IRISH HOSPITALITY.-After Mr. Curran had concluded his terms, he was detained some time in London in expectation of a remittance from Ireland, without which he could neither discharge his arrears at his lodgings nor return to his own country. At length, just as his purse had attained the last stage of inanition,' he received a bill of exchange upon a bankinghouse in Lombard-street: without stopping to examine it minutely, he flew to present it; but the banker soon discovered that a necessary indorsement was omitted, and, of course, refused to pay it. Of the scene upon this occasion, as it took place across the counter -his own consternation at the dreadful tidings, and the banker's insensibility to his distress-his solemn and repeated protestations that the bill came from a most respectable merchant in the butter trade, at Cork, and the wary citizen's marked distrust of all that was Irish, Mr. Curran used to give a most dramatic and ludicrous description. Having left the banker's, and being without a shilling in his pocket, he strolled into St. James's Park, where he remained during his usual dinner hour, considering the means of relieving himself from his present necessity; but, after long reflection, he could only come to one certain conclusion, that the misfortune could never have hap pened more inopportunely, every one of his Irish friends, to whom alone he could have applied, having quitted London, leaving him behind, awaiting this remittance. As he sat upon one of the benches, exhausted with devising expedients, he began to whistle a melancholy old Irish air; an old gentleman, seated at the other end, (it was Macklin) started at the well-known sounds : Pray, sir,' said the stranger, 'may I venture to ask where you learned that tune?' 'Indeed, sir,' replied the whistler, in the meek and courteous tone of a spirit which affliction had softened; indeed you may, sir; I learned it in my native country, Ireland.' 'But how comes it, sir, that at this hour, while other people are dining, you continue here whistling old Irish airs?' Alas! sir, I too have been in the habit of dining of late; but to-day, my money being all gone, and my credit not yet arrived, I am even forced to come and dine upon a whistle in the Park.' Struck by the mingled despondence and playfulness of this confession, the benevolent veteran exclaimed, Courage, young man! I think I can see that you deserve better fare; come along with me, and you shall have it.' About ten years after this interview Macklin came to Dublin: Mr. Curran, who in the interval had risen to eminence, was invited one evening to a party where the actor was one of the company; they were presented to each other, but Macklin failed to recognize in the now celebrated advocate and orator the distressed student in St. James's Park. Mr. Curran, perceiving this, abstained for the mo ment from claiming any acquaint ance; but he contrived, in a little time, to introduce a conversation upon the acts of kindness and hospitality which Irishmen so gencrally receive abroad from such of their countrymen as they may chance to meet; as a proof of which, he began to relate what had happened to himself, and proceeded to give a vivid picture of the scene, and (suppressing the name) of the generous old man who had befriended him in a land of strangers. 6 A glow of recollection was soon observed upon the player's countenance; he started, and fixing his eyes upon the speaker, If my memory fails me not, sir,' said he, we have met before.' 'Yes, Mr. Macklin,' replied Curran, taking his hand, indeed we have met; and, though upon that occasion you were only performing upon a private theatre, let me assure you, that (to adopt the words of a high judicial personage, which you have heard before) you never acted better.'* ber of catholics employed in public buildings in dublin and particularly the Linen board where out of 17 Officers. there were only 3 Catholics one of which after Serving 30 years and was at lenght Discharged when he was a burthen to himself without giving him a trifling pension to sevre him the remainder of his Days but now his Earthly labours are no more he has been long since laid under the tomb beneath the Mouldering walls of Dalkey and his Spirit has flown to Share the Eternal Joy which is the reward of an honest and Virtuous life Please to insert this cated than the peasantry of Eng- O'Doherty. True, upon my con- Rock. 'Tis what I have often said myself; but I am not sorry to be confirmed on this point by a Protestant prelate, who voted against Emancipation. O'Doherty. Is the Appendix to the Report of the Commissioners of the Education Inquiry published? I am Sir with truth and regard fully exposed, and some of the "Your Humble Servant JOSEPH MARTIN.' Rock. Joe is no fool, though he appears not to have had a classical education. There are parts of that letter which indicate good common sense; and that is the real philosophy. O'Doherty. Ay, in troth, and he doesn't write a bad fist neather, though his hair strokes are far too heavy. Rock. I dare say he was never one of your pupils, Morgan. O'Doherty. Troth, an I dare say not, captain. But, what o'that? There are chaps in Ireland houlding the plough who can write as well as Carstairs, or whatever you call him, in Lombard Street. doings of the holy ones are brought O'Doherty. The next is a letter Munster rebel had come amongst the loyal men at Longford; that there should be a sharp look out to take him up, and transport him.” The Biblicals-pious people!-felt happy to be reviled and despised; and said, that their church was doomed to suffer. The ferocious peelers were terrified, under the idea of their conduct being exposed through the medium of your Gazette; and that investigations, and dismissals by order of the lord lieutenant, might follow. Rock. It is printed. I have received a copy from Mr. Frank land My dear Captain, you have in Lewis, but have had time only to your original "Memoirs," and in glance my eye over it. The hor-your" Weekly Gazette," ably and rors of the Charter School are now powerfully brought to view, the different laws and restrictions under which the Irish Catholics suffer. There is one, however, which affects both Protestant and Catholic, of which you have taken no notice; and the following authentic story, I think, will show that it deserves repeal or amendment. Within a few miles of this town, there lived an honest country farmer in a state of comfort bordering upon affluence; he held a cheap farm, was frugal, and industrious; and, by that means, had saved a considerable sum of money. In the year 1806 his lease was within a few years of being expired; his landlord sent for him, and advised him to pay a large fine, and take out a long lease at the old rent, and thereby secure a property for his children. The tenant agreed, paid a large sum of money, and got a long lease at the old rent. The wants of the landlord increased, his demands for money were continual, telling the tenant on such occasions, that it was his intention to give him the land at the quit-rent. He called at one time for fifty pounds to pay for his only son, who was then at school: the poor man declared that he was unable to give it. "I must," said the landlord, obtain it some way. Your neighbour Kwill lend it to me if you join me in a bond. All will be allowed you-all will be your own." He could not re My dear Captain,-A variety of circumstances, over which I had no controul, prevented me from writing to you ere this. As this town is situated in nearly the centre of the island, and far removed from the theatre of my former exploits, where I was dreaded by church Rock. No doubt of it. Educa- cess-collectors, tithe-proctors, and tion is universal in Ireland. The peelers, I have resolved to take up Bishop of Limerick, in his letter my residence here for some time. I from London to the Commissioners cannot describe to you the strong of the Education Enquiry, ac- sensation which the appearance of knowledges this: Were I to be the thirty-second number of your asked the question,' says his Grace, Gazette caused in this town; as whether I thought that the dis- there is a feeling of curiosity in the turbances in Ireland were imputable minds of men with respect to any to any defect of education in that thing relating to themselves, it was country, I should answer certainly bought up in one day by the pconot; for, as far as my own obser- ple of Longford; and Parks, the vation has gone, I am fully per- agent here, had to obtain a fresh suaded that the peasantry of Ire- supply from Dublin. It was amusland are not only quicker of appre-ing to hear the different comments hension, and in possession of a passed on my letter, signed " Vingreater love for learning, but are dex." A broken down tithealso, in point of fact, better edu 66 66 proctor declared, " that some 66 fuse; and the money was had from K—. In a little time after, in the year 1815, the landlord was confined in Mullingar goal for debt. The tenant repaired to Mullingar to see him; when, on his arrival there he was informed by an attorney, a friend to his land. lord, that he was a tenant for life, and that all his money was lost! The news was appalling. He could not understand what a tenant for life meant: he hoped that the laws of his country would protect him from ruin-there was no law to save him! In a short time after ferings fills the heart with emotions 'My dear Captain, I intend in 'VINDEX.' Rock. The evil my correspondent complains of is not confined to Ireland. The law is the same in England, but it ought to be remedied. The next. O'Doherty. One from Cork.(Reads.) man's Magazine.' The following address, which has been published, will give an idea of the work. The first number is to appear on the 2d of January:— It has long been a matter of regret with parents and tutors, that amid the great variety of monthly publications, not one is to be found adapted to the capacity and taste of the rising generation. To supply this desideratum is the object of the "Young Gentleman's Magazine.” 'Assured that early impressions stamp the future conduct and character, the most scrupulous regard will be paid to the morals of our readers; and no sentiment will in any way be admitted that can possibly ongender a bad feeling, or a bad idea. Whilst endeavouring to amuse our young friends, we shall never lose sight of any opportunity of inculcating the purest priuciples, and of imparting useful informa tion. 'ILLUSTRIOUS CAPTAIN,-Your old friends in Munster perceive, from the castigation you have given Cobbett, that your intellect is still in full vigour. We have all antiAlthough we shall never relax in our cipated a rich treat from the Farce, endeavours to diffuse practical wisdom, as but hitherto we have been disap-well as moral and literary improvement, still we shall endeavour to strew a lightness pointed. This has been the more and pleasantry over our pages, so that mortifying, as I understand had it even an article of science shall become appeared in time, it was to have one of equal interest with that of mere rebeen brought out at our Theatre. creation. Tales, Essays, Poetry, AnecWhat delays it? Publish it with dotes, Sketches of Life and Manners, in various parts of the world; Illustrations or without an illustration. Only of History and Antiquities, Improvements let us have it in any form, and you and Discoveries in Arts and Science, Exwill oblige and amuse your devoted hibitions and Amusements of the Metroservant, polis, Experimental Recreations in Natural Philosophy, Chemistry, &c., will each occupy our pages; but no subject will be omitted that can in any way tend to amuse or instruct our readers. TIMOTHY TICKLER.' Rock. The Farce has been printed these three weeks; but, as Cobbett has completely deserted the field, I have refrained from the wretch who was the cause of He bett is already ridiculous enough; a copy. Rock. He can't have one.- ANOTHER MAGAZINE. I AM happy to see that a New Magazine is announced for publication, adapted to the younger branches of the community; it is to be called The Young Gentle 'The Embellishments will be as various as the articles; including views of Colleges, Public Schools, &c.: newly discovered Animals, Plants, &c.: Illustrations of Philosophical and Chemical Amusements; Remarkable Exhibitions; Improvements in Science and Arts, &c. &c. Whenever the subject admits, or requires it, the plates will be coloured. 'Having thus given a slight view of the work, it only remains for us to say, that a number will be published on the first day of every month, price sixpence; a sum so trifling that it is brought within the reach every individual. of It is presumed that this Magazine will be found admirably adapted as a reward book in families and schools; to which its low price and elegance of appearance will strongly recommend it.' No. 44. Or, The Chieftain's Weekly Gazette. THE GOLDEN WING. THE necessity I was under last week of winding up all the articles appertaining to the first volume of this Gazette,' prevented me from saying a few words relative to the 'Clerical Wing,' as the proposed payment of the Catholic clergy by the government has been called. Some time since I fondly hoped that the wings were dead and buried; and well for Ireland if they had been. Mr. O'Connell, however, has called them once more into life; and then, very inconsistently, deprecates discussion. For my part I shall say but very little more respecting them, unless there be a probability of either being legislated upon; in that case silence would be criminal. I have already exposed the sophistry of those who advocate the freehold wing; and, though Mr. O'Connell says his defence of that measure has remained unanswered, I am sure the public holds a very different opi. nion. Indeed, after my letter to the Frecholders of Waterford, it implied in the leader' great arrogance or great egotism to make the assertion. His defence, however, of the clerical wing' is an able one; though, on recollecting his evidence about the golden link of a state provision for the Catholic clergy, he ought' to have hesitated about putting his name to a document, however ably drawn up, which is at complete variance with his sworn testimony. On this, notwithstanding the temptation it holds out to the opponents of the 'Counsellor,' I shall not dwell. The clerical wing' has received the condemnation of those most interested in its probable consequences; and I shall not, therefore, waste my pages with any lengthened remarks on a measure already consigned to deserved oblivion. Much misunderstanding certainly prevailed respecting the proposed influence nor legal consequence. state provision for the Catholic He is merely a pilgrim on his road clergy, and I give Mr. O'Connell to Heaven; and hopes for entrance every credit for having put the matter into eternal happiness, by apin its true light. The Irish priest-proaching the gates of Paradise achood were not to be subject, in case companied by his own good deeds, of their accepting the annual sti- and the souls of those committed pend, to the caprice of government. to his charge. 'Tis true, this last They were certainly to remain reward is alone sufficient to stimuapparently as independent as they late zeal and piety; but when we are at present; and it was not to recollect the arduous responsibility have been optional with the Castle attached to the priestly character, to withhold at pleasure the yearly it becomes still more wonderful allowance from any individual that so many learned and talented clergyman.* men devote themselves to the service of God in Ireland. At least it is by no means surprising that the Irish Catholic priests are, without exception, the most virtuous, pions, and zealous clergy in the world. It could scarcely, under existing circumstances, be otherwise; for who but a sincere, pure, and pious man would enter upon the office? Well have they deserved the encomium of their distinguished prelate, Dr. Doyle, who says they are 'energetic, active, laborious, shrewd, and intelligent; they are the most moral class of persons, not only in this country, but Í think existing on the earth; they are exact, or rather they are filled with zeal in the discharge of their duties.' Supposing this to have been the case; and supposing, what is hardly probable, that the govern. ment would be content to leave things in this way, we are not to take it for granted that the future priesthood of Ireland would be as pure, pious, and useful as our clergy at present are. Neither is it at all probable that they would possess the same influence over their flocks; or that those flocks would hold their religious teachers in the same affectionate esteem and reverence. While the present race of clergymen would continue, this certainly would be the case; and probably we might say the same of their immediate successors; but respecting the future we could by no means feel certain that things would remain as they are. Why is this the case? Simply because it is almost morally impos The Catholic Church, in Ireland, sible that any but such as have a holds out no earthly temptation to vocation would undertake the clethose who dedicate themselves to rical duties in Ireland. Would this the altar. It has no worldly in-be the case if a certain permanent ducements whatever. On the con- emolument were attached to the Would not 200l. a year trary, the life of a priest is a life of office? privations, labour, and unrequited be a sufficient temptation to make hardships. He has neither tithes many men assume a piety they did nor glebe lands-neither political not feel; and pretend to a vocation which they have not? I think it would: and the history of a wellknown church is a case in point. There is, to be sure, something in the divine nature of Catholicism which counteracts the effects of the *The payments were to be regulated, according to Mr. O'Connell, as follows:-An Archbishop A Bishop Dean or other dignitary Parish Priest Curate (not less than). £1,500 per ann. 1,000 Do. 400 Do. 200 Do. 70 Do. more punctual to pay their tithes things I have provided for their future entertainment. most vicious circumstances; but still its teachers are mortal, and liable to fall when opposed to temptation. Besides, we see reliWith this number is given a gion every day made the footstool title and index, that those who of ambition; and those who love have been regular subscribers may primitive piety, holy zeal, and There are many grounds for op- get their volumes bound. Such as Christian perfection, will join me posing the golden wing;' but, as wish to complete their sets are rein deprecating any change in the most of them have been alreadyquested to make application, withsystem which has secured Ireland trodden, I shall not use the argu-out delay, to their bookseller or three hundred religious teachers, ment of others. I have considered newsman, as some of the numbers against whom the breath of calumnyit in a light in which it is not gene- are nearly out of print. has never prevailed. rally regarded; but one, in my opinion, the most important of any. 'Tis true-and I lament it-the Catholic clergy are badly remunerated. 'Tis true they have too little of the things of this world; but I deny that they are at all under democratic controul. In the world there are not a more really independent body; and I wonder that Mr. O'Connell had the temerity to make the insinuations he has done. The people respect, venerate, and love their clergy; but do not controul them. 6 Were they in the pay of government would this be the case? Would not the people suspect slavish motives where perhaps there were none; and would they not feel indifferent about the situation of those who were certain of an annual income? 'Tis true, I say once more, that these deserving divines are badly remunerated; but I trust the dis. cussion which the golden wing' has excited, will shame the Catholic laity into liberality. 'Tis all nonsense for them to talk about poverty; they are fully able to pay their beloved clergy more than five times the sum proposed by go. vernment; but I am sorry to say, that in Ireland the wealthy part of the Catholic body generally throw the support of the priest on the poorer and middling classes, who are by no means as liberal as they ought and can afford to be. Let them now, however, recollect that the labourer is worthy of his hire; and if they wish to keep their clergy independent, let them be somewhat more liberal than heretofore. I have known many instauces where Catholics have been ADDRESS. ROCK NOTICES. The first number of this Gazette' for TIME, which terminates all The thirtieth chapter of my Private I am much obliged to T. T. of Dublin for having sent me the December number of the Church of Ireland Magazine.' That work has not, to my knowledge, yet reached London; and good reason why. Such intense dulness would here procure no readers. I can assure my corresponject of the editor's malignant abuse. dent that I feel happy in being the subHeaven forbid that ever I should deserve his praise! Next week, however, I will have a crow to pluck' with my old ac THE KING. It will be seen that I have dedicated the first volume of my Gazette to his Sacred Majesty. I could not do less, were it only for the golden snuff-box; but I had other reasons. His Majesty is a regular subscriber and takes a considerable interest in the work-a proof that he is a sincere friend to Ireland; and as my countrymen are unanimous in wishing him, for obvious reasons, a long life, I have determined to present them, with the next number, a beautiful engraved portrait of George IV. gratis. A forty-shilling freeholder will see that there is now no necessity for publishing his letter. Dr. Doyle has silenced the advocates of the Golden Wing; and it now appears that the Catholic deputation were willing to accept any terms from government, had their silly movements not been counteracted by the wisdom and firmness of the prelates. Ireland owes more than gratitude to Dr. Doyle-she owes to him and the other bishops, the independence of the Catholic church in Ireland. What will O'Connell say in answer to Dr. Doyle, who positively asserts that it was the bishops and the bishops only-who insisted that if the clergy were paid, they should be paid in a manner free from all government control? LONDON-J. Robins and Co. Ivy Lane, Paternoster Row; J. Robins, jun. and Co. 38, Lower Ormond Quay, Dublin and all Booksellers, &c. |