Letter from Hagan to Art O'Brien

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Pontifical Irish College

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Hagan, John

Hagan, John, 1873-1930

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Copy typescript letter from J. [Hagan], Rome, to 'my dear friend' [Art O'Brien, London]. H.[ales] has not called so far; discussing at length the reasons for and against maintaining the establishment in Rome. M.[...] from Paris has made some arrangements to close it down, but rent is paid until June; this is a 'queer commentary ...on [Fitzgerald's] statements in parliament!' Hagan made clear to M. his low opinions of the continuation of a delegation, and his refusal to be involved: instead, he could count on the support of all Irishmen who had been wavering or on the side of the English in the Black-and-Tan war. Also low opinion of O'B.[yrne], and of both his and G.[avan] D.[uffy]'s achievements when stationed in Rome; overall not believing that a delegation would be worth the money even if the country was united: examining the venture in turns as an information bureau, a trade or consular service, and a representative institution; finding none justified. H.[ales] would risk a fiasco were he to try and take over the establishment. Recommending revising the situation if the struggle is resolved: 'should the elections result in the formation of a strong republican party, bent on changing or revising the constitution, a sort of diplomatic agency would have certain aspects well worthy of consideration...' This is further corroborated by recent events and Deasy's move which may entail the British re-examining the possibilities of Document No.2. Finally remarking: 'every day I find fresh reason to deplore what I consider to be the fatal want in Mulcahy - lack of initiative and big- ness. Had he these two qualities he could change the whole situation in an hour, and he could I think count [off] Cosgrave and afford to throw over O'Higgins and his crowd of Die-hards. But I greatly fear that he is in too far and cannot now draw back...'