women and children imme- diately followed to the quay. Amidst this scene of tumult and confusion, not easily conceivable to any one who has not witnessed popular commotion, while all wished to accommodate themselves as much as possible to the exigency of the moment, and to appear the friends of their newly denominated conquerors, it was ludicrous to observe a gorgeous military uniform clandestinely changed 14* 162 HISTORY OF THE for loathsome, tattered rags, with more address and expedition than actors on the dramatic stage assume different dresses and appearances. Among those brought on shore from the ships, was Mr. John Boyd, brother to Captain James Boyd, of the Wexford cavalry. He was immediately recog- nised ; and he and his family being obnoxious to the people, he ran off on landing, was chased, overtaken, piked, and left for dead, but he lived in excruciating agony until the next morning, when he expired. I had been brought out of one of the ships myself, and, on landing, was proceeding through the general con- fusion, when, arriving near the bull-ring, a man of the name of George Sparrow, a butcher from Ennis- corthy, chased by the people through the streets, ran up to me and clasped me round the body, imploring protection — beseeching I might save him. I instantly endeavored as much as in my power to give him suc- cor, and to defend him by extending my arms and body over him, while swords and pikes were pointed! and brandished for his destruction; but my endeavors proving ineffectual, and rather dangerous to myself, and the unfortunate man perceiving I could not afford the protection I intended, burst from me, and while I la} 7 prostrate in the street, occasioned by his effort to get off, he had not run many yards when he was de- prived of existence. Some ladies who were so situ- ated at the instant as to be spectators of the scene, have since assured me, they thought I had been also killed at that moment ; and, considering the dreadful circumstances, I think it most providential that, when thrown down, I was not regarded as the devoted vic- tim by the infuriate populace. To describe my feel- ings on this occasion, would be utterly impossible. Ushered into the town against my will, to witness, in the first onset, such a specimen of popular vengeance, IRISH REBELLION. 163 and naturally imagining that acts of the like violence were perpetrating in every quarter of the town, I could have but little expectation of escape ; particu- larly when the dreadful denunciation resounded in my ears, that the people would put every one to death who would dare to decline joining them ; and, indeed, in consequence of this menacing cry, many gentlemen who boast of loyal acts, (the very contrary of truth,) I have observed to go further on the oppo- site side than could be considered, either since or before, consistent with their honor or their safety. The town of Wexford was not only most shame- fully abandoned, but even surrendered, to all intents and purposes, when it might have been easily de- fended, although no one will now acknowledge having been concerned in so scandalous a transaction ; and, notwithstanding that the very persons who ought to have been its most strenuous protectors, from their situation and circumstances, were not only the first to yield it, and fly so clandestinely as to put it utterly out of the power of all others besides themselves to retreat, but left even their own wives and families to the mercy of an irritated and ungovernable multitude. In any other country, such a manifest dereliction of duty would be punished in the most exemplary man- ner — the lives of such craven deserters would be forfeited for the miseries they occasioned ; but in ill- fated Ireland, a display of unprincipled enmity and illiberal animosity to the great bulk of its people, con- stitutes loyalty and desert sufficient to wipe away the blame of misconduct, and even to obliterate the in- delible stigma of cowardice. The conduct of the in- habitants of Wexford, in accommodating themselves to the circumstances of the moment, after their aban- donment, must be considered as totally blameless ; particularly of such as subsequently took the earliest 164 HISTORY OF THE opportunity of returning to their allegiance. Of all laws, that of self-preservation is acknowledged the most imperious, and to attain this in times of civil commotion, compliance with the exigency of the in- stant is indispensable, and warranted by the irresis- tible force of necessity ; for otherwise, as all moral writers agree, there would be an end of justice and civilization. Allowances have certainly been made for numbers, whose conduct, in an abstract point of view, w T as evidently treasonable, but perfectly excu- sable, considering the situation in which they were placed, by the fundamental laws of all nations of regulated society. But why an exculpation should hold good for some individuals, and not for all those in a similar predicament, is a paradox not happily explained by arguments derived from the sources of bigotry and religious prejudice. With cordial satis- faction I acknowledge it perfectly just, that Protest- ants have been generally exculpated of treason, on the ground of the urgency of circumstances, but why Catholics should be excluded from the like charitable consideration, will not be fairly or easily answered by those who would fain exhibit the unfortunate con- test of this period — a war of religion, which, upon the whole, had but very little to do in it, till forced into action by the upholders of prejudice. Those of the military who first retreated from Wexford were part of the North Cork regiment, commanded by Captain Snowe, and the Scarawalsh infantry under Captain Cornock. These in their flight met Mr. Colclough with his lady in a phaeton, coming to release Mr. Harvey, by taking his place in the jail, according to his promise the preceding evening. On falling in with the troops, Mr. and Mrs. Colclough were ordered to wheel about, and led along, while swords drawn and pistols cocked IRISH REBELLION. 165 threatened their lives on either side, if the people should attempt to attack the military. Mr. Colclough was frequently ordered to stand up and wave his hat to several groups who were seen collected on the rising grounds, led by curiosity, from the disturbed stale of the country, to observe what was going for- ward. These signals were for the people not to ap- proach, with which they complied, and so the par- ties got safe to the Scar at Barrystown ; where Mr. Colclough and his lady were dismissed without fur- ther violence. The next division of the military who made their appearance at the Scar were part of the Wexford cavalry under Captain Boyd, who had himself it seems at first attempted to get off by sea ; but notwithstanding that he most pathetically entreated a friend of his, who had just put off in a boat only a few yards from the quay, to return and take him on board, yet so strongly did the motive of self-preservation operate upon the person, that he re fused to comply. The captain then seized upon his horse, which he had before turned loose, mounted directly, and overtook Colonel Maxwell on the road, with whom however he did not continue ; but drove forward with all speed till he arrived at Mr. King's of Barrystown. After getting some refreshment here, he and some favorites of his corps embarked on board a boat, the tide being too high to pass oth- erwise, and so proceeded in safety to Duncannon Fort. Mr. Colclough met several of these flying gentry at Barrystown, and the impression of their fears was such, that they all declared that a revolu- tion must inevitably succeed in the nation, for that as the rising was general, (so they then supposed it to be,) nothing could withstand the people. They even congratulated Mr. Colclough on the happiness of not being obliged to quit his country, as he had 166 HISTORY OF THE taken no active part against the people, and as Ins recent confinement, on suspicion of being their friend, was greatly in his favor. They next pathetically, many of them in sobs and tears, lamented' the unfor- tunate necessity under which they lay of quitting their native land, as they feared the people would consider their former exertions so inimical to their interests, as to render it unsafe for them to remain in the country ; and after this they took a cordial leave of Mr. Colclough. The escape of Archibald Hamilton Jacob was most wonderful, as when he had gone out with the troops that advanced towards the Three-rocks, before any others had thoughts of retreating, he got off under the mountain, and by keeping by-roads, he most providentially arrived in Ross, where, considering the state of the country, he did not stop, but hastened to Waterford, and was finally induced to sail for England. Had the retreaters had the presence of mind to wait at the Scar until the tide should have fallen, they would have been able to have proceeded with much greater ease than they did to Duncannon Fort. Their halting there would probably have enabled many of the stragglers (numbers of whom were cut off) to come up with them, and it would have taken much less time than it did by the circuitous route which they adopted ; but their panic and trepidation were such, that they believed the insurgents were at their heels, which brought them into great hardships, du- ring a confused and precipitate flight, continued even through the night, which occasioned many to lag behind, who thereby became devoted victims of de^ struction ; the cause of which we shall presently have occasion to mention. The last of the military that left Wexford were the Donegal militia, com- manded by Colonel Maxwell, accompanied by Col- IRISH REBELLION. 1G7 onel Colville, Captain Youngc, and Lieutenant So den, of the thirteenth foot ; the remaining part of the North Cork regiment, headed by Colonel Foote, the Shilmalier yeomen infantry, under the Right Hon. George Ogle, and the Enniscorthy infantry, under Captain Pounden, with some of the Wexford infantry, some of the Wexford, Shilmalier, and En- niscorthy cavalry ; and the rear was brought up by the Healthfield cavalry, under Captain John Grogan, who covered the retreat. These were followed and overtaken by Captain Boyd, and a few of his troop, who pushed forward till they came up with the van of the retreaters as before related. Great numbers of people, from motives of curios- ity, assembled in different groups to view the mili- tary in their passage through the country, not im- agining that they should be any more molested than they had been by the first parties who passed them quietly by ; and had any general orders to this effect been issued to the retreating troops, it is probable they would have been attended to and productive of good effect ; but although Colonel Colville did all in his power to prevent the soldiery from firing on the people, yet his humane and wise remonstrances were not successful. The first victims of military fury, however, on the retreat, were two men found with arms in a house in Wexford, near where the Shilmalier yeomen infantry, commanded by the Right Hon. George Ogle, had been stationed in the town. These upon the evacuation were brought away by the corps and shot at Maglass, where the soldiers, giving a loose to their rage, pursued the unoffending populace, and shot numbers of them, who endeavored to conceal themselves in the ditches, which were well searched for their discovery. The Roman Catholic chapel of Maglass was set on'nre,as 168 HISTORY OF THE were a great many other houses in the course of their march, while others were plundered; and not a countryman that was seen and overtaken could es- cape being sacrificed to military vengeance : nay, not unfrequently did neither feminine weakness nor helpless infancy afford protection, as they obtained in several instances no mercy from the indiscriminate fury of the retreating troops, who immolated some of the women and children of the affrighted peasant- ry as they fell in their way. These acts of unpro- voked, cold-blooded, and unmanly cruelty, were avenged on the poor stragglers who were by any casualty separated from the retreating body, as the exasperated country people, goaded as they had been, considered every person in a military garb as a san- guinary and relentless enemy. Several soldiers who had been followed by their wives and children, were induced to stay behind to afford them assistance on so distressing a march, which cost many of them their lives ; but none of the women or children were intentionally hurt by the people : even some children who were abandoned by or lost their parents on this occasion, are still remaining in the country, cherish- ed and protected by the inhabitants. The tide still continuing too high at the Scar for even the rear of the retreating troops to pass, they took the like cir- cuitous route with the rest, and arrived at Duncan- non Fort on the morning of the 31st of May, worn out with hardship and fatigue, having lost many of their men, and in the utmost confusion and disorder. On the night of the 30th, the town of Wexford, considering all that had happened, was remarkably quiet, all finding repose necessary after their various hardships. In the evening, vast numbers went to visit their several dwellings in the country, to be in- formed of the condition of their families and proper- IRISH REBELLION. 169 jies ; but very early on the morning of the 31st, the streets were as crowded as before, and the confusion and plunder of the day preceding now recommenced. The people were much discontented with the inhab- itants for not detaining for their use the arms and ammunition of the garrison ; as the entire of their military stores at this time amounted to no more than three barrels of gunpowder found in the barracks, a few hundreds of cartridges, with some odd casks and pounds of powder found in shops and gentlemen's houses. Their discontent soon proceeded to threats against different individuals, and among the rest against Mr. Fitzgerald, who had gone home the night before, and was not as yet returned. He was at once accused of having betrayed the people ; ven- geance was vowed against him, and he w r as threaten- ed with instant death. On his appearance soon af- ter, however, the ferment subsided as instantaneous- ly and unaccountably as it had at first originated. The principal inhabitants of Wexford very naturally wished to get rid of these troublesome intruders, and to effect this desirable object, such of the better sort as had any influence with the multitude, lent their cordial assistance, and they at length succeeded. The insurgents were induced to move out of the town and encamp on the Windmill-hills ; where, af- ter much confused consultation, they divided into two bodies, one of which, consisting of those who in- habited the Wexford side of the Slaney, marched to Taghmon. As in such a mixed multitude there must be many of all dispositions, it is not wonderful that there were some who would incite to and prac- tise outrage. Some of this description of persons hunted for Orangemen, whom they denominated their enemies ; while others, imitating the conduct of the military on the day before, but. in a far less degree, 15 170 HISTORY OF THE plundered private property, burned the houses of four respectable farmers, and put one man to death on their way to Taghmon, outside of which town they encamped for that night. The other division of the insurgents, consisting of the inhabitants of that part of the county north of the Slaney, directed their march towards Gorey ; and in the course of their progress, burned the houses of some whom they considered as enemies, plundered others, and en- camped that night on the hill of Carrigrew. The encampment on Vinegar Hill, by the by, continued a permanent one during the whole period of the in- surrection. As it is an incontrovertible fact that, before this period, there were fewer United Irishmen in the county of Wexford than in any other part of Ireland, and these few only sworn, as has been already ob- served, in a detached manner, unconnected by any organization, it is amazing to think with what suc- cess the insurrection appears to have been attended in its commencement; that a people thus roused ad of a sudden, without any previous preparation, should gain such signal advantages. If further proof were at all necessary of the little progress made by the system of the United Irishmen in the county of Wexford, anterior to the rising, in addition to no re- turn of numbers being even stated to have been made from thence by any leaders, that proof would be amply supplied by the vast numbers that eagerly came forward, desiring to be sworn, upon these first successes ; for, in the existing state of the country, at this juncture when men's minds were totally un- masked and all disguise thrown away, it may be fairly implied, that all who might have been previ- ously sworn would not fail to come forward and take advantage of such circumstances, by boasting in the IRISH REBELLION. 171 moment of exultation, of prior concern in a system then considered universally prevalent through the island, and of the final success of which the least doubt was not entertained at this period : besides, at this crisis it is natural to conclude that had any or- ganization heretofore existed, the chosen chiefs would be induced to declare themselves and assume their stations ; for had they concurred in their appointment when they ran every risk of legal punishment, be- fore the actual breaking out of the insurrection, n*w that it was believed victorious and universal, they must feel every encouragement to act without re- serve and with their utmost vigor ; but the fact was absolutely otherwise, as most of the leaders through- out the disturbances in Wexford, acted in their sev- eral stations from the irresistible force of compulsion and constraint after it had actually existed ; whatever representations by surmise or presumption may have appeared to the contrary. Another circumstance of general misrepresentation is, that the insurrection in the county of Wexford was connected with the dis- turbances in other parts of the nation, w r hile nothing can be more contrary to truth ; as on the arrest of the Leinster delegates, assembled at a provincial meeting in Bridge-street, in Dublin, on the 12th of March, 1798, there was not a delegate or any return of numbers from the county of Wexford, as evident- ly appears from the reports of the secret committees of both houses of the Irish parliament ; and, during the whole period of its continuance, this county w r as beset on all sides with troops, so as to be completely insulated, and therefore no efficient intercourse could exist between it and any other part of Ireland ; for scarcely any one could, in passing to or from it, es- cape detection save in a very few instances, in which, whether by connivance or otherwise, some persons 17*^ HISTORY OF THE from the adjoining counties passed into it, and some of the natives out of it ; but as neither returned to their respective homes during the time specified, such instances cannot effectually militate against, the general position here laid down, from incontroverti- ble facts, in opposition to any unqualified assertion and groundless conjecture : in fact, as there was no preconcerted plan of insurrection in the county of Wexford, there was no similarity of circumstances or occasion between that and the commotion in any other part, of Ireland, except in the casual incidents of their happening at the same time, and that perhaps the people of other counties expected like effects from their own conduct with those hoped for by the people of the county of Wexford from their own, to rescue themselves from apprehended extermination, which they thought could not be effected otherwise than by the most determined resistance. These facts are thus stated to disabuse the public, as the direct contrary, on mere surmise, has been roundly asserted and pretty generally believed through exag- gerated misrepresentation. Now, that the insurrection of the county of Wex- ford was at its height, there existed no kind of subor- dination or control ; individuals assumed the privi- lege of indulging their own dispositions, and of grati- fying private malice. The unruly populace were furious and ungovernable, and many of this descrip- tion remained in Wexford after the great body of the insurgents had retired from the town : the) 7 seized upon and lodged in the jail many persons from all parts of the surrounding country, who had fled thither for protection, and were now endeavoring to conceal themselves in the different houses of their friends, to escape popular resentment. Many former piques, however remote or trivial they might have been, IRISH REBELLION. 173 were avenged in this manner; so that on the 31st of May, the jail of Wexford became absolutely crowd- ed. On this very day Mr. Harvey, who had been released from confinement by the people, as soon as they took possession of the town, and was by them appointed, whether he would or no, their commander- in-chief, had engaged several gentlemen, among whom there were many apprehensive of popular violence, to an entertainment at his former lodgings, which he had then resumed ; and all these he naturally sup- posed under effectual protection with him, from the nature of his appointment, against all popular out- rage ; but he soon had lamentable proof how ground- less were his fond expectations. In the evening, soon after dinner, a great mob of country people as- sembled in the street before the house, some of whom knocked violently at the door, and insisted that Mr. Turner, whom they knew to be within, should be delivered up to them to be put to death, for having burned some of their houses. I was one of those invited by Mr. Harvey, and, as Mr. Turner was a most particular friend of mine, I instantly went out, and was, as I fondly imagined, so far successful as to prevail on the populace to retire ; but to my great mortification they returned shortly after, and insisted with redoubled violence on Mr. Turner's being brought out to them. Mr. Fitzgerald, who had now come to my assistance, and myself, urged every ar- gument that friendship could suggest, to dissuade them from their dreadful purpose, and Mr. Harvey also interposed for the same intent, by which means the multitude was once more induced to retire. It was but for a short time, however, as they quickly came back to the house with more violence and fury than before ; a shot was now fired at the door, as the first nolice of their approach, and ihey reiterated 174 HISTORY OF THE their demand with the loudest and most desperate vociferations. Some of the gentlemen who on that day dined with Mr. Harvey, now came out, and all their united entreaties and remonstrances could ob- tain from the enraged multitude was, that Mr. Tur- ner might be lodged in the jail to abide his trial ; but the demagogues denounced that if he was not sent thither directly, Mr. Fitzgerald and Mr. Hay (mean- ing myself) must foifeit their lives. This roused the friendly feelings of Mr. Turner, who had over- heard all that passed, and he accordingly requested he might be brought to jail, as the only place of safe- ty in his opinion, when neither the house nor the in terference of his friends or the chief commander could ensure him protection ; as could not indeed the house of any one at this perturbed period, as those of the greatest abettors and reputed favorites and supporters of the people were searched and vio- lated by forcibly taking out of them numbers of peo- ple denominated enemies. These outrages determined many to surrender themselves, in order to be sent to jail, in hopes of greater security, as well as it induced others to re- main in confinement from similar expectancy of pro- tection from the resentment of their neighbors. From considerations of this nature, Mr. Harvey* constrained as he was to conduct Mr. Turner to the jail, released from thence every other person not violently accused, and the number was considerable whom he thought to be obnoxious to, but by these means secure from,, the intemperate vengeance of the people. During the first days of the insurrection, indeed, any person of previous popular character could release a friend from confinement ; but such interference soon be- came so displeasing to the people, that most of those who had been thus liberated were a&ain committed. IRISH REBELLION. 175 and destruction threatened to any one that would presume again to enlarge them ; which prevented numbers from interposing their good offices in favor of such of their friends as had in any manner incurred popular odium. Private malice was on these occa- sions but too frequently exerted, and any accusation was sufficient to cause any person to be sent to jail ; which, however, was esteemed by many the safest asylum, as it was expected that when popular fury should have abated, the persons confined might be permitted to return quietly to their homes. The only effectual mode of procuring liberation from prison, however, at this period was, to procure a certificate in favor of the prisoner from the neighborhood in which he lived, and in this way many were set at liberty, who, to secure themselves against future crimination, generally joined the insurgents. As to the power of popularity, at all limes precarious, so difficult of attainment, and so easily lost, and which no truly wise man ever made the scope of his actions, or final object of pursuit, it could effect little in such troublesome and turbulent times as those we are treating of, when an insurrection prevailed, excited by oppression, and in which there existed no regular plan of operation or system of action ; while the minds of the ungovernable multitude were sore and desperate from recent irritation. Amidst such a dreadful public ferment, popularity, to a liberal mind, proves a most tyrannical subjugation, as it encumbers the possessor with the oppressive weight of mobbish applause, while it confers not on him the power of relieving a suffering friend, who may have attracted, inadvertently, or otherwise, the deadly resentment of an unbridled populace ; and, what is still more af- flicting to generous feelings, the devoted victim of the moment perhaps imagines the popular friend all- 176 HISTORY" OF THE powerful for his preservation, while it is melancholy to reflect that, on such occasions, it is in the power of a villain to counteract the benevolent intentions and humane disposition of the highest respectability, intelligence, and virtue ! After the insurgents, as has been related, moved off in two separate divisions from Wexford, there still remained several of their number in the town, who assumed the office of supplying the camps with necessaries, and tins by their own authority they de- clared must be done from Wexford. These self- created commissaries, having put all necessaries ac- cordingly in requisition, began to search all the houses, and in the course of such survey, plundered them of every article they thought, proper, asserting that all they took away was for the general service. Great abuses were consequently committed in this arbitrary mode of levying contributions, and so great a waste of property, particularly of provisions, was made, that the town and its neighborhood were threatened with a famine. The people of Wexford, therefore, desi- rous to get rid of these troublesome marauders, and to have some regulations adopted for the prevention of plunder, appointed twelve of the principal inhabi- tants, as a committee, to regulate the distribution of provisions, as well as of all other necessaries in re- quisition ; and the generous individuals who under- took this arduous task (it was indeed an herculean labor) were actuated by the most virtuous and disin- terested motives in their exertions to protect general as well as individual property. As whiskey and leather were the articles most in demand in the camps, djstillers and tanners especially entreated the committee to issue regular orders for the supplies from their stores, to prevent as much as possible the total destruction of their substance and concerns, IRISH REBELLION. 177 adding, that they were very willing to give up their whole stock for the general service ; yet, strange as it may appear, some of this description of persons were most forward afterwards in prosecuting those very men, who, by their humane interference, were instrumental in saving their lives and properties ; for certainly the worst consequences were to be ap- prehended from the indiscriminate plunder, and consequently inordinate consumption of spirituous liquors, by the prevention of which and other dis- orders, through indefatigable exertions, the committee actually proved the salvation of the country ; and, what may not appear unworthy of observation, al- though chosen by the inhabitants at large from among themselves, there w r as but one United Irishman among them, which could not be the case had the people been generally sworn. Captain Keugh was appointed military commander of the town, which was now divided into wards, each of which had a company of men, armed with guns and pikes as they could procure them, and these ap- pointed their own officers. There was a regular parade morning and evening on the custom-house quay ; guards were struck off and relieved, and a pass-word and countersign regularly given out. The insurrection had by this time become so general in all parts of the county forsaken by the military, that even the inhabitants of the baronies of Forth and Bar- gy thought it incumbent on them to show their dis- position, and to appear in Wexford ; in short, every person remaining in the county thought it best at this period to come forward and make common cause with the insurgents. The inhabitants of the last- mentioned baronies, however, being a race of men of peaceable and industrious habits, and not having experienced the persecutions practised in other dis- 178 HISTORY OF THE tricts, were not easily excited to commit those acts of outrage which took place in other quarters ; but they were at length terribly alarmed and roused to resistance by the cruel and merciless conduct of the military in their flight from Wexford ; but even then their determination of vengeance appeared solely di- rected against the body whose unprovoked fury had affected them with injury. These people, on their march to Wexford, halted near Johnstown, the seat of Cornelius Grogan, Esq., for whom a parly was dispatched to bring him out and oblige him to join them ; and thus this aged gentleman was constrained to accommodate himself to the crazy temper of the times ; and being placed on horseback, then ill of the gout, he was conducted along by the multitude, con- sisting of several thousands on foot, and many hun- dreds of horsemen. On their entrance into the town, and defiling through the streets, not many pikes could be seen, but vast numbers were equipped with spits, pitchforks, and such-like offensive weapons, with which they endeavored, as much as in their power, to imitate and assume the appearance of pikemen ; and after having shouted and paraded for some time through the streets, they retired peaceably to their homes without committing further outrage. All the forges both in town and country were instantly em- ployed in the fabrication of pike-blades, and timber of every description fit for handles was procured for that purpose wherever to be found ; so that in a very short time, no person could be seen (so general was the principle or affectation of arming) without a war- like weapon of some kind, a green cockade, a hat- band, sash, or other ornament of that color. Four oyster-boats were fitted out in the harbor, and manned with five-and-twenty men each, to cruise outside the bay ; and these from time to time brought in several IRISH REBELLION. IT'J vessels, mostly bound for Dublin, laden with oats, potatoes, and different other kinds of provisions ; which became very seasonable supplies for the town, that must otherwise have suffered great distress, as the markets were deseited by the country people. Three old pieces of cannon were brought down and mounted on the fort of Roslare, situate at the entrance of the harbor, to prevent any sloops of war from pass- ing, such armed vessels only being capable of enter- ing the harbor of Wexford ; and four old sloops were ready to be scuttled and sunk in the channel to pre- vent any such armed vessel, in the event of her pass- ing the fort, from approaching the town. Money seemed to have vanished during the insur- rection, as no person was willing to admit being possessed of any currency exclusive of bank-notes, which were held in such little estimation, that great quantities of them were inconsiderately destroyed — some in lighting tobacco-pipes, and others used as waddings for firelocks ; but whatever little provis- ions appeared at market, sold very cheaply for ready money ; for instance, butter sold by the pound for two pence, and butcher's meat, of any kind, for one penny. As to bank-notes, any one might starve who had no other means of procuring the prime necessaries, for which, when offered for sale, nothing but specie would be accepted as payment. Every endeavor w T as made to have the markets well sup- plied and attended ; but even at the cheap rate just stated, there were scarcely any purchasers ; so un- willing did every one appear to acknowledge the possession of money ; but it must be mentioned, that indeed the necessity of purchasing at market was in a great measure superseded, for among the various duties of the committee one was that of supplying every person in town with provisions. On 180 HISTORY OF THE application to them, every house was furnished with a ticket specifying the number of inhabitants, and all persons, even the wives and families of those considered the greatest enemies of the people, were indiscriminately included ; and every person sent with a ticket to the public stores appointed for that purpose, received a proportionate quantity of meat, potatoes, and other necessaries", free of any expense. The bread in general was bad, as no good flour could be obtained. In the country, the people formed themselves generally into parish divisions, and each division elected its own officers. All persons capable of carrying arms were to attend the camps, on being furnished with pikes or guns, as either could be best procured ; some on foot and others on horseback, as they could best accommodate themselves. Most persons were desirous to wear ornaments of some kind or other, and accordingly decorated themselves in the most fantastical manner, with feathers, tip- pets, handkerchiefs, and all the showy parts of ladies' apparel : green was the most favorite and predominant color, but on failure of this, decora- tions of almost any other color were substituted ; and as to their flags or ensigns, they were also gen- erally green, or of a greenish hue ; but on account of a deficiency in this respect, they displayed ban- ners of all colors except orange, to which the people showed the most unalterable dislike, aver- sion, and antipathy, — even blue, black, red, and yel- low, were remarked among their banners. Many damsels made an offering of their colored petticoats for the public service ; and to make these gifts the more acceptable, they usually decorated them ac- cording to their different fancies, and from the va- riety thus exhibited, there appeared not two similar IRISH REBELLION'. 181 banners in the whole. Several loyal ladies, too, both in town and country, displayed their taste in richly and fancifully ornamenting ensigns, to ingra- tiate themselves with the people ; but many of them, not having time to perfect their chef-d'ceuvres before the insurrection was suppressed, have since thought it prudent, I suppose, to destroy these and the like specimens of elegant accomplishment, at which I had opportunities of observing them earnestly em- ployed, during the short-lived period of popular triumph. But now we must return to events which occurred in other parts of the country. After the battle of Oulart, which was fought on the 27th of May, as already detailed, the yeomanry distinguished themselves, in the northern part of the county, by falling on the defenceless and unoffend- ing populace, of whom they slew some hundreds. It being Whitsunday, the people were as usual go ing to their chapels to attend divine service, when many of them were led by curiosity, which is gen- erally excited by the report of fire-arms, to ascend different eminences, from which the dreadful and horrid scenes of devastation by fire and sword, pre- vailing through the country round, as far as the eye could reach, was presented to their astonished and affrighted view ; and as the different groups thus collected were perceived by the yeomanry, these pursued and cut them down. The most inoffensive were most likely to suffer by this mode of qui- eting disturbances, because, conscious of their inno- cence, they made no effort to avoid the sudden fate which they had no reason to apprehend. Even many who remained within their houses did not fare better than their more curious or less fearful neigh- bors, as numbers of them were called out and shot at their own doors ; nay, some infirm and decrepit 16 182 history: of the old men were plunged into eternity by these valor- ous guardians and preservers of the public peace ! On every occasion, however, they were not inexora- ble to the piteous petitions for life, as a sum of money properly offered and timely presented saved some, who, after the insurrection was quelled, came forward with their complaints ; and among others who were obliged to disgorge these bloody ransoms, Mr. Hunter Gowan, a magistrate and captain of a yeomanry corps, on a complaint made to Mr. Beau- man, sen., of Hyde Park, (from whom I had this account,) was obliged to refund the money. These people, on surrendering their pikes and other offen- sive weapons and arms, fondly imagined that they had secured themselves protection, and were there- fore not,at all apprehensive of attack, but they soon found themselves miserably mistaken. Had their intentions been for violence, they would naturally have assembled in a large body, on some command ing hill, as the other insurgents did, where they would have appeared formidable ; so that their having collected into numberless small groups is certainly to be deemed rather the effect of curiosity, than the effort of insurrection. Great numbers of people, taking their families and such of their effects as they could conveniently transport thither along with them, fled for refuge into Gorey, where a general panic, however, pre- vailed, although, besides the yeomanry of the town, a party of the North Cork militia, under the com- mand of Lieutenant Swayne, together with the Bal- laghkeen, Coolgreny, Arklow, Northshire, and Cool- atin corps of yeomen cavalry — the Tinnahely and Wingfleld corps of yeomen infantry — and a com- pany of the Antrim militia, commanded by Lieu- tenant Elliot, were stationed there ; but, notwith- IRISH REBELLION. 183 standing, on a rumor that the insurgents were ap- proaching, it was determined to abandon the town, and proceed to Arklow ; but, previous to its evacu- ation, eleven men, taken out of their beds, within a mile's distance, were brought in and shot in the streets, where they were left for dead ; but six of them recovered. By order of Mr. White, how- ever, upwards of one hundred prisoners were re- leased from the jail and market-house, and many of them received protections, which they placed in their hats, in order to exhibit as conspicuously as possible ; but this precaution did not prevent some being shot by other yeomen, whom they fell in with on their way home ! The order for evacuation being announced at five o'clock on the morning of the 28th, a distressing scene of trepidation and confu- sion ensued. Affrighted crowds of people might be seen running in all directions, preparing for flight ; while such as could were harnessing their horses, and placing their families on cars, with the utmost precipitation, — all endeavoring to escape from the town as speedily as possible. The road was soon thronged, to a great extent, with a train of cars, which were loaded with women and children, ac- companied by a vast multitude on foot, among whom were many women with their children on their back, and from the continued heat and drought of the weather, the dust excited by this crowded procession distressfully obstructed respiration. By this abandonment of Gorey, the whole of the surrounding country was left entirely exposed, and yet the insurgents did not at all, at this time, ap- proach the town, but remained in their encampment on the hill of Carrigrew ; nor did the inhabitants of this quarter then rise or join in the insurrection ; but strictly observed, on their part, the promises 184 HISTORY OF THE they had made to the magistrates on surrendering their arms ; and yet it is a notorious fact, that there were more United Irishmen in this than in any other part of the county of Wexford, and that it even comprehended the district of sixteen parishes al- ready stated to have been proclaimed in November, 1797. While Gorey was thus abandoned by the military, and by such as were allowed, or for whom it would be safe to accompany them, it was filled with the property and effects of the fugitives, yet no plunder was committed, and no disturbance took place, so that on their return they found all belong- ing to them in perfect security, having been pro- tected by those that remained in the town. The only instance of spoliation supposed to have taken place on this occasion is, that a yeoman got some money belonging to Mr. William Sparrow, by whose desire he came for it on the 30th, and which the owner never received. A party of yeomen returned on the 29th, and brought away provisions ; but as these were galloping into the town, one of the shoes of a yeoman's horse struck fire against the pave- ment, haply on the very spot where a quantity of gunpowder had remained, after a small cask of that dangerous combustible which, previous to the flight, had fallen from a car into the street, and was burst. An explosion instantly ensued, by which the horse and horseman were blown up, and narrowly escaped with life : the horse's hair was desperately singed, and the yeoman himself was terribly scorched. On the 31st, the military returned to Gorey; on which, although left utterly defenceless since the morning of the 2Sth, not the smallest attempt was made by the insurgents to take possession ; and on the dispo- sition to peace and order manifested by the inhab- itants who remained in the town after the abandon- IRISH REBELLION. 185 meat, their laudable conduct is the best comment. Different parties of yeomen went out from the town, ransacked the houses through the country, brought away as much as they could carry, driving off numbers of cattle, some belonging to Lord Mountnorris, and put them into Mr. Ram's demesne. Indeed, they were not very exact nor scrupulous as to individual property, for they brought off all the cattle they could collect in the country, and took up bacon, cheese, butter, and provisions of all kinds, wherever they found them ; and to crown all, they took a great number of men prisoners, to supply the place of those that were liberated in the com- mencement of the flight ; so that this must be ac- knowledged, if not valorous, at least very active service. On the morning of the first of June, an indepen- dent, or self-constituted body of insurgents, unknown to any of the three general encampments of Vinegar Hill, Taghmon, and Carrigrew, proceeded on a se- cret expedition to Newtownbarry, (anciently called Bunclody,) garrisoned by the King's county militia, commanded by Colonel Lestrange, and the corps of yeomen cavalry and infantry belonging to the place. These insurgents having divided into two parties, made their attack on both sides of the Slaney, on the western bank whereof lies the town, and of this they were soon left in possession by the retreat of the military ; but they instantly proceeded to plunder, particularly whiskey, of which they drank very freely, and being thus regardless of the advantage they obtained, they afforded the military, whom they did not attempt to pursue, time to rally and return upon them while in this disorderly state, so as to oblige them to fly with some loss and precipitation. On this day also, a party of insurgents from Vine- 16* 186 HISTORY OF THE gar Hill proceeded to join those encamped at Carri- grew, whose numbers were greatly lessened by de- sertions for home. They were now, however, mus- tering pretty strongly all over the country, intending to assemble their collective force on the hill of Bal- lymenane ; but, while moving forward in a detached and disorderly manner, they were met by a force from Gorey, under the command of Lieutenant Elli- ot, consisting of parties of the Antrim and North Cork militia, above fifty yeomen infantry, and three troops of yeomen cavalry. These, by preserving their order, had great advantage in this unexpected rencounter over the insurgents, who retreated with some loss and in disorder ; leaving behind a great number of horses which were brought into Gorey, together with the plunder of many houses, which were burnt after despoiling ; among the rest that of Mr. Kenney, a tanner and shopkeeper, confidently asserted to be a loyal man : his character, however, did not protect him, for he was shot in his own gar- den, and so fell a victim to the angry ^discrimina- ting spirit of the times, like many other innocent per- sons. This is very strongly exemplified by a trans- action mentioned by the Rev. Mr. Gordon as fol- lows : — " A small occurrence after the battle, of which a son of mine was a witness, may help to il- lustrate the state of the country at that time : — Two yeomen coming to a brake or clump of bushes, and observing a small motion as if some persons were hiding there, one of them fired into it, and the shot was answered by a most piteous and loud screech of a child. The other yeoman was then urged by his companion to fire ; but he being a gentleman, and less ferocious, instead of firing, commanded the con- cealed persons to appear, when a poor woman and eight children almost naked, one of whom was se- IRISH REBELLION. 187 verely wounded, came trembling from the brake, where they had secreted themselves for safety."* In- deed the settled practice was, to shoot all men that were met ; and by this desperate system, the most innocent, and peaceable were generally the most likely to suffer ; for being unwilling to join the insur- gents, the ungenerous suspicions generally thrown out, however unjustly, against the Catholics, which constituted a vast majority of the people at large, precluded the possibility of their joining the army or yeomen, who professed the rankest and most invete- rate distrust of the people, for any of whom it was extremely unsafe to venture into their presence on any occasion whatsoever, as numbers had fallen a sacrifice to a confidence in their own peaceable in- tentions and innocent demeanor ; and this kind of conduct had finally the effect of determining multi- tudes to join the insurgents, considering it, at length, the only means of self-preservation. The mind of the impartial reader must be strongly impressed with the barbarous impolicy of thus cherishing these odious and unnatural prejudices, as well as with the despe- rate situation in which the country was placed through these means ; and what a dreadful misfortune it must prove to be an inhabitant where not only such senti- ments were very strenuously inculcated, but where even the most shocking scenes of foulest outrage were permitted, and perpetrated with the basest and most criminal connivance. From the inactivity of the insurgents encamped at Carrickbyrne, occasioned in a great degree from their want of an ostensible commander, constant sallies were made out of Ross, and great havoc and devas- tation committed throughout the country. These * See Gordon's History, page 113. 188 HISTORY OF THE occurrences produced a general meeting of the prin- cipal inhabitants on the 1st of June, wherein Mr. Harvey was called on to act as commander-in-chief, and various other appointments and regulations took place for the maintenance and supply of the country. The day after, Mr. Harvey took the command in person at Carrickbyrne, where, on his arrival, several fugitives appeared, giving dreadful accounts of their suffering from the yeomanry, and at the time several houses were on fire about Old Ross. The com- mander-in-chief instantly ordered Mr. Thomas Clo- ney, with all the horsemen that could be collected, to proceed against the depredators, who fled on their approach, and were chased in full speed to Ross. At this critical period, the Protestant church of Old Ross was burned, by no means with the knowledge or consent of Mr. Cloney or his party ; and the re- sult of every inquiry at the time was, that the church was set on fire in revenge and retaliation by individ- ual sufferers, as many houses were burned, and sev- eral unresisting persons were shot immediately pre- ceding this conflagration. I should wish to be able to give a more circumstantial account of this occur- rence, as it was the only one of the kind that took place during the insurrection, but have not been able to procure further information ; however, a witness on the trial of Mr. Cloney by court-martial at Wex- ford, in 1799, mentioned the circumstance, but in such a manner as only to attract the notice of an en- thusiastic maniac. By having reference to the trial, it will also appear, that Mr. Cloney's humanity and exertions for those in any kind of distress, was as conspicuous as his courage in the field, after he had been forced from his house when the military had fled, and left the insurgents in uncontrollable posses- sion of the country. IRISH REBELLION. 189 On the 2d of June, as one of the armed oyster- boats already noticed, was cruising outside the har- bor of Wexford, she fell in with a boat from Arklow, which, upon being hailed, came to and was taken. On board this vessel were three officers of the North Cork militia, Lord Kingsborough, the colonel, Cap- tain O'Hea, and Lieutenant Bourke, who were ac- cordingly made prisoners. This nobleman and these his officers were in Dublin when informed of the de- feat of part of their regiment at Oulart, as before stated, and immediately purposed to join it; for which purpose, proceeding by land as far as Arklow, and rinding the insurrection more formidable than they could be brought before to imagine, they there hired a boat to carry them to Wexford, not conceiving it possible that it had been abandoned and then was in the hands of the insurgents. They were taken, there- fore, at their entrance into the harbor, and conducted without any person in town being previously informed of the fact, to the house of Captain Keugh, then the acknowledged military commander of the town. Here his lordship and the two officers made prisoners with him were entertained for some days before the people expressed any dissatisfaction or apprehension that they might be enabled to escape ; but these manifestations of popular distrust being made known, they were conveyed to a house in the bull-ring, near the main guardhouse, where sentinels were posted inside -and outside ; and there they continued, under these measures of precaution, until the subsequent surrender of the town to his lordship himself as an officer in the king's service. The people of the barony of Forth, having by this time sufficiently equipped themselves with pikes, joined the encampment now formed on the hill of Carrickbyrne, whither, it must be observed, the in 190 HISTORY OF THE surgents of the camp near Taghmon had shifted on the first of June. A small party from Wexford also, denominated the Faith Corps, joined the encampment on Carrigrew. The committee of general regulation appointed in Wexford, and already noticed, waited on Mr. Har- vey, commander-in-chief of the insurgents, expressing their hopes that the service in the Protestant church, which had been hitherto interrupted, might be no longer discontinued ; as they wished to do all in their power to dissipate religious animosities, by incul- cating the absurdity of fear on this account alone, and to undeceive* the numbers of sudden converts who were applying to the Catholic priests to be baptized, beseeching in the most earnest manner to be thus re- ceived into the bosom of the Catholic Church, from an idea that it was then the only plan of safety. Nay, so persevering were the generality in their piteous entreaties, that the Catholic clergy found themselves very distressingly circumstanced ; for should they re- fuse to comply with the wishes and earnest solicita- tions of such Protestants as offered themselves in this way, they perceived that they would be subject to the most violent animadversions for any fatal acci- dent that might befall any of them ; and on the other hand, knowing that imagined necessity alone was the motive of apparent conversion, they must have con- sidered it improper to accept their conformity without serious and solemn probation. On this ocoasion, however, the humanity of many superseded the dic- tates of duty, so far as to induce them to risk the profanation of a sacrament for the preservation of lives, and to dispel the dreadful apprehensions from Orangemen ; the greatest assurance of not belonging to that combination being that of conversion to the Catholic communion, which was considered to render IRISH REBELLION. 191 any person inadmissible into an association which the majority of the people absolutely believed to be in- stituted for their destruction. Their alarms, how- ever, worked so strongly on the minds of the affected converts, that all arguments exerted to dispel their fears generally proved ineffectual, as they would still persist in most earnest solicitation for admission. Some clergymen, however, in this dilemma, positive- ly refused baptizing Protestant converts, but then they took a far better and consistent mode of quieting alarms. They gave the strongest assurances to such as applied to them, that the Catholic Church does not deem it necessary to rebaptize any denomination of Christians otherwise than conditionally, as the ex- istence of any previous baptism whatever, and attend- ance on duties and divine service, was sufficient conformity. A curious circumstance, however, occurred in Wexford at this time, which eventually produced a great number of conditional baptisms. A young lady who on first application failed of persuading a Catho- lic priest to confer on her the favor of baptism, had the diligence and address afterwards to discover that the Protestant minister who had undertaken to per- form that ceremony in her infancy, had only fillipei' or sprinkled the water at her with his finger, and so it was within the limits of probability that a drop might not have reached her head so as to form an ablution. Being very ingenious and persevering in her arguments, so as to appear capable of puzzling the nicest casuist, she at last made out her own a doubtful case, and was accordingly quieted by condi- tional baptism. When the particulars of this trans- action got abroad, the solicitations to the Catholic clergy for the boon of conditional baptism became considerably more frequent, the applicants quoting 192 HISTORY OF THE this recent precedent, and adducing the hearsay evi- dence and far-fetched recollection of grandmothers, grand-aunts, and other grave and venerated relatives, with a long train of minute circumstances, to prove a similarity of cases, and claiming on this account an equal consideration. Notwithstanding the earnest exertions of the committee, and many of the principal Catholics, to dispel the fears of their Protestant breth- ren, whom they offered to protect even at the risk of their own lives, all endeavors to have service per- formed in the Protestant church proved ineffectual. It must be remarked, however, that the place itself suffered not the smallest indignity during the whole period of the insurrection, except in the instance of the abandonment of their usual place of worship by the Protestants, of whom great numbers flocked in the most public and conspicuous manner to the Cath- olic chapel, where they affected the greatest piety and devotion. The epithet of " craw-thumpers," op- probriously applied to Catholics for contritely striking their breasts at their devotions, was never more strongly exemplified than by these converts. Catho- lics strike their breasts gently on certain occasions, and with the right hand alone, but Protestants who attended at mass in these times generally continued to strike themselves vehemently with both hands almost during the whole service. I had the good fortune to prevent all such as consulted me on the occasion as to the expediency of conforming, by per- suading them to avoid the disgrace of such a mock- ery ; and I had the satisfaction afterwards to hear those applauded who did not appear to change their religion, while those who turned with the times were reprobated — some as hypocrites, and others as cow- ards. And, in good truth, what favorable opinion could be entertained of such as did not continue IRISH REBELLION. 193 faithful even to their God according to the dictates of their conscience ? The Rev. Mr. Dixon, a Roman Catholic clergy- man, who had been condemned before a magistrate and sentenced to transportation, was sent ofT to Dun- cannon Fort the day preceding the insurrection ; and this was on the testimony of a man named Francis Murphy, whose evidence was positively contradicted by three other witnesses. These facts, together with the public odium incurred by the man himself, induced Thomas Dixon, a seafaring captain and mas- ter of a vessel, who also kept a porterhouse in Wex- ford, to take a summary mode of avenging the fate of the clergyman, who was his relation. For this purpose he brought the man out of jail, upon his own sole authority, and conducted him down to the bull- ring, where he obliged three revenue officers, who were then prisoners, and whom he brought out along with him, to shoot him, and afterwards bear his body to the quay and throw it into the w r ater. This exe- cution took place, with all its shocking circumstances, while most of the townspeople were at prayers, and was utterly unknown to the principal inhabitants ; but at all events Dixon could the more readily ac- complish his vengeance, without fear of being pre- vented, on account of the public execration generally prevalent against informers. The military stationed at Gorey made constant sallies, in the course of which, through the country, they plundered and burned many houses, and shot several stragglers who happened to fall in their way. This provoked the insurgents to vie with their op- ponents in this mode of warfare, and retaliation has on this, as well as on every other occasion, pro- duced many woful scenes. Enormities, in fact, were committed on both sides, which, among their 17 194 HISTORY OF THE many lamentable consequences, tended to exasperate the party animosities, already too powerfully de- structive of the peace and happiness of the country. At this time, reinforcements were every day crowd- ing into Gorey. On the 3d of June, General Loftus arrived there, w r ith fifteen hundred men under his command, as did also Colonel Walpole, from Car- new, whence he had several times gone out to re- connoitre the camp at Carrigrew. A determination was formed to attack this on the 4th, with the force then in Gorey, with which the troops from Carnew and Newtownbarry were to co-operate, so as to en- gage the insurgents on all sides ; and from these arrangements, and considering the force that was to act against them, little doubt was entertained of their total and speedy defeat. The army from Gorey marched out at the appointed time, and formed into two divisions ; the one under General Loftus took route towards Ballycanew, while the other, com- manded by Colonel Walpole, proceeded by the Camolin road directly, to commence the concerted attack on Carrigrew. The insurgents had, however, quilted this post, and were in full march towards Gorey, when they suddenly and unawares fell in with this military body under Colonel Walpole, at a place called Tubberneering. The meeting was equally unexpected on both sides, and this circum- stance, no less true than extraordinary, neither party having any scouts, produced an instantaneous and confused action, in which Colonel Walpole was killed, in a few minutes after its commencement, and his troops immediately gave way, and fled in the utmost precipitation and disorder, leaving the victors in possession of three pieces of cannon, two six-pounders, and another 01 inferior size. The fate of this action was so quickly decided, as to IRISH REBELLION. 195 allow General Loftus not the smallest opportunity of affording the troops under Colonel Walpole any assistance. The loss of the military in killed and wounded was considerable, besides Captain M'Ma- nus, Lieutenant Hogg, and Ensign Barry, of the Antrim militia, with many privates, taken prisoners. The rest, in the greatest possible haste, being pur- sued by the insurgents, reached Gorey, which they as quickly passed through ; but would, in revenge, have put the prisoners in the town to death, had they not feared that the delay it would occasion might cost them too dearly. This account I have from a captain of yeomanry, who opposed with all his might the perpetration of such a cruel and bar- barous deed, and who, to his honor, was incapable of countenancing such an atrocity under any cir- cumstances. The retreat was thence very precip- itate to Arklow, where a council of war was hastily held, at which it was as hastily determined to aban- don that town, and this was accordingly put into execution. Some were so panic-struck, that they did not stop till they reached Dublin ; but others stopped at different distances, when their horses or themselves were not able to proceed farther. Gen- eral Loftus, on hearing the report of the cannon and other fire-arms in the engagement, not being able to go across the country, proceeded round by the road to the scene of action, where he found the bodies of many slain, and did not learn the fate of Colonel Walpole till he saw him stretched on the field of battle. He then moved towards Gorey, but thought it most prudent to alter his line of direction upon being saluted by the insurgents with the cannon they had just taken, and which they had drawn up to the summit of the hill of Gorey, which is imme- diately over the town, commanding it in every quar- 196 HISTORY OF THE ter. The general then marched to Carnew, and from that to Tallow. The troops that had pro- ceeded from Carnew in the morning, to co-operate in the intended general attack on the insurgents at Carrigrew, did not return thither upon hearing of the defeat, but made Newtownbarry with those who had come out from thence on the same expedition. The insurgents were now in possession of the whole of the county of Wexford, except the fort of Duncannon, the towns of Ross and Newtownbarry ; and were at perfect liberty, if they pursued their advantages, to seize upon Carnew, and also to enter Arklow, situated in the county of Wicklow, and what consequences might have ensued are now in- calculable. On the evening of the 4th of June, the insurgents stationed on the hill of Carrickbyrne, whither the Taghmon encampment, as has been observed, was transferred on the 1st, now proceeded to Corbet Hill, within a mile of the town of Ross, the garri- son of which had lately received great reinforce- ments, by the arrival there of the Donegal, Clare, and Meath regiments of militia, a detachment of English and Irish artillery, the 5th dragoons, the Mid-Lothian fencibles, and on this very evening the county of Dublin regiment of militia considerably added to its force, which, upon the whole, amounted to twelve hundred men, exclusive of the yeomen, all under the command of Major-General Johnson, who expected an attack during the night, and conse- quently the Troops remained under arms, without being allowed to take any repose. The insurgents, led by their commander-in-chief, Mr. Beauchamp Bagnal Harvey, a little after tl\eir arrival on Corbet Hill, were saluted with a few cannon-shot and bomb-shells from the town, without producing any IRISH REBELLION. 197 other effect than that of increasing their vigilance. Mr. Harvey and his principal officers took up their quarters in the house of Corbet Hill, where, being regaled with an excellent supper and exquisite wines, they were so well pleased with their cheer, and so far forgot their prudence as commanders, that they had scarcely time to fall asleep since the moment of their retirement, until they were roused, by the orders they had given in their sober mo- ments, to commence the attack at break of day. Mr. Furlong was immediately dispatched with a flag of truce, and the following summons to the com- manding officer in Ross : — " Sir — As a friend to humanity, I request you will surrender the town of Ross to the Wexford forces now assembled against that town. Your re- sistance will but provoke rapine and plunder, to the ruin of the most innocent. Flushed with victory, the Wexford forces, now innumerable and irresist- ible, will not be controlled if they meet with any resistance : to prevent, therefore, the total ruin of all property in the town, I urge you to a speedy sur- render, which you will be forced to do in a few hours, with loss and bloodshed, as you are sur- rounded on all sides. Your answer is required in four hours. Mr. Furlong carries this letter, and will bring the answer. " I am, sir, &c. &c. " B. B. Harvey. " Camp at Corbet Hill, half-past three o'clock, morning, June 5th, 1798." Mr. Furlong was shot the moment he approached the outposts, which so exasperated the people, that they could not be restrained from instantly rushing 17* IDS HISTORY OF THE on to attack the Three-bullet gate, being the part of the town next to them ; and this it was that princi- pally prevented the concerted plan of assault from being carried into execution * as three divisions of their forces were to have begun their operations against different parts of the town at the same time, This particular division, therefore, not waiting till the other two should have reached their several sta- tions of action, the latter not only did not proceed 7 but were seized with such a panic that they dis- persed all' over the country, ftysng in all directions to their several homes, and bearing as they went along the tidings of a total defeat ; and this derout was, in a great degree, occasioned by the example of one of the divisional commanders, who, without the least effort to answer the intent of his appointment, turned, away from the action, and rode hastily home- ward. Even in the town of Wexford, nineteen miles distant from Ross, the news of a defeat was announced at an early hour of the day, by many fugitives who had taken that direction, relating various and strange adventures to account for their own precipitate flight. One fourth of the numbers that encamped on Corbet Hill the evening before, did not stand in the morning of the day of action, so that even the division that commenced and after- wards continued the assault, w r as by no means com- plete, numbers of those who constituted it having also abandoned their stations, which were far from being adequately supplied by such of the two panic- struck divisions as had the courage and resolution to join in the battle then going forward and in its greatest heat. From this statement, however, it must appear, that no plan was pursued in the attack by the insurgents, but that whatever they accom- plished in the onset, must have been from individual IRISH REBELLION. 199 courage and intrepidity. They first dislodged the army from behind the walls and ditches, where they were very advantageously posted ; and on this occa- sion the cavalry, in their charges, were repulsed with considerable loss, Cornet Dodwell and twenty- seven men of the fifth dragoons having fallen in the first onset. The military then retreated into the town, through the Three-bullet gate, pursued hot foot by the insurgents, who obliged them to move from one situation to another, until they at last drove them over the wooden-bridge on the Barrow, into the county of Kilkenny. The main guard at the market-house, however, consisting of a sergeant and fifteen men, not only maintained their situation, but even defended it with uncommon bravery and reso- lution, having two swivels to support them. Major Vandeleur, of the Clare militia, also continued the whole of the day, with a strong detachment of his regiment, at his post at Irishtown, where he stood pretty severe duty, but not altogether so violent as it would be had the place been generally attacked, according to Mr. Harvey's original plan, this being the principal entrance. When the insurgents had thus got possession of the town, they fell to plunder- ing and drinking, on which they became so intent, that they could not be brought to follow up their ad- vantage. In the mean time the army rallied on the county of Kilkenny side of the bridge ; and although a retreat was before determined on, yet they were induced to return upon perceiving that there was no pursuit, and besides they were powerfully instigated to this by the spirited exhortations of Messrs. M'Cor- mick and Devereux, two yeomen not possessed of any command, but the display of whose active cour- age and intrepidity contributed in a great degree to turn the fate of the day, and to whose real merit ev- 200 HISTORY OF THE ery praise is justly due on this occasion, wherein few officers distinguished themselves, as may be fair- ly concluded from the official returns of the killed and wounded, these casualties in regard to the offi- cers not bearing due proportion to those of the pri- vate men, which could hardly be the case had the former maintained their stations with becoming firm- ness. The county of Dublin militia, on hearing of the death of their favorite colonel, Lord Mountjoy, were the first to renew the attack under the com- mand of Major Vesey. Their example was followed by the rest of the troops, and their united efforts shortly compelled such of the insurgents as were not too drunk, to fly out of the town, of which they had been by this time some hours in possession. Hav- ing respired a little, however, from their hasty re- treat, which in a great degree made them sober, they again returned to the charge, and the contest which now ensued was maintained on both sides with great obstinacy, both parties being induced, by experience of the former encounter, not to relax their exertions. The intrepidity of the insurgents was truly remarka- ble, as notwithstanding the dreadful havoc made in their ranks by the artillery, they rushed up to the very mouths of the cannon, regardless of the num- bers that were falling on all sides of them, and push- ed forward with such impetuosity, that they obliged the army to retire once more and leave the town to themselves. But even after this they soon fell into the same misconduct as before, crowning their bra- very with drunkenness. Of this the proper advan- tage was quickly taken by the army, who again re- newed the attack, by which they finally became per- fect masters of the town. Several houses were set on fire and consumed in the course of this and the former attack, but one of these deserves particular IRISH REBELLION. 201 notice : this was a slated house, four stories high, on the summit of the main street near the church, in which sevei^-five persons were burnt to ashes ; none having escaped but one man, who, in running away, was fortunate enough to get clear of the fire of the soldiery. On the evening of the preceding Wednesday, Mr. Cullimore, a quaker, wishing to visit his family at his country-house, a short distance from the town, was taken prisoner as he attempted to pass the patroles, brought in, and confined in the market-house, from which he was not released on the day of battle, as if it were by the special inter- ference of Providence, for some of the military, when they imagined the day going against them, had re- solved to put all the prisoners in the town to death, but when a party of those on guard entered the place of confinement for the nefarious purpose, Mr. Culli- more addressed them with an authoritative and impressive tone, saying — " You shall not shoot the prisoners : there are some men here as loyal as you are."' This address and manner of a man better than Marius, awed and overcame the sanguinary slaves, so that they retired without perpetrating the horrid crime of their bloody intent ! ! ! Some offi- cers and privates of the king's troops, in the various success of the day, were induced from time to time to attempt a retreat to Waterford, through the coun- ty of Kilkenny. Some of these succeeded in their eiforts ; and from their unfavorable accounts of the battle, the Roscommon militia, who were in full march towards Ross, turned about for Waterford ; and even Captain Dillon, with some of the county of Dublin militia, were intercepted and put to death in their progress by the country people, who, on sight of the fugitives, and on the report of the suc- cess of the county of Wexford insurgents, were ma- 202 HISTORY OF THE king every preparation, and nearly in readiness, to join them. The insurgents being upbraided by their chiefs for sullying their bravery by drunkenness, made a third attempt to regain the town, and in this they displayed equal valor with what they exhibited in the earlier part of the day ; but by this time the army had acquired a greater degree of confidence in their own strength, while several houses blazed in tremendous conflagration ; and the insurgents re- ceived an irreparable loss, when their intrepid leader, John Kelly of Killan, whose dauntless valor on this day was but too conspicuous, received a wound in the leg, which put an end to his career of victory ! Paralyzed by the loss of such a man's exertions, and no longer able to withstand the violence of the flying artillery, the insurgents sounded a regular retreat, bringing away w r ith them a piece of cannon taken from the army in the course of the action, having lost one which they brought with them, together with some swivels and small pieces which had been drawn on for mere show, and which could not be of much use to either party. The insurgents after their defeat returned to their former station, having en- camped this night at Carrickbyrne. The loss of the army on this day, by official state- ment, is allowed to be two hundred and thirty, in killed, w T ounded, and missing ; but that of the insur- gents has been variously reported even by different eye-witnesses — some making it but five hundred, while others state it at two thousand. Indeed, it is impossible to ascertain their loss during the battle it- self, as the number of dead is said to be doubly ac- cumulated by those who were killed unarmed and unresisting after it was all over. Many men had become so intoxicated in the course of the day, that they were incapable of flying out of the town in the IRISH REBELLION. 203 retreat of their associates, and several of the inhab- itants, whose houses were burnt, and having there- fore no place to retire to, fell victims alike as strag- gling insurgents to the undistinguishing fury of the irritated soldiery, from which no person could escape who was not clad in military attire of one kind or other. The following day also the few thatched houses that remained unburnt, being the only places that a common person could get into, were closely searched, and not a man discovered in them left alive. Some houses were set on fire even so throng- ed, that the corpses of the suffocated within them could not fall to the ground, but continued crowded together in an upright posture, until they were taken out to be interred. I cannot suppose that these hor- rid massacres and conflagrations were committed in revenge for the infernal abomination perpetrated at Scullabogue, of which I shall have occasion present- ly to make mention, as no intelligence of that lament- able event could have reached Ross at the time ; but be that as it may, officers were not only present, but even promoted and encouraged those deeds of dread- ful enormity, of which every breast not dead to hu- mane feeling must shudder at the recital ! In the evening after the action, when the troops were assembled on parade, General Johnson singled out Lieutenant Egan of the Royal Irish artillery, (now captain of the royal artillery,) to whom he re- turned his public thanks for his gallant and spirited conduct during the action ; and indeed, every praise is due to this officer, who, with a part of the Don- egal militia, was principally instrumental in contrib- uting to the fate of the battle. Several proposals were made to the general to abandon the town and retreat to Kilkenny, but. he was determined to stand as long as he had a man to support him ; however, 204 HISTORY OF THE had the troops been attacked that night, the prevalent opinion is, they would have fled. In the dispatches published, thanks were returned to all commanding officers. The uncommon bravery and exertions of Mr. Edward Devereux appeared so meritorious to General Johnson, that he was offered a commission in the army, which his mercantile avocations pre- vented him from accepting of. It is an invariable maxim that cowardice and cru- elty are very closely allied. This was most strongly exemplified by the barbarous conduct of the runaway murderers who fled from the battle of Ross to Scul- labogue, where a number of prisoners were confined in a barn, to which these savage miscreants (having overpowered the guards, who resisted them as long as they could) set fire, and made every person within its walls, nearly eighty in number, perish in the flames. One hundred and eighty-four are confident- ly asserted to have been victims on this melancholy occasion, besides thirty-seven shot and piked ; but then the same account states, that the barn was in dimensions only thirty-four feet long, and fifteen feet wide ; and it is not therefore within the limit of rea- sonable probability that there were so many, as they would have been so closely crammed in, that the cruelty of such confinement could not escape notice; indeed, in such case they could scarcely stand to- gether and respire. I am therefore led to believe, that the assertors of these statements have been im- posed upon, as eighty persons would rather crowd such a space too much for the purposes of maintain- ing life and health ; and I am consequently induced the more readily to think the information more cor- rect with which I have been favored by respectable and disinterested authority from the neighborhood in which the nefarious transaction took place ; and IRISH REBELLION. 205 surely it must prove grateful to every mind to be so agreeably undeceived respecting the fewer number of victims. Wickedness is seldom exhibited only in single acts of depravity ; it scarcely ever omits ex- erting evei^ possible action of baseness. Such of the victims at Scullabogue as had any thing about them worth taking, were plundered before being con- signed to their horrible fate. It is alleged on the part of the sanguinary ruffians concerned in this most detestable transaction, that it was in retaliation for like deeds of desperate cruelty practised against themselves, and irritated as they w r ere from recent experience of persecutions and tortures of every kind — whippings, strangulations, and hangings with- out trial, which some of the party had narrowly es- caped a few days before in Ross, where these meas- ures were very prevalent : but no incentive, no persecution, no experience of cruelty can palliate, much less excuse, such unnatural and detestable atrocity. It is but justice, however, to observe, that in this horrid transaction, no person of superior con- dition — none above the mere canaille, or lowest de- scription of men — was at all concerned, however confidently the contrary has been asserted ; but in- famy of this indelible nature should never so much as glance but at its proper objects. Were the fact otherwise than as here stated, it must have been no- toriously manifested in the course of the several tri- als since had in consequence of the very enormity, and for which some miscreants have been justly doomed to execution. But truth imposes the task of mentioning also, that it has appeared from solemn evidence given on those trials, that in consequence of the insurgents being disappointed in their expec- tation of taking quiet possession of Ross, their flag of truce being shot, and after the attack, the fugitives 18 206 HISTORY OF THE from the town communicating accounts of the tor- tures practised there, and that no quarter would be given to the people, an infuriated multitude of men and women rushed to Scullabogue vociferating re- venge, forced the guards, (who did all in their power to protect their charge,) and set fire to the prison, which was a thatched house ; and for this transac- tion General Johnson has not escaped animadversion, as it is said he was repeatedly warned to spare the people, or they would resort to retaliation, by execu- ting all the prisoners in their hands ; and if giving quarter would have prevented the fatality at Sculla- bogue, humanity excites a wish it had been given. It is material to observe also, that these trials have disclosed information manifesting a very strong fea- ture characteristic of popular commotion, which is, that the unbridled multitude are as precipitate as in- discriminate in their deeds of outrage, putting them into execution as soon as conceived, to prevent the possibility of counteraction. This is, in fact, so true, that very often the greatest favorites cannot escape the instantaneous violence of popular fury. Although this cannot be considered as an excuse, nothing be- ing capable of palliating, much less of excusing the crime at Scullabogue, yet its guilt would be greatly aggravated did it appear a deliberate or premeditated action, in which any one above the meanest vulgar was concerned. Scullabogue is situated at the foot of the eminence of Carrickbyrne, whither the insur- gents defeated at Ross retreated, as has been ob- served, and upon being made acquainted with the enormity, which all brave men must reprobate, they universally and loudly expressed their horror and detestation of the barbarous deed ! Surely, it is easy to conceive that the men who had so lately displayed such a dauntless spirit of courage and consummate IRISH REBELLION. 207 bravery, could not be destitute of its general con- comitant — humanity. To counteract the reports of religious intolerance, it must be stated that fifteen or sixteen Catholics shared in the sorrowful catas- trophe of Scullabogue, whence only two Protestants and one Catholic providentially escaped. It must be universally allowed, that robbers and murderers en- tertain no reverence, as they feel no awe of religion, in the commission of their nefarious acts ; and I am confident from all I can learn of the melancholy hor- rors of Scullabogue, that nothing less than the signal interference of Providence can be considered capable of having saved any person who was within the ill- fated barn on the dreadful day of its conflagration ! An investigation of this horrid transaction had been firmly determined on, which subsequent events pre- vented from being carried into execution. It w r ere much to be wished such an inquiry had taken place, as it would afford no room for misrepresentation. On the day following, a proclamation, in the form of res- olutions by the whole insurgent army, was publish- ed by the commander-in-chief, signed by himself, and countersigned by the adjutant-general, with in- tention to curb all excesses against life and property, and encouraging by every possible means union and harmony among all descriptions of the people. I deem it necessary to insert it, and here accordingly it follows : — " At a meeting of the general and several officers of the united army of the county of Wexford, the fol- lowing resolutions were agreed upon : " Resolved — That the commander-in-chief shall send guards to certain baronies, for the purpose of bringing in all men they shall find loitering and de- laying at home or elsewhere ; and if any resistance 208 HISTORY OF THE be given to those guards, so to be sent by the com- manding officer's orders, it is our desire and orders that such persons so giving resistance shall be liable to be put to death by the guards, who are to bear a commission for that purpose ; and all such persons found to be so loitering and delaying at home, when brought in by the guards, shall be tried by a court- martial, appointed and chosen from among the com- manders of all the different corps, and be punished with death. " Resolved — That all officers shall immediately repair to their respective quarters, and remain with their different corps, and not depart therefrom under pain of death, unless authorized to quit by written orders from the commander-in-chief for that purpose. " It is also ordered, that a guard shall be kept in rear of the different armies, with orders to shoot all persons who shall fly or desert from any engage- ment ; and that these orders shall be taken notice of by all officers commanding in such engagement. " All men refusing to obey their superior officers, to be tried by a court-martial and punished accord- ing to their sentence. " It is also ordered, that all men who shall attempt to leave their respective quarters when they have been halted by the commander-in-chief, shall suffer death, unless they shall have leave from their officers for so doing. " It is ordered by the commander-in-chief, that all persons who have stolen or taken away any horse or horses, shall immediately bring in all such horses to the camp, at head-quarters ; otherwise for any horse that shall be seen or found in the possession of any person to whom he does not belong, that person shall, on being convicted thereof, suffer death. " And any goods that shall have been plundered IRISH REBELLION. 209 from any house, if not brought in to head-quarters, or returned immediately to the houses or owners, that all persons so plundering as aforesaid shall, on being convicted thereof, suffer death. " It is also resolved, that any person or persons who shall take upon them to kill or murder any per- son or prisoner, burn any house, or commit any plun- der, without special written orders from the com- mander-in-chief, shall suffer death. " By order of " B. B. Harvey, commander-in-chief, "Francis Breen, sec. and adj. " Head-quarters, Carrickbyrne camp, June 6th, 1798." A proclamation of similar tendency was issued at Wexford on the 7th, addressed to the insurgent ar- mies by General Edward Roche, conceived in the following words : — " TO THE PEOPLE OF IRELAND. " Countrymen and fellow-soldiers ! your patriotic exertions in the cause of your country have hitherto exceeded our most sanguine expectations, and in a short time must ultimately be crowned with success. Liberty has raised her drooping head : thousands daily flock to her standard : the voice of her children everywhere prevails. Let us then, in the moment of triumph, return thanks to the Almighty Ruler of the universe, that a total stop has been put to those sanguinary measures, which of late were but too of- ten resorted to by the creatures of government, to keep the people in slavery. " Nothing now, my countrymen, appears neces- sary to secure the conquests you have already won, but an implicit obedience to the commands of your 18* 210 HISTORY OF THE chiefs ; for through a want of proper subordination and discipline, all may be endangered. " At this eventful period, all Europe must admire, and posterity will read with astonishment, the heroic acts achieved by people strangers to military tactics, and having few professional commanders — but what power can resist men fighting for liberty ! " In the moment of triumph, my countrymen, let not your victories be tarnished with any wanton act of cruelty : many of those unfortunate men now in prison were not your enemies from principle ; most of them, compelled by necessity, were obliged to op- pose you : neither let a difference in religious senti- ments cause a difference among the people. Recur to the debates in the Irish house of lords on the 19th of February last ; you will there see a patriotic and enlightened Protestant bishop, (Down,) and many of the lay lords, with manly eloquence pleading for Catholic emancipation and parliamentary reform, in opposition to the haughty arguments of the lord chan- cellor, and the powerful opposition of his fellow- courtiers. " To promote a union of brotherhood and affection among our countrymen of all religious persuasions, has been our principal object : we have sworn in the most solemn manner — have associated for this laud- able purpose, and no power on earth shall shake our resolution. " To my Protestant soldiers I feel much indebted for their gallant behavior in the field, where they ex- hibited signal proofs of bravery in the cause. " Edward Roche. « Wexford, June 7, 1798." I should have mentioned before, that in the even- ing of the day on which the insurgents obtained pos- IRISH REBELLION. 211 session of Enniscorthy, a drumnier of the North Cork militia, who had some time before refused to beat his drum, when some tune, obnoxious to the people, was called for, or to whip some of the prisoners, was found hanging in the lodgings of Mr. Handcock, a clergyman and magistrate, who resided in that town ! When this fact became generally known, it is impos- sible to conceive the indignation and fury it excited in the minds of the people, already flushed with vic- tory and heated by intoxication. They considered the murdered soldier as a victim immolated to their cause ; they conceived he had met that fate to which they were all doomed unless they had risen against extermination. The more violent were those who themselves or their friends had suffered most severe- ly, previous to the insurrection, and they instantly took advantage of the ferment occasioned by this cir- cumstance, to wreak their vengeance on those they considered their enemies, who still remained in the town after it had been evacuated by the military. Many were put to death in consequence, notwith- standing that the more sensible and humane part en- deavored to protect the unhappy sufferers, but the voices of those were drowned in the general cry of " They would not let one of us escape if we were in their power — we would be all served like the drum- mer." I have heard many who were present when this horrid scene took place, affirm that this incident produced an effect more violent and instantaneous, and excited a degree of phrensy superior to any thing they had witnessed during the insurrection. It is evident from every day's experience, that causes in- significant in themselves do sometimes produce ef- fects the most lamentable ; and that artful men take advantage of such incidents in all tumultuary pro- ceedings ; and considering the state of mind of the 212 HISTORY OF THE populace at this moment, the knowledge of such a fact must have had a powerful operation. It is re- markable that Mr. N. Hinton's house, in which the drummer was found hanging, received no injury from the people, as they considered him innocent of this abomination. While the insurgents kept possession of the town of Enniscorthy, another circumstance occurred, which produced much mischief. The cavalry of Newtown- barry made an inroad towards the insurgents' camp, as far as the bridge of Scarawalsh, which is three miles from Enniscorthy, and at this place killed a boy who was an idiot : he happened to be the nephew of a Catholic priest in the neighborhood ; and the killing of this creature, who never could have made use of hostile weapons, produced a violent fer- ment which was not appeased until the people sacri- ficed (as if to his manes) twelve or fourteen of their prisoners. These facts, if any are wanting, show the impolicy and wickedness of shedding blood un- necessarily, even in the fury of war. The principle of retaliation is strongly implanted in the human heart, and therefore all unnecessary irritation should be sedulously avoided. A Guinea cutter having struck against the banks of Blackwater, unshipped her rudder outside the bay of Wexford, where she cast anchor ; and the captain on entering the harbor to get it repaired, was met by one of the cruising boats, and the vessel w T as accord- ingly seized and brought in as a prize. Her burden was forty-five tons, she was copper-bottomed, had six small cannon, and her crew were eight men. She was an attendant on a Guinea-man, sailed from Liv- erpool a few days before, had not yet received her small-arms on board, but had three barrels of gun- powder, without which the insurgents would have IRISH REBELLION. 213 been totally destitute of that, article, as the three bar- rels they found in Wexford barracks, with a few hundred cartridges, some small casks and odd pounds found in different shops and gentlemen's houses, con- stituted their whole original stock, which by this time was entirely expended. It is, indeed, an extra- ordinary fact, that the insurgents did not possess, in the whole course of the insurrection, as much pow- der as would be deemed necessary by any military man for the supply of one battle, and that their guns- men, so little used to warfare, never retired until they had fired their last charge, exhibiting on all occasions amazing intrepidity; but it was impossible to furnish fire-arms for the numbers offering their services. In their different encampments they were mostly armed with pikes, and there was scarcely any kind of regularity or order observed, every indi- vidual absenting at his own discretion, so that at night the camps were almost totally deserted, but were in the day as crowded as ever. Although most of the people of Ireland can but seldom in- dulge in the luxury of eating meat, yet as the vast numbers of the insurgents were now to be supplied with this article, it became an absolute necessary. Such immense consumption always in time of war, even with the strictest economy, being double of the quantity that would supply the like numbers in time of peace, must of itself have soon deprived the coun- try of all its cattle ; and yet this provision w T as made use of with profusion. Corn and potatoes were put in requisition throughout the country, and Wexford was obliged, at the risk of being burnt, to furnish al- most all the other supplies, such as spirits, beer, to* bacco, salt, and leather. Several self-appointed com- missaries, framing different excuses as it were for the advantage of the public service, while their prin- 214 HISTORY OF THE ciple was for plunder and private emolument, absent- ed themselves from camp and became horrible pub- lic nuisances. These were the cowards who fled in time of action, and generally became murderers and robbers ; while those who courageously fought as brave men in the field, always remained at their post, never absenting without leave, and although suffering many privations, were remarkable for cor- rect behavior and regular conduct, the true test of brave men ; but the poltroon cravens, who deserted the camps on various pretences, were guilty of the most desperate deeds of outrage, though vauntingly boastful of actions of valor ; a fact which not only con- firms the general position already laid down, that cowardice and cruelty are constantly united, but also that the vicious frequently affect the praises of virtue. While the brave and the virtuous were otherwise en- gaged so as not to have it in their power to counter- act the depravity of the knaves and cowards, a sad catalogue of victims suffered at the permanent camp on Vinegar Hill ; being declared enemies of the peo- ple, on the accusation of one or more persons, for different alleged acts of cruelty or opposition to their interests ; and, on these occasions, it was almost im- possible to stem the torrent of popular fury ; so that the conductors and accusers of the summary trials, thus proceeded upon, were in very many instances but too successful in their schemes of murder ; not- withstanding the strenuous endeavors, and the earnest entreaties and remonstrances to the contrary of every humane and respectable person permitted to appear in their assemblage. Of these there were many willing enough to return to their homes, who were however prevented from apprehension of being sacri- ficed themselves, if they dared to act in any manner contrary to the will of the populace. It has been IRISH REBELLION. 215 confidently asserted, and too strongly inculcated, that the insurgents were resolved to sacrifice all Protest- ants ; of this the best refutation is, that had this been their principle or intention, the accomplishment was in their power, and the avoiding its perpetration at the angry and exasperated moment must be consid- ered conclusive in opposite argument. Indeed, it is too evident that this falsehood has been industriously impressed for the purpose of fostering prejudice, and of continuing baleful division among the several de- scriptions of the people, by political adventurers, who shamefully encourage and foment those animosi- ties which have brought so much calamity and ruin on the country ; of which, if any Irishman requires further proof, the eventful history of his country since the period of 1798 is abundantly convincing ; and I fondly hope the charitable discrimination of all Irish- men will induce them to abandon their prejudices, and cultivate a friendly intercourse with each other, and I am confident they will find this line of conduct connected and congenial with their interests and hap- piness, as it will prevent their being cajoled or worked up at any future period to mutual rancor, to answer the ends of political seducers, as the destruction of their country must be the consequence. All Prot- estants who had the good-will of their neighbors, and who had not adventured in the hanging, burning, flogging, shooting, and exterminating system that im- mediately preceded the insurrection, were in general as safe as any other description of men in the coun- try on joining the people, for as to this there was no alternative : but it must be acknowledged, indeed, that many gentlemen who had been formerly much liked, were considered as unpardonable if concerned in any exertion against the people of the description just cited, particular instances of which alleged 216 HISTORY OF THE against them occasioned the imprisonment and death of individuals. It is asserted, that no Catholic was put to death. Surely, the indiscriminate destruction at Scullabogue, where fifteen or sixteen Catholics perished with the rest in the flames, sufficiently re- futes this barefaced assertion ; but as the public mind has been so misled, I deem it absolutely necessary to state other facts that give the lie to surmise, which, among the general excesses of the day, would not otherwise deserve historical notice. Two Catholics were put to death by the people in Wexford — Francis Murphy on the 3d, and Joseph Murphy on the 14th of June, both for being informers. Certainly if any Catholics had launched forward in the prevalent mode of suppressing insurrection, namely, violation, flagel- lation, conflagration, deliberate murder and extermi- nation, they would have incurred equal odium with any Protestant, or even infidel, guilty of the like deeds. Catholics, however, not being of the privi- leged class, (not even one Catholic justice of peace in the county,) and therefore not having the power if they had the inclination, could not be generally in- volved with the people, on the score of authority or oppression, and this may satisfactorily account why so few Catholics, comparatively with Protestants, were sacrificed to popular phrensy and irritation. In all the proclamations and other documents published during the insurrection, there does not appear the smallest symptom of religious bigotry : the very con- trary is even manifest ; but should it be any longer insisted on, that the conduct and expressions of soli- tary individuals, unequivocally discountenanced by the great majority, were the sentiments of the whole people, it must be stated in opposition, and the ar- gument would be just as fair, that the Protestants had resolved on the extermination of the Catholics, IRISH REBELLION. 217 as some individuals of them have expressed them- selves favorable to such a measure, and have lament- ed the arrival of Lord Cornwallis in Ireland, as in their mind it prevented the extirpation of the whole of the insurgents, by them denominated Catholics. These sentiments have been so notorious as to find utterance even in parliament. During the whole period of the insurrection in the county of Wexford, it is a fact no less surprising than true, that the fair sex was respected even by those who did not hesitate to rob or murder ; no one instance existing of a female being injured or violated, including the wives, sisters, and daughters of those denominated the greatest enemies of the people, in whose conduct appears another very striking feature : with respect to the king, they were silent — his ma- jesty's name was not mentioned with disrespect, nor was he considered as the cause of their misfortunes ; but indeed they preserved no such delicacy with re- spect to the characters of those whom they consider- ed the promoters and supporters of their persecu- tions : they reviled them in the strongest terms of reprobation, and did not spare many of their lives or properties. In case of plunder I believe no person was spared that was not at home to prevent it, or who was not fortunate enough to have a confidential person to welcome the marauders, who pleaded the public ser- vice in excuse of robbery and outrage ; but meat and drink, if freely offered and supplied, generally pre- served a house from otherwise inevitable direption, On these occasions, Catholics and Protestants were alike subject to depredation, I possessed perhaps as much popularity as any person in the county of Wexford, and notwithstanding this and my being a Catholic, I was plundered by the insurgents in the 19 218 HISTORY OF THE very outset : I lost all that could possibly be taken from me ; my doors and windows were broken open to get at my guns and pistols ; my desks and trunks were searched and rifled ; my horses and mules were all rode off ; and for this and the like robberies the depredators would plead the public service. Several persons who had been much disliked by the populace, had the good fortune to possess faithful servants, who by a free offer of what was wanted in the house, saved all the rest ; while many others who were much beloved by the people, suffered con- siderably in their houses and properties, in conse- quence of the dishonesty of those who were left in care of them, as they countenanced and encouraged pillage, in hopes thereby to screen their own villany, in appropriating to themselves the best and most valuable part of the plunder. Great numbers crowded into Wexford from the different camps and other parts of the country de- manding supplies of salt, tobacco, spirits, and leath- er ; threatening to set fire to the town in case of re- sistance or want of immediate compliance. The mode adopted in managing the supplies was, that the committee issued orders to those possessing any of the articles in demand, to furnish the same in a spe- cified quantity ; but the frequency of application so multiplied their employment, that it was not possible for them to attend to all the various business that accumulated upon them ; and finding themselves unequal to the task, they were obliged to call for as- sistance, and a separate committee for each article in demand was consequently appointed. To please the lower classes, who had expressed dissatisfaction, some of them were now associated with those of higher rank, in this discharge of public duty, the trouble and vexation of which they had no conception IRISH REBELLION 219 of until they shared in the labor, whereby those originally appointed were greatly relieved, and the common people henceforward proved less trouble- some to them, as their compeers and companions were more successful in their arguments, to per- suade them of the great difficulty of supplying them in as large quantities as before, and so reconciling them to accept of less. Various plunder took place on the insurgents taking possession of the town, great part of which was afterwards restored, as or- ders were issued that all kinds of property not be- longing to those in whose possession it might be found, should be returned on pain of severe punish- ment. The court-house in Wexford was the depos- itory for such property, which the owners recovered on making their claim. The peace and quietness existing in the town of Wexford during the insurrection, except the little disturbance now and again occasioned by the vocif- erous commissaries from the camps, was very re- markable. At night particularly, the most solemn silence continually prevailed, as all the inhabitants retired early to rest, and the utmost regularity of conduct, and peaceable behavior was observed. The weather was remarkably warm and serene, and the physicians in town apprehended a contagious jail fe- ver from the numbers in confinement. Among the several expedients to remedy this evil, it was sug- gested to make the church a lodgment for prisoners, being considered a healthy and eligible situation, and then deserted by the Protestants as their place of worship ; but this scheme was warmly and effectu- ally opposed by the principal Catholics, as it might be deemed disrespectful to the seat of the Protestant worship, while those of the latter persuasion were eager and urgent to have it so occupied, in order, as 220 HISTORY OF THE they said, to thin the crowds confined in the common prison. As a substitute for this disappointment, the assembly-room was then resorted to, and fifty of the prisoners were confined there, while twenty-four of the principal gentlemen were sent on board a sloop in the harbor, which had been fitted out for that pur- pose. Another sloop had been also intended for like oc- cupancy, but soon condemned as unfit for that service. To endeavor to please the people, who were very vociferous against all those they considered as oc- casioning the cruelties practised against them, the following proclamation was issued : — PROCLAMATION OF THE PEOPLE OF THE COUNTY OF WEXFORD. " Whereas it stands manifestly notorious, that James Boyd, Hawtrey White, Hunter Gowan, and Archibald Hamilton Jacob, late magistrates of this county, have committed the most horrid acts of cru- elty, violence, and oppression against our peaceable and well-disposed countrymen : now we the people associated and united for the purpose of procuring our just rights, and being determined to protect the persons and properties of those of all religious per- suasions, who have not oppressed us, and are willing to join with heart and hand our glorious cause ; as weil as to show our marked disapprobation and hor- ror of the crimes of the above delinquents, do call on our countrymen at large, to use every exertion in their power to apprehend the bodies of the aforesaid James Boyd, Hawtrey White, Hunter Gowan, and Archibald Hamilton Jacob, and to secure and convey them to the jail of Wexford, to be brought before the tribunal of the people. Done at Wexford, this 9th day of June, 1798. " God save the people." IRISH REBELLION. 221 The camp, which had been stationed at Carrick- byrne, removed to Slykielter, where the encampment continued for a few days, while nothing remarkable happened, except some ineffectual attacks that were made on the gunboats going up the Barrow from Passage to Ross ; and a mail was taken, going from Ross to Waterford by water, and sent to Wexford. The country was so guarded in every quarter as to have a party stationed at every cross-road, and this service was allotted to the old and infirm, or such as were incapable of bearing the fatigue of marching ; but they were also attended by many others who absented themselves from the camps on various pretences : some women and children were likewise to be seen at these several posts ; and the vigilance was such, that no person could pass un- known, nor was it possible to be at liberty and be considered neuter ; notwithstanding all the boastful vauntings to the contrary of some who think to re- commend themselves by these impositions. I am confident such assertions are utterly unfounded, for certainly no person could remain at liberty who was not considered friendly to the people ; yet still I am far from being of opinion, that every person who joined the insurgents acted from cordial motives, however professing great zeal and alacrity in the cause ; but the imperious necessity of the times was such, as to induce numbers to humor the people so far, as not to say or do any thing that might in any degree be construed as opposition to them ; and any impartial person must be convinced, on a fair inquiry into the nature of popular commotion, that it would be impossible to control the actions of a mul- titude, under such circumstances as then existed in tr^e county of Wexford : an irritated populace be- coming masters of a country, are ever ungovernable ; 19* 222 HISTORY OF THE and, indeed, those who vaunt most at present of not having yielded to them, were more than any others profuse in their professions, and have gone farther than those whom they now revile in the most unjus- tifiable manner. Some also who were thus involved, having fled the country early, now pretend to ask, why an escape was not effected by such as were not well inclined to the cause of the insurgents, if not in confinement ? Although it may not have been alto- gether impossible, yet it was not very probable, that any one could get out of the country without the consent of the people, which must have been obtain- ed by imposing on them by the pretence of friendship, to whom the person must shortly after have appeared a traitor, (a character not very enviable, under the most favorable circumstances,) which conduct would have endangered the safety of his family and friends, if he had any, as well as that of his property ; so that I think it reasonable to suppose, that those who urge this argument would not have attempted an es- cape, were they in the place of those whose conduct they scrutinize. A pitched cap being found in the barrack of Wex- ford, and an orange commission or warrant appoint- ing a sergeant of the North Cork militia to found an orange lodge in the town, roused the people from the utmost tranquillity to the highest pitch of fury. This quickly drew together great numbers in the barrack-yard, and their horror of the orange system was so excited, that in those emblems they imagined they possessed the most convincing proof of their in- tended extermination. After a variety of confused exclamations against the promoters, it was resolved to clap the pitched cap on the head of the orange lord, who, they said, had been the introducer of that system in the county of Wexford. They according- IRISH REBELLION. 223 ly proceeded from the barrack, exhibiting the pitched cap on the top of a pike, displaying at the same time the orange commission or warrant, and were in di- rect march, with violent shouts of exultation, to Lord Kingsborough's lodging. I was in the act of bathing at the time, and hearing the tumultuous noise, I dressed quickly and arrived at the house along with them. I went up to Lord Kingsborough's room and sought to appease the multitude by addressing them from the window ; but this was not effected till many of the principal inhabitants were brought to the scene of tumult ; when one of them, on pretence of looking at the pitched cap, took and threw it over the quay, and the hated emblem being no longer in view, the fury of the people abated, the orange commission or warrant was taken from them, and they dispersed ; nor was there any thing more heard of the affair un- til the next morning, when the captain of the guard for the day, (having every thing previously arranged and ready, after parade, when all others had retired to breakfast, and on his own mere authority,) took down Lord Kingsborough and his two officers to the quay, and conducted them on board the ship that had been fitted out but condemned, where he provi- ded them with abundance of fresh straw, and placed a detachment, of his guard over them. All this was executed with such haste and precaution, that it was not for some time known to the principal inhabitants. These, however, on hearing of the affair, assembled and appealed to the people, then collected to know what was the matter. They represented to them, that as these officers had surrendered on condition of being treated as prisoners of war, they ought not to be confined on board a condemned ship ; and the consequence was, that two boat-loads of butchers were sent on board to examine and inspect the state 224 HISTORY OF THE of the vessel, on whose report that she was not fit for a pig to be confined in, Lord Kingsborough and his officers were brought back to their former situa- tion, where they remained until the surrender of the town ; the vessel was then hauled into the harbor,, where she sunk within a foot of her deck, IrYom the great heat and violence of the people against Lord Kingsborough, in consequence of re- ports of his cruelty and exertions in flogging, and' the other modes previously practised for quieting the people, different parties, from town ?*nd country,, frequently proceeded to the house where he was confined, with an intention of putting him to death ;. but the guards always refused to give him out U> them without an osder,. anrJ during fctac delay thus occasioned, providentially for his lordship, one or other of the principal inhabitants usually came up,, and by representing the conditions which had been promised him on surrendering, they prevailed on the people to depart. Considering the great fury of the people against Lord Kingsborough for bis previous- violent exertions, being reported very cruel and san- guinary, his escape must be considered really won- derful, if not truly astonishing - r and I can account for it in no other manner, than that the county of Wexford not having been his scene of action, and there existing no kind of communication with any ether quarter, there could not possibly be any posi- tive proof adduced of his actions^ except in a solitary instance, which was easily got over. His lordship had been, previous to his imprisonment, but a very short time in Wexford^ as he left that town in two or three days after he had marched into it with his regi- ment. But some of his officers had observed a lady at a window, viewing the troops as they came in,, who attracted their particular notice . After dinner* IRISH REBELLION. 225 at which the bottle had pretty freely circulated, the recollection of the sight of this lady had so far work- ed on the minds of some of the lads, that they pro- posed to sally forth and endeavor to obtain a nearer view of her ; and Lord Kingsborough, being a young man himself, humored the frolic, and accompanied them. Not gaining admittance, however, as they expected, they in the military style resolved to storm the premises ; and his lordship, being a tall, athletic man, raised one of the officers on his shoulders, who was thereby enabled, as the house was low, to gel in through a window in the second story. The lady's husband was absent, and herself quite alone in the house, but on perceiving their intentions she got out by a back-window, and thus eluded their design, as well as put an end to any further progress in this ad venture. When his lordship afterwards became a prisoner, this was quoted as an unfavorable circum- stance,, but it was obviated with little difficulty by an argument, (not at all intending to throw the leasi reflection on the lady's character,) which was, that her husband was himself a prisoner with the people, against whom, therefore, the offence could never have been intended, as no attempt of the kind had been made on any of their wives or families, but was an insult offered by one whom they called an enemy, to another whom they thought deserving of the same appellation. This point being thus settled, and all other accusations against his lordship being general, they were the more easily overcome ; but had they been particular the event might have been quite oth- erwise, as the injured person or persons, for the most part, would not listen to any kind of reasoning, but obstinately held out and persevered in their accusa- tions and complaints, which they so feelingly im- pressed on the assemblage of people appealed to on 226 HISTORY OF THE such occasions, that they usually gained over their sympathetic approbation of the measures they pro- posed, and would thus succeed against all interces- sion. Of this truth I had most sensible experience ; for although I proved on several occasions providen- tially instrumental in saving lives, I was utterly in- capable in other instances : particularly I found it totally out of my power, notwithstanding the many means I sought, to rescue my ever to be regretted, dear, and valuable friend, Mr. Turner, from the fury of the people, by whom he had been previously very much beloved ; but all his former popularity was eclipsed by his having been unfortunately worked up to set fire to some houses ; and this being well known to the people of the country, his safety be- came an impossibility. Taking the cases of Mr. Turner and Lord Kingsborough in any point of view, and considering my frequent, success in pre- serving the man with whom his misfortune alone made me acquainted, while my most earnest and anxious endeavors to protect the friend of my bosom were fatally ineffectual, local circumstances alone can explain the consequences. But how variously will prejudice and misrepresentation detail and expa- tiate on such intricate facts, according to the feeling, inclination, or judgment of the narrator, who, if he be not a sensible or unbiased eye-witness, discrim- inating and dauntless during the period of danger, or discerning in selection of report, will afterwards dis- play the thoughts of latent bigotry, wilful perversion of truth, or the flimsy tissue of hearsay information, varied and altered into different shapes of falsehood, according to the several dispositions of the circulators ; but ocular evidence must ever supersede the accounts of rumor, even of ever such boasted authenticity, when discrimination may be overpowered by terror. IRISH REBELLION. 227 The insurgents in the different camps being in great want of gunpowder, without which they could not proceed, remained stationary for several days, as the powder in Wexford was considered too little for its defence, and different reports were circulated, that it was to be attacked from the southern quarter. The demand for gunpowder, however, from the camp on Gorey Hill was so pressing, that a barrel of it was sent thither from Wexford to enable the insurgents to proceed to Arklow, which, on the defeat of Colo- nel Walpole, had been deserted by the military ; but the inhabitants of which, on being left to themselves, remained quietly at home, imitating the example that had been set them at Gorey, before the battle of Tub- berneering, when they were forced and overwhelmed into the system of the insurrection. The Cavan militia was ordered from Dublin to join Colonel Wal- pole's division, then under General Needham, and they marched into Arklow on the 6th of June ; dif- ferent other parties of the military arrived there on the 7th and 8th, and on the 9th the garrison was con- siderably reinforced by the Durham fencibles, who suffered no fatigue in their way from Dublin, as they had been conveyed in carriages and jaunting-cars pressed for that purpose : the whole force in Arklow amounted all together to sixteen hundred men. The insurgents had marched from Gorey Hill to Colgre- ny, where arranging their mode of attack, they pro- ceeded in two great columns — one towards the fishery on the sea-side, and the other towards the upper end of the town, the attack being to be made on both ends of the town at once. The military, having full notice of the approach, were very advantageously posted, without which they could not have resisted the impetuous attack made upon them ; however, they were obliged to retire somewhat from their 228 history of the original positions. In a violent effort to gain the up- per end of the town, the Rev. Michael Murphy, who led on the insurgents on that side, fell, and this stop- ped the progress and prevented the success of the attempt. Variously did the fortune of the day seem to incline ; it is necessary, however, to mention that rumors of a retreat of the troops were circulated, and that orders were given, and seeming preparations made for that purpose ; but this still appears a dis- puted point, and as the proverb has it, " all is well that ends well." The insurgents, after having dis- played singular bravery, courage, and intrepidity as long as their ammunition lasted, retreated, when that was expended, to their former position at Gorey : and thus ended the battle, at the very moment it was alleged the army had intended to retreat ; and most undoubtedly my information warrants me to mention, that some of the military had already retreated ; and I cannot positively say that they might not have had good authority for their conduct. Although the Rev. Mr. Gordon had documents from under the hand of a dis- tinguished officer, Colonel Bainbridge,that sufficiently warrant the assertion, it was, however, generally circulated by many that were in the action ; and as upon the whole I would not readily admit hearsay evidence, but on the clearest conviction of the truth, yet I think my account would be deficient if I omit- ted to mention an important fact, and upon which so much stress is laid, as related by Mr. Gordon. " Many instances might be given of men, who, at the hazard of their c-wn lives, concealed and main- tained loyalists until the storm passed away ; on the other hand, many might be given of cruelties com- mitted by persons not natives of Ireland : I shall mention only one act, not of what I shall call cruelty, since no pain was inflicted, but ferocity not calcu- IRISH REBELLION. 229 lated to soften the rancor of the insurgents. Some soldiers of the ancient British regiment cut open the dead body of Father Michael Murphy, after the bat- tle of Arklovv, took out his heart, roasted his body, and oiled their boots with the grease which dripped from it. Mr. George Taylor, in his historical ac- count of the Wexford rebellion, (page 136,) says — * Lord Mountnorris and some of his troop, in view- ing the scene of action, found the body of the per- fidious priest Murphy, who so much deceived him and the country. Being exasperated, his lordship ordered the head to be struck off, and his body to be thrown into a house that was burning, exclaiming, let his body go where his soul is. 1 I hope that the writer was misinformed, and that the noble earl, re- markable for his liberality to Romanists, was not the author of this act."* The only time I was ever in company with the priest just mentioned, certainly was at Lord Mount- norris's house, in 1797, when his lordship was en- gaged in the plan of procuring signatures of loyalty from the Catholics ; and I understand that this priest greatly contributed to the success of that undertaking, which was afterwards much reflected on, and from the aspersions that were thrown out, it was probable that his lordship was induced, by this coup de main, to prove to the world that he was not, though he was supposed to have been, a friend to Catholics. Such transactions as took place on this occasion, it must be observed, are the more lamentable, not only as they of themselves serve to keep up animosity, but much more so when they are, not to say connived at, but even encouraged by persons of the highest rank , while all persons of humanity, but even a degree * See Gordon's history of the rebellion, pages, 212, 213. 20 230 HISTORY OF THE above the lowest vulgar, and even the humane of these, (for they are far from being in general desti- tute of the principle in Ireland,) and especially all who have received any degree of education, should set their faces against such pitiful acts of ferocious cruelty, as would disgrace the vilest savages. While I am on the subject of the Rev. Michael Murphy's death, I must beg leave to express the opinion I have adopted, in conjunction with the most sensible and rational men that I have conversed with on the subject, respecting the priests who were ac- tive in the insurrection. When clergymen so far forget their duty as to take up arms, so contrary to the spirit of the Gospel, they become most danger- ous men ; and the sooner such are cut off by any fatal catastrophe the better. The duty of a clergy- man is, to preach peace and charity towards all man- kind : when his conduct deviates from this, he acts inconsistent with the profession he has entered into. Why throw off the meek garb of peace for the horrid habiliments of war ? Under no possible circum- stances ought a clergyman to be instrumental to the death of any person, except in the most urgent ne- cessity of self-defence. Whenever else he takes up arms, he becomes a traitor to the Gospel of Christ ; and although treason may, on particular occasions, be considered useful, yet a traitor to any cause never can be regarded, even by those for whom he exerts himself. Besides, the interference of clergymen en- couraging any kind of strife, but particularly warfare, must be considered highly culpable, and deserving of a fatal end. Not one of the priests who took up arms in the county of Wexford escaped a violent and sudden death, clearly indicating a providential fate ; and although they were not all, at the time, under suspension or ecclesiastical censure, yet under one so IRISH REBELLION. 231 nearly allied to it, as to prevent any of them from having arrived to the situation of a parish priest. It is but common justice that those alone should bear the disgrace of reprobation who actually deserved it, and that the great body of the Catholic clergy should be rescued from censure, as they were free from blame. The misconduct of a few individuals should not involve the good character of the many, and it must be recollected that, even among the twelve apostles, there was a traitor. The conduct of the Roman Catholic clergy of the county of Wexford, however unjustly reviled, was, during the insurrec- tion there, guided by the true dictates and principles of Christianity, really exemplary and meritorious. They comforted the afflicted with all the zeal and warmth of Christian charity, and, in the most trying and critical period, practised every deed that must be considered benevolent by every liberal and en- lightened man, whatever brawlers of loyalty may as- sert to the contrary, endeavoring, with indiscrimina- ting abuse, to brand their conduct in general with the stain of infamy. They by every possible means sought to afford every assistance and protection in their power, to those who stood in need of it ; but their influence was greatly diminished by not follow- ing the example of the militant priests, who strove to attain an elevation and superiority over their brethren in this way, which they could not otherwise accomplish. If I may be allowed the expression, the conduct of the fighting priests was truly amphi- bious. For while they cast off the character of priests, and took up that of soldiers, they still wished to maintain an ascendency, even in their new sta- tions, by reassuming the priest whenever it answered the purpose of superiority, the passion for which was greatly augmented by indulgence in drinking ; and 232 HISTORY OF THE notwithstanding all this, they were conspicuous for courage and humanity. The encampment at Slieye-kielter was transferred from thence to Lacken Hill, within a mile of the town of Ross ; and although Mr. Harvey had mani- fested courage, and had formed an excellent plan for the attack of that town — which failed of success only by not following his directions — yet no consideration prevented his conduct from being faulted ; and he, therefore, leaving the command to the Rev. Philip Roche, whose boisterous conduct pleased the multi- tude better, returned to Wexford. The soldiery stationed at Newtownbarry made several excursions, and in the course of their pro- gress, some miles from the town, they shot every man they met, however unarmed and unoffending, and plundered and burned several houses. The insur- gents on Vinegar Hill, irritated by these excesses, followed the example, and day after day made excur- sions from their camp to counteract the military; but, however, it so happened that they did not fall in with each other, as they proceeded on different sides of the Slaney, which prevented their meeting, although their depredations were in sight of each other ; and while the one party was burning and destroying what they considered enemy's property in one quarter, the other, actuated by revenge, was committing like de- vastation in another ; and it would seem, as if by preconcertion, that both moved in different directions on every particular day of excursion ; so that the only warfare between them was an apparent strife who should cause the greatest desolation, or who should appear most eager to destroy what was spared by the other ; so that the state of the country was truly la- mentable. There were but few gunsmen belonging to the IRISH REBELLION. 233 stationary camp at Vinegar Hill, and an attack on that post being apprehended, one hundred and thirty gunsmen were sent thither from Wexford, under the command of Captain Murphy. These men had not experienced any of the persecutions practised pre- vious to the insurrection, and were consequently un- tainted with the rancorous spirit of revenge which they produced in other quarters. In short, they were remarkable for regularity of conduct, and they pre- vented a continuation of the cruel acts that had been hitherto perpetrated there ; for being shocked on the morning of the 1 Oth of June, which was the next af- ter their arrival, by seeing a man put to death, the Wexford men would not witness such another scene, and they declared they would not permit another in- stance of the kind while they remained ; and their humane example shamed the most refractory, whom they awed into order, so that not another person suf- fered on Vinegar Hill thenceforward until the 20th : therefore this important truth completely contradicts the greatly exaggerated accounts of daily victims, and the aggravated statements erroneously propagated of wicked atrocities committed there ; and however la- mentable it is that many persons were sacrificed to popular fury, yet it is somewhat consoling to be un- deceived that half the numbers stated could not have suffered. I do not by any means intend to excul- pate the atrocities committed on Vinegar Hill, as a sad catalogue of sufferers could be enumerated ; but such misrepresentation has taken place, that I should consider myself deficient in the task I have under- taken, did I not take every opportunity of declaring facts as they occurred, however I lament the exist- ence of the dreadful effects of popular fury. Any deviation from truth in stating such egregious enor- mities can take place only with a view to keep alive 20* 234 HISTORY OF THE those prejudices, which it is so much the interest of every true lover of his country to suppress ; and to learn the real state of occurrences will be the best pos- sible means of inducing contending parties to forgive and forget the past, and to cherish harmony in future. I must observe respecting those lists, denominated au- thentic, of persons said to be put to death in particu- lar places, that it is necessary to be intimately and perfectly acquainted with the country and its inhabit- ants, to be able to discover that several individuals are multiplied in the account of their deaths, as the same person is mentioned particularly and generally, in one place by one, and in quite a different situation by another ; and thus are narrators imposed on, not being so circumstanced as to be able to select truth from falsehood ; for it by no means comes within the province of learning to sift and unravel the many con- fused stories of several persons, each varying the ac- count of the same deed ; which though in fact but one occurrence, yet might be mistaken for separate transactions, as no feature of coincidence is so dis- cernible in the several relations of the same thing, as to exhibit the real and uniform picture. I have un- dertaken this narrative, with many facts of which I am unfortunately but too well acquainted, from no other idea but a wish to reconcile my countrymen, and not to let misrepresentation or falsehood pass to posterity ; which must otherwise, perhaps, be as much imposed on, as those who have hitherto writ- ten on the subject, when it would be utterly impos- sible to obviate misrepresentation ; and I write as much for the information of those who have been al- ready led astray as for the public at large ; and shall be happy to elucidate any particular that may not appear sufficiently explained, to convince them that I advance nothing for which I have not undeniable IRISH REBELLION. 235 authority, independent of my personal and local knowledge of the principal events ; and if they feel the candor they profess, I trust they will do me credit for wishing to set them right, when they ap- peal to the public for information and correction of any errors that might possibly have crept into their works. On the 10th of June an attack was made by some gun-boats on Fethard ; where, after destroying all the boats, mostly belonging to poor fishermen, the crews set fire to and burned many houses. This occurrence, with several ships, seemingly of war, being seen off the coast, renewed the former opinion that a landing and attack were intended in the south- ern part of the county. Small camps of observation were therefore instituted at Carne and Rastoonstown, to be attended by all the married men of the neigh- borhood, they being supposed to prove more watch- ful for the protection of their wives and families, by obviating sudden emergency; while all the bachelors fit for actual service were ordered to attend at Lack- en Hill. In Wexford, attempts were made to man- ufacture gunpowder to supply the scarcity of that article, which, however, did not succeed, for though it would explode, yet it was with little or no force. The weather continued remarkably fine and serene, a circumstance very favorable to the insurgents' mode of warfare, as they had scarcely any covering but a few booths or tents, not sufficient to contain even their officers ; so that the camps were not much encumbered with equipage, and only requiring the choice of a field, and should one not prove ample enough for their numbers, the adjoining enclosures were occupied in sufficient extent to contain them in the open air. Sir Thomas Esmonde, Bart., and Mr. Laurence 236 HISTORY OF THE Doyle, officers in the Castletown yeomen cavalry, could not escape the general suspicion entertained against Catholics, and although they were known to have performed their duty at the battle of Arklow, yet this did not protect them from a most contume- lious and public arrest on the 12th of June, at Ark- low, whence they were conducted under a guard to Dublin, where they continued some days in confine- ment, and were then liberated without the shadow of a charge being brought against them. The impolicy of this and the like transactions in such critical times, is so flagrant, that it is astonishing to think they should be permitted to be practised ; thus exaspera- ting the feelings of any religious description, without more cogent reason than suspicion, was the occasion of many loyal Catholics not joining the army, as they were apprehensive that death might be the conse- quence of their being suspected. As the insurgents had not a sufficiency of gun- powder to undertake any new attack, they remained inactive in tbfeir several encampments for some days; but in order to obtain a supply of that article, it was resolved to make an attack on Borris, the seat of Mr. Kavanagh, in the county of Carlow, where, it was supposed, lay a great quantity of arms and ammuni- tion. A detachment accordingly proceeded from the camp on Vinegar Hill to that on Lacken Hill, Where receiving reinforcement, the united party moved for- ward to the attack of Borris, where they arrived af- ter a night's march, early on the morning of the 12th. The cavalry stationed there fled on the approach of the insurgents, but a party of the Donegal militia, who had taken up their quarters in the house, defend- ed it with great bravery, keeping up a constant fire from the upper windows, and losing but one man in the course of the contest. The cannon the insur IRISH REBELLION. 237 gents had brought with them was too small to have any effect on the castle, as the only ball, discharged by one of them, rebounded from the wall, and an at- tack by musketry was of course considered ineffec- tual. As no hopes then remained of taking the man- sion by assault or battery, considering the strength and thickness of the walls, and that the lower win- dows were also lately built up with strong mason- work, the assailants set the outer offices on fire, in hopes of forcing the garrison to dislodge themselves for their protection ; but this manoeuvre proving in- effectual, and the insurgents having expended all their ammunition in useless efforts, and having burn- ed some houses in the village, returned to the sev* eral encampments from which they had been detach- ed in the county of Wexford. The encampment on Gorey Hill had by this time removed to Limerick Hill, ano the army, which was now daily reinforced, made irequent sallies from their several stations and committed the most violent excesses, putting to death every man who came in their way, whether by accident or otherwise, nor were the insurgents backward in retaliation ; so that the situation of such as were placed between the contending parties was truly pitiable ; being uncer- tain for an instant of the safety of their lives or prop- erties, and equally subject to military and popular violence and devastation. Several strong reports had now prevailed throughout the county of Wex- ford, that the most desperate atrocities had been committed by the soldiery in their different quarters, and this roused the already irritated passions of the people to revenge, so as to be productive of many lamentable acts of outrage, ever attendant on civil commotion, and keeping alive those melancholy dis- cords which never occur in modern times, between 238 HISTORY OF THE separate and independent nations at war ; and which all enlightened and humane people so strongly detest and reprobate. Reports of these enormities very much alarmed the minds of the prisoners in Wexford, as they strongly apprehended it might produce an alteration in the conduct of the inhabitants towards them. A petition to government, from those con- fined in the jail, was accordingly drawn up, expres- sive of the danger of their situation should the people be prompted to retaliation upon them, by the conduct of the troops towards such of the populace or their friends as might fall into their hands ; and on this occasion, the officers who were prisoners in Wexford appeared more alarmed than the others there in con- finement. They accordingly communicated to me their apprehensions and wishes, and proposed striking out some mode of putting a stop to the violences, which, they very naturally feared, might soon in- volve their inevitable destruction. Lord Kings- borough was for proposing an exchange of prisoners as the best method of allaying the prevailing alarms, and of suppressing the heat and violence of the peo- ple, now roused to the highest pitch of fury, and breathing nothing but revenge. Indeed, from the critical state of the country, and the people in gen- eral abiding no control, it was difficult to devise what could be best attempted to avert the fate that seemed to impend over every person of any distinc- tion, having the misfortune of being then in the county of Wexford, while all the chiefs throughout the several encampments most feelingly lamented the great disorders prevailing, and in conjunction with every individual of the least respectability, most strongly reprobated the cruelties and excesses that were perpetrated. So violent was the spirit of retal- iation and vengeance, which seemed to actuate the IRISH REBELLION. 239 whole mass of the people, that every danger was to be apprehended from it, unless some means were ta- ken to allay the existing ferment. On the 13th of June, several persons from the different encamp- ments, led by the most benevolent motives, as if by preconcerted agreement, waited on the commander- in-chief, in Wexford, to consult on the best mode of keeping the unruly rabble in some order, over whom they declared they had not (as indeed they never had) any kind of control ; and they now expressed their fears, that the best disposed of the men, who had been hitherto distinguished for good conduct and humanity, might be induced, by the prevailing rage, to commit acts of which they had yet been so far from guilty, that they gave them the most strenuous opposition. The abomination of Scullabogue had excited such general horror, that it became a material object of consideration on this occasion, when it was resolved to institute an inquiry for the purpose of punishing in the most exemplary manner, the perpe- trators of this infernal transaction ! ! ! — the existing state of the country prevented the accomplishment of so desirable an object. A favorable circumstance occurred at this time, which led to a hope that con- ciliation might be attempted with some probability of success. A message was sent to a prison-ship in the harbor of Dublin, offering liberty to any one who would undertake to go to Wexford with letters for Lord Kingsborough. Accordingly a man of the | name of John Tunks undertook the task, and, being i provided with all the necessary passes, he arrived I safe at Limerick Hill camp, whence he was sent with some principal persons to the commander-in- chief in Wexford. He immediately assembled those he thought best able to advise him how to proceed, and it was considered fortunate that many respecta- 240 HISTORY OF THE ble persons from the country were then in the town* all of whom approved of endeavoring to forward the sentiments of the prisoners along with Lord Kings- borough's answer, but how to reconcile the people to the measure, without which nothing effectual could be done, was the difficulty. The committees in Wexford, as various business and orders had been pressed on them from time to time, not at all within the scope of their intentions, upon undertaking that arduous duty, were not considered likely, in the present instance, to act with effect, particularly as their numbers had been increased on the augmenta- tion of business, and this too by the accession of low persons who might procrastinate the proceedings for immediate remedy. Accordingly those who had been in consultation with the commander-in-chief •proceeded along with him to the house wherein the different committees usually met, and here eight per- sons, considered the most capable of applying a speedy and effectual remedy to the existing evil, were appointed, and the body so selected was denominated " The council appointed to manage the affairs of the people of the county of Wexford," of which Mr. Harvey was chosen president. This plan was to be communicated to the different camps, and such of the persons as might not be approved of by the peo- ple, were to be removed and replaced by others. This arrangement met with the heartfelt approbation of all the prisoners, especially as the council imme- diately proceeded to forward the very plan they themselves had previously intended to put in opera- tion. It was thought necessary also to confine the messenger Tunks in the jail, as he was very talka- tive, particularly with respect to Lord Kingsborough's conduct in Dublin, to some parts of which, he said, he had been an eye-witness. His manner and sto- IRISH REBELLION, 241 cries, if left at liberty, might inflame the minds of the ^people, whom, at the time, it was so necessary not to proveke, but by every possible means to con- ciliate. Captain M'Manus being deputed by the prisoners •in the jail, was conducted to consult with Lord Kings- borough, who accordingly wrote a letter to the lord lieutenant, in the name of all the prisoners, (among whom there were thirteen officers, besides several yeomanry officers and principal gentlemen of the -county,) intimating their great danger, but that they had hitherto been well treated, and, in every respect, >as prisoners of war, and therefore hoping that the prisoners taken by the army might meet the like good treatment with tliem, for that otherwise they feared •reprisals might be made and their destruction prove inevitable. This letter, along with any others that the officers chose to send to their friends, was to be 'forwarded to the next commanding officer of the army, and the messenger was to return with an an- swer with all convenient speed. Lieutenant Bourke of the North Cork militia was appointed to carry the remainder of this scheme into execution, and accord* ingly on the evening of the 14th day of June, he set out from Wexford, accompanied by Mr. Carty to Enniscerthy, and part of the way by Captain Dixon, who, at Wexford, seemingly acquiesced in the busi- ness ; yet such was his duplicity, that he galloped on before the others to Enniscorthy, where by mischie- vous representations and deceitful contrivances, he so wrought upon the people as to induce them not to suffer the letters to be forwarded ; and such was his influence, that not only Lieutenant Bourke was in imminent danger, but even Mr. Carty ran great risk in opposing his villanous machinations ; but after being baffled in their laudable intentions, they were, 21 242 HISTORY OF THE after great hazard, permitted to return in safety the next day, to Wexford. As it was now found that no negotiation could be entered into without the express concurrence of the people, with a view of making conciliation more attainable, it was deemed expedient to bind them as much as possible, to abide the control of their com- manders. As numbers of them had never been sworn United Irishmen, and as the principles of brotherhood contained in their oath were considered by many of the principal prisoners excellent means of restraint, it was therefore thought a prudent measure to adopt it generally, and thereby impress on the minds of the people, the orderly and social intercourse that should subsist between all those sworn in the same cause, and the moral obligation of obeying their comman- ders ; and it was imagined the oath itself would curb many from acting licentiously. The measure was accordingly adopted, and oaths were also formed, with the same benevolent intentions, and equally ap- proved of, to be taken by all officers and privates, and by all the people in the most solemn manner, and copies of them were printed and circulated through the county.* Considering the defenceless state of the country, and the existing circumstances of the day, the situa- tion of the newly appointed council was far from en- viable. It became their duty to endeavor to avert the tremendously impending fate which threatened the country with inevitable destruction, and to exert themselves to the utmost of their power to concert such measures as would appear most likely to prove effectual. At such a critical period, their undertak- ing the arduous task must be considered as dictated * Seo Appendix, No. IX. IRISH REBELLION. 243 by the purest sentiments of philanthropy ; as what other possible motive could induce any one of them to place himself in such a perilous situation, at a time that it was well known to every man of rational observation, that the efforts of the insurgents would not be attended with final success ? They had in- deed undertaken a most difficult task, although they have not escaped the censure of partisans of all sides, who, while they venture to express prejudiced opin- ions, have no conception of the then existing general state of the county of Wexford. In short, the coun- cil were placed in as embarrassing a predicament as can well be imagined, seemingly at the head of a re- fractory outrageous populace, whom ihey anxiously sought to rescue from destruction, while these mostly counteracted their best and most benevolent inten- tions. However, when called on, at this dangerous juncture, as considered capable of applying a remedy to the enormous evil, all petty considerations van- ished, and they undertook to meet the difficulty with firmness and resolution; and when such urgent ne- cessity existed, any man should be deemed an enemy to the human race, who would refuse to contribute all his might towards the salvation of his country- men. According to the nature of the existing evil, so should be that of the counteracting measures. From this consideration the council did not think it right, for the preservation of the people, to declare, or even in the smallest degree to allow their defence- less state. On the contrary, it was considered neces- sary, along with the endeavor to encourage general union and barmony, to appear to be, as much as pos- sible, able and determined to adopt the most firm and decisive measures, with the view of obtaining the more favorable conditions for the people. The critical situation of the council, as far as it 244 HISTORY OF THE regarded the management of the people themselves, may be well exemplified by the following occur- rence. The town of Wexford being in a state of the utmost tranquillity, was all at once thrown into the most violent confusion and alarm by a great caval- cade coming into it over the bridge, preceded by Captain Dixon and his wife, who rode through the streets, while he with gesture and expression the most outrageous exhibited a fire-screen, ornamented with various emblematical figures representing some heathen gods, and with orange bordering, fringe, and tassels, which he represented as the insignia of an orange lodge, and the figures he tremendously an- nounced as the representations of the tortures which the Catholics were to suffer from Orangemen ; call- ing on the people to take signal vengeance, as he produced to them, he said, the discovery of the whole plot, found at Attramont, the seat of Colonel Lehunte. It is impossible to describe the fury of the people on this occasion, roused to the most violent pitch in an instant, and only to be accounted for on the principle of their supposition or rather persuasion of their in- tended extermination, which the sight of any thing orange awakened in the most sensitive manner, simi- larly to what has been before related concerning the orange warrant or commission and pitched cap dis- covered in the barracks of Wexford. When Captain Dixon had, by this infernal and tumultuous conduct, assembled almost all the inhabitants of the town, (whose phrensy, on seeing the orange ornaments, and hearing his assertions most desperately vocife- rated, it is impossible to describe,) he proceeded di- rectly to the house wherein Colonel Lehunte lodged, dragged him out, and marched him down to the jail, amidst a furious and enraged mob, by whom it is won- derful that his life was spared at the instant. IRISH REBELLION. 245 The principal inhabitants immediately assembled, and very narrowly escaped being all put to death ; for as they met in the committee house, opposite which the mob had collected, a common ruffian had the audacity to come in and fire a shot amidst them all, and actually arrested one of the council, which so provoked a gentleman present, who happened to have his pistols about him, that he cocked one of them and was ready to shoot the fellow, but was for- tunately prevented ; for I verily believe, had the ruf- fian been shot, the destruction of every one in the house would have been the inevitable consequence. The populace at length permitted some gentlemen to address them from the windows, and it was a considerable time before they were able to persuade them that all their fury and madness had proceeded from the exhibition of a fire-screen, on which were represented some heathen gods, and which formed part of the ornaments of a room furnished three years before with orange bordeiings and trimmings, then considered the most fashionable color. On the 16th, the insurgents set out from their en- campment at Limerick Hill to Carnew, where meet- ing with no force to interrupt their career, they pro- ceeded as far as Tinehaly ; here they had smart skirmishing with the army, from whom they took a great number of cattle, which they drove on before them, and encamped that night at Mountpleasant. On their quitting Limerick Hill in the morning, the prisoners who were confined in Gorey were thence brought to Vinegar Hill, from which they were con- veyed under a strong escort, and lodged in the jail of Wexford. The disposition of the inhabitants of this town, in not permitting any of the prisoners there confined to be brought out of the jail, where they were considered in perfect safety, was well known, 21* 246 HISTORY OF THE as many refusals had been made to demands of this kind from the country, when it was apprehended the intention was not to set them at liberty, but to put them to death ; in the present instance, therefore, the strong escort, which consisted of Enniscorthy men, gave no intimation of any design until they got pos- session of the jail, while delivering the prisoners they had brought with them ; but then overpowering the guards, they forced away with them four men, who had been very obnoxious to the people, and with them quitted the town immediately, in order to afford no time to rescue the unfortunate victims from them. The four devoted men were taken to the camp on Vinegar Hill, where they were next morning put to death, the Wexford gunsmen having returned home on the evening before, for during their stay in the camp only one man suffered, soon after their arrival, and they would by no means allow the repetition of such another deed, as has been before observed. On the 16th, several people from the neighborhood of Gorey formed a small encampment on Ask Hill, between Gorey and Arklovv, from which last-men- tioned town, since the battle fought there, the troops issued with peculiar caution. On this day, however, a troop of yeomen cavalry had the fortitude to ad- vance towards the little camp of the insurgents. This was, at the time, very inconsiderable as to numbers, having no more than about one hundred men equipped or fit for action, the rest having either dispersed or proceeded to Vinegar Hill ; and even half the remaining number precipitately fled at the approach of the cavalry ; while the other half, arm- ed with pikes only, stripped to their shirts, to be un- incumbered in exertion, and ran in full speed to meet the yeomen ; but these avoided the encounter and expeditiously retreated to Arklow. The insur- IRISH REBELLION. 247 gents then retired from Ask Hill, and moved into the country between Oulart and Wexford, and were dis- tributed through the different houses in that neigh- borhood. On Sunday, the 17th of June, a detachment of four hundred men sent out from the camp on Vinegar Hill, halted in Ferns until break of day, when, thus early on Monday, the 18th, they marched forward with the intention of storming Newtownbarry ; but meeting at Camolin the insurgents who had now quitted their station at Mountpleasant, they altered their route and returned to Vinegar Hill, while the main body of the others proceeded to Carrigrew, whence they also moved on the next day to Vinegar Hill. Early on the 19th; the encampment on Lacken Hill was surprised by a military force that came out from Ross ; and the insurgents, provided with little or no ammunition, and not apprehending an attack, were nearly surrounded before they were aware of their situation. They were also but few in number, for although vast multitudes appeared in their en- campments in the day-time, yet they were almost deserted during the night, as all persons took the liberty of going and coming as they pleased. But notwithstanding this and the sudden emergency, they effected a good retreat to the Three-rocks, without the loss of a man. This was contrived in a masterly manner by the address of their commander, the Rev. Philip Roche, who, being roused from his bed by the general alarm, ordered the foot directly to retreat, and having collected immediately round him the few horsemen that could be got together, caused them to seize on several banners, and keep them waving at different distances, as it were in defiance, so as to intimidate the troops from making a sudden onset, 248 HISTORY OF THE and when he knew that his foot were at a safe dis- tance, he and his few horsemen galloped after them r so that by this contrivance — that might do honor to- an experienced general — he completely baffled the- military, brought off his whole force entire,, and was- himself the last in quitting the hill. General dispositions were now made to attack the insurgents on all sides, and the several divisions of the army had orders from Lieutenant-general Lake to proceed in different directions for that purpose.. They were all to move towards the important post of Vinegar Hill,, occupied by the permanent encamp- ment of the insurgents since the 28th of May, or& the taking of Enniscorthy. Pursuant to^ the plan of a general assault, Lieutenant-general Bundas pro- ceeded on the 18th of June from Baltinglass to Hackets-town, whence he was to proceed, in con- junction with Major-general Loftus, who was to join him from Tullow, with the forces under his com- mand, to move forward to attack the insurgents post- ed on Mountpleasant. These seemed willing enough, to engage,, but the troops were prevented from com- ing to action here, by other orders from Lieutenant- general Lake, who thought it more prudent to wait the assistance and co-operation of his whole force combined, than to risk a partial engagement which might thwart or impede his general plan of opera- tions. Major-general Needham, who commanded in Arklow, moved on the 19th to Gorey, and on the next day encamped on Oulart Hill, whence he was to proceed to Enniscorthy. Greater devastation was perceivable from Arklow to Oulart, than in any other part of the country. On the 19th, Major-generals- Johnston and Eustace, after obliging the insurgents, posted on Lacken Hill hastily to abandon their situ- ation, proceeded to BloomfiekL where they encamp- IRISH REBELLION. 249 ed on the evening of the 20th ; while Brigadier-gen- eral Moore reached his appointed station at Fook's- mill on the same evening, and Major-general Sir James Duff, who had marched from Newtownbarry, took his station with Major-general Loftus at Scara- walsh. In the course of the progressive march of these several divisions of the army, great devastation took place ; numbers of houses were burned, and corn and various kind of property were plundered and destroyed, mostly at the instance of the yeomen returning to their different neighborhoods. It is as- tonishing that landlords of all descriptions could so far forget their own interests as to join in the destruc- tion of houses on their lands, however they might be induced to hunt out their lessees, and to sacrifice them, and so put an end at once to their leases. Yet many instances of this kind are related throughout the country. According to the preconcerted and comprehensive plan of operations, all the generals arrived, with their several divisions, at the different -stations to which they had been ordered on the 20th, of which they severally apprized Lieutenant-general Lake, who was himself, with his staff and Lieutenant-general Dundas, posted at Solsborough. The insurgents of the northern part of the county of Wexford had now concentrated their force on their station of Vinegar Hill, and at a consultation of their chiefs it was pro- posed to make a general assault on the post of Sols- borough during the night, but to this the people could not be prevailed upon to agree ; who chose rather to depend upon their very scanty provision of pow- der, and wait for open daylight to engage. It is very surprising that, considering the great courage and intrepidity displayed by them in so many engage- ments, the insurgents could never be brought to> 250 HISTORY OF THE make a nocturnal attack, wherein they must have in- evitably proved successful, as the confusion into which the regular troops would have been thrown by such a proceeding, would reduce them to a level with irregular bodies, whose superiority of numbers must necessarily have given them every advantage. On the 19th, General Edward Roche, and such of the insurgents of his neighborhood as were at Vine- gar Hill, were sent home to collect the whole mass of the people for general defence. By the march of the army in all directions, towards Vinegar Hill and Wexford, a general flight of such of the inhabit- ants as could get off took place ; and, as the greater part of the county was now occupied by the troops, the whole population was compressed into a very narrow space ; and at this time there was not an en- campment of insurgents in the northern part of the county, except at Vinegar Hill ; while in the south- ern quarter the small camps of Carne and Rastoons- town were concentrated at the Three-Rocks. The alarm was now general throughout the whole country ; all men were called to attend the camps ; and Wexford became the universal rendezvous of the fugitives, who reported, with various circumstances of horror, the progress of the different armies ap- proaching in every direction, marking their move- ments with terrible devastation. Ships of war were also seen off the coast, and several gun-boats blocked up the entrance of the harbor, which precluded the possibility of any vessel getting out ; so that Wex- ford was now on the brink of destruction, and the in- habitants without the smallest hope of escape. It is dreadful to conceive, and impossible to describe, the horrors felt by all who had the misfortune of being in the town on this most critical occasion. The melan- choly scenes of devastation perpetrated by the army IRISH REBELLION. 251 in the country about Carrick-Byrne, exhibited a mel- ancholy picture ; and from the commanding situation of the camp at the Three Rocks, on the mountain of Forth, the general conflagration, which was as pro- gressive as the march of the troops, was clearly per- ceivable. On the approach of the army, great numbers of countrymen, with their wives and chil- dren, and any little baggage they could hastily pack up, fled towards Wexford, as to an asylum or place of refuge ; and the number of these was increased every instant by the arrival of new fugitives, who de- scribed, in melancholy strain of lamentation, how their houses were plundered and destroyed, and how they themselves had narrowly escaped with life from the fury of the soldiery, who, when thus let loose and encouraged to range over and ravage a country, be- come the greatest curse that can befall it ! ! ! I must, however, observe, that General Moore did all in his power to prevent these atrocities, and got some plunderers immediately put to death ; but his humane and benevolent intentions were not so suc- cessful from the representations and excitements of the refugees returning hoitie. It is much to be re- gretted that he was not afterwards left in command in the county of Wexford, as he was ordered to Wicklow, where his conciliatory conduct and hu- manity were conspicuous, and will ever be remem- bered with gratitude by the people, who flocked to his standard for protection. Had Ireland enjoyed the blessings of such rulers, it would never have been involved in such a dreadful situation. The Reverend Philip Roche, after having settled the encampment at the Three Rocks, came into Wexford and demanded all kinds of supplies for his forces ; and as the inhabitants (except the gunsmen, who attended for some time on Vinegar Hill) had 252 HISTORY OF THE never quit their homes or assisted at any battle, they were looked upon in a very invidious point of view by the rest of the people ; who accordingly vowed the destruction of the town if all its armed men would not appear at the camp on the Three Rocks early the next morning, and join in general defence. The Reverend General Roche, on coming into Wexford, was greatly exhausted from his diligent and unre- mitting exertions in covering the retreat from Lacken Hill, and not having taken a morsel of food during the whole day, less drink than usual exhibited him in the course of the evening very much intoxicated. Of this man it is, however, necessary to say, that, however apparently violent and boisterous, he was remarkable for humanity. He never suffered a man to be put to death on Lacken Hill ; and the follow- ing, recorded by the Rev. Mr. Gordon, is a most powerful instance of his benevolence. After stating, that although " Philip Roche was in appearance fierce and sanguinary, yet several persons now living owe their lives to his boisterous interference," he proceeds to state, that " two Protestants in a respec- table situation in life, brothers, of the name of Rob- inson, inhabitants of the parish of Killegny, being seized and carried to Vinegar Hill, some Roman Catholic tenants, anxious for their safety, galloped in full speed to Roche's quarters at Lacken, and begged his assistance. He immediately sent an express with orders to bring the two Robinsons to Lacken, pre- tending to have charges of a criminal nature against them, for which they should be tried. The miscre- ants on Vinegar Hill, who were preparing to butcher the^e men, though they were advanced in years, and unimpeachable with any other crime than that of Protestantism, on receipt of Roche's orders, relin- quished their fury, not doubting that death awaited IRISH REBELLION. 253 ihem at Lacken. But Roche, whose object was to snatch these innocent men from the jaws of the blood-hounds, immediately on their arrival at his quarters gave them written protections, and sent them to their homes, where they were soon after in danger of being hanged by the king's troops, who were too ready to pronounce disloyal all such as had been spared by rebel parties."* But to put the question forever at rest, whether the insurrection of this period was a war of religion, it is only necessary to observe, that this was utterly impossible, notwithstanding the fanatic deeds of some base and barbarous individu- als, since the militia regiments, who fought with such determined animosity against the insurgents, were mostly composed of Catholics. Had there been any possible grounds to establish the rebellion a religious one, it could not have escaped its effect here, as en- thusiastic bigots have however ventured to utter among them their envenomed sentiments. The late Earl of Clare, who cannot be suspected of being a friend to Catholics, could not have given his opinion in the imperial parliament, that " religion was not the cause of the rebellion," had he not every opportunity from his official situation of being perfectly possessed of more information than could fall to the lot of the public at large. While the principal inhabitants of Wexford were in consultation, to which they were now summoned, upon the best mode of self-preservation and defence, the order for all the armed men to appear in camp by break of day became imperative ; and the outcry was so loud against the backwardness of the Wex- ford-men, that several set off immediately. The six small cannon on board the Guinea cutter were * See Gordon's History, page 140. 22 254 HISTORY OF THE brought on shore, and their carriages being too small for land service, they were tied on cars and taken, thus mounted, by the sailors to the camp at the Three Rocks, where the scarcity of ammunition was so great, that not a charge remained for any other cannon. On this evening it was that the Wexford guns-men had returned home from Vinegar Hill ; and about seventy men from the northern side of the Slaney came into town during the night, and were lodged in the barrack by Captain Dixon, who had been remarkably active in spreading alarm through the country north of the town, through which he had rode several miles to induce the people to come into Wexford, as it were for general defence. Early on the morning of the 20th, the drum beat to arms, and all the armed inhabitants marched out to camp, leav- ing none in the town but the guards that had been on duty since the day before. Some time after, I met Captain Dixon in the street, booted and spurred, and in all appearance thoroughly equipped and accoutred to go out to battle : his horse also stood waiting at his door fully caparisoned. On inquiry, however, I found he had no real intention of quitting the town. I then informed him, that I was sent by the commander-in- chief to request his immediate attendance at the Three Rocks ; but this he declined obeying, and was at the time in the act of sending whiskey to the coun- trymen who were in the barrack ; and on my ex- pressing surprise that these men should remain in the town, contrary to general orders, he replied, that his intention was to keep these men in Wexford to re- place the guards, who, he said, had never been in any battle, and must now go out, as it was but fair they should share hardship in their turn, and allow some repose to those men who had been in every engage- ment. IRISH REBELLION. 255 On this intelligence I immediately got on horse- back and rode up to the barracks, where I endeavor- ed by every means in my power to induce the men to leave the town ; and .they at length seemed will- ing to consent. But on the arrival of Captain Dixon, with the reinforcement of whiskey, they so far alter- ed their opinions and inclinations, that I was threat- ened for my interference. From the specimen of Captain Dixon's disposition displayed by his conduct to Colonel Lehunte, no confidence could be placed in him ; and seeing his influence over these men, who now at his instance absolutely refused to quit the town, measures of precaution naturally suggested themselves. After recommending to the guards to be vigilant on their station, which they were to quit upon no account, I galloped off to the camp at Three Rocks, to request a reinforcement of the Wexford men to be sent back with me, but which I had the greatest difficulty in obtaining, notwithstanding all my remonstrances, and was at last granted, rather to get rid of my importunity than from any other reason or motive ; as no idea of a massacre was at all en- tertained. I was, however, allowed to take my choice of the Wexford corps, but on no condition should they be permitted to quit the camp, until the whole remaining force should have marched off, as it was apprehended that if they were seen going they might be followed by others. Fearing the men might be countermanded if I should leave them before the main body should have moved off, I waited for that event, which took up a considerable time ; during which I also procured a letter from the commander- in-chief, Mr. Harvey, directed to Captain Dixon, or- dering him to come out to camp, as I felt earnest wishes to induce him to leave the town, for which purpose T left no means untried, but all without ef- 256 HISTORY OF THE feet. On consulting with some gentlemen in the Selsker corps, which was that I had chosen to re- turn with me, as it contained more respectable per- sons and Protestants, since in different yeomanry- corps, than any other in Wexford, I proposed that they should all take an oath not to drink spirits until further orders, as I perceived some drunken men among them, who could not .be depended upon. This plan was generally approved of, and all were accordingly sworn, except four or five, who were im- mediately sent off with the main body. This corps consisted of one hundred and twenty-five pikemen, (no gunsman being allowed to return,) and with these, having secured their sobriety, along with the guards that had remained in Wexford, I thought to be com- pletely able to keep Captain Dixon and his drunken crew of about seventy in awe, should they show an inclination to be refractory. When I judged all dan- ger of a countermand was over, I set off at full speed towards Wexford, to announce this reinforcement to the guards there on duty ; but about half w r ay I met four Protestant gentlemen, with pikes, marching out to camp ; and as I had seen them before in the morning, when they declared no intention of this kind, I expressed my surprise at their leaving the town, and insisted on their returning thither with me; but this at first they refused, alleging that, on my quitting the town, Captain Dixon had gone about the streets threatening death and destruction to all who would not immediately go out to camp, which had induced them to set off accordingly. However I altered their resolution by calming their fears, and by showing the letter from the commander-in-chief to Captain Dixon, suggesting that they would still be on the best duty by joining the men that were on their return ; upon which they promised to come • IRISH REBELLION. 257 back and give me their advice and assistance toward* the protection of the prisoners ; in whose defence I declared I would take up arms, which I had not yet done, and should I fall, I thought it would be a noble death to die on such an occasion. On this informa- tion I hastened with all speed to Wexford, from which I had been now absent about four hours, on account of all the delays I unavoidably experienced, the Three Rocks being three miles distant from the town ; but how great was my surprise and astonish- ment on finding the latter taken possession of by a vast multitude of people, consisting of several thou- sands, many of whom were well armed, and in such force as to banish all hope that the small number of Wexford men remaining in, and returning to the town, could in case of need give them any effectual resistance. General Edward Roche had, as has been before mentioned, returned home, at a very late hour on the 19th, from the camp on Vinegar Hill, to col- lect and lead thither all the men in his neighborhood. The number of these was now immensely increased by the vast crowds of fugitives driven, by the ap- proach of the army, from about Gorey into the part of the country called Shilmalier. Through this quar- ter, Captain Dixon had made an excursion on the same day, diffusing dread and alarm, and calling on the people to assemble for general defence at Wex- ford ; and unfortunately he was so successful in his efforts, that on the morning of the 20th, when the people were assembled, and that General Edward Roche thought to lead them towards Enniscorthy, they peremptorily refused to proceed, representing Wexford, from the suggestions of Captain Dixon, as more vulnerable ; wherefore the general himself thought it more advisable to continue with this body of the people, now consisting chiefly of the fugitives 22* 258 HISTORY OF THE from the northern parts of the county. These were continually relating their misfortunes, the cruelties they suffered, and the hardships they endured, to those with whom they took refuge ; which roused and irritated the populace to such a pitch of fury as admits not of description, and of which none but an eye-witness can have an adequate idea. All en- treaties or remonstrances to sooth or calm the exas- perated multitude were in vain : however, continuing still on horseback, I endeavored to address, explain, excuse, and expostulate, and in the course of these attempts many pikes were raised against me, and several guns and pistols cocked and pointed at me, and vengeance vowed against me as an Orangeman ; for they vociferated that I had distinguished myself by no other feat, but activity in protecting their en- emies the Orangemen ; that I had never attended their camps, or I would be a judge of their miseries by the view of general desolation. One man would roar out, that I had not been flogged as he had been ; another pathetically related, that his house had been burned, and he had been driven to beggary with his whole family, and he would have the death of the person that injured him ; a third lamented the death of his father, another that of his brother, others of their children ; and the appeal was made to me to decide on all their various sufferings and misfor- tunes ; while they perseveringly declared, they only wanted to be avenged of those who had actually done them wrong ; and I was asked, if similarly circum- stanced, would I not take revenge for such injuries as theirs ? All this I endeavored to answer, and strove to appease the wrath of popular phrensy, by alleging that the laws of God were indefeasible, and that they dictated that good should be returned for evil. This had some little effect for the instant ; but ft IRISH REBELLION. 259 it was, indeed, but. momentary. I, however, con- tinued still unwearied in my exertions, particularly endeavoring to preserve my dear and beloved friend, Mr. Turner, whose death, and that of a Mr. Gains- fort, the populace declared indispensable to their satisfaction, as they had led out the army against them on Whitsunday, and had burned their houses. Although I knew that my friend had burned a house, (of which he most sincerely and heartily repented,) yet I appealed to the multitude, if any one could prove the fact alleged against him, and no one ap- pearing to come forward for that purpose, I seized on the glimpse of hope I now entertained of his safe- ty, thinking that his life might be preserved by de- manding a trial, on which, if no proof of criminality could be adduced, it was natural to conclude that his safety must be certain. I then made the experi- ment ; but was answered by this universal cry — " What trial did we or our friends and relations ob- tain when some were hanged or shot, and others whipped or otherwise tortured ; our houses and properties burned and destroyed, and ourselves hunted like mad dogs ?" But I rejoined with some effect — " Do you mean to compare yourselves to the perpe- trators of such deeds, or would you disgrace your conduct by such barbarous acts V This appeal to their principles produced the consequence, providen- tially, as I fondly hoped, of their consenting to a trial, but on the express condition that I should re- tire, and be present on no account. At this critical moment I perceived a person near me whom I had induced to return from the Three Rocks, and who, true to his promise of every assistance in his power, after a variety of difficulty had got close by me, to- gether with some others of the like benevolent dis- positions, to whom I stooped down from on horse- 260 HISTORY OF THE back to listen to the arguments they humanely sug- gested ; and I must declare, that I derived great courage, from their presence and advice, to persist in my entreaties, in the course of which I find, on cool reflection, that I underwent great danger, of which I was by no means so sensible at the time, until afterwards informed by many who were kind enough to hold me in regard, while they prevented different persons from shooting me. I entreated the particular person before mentioned, to procure men whose humanity could not be doubted to try the prisoners, and when he should have succeeded, to give me notice, as I would endeavor in the mean time to delay the people, who were insisting that I should retire, " as," they declared, " I would go to the devil to save Turner." 1 did promise to retire as soon as I could have proper persons appointed to sit in trial over the prisoners, when my humane friend beckoned to me, signifying that he was ready. I then went into the committee-house, where, although Captain Dixon and Morgan Byrne, whose sanguinary disposition I was well aware of, insisted that they should be on the trial, I could not oppose their ap- pointment ; but, however, four out of seven, which was the number chosen, humanely offered them- selves, having previously promised me that they would not consent to put any one to death. I made use of another stratagem by proposing an oath, that in their proceedings they would not be guided by public prejudice, but by justice and the evidence be- fore them. This was with a view, if possible, to se- cure the assistance and co-operation even of the most sanguinary, and the seven were accordingly sworn to that effect. By this contrivance, and the solemn assurance of the four persons that they would not consent to the condemnation of any one, I IRISH REBELLION. 261 fondly hoped that I had secured the life of my friend from danger ; and being fully confident of the suc- cess of my plan, I left its subsequent management to a person on whose sincerity I could rely, and to whose worth I am sorry at not having the liberty to do justice by naming him ; and having made sure of such a friend to humanity, I thought it most prudent to retire, in order to please the people, the inclina- tions of many of whom I had now thwarted for ■ hours ; and I had good reason to suppose they would then be more inclined to listen to a new man. The seven persons appointed to sit on the trial proceeded from the committee-house to the jail, where they went into a small bedchamber, inside the jailer's kitchen, in which Captain Dixon had left five prisoners whom he had doomed as the first vic- tims for condemnation ; but he here met with an op- position of which he was not until that moment at all aware. The members of this kind of popular tribunal divided ; three were for death ; but the other four, true to their promise, and unwarped in their humane inclinations, firmly declared that they con- sidered themselves merely appointed to prevent mas- sacre, and to save the lives of the prisoners, and would not attend or listen to any. representation from Dixon or his fellows. This produced a very violent altercation, and great danger was to be apprehended by the friends of humanity, as Peter Byrne actually rushed into the room, and threatened them with in- stant destruction if they did not agree to the death of the prisoners. Some others of Dixon's blood- thirsty associates had got into the jail, and were se- lecting such of the prisoners as they pleased to doom fit objects of destruction ; but although Dixon's own designs cannot be doubted of ravening for blood, and that he was willing and eager to attempt any thing 262 HISTORY OP THE to gain his object, yet, as the four men resolutely persevered in refusing to agree to the death of any man at such a crazy and phrensied moment, he was going to retire from a place where his sanguinary views and cruel sentiments were opposed and over- ruled, and it is more than probable that the sangui- nary, retarded for hours in the onset, would have cooled in their fury, and have recovered sentiments 'of humanity sufficient to prevent them from putting any one to death, were it not for two informers, Charles Jackson, a carver and gilder,* and O'Connor, an organist, both of whom had not long resided in Wexford, and who were cast off from the society of the other prisoners then in the jail. These, as ill fate would have it, threw themselves on their knees to Captain Dixon, acknowledged that they were Orangemen, and ready to give every informa- tion, provided their lives might be spared. Dixon, before in despair at finding his sanguinary hopes baffled and blasted, readily agreed to their proposal, as it afforded a new prospect of perpetrating his in- fernal designs. He instantly addressed the people assembled before the jail, stating that two Orange- men had become informers, and that proceeding to trial was therefore unnecessary, as the evidence of these men must be conclusive. It may easily be conceived that on this communication, horribly vo- ciferated by Dixon, and re-echoed by his wife, the populace became ungovernable ! The people in- stantly approved of his plan, and demanded that all Orangemen should be sent out to them ; but his first care was to turn the men who opposed his bloody schemes out of the jail, of which he and his savage associates took complete possession. Kenneth Ma- * Author of Wexford cruelties. IRISH REBELLION. 263 thewson, as one of the persons denounced by the in- formers, was then turned out, and immediately shot at the jail door. John Atkins, a painter and glazier, was another against whom they gave information ; and he being one of those whom Dixon had originally brought down for trial, as destined victims for immo- lation, he was still in the jailer's kitchen, when, hear- ing himself called for by name, he ran into the inner room and hid under the bed, where he lay concealed until all danger was over. While these unforeseen but melancholy events were passing, I had retired in full assurance that the people would be appeased ; and notwithstanding that they had peremptorily for- bidden my being present at any trial, yet I was in hopes, as appearing no longer on horseback, that I might get into the jail unobserved, and endeavor to assist those who had undertaken the humane and philanthropic task of protection. But great was my amazement, indeed, at finding the most violent threats uttered against me as I approached the multitude. I therefore thought it most prudent to suffer myself to be led by two young women, who hurried me into a house, the door of which happened to be open ; and while they were explaining to me the cause of this sudden and unexpected tumult, a shot was fired, and it was instantly rumored through the crowd that Colonel Lehunte was killed ; upon which I could not help exclaiming that they had put an innocent man to death ! I then declared my determination to | go out and endeavor to stop such a scene of butch- i ery. On this, a man who knew me seized upon me, I and positively insisted I should not leave the house, as, just before I had come up, he had heard the peo- ple vow vengeance against me in so vehement a manner, that he was certain I must inevitably perish should I attempt to interfere. On finding that it was 264 HISTORY OF THE not possible for me to do any good, the share of cour- age I had hitherto felt quite forsook me at this junc- ture : I burst into tears, and sunk into a state of in- sensibility. When the mob had in some degree dis- persed, I was supported homewards by this good- natured man, but was obliged from faintness to stop twice on the way before I reached my lodgings. It is confidently asked by many, why the clergy and principal inhabitants did not interfere to prevent massacre. There were but few of the inhabitants at all in the town, and I saw most part of the few that had remained in Wexford on that day, together with some clergymen, do all in their power to restrain the fury of the people, and prevent the spilling of blood ; but I do believe, that under existing circumstances it was impossible to control the multitude, inflamed as they were by the representations of Dixon and his associates ; and in such imminently critical cases, it is not every one that has nerves strong enough to en- counter the impending danger. For my own part, although I was courageous enough in the beginning of the day, yet I found myself afterwards in such a state as to be incapable of any exertion. I therefore doubt much whether any person asking such ques- tions, would have fortitude or charity enough to step forward on such an occasion, and attempt to save any one's life, so much as by declaring a truth favorable to his preservation ; a conduct that ought to flow even from spontaneous generosity or grati- tude for material obligation ; but such slight interfe- rence as this was extracted by no motive from, but in some instances refused or perverted by the like hypocritical and mock philanthropists with those who put these presumptuous interrogatories. But to judge fairly of the conduct of another, it is neces sary to be placed in a similar situation. IRISH REBELLION. 265 After the death of Mathewson, Captain Dixon and his wife proposed, that those who were to be put to death should be brought down to the bridge, whither the mob retired. Eighteen intended for execution were first conducted from the jail, under a strong guard, headed by Dixon, flanked by two orange in- formers, whom he wished to exhibit as the grand sup- port of his conduct. These informers were brought into a public billiard-room on the Custom-house quay, (and not at all to the bridge, to which it is ad- jacent,) where they underwent an examination, at which Dixon presided. It is probable, that these in- formers did not give information against every one that was put to death on this occasion ; but it is a cer- tain truth, and an evident fact, that the information of these men was esteemed of such consequence, even by such a sanguinary tribunal, that their services saved their lives. The fate of the prisoners was quickly decided, on their being conducted to the bridge, as the proceedings concerning them were summary indeed. It was asked, did any one know any good action of the intended victim, sufficient to save his life ; and if no answer was made, the asser- tion of an individual of some deed against the people, was conclusive evidence of guilt, and immediately death was the consequence, on his primary denunci- ation by Captain Dixon. Some, however, escaped with their lives, on the interference of some person stepping forward in their favor. A few were shot, but the greater number suffered by being piked, and some of those with aggravated circumstances of bar- barity. All the bodies were thrown over the bridge, but neither stripped nor their pockets rifled, which I should scarcely have believed, but that I have been positively assured that watches and money were found upon them when afterwards discovered. Cap- 23 266 HISTORY OF THE tain Dixon sent from time to time for different per- sons to the several places of confinement, and at in- tervals came out to announce further discoveries from the informers. This admirably suited his hellish pur- pose of putting all the prisoners to death ; which he might unfortunately have effected, but that Provi dence was at length pleased to interpose, while the minds of the populace seemed wrought up to the most desperate pitch of cruelty ! The Rev. Mr. Corrin, who had been absent from the town the whole of the day on parochial duty, had but just re- turned, when he was sent for by Mr. Kellett, then on his defence at the bridge. Thither the reverend gen- tleman instantly repaired, and, having thrown him- self on his knees, entreated they might join him in prayer ; when he supplicated the Almighty to show the same mercy to the people as they would show to their prisoners ; and with that he addressed them in such feeling, pathetic, and moving language, that he thereby saved the lives of several who had been just ordered to the bridge from the market-house by Dix- on. While the Rev. Mr. Corrin was on the fatal spot, Mr. Esmond e Kyan, who had been wounded in the shoulder at the battle of Arklow, lay in the most ex- cruciating torture in a house at Ferry-bank, on the country side of the wooden-bridge ; but on hearing what was going forward, he instantly got out of bed, ran to the fatal spot, and by his animated conduct and address rescued Mr. Newton King, and Captain Mil- ward of the Wexford militia, with some others, from the fury of the populace. General Edward Roche, also, by his humane interference, snatched Mr. James Goodall and others from the jaws of death ; while different other persons of inferior note, and some even of the lower class, interposed so as to save one or other of their neighbors ; and at length it pleased IRISH REBELLION. 267 God that this horrid butchery ceased ! The Catholic clergymen and all the principal inhabitants who re- mained in the town that day, exhausted every means in their power in endeavors to appease the rage of the populace ; of whom, it is necessary to observe, they could have little or no personal knowledge, as the outrageous multitude had collected from the northern parts of the county, and not at all composed of Wexford-men, over whom they might be supposed to have some local influence. But such as have not been eye-witnesses, and who have not, even in that case, been sometimes among and conversant with the people, can have but a very inadequate idea of the danger of interference against the uncontrollable fury of a rabble exasperated to the highest pitch by the incidents I have endeavored to describe. Dreadful and shocking events are most subject to misrepre- sentations, as individuals will imagine excesses ac- cording to their several feelings, and although it is confidently asserted that ninety-seven were put to death on the bridge, I have good reason to believe that thirty-five was the number that suffered. Among the various occupations assumed by different persons in the course of this melancholy catastrophe, one man, in a most audible voice, counted the victims one by one, as they were put to death ; and I have further reason to believe, that thirty-five was the ex- act number of sufferers on the bridge, and one at the jail door ; amounting in all, that day in Wexford, to thirty-six ; as on most particular inquiry, even with the help of the lists published, as well as from per- sonal knowledge, I am enabled to know that several who are stated to have been sacrificed on the bridge that day, suffered not then, nor there, nor at all in Wexford ; so that I hope humanity will induce a fu- ture retractation of the lists alluded to, not only as the 268 HISTORY OF THE assertors have been evidently imposed upon, but as also their publication must help to keep up those animosities which they profess they do not wish to encourage. But, if writers w r ill persist in publishing those lists, why not, for the sake of general and true information, publish the number of the killed and wounded, by whatever means, on both sides ; since it must stamp the character of a partisan to detail but one side of the question ? On that ever-to-be- lamented day, there are many who ran great risk of personal safety in becoming advocates for the unfor- tunate : I wish I could learn .of as many who ex- hibited equal proof of sincerity in favor of the hapless and ill-fated people ! Were this the case, I verily believe I should not have to relate the dreadful deso- lation in the county of Wexford. In critical times, such as those, certainly different circumstances will excite different sensations ; but with respect to the business before us, the saying of a most liberal Prot- estant gentleman must be regarded as possessing pe- culiar force in repressing misrepresentation. He says, " I have heard of hundreds of Catholics in the county of Wexford, who have, at the risk. of their lives, saved Protestants ; but I have not heard of a single Protestant who encountered any danger to save the life of a Catholic." The black flag that appeared in Wexford on this day is, among other things, talked of with various chimerical conjectures, and its notoriety as denounc- ing massacre has been confidently recorded ; not- withstanding that it is an absolute fact, that this iden- tical black flag was, throughout the whole insurrection, borne by a particular corps, and the carrying of ban- ners of that color was by no means a singular circum- stance during that period, as flags of that and every other hue, except orange, were waved by the insur- IRISH REBELLION. 269 gents, and from their different dyes, ingenious con- jectures, however groundless for the maintenance of prejudice, maybe made as to the several dispositions of the bodies who moved under them, as little found- ed in fact or intention, as was the original intention of the black ensign in question. Although General Edward Roche had the nominal command of the great body of men that came into Wexford on this day, yet his authority appears to have been very limited, when he was not able to lead them to the intended destination ; but it became still less on his arrival in that town, where Dixon, who was his brother-in-law, had gained such an as- cendency, although possessed of not even any nom- inal command ; being but a general blusterer, affect- ing great consequence, galloping from camp to camp, and seeking every opportunity of doing mischief, generally while the battles were going on, and at one of which he never appeared but in the background. His denomination of captain was owing to his being master of a sloop which traded to and from Wexford. This man's conduct was in complete contradiction to the sentiments of Roche, who was, on his subse- quent surrender in December, 1799, tried by a court-martial in Wexford, on a charge of " aiding and abetting the murders on the bridge, on the 20th of June, 1798." But his humane exertions appeared so meritorious before that tribunal, that he was ac- quitted of this charge, which could not possibly be, as he possessed command, had it not been perfectly proved that such command was merely nominal, as his orders and endeavors were counteracted by per- sons having no command whatever, but what arose from inflammatory addresses to the populace, urging them to take exemplary vengeance of their enemies, in which they were unfortunately but too successful, 23* 270 HISTORY OF THE In the first house I had been obliged to stop at on the way to my lodgings, I met a gentleman to whom I was endeavoring to give some account of what had occurred, while Dixon was passing by, with the two Orange informers, one on each side of him. The gentleman ran out and began to plead for mercy, ex- pressing at the same time a hope that Dixon would come into the house and consult with me, before he would put his designs into execution. But on this Dixon exclaimed, " Is it to consult Mr. Hay, who has already deserved death for the part he has taken in stopping us so long from taking revenge of our enemies ? Here are two Orangemen, who have be- come informers, and there are the men I am going to have put to death, (pointing to the prisoners that were following him under a strong military guard,) and when I have done with these, I shall then treat Mr. Hay in the same manner."' When Dixon had passed on, the gentleman returned and offered to conduct me home, but I was again obliged to stop on the way in a house where the wives and daugh- ters of some officers, affrighted by the general alarm, ran to me in tears, while all I could do was to join in their lamentations. I certainly should not have had sufficient power to walk any farther, had I not taken a glass of wine they kindly offered me. How- ever, I at length arrived at the house where I had been since the insurrection, and there remained in a state of stupid insensibility, until I was roused by several ladies, who pressed me to come to dinner, which was unusually late that day ; and although I was able to carve for the ladies, I could not taste a morsel myself. Shortly after, a messenger came for me from Lord Kingsborough and his officers, re- questing my immediate attendance. I instantly complied, although I had little hopes of being able IRISH REBELLION. 271 to afford them any relief, yet I would not refuse to try my best endeavors. On getting into the street, I met a crowd of people proceeding to a particular house, with intention, as I soon discovered, of bring- ing out Mr. Joseph Gray, lieutenant of the Wexford cavalry, who had transported his servant. I had the presence of mind to say that Mr. Gray was out fight- ing for them, and that they seemed to me not to be able to distinguish their friends from their enemies ; which fortunately prevented them from proceeding any farther ; for I knew he was in the house, and had too much reason to fear, that upon their forcing into it, his death and many more must have been the inevitable consequence. This device proving suc- cessful, gave me more courage to go on to Lord Kingsborough's lodgings, where I was refused ad- mittance. However, I spoke to him and his officers as they appeared at the windows, and declared, that as long as I was alive myself, they might depend upon every exertion of mine in their behalf. Shortly after I fortunately met General Edward Roche, whose humane exertions to prevent them, were as conspicuous as his lamentations were sincere for the dreadful scenes then exhibiting. I conjured him to hasten down to the bridge, and there to represent the urgent necessity of the people's attendance at Vin- egar Hill, suggesting that he could, with more pro- priety than any other, interpose his authority with a prospect of success, as he was himself called on to attend by all the chiefs in the camp ; and as an ex- press, was sent from Vinegar Hill to Wexford de- manding reinforcements, and expressing surprise that Edward Roche had not come, with the force of his neighborhood, which he had been sent home to collect and bring along with him. These considera- tions inspired the general with new vigor to endeavor 272 HISTORY VF THE to lead these men out of the town, which he at length effected, and the people marched off under his com- mand out of Wexford. When the town was thus cleared of its dreadful visiters, about eight o'clock in the evening I obtained admission to Lord Kingsborough and his officers. We jointly took a retrospective view of the horribly distracted state of the country, as w r ell as of its im- pending danger, and after a variety of consultation between us, it was agreed that the only mode of preserving Wexford and all its inhabitants from de- struction was, that early on the next morning, I should accompany Lord Kingsborough to the army, and by an explanation of existing circumstances it was hoped that the town might be spared from the dreadful fate which seemed to await it every instant. Wexford was indeed at this period in a most perilous situation. Intelligence had arrived there of the ap- proach of three different armies — one of which was advanced as far as Oulart, another had arrived at Enniscorthy, and the progressive march of the third was conspicuous the evening before from the Three Rocks, by the insurgents stationed there, who on the morning of this day proceeded to meet it. The gun- boats on the coast also made a formidable appear- ance, as announced by the men who had been sta- tioned at the fort of Roslare, but who now abandoned that post and fled into Wexford, bringing the alarm ing news that several ships of war, and other armed vessels were approaching the harbor. By the time we had settled all matters relative to our departure on this expedition next morning, it was advanced in the night, and the Wexford men were flocking home from the battle of Fooks's-mill. I had then proposed to go and consult the principal inhabitants, whose co-operation and assistance were so necessary in such IRISH REBELLION. 273 an undertaking, but which I made not the least doubt of obtaining, and took my leave of his lordship and the other officers, promising to return to them early on the next morning. It was a considerable time before I could collect a sufficient number of the principal inhabitants to communicate my intentions to them ; and even when it was at length effected, their confusion was such, that it was agreed to post- pone the business until early in the following morn- ing, then to meet at Captain Keugh's house, where the subject would be taken into consideration by a general assembly, which could not be so well formed at that time of the night. About three o'clock in the afternoon of the 20th, the army under the command of General Moore be- gan to march from its encampment at Long-graigue, the seat of the Rev. Mr. Sutton, towards Taghmon, and had proceeded but half a mile, when the insur- gent force from the Three Rocks, led on by their general the Rev. Philip Roche, appeared in view at a place called Fooks's mill. Each party immediately commenced the attack, which lasted with various •success and great obstinacy on both sides, for four hours, when the insurgents having expended the whole of their ammunition at the very moment that it is said the troops were on the point of giving way, thought proper to retire, and made a good retreat to their original station on the Three Rocks. In this engagement, from the nature of the ground, the great body of the pikemen could not be bro*ught into ac- tion, so that there were not more of the insurgents engaged, than about an equal number with that of the army against them, whose loss too, is said to be considerably greater than theirs ; but although Gen- eral Moore's dispatches concerning the engagement have been published, yet the list of the killed and 274 HISTORY OF THE wounded, mentioned to have been sent with the gen- eral's letter, has been suppressed, so that I have not been able to obtain the official account of this partic- ular. The insurgents, as usual, did not attempt to retreat until they had fired their last shot, when two regiments under Lord Dalhousie were perceived coming up to reinforce General Moore. The insur- gents in the retreat brought away with them five out of the six small cannon which the) 7 brought out with them ; all of which had been fastened on com- mon cars with ropes, and the remaining one they lost, because the car upon which it was mounted having been broken by falling into a ditch, it was left there. The Wexford men, who were in this engagement, attended their companions to the Three Rocks, and then proceeded to the town, where they arrived late at night. General Johnston had smart skirmishing with the outposts of the insurgents from Enniscorthy on the 20th, on his arrival at Bloomfield, within a mile of Enniscorthy. Early on the morning of the 21st, a general assault was made on the insurgent force en- camped on Vinegar Hill by General Lake, while the town of Enniscorthy was attacked by General John- ston, which he carried after an obstinate resistance for two hours, with great slaughter of the insurgents, whose defence of the place was most wonderful, con- sidering that they had but a few pounds of powder to distribute to their whole force on the preceding evening ; so that it is astonishing how they could venture, with such a scanty provision of ammunition, to give any opposition to an army of great force, per- fectly equipped and appointed, and abundantly pro- vided with every necessary. Even on Vinegar Hill there were but two charges for cannon ; one of which was fired against the army approaching from IRISH REBELLION. 275 Solsborough, and the other dismounted cannon posted at the Duffrey-gate at Enniscorthy ; and although a great number of cannon and bombs were fired from the royal artillery towards Vinegar Hill, only one man was wounded, and none killed, by the shot from the ordnance. The insurgents, notwithstanding their de- fenceless situation, displayed vast courage and intre- pidity before they abandoned the hill, which they were at length obliged to do, and great numbers of them fell on this occasion. All suspected persons were put to death in Enniscorthy, and several houses were set on fire ; among the rest that which had been used by the insurgents as an hospital, which, together with all the wounded men in it, were totally consumed. A free passage was left for the insur- gents to retreat to Wexford, as the division of the army under General Needham, from some unac- countable reason, had not come up in time to join the battle ; and from the route this division took, it is surprising that it did not fall in with the insurgent force under General Edward Roche, who was also too late for the engagement, as he only arrived just at the commencement of the retreat of the insurgents, which, however, he recovered with his men, from Darby-gap, and restrained the career of the cavalry that were in full pursuit of the insurgents dislodged from Vinegar Hill. Lord Kingsborough was so anxious to carry the plan we had agreed on for the salvation of the town into execution, that he sent for me before three o'clock in the morning on the 21st, when I had scarcely time to have taken any rest. I instantly got up and went to him, when I found him arrayed in full uniform, and completely equipped to set out that moment, which he wanted me to do also ; but I rep- resented to him the danger of going through the 276 HISTORY OF THE country in such apparel as he then was, and that, at all events, our safety could not be secured without the con- currence of the people with our plan, which, however, I thought would be easily obtained, as I related to him the conversation I held with the principal inhab- itants on the night preceding ; and that I expected to meet them again on the subject at an early hour that morning. He and his officers then entreated me to hasten the meeting, and to have the drum beat to arms, for the people to assemble, that their consent might be obtained, as there was no time to be lost in carrying into effect the only means of saving the town from total destruction ; for we distinctly heard the report of the cannon from Enniscorthy, where the battle had just then commenced. I immediately went and rapped up the principal inhabitants nearest to me, whom I commissioned to call up their neigh- bors ; and thus in a short time was the whole town roused from slumber. A meeting consequently took place at the house of Captain Keugh, where it was thought advisable that Doctor Jacob should accom- pany Lord Kingsborough and me ; but on further contemplation, instead of one, it was judged neces- sary to send out three deputations from the town to the three different armies approaching, lest one might not be able to effect its purpose ; and it was also thought most prudent that Lord Kingsborough should not leave the town, but that it should be instantly surrendered to him, as military commander ; and Doctor Jacob, who was present, offered to reassume the office of mayor; so that this was putting all kind of civil and military authority into the same hands in which they were before the insurrection ; and thus did the inhabitants of Wexford do every thing con- sistent with duty by taking the earliest opportunity of returning to their allegiance, which, by the funda- IRISH REBELLION. 277 mental principles of the constitution, could never be arraigned, as they were not only abandoned, but even surrendered to the insurgents, by those who were bound, by every tie of duty and interest, to pro- tect them, but who, instead of acting as they ought, sent a deputation of surrender, and shamefully fled, leaving even their own wives and families, together with the other inhabitants, under the uncontrollable sway of the conquerors, whom they thus constituted regular enemies. Captain M'Manus of the Antrim militia and my- self were appointed to proceed to the army at Oulart, with the proposal of the inhabitants of Wexford and Lord Kingsborough's dispatches ; Captain O'Hea of the North Cork militia, and Mr. Thomas Cloney, were deputed on the like mission to Enniscorthy ; and Captain Bourke of the North Cork militia, and Mr. Robert Carty were sent to the army of Taghmon. The meeting was then adjourned to the custom-house quay to propose these arrangements to the people, assembled there on parade for the purpose. They approved of every step that had been taken with three cheers ; and the business was concluded by a most feeling address from Doctor Jacob, in tears, to the people, whose good opinion on all occasions he was so happy as to possess, by being very attentive in his duty as physician and surgeon to the wounded. A deputation "then went to Lord Kingsborough's lodg- ings to inform him of the determination of the peo- ple ; and his lordship, upon accepting of the military command of the town, applied to Captain Keugh for his sword ; but he, taking a wrong impression of the solemnity of the previous proceedings, and imagining himself entitled to march out at the head of the peo- ple to meet the army approaching the town, proposed surrendering it and the sword together to the officer 24 278 HISTORY OF THE principal in command of the army approaching the town ; but not finding one supporter of this proposed scheme, he reluctantly surrendered to Lord Kings- borough his sword and other arms, but with the greatest formality. Lord Kingsborough, thus invested with the mili- tary authority in Wexford, set about writing dis- patches to the several officers commanding the dif- ferent armies approaching the town, informing them, " That the town of Wexford had surrendered to him, and in consequence of the behavior of those in the town during the rebellion, they should all be protect- ed in person and property, murderers excepted, and those who had instigated others to commit murder, hoping these terms might be ratified, as he had pledged his honor in the most solemn manner to have these terms fulfilled on the town being surrendered to him, the Wexford-men not being concerned in the massacre which was perpetrated by country peo- ple in their absence."* With these dispatches were enclosed, as a further document, the following proposals from the people of Wexford : — " That Captain M'Manus shall pro- ceed from Wexford towards Oulart, accompanied by Mr. Edward Hay, appointed by the inhabitants of all religious persuasions to inform the officer command- ing the king's troops that they are ready to deliver up the town of Wexford without opposition, to lay down their arms and return to their allegiance, pro- vided that their persons and properties are guaran- tied by the commanding officer ; and that they will use every influence in their power to induce the peo- ple of the country at large to return to their allegi- * See Appendix, Captain Bourke and Lord Kingston's letters. IRISH REBELLION. 279 ance ; and these terms it is hoped Captain M'Manus will be able to procure. " Signed by order of the inhabitants of Wexford, " Matthew Keugh. « Wexford, June 21, 1798." All matters being thus arranged, I went down to the jail for Captain M'Manus, as well as to announce the news to all the prisoners. As I had on a former occasion consulted them on the letter written in their name and behalf, and as they were universally pleas- ed with my sentiments, they all crowded about me, many of them even in their shirts, and when I com- municated to them the purport of the mission of Captain M'Manus and myself, the joy they manifest- ed can only be conceived by such as have been in a similar situation. They expressed sentiments of the utmost kindness to me in particular, and hearty suc- cess to our undertaking. Captain M'Manus then accompanied me to Lord Kingsborough, who waited his arrival to consult with him and the principal in- habitants together ; and when all things were adjust- ed between them, and that his lordship had written his dispatches, enclosing the proposal of the towns- men, the captain and I set out, bearing these cre- dentials, and proceeded as far as Castle-bridge, where, finding that the troops which had been sta- tioned at Oulart had moved towards Enniscorthy, we thought it best to direct our course thither. As yet we had met with none but women and children who were bewailing their wretched condition in the most piteous strains. Shortly afterwards, however, we met Captain Dixon, who had been present at the ap- proval of our deputation by the people of Wexford in the morning ; but the plan not corresponding with his sentiments, he had set out with intention to gain over a party in the country to waylay and put us to 280 HISTORY OF THE death ; but as all the men had gone to camp, he could not find accomplices to assist him in this un- dertaking. Soon after we met Morgan Byrne, a man of the same stamp, who was Dixon's associate the day before, and whose cowardice and cruelty were equally conspicuous ;* he accosted us in the most abrupt and savage manner, vowing death and destruction against numbers, among whom he was pleased to include myself and my companion, whom he called a spy. Upon my declaring that I was go- ing to take observation of the position of the army, he insisted upon accompanying us ; and as he had a musket and bayonet, two cases of pistols — one in holsters and the other flung on his belts — while we had no arms whatever, I thought it most prudent to humor him ; which I did for two miles that he rode with us, when we had the good fortune to shake him off; and I then informed Captain M'Manus of the danger we had escaped by getting off such a ruffian. We then came to a resolution to be the first to ad- dress every one we met, to show our confidence, and by this precaution we passed unmolested by great numbers who were flying from Vinegar Hill, and the more dangerous, as they were stragglers from the main body of the insurgents that had taken another road ; and using many expedients to elude all inquiry on our business, but particularly calling out to the * The conduct of this man exemplifies the usual infamy attend- ant on informers ; as immediately previous to the insurrection he had waited on Captain (now Major) Kavanagh with a plentiful offer of information from his father and himself, when the sudden insurrection prevented its accomplishment. He and some of his relatives were distinguished by their barbarous dispositions, as true co-operators of Captain Dixon, whose conduct is a manifest proof how unlike you sometimes find even brothers, as they were dis- tinguished by their tenderness and humanity, whereas he was a sanguinary monster. IRISH REBELLION. 281 fugitives to collect at the Three Rocks, (the place appointed for the insurgents to wait until the conclu- sion of the negotiation then on foot,) we at last arri- ved in sight of the army at Darby-gap, where Cap- tain M'Manus threw off a great-coat which I had had the precaution to make him wear over his regimen- tals. We then hoisted a white handkerchief as our flag ; and could descry the country all along between that and Enniscorthy in a most dreadful situation ; houses on fire, dead men and women strewed along the road and in the fields ; while the soldiers were hunting for such as might be concealed in the ditches, and bringing down every person they met ; in fine, it was altogether a dreadful picture, exhibiting all the horrors of war ! A small party of the Antrim militia happened to be among the first of the soldiery that we met, and these hailed their officer with the most heartfelt demonstrations of joy, and conducted us safely to Drumgold, where we met Major-general Sir James Duff, who led us into Enniscorthy to General Lake, the commander-in-chief, to whom we delivered our dispatches. The remains of the town exhibited a dreadful aspect, as the greater part of the houses, which had escaped until the arrival of the army, were still on fire ; and the house which had been used as an hospital by the insurgents, and which was set on fire with all the patients in it, con- tinued burning until next morning, when I saw a part of a corpse still hissing in the embers. The news of our arrival having quickly spread through the town, numbers of officers, yeomen, and gentlemen of my acquaintance crowded around me ; some anxious to hear of their friends, while others expressed how disappointed they would be if hinder- ed from demolishing Wexford, with all the concomit- ant horrors and atrocities usual on such dreadful and 24* 282 HISTORY OF THE shocking occasions ! Some had the savage indecen- cy even to mention some young ladies by name, who, they intended, should experience the effects of their brutal passions before they would put them to death ; but these intentions they feared would be frustrated by the account I gave them of the proposal and dispatches : others wished the extermination of all Catholics ! some inquired for their friends and relations, and amidst these horrors were not destitute of humanity. While I was thus conversing with many of various descriptions, Major-general Sir James Duff kindly came to me and entreated that I would go into the house where the commander-in- chief was, and by no means to remain in the streets ; for that if I did, he entertained great apprehensions I might fall a sacrifice to the furious disposition of many persons in military array ; offering at the same time to bring me any gentleman I wanted, as he should be sorry I should endanger my person, of which I ought then to be particularly careful, as, if I were to meet with any accident, it might put a stop to any further negotiation on so desirable an ob- ject as I was endeavoring to obtain. I then went into the house, where I continued the whole of that day and remained the whole night also, as upon so- liciting an answer to the dispatches, the commander- in-chief signified that we should not get it until the next morning. Some of my friends have since in- formed me, that they prevented several persons who were on the point of shooting me from putting their murderous intentions into effect, in the streets of Enniscorthy. Captain O'Hea, of the North Cork militia, and Mr. Cloney arrived about two hours after Captain M'Manus and myself in Enniscorthy. They, having taken the road direct from Wexford, met the main body of the insurgents on their retreat ; and IRISH REBELLION. 283 the several chiefs, having first read the dispatches and proposal, permitted them to be forwarded with- out further interruption ; they were not sealed, to obviate the danger such a step might occasion. Captain Bourke, of the North Cork militia, and Mr. Robert Carty proceeded to Taghmon, and de- livered their proposal and dispatches to General Moore, who had already begun his march, which he pursued for a mile beyond Taghmon, when he halted on perceiving a great concourse of people on the mountain of Forth. He then sent back Mr. Carty to Lord Kingsborough, with directions to return to him with further accounts of the state of the country, and new dispatches. The insurgents, on their defeat at Enniscorthy and Vinegar Hill, retreated along the eastern bank of the Slaney, over Carrig-bridge, and so on to the Three Rocks, on the mountain of Forth, where the)'- were now observed by General Moore, and so occasioned Mr. Carty's return to Wexford for further information. On the arrival of the insurgents at the station of the Three Rocks, several discus- sions took place relative to the proposals for the sur- render of the town of Wexford, into which they could not finally be restrained from coming. Among those who thus hastily rushed into the town, there were some turbulent spirits, a circumstance unavoidable on such occasions, and in such an assemblage. These, apprehensive of their situations, exerted ev- ery means in their power to prevent an accommoda- tion, although earnestly wished for by all the chiefs as well as by the great body of the people. Lord Kingsborough, after he had assumed the military command of the town, went to the house of Mr. Meyler, where he was when this concourse of peo- ple arrived, and they insisted that his lordship and the other officers should come out to their camp, in 284 HISTORY OF THE order, as they said, to procure the like terms for themselves as for the inhabitants of Wexford. His lordship and the officers should certainly have gone out to camp on this occasion, but for the interference of Mr. Fitzgerald, who dissuaded them from consent- ing to a measure that would endanger the lives of the prisoners should they leave the town. The prin- cipal inhabitants had before determined to march out with them, in order to protect them from any violence that might be attempted against them ; and their united efforts, assisted by the timely interposition of the Right Rev. Dr. Caulfield, the Roman Catholic bishop of Ferns, prevented any further urgency. The people were addressed from the windows of the house, in which an assembly took place for the pur- pose of devising the best means of preventing mis- chief and irregularity : the people were entreated and supplicated to desist from their intentions, as Lord Kingsborough had given the most solemn as- surances that they should have as good terms as he had promised the inhabitants of Wexford ; and he moreover advised them to go to their camp, and not to lay down their arms until these terms would be perfectly secured. It was Lord Kingsborough's own proposal, that the insurgents should remain encamped at Three Rocks until they would secure the same terms with the inhabitants of Wexford, which it was naturally supposed would be ratified ; and it is much to be lamented that they did not return thither, as from the commanding situation of the Three Rocks it would be very difficult to dislodge them ; besides, by se- curing the pass at Carrig-bridge, the Slaney would have formed a very strong barrier against the ap- proach of the forces coming from Enniscorthy ; and the insurgents would by these means have appeared IRISH REBELLION. 285 so formidable as to induce the granting of the terms demanded, and which good policy so strongly dic- tated. This would have put an end to any further disturbance, and peace would have been immediate- ly restored ; nor would the desolation which after- wards disfigured the country at all have taken place ; and the lives of many sacrificed to the fury of the times would have been secured ; while it would have ensured the certain punishment of all murderers and assassins, many of whom, by the conduct that was pursued, escaped the end so justly due to their enor- mous crimes. The amnesty bill afterwards secured the greatest part of the benefits claimed by the pro- posals, with the exception of officers, who, if they had not relied on the granting of these terms, would not have remained in Wexford, but would have pro- ceeded with the insurgents, and so have saved their lives and properties as well as others who fought their way, and at length obtained favorable terms : so that all the evil consequences that ensued are at- tributable to the impolicy of refusing the proposed terms,' which, it is to be presumed, had there been a possibility of obtaining Lord Cornwallis's senti- ments, would have been readily complied with ; but unfortunately for the county of Wexford, he had landed in Ireland but the day before, and his system could not be sent forward to counteract that which existed before his arrival. Captain John Murphy, whose humanity had been so conspicuous with his gunsmen on Vinegar Hill, was now posted on the jail for the protection of the prisoners from the infernal fury of Captain Dixon, who wished to renew the diabolical cruelties he had been unfortunately able to put in execution the day before, in the absence of the inhabitants of Wexford, who were now returned, and determined to protect 286 HISTORY OF THE the remaining prisoners at the risk of their own lives. This they were happily able to effect, as the murder- ers were too cowardly to attempt any thing that por- tended danger to themselves. No one was therefore put to death on this day, but Ensign Harman, of the North Cork militia, who was going out with Mr. Carty, to General Moore, to whom they were now proceeding on a second mission, with fresh dispatches from Lord Kingsborough. They had but just got outside the town, when they were unfortunately met by a furious maniac, named Timothy Whelan, who instantly shot Ensign Harman, and snapped a pistol at Mr. Carty, who then thought it prudent to return, thus narrowly escaping with his life. This ruffian afterwards had the audacity to attempt the life of Lord Kingsborough, in order to put an end at once to all accommodation, not meeting with his approba- tion ; he would have been ordered for instant execu- tion by the chiefs, but for fear of irritating the great body of the populace, too ready, oh such occa- sions and in such turbid times, to mistake desperacy for heroism, and to attempt the most violent deeds themselves if thwarted in their inclinations, or by meddling with their favorites. The insurgents were at length prevailed on, by the incessant entreaties and exertions of their chiefs, to quit the town of Wexford. They now divided them- selves into two bodies : the one under the command of the Rev. Philip Roche marched into the barony of Forth, and encamped that night at Sledagh ; the other, under the conduct of Messrs. Fitzgerald, Perry, and Edward Roche, proceeded over the bridge to Peppard's castle, where they took their station for that night. General Moore, although he had orders not to pro- ceed farther than Taghmon on that day, that he IRISH REBELLION. 287 might co-operate, on the 21st, in the general attack on Wexford ; yet from the present complexion of affairs, advanced towards that town, having perceived the departure of the people from the Three Rocks ; and having been also informed, by Captain Bourke, of the peaceable disposition of the Wexford people. Concerning the latter circumstance, Captain Boyd (now returning home in General Moore's train) very prudently made many cautious and strict inquiries, requiring several assurances of the fact, from Cap- tain Bourke, who had been sent out in that direction from Wexford ; in addition to which he could him- self, from the commanding elevation of the road he took, observe the retreat of the insurgents over the bridge, before he ventured into the town, which, af- ter the most minute circumspection, he at length en- tered, attended by some yeomen, almost with as much precipitancy as he had formerly abandoned it. Some straggling wretches of country people were put to death on this triumphant occasion. All the green ornaments that had been so conspicuously ex- hibited hitherto, were now torn down ; and some per- sons, who but the moment before appeared anxious to demonstrate their friendship for the people, changed sides as quick as lightning, and endeavored to exhibit every symptom of loyalty. General Moore, on con- sultation with Lord Kingsborough, thought it most advisable not to let his troops into the town, which it had been determined to annihilate previous to the negotiation, and in consequence of this circumstance, of which the army was perfectly aware, it required the utmost precaution to prevent its being plundered, sacked, and destroyed, with the attendant atrocities. The town's-people now felt the utmost anxiety at not receiving any answer either to their own proposal or Lord Kingsborough's dispatches, and as even those 288 HISTORY OF THE which had been forwarded to General Moore himself, he had sent off, requesting further orders from Gen- eral Lake. General Moore now took his station on the Windmill hillsj taking every precaution, and hav- ing the advantage of a large park of artillery ; while the situation itself completely commanded the town of Wexford. The Chapman sloop of war, commanded by Captain Keen, took her station outside the har- bor, too shallow for her to enter, and three gun-boats were sent to attack the fort of Roslare, which was previously abandoned, and therefore they thence pro- ceeded opposite the town, completely commanding the wooden bridge and adjacent strand ; so that Wexford was now thoroughly invested both by land and water. On the approach of the army, too, all the wounded men in the hospital were put to the sword, and some of the straggling inhabitants lost their lives, notwithstanding the express orders of General Moore, that no kind of excess should be committed. At three o'clock, a. m., of the 22d, the trumpet sounded for the army to march from Enniscorthy, and every one was on foot as soon as possible. Shortly after, Captain M'Manus and myself, as well as Captain O'Hea and Mr. Cloney, were required to wait on General Lake, who delivered me his answer to the proposal of the inhabitants of the town of Wexford, and desired me to read it. It was as fol- lows : — " Lieutenant-general Lake cannot attend to any terms by rebels in arms against their sovereign : while they continue so, he must use the force in- trusted to him with the utmost energy for their de- struction. To the deluded multitude he promises pardon on their delivering into his hands their lead- IRISH REBELLION. 289 ers, surrendering their arms, and returning with sin- cerity to their allegiance. " Signed, G. Lake. " Enniscorthy, June 22d, 1798." On reading this I expressed my fears that such an answer would not be pleasing to the people of Wex- ford, as it did not ratify the terms solemnly promised by Lord Kingsborough ; but General Lake would not allow further explanation on the subject, as he declared he would not confirm any promise made by Lord Kingsborough, to whose dispatches he would not even return any answer. He then ordered that I. should be conducted by an officer, whom he named, to the head of the army, whence I was to proceed to Wexford, and thence to return to him, with all con- venient speed, with the determination of the inhabit- ants, as he mentioned he would not discontinue the march of the troops ; and that if any fatality should happen to Lord Kingsborough, or any of the prison- ers, nothing should dissuade him from his original intention of annihilating the town. I was also warn- ed by him, on pain of death, to return to him with a positive answer, and to bring Lord Kingsborough along with me ; and if on my approach to Wexford, I should not think it safe for the officer accompany- ing me to go into the town, I should return with that information immediately ; and that if any thing should happen to the officer or to me, in consequence of having brought the dispatches and proposal, the town of Wexford was not to be spared. I was then ques- tioned about the state of the country, the bridges, roads, and the like ; and General Lake finding upon inquiry what road I was to take, that I should not want an escort until I would reach General Need- ham's division, encamped at Ballenkeele, he sent or- 25 290 HISTORY Of THE ders to him by me, to furnish me with any escort I might require, to conduct me safe to Wexford. Cap- tain O'Hea and I were then led to the head of the army by a general officer, and we set off with all expedition, to avoid as much as possible the horrid spectacle of the dead bodies of men and women strew r ed along the roads and over the adjacent fields : some bearing marks of the most savage and indecent cruelty ; some with their bowels ripped open, and others with their brains dashed out — situations which they did not at all exhibit the day before, when I saw them lying dead on my way to Enniscorthy ! ! ! On delivering my orders to General Needham, while the escort was getting ready I was surrounded by several officers and yeomen w T ho expressed like savage sentiments with those I heard the day before at Enniscorthy ; and I was truly astonished to hear men of such rank and education as they were making use of such language. Some, however, expressed anxiety tempered with humanity. The escort being got ready, consisting of a troop of the Ancient Brit- ons, and a trumpeter, commanded by Captain Wynne, we set off, and could learn nothing along the road but the mournful lamentations of women, the country having been abandoned by the men ! When we ar- rived near Castle-bridge, I proceeded for some dis- tance by myself to reconnoitre, and perceiving no in- terruption, I called on the escort to come on ; and when we came in sight of Wexford, the trumpet was sounded, and I hoisted a white handkerchief to an- nounce our arrival ; but we did not learn that the town had surrendered to General Moore, until we arrived at Ferry-bank adjoining the Wooden bridge. As this was not as yet passable for horses, as the loose planks that had been laid on where the flooring was burned were thrown off on the retreat of the in- IRISH REBELLION. 291 surgents, Captain Wynne and I proceeded on foot as far as the portcullis, which had been hoisted since the preceding evening. We were therefore detained for half an hour, till orders were given to let it down. During the time that we were thus detained, I saw the prison-ship and several other vessels set on fire ; many more were afterwards burned ; and all the ships in the harbor that were not consumed were so far considered as prizes taken from the insurgents, that the owners w T ere obliged to pay salvage ! When the drawbridge was let down, we waited on Lord Kingsborough, to whom I made known the orders I had to bring him out to General Lake ; but he de- clared he could not possibly comply, as he had been appointed by General Moore to command in the town. He, however, wrote a letter, excusing his at- tendance ; and on receipt of this, I set off with Cap- tain Wynne and his troop of horse, which had by this time crossed the bridge, in order to return to General Lake ; and we met him a little outside the town, as, on hearing what had happened, he moved forward with all expedition ; and on delivering him Lord Kingsborough's letter, we formed part of his suite on his entrance into Wexford. The preserva- tion of this town may, indeed, be recorded as a won- derful event, as its destruction seemed as determined as that of Nineveh ; and yet its state, then and now, bearing so few marks of depredation or direption of any kind, is a circumstance that has surprised all who have visited it since, and who observed the des- olation that prevailed in all other directions where disturbances had existed. Relying on the faith of Lord Kingsborough's prom- ises of complete protection of persons and properties, several remained in the town of Wexford, uncon- scious of any reason to apprehend danger ; but they 292 HISTORY OF THE were soon taken up and committed to jail. The Rev. Philip Roche had such confidence in these as- surances, and was so certain of obtaining similar terms for those under his command, that he left his force at Sledagh, in full hopes of being permitted to return in peace to their homes, and was on his way to Wexford unarmed, coming, as he thought, to re- ceive a confirmation of the conditions, and so little apprehensive of danger, that he advanced within the lines before he was recognised, when all possibility of escape was at an end. He was instantly dragged from his horse, and in the most ignominious manner taken up to the camp on the Windmill hills, pulled by the hair, kicked, buffeted, and at length hauled down to the jail in such a condition as scarcely to be known. The people whom he had left in expecta- tion of being permitted to return quietly home, waited his arrival ; but at last being informed of his fate, they abandoned all idea of peace, and set off under the command of the Rev. John Murphy to Fooks's- mill, and so on, through Scollagh-gap, into the coun- ty of Carlow. From the encampment at Ballenkeele, commanded by General Needham, detachments were sent out to scour the country. They burned the Catholic chap- el of Ballemurrin, situate on the demesne of Ballen- keele, on which they were encamped, besides several houses in the neighborhood. The principal of these w r as that of Newpark, the seat of Mr. Fitzgerald ; which, along with all the out-offices, haggard of corn, by far the largest in the county of Wexford, a malt- house containing fifteen hundred barrels of malt, and a thousand barrels of barley, were entirely con- sumed ; as were also the house, offices, and malt- house, containing a thousand barrels of malt, at Bal- limore, belonging to Mr. Edmund Stafford, mistaken, IRISH REBELLION. 293 as I have been informed, for the dwelling and prop- erty of General Edward Roche ; besides a great number of houses of inferior note. In short, death and desolation were spread throughout the country, which was searched and hunted so that scarcely a man escaped ; and the old, who were feeble and de- crepit with age, and who could not therefore easily move out of the way, as well as the idiots or fools, were the victims on this occasion ; as almost all such as had the use of their limbs and intellects had pre- viously made off with the main body of the people. The dead bodies were to be seen scattered about, with their throats cut across and mangled in the most shocking manner. It is scarcely possible to describe all the horrors and devastations that took place, as all the atrocities of war were most wofully exhibited. The fair sex became the prey of the lustful soldiery; and female beauty, which at all other times may be considered a blessing, now became a curse, as women paid dearly for their personal charms, which failed not to augment the general brutality of these odious and detestable deeds ! What must be the pangs of a mother on seeing her beloved favorite child dragged from her by the ruffian hands of an unfeeling mon- ster, glorying in his barbarity, and considering his crime meritorious in proportion to its enormity ; spreading death and disease to the utmost extent of his depraved capacity ! The Hompesch dragoons are held in peculiar remembrance on this occasion. Indeed, the ferocity of the soldiery in general was such at this period, that the women and children through the country even now are worked up to the highest pitch of horror at the sight of a military man, as bringing to their recollection all the barbarous scenes of which they had been formerly witnesses ! Notwithstanding the abominations of the vilest of 25* 294 HISTORY OF THE pikemeii, it is a well-established fact, that during the period of their uncontrollable sway, no female, not even one of the wives or daughters of those whom they considered their greatest enemies, ever suffered any kind of violation from them ; and their general respect for the sex is as true as it is wonderful ; and their forbearance in this particular is as remarkably civilized as the conduct of the troops was savage, sparing neither friend nor foe in their indiscriminate and licentious brutality. The northern part of the county of Wexford had been almost totally deserted by all the male inhabit- ants on the 19th, at the approach of the army under General Needham. Some of the yeomanry, who formerly deserted it, returned to Gorey on the 21st, and finding no officer of the army, as was expected, to command there, they, with many others who re- turned along with them, scoured the country round, and killed great numbers in their houses, besides all the stragglers they met, most of whom were making the best of their way home unarmed from the insur- gents, who were then believed to be totally discom- fited. These transactions being made known to the great body of the insurgents encamped at Peppard's Castle on the 22d, they resolved to retaliate, and di- rectly marched for Gorey, whither they had otherwise no intention of proceeding. The yeomen and their asso- ciates, whose conduct had been so conspicuous on the day before, made some show of resistance, having pro- ceeded some little distance outside the town as it were boldly to meet the force coming against them; butupon the near approach of the insurgents, they fled back with the utmost precipitation ; and thence, accompa- nied by a great many others, hastened towards Ark- low, but were pursued as far as Coolgreny, with the loss of forty-seven men. The insurgents had been ex- IRISH REBELLION. 295 asperated to this vengeance by discovering through the country as they came along, several dead men with their skulls split asunder, their bowels ripped open, and their throats cut across, besides some dead wo- men and children : they even met the dead bodies of two women, about which the surviving children were creeping, and bewailing them, poor innocents ! with piteous cries ! These sights hastened the insurgent force to Gorey, where their exasperation was con- siderably augmented by discovering the bodies of nine men, who had been hanged the day before, be- ing devoured by pigs in the streets, others recently shot, and some still expiring. After the return of the insurgents from the pursuit, several persons were found lurking in the town and brought before Mr. Fitzgerald, particularly Mr. Pip- pard, sovereign of Gorey ; but from this gentleman's age and respectability, he was considered incapable of being accessary to the perpetration of the horrid cruelty which provoked and prompted this sudden revenge, and he and others were saved, protected, and set at liberty. At this critical time the news of the burning of Mr. Fitzgerald's house, haggard, and malthouses, by which he lost several thousand pounds, arrived ; and, had the smallest seed of ran- cor or cruelty existed in the mind of such a sufferer, he might have so far felt it on this occasion as not to restrain the insurgents from exterminating Gorey, which they were loudly proclaiming as a just retalia- tion for the devastation committed on so great a fa- vorite of the people. The magnanimity and forbear- ance of Mr. Fitzgerald at so trying a crisis are truly remarkable, as, forgetful of such great personal in- jury, he exerted his utmost endeavors to restrain the insurgents, vociferating vengeance for his wrongs, and succeeded in leading them off from Gorey ; 296 HISTORY OF THE when after a slight repast, they resumed their intend- ed route, rested that night at the White-heaps on Croghan mountain, and on the 23d set off for the mountains of Wicklow. General Lake with some other general officers re- mained for some time in Wexford. The jail of this town was now immensely crowded, as almost every one of the principal inhabitants were taken up and arraigned for treason. Many of them, however, were acquitted upon trial, which was by court-mar- tial, and the greater number received protections, ac- cording to Lord Cornwallis's proclamation. Captain Keugh had remained at Lord Kingsborough's lodg- ings, and after the surrender of the town two senti- nels were placed over him there for two days, when he was removed to the jail. Mr. Cornelius Grogan was taken at his seat in Johnstown, where he had remained, unconscious of any danger until conducted to prison. Mr. Bagnal Harvey had gone to his resi- dence at Bargy Castle, having no conception that the terms agreed upon with Lord Kingsborough would not be ratified. Indeed, so confident was he of the contrary, that he sent some fat cattle into Wexford for the use of the army ; but learning from the mes- senger who drove them thither, that no conditions whatever would be obtained, he hastened with the fatal news to Mr. Colclough. This gentleman had previously taken his wife and child to one of the Saltee islands, where he thought to have weathered out the storm of the angry time in a cave, into which he had gone for concealment. Thither Mr. Harvey now also resorted ; but they were all soon discover- ed, and the news of their being taken arrived in Wexford while they were being conveyed round to the harbor in a boat. This attracted a great num- ber of the people to the quay, curious to see them IRISH REBELLION. 297 brought in, and amidst this concourse Mr. Harvey and Mr. Colclough and his lady were landed. The gentlemen were then led through the gazing multi- tude to the jail, where they were confined in the con- demned cells. A court-martial was instituted for the trial of pris- oners on charges of treason. The Rev. Philip Roche was the first tried and condemned by this tri- bunal. Captain Keugh was the next put on his trial, at which he made a very able defence ; but was also condemned. The entrance of the wooden bridge was the scene fixed on for the place of execution. The sufferers were hauled up with pulleys, made fast with ropes to an ornamental iron arch, intended for lamps, and springing from the two wooden piers of the gate next the town. The large stature of the Rev. Philip Roche caused the first rope he was hauled up with to break ; but another was soon pro- cured, and his life was ended with double torture. The head of Captain Keugh, who suffered along with him, was separated from his body, and conspicuously placed on a pike over the front of the court-house. Their bodies, together with those of others executed at the same time, were stripped, and treated with the utmost brutality and indecency, previous to their be- ing thrown over the bridge. Mr. Grogan was brought to trial on the 26th, but the evidence which he hoped to obtain of his inno- cence did not attend, on account of the general ap- prehension that prevailed. His trial was therefore postponed, and he was remanded to jail. Mr. Har- vey was then put on his trial, which lasted for the best part of the day, and ended in his condemnation. Mr. Grogan's trial was then resumed ; but this he did not expect until the next day, and consequently he had not been able to procure all the necessary 298 HISTORY OF THE evidence. It was indeed proved that he was forced to join the insurgents, but this did not prevent a sen- tence of his conviction : such was the idea entertain- ed at the time of the necessity of public example ! The condemnation of these gentlemen was after- wards confirmed by the Irish parliament, which pass- ed an act of attainder against them, and a confisca- tion of their properties ; notwithstanding that, on parliamentary inquiry into the merits of the proceed- ings, it was clearly proved that the court-martial had not been even sworn : so that although their condemnation and the confiscation of their properties be sanctioned by law, yet the justice of the process is very questionable, and the investigation of it will employ the pens of future historians, particularly in the case of Mr. Grogan, who was undoubtedly sacri- ficed to the temper of the times. On the 27th, Messrs. Harvey, Grogan, and Patrick Prendergast, a rich maltster in Wexford, were ordered out to exe- cution. When Mr. Harvey was brought out of his cell he met Mr. Grogan in the jail-yard, and accosted him in a feeling, affectionate manner : while shaking hands with him he said, in the presence of an officer and some of the guards, and in the hearing of sever- al prisoners who had crowded to the windows, " Ah! poor Grogan, you die an innocent man at all events !" They were then conducted to the bridge, where they were hanged, when the heads of Messrs. Grogan and Harvey were cut off and placed upon pikes on each side of that of Captain Keugh ; while their bodies and that of Mr. Prendergast were stripped and treated with the utmost brutal indecencies, before being cast over the bridge ! Mr. Colclough was brought out to trial on the same day, and condemned. On the next day he was executed, but his body, at the interces- sion of his lady, was given up to her to be interred. IRISH REBELLION. 299 Mr. John Kelly, of Killan, whose courage and intre- pidity had been so conspicuous at the battle of Ross, now lay ill in Wexford, of a wound which he had received in that engagement : he was taken prisoner from his bed, tried and condemned to die, and brought on a car to the place of execution. His head was cut off, and his body, after the accustomed indigni- ties, was thrown over the bridge. The head, how- ever, was reserved for other exhibition. It was first kicked about on the Custom-house quay, and then brought up into the town, thrown up and treated in the same manner opposite the house in which his sis- ter lodged, in order that she might view this new and savage game of foot-ball, of which when the players were tired, the head was placed in the exalted situa- tion to which it had been condemned — above that of Captain Keugh, over the door of the court-house. On the 28th, General Lake quitted Wexford, leav- ing the command there to General Hunter, whose conduct must ever be remembered with gratitude by the people, as, on several occasions, he checked the persecuting spirit of the gentry and yeomanry ; and this contributed much more than severity, or any other mode could possibly do, to induce the people to surrender their arms, take out protections, and re- turn to their homes in peace. This desirable object would not have been so happily accomplished had he not interposed his authority so far as to threaten some gentlemen with punishment, whose habitual zeal and mode of keeping the country quiet, he to- tally disapproved of, as he did not wish to see the people again roused by the continuance of their ex- ertions. Brigadier-general Grose was stationed, un- der the command of General Hunter, at Enniscorthy, where he was distinguished for his pacific conduct. The first and Coldstream regiments of guards were 300 HISTORY OF THE providentially placed in Ross, under the command of General Gascoigne, and their conduct there must be ever recorded to their immortal honor, as exhibit- ing true principles of justice and philanthropy — step- ping in between the people and their oppressors, who were not only restrained in their career of persecu- tion, but even shamed into compliance with the sys- tem of pacification. Many were released from prison after the severest treatment ; and on inquiry into their cases, nothing could be alleged against them. They were consequently discharged ; it being evi- dent that their confinement had been most unwar- rantable, and to be accounted for only as a part of the dreadful system of tyranny and oppression which preceded and produced so many evil consequences. This is strongly exemplified in the case of Doctor Healy. This gentleman was a native of Ross, and had practised as a physician for some years in Wex- ford, whence he was on his way, on Whitsunday, to his native town, and stopping at Healthfield, the seat of Mr. John Grogan, he found that the latter wanted horses for some of his corps of yeomen, to conduct Sergeant Stanley to Waterford. The doctor then dismounted his servant, and gave the horse he rode to Mr. Grogan for the purpose required ; and pur- sued his journey to Ross, where all his relations re- sided. Some of those who abandoned Wexford on the 28th of May, coming afterwards to Ross, had the inhumanity to get Doctor Healy confined, and the prevailing torture of whipping inflicted on him. His life was consequently endangered, and he continued to experience the most brutal treatment, and was in constant terror of being put to death, until relieved, along with many others, all of whom appeared per- fectly innocent, upon inquiry into their situation ; and it is natural to suppose that their enemies would IRISH REBELLION. 301 have come forward to accuse them, if they had any charge to make, were it only to give some color of justice to their conduct, which appeared eminently tyrannical to the officers of the guards, who had no idea that such transactions could have taken place in any country. I am induced to insert the following circumstance from Mr. Alexander's account, as he was not liable to be imposed on, in this instance, by any misrepre- sentation : — ■" Corporal Morgan of the first regiment of guards, observing a country-protected rebel, whose house was burned for his crime, drop down at the word of command, upon his knees to the gentleman who had burned his house, ran hastily to the fellow and lifted him off his knees, exclaiming, ' Get up, you mean-spirited boor, and do not prostrate yourself to any being but your God : surely, you do not mis- take this man for that being V • Sir,' replied the gen- tleman, ' he shall go on his knees to me as he ought.' 1 No, sir,' returned the corporal, ' he shall not ; at least in my presence, and while I have the honor of being in the king's guards. We give the king but one knee, and that the left ; reserving the right knee, as well as the honor of both for God, and I tell you to your fiery phiz, (whether you believe me or not,) that you are neither a god nor a king, nor shall you receive the honor of either.' This was a young man of good education, and in the same Latin class with me, at the late Rev. Mr. Wesley's academy at King's- wood, near Bristol. He was the son of an eminent Methodist preacher."* The conduct of those commanders last mentioned was such as to induce the people to flock in with the greatest confidence to procure protections ; and the * See Alexander's account, pp. 106, 107 26 302 HISTORY OF THE country under their benign influence soon assumed quite another appearance. Had the county of Wex ford enjoyed the blessing of being ruled by such men previous to the insurrection, I am fully persuaded that no disturbance would have taken place there ; and it is to be regretted that they did not continue longer in command than they did, as on their depart- ure former influence so far prevailed as to exhibit a tendency to persecution, by resuming, as much as possible, their former conduct, which dare not be at- tempted when properly checked and under due re- straint. General Needham commanded in Gorey, and different other officers were stationed at Tagh- mon and Ferns to grant protections. Although I meant to confine myself in this narra- tive to what happened in the county of Wexford, yet it might be considered defective did I not relate what afterwards took place, until the warfare of the Wexford-men was closed by surrender in the county of Kildare, under Messrs. Fitzgerald and Aylmer. The insurgents who passed west of the Slaney, under the conduct of the Rev. John Murphy, directed their march to get into the county of Carlow through Scollagh-gap. Here they met with some opposition from a small body of troops placed there to oppose the passage. These, however, they soon overpow- ered, and burning the village of Killedmond on the Carlow side of the pass, they continued their march to Newbridge, where they arrived on the morning of the 23d, and quickly defeating a party of horse and foot stationed on the bridge to prevent their passing it, they took twenty-eight of the Wexford militia, part of the force there stationed, but the cavalry hastily retreated to Kilkenny. From this town Sir Charles Asgill immediately set out to meet the in- surgents at Newbridge, but was too late, as they had IRISH REBELLIOX. 303 moved off towards Castlecomer, in expectation of being joined by the colliers, from whom they ex- pected considerable assistance. On the 24th, the in- surgents proceeded from the Ridge of Leinster, on which they rested the night before, to attack Castle- comer. Near this town they met a party of about two hundred and fifty men, whom they obliged to re- treat precipitately before them into the body of the place. A thick fog, however, prevented them from observing the great inferiority of their opponents, and this, added to the town being on fire, (of which each party accuses the other,) also prevented their observ- ing the approach of Sir Charles Asgill, (who had moved after them with a large military force,) until they began to be raked with grape-shot from his ar- tillery. This surprise forced the insurgents, with great loss, to quit their enterprise, the Wexford mi- litia prisoners being retaken from them ; but still Sir C. Asgill thought it prudent to retreat that evening back to Kilkenny, accompanied by a vast number of the inhabitants of Castlecomer, which, by-the-by, was instantly after taken possession of again and plundered by the insurgents. After this they pushed on to the Queen's County, where they remained that night, and finding themselves greatly disappointed in not being joined by the inhabitants, and their own body being considerably weakened by desertion, they resolved to return home to the county of Wexford. They accordingly directed their course to Newbridge, and encamped that night on Killcomney Hill, where they were surrounded during the night of the 25th by a large military force, consisting of about five hundred of the Downshire militia, commanded by Major Matthews, who pursued them from Castle- comer, having first notified his intention to Sir Charles Asgill at Kilkenny, who accordingly set out 304 HISTORY OF THE from that place at the head of twelve hundred men, and arrived time enough to co-operate in the attack. A very thick fog prevented the insurgents from be- ing sensible of their situation on the morning of the 26th, until they experienced a severe discharge of cannon on one side, which made them shift their ground a little ; but on receiving a second salute of the same kind from another quarter, the rout became general, and they fled with great precipitancy : in- deed, they must have been entirely cut off, had not the horsemen that were among them rallied, and pre- vented the cavalry from pursuit ; in which dangerous service they displayed great courage and intrepidity. The slaughter, however, proved very great ; but it is lamentable that the greater part of the slain on this occasion were the people of the adjacent country, who had not at all joined the insurgents, nor left their houses ; and great depredations in the way of plunder were also committed on all who happened to be placed near the scene of action. This body of Wex- ford insurgents, after again forcing their passage back through Scollagh-gap, against some troops who en- deavored to oppose them, never made its appearance again, as the people dispersed and retired to their several homes, except a very few who joined their as- sociates in the county of Wicklow. The other body of Wexford insurgents which had proceeded, as before observed, after the attack upon Gorey, as far as the White-heaps, in the county of Wicklow, set off on the morning of the 23d towards the lead-mines. While resting in a posture of de- fence on an eminence near this place they perceived a body of troops in the hollow beneath, and these fired some bomb-shells at them from the opposite side of a river. The insurgents having no cannon, retreated towards Monaseed, where they halted part IRISH REBELLION. 305 of that night, and arrived on the morning of the 24th at Donard, which they found deserted. Here they waited for some time for refreshment, and then moved towards Glanmullen, where they met a small party of cavalry, who fled at their approach. They found the village of Aughrim laid waste, and many dead bodies bearing marks of cruelty. From this place they proceeded to JBlessington, and although their manner mostly was to rest as much as possible by day, and march during the night, to avoid the pursuit of a body of cavalry that was observed to follow them, and which generally appeared in view, they, however, encamped this night at Ballymanus, where, uniting their forces with those of Mr. Garret Byrne, the whole moved on the morning of the 25th towards Hacketstown, before which they appeared about seven o'clock in the morning. The military were drawn up in a small field outside the town, ready to receive them ; but they were forced to give way, af- ter the loss of Captain Hardy and four privates of the Hacketstown yeoman infantry, while the pike- men of the insurgents were wading across the river to attack the place on all sides. The cavalry re- treated and kept aloof during the remainder of the action ; but the infantry, consisting of about one hundred and seventy men, retired into the barrack, and a malt-house adjoining it, from which their fire did great execution, as did that from the house of the Rev. Mr. M'Ghee, who defended it with uncommon bravery, his force consisting of nine men only ; but whose galling fire had the greater effect as it com- manded the main street, and also that part of the barrack which was thought most vulnerable. This the insurgents endeavored several times to set fire to, as they had before to the rest of the town ; but all in vain. At length they made a desperate effort to ac- 26* 306 HISTORY OF THE complish their purpose. A few men proceeded up to the building, under the cover of feather beds and matted straw, fastened on cars ; but they were only successful in obliging the military to abandon the malt-house, and could not by any means get posses- sion of the barrack or of Mr. M'Ghee's house, both so situated as to support each other. The insurgents at last deeming it impracticable to effect their design without cannon, of which they had not a single piece, retreated from the place, after an action of nine hours, in which they. had lost great numbers; carrying off their wounded, and driving before them all the cattle from about the town, they encamped that night at Blessington. The loss of the garrison was but ten killed and twenty wounded ; however they thought it most prudent to abandon the place, which they did, and retreated that evening to Tullow, in the county of Carlow. During the engagement, it is said that a considerable force of cavalry and in- fantry stood on a hill at a small distance, in view of the scene of action, but did not venture to join in the battle. Disappointed by the repulse at Hacketstown, the remaining Wexford insurgents, in conjunction with their Wicklow associates, directed their march to- wards Carnew, which they were resolved if possible to carry ; but General Needham, being informed of their approach, detached a strong body of infantry, and about two hundred cavalry from his camp at Gorey, to intercept them. The cavalry alone, how- ever, as the infantry were recalled, came up with the insurgents on the road to Carnew. These, feigning a retreat, having timely notice of their approach, suffered the cavalry to pass until they brought them into an ambuscade, where their gunsmen were pla- ced on both sides of the way? behind the ditches, to IRISH REBELLION. 307 receive them. At the first discharge they were ut- terly confounded, and being unable to give their op- ponents any annoyance, they attempted to retreat in great haste towards Carnew. But here they had to encounter another part of the plan of ambush ; for the insurgents, rightly conjecturing that when foiled they would attempt getting off in that direction, had blocked up the road with cars and other incumbran- ces, they were for some time exposed to the fire of the insurgents, and lost about eighty of their number, among whom were two officers, Captain Giffard of the Ancient Britons, and Mr. Parsons, adjutant of the Ballaghkeen cavalry : the rest effected their re- treat to Arklow. The detachment was commanded by Lieutenant-colonel Pulestone of the Ancient Britons, of whom twenty were among the slain. The animosity of the people against this regiment, which they charged with being guilty of great excesses, may be instanced in the case of a black trumpeter belonging to it who fell into their hands alive on this occasion. When seized upon, this man loudly de- clared that he was a Roman Catholic, and besought them to spare him for the sake of his religion. But his deeds with which he was upbraided were too re- cent and too notorious, and he obtained no quarter. The insurgents lost not a single man in this action ; but they were foiled in their design upon Carnew, the garrison of which, being alarmed by the retreat- ing cavalry, had just time to secure themselves in a malt-house before the approach of the insurgents, who, after an ineffectual attack, marched off to Kill- cavan Hill. On the 2d of July, as the insurgents began to move towards Shillelagh, they were pursued by a body of yeomen, cavalry and infantry, before whom they retired to an eminence called Bally raheen Hill. 309 HISTORY OF THE Here they took post, but as the yeomen moved up the hill, the insurgents poured upon them with such impetuosity and vehemence, that they were in an in- stant utterly discomfited, with the loss of seventy privates and two officers, all infantry, for none of the cavalry fell. The officers were Captain Chamney of the Coolattin, and Captain Nixon of the Coolken- na corps ; besides numbers were wounded. Sixty privates, under Captain Moreton of the Tinahely, and Lieutenant Chamney of the Coolattin yeomen, retreated into Captain Chamney's house at the foot of the hill, whither they were pursued by the insur- gents, who continued to attack them all night, but they were resisted with the utmost bravery and cool- ness, and at length repulsed with considerable loss, to which it is probable the light afforded by a house adjoining, that of Mr. Henry Moreton, (which had been set on fire by the insurgents in their phrensy,) contributed not a little, as it enabled those within to aim with precision at the assailants. It was several times attempted to fire the house, by approaching the door under the cover of feather-beds, which proved unsuccessful. The Wexford insurgents next fixed their station near the White-heaps, at the foot of Croghan-moun- tain ; from whence they moved during the night of the 4th, towards Wicklow-gap, but were met on the morning of the 5th by the army under Sir James Duff from Carnew ; and after some salutes from the artillery, they were obliged to take another direction, and turned towards Gorey. But the fact is, that they were surrounded by four powerful detachments, before they could perceive the approach ^f any, in consequence of a fog so dense that it was impossible to distinguish objects at the distance of twenty yards ; and finding themselves unable to withstand a battle, IRISH REBELLION. 309 they broke through the pursuing cavalry of Sir James Duff's army, of whom they slew about eighty ; and moved with great celerity in the direction of Carnew. But upon their arrival at a place called Craneford, by others Ballygullen, they resolved to make resist- ance and await the approach of the troops, however numerous, although their own force was by this time considerably diminished. They however maintained the contest for an hour and a half, displaying the greatest valor, and most intrepid resolution ; having repulsed the cavalry, and driven the artillerymen three times from their cannon, all performed by their gunsmen ; for the pikemen, as on former occasions, never came into action ; but fresh reinforcements of the army pouring in on all sides, they were obliged to give way, quitting the field of battle with little loss to themselves, and notwithstanding all their fa- tigue, retreating, with their usual agility and swift- ness, in different directions ; but agreed among themselves to assemble again at Carrigrew. A par- ty of these refugees were met by the Rev. Peter Browne, dean of Ferns, who was suffered to pass, and he instantly posted to Ferns, to inform the King's County militia, quartered there, of the route of the flying insurgents. The military accordingly set out, with all speed, on the pursuit, and killed such of the straggling peasantry as they met or came up to with- out mercy. The insurgents thus harassed and hunted, thought it advisable, upon meeting at Carri- grew, to disperse, and thus put an end to the war- fare in the county of Wexford. A party of insurgents in the county of Kildare, under the command of Mr. William Aylmer, still held out in arms, and thither the remaining body of the Wexford men, commanded by Mr. Fitzgerald, accompanied by Mr. Garret Byrne, and some Wick- 310 HISTORY OF THE low men, directed their course to form a junction, which they accordingly effected. This associated force moved from Prosperous to Clonard, where they met a most determined and successful resistance from Lieutenant Tyrrel, a yeoman officer, who, with his corps, had occupied a fortified house in the town. These delayed the assailants until reinforcements ar- rived from Kinnegad and Mullingar, when they were forced to give up the enterprise. After this repulse, the few remaining Wexford men separated from their Wicklow associates, whom they deemed less warlike than themselves, and made different incursions into the counties of Kildare, Meath, Louth, and Dublin, eluding, as well as they could, the pursuit of the army, with different parties of which they had frequent skirmishes. The night of the repulse at Donard, they committed some dep- redations in the village of Carbery, in the county of Kildare. On the next day, pursued by different parties of military, they marched into the county of Meath, where they were overtaken and put to flight by Colonel Gough, commanding a detachment of the ■county of Limerick militia from Edenderry. After this, two of their leaders, Mr. Perry and the Rev. Mr. Kearns, endeavoring to make their escape by themselves, were taken, tried, and condemned by court-martial, and executed at Edenderry. Unable to effect any thing in the county of Meath, the Wex- ford men crossed the Boyne, near Duleek, into the county of Louth, where, being pursued from place to place, they made a most gallant resistance to the cavalry of Major-general W'ernys and Brigadier-gen- eral Meyrick, who overlook them between the town of Ardee and the Boyne ; but the infantry and artil- lery coming up, they were defeated with some loss, and fled into an adjoining bog, where they were se- IRISH REBELLION. 311 cure from pursuit. In the night, a small party set off towards Ardee, and dispersed, each as he best could, making way by devious and circuitous routes homeward. The remaining body repassed the Boyne, and, with their usual celerity, were on the direct road towards Dublin, when intercepted by Captain Gordon, of the Dumfries light dragoons, at the head of a strong party of horse and foot, at Ballyboghill, near Swords, where they wer efinally put to the rout, and were never more collected. Some Wexford insurgents, however, remained with Mr. Fitzgerald, along with Mr. Aylmer, who as outstanding chiefs negotiated with General Dundas, to whom they surrendered on the 12th of July, on condition that all the other leaders who had adven- tured with them, should be at liberty to retire whith- er they pleased out of the British dominions. The same terms were afterwards secured by General Moore to Mr. Garret Byrne, who was sent into con- finement in the castle of Dublin, together with Messrs. Fitzgerald and Aylmer. Here they contin- ued until the beginning of 1799, when Lord Corn- wallis permitted them to retire to England, where they remained until the 25th of March following, when Messrs. Fitzgerald and Byrne were arrested at Bristol, (where they were for the recovery of their health,) at the instance of persons connected with a strong Irish party for the union, whom it was thought at that time advisable to indulge. These gentlemen afterwards retired to Hamburgh. Messrs. Aylmer, Fitzgerald, and other outstanding chiefs surrendered, conditioning for themselves and others, by which they fared much better than those who laid down their arms in Wexford, depending on the faithful fulfilment of the terms entered into with Lord Kingsborough. 312 HISTORY OF THE General Lake, previous to his departure from Wexford, appointed a committee to superintend pros- ecutions, and to grant passes to leave the country, consisting of the principal gentlemen then resident there. The appropriate duty of this body was, to inquire specially into the cases of such prisoners as they should hand over to be tried by court-martial, to procure the evidence for prosecution, and to com- mit different persons to jail. It was not, however, deemed necessary to send a committal to the jailer, as the word of any of them was considered sufficient for the detention of any of those given in custody ; and they were also to act as a kind of council to General Hunter, whose benevolent disposition they thwarted on several occasions ; and this was so well known, that many upon being put into confinement, were induced by their apprehensions to petition for transportation, rather than abide a trial under their direction. The tyrannical, unjust, and inhuman dis- position of this body is strongly exemplified in their unwarrantable treatment of many besides myself, which I have endeavored to detail in my preliminary discourse. Different court-martials were instituted in Ross, Enniscorthy, Gorey, and Newtownbarry, and several persons were condemned and executed, and others were sentenced to transportation. Among those who were condemned to be executed, I cannot avoid no- ticing the case of the Rev. John Redmond, a Catho- lic priest, who it seems, during the insurrection, had done all in his power to save the house of Lord Mountnorris from being plundered, which he in some degree effected, but not at all to the extent of his wishes. Lord Mountnorris, however, to prevent the possibility of his being supposed by any one in future a friend to Catholics, sent for Mr. Redmond, IRISH REBELLION 313 upon finding thai he was present at the plundering of his house, desiring that he would come to him di- rectly. The reverend gentleman, conscious of his own integrity, and apprehensive of no danger, as in- volved in no guilt, obeyed the summons without hes- itation ; but his instantaneous, hasty trial, condem- nation, and execution were the reward of his humane and generous exertions. His body, after death, un- derwent the most indecent mutilations. But to put. this innocent man's conduct in its proper point of view, I do not think I can do better than the Rev. Mr. Gordon, a Protestant clergyman, has done in his history of the Irish rebellion. " Of the rebellious conduct of Redmond, coadjutor to Father Francis Kavanagh, in the parish of Clough, of which 1 was twenty-three years curate, I can find no other proof than the sentence of the court-martial which consigned him to death. He was accused by the Earl of Mountnorris of having appeared as chief among a party of rebels who committed some dep- redations at his lordship's house, while he alleged that his object in appearing on the occasion was, to endeavor to prevent the plundering of the house, in which he had partly succeeded. Coming into Go- rey on a message from the carl, seemingly unappre- hensive of danger and unconscious of guilt, he was treated as if manifestly guilty before trial — knocked down in the street, and rudely dragged by some yeo- men. I mean not to arraign the justice of the noble lord, his prosecutor, nor the members of the court- martial. The former, who had rendered himself in no small degree responsible for the loyalty of the Wexfordian Romanists, had doubtless good reasons for his conduct ; and the latter could have no per- sonal animosity against the accused, nor other un- favorable bias than what naturally arose from the 27 314 HISTORY or THE turbid slate oi affairs, when accusation against a Romish priest was considered as a strong presump- tion of guilt. But his Protestant neighbors who had not been able to escape from the rebels, assured me that while the latter were in possession of the coun- try, he was constantly hiding in Protestant houses from the rebels, and that many Romanists expressed great resentment against him as a traitor to their cause. That he expected not the rebellion to be successful, appears from this, that when the wife of Nathaniel Stedman (one of my Protestant parishion- ers) applied to him to baptize her child,* he told her that he acceded to her request, merely lest the child should die unbaptized, in the necessary absence of her minister, on condition that she should promise to make the proper apology for him to me, on my re- turn to the parish." It is a melancholy reflection to think how many innocent persons were condemned. I have heard of numbers, of whose innocence the smallest doubt cannot be entertained, whose conduct merited reward instead of punishment ; yet they fell victims to the purest sentiments of philanthropy, which dictated their interference : these have been perverted by their enemies, who are also those of the human race, into crimes utterly unpardonable. Is this any thing less than arraigning benevolence and humanity, the most amiable qualities of the soul of man, as crim- inal and atrocious ? But every man's breast, what- ever be his principles, will tell him with irresistible force, that crime and atrocity lie at the other side. From personal knowledge of the circumstances, I knew five or six who were innocent of the charges and of the deeds sworn against them, and who still * See Gordon's History of the Irish Rebellion, pp. 185, 186 IRISH REBELLION. 315 were condemned and executed. In these turbid and distracted times, I have seen persons sunk so much below the level of human nature, that I do believe they were not capable of judgment or recollection ; which accounts to me in some degree for the various assertions, even testimonies on trials, and affidavits made by different persons, who might as well relate their dreams for facts. The dreadful prejudice, hateful as uncharitable, entertained against Catholics, has also occasioned the death of many ; and the general excuse and impunity of Protestants, who joined in the insurrection, has induced many to avail themselves of this favorable circumstance to change with the times ; and to testify their loyalty, they ac- cuse the very persons they themselves seduced to join the association of United Irishmen, and thus cut off all the existing proof of their own delinquency by a consummation of villany. The loyalizing spirit, if I may be allowed the expression, has done a vast deal of mischief; for those in the predicament last mentioned are unprincipled turncoats in religion, who scruple not to throw out every calumnious as- persion upon that which they have not only forsaken but abandoned, in order, if possible, to impress an idea of the sincerity of their conversion in embracing the other. Vain effort — it only exposes the hypo- critical apostacy in either case to the dignified con- tempt of every intelligent and principled man. I know two Protestant gentlemen, who, if they had been Catholics, would not have escaped at this crit- ical time. They also attribute the saving of their lives to gambling, of the good effects of which I never before heard an instance. However, certain it is that these gentlemen had lost some money at play, previous to the insurrection, which luckily for them had not been paid at that period ; and the gallant 316 HISTORY OF THE heroes who were the honorable creditors on the oc- casion, and who were eminently active in suppress- ing the rebellion, humanely considered that none of the debt could be recovered if the two gentlemen were hanged, and therefore they suffered their in- terest to work upon their mercy, which operated to the procurement of pardon and release for the gen- tlemen in question, as well as the consequent pay- ment of these debts of honor. I know the two gen- tlemen well, and have often heard them relate this adventure, which is deemed to have preserved two fine fellows. Mr. E. Kyan, whose courage and humanity de- served a better fate, was taken near Wexford, on his return home in the night, tried, condemned, and executed the next day ; for although manifest proofs appeared of his humanity and interference, so con- spicuously effectual on the bridge of Wexford, on the 20th of June, yet this was insufficient to save him, as he had arms about him when apprehended. His fate is the more lamentable, as Mr. Fitzgerald, on surrendering to General Dundas, had secured the same terms for Mr. Kyan as for himself; so that had any circumstance interfered to delay his execution for some time, the life of a brave man would have been saved. General Hunter was indefatigable in his exertions to appease the minds of the people, and to restore confidence and tranquillity to this distracted country. In this he was very materially assisted by the ad- dress and exertions of Captain Fitzgerald, who by the special appointment of the British government, was attached as a proper person to attend the general as brigade-major on the service in Ireland ; and to this station, besides his acknowledged military talents, a recent display of courage, independent of his know- IRISH REBELLION. 317 ledge of the country, certainly recommended him. He was even invested with the extraordinary privi- lege of recommending such as he thought deserving of the protection and mercy of government. Some principal gentlemen of the county, and others besides, attempted to interpose their authority to su- persede the tenor of the general pardon held out by proclamation, pursuing the same line of arbitrary conduct which they practised previous to the insur- rection. They even proceeded to such a length as presuming to tear some of the protections which the country people had obtained ; but this coming to the general's knowledge, he soon quieted them by threatening to have them tied to a cart's tail and whipped. Others had been rash enough to levy ar- bitrary contributions for the losses they had sustained during the insurrection ; but were glad upon dis- covery, and refunding what they had received, to es- cape punishment, which favor was generally obtained through the intercession of Major Fitzgerald. Even a beneficed clergyman of the Established Church partook of the general's indulgence. Another, who was but a curate, was induced to wait on the general with an account of the intended massacre of the Protestants, which he detailed with appearance of the utmost alarm, and was patiently heard out, with the greatest complacency by the general; who, when the curate had ended, addressed him with this mark- ed appellation and strong language : — " Mr. Massa- cre, if you do not prove to me the circumstances you have related, I shall get you punished in the most exemplary manner, for raising false alarms, which have already proved so destructive to this unfortu- nate country." The curate's alarm now from gener- al became personal, and on allowing that his fears had been excited bv vague report to make this repre- 27* 318 HISTORY OF THE sentation, his piteous supplication, and apparently hearty contrition, procured him forgiveness. Many and various were the representations of a similar ten- dency, made to General Hunter, which other com- manders were led to believe, but which his superior discrimination deemed false and groundless, and were discovered so to be in several instances, by the activity and acumen of his brigade-major. Annesley Brownrigg, Esq., a magistrate of the county of Wexford, received nine-and-thirty charges of pillage and slaughter against Mr. Hunter Gowan ; and on the informations being submitted to General Hunter, he sent out a party of the Mid-Lothian cav- alry to conduct him prisoner to Wexford, whither he was brought accordingly, and there it was determin- ed to bring him to trial. Mr. Brownrigg returned home, in the mean time, to collect the evidence, but it was previously settled that he should have suffi- cient notice ; but on the day appointed for the trial, no prosecutor attending, Mr. Gowan of course was discharged. An official letter had been dispatched in due time, yet he did not receive it until it was a day too late. Whether the miscarriage of the letter was by accident or design, continues yet a secret. The various outrages that were committed in the country, prevented vast numbers from coming into the quarters of the several commanding officers to obtain protections, as many of the yeomen and their supplementaries continued the system of deflagration and shooting such of the peasantry as they met ; and this necessarily deterred many from exposing them- selves to their view, and prevented of course the hu- mane and benevolent intentions of General Hunter from having due weight or extensive effect. The melancholy consequences of such a system of terror, persecution, and alarm, were very near being woful- IRISH REBELLION. 319 ly experienced in a shocking instance of dreadful se- verity — the extermination of all the inhabitants of a large tract of the county of Wexford. This was ac- tually determined on, and the execution of it already planned and concerted, when its horrid perpetration was providentially prevented by the timely and hap- py intervention of Brigade-major Fitzgerald, under the direction and orders of General Hunter. Incessant applications and remonstrances were made by differ- ent magistrates in Gorey and its vicinity, to govern- ment, complaining that an entire quarter of the coun- ty of Wexford, extending from Courtown to Black- water, which range of county is denominated the Macomores, was infested with constant meetings of rebels ; and no means were left untried to prevent travellers from proceeding to Wexford in that direc- tion without escorts ; and many persons whose hab- itations lay in the neighborhood of this district left their homes deserted, from a belief that another rising of the people was inevitable ; and it was daily ex- pected to take place : nay, the reports laid before government were even confirmed by affidavits ; and so generally was it believed, that persons resident within two miles of the confines presumed not to in- quire into the veracity of the reports, to which, how- ever, they gave implicit credit ; while, at the same time, they were accredited by government, to whom they were handed in under the specious, imposing, and solemn appearance of facts by a magistracy that should be deliberate, grave, and respectable ; and the noble viceroy who then held the helm of the govern- ment was rendered justly indignant by these reitera- ted complaints of the abuse of his clemency, on the represented imminent danger of the country. Or- ders were accordingly sent to the different generals and other commanding officers in and contiguous to 320 HISTORY OF TlIK the devoted tract, to form a line along its extent on the western border, and at both ends, north and south, on the land side, so as to leave no resource to the wretched inhabitants throughout its whole range, but to be slaughtered by the soldiery, or to be driven into the sea, as it is bounded by the channel on the eastward. Even women and children were to be in- cluded in this horrid plan of terrific example. The chief command in execution of this measure, the time for its commencement, and the final determina- tion of its necessity, were intrusted to the discretion of General Hunter, nor was the confidence, indeed, misplaced. He was himself, with the second or queen's, and the twenty-ninth regiments of infantry, together with the Mid-Lothian fencible cavalry, sta- tioned in Wexford ; Brigadier-general Grose was with the South Cork militia at Enniscorthy ; Lord Blaney commanded the camp at Ferns, composed of the liuht brigades : Brigadier-2;eneral Skerret with his regiment of foot in Gorey ; and General Eustace with his brigade at Arklow. These, together with the general assistance of all the yeomanry corps throughout, the country, were to form the cordon round the country of the Macomores, and the troops were to move at once to the dreadful expedition. So terrifying were the reports at this crisis, that even some liberal but timid and credulous minds approved of these melancholy means of sacrificing thousands, (that tract being very populous,) as the only effectual resource for restoring tranquillity ! General Hunter, through the honest exertions and bold scrutiny of Major Fitzgerald, fortunately dis- covered in time the inhuman tendency of the misre- presentation that had dictated and determined this shocking enterprise. The devoted victims found ac- cess to the general, and he cheerfully acceded to IRISH REBELLION. 321 their entreaties to send an officer to inquire into their complaints, imploring protection from the incursions of the black mob, (they thus denominated the supple- mentaries to the different corps of yeomanry,) who wreaked their vengeance even upon those who had re- ceived protections from General Needham at Gorey ; as different parties of the soldiery and yeomanry waited their return in ambush, and slaughtered every one they could overtake ! This naturally prevented great numbers from coming in for protections. After- wards these sanguinary banditti made incursions into the country, fired into the houses of the peasantry, and so killed and wounded many. Several houses after being plundered were burned, and the booty was brought into Gorey. By the frequency of these hor- rible excesses and depreciations, such houses as re- mained unburned were of course crowded with sev- eral families ; and this multiplied the number of vic- tims at each succeeding incursion. At last most of the inhabitants of necessity took refuge on the hills, and armed themselves with every offensive weapon they could procure. The elevation of their retreats necessarily made their assemblages conspicuous, and this afforded some color to the pretext for desolation, as it appeared a specious proof that a general rising was intended ; and this was most strenuously urged by those who seemed bent on the extermination of the unfortunate inhabitants of the Macomores terri- tory, so as to work upon the minds of some well-dis- posed but timid persons an approval of the dreadful expedient. General Hunter, however, having, along with his general orders, a discretionary power to act as circumstances might require, sent Major Fitzger- ald to inspect the different military corps that were to be in readiness for the enterprise, in case his mis- sion for the purpose of conciliation proved unsuc- 322 HISTORY OF THE cessful ; he being vested with full powers to under- take that task of benevolence and mercy. Major Fitzgerald accordingly inspected the troops at Ennis- corthy and Camolin, and from the latter place dis- patched Surgeon White of the Camolin cavalry (son of Mr. Henry White of Donoughmore, a gentleman much respected in the country of the Macomores) to announce his intended visit to the inhabitants. The major then proceeded on his inspection to Gorey, and here had great difficulty to procure an escort to accompany him, as the strongest fears were express- ed for his safety should he enter into such a despe- rate quarter as it was represented ; their dreadful ac- counts of its state being an echo of the representa- tions that had been made to government, and trans- mitted to General Hunter, who felt good reason to doubt their authority. However, the major was not to be baffled, imposed upon, or disobeyed, and he perceived evident features of great disappointment exhibited by those who would fain dissuade him from his purpose, as they were conscious that the object of his mission was not according to their wishes, nay, that it must terminate directly contrary to them. The escort very reluctantly obeyed their orders, and on being dismissed galloped full speed back to Go- rey, while the major arrived in perfect safety at Donoughmore, in the Macomores, where he slept that night. On the next morning, Mr. White and his son, who were beloved by the people, accompa- nied the major to the place appointed for the meet- ing of the people ; and soon after their arrival there, some yeomen, arrayed in military attire, were ob- served at some distance by the crowd. This in- stantly excited alarm, and a rumor was circulated that their extermination was determined on, and that they were led to this spot to be surrounded and cut IRISH REBELLION. 323 off while the major was to amuse them with terms and harangue ! It is providential that the conster- nation and dismay produced by this incident did not operate to the major's destruction, as it would have afforded .the abettors of extermination every argu- ment to fortify their representations ; and it is to be hoped that the appearance of this military body was not intended for this purpose, in revenge for his une- quivocally declared opinion of the misconduct of some of the yeomanry. The major's death on this occasion would have put an end to all accommoda- tion ; and, from the very violent expressions used by the people, on thinking themselves betrayed, nothing but his coolness and presence of mind could have preserved him in so critical a juncture. He calmly waited for silence, and then offered himself as a vic- tim, should a military force of any consequence be seen to approach them, as his inspection the day be- fore was to prevent all accidents of that nature ; and stated that he could by no means account for that which occurred, but from the misconduct of some of the yeomanry. This address instantly produced a thorough conviction of his indubitable sincerity and benevolent intentions, and the people unanimously surrendered to him, and continued to flock into Wex- ford for several days after, to give up their arms and receive protections. Major Fitzgerald considered it necessary to guard the roads with patrols of cavalry, to prevent the people from being insulted or inter- rupted in their return to their avowed allegiance ; and General Hunter, being convinced of the expe- diency of protecting the harassed peasantry from the riolence and machinations of party, ordered Captain Cornock, who was selected as an experienced officer, to protect the inhabitants of Macomores from the arm- ed men closely adjoining their neighborhood ; and his 324 HISTORY OF THE corps was accordingly marched from Enniscorthy by Major Fitzgerald, together with a party of the Ennis- corthy cavalry, under Lieutenant Sparrow, although there were five corps of yeomanry stationed in and near Gorey. Of these, that which attracted the greatest notice was under the command of Mr. Hunter Gowan, which it was found impossible to restrain from pillage and slaughter. It was after the rebellion was suppressed that this body received appointments as a cavalry corps, and as several of them were not owners of a horse, they took a speedy mode of mounting themselves without any expense. They scoured the country, as they termed it, and brought in without any ceremony the horses of the wretched cottagers. On a day of inspection by Ma- jor Fitzgerald, however, the poor claimants recovered their horses, and the motley banditti, as the major termed them, were thus transformed into dismounted cavalry. The false alarmists were not at all depressed or intimidated at these discomfitures ; for although General Hunter reported the country as in a perfect state of tranquillity, they again returned to the charge and renewed their misrepresentations. Mr. Haw- trey White, captain of the Ballaghkeen cavalry, and a justice of the peace for the county, sent several in- formations to government of the alarming state of the country ; and the commanding officer at Gorey was so far persuaded of the intention of a general rising, that he quitted the town and encamped on the hill above it. These representations, made under the semblance of loyalty, and by a person bearing the appearance and authority of a gentleman, had not, however, the wished-for weight with the govern- ment. General Hunter was ordered to inquire into the information of Mr. Hawtrey White, and Major IRISH REBELLION. 325 Fitzgerald was again sent out, and the result of his discriminating inquiry was, that the information was unfounded. Upon this the general ordered Mr. Haw- trey White to be brought to Wexford, and he was accordingly conducted thither with the greatest ten- derness and humanity by Major Fitzgerald ; he was then put under arrest at his lodgings, although it was first intended to have sent him to jail. Mr. White still persisted in maintaining that there was an encamp- ment of the rebels (though not so numerous as he had previously represented it to be) on a rock of great extent, in the sea, two miles from the land, whither the rebels retired in the daytime, after pa- rading through the country at night; and he express- ed a wish to be sent with a party by land, to inter- cept them in their progress to the shore. General Hunter, however, did not agree entirely to this pro- posal, as he was apprehensive that the people of the country might be alarmed at the appearance of Mr. White conducting a military force ; and that they would be induced to fly at his approach, which might give some countenance to the information ; but although he considered the island to be but imagina- ry, yet in order that truth should prevail over false- hood, he ordered a gunboat to convey Mr. White to the island he described, and that a party of military should be sent by land to cut off the rebels, when he should drive them from their sea-girt station. In the mean time the captain of the gunboat had orders to bring back Mr. White, to receive thanks for his ex- traordinary information, should it prove true, and to concert further measures for defence ; but if found otherwise, to be dealt with accordingly. The sea and land expedition failed, in consequence of the de- ascribed rock being found covered by the sea at the time, and of course, if any rebels had been there, 28 326 HISTORY OF THE they must have been all drowned, when this new Delos immerged into the deep ! Mr. Hawtrey White was conducted back to Wexford, and General Hun- ter determined to bring him to a court-martial. Many gentlemen and ladies, however, interfered in the most earnest manner to prevent this investigation, repre- senting that Mr. White's great age might, have sub- jected him to the imposition of fabricated informa- tion ; and the firmness of the general relaxed at the instance of so many respectable persons ! ! It is much to be regretted that this inquiry did not take place, as this and many other uncommon occurrences were variously reported and believed, in different shapes and forms, according to the bias or inclina- tion, the prejudice or the disposition of the narrators. The general afterwards regretted his clemency, as he was not sensible at this period of the machinations practised, and of the extent of party prejudice, the evil effects of which every day's experience con- vinced him too fatally existed in the county of Wex- ford. False alarms are always productive of the greatest mischief, and are deemed in all countries offences of the most dangerous tendency. Ireland has suffered much by the tales of adventurers in these infernal practices ; but I am glad to perceive a-grow- ing disposition to discountenance these pests of so- ciety, who must, if continued to be encouraged, keep all well-disposed persons in a constant state of alarm, and screen the malignant intentions of their original projectors from the infamy they so well deserve. A court-martial, of w T hich Lord Ancram was pres- ident, was instituted at Wexford for the trial of per- sons accused of treason ; and contrary to the expec- tation and wishes of the committee for procuring ev- idence, many were acquitted. Lord Ancram, how- ever, soon left the town, and his departure was much IRISH REBELLION. 327 regretted by the people ; but his lieutenant-colonel, Sir James Fowlis, of the Mid-Lothian cavalry, suc- ceeded him as president of the court-martial. To say merely that he acquitted himself with honor and integrity, would not be doing adequate justice to his merits. I believe no judge ever sat on a bench, that displayed more judgment, discrimination, and mercy, in selecting the innocent and misled, from the crim- inal and the guilty ; and his conduct inspired so much confidence throughout the country, as to induce such as were conscious of integrity to submit to trial, which they would not otherwise dare to do, from a well-founded opinion of the rancor of their accusers, who attempted at first to warp, and afterwards to counteract his upright intentions, which those who experienced them can alone appreciate. Was the character of Irishmen such, as too many have been led, from misrepresentation, to believe, would such a dignified character choose Ireland as his place of residence ? Does it not rather appear that the re- sult of numerous trials not only convinced him for the instant, but even left a lasting impression on his mind, that the people of Ireland were goaded into rebellion, notwithstanding the unnatural calumnies of those whose prejudice and bigotry urge them to revile their country ! ! ! General Hunter's object of conciliation was so evident, that many insurgent leaders were induced to surrender themselves to him, on obtaining protec- tions. General Edward Roche surrendered on con- dition of transportation, and Major Fitzgerald accord- ingly brought Jiim into Wexford, where he was lodg- ed in the jail. On the morning of the very day on which he submitted, a rumor had prevailed of the landing of the French in the west of Ireland, and al- though Mr. Roche accredited this rumor, it did not 328 HISTORY OF THE prevent him from surrendering. The landing of the French force, under Humbert, was officially trans- mitted to General Hunter, and he was ordered off with the queen's and twenty-ninth regiments of in- fantry. This sudden and unexpected news created great alarm, and many ladies and gentlemen were anxiously desirous to quit the country, as they had been at the commencement of the insurrection, and were actually making preparations to that effect. The county of Wexford assuredly felt an impression of the general temper of Ireland at this critical pe- riod. The inhabitants of the territory of the Maco- mores, however, (though led to believe on the first intelligence that their former enemies would resume their plan of desolation,) were impressed with the fullest conviction, that they were rescued from ex- termination by the interference of Brigade-major Fitzgerald, and the humane exertion of General Hunter's authority. Under this patronage and pro- tection, therefore, they wished to remain, (not know- ing that the general had been ordered off;) the spon- taneous effect of their feelings on the occasion was manifested in an offer of their services to march against the French. The style and expression of their memorials to Major Fitzgerald and General Hunter, I will not attempt to describe in any lan- guage but their own : they are therefore inserted in the Appendix ; and although altered, perhaps, and corrupted in style and orthography, as they have come to me, yet their force and sincerity are mani- fest.* On the departure of General Hunter, the inhabit- ants of this county, as they received no answer to their memorials, were so alarmed, that they sent re- * Sp« Appendix, No. X. IRISH REBELLION. 329 peated remonstrances to Brigade-major Fitzgerald, requesting his interference for protection. The ma- jor, therefore, now thought it necessary to consult Sir James Fowlis, on the expediency of going into the Macomores, and Sir James esteemed it of such material consequence, that the proposal met his most hearty approbation. The major, however, was de- tained by his official situation for some days in Wex- ford ; and during this time he received repeated messages, informing him that Holt and Hackett had come from the county of Wicklow, and were tam- pering with the people, and using every means in their power to induce them to proceed with them to attack Dublin, which they represented at the time as destitute of regular troops, as Lord Cornwallis had led them all off to meet the French. From the general uncertainty of the public mind at this mo- mentous period, with respect to the actual strength of the invasion ; and from the subsequent accounts of the success of the French on the first onset, it may be very well supposed that the minds of a peo- ple so lately rescued from concerted extermination must be strongly affected, and ready to be influenced by the solicitations and remonstrances of the adven- turers who came among them. It therefore required the utmost address and energy to fix their wavering opinions, and Brigade-major Fitzgerald accordingly set out from Wexford for this purpose, and on the way he met different groups assembled in anxious uncertainty what to determine. These, however, on being assured by the major that neither he nor Sir James Fowlis were to quit Wexford, under whom the people were sure of protection, all their fears and apprehensions were calmed. The major represented that if they left the country, their wives and families who so lately escaped extermination, would be left 330 HISTORY OF THE destitute and defenceless at the mercy of their ene- mies, who would not fail to take advantage of their absence as a pretext for their destruction, and this argument prevailed. Though many and various were the opinions Major Fitzgerald had to encounter, yet he pursued his intended course and arrived that night at Donoughmore, and here he was further con- vinced of the representation of the people. He heard the signals of movement made by Holt and Hackett ; but the people remained quietly at home, and suffer- ed these adventurers to depart, accompanied only by those whom they originally brought along with them ; and the intended attack upon Dublin was given up in consequence of the Wexford men not joining, for much reliance was had on their exertions, from the courage and intrepidity which they displayed in the course of the insurrection.* These incontrovertible facts give the lie so palpa- bly to the calumniators of Ireland, that I cannot help adducing the testimony of an English lawyer of em- " Dublin, December 14, 1802. * " Sir — I return, with my thanks for your polite attention, your manuscripts you were so kind as to leave for my perusal. Am ex- ceedingly glad to find through the whole of your compilation, so strict an observance of facts, which chiefly come under my cogni- zance as brigade-major. It is with pleasure I observe also, your adherence to. truth and impartiality — free from the rancorous spirit of party fabrication, which is the true criterion that exalts the his- torian above the class of party scribblers, who dissipate as rapidly as unerring truth unveils itself, strongly exemplified in the past and present times. I give you much credit in not retorting as you might for your unmerited sufferings, by exposing the crimes of some i espectable persons ; for, indeed, if they are not very forgetful and very insensible, the compunctions of their consciences must be suf- ficiently tormenting. There is little doubt of your labors meeting their due reward from an unprejudiced public, which is the wish of " Your obedient humble servant, " B. E. Fitzgerald. " To Edwakd Hay, Esq." IRISH REBELLION. 331 inence nearly two centuries ago, but very applicable to our own time, of the character which the Irish have ever maintained. In 1620, Sir John Davies, then attorney-general in Ireland, published a work. on " The state of Ireland," in which he strongly as- serts as follows : — " They will gladly continue in the condition of subjects without defection or adhering to any other lord or king as long as they may be protected and justly governed, without oppression on the one side, or impunity on the other ; for there is no nation under the sun that doth love equal and in- different justice better than the Irish, or will rest better satisfied with the execution thereof, although it be against themselves, so as they may have the benefit and protection of the law, when upon just cause they do desire it." And again he says what is very applicable to the unfortunate situation of the people, " The Irish were out of the protection of the law, so that any Englishman might oppress, murder, or spoil them with impunity." I cannot omit here mentioning the case of Mr. Walter Devereux, who, having obtained protections from several general officers, had gone to Cork to embark for Portugal ; he was there taken up, tried, condemned, and executed. Mr. Gibson, a yeoman, and wealthy Protestant shopkeeper, and Mr. William Kearney, an extensive brewer, were summoned and attended at his trial, and proved that he was in Wex- ford, and even in jail, at the very time some soldiers of the Wexford militia were shot thirty miles from that town ; and the principal charge against him was, that he gave orders and was present at their execu- tion, which some men of that regiment were harden- ed enough to swear ! ! ! I myself saw him in Wex- ford on the alleged day. He was also accused of aiding and abetting the abomination at Scullabogue, 332 HISTORY OF THE and this charge was similarly supported by the tes- timony of some soldiers' wives ! and yet it is an un- doubted fact, that he was all that day engaged at the battle of Ross, where he displayed the most heroical bravery and courage — qualities inconsistent with the odious crime it was falsely sworn he had perpetra- ted ! ! ! But what, puts the falsehood of the facts alleged against him beyond all question is, that after his execution another Mr. Devereux was taken up on the discriminating sagacity of the same witnesses who prosecuted the former to death ; but who now (as they said) discovered the right Devereux. The trial of the latter has been published, and I would recommend its perusal to such as wish for further proof of the miserable and lamentable condition of those existing in the county of Wexford during the insurrection. The following case is also distinguish- ed for its peculiar hardship : — After the insurrection, the Rev. James Dixon was anxious to spend some time with his step-brother, Mr. Denis Butler, a mer- chant in Bristol, where he might enjoy that peace and tranquillity which the distracted state of his na- tive country wholly precluded. His intentions were well known to the late Colonel Lehunte, who lived in the vicinity of Castlebridge, where Mr. Dixon re- sided, and having therefore the best possible opportu- nity of being acquainted with his unimpeachable con- duct and demeanor, invited him to accompany his lady and family to England, where on his landing he was recognised by some of the incensed Wexford refugees, who immediately denounced him as a Catholic priest. By this outcry, (and the prejudice against his order,) those on the beach were roused to inflict severe treatment on him ; it is probable that these active prejudices might have proved fatal, had not the providential interposition of the Rev. Mr. IRISH REBELLION. 333 Draffen, the Protestant clergyman of the parish where the Rev. Mr. Dixon officiated as a Catholic priest, interposed in his favor, protected and covered him from the full exercise of their rage. This philan- thropic divine was as distinguished for his loyalty as his attachment to the constitution of his country, and for his exemplary piety and abhorrence of rebellion. This act of manliness and goodness on the part of the Rev. Mr. Draffen cannot be too much extolled, and while it manifests the purest sentiments of Chris- tianity, it cannot fail to impress the strongest convic- tion of the Rev. Mr. Dixon's innocence, which, along with other representations of the principal gentlemen of the county, laid before the lord-lieutenant, did not prevent his transportation to Botany Bay. This in- nocent clergyman was brought back from Milford a prisoner, and lodged in the jail of Waterford, where he was tried and condemned on evidence that is in every degree questionable ; and notwithstanding the strongest proofs of his undoubted innocence, yet pre- judice was too triumphant on this occasion in pre- venting a reversion of his sentence. The county of Dublin militia, who had distinguish- ed themselves so much at the battle of Ross, under the command of Major Vesey, whose gallantry on that day afterwards procured him the command of the regiment, were sent to Wexford ; but a wound which the colonel received at the battle of Enniscor- thy, prevented his coming with them, and the com- mand, as well as that of the town, necessarily de- volved upon Lieutenant-colonel Finlay. On the night of the 8th of September, 1798, the turnkey of the jail went round along with the guard, (composed of Ogle's blues, formerly the Shilmalier infantry,) with general notice to all the prisoners, that if any riot should happen that night in any part of the coun- 334 HISTORY OF THE ty of Wexford, the prisoners were all to be shot ! When these orders were so officially notified to me, I desired the turnkey begone about his business, for that no officer would give such orders ; nor could I be persuaded that the orders were given, until the sergeant, of the guard offered to save me from the massacre, as he said he had heard of my good ac- tions during the rebellion. I could not but express my gratitude for such an offer of essential service ; but I naturally felt great anxiety at the gloomy pros- pect before me, of which no doubt could now be en- tertained. The jailer, whose humanity had been so successful in saving Mr. Bagnal Harvey, as I have related on a former occasion, was then in Dublin, being summoned before parliament to prove that fact. I was therefore necessitated to write to Brigade- major Fitzgerald an account of the transaction, and he without loss of time waited on Sir James Fowlis, and both instantly came down to the jail, where upon inquiry they found my representation to be too true ; but they took measures to counteract the execution of this denunciation, should it be attempted. The commanding officer of the town was supposed at that time to be too fast asleep (occasioned by a too free indulgence of the bottle) to attend to any re- monstrance on the occasion. The departure of General Hunter from Wexford was an irreparable loss to the county ; but his pres- ence proved a great blessing in Kilkenny, where he displayed his usual discrimination, judgment, and humanity in developing and unravelling the proofs of the melancholy situation of I he persecuted inhab- itants, who were consequently impressed with that confidence with which his noble and manly conduct never failed to inspire the oppressed. Although his absence was severely felt in the county of Wexford, IRISH REBELLION. 335 yet his representation of its state to the government had such a salutary effect as to prevent alarm from assuming so serious or formidable an aspect as be- fore. Petty depredators, however, still continued their usual practices, and this they were enabled to do with the greater impunity, as, under general or- ders and martial law, the inhabitants were liable to be shot, and their houses burned, if discovered out at night. The regular military, with the yeomen and their supplementaries, were the only persons privileged to be out between sunset and sunrise ; and as the latter description of persons now received military pay, they were rendered independent of in- dustry and labor, (which ever and anon depraves the minds of working people,) and having the enforce- ment of the general orders intrusted to them, depre- dations and excesses were committed by persons un- known, until the frequency of robbery and murder urged the necessity of furnishing the country farm- ers, at the discretion of the commanding officers, with arms for the defence of their families and prop- erties. Some yeomen and supplementaries were consequently shot in attempting houses, and this plainly discovered who were the marauders. Indeed, it must be observed, that some outstanding insur- gents were some time after taken into company by the primary robbers, and that the religious and po- litical differences of both parties were united in the consideration of mutual assistance in robbery and ra- pine. This multiplied the evil tenfold ; and motley gangs of this description infested several parts of the country the winter after the insurrection. This evil was remedied in some degree by sending out parties of soldiers from the towns into different parts of the country, to be there stationed ; and it was considered an indulgence by most of the people, that a soldier 336 HISTORY OF THE was permitted to quarter upon them, and his protec- tion was purchased by every kind of care and sedu- lous attention. It merits singular observation, that men were called upon to deliver up the identical sum they had collected or received by the sale of substance at fair, market, or by private hand, on the day previous to the night of attack ; and although numbers could give information against the perpetra- tors of these enormities, yet they preferred silence of their wrongs to the risk of being murdered or burned in their houses, which others had experienced, and with which all were threatened if they would dare to inform. The orange system now became very prevalent throughout the county of Wexford, and was strength- ened by the accession of almost every Protestant in it ; this general promotion was forwarded by a re- ceived prejudice, that no man could be loyal who was not an Orangeman. Doctor Jacob, who was captain of a yeomanry corps in Wexford, however, did not deem it at first an essential of loyalty to be- come an Orangeman ; but he was afterwards in- duced to alter his opinion, by a resolution entered into by a majority of his corps, that they would re- sign if he would not join the association. Not will- ing, therefore, to possess the mere empty title of captain, he condescended to gratify their wishes. It has not yet come to pass, that any political as- sociation has invariably adhered to the principles that dictated their original formation ; as some individuals generally dictate to the body at large, and raise themselves to consequence by the support of their adherents, who cannot recede without deviating from an avowed principle of honor, which binds them to- gether ; and the society thus shoves its leaders into consequence, and these frequently, when they find IRIbU !.;.;;].!,:.!■ v A'37 another opportunity of benefiting themselves, secede and make way for new adventurers to succeed them, and the same routine takes place, so that the individ- uals of a political society are so far not their own masters, bat are J- by part] sions, to give public sanction to what they inwardly disapprove. I however know valuable and estimable characters possessing the utmost integrity, members of political societies, and whose motives and conduct are unexceptionable ; and although I approved of their principles and actions, yet I have ever and al- ways avoided entering into any political society, from a consideration, that I might, thereby be obliged to surrender my opinion contrary to my inclination, and would not, therefore, feel myself thoroughly in- dependent. From a review of the many and various political societies and parties in this unaccountable age, I have observed, that in the most perilous times well-disposed persons, unconnected with party, have escaped, where others, venturing into societies, have been cut off, for no other reason but their association lias been inimical to some other that in the turn of affairs gained an ascendency ; and thus lias one po- litical society risen on the destruction of another ; while a true lover of his country, individually enga- ged in the pursuit of whatever is for its advantage, has outlived the storm. Most political societies avow their sentiments publicly^, with a view of obtaining general approbation ; my information does not, how- ever, enable me to give a sketch of the two rival so- cieties of United Irishmen and Orangemen, whose rivalry has indeed been productive of such serious consequences in Ireland. I must therefore refer my readers to the memoir and examination of Messrs. O'Connor, Emmett, and M'Xeven, published in London and Dublin, since the rebellion, as the most 29 338 HISTORY OF THE authentic account extant of the rise, progress, and ultimate views of the former society ; but I must also observe, that the utmost extent of the informa- tion during the insurrection in the county of Wex- ford was the oath of admission and secrecy : and with respect to the latter society, I can make no au- thentic reference whatever. Orange associations became at length so general and indiscriminate, that their members could by no means be considered capable of constituting a select assemblage, as multitudes of them were of the lowest and uninformed vulgar, and of course subject to the weakest passions, prejudices, and frailties of human nature. Many of them certainly did no honor to the association ; but it must be also said of United Irish- men, that individuals of them, contrary to the avow- ed principles of union and brotherhood, which they were sworn to preserve, disgraced themselves by acts quite opposite to the spirit of their institution. Free- masonry, though very generally embraced through- out Ireland, has yet escaped similar imputation, which I believe is owing to its being rather a social and moral than political fraternity. I have conversed with many gentlemen who avowed themselves Orangemen, and whose conduct and principles I have every reason to suppose hon- orable ; yet, I have heard them declare, that they would by no means graduate in the society, but re- main in the state of simple Orangemen. I do not mean, however, in any degree to compare these hon- orable men to the Orange informers in Wexford, on the 20th of June, 1798, who said they had not taken the purple degree of the order. How the conduct of persons assuming the name of Orangemen, in the county of W r exford, may be viewed by the associa- tion at large, I know not ; but truth imposes on me IRISH REBELLION. 339 the task of relating the melancholy consequences of the conduct of some who avowed themselves Orange- men. After the insurrection in the county of Wex- ford was suppressed, Orangemen wore ribands and medals without any disguise ; and on the death of an Orangeman, the general decorations of black were laid aside, and orange substituted at their wakes and funerals. After the interment, houses have been burned, alleged to be in retaliation for the previous conduct of croppies whose houses were adjacent to the churchyard. Not unfrequently, on the night of a well-attended funeral, or after a rejoicing day, a Catholic chapel was consumed, and the frequency of these conflagrations manifests the most rancorous spirit of intolerance and inveterate party-prejudice ! ! ! What makes these transactions more lamentable is, that not a single person has as yet been punished or even arrested for the perpetration of these crimes. Is it possible this could be the case but through the supineness of the magistracy ? How could the rep- etition and impunity of such acts be otherwise ac- counted for, but from their not doing their duty ? and does not such neglect necessarily imply connivance ? From my knowledge of the country, I would venture to stake my existence, that I would discover the per- petrators, had I the assistance of an English or Scotch regiment to protect those who could give information from the merciless fury of these incendiaries ; and it is much to the disgrace of the country that this is not accomplished. A reward of one hundred pounds was offered for the discovery of those that had burned Catholic chapels by the grand-jury of the county of Wexford, at the summer assizes in 1799, published in some Dublin papers, which, however, produced no information. 340 HISTORY OF THE Chapels burned in the county of with the dates of their r Boolevogue, May 27, 1798 Magi ass, Ramsgrange, May 30, June 19, 1798 1798 Drumgold, Ballemurrin, June 21, June do., 1798 1798 Gorey, Aug. 24, 1798 Annacurragh, Sept. 2, 1798 Crane, Rock, Sept. 17, Oct. 12, 1798 1798 Balleduff, Oct. 19, 1798 Riverchapel, Oct. do., 1798 Monaseed, Oct. 25, 1798 Clologue, Kiileveny, Ferns, Oct. 26, Nov. M, Nov. 18, 1798 1798 1798 Oulart, Nov. 28, 1798 Castletown, Nov. 1798 Wexford and diocese of Fern espective conflagration. Ballegarret, Jan. 15, Baliinamonabeg, Jan. 18, Askamore, Murntown, Monamoling, Kilrush, Marshalstown, Munfin, Crossabeg, Killeneerin, Monageer, Kiltayley, Glanbryan, Kaim, Ballimackesey, Feb. 24, Apr. 24, May 3, May 15, 1795 1799 1799 1799 1799 1799 Ju.8or9, 1799 June do. June 24, June 29, July 1, Oct. 1, Mar. 13, Sept. 3, Sept. Courtenacuddy, Aug. 13, 1799 1799 1799 1799 1799 1799 1800 1800 1801 The Protestant church of Old Rcss was burned on the second of June, 1798. These and many other shocking deeds could not have been constantly reiterated throughout the coun- try, were the magistrates willing to do their duty ; and it is astonishing that the country gentlemen could so far forget their own real interests, which are su- perseded by the narrow and prejudiced notions with which they are blindfolded. It will scarcely be be- lieved that such neglect was possible ; and the gen- tlemen themselves will lament it hereafter, when they come to their sober recollections, and feel the melancholy effects of religious prejudice, in the in- evitable consequences of leaving such acts unpunish- ed ; which although they did not actually commit themselves, yet they have encouraged them by their inactivity and negligence. It is to be observed that the insurrection was com- pletely suppressed in the county of Wexford, in June, IRISH REBELLION. 341 1798, previous to, and during which period, five Catholic chapels appear to have been burnt, and the remaining conflagrations took place when the coun- try was not disturbed by any other transactions but these enormities, perpetrated when the utmost tran- quillity otherwise prevailed. Various depredations and excesses were also committed through the coun- try. Murders were prevalent, houses were burnt, and notices were posted on the doors of many Cath- olics, desiring them to quit their habitations, of a similar tendency with those in the county of Armagh in the year 1795. The notices in the counties of Wexford and Wicklow, prevalent in 1798, 1799, and 1800, were conceived pretty nearly in the following terms : — " A B , we give you notice in six days to quit — or if you don't, by G — , roe toill visit your house with fire, and yourself with lead. We are the grinders — Moll Doyle's true grandsons." These and such like notices were posted on the doors of Catholics in the night, and many quitted their houses and habitations in consequence of some of these threats being put into actual execution. I shall cite an example of these dreadful practices, ex- emplified in the case of Mr. Swiny, a Protestant gen- tleman, who resided for several years in Yorkshire, and had an estate called Court, between Oulart and Ballecanow, which was tenanted by many Catholics, whose leases expired in 1799 ; but who, by the pre- vailing system, were rendered incapable to retake their farms, as their houses were all burned, and all the property they possessed destroyed ; but what manifested this business quite systematic was, that notices were posted up afterwards through the coun- try, purporting that no papist should presume to take the lands ; and that, if even a, son of Moll Doyle should offer more than half-a-guinea an acre, (worth 29* 342 HISTORY OF THE fifty shillings,) he should forfeit all privileges of the fraternity, and undergo the same punishment for his transgression as if he ivas a papist. The lands of Court thus proscribed, remained waste for nearly two years ! Is it not melancholy to reflect that this and many such manifest outrages, but more preva- lent in the Macomores than any other part of the county, did not rouse the feelings of landlords, at a time that their own interests were so closely con- nected with the suppression of such deeds ? And yet the tribe of middlemen seems to have so much influence, as to be able still to keep up the like oc- currences, in the hope that they might benefit by the destruction or banishment of the great majority of the people. Miserable policy, that low minds alone, de- based by prejudice, can harbor ! These cannot be sensible that the population of a country constitutes its principal advantage, and is what enables them to raise themselves on a foundation of which they medi- tate the destruction, and thus endanger the super- structure which they wish to enjoy ; not perceiving that it must totter, when so undermined, and involve themselves in the general ruin ! Courts-martial continued to sit in Wexford for nearly three years after the insurrection, although the regular assizes and general jail delivery were re- sumed in the spring of 1799. Prisoners confined in the jail of Wexford were parcelled out into different lots, to be tried by the civil and military tribunals, according to the discrimination of the gentlemen of the county ! Others have been arraigned at an as- sizes, and on showing legal cause, had their trials put off to the next ; when the judge has called for prisoners not produced, although returned on the crown-book, then it has been discovered that they had been handed over to a military tribunal, and ac* IRISH REBELLION. 343 cording to their sentences had been transported or hanged. With the utmost respect and veneration, I look up to that great bulwark of the constitution, trial by jury ; and shall always esteem juries less liable to bias, than any other mode of trial. How- ever, it so came to pass in the county of Wexford, from various occurrences that took place, that many prisoners preferred to be tried by a military rather than a civil tribunal, which the conduct of Sir James Fowlis contributed to inculcate. It would, however, be great injustice not to mention that the judges of the realm who presided in the criminal court in Wex- ford distinguished themselves by their benevolent humanity, and the most liberal construction of the amnesty bill ; and whenever religious prejudice or party spirit broke out, they were not backward in expressing their dissatisfaction : they supported their just judgment with manly dignity, and by their re- commendations rescued some from execution, on whom the laws of the land obliged them to pronounce sentence, and thus were actuated by the god-like vir- tues of justice and mercy. I most sincerely hope no other opportunity may ever occur of making any comparison between courts-martial and trial by jury. God grant that juries will ever hold in their minds the true spirit of impartiality, and then we shall ever consider them as the true basis of a free constitu- tion. Another kind of depredators made their appear- ance in the county of Wexford in the course of the winter of 1798 and 1799 : they assembled in the wood of Kilaughrim, between Enniscorthy and Scol- lagh-gap, and were denominated, among other appel- lations, " the babes of the wood? Independent of some outstanding insurgents, deserters from different regiments associated in this band ; and thev levied 344 HISTORY OF THE small contributions throughout the country. Those immediately in their vicinity were to supply their quota in provisions ; while those at a distance were called upon for money, which was supplied in general without opposition, to avoid greater violation ; as they, for the most part, behaved civilly if freely given, and did not at all pursue the merciless conduct of the depredators already noticed. Different military detachments were sent out from Ross and Enniscorthy, and these endeavored to sur- round the extensive woods of Kilaughrim, supposed to contain them, but their efforts proved fruitless, as they never could come up with the babes in the ivood ; who generally had a rendezvous in the night, and dispersed towards morning into such a variety of lurking-places, that but few of them were apprehend- ed, and though several plans for their annihilation were contrived, they all proved ineffectual. The activity of Brigade-major Fitzgerald was again called forward, and he brought them to a consent of surrender ; but, however, since the recall of General Hunter, who would have immediately put a final stop to their pro- ceedings, (his absence on this occasion was produc- tive of serious evil,) instead of the babes of the wood surrendering on condition of being suffered to enlist in the army, they continued their predatory system, during which they were occasionally visited by Holt and Hackett, and some of their associates ; but most of them at last surrendered to Captain Robinson oi the South Cork militia. Some of these were sent to Prussia, others enlisted into different regiments, and some were executed at Newtownbarry. A few who did not surrender, not thinking it prudent to continue in their old haunts, abandoned the county of Wexford, and joined the marauders in the county of Wicklow. Estimates of the actual damages in consequence IRISH REBELLION. 345 of the conflagration of the Catholic chapels were made out by order of the government of Ireland, and the sums so awarded paid out of the treasury for re- building them. Many persons who at stated times had received certain proportions of their losses during the rebellion, have bitterly complained, and express- ed their apprehensions that the rebuilding of the Catholic chapels was to be defrayed out of the fund for the relief of the suffering loyalists. This scheme of supply must be considered very political, had it the effect of preventing the reiteration of these enor- mities, which many consider it had. Government has thus interposed in favor of public Catholic pro- perty. I therefore cannot conceive it is intended to exclude Catholics individually ; yet it is almost ex- clusively the case in the county of Wexford, occa- sioned by the existing deep-rooted religious preju- dice ! Was the conduct of these public accusers to undergo the same scrutiny they have subjected others to, they would not appear in so favorable a light to the world as they wish to maintain. Poor claimants have been constrained to prosecute against their in- clinations, to prove their loyalty sufficiently not to exclude them from payment ! I therefore imagine that all Catholics against whom there does not exist any charge but general prejudice, ought not to be debarred of this privilege, as well as all those who on trial have been honorably acquitted, as man} 7 have withheld their just claims from the apprehension of the general prejudice entertained against Catholics. The case of Mr. Edmund Stafford is peculiarly ap- posite. This gentleman claimed as a suffering \oy- alist, and I am confident no person in the county was more deserving of that title ; yet for daring to do so, he was accused and arraigned for murder, on the discriminating sagacity of evidence that had been the 346 HISTORY OF THE cause of the execution of many, but whose villany was not publicly known, until the trial of Mr. Staf- ford could not be put off, and he was discharged without trial, after a confinement of several months, for presuming to enrol his name among the suffering loyalists. Although the conduct of the militia regiments, it might be naturally hoped, was such as to defy the possibility of any reflection on their behavior ; yet prejudice operated so strongly in some of them, that the officers behaved in so partial a manner as to in- duce Catholics particularly to offer themselves as volunteers to serve in different regiments of the line. These afterwards formed a considerable part of the army sent to Egypt. Many, who were doomed to transportation, were also sent on that expedition. Then it was considered a fortunate circumstance that these were sent out of Ireland ; not from any idea, however, that they would have been the means of redounding to the fame of the British army, and im- mortalizing their glory, by the courage and intrepid- ity they displayed ; that must forever silence their indiscriminate calumniators. I wish those who have been in the habit of dealing out illiberal opinions re- specting Irish Catholics, may keep the conduct of these in recollection, as it may induce them to join in praise of men whom they ought to endeavor to imitate. They might thus too become sensible of the inestimable value, to any country, of such men, as, with proper encouragement, would be invincible, and so prove the most impenetrable bulwark and con- sequent support to the constitution ; far superior to any thing which the system of coercion can possibly effect, and this irrefragable truth, I hope, may have its due weight. At the summer assizes of Wexford in 1801, James IRISH REBELLION. 347 Redmond was tried and condemned for the murder of the Rev. Robert Burroughs, a Protestant clergy- man, at Oulard, on Whitsunday the 27th of May, 1798; and pursuant to his sentence, was executed on the 30th of July, and his body delivered to the surgeons, who after dissecting it permitted it to be taken away, and it was buried. The corpse was dug up out of its grave, and placed in the shed erect- ed for the priest to officiate, on the site of the Cath- olic chapel of Monamoling, which had been burned. This exhibition was not discovered till the congrega- tion had assembled to hear mass on the Sunday fol- lowing — the 3d of August, 1801. Although this man was guilty of murder, yet there is something so vastly shocking in disturbing the dead in their graves, and repugnant to human nature, that the vilest of pikemen never were guilty of such a transaction in all their uncontrollable sway. Independent of the savage disposition of this occurrence, the disregard for religion is so manifest, that it is the more lament- able, as it keeps alive those prejudices which it is so much the interest of all parties to suppress. The ratification of the treaty of peace with the French republic, has brought back many who were distinguished in fighting for their country in the navy and army ; and these, upon their return home, found many of their relatives destroyed ; and on being in- formed who the depredators were, they were induced to accost them at different fairs and patrons through- out the country, intimating that they had proved themselves loyal men by fighting the enemies of their country, and not by murdering their neighbors or friends, or burning their houses. These altercations constantly produced fights, and the result, though it has disturbed the public peace, yet has corrected, in some degree, the overbearing contempt in which 348 HISTORY OF THE some high-spoken gentry held the generality of the people, whom they now condescend to respect through these their relatives ; nay, they treat with more reserve some of the very insurgents who have returned from transportation, after having obliterated all stain of previous political delinquency by their subsequent exploits in the service of their country — and thus do the brave ever awe cowards into shame and submission ! The rooted aversion, however, which has been by various means encouraged and inculcated against the great body of the people, has led many to adopt the most illiberal expressions; and I am sorry to learn, that both in high and low life it is a prevalent notion to deplore the existence of the amnesty bill, as it precludes the accomplishment of the views of exterminating those who are protected by it from indiscriminating vengeance. Those who make use of such language seem to have no notion of the crimes which call to heaven for vengeance ! I would recommend to those who express such an illiberal and shocking sentiment to reflect seriously, whether they are not protected by the indemnity bills, as they might otherwise be exhibited on the gibbet. Let these unreflecting assertors of prejudice look to the fate of Governor Wall of Goree. The recur- rence of their own deeds to their minds, by such a contemplation, may, perhaps, produce hearty contri- tion for their past misconduct, and may induce them to make what reparation remains in their power for the many injuries, in various shapes, which they have committed ! Though justice did not overtake the governor of Goree for twenty years, yet then the recital of his horrid crime of ordering a soldier, whom he considered refractory, to be lashed, which pro- duced death, roused the English nation, and exem- plary punishment was the consequence ! If this IRISH REBELLION. 349 solitary case, which regarded a distant colony, excited so much indignation in the breasts of Englishmen, can the same people overlook similar and greater deeds of atrocity committed a thousand times over against the Irish, now incorporated with themselves? Can the feelings of any wise, just, and good man be withheld from most earnest endeavors to contribute all in his power to the coalescence and harmony of all parts, as well as of all ranks of the united king- dom ? and if that desirable object be attainable — and I do believe that by proper management it can be effected — who is the monster that will oppose its ac- complishment ? But it must not, it cannot be op- posed. A merciful and benevolent sovereign, whose throne is now supported by consolidated dominion, and the united attachment of all his people, will not suffer so valuable a portion of them, as the great majority of the Irish, to be debased and degraded by thraldom the most intolerable, while they are deemed to man his fleets and armies in a proportion greater than the one-half, and display the most unrivalled bravery in his service, bearing terror and dismay to his enemies. He will certainly recommend them for relief from oppression to his imperial parliament, who will not forfeit the character of wisdom and jus- tice, or the name of the most dignified legislature on earth, by being swayed by the tales of rancor, mis- representation, and prejudice. They will redress, as truth and reason direct, a magnanimous and vir- tuous people, groaning under a partial tyranny, in the midst of an empire denominated free, to which they would be an incalculable accession of strength, if protected from oppression, persecution, torture, and the dread of threatened and meditated extermi- nation — if secured effectually in their lives, liberties, and properties, without impeachment of their religion 30 350 HISTORY OF THE IRISH REBELLION. and principles ; but should this be neglected and their grievances left a galling incumbrance upon them, in consequence of malevolent and fabricated calumnies, there will surely abide a rankling discon- tent, likelv at all times to produce disturbance and distraction, which must necessarily weaken and par- alyze the energies of the state, and perhaps eventu- ally annihilate the connection between these coun- tries. I would earnestly advise the most violent and unthinking supporters of division to consider their own real interests as connected and involved with the peace and happiness of the nation, (which an im- partial picture of the miseries experienced can best inculcate,) as well as to dissipate the misconceptions of error, and to disprove the false representations which have been sent abroad, with zealous industry, to impose on and mislead public feeling. My real object and earnest wishes are for concili- ation ; but if a doubt can possibly arise respecting my statements, I can only say that I could detail more numerous enormities than I have, and of which I entertain as little doubt as of those I have related. I have therefore confined myself to facts and circum- stances vouched to me beyond the possibility of doubt, for which I can produce good authorities, and on this occasion limit my narrative to my native dis- trict, where my local and personal knowledge were least liable to deception or misinformation ; and should the members of both houses of the imperial parliament deem it necessary, in their wisdom, to in- vestigate the truth decisively, I will stake my exist- ence that my relation shall be found, on an impartial scrutiny, extremely moderate. THE FOLLOWING ARE ABSTRACTS FROM PLOW- DEN, TEELING, GORDON, AND MADDEN. The French entered the bay of Killala under Eng- lish colors, commanded by General Humbert, on the 22d of August, and the feint succeeded so well, that two sons of the bishop of Killala threw themselves into a fishing-boat, with the port surveyor, Mr. Jas. Rutledge, and were presently surprised to find them- selves prisoners. Some alarm had been given in the morning of the 22d, to the people of Killala, by the unusual appearance of ships of that size in their bay ; insomuch that the only magistrate of the town, Mr. Kirk wood, who commanded the yeomanry, had kept his corps under arms the whole day at the seahouse, called the castle, as did also Lieutenant Sells, of the Prince of Wales' Fencibles, with 20 militiamen. Yeomen and fencibles together formed a corps of 50 men, all Protestants. Intelligence having arrived that near 300 of them were within a mile of the town, the cavalry officer rode off directly, in full speed, with the intelligence to Ballina. The yeo- manry and fencibles drew up before the castle gate, and resolutely advanced into the main street to meet the French advance guard. Borne down by num- bers, and seeing two of their corps fall, they were seized with a panic, and fled. Kirkwood and 19 yeomen were taken, and ordered into close custody at the castle. All opposition being now at an end, the French general marched into the castle yard at the head of his officers, and demanded to see the bishop, who, fortunately, was conversant with the French language. Humbert desired him to be un- der no apprehension for himself or his people ; they should be treated with respectful attention, and noth- 352 ABSTRACTS FROM ing should be taken by the French troops, but what was absolutely necessary for their support ; a pro- mise which, as long as those troops continued in Killala, was most religiously observed. On the morning after his arrival, Humbert began his mili- tary operations, by pushing forward to Ballina a de- tachment of 100 men, 40 of whom he had mounted on the best horses he could seize. A green flag was mounted over the castle gate, with the inscription, Ei'in go Bragh, importing to invite the country peo- ple to join the French. Their cause was to be for- warded by the immediate delivery of arms, ammuni- tion, and clothing to the new levies of the country. Property w r as to be inviolable. Ready money was to come over in the ships expected every day from France. Humbert left Killala with a quantity of ammunition in the possession of 200 men and 6 offi- cers, and on the 25th, about 7 o'clock in the even- ing, took possession of Ballina, from whence the gar- rison fled on his approach. Here he left behind him an officer named True, with a very small part of the French, and several of the Irish recruits. Humbert was sensible of the advantage of pushing forward with vigor, and that a rapid progress into the interior could alone bring the natives to his standard. At Ba"ina, many hundred peasants repaired to the French standard, and with eagerness received arms and uniforms. The French commander determined to attack the forces at Castlebar, and began his march on the morning of the 26th, with 800 of his own men, and less than 1500 Irish. He advanced through mountains, by ways generally deemed im- passable to an army, with two small curricle guns, the repairing of the carriage of one of which, broken by the ruggedness of the roads, caused, fortunately for our army, some hours delay in their march. The PLOWDEN, TEELING, ETC. 353 French were, at 7 o'clock, within two miles of the town, before which our army had taken their posi- tion on a rising ground, to receive them. Our artil- lery at first made such execution among the French, that they instantly fell back some paces. They then filed off in small parties to the right and left, and as- sailed our troops in flank, who had scarcely fired a second round, when the royal army, seized with a panic, broke on all sides, and fled in extreme confu- sion through the town on the road to Tuam. Some have asserted that General Lake gave an order for retreating. The force that general commanded at Castlebar fell very little short of 6000 men. They never halted till they reached Tuam, and the same night renewed their march to Athlone. The artillery- lost by our army in this defeat, consisted of 14 pieces, of which 4 were curricle guns, besides that of the carbiniers ; the loss on either side has been never known. After their victory at Castlebar, the French received great accessions of Irish peasantry to their standard. The advanced guard of the French having arrived at Coloony, met Colonel Ve- reker, who had marched from Shgo with about 230 men, and 2 curricle ^uns, who, after 2 hours' fight, retreated back to Sligo, losing his artillery. Hum- bert directed his march to Drummahair, towards Manorhamilton, in the county of Leitrim, and taking his way by Drumkerim, intending to reach Granard, in the county of Longford ; (Crawford's troops hung so close on the rear guard of the French, as to come to action with it on the 7th, between Drumshambo and Bally namore.) Crawford's troops coming to action with him on the 7th, between Drumshambo and Ballynamore, were repulsed by Humbert with loss. The French army passed the Shannon at Ballintra, and halting at Claone, arrived at Bailing 30* 354 ABSTRACTS FROM muck on the 8th of September, so closely followed by the troops of Col. Crawford and Gen. Lake, that its rear guard was unable to break the bridge at Ballintra, to impede the pursuit ; while Cornwallis, with the grand army, crossed the same river at Car- rick-on-Shannon, marched by Mohill to Saint-Johns- town, county Longford, in order to intercept the enemy in front, on his way to Granard ; or should lie proceed, to surround him with an army of 30,000 men. In this desperate situation, Humbert arranged his forces, with no other object, as presumed, than to maintain the honor of the French arms. The rear guard having been attacked by Colonel Crawford, about 200 of the French infantry surrendered. The rest continued to defend themselves for about half an hour, when, on the appearance of the main body of General Lake's army, they also surrendered, after they had made Lord Roden, with a body of dra- goons, a prisoner. He had precipitately advanced into the French lines, to obtain their surrender. The United men who had accompanied the French to this fatal field, being excluded from quarter, fled in all directions, and were pursued with the slaughter of 500 men, which seems much less to exceed the truth, than the returns of slain in the southeastern parts of the island. Notwithstanding the diminution by desertions on the march, about 1500 United men were with the French army at Ballynamuck, at the time of the surrender of General Humbert. The loss of the British was officially stated at 3 privates killed, 12 wounded, 3 missing, and one officer wounded. The troops of General Humbert were found, when prisoners, to consist of 746 privates, and 96 officers ; having sustained a loss of about 200 men, since their landing at Killala on the 22d of August. Some thousands of United men assem- PLOWDEN, TEELING, ETC. 355 bled in the neighborhood of Granard, chiefly from Westmeath and Longford, on the 5th of September, but being defended by Captain Cottingham, they re- treated with some loss. Castlebar, which, on its evacuation by the French, had been occupied by the king's troops, was attacked on the morning of the 12th of September, by 2000 United men. The gar- rison was defended by 57 Frazer's fencibles, 34 vol- unteers, and one troop of yeoman cavalry, under Captain Urquhart. The assailants were routed A battle was fought near the village of Ballynascarty, county of Cork, where, on the 19th of June, 220 men of the Westmeath regiment of militia, with two 6 pounders, under the command of their Lieutenant, Sir Hugh O'Reilly, were attacked on their march from Clonakelty to Bandon, by a body of 3 or 400 men, armed principally with pikes. This was only a part of the United force here placed in ambush, in a very advantageous position. The attack was made from a height on the left of the column, so unex- pectedly and rapidly, that the troops had scarcely lime to form ; but at that critical moment, a hundred men of the Caithness legion arrived on the spot, and by a brisk fire helped to put the assailants to flight. Their loss amounted to between 50 and 100 men ; that of the royal troops, only a sergeant and one pri- vate. On the 7th of June the town of Antrim was attacked by the United men, commanded by Henry Joy McCracken, at 2 o'clock in the afternoon, and soon overpowered the troops within it, nearly gaining possession. Major-general Nugent with a body of troops attacked them, but his vanguard, consisting of cavalry, being repulsed, with the loss of 23 men killed and wounded, of which three were officers, Colonel Durham brought the artillery to batter the town, which obliged the United forces to abandon 356 ABSTRACTS FROM it, together with a 6-pounder they had brought with them, and two curricle guns they had taken from the army. They were pursued towards Slanes castle and Randalstown with some loss. On this day Lord O'Neil was mortally wounded. A small body of men made an assault on the town of Larne, and at Ballymena and Ballycastle : the main body retired to Donegar Hill, where they surrendered their arms, and almost all dispersed. On the 8th of June, an- other body of United men in the county of Down, near Saintfield, commanded by Dr. Jackson, set fire to Mackee's house the informer, and the next day, from an ambuscade, surrounded the York fencibles under Colonel Stapleton, and killed about 60 ; the balance retired to Comber. The United troops oc- cupied Saintfield that night. On Sunday, the 10th of June, the men of Ards attacked Portaferry, and after a hard fight, retired from the town. On the 1 lth, there was at Saintfield about 7000 United men, commanded by General Munroe, who had, besides, a strong force at Creevy Rocks. The British, under Generals Nugent and Barber, arrived from Belfast to meet him at Ballynahinch. McCance, an officer of great courage, defended Windmill Hill ; while Munroe posted his men on the hill of Ednevady. Several battles were fought, where loss was sustained on both sides. Munroe assembled a council of war : the voice of the people declared for instant action ; the commander-in-chief alone opposed it. The am- munition was insufficient for to-morrow, but not for a night attack ; for the pike and the bayonet were more efficient. . To-morrow might reinforce the ene- my's ranks ; to-night every thing favored an attack. General Munroe said : " We scorn to avail ourselves of the ungenerous advantage which night affords ; we will meet them in the blush of open day . we PL0WDEN, TEEL1ISG, ETC. 357 will fight them like men, not under the cloud of night, but the first rays of to-morrow's sun." This determination was received with discontent by the troops, and many retired from the field. A division of nearly 700 men, and more generally armed with muskets than the rest, marched off in one body with their leader. Such was the romantic character of the man in whose hand was placed the destiny of thousands. On the morning of the 13th, he com- menced the attack on Ballynahinch, by a discharge from 8 small pieces of ship cannon, which were drawn up against the town, and well served ; these were promptly replied by the heavy artillery of the enemy. Munroe headed a formidable column, while a strong division marched from the hill, and drove a body of troops into the town, having lost their com- mander. The column led by Munroe consisted of the greater part of the disposable force which re- mained ; and no men could have displayed greater courage and enthusiasm than they evinced in the ad- vance. They bore down all opposition ; forced an entrance into the town under the most destructive fire of musketry and cannon ; repeated rounds of grape-shot sweeping whole ranks, which were as rapidly replaced. A piece of heavy artillery fell into the hands of the pikemen, who charged to the very muzzle of the guns. Munroe gained the cen- tre of the town, where, exposed to the cross-fire of musketry in the market-square — raked by the artil- lery — his ammunition exhausted — he pressed boldly on the enemy with the bayonet and the pike. The charge was irresistible ; and the British general or- dered a retreat. The United troops, unacquainted with the trumpet's note, and enveloped by the smoke which prevented a distinct view of the hurried move- ments in the British line, mistook the sounded re- 358 ABSTRACTS FROM treat for the signal of charge, and shrinking, as they conceived, from the advance of fresh numbers, fled with precipitation in a southerly direction from the town, while the British were as rapidly evacuating it on the north. This unfortunate circumstance led to the total defeat of the United army. A British regiment of cavalry, the 22d light dragoons, who had borne no active part in the operations of the day, charged the flying troops of Munroe, while the in fantry, recovering from their panic, joined in the pur- suit. Munroe halted on the hill of Ednevady, but being nearly surrounded by the enemy, he retreated with his last division, scarcely mustering 150 men. The attack of Prosperous, a town in the county of Kildare, was made an hour after midnight on the 23d of May, 1798, by a large body of United men, sup- posed to be conducted by Dr. John Esmond. The garrison was assailed by surprise — the barrack was fired — and the greater number of the city of Cork militia, with their commander, perished in the flames, and by the pikes of the United men ; 28 also of a Welsh regiment of cavalry, styled Ancient Bri- tons, were slaughtered on this occasion, and a few- were made prisoners. The attack of Naas an hour and a half after that of Prosperous, was made by nearly 1000 men, under the conduct of a chief named Reynolds. Possessing themselves of all the avenues, they made a general assault in almost every direction. Being repulsed in their attack on the jail, and being unable to make an impression on the troops, they fled on all sides, after two hours and a half of irregular firing, and were pursued with slaughter by the cavalry of the king's forces. Sev- eral officers and privates were slain. Of the United men, about 200 were killed in the streets, and a greater number were slaughtered on the roads and PLOWDEN, TEELING, ETC. 359 fields in the pursuit. The boldness of the United men in Leinster and Munster, yielding so little on the whole amount, that many acts of hostility were com- mitted against the royalists, by men assembled in large numbers ; an instance of which has been thought worthy of notice in the report of the secrel committee of the House of Lords : That a body of men amounting to about 800, on horseback, had en tered the town of Cahir, in the county of Tipperary, openly in the day, and held possession of it until they collected all the arms and ammunition which they could find, after a regular search through all the houses. Thomas Fitzgerald, high sheriff of Tipperary, seized at Clonmel a gentleman of the name of Wright, caused 500 lashes to be inflicted on him, and confined him several days without permitting his wounds to be dressed, so that his recovery from such a state of torture and laceration could hardly be ex- pected. In an action of damages, brought by Mr. Wright against this magistrate, the innocence of the plaintiff appeared so manifest, that the defendant was condemned to pay 500 pounds to his prosecutor. On the 26th of May, a large body of United men assembled on the hill of Tara, in the county Meath, situated 18 miles northward of Dublin, was completely routed, with the slaughter, it is said, of 1150 of their men, found dead on the field of battle, together with two of their generals, and many infe- rior officers. The loss of the victorious party was acknowledged to be very great. The position of this hill, insulated by a widely surrounding plain, is well adapted for defence against an attacking foe, but ill for escape from victorious cavalry, from whose pursuit they could be protected only by the enclosures of the fields, so that many doubt- / 360 ABSTRACTS, ETC. less were killed or wounded in their retreat. On the 29th, a little after 11 o'clock in the morning, a body of the United army posted themselves in the village of Rathangan, county of Kildare, 29 miles west of Dublin, fortified their post with chains across the streets, was dislodged, and about 60 of them killed, by a party under the command of Lieuten- ant-colonel Longfield, of the Cork militia, who advanced against the town with his artillery, infantry, and cavalry. The loss on the British side was inconsiderable, as the United men gave way on the fifth or sixth discharge of their cannon. In the action at Kilcullen, at 7 in the morning, about 600 men attacked General Dundas, who lost his colonel, a num- ber of subaltern officers, and privates, besides many mortally wounded. About 2000 on Knockawin Hill, surrendered their arms to General Dundas, on condition of retiring to their homes, and liberating Colonel Perkins. Major-general Sir James Duff, hearing of this body of men being at Gibbet- rath, on the Curragh of Kildare, ready to surrender their arms ; when the troops advanced near the United men to re- ceive their arms, one of them incautiously fired his gun in the air ; the soldiers, pretending this an act of hostility, fired on them, when the people fled, and were pursued with unre- lenting slaughter by the fencible cavalry, denominated Lord Jocelyn's Fox-hunters. Above 700 of the people fell upon this occasion, and a far greater number would have shared their fate, if a retreat had not been sounded with all possible dispatch, agreeably to the instructions of General Dundas, who sent an express from his quarters at Kilcullen, to pre- vent such an accident. In the populous town of Drogheda, the unfortunate Bergen was tortured to death. He was an honest, upright citizen, and a man of unimpeachable moral character. He was seized on by those vampires, and in the most public street, stripped of his clothes, placed in a hori- zontal position on a cart, and torn with the cat-o'-nine-tails, long after the vital spark was extinct. The alleged pretence for the perpetration of this horrid outrage was, that a small gold ring had been discovered on his finger, bearing a national device, — the shamrock of his unfortunate country. APPENDIX. No. I. The speech of Edward Sweetman, captain of a late independent company, at a meeting of the freeholders of the county of Wex- ford, convened by the sheriff, on September 22, 1792, to take into consideration " Mr. Edward, Byrne's letter, recommending a plan of delegation to the Catholic" of Ireland, in order to prepare an humble petition to the legislature." Mr. Sheriff — I rise with a diffidence proceeding from the magnitude and awfulness of the subject, not from respect to the resolutions I have heard, which I deem exceptionable in every part ; a circumstance which the silence of those who ibring them forward would seem to acknowledge. I implore your atten- tion while I deliver some thoughts, which are the fruit of my best researches, my honester feelings, and the unextinguishable love I bear this ill-fated country. I shall not consider the language or grammar of Mr. Byrne's letter — it is beneath the dignity of this meet- ing, and this great question, to descend to an alterca- tion with inquisitors of words and dissectors of sylla- bles : I shall enter into the subject at large, and speak to the scope and object of the letter, as it affects Ire- land, and as it is the expression of Catholic hopes and desires. You will not expect brilliant remarks and exquisite deductions of reasoning from a man born a victim to the popery laws, and driven at an early period into foreign climes, for prohibited, im- perfect education, and scanty bread. I shall speak like a soldier, with candor and with frankness, yet 302 AFPEINDIX. with respect and fear of offending, unmoved by slan- der, uninfluenced by any thing but truth. Truth is libel, faction, sedition, and treason, in the eyes of those who live by its opposite ; but it is the only cri- terion of honesty, the only basis of lasting settlement to your country, and every lover of it should utter it with courage, and hear it with patience. I belong to no parly ; I am an Irishman ; 1 care as little lor those who are in as for those who are out : I am the humble but the sincere and unbought advocate of a wo-worn people. I therefore conjure you to hear me, and forgive my inaccuracies and inexperience in speaking. I know that honored names, illustrious patriots, characters which Ireland must ever revere and love, men who led her to freedom and to fame — one of whom (Mr. Ogle) I behold in this assembly, with many mixed sensations — and who won the principle of prosperity from our common tyrants, a principle which remains a dead letter without the union of your people ; I know, I say, that some of these differ in opinion with the persons whom I take to be the best and most enlightened friends of Ire- land : I know this, and I lament it ; and in it I la- ment the deplorable inconsistency of human nature, with the same poignancy that I lament the unac- countable but most certain fact, that the wise, the virtuous, the philosophic, the magnanimous Julian was a persecutor. In the face of those men whom I revere, as I hope I should in the face of death, I venture to stand forward the advocate of this wo- worn people, because I think it is for the honor of the Irish crown, for the credit and consistency of Protestantism, for the prosperity and fame of your country, that British privileges should be restored to all who are the supporters of British and Irish free- dom. I wish for equal fate and equal freedom to APPENDIX. 363 every loyal subject in his majesty's dominions. Upon no other terms do I wish Ireland connected with any country. Upon those conditions I wish it forever confederated with England. Those objects cannot be attained till Catholics are emancipated, and Cath- olics cannot be emancipated till they obtain the elec- tive franchise, and an equal participation of the ben- efits of trial by jury. While their liberties, their pro- perties, and their lives are at the mercy of those over whom they have no control, nor can acquire a con- trol, it will not be contended the Catholics are free. Taxed without being represented, bound without their consent, and tried by their superiors, the Prot- estants, and not by their peers, their situation is the very definition of slavery, unmitigated, unqualified by any thing but a fleeting liberality, which may perish with the fashion of the hour. I have said, it was for the honor of the Irish crown that Catholics should be emancipated, because I conceive that honor to be deeply interested in, and inseparably interwoven w r ith, the question. The honor of the Irish crown has been perpetually violated by a perpetual breach of faith with the Irish, ever since our English ancestors first landed in this island. They were induced to come hither by a tyrant and a ravisher, and their political conduct and yours (for we have been all guilty alike) has never once belied the principles of their introducer. Henry the Second granted the Irish the common law of England, and they gratefully received and swore to the observance of it. They, in justice, became entitled to the bene- fit of that law. Instead of this, every means which fraud could invent, avarice suggest, or violence en- force, were employed to plunder and destroy the brave and simple aborigines of the isle, while the duty of their kings, whom they had sworn to obey, 384 APPENDIX. and who from that instant were bound to protect them, slumbered, or rather presided over these cruel outrages upon human nature. Sir John Davis says, the old Irish were out of the protection of the law, so that any Englishman might oppress, spoil, or murder them with impunity. Sir John was certainly pos- sessed of a better understanding, and had more honesty than most Englishmen who have ever blessed us with their presence in this island : yet he was an Englishman, that is, a foe to Irish freedom, and wished to throw the whole blame of these horrible and absurd oppressions, as Hume phrases them, upon the English settlers. Those settlers were guilty of innumerable villanies to the ancient Irish ; yet they wished not that their enmities should be immortal, like modern settlers, but sought at last to bury all animosity in the mutual peace and harmony of a final coalition and incorporation. What did the English- Irish king of the day ? Alarmed at this incipient in- corporation and prospect of happiness held out to the people, he dispatches his grandson, Lionel, Duke of Clarence, to counteract it, and to revive the dying embers of civil discord. This prince passed the fa- mous statutes of Kilkenny, so much extolled by Eng- land, and the slaves of England, that once more sow- ed the seeds of that everlasting hostility, which di- vided the sons of Ireland from each other, and has subsisted in one horrid shape or other to this very day. The English settlers, inflamed by those dia- bolical laws, became the executioners of English vengeance and hatred, and the base procurers to English passions. The proscribed natives were driven into rebellion, and then dispossessed of their property, for the unavoidable effects of the crimes of their oppressors. You see I feel little propensity to canonize the vices and follies of my ancestors, like APPENDIX 365 tome noble lords,* who might justify the massacre of St. Bartholomew's day and the fires of Smithfield upon the same silly principle of mistaken pride. Near four hundred years passed cway, during this dreadful scene of misery, rapine, and blood, in all which period, every virtue was invoked, while every crime was perpetrated. The sword of war was at length sheathed, and the sword of justice commenced the work of extermination. The English now availed themselves of every chicanery of law to oust the na- tives from their remaining lands. They did this without danger, for they did it with fraud, by the safe and bloodless method of statutable plunder. In these iniquitous proceedings they were sanctioned by their king — the king of Ireland! This royal miscreant confiscated six entire counties without having found or looked for an evidence of guilt, while he boasted of his descent from the ancient inhabitants whom he spoiled. Subsequent kings have not been less faith- less to Ireland. The insincerity and tyranny of the blessed martyr — the profligacy and ingratitude of Charles the Second — the holy impositions, the cow- ardice and bigotry of James, have been all equally fatal to, all equally levelled against Ireland. Your glorious deliverer's open and avowed suppression of our native and favorite manufacture will be no re- commendation to anybody who is a lover of Ireland. That he confirmed you in your estates is partly true ; but it is much more true, that you dearly bought that advantage by the sacrifice of the independence, trade, commerce, manufactures, prosperity, and name of your country. He drove a Dutch bargain with you, and you bartered your freedom for a paltry con- sideration. You and the Catholics since have been * Lords Enniskillen and Aldborough. 366 APPENDIX. set at variance, in order to govern you with a more easy iniquity, contrary to the duty and honor of your kings — the solemn faith of treaties has been violated by the house of Hanover, in the first of George the Second, by which the Catholics were deprived of the elective franchise, their unalienable right — the price of their blood — the honorable condition of their capit- ulation at Limerick. I therefore say, it is for the honor of the Irish crown that King George the Third should repair the wrongs of his predecessors to a loyal and unfortunate race : for though he is not the original author of these wrongs, yet as the king never dies, he is in some degree chargeable with the wrongs continued under his government, and stands accountable in his reputation for the evil he is at no pains to prevent. The recommendation of this late act of justice from the throne, will become him full as well as the recommendation of charter schools ■ he should at last remember, that allegiance and pro- tection are reciprocal : he should bear in mind, that he no longer deserves to be a king, who systemati- cally ceases to be just to millions of his subjects. The credit of Protestantism and its consistency is equally involved in this great question of Catholic emancipation. The Protestants abandoned the Ro- man Catholic religion for one fundamental reason among others : because they pronounced its follow- ers to be persecutors upon principle, and to want charity, that grand desideratum in Ireland, without which religion itself is rather a curse than a blessing. They should now abandon the Protestant religion for the same reason, if they are true to their original principles : for the Protestants of Ireland have been persecutors — unrelenting, inquisitorial persecutors, for upwards of tw r o hundred years. But the spirit of neither religion is persecution—bad priests, bad APPENDIX. 367 ministers, bad parliaments, and bad kings, have per- verted the principles of both, for the purpose of fixing a lawless yoke on the necks of their fellow-creatures. Sanctis nominibus rapere imperium, has been their maxim. Good Protestants and good Catholics have ever reprobated these sanctified iniquities. The worthy Cardinal Pole, in the reign of the sanguinary Queen Mary, though a Catholic upon principle, rec- ommended toleration ; Bishop Gardiner, though ready to conform to any religion for interest, taught that persecution was lawful. The history of the Jewish and the Christian religions incontrovertibly proves the truth of that axiom in the schools — that what is best, when corrupted, becomes worst. The purer the worship, the more abominable has been the per- secution it gave rise to, and the more corrupt the morality practised in its name. The name of God has been the watchword for the abominations of man. The religion of the Jews was pure and sublime — their manners and disposition detestable : the reli- gion of the ancient Egyptians was absurd and impi- ous — their manners and government were the glory of humanity and model of nations. The same moral mischief I have described among the Jews, must unquestionably be produced again, when more trust is reposed in faith than in chai ity ; in profession, than good works. The knave professes any thing — Uie honest man practises without profession. A poet, Avho knew man and woman well, writes : Whoever's faith is than his neighbor's more, If man, believe him rogue. Your popery laws engender and propagate this evil with a foul increase. They punish a belief in Cath- olics, which, being harmless, sh >uld be allowed with- out the infliction of disabilities and they condemn 366 APPENDIX. principles which Catholics have abjured in words, and ever proved to he false charges by their actions. You give the reward- of honesty, loyalty, and patriot- ism — I mean the right of citizenship — to oaths, to nugatory declarations and abjurations. For a bare recantation of the faith of his fathers, and hard anti- christian swearing, puts your Catholic neighbor in- stantly upon a footing with yourself, while all the virtues which Christ or Socrates ever taught or practised, would leave him a slave without it. Do you not daily see the effect of these laws ? Does it not require great fortitude in an honest man to be- come a convert, and expose himself to the obloquy and suspicion of both parties ? Are not the general- ity of those who apostatize to your religion the ba- sest of mankind ? Do thev not slanderously abuse, and rancorously persecute the wretches they have forsaken ? And yet, those creatures are caressed and courted, while honest Catholics are despised and trampled on ! Thus your laws become a premium to vice — a penalty on virtue. Judge, then, if the continuation of this vile system can do credit to the Protestant religion. No ! — it takes from you at once all pretensions to Protestantism and Christianity. It is equally fatal to the prosperity and fame of your country in every particular. It has been truly said, that oppression is a smothered warfare : it an- nihilates the peace and comfort of society. Can the Protestant esteem the Catholic he dooms to slavery ? Can the Catholic love his oppressor ? They are both hypocrites if they pretend to it. They must in the present state of things most inevitably hate and fear one another. It is the law of nature, which laughs to scorn the unnatural institutions of man, and what can you expect from such a situation ? Does not the tranquillity of your country hang by a thread, and APPENDIX. 369 o.re you still determined to leave it in this feverish tremulous existence ? You have been bred in a contempt for Catholics — a contempt originally instill- ed by your oppressors, the English, and which they are by no means sparing of to yourselves. And in- deed none of us have been totally wronged by our kind and affectionate sister: for we have not respect- ed ourselves. America has respected herself, and therefore she is respected. She has performed a very arduous task — she has taught Englishmen man- ners. But the English have grossly deceived you in their description of your countrymen. They have refused them credit for every good quality, and fixed the stigma of every bad one upon them. They have denied them courage and understanding — that they persuade them and the world that they had neither sense to perceive, nor spirit to assert their rights. But I tell you again, they have grossly deceived you. There is not in Europe a nobler peasantry than the peasantry of Ireland, the great body of the people you have enslaved. The English began their system of calumny against the Irish, not before they began to despoil them. Had they reported them as an in- nocent people, they would have wanted a pretext for their undoing. You will find the proof of this in the venerable Bede, who loads them with the highest praise, and the lying Giraldus Cambrensis, who cov- ers them with foul reproach. Sir John Davis ac- knowledges this race of men to be endued with ex- traordinary abilities of mind and body ; and that there is no people under heaven who love equal and indifferent justice better than the Irish. The enlight- ened doctors Young and Campbell do them the same justice. The immortal Swift, in a posthumous work which has lately appeared, declares that the common Irish who understand English, have a much better 370 APPENDIX. taste for reason and raillery, than the English of the same description. Lord Chesterfield and Adam Smith call them the most able-bodied and handsome men in Europe. Camden testifies that they are in- credibly active, ingenious, and warlike. British ad- jutants inform you that they are made soldiers sooner than any subjects in the three kingdoms ; and Amer- ica, Hindostan, and Europe bear witness to the ar- dor and firmness of their courage. See then the gallant race of men you have to govern, and reflect how you have governed them ! You have endeavor- ed to unman them, and reduce them to the level of the beasts that perish. Bereft by law of almost ev- ery stimulus to industry — precluded from education, foreign and domestic — from conjugal connection with their favored brethren — from every blessing, civil and political — it is a miracle that they have retained any thing human but the shape. The prototype of your policy, Machiavel, in the eighth chapter of his Prince, lays it down as a maxim, that cruelty may be necessary in a recent settlement acquired by war and crimes, but if prolonged beyond that necessity, that it ultimately proves the ruin of its upholders. You have outstripped your model : take care how you verify his prophetic observation. When the city of Sparta was overthrown by an earthquake, the helots surveyed the visitation with rapture, and re- doubled the horrors of the calamity. Your Protest- ant settlement is secure beyond the probability, nay, the possibility of dangers, if you do not continue the temptation, and, the language of the constitution might add, the duty to uproot it, in the hearts of those whom you mean to destroy. You have noth- ing to fear from those miserable beings whose an- cestors' estates the chance of war delivered into your hands one hundred and thirty-eight years since APPENDIX. 371 Most of them have perished in exile and in want. Some of them are fighting the battles of foreign kings, being incapacitated even from dying for their own. Their sad remains are the porters of your towns, the clowns of your country, and beggars of your streets. They do not look for power ; they ask but leave to die. The Catfiolics have given you every security which the most solemn declarations can give : you have a much better security in their uniform demeanor, and still a better in their interest — that interest Which like the sword of kings, Is the last reason of all things. It is the interest of every honest and independent mind in Ireland, that the smothered warfare of op- pression should cease ; that the feelings, the preju- dices, the passions, the faculties of all should be col- lected into one common focus, to cheer, reanimate and illumine this aggrieved, palsied, and long-be- nighted country. Have you not had enough of ven- geance and petty despicable monopoly, or are you still resolved to persist in it even at the expense of your own well-being and honor ? Is not your coun- try a prey to foreigners through the imbecility en- tailed upon it, by emasculating four-fifths of your people? Were the provisoes, indulgences, and mort- mains of popery in any degree so pernicious as the ruin and ignominy of English influence ? Impostors delude you, while they are practising ancient villanies under new names. Does not this influence yearly drain you of two-thirds of your whole revenue ? Does it not send undeserving viceroys to rule over you to the degradation of your own nobility, many of whom were known in Europe long before the great majority of the present English nobility had 372 APPENDIX. crawled from their original obscurity ? Does it no quarter the worthless followers of those insignificant viceroys — the buffoons, panders, and parasites of a corrupted court — the trash and refuse of another land, upon the most productive spots of your island ? Does it not exalt the most unprincipled and shame- less politicians to*lhe very highest stations — and for what ? for reviling your country and denying its in- dependence !* Has it not made you a by-word among nations, and the very sound of your name a subject of laughter? Are not your mines unexplored, your fisheries neglected, your trade and commerce restricted, your manufactures unprotected, your lands unimproved, your country denuded of its wood and shorn of its beauty and means of naval strength, nay, your very character debased through this influence ? Whence the want of employment in Ireland, whence the rack-rents of absentees, whence the squalid ap- pearances and concomitants of poverty ? Whence the wanderings of your people to every corner of the earth ; the alarming emigrations of northern industry to America ; of southern hardihood, to England, France, and Spain — to the East and to the West ? Whence, I say, does all this proceed, but from the wide- wasting, pestilential influence of England ? Even now it is clandestinely aiming at the extinction of your parliament and your lately recovered name. I myself heard the Marquis of Downshire express his ardent wish for a union in the House of Lords of England ! Ireland appears loosened from its foun- * If such a man as I have here portrayed, had not carried the audacious impurities of the senate to the judgment-seat, but admin- istered law in justice and in mercy, as became his great abilities, the circumstance should be a drawback on the detestation of his countrymen — it should take but little from the distrust of the char- acter. Nemo unquam imperium jlagitio quasitum bonis artibits exereuit. KrrvsmK. 37:3 dations by this influence, and floats at the breath of every bold and flagitious English undertaker, who is sent to defame and to devour it. She might most happily maintain more than double her population, were she not inhibited from availing herself of the bounties of heaven. But your Draconian laws against popery, the loathsome but unacknowledged offspring of the influence I have been describing, have worn her natives down to a degree of wretchedness not to be equalled by that of slave or freeman in any quar- ter of the globe : they have given your country the melancholy pre-eminence among nations of being supreme in miser}'-. But she has borne her adversi- ties with fortitude. You may thank your stars, that the suicide principle of those laws has not utterly eradicated the spirit of your people. If it had, you would have looked in vain for freedom. Had they stood aloof in the day of trial, or joined with your enemies — had they not listened to the dictates of their own virtues, but followed your example in wounding themselves through the heart of their country, you had still been in bondage. They dis- dained the inglorious example — they pledged their lives and their fortunes for your freedom, and you pledge yours to hold them in chains ! They are a conquered people, you say. But when they resigned their power in 1691, after their glorious defence of Limerick, they stipulated for freedom with arms in their hands. What did you ? When you got them in your power, you stripped them of their arms, and robbed them of their freedom — you kept no faith w t ith Catholics ! They ask for restitution, there- fore, and they would be unworthy of it if they did not. They ask for the liberty their ancestors planted and preserved in this island : for nine-tenths of them are descendants of those English who first won the 374 APPENDIX. country by fraud and by force from the ancient Irish. They and their forefathers are your benefactors, and you are still bent upon remaining their destroyers ; for slavery is the destruction of the people. Such being their conduct and yours, is it decorous to talk of their ingratitude? would it not be more decorous to retrieve the honor you have lost by your own 1 You say they want to intimidate you into a compli- ance with their humble supplications. The assertion is falsified by the fact. They presented a petition to parliament praying for a share of that freedom they contribute to support. They did not make the compliance of parliament the condition of their alle- giance : they have evinced the contrary by the un- varied tenor of their conduct; for though refused in no very flattering manner, amidst scoffs, and scorn, and indignity, their enemies have not gained their point : they have not driven them into violence : they have remained unaltered in their loyalty, their love of order, and obedience to the law. A brave gen- eral in your House of Commons invites these de- fenceless citizens to draw their swords, and make their appeal to heaven. These oppressed men have no swords, and if they had, they would only draw them in defence of their king and country. They and their fathers have so demeaned themselves in every vicissitude of fortune. I wish this great officer may be as well-disposed. Shame on the man, who can thus mock at the unfortunate, and pour new misery into the agonizing bosom of a tortured gen- eration ! That the Catholics are not prepared for freedom, is a proposition unfounded in reason and contradicted by the experience of every age and the feelings of every heart. Liberty, which is equal justice to all, is taught by nature to all — the savage and the bar- iPPENDix 375 barian feel its sacred impulses as completely as the philosopher. The liberty of England originated in the woods of Germany. We know that the Ger- mans were not a lettered race — they had no property but what was in common : yet these sturdy barba- rians were at least as free and as zealous assertors of their independence, as their descendants the Eng- lish. Many of the mighty barons who extorted mag- na charta from John, were unable to read or write ; yet the rude feelings of their untutored breasts fitted them admirably to wrest that palladium of happiness from a tyrant. I hope we shall hear no more of this insidious and hypocritical cant, invented by the de- signing to mislead the unwary. To be fit for free- dom, it is sufficient to be born, and it affords an ad- ditional aptitude to be bred a Christian — for I hope it is unnecessary to inform you, that the service of the Catholic God and yours is perfect freedom. I should imagine the requisite knowledge for choosing a representative does not lie far beneath the surface : surely a Catholic has as good an opportunity of learn- ing the acts of wisdom, justice, humanity, and forti- tude which distinguish a neighboring gentleman, and recommend him to notice at an election, as a Prot- estant ; or do the magic syllables of Protestantism bestow sense and sensibility, while the execrated name of papist bereaves its unhappy owner of every organ of feeling and understanding ? Away with such fooleries ! Were their absurdity not lost in the immensity of their mischief, they would be as con- temptible as the dreams of dotards. If your execra- ble laws had unfitted the Catholics for freedom, freedom only could recreate that moral and political fitness your laws had done away. Slavery is the worst of all possible schools to teach the principles of liberty : you would not manacle the limbs of the 376 APPENDIX. man you would enable to start in the race ! Be not afraid of overpowering the tender optics of your brethren with the new light of liberty : the eagle eye of nature looks steadily at the sun of liberty in every stage and every condition of this many-colored and wearied life. It is also said that the Catholic committee* is an unlawful meeting. Those who say so, do not under- stand the law, or misinterpret it with an evil intent. No meeting is unlawful which is peaceably met for a lawful purpose — whether the mode of meeting be borrowed from Constantinople or Paris, whether from the empire of slavery or the seat of democracy. The Catholic committee is not acknowledged by the law, totidem verbis, but every thing is allowed by the law which is a quiet assertion of right, and hurts no man. Now the object of this meeting is not, as has been foolishly or maliciously said, to consolidate the power of the Catholics ; but to ascertain their utter impotence to protect themselves, to concentrate their miseries and their tears, to lay them at the foot of the throne, to supplicate parliament to give freedom, consequence, and union to Ireland. They hope it is no offence to wish to add dignity, strength, and sta- bility to their country, and they are sure petitioning is lawful. The Catholics labor under grievances, and there are two ways of removing them — the one is by war ; the other by peace. They seek not re- lief through the calamities of war : they adore their country. They desire that peace may be the har- * Posterity will honor the memories of those prudent and un- daunted citizens of Duhlin, who, unshaken by the secession of their deceived fellow-sufferers, brought those very men back to their opin- ion by the irresistible force of truth, and cast the foundation of Cath- olic Emancipation amidst the intrigues, and lies, and calumnies, and menaces of their enemies. Their names will live, when court pros- titutes, and hirelings, and slaves will be forgotten. APPENDIX. 37? binger of their freedom. That peace can be pre- served by no better means, than by quietly assem- bling and humbly proposing their grievances to the consideration of the legislature. The legislature may refuse granting the prayer of their petition, but they have no right to spurn the begging, prostrate, and obedient subject from their door. You are angry wilh these miserable people for stating their numbers at three millions. You are then angry that they were born. You are then angry that they tread the earth, breathe the air, or survey the heaven. By that heaven I conjure you to dismiss those deadly senti- nents of shocking uncharitableness from your other- wise generous hearts, and dare to have the magna- limity to forgive those you have so deeply and so cruelly injured. Be united, be Irishmen, be free. I hear a great deal of the favors already conferred jpon Catholics, and that their emancipation should be gradual. — The Catholics are a grateful people, but the fashion of the day and your own exigencies gave them most of what they have got, and your liberality wears too much the appearance of selfish- ness to entitle you to much gratitude. Recollect that you only lately set your hand to a partial resto- ration of their rights, and that those acts of grace were accompanied with no small share of reluctance, no small portion of contempt. By giving the Catho- lics the power of purchasing land, you converted a flux, moneyed property, which might be employed against you, into an immoveable pledge for their abiding by your fate, and binding their own chains the faster ; and by withholding the elective franchise from them, you refuse them the shield by which they might protect their nf.w acquisition. So that the privilege you rate so high, mikes them but the more dependent upon your good %vill and caprice As to 378 APPENDIX. gradual emancipation, if you mean to treat your brethren as the English parliament has the negroes, you should mark a period for their emancipation, as that parliament has done for the more fortunate Afri- cans. But you do not wish it ; you are withholding their rights from your fellow-creatures, and indulg- ing them now and then with a few fragments from your table, fondly hoping that an opportunity may arise to dash their hopes forever, and plunge them back into that unfathomable abyss of misery from whence they have but just raised their heads. But the opportu nity will not arise : the imperishable spirit of free dom has gone abroad, and cheers the heart of the meanest peasant. He trusts in the justice and vir lues of his king, and the tardy humanity of his brethren. His king longs already to burst his chains : for he can do no wrong ; and many of the fathers, restorers, and preservers of political Protestant free- dom in the north, are working seriously, honestly, nobly, and independently in their cause. Your really and truly glorious deliverer, Mr. Grattan, and many of the most exalted natures in Ireland, are at the same godlike work of redemption. The Catholics will deserve it — for I know them — and of course they will be free. They have nothing to dread ; they walk in the fearlessness of virtue. But what shall become of the Protestant ascen- dency ? I revere the Protestant ascendency, if, like the prerogative of kings, it is limited by justice and the safety of the people. I cannot revere it if it is nothing but an uncontrollable sway. Such a sway I could never respect, though seated on the throne of Great Britain or the chair of St. Peter. If by Prot- estant ascendency you mean that the great power of the country should remain in the hands of the present possessors, more than three hundred years would APPENDIX. 379 not transfer the power (for property is the power) in- to the hands of Catholics, even if the whole penal code was swept away at this moment ; and I believe it requires no inspiration to foretell, that the folly and wickedness of religious animosity will have died with those who harbor it long, long before that, period. But if you define the Protestant ascendency, a Prot- estant king, a Protestant peerage, a Protestant house of commons, a Protestant constituency, and make no account of your Catholic brethren, but wish, with the representative of the whole Irish nation, as he was pleased to denominate himself,* that their liberties should be forever extinguished, while you but half retain your own, I abhor the inhuman idea, as I do the author of evil, and exactly upon the same princi- ple, because it is the enemy of mankind. I have now done : and I implore mercy for your brethren, and justice for your country. If you re- fuse that mercy, and withhold this justice, you should prepare for a union : things cannot remain in their present situation ; you must either give freedom to the Catholic or abdicate it for yourself. Your an- cient oppressors are on the watch to inflame your passions, and re-insnare you into worse than your former bondage. A union would be advantageous to the Catholic. By it the Protestant would lose his all, if freedom be all to the noble-minded and the brave. The Catholic would not be raised to the Protestant, but the Protestant would be levelled down to the Catholic, and sunk into a slavish acqui- escence in the will of a country accustomed to despise him. The Catholic would be more happy : for that liberty he is never doomed to taste, would be re- moved far from his wounded ear, his aching sight. •The late Richard Sheridan, Esq, then M. P. for Charlemont. 380 APPENDIX. The Protestant would have no consolation for past glories and present shame. He would experience a servitude more grievous than death. Extracted from " The Wexford Herald" of Monday, Sept. 24, 1792. — County Meeting. Saturday being the day appointed by the high-sheriff to take into consideration a letter, purporting to have been written by order of the sub-committee of the Catholics of Ireland, and signed Edward Byrne, about one o'clock the sheriff took the chair, and the letter having been read, the following resolutions were moved by the Hon. Francis Hely Hutchin- son : — 1. Resolved — That it is the undoubted right of all his majesty's subjects to petition every branch of the legislature. — Adopted. 2. Resolved — That it appeal's to this meeting that the object of the plan referred to by the letter which has been read this day from the chair, is to collect the sense of all the Catholics of Ireland, in order that their wishes may be laid by the petition at the foot of the throne. — Rejected. 3. Resolved — That the said plan is agreeable to law, and that those who shall endeavor peaceably and quietly to carry it into execution, will not, by so do- ing, commit any act, either illegal or unconstitu- tional. — Rejected. A debate for some hours having taken place upon the above resolutions, and the question having been put, the first was passed in the affirmative unani- mously ; and a division having taken place upon the two last, they were rejected by a majority of one hundred and ten, to forty-five. This division having taken place, Mr. MaxweP APPENDIX. 38 1 moved the following resolutions, all of which were carried in the affirmative : — We, the freeholders of the county of Wexford, convened by the high-sheriff at the requisition of the last grand jury, to take into consideration a paper, signed " Edward Byrne," purporting to come from a body of men styling themselves " The sub-commit- tee of the Catholics of Ireland," think it highly in- cumbent on us to express in the strongest terms our disapprobation of the contents of it. Resolved — That we see with much surprise, the many favors so liberally conferred, of late years, by the legislature, on the Roman Catholics of Ireland, do not meet with the return of thanks and gratitude to which they were so justly entitled. Resolved — That since the proceedings of Catho- lics are unwarrantable, and their demands unreason- able, it is time for the Protestants to make a stand, and to be firm in refusing to make further conces- sions. Resolved — That we firmly rely on the wisdom of our most gracious sovereign, that he will not give his sanction to any measure that may militate against the principles that placed his family on the throne, or tend to diminish the Protestant ascendency of this kingdom. Mr. Maxwell moved an address to the representa- tives of the county, to entreat them to give their op- position to any bill which might be introduced either now or any time hereafter, extending to the benefit of the elective franchise, or a participation of the trial by jury. The address having been a long time debated, was at last withciawn. Mr. Hutchinson then moved the thanks of the meeting to Matthew Derenzy, Esq., the high-sheriff, for his very correct and proper conduct 382 APPENDIX, in the chair, which motion was carried unanimously ; and the question of adjournment having been put and carried, the meeting was dissolved at a very late hour of the night. Extracted from " The Wexford Herald" of Thursday, the 27th of September, 1792. We, the Roman Catholics of the town and vicinity of Wexford, ever anxious to cultivate the friendship of our Protestant brethren, and to unite with them in all the bands of social happiness, embrace this flat- tering opportunity of testifying our gratitude to the virtuous and independent forty-five, whose united ef- forts and interests supported our cause at the county meeting, convened by the high-sheriff on Saturday last. The malignant shafts of calumny, directed by the iron hand of arbitrary power, will never awe us into an acquiescence of guilt, which we most solemnly abjure. We are, have been, and ever shall be, grateful and loyal. Were we possessed of more our noble friends should participate thereof, did their generous and disinterested patriotism permit the idea of a transitory reward ; nay, we respect our enemies as members of the state, but hope they will not expect gratitude from us until they become our benefactors, that is, proselytes to the true political faith, on which depends the salvation of our country. We hail our illustrious and glorious protectors, who with irresistible energy, eloquence, and truth, pleaded the cause of injured innocence and degraded human- ity, attempting to raise its head amidst its implaca- ble oppression ! We hail them as being invaluable co-operators with the saviours of our country ; on whom alone, and on men of such minds, depends the APPENDIX. 383 perpetuity of the constitution as established at the revolution. Signed by order, James E. Devereux No. II. To the gentlemen, clergy, freeholders, and other inhabitants of the county of Wexford. We, the undersigned magistrates of the county of Wexford, convinced that you have not a wish nearer your heart than to have an opportunity of expressing your loyalty and inviolable attachment to our king and excellent constitution, (in the absence of the high sheriff,) request your attendance at the county court- house, on Friday, the 1 1th of January next, for that purpose. A measure we conceive at this time not only highly becoming, but also essentially necessary, thereby to contribute so far as in us lies to the resto- ration of public and private credit, which we have experienced to be materially injured by the seditious practices of a few designing and turbulent incendia- ries. Walter Hore, John Heatly, Henry Hatton ; Richard Newton King, John Harvey, William Hore, Ebenezer Jacob, John Cox, James Boyd, William Glascott, Robert Hawkshaw, Miller Clifford. I At a meeting of the freeholders and inhabitants of the county of Wexford, convened by requisition of the magistrates thereof, and &;ld at Wexford, on Friday, the 11th January, 1793. I Walter Hore, Esq., in the chair. We, the freeholders and inhabitants of the county of Wexford, convened by the magistrates, think it right at this time, unanimously to declare our attach- 384 APPENDIX, merit to the constitution, consisting of king, lords, and commons ; and have resolved — That the principles of the British constitution are founded in wisdom and justice, equally providing for the liberty and happiness of the people. That an hereditary monarch, an assembly of the nobles, and a body of representatives derived from the people, by free and general election, are each of them integral, vital, and essential parts of our consti- tution, in so much that the decay or corruption of any of them will taint or destroy the whole system. That the representative part of our legislature is not derived from the people by that free and general election which the fundamental principles of our con- stitution require, and the state and condition of this nation would warrant. That the permanent peace and welfare of Ireland can only be established by a radical and effectual re- form in the commons house of parliament, and that this object once obtained, the people ought to remain content and grateful. That we will, by all constitutional and lawful means, promote a radical and effectual reform in the representation of the people in parliament, including persons of all religious persuasions ; and we rely on trie wisdom of parliament to grant such reform. That we are happy thus publicly to declare, that the people of this country are perfectly peaceable and quiet, and we know of no seditious practices therein, nor do we see the least shadow of, or ten- dency to, riot or tumult in this country ; but lest any such should be entertained or intended by any fac- tious persons, we do declare, that we will resist all attempts to introduce any new form of government into this country, or in any manner to subvert, cor* rupt or impair any of the three essential parts of APPENDIX. 335 our constitution, consisting of king, lords, and com- mons. Resolved — That copies of the above resolutions be forwarded by our chairman to the Right Hon. George Ogle and the Hon. John Loftus, representa- tives in parliament for this county. Resolved — That the above resolutions be inserted three times in the Dublin Evening Post, Morning Post, and Wexford Herald. (Signed) Walter Hore. Walter Hore, Esq., having left the chair, and Cornelius Grogan, Esq., being called to it, the thanks of the meeting were unanimously voted to Walter Hore, Esq., chairman, for his impartial and upright conduct this day. (Signed) Cornelius Grogan. No. III. At the request of Mr. Edward Hay, late of Bal- lenkeele, in the county of Wexford, I certify that I became acquainted with him in the year 1793, for which year I was high-sheriff for said county, and at which time the country was much disturbed. I thought necessary to consult the gentlemen of the county, and called meetings for this purpose. Mr Hay attended these meetings, and was, with other gentlemen, as active and zealous as possible in en- deavoring to suppress the disturbances, and to re- store peace to the country. From Mr. Hay's actions and expressions, I had every reason to consider him a loyal man : I have often heard him declare that he did not, nor never would belong to any political so- ciety, and that he disapproved being of all such so- cieties, I was appointed, in the year 1797, admin- 386 APPENDIX. istrator during a suit respecting the Hay property. On the 1st of May, 1798, I attended at Ballenkeele as administrator, on which day Mr. Edward Hay, or Mr. Fitzgerald, as his trustee, gave me up possession of the house and demesne of Ballenkeele, and other lands, part of the disputed property ; and delivered what furniture he had in the house to his brother, w f ith whom I understand he had settled, and declared he would want immediate payment for this furniture, as he intended to go without delay to America, and settle there. Mr. Edward Hay was much dissatis- fied with me about that time, but this did not prevent him from rendering me the most essential services in the rebellion. The rebels attacked the town of En- niscorthy in great force on the 28th of May, 1798, on which day, after a severe engagement, and the town being in flames, I retreated with my corps, and the rest of his majesty's troops stationed there, to Wexford. On my arrival in that town, I saw Mr. Edward Hay in the street, who seemed and express- ed himself much distressed at what had happened at Enniscorthy and elsewhere. On the 29th of May, I again saw Mr. Hay, when he was approved of as one of the securities for Mr. Edward Fitzgerald, who was then confined in Wexford jail, but was liberated that day, on giving bail, and sent out to endeavor by his supposed influence with the rebels to disperse them. On the 30th of May, after the rebels had cut off a detachment of the Meath militia, near the Three Rocks, the troops which marched from Wexford to oppose the rebels at that place, retreated to the town, we found the greatest confusion prevailing there ; af- ter some time the town was evacuated, and finding it impossible for me, situated as I was, to retreat, by land, I made an unsuccessful attempt to effect my escape by sea, but was taken and brought back to APPENDIX. 3$7 Wexford, where I was in the most perilous situation, not knowing the instant I should fall a victim to pop- ular fury. I was taken to a house where a number of ladies and gentlemen were ; a furious mob came to this house and called for me to be put to death. A particular friend of mine, who was then in the house, assured me lately, that Mr. Edward Hay went to the door, stood there, and declared they should kill him before they should hurt a hair of my head, and he succeeded in sending them away. It being generally understood that every person who had not taken the United Irishman's oath, or did not know their signs, would inevitably be put to death, I asked Mr. Edward Hay to swear me, which he as- sured me he could not do ; and I have further reason to think he was not a United Irishman, as the week before the rebellion broke out, when I was, as a magistrate, giving certificates to the people on their taking the oaths of allegiance, surrendering their arms, and giving on their oaths such information as they could, respecting the intended rebellion, not one of them — and I was very strict in my inquiries — mentioned Mr. Edward Hay, though they gave me information against most of those who in a few days after, in this country, were leaders in the rebellion. While a prisoner in Wexford, some people inti- mated a wish to take me home, and I thought I would be safer, if where I was well known, than at Wex- ford. Mr. Hay told me he would not let me go, as I would be certainly put to death, as the rebels acted with greater cruelty at Vinegar Hill, near which my house is situated. An order was sent by the rebels for twelve prisoners to be taken from Wexford to Vinegar Hill ; Mr. Edward Hay told me of this or- der, and said he would endeavor to prevent these men being sent, as he feared they would be executed, 38S APPENDIX. and he succeeded for some time. The event proved he was right, as some of the same persons were after- wards taken there and put to death. The house in which I was for about, ten days was often searched for arms and Orangemen. Mr. Hay, when in the house, endeavored to save me by attending the searchers, and conducting them to different parts of the house from where I was. When at last a party of those searchers found I was in this house, my destruction was considered inevitable had I remained there. I was conducted to the prison-ship as a place of safety, and I do believe, had it not been done 1 most probably would have lost my life. Considering the popularity of Mr. Hay, and he being a Catholic, I am surprised he was not obliged to take a command among the rebels, and 1 am confident he could have had a high one was he so inclined : I do not believe Mr. Edward Hay had any command in the rebel ar- my, nor did I ever see him appear in arms of any kind : and I consider it a fortunate circumstance for some of the Protestant loyalists that he was in Wex- ford during the rebellion, as I knew that he expressed his earnest desire, and I believe he exerted himself for the preservation of many of them. I think it bu< justice to give Mr. Hay this certificate, the substance of which I would have proved on his trial had I bee* called on, and to which I had been summoned. Solomon Richards, Captain Enniscorthy Cavalry, and Magistrate of the county of Wexford Solsborough, August 30, 1799. I hereby certify, that on the 20th of June, 1798, while the massacres were perpetrating on the bridge of Wexford, Mr. Edward Hay came into the room where I was with other ladies ; he was in tears, and APPENDIX. 389 seemed much distressed at the cruelties that were going forward. I earnestly entreated him to use his influence to save the prisoners' lives. He replied it was in vain for him to try, as he had no influence with the people. I also know that he prevented twelve prisoners from being sent to Vinegar Hill, on a belief that they would be massacred there ; and I do believe that he had no command in the rebel army. Given under my hand this 30th of August, 1799, Martha Richards. County of Wexford, i Mr. Thomas Taylor of the town t0 Wlt ) of Wexford, merchant, who was a prisoner in the jail of Wexford during the rebellion, freely and voluntarily maketh oath on the Holy Evangelists, and saith he has known the prisoners to express the comfort and consolation they experi- enced from Mr. Edward Hay's deportment and man- ner towards them, and had always heard them ex- press their joy on Mr. Hay visiting the jail. Depo- nent being an Englishman, and not long in Ireland, had no kind of acquaintance with Mr. Hay, but al- ways approached him when he saw him conversing with his fellow-prisoners, and experienced the conso- lation of his conversation, although not addressed to him, but considered Mr. Hay the greatest friend to the loyalists, as the purport of his visits to the jail evidently was, to give general comfort to all he saw in distress, as he communicated his sentiments open- ly and candidly to them, and undeceived the prison- ers with respect to many false reports that were circulated. Deponent has heard Mr. Hay express his horror and detestation of the barbarous proceed- ings of the rebels ; and that he would lose his life or put a stop to the cruelties that were committing on 390 APPENDIX. Vinegar Hill had he been there. Deponent remem- bers to have heard of an order for several prisoners to be sent to Enniscorthy, which order might have been complied with had not Mr. Hay gained intelli- gence that they were to be put to death ; and at the earnest request of the prisoners from the neighbor- hood of Enniscorthy, Mr. Hay declared he would make such representations to the principal inhabit- ants of Wexford as to have them detained in jail as their only place of safety ; on which occasion he has heard the prisoners express their utmost grati- tude to Mr. Hay, whom they consulted on all occa- sions of distress, and from whom they received ev- ery possible comfort. Various reports were propa- gated, which tended to rouse and irritate the passions of the people to revenge — that the army had com- mitted the greatest excesses, which alarmed the prisoners very much, who consulted Mr. Hay about a proposal they had drawn up to be forwarded to government, intimating their great danger, and hoping that the prisoners taken by the army might meet with the like good treatment that they did, otherwise reprisals might be made, and their destruction inev- itable. Mr. Hay undertook the task of endeavoring to forward this proposal with the greatest alacrity, and conducted Captain M'Manus to consult with Lord Kingsborough, who accordingly wrote a letter in the name of all the prisoners, among whom were many officers and principal gentlemen of the county, which proposal was dispatched by an officer to be forwarded to the next commanding officer of his majesty's forces, but who would not be allowed to proceed farther than the rebel camp at Enniscorthy, and was obliged to return to Wexford, at which dis- appointment we considered our situation more critical than ever, and experienced in a greater degree the APPENDIX. 391 consoling visits of Mr. Hay, who truly sympathized in our feelings, and felt this disappointment as much as any of us. Deponent never saw Mr. Hay appear with arms, or with any kind of green ornament, then usually worn by all descriptions of persons; and from what he has seen and every information he could learn, believes that during the rebellion Mr. Hay was solely actuated by principles of philanthro- py, in any interference of his during that period. Sworn before me this 28th day of August, 1799, Eben. Jacob. Thomas Taylor. No. IV. Extract from the debates of the House of Lords on the 10th of July, 1793, on the convention bill, as it appeared in the public papers. Lord Farnham declared, " That he had received letters from the county of Wexford, perfectly agree- ing with what had been mentioned by the noble lord on the woolsack. In that county the people had held meetings at night, and from parish to parish had sworn the inhabitants not to pay rents, tithes, or taxes, expressing their disappointment, that they had not received ten pounds each man annually for the emancipation, but a lease for which they were obliged to pay." — He approved of the bill. No. V. At a meeting of the Catholics of the town and neighborhood of Wexford, on Tuesday the 30th of July, 1793, James Edward Devercuxy Esq., in the chair. We, the Roman Catholics of the town and neigh- borhood of Wexford, having acquiesced in the reso- &%2 .