Letter from Keohane to Hagan

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Pontifical Irish College

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Keohane, P.T.

Hagan, John, 1873-1930

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Holograph letter from K.[eohane], Wadena, Sutton, Dublin, to Hagan. Glad that Hagan had the news from such a reliable person as [Seán T. Ó Ceallaigh] in Paris. The latter's mission will be a great test; while their 'Brosna friend' [Fr. O'Flanagan] may create difficulties here or there his support will be indispensable at the general election, especially for the west: 'he can and will sweep Connacht any day for practically any side he champions.' He has talked to DeValera, and to Stack who thinks most realistically. Very skeptical about the new paper venture which may actually destroy the republican party, bearing in mind the Independent paper experience. Regarding 'the Brewer' [E.R. Morrissey], all he talked to including Stack were in agreement with Hagan as to his outlook and his will to help. Further comments on Morrissey, 'the general' [P.E. Magennis] and a recent awkward moment for the former: 'it will be some time before all these ghosts are laid for some of the parties concerned, particularly those connected with Mountjoy'. As for the north, if Higgins rushed into a settlement without the Commission that would play into England's hands 'but where it will land Higgins and the Hierarchy is another question'. The republicans should let them fight it out between them. Cannot see how the south has let down the north, as the northerners say; the latter certainly lack unity. Puzzled the northern Catholics should not all be republicans to a man; also that the priests there who were early active republicans have all turned to 'the Castle of old'. At least Hagan knew his friends from his enemies; DeValera and others had to take people on trust; while Brosna and Sceilg [J.J. Kelly] were never good judges of men, Seán T. certainly has that instinct. Stannous will tell Hagan the latest; Keohane's cures were successful.