Letter from J.J. Ryan to Hagan

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View/Open: HAG1-1919-339.pdf (52.MB) Bookview

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DigitalGeorgetown

Pontifical Irish College

Contributor

Ryan, J.J.

Hagan, John, 1873-1930

Description

Holograph letter from J.J. Ryan [...], to Hagan, expressing his sorrow over O'Riordan's death; he had hoped that the Venerable Oliver Plunkett's intercession would save him. Expecting Hagan's labours to be rewarded by a unanimous appointment as his successor; encouraging to come home for his health. Giving an account of his sojourns in France and Belgium where he met Cardinal Mercier; reporting that 'not a folio' is saved from the Louvain library whose burning had been planned �the university has serious financial problems; there will be help from the U.S. The freemasons and liberals, and the Flemish question, pose problems for the hierarchy at the coming elections. He witnessed much destruction from the war; the history of German massacres is being documented in each diocese. Also relating that the function at Queenstown (Cobh) was a success. While there is a fine harvest the labourers are often unreasonable, and after the influenza idleness prevails.