Letter from Cait Ó Ceallaigh to Hagan

View/Open

View/Open: HAG1-1924-503.pdf (96.MB) Bookview

Repository

DigitalGeorgetown

Pontifical Irish College

Contributor

Ó Ceallaigh, Cait

Hagan, John, 1873-1930

Description

Holograph letter from Cait Bean Seán T. (Ó Ceallaigh), 91 St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin, to Hagan. Expecting that Seán wrote to him; she had only one tele- gram from him for a month. Although it is said constantly he is doing splendidly he has had to take stock of American ways, and could neither make or mar the situation so far. He knows of DeValera's arrest and subsequent release: 'he is the bravest man in European politics anyway (and) I suppose being brave enough to be logical lands people in extraordinary places (and) queer fixes. You know yourself something about that!' Brief mentions of the cardinal, Dr. O'Donnell, her brother Martin. Commenting on the distressing stories concerning the north, where Catholics were loth to be seen to vote for Protestant neighbours and where the clergy made great efforts to prevent them voting against the Free State. Wondering if DeValera will be kept; the way the prisoners are left to rot up there is scandalous. There is good news from Cork, though not overwhelmingly so; Lord Mayor French made a great impression. They can be sure of Mayo. Fr. P. Browne will find it difficult to deal with Mrs. Erskine Childers's wish to have her husband buried with the Catholics; he cannot be taken to the church in Whitefriar Street. The Bartons on the other hand see it would be 'just as good to have one Protestant patriot and saint in a Protestant churchyard...' Adding that 'it is a tragic funeral for the Free State most of all' (unclear). Then commenting on their university inaugural Sunday and on the fact that the chancellor was not invited; he would have had to sit near the archbishop and Free State ministers; of course, he has noticed their unfriendliness since his release. Recounting some 'stories' about Marquis McSweeney, insisting on his aristocratic place, resigning, and finally being reinstated by Cosgrave. 'Isn't that all very promising for Free State progress?' Supposing that they will have the present cabinet until the end: Dick Mulcahy has ambitious but unrealistic notions for an independent party and the presidency for himself. 'I suppose they would all as soon see Craig as DeValera triumph in the North'. Seán needs help in his office already; the Walshes are all kind to him if some regret the failure of their own mission. Then adding that DeValera has since been arrested; wondering will he be kept until after the elections. According to the papers, Sceilg has made a farewell speech [in the U.S.] which brought very generous donations to the fund. Briefly mentioning having met Hagan's relative, Miss Grennell.