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diff --git a/16001-h/16001-h.htm b/16001-h/16001-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..46d0c6a --- /dev/null +++ b/16001-h/16001-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,20908 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html;charset=UTF-8" /> + <title> + Willy Reilly, by William Carleton + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd7; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Willy Reilly, by William Carleton + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Willy Reilly + The Works of William Carleton, Volume One + +Author: William Carleton + +Illustrator: M. L. Flanery + +Release Date: June 7, 2005 [EBook #16001] +Last Updated: March 1, 2018 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK WILLY REILLY *** + + + + +Produced by David Widger + + + + + +</pre> + + <h1> + WILLY REILLY + </h1> + <h2> + by William Carleton + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h3> + Illustrated by M. L. Flanery + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img alt="spines (42K)" src="images/spines.jpg" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img alt="frontispiece (128K)" src="images/frontispiece.jpg" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img alt="titlepage (57K)" src="images/titlepage.jpg" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <h2> + CONTENTS + </h2> + <p> + <a href="#link2H_PREF"> PREFACE </a> To The Second + Edition<br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I.</a> An + Adventure and an Escape. <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II.</a> <i>The + Cooleen Baum</i>. <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III.</a> Daring + Attempt of the Red Rapparee <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER + IV.</a> His Rival makes his Appearance, and its Consequences + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V.</a> The Plot + and the Victims. <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI.</a> The + Warning an Escape <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII.</a> An + Accidental Incident favorable to Reilly <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII.</a> A Conflagration An + Escape And an Adventure <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER + IX.</a> A Prospect of Bygone Times <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X.</a> Scenes that took place + in the Mountain Cave <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0012"> CHAPTER XI.</a> The + Squire's Dinner and his Guests. <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0013"> + CHAPTER XII.</a> Sir Robert Meets a Brother Sportsman <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XIII.</a> Reilly is Taken, + but Connived at by the Sheriff <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0012"> + CHAPTER XIV.</a> Reilly takes Service with Squire Folliard. + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XV.</a> More of + Whitecraft's Plots and Pranks <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0014"> + CHAPTER XVI.</a> Sir Robert ingeniously extricates Himself + out of difficulty <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XVII.</a> Awful + Conduct of Squire Folliard <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0019"> CHAPTER + XVIII.</a> Something not very Pleasant for all Parties. <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XIX.</a> Reilly's Disguise + Penetrated <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XX.</a> The + Rapparee Secured <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XXI.</a> Sir + Robert Accepts of an Invitation. <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0023"> + CHAPTER XXII.</a> The Squire Comforts Whitecraft in his + Affliction. <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XXIII.</a> The + Squire becomes Theological and a Proselytizer <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XXIV.</a> Jury of the Olden + Time <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXV.</a> Reilly + stands his Trial + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + List of Illustrations + </h2> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkimage-0001"> Page 11— Is It a Double Murder You Are + About to Execute? </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkimage-0002"> Page 18— Looked With Her Dark Eyes Upon + Reilly </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkimage-0003"> Page 28 (and Frontispiece)— You Must + Endeavor to Convert Him from Popery </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkimage-0004"> Page 29— Readjustment of his Toilet, at + the Large Mirror </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkimage-0005"> Page 35— Touch Me Not, Sir </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkimage-0006"> Page 65— Dashed up to the Scene of + Struggle </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkimage-0007"> Page 65a— I Entreat You, to Show These + Men Mercy Now </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkimage-0008"> Page 91— Here, Now, I Spread out My Arms—fire! + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkimage-0009"> Age 115— Isn't he a Nice Bit of Goods to + Run Away With A Pretty Girl? </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkimage-0010"> Page 140— Discharged a Pistol at Our Hero + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkimage-0011"> Page 143— No, Sir Robert, I Cannot Take + Your Hand </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkimage-0012"> Page 157— There is Not a Toss-up Between + Them </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkimage-0013"> Page 175— Give That Ring to the Prisoner + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkimage-0014"> Page 176— What, What is This? What Do You + Mean? </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkimage-0015"> Page 182— It is He! It Is He! </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkimage-0016"> Page 183— My Son! My Son! </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_PREF" id="link2H_PREF"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + PREFACE TO THE SECOND EDITION. + </h2> + <p> + I am agreeably called upon by my bookseller to prepare for a Second + Edition of “Willy Reilly.” This is at all times a pleasing call upon an + author; and it is so especially to me, inasmuch as the first Edition was + sold at the fashionable, but unreasonable, price of a guinea and a half—a + price which, in this age of cheap literature, is almost fatal to the sale + of any three-volume novel, no matter what may be its merits. With respect + to “Willy Reilly,” it may be necessary to say that I never wrote any work + of the same extent in so short a time, or with so much haste. Its + popularity, however, has been equal to that of any other of my + productions; and the reception which it has experienced from the ablest + public and professional critics of the day has far surpassed my + expectations. I accordingly take this opportunity of thanking them most + sincerely for the favorable verdict which they have generously passed upon + it, as I do for their kindness to my humble efforts for the last + twenty-eight years. Nothing, indeed, can be a greater encouragement to a + literary man, to a novel writer, in fact, than the reflection that he has + an honest and generous tribunal to encounter. If he be a quack or an + impostor, they will at once detect him; but if he exhibit human nature and + truthful character in his pages, it matters not whether he goes to his + bookseller's in a coach, or plods there humbly, and on foot; they will + forget everything but the value and merit of what he places before them. + On this account it is that I reverence and respect them; and indeed I + ought to do so, for I owe them the gratitude of a pretty long literary + life. + </p> + <p> + Concerning this Edition, I must say something. I have already stated that + it was written rapidly and in a hurry. On reading it over for correction, + I was struck in my cooler moments by many defects in it, which were, + kindly overlooked, or, perhaps, not noticed at all. To myself, however, + who had been brooding over this work for a long time, they at once became + obvious. I have accordingly added an underplot of affection between Fergus + Reilly—mentioned as a distant relative of my hero—and the <i>Cooleen + Bawn's</i> maid, Ellen Connor. In doing so, I have not disturbed a single + incident in the work; and the reader who may have perused the first + Edition, if he should ever—as is not unfrequently the case—peruse + this second one, will certainly wonder how the additions were made. That, + however, is the secret of the author, with which they have nothing to do + but to enjoy the book, if they can enjoy it. + </p> + <p> + With respect to the O'Reilly name and family, I have consulted my + distinguished' friend—and I am proud to call him so—John + O'Donovan, Esq., LL.D., M.R.I.A., who, with the greatest kindness, placed + the summary of the history of that celebrated family at my disposal. This + learned gentleman is an authority beyond all question. With respect to + Ireland—her language—her old laws—her history—her + antiquities—her archaeology—her topography, and the genealogy + of her families, he is a perfect miracle, as is his distinguished + fellow-laborer in the same field, Eugene Curry. Two such men—and, + including Dr. Petrie, three such men—Ireland never has produced, and + never can again—for this simple reason, that they will have left + nothing after them for their successors to accomplish. To Eugene Curry I + am indebted for the principal fact upon which my novel of the “Tithe + Proctor” was written—the able introduction to which was printed + verbatim from a manuscript with which he kindly furnished me. The + following is Dr. O'Donovan's clear and succinct history of the O'Reilly + family from the year 435 until the present time: + </p> + <p> + “The ancestors of the family of O'Reilly had been celebrated in Irish + history long before the establishment of surnames in Ireland. In the year + 435 their ancestor, Duach Galach, King of Connaught, was baptized by St. + Patrick on the banks of Loch Scola, and they had remained Christians of + the old Irish Church, which appears to have been peculiar in its mode of + tonsure, and of keeping Easter (and, since the twelfth century, firm + adherents to the religion of the Pope, till Dowell O'Reilly, Esq., the + father of the present head of the name, quarrelling with Father Dowling, + of Stradbally, turned Protestant, about the year 1800). + </p> + <p> + “The ancestor, after whom they took the family name, was Reillagh, who was + chief of his sect, and flourished about the year 981. + </p> + <p> + “From this period they are traced in the Irish Annals through a long line + of powerful chieftains of East Breifny (County Cavan), who succeeded each + other, according to the law of Tanistry, till the year 1585, when two + rival chieftians of the name, Sir John O'Reilly and Edmund O'Reilly, + appeared in Dublin, at the parliament summoned by Perrot. Previously to + this, John O'Reilly, finding his party weak, had repaired to England, in + 1583, to solicit Queen Elizabeth's interest, and had been kindly received + at Court, and invested with the order of Knighthood, and promised to be + made Earl, whereupon he returned home with letters from the Queen to the + Lord Deputy and Council of Ireland, instructing them to support him in his + claims. His uncle, Edmund, of Kilnacrott, would have succeeded Hugh + Connallagh O'Reilly, the father of Sir John, according to the Irish law of + Tanistry, but he was set aside by Elizabeth's government, and Sir John set + up as O'Reilly in his place. Sir John being settled in the chieftainship + of East Breifny, entered into certain articles of agreement with Sir John + Perrot, the Lord Deputy, and the Council of Ireland, whereby he agreed to + surrender the principality of East Breifny to the Queen, on condition of + obtaining it again from the crown <i>in capite</i> by English tenure, and + the same to be ratified to him and the heirs male of his body. In + consequence of this agreement, and with the intent of abolishing the + tanistic succession, he, on the last day of August, 1590, perfected a deed + of feofment, entailing thereby the seignory of Breifny (O'Reilly) on his + eldest son, Malmore (Myles), surnamed Alainn (the comely), afterwards + known as the Queen's O'Reilly. + </p> + <p> + “Notwithstanding these transactions, Sir John O'Reilly soon after joined + in the rebellion of Hugh, Earl of Tyrone, and died on the first of June, + 1596. After his death the Earl of Tyrone set up his second brother, + Philip, as the O'Reilly, and the government of Elizabeth supported the + claim of Sir John's son, Malmore, the comely, in opposition to Philip, and + Edmund of Kilnacrott. But Malmore, the Queen's O'Reilly, was slain by + Tyrone in the great battle of the Yellow Ford, near Benburb, on the 14th + of August, 1528, and the Irish of Ulster agreed to establish Edmund of + Kilnacrott, as the O'Reilly. + </p> + <p> + “The lineal descendants of Sir John passed into the French service, and + are now totally unknown, and probably extinct. The descendants of Edmund + of Kilnacrott have been far more prolific and more fortunate. His senior + representative is my worthy old friend Myles John O'Reilly, Esq., Heath + House, Emo, Queen's Co., and from him are also descended the O'Reillys of + Thomastown Castle, in the County of Louth, the Counts O'Reilly of Spain, + the O'Reillys of Beltrasna, in Westmeath, and the Reillys of Scarva House, + in the County of Down. + </p> + <p> + “Edmund of Kilnacrott had a son John who had a son Brian, by Mary, + daughter of the Baron of Dunsany, who had a famous son Malmore, commonly + called Myles the Slasher. This Myles was an able military leader during + the civil wars of 1641, and showed prodigies of valor during the years + 1641, 1642, and 1643; but, in 1644, being encamped at Granard, in the + County of Longford, with Lord Castlehaven, who ordered him to proceed with + a chosen detachment of horse to defend the bridge of Finea against the + Scots, then bearing down on the main army with a very superior force, + Myles was slain at the head of his troops, fighting bravely on the middle + of the bridge. Tradition adds, that during this action he encountered the + colonel of the Scots in single combat, who laid open his cheek with a blow + of his sword; but Myles, whose jaws were stronger than a smith's vice, + held fast the Scotchman's sword between his teeth till he cut him down, + but the main body of the Scots pressing upon him, he was left dead on the + bridge. + </p> + <p> + “This Myles the Slasher was the father of Colonel John O'Reilly, of + Ballymacadd, in the County Meath, who was elected Knight of the Shire for + the County of Cavan, in the parliament held at Dublin on the 7th of May, + 1689. He raised a regiment of dragoons, at his own expense, for the + service of James II., and assisted at the siege of Londonderry in 1689. He + had two engagements with Colonel Wolsley, the commander of the garrison of + Belturbet, whom he signally defeated. He fought at the battles of the + Boyne and Aughrim, and was included in the articles of capitulation of + Limerick, whereby he preserved his property, and was allowed to carry + arms. + </p> + <p> + “Of the eldest son of this Colonel John O'Reilly, who left issue, my + friend Myles J. O'Reilly, Esq., is now the senior representative. + </p> + <p> + “From Colonel John O'Reilly's youngest son, Thomas O'Reilly, of Beltrasna, + was descended Count Alexander O'Reilly, of Spain, who took Algiers! + immortalized by Byron. This Alexander was born near Oldcastle, in the + County Meath, in the year 1722. He was Generalissimo of his Catholic + Majesty's forces, and Inspector-General of the Infantry, etc., etc. In the + year 1786 he employed the Chevalier Thomas O'Gorman to compile for him a + history of the House of O'Reilly, for which he paid O'Gorman the sum of + £1,137 10.s., the original receipt for which I have in my possession. + </p> + <p> + “Prom this branch of the O'Reilly family was also descended the + illustrious Andrew Count O'Reilly, who died at Vienna in 1832, at the age + of 92. He was General of Cavalry in the Austrian service. This + distinguished man filled in succession all the military grades in the + Austrian service, with the exception of that of Field Marshal, and was + called by Napoleon '<i>le respectable General O'Reilly</i>.' + </p> + <p> + “The eldest son of Myles J. O'Reilly, Esq., is a young gentleman of great + promise and considerable fortune. His rencontre with Lord Clements (now + Earl of Leitrim) has been not long since prominently before the public, + and in a manner which does justice to our old party quarrels! Both are, + however, worthy of their high descent; and it is to be hoped that they + will soon become good friends, as they are boih young, and remarkable for + benevolence and love of fatherland.” + </p> + <p> + As this has been considered by some persons as a historical novel, + although I really never intended it as such, it may be necessary to give + the reader a more distinct notion of the period in which the incidents + recorded in it took place. The period then was about that of 1745, when + Lord Chesterfield was Governor-General of Ireland. This nobleman, though + an infidel, was a bigot, and a decided anti-Catholic; nor do I think that + the temporary relaxation of the penal laws against Catholics was anything + else than an apprehension on the part of England that the claims of the + Pretender might be supported by the Irish Catholics, who then, so + depressed and persecuted, must have naturally felt a strong interest in + having a prince who professed their own religion placed upon the English + throne. Strange as it may appear, however, and be the cause of it what it + may, the Catholics of Ireland, as a people and as a body, took no part + whatever in supporting him. Under Lord Chesterfield's administration, one + of the most shocking and unnatural Acts of Parliament ever conceived + passed into a law. This was the making void and null all intermarriages + between Catholic and Protestant that should take place after the 1st of + May, 1746. Such an Act was a renewal of the Statute of Kilkenny, and it + was a fortunate circumstance to Willy Reilly and his dear Cooleen Bawn + that he had the consolation of having been transported for seven years. + Had her father even given his consent at an earlier period, the laws of + the land would have rendered their marriage impossible. This cruel law, + however, was overlooked; for it need hardly be said that it was met and + spurned not only by human reason, but by human passion. In truth, the + strong and influential of both religions treated it with contempt, and + trampled on it without any dread of the consequences. By the time of his + return from transportation, it was merely a dead letter, disregarded and + scorned by both parties, and was no obstruction to either the marriage or + the happiness of himself and his dear <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>. + </p> + <p> + I know not that there is any thing else I can add to this preface, unless + the fact that I have heard several other ballads upon the subject of these + celebrated lovers—all of the same tendency, and all in the highest + praise of the beauty and virtues of the fair <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>. Their + utter vulgarity, however, precludes them from a place in these pages. And, + by the way, talking of the law which passed under the administration of + Lord Chesterfield against intermarriages, it is not improbable that the + elopement of Reilly and the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, in addition to the + execution of the man to whom I have given the name of Sir Robert + Whitecraft, may have introduced it in a spirit of reaction, not only + against the consequences of the elopement, but against the baronet's + ignominious death. Thus, in every point from which we can view it, the + fate of this celebrated couple involved not only popular feeling, but + national importance. + </p> + <p> + I have not been able to trace with any accuracy or satisfaction that + portion or branch of the O'Reilly family to which my hero belonged. The + dreary lapse of time, and his removal from the country, have been the + means of sweeping into oblivion every thing concerning him, with the + exception of his love for Miss Folliard, and its strange consequences. + Even tradition is silent upon that part of the subject, and I fear that + any attempt to throw light upon it must end only in disappointment. I have + reason to believe that the Counsellor Fox, who acted as his advocate, was + never himself raised to the bench; but that that honor was reserved for + his son, who was an active judge a little before the close of the last + century. + </p> + <p> + W. Carleton. + </p> + <p> + Dublin, December, 1856. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I.—An Adventure and an Escape. + </h2> + <p> + Spirit of George Prince Regent James, Esq., forgive me this commencement! + * + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * I mean no offence whatsoever to this distinguished and + multitudinous writer; but the commencement of this novel really + resembled that of so many of his that I was anxious to avoid the + charge of imitating him. +</pre> + <p> + It was one evening at the close of a September month and a September day + that two equestrians might be observed passing along one of those old and + lonely Irish roads that seemed, from the nature of its construction, to + have been paved by a society of antiquarians, if a person could judge from + its obsolete character, and the difficulty, without risk of neck or limb, + of riding a horse or driving a carriage along it. Ireland, as our English + readers ought to know, has always been a country teeming with abundance—a + happy land, in which want, destitution, sickness, and famine have never + been felt or known, except through the mendacious misrepresentations of + her enemies. The road we speak of was a proof of this; for it was evident + to every observer that, in some season of superabundant food, the people, + not knowing exactly how to dispose of their shilling loaves, took to + paving the common roads with them, rather than they should be utterly + useless. These loaves, in the course of time, underwent the process of + petrifaction, but could not, nevertheless, be looked upon as wholly lost + to the country. A great number of the Irish, within six of the last + preceding years—that is, from '46 to '52—took a peculiar fancy + for them as food, which, we presume, caused their enemies to say that we + then had hard times in Ireland. Be this as it may, it enabled the + sagacious epicures who lived upon them to retire, in due course, to the + delightful retreats of Skull and Skibbereen,* and similar asylums, there + to pass the very short remainder of their lives in health, ease, and + luxury. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * Two poor-houses in the most desolate parts of the County of + Cork, where famine, fever, dysentery, and cholera, rendered more + destructive by the crowded state of the houses and the consequent + want of ventilation, swept away the wretched in-mates to the + amount, if we recollect rightly, of sometimes from fifty to + seventy per diem in the years '45 and '47. +</pre> + <p> + The evening, as we have said, was about the close of September, when the + two equestrians we speak of were proceeding at a pace necessarily slow. + One of them was a bluff, fresh-complexioned man, of about sixty summers; + but although of a healthy look, and a frame that had evidently once been + vigorous, yet he was a good deal stooped, had about him all the impotence + of plethora, and his hair, which fell down his shoulders, was white as + snow. The other, who rode pretty close to him, was much about his own age, + or perhaps a few years older, if one could judge by a face that gave more + undeniable evidences of those furrows and wrinkles which Time usually + leaves behind him. This person did not ride exactly side by side with the + first-mentioned, but a little aback, though not so far as to prevent the + possibility of conversation. At this time it may be mentioned here that + every man that could afford it wore a wig, with the exception of some of + those eccentric individuals that are to be found in every state and period + of society, and who are remarkable for that peculiar love of singularity + which generally constitutes their character—a small and harmless + ambition, easily gratified, and involving no injury to their + fellow-creatures. The second horseman, therefore, wore a wig, but the + other, although he eschewed that ornament, if it can be called so, was by + no means a man of that mild and harmless character which we have + attributed to the eccentric and unfashionable class of whom we have just + spoken. So far from that, he was a man of an obstinate and violent temper, + of strong and unreflecting prejudices both for good and evil, hot, + persevering, and vindictive, though personally brave, intrepid, and often + generous. Like many of his class, he never troubled his head about + religion as a matter that must, and ought to have been, personally, of the + chiefest interest to himself, but, at the same time, he was looked upon as + one of the best and staunchest Protestants of the day. His loyalty and + devotedness to the throne of England were not only unquestionable, but + proverbial throughout the country; but, at the same time, he regarded no + clergyman, either of his own or any other creed, as a man whose intimacy + was worth preserving, unless he was able to take off his three or four + bottles of claret after dinner. In fact, not to keep our readers longer in + suspense, the relation which he and his companion bore to each other was + that of master and servant. + </p> + <p> + The hour was now a little past twilight, and the western sky presented an + unusual, if not an ominous, appearance. A sharp and melancholy breeze was + abroad, and the sun, which had set among a mass of red clouds, half + placid, and half angry in appearance, had for some brief space gone down. + Over from the north, however, glided by imperceptible degrees a long black + bar, right across the place of his disappearance, and nothing could be + more striking than the wild and unnatural contrast between the dying + crimson of the west and this fearful mass of impenetrable darkness that + came over it. As yet there was no moon, and the portion of light or rather + “darkness visible” that feebly appeared on the sky and the landscape, was + singularly sombre and impressive, if not actually appalling. The scene + about them was wild and desolate in the extreme; and as the faint outlines + of the bleak and barren moors appeared in the dim and melancholy distance, + the feelings they inspired were those of discomfort and depression. On + each side of them were a variety of lonely lakes, abrupt precipices, and + extensive marshes; and as our travellers went along, the hum of the snipe, + the feeble but mournful cry of the plover, and the wilder and more + piercing whistle of the curlew, still deepened the melancholy dreariness + of their situation, and added to their anxiety to press on towards the + place of their destination. + </p> + <p> + “This is a very lonely spot, your honor,” said his servant, whose name was + Andrew, or, as he was more familiarly called, Andy Cummiskey. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but it's the safer, Andy,” replied his master. “There is not a human + habitation within miles of us.” + </p> + <p> + “It doesn't follow, sir, that this place, above all others in the + neighborhood, is not, especially at this hour, without some persons about + it. You know I'm no coward, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “What, you scoundrel! and do you mean to hint that I'm one?” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all, sir; but you see the truth is, that, this being the very hour + for duck and wild-fowl shootin', it's hard to say where or when a fellow + might start up, and mistake me for a wild duck, and your honor for a + curlew or a bittern.” + </p> + <p> + He had no sooner spoken than the breeze started, as it were, into more + vigorous life, and ere the space of many minutes a dark impenetrable mist + or fog was borne over from the solitary hills across the dreary level of + country through which they passed, and they felt themselves suddenly + chilled, whilst a darkness, almost palpable, nearly concealed them from + each other. Now the roads which we have described, being almost without + exception in remote and unfrequented parts of the country, are for the + most part covered over with a thick sole of close grass, unless where a + narrow strip in the centre shows that a pathway is kept worn, and + distinctly marked by the tread of foot-passengers. Under all these + circumstances, then, our readers need not feel surprised that, owing at + once to the impenetrable obscurity around them, and the noiseless nature + of the antique and grass-covered pavement over which they went, scarcely a + distance of two hundred yards had been gained when they found, to their + dismay,' that they had lost their path, and were in one of the wild and + heathy stretches of unbounded moor by which they were surrounded. + </p> + <p> + “We have lost our way, Andy,” observed his master. “We've got off that + damned old path; what's to be done? where are you?” + </p> + <p> + “I'm here, sir,” replied his man; “but as for what's to be done, it would + take Mayo Mullen, that sees the fairies and tells fortunes, to tell us + that. For heaven's sake, stay where you are, sir, till I get up to you, + for if we part from one another, we're both lost. Where are you, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Curse you, sirra,” replied his master angrily, “is this either a time or + place to jest in? A man that would make a jest in such a situation as this + would dance on his father's tombstone.” + </p> + <p> + “By my soul, sir, and I'd give a five-pound note, if I had it, that you + and I were dancing 'Jig Polthogue' on it this minute. But, in the mane + time, the devil a one o' me sees the joke your honor speaks of.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, then, do you ask me where I am, when you know I'm astray, that we're + both astray, you snivelling old whelp? By the great and good King William, + I'll be lost, Andy!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, and even if you are, sir,” replied Andy, who, guided by his voice, + had now approached and joined him; “even if you are, sir, I trust you'll + bear it like a Christian and a Trojan.” + </p> + <p> + “Get out, you old sniveller—what do you mean by a Trojan?” + </p> + <p> + “A Trojan, sir, I was tould, is a man that lives by sellin' wild-fowl. + They take an oath, sir, before they begin the trade, never to die until + they can't help it.” + </p> + <p> + “You mean to say, or to hint at least, that in addition to our other + dangers we run the risk of coming in contact with poachers?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, sir, if I don't mistake they're out to-night. However, don't + let us alarm one another. God forbid that I'd say a single word to + frighten you; but still, you know yourself that there's many a man not a + hundred miles from us that 'ud be glad to mistake you for a target, a + mallard, or any other wild-fowl or that description.” + </p> + <p> + “In the meantime we are both well armed,” replied his master; “but what I + fear most is the risk we run of falling down precipices, or walking into + lakes or quagmires. What's to be done? This fog is so cursedly cold that + it has chilled my very blood into ice.” + </p> + <p> + “Our best plan, sir, is to dismount, and keep ourselves warm by taking a + pleasant stroll across the country. The horses will take care of + themselves. In the meantime keep up your spirits—we'll both want + something to console us; but this I can tell you, that devil a bit of + tombstone ever will go over either of us, barrin' the sky in heaven; and + for our coffins, let us pray to the coffin-maker, bekaise, you see, it's + the <i>maddhu ruah</i> * (the foxes), and ravens, and other civilized + animals that will coffin us both by instalments in their hungry guts, + until our bones will be beautiful to look at—afther about six + months' bleaching—and a sharp eye 'twould be that 'ud know the + difference between masther and man then, I think.” + </p> + <p> + We omitted to say that a piercing and most severe hoar frost had set in + with the fog, and that Cummiskey's master felt the immediate necessity of + dismounting, and walking about, in order to preserve some degree of animal + heat in his body. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot bear this, Andy,” said he, “and these two gallant animals will + never recover it after the severe day's hunting they've had. Poor Fiddler + and Piper,” he exclaimed, “this has proved a melancholy day to you both. + What is to be done, Andy? I am scarcely able to stand, and feel as if my + strength had utterly left me.” + </p> + <p> + “What, sir,” replied his servant, who was certainly deeply attached to his + master, “is it so bad with you as all that comes to? Sure I only thought + to amuse you, sir. Come, take courage; I'll whistle, and maybe somebody + will come to our relief.” + </p> + <p> + He accordingly put his two fingers into his mouth, and uttered a loud and + piercing whistle, after which both stood still for a time, but no reply + was given. + </p> + <p> + “Stop, sir,” proceeded Andrew; “I'll give them another touch that'll make + them spake, if there's any one near enough to hear us.” + </p> + <p> + He once more repeated the whistle, but with two or three peculiar shakes + or variations, when almost instantly one of a similar character was given + in reply. + </p> + <p> + “Thank God,” he exclaimed, “be they friends or foes, we have human + creatures not far from us. Take courage, sir. How do you feel?” + </p> + <p> + “Frozen and chilled almost to death,” replied his master; “I'll give fifty + pounds to any man or party of men that will conduct us safely home.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope in the Almighty,” said Andrew to himself in an anxious and + apprehensive tone of voice, “that it's not Parrah Ruah (Red Patrick), the + red Rapparee, that's in it, and I'm afeered it is, for I think I know his + whistle. There's not a man in the three baronies could give such a whistle + as that, barring himself. If it is, the masther's a gone man, and I'll not + be left behind to tell the story, God protect us! + </p> + <p> + “What are you saying, Andy?” asked his master: “What were you muttering + just now?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, sir, nothing; but there can be no harm, at all events, to look + to our pistols. If there should be danger, let us sell our lives like + men.” + </p> + <p> + “And so we will, Andy. The country I know is in a disturbed and lawless + state, and ever since that unfortunate affair of the priest, I know I am + not popular with a great many. I hope we won't come across his Rapparee + nephew.” + </p> + <p> + “Whether we do or not, sir, let us look to our firearms. Show me yours + till I settle the powdher in them. Why, God bless me, how you are + tremblin'.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not from fear, sir,” replied the intrepid old man, “but from cold. + If any thing should happen me, Andy, let my daughter know that my will is + in the oaken cabinet; that is to say, the last I made. She is my heiress—but + that she is by the laws of the land. However, as I had disposed of some + personal property to other persons, which disposition I have revoked in + the will I speak of—my last, as I said—I wish you to let her + know where she may find it. Her mother's jewels are also in the same place—but + they, too, are hers by right of law—her mother bequeathed them to + her.” + </p> + <p> + “All! sir, you are right to remember and think well of that daughter. She + has been a guardian angel to you these five years. But why, sir, do you + give me this message? Do you think I won't sell my life in defence of + yours? If you do you're mistaken.” + </p> + <p> + “I believe it, Andrew; I believe it, Andy,” said he again, familiarizing + the word; “but if this red Rapparee should murder me, I don't, wish you to + sacrifice your life on my account. Make your escape if he should be the + person who is approaching us, and convey to my daughter the message I have + given you.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment another whistle proceeded from a quarter of the moor much + nearer them, and Andy, having handed back the pistols to his master, asked + him should he return it. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly,” replied the other, who during all this time was pacing to and + fro, in order to keep himself from sinking; “certainly, let us see whether + these persons are friends or enemies.” + </p> + <p> + His servant then replied to the whistle, and in a few minutes it was + answered again, whilst at the same time a strong but bitter wind arose + which cleared away the mist, and showed them with considerable + distinctness the position which they occupied. + </p> + <p> + Within about ten yards of them, to the left, the very direction in which + they had been proceeding, was a small deep lake' or tarn, utterly + shoreless, and into which they unquestionably would have walked and + perished, as neither of them knew how to swim. The clearing away of the + mist, and the light of the stars (for the moon had not yet risen), enabled + the parties to see each other, and in a few minutes Andrew and his master + were joined by four men, the principal person among them being the + identical individual whom they both had dreaded—the Red Rapparee. + </p> + <p> + “Master,” said Cummiskey, in a whisper, on seeing them approach, “we must + fight for it, I'm afeered, but let us not be rash; there may be a friend + or two among them, and it is better to come off peaceably if we can.” + </p> + <p> + “I agree with you,” replied his master. “There is no use in shedding + unnecessary blood; but, in any event, let us not permit them to disarm us, + should they insist on doing so. They know I never go three yards from my + hall-door without arms, and it is not improbable they may make a point of + taking them from us. I, however, for one, will not trust to their + promises, for I know their treachery, as I do their cowardice, when their + numbers are but few, and an armed opponent or two before them, determined + to give battle. Stand, therefore, by me, Andy, and, by King William, + should they have re-course to violence, we shall let them see, and feel + too, that we are not unprepared.” + </p> + <p> + “I have but one life, sir,” replied his faithful follower; “it was spent—at + least its best days were—in your service, and sooner than any danger + should come to you, it will be lost in your defence. If it was only for + the sake of her, that is not here, the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, I would do + it.” + </p> + <p> + “Who goes there?” asked a deep and powerful voice when the parties had + come within about twenty yards of each other. + </p> + <p> + “By the powers!” exclaimed Andrew in a whisper, “it's himself the Red + Rapparee!” + </p> + <p> + “We are friends,” he replied, “and have lost our way.” + </p> + <p> + The other party approached, and, on joining our travellers, the Rapparee + started, exclaiming, “What, noble Squire, is it possible that this is you? + Hut! it can't be—let me look at you closer, till I make sure of + you.” + </p> + <p> + “Keep your distance, sir,” replied the old man with courage and dignity; + “keep your distance; you see that I and my servant are both well armed, + and determined to defend ourselves against violence.” + </p> + <p> + An ominous and ferocious glance passed from the Rapparee to his comrades, + who, however, said nothing, but seemed to be resolved to guide themselves + altogether by his conduct. The Red Rapparee was a huge man of about forty, + and the epithet of “Red” had been given to him in consequence of the color + of his hair. In expression his countenance was by no means unhandsome, + being florid and symmetrical, but hard, and with scarcely any trace of + feeling. His brows were far asunder, arguing ingenuity and invention, but + his eyes, which were small and treacherous, glared—whenever he + became excited—with the ferocity of an enraged tiger. His shoulders + were broad, his chest deep and square, his arms long and powerful, but his + lower limbs were somewhat light in proportion to the great size of his + upper figure. This, however, is generally the case when a man combines in + his own person the united qualities of activity and strength. Even at the + period we are describing, when this once celebrated character was forty + years of age, it was well known that in fleetness of foot there was no man + in the province able to compete with him. In athletic exercises that + required strength and skill he never had a rival, but one—with whom + the reader will soon be made acquainted. He was wrapped loosely in a gray + frieze big-coat, or <i>cothamore</i>, as it is called in Irish—wore + a hat of two colors, and so pliant in texture that he could at any time + turn it inside out. His coat was—as indeed were all his clothes—made + upon the time principle, so that when hard pressed by the authorities he + could in a minute or two transmute himself into the appearance of a nun + very different from the individual described to them. Indeed he was such a + perfect Proteus that no vigilance of the Executive was ever a match for + his versatility of appearance, swiftness of foot, and caution. These + frequent defeats of the authorities of that day made him extremely popular + with the people, who were always ready to afford him shelter and means of + concealment, in return for which he assisted them with food, money, and + the spoils of his predatory life. This, indeed, was the sagacious + principle of the Irish Robbers and Rapparees from the beginning to <i>rob + from the rich and give to the poor</i> being their motto. + </p> + <p> + The persons who accompanied him on this occasion were three of his own + gang, who usually constituted his body-guard, and acted as videttes, + either for his protection or for the purpose of bringing him information + of such travellers as from their known wealth or external appearance might + be supposed worth attacking. They were well-made, active, and athletic + men, in whom it would not be easy to recognise any particular character at + variance with that of the peasantry around them. It is unnecessary to say + that they were all armed. Having satisfied himself as to the identity of + master and man, with a glance at his companions, the Rapparee said, + </p> + <p> + “What on earth brought you and Andy Cummiskey here, noble squire? Oh! you + lost your way Andy says. Well now,” he proceeded, “you know I have been + many a day and night on the lookout for you; aye, could have put daylight + through you many and many a time; and what do you think prevented me?” + </p> + <p> + “Fear of God, or of the gallows, I hope,” replied the intrepid old man. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” returned the Rapparee, with a smile of scorn, “I'm not a man—as + I suppose you may know—that ever feared either of them much—God + forgive me for the one, I don't ask his forgiveness for the other. No, + Squire Folliard, it was the goodness, the kindness, the generosity, and + the charity of the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, your lovely daughter, that held my + hand. You persecuted my old uncle, the priest, and you would a' hanged him + too, for merely marryin' a Protestant and a Catholic together. Well, sir, + your fair daughter, and her good mother—that's now in heaven, I hope—went + up to Dublin to the Lord Lieutenant, and before him the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, + went on her two knees and begged my uncle's life, and got it; for the Lord + Lieutenant said that no one could deny her any thing. Now, sir, for her + sake, go home in peace. Boys, get their horses.” + </p> + <p> + Andy Cummiskey would have looked upon all this as manly and generous, but + he could not help observing a particular and rather sinister meaning in + the look which the Rapparee turned on his companions as he spoke. He had + often heard, too, of his treacherous disposition and his unrelenting + cruelty whenever he entertained a feeling of vengeance. In his present + position, however, all he could do was to stand on his guard; and with + this impression strong upon him he resolved to put no confidence in the + words of the Rapparee. In a few minutes the horses were brought up, and + Randy (Randall) Ruah having wiped Mr. Folliard's saddle—for such was + his name—with the skirt of his <i>cothamore</i>, and removed the + hoar frost or rime which had gathered on it, he brought the animal over to + him, and said, with a kind of rude courtesy, + </p> + <p> + “Come, sir, trust me; I will help you to your saddle.” + </p> + <p> + “You have not the reputation of being trustworthy,” replied Mr. Folliard; + “keep back, sir, at your peril; I will not trust you. My own servant will + assist me.” + </p> + <p> + This seemed precisely the arrangement which the Rapparee and his men had + contemplated. The squire, in mounting, was obliged, as every man is, to + use both his hands, as was his servant also, while assisting him. They + consequently put up their pistols until they should get into the saddles, + and, almost in an instant, found themselves disarmed, and prisoners in the + hands of these lawless and unscrupulous men. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Squire Folliard,” exclaimed the Rapparee, “see what it is not to + trust an honest man; had you done so, not a hair of your head would be + injured. As it is, I'll give you five minutes to do three things; remember + my uncle, the priest, that you transported.” + </p> + <p> + “He acted most illegally, sir,” replied the old man indignantly; “and, in + my opinion, I say that, in consequence of his conduct, the country had a + good riddance of him. I only wish I could send you after him; perhaps I + shall do so yet. I believe in Providence, sirra, and that God can protect + me from your violence even here.” + </p> + <p> + “In the next place,” proceeded the Rapparee, “think of your daughter, that + you will never see again, either in this world or the next.” + </p> + <p> + “I know I am unworthy of having such an angel,” replied the old man, “but + unless you were a cruel and a heartless ruffian, you would not at this + moment mention her, or bring the thoughts of her to my recollection.” + </p> + <p> + “In the last place,” continued the other, “if you have any thing to say in + the shape of a prayer, say it, for in five minutes' time there will be a + bullet through your heart, and in five more you will be snug and warm at + the bottom of the loch there below—that's your doom.” + </p> + <p> + “O'Donnel,” said Andy, “think that there's a God above you. Surely you + wouldn't murdher this ould man and make the sowl within your body redder—if + the thing's possible—than the head that's on the top of it, though + in throth I don't think it's by way of ornament it's there either. Come, + come, Randal, my man, this is all <i>feastalagh</i> (nonsense). You only + want to frighten the gentleman. As for your uncle, man alive, all I can + say is that he was a friend to your family, and to religion too, that sent + him on his travels.” + </p> + <p> + “Take off your gallowses” (braces)! said the Rapparee; “take them off, a + couple of you—for, by all the powers of darkness, they'll both go to + the bottom of the loch together, back to back. Down you'll go, Andy.” + </p> + <p> + “By my soul, then,” replied the unflinching servant, “if we go down you'll + go up; and we have those belongin' to us that will see you kiss the + hangman yet. Yerra, now, above all words in the alphabet what could put a + gallows into your mouth? Faith, Randal, it's about your neck it'll go, and + you'll put out your tongue at the daicent people that will attend your own + funeral yet—that is, if you don't let us off.” + </p> + <p> + “Put them both to their knees,” said the Rapparee in a voice of thunder, + “to their knees with them. I'll take the masther, and, Kineely, do you + take the man.” + </p> + <p> + The companions of the Rapparee could not avoid laughing at the comic + courage displayed by Cummiskey, and were about to intercede for him, when + O'Donnel, which was his name, stamped with fury on the ground and asked + them if they dared to disobey him. This sobered them at once, and in less + than a minute Mr. Folliard and Andy were placed upon their knees, to await + the terrific sentence which was about to be executed on them, in that wild + and lonely moor, and under such appalling circumstances. When placed in + the desired posture, to ask that mercy from God which they were not about + to experience at the hands of man, Squire Folliard spoke: + </p> + <p> + “Red Rapparee,” said he, “it is not that I am afraid of death as such, but + I feel that I am not prepared to die. Suffer my servant and myself to go + home without harm, and I shall engage not only to get you a pardon from + the Government of the country, but I shall furnish you with money either + to take you to some useful calling, or to emigrate to some foreign + country, where nobody will know of your misdeeds, or the life you have led + here.” + </p> + <p> + “Randal, my man,” added Andy, “listen to what the gentleman says, and you + may escape what you know yet. As for my master, Randal, let him pass, and + take me in his place. I may as well die now, maybe, as another time. I was + an honest, faithful servant, at all times. I have neither chick nor child + to cry for me. No wife, thank God, to break my heart afther. My conscience + is light and airy, like a beggarmans blanket, as they say; and, barrin' + that I once got drunk wid your uncle in Moll Flanagan's sheebeen house, I + don't know that I have much to trouble me. Spare <i>him</i>, then, and + take <i>me</i>, if it must come to that. He has the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> to + think for. Do you think of her, too; and remember that it was she who + saved your uncle from the gallows.” + </p> + <p> + This unlucky allusion only deepened the vengeance of the Red Rapparee, who + looked to the priming of his gun, and was in the act of preparing to + perpetrate this most in-human and awful murder, when all interruption took + place for which neither party was prepared. + </p> + <p> + Now, it so happened that within about eight or ten yards of where they + stood there existed the walls and a portion of the arched roof of one of + those old ecclesiastical ruins, which our antiquarians denominate + Cyclopean, like <i>lucus a non lucendo</i>, because scarcely a dozen men + could kneel in them. Over this sad ruin was what sportsmen term “a pass” + for duck and widgeon, and, aided by the shelter of the building, any + persons who stationed themselves there could certainly commit great havoc + among the wild-fowl in question. The Red Rapparee then had his gun in his + hand, and was in the very act of adjusting it to his shoulder, when a + powerful young man sprung forward, and dashing it aside, exclaimed: + </p> + <p> + “What is this, Randal? Is it a double murder you are about to execute, you + inhuman ruffian?” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0001" id="linkimage-0001"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img src="images/page011.jpg" + alt="Page 11-- is It a Double Murder You Are About to Execute? " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + The Rapparee glared at him, but with a quailing and subdued, yet sullen + and vindictive, expression. + </p> + <p> + “Stand up, sir,” proceeded this daring and animated young man, addressing + Mr. Folliard; “and you, Cummiskey, get to your legs. No person shall dare + to injure either of you while I am here. O'Donnel—stain and disgrace + to a noble name—begone, you and your ruffians. I know the cause of + your enmity against this gentleman; and I tell you now, that if you were + as ready to sustain your religion as you are to disgrace it by your + conduct, you would not become a curse to it and the country, nor give + promise of feeding a hungry gallows some day, as you and your accomplices + will do.” + </p> + <p> + Whilst the young stranger addressed these miscreants with such energy and + determination, Mr. Folliard, who, as well as his servant, had now got to + his legs, asked the latter in a whisper who he was. + </p> + <p> + “By all that's happy, sir,” he replied, “it's himself, the only man living + that the Red Rapparee is afraid of; it's 'Willy Reilly.'” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. <i>The Cooleen Baum</i>. + </h2> + <p> + The old man became very little wiser by the information of his servant, + and said in reply, “I hope, Andy, he's not a Papist;” but checking the + unworthy prejudice—and in him such prejudices were singularly strong + in words, although often feeble in fact he added, “it matters not—we + owe our lives to him—the deepest and most important obligation that + one man can owe to another. I am, however, scarcely able to stand; I feel + be-numbed and exhausted, and wish to get home as soon as possible.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Reilly,” said Andy, “this gentleman is very weak and ill; and as you + have acted so much like a brave man and a gentleman, maybe you'd have no + objection to see us safe home.” + </p> + <p> + “It is my intention to do so,” replied Reilly. “I could not for a moment + think of leaving either him or you to the mercy of this treacherous man, + who dishonors a noble name. Randal,” he proceeded, addressing the + Rapparee, “mark my words!—if but a single hair of this gentleman's + head, or of any one belonging to him, is ever injured by you or your gang, + I swear that you and they will swing, each of you, from as many gibbets, + as soon as the course of the law can reach you. You know me, sir, and my + influence over those who protect you. As for you, Fergus,” he added, + addressing one of the Rapparee's followers, “you are, thank God! the only + one of my blood who has ever disgraced it by leading such a lawless and + guilty life. Be advised by me—leave that man of treachery,rapine, + and murder—abandon him and re-form your life—and if you are + disposed to become a good and an industrious member of society, go to some + other country, where the disgrace you have incurred in this may not follow + you. Be advised by me, and you shall not want the means of emigrating. Now + begone; and think, each of you, of what I have said.” + </p> + <p> + The Rapparee glanced at the noble-looking young fellow with the vindictive + ferocity of an enraged bull, who feels a disposition to injure you, but is + restrained by terror; or, which is quite as appropriate, a cowardly but + vindictive mastiff, who eyes you askance, growls, shows his teeth, but has + not the courage to attack you. + </p> + <p> + “Do not look at me so, sir,” said Reilly; “you know I fear you not.” + </p> + <p> + “But the meantime,” replied the Rapparee, “what's to prevent me from + putting a bullet into you this moment, if I wish to do it?” + </p> + <p> + “There are ten thousand reasons against it,” returned Reilly. “If you did + so, in less than twenty-four hours you would find yourself in Sligo jail—or, + to come nearer the truth, in less than five minutes you would find + yourself in hell.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, now, suppose I should make the trial,” said the Rapparee. “You + don't know, Mr. Reilly, how you have crossed me to-night. Suppose now I + should try—and suppose, too, that not one of you three should leave + the spot you stand on only as corpses—wouldn't I have the advantage + of you then?” + </p> + <p> + Reilly turned towards the ruined chapel, and simply raising his right + hand, about eight or ten persons made their appearance; but, restrained by + signal from him, they did not advance. + </p> + <p> + “That will do,” said he. “Now, Randal, I hope you understand your + position. Do not provoke me again; for if you do I will surround you with + toils from which you could as soon change your fierce and brutal nature as + escape. Yes, and I will take you in the midst of your ruffian guards, and + in the deepest of your fastnesses, if ever you provoke me as you have done + on other occasions, or if you ever injure this gentleman or any individual + of his family. Come, sir,” he proceeded, addressing the old man, “you are + now mounted—my horse is in this old ruin—and in a moment I + shall be ready to accompany you.” + </p> + <p> + Reilly and his companions joined our travellers, one of the former having + offered the old squire a large frieze great-coat, which he gladly + accepted, and having thus formed a guard of safety for him and his + faithful attendant, they regained the old road we I have described, and + resumed their journey. + </p> + <p> + When they had gone, the Rapparee and his companions looked after them with + blank faces for some minutes. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said their leader, “Reilly has knocked up our game for this night. + Only for him I'd have had a full and sweet revenge. However, never mind: + it'll go hard with me, or I'll have it yet. In the mane time it won't be + often that such another opportunity will come in our way.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, now that it is over, what was your intention, Randal?” asked the + person to whom Reilly had addressed himself. + </p> + <p> + “Why,” replied the miscreant, “after the deed was done, what was to + prevent us from robbing the house to-night, and taking away his daughter + to the mountains. I have long had my eye on her, I can tell you, and it'll + cost me a fall, or I'll have her yet.” + </p> + <p> + “You had better,” replied Fergus Reilly, for such was his name, “neither + make nor meddle with that family afther this night. If you do, that + terrible relation of mine will hang you like a dog.” + </p> + <p> + “How will he hang me like a dog?” asked the Rapparee, knitting his shaggy + eyebrows, and turning upon him a fierce and gloomy look. + </p> + <p> + “Why, now, Randal, you know as well as I do,” replied the other, “that if + he only raised his finger against you in the country, the very people that + harbor both you and us would betray us, aye, seize us, and bind us hand + and foot, like common thieves, and give us over to the authorities. But as + for himself, I believe you have sense enough to let him alone. When you + took away Mary Traynor, and nearly kilt her brother, the young priest—you + know they were Reilly's tenants—I needn't tell you what happened: in + four hours' time he had the country up, followed you and your party—I + wasn't with you then, but you know it's truth I'm spakin'—and when + he had five to one against you, didn't he make them stand aside until he + and you should decide it between you? Aye, and you know he could a' + brought home every man of you tied neck and heels, and would, too, only + that there was a large reward offered for the takin' of you livin' or + dead, and he scorned to have any hand in it on that account.” + </p> + <p> + “It was by a chance blow he hit me,” said the Rapparee—“by a chance + blow.” + </p> + <p> + “By a couple dozen chance blows,” replied the other; “you know he knocked + you down as fast as ever you got up—I lave it to the boys here that + wor present.” + </p> + <p> + “There's no use in denyin' it, Randal,” they replied; “you hadn't a chance + wid him.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, at all events,” observed the Rapparee, “if he did beat me, he's the + only man in the country able to do it; but it's not over, curse him—Ill + have another trial with him yet.” + </p> + <p> + “If you take my advice,” replied Reilly, “you'll neither make nor meddle + with him. He's the head o' the Catholics in this part of the country, and + you know that; aye, and he's their friend, and uses the friendship that + the Protestants have towards him for their advantage, wherever he can. The + man that would injure Willy Reilly is an enemy to our religion, as well as + to every thing that's good and generous; and mark me, Randal, if ever you + cross him in what he warned you against this very night, I'll hang you + myself, if there wasn't another livin' man to do it, and to the back o' + that again I say you must shed no blood so long as I am with you.” + </p> + <p> + “That won't be long, then,” replied the Rapparee, pulling out a purse; + “there's twenty guineas for you, and go about your business; but take + care, no treachery.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” replied the other, “I'll have none of your money; there's blood in + it. God forgive me for ever joinin' you. When I want money I can get it; + as for treachery, there's none of it in my veins; good-night, and remember + my words.” + </p> + <p> + Having thus spoken, he took his way along the same road by which the old + squire and his party went. + </p> + <p> + “That fellow will betray us,” said the Rapparee. + </p> + <p> + “No,” replied his companions firmly, “there never was treachery in his + part of the family; he is not come from any of the Queen's O'Reillys.* We + wish you were as sure of every man you have as you may be of him.” + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * Catholic families who were faithful and loyal to Queen + Elizabeth during her wars in Ireland were stigmatized by the + nickname of the Queen's friends, to distinguish them from + others of the same name who had opposed her, on behalf of + their religion, in the wars which desolated Ireland during + her reign; a portion of the family of which we write were on + this account designated as the Queen's O'Reillys. +</pre> + <p> + “Well, now,” observed their leader, “a thought strikes me; this ould + squire will be half dead all night. At any rate he'll sleep like a top. + Wouldn't it be a good opportunity to attack the house—aise him of + his money, for he's as rich as a Jew—and take away the <i>Colleen + Bawn</i>? We'll call at Shane Bearna's** stables on our way and bring the + other boys along wid us. What do you say?” + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ** Shane Bearna was a celebrated Rapparee, who, among his + other exploits, figured principally as a horse-stealer. He + kept the stolen animals concealed in remote mountain caves, + where he trimmed and dyed them in such a way as made it + impossible to recognize them. These caves are curiosities at + the present day, and are now known as Shane Bearna's + Stables. He was a chief in the formidable gang of the + celebrated Redmond O'Manion. It is said of him that he was + called Bearna because he never had any teeth; but tradition + tells us that he could, notwithstanding, bite a piece out of + a thin plate of iron with as much ease as if it were + gingerbread. +</pre> + <p> + “Why, that you'll hang yourself, and every man of us.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense, you cowardly dogs,” replied their leader indignantly; “can't we + lave the country?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, if you're bent on it,” replied his followers, “we won't be your + hindrance.” + </p> + <p> + “We can break up, and be off to America,” he added. + </p> + <p> + “But what will you do with the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, if you take her?” they + asked. + </p> + <p> + “Why, lave her behind us, afther showin' the party creature the inside of + Shane Bearea's stables. She'll be able to find her way back to her + father's, never fear. Come, boys, now or never. To say the truth, the + sooner we get out of the country, at all events, the better.” + </p> + <p> + The Rapparee and his men had moved up to the door of the old chapel + already alluded to, whilst this conversation went on; and now that their + dreadful project had been determined on, they took a short cut across the + moors, in order to procure additional assistance for its accomplishment. + </p> + <p> + No sooner had they gone, however, than an individual, who had been + concealed in the darkness within, came stealthily to the door, and peeping + cautiously out, at length advanced a few steps and looked timidly about + him. Perceiving that the coast was clear, he placed himself under the + shadow of the old walls—for there was now sufficient light to cast a + shadow from any prominent object; and from thence having observed the + direction which the Rapparee and his men took, without any risk of being + seen himself, he appeared satisfied. The name of this individual—who, + although shrewd and cunning in many things, was nevertheless deficient in + reason—or rather the name by which he generally went, was Tom + Steeple, a <i>sobriquet</i> given to him on account of a predominant idea + which characterized and influenced his whole conversation. The great + delight of this poor creature was to be considered the tallest individual + in the kingdom, and indeed nothing could be more amusing than to witness + the manner in which he held up his head while he walked, or sat, or stood. + In fact his walk was a complete strut, to which the pride, arising from + the consciousness of, or rather the belief in, his extraordinary height + gave an extremely ludicrous appearance. Poor Tom was about five feet nine + in height, but imagined himself to be at least a foot higher. His whole + family were certainly tall, and one of the greatest calamities of the poor + fellow's life was a bitter reflection that he himself was by several + inches the lowest of his race. This was the only exception he made with + respect to height, but so deeply did it affect him that he could scarcely + ever allude to it without shedding tears. The life he had was similar in + most respects to that of his unhappy class. He wandered about through the + country, stopping now at one farmer's house, and now at another's, where + he always experienced a kind reception, because he was not only amusing + and inoffensive, but capable of making himself useful as a messenger and + drudge. He was never guilty of a dishonest act, nor ever known to commit a + breach of trust; and as a quick messenger, his extraordinary speed of foot + rendered him unrivalled. His great delight, however, was to attend + sportsmen, to whom he was invaluable as a guide and director. Such was his + wind and speed of foot that, aided by his knowledge of what is termed the + lie of the country, he was able to keep up with any pack of hounds that + ever went out. As a <i>soho</i> man he was unrivalled. The form of every + hare for miles about was known to him, and if a fox or a covey of + partridges were to be found at all, he was your man. In wild-fowl shooting + he was infallible. No pass of duck, widgeon, barnacle, or curlew, was + unknown to him. In fact, his principal delight was to attend the gentry of + the country to the field, either with harrier, foxhound, or setter. No + coursing match went right if Torn were not present; and as for night + shooting, his eye and ear were such as, for accuracy of observation, few + have ever witnessed. It is true he could subsist a long time without food, + but, like the renowned Captain Dalgetty, when an abundance of it happened + to be placed before him, he displayed the most indefensible ignorance as + to all knowledge of the period when he ought to stop, considering it his + bounden duty on all occasions to clear off whatever was set before him—a + feat which he always accomplished with the most signal success. + </p> + <p> + “Aha” exclaimed Tom, “dat Red Rapparee is tall man, but not tall as Tom; + him no steeple like Tom; but him rogue and murderer, an' Tom honest; him + won't carry off <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> dough, nor rob her fader avder. Come, + Tom, Steeple Tom, out with your two legs, one afore toder, and put + Rapparee's nose out o' joint. <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> dats good to everybody, + Catlieks (Catholics) an' all, an' often ordered Tom many a bully dinner. + Hicko! hicko! be de bones of Peter White—off I go!” + </p> + <p> + Tom, like many other individuals of his description, was never able to get + over the language of childhood—a characteristic which is often + appended to the want of reason, and from which, we presume, the term + “innocent” has been applied in an especial manner to those who are + remarkable for the same defect. + </p> + <p> + Having uttered the words we have just recited, he started off at a gait, + peculiar to fools, which is known by the name of “a sling trot,” and after + getting out upon the old road he turned himself in the direction which + Willy Reilly and his party had taken, and there we beg to leave him for + the present. + </p> + <p> + The old squire felt his animal heat much revived by the warmth of the + frieze coat, and his spirits, now that the dreadful scene into which he + had been so unexpectedly cast had passed away without danger, began to + rise so exuberantly that his conversation became quite loquacious and + mirthful, if not actually, to a certain extent, incoherent. + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” said he, “you must come home with me—confound me, but you + must, and you needn't say nay, now, for I shall neither take excuse nor + apology. I am a hospitable man, Mr.—what's this your name is?” + </p> + <p> + “My name, sir,” replied the other, “is Reilly—William Reilly, or, as + I am more generally called, Willy Reilly. The name, sir, though an + honorable one, is, in this instance, that of an humble man, but one who, I + trust, will never disgrace it.” + </p> + <p> + “You must come home with me, Mr. Reilly. Not a word now.” + </p> + <p> + “Such is my intention, sir,” replied Reilly. “I shall not leave you until + I see that all risk of danger is past—until I place you safely under + your own roof.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, now,” continued the old squire, “I believe a Papist can be a + gentleman—a brave man—a man of honor, Mr. Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “I am not aware that there is any thing in his religion to make him either + dishonorable or cowardly, sir,” replied Reilly with a smile. + </p> + <p> + “No matter,” continued the other, who found a good deal of difficulty in + restraining his prejudices on that point, no matter, sir, no matter, Mr.—a—a—oh, + yes, Reilly, we will have nothing to do with religion—away with it—confound + religion, sir, if it prevents one man from being thankful, and grateful + too, to another, when that other has saved his life. What's your state and + condition in society, Mr.—? confound the scoundrel! he'd have shot + me. We must hang that fellow—the Red Rapparee they call him—a + dreadful scourge to the country; and, another thing, Mr.—Mr. Mahon—you + must come to my daughter's wedding. Not a word now—by the great + Boyne, you must. Have you ever seen my daughter, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “I have never had that pleasure,” replied Reilly, “but I have heard enough + of her wonderful goodness and beauty.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, I tell you to your teeth that I deny your words—you have + stated a falsehood, sir—a lie, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean, sir?” replied Reilly, somewhat indignantly. “I am not + in the habit of stating a falsehood, nor of submitting tamely to such an + imputation.” + </p> + <p> + “Ha, ha, ha, I say it's a lie still, my friend. What did you say? Why, + that you had heard enough of her goodness and beauty. Now, sir, by the + banks of the Boyne, I say you didn't hear half enough of either one or + other. Sir, you should know her, for although you are a Papist you are a + brave man, and a gentleman. Still, sir, a Papist is not—curse it, + this isn't handsome of me, Willy. I beg your pardon. Confound all + religions if it goes to that. Still at the same time I'm bound to say as a + loyal man that Protestantism is my forte, Mr. Reilly—there's where + I'm strong, a touch of Hercules about me there, Mr. Reilly—Willy, I + mean. Well, you are a thorough good fellow, Papist and all, though you—ahem!—never + mind though, you shall see my daughter, and you shall hear my daughter; + for, by the great Boyne, she must salute the man that saved her father's + life, and prevented her from being an orphan. And yet see, Willy, I love + that girl to such a degree that if heaven was open for me this moment, and + that Saint Peter—hem!—I mean the Apostle Peter, slid to me, + 'Come, Folliard, walk in, sir,' by the great Deliverer that saved us from + Pope and Popery, brass money, and—ahem! I beg your pardon—well, + I say if he was to say so, I wouldn't leave her. There's affection for + you; but she deserves it. No, if ever a girl was capable of keeping an old + father from heaven she is.” + </p> + <p> + “I understand your meaning, sir,” replied Reilly with a smile, “and I + believe she is loved by every one who has the pleasure of knowing her—by + rich and poor.” + </p> + <p> + “Troth, Mr. Reilly,” observed Andy, “it's a sin for any one to let their + affections, even for one of their own childer, go between them and heaven. + As for the masther, he makes a god of her. To be sure if ever there was an + angel in this world she is one.” + </p> + <p> + “Get out, you old whelp,” exclaimed his master; “what do you know about + it?—you who never had wife or child? isn't she my only child?—the + apple of my eye? the love of my heart?” + </p> + <p> + “If you loved her so well you wouldn't make her unhappy then.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean, you despicable old Papist?” + </p> + <p> + “I mean that you wouldn't marry her to a man she doesn't like, as you're + goin' to do. That's a bad way to make her happy, at any rate.” + </p> + <p> + “Overlook the word Papist, Mr. Reilly, that I applied to that old idolater—the + fellow worships images; of course you know, as a Papist, he does—ahem!—but + to show you that I don't hate the Papist without exception, I beg to let + you know, sir, that I frequently have the Papist priest of our parish to + dine with me; and if that isn't liberality the devil's in it. Isn't that + true, you superstitious old Padareen? No, Mr. Reilly, Mr. Mahon—Willy, + I mean—I'm a liberal man, and I hope we'll be all saved yet, with + the exception of the Pope—ahem! yes, I hope we shall all be saved.” + </p> + <p> + “Throth, sir,” said Andy, addressing himself to Reilly, “he's a quare + gentleman, this. He's always abusing the Papists, as he calls us, and yet + for every Protestant servant undher his roof he has three Papists, as he + calls us. His bark, sir, is worse than his bite, any day.” + </p> + <p> + “I believe it,” replied Reilly in a low voice, “and it's a pity that a + good and benevolent man should suffer these idle prejudices to sway him.” + </p> + <p> + “Divil a bit they sway him, sir,” replied Andy; “he'll damn and abuse them + and their religion, and yet he'll go any length to serve one o' them, if + they want a friend, and has a good character. But here, now we're at the + gate of the avenue, and you'll soon see the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>” + </p> + <p> + “Hallo!” the squire shouted out, “what the devil! are you dead or asleep + there? Brady, you Papist scoundrel, why not open the gate?” + </p> + <p> + The porter's wife came out as he uttered the words, saying, “I beg your + honor's pardon. Ned is up at the Castle;” and whilst speaking she opened + the gate. + </p> + <p> + “Ha, Molly!” exclaimed her master in a tone of such bland good nature as + could not for a moment be mistaken; “well, Molly, how is little Mick? Is + he better, poor fellow?” + </p> + <p> + “He is, thank God, and your honor.” + </p> + <p> + “Hallo, Molly,” said the squire, laughing, “that's Popery again. You are + thanking God and me as if we were intimate acquaintances. None of that + foolish Popish nonsense. When you thank God, thank him; and when you thank + me, why thank me; but don't unite us, as you do him and your Popish + saints, for I tell you, Molly, I'm no saint; God forbid! Tell the + doctorman to pay him every attention, and to send his bill to me when the + child is properly recovered; mark that—properly recovered.” + </p> + <p> + A noble avenue, that swept along with two or three magnificent bends, + brought them up to a fine old mansion of the castellated style, where the + squire and his two equestrian attendants dismounted, and were ushered into + the parlor, which they found brilliantly lighted up with a number of large + wax tapers. The furniture of the room was exceedingly rich, but somewhat + curious and old-fashioned. It was such, however, as to give ample proof of + great wealth and comfort, and, by the heat of a large peat fire which + blazed in the capacious hearth, it communicated that sense of warmth which + was in complete accordance with the general aspect of the apartment. An + old gray-haired butler, well-powdered, together with two or three other + servants in rich livery, now entered, and the squire's first inquiry was + after his daughter. + </p> + <p> + “John,” said he to the butler, “how is your mistress?” but, without + waiting for a reply, he added, “here are twenty pounds, which you will + hand to those fine fellows at the hall-door.” + </p> + <p> + “Pardon me, sir,” replied Reilly, “those men are my tenants, and the sons + of my tenants: they have only performed towards you a duty, which common + humanity would require at their hands towards the humblest person that + lives.” + </p> + <p> + “They must accept it, Mr. Reilly—they must have it—they are + humble men—and as it is only the reward of a kind office, I think it + is justly due to them. Here, John, give them the money.” + </p> + <p> + It was in vain that Reilly interposed; the old squire would not listen to + him. John was, accordingly, dispatched to the hall steps, but found that + they had all gone. + </p> + <p> + At this moment our friend Toni Steeple met the butler, whom he approached + with a kind of wild and uncouth anxiety. + </p> + <p> + “Aha! Mista John,” said he, “you tall man too, but not tall as Tom Steeple—ha, + ha—you good man too, Mista John—give Tom bully dinners—Willy + Reilly, Mista John, want to see Willy Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you want with him, Tom? he's engaged with the master.” + </p> + <p> + “Must see him, Mista John; stitch in time saves nine. Hicko! hicko! God's + sake, Mista John: God's sake! Up dere;” and as he spoke he pointed towards + the sky. + </p> + <p> + “Well, but what is your business, then? What have you to say to him? He's + engaged, I tell you.” + </p> + <p> + Tom, apprehensive that he might not get an opportunity of communicating + with Reilly, bolted in, and as the parlor door stood open, he saw him + standing near the large chimney-piece. + </p> + <p> + “Willy Reilly!” he exclaimed in a voice that trembled with earnestness, + “Willy Reilly, dere's news for you—for de squire too—bad news—God's + sake come wid Tom—you tall too, Willy Reilly, but not tall as Tom + is.” + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter, Tom?” asked Reilly; “you look alarmed.” + </p> + <p> + “God's sake, here, Willy Reilly,” replied the kind-hearted fool, “come wid + Tom. Bad news.” + </p> + <p> + “Hallo!” exclaimed the squire, “what is the matter? Is this Tom Steeple? + Go to the kitchen, Tom, and get one of your 'bully dinners'—my poor + fellow—off with you—and a pot of beer, Tom.” + </p> + <p> + An expression of distress, probably heightened by his vague and + unconscious sense of the squire's kindness, was depicted strongly on his + countenance, and ended in a burst of tears. + </p> + <p> + “Ha!” exclaimed Reilly, “poor Tom, sir, was with us to-night on our + duck-shooting excursion, and, now that I remember, remained behind us in + the old ruin—and then he is in tears. What can this mean? I will go + with you, Tom—excuse me, sir, for a few minutes—there can be + no harm in hearing what he has to say.” + </p> + <p> + He accompanied the fool, with whom he remained for about six or eight + minutes, after which he re-entered the parlor with a face which strove in + vain to maintain its previous expression of ease and serenity. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Willy?” said the squire—“you see, by the way, I make an old + acquaintance of you—” + </p> + <p> + “You do me honor, sir,” replied Reilly. “Well, what was this mighty + matter? Not a fool's message, I hope? eh!” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir,” said the other, “but a matter of some importance.” + </p> + <p> + “John,” asked his master, as the butler entered, “did you give those + worthy fellows the money?” + </p> + <p> + “No, your honor,” replied the other, they were gone before I went out.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well,” replied his master, “it can't be helped. You will excuse me, + Mr.—a—a—yes—Mr. Reilly—Willy—Willy—ay, + that's it—you will excuse me, Willy, for not bringing you to the + drawing room. The fact is, neither of us is in a proper trim to go there—both + travel-soiled, as they say—you with duck-shooting and I with a long + ride—besides, I am quite too much fatigued to change my dress—John, + some Madeira. I'm better than I was—but still dreadfully exhausted + and afterwards, John, tell your mistress that her father wishes to see her + here. First, the Madeira, though, till I recruit myself a little. A glass + or two will do neither of us any harm, Willy, but a great deal of good. + God bless me! what an escape I've had! what a dreadful fate you rescued me + from, my young friend and preserver—for as such I will ever look + upon, you.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” replied Reilly, “I will not deny that the appearance of myself and + my companions, in all probability, saved your life.” + </p> + <p> + “There was no probability in it, Willy—none at all; it would have + been a dead certainty in every sense. My God! here, John—put it down + here—fill for that gentleman and me—thank you, John—Willy,” + he said as he took the glass in his trembling hand—“Willy—John, + withdraw and send down, my daughter—Willy”—the old man looked + at him, but was too full to utter a word. At this moment his daughter + entered the room, and her father, laying down the glass, opened his arms, + and said in a choking voice, “Helen, my daughter—my child—come + to me;” and as she threw herself into them he embraced her tenderly and + wept aloud. + </p> + <p> + “Dear papa!” she exclaimed, after the first burst of his grief was over, + “what has affected you so deeply? Why are you so agitated?” + </p> + <p> + “Look at that noble young man,” he exclaimed, directing her attention to + Reilly, who was still standing. “Look at him, my life, and observe him + well; there he stands who has this night saved your loving father from the + deadly aim of an assassin—from being murdered by O'Donnel, the Red + Rapparee, in the lonely moors.” + </p> + <p> + Reilly, from the moment the far-famed <i>Cooleen Dawn</i> entered the + room, heard not a syllable the old man had said. He was absorbed, + entranced, struck with a sensation of wonder, surprise, agitation, joy, + and confusion, all nearly at the same moment. Such a blaze of beauty, such + elegance of person, such tenderness and feeling as chastened the radiance + of her countenance into something that might be termed absolutely divine; + such symmetry of form; such harmony of motion; such a seraphic being in + the shape of woman, he had, in fact, never seen or dreamt of. She seemed + as if surrounded by an atmosphere of light, of dignity, of goodness, of + grace; but that which, above all, smote him, heart on, the moment was the + spirit of tenderness and profound sensibility which seemed to predominate + in her whole being. Why did his manly and intrepid heart palpitate? Why + did such a strange confusion seize upon him? Why did the few words which + she uttered in her father's arms fill his ears with a melody that charmed + him out of his strength? Alas! is it necessary to ask? To those who do not + understand this mystery, no explanation could be of any avail; and to + those who do, none is necessary. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0002" id="linkimage-0002"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img src="images/page018.jpg" + alt="Page 18-- Looked With Her Dark Eyes Upon Reilly " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + After her father had spoken, she raised herself from his arms, and + assuming her full height—and she was tall—looked for a moment + with her dark, deep, and terrible eyes upon Reilly, who in the meantime + felt rapt, spell-bound, and stood, whilst his looks were riveted upon + these irresistible orbs, as if he had been attracted by the influence of + some delightful but supernatural power, under which he felt himself + helpless. + </p> + <p> + That mutual gaze and that delightful moment! alas! how many hours of + misery—of sorrow—of suffering—and of madness did they + not occasion! + </p> + <p> + “Papa has imposed a task upon me, sir,” she said, advancing gracefully + towards him, her complexion now pale, and again over-spread with deep + blushes. “What do I say? Alas—a task! to thank the preserver of my + father's life—I know not what I say: help me, sir, to papa—I + am weak—I am—” + </p> + <p> + Reilly flew to her, and caught her in his arms just in time to prevent her + from falling. + </p> + <p> + “My God!” exclaimed her father, getting to his feet, “what is the matter? + I was wrong to mention the circumstance so abruptly; I ought to have + prepared her for it. You are strong, Reilly, you are strong, and I am too + feeble—carry her to the settee. There, God bless you!—God + bless you!—she will soon recover. Helen! my child! my life! What, + Helen! Come, dearest love, be a woman. I am safe, as you may see, dearest. + I tell you I sustained no injury in life—not a hair of nay head was + hurt; thanks to Mr. Reilly for it thanks to this gentleman. Oh! that's + right, bravo, Helen—bravo, my girl! See that, Reilly, isn't she a + glorious creature? She recovers now, to set her old loving father's heart + at ease.” + </p> + <p> + The weakness, for it did not amount altogether to insensibility, was only + of brief duration. + </p> + <p> + “Dear papa,” said she, raising herself, and withdrawing gently and + modestly from Reilly's support, “I was unprepared for the account of this + dreadful affair. Excuse me, sir; surely you will admit that a murderous + attack on dear papa's life could not be listened to by his only child with + indifference. But do let me know how it happened, papa.” + </p> + <p> + “You are not yet equal to it, darling; you are too much agitated.” + </p> + <p> + “I am equal to it now, papa! Pray, let me hear it, and how this gentleman—who + will be kind enough to imagine my thanks, for, indeed, no language could + express them—and how this gentleman was the means of saving you.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps, Miss Folliard,” said Reilly, “it would be better to defer the + explanation until you shall have gained more strength.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no, sir,” she replied; “my anxiety to hear it will occasion me + greater suffering, I am sure, than the knowledge of it, especially now + that papa is safe.” + </p> + <p> + Reilly bowed in acquiescence, but not in consequence of her words; a + glance as quick as the lightning, but full of entreaty and gratitude, and + something like joy—for who does not know the many languages which + the single glance of a lovely woman can speak?—such a glance, we + say, accompanied her words, and at once won him to assent. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Folliard may be right, sir,” he observed, “and as the shock has + passed, perhaps to make her briefly acquainted with the circumstances will + rather relieve her.” + </p> + <p> + “Right,” said her father, “so it will, Willy, so it will, especially, + thank God, as there has been no harm done. Look at this now! Get away, you + saucy baggage! Your poor loving father has only just escaped being shot, + and now he runs the risk of being strangled.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear, dear papa,” she said, “who could have thought of injuring you—you + with your angry tongue, but your generous and charitable and noble heart?” + and again she wound her exquisite and lovely arms about his neck and + kissed him, whilst a fresh gush of tears came to her eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Come, Helen—come, love, be quiet now, or I shall not tell you any + thing more about my rescue by that gallant young fellow standing before + you.” + </p> + <p> + This was followed, on her part, by another glance at Reilly, and the + glance was as speedily followed by a blush, and again a host of tumultuous + emotions crowded around his heart. + </p> + <p> + The old man, placing her head upon his bosom, kissed and patted her, after + which he related briefly, and in such a way as not, if possible, to excite + her afresh, the circumstances with which the reader is already acquainted. + At the close, however, when he came to the part which Reilly had borne in + the matter, and dwelt at more length on his intrepidity and spirit, and + the energy of character and courage with which the quelled the terrible + Rapparee, he was obliged to stop for a moment, and say, + </p> + <p> + “Why, Helen, what is the matter, my darling? Are you getting ill again? + Your little heart is going at a gallop—bless me, how it pit-a-pats. + There, now, you've heard it all—here I am, safe—and there + stands the gentleman to whom, under God, we are both indebted for it. And + now let us have dinner, darling, for we have not dined?” + </p> + <p> + Apologies on the part of Reilly, who really had dined, were flung to the + winds by the old squire. + </p> + <p> + “What matter, Willy? what matter, man?—sit at the table, pick + something—curse it, we won't eat you. Your dress? never mind your + dress. I am sure Helen here will not find fault with it. Come, Helen, use + your influence, love. And you, sir, Willy Reilly, give her your arm.” This + he added in consequence of dinner having been announced while he spoke; + and so they passed into the dining-room. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III.—Daring Attempt of the Red Rapparee + </h2> + <h3> + —Mysterious Disappearance of His Gang—The Avowal + </h3> + <p> + We must go back a little. When Helen sank under the dreadful intelligence + of the attempt made to assassinate her father, we stated at the time that + she was not absolutely insensible; and this was the fact. Reilly, already + enraptured by such wonderful grace and beauty as the highest flight of his + imagination could never have conceived, when called upon by her father to + carry her to the sofa, could scarcely credit his senses that such a lovely + and precious burden should ever be entrusted to him, much less borne in + his very arms. In order to prevent her from falling, he was literally + obliged to throw them around her, and, to a certain extent, to press her—for + the purpose of supporting her—against his heart, the pulsations of + which were going at a tremendous speed. There was, in fact, something so + soft, so pitiable, so beautiful, and at the same time so exquisitely pure + and fragrant, in this lovely creature, as her head lay drooping on his + shoulder, her pale cheek literally lying against his, that it is not at + all to be wondered at that the beatings of his heart were accelerated to + an unusual degree. Now she, from her position upon his bosom, necessarily + felt this rapid action of its tenant; when, therefore, her father, after + her recovery, on reciting for her the fearful events of the evening, and + dwelling upon Reilly's determination and courage, expressed alarm at the + palpitations of her heart, a glance passed between them which each, once + and forever, understood. She had felt the agitation of him who had risked + his life in defence of her father, for in this shape the old man had truly + put it; and now she knew from her father's observation, as his arm lay + upon her own, that the interest which his account of Reilly's chivalrous + conduct throughout the whole affair had excited in it were discovered. In + this case heart spoke to heart, and by the time they sat down to dinner, + each felt conscious that their passion, brief as was the period of their + acquaintance, had become, whether for good or evil, the uncontrollable + destiny of their lives. + </p> + <p> + William Reilly was the descendant of an old and noble Irish family. His + ancestors had gone through all the vicissitudes and trials, and been + engaged in most of the civil broils and wars, which, in Ireland, had + characterized the reign of Elizabeth. As we are not disposed to enter into + a disquisition upon the history of that stormy period, unless to say that + we believe in our souls both parties were equally savage and inhuman, and + that there was not, literally, a toss up between them, we have only to add + that Reilly's family, at least that branch of it to which he belonged, had + been reduced by the ruin that resulted from the civil wars, and the + confiscations peculiar to the times. His father had made a good deal of + money abroad in business, but feeling that melancholy longing for his + native soil, for the dark mountains and the green fields of his beloved + country, he returned to it, and having taken a large farm of about a + thousand acres, under a peculiar tenure, which we shall mention ere we + close, he devoted himself to pasturage and agriculture. Old Reilly had + been for some years dead, and his eldest son, William, was now not only + the head of his immediate family, but of that great branch of it to which + he belonged, although he neither claimed nor exercised the honor. In + Reilly, many of those irreconcilable points of character, which scarcely + ever meet in the disposition of any but an Irishman, were united. He was + at once mild and impetuous; under peculiar circumstances, humble and + unassuming, but in others, proud almost to a fault; a bitter foe to + oppression in every sense, and to bigotry in every creed. He was highly + educated, and as perfect a master of French, Spanish, and German, as he + was of either English or Irish, both of which he spoke with equal fluency + and purity. To his personal courage we need not make any further allusion. + On many occasions it had been well tested on the Continent. He was an + expert and unrivalled swordsman, and a first-rate shot, whether with the + pistol or fowling-piece. + </p> + <p> + At every athletic exercise he was matchless; and one great cause of his + extraordinary popularity among the peasantry was the pleasure he took in + promoting the exercise of such manly sports among them. In his person he + combined great strength with remarkable grace and ease. The wonderful + symmetry of his form took away apparently from his size; but on looking at + and examining him closely, you felt surprised at the astonishing fulness + of his proportions and the prodigious muscular power which lay under such + deceptive elegance. As for his features, they were replete with that manly + expression which changes with, and becomes a candid exponent of, every + feeling that influences the heart. His mouth was fine, and his full red + lips exquisitely chiselled; his chin was full of firmness; and his large + dark eyes, though soft, mellow, and insinuating, had yet a sparkle in them + that gave evidence of a fiery spirit when provoked, as well as of a high + sense of self-respect and honor. His complexion was slightly bronzed by + residence in continental climates, a circumstance that gave a warmth and + mellowness to his features, which, when taken into consideration with his + black, clustering locks, and the snowy whiteness of his forehead, placed + him in the very highest order of handsome men. + </p> + <p> + Such was our hero, the fame of whose personal beauty, as well as that of + the ever-memorable <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, is yet a tradition in the country. + </p> + <p> + On this occasion the dinner-party consisted only of the squire, his + daughter, and Reilly. The old man, on reflecting that he was now safe, + felt his spirits revive apace. His habits of life were jolly and + convivial, but not actually intemperate, although it must be admitted that + on some occasions he got into the debatable ground. To those who did not + know him, and who were acquainted through common report only with his + unmitigated abuse of Popery, he was looked upon as an oppressive and + overbearing tyrant, who would enforce, to the furthest possible stretch of + severity, the penal enactments then in existence against Roman Catholics. + And this, indeed, was true, so far as any one was concerned from whom he + imagined himself to have received an injury; against such he was a + vindictive tyrant, and a most implacable persecutor. By many, on the other + hand, he was considered as an eccentric man, with a weak head, but a heart + that often set all his anti-Catholic prejudices at complete defiance. + </p> + <p> + At dinner the squire had most of the conversation to himself, his + loquacity and good-humor having been very much improved by a few glasses + of his rich old Madeira. His daughter, on the other hand, seemed + frequently in a state of abstraction, and, on more than one occasion, + found herself incapable of answering several questions which he put to + her. Ever and anon the timid, blushing glance was directed at Reilly, by + whom it was returned with a significance that went directly to her heart. + Both, in fact, appeared to be influenced by some secret train of thought + that seemed quite at variance with the old gentleman's garrulity. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said he, “here we are, thank God, all safe; and it is to you, + Willy, we owe it. Come, man, take off your wine. Isn't he a fine young + fellow, Helen?” + </p> + <p> + Helen's heart, at the moment, had followed her eyes, and she did not hear + him. + </p> + <p> + “Hello! what the deuce! By the banks of the Boyne, I believe the girl has + lost her hearing. I say, Helen, isn't Willy Reilly here, that prevented + you from being an orphan, a fine young fellow?” + </p> + <p> + A sudden rosy blush suffused her whole neck and face on hearing this blunt + and inconsiderate question. + </p> + <p> + “What, darling, have you not heard me?” + </p> + <p> + “If Mr. Reilly were not present, papa, I might give an opinion on that + subject; but I trust you will excuse me now.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I suppose so; there's no getting women to speak to the point. At + all events, I would give more than I'll mention that Sir Hobert Whitecraft + was as good-looking a specimen of a man; I'll engage, if he was, you would + have no objection to say yes, my girl.” + </p> + <p> + “I look to the disposition, papa, to the moral feelings and principles, + more than to the person. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Helen, that's right too—all right, darling, and on that + account Sir Robert must and ought to be a favorite. He is not yet forty, + and for this he is himself my authority, and forty is the prime of life; + yet, with an immense fortune and strong temptations, he has never launched + out into a single act of imprudence or folly. No, Helen, he never sowed a + peck of wild oats in his life. He is, on the contrary, sober, grave, + silent—a little too much so, by the way—cautious, prudent, and + saving. No man knows the value of money better, nor can contrive to make + it go further. Then, as for managing a bargain—upon my soul, I don't + think he treated me well, though, in the swop of 'Hop-and-go-constant' + against my precious bit of blood, 'Pat the Spanker.' He made me pay him + twenty-five pounds boot for an old—But you shall see him, Reilly, + you shall see him, Willy, and if ever there was a greater take in—you + needn't smile, He en, nor look at Willy. By the good King William that + saved us from Pope, and—ahem—I beg pardon, Willy, but, upon my + soul, he took me completely in. I say, I shall show you + 'Hop-and-go-constant', and when you see him you'll admit the 'Hop,' but + the devil a bit you will find of the 'Go-constant.'” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose the gentleman's personal appearance, sir,” observed Reilly, + glancing at Miss Folliard, “is equal to his other qualities.” + </p> + <p> + “Why—a—ye-s. He's tall and thin and serious, with something + about him, say, of a philosopher. Isn't that true, Helen?” + </p> + <p> + “Perfectly, papa,” she replied, with a smile of arch humor, which, to + Reilly, placed her character in a new light. + </p> + <p> + “Perfectly true, papa, so far as you have gone; but I trust you will + finish the portrait for Mr. Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, I will. Where was I? Oh, yes—tall, thin, and serious; + like a philosopher. I'll go next to the shoulders, because Helen seems to + like them—they are a little round or so. I, myself, wish to goodness + they were somewhat straighter, but Helen says the curve is delightful, + being what painters and glaziers call the line of beauty.” + </p> + <p> + A sweet light laugh, that rang with the melody of a musical bell, broke + from Helen at this part of the description, in which, to tell the truth, + she was joined by Reilly. The old man himself, from sheer happiness and + good-humor, joined them both, though utterly ignorant of the cause of + their mirth. + </p> + <p> + “Aye, aye,” he exclaimed, “you may laugh—by the great Boyne, I knew + I would make you laugh. Well, I'll go on; his complexion is of a—a—no + matter—of a good standing color, at all events; his nose, I grant + you, is as thin, and much of the same color, as pasteboard, but as a + set-off to that it's a thorough Williamite. Isn't that true, Helen?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, papa; but I think King William's nose was the worst feature in his + face, although that certainly cannot be said of Sir Robert.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you hear that, Reilly? I wish Sir Robert heard it, but I'll tell him—there's + a compliment, Helen—you're a good girl—thank you, Helen.” + </p> + <p> + Helen's face was now radiant with mirthful enjoyment, whilst at the same + time Reilly could perceive that from time to time a deep unconscious sigh + would escape from her, such a sigh as induced him to infer that some + hidden care was at work with her heart. This he at once imputed to her + father's determination to force her into a marriage with the worthy + baronet, whom in his simplicity he was so ludicrously describing. + </p> + <p> + “Proceed, papa, and finish as you have begun it.” + </p> + <p> + “I will, to oblige and gratify you, Helen. He is a little close about the + knees, Mr. Reilly—a little close about the knees, Willy.” + </p> + <p> + “And about the heart, papa,” added his daughter, who, for the life of her, + could not restrain the observation. + </p> + <p> + “It's no fault to know the value of money, my dear child. However, let me + go on—close about the knees, but that's a proof of strength, because + they support one another: every one knows that.” + </p> + <p> + “But his arms, papa?” + </p> + <p> + “You see, Reilly, you see, Willy,” said the squire, nodding in the + direction of his daughter, “not a bad sign that, and yet she pretends not + to care about him. She is gratified, evidently. Ah, Helen, Helen! it's + hard to know women.” + </p> + <p> + “But his arms, papa?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, I wish to goodness you would allow me to skip that part of + the subject—they are an awful length, Willy, I grant. I allow the + fact, it cannot be denied, they are of an awful length.” + </p> + <p> + “It will give him the greater advantage in over-reaching, papa.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, as to his arms, upon my soul Willy, I know no more what to do with + them—” + </p> + <p> + “Than he does himself, papa.” + </p> + <p> + “Just so, Helen; they hang about him like those of a skeleton on wires; + but, on the other hand, he has a neck that always betokens true blood, + long and thin like that of a racer. Altogether he's a devilish interesting + man, steady, prudent, and sober. I never saw him drink a third glass of—” + </p> + <p> + “In the meantime, papa,” observed Helen, “in the enthusiasm of your + description you are neglecting Mr. Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + Ah, love, love! in how many minute points can you make yourself + understood! + </p> + <p> + “By the great William, and so I am. Come, Willy, help yourself”—and + he pushed the bottle towards him as he spoke. + </p> + <p> + And why, gentle reader, did Reilly fill his glass on that particular + occasion until it became literally a brimmer? We know—but if you are + ignorant of it we simply beg you to remain so; and why, on putting the + glass to his lips, did his large dark eyes rest upon her with that deep + and melting glance? Why, too, was that glance returned with the quickness + of thought before her lids dropped, and the conscious blush suffused her + face? The solution of this we must also leave to your own ingenuity. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” proceeded the squire, “steady, prudent, sober—of a fine old + family, and with an estate of twelve thousand a year—what do you + think of that, Willy? Isn't she a fortunate girl?” + </p> + <p> + “Taking his virtues and very agreeable person into consideration, sir, I + think so,” replied Reilly in a tone of slight sarcasm, which was only + calculated to reach one of his audience. + </p> + <p> + “You hear that, Helen—you hear what Mr. Reilly—what + Willy-says. The fact is, I'll call you nothing but Willy in future, Willy—you + hear what he says, darling?” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed I do, papa—and understand it perfectly.” + </p> + <p> + “That's my girl. Twelve thousand a year—and has money lent out at + every rate of interest from six per cent. up.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet I cannot consider him as interesting on that account, papa.” + </p> + <p> + “You do, Helen—nonsense, my love—you do, I tell you—it's + all make-believe when you speak to the contrary—don't you call the + curve on his shoulders the line of beauty? Come—come—you know + I only want to make you happy.” + </p> + <p> + “It is time, papa, that I should withdraw,” she replied, rising. + </p> + <p> + Reilly rose to open the door. + </p> + <p> + “Good-night, papa-dear, dear papa,” she added, putting her snowy arms + about his neck and kissing him tenderly. “I know,” she added, “that the + great object of your life is to make your <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> happy—and + in doing so, dear papa—there now is another kiss for you—a + little bribe, papa—in doing so, consult her heart as well as your + own. Good-night.” + </p> + <p> + “Good-night, my treasure.” + </p> + <p> + During this little scene of affectionate tenderness Reilly stood holding + the door open, and as she was going out, as if recollecting herself, she + turned to him and said, “Pardon me, Mr. Reilly, I fear you must think me + ungrateful; I have not yet thanked you for the service—the service + indeed so important that no language could find expression for it—which + you have rendered to dear papa, and to me. But, Mr. Reilly, I pray you do + not think me ungrateful, or insensible, for, indeed, I am neither. Suffer + me to feel what I owe you, and do not blame me if I cannot express it.” + </p> + <p> + “If it were not for the value of the life which it is probable I have + saved, and if it were not that your happiness was so deeply involved in + it,” replied Reilly, “I would say that you overrate what I have done this + evening. But I confess I am myself now forced to see the value of my + services, and I thank heaven for having made me the humble instrument of + saving your father's life, not only for his own sake, Miss Folliard, but + for yours. I now feel a double debt of gratitude to heaven for it.” + </p> + <p> + The <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> did not speak, but the tears ran down her cheeks. + “Good-night, sir,” she said. “I am utterly incapable of thanking you as + you deserve, and as I ought to thank you. Good-night!” + </p> + <p> + She extended her small snowy hand to him as she spoke. Reilly took it in + his, and by some voluntary impulse he could not avoid giving it a certain + degree of pressure. The fact is, it was such a hand—so white—so + small—so soft—so warm—so provocative of a squeeze—that + he felt his own pressing it, he knew not how nor wherefore, at least he + thought so at the time; that is to say, if he were capable of thinking + distinctly of any thing. But heaven and earth! Was it true! No delusion? + No dream? The pressure returned! the slightest, the most gentle, the most + delicate pressure—the barely perceptible pressure! Yes! it was + beyond all doubt; for although the act itself was light as delicacy and + modesty could make it, yet the spirit—the lightening spirit—which + it shot into his bounding and enraptured heart could not be for a moment + mistaken. + </p> + <p> + As she was running up the stairs she returned, however, and again + approaching her father, said—whilst Reilly could observe that her + cheek was flushed with a feeling that seemed to resemble ecstasy—“Papa,” + said she, “what a stupid girl I am! I scarcely know what I am saying or + doing.” + </p> + <p> + “By the great Boyne,” replied her father, “I'll describe him to you every + night in the week. I knew the curve—the line of beauty—would + get into your head; but what is it, darling?” + </p> + <p> + “Will you and Mr. Reilly have tea in the drawing-room, or shall I send it + down to you?” + </p> + <p> + “I am too comfortable in my easy chair, dear Helen: no, send it down.” + </p> + <p> + “After the shock you have received, papa, perhaps you might wish to have + it from the hand of your own Cooleen Bawn?” + </p> + <p> + As the old man turned his eyes upon her they literally danced with + delight. “Ah, Willy!” said he, “is it any wonder I should love her?” + </p> + <p> + “I have often heard,” replied Reilly, “that it is impossible to know her, + and not to love her. I now believe it.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, Reilly; thank you, Willy; shake hands. Come, Helen, shake + hands with him. That's a compliment. Shake hands with him, darling. There, + now, that's all right. Yes, my love, by all means, come down and give us + tea here.” + </p> + <p> + Innocent old man—the die is now irrevocably cast! That mutual + pressure, and that mutual glance. Alas! alas! how strange and + incomprehensible is human destiny! + </p> + <p> + After she had gone upstairs the old man said, “You see, Willy, how my + heart and soul are in that angelic creature. The great object, the great + delight of her life, is to anticipate all my wants, to study whatever is + agreeable to me—in fact, to make me happy. And she succeeds. Every + thing she does pleases me. By the grave of Schomberg, she's beyond all + price. It is true we never had a baronet in the family, and it would + gratify me to hear her called Lady Whitecraft; still, I say, I don't care + for rank or ambition; nor would I sacrifice my child's happiness to + either. And, between you and me, if she declines to have him, she shan't, + thats all that's to be said about it. He's quite round in the shoulders; + and yet so inconsistent are women that she calls a protuberance that + resembles the letter C the line of beauty. Then again he bit me in + 'Hop-and-go-constant;' and you know yourself, Willy, that no person likes + to be bit, especially by the man he intends for his son-in-law. If he + gives me the bite before marriage, what would he not do after it?” + </p> + <p> + “This, sir, is a subject,” replied Reilly, “on which I must decline to + give an opinion; but I think that no father should sacrifice the happiness + of his daughter to his own inclinations. However, setting this matter + aside, I have something of deep importance to mention to you.” + </p> + <p> + “To me! Good heavens! What is it?” + </p> + <p> + “The Red Rapparee, sir, has formed a plan to rob, possibly to murder, you, + and what is worse—” + </p> + <p> + “Worse! Why, what the deuce—worse! Why, what could be worse?” + </p> + <p> + “The dishonor of your daughter. It is his intention to carry her off to + the mountains; but pardon me, I cannot bear to dwell upon the diabolical + project.” + </p> + <p> + The old man fell back, pale, and almost insensible, in his chair. + </p> + <p> + “Do not be alarmed, sir,” proceeded Keilly, “he will be disappointed. I + have taken care of that.” + </p> + <p> + “But, Mr. Reilly, what—how—for heaven's sake tell me what you + know about it. Are you sure of this? How did you come to hear of it? Tell + me—tell me every thing about it! We must prepare to receive the + villains—we must instantly get assistance. My child—my life—my + Helen, to fall into the hands of this monster!” + </p> + <p> + “Hear me, sir,” said Reilly, “hear me, and you will perceive I have taken + measures to frustrate all his designs, and to have him a prisoner before + to-morrow's sun arises.” + </p> + <p> + He then related to him the plan laid by the Red Rapparee, as overheard by + Tom Steeple, and as it was communicated to himself by the same individual + subsequently, after which he proceeded: + </p> + <p> + “The fact is, sir, I have sent the poor fool, who is both faithful and + trustworthy, to summon here forty or fifty of my laborers and tenants. + They must be placed in the out-houses, and whatever arms and ammunition + you can spare, in addition to the weapons which they shall bring along + with them, must be made available. I sent orders that they should be here + about nine o'clock. I, myself, will remain in this house, and you may rest + assured that your life, your property, and your child shall be all safe. I + know the strength of the ruffian's band; it only consists of about twelve + men, or rather twelve devils, but he and they will find themselves + mistaken.” + </p> + <p> + Before Miss Folliard came down to make tea, Reilly had summoned the + servants, and given them instructions as to their conduct during the + expected attack. Having arranged this, he went to the yard, and found a + large body of his tenants armed with such rude weapons as they could + procure; for, at this period, it was a felony for a Roman Catholic to have + or carry arms at all. The old squire, however, was well provided in that + respect, and, accordingly, such as could be spared from the house were + distributed among them. Mr. Folliard himself felt his spirit animated by a + sense of the danger, and bustled about with uncommon energy and activity, + considering what he had suffered in the course of the evening. At all + events, they both resolved to conceal the matter from Helen till the last + moment, in order to spare her the terror and alarm which she must + necessarily feel on hearing of the contemplated violence. At tea, however, + she could not avoid observing that something had disturbed her father, + who, from his naturally impetuous character, ejaculated, from time to + time, “The bloodthirsty scoundrel!—murdering ruffian! We shall hang + him, though; we can hang him for the conspiracy. Would the fool's, Tom + Steeples', evidence be taken, do you think?” + </p> + <p> + “I fear not, sir,” replied Reilly. “In the meantime, don't think of it, + don't further distress yourself about it.” + </p> + <p> + “To think of attacking my house, though; and if it were only I myself that—however, + we are prepared, that's one comfort; we are prepared, and let them—hem!—Helen, + my darling, now that we've had our tea, will you retire to your own room. + I wish to talk to Mr. Reilly here, on a particular and important subject, + in which you yourself are deeply concerned. Withdraw, my love, but don't + go to bed until I see you again.” + </p> + <p> + Helen went upstairs with a light foot and a bounding heart. A certain + hope, like a dream of far-off and unexpected happiness, rushed into and + filled her bosom with a crowd of sensations so delicious that, on reaching + her own room, she felt completely overpowered by them, and was only + relieved by a burst of tears. There was now but one image before her + imagination, but one image impressed upon her pure and fervent heart; that + image was the first that love had ever stamped there, and the last that + suffering, sorrow, madness, and death were ever able to tear from it. + </p> + <p> + When the night had advanced to the usual hour for retiring to rest, it was + deemed necessary to make Helen acquainted with the meditated outrage, in + order to prevent the consequences of a nocturnal alarm for which she might + be altogether unprepared. This was accordingly done, and her natural + terrors were soothed and combated by Reilly and her father, who succeeded + in reviving her courage, and in enabling her to contemplate what was to + happen with tolerable composure. + </p> + <p> + Until about the hour of two o'clock every thing regained silent. Nobody + went to bed—the male servants were all prepared—the females, + some in tears, and others sustaining and comforting those who were more + feeble-hearted. Miss Folliard was in her own room, dressed. At about half + past two she heard a stealthy foot, and having extinguished the light in + her apartment, with great presence of mind she rang the bell, whilst at + the same moment her door was broken in, and a man, as she knew by his + step, entered. In the meantime the house was alarmed; the man having + hastily projected his arms about in several directions, as if searching + for her, instantly retreated, a scuffle was heard outside on the lobby, + and when lights and assistance appeared, there were found eight or ten men + variously armed, all of whom proved to be a portion of the guard selected + by Reilly to protect the house and family. These men maintained that they + had seen the Red Rapparee on the roof of the house, through which he had + descended, and that having procured a ladder from the farmyard, they + entered a back window, at a distance of about forty feet from the ground, + in hope of securing his person—that they came in contact with some + powerful man in the dark, who disappeared from among them—but by + what means he had contrived to escape they could not guess. This was the + substance of all they knew or understood upon the subject. + </p> + <p> + The whole house was immediately and thoroughly searched, and no trace of + him could be found until they came to the skylight, which was discovered + to be opened—wrenched off the hinges—and lying on the roof at + a distance of two or three yards from its place. + </p> + <p> + It soon became evident that the Rapparee and his party had taken the + alarm. In an instant those who were outside awaiting to pounce upon them + in the moment of attack got orders to scour the neighborhood, and if + possible to secure the Rapparee at every risk; and as an inducement the + squire himself offered to pay the sum of five hundred pounds to any one + who should bring him to Corbo Castle, which was the name of his residence. + This was accordingly attempted, the country far and wide was searched, + pursuit given in every direction, but all to no purpose. Not only was the + failure complete, but, what was still more unaccountable and mysterious, + no single mark or trace of them could be found. This escape, however, did + not much surprise the inhabitants of the country at large, as it was only + in keeping with many of a far more difficult character which the Rapparee + had often effected. The only cause to which it could be ascribed was the + supposed fact of his having taken such admirable precautions against + surprise as enabled his gang to disappear upon a preconcerted plan the + moment the friendly guards were discovered, whilst he himself daringly + attempted to secure the squire's cash and his daughter. + </p> + <p> + Whether the supposition was right or wrong will appear subsequently; but, + in the meantime, we may add here, that the event in question, and the + disappearance of the burglars, was fatal to the happiness of our lovers, + for such they were in the tenderest and most devoted sense of that strange + and ungovernable passion. + </p> + <p> + Early the next morning the squire was so completely exhausted by the + consequences of watching, anxiety, and want of rest, that he felt himself + overcome by sleep, and was obliged to go to bed. Before he went, however, + he made Reilly promise that he would not go until he had breakfasted, then + shook him cordially by the hand, thanked him again and again for the deep + and important obligations he had imposed upon him and his child, and + concluded by giving him a general invitation to his house, the doors of + which, he said, as well as the heart of its owner, should be ever ready to + receive him. + </p> + <p> + “As for Helen, here,” said he, “I leave her to thank you herself, which I + am sure she will do in a manner becoming the services you have rendered + her, before you go.” + </p> + <p> + She then kissed him tenderly and he retired to rest. + </p> + <p> + At breakfast, Reilly and Miss Folliard were, of course, alone, if we may + say so. Want of rest and apprehension had given a cast of paleness to her + features that, so far from diminishing, only added a new and tender + character to her beauty. Reilly observed the exquisite loveliness of her + hand as she poured out the tea; and when he remembered the gentle but + significant pressure which it had given to his, more than once or twice, + on the preceding night, he felt as if he experienced a personal interest + in her fate—as if their destinies were to be united—as if his + growing spirit could enfold hers, and mingle with it forever. The love he + felt for her pervaded and softened his whole being with such a feeling of + tenderness, timidity, and ecstasy, that his voice, always manly and firm, + now became tremulous in its tones; such, in truth, as is always occasioned + by a full and overflowing heart when it trembles at the very opportunity + of pouring forth the first avowal of its affection. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Folliard,” said he, after a pause, and with some confusion, “do you + believe in Fate?” + </p> + <p> + The question appeared to take her somewhat by surprise, if one could judge + by the look she bestowed upon him with her dark, flashing eyes. + </p> + <p> + “In Fate, Mr. Reilly? that is a subject, I fear, too deep for a girl like + me. I believe in Providence.” + </p> + <p> + “All this morning I have been thinking of the subject. Should it be Fate + that brought me to the rescue of your father last night, I cannot but feel + glad of it; but though it be a Fate that has preserved him—and I + thank Almighty God for it—yet it is one that I fear has destroyed my + happiness.” + </p> + <p> + “Destroyed your happiness, Mr. Reilly! why, how could the service you + rendered papa last night have such an effect?” + </p> + <p> + “I will be candid, and tell you, Miss Folliard. I know that what I am + about to say will offend you—it was by making me acquainted with his + daughter, and by bringing me under the influence of beauty which has + unmanned—distracted me—beauty which I could not resist—which + has overcome me—subdued me—and which, because it is beyond my + reach and my deserts, will occasion me an unhappy life—how long + soever that life my last.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Reilly,” exclaimed the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, “this—this—is—I + am quite unprepared for—I mean—to hear that such noble and + generous conduct to my father should end in this. But it cannot be. Nay, I + will not pretend to misunderstand you. After the service you have rendered + to him and to myself, it would be uncandid in me and unworthy of you to + conceal the distress which your words have caused me.” + </p> + <p> + “I am scarcely in a condition to speak reasonably and calmly,” replied + Reilly, “but I cannot regret that I have unconsciously sacrificed my + happiness, when that sacrifice has saved you from distress and grief and + sorrow. Now that I know you, I would offer—lay down—my life, + if the sacrifice could save yours from one moment's care. I have often + heard of what love—love in its highest and noblest sense—is + able to do and to suffer for the good and happiness of its object, but now + I know it.” + </p> + <p> + She spoke not, or rather she was unable to speak; but as she pulled out + her snow-white handkerchief, Reilly could observe the extraordinary tremor + of her hands; the face, too, was deadly pale. + </p> + <p> + “I am not making love to you, Miss Folliard,” he added. “No, my religion, + my position in life, a sense of my own unworthiness, would prevent that; + but I could not rest unless you knew that there is one heart which, in the + midst of unhappiness and despair, can understand, appreciate, and love + you. I urge no claim. I am without hope.” + </p> + <p> + The fair girl (<i>Cooleen Bawn</i>) could not restrain her tears; but wept—yes, + she wept. “I was not prepared for this,” she replied. “I did not think + that so short an acquaintance could have—Oh, I know not what to say—nor + how to act. My father's prejudices. You are a Catholic.” + </p> + <p> + “And will die one, Miss Folliard.” + </p> + <p> + “But why should you be unhappy? You do not deserve to be so.” + </p> + <p> + “That is precisely what made me ask you just now if you believed in fate.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I know not. I cannot answer such a question; but why should you be + unhappy, with your brave, generous, and noble heart? Surely, surely, you + do not deserve it.” + </p> + <p> + “I said before that I have no hope, Miss Folliard. I shall carry with me + my love of you through life; it is my first, and I feel it will be my last—it + will be the melancholy light that will burn in the sepulchre of my heart + to show your image there. And now, Miss Folliard, I will bid you farewell. + Your father has proffered me hospitality, but I have not strength nor + resolution to accept it. You now know my secret—a hopeless passion.” + </p> + <p> + “Reilly,” she replied, weeping bitterly, “our acquaintance has been short—we + have not seen much of each other, yet I will not deny that I believe you + to be all that any female heart could—pardon me, I am without + experience—I know not much of the world. You have travelled, papa + told me last night; I do not wish that you should be unhappy, and, least + of all, that I, who owe you so much, should be the occasion of it. No, you + talk of a hopeless passion. I know not what I ought to say—but to + the preserver of my father's life, and, probably my own honor, I will say, + be not—but why should love be separated from truth?” she said—“No, + Reilly, be not hopeless.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh,” replied Reilly, who had gone over near her, “but my soul will not be + satisfied without a stronger affirmation. This moment is the great crisis + of my life and happiness. I love you beyond all the power of language or + expression. You tremble, dear Miss Folliard, and you weep; let me wipe + those precious tears away. Oh, would to God that you loved me!” + </p> + <p> + He caught her hand—it was not withdrawn—he pressed it as he + had done the evening before. The pressure was returned—his voice + melted into tenderness that was contagious and irresistible: “Say, dearest + Helen, star of my life and of my fate, oh, only say that I am not + indifferent to you.” + </p> + <p> + They were both standing near the chimney-piece as he spoke—“only + say,” he repeated, “that I am not indifferent to you.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then,” she replied, “you are not indifferent to me.” + </p> + <p> + “One admission more, my dearest life, and I am happy forever. You love me? + say it, dearest, say it—or, stay, whisper it, whisper it—you + love me!” + </p> + <p> + “I do,” she whispered in a burst of tears. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV.—His Rival makes his Appearance, and its Consequences + </h2> + <h3> + —A Sapient Project for our Hero's Conversion + </h3> + <p> + We will not attempt to describe the tumult of delight which agitated + Reilly's heart on his way home, after this tender interview with the most + celebrated Irish beauty of that period. The term <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, in + native Irish, has two meanings, both of which were justly applied to her, + and met in her person. It signifies <i>fair locks</i>, or, as it may be + pronounced <i>fair girl</i>; and in either sense is peculiarly applicable + to a blonde beauty, which she was. The name of <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> was + applied to her by the populace, whose talent for finding out and bestowing + epithets indicative either of personal beauty or deformity, or of the + qualities of the mind or character, be they good or evil, is, in Ireland, + singularly felicitous. In the higher ranks, however, she was known as “The + Lily of the Plains of Boyne,” and as such she was toasted by all parties, + not only in her own native county, but throughout Ireland, and at the + viceregal entertainments in the Castle of Dublin. At the time of which we + write, the penal laws were in operation against the Roman Catholic + population of the country, and her father, a good-hearted man by nature, + was wordy and violent by prejudice, and yet secretly kind and friendly to + many of that unhappy creed, though by no means to all. It was well known, + however, that in every thing that was generous and good in his character, + or in the discharge of his public duties as a magistrate, he was chiefly + influenced by the benevolent and liberal principles of his daughter, who + was a general advocate for the oppressed, and to whom, moreover, he could + deny nothing. This accounted for her popularity, as it does for the + extraordinary veneration and affection with which her name and misfortunes + are mentioned down to the present day. The worst point in her father's + character was that he never could be prevailed on to forgive an injury, + or, at least, any act that he conceived to be such, a weakness or a vice + which was the means of all his angelic and lovely daughter's calamities. + </p> + <p> + Reilly, though full of fervor and enthusiasm, was yet by no means + deficient in strong sense. On his way home he began to ask himself in what + this overwhelming passion for <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> must end. His religion, + he was well aware, placed an impassable gulf between them. Was it then + generous or honorable in him to abuse the confidence and hospitality of + her father by engaging the affections of a daughter, on whose welfare his + whole happiness was placed, and to whom, moreover, he could not, without + committing an act of apostasy that he abhorred, ever be united as a + husband? Reason and prudence, moreover, suggested to him the danger of his + position, as well as the ungenerous nature of his conduct to the grateful + and trusting father. But, away with reason and prudence—away with + everything but love. The rapture of his heart triumphed over every + argument; and, come weal or woe, he resolved to win the far-famed “Star of + Connaught,” another epithet which she derived from her wonderful and + extraordinary beauty. + </p> + <p> + On approaching his own house he met a woman named Mary Mahon, whose + character of a fortune-teller was extraordinary in the country, and whose + predictions, come from what source they might, had gained her a reputation + which filled the common mind with awe and fear. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mary,” said he, “what news from futurity? And, by the way, where is + futurity? Because if you don't know,” he proceeded, laughing, “I think I + could tell you.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” replied Mary, “let me hear it. Where is it, Mr. Reilly?” + </p> + <p> + “Why,” he replied, “just at the point of your own nose, Mary, and you must + admit it is not a very long one; pure Milesian, Mary; a good deal of the + saddle in its shape.” + </p> + <p> + The woman stood and looked at him for a few moments. + </p> + <p> + “My nose may be short,” she replied, “but shorter will be the course of + your happiness.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mary,” he said, “I think as regards my happiness that you know as + little of it as I do myself. If you tell me any thing that has passed, I + may give you some credit for the future, but not otherwise.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you wish to have your fortune tould, then,” she asked, “upon them + terms?” + </p> + <p> + “Come, then, I don't care if I do. What has happened me, for instance, + within the last forty-eight hours?” + </p> + <p> + “That has happened you within the last forty-eight hours that will make + her you love the pity of the world before her time. I see how it will + happen, for the complaint I speak of is in the family. A living death she + will have, and you yourself during the same time will have little less.” + </p> + <p> + “But what has happened me, Mary?” + </p> + <p> + “I needn't tell you—you know—it. A proud heart, and a joyful + heart, and a lovin' heart, you carry now, but it will be a broken heart + before long.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, Mary, this is an evil prophecy; have you nothing good to foretell?” + </p> + <p> + “If it's a satisfaction to you to know, I will tell you: her love for you + is as strong, and stronger, than death itself; and it is the suffering of + what is worse than death, Willy Reilly, that will unite you both at last.” + </p> + <p> + Reilly started, and after a pause, in which he took it for granted that + Mary spoke merely from one of those shrewd conjectures which practised + impostors are so frequently in the habit of hazarding, replied, “That + won't do, Mary; you have told me nothing yet that has happened within the + last forty-eight hours. I deny the truth of what you say.” + </p> + <p> + “It won't be long so, then, Mr. Reilly; you saved the life of the old + half-mad squire of Corbo. Yes, you saved his life, and you have taken his + daughter's! for indeed it would be better for her to die at wanst than to + suffer what will happen to you and her.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, what is to happen?” + </p> + <p> + “You'll know it too soon,” she replied, “and there's no use in making you + unhappy. Good-by, Mr. Reilly; if you take a friend's advice you'll give + her up; think no more of her. It may cost you an aching heart to do so, + but by doin' it you may save her from a great deal of sorrow, and both of + you from a long and heavy term of suffering.” + </p> + <p> + Reilly, though a young man of strong reason in the ordinary affairs of + life, and of a highly cultivated intellect besides, yet felt himself + influenced by the gloomy forebodings of this notorious woman. It is true + he saw, by the force of his own sagacity, that she had uttered nothing + which any person acquainted with the relative position of himself and <i>Cooleen + Bawn</i>, and the political circumstances of the country, might not have + inferred as a natural and probable consequence. In fact he had, on his way + home, arrived at nearly the same conclusion. Marriage, as the laws of the + country then stood, was out of the question, and could not be legitimately + effected. What, then, must the consequence of this irresistible but + ill-fated passion be? An elopement to the Continent would not only be + difficult but dangerous, if not altogether impossible. It was obviously + evident that Mary Mahon had drawn her predictions from the same + circumstances which led himself to similar conclusions; yet, + notwithstanding all this, he felt that her words had thrown a + foreshadowing of calamity and sorrow over his spirit, and he passed up to + his own house in deep gloom and heaviness of heart. It is true he + remembered that this same Mary Mahon belonged to a family that had been + inimical to his house. She was a woman who had, in her early life, been + degraded by crime, the remembrance of which had been by no means + forgotten. She was, besides, a paramour to the Red Rapparee, and he + attributed much of her dark and ill-boding prophecy to a hostile and + malignant spirit. + </p> + <p> + On the evening of the same day, probably about the same hour, the old + squire having recruited himself by sleep, and felt refreshed and + invigorated, sent for his daughter to sit with him as was her wont; for + indeed, as the reader may now fully understand, his happiness altogether + depended upon her society, and those tender attentions to him which + constituted the chief solace of his life. + </p> + <p> + “Well, my girl,” said he, when she entered the dining-room, for he seldom + left it unless when they had company, “Well, darling, what do you think of + this Mr. Mahon—pooh!—no—oh, Reilly—he who saved my + life, and, probably, was the means of rescuing you from worse than death? + Isn't he a fine—a noble young fellow?” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, I think so, papa; he appear's to be a perfect gentleman.” + </p> + <p> + “Hang perfect gentlemen, Helen! they are, some of them, the most + contemptible whelps upon earth. Hang me, but any fellow with a long-bodied + coat, tight-kneed breeches, or stockings and pantaloons, with a watch in + each fob, and a frizzled wig, is considered a perfect gentleman—a + perfect puppy, Helen, an accomplished trifle. Reilly, however, is none of + these, for he is not only a perfect gentleman, but a brave man, who would + not hesitate to risk his life in order to save that of a fellow-creature, + even although he is a Papist, and that fellow-creature a Protestant.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, papa, I grant you,” she replied with a smile, which our + readers will understand, “I grant you that he is a—ahem!—all + you say.” + </p> + <p> + “What a pity, Helen that he is a Papist.” + </p> + <p> + “Why so, papa?” + </p> + <p> + “Because, if he was a staunch Protestant, by the great Deliverer that + saved us from brass money, wooden shoes, and so forth, I'd marry you and + him together. I'll tell you what, Helen, by the memory of Schomberg, I + have a project, and it is you that must work it out.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, papa,” asked his daughter, putting the question with a smile and a + blush, “pray what is this speculation?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, the fact is, I'll put him into your hands to convert him—make + him a staunch Protestant, and take him for your pains. Accomplish this, + and let long-legged, knock-kneed Whitecraft, and his twelve thousand a + year, go and bite some other fool as he bit me in 'Hop-and-go-constant.'” + </p> + <p> + “What are twelve thousand a year, papa, when you know that they could not + secure me happiness with such a wretch? Such a union, sir, could not be—cannot + be—must not be, and I will add, whilst I am in the possession of + will and reason, shall not be.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0003" id="linkimage-0003"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img src="images/frontispiece.jpg" + alt="Page 28 (and Frontispiece)-- You Must Endeavor to Convert Him from Popery " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + “Well, Helen,” said her father, “if you are obstinate, so am I; but I + trust we shall never have to fight for it. We must have Reilly here, and + you must endeavor to convert him from Popery. If you succeed, I'll give + long-shanks his <i>nunc dimittis</i>, and send him home on a trot.” + </p> + <p> + “Papa,” she replied, “this will be useless—it will be ruin—I + know Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “The devil you do! When, may I ask, did you become acquainted?” + </p> + <p> + “I mean,” she replied, blushing, “that I have seen enough of him during + his short stay here to feel satisfied that no earthly persuasion, no + argument, could induce him, at this moment especially, to change his + religion. And, sir, I will add myself—yes, I will say for myself, + dear papa, and for Reilly too, that if from any unbecoming motive—if + for the sake of love itself, I felt satisfied that he could give up and + abandon his religion, I would despise him. I should feel at once that his + heart was hollow, and that he was unworthy either of my love or my + respect.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, by the great Boyne, Helen, you have knocked my intellects up. I + hope in God you have no Papist predilections, girl. However, it's only + fair to give Reilly a trial; long-legs is to dine with us the day after + tomorrow—now, I will ask Reilly to meet him here—perhaps, if I + get an opportunity, I will sound him on the point myself—or, + perhaps, you will. Will you promise to make the attempt? I'll take care + that you and he shall have an opportunity.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, papa, I shall certainly mention the subject to him.” + </p> + <p> + “By the soul of Schomberg, Helen, if you do you'll convert him.” + </p> + <p> + Helen was about to make some good-natured reply, when the noise of + carriage wheels was heard at the hall-door, and her father, going to the + window, asked, “What noise is that? A carriage!—who can it be? + Whitecraft, by the Boyne! Well, it can't be helped.” + </p> + <p> + “I will leave you, papa,” she said; “I do not wish to see this unfeeling + and repulsive man, unless when it is unavoidable, and in your presence.” + </p> + <p> + She then withdrew. + </p> + <p> + Before we introduce Sir Robert Whitecraft, we must beg our readers to + accompany us to the residence of that worthy gentleman, which was not more + than three miles from that of Reilly. Sir Robert had large estates and a + sumptuous residence in Ireland, as well as in England, and had made the + former principally his place of abode since he became enamored of the + celebrated <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>. On the occasion in question he was walking + about through his grounds when a female approached him; whom we beg the + reader to recognize as Mary Mahon. This mischievous woman, implacable and + without principle, had, with the utmost secrecy, served Sir Robert, and + many others, in a capacity discreditable alike to virtue and her sex, by + luring the weak or the innocent within their toils. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mary,” said he, “what news in the country? You, who are always on + the move, should know.” + </p> + <p> + “No very good news for you, Sir Robert,” she replied. + </p> + <p> + “How is that, Mary?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, sir, Willy Reilly—the famous Willy Reilly—has got a + footing in the house of old Squire Folliard.” + </p> + <p> + “And how can that be bad news to me, Mary?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I don't know,” said she, with a cunning leer; “but this I know, + that they had a love scene together this very morning, and that he kissed + her very sweetly near the chimney-piece.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Robert Whitecraft did not get into a rage; he neither cursed nor + swore, nor even looked angrily, but he gave a peculiar smile, which should + be seen in order to be understood. “Where is your—ahem—your + friend now?” he asked; and as he did so he began to whistle. + </p> + <p> + “Have you another job for him?” she inquired, in her turn, with a peculiar + meaning. “Whenever I fail by fair play, he tries it by foul.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, and have not I often saved his neck, as well by my influence as by + allowing him to take shelter under my roof whenever he was hard pressed?” + </p> + <p> + “I know that, your honor; and hasn't he and I often sarved you, on the + other hand?” + </p> + <p> + “I grant it, Molly; but that is a matter known only to ourselves. You know + I have the reputation of being very correct and virtuous.” + </p> + <p> + “I know you have,” said Molly, “with most people, but not with all.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Molly, you know, as far as we are concerned, one good turn deserves + another. Where is your friend now, I ask again?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, then, to tell you the truth, it's more than I know at the present + speaking.” + </p> + <p> + “Follow me, then,” replied the wily baronet; “I wish you to see him; he is + now concealed in my house; but first, mark me, I don't believe a word of + what you have just repeated.” + </p> + <p> + “It's as true as Gospel for all that,” she replied; “and if you wish to + hear how I found it out I'll tell you.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said the baronet calmly, “let us hear it.” + </p> + <p> + “You must know,” she proceeded, “that I have a cousin, one Betty Beatty, + who is a housemaid in the squire's. Now, this same Betty Beatty was in the + front parlor—for the squire always dines in the back—and, from + a kind of natural curiosity she's afflicted with, she puts her ear to the + keyhole, and afterwards her eye. I happened to be at the squire's at the + time, and, as blood is thicker that wather, and as she knew I was a friend + of yourrs, she tould me what she had both heard and seen, what they said, + and how he kissed her.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Robert seemed very calm, and merely said, “Follow me into the house,” + which she accordingly did, and remained in consultation with him and the + Red Rapparee for nearly an hour, after which Sir Robert ordered his + carriage, and went to pay a visit, as we have seen, at Corbo Castle. + </p> + <p> + Sir Robert Whitecraft, on entering the parlor, shook hands as a matter of + course with the squire. At this particular crisis the vehement but + whimsical old man, whose mind was now full of another project with + reference to his daughter, experienced no great gratification from this + visit, and, as the baronet shook hands with him, he exclaimed somewhat + testily. + </p> + <p> + “Hang it, Sir Robert, why don't you shake hands like a man? You put that + long yellow paw of yours, all skin and bones, into a man's hand, and there + you let it lie. But, no matter, every one to his nature. Be seated, and + tell me what news. Are the Papists quiet?” + </p> + <p> + “There is little news stirring, sir; at least if there be, it does not + come my way, with the exception of this report about yourself, which I + hope is not true; that there was an attempt made on your life yesterday + evening?” + </p> + <p> + Whilst Sir Robert spoke he approached a looking-glass, before which he + presented himself, and commenced adjusting his dress, especially his wig, + a piece of vanity which nettled the quick and irritable feelings of the + squire exceedingly. The inference he drew was, that this wealthy suitor of + his daughter felt more about his own personal appearance before her than + about the dreadful fate which he himself had so narrowly escaped. + </p> + <p> + “What signifies that, my dear fellow, when your wig is out of balance? + it's a little to the one side, like the ear of an empty jug, as they say.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, sir,” replied the baronet, “the fact is, that I felt—hum!—hum—so + much—so much—a—anxiety—hum!—to see you and—a—a—to + know all about it—that—a—I didn't take time to—a—look + to my dress. And besides, as I—hum!—expect to have—a—the + pleasure of an interview with Miss Folliard—a—hum!—now + that I'm here—I feel anxious to appear to the best advantage—a—hum!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0004" id="linkimage-0004"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img src="images/page029.jpg" + alt="Page 29-- Readjustment of his Toilet, at the Large Mirror " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + While speaking he proceeded with the readjustment of his toilet at the + large mirror, an operation which appeared to constitute the great object + on which his mind was engaged, the affair of the squire's life or death + coming in only parenthetically, or as a consideration of minor importance. + </p> + <p> + In height Sir Robert Whitecraft was fully six feet two; but being + extremely thin and lank, and to all appearance utterly devoid of + substance, and of every thing like proportion, he appeared much taller + than even nature had made him. His forehead was low, and his whole + character felonious; his eyes were small, deep set, and cunning; his nose + was hooked, his mouth was wide, but his lips thin to a miracle, and such + as always—are to be found under the nose of a miser; as for a chin, + we could not conscientiously allow him any; his under-lip sloped off until + it met the throat with a curve not larger than that of an oyster-shell, + which when open to the tide, his mouth very much resembled. As for his + neck, it was so long that no portion of dress at that time discovered was + capable of covering more than one third of it; so that there were always + two parts out of three left stark naked, and helplessly exposed to the + elements. Whenever he smiled he looked as if he was about to weep. As the + squire said, he was dreadfully round-shouldered—had dangling arms, + that kept napping about him as if they were moved by some machinery that + had gone out of order—was close-kneed—had the true telescopic + leg—and feet that brought a very large portion of him into the + closest possible contact with the earth. + </p> + <p> + “Are you succeeding, Sir Robert?” inquired the old man sarcastically, + “because, if you are, I swear you're achieving wonders, considering the + slight materials you have to work upon.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! sir,” replied the baronet, “I perceive you are in one of your biting + humors to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “Biting!” exclaimed the other. “Egad, it's very well for most of your + sporting acquaintances that you're free from hydrophobia; if you were not, + I'd have died pleasantly between two feather beds, leaving my child an + orphan long before this. Egad, you bit me to some purpose.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, ay, you allude to the affair of 'Hop-and-go-constant' and 'Pat the + Spanker;' but you know, my dear sir, I gave you heavy boot;” and as he + spoke, he pulled up the lapels of his coat, and glanced complacently at + the profile of his face and person in the glass. + </p> + <p> + “Pray, is Miss Folliard at home, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Again I'm forgotten,” thought the squire. “Ah, what an affectionate + son-in-law he'd make! What a tender husband for Helen! Why, hang the + fellow, he has a heart for nobody, but himself. She is at home, Sir + Robert, but the truth is, I don't think it would become me, as a father + anxious for the happiness of his child, and that child, an only one, to + sacrifice her happiness—the happiness of her whole life—to + wealth or ambition. You know she herself entertains a strong prejudice—no, + that's not the word—” + </p> + <p> + “I beg your pardon, sir; that is the word; her distaste to me is a + prejudice, and nothing else.” + </p> + <p> + “No, Sir Robert; it is not the word. Antipathy is the word. Now I tell + you, once for all, that I will not force my child.” + </p> + <p> + “This change, Mr. Folliard,” observed the baronet, “is somewhat of the + suddenest. Has any thing occurred on my part to occasion it?” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps I may have other views for her, Sir Robert.” + </p> + <p> + “That may be; but is such conduct either fair or honorable towards me, Mr. + Folliard? Have I got a rival, and if so, who is he?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I wouldn't tell you that for the world.” + </p> + <p> + “And why not, pray?” + </p> + <p> + “Because,” replied the squire, “if you found out who he was, you'd be + hanged for cannibalism.” + </p> + <p> + “I really don't understand you, Mr. Folliard. Excuse me, but it would seem + to me that something has put you into no very agreeable humor to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “You don't understand me! Why, Sir Robert,” replied the other, “I know you + so well that if you heard the name of your rival you would first kill him, + then powder him, and, lastly, eat him. You are such a terrible fellow that + you care about no man's life, not even about mine.” + </p> + <p> + Now it was to this very point that the calculating baronet wished to bring + him. The old man, he knew, was whimsical, capricious, and in the habit of + taking all his strongest and most enduring resolutions from sudden + contrasts produced by some mistake of his own, or from some discovery made + to him on the part of others. + </p> + <p> + “As to your life, Mr. Folliard, let me assure you,” replied Sir Robert, + “that there is no man living prizes it, and, let me add, you character + too, more highly than I do; but, my dear sir, your life was never in + danger.” + </p> + <p> + “Never in danger! what do you mean, Sir Robert? I tell you, sir, that the + murdering miscreant, the Red Rapparee, had a loaded gun levelled at me + last evening, after dark.” + </p> + <p> + “I know it,” replied the other; “I am well aware of it, and you were + rescued just in the nick of time.” + </p> + <p> + “True enough,” said the squire, “just in the nick of time; by that + glorious young fellow—a—a—yes—Reilly—Willy + Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “This Willy Reilly, sir, is a very accomplished person, I think.” + </p> + <p> + “A gentleman, Sir Robert, every inch of him, and as handsome and + fine-looking a young fellow as ever I laid my eyes upon.” + </p> + <p> + “He was educated on the Continent by the Jesuits.” + </p> + <p> + “No!” replied the squire, dreadfully alarmed at this piece of information, + “he was not; by the great Boyne, he wasn't.” + </p> + <p> + This mighty asseveration, however, was exceedingly feeble in moral + strength and energy, for, in point of fact, it came out of the squire's + lips more in the shape of a question than an oath. + </p> + <p> + “It is unquestionably true, sir,” said the baronet; “ask himself, and he + will admit it.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, and granting that he was,” replied the squire, “what else could he + do, when the laws would not permit of his being educated here? I speak not + against the laws, God forbid, but of his individual case.” + </p> + <p> + “We are travelling from the point, sir,” returned the baronet. “I was + observing that Reilly is an accomplished person, as indeed every Jesuit + is. Be that as it may, I again beg to assure you that your life stood in + no risk.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't understand you, Sir Robert. You're a perfect oracle; by the great + Deliverer from Pope and Popery, wooden shoes, and so forth, only that + Reilly made his appearance at that moment I was a dead man.” + </p> + <p> + “Not the slightest danger, Mr. Folliard. I am aware of that, and of the + whole Jesuitical plot from the beginning, base, ingenious, but diabolical + as it was.” + </p> + <p> + The squire rose up and looked at him for a minute, without speaking, then + sat down again, and, a second time, was partially up, but resumed his + seat. + </p> + <p> + “A plot!” he exclaimed; “a plot, Sir Robert! What plot?” + </p> + <p> + “A plot, Mr. Folliard, for the purpose of creating an opportunity to make + your acquaintance, and of ingratiating himself into the good graces and + affections of your lovely daughter; a plot for the purpose of marrying + her.” + </p> + <p> + The Squire seemed for a moment thunderstruck, but in a little time he + recovered. “Marrying her!” he exclaimed; “that, you know, could not be + done, unless he turned Protestant.” + </p> + <p> + It was now time for the baronet to feel thunderstricken. + </p> + <p> + “He turn Protestant! I don't understand you, Mr. Folliard. Could any + change on Reilly's part involve such a probability as a marriage between + him and your daughter?” + </p> + <p> + “I can't believe it was a plot, Sir Robert,” said the squire, shifting the + question, “nor I won't believe it. There was too much truth and sincerity + in his conduct. And, what is more, my house would have been attacked last + night; I myself robbed and murdered, and my daughter-my child, carried + off, only for him. Nay, indeed, it was partially attacked, but when the + villainy found us prepared they decamped; but, as for marriage, he could + not marry my daughter, I say again, so long as he remains a Papist.” + </p> + <p> + “Unless he might prevail on her to turn Papist.” + </p> + <p> + “By the life of my body, Sir Robert, I won't stand this. Did you come + here, sir, to insult me and to drive me into madness? What devil could + have put it into your head that my daughter, sir, or any one with a drop + of my blood in their veins, to the tenth generation, could ever, for a + single moment, think of turning Papist? Sir, I hoped that you would have + respected the name both of my daughter and myself, and have foreborne to + add this double insult both to her and me. The insolence even to dream of + imputing such an act to her I cannot overlook. You yourself, if you could + gain a point or feather your nest by it, are a thousand times much more + likely to turn Papist than either of us. Apologize instantly, sir, or + leave my house.” + </p> + <p> + “I can certainly apologize, Mr. Folliard,” replied the baronet, “and with + a good conscience, inasmuch as I had not the most remote intention of + offending you, much less Miss Folliard—I accordingly do so promptly + and at once; but as for my allegations against Reilly, I am in a position + to establish their truth in the clearest manner, and to prove to you that + there wasn't a. single robber, nor Rapparee either, at or about your house + last night, with the exception of Reilly and his gang. If there were, why + were they neither heard nor seen?” + </p> + <p> + “One of them was—the Red Rapparee himself.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not be deceived, Mr. Folliard; did you yourself, or any of your family + or household, see him?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, no, certainly, we did not; I admit that.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and you will admit more soon. I shall prove the whole conspiracy.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, why don't you then?” + </p> + <p> + “Simply because the matter must be brought about with great caution. You—must + allow me a few days, say three or four, and the proofs shall be given.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well, Sir Robert, but in the meantime I shall not throw Reilly + overboard.” + </p> + <p> + “Could I not be permitted to pay my respects to Miss Folliard before I go, + sir?” asked Sir Robert. + </p> + <p> + “Don't insist upon it,” replied her father; “you know perfectly well that + she—that you are no favorite with her.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing on earth, sir, grieves me so much,” said the baronet, affecting a + melancholy expression of countenance, which was ludicrous to look at. + </p> + <p> + “Well, well,” said the old man, “as you can't see her now, come and meet + Reilly here at dinner the day after to-morrow, and you shall have that + pleasure.” + </p> + <p> + “It will be with pain, sir, that I shall force myself into that person's + society; however, to oblige you, I shall do it.” + </p> + <p> + “Consider, pray consider, Sir Robert,” replied the old squire, all his + pride of family glowing strong within him, “just consider that my table, + sir, and my countenance, sir, and my sense of gratitude, sir, are a + sufficient guarantee to the worth and respectability of any one whom I may + ask to my house. And, Sir Robert, in addition to that, just reflect that I + ask him to meet my daughter, and, if I don't mistake, I think I love, + honor, and respect her nearly as much as I do you. Will you come then, or + will you not?” + </p> + <p> + “Unquestionably, sir, I shall do myself the honor.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” replied the old squire, clearing up at once—undergoing, + in fact, one of those rapid and unaccountable changes which constituted so + prominent a portion of his character. “Very well, Bobby; good-by, my boy; + I am not angry with you; shake hands, and curse Popery.” + </p> + <p> + Until the morning of the day on which the two rivals were to meet, Miss + Folliard began to entertain a dreadful apprehension that the fright into + which the Red Rapparee had thrown her father was likely to terminate, ere + long, in insanity. The man at best was eccentric, and full of the most + unaccountable changes of temper and purpose, hot, passionate, vindictive, + generous, implacable, and benevolent. What he had seldom been accustomed + to do, he commenced soliloquizing aloud, and talking to himself in such + broken hints and dark mysterious allusions, drawing from unknown premises + such odd and ludicrous inferences; at one time brushing himself up in + Scripture; at another moment questioning his daughter about her opinion on + Popery—sometimes dealing about political and religious allusions + with great sarcasm, in which he was a master when he wished, and sometimes + with considerable humor of illustration, so far, at least, as he could be + understood. + </p> + <p> + “Confound these Jesuits,” said he; “I wish they were scourged out of + Europe. Every man of them is sure to put his finger in the pie and then + into his mouth to taste what it's like; not so the parsons—Hallo! + where am I? Take care, old Folliard; take care, you old dog; what have you + to say in favor of these same parsons—lazy, negligent fellows, who + snore and slumber, feed well, clothe well, and think first of number one? + Egad, I'm in a mess between them. One makes a slave of you, and the other + allows you to play the tyrant. A plague, as I heard a fellow say in a play + once, a plague o' both your houses: if you paid more attention to your + duties, and scrambled less for wealth and power, and this world's honors, + you would not turn it upside down as you do. Helen!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, papa.” + </p> + <p> + “I have doubts whether I shall allow you to sound Reilly on. Popery.” + </p> + <p> + “I would rather decline it, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll tell you what; I'll see Andy Cummiskey—Andy's opinion is good + on any thing.” And accordingly he proceeded to see his confidential old + servant. With this purpose, and in his own original manner, he went about + consulting every servant under his roof upon their respective notions of + Popery, as he called it, and striving to allure them, at one time by + kindness, and at another by threatening them, into an avowal of its + idolatrous tendency. Those to whom he spoke, however, knew very little + about it, and, like those of all creeds in a similar predicament, he found + that, in proportion to their ignorance of its doctrines, arose the + vehemence and sincerity of their defence of it. This, however, is human + nature, and we do not see how the learned can condemn it. Upon the day + appointed for dinner only four sat down to it—that is to say, the + squire, his daughter, Sir Robert Whitecraft, and Reilly. They had met in + the drawing-room some time before its announcement, and as the old man + introduced the two latter, Reilly's bow was courteous and gentlemanly, + whilst that of the baronet, who not only detested Reilly with the hatred + of a demon, but resolved to make him feel the superiority of rank and + wealth, was frigid, supercilious, and offensive. Reilly at once saw this, + and, as he knew not that the baronet was in possession of his secret, he + felt his ill-bred insolence the more deeply. He was too much of a + gentleman, however, and too well acquainted with the principles and forms + of good breeding, to seem to notice it in the slightest degree. The old + squire at this time had not at all given Reilly up, but still his + confidence in him was considerably shaken. He saw, moreover, that, + notwithstanding what had occurred at their last interview, the baronet had + forgotten the respect due both to himself and his daughter; and, as he + had, amidst all his eccentricities, many strong touches of the old Irish + gentleman about him, he resolved to punish him for his ungentlemanly + deportment. Accordingly, when dinner was announced, he said: + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Reilly, you will give Miss Folliard your arm.” + </p> + <p> + We do not say that the worthy baronet squinted, but there was a bad, + vindictive look in his small, cunning eyes, which, as they turned upon + Reilly, was ten times more repulsive than the worst squint that ever + disfigured a human countenance. To add to his chagrin, too, the squire + came out with a bit of his usual sarcasm. + </p> + <p> + “Come, baronet,” said he, “here's my arm. I am the old man, and you are + the old lady; and now for dinner.” + </p> + <p> + In the meantime Reilly and the Cooleen Bawn had gone far enough in advance + to be in a condition to speak without being heard. + </p> + <p> + “That,” said she, “is the husband my father intends for me, or, rather, + did intend; for, do you know, that you have found such favor in his sight + that—that—” she hesitated, and Reilly, looking into her face, + saw that she blushed deeply, and he felt by her arm that her whole frame + trembled with emotion. + </p> + <p> + “Proceed, dearest love,” said he; “what is it?” + </p> + <p> + “I have not time to tell you now,” she replied, “but he mentioned a + project to me which, if it could be accomplished, would seal both your + happiness and mine forever. Your religion is the only obstacle.” + </p> + <p> + “And that, my love,” he replied, “is an insurmountable one.” + </p> + <p> + “Alas! I feared as much,” she replied, sighing bitterly as she spoke. + </p> + <p> + The old squire took the head of the table, and requested Sir Robert to + take the foot; his daughter was at his right hand, and Reilly opposite + her, by which means, although denied any confidential use of the tongue, + their eyes enjoyed very gratifying advantages, and there passed between + them occasionally some of those rapid glances which, especially when + lovers are under surveillance, concentrate in their lightning flash more + significance, more hope, more joy, and more love, than ever was conveyed + by the longest and tenderest gaze of affection under other circumstances. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Reilly,” said the squire, “I'm told that you are a very well educated + man; indeed, the thing is evident. What, let me ask, is your opinion of + education in general?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, sir,” replied Reilly, “I think there can be but one opinion about + it. Without education a people can never be moral, prosperous, or happy. + Without it, how are they to learn the duties of this life, or those still + more important ones that prepare them for a better?” + </p> + <p> + “You would entrust the conduct and control of it, I presume, sir, to the + clergy?” asked Sir Robert insidiously. + </p> + <p> + “I would give the priest such control in education as becomes his + position, which is not only to educate the youth, but to instruct the man, + in all the duties enjoined by religion.” + </p> + <p> + The squire now gave a triumphant look at the baronet, and a very kind and + gracious one at Reilly. + </p> + <p> + “Pray, sir,” continued the baronet, in his cold, supercilious manner, + “from the peculiarity of your views, I feel anxious, if you will pardon + me, to ask where you yourself have received your very accomplished + education.” + </p> + <p> + “Whether my education, sir, has been an accomplished one or otherwise,” + replied Reilly, “is a point, I apprehend, beyond the reach of any + opportunity you ever had to know. I received my education, sir, such as it + is, and if it be not better the fault is my own, in a Jesuit seminary on + the Continent.” + </p> + <p> + It was now the baronet's time to triumph; and indeed the bitter glancing + look he gave at the squire, although it was intended for Reilly, resembled + that which one of the more cunning and ferocious beasts of prey makes + previous to its death-spring upon its victim. The old man's countenance + instantly fell. He looked with surprise, not unmingled with sorrow and + distrust, at Reilly, a circumstance which did not escape his daughter, who + could not, for the life of her, avoid fixing her eyes, lovelier even in + the disdain they expressed, with an indignant look at the baronet. + </p> + <p> + The latter, however, felt resolved to bring his rival still further within + the toils he was preparing for him, an object which Reilly's candor very + much facilitated. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Reilly,” said the squire, “I was not prepared to hear—a—a—hem—God + bless me, it is very odd, very deplorable, very much to be regretted + indeed!” + </p> + <p> + “What is, sir?” asked Reilly. + </p> + <p> + “Why, that you should be a Jesuit. I must confess I was not—ahem!—God + bless me. I can't doubt your own word, certainly.” + </p> + <p> + “Not on this subject,” observed the baronet coolly. + </p> + <p> + “On no subject, sir,” replied Reilly, looking him sternly, and with an + indignation that was kept within bounds only by his respect for the other + parties, and the roof that covered him; “On no subject, Sir Robert + Whitecraft, is my word to be doubted.” + </p> + <p> + “I beg your pardon, sir,” replied the other, “I did not say so.” + </p> + <p> + “I will neither have it said, sir, nor insinuated,” rejoined Reilly. “I + received my education on the Continent because the laws of this country + prevented me from receiving it here. I was placed in a Jesuit seminary, + not by my own choice, but by that of my father, to whom I owed obedience. + Your oppressive laws, sir, first keep us ignorant, and then punish us for + the crimes which that ignorance produces.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you call the laws of the country oppressive?” asked the baronet, with + as much of a sneer as cowardice would permit him to indulge in. + </p> + <p> + “I do, sir, and ever will consider them so, at least so long as they + deprive myself and my Catholic fellow-countrymen of their civil and + religious rights.” + </p> + <p> + “That is strong language, though,” observed the other, “at this time of + day.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Reilly,” said the squire, “you seem to be very much attached to your + religion.” + </p> + <p> + “Just as much as I am to my life, sir, and would as soon give up the one + as the other.” + </p> + <p> + The squire's countenance literally became pale, his last hope was gone, + and so great was his agitation that, in bringing a glass of wine to his + lips, his hand trembled to such a degree that he spilled a part of it. + This, however, was not all. A settled gloom—a morose, dissatisfied + expression—soon overshadowed his features, from which disappeared + all trace of that benignant, open, and friendly hospitality towards Reilly + that had hitherto obtained from them. He and the baronet exchanged glances + of whose import, if Reilly was ignorant, not so his beloved <i>Cooleen + Bawn</i>. For the remainder of the evening the squire treated Reilly with + great coolness; always addressing him as Mister, and evidently + contemplating him in a spirit which partook of the feeling that animated + Sir Robert Whitecraft. + </p> + <p> + Helen rose to withdraw, and contrived, by a sudden glance at the door, and + another as quick in the direction of the drawing-room, to let her lover + know that she wished him to follow her soon. The hint was not lost, for in + less than half an hour Reilly, who was of very temperate habits, joined + her as she had hinted. + </p> + <p> + “Reilly,” said she, as she ran to him, “dearest Reilly! there is little + time to be lost. I perceive that a secret understanding respecting you + exists between papa and that detestable baronet. Be on your guard, + especially against the latter, who has evidently, ever since we sat down + to dinner, contrived to bring papa round to his own way of thinking, as he + will ultimately, perhaps, to worse designs and darker purposes. Above all + things, speak nothing that can be construed against the existing laws. I + find that danger, if not positive injury, awaits you. I shall, at any + risk, give you warning.” + </p> + <p> + “At no risk, beloved!” + </p> + <p> + “At every risk—at all risks, dearest Reilly! Nay, more—whatever + danger may encompass you shall be shared by me, even at the risk of my + life, or I shall extricate you out of it. But perhaps you will not be + faithful to me. If so, I shudder to think what might happen.” + </p> + <p> + “Listen,” said Reilly, taking her by the hand, “In the presence of heaven, + I am yours, and yours only, until death!” + </p> + <p> + She repeated his words, after which they had scarcely taken their seats + when the squire and Sir Eobert entered the drawing-room. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V.—The Plot and the Victims. + </h2> + <p> + Sir Robert, on entering the room along with the squire, found the <i>Cooleen + Bawn</i> at the spinnet. Taking his place at the end of it, so as that he + could, gain a full view of her countenance, he thought he could observe + her complexion considerably heightened in color, and from her his glance + was directed to Reilly. The squire, on the other hand, sat dull, silent, + and unsociable, unless when addressing himself to the baronet, and + immediately his genial manner returned to him. + </p> + <p> + With his usual impetuosity, however, when laboring under what he supposed + to be a sense of injury, he soon brought matters to a crisis. + </p> + <p> + “Sir Robert,” said he, “are the Papists quiet now?” + </p> + <p> + “They are quiet, sir,” replied the other, “because they dare not be + otherwise.” + </p> + <p> + “By the great Deliverer, that saved us from Pope and Popery, brass money + and wooden shoes, I think the country will never be quiet till they are + banished out of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, Mr. Folliard, I agree with you.” + </p> + <p> + “And so do I, Sir Robert,” said Reilly. “I wish from my soul there was not + a Papist, as you call them, in this unfortunate country! In any other + country beyond the bounds of the British dominions they could enjoy + freedom. But I wish it for another reason, gentlemen; if they were gone, + you would then be taught to your cost the value of your estates and the + source of your incomes. And now, Mr. Folliard, I am not conscious of + having given you any earthly offence, but I cannot possibly pretend to + misunderstand the object of your altered conduct and language. I am your + guest, at your own express invitation. You know I am a Roman Catholic—Papist, + if you will—yet, with the knowledge of this, you have not only + insulted me personally, but also in the creed to which I belong. As for + that gentleman, I can only say that this roof and the presence of those + who are under it constitute his protection. But I envy not the man who + could avail himself of such a position, for the purpose of insinuating an + insult which he dare not offer under other circumstances. I will not + apologize for taking my departure, for I feel that I have been too long + here.” + </p> + <p> + <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> arose in deep agitation. “Dear papa, what is this?” + she exclaimed. “What can be the cause of it? Why forget the laws of + hospitality? Why, above all things, deliberately insult the man to whom + you and I both owe so much? Oh, I cannot understand it. Some demon, + equally cowardly and malignant, must have poisoned your own naturally + generous mind. Some villain, equally profligate and hypocritical, has, for + some dark purpose, given this unworthy bias to your mind.” + </p> + <p> + “You know nothing of it, Helen. You're altogether in the dark, girl; but + in a day or two it will all be made clear to you.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not be discomposed, my dear Miss Folliard,” said Sir Robert, striding + over to her. “Allow me to prevail upon you to suspend your judgment for a + little, and to return to the beautiful air you were enchanting us with.” + </p> + <p> + As he spoke he attempted to take her hand. Reilly, in the meantime, was + waiting for an opportunity to bid his love goodnight. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0005" id="linkimage-0005"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img src="images/page035.jpg" alt="Page 35-- Touch Me Not, Sir " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + “Touch me not, sir,” she replied, her glorious eyes flashing with + indignation. “I charge you as the base cause of drawing down the disgrace + of shame, the sin of ingratitude, on my father's head. But here that + father stands, and there you, sir, stand; and sooner than become the wife + of Sir Robert Whitecraft I would dash myself from the battlements of this + castle. William Reilly, brave and generous young man, goodnight! It + matters not who may forget the debt of gratitude which this family owe you—I + will not. No cowardly slanderer shall instil his poisonous calumnies + against you into my ear. My opinion of you is unchanged and unchangeable. + Farewell! William Relly!” + </p> + <p> + We shall not attempt to describe the commotions of love, of happiness, of + rapture, which filled Reilly's bosom as he took his departure. As for <i>Cooleen + Bawn</i>, she had now passed the Rubicon, and there remained nothing for + her but constancy to the truth of her affection, be the result what it + might. She had, indeed, much of the vehemence of her father's character in + her; much of his unchangeable purpose, when she felt or thought she was + right; but not one of his unfounded whims or prejudices; for she was too + noble-minded and sensible to be influenced by unbecoming or inadequate + motives. With an indignant but beautiful scorn, that gave grace to + resentment, she bowed to the baronet, then kissed her father + affectionately and retired. + </p> + <p> + The old man, after she had gone, sat for a considerable time silent. In + fact, the superior force of his daughter's character had not only + surprised, but overpowered him for the moment. The baronet attempted to + resume the conversation, but he found not his intended father-in-law in + the mood for it. The light of truth, as it flashed from the spirit of his + daughter, seemed to dispel the darkness of his recent suspicions; he dwelt + upon the possibility of ingratitude with a temporary remorse. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot speak to you, Sir Robert,” he said; “I am confused, disturbed, + distressed. If I have treated that young man ungratefully, God may forgive + me, but I will never forgive myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Take care, sir,” said the baronet, “that you are not under the spell of + the Jesuit and your daughter too. Perhaps you will find, when it is too + late, that she is the more spellbound of the two. If I don't mistake, the + spell begins to work already. In the meantime, as Miss Folliard will have + it, I withdraw all claims upon her hand and affections. Good-night, sir;” + and as he spoke he took his departure. + </p> + <p> + For a long time the old man sat looking into the fire, where he began + gradually to picture to himself strange forms and objects in the glowing + embers, one of whom he thought resembled the Red Rapparee about to shoot + him; another, Willy Reilly making love to his daughter; and behind all, a + high gallows, on which he beheld the said Reilly hanging for his crime. + </p> + <p> + In about an hour afterwards Miss Folliard returned to the drawing-room, + where she found her father asleep in his arm-chair. Having awakened him + gently from what appeared a disturbed dream, he looked about him, and, + forgetting for a moment all that had happened, inquired in his usual eager + manner where Reilly and Whitecraft were, and if they had gone. In a few + moments, however, he recollected the circumstances that had taken place, + and after heaving a deep sigh, he opened his arms for his daughter, and as + he embraced her burst into tears. + </p> + <p> + “Helen,” said he, “I am unhappy; I am distressed; I know not what to do!—may + God forgive me if I have treated this young man with ingratitude. But, at + all events, a few days will clear it all up.” + </p> + <p> + His daughter was melted by the depth of his sorrow, and the more so as it + was seldom she had seen him shed tears before. + </p> + <p> + “I would do every thing—anything to make you happy, my dear + treasure,” said he, “if I only knew how.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear papa,” she replied, “of that I am conscious; and as a proof that the + heart of your daughter is incapable of veiling a single thought that + passes in it from a parent who loves her so well, I will place its most + cherished secret in your own keeping. I shall not be outdone even by you, + dear papa, in generosity, in confidence, in affection. Papa,” she added, + placing her head upon his bosom, whilst the tears flowed fast down her + cheeks, “papa, I love William Reilly—love him with a pure and + disinterested passion!—with a passion which I feel constitutes my + destiny in this life—either for happiness or misery. That passion is + irrevocable. It is useless to ask me to control or suppress it, for I feel + that the task is beyond my power. My love, however, is not base nor + selfish, papa, but founded on virtue and honor. It may seem strange that I + should make such a confession to you, for I know it is un—usual in + young persons like me to do so; but remember, dear papa, that except + yourself I have no friend. If I had a mother, or a sister, or a cousin of + my own sex, to whom I might confide and unburden my feelings, then indeed + it is not probable I would make to you the confession which I have made; + but we are alone, and you are the only being left me on whom can rest my + sorrow—for indeed my heart is full of sorrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, I know not what to say. You are a true girl, Helen, and the + very error, if it be one, is diminished by the magnanimity and truth which + prompted you to disclose it to me. I will go to bed, dearest, and sleep if + I can. I trust in God there is no calamity about to overshadow our house + or destroy our happiness.” + </p> + <p> + He then sought his own chamber; and <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, after attending + him thither, left him to the care of his attendant and retired herself to + her apartment. + </p> + <p> + On reaching home Reilly found Fergus, one of his own relatives, as we have + said, the same who, warned by his remonstrances, had abandoned the gang of + the Red Rapparee, waiting to see him. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Fergus,” said he, “I am glad that you have followed my advice. You + have left the lawless employment of that blood-stained man?” + </p> + <p> + “I have,” replied the other, “and I'm here to tell you that you can now + secure him if you like. I don't look upon sayin' this as treachery to him, + nor would I mention it only that Pavideen, the smith, who shoes and + doctors his horses, tould me something that you ought to know.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Fergus, what is it?” + </p> + <p> + “There's a plot laid, sir, to send you out o' the country, and the Red + Rapparee has a hand in it. He is promised a pardon from government, and + some kind of a place as thief-taker, if he'll engage in it against you. + Now, you know, there's a price upon his head, and, if you like, you can + have it, and get an enemy put out of your way at the same time.” + </p> + <p> + “No, Fergus,” replied Keilly; “in a moment of indignation I threatened him + in order to save the life of a fellow-creature. But let the laws deal with + him. As for me, you know what he deserves at my hands, but I shall never + become the hound of a government which oppresses me unjustly. No, no, it + is precisely because a price is laid upon the unfortunate miscreant's head + that I would not betray him.” + </p> + <p> + “He will betray you, then.” + </p> + <p> + “And let him. I have never violated any law, and even though he should + betray me, Fergus, he cannot make me guilty. To the laws, to God, and his + own conscience, I leave him. No, Fergus, all sympathy between me and the + laws that oppress us is gone. Let them vindicate themselves against + thieves and robbers and murderers, with as much vigilance and energy as + they do against the harmless forms of religion and the rights of + conscience, and the country will soon be free from such licentious pests + as the Red Rapparee and his gang.” + </p> + <p> + “You speak warmly, Mr. Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” replied Keilly, “I am warm, I am indignant at my degradation. + Fergus, Fergus, I never felt that degradation and its consequences so + deeply as I do this unhappy night.”' + </p> + <p> + “Well, will you listen to me?” + </p> + <p> + “I will strive to do so; but you know not the—you know not—alas! + I have no language to express what I feel. Proceed, however,” he added, + attempting to calm the tumult that agitated his heart; “what about this + plot or plan for putting me out of the country?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, it's determined on to send you, by the means of the same laws + you speak of, out of the country. The red villain is to come in with a + charge against you and surrender himself to government as a penitent man, + and the person who is to protect him is Sir Robert Whitecraft.” + </p> + <p> + “It's all time, Fergus,” said Reilly; “I see it at a glance, and + understand it a great deal better than you do. They may, however, be + disappointed. Fergus, I have a friend—friend—oh, such a + friend! and it will go hard with that friend, or I shall hear of their + proceedings. In the meantime, what do you intend to do?” + </p> + <p> + “I scarcely know,” replied the other. “I must lie quiet for a while, at + any rate.” + </p> + <p> + “Do so,” said Reilly; “and listen, Fergus. See Paudeen, the smith, from + time to time, and get whatever he knows out of him. His father was a + tenant of ours, and he ought to remember our kindness to him and his.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay,” said Fergus, “and he does too.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, it is clear he does. Get from him all the information you can, and + let me hear it. I would give you shelter in my house, but that now would + be dangerous both to you and me. Do you want money to support you?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, indeed, Mr. Reilly, I do and I do not. I can—” + </p> + <p> + “That's enough,” said Reilly; “you want it. Here, take this. I would + recommend you, as I did before, to leave this unhappy country; but as + circumstances have turned out, you may for some time yet be useful to me. + Good-night, then, Fergus. Serve me in this matter as far as you can, for I + stand in need of it.” + </p> + <p> + As nothing like an organized police existed in Ireland at the period of + which we speak, an outlaw or Rapparee might have a price laid upon his + head for months—nay, for years—and yet continue his outrages + and defy the executive. Sometimes it happened that the authorities, + feeling the weakness of their resources and the inadequacy of their power, + did not hesitate to propose terms to the leaders of these banditti, and, + by affording them personal protection, succeeded in inducing them to + betray their former associates. Now Reilly was well aware of this, and our + readers need not be surprised that the communication made to him by his + kinsman filled him not only with anxiety but alarm. A very slight charge + indeed brought forward by a man of rank and property—such a charge, + for instance, as the possession of firearms—was quite sufficient to + get a Roman Catholic banished the country. + </p> + <p> + On the third evening after this our friend Tom Steeple was met by its + proprietor in the avenue leading to Corbo Castle. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Tom,” said the squire, “are you for the Big House?” for such is the + general term applied to all the ancestral mansions of the country. + </p> + <p> + Tom stopped and looked at him—for we need scarcely observe here that + with poor Tom there was no respect of persons; he then shook his head and + replied, “Me don't know whether you tall or not. Tom tall—will Tom + go to Big House—get bully dinnel—and Tom sleep under the + stairs—eh? Say aye, an' you be tall too.” + </p> + <p> + “To be sure, Tom; go into the house, and your cousin Larry Lanigan, the + cook, will give you a bully dinner; and sleep where you like.” + </p> + <p> + The squire walked up and down the avenue in a thoughtful mood for some + moments until another of our characters met him on his way towards the + entrance gate. This person was no other than Molly Mahon. + </p> + <p> + “Ha!” said he, “here is another of them—well, poor devils, they must + live. This, though, is the great fortune-teller. I will try her.” + </p> + <p> + “God save your honor,” said Molly, as she approached him and dropped a + courtesy. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, Molly,” said he, “you can see into the future, they say. Well, come + now, tell me my fortune; but they say one must cross your palm with silver + before you can manage the fates; here's a shilling for you, and let us + hear what you have to say.” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir,” replied Molly, putting back his hand, “imposthors may do that, + because they secure themselves first and tell you nothing worth knowin' + afterwards. I take no money till I first tell the fortune.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Molly, that's honest at all events; let me hear what you have to + tell me.” + </p> + <p> + “Show me your hand, sir,” said she, and taking it, she looked into it with + a solemn aspect. “There, sir,” she said, “that will do. I am sorry I met + you this evening.” + </p> + <p> + “Why so, Molly?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I read in your hand a great deal of sorrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Pooh, you foolish woman—nonsense!” + </p> + <p> + “There's a misfortune likely to happen to one of your family; but I think + it may be prevented.” + </p> + <p> + “How will it be prevented?” + </p> + <p> + “By a gentleman that has a title and great wealth, and that loves the + member of your family that the misfortune is likely to happen to.” + </p> + <p> + The squire paused and looked at the woman, who seemed to speak seriously, + and even with pain. + </p> + <p> + “I don't believe a word of it, Molly; but granting that it be true, how do + you know it?” + </p> + <p> + “That's more than I can tell myself, sir,” she replied. “A feelin' comes + over me, and I can't help speakin' the words as they rise to my lips.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Molly, here's a shilling for you now; but I want you to see my + daughter's hand till I hear what you have to say for her. Are you a + Papist, Molly?” + </p> + <p> + “No, your honor, I was one wanst; but the moment we take to this way of + life we mustn't belong to any religion, otherwise we couldn't tell the + future.” + </p> + <p> + “Sell yourself to the devil, eh?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no, sir; but—” + </p> + <p> + “But what? Out with it.” + </p> + <p> + “I can't, sir; if I did, I never could tell a fortune agin.” + </p> + <p> + “Well—well; come up; I have taken a fancy that you shall tell my + daughter's for all that.” + </p> + <p> + “Surely there can be nothing but happiness before her, sir; she that is so + good to the poor and distressed; she that has all the world admirin' her + wonderful beauty. Sure, they say, her health was drunk in the Lord + Lieutenant's house in the great Castle of Dublin, as the Lily of the + Plains of Boyle and the Star of Ireland.” + </p> + <p> + “And so it was, Molly, and so it was; there's another shilling for you. + Come now, come up to the house, and tell her fortune; and mark me, Molly, + no flattery now—nothing but the truth, if you know it.” + </p> + <p> + “Did I flatter you, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Upon my honor, any thing but that, Molly; and all I ask is that you won't + flatter her. Speak the truth, as I said before, if you know it.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Folliard, on being called down by her father to have her fortune + told, on seeing Molly, drew back and said, “Do not ask me to come in + direct contact with this woman, papa. How can you, for one moment, imagine + that a person of her life and habits could be gifted with that which has + never yet been communicated to mortal (the holy prophets excepted)—a + knowledge of futurity?” + </p> + <p> + “No matter, my darling, no matter; give her your hand; you will oblige and + gratify me.” + </p> + <p> + “Here, then, dear papa, to please you—certainly.” + </p> + <p> + Molly took her lovely hand, and having looked into it, said, turning to + the squire, “It's very odd, sir, but here's nearly the same thing that I + tould to you awhile ago.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Molly,” said he, “let us hear it.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Folliard stood with her snowy hand in that of the fortune-teller, + perfectly indifferent to her art, but not without strong feelings of + disgust at the ordeal to which she submitted. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Molly,” said the squire, “what have you to say?” + </p> + <p> + “Here's love,” she replied, “love in the wrong direction—a false + step is made that will end in misery—and—and—and—” + </p> + <p> + “And what, woman?” asked Miss Folliard, with an indignant glance at the + fortune-teller. “What have you to add?” + </p> + <p> + “No!” said she, “I needn't speak it, for it won't come to pass. I see a + man of wealth and title who will just come in in time to save you from + shame and destruction, and with him you will be happy.” + </p> + <p> + “I could prove to you,” replied the <i>Cooleen Dawn</i>, her face mantling + with blushes of indignation, “that I am a better prophetess than you are. + Ask her, papa, where she last came from.” + </p> + <p> + “Where did you come from last, Molly?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “Why, then,” she replied, “from Jemmy Hamilton's at the foot of + Cullaniore.” + </p> + <p> + “False prophetess,” replied the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, “you have told an + untruth. I know where you came from last.” + </p> + <p> + “Then where did I come from, Miss Folliard?” said the woman, with + unexpected effrontery. + </p> + <p> + “From Sir Robert Whitecraft,” replied Miss Folliard, “and the wages of + your dishonesty and his corruption are the sources of your inspiration. + Take the woman away, papa.” + </p> + <p> + “That will do, Molly—that will do,” exclaimed the squire, “there is + something' additional for you. What you have told us is very odd—very + odd, indeed. Go and get your dinner in the kitchen.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Folliard then withdrew to her own room. + </p> + <p> + Between eleven and twelve o'clock that night a carriage drew up at the + grand entrance of Corbo Castle, out of which stepped Sir Robert Whitecraft + and no less a personage than the Red Rapparee. They approached the hall + door, and after giving a single knock, it was opened to them by the squire + himself, who it would seem had been waiting to receive them privately. + They followed him in silence to his study. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Folliard, though a healthy-looking man, was, in point of fact, by no + means so. Of a nervous and plethoric habit, though brave, and even + intrepid, yet he was easily affected by anything or any person that was + disagreeable to him. On seeing the man whose hand had been raised against + his life, and what was still more atrocious, whose criminal designs upon + the honor of his daughter had been proved by his violent irruption into + her chamber, he felt a suffocating sensation of rage and horror that + nearly overcame him. + </p> + <p> + “Sir Robert,” he said, “excuse me; the sight of this man has sickened me. + I got your note, and in your society and at your request I have suffered + him to come here; under your protection, too. May God forgive me for it! + The room is too close—I feel unwell—pray open the door.” + </p> + <p> + “Will there be no risk, sir, in leaving the door open?” said the baronet. + </p> + <p> + “None in the world! I have sent the servants all to bed nearly an hour + ago. Indeed, the fact is, they are seldom up so late, unless when I have + company.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Robert then opened the door—that is to say, he left it a little + more than ajar, and returning again took his seat. + </p> + <p> + “Don't let the sight of me frighten you, sir,” said the Rapparee. “I never + was your enemy nor intended you harm.” + </p> + <p> + “Frighten me!” replied the courageous old squire; “no, sir, I am not a man + very easily frightened; but I will confess that the sight of you has + sickened me and filled me with horror.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, now, Mr. Folliard,” said the baronet, “let this matter, this + misunderstanding, this mistake, or rather this deep and diabolical plot on + the part of the Jesuit, Reilly, be at once cleared up. We wish, that is to + say I wish, to prevent your good nature from being played upon by a + designing villain. Now, O'Donnel, relate, or rather disclose, candidly and + truly, all that took place with respect to this damnable plot between you + and Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, the thing, sir,” said the Rapparee, addressing himself to the + squire, “is very plain and simple; but, Sir Robert, it was not a plot + between me and Reilly—the plot was his own. It appears that he saw + your daughter and fell desperately in love with her, and knowin' your + strong feeling against Catholics, he gave up all hopes of being made + acquainted with Miss Folliard, or of getting into her company. Well, sir, + aware that you were often in the habit of goin' to the town of Boyle, he + comes to me and says in the early part of the day, 'Randal, I will give + you fifty goolden guineas if you help me in a plan I have in my head.' + Now, fifty goolden guineas isn't easily earned; so I, not knowing what the + plan was at the time, tould him I could not say nothing till I heard it. + He then tould me that he was over head and ears in love with your + daughter, and that have her he should if it cost him his life. 'Well,' + says I, 'and how can I help you?' 'Why,' said he, 'I'll show you that: her + ould persecuting scoundrel of a father'—excuse me, sir—I'm + givin' his own words—” + </p> + <p> + “I believe it, Mr. Folliard,” said the baronet, “for these are the + identical terms in which he told me the story before; proceed, O'Donnel.” + </p> + <p> + “'The ould scoundrel of a father,' says he, 'on his return from Boyle, + generally comes by the ould road, because it is the shortest cut. Do you + and your men lie in wait in the ruins of the ould chapel, near Loch na + Garran'—it is called so, sir, because they say there's a wild horse + in it that comes out of moonlight nights to feed on the patches of green + that are here and there among the moors—'near Loch na Gaitan,' says + he; 'and when he gets that far turn out upon him, charge him with + transportin' your uncle, and when you are levellin' your gun at him, I + will come, by the way, and save him. You and I must speak angry to one + another, you know; then, of course, I must see him home, and he can't do + less than ask me to dine with him. At all events, thinkin' that I saved + his life, we will become acquainted.'” + </p> + <p> + The squire paused and mused for some time, and then asked, “Was there no + more than this between you and him?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing more, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “And tell me, did he pay you the money?” + </p> + <p> + “Here it is,” replied the Rapparee, pulling out a rag in which were the + precise number of guineas mentioned. + </p> + <p> + “But,” said the squire, “we lost our way in the fog.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir,” said the Rapparee. “Everything turned out in his favor. That + made very little difference. You would have been attacked in or about that + place, whether or not.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but did you not attack my house that night? Did not you yourself + come down by the skylight, and enter, by violence, into my daughter's + apartment?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, when I heard of that, sir, I said, 'I give Reilly up for + ingenuity.' No, sir, that was his own trick; but afther all it was a bad + one, and tells aginst itself. Why, sir, neither I nor any of my men have + the power of makin' ourselves invisible. Do you think, sir—I put it + to your own common-sense—that if we had been there no one would have + seen us? Wasn't the whole country for miles round searched and scoured, + and I ask you, sir, was there hilt or hair of me or any one of my men seen + or even heard of? Sir Robert, I must be going now,” he added. “I hope + Squire Folliard understands what kind of a man Reilly is. As for myself, I + have nothing more to say.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't go yet, O'Donnel,” said Whitecraft; “let us determine what is to be + done with him. You see clearly it is necessary, Mr. Folliard, that this + deep-designing Jesuit should be sent out of the country.” + </p> + <p> + “I would give half my estate he was fairly out of it,” said the squire. + “He has brought calamity and misery into my family. Created world! how I + and mine have been deceived and imposed upon! Away with him—a + thousand leagues away with him! And that quickly too! Oh, the plausible, + deceitful villain! My child! my child!” and here the old man burst into + tears of the bitterest indignation. “Sir Robert, that cursed villain was + born, I fear, to be the shame and destruction of my house and name.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't dream of such a thing,” said the baronet. “On the day he dined here—and + you cannot forget my strong disinclination to meet him—but even on + that day you will recollect the treasonable language he used against the + laws of the realm. After my return home I took a note of them, and I trust + that you, sir, will corroborate, with respect to this fact, the testimony + which it is my purpose to give against him. I say this the rather, Mr. + Folliard, because it might seriously compromise your own character with + the Government, and as a magistrate, too, to hear treasonable and + seditious language at your own table, from a Papist Jesuit, and yet + decline to report it to the authorities.” + </p> + <p> + “The laws, the authorities, and you be hanged, sir!” replied the squire; + “my table is, and has been, and ever shall be, the altar of confidence to + my guests; I shall never violate the laws of hospitality. Treat the man + fairly, I say, concoct no plot against him, bribe no false witnesses, and + if he is justly amenable to the law I will spend ten thousand pounds to + have him sent anywhere out of the country.” + </p> + <p> + “He keeps arms,” observed Sir Robert, “contrary to the penal enactments.” + </p> + <p> + “I think not,” said the squire; “he told me he was on a duck-shooting + expedition that night, and when I asked him where he got his arms, he said + that his neighbor, Bob Gosford, always lent him his gun whenever he felt + disposed to shoot, and, to my own knowledge, so did many other Protestant + magistrates in the neighborhood, for this wily Jesuit is a favorite with + most of them.” + </p> + <p> + “But I know where he has arms concealed,” said the Rapparee, looking + significantly at the baronet, “and I will be able to find them, too, when + the proper time comes.” + </p> + <p> + “Ha! indeed, O'Donnel,” said Sir Robert, with well-feigned surprise; “then + there will be no lack of proof against him, you may rest assured, Mr. + Folliard; I charge myself with the management of the whole affair. I + trust, sir, you will leave it to me, and I have only one favor to ask, and + that is the hand of your fair daughter when he is disposed of.” + </p> + <p> + “She shall be yours, Sir Robert, the moment that this treacherous villain + can be removed by the fair operation of the laws; but I will never + sanction any dishonorable treatment towards him. By the laws of the land + let him stand or fall.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment a sneeze of tremendous strength and loudness was heard + immediately outside the door; a sneeze which made the hair of the baronet + almost stand on end. + </p> + <p> + “What the devil is that?” asked the squire. “By the great Boyne, I fear + some one has been listening after all.” + </p> + <p> + The Rapparee, always apprehensive of the “authorities,” started behind a + screen, and the baronet, although unconscious of any cause for terror, + stood rather undecided. The sneeze, however, was repeated, and this time + it was a double one. + </p> + <p> + “Curse it, Sir Robert,” said the squire, “have you not the use of your + legs? Go and see whether there has been an eavesdropper” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Mr. Folliard,” replied the doughty baronet, “but your house has the + character of being haunted; and I have a terror of ghosts.” + </p> + <p> + The squire himself got up, and, seizing a candle, went outside the door, + but nothing in human shape was visible. + </p> + <p> + “Come here, Sir Robert,” said he, “that sneeze came from no ghost, I'll + swear. Who ever heard of a ghost sneezing? Never mind, though; for the + curiosity of the thing I will examine for myself, and return to you in a + few minutes.” + </p> + <p> + He accordingly left them, and in a short time came back, assuring them + that every one in the house was in a state of the most profound repose, + and that it was his opinion it must have been a cat. + </p> + <p> + “I might think so myself,” observed the baronet, “were it not for the + double sneeze. I am afraid, Mr. Folliard, that the report is too true—and + that the house is haunted. O'Donnel, you must come home with me to-night.” + </p> + <p> + O'Donnel, who entertained no apprehension of ghosts, finding that the + “authorities” were not in question, agreed to go with him, although he had + a small matter on hand which required his presence in another part of the + country. + </p> + <p> + The baronet, however, had gained his point. The heart of the hasty and + unreflecting squire had been poisoned, and not one shadow of doubt + remained on his mind of Reilly's treachery. And that which convinced him + beyond all arguments or assertions was the fact that on the night of the + premeditated attack on his house not one of the Red Rapparee's gang was + seen, or any trace of them discovered. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI.—The Warning—an Escape + </h2> + <p> + Reilly, in the meantime, was not insensible to his danger. About eleven + o'clock the next day, as he was walking in his garden, Tom Steeple made + his appearance, and approached him with a look of caution and + significance. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Tom,” said he, “what's the news?” + </p> + <p> + Tom made no reply, but catching him gently by the sleeve of his coat, + said, “Come wid Tom; Tom has news for you. Here it is, in de paper;” and + as he spoke, he handed him a letter, the contents of which we give: + </p> + <p> + “Dearest Reilly: The dreadful discovery I have made, the danger and + treachery and vengeance by which you are surrounded, but, above all, my + inexpressible love for you, will surely justify me in not losing a moment + to write to you; and I select this poor creature as my messenger because + he is least likely to be suspected. It is through him that the discovery + of the accursed plot against you has been made. It appears that he slept + in the castle last night, as he often does, and having observed Sir Thomas + Whitecraft and that terrible man, the Red Rapparee, coming into the house, + and going along with papa into his study, evidently upon some private + business, he resolved to listen. He did so, and overheard the Rapparee + stating to papa that every thing which took place on the evening you saved + his life and frustrated his other designs upon the castle, was a plan + preconceived by you for the purpose of making papa's acquaintance and + getting introduced to the family in order to gain my affections. Alas! if + you have resorted to such a plan, you have but too well succeeded. Do not, + however, for one moment imagine that I yield any credit to this atrocious + falsehood. It has been concocted by your base and unmanly rival, + Whitecraft, by whom all the proceedings against you are to be conducted. + Some violation of the penal laws, in connection with carrying or keeping + arms, is to be brought against you, and unless you are on your guard you + will be arrested and thrown into prison, and if not convicted of a capital + offence and executed like a felon, you will at least be sent forever out + of the country. What is to be done? If you have arms in or about your + house let them be forthwith removed to some place of concealment. The + Rapparee is to get a pardon from government, at least he is promised it by + Sir Robert, if he turns against you. In one word, dearest Reilly, you + cannot, with safety to your life, remain in this country. You must fly + from it, and immediately too. I wish to see you. Come this night, at + half-past ten, to the back gate of our garden, which you will find shut, + but unlocked. Something—is it my heart?—tells me that our + fates are henceforth inseparable, whether for joy or sorrow. I ought to + tell you that I confessed my affection for you to papa on the evening you + dined here, and he was not angry; but this morning he insisted that I + should never think of you more, nor mention your name; and he says that if + the laws can do it he will lose ten thousand pounds or he will have you + sent out of the country. Lanigan, our cook, from what motive I know not, + mentioned to me the substance of what I have now written. He is, it seems, + a cousin to the bearer of this, and got the information from him after + having had much difficulty, he says, in putting it together. I know not + how it is, but I can assure you that every servant in the castle seems to + know that I am attached to you. + </p> + <p> + “Ever, my dearest Reilly, yours, and yours only, until death, + </p> + <p> + “Helen Folliard.” + </p> + <p> + We need not attempt to describe the sensations of love and indignation + produced by this letter. But we shall state the facts. + </p> + <p> + “Here, Tom,” said Reilly, “is the reward for your fidelity,” as he handed + him some silver; “and mark me, Tom, don't breathe to a human being that + you have brought me a letter from the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>. Go into the + house and get something to eat; there now—go and get one of your + bully dinners.” + </p> + <p> + “It is true,” said he, “too true I am doomed-devoted. If I remain in this + country I am lost. Yes, my life, my love, my more than life—I feel + as you do, that our fates, whether for good or evil, are inseparable. Yes, + I shall see you this night if I have life.” + </p> + <p> + He had scarcely concluded this soliloquy when his namesake, Fergus Reiliy, + disguised in such a way as prevented him from being recognized, approached + him, in the lowly garb of a baccah or mendicant. + </p> + <p> + “Well, my good fellow,” said he, “what do you want? Go up to the house and + you will get food.” + </p> + <p> + “Keep quiet,” replied the other, disclosing himself, “keep quiet; get all + your money into one purse, settle your affairs as quickly as you can, and + fly the country this night, or otherwise sit down and make your will and + your peace with God Almighty, for if you are found here by to-morrow night + you sleep in Sligo jail. Throw me a few halfpence, making as it were + charity. Whitecraft has spies among your own laborers, and you know the + danger I run in comin' to you by daylight. Indeed, I could not do it + without this disguise. To-morrow night you are to be taken upon a warrant + from Sir Robert Whitecraft; but never mind; as to Whitecraft, leave him to + me—I have a crow to pluck with him.” + </p> + <p> + “How is that, Fergus?” + </p> + <p> + “My sister, man; did you not hear of it?” + </p> + <p> + “No, Fergus, nor I don't wish to hear of it, for your sake; spare your + feelings, my poor fellow; I know perfectly well what a hypocritical + scoundrel he is.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” replied Fergus, “it was only yesterday I heard of it myself; and + are we to bear this?—we that have hands and eyes and limbs and + hearts and courage to stand nobly upon the gallows-tree for striking down + the villain who does whatever he likes, and then threatens us with the + laws of the land if we murmur? Do you think this is to be borne?” + </p> + <p> + “Take not vengeance into your own hand, Fergus,” replied Reilly, “for that + is contrary to the laws of God and man. As for me, I agree with you that I + cannot remain in this country. I know the vast influence which Whitecraft + possesses with the government. Against such a man I have no chance; this, + taken in connection with my education abroad, is quite sufficient to make + me a marked and suspected man. I will therefore leave the country, and ere + to-morrow night, I trust, I shall be beyond his reach. But, Fergus, + listen: leave Whitecraft to God; do not stain your soul with human blood; + keep a pure heart, and whatever may happen be able to look up to the + Almighty with a clear conscience.” + </p> + <p> + Fergus then left him, but with a resolution, nevertheless, to have + vengeance upon the baronet very unequivocally expressed on his + countenance. + </p> + <p> + Having seriously considered his position and all the circumstances' of + danger connected with it, Reilly resolved that his interview that night + with his beloved <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> should be his last. He accordingly + communicated his apprehensions to an aged uncle of his who resided with + him, and entrusted the management of his property to him until some change + for the better might take place. Having heard from Fergus Reilly that + there were spies among his own laborers, he kept moving about and. making + such observations as he could for the remainder of the day. When the night + came he prepared himself for his appointment, and at, or rather before, + the hour of half-past ten, he had reached the back gate, or rather door of + the garden attached to Corbo Castle. Having ascertained that it was + unlocked, he entered with no difficulty, and traversed the garden without + being able to perceive her whose love was now, it might be said, all that + life had left him. After having satisfied himself that she was not in the + garden, he withdrew to an arbor or summer-house of evergreens, where he + resolved to await until she should come. He did not wait long. The latch + of the entrance gate from the front made a noise; ah, how his heart beat! + what a commotion agitated his whole frame! In a few moments she was with + him. + </p> + <p> + “Reilly,” said <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, “I have dreadful news to communicate.” + </p> + <p> + “I know all,” said he; “I am to be arrested to-morrow night.” + </p> + <p> + “To-night, dearest Reilly, to-night. Papa told me this evening, in one of + his moods of anger, that before to-morrow morning you would be in Sligo + jail.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, dearest Helen,” he replied, “that is certainly making quick work of + it. But, even so, I am prepared this moment to escape. I have settled my + affairs, left the management of them to my uncle, and this interview with + you, my beloved girl, must be our last.” + </p> + <p> + As he uttered these melancholy words the tears came to his eyes. + </p> + <p> + “The last!” she exclaimed. “Oh, no; it must not be the last. You shall not + go alone, dearest William. My mind is made up. Be it for life or for + death, I shall accompany you.” + </p> + <p> + “Dearest life,” he replied, “think of the consequences.” + </p> + <p> + “I think of nothing,” said Cooleen Bawn, “but my love for you. If you were + not surrounded by danger as you are, if the whoop of vengeance were not on + your trail, if death and a gibbet were not in the background, I could part + with you; but now that danger, vengeance, and death, are hovering about + you, I shall and must partake of them with you. And listen, Reilly; after + all it is the best plan. Papa, if I accompany you—supposing that we + are taken—will relent for my sake. I know his love for me. His + affection for me will overcome all his prejudices against you. Then let us + fly. To-night you will be taken. Your rival will triumph over both of us; + and I—I, oh! I shall not survive it. Save me, then, Reilly, and let + me fly with you.” + </p> + <p> + “God knows,” replied Reilly, with deep emotion, “if I suffered myself to + be guided by the impulse of my heart, I would yield to wishes at once so + noble and disinterested. I cannot, however, suffer my affection, absorbing + and inexpressible as it is, to precipitate your ruin. I speak not of + myself, nor of what I may suffer. When we reflect, however, my beloved + girl, upon the state of the country, and of the law, as it operates + against the liberty and property of Catholics, we must both admit the + present impossibility of an elopement without involving you in disgrace. + You know that until some relaxation of the laws affecting marriage between + Catholics and Protestants takes place, an union between us is impossible; + and this fact it is which would attach disgrace to you, and a want of + honor, principle, and gratitude to me. We should necessarily lead the + lives of the guilty, and seek the wildest fastnesses of the mountain + solitudes and the oozy caverns of the bleak and solitary hills.” + </p> + <p> + “But I care not. I am willing to endure it all for your sake.” + </p> + <p> + “What!—the shame, the misinterpretation, the imputed guilt?” + </p> + <p> + “Neither care I for shame or imputed guilt, so long as I am innocent, and + you safe.” + </p> + <p> + “Concealment, my dearest girl, would be impossible. Such a hue and cry + would be raised after us as would render nothing short of positive + invisibility capable of protecting us from our enemies. Then your father!—such + a step might possibly break his heart; a calamity which would fill your + mind with remorse to the last day of your life!” + </p> + <p> + She burst again into tears, and replied, “But as for you, what can be done + to save you from the toils of your unscrupulous and powerful enemies?” + </p> + <p> + “To that, my beloved Helen, I must forthwith look. In the meantime, let me + gather patience and await some more favorable relaxation in the penal + code. At present, the step you propose would be utter destruction to us + both, and an irretrievable stain upon our reputation. You will return to + your father's house, and I shall seek some secure place of concealment + until I can safely reach the continent, from whence I shall contrive to + let you hear from me, and in due time may possibly be able to propose some + mode of meeting in a country where the oppressive laws that separate us + here shall not stand in the way of our happiness. In the meanwhile let our + hearts be guided by hope and constancy.” After a mournful and tender + embrace they separated. + </p> + <p> + It would be impossible to describe the agony of the lovers after a + separation which might probably be their last. Our readers, however, may + very well conceive it, and it is not our intention to describe it here. At + this stage of our story, Reilly, who was, as we have said, in consequence + of his gentlemanly manners and liberal principles, a favorite with all + classes and all parties, and entertained no apprehensions from the + dominant party, took his way homewards deeply impressed with the generous + affections which his <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> had expressed for him. He + consequently looked upon himself as perfectly safe in his own house. The + state of society in Ireland, however, was at that melancholy period so + uncertain that no Roman Catholic, however popular, or however innocent, + could for one week calculate upon safety either to his property or person, + if he happened to have an enemy who possessed any influence in the + opposing Church. Religion thus was made the stalking-horse, not only of + power, but of persecution, rapacity, and selfishness, and the unfortunate + Roman Catholic who considered himself safe to-day might find himself + ruined tomorrow, owing to the cupidity of some man who turned a lustful + eye upon his property, or who may have entertained a feeling of personal + ill-will against him. Be this as it may, Reilly wended his melancholy way + homewards, and had got within less than a quarter of a mile of his own + house when he was met by Fergus in his mendicant habit, who startled him + by the information he disclosed. + </p> + <p> + “Where are you bound for, Mr. Reilly?” said the latter. + </p> + <p> + “For home,” replied Reilly, “in order to secure my money and the papers + connected with the family property.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then,” said the other, “if you go home now you are a lost man.” + </p> + <p> + “How is that?” asked Reilly. + </p> + <p> + “Your house at this moment is filled with sogers, and surrounded by them + too. You know that no human being could make me out in this disguise; I + had heard that they were on their way to your place, and afeered that they + might catch you at home, I was goin' to let you know, in ordher that you + might escape them, but I was too late; the villains were there before me. + I took heart o' grace, however, and went up to beg a little charity for + the love and honor of God. Seem' the kind of creature I was, they took no + notice of me; for to tell you the truth, they were too much bent on + searchin' for, and findin' you. God protect us from such men, Mr. Reilly,” + and the name he uttered in alow and cautious voice; “but at all events + this is no country for you to live in now. But who do you think was the + busiest and the bittherest man among them?” + </p> + <p> + “Why Whitecraft, I suppose.” + </p> + <p> + “No; he wasn't there himself—no; but that double distilled traitor + and villain, the Red Rapparee, and bad luck to him. You see, then, that if + you attempt to go near your own house you're a lost man, as I said.” + </p> + <p> + “I feel the truth of what you say,” replied Reilly, “but are you aware + that they committed any acts of violence? Are you aware that they + disturbed my property or ransacked my house?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that's more than I can say,” replied Fergus, “for to tell you the + truth, I was afraid to trust myself inside, in regard of that scoundrel + the Rapparee, who, bein' himself accustomed to all sorts of disguises, I + dreaded might find me out.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, at all events,” said Reilly, “with respect to that I disregard + them. The family papers and other available property are too well secreted + for them to secure them. On discovering Whitecraft's jealousy, and + knowing, as I did before, his vindictive spirit and power in the country, + I lost no time in putting them in a safe place. Unless they burn the house + they could never come at them. But as this fact is not at all an + improbable one—so long as Whitecraft is my unscrupulous and + relentless enemy—I shall seize upon the first opportunity of placing + them elsewhere.” + </p> + <p> + “You ought to do so,” said Fergus, “for it is not merely Whitecraft you + have to deal wid, but ould Folliard himself, who now swears that if he + should lose half his fortune he will either hang or transport you.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! Fergus,” replied the other, “there is an essential difference between + the characters of these two men. The father of <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> is, + when he thinks himself injured, impetuous and unsparing in his resentment; + but then he is an open foe, and the man whom he looks upon as his enemy + always knows what he has to expect from him. Not so the other; he is + secret, cautious, cowardly, and consequently doubly vindictive. He is a + combination of the fox and the tiger, with all the treacherous cunning of + the one, and the indomitable ferocity of the other, when he finds that he + can make his spring with safety.” + </p> + <p> + This conversation took place as Reilly and his companion bent their steps + towards one of those antiquated and obsolete roads which we have described + in the opening portion of this narrative. + </p> + <p> + “But now,” asked Fergus, “where do you intend to go, or what do you intend + to do with yourself?” + </p> + <p> + “I scarcely know,” replied Reilly, “but on one thing my mind is determined—that + I will not leave this country until I know the ultimate fate of the <i>Cooleen + Bawn</i>. Rather than see her become the wife of that diabolical + scoundrel, whom she detests as she does hell, I would lose my life. Let + the consequences then be what they may, I will not for the present leave + Ireland. This resolution I have come to since I saw her to-night. I am her + only friend, and, so help me God, I shall not suffer her to be sacrificed—murdered. + In the course of the night we shall return to my house and look about us. + If the coast be clear I will secure my cash and papers as I said. It is + possible that a few stragglers may lurk behind, under the expectation of + securing me while making a stolen visit. However, we shall try. We are + under the scourge of irresponsible power, Fergus; and if Whitecraft should + burn my house to-night or to-morrow, who is to bring him to an account for + it? or if they should, who is to convict him?” + </p> + <p> + The night had now become very dark, but they knew the country well, and + soon found themselves upon the old road they were seeking. + </p> + <p> + “I will go up,” said Reilly, “to the cabin of poor widow Buckley, where we + will stop until we think those blood-hounds have gone home. She has a free + cottage and garden from me, and has besides been a pensioner of mine for + some time back, and I know I can depend upon her discretion and fidelity. + Her little place is remote and solitary, and not more than three quarters + of a mile from us.” + </p> + <p> + They accordingly kept the old road for some time, until they reached a + point of it where there was an abrupt angle, when, to their utter alarm + and consternation, they found themselves within about twenty or thirty + yards of a military party. + </p> + <p> + “Fly,” whispered Fergus, “and leave me to deal with them—if you + don't it's all up with you. They won't know me from Adam, but they'll know + you at a glance.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot leave you in danger,” said Reilly. + </p> + <p> + “You're mad,” replied the other. “Is it an ould beggar man they'd meddle + with? Off with you, unless you wish to sleep in Sligo jail before mornin.” + </p> + <p> + Reilly, who felt too deeply the truth of what he said, bounded across the + bank which enclosed the road on the right-hand side, and which, by the + way, was a tolerably high one, but fortunately without bushes. In the + meantime a voice cried out, “Who goes there? Stand at your peril, or you + will have a dozen bullets in your carcass.” + </p> + <p> + Fergus advanced towards them, whilst they themselves approached him at a + rapid pace, until they met. In a moment they were all about him. + </p> + <p> + “Come, my customer,” said their leader, “who and what are you? Quick—give + an account of yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “A poor creature that's lookin' for my bit, sir, God help me.” + </p> + <p> + “What's your name?” + </p> + <p> + “One Paddy Brennan, sir, please your honor.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay—one Paddy Brennan (hiccough), and—and—one Paddy + Brennan, where do you go of a Sunday?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't go out at all, sir, of a Sunda'; whenever I stop of a Saturday + night I always stop until Monday mornin'.” + </p> + <p> + “I mean, are you a Papish?” + </p> + <p> + “Troth, I oughtn't to say I am, your honor—or at least a very bad + one.” + </p> + <p> + “But you are, a Papish.” + </p> + <p> + “A kind of one, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Curse me, the fellow's humbug-gin' you, sergeant,” said one of the men; + “to be sure he's a Papish.” + </p> + <p> + “To be sure,” replied several of the others—“doesn't he admit he's a + Papish?” + </p> + <p> + “Blow me, if—if—I'll bear this,” replied the sergeant. “I'm a + senior off—off—officer conductin' the examination, and I'll + suffer no—no—man to intherfare. I must have subor—or—ordination, + or I'll know what for. Leave him to me, then, and I'll work him up, never + fear. George Johnston isn't the blessed babe to be imposed upon—that's + what I say. Come, my good fellow, mark—mark me now. If you let but a + quarter of—of—an inch of a lie out of your lips, I you're a + dead man. Are you all charged, gentlemen?” + </p> + <p> + “All charged, sergeant, with loyalty and poteen at any rate; hang the + Pope.” + </p> + <p> + “Shoulder arms—well done. Present arms. Where is—is—this + rascal? Oh, yes, here he is. Well, you are there—are you?” + </p> + <p> + “I'm here, captain.” + </p> + <p> + “Well blow me, that's not—not—bad, my good fellow; if I'm not + a captain, worse men have been so (hiccough); that's what I say.” + </p> + <p> + “Hadn't we better make a prisoner of him at once, and bring him to Sir + Robert's?” observed another. + </p> + <p> + “Simpson, hold—old—your tongue, I say. Curse me if I'll suffer + any man to in—intherfere with me in the discharge of my duty.” + </p> + <p> + “How do we know,” said another, “but I he's a Rapparee in disguise?—for + that matter, he may be Reilly himself.” + </p> + <p> + “Captain and gentlemen,” said Fergus, “if you have any suspicion of me, + I'm willin' to go anywhere you like; and, above all things, I'd like to go + to Sir Robert's, bekaise they know me there—many a good bit and sup + I got in his kitchen.” + </p> + <p> + “Ho, ho!” exclaimed the sergeant; “now I have you—now I know whether + you can tell truth or not. Answer me this. Did ever Sir Robert himself + give you charity? Come, now.” + </p> + <p> + Fergus perceived the drift of the question at once. The penurious + character of the baronet was so well known throughout the whole barony + that if he had replied in the affirmative every man of them would have + felt that the assertion was a lie, and he would consequently have been + detected. He was prepared, however. + </p> + <p> + “Throth then, gintlemen,” he replied, “since you must have the truth, and + although maybe what I'm goin' to say won't be plaisin' to you, as Sir + Robert's friends, I must come out wid it; devil resave the color of his + money ever I seen yet, and it isn't but I often axed him for it. No—but + the sarvints often sind me up a bit from the kitchen below.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, come,” said the sergeant, “if you have been lyin' all your life, + you've spoke the truth now. I think we may let him go.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't think we ought,” said one of them, named Steen, a man of about + fifty years of age, and of Dutch descent; “as Bamet said, 'we don't know + what he is,' and I agree with him. He may be a Rapparee in disguise, or, + what is worse, Reilly himself.” + </p> + <p> + “What Reilly do yez mane, gintlemen, wid submission?” asked Fergus. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Willy Reilly, the famous Papish,” replied the sergeant. (We don't + wish to fatigue the reader with his drunken stutterings.) “It has been + sworn that he's training the Papishes every night to prepare them for + rebellion, and there's a warrant out for his apprehension. Do you know + him?” + </p> + <p> + “Throth I do, well; and to tell yez the truth, he doesn't stand very high + wid his own sort.” + </p> + <p> + “Why so, my good fellow?” + </p> + <p> + “Bekaise they think that he keeps too much company wid Prodestans, an' + that he's half a Prodestan himself, and that it's only the shame that + prevents him from goin' over to them altogether. Indeed, it's the general + opinion among the Catholics—” + </p> + <p> + “Papishes! you old dog.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, Papishes—that he will—an' throth, I don't think + the Papishes would put much trust in the same man.” + </p> + <p> + “Where are you bound for now? and what brings you out at an illegal hour + on this lonely road?” asked Steen. + </p> + <p> + “Troth, then, I'm on my way to Mr. Graham's above; for sure, whenever I'm + near him, poor Paddy Brennan never wants for the good bit and sup, and the + comfortable straw bed in the barn. May God reward him and his for it!” + </p> + <p> + Now, the truth was, that Graham, a wealthy and respectable Protestant + farmer, was uncle to the sergeant; a fact which Fergus well knew, in + consequence of having been a house servant with him for two or three + years. + </p> + <p> + “Sergeant,” said the Williamite settler, “I think this matter may be + easily settled. Let two of the men go back to your uncle's with him, and + see whether they know him there or not.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” replied the sergeant, “let you and Simpson go back with him—I + have no objection. If my uncle's people don't know him, why then bring him + down to Sir Roberts'.” + </p> + <p> + “It's not fair to put such a task upon a man of my age,” replied Steen, + “when you know that you have younger men here.” + </p> + <p> + “It was you proposed it, then,” said the sergeant, “and I say, Steen, if + you be a true man you have a right to go, and no right at all to shirk + your duty. But stop—I'll settle it in a word's speaking: here you—you + old Papish, where are you?—oh, I see—you're there, are you? + Come now, gentlemen, shoulder arms—all right—present anns. + Now, you confounded Papish, you say that you have often slept in my + uncle's barn?” + </p> + <p> + “Is Mr. Graham your uncle, sir?—bekaise, if he is, I know that I'm + in the hands of a respectable man.” + </p> + <p> + “Come now—was there anything particular in the inside of that barn?—Gentlemen, + are you ready to slap into him if we find him to be an imposther?” + </p> + <p> + “All ready, sergeant.” + </p> + <p> + “Come now, you blasted Papish, answer me—” + </p> + <p> + “Troth, and I can do that, sargin'. You say Mr. Graham's your uncle, an' + of coorse you have often been in that barn yourself. Very well, sir, don't + you know that there's a prop on one side to keep up one of the cupples + that gave way one stormy night, and there's a round hole in the lower part + of the door to let the cats in to settle accounts wid the mice and rats.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, come, boys, it's all right. He has described the barn to a hair. + That will do, my Papish old cock. Come, I say, as every man must have a + religion, and since the Papishes won't have ours, why the devil shouldn't + they have one of their own?” + </p> + <p> + “That's dangerous talk,” said Steen, “to proceed from your lips, sergeant. + It smells of treason, I tell you; and if you had spoken these words in the + days of the great and good King William, you might have felt the + consequences.” + </p> + <p> + “Treason and King William be hanged!” replied the sergeant, who was + naturally a good-natured, but out-spoken fellow—“sooner than I'd + take up a poor devil of a beggar that has enough to do to make out his bit + and sup. Go on about your business, poor devil; you shan't be molested. Go + to my uncle's, where you'll get a bellyfull, and a comfortable bed of + straw, and a winnow-cloth in the barn. Zounds!—it would be a nice + night's work to go out for Willy Reilly and to bring home a beggar man in + his place.” + </p> + <p> + This was a narrow escape upon the part of Fergus, who knew that if they + had made' a prisoner of him, and produced him before Sir Robert + Whitecraft, who was a notorious persecutor, and with whom the Red Rapparee + was now located, he would unquestionably have been hanged like a dog. The + officer of the party, however—to wit, the worthy sergeant—was + one of those men who love a drop of the native, and whose heart besides it + expands into a sort of surly kindness that has something comical and not + disagreeable in it. In addition to this, he never felt a confidence in his + own authority with half the swagger which he did when three quarters gone. + Steen and he were never friends, nor indeed was Steen ever a popular man + among his acquaintances. In matters of trade and business he was + notoriously dishonest, and in the moral and social relations of life, + selfish, uncandid, and treacherous. The sergeant, on the other hand, + though an out-spoken and flaming anti-Papist in theory, was, in point of + fact, a good friend to his Roman Catholic neighbors, who used to say of + him that his bark was worse than his bite. + </p> + <p> + When his party had passed on, Fergus stood for a moment uncertain as to + where he should direct his steps. He had not long to wait, however. + Reilly, who had no thoughts of abandoning him to the mercy of the + military, without at least knowing his fate, nor, we may add, without a + firm determination to raising his tenantry, and rescuing the generous + fellow at every risk, immediately sprung across the ditch and joined him. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Fergus,” said he, clasping his hand, “I heard everything, and I can + tell you that every nerve in my body trembled whilst you were among them.” + </p> + <p> + “Why,” said Fergus, “I knew them at once by their voices, and only that I + changed my own as I did I won't say but they'd have nabbed me.” + </p> + <p> + “The test of the barn was frightful; I thought you were gone; but you must + explain that.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, but before I do,” replied Fergus, “where are we to go? Do you still + stand for widow Buckley's?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, that woman may be useful to me.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, we may as well jog on in that direction, and as we go I will + tell you.” + </p> + <p> + “How then did you come to describe the barn—or rather, was your + description correct?” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, as Gospel. You don't know that by the best of luck and providence of + God, I was two years and a half an inside laborer with Mr. Graham. As is + usual, all the inside men-servants slept, wintrier and summer, in the + barn; and that accounts for our good fortune this night. Only for that + scoundrel, Steen, however, the whole thing would not have signified much; + but he's a black and deep villain that. Nobody likes him but his brother + scoundrel, Whitecraft, and he's a favorite with him, bekaise he's an + active and unscrupulous tool in his hands. Many a time, when these men—military-militia-yeomen, + or whatever they call them, are sent out by this same Sir Robert, the poor + fellows don't wish to catch what they call the unfortunate Papish-es, and + before they come to the house they'll fire off their guns, pretinding to + be in a big passion, but only to give their poor neighbors notice to + escape as soon as they can.” + </p> + <p> + In a short time they reached widow Buckley's cabin, who, on understanding + that it was Reilly who sought admittance, lost not a moment in opening the + door and letting them in. There was no candle lit when they entered, but + there was a bright turf fire “blinkin' bonnilie” in the fireplace, from + which a mellow light emanated that danced upon the few plain plates that + were neatly ranged upon her humble dresser, but which fell still more + strongly upon a clean and well-swept hearth, on one side of which was an + humble armchair of straw, and on the other a grave, but placid-looking + cat, purring, with half-closed eyes, her usual song for the evening. + </p> + <p> + “Lord bless us! Mr. Reilly, is this you? Sure it's little I expected you, + any way; but come when you will, you're welcome. And who ought to be + welcome to the poor ould widow if you wouldn't?” + </p> + <p> + “Take a stool and sit down, honest man,” she said, addressing Fergus; “and + you, Mr. Reilly, take my chair; it's the one you sent me yourself, and if + anybody is entitled to a sate in it, surely you are. I must light a rush.” + </p> + <p> + “No, Molly,” replied Reilly, “I would be too heavy for your frail chair. I + will take one of those stout stools, which will answer me better.” + </p> + <p> + She then lit a rush-light, which she pressed against a small cleft of iron + that was driven into a wooden shaft, about three feet long, which stood + upon a bottom that resembled the head of a churn-staff. Such are the + lights, and such the candlesticks, that are to be found in the cabins and + cottages of Ireland. “I suppose, Molly,” said Reilly, “you are surprised + at a visit from me just now?” + </p> + <p> + “You know, Mr. Reilly,” she replied, “that if you came in the deadest + hours of the night you'd be welcome, as I said—and this poor man is + welcome too—sit over to the fire, poor man, and warm yourself. Maybe + you're hungry; if you are I'll get you something to eat.” + </p> + <p> + “Many thanks to you, ma'am,” replied Fergus, “I'm not a taste hungry, and + could ait nothing now; I'm much obliged to you at the same time.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Reilly, maybe you'd like to ait a bit. I can give you a farrel of + bread, and a sup o' nice goat's milk. God preserve him from evil that gave + me the same goats, and that's your four quarthers, Mr. Reilly. But sure + every thing I have either came or comes from your hand; and if I can't + thank you, God will do it for me, and that's betther still.” + </p> + <p> + “No more about that, Molly—not a word more. Your long residence with + my poor mother, and your affection for her in all her trials and troubles, + entitle you to more than that at the hands of her son.” + </p> + <p> + “Mrs. Buckley,” observed Fergus, “this is a quiet-looking little place you + have here.” + </p> + <p> + “And it is for that I like it,” she replied. “I have pace here, and the + noise of the wicked world seldom reaches me in it. My only friend and + companion here is the Almighty—praise and glory be to his name!”—and + here she devoutly crossed herself—“bar-rin', indeed, when the + light-hearted <i>girshas</i> (young girls) comes <i>a kailyee</i>* wid + their wheels, to keep the poor ould woman company, and rise her ould heart + by their light and merry songs, the cratures.” + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + *This means to spend a portion of the day, or a few hours of + the night, in a neighbor's house, in agreeable and amusing + conversation. +</pre> + <p> + “That must be a relief to you, Molly,” observed Reilly, who, however, + could with difficulty take any part in this little dialogue. + </p> + <p> + “And so indeed it is,” she replied; “and, poor things, sure if their + sweethearts do come at the dusk to help them to carry home their + spinning-wheels, who can be angry with them? It's the way of life, sure, + and of the world.” + </p> + <p> + She then went into another little room—for the cabin was divided + into two—in order to find a ball of woollen thread, her principal + occupation being the knitting of mittens and stockings, and while bustling + about Fergus observed with a smile, + </p> + <p> + “Poor Molly! little she thinks that it's the bachelors, rather than any + particular love for her company, that brings the thieves here.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but,” said Reilly, “you know it's the custom of the country.” + </p> + <p> + “Mrs. Buckley,” asked Fergus, “did the sogers ever pay you a visit?” + </p> + <p> + “They did once,” she replied, “about six months ago or more.” + </p> + <p> + “What in the name of wondher,” he repeated, “could bring them to you?” + </p> + <p> + “They were out huntin' a priest,” she replied, “that had done something + contrary to the law.” + </p> + <p> + “What did they say, Mrs. Buckley, and how did they behave themselves?” + </p> + <p> + “Why,” she answered, “they axed me if I had seen about the country a + tight-looking fat little man, wid black twinklin' eyes and a rosy face, + wid a pair o' priest's boots upon him, greased wid hog's lard? I said no, + but to the revarse. They then searched the cabin, tossed the two beds + about—poor Jemmy's—God rest my boy's sowl!—an'—afterwards + my own. There was one that seemed to hould authority over the rest, and he + axed who was my landlord? I said I had no landlord. They then said that + surely I must pay rent to some one, but I said that I paid rent to nobody; + that Mr. Reilly here, God bless him, gave me this house and garden free.” + </p> + <p> + “And what did they say when you named Mr. Reilly?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, they said he was a dacent Papish, I think they called it; and that + there wasn't sich another among them. They then lighted their pipes, had a + smoke, went about their business, and I saw no more of them from that day + to this.” + </p> + <p> + Reilly felt that this conversation was significant, and that the widow's + cabin was any thing but a safe place of refuge, even for a few hours. We + have already said that he had been popular with all parties, which was the + fact, until his acquaintance with the old squire and his lovely daughter. + In the meantime the loves of Willy Reilly and the far-famed <i>Cooleen + Bawn</i> had gone abroad over the whole country; and the natural result + was that a large majority among those who were anxious to exterminate the + Catholic Church by the rigor of bigoted and inhuman laws, looked upon the + fact of a tolerated Papist daring to love a Protestant heiress, and the + daughter of a man who was considered such a stout prop of the + Establishment, as an act that deserved death itself. Reilly's affection + for the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> was considered, therefore, not only daring but + treasonable. Those men, then, he reflected, who had called upon her while + in pursuit of the unfortunate priest, had become acquainted with the fact + of her dependence upon his bounty; and he took it for granted, very + naturally and very properly, as the event will show, that now, while “on + his keeping,” it would not be at all extraordinary if they occasionally + searched her remote and solitary cabin, as a place where he might be + likely to conceal himself. For this night, however, he experienced no + apprehension of a visit from them, but with what correctness of + calculation we shall soon see. + </p> + <p> + “Molly,” said he, this poor man and I must sit with you for a couple of + hours, after which we will leave you to your rest.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, Mr. Reilly,” she replied, “from what I heard this day I can make + a party good guess at the raison why you are here now, instead of bein' in + your own comfortable house. You have bitther enemies; but God—blessed + be his name—is stronger than any of them. However, I wish you'd let + me get you and that poor man something to eat.” + </p> + <p> + This kind offer they declined, and as the short rush-light was nearly + burned out, and as she had not another ready, she got what is called a <i>cam</i> + or grisset, put it on the hearth-stone, with a portion of hog's lard in + it; she then placed the lower end of the tongs in the fire, until the + broad portion of them, with which the turf is gripped, became red hot; she + then placed the lard in the grisset between them, and squeezed it until + nothing remained but pure oil; through this she slowly drew the peeled + rushes, which were instantly saturated with the grease, after which she + left them on a little table to cool. Among the poorer classes—small + farmers and others—this process is performed every evening a little + before dusk. Having thus supplied them with these lights, the pious widow + left them to their own conversation and retired to the little room in + order to repeat her rosary. We also will leave them to entertain + themselves as best they can, and request our readers to follow us to a + different scene. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII.—An Accidental Incident favorable to Reilly + </h2> + <h3> + —And a Curious Conversation + </h3> + <p> + We return to the party from whom Fergus Reilly had so narrow an escape. As + our readers may expect, they bent their steps to the magnificent residence + of Sir Robert Whitecraft. That gentleman was alone in his library, + surrounded by an immense collection of books which he never read. He had + also a fine collection of paintings, of which he knew no more than his + butler, nor perhaps so much. At once sensual, penurious, and bigoted, he + spent his whole time in private profligacy—for he was a hypocrite, + too—in racking his tenantry, and exhibiting himself as a champion + for Protestant principles. Whenever an unfortunate Roman Catholic, whether + priest or layman, happened to infringe a harsh and cruel law of which + probably he had never heard, who so active in collecting his myrmidons, in + order to uncover, hunt, and run down his luckless victim? And yet he was + not popular. No one, whether of his own class or any other, liked a bone + in his skin. Nothing could infect him with the genial and hospitable + spirit of the country, whilst at the same time no man living was so + anxious to partake of the hospitality of others, merely because it saved + him a meal. All that sustained his character at the melancholy period of + which we write was what people called the uncompromising energy of his + principles as a sound and vigorous Protestant. + </p> + <p> + “Sink them all together,” he exclaimed upon this occasion, in a kind of + soliloquy—“Church and bishop and parson, what are they worth unless + to make the best use we can of them? Here I am prevented from going to + that girl to-night—and that barbarous old blockhead of a squire, who + was so near throwing me off for a beggarly Papist rebel: and doubly, + trebly, quadruply cursed be that same rebel for crossing my path as he has + done. The cursed light-headed jade loves him too—there's no doubt of + that—but wait until I get him in my clutches, as I certainly shall, + and, by —-, his rebel carcass shall feed the crows. But what noise + is that? They have returned; I must go down and learn their success.” + </p> + <p> + He was right. Our friend the tipsy sergeant and his party were at the + hall-door, which was opened as he went down, and he ordered lights into + the back parlor. In a few minutes they were ushered in, where they found + him seated as magisterially as possible in a large arm-chair. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Johnston,” said he, assuming as much dignity as he could, “what has + been your success?” + </p> + <p> + “A bad evening's sport, sir; we bagged nothing—didn't see a + feather.” + </p> + <p> + “Talk sense, Johnston,” said he sternly, “and none of this cant. Did you + see or hear any thing of the rebel?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, sir, we did; it would be a devilish nice business if a party led and + commanded by George Johnston should go out without hearin' and seein' + something.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but what did you see and hear, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, we saw Reilly's house, and a very comfortable one it is; and we + heard from the servants that he wasn't at home.” + </p> + <p> + “You're drunk, Johnston.” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, begging your pardon, I'm only hearty; besides, I never discharge + my duty half so well as when I'm drunk; If feel no colors then.” + </p> + <p> + “Johnston, if I ever know you to get drunk on duty again I shall have you + reduced.” + </p> + <p> + “Reduced!” replied Johnston, “curse the fig I care whether you do or not; + I'm actin' as a volunteer, and I'll resign.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, sir,” replied Sir Robert, “be quiet; I will overlook this, for you + are a very good man if you could keep yourself sober.” + </p> + <p> + “I told you before, Sir Robert, that I'm a better man when I'm drunk.” + </p> + <p> + “Silence, sir, or I shall order you out of the room.” + </p> + <p> + “Please your honor,” observed Steen, “I have a charge to make against + George Johnston.” + </p> + <p> + “A charge, Steen—what is it? You are a staunch, steady fellow, I + know; what is this charge?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, sir, we met a suspicious character on the old bridle road beyond + Reilly's, and he refused to take him prisoner.” + </p> + <p> + “A poor half-Papist beggarman, sir,” replied Johnston, “who was on his way + to my uncle's to stop there for the night. Divil a scarecrow in Europe + would exchange clothes with him without boot.” + </p> + <p> + Steen then related the circumstances with which our readers are + acquainted, adding that he suggested to Johnston the necessity of sending + a couple of men up with him to ascertain whether what, he said was true or + not; but that he flatly refused to do so—and after some nonsense + about a barn he let him off. + </p> + <p> + “I'll tell you what, sir,” said Johnston, “I'll hunt a priest or a Papish + that breaks the law with any man livin', but hang me if ever I'll hunt a + harmless beggarman lookin' for his bit.” + </p> + <p> + At this period of the conversation the Red Rapparee, now in military + uniform, entered the parlor, accompanied by some others of those violent + men. + </p> + <p> + “Steen,” said the baronet, “what or who do you suppose this ragged ruffian + was?” + </p> + <p> + “Either a Rapparee, sir, or Reilly himself.” + </p> + <p> + “O'Donnel,” said he, addressing the Red Robber, “what description of + disguises do these villains usually assume? Do they often go about as + beggarmen?” + </p> + <p> + “They may have changed their hand, sir, since I became a legal subject, + but, before that, three-fourths of us—of them—the villains, I + mane—went about in the shape of beggars.” + </p> + <p> + “That's important,” exclaimed the baronet. “Steen, take half a dozen + mounted men—a cavalry party have arrived here a little while ago, + and are waiting further orders—I thought if Reilly had been secured + it might have been necessary for them to escort him to Sligo. Well, take + half a dozen mounted I men, and, as you very properly suggested, proceed + with all haste to farmer Graham's, and see whether this mendicant is there + or not; if he is there, take him into custody at all events, and if he is + not, then it is clear he is a man for whom we ought to be on the lookout.” + </p> + <p> + “I should like to go with them, your honor,” said the Red Rapparee. + </p> + <p> + “O'Donnel,” said Sir Robert, “I have other business for you to-night.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, plaise your honor,” said O'Donnel, “as they're goin' in that + direction, let them turn to the left after passin' the little stranie that + crosses the road, I mane on their way home; if they look sharp they'll + find a little <i>boreen</i> that—but indeed they'll scarcely make it + out in the dark, for it's a good way back in the fields—I mane the + cabin of widow Buckley. If there's one house more than another in the + whole countryside where! Reilly is likely to take shelter in, that's it. + He gave her that cabin and a large garden free, and besides allows her a + small yearly pension. But remember, you can't bring your horses wid you—you + must lave some of the men to take charge of them in the <i>boreen</i> till + you come back. I wish you'd let me go with them, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot, O'Donnel; I have other occupation for you to-night.” + </p> + <p> + Three or four of them declared that they knew the cottage right well, and + could find it out without much difficulty. “They had been there,” they + said, “some six or eight months before upon a priest chase.” The matter + was so arranged, and the party set out upon their expedition. + </p> + <p> + It is unnecessary to say that these men had their journey for nothing; but + at the same time one fact resulted from it, which I was, that the ragged + mendicant they had met must have been some one well worth looking after. + The deuce of it was, however, that, owing to the darkness of the night, + there was not one among them who could have known Fergus the next day if + they had met him. They knew, however, that O'Donnel, the Rapparee, was a + good authority on the subject, and the discovery of the pretended + mendicant's imposture was a proof of it. On this account, when they had + reached the <i>boreen</i> alluded to, on their return from Graham's, they + came to the resolution of leaving their horses in charge, as had been + suggested to them, and in silence, and with stealthy steps, pounce at once + into the widow's cabin. Before they arrived there, however, we shall take + the liberty of preceding them for a few minutes, and once more transport + our readers to its bright but humble hearth. + </p> + <p> + About three hours or better had elapsed, and our two friends were still + seated, maintaining the usual chat with Mrs. Buckley, who had finished her + prayers and once, more rejoined them. + </p> + <p> + “Fergus, like a good fellow,” whispered Reilly, “slip out for a minute or + two; there's—a circumstance I wish to mention to Molly—I + assure you it's of a very private and particular nature and only for her + own ear.” + </p> + <p> + “To be sure,” replied Fergus; “I want, at all events, to stretch my legs, + and to see what the night's about.” + </p> + <p> + He accordingly left the cabin. + </p> + <p> + “Mrs. Buckley,” said Reilly, “it was not for nothing I came here to-night. + I have a favor to ask of you.” + </p> + <p> + “Your favor's granted, sir,” she replied—“granted, Mr. Reilly, even + before I hear it—that is, supposin' always that it's in my power—to + do it for you.” + </p> + <p> + “It is simply to carry a letter—and be certain that it shall be + delivered to the proper person.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” she replied, “sure that's aisily done. And where am I to deliver + it?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “That I shall let you know on some future occasion—perhaps within + the course of a week or so.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir,” she replied, “I'd go twenty miles to deliver it—and + will do so wid a heart and a half.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Molly, I can tell you your journey won't be so far; but there is + one thing you are to observe—you must never breathe it to a human + creature.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought you knew me better, Mr. Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “It would be impossible, however, to be too strict here, because you don't + know how much depends upon it.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment Fergus put in his head, and said, “For Christ's sake, snuff + out the candle, and Reilly—fly!—There are people in the next + field!—quick!—quick!” + </p> + <p> + Reilly snatched up his hat, and whispered to the widow, “Deny that you saw + me, or that there was any one here!—Put out the candle!—they + might see our figures darkening the light as we go out!” + </p> + <p> + Fergus and Reilly immediately planted themselves behind a whitethorn + hedge, in a field adjoining the cabin, in order to reconnoitre the party, + whoever they might be, which they could do in safety. This act of + reconnoitering, however, was performed by the ear, and not at all by the + eye; the darkness of the night rendered that impossible. Of course the + search in the widow's cabin was equally fruitless. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” whispered Reilly, “we'll go in a line parallel with the road, but + at a safe distance from them, until they reach the cross-roads. If they + turn towards my house, we are forewarned, but if they turn towards Sir + Robert's, it is likely that I may have an opportunity of securing my cash + and papers.” On reaching the cross-roads alluded to, the party, much to + the satisfaction of Reilly and his companion, did turn towards the + residence of Sir Robert Whitecraft, thus giving the fugitives full + assurance that nothing further was to be apprehended from them that night. + The men in fact felt fatigued and were anxious to get to bed. + </p> + <p> + After approaching Reilly's house very cautiously, and with much + circumspection—not an outhouse, or other place of concealment, + having been left unexamined—they were about to enter, when Reilly, + thinking that no precaution on such an occasion ought to be neglected, + said: + </p> + <p> + “Fergus, we are so far safe; but, under all circumstances, I think it + right and prudent that you should keep watch outside. Mark me, I will + place Tom Corrigan—you know him—at this window, and if you + happen to see anything in the shape of a human being, or to hear, for + instance, any noise, give the slightest possible tap upon the glass, and + that will be sufficient.” + </p> + <p> + It was so arranged, and Reilly entered the house; but, as it happened, + Fergus's office proved a sinecure; although, indeed, when we consider his + care and anxiety, we can scarcely say so. At all events, Reilly returned + in about half an hour, bearing under his arm a large dark portfolio, + which, by the way, was securely locked. + </p> + <p> + “Is all right?” asked Fergus. + </p> + <p> + “All is right,” replied the other. “The servants have entered into an + arrangement to sit up, two in turn each night, so as to be ready to give + me instant admittance whenever I may chance to come.” + </p> + <p> + “But now where are you to place these papers?” asked his companion. + “That's a difficulty.” + </p> + <p> + “It is, I grant,” replied Reilly, “but after what has happened, I think + widow Buckley's cabin the safest place for a day or two. Only that the + hour is so unseasonable, I could feel little difficulty in finding a + proper place of security for them, but as it is, we must only deposit them + for the present with the widow.” + </p> + <p> + The roads of Ireland at this period—if roads they could be called—were + not only in a most shameful, but dangerous, state. In summer they were a + foot deep with dust, and in winter at least eighteen inches with mud. + This, however, was by no means the worst of it. They were studded, at due + intervals, with ruts so deep that if a horse! happened to get into one of + them he went down to the saddle-skirts. They were treacherous, too, and + such as no caution could guard against; because, where the whole surface + of the road was one mass of mud, it was impossible to distinguish these + horse-traps at all. Then, in addition to these, were deep gullies across + the roads, worn away by small rills, proceeding from rivulets in the + adjoining uplands, which were; principally dry, or at least mere threads + of | water in summer, but in winter became pigmy torrents that tore up the + roads across which they passed, leaving them in the dangerous state we + have described. + </p> + <p> + As Reilly and his companion had got out upon the road, they were a good + deal surprised, and not a little alarmed, to see a horse, without a rider, + struggling to extricate himself out of one of the ruts in question. “What + is this?” said Fergus. “Be on your guard.” + </p> + <p> + “The horse,” observed Reilly, “is without! a rider; see what it means.” + </p> + <p> + Fergus approached with all due caution, and on examining the place + discovered a man lying apparently in a state of insensibility. + </p> + <p> + “I fear,” said he, on returning to Reilly, “that his rider has been hurt; + he is lying senseless about two or three yards before the horse.” + </p> + <p> + “My God!” exclaimed the other, “perhaps he has been killed; let us + instantly assist him. Hold this portfolio whilst I render him whatever + assistance I can.” + </p> + <p> + As he spoke they heard a heavy groan, and on approaching found the man + sitting; but still unable to rise. + </p> + <p> + “You have unfortunately been thrown, sir,” said Reilly; “I trust in God + you are not seriously hurt.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope not, sir,” replied the man, “but I was stunned, and have been + insensible for some time; how long I cannot say.” + </p> + <p> + “Good gracious, sir!” exclaimed Reilly, “is this Mr. Brown?” + </p> + <p> + “It is, Mr. Reilly; for heaven's sake aid me to my limbs—that is, if + I shall be able to stand upon them.” Reilly did so, but found that he + could not stand or walk without' assistance. The horse, in the meantime, + had extricated himself. + </p> + <p> + “Come, Mr. Brown,” said Reilly, “you! must, allow me to assist you home. + It is very fortunate that you have not many perches to go. This poor man + will lead your horse up to the stable.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, Mr. Reilly,” replied the gentleman, “and in requital for your + kindness you must take a bed at my house tonight. I am aware of your + position,” he added in a confidential voice, “and that you cannot safely + sleep in your own; with me you will be secure.” + </p> + <p> + Reilly thanked him, and said that this kind offer was most welcome and + acceptable, as, in point of fact, he scarcely knew that night where to + seek rest with safety. They accordingly proceeded to the parsonage—for + Mr. Brown was no other than the Protestant rector of the parish, a man + with whom Reilly was on the most friendly and intimate terms, and a man, + we may add, who omitted no opportunity of extending shelter, protection, + and countenance to such Roman Catholics as fell under the suspicion or + operation of the law. On this occasion he had been called very suddenly to + the deathbed of a parishioner, and was then on his return home, after + having administered to the dying man the last consolations of religion. + </p> + <p> + On reaching the parsonage, Fergus handed the portfolio to its owner, and + withdrew to seek shelter in some of his usual haunts for the night; but + Mr. Brown, aided by his wife, who sat up for him, contrived that Reilly + should be conducted to a private room, without the knowledge of the + servants, who were sent as soon as possible to bed. Before Reilly + withdrew, however, that night, he requested Mr. Brown to take charge of + his money and family papers, which the latter did, assuring him that they + should be forthcoming whenever he thought proper to call for them. Mr. + Brown had, not been seriously hurt, and was able in a day or two to pay + the usual attention to the discharge of his duties. + </p> + <p> + Reilly, having been told where to find his bedroom, retired with + confidence to rest. Yet we can scarcely term it rest, after considering + the tumultuous and disagreeable events of the evening. He began to ponder + upon the life of persecution to which Miss Folliard must necessarily be + exposed, in consequence of her father's impetuous and fiery temper; and, + indeed, the fact was, that he felt this reflection infinitely more bitter + than any that touched himself. In these affectionate calculations of her + domestic persecution he was a good deal mistaken, however, Sir Robert + Whitecraft had now gained a complete ascendancy over the disposition and + passions of her father. The latter, like many another country squire—especially + of that day—when his word and will were law to his tenants and + dependants, was a very great man indeed, when dealing with them. He could + bluster and threaten, and even carry his threats into execution with a + confident swagger that had more of magisterial pride and the pomp of + property in it, than a sense of either light or justice. But, on the other + hand, let him meet a man of his own rank, who cared nothing about his + authority as a magistrate, or his assumption as a man of large landed + property, and he was nothing but a poor weak-minded tool in his hands. So + far our description is correct; but when such a knave as Sir Robert + Whitecraft came in his way—a knave at once calculating, deceitful, + plausible, and cunning—why, our worthy old squire, who thought + himself a second Solomon, might be taken by the nose and led round the + whole barony. + </p> + <p> + There is no doubt that he had sapiently laid down his plans—to + harass and persecute his daughter into a marriage with Sir Robert, and + would have probably driven her from under his roof, had he not received + the programme of his conduct from Whitecraft. That cowardly caitiff had a + double motive in this. He found that if her father should “pepper her with + persecution,” as the old fellow said, before marriage, its consequences + might fall upon his own unlucky head afterwards—in other words, that + Helen would most assuredly make him then suffer, to some purpose, for all + that his pretensions to her hand had occasioned her to undergo previous to + their union; for, in truth, if there was one doctrine which Whitecraft + detested more than another—and with good reason too—it was + that of Retribution. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Folliard,” said Whitecraft in the very last conversation they had on + this subject, “you must not persecute your daughter on my account.” + </p> + <p> + “Mustn't I? Why hang it, Sir Robert, isn't persecution the order of the + day? If she doesn't marry you quietly and willingly, we'll turn her out, + and hunt her like a priest.” + </p> + <p> + “No, Mr. Folliard, violence will never do. On the contrary, you must + change your hand, and try an opposite course. If you wish to rivet her + affections upon that Jesuitical traitor still more strongly, persecute + her; for there is nothing in this life that strengthens love so much as + opposition and violence. The fair ones begin to look upon themselves as + martyrs, and in proportion as you are severe and inexorable, so in + proportion are they resolved to win the crown that is before them. I would + not press your daughter but that I believe love to be a thing that exists + before marriage—never after. There's the honeymoon, for instance. + Did ever mortal man or mortal woman hear or dream of a second honeymoon? + No, sir, for Cupid, like a large blue-bottle, falls into, and is drowned, + in the honey-pot.” + </p> + <p> + “Confound me,” replied the squire, “if I understand a word you say. + However, I dare say it may be very good sense for all that, for you always + had a long noddle. Go on.” + </p> + <p> + “My advice to you then, sir, is this-make as few allusions to her marriage + with me as possible; but, in the meantime, you may praise me a little, if + you wish; but, above all things, don't run down Reilly immediately after + paying either my mind or person any compliment. Allow the young lady to + remain quiet for a time. Treat her with your usual kindness and affection; + for it is possible, after all, that she may do more from her tenderness + and affection for you than we could expect from any other motive; at all + events, until we shall succeed in hanging or transporting this rebellious + scoundrel.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good—so he is. Good William! what a son-in-law I should have! + I who transported one priest already!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, as I was saying, until we shall have succeeded in hanging or + transporting him. The first would be the safest, no doubt: but until we + shall be able to accomplish either one or the other, we have not much to + expect in the shape of compliance from your daughter. When the villain is + removed, however, hope, on her part, will soon die out—love will + lose its <i>pabulum</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “Its what?” asked the squire, staring at him with a pair of round eyes + that were full of perplexity and wonder. + </p> + <p> + “Why, it means food, or rather fodder.” + </p> + <p> + “Curse you, sir,” replied the squire indignantly; “do you want to make a + beast of my daughter?” + </p> + <p> + “But it's a word, sir, applied by the poets, as the food of Cupid.” + </p> + <p> + “Cupid! I thought he was drowned in the honey-pot, yet he's up again, and + as brisk as ever, it appears. However, go on—let us understand + fairly what you're at. I think I see a glimpse of it; and knowing your + character upon the subject of persecution as I do, it's more, I must say, + than I expected from you. Go on—I bid you.” + </p> + <p> + “I say, then, sir, that if Reilly were either hanged or out of the + country, the consciousness of this would soon alter matters with Miss + Folliard. If you, then, sir, will enter into an agreement with me, I shall + undertake so to make the laws bear upon Reilly as to rid either the world + or the country of him; and you shall promise not to press upon your + daughter the subject of her marriage with me until then. Still, there is + one thing you must do; and that is, to keep her under the strictest + surveillance.” + </p> + <p> + “What the devil's that?” said the squire. + </p> + <p> + “It means,” returned his expected son-in-law, “that she must be well + watched, but without feeling that she is so.” + </p> + <p> + “Would it not be better to lock her up at once?” said her father. “That + would be making the matter sure.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all,” replied Whitecraft. “So sure as you lock her up, so sure she + will break prison.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, upon my soul,” replied her father. “I can't see that. A strong lock + and key are certainly the best surety for the due appearance of any young + woman disposed to run away. I think the best way would be to make her feel + at once that her father is a magistrate, and commit her to her own room + until called upon to appear.” + </p> + <p> + Whitecraft, whose object was occasionally to puzzle his friend, gave a + cold grin, and added: + </p> + <p> + “I suppose your next step would be to make her put in security. No—no, + Mr. Folliard; if you will be advised by me, try the soothing system; + antiphlogistic remedies are always the best in a case like hers.” + </p> + <p> + “Anti—what? Curse me, if I can understand every tenth word you say. + However, I give you credit, Whitecraft; for upon my soul I didn't think + you knew half so much as you do. That last, however, is a tickler—a + nut that I can't crack. I wish I could only get my tongue about it, till I + send it among the Grand Jury, and maybe there wouldn't be wigs on the + green in making it out.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I fancy it would teach them a little supererogation.” + </p> + <p> + “A little what? Is it love that has made you so learned, Whitecraft, or so + unintelligible, which? Why, man, if your passion increases, in another + week there won't be three men out of Trinity College able to understand + you. You will become a perfect oracle. But, in the meantime, let us see + how the arrangement stands. <i>Imprimus</i>, you are to hang or transport + Keilly; and, until then, I am not to annoy my daughter with any allusions + to this marriage: but, above all things, not to compare you and Reilly + with one another in her presence, lest it might strengthen her prejudices + against you.” + </p> + <p> + “I beg your pardon, Mr. Folliard. I did not say so; I fear no comparison + with the fellow.” + </p> + <p> + “No matter, Sir Robert, if you did not knock it down you staggered it. + Omitting the comparison, however, I suppose that so far I am right.” + </p> + <p> + “I think so, sir,” replied the other, conscious, “after all, that he had + got a touch of 'Roland for his Oliver'.” + </p> + <p> + Then he proceeded: “I'm to watch her closely, only she's not to know it. + Now, I'll tell you what, Sir Robert, I know you carry a long noddle, with + more hard words in it than I ever gave you credit for—but with + regard to what you expect from me now—” + </p> + <p> + “I don't mean that you should watch her personally yourself, Mr. + Folliard.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose you don't; I didn't think you did; but I'll tell you what—place + the twelve labors of Hercules before me, and I'll undertake to perform + them, if you wish, but to watch a woman, Sir Robert—and that woman + keen and sharp upon the cause of such vigilance—without her knowing + it in one half hour's time—that is a task that never was, can, or + will be accomplished. In the meantime, we must only come as near its + accomplishment as we can.” + </p> + <p> + “Just so, sir; we can do no more. Remember, then, that you perform your + part of this arrangement, and, with the blessing of God, I shall leave + nothing undone to perform mine.” + </p> + <p> + Thus closed this rather extraordinary conversation, after which Sir Robert + betook himself home, to reflect upon the best means of performing his part + of it, with what quickness and dispatch, and with what success, our + readers already know. + </p> + <p> + The old squire was one of those characters who never are so easily + persuaded as when they do not fully comprehend the argument used to + convince them. Whenever the squire found himself a little at fault, or + confounded by either a difficult word or a hard sentence, he always took + it for granted that there was something unusually profound and clever in + the matter laid before him. Sir Robert knew this, and on that account + played him off to a certain extent. He was too cunning, however, to darken + any part of the main argument so far as to prevent its drift from being + fully understood, and thereby defeating his own purpose. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII.—A Conflagration—An Escape—And an Adventure + </h2> + <p> + We have said that Sir Robert Whitecraft was anything but a popular man—and + we might have added that, unless among his own clique of bigots and + persecutors, he was decidedly unpopular among Protestants in general. In a + few days after the events of the night we have described, Reilly, by the + advice of Mr. Brown's brother, an able and distinguished lawyer, gave up + the possession of his immense farm, dwelling-house, and offices to the + landlord. In point of fact, this man had taken the farm for Reilly's + father, in his own name, a step which many of the liberal and generous + Protestants of that period were in the habit of taking, to protect the + property for the Roman Catholics, from such rapacious scoundrels as + Whitecraft, and others like him, who had accumulated the greater portion + of their wealth and estates by the blackest and most iniquitous political + profligacy and oppression. For about a month after the first night of the + unsuccessful pursuit after Reilly, the whole country was overrun with + military parties, and such miserable inefficient police as then existed. + In the meantime, Reilly escaped every toil and snare that had been laid + for him. Sir Robert Whitecraft, seeing that hitherto he had set them at + defiance, resolved to glut his vengeance on his property, since he could + not arrest himself. A description of his person had been, almost from the + commencement of the proceedings, published in the Hue-and-Cry, and he had + been now outlawed. As even this failed, Sir Robert, as we said, came with + a numerous party of his myrmidons, bringing along with them a large number + of horses, carts, and cars. The house at this time was in the possession + only of a keeper, a poor, feeble man, with a wife and a numerous family of + small children, the other servants having fled from the danger in which + their connection with Reilly involved them. Sir Robert, however, very + deliberately brought up his cars and other vehicles, and having dragged + out all the most valuable part of the furniture, piled it up, and had it + conveyed to his own outhouses, where it was carefully-stowed. This act, + however, excited comparatively little attention, for such outrages were + not unfrequently committed by those who had, or at least who thought they + had; the law in their own hands. It was now dusk, and the house had been + gutted of all that had been most valuable in it—but the most + brilliant part of the performance was yet to come. We mean no contemptible + pun. The young man's dwelling-house, and office-houses were ignited at + this moment by this man's military and other official minions, and in + about twenty minutes they were all wrapped in one red, merciless mass of + flame. The country people, on observing this fearful conflagration, + flocked from all quarters; but a cordon of outposts was stationed at some + distance around the premises, to prevent the peasantry from marking the + chief actors in this nefarious outrage. Two gentlemen, however, + approached, who, having given their names, were at once admitted to the + burning premises. These were Mr. Brown, the clergyman, and Mr. Hastings, + the actual and legal proprietor of all that had been considered Reilly's + property. Both of them observed that Sir Robert was the busiest man among + them, and upon making inquiries from the party, they were informed that + they acted by his orders, and that, moreover, he was himself the very + first individual who had set fire to the premises. The clergyman made his + way to Sir Robert, on whose villainous countenance he could read a dark + and diabolical triumph. + </p> + <p> + “Sir Robert Whitecraft,” said Mr. Brown, “how conies such a wanton and + unnecessary waste of property?” + </p> + <p> + “Because, sir,” replied that gentleman, “it is the property of a popish + rebel and outlaw, and is confiscated to the State.” + </p> + <p> + “But do you possess authority for this conduct?—Are you the State?” + </p> + <p> + “In the spirit of our Protestant Constitution, certainly. I am a loyal + Protestant magistrate, and a man of rank, and will hold myself accountable + for what I do and have done. Come you, there,” he added, “who have knocked + down the pump, take some straw, light it up, and put it with pitchforks + upon the lower end of the stable; it has not yet caught the flames.” + </p> + <p> + This order was accordingly complied with, and in a few minutes the scene, + if one could dissociate the mind from the hellish spirit which created it, + had something terribly sublime in it. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hastings, the gentleman who accompanied the clergyman, the real owner + of the property, looked on with apparent indifference, but uttered not a + word. Indeed, he seemed rather to enjoy the novelty of the thing than + otherwise, and passed with Mr. Brown from place to place, as if to obtain + the best points for viewing the fire. + </p> + <p> + Reilly's residence was a long, large, two-story house, deeply thatched; + the kitchen, containing pantry, laundry, scullery, and all the usual + appurtenances connected with it, was a continuation of the larger house, + but it was a story lower, and also deeply thatched. The out-offices ran in + a long line behind the dwelling house, so that both ran parallel with each + other, and stood pretty close besides, for the yard was a narrow one. In + the meantime, the night, though dry, was dark and stormy. The wind howled + through the adjoining trees like thunder, roared along the neighboring + hills, and swept down in savage whirlwinds to the bottom of the lowest + valleys. The greater portion of the crowd who were standing outside the + cordon we have spoken of fled home, as the awful gusts grew stronger and + stronger, in order to prevent their own houses from being stripped or + unroofed, so that very few remained to witness the rage of the + conflagration at its full height. The Irish peasantry entertain a + superstition that whenever a strong storm of wind, without rain, arises, + it has been occasioned by the necromantic spell of some guilty sorcerer, + who, first having sold himself to the devil, afterwards raises him for + some wicked purpose; and nothing but the sacrifice of a black dog or a + black cock—the one without a white hair, and the other without a + white feather—can prevent him from carrying away, body and soul, the + individual who called him up, accompanied by such terrors. In fact the + night, independently of the terrible accessory of the fire, was + indescribably awful. Thatch portions of the ribs and roofs of houses were + whirled along through the air; and the sweeping blast, in addition to its + own howlings, was burdened with the loud screamings of women and children, + and the stronger shoutings of men, as they attempted to make each other + audible, amidst the roaring of the tempest. + </p> + <p> + This was terrible indeed; but on such a night, what must not the + conflagration have been, fed by such pabulum—as Sir Robert himself + would have said—as that on which it glutted its fiery and consuming + appetite. We have said that the offices and dwelling-house ran parallel + with each other, and such was the fact. What appeared singular, and not + without the possibility of some dark supernatural causes, according to the + impressions of the people, was, that the wind, on the night in question, + started, as it were, along with the fire; but the truth is, it had been + gamboling in its gigantic play before the fire commenced at all. In the + meantime, as we said, the whole premises presented one fiery mass of red + and waving flames, that shot and drifted up, from time to time, towards + the sky, with the rapidity, and more than the terror, of the aurora + borealis. As the conflagration proceeded, the high flames that arose from + the mansion, and those that leaped up from the offices, several times met + across the yard, and mingled, as if to exult in their fearful task of + destruction, forming a long and distinct arch of flame, so exact and + regular, that it seemed to proceed from the skill and effort of some + powerful demon, who had made it, as it were, a fiery arbor for his kind. + The whole country was visible to an astonishing distance, and overhead, + the evening sky, into which the up-rushing pyramids seemed to pass, looked + as if it had caught the conflagration, and was one red mass of glowing and + burning copper. Around the house and premises the eye could distinguish a + pin; but the strong light was so fearfully red that the deep tinge it + communicated to the earth seemed like blood, and made it appear as if it + had been sprinkled with it. + </p> + <p> + It is impossible to look upon a large and extensive conflagration without + feeling the mind filled with imagery and comparisons, drawn from moral and + actual life. Here, for instance, is a tyrant, in the unrestrained exercise + of his power—he now has his enemy in his grip, and hear how he + exults; listen to the mirthful and crackling laughter with which the + fiendish despot rejoices, as he gains the victory; mark the diabolical + gambols with which he sports, and the demon glee with which he performs + his capricious but frightful exultations. But the tyrant, after all, will + become exhausted—his strength and power will fail him; he will + destroy his own subjects; he will become feeble, and when he has nothing + further on which to exercise his power, he will, like many another tyrant + before him, sink, and be lost in the ruin he has made. + </p> + <p> + Again: Would you behold Industry? Here have its terrible spirits been + appointed their tasks. Observe the energy, the activity, the persevering + fury with which they discharge their separate duties. See how that eldest + son of Apollyon, with the appetite of hell, licks into his burning maw + every thing that comes in contact with his tongue of fire. What quickness + of execution, and how rapidly they pass from place to place! how they run + about in quest of employment! how diligently and effectually they search + every nook and corner, lest anything might escape them! Mark the activity + with which that strong fellow leaps across, from beam to beam, seizing + upon each as he goes. A different task has been assigned to another: he + attacks the rafters of the roof—he fails at first, but, like the + constrictor, he first licks over his victim before he destroys it—bravo!—he + is at it again—it gives way—he is upon it, and about it; and + now his difficulties are over—the red wood glows, splits and + crackles, and flies off in angry flakes, in order to become a minister to + its active and devouring master. See! observe! What business—what a + coil and turmoil of industry! Every flame at work—no idle hand here—no + lazy lounger reposing. No, no—the industry of a hive of bees is + nothing to this. Running up—running down—running in all + directions: now they unite together to accomplish some general task, and + again disperse themselves to perform their individual appointments. + </p> + <p> + But hark! what comes here? Room for another element. 'Tis the windstorm, + that comes to partake in the triumph of the victory which his ministers + have assisted to gain. But lo! here he comes in person; and now they unite—or + how?—Do they oppose each other? Here does the windstorm drive back + the god of fire from his victim; again the fiery god attempts to reach it; + and again he feels that he has met more than his match. Once, twice, + thrice he has failed in getting at it. But is this conflict real—this + fierce battle between the elements? Alas, no; they are both tyrants, and + what is to be expected? + </p> + <p> + The wind god, always unsteady, wheels round, comes to the assistance of + his opponent, and gives him new courage, new vigor, and new strength. But + his inferior ministers must have a share of this dreadful repast. Off go a + thousand masses of burning material, whirling along. Off go the; glowing + timbers and rafters, on the wind, by which they are borne in thousands of + red meteors across the sky. But hark, again! Room for the whirlwind! Here + it comes, and addresses itself to yon tall and waving pyramid; they + embrace; the pyramid is twisted into the figure of a gigantic corkscrew—round + they go, rapid as thought; the thunder of the wind supplies them with the + appropriate music, and continues until; this terrible and gigantic waltz + of the elements is concluded. But now these fearful ravagers are + satisfied, because they have nothing more on which they can glut + themselves. They appear, however, to be seated. The wind has become low, + and is only able to work up a feeble effort at its former strength. The + flames, too, are subsiding—their power is gone; occasional jets of + fire I come forth, but they instantly disappear. By degrees, and one after + another, they vanish. Nothing now is visible but smoke, and every thing is + considered as over—when lo! like a great general, who has achieved a + triumphant victory, it is deemed right to; take a last look at the + position of the enemy. Up, therefore, starts an unexpected burst of flame—blazes + for a while; looks about it, as it were; sees that the victory is + complete, and drops down into the darkness from which it came. The + conflagration is over; the wind-storm is also appeased. Small hollow + gusts, amongst the trees and elsewhere, are now all that are heard. By + degrees, even these cease; and the wind is now such as it was in the + course of the evening, when the elements were comparatively quiet and + still. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Brown and his friend, Mr. Hastings, having waited until they saw the + last rafter of unfortunate Reilly's house and premises sink into a black + mass of smoking ruins, turned their steps to the parsonage, which they had + no sooner entered than they went immediately to Reilly's room, who was + still there under concealment. Mr. Brown, however, went out again and + returned with some wine, which he placed upon the table. + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen,” said Reilly, “this has become an awful night; the wind has + been tremendous, and has done a good deal of damage, I fear, to your house + and premises, Mr. Brown. I heard the slates falling about in great + numbers; and the inmates of the house were, as far as I could judge, + exceedingly alarmed.” + </p> + <p> + “It was a dreadful night in more senses than one,” replied Mr. Brown. + </p> + <p> + “By the by,” said Reilly, “was there not a fire somewhere in the + neighborhood, I observed through the windows a strong light flickering and + vibrating, as it were, over the whole country. What must it have been?” + </p> + <p> + “My dear Reilly,” replied Mr. Brown, “be calm; your house and premises + are, at this moment, one dark heap of smouldering ruins.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, yes—I understand,” replied Reilly—“Sir Robert + Whitecraft.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir Robert Whitecraft,” replied Mr. Brown; “it is too true, Reilly—you + are now houseless and homeless; and may God forgive him!” + </p> + <p> + Reilly got up and paced the room several times, then sat down, and filling + himself a glass of wine, drank it off; then looking at each of them, said, + in a voice rendered hoarse by the indignation and resentment which he felt + himself compelled, out of respect for his kind friends, to restrain, + “Gentlemen,” he repeated, “what do <i>you</i> call this” + </p> + <p> + “Malice—persecution—vengeance,” replied Mr. Brown, whose + resentment was scarcely less than that of Reilly himself. “In the presence + of God, and before all the world. I would pronounce it one of the most + diabolical acts ever committed in the history of civil society. But you + have one consolation, Reilly; your money and papers are safe.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not that,” replied Reilly; “I think not of them. It is the + vindictive and persecuting spirit of that man—that monster—and + the personal motives from which he acts, that torture me, and that plant + in my heart a principle of vengeance more fearful than his. But you do not + understand me, gentlemen; I could smile at all he has done to myself yet. + It is of the serpent-tooth which will destroy the peace of others, that I + think. All these motives being considered, what do you think that man + deserves at my hand?” + </p> + <p> + “My dear Reilly,” said the clergyman, “recollect that there is a + Providence; and that we cannot assume to ourselves the disposition of His + judgments, or the knowledge of His wisdom. Have patience. Your situation + is one of great distress and almost unexampled difficulty. At all events, + you are, for the present, safe under this roof; and although I grant you + have much to suffer, still you have a free conscience, and, I dare say, + would not exchange your position for that of your persecutor.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” said Reilly; “most assuredly not—most assuredly not; no, not + for worlds. Yet is it not strange, gentlemen, that that man will sleep + sound and happily to-night, whilst I will lie upon a bed of thorns?” + </p> + <p> + At this moment Mrs. Brown tapped gently at the door, which was cautiously + opened by her husband. + </p> + <p> + “John,” said she, “here is a note which I was desired to give to you + without a moment's delay.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, my love; I will read it instantly.”. + </p> + <p> + He then bolted the door, and coming to the table took up one of the + candles and read the letter, which he handed to Mr. Hastings. Now we have + already stated that this gentleman, whilst looking on at the destruction + of Reilly's property, never once opened his lips. Neither did he, from the + moment they entered Reilly's room. He sat like a dumb man, occasionally + helping himself to a glass of wine. After having perused the note he + merely nodded, but said not a word; he seemed to have lost the faculty of + speech. At length Mr. Brown spoke: + </p> + <p> + “This is really too bad, my dear Reilly; here is a note signed H.F., which + informs me that your residence, concealment, or whatever it is, has been + discovered by Sir Robert Whitecraft, and that the military are on their + way here to arrest you; you must instantly fly.” + </p> + <p> + Hastings then got up, and taking Reilly's hand, said: + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Reilly, you must escape—disguise yourself—take all + shapes—since you will not leave the country; but there is one fact I + wish to impress upon you: meddle not with—injure not—Sir + Robert Whitecraft. Leave him to me.” + </p> + <p> + “Go out by the back way,” said Mr. Brown, “and fly into the fields, lest + they should surround the house and render escape impossible. God bless you + and preserve you from the violence of your enemies!” + </p> + <p> + It is unnecessary to relate what subsequently occurred. Mr. Brown's + premises, as he had anticipated, were completely surrounded ere the party + in search of Reilly had demanded admittance. The whole house was searched + from top to bottom, but, as usual, without success. Sir Robert Whitecraft + himself was not with them, but the party were all but intoxicated, and, + were it not for the calm and unshrinking firmness of Mr. Brown, would have + been guilty of a very offensive degree of insolence. + </p> + <p> + Reilly, in the meantime, did not pass far from the house. On the contrary, + he resolved to watch from a safe place the motions of those who were in + pursuit of him. In order to do this more securely, he mounted into the + branches of a magnificent oak tree that stood in the centre of a field + adjoining a kind of back lawn that stretched from the walled garden of the + parsonage. The fact is, that the clergyman's house had two hall-doors—one + in front, and the other in the rear—and as the rooms commanded a + view of the scenery behind the house, which was much finer than that in + front, on this account the back hall-door was necessary, as it gave them a + free and easy egress to the lawn we have mentioned, from which a + magnificent prospect was visible. + </p> + <p> + It was obvious that the party, though unsuccessful, had been very + accurately informed. Finding, however, that the bird had flown, several of + them galloped across the lawn—it was a cavalry party, having been + sent out for speed and passed into the field where the tree grew in which + Reilly was concealed. After a useless search, however, they returned, and + pulled up their horses under the oak. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said one of them, “it's a dear case that the scoundrel can make + himself invisible. We have orders from Sir Eobert to shoot him, and to put + the matter upon the principle of resistance against the law, on his side. + Sir Robert has been most credibly informed that that disloyal parson has + concealed him in his house for nearly the last month. Now who could ever + think of looking for a Popish rebel in the house of a Protestant parson? + What the deuce is keeping those fellows? I hope they won't go too far into + the country.” + </p> + <p> + “Any man that says Mr. Brown is a disloyal parson is a liar,” said one of + them in a stem voice. + </p> + <p> + “And I say,” said another, with a hiccough, “that, hang me, but I think + this same Reilly is as loyal a man as e'er a one amongst us. My name is + George Johnston, and I'm not ashamed of it; and the truth is, that only + Miss Folliard fell in love with Reilly, and refused to marry Sir Robert, + Reilly would have been a loyal man still, and no ill-will against him. + But, by —- it was too bad to burn his house and place—and see + whether Sir Robert will come off the better of it. I myself am a good + Protestant—show me the man that will deny that, and I'll become his + schoolmaster only for five minutes. I do say, and I'll tell it to Sir + Robert's face, that there's something wrong somewhere. Give me a Papish + that breaks the law, let him be priest or layman, and I'm the boy that + will take a grip of him if I can get him. But, confound me, if I like to + be sent out to hunt innocent, inoffensive Papishes, who commit no crime + except that of having property that chaps like Sir Robert have their eye + on. Now suppose the Papishes had the upper hand, and that they treated us + so, what would you say?” + </p> + <p> + “All I can say is,” replied another of them, “that I'd wish to get the + reward.” + </p> + <p> + “Curse the reward,” said Johnston, “I like fair play.” + </p> + <p> + “But how did Sir Robert come to know?” asked another, “that Reilly was + with the parson'?” + </p> + <p> + “Who the deuce here can tell that?” replied several. + </p> + <p> + “The thing was a hoax,” said Johnston, “and a cursed uncomfortable one for + us. But here comes these fellows, just as they went, it seems. Well, boys, + no trail of this cunning fox?” + </p> + <p> + “Trail!” exclaimed the others. “Gad, you might as well hunt for your + grandmother's needle in a bottle of straw. The truth is, the man's not in + the country, and whoever gave the information as to the parson keeping him + was some enemy of the parson's more than of Reilly's, I'll go bail. Come, + now, let us go back, and give an account of our luck, and then to our + barracks.” + </p> + <p> + Now at this period it was usual for men who were prominent for rank and + loyalty, and whose attachment to the Constitution and Government was + indicated by such acts and principles as those which we have hitherto read + in the life of Sir Robert. Whitecraft—we say, it was usual for such + as him to be allowed a small detachment of military, whose numbers were + mostly rated, according to the services he required of them, by the zeal + and activity of their employer, as well as for his protection; and, in + order to their accommodation, some uninhabited house in the neighborhood + was converted into a barrack for the purpose. Such was the case in the + instance of Sir Robert Whitecraft, who, independently of his zeal for the + public good, was supposed to have an eye in this disposition of things, to + his own personal Safety. He consequently, had his little barrack so + closely adjoining his house that a notice of five minutes could at any + time have its inmates at his premises, or in his presence. + </p> + <p> + After these men went away, Reilly, having waited a few minutes, until he + was satisfied that they had actually, one and all of them, disappeared, + came down from the tree, and once more betook himself to the road. Whither + to go he knew not. In consequence of having received his education abroad, + his personal knowledge of the inhabitants belonging to the neighborhood + was very limited. Go somewhere, however, he must. Accordingly, he resolved + to advance, at all events, as far as he might be able to travel before + bed-time, and then resign himself to chance for a night's shelter. One + might imagine, indeed, that his position as a wealthy Roman Catholic + gentleman, suffering persecution from the tool and scourge of a hostile + government, might have calculated upon shelter and secrecy from those + belonging to his own creed. And so, indeed, in nineteen cases out of + twenty he might; but in what predicament should he find himself if the + twentieth proved treacherous? And against this he had no guarantee. That + age was peculiarly marked by the foulest personal perfidy, precipitated + into action by rapacity, ingratitude, and the blackest ambition. The son + of a Roman Catholic gentleman, for instance, had nothing more to do than + change his creed, attach himself to the government, become a spy and + informer on his family, and he ousted his own father at once out of his + hereditary property—an ungrateful and heinous proceeding, that was + too common in the time of which we write. Then, as to the people + themselves, they were, in general, steeped in poverty and ignorance, and + this is certainly not surprising when we consider that no man durst + educate them. The government rewards, therefore, assailed them with a + double temptation. In the first, the amount of it—taking their + poverty into consideration—was calculated to grapple with and + overcome their scruples; and in the next, they were certain by their + treachery to secure the protection of government for themselves. + </p> + <p> + Such, exactly, was the state of the country on the night when Reilly found + himself a solitary traveller on the road, ignorant of his destiny, and + uncertain where or in what quarter he might seek shelter until morning. + </p> + <p> + He had not gone far when he overtook another traveller, with whom he + entered into conversation. + </p> + <p> + “God save you, my friend.” + </p> + <p> + “God save you kindly, sir,” replied the other; “was not this an awful + night?” + </p> + <p> + “If you may say so,” returned Reilly unconsciously, and for the moment + forgetting himself, “well may I, my friend.” + </p> + <p> + Indeed it is probable that Reilly was thrown somewhat off his guard by the + accent of his companion, from which he at once inferred that he was a + Catholic. + </p> + <p> + “Why, sir,” replied the man, “how could it be more awful to you than to + any other man?” + </p> + <p> + “Suppose my house was blown down,” said Reilly, “and that yours was not, + would not that be cause sufficient?” + </p> + <p> + “<i>My</i> house!” exclaimed the man with a deep sigh; “but sure you ought + to know, sir, that it's not every <i>man</i> has a house.” + </p> + <p> + “And perhaps I do know it.” + </p> + <p> + “Wasn't that a terrible act, sir—the burning of Mr. Reilly's house + and place?” + </p> + <p> + “Who is Mr. Reilly?” asked the other. + </p> + <p> + “A Catholic gintleman, sir, that the soldiers are afther,” replied the + man. + </p> + <p> + “And perhaps it is right that they should be after him. What did he do? + The Catholics are too much in the habit of violating the law, especially + their priests, who persist in marrying Protestants and Papists together, + although they know it is a hanging matter. If they deliberately put their + necks into the noose, who can pity them?” + </p> + <p> + “It seems they do, then,” replied the man in a subdued voice; “and what is + still more strange, it very often happens that persons of their own creed + are somewhat too ready to come down wid a harsh word upon 'em.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, my friend,” responded Reilly, “let them not deserve it; let them + obey the law.” + </p> + <p> + “And are <i>you</i>, of opinion, sir,” asked the man with a significant + emphasis upon the personal pronoun which we have put in italics; “are <i>you</i> + of opinion, sir, that obedience to the law is <i>always</i> a security to + either <i>person or property?</i>” + </p> + <p> + The direct force of the question could not be easily parried, at least by + Reilly, to whose circumstances it applied so powerfully, and he + consequently paused for a little to shape his thoughts into the language + he wished to adopt; the man, however, proceeded: + </p> + <p> + “I wonder what Mr. Reilly would say if such a question was put to him?” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose,” replied Reilly, “he would say much as I say—that + neither innocence nor obedience is always a security under any law or any + constitution either.” + </p> + <p> + His companion made no reply, and they walked on for some time in silence. + Such indeed was the precarious state of the country then that, although + the stranger, from the opening words of their conversation, suspected his + companion to be no other than Willy Reilly himself, yet he hesitated to + avow the suspicions he entertained of his identity, although he felt + anxious to repose the fullest confidence in him; and Reilly, on the other + hand, though perfectly aware of the true character of his companion, was + influenced in their conversation by a similar feeling. Distrust it could + not be termed on either side, but simply the operation of that general + caution which was generated by the state of the times, when it was + extremely difficult to know the individual on whom you could place + dependence. Reilly's generous nature, however, could bear this miserable + manoeuvring no longer. + </p> + <p> + “Come, my friend,” said he, “we have been beating about the bush with each + other to no purpose; although I know not your name, yet I think I do your + profession.” + </p> + <p> + “And I would hold a wager,” replied other, “that Mr. Reilly, whose house + was burned down by a villain this night, is not a thousand miles from me.” + </p> + <p> + “And suppose you are right?” + </p> + <p> + “Then, upon my veracity, you're safe, if I am. It would ill become my + cloth and character to act dishonorably or contrary to the spirit of my + religion. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + '<i>Non ignara mali miseris succurrere disco</i>.' +</pre> + <p> + You see, Mr. Reilly, I couldn't make use of any other gender but the + feminine without violating prosody; for although I'm not so sharp at my + Latin as I was, still I couldn't use <i>ignarus</i>, as you see, without + fairly committing myself as a scholar; and indeed, if I went to that, it + would surely be the first time I have been mistaken for a dunce.” + </p> + <p> + The honest priest, now that the ice was broken, and conscious that he was + in safe hands, fell at once into his easy and natural manner, and rattled + away very much to the amusement of his companion. “Ah!” he proceeded, + “many a character I have been forced to assume.” + </p> + <p> + “How is that?” inquired Reilly. “How did it happen that you were forced + into such a variety of characters?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, you see, Mr. Reilly—troth and maybe I had better not be naming + you aloud; walls have ears, and so may hedges. How, you ask? Why, you see, + I'm not registered, and consequently have no permission from government to + exercise my functions.” + </p> + <p> + “Why,” said Reilly, “you labor under a mistake, my friend; the bill for + registering Catholic priests did not pass; it was lost by a majority of + two. So far make your mind easy. The consequence is, that if you labor + under no ecclesiastical censure you may exercise all the functions of your + office—that is, as well as you can, and as far as you dare.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that same's a comfort,” said the priest; “but the report was, and + is, that we are to be registered. However, be that as it may, I have been + a perfect Proteus. The metamorphoses of Ovid were nothing to mine. I have + represented every character in society at large; to-day I've been a + farmer, and to-morrow a poor man (a mendicant), sometimes a fool—a + rare character, you know, in this world—and sometimes a tiddler, for + I play a little.” + </p> + <p> + “And which character did you prefer among them all?” asked Reilly, with a + smile which he could not repress. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, in troth, you needn't ask that, Mr. R.—hem—you needn't + ask that. The first morning I took to the fiddle I was about to give + myself up to government at once. As for my part, I'd be ashamed to tell + you how sent those that were unlucky enough to ear my music scampering + across the country.” + </p> + <p> + “And, pray, how long is that since?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, something better than three weeks, the Lord pity me!” + </p> + <p> + “And what description of dress did you wear on that occasion?” asked + Reilly. + </p> + <p> + “Dress-why, then, an old yellow caubeen, a blue frieze coat, and—movrone, + oh! a striped breeches. And the worst of it was, that big Paddy Mullin, + from Mullaghmore, having met me in old Darby Doyle's, poor man, where I + went to take a little refreshment, ordered in something to eat, and began + to make me play for him. There was a Protestant in the house, too, so that + I couldn't tell him who I was, and I accordingly began, and soon cleared + the house of them. God bless you, sir, you could little dream of all I + went through. I was one day set in the house I was concealed in, in the + town of Ballyrogan, and only for the town fool, Art M'Kenna, I suppose I'd + have swung before this.” + </p> + <p> + “How was that?” asked Reilly. + </p> + <p> + “Why, sir, one day I got the hard word that they would be into the house + where I was in a few minutes. To escape them in my own dress I knew was + impossible; and what was to be done? The poor fool, who was as true as + steel, came to my relief. 'Here,' said he, 'exchange wid me. I'll put on + your black clothes, and you'll put on my red ones'—he was dressed + like an old soldier—'then I'll take to my scrapers, an' while they + are in pursuit of me you can escape to some friend's house, where you may + get another dress. 'God knows,' said he, with a grin on him I didn't like, + 'it's a poor exchange on my part. You can play the fool, and cock your + cap, without any one to ask you for authority,' says he, 'and if I only + marry a wrong couple I may be hanged. Go off now.' Well, sir, out I + walked, dressed in a red coat, military hat, white knee-breeches, and + black leggings. As I was going out I met the soldiers. 'Is the priest + inside, Art?' they asked. I pointed in a wrong direction. 'Up by Kilclay?' + I nodded. They first searched the house, however, but found neither priest + nor fool; only one of them, something sharper than the rest, went out of + the back door, and saw unfortunate Art, dressed in black, running for the + bare life. Of course they thought it was me they had. Off they started; + and a tolerable chase Art put them to. At last he was caught, after a run + across the country of about four miles; but ne'er a word came out of his + lips, till a keen fellow, on looking closely at him, discovered the + mistake. Some of them were then going to kill the poor fool, but others + interfered, and wouldn't allow him to be touched; and many of them laughed + heartily when they saw Art turned into a clergyman, as they said. Art, + however, was no coward, and threatened to read every man of them out from + the altar. 'I'll exkimnicate every mother's son of you,' said he. 'I'm a + reverend clargy; and, by the contents of my soger's cap, I'll close the + mouths on your faces, so that a blessed pratie or a boult of fat bacon + will never go down one of your villainous throats again; and then,' he + added, 'I'll sell you for scarecrows to the Pope o' Room, who wants a + dozen or two of you to sweep out his palace.' It was then, sir, that, + while I was getting out of my red clothes, I was transformed again; but, + indeed, the most of us are so now, God help us!” + </p> + <p> + They had now arrived at a narrow part of the road, when the priest stood. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Reilly,” said he, “I am very tired; but, as it is, we must go on a + couple of miles further, until we reach Glen Dhu, where I think I can + promise you a night's lodging, such as it will be.” + </p> + <p> + “I am easily satisfied,” replied his companion; “it would be a soft bed + that would win me to repose on this night, at least.” + </p> + <p> + “It will certainly be a rude and a rough one,” said the priest, “and there + will be few hearts there free from care, no more than yours, Mr. Reilly. + Alas! that I should be obliged to say so in a Christian country.” + </p> + <p> + “You say you are fatigued,” said Reilly. “Take my arm; I am strong enough + to yield you some support.” + </p> + <p> + The priest did so, and they proceeded at a slower pace, until they got + over the next two miles, when the priest stopped again. + </p> + <p> + “I must rest a little,” said he, “although we are now within a hundred + yards of our berth for the night. Do you know where you are?” + </p> + <p> + “Perfectly,” replied Reilly; “but, good mercy! sure there is neither house + nor home within two miles of us. We are in the moors, at the very mouth of + Glen Dhu.' + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” replied his companion, “and I am glad we are here.” + </p> + <p> + The poor hunted priest felt himself, indeed, very much exhausted, so much + so that, if the termination of his journey had been at a much longer + distance from thence, he would scarcely have been able to reach it. + </p> + <p> + “God help our unhappy Church,” said he, “for she is suffering much; but + still she is suffering nobly, and with such Christian fortitude as will + make her days of trial and endurance the brightest in her annals. All that + power and persecution can direct against us is put in force a thousand + ways; but we act under the consciousness that we have God and truth on our + side, and this gives us strength and courage to suffer. And if we fly, Mr. + Reilly, and hide ourselves, it is not from any moral cowardice we do so. + It certainly is not true courage to expose our lives wantonly and + unnecessarily to the vengeance of our enemies. Read the Old Testament and + history, and you will find how many good and pious men have sought shelter + in wildernesses and caves, as we have done. The truth is, we feel + ourselves called upon, for the sake of our suffering and neglected flocks, + to remain in the country, and to afford them all the consolation and + religious support in our power, God help them.” + </p> + <p> + “I admire the justice of your sentiments,” replied Reilly, “and the spirit + in which they are—expressed. Indeed I am of opinion that if those + who foster and stimulate this detestable spirit of persecution against you + only knew how certainly and surely it defeats their purpose, by cementing + your hearts and the hearts of your flocks together, they would not, from + principles even of worldly policy, persist in it. The man who attempted to + break down the arch by heaping additional weight upon it ultimately found + that the greater the weight the stronger the arch, and so I trust it will + be with us.” + </p> + <p> + “It would seem,” said the priest, “to be an attempt to exterminate the + religion of the people by depriving them of their pastors, and + consequently of their Church, in order to bring them to the impression + that, upon the principle of any Church being better than no Church, they + may gradually be absorbed into Protestantism. This seems to be their + policy; but how can any policy, based upon such persecution, and so + grossly at variance with human liberty, ever succeed? As it is, we go out + in the dead hours of the night, when even persecution is asleep, and + administer the consolations of religion to the sick, the dying, and the + destitute. Now these stolen visits are sweeter, perhaps, and more + efficacious, than if they took place in freedom and the open day. Again, + we educate their children in the principles of their creed, during the + same lonely hours, in waste houses, where we are obliged to keep the + windows stuffed with straw, or covered with blinds of some sort, lest a + chance of discovery might ensue. Such is the life we lead—a life of + want and misery and suffering, but we complain not; on the contrary, we + submit ourselves to the will of God, and receive this severe visitation as + a chastisement intended for our good.” + </p> + <p> + The necessities of our narrative, however, compel us to leave them here + for the present; but not without a hope that they found shelter for the + night, as we trust we shall be able to show. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX.—A Prospect of Bygone Times + </h2> + <p> + —Reilly's Adventure Continued—Reilly Gets a Bed in a Curious + Establishment. + </p> + <p> + We now beg our readers to accompany us to the library of Sir Robert + Whitecraft, where that worthy gentleman sits, with a bottle of Madeira + before him; for Sir Robert, in addition to his many other good qualities, + possessed that of being a private drinker. The bottle, we say, was before + him, and with a smile of triumph and satisfaction on his face, he arose + and rang the bell. In a few minutes a liveried servant attended it. + </p> + <p> + “Carson, send O'Donnel here.” + </p> + <p> + Carson bowed and retired, and in a few minutes the Red Rapparee entered. + </p> + <p> + “How is this, O'Donnel? Have you thrown aside your uniform?” + </p> + <p> + “I didn't think I'd be called out on duty again to-night, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “It doesn't matter, O'Donnel—it doesn't matter. What do you think of + the bonfire?” + </p> + <p> + “Begad, it was a beauty, sir, and well managed.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, but I am afraid, O'Donnel, I went a little too far—that I + stretched my authority somewhat.” + </p> + <p> + “But isn't he a rebel and an outlaw, Sir Robert? and in that case—” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, O'Donnel; and a rebel and an outlaw of my own making, which is the + best of it. The fellow might have lain there, concocting his treason, long + enough, only for my vigilance. However, it's all right. The government, to + which I have rendered such important services, will stand by me, and fetch + me out of the burning—that is, if there has been any transgression + of the law in it. The Papists are privately recruiting for the French + service, and that is felony; Reilly also was recruiting for the French + service—was he not?” + </p> + <p> + “He offered me a commission, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good; that's all right, but can you prove that?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, I can swear it, Sir Robert.” + </p> + <p> + “Better still. But do you think he is in the country, O'Donnel?” + </p> + <p> + “I would rather swear he is, sir, than that he is not. He won't lave her + aisily.” + </p> + <p> + “Who do you mean by her, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “I would rather not name her, your honor, in connection with the + vagabond.” + </p> + <p> + “That's delicate of you, O'Donnel; I highly approve of your sentiment. + Here, have a glass of wine.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, Sir Robert; but have you any brandy, sir? My tongue is as dry + as a stick, wid that glorious bonfire we had; but, besides, sir, I wish to + drink success to you in all your undertakings. A happy marriage, sir!” and + he accompanied the words with a ferocious grin. + </p> + <p> + “You shall have one glass of brandy, O'Donnel, but no more. I wish you to + deliver a letter for me to-night. It is to the sheriff, who dines with + Lord ———, a friend of mine; and I wish you to deliver it + at his lordship's house, where you will be sure to find him. The letter is + of the greatest importance, and you will take care to deliver it safely. + No answer by you is required. He was out to-day, levying fines from Popish + priests, and a heavy one from the Popish bishop, and I do not think, with + a large sum of money about him, that he will go home to-night. Here is the + letter. I expect he will call on me in the morning, to breakfast—at + least I have asked him, for we have very serious business to discuss.” + </p> + <p> + The Rapparee took the letter, finished his glass of brandy, and + disappeared to fulfil his commission. + </p> + <p> + Now it so happened that on that very evening, before the premises had been + set on fire, Mary Mahon, by O'Donnel's order, had entered the house, and + under, as it were, the protection of the military, gathered up as much of + Reilly's clothes and linen as she could conveniently carry to her cottage, + which was in the immediate vicinity of Whitecraft's residence—it + being the interest of this hypocritical voluptuary to have the corrupt + wretch near him. The Rapparee, having left Whitecraft to his reflections, + immediately directed his steps to her house, and, with her connivance, + changed the dress he had on for one which she had taken from Reilly's + wardrobe. He then went to the house of the nobleman where the sheriff was + dining, but arrived only in time to hear that he was about to take horse + on his return home. On seeing him preparing to mount, bearing a lantern in + his hand, as the night was dark and the roads bad, he instantly changed + his purpose as to the letter, and came to the resolution of not delivering + it at all. + </p> + <p> + “I can easily say,” thought he, “that the sheriff had gone home before I + came, and that will be a very sufficient excuse. In the meantime,” he + added, “I will cross the country and be out on the road before him.” + </p> + <p> + The sheriff was not unarmed, however, and felt himself tolerably well + prepared for any attack that might be made on him; and, besides, he was no + coward. After a ride of about two miles he found himself stopped, and + almost at the same instant the lantern that he carried was knocked out of + his hand and extinguished, but not until he caught a faint glimpse of the + robber's person, who, from his dress, appeared to be a man much above the + common class. Quick as lightning he pulled out one of his pistols, and, + cocking it, held himself in readiness. The night was dark, and this + preparation for self-defence was unknown to his assailant. On feeling the + reins of his horse's bridle in the hands of the robber, he snapped the + pistol at his head, but alas! it only flashed in the pan. The robber, on + the other hand, did not seem anxious to take his life, for it was a + principle among the Rapparees to shed, while exercising their rapacious + functions, as little blood as possible. They have frequently taken life + from a feeling of private vengeance, but not often while robbing on the + king's highway. The sheriff, now finding that one pistol had missed, was + about to draw out the second, when he was knocked insensible off his + horse, and on recovering found himself minus the fines which he had that + day levied—all the private cash about him—and his case of + pistols. This indeed was a bitter incident to him; because, in addition to + the loss of his private purse and firearms—which he valued as + nothing—he knew that he was responsible to government for the amount + of the fines. + </p> + <p> + With considerable difficulty he was able to remount his horse, and with a + sense of stupor, which was very painful, he recommenced his journey home. + After a ride of about two miles he met three horsemen, who immediately + challenged him and demanded his name and residence. + </p> + <p> + “I am the sheriff of the county,” he replied, “and have been robbed of a + large sum of money and my pistols; and now,” he added, “may I beg to know + who you are, and by what authority you demand my name and residence?” + </p> + <p> + “Excuse us, Mr. Sheriff,” they replied; “we belong to the military + detachment which government has placed under the control of Sir Robert + Whitecraft.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, indeed,” exclaimed the sheriff; “I wish to heaven you had been a + little more advanced on your journey; you might have saved me from being + plundered, as I have been, and probably secured the robber.” + </p> + <p> + “Could you observe, sir, what was the villain's appearance?” + </p> + <p> + “I had a small lantern,” replied the functionary, “by which I caught a + brief but uncertain glance of him. I am not quite certain that I could + recognize his features, though, if I saw him again—but—perhaps + I might, certainly I could his dress.” + </p> + <p> + “How was he dressed, sir?” they inquired. + </p> + <p> + “Quite beyond the common,” said the sheriff; “I think he had on a brown + coat, of superior cloth and make, and I think, too, the buckles of his + slices were silver.” + </p> + <p> + “And his features, Mr. Sheriff?” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot exactly say,” he returned; “I was too much agitated to be able + to recollect them; but indeed the dim glimpse I got was too brief to + afford me an opportunity of seeing them with any thing like distinctness.” + </p> + <p> + “From the description you have given, sir,” said one of them, “the man who + robbed you must have been Reilly the Outlaw. That is the very dress he has + been in the habit of wearing. Was he tall, sir, and stout in person?” + </p> + <p> + “He was a very large man, certainly,” replied the sheriff; “and I regret I + did not see his face more distinctly.” + </p> + <p> + “It can be no other, Mr. Sheriff,” observed the man; “the fellow has no + means of living now, unless by levying contributions on the road. For my + part, I think the scoundrel can make himself invisible; but it must go + hard with us or we will secure him yet. Would you wish an escort home, Mr. + Sheriff? because, if you do, we shall accompany you.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” replied the other, “I thank you. I would not have ventured home + unattended if the Red Rapparee had still been at his vocation, and his + gang undispersed; but as he is now on the safe side, I apprehend no + danger.” + </p> + <p> + “It's not at all impossible but Reilly may step into his shoes,” said the + cavalryman. + </p> + <p> + “I have now neither money nor arms,” continued the sheriff; “nothing the + villain robbers could covet, and what, then, have I to fear?” + </p> + <p> + “You have a life, sir,” observed the man respectfully, “and if you'll + allow me to say it—the life of a man who is not very well liked in + the country, in consequence of certain duties you are obliged to perform. + Come, then, sir, we shall see you home.” + </p> + <p> + It was so arranged, and the sheriff reached his own residence, under their + escort, with perfect safety. + </p> + <p> + This indeed was a night of adventure to Reilly—hunted, as he was, + like a beast of prey. After what had taken place already in the early + portion of it, he apprehended no further pursuit, and in this respect he + felt his mind comparatively at ease—for, in addition to any other + conviction of his safety, he knew that the night was far advanced, and as + the country was unsettled, he was not ignorant that the small military + parties that were in the habit of scouring the country generally—unless + when in the execution of some express duty—retired to their quarters + at an early hour, in order to avoid the severe retaliations which were + frequently made upon them by the infuriated peasantry whom they—or + rather the government which employed them—had almost driven to + madness, and—would have driven to insurrection had the people + possessed the means of rising. As it was, however, he dreaded no further + pursuit this night, for the reasons which we have stated. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime the sheriff, feeling obliged by the civility of the three + dragoons, gave them refreshments on a very liberal scale, of which—rather + exhausted as they were—they made a very liberal use. Feeling + themselves now considerably stimulated by liquor, they mounted their + horses and proceeded towards their barracks—at a quick pace. In + consequence of the locality in which the sheriff lived, it was necessary + that they should travel in a direction opposite to that by which Reilly + and the priest were going. At all events, after riding a couple of miles, + they overtook three infantry soldiers who were also on their way to + quarters. The blood, however, of the troopers was up—thanks to the + sheriff; they mentioned the robbery, and requested the three infantry to + precede them as an advanced guard, as quietly as possible, stating that + there might still be a chance of coming across the villain who had + plundered the sheriff, intimating their impression, at the same time, that + Reilly was the man, and adding that if they could secure him their fortune + was made. As has always been usual in executing cases, of the law attended + with peculiar difficulty, these men—the infantry—like our + present detectives, had gone out that night in colored clothes. On + perceiving two individuals approaching them in the dim distance, they + immediately threw their guns into the ditch, lest they should put our + friends upon their guard and cause them to escape if they could. Reilly + could have readily done so; but having, only a few minutes before heard + from the poor old priest that he had, for some months past, been branded + and pursued us a felon, he could not think of abandoning him now that he + was feeble and jaded with fatigue as well as with age. Now it so happened + that one of these fellows had been a Roman Catholic, and having committed + some breach of the law, found it as safe as it was convenient to change + his creed, and as he spoke the Irish language fluently—indeed there + were scarcely any other then spoken by the peasantry—he commenced + clipping his hands on seeing the two men, and expressing the deepest + sorrow for the loss of his wife, from whose funeral, it appeared from his + lamentations, he was then returning. + </p> + <p> + “We have nothing to apprehend, here,” said Reilly; “this poor fellow is in + sorrow, it seems—God help him! Let us proceed.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” exclaimed the treacherous villain, clapping his hands—[we + translate his words]—“Oh, Yeeah. Yeeah! (God, God!) what a bitther + loss you'll be, my darlin' Madge, to me and your orphan childher, now and + for evermore! Oh, where was there sich a wife, neighbors? who ever heard + her harsh word, or her loud voice? And from mornin' till night ever, ever + busy in keepin' every thing tight and clane and regular! Let me alone, + will yez? I'll go back and sleep upon her grave this night—so I + will; and if all the blasted sogers in Ireland—may sweet bad luck to + them!—were to come to prevent me, I'd not allow them. Oh, Madge, + darlin', but I'm the lonely and heartbroken man widout you this night!” + </p> + <p> + “Come, come,” said the priest, “have firmness, poor man; other people have + these calamities to bear as well as yourself. Be a man.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, are you a priest, sir? bekase if you are I want consolation if ever a + sorrowful man did.” + </p> + <p> + “I am a priest,” replied the unsuspecting I man, “and any thing I can do + to calm your mind, I'll do it.” + </p> + <p> + He had scarcely uttered these words when! Reilly felt his two arms + strongly pinioned, and as the men who had seized him were | powerful, the + struggle between him and them was dreadful. The poor priest at the same + moment found himself also a prisoner in the hands of the bereaved widower, + to whom he proved an easy victim, as he was incapable of making + resistance, which, indeed, he declined to attempt. If he did not possess + bodily strength, however, he was not without presence of mind. For whilst + Reilly and his captors were engaged in a fierce and powerful conflict, he + placed his fore-finger and thumb in his mouth, from which proceeded a + whistle so piercingly loud and shrill that it awoke the midnight echoes + around them. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0006" id="linkimage-0006"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img src="images/page065.jpg" + alt="Page 65-- Dashed up to the Scene of Struggle " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + This was considered by the dragoons as a signal from their friends in + advance, and, without the loss of a moment, they set spurs to their + horses, and dashed up to the scene of struggle, just as Reilly had got his + right arm extricated, and knocked one of his captors down. In an instant, + however, the three dragoons, aided by the other men, were upon him, and + not less than three cavalry pistols were levelled at his head. + Unfortunately, at this moment the moon began to rise, and the dragoons, on + looking at him more closely, observed that he was dressed precisely as the + sheriff had described the person who robbed him—the brown coat, + light-colored breeches, and silver buckles—for indeed this was his + usual dress. + </p> + <p> + “You are Willy Reilly,” said the man who had been spokesman in their + interview with the sheriff: “you needn't deny it, sir—I know you!” + </p> + <p> + “If you know me, then,” replied Reilly, “where is the necessity for asking + my name?” + </p> + <p> + “I ask again, sir, what is your name? If you be the man I suspect you to + be, you will deny it.” + </p> + <p> + “My name,” replied the other, “is William Reilly, and as I am conscious of + no crime against society—of no offence against the State—I + shall not deny it.” + </p> + <p> + “I knew I was right,” said the dragoon. “Mr. Reilly, you are our prisoner + on many charges, not the least of which is your robbery of the sheriff + this night. You must come with us to Sir Robert Whitecraft; so must this + other person who seems your companion.” + </p> + <p> + “Not a foot I'll go to Sir Eobert Whitecraft's to-night,” replied the + priest. “I have made my mind up against such a stretch at such an hour as + this; and, with the help of God, I'll stick to my resolution.” + </p> + <p> + “Why do you refuse to go?” asked the man, a good deal surprised at such + language. + </p> + <p> + “Just for a reason I have: as for that fellow being Willy Reilly, he's no + more Willy Reilly than I am; whatever he is, however, he's a good man and + true, but must be guided by wiser heads than his own; and I now tell him—ay, + and you too—that he won't see Sir Robert Whitecraft's treacherous + face to-night, no more than myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Come,” said one of them, “drag the idolatrous old rebel along. Come, my + old couple-beggar, there's a noose before you.” + </p> + <p> + He had scarcely uttered the words when twenty men, armed with strong + pikes, jumped out on the road before them, and about the same number, with + similar weapons, behind them. In fact, they were completely hemmed in; + and, as the road was narrow and the ditches high, they were not at all in + a capacity to make resistance. + </p> + <p> + “Surrender your prisoners,” said a huge man in a voice of thunder—“surrender + your prisoners—here are we ten to one against you; or if you don't, + I swear there won't be a living man amongst you in two minutes' time. Mark + us well—we are every man of us armed—and I will not ask you a + second time.” + </p> + <p> + As to numbers and weapons the man spoke truth, and the military party saw + at once that their prisoners must be given up. + </p> + <p> + “Let us have full revenge on them now, boys,” exclaimed several voices; + “down with the tyrannical villains that are parse-cuting and murdherin' + the country out of a face. This night closes their black work;” and as the + words were uttered, the military felt themselves environed and pressed in + upon by upwards of five-and-twenty sharp and bristling pikes. + </p> + <p> + “It is true, you may murder us,” replied the dragoon; “but we are + soldiers, and to die is a soldier's duty. Stand back,” said he, “for, by + all that's sacred, if you approach another step, William Reilly and that + rebel priest will fall dead at your feet. We may die then; but we will + sell our lives dearly. Cover the priest, Robinson.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0007" id="linkimage-0007"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img src="images/page065a.jpg" + alt="Page 65a-- I Entreat You, to Show These Men Mercy Now " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + “Boys,” said the priest, addressing the insurgent party, “hold back, for + God's sake, and for mine. Remember that these men are only doing their + duty, and that whoever is to be blamed, it is not they—no, but the + wicked men and cruel laws that set them upon us. Why, now, if these; men, + out of compassion and a feeling of kindness to poor persecuted creatures, + as we are, took it into their heads or their hearts to let that man and me + off, they would have been, probably, treated like dogs for neglecting + their duty. I am, as you know, a minister of God, and a man of peace, + whose duty it is to prevent bloodshed whenever I can, and save human life, + whether it is that of a Catholic or a Protestant. Recollect, my friends, + that you will, every one of you, have to stand before the judgment throne + of God to seek for mercy and salvation. As you hope for that mercy, then, + at the moment of your utmost need, I implore, I entreat you, to show these + men mercy now, and allow them to go their way in safety.” + </p> + <p> + “I agree with every word the priest has said,” added Reilly; “not from any + apprehension of the threat held out against myself, but from, I trust, a + higher principle. Here are only six men, who, as his Reverence justly + said, are, after all, only in the discharge of their public duty. On the + other hand, there are at least forty or fifty of you against them. Now I + appeal to yourselves, whether it would be a manly, or generous, or + Christian act, to slaughter so poor a handful of men by the force of + numbers. No: there would be neither credit nor honor in such an act. I + assure you, my friends, it would disgrace your common name, your common + credit, and your common country. Nay, it would seem like cowardice, and + only give a handle to your enemies to tax you with it. But I know you are + not cowards, but brave and generous men, whose hearts and spirits are + above a mean action. If you were cowardly butchers, I know we might speak + to you in vain; but we know you are incapable of imbruing your hands, and + steeping your souls, in the guilt of unresisting blood—for so I may + term it—where there are so few against so many. My friends, go home, + then, in the name of God, and, as this reverend gentleman said, allow + these men to pass their way 'without injury.'” + </p> + <p> + “But who are you?” said their huge leader, in his terrible voice, “who + presumes to lecture us?” + </p> + <p> + “I am one,” replied Reilly, “who has suffered more deeply, probably, than + any man here. I am without house or home, proscribed by the vengeance of a + villain—a villain who has left me without a shelter for my head—who, + this night, has reduced my habitation, and all that appertained to it, to + a heap of ashes—who is on my trail, night and day, and who will be + on my trail, in order to glut his vengeance with my blood. Now, my + friends, listen—I take God to witness, that if that man were here at + this moment, I would plead for his life with as much earnestness as I do + for those of the men who are here at your mercy. I feel that it would be + cowardly and inhuman to take it under such circumstances; yes, and + unworthy of the name of William Reilly. Now,” he added, “these men will + pass safely to their quarters.” + </p> + <p> + As they were about to resume their journey, the person who seemed to have + the command of the military said: + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Reilly, one word with you: I feel that you have saved our lives; I + may requite you for that, generous act yet;” and he pressed his hand + warmly as he spoke, after which they proceeded on their way. + </p> + <p> + That the person of Reilly was not recognized by any of these men is + accounted for by a well-known custom, peculiar to such meetings, both then + and now. The individuals before and around him were all strangers, from + distant parts of the country; for whenever an outrage is to be committed, + or a nocturnal drilling to take place, the peasantry start across the + country, in twos and threes, until they quietly reach some lonely and + remote spot, where their persons are not known. + </p> + <p> + No sooner had he mentioned his name, however, than there arose a peculiar + murmur among the insurgents—such a murmur indeed as it was difficult + to understand; there was also a rapid consultation in Irish, which was + closed by a general determination to restrain their vengeance for that + night, at least, and for the sake of the celebrated young martyr—for + as such they looked upon him—to allow the military to pass on + without injury. Reilly then addressed them in Irish, and thanked them, + both in his own name and that of the priest, for the respect evinced by, + their observation of the advice they had given them. The priest also + addressed them in Irish, aware, as he was, that one sentence in that + language, especially from a person in a superior rank of life, carries + more weight than a whole oration in the language of the Sassenagh. The + poor old man's mind was once more at ease, and after these rough, but not + intractable, men had given three cheers for “bould Willy Reilly,” three + more for the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, not forgetting the priest, the latter, + while returning thanks, had them in convulsions of laughter. “May I never + do harm,” proceeded his reverence humorously, “but the first Christian + duty that every true Catholic ought to learn is to whistle on his fingers. + The moment ever your children, boys, are able to give a squall, clap their + forefinger and thumb in their mouth, and leave the rest to nature. Let + them talk of their spinnet and sinnet, their fiddle and their diddle, + their dancing and their prancing, but there is no genteel accomplishment + able to be compared to a rousing whistle on the fingers. See what it did + for us to-night. My soul to glory, but only for it, Mr. Reilly and I would + have soon taken a journey with our heels foremost; and, what is worse, the + villains would have forced us to take a bird's-eye view of our own funeral + from the three sticks, meaning the two that stand up, and the third that + goes across them (The gallows). However, God's good, and, after all, boys, + you see there is nothing like an accomplished education. As to the + soldiers, I don't think myself that they'll recover the bit of fright they + got until the new potatoes come in. Troth, while you were gathering in + about them, I felt that the unfortunate vagabonds were to be pitied; but, + Lord help us, when men are in trouble—especially in fear of their + lives—and with twelve inches of sharp iron near their breasts, it's + wonderful what effect fear will have on them. Troth, I wasn't far from + feeling the same thing myself, only I knew there was relief at hand; at + all events, it's well you kept your hands off them, for now, thank + goodness, you can step home without the guilt of murder on your souls.” + </p> + <p> + Father Maguire, for such was his name, possessed the art of adapting his + language and dialect to those whom he addressed, it mattered not whether + they were South, West, or North; he was, in fact, a priest who had never + been in any college, but received ordination in consequence of the + severity of the laws, whose operation, by banishing so many of that class + from the country, rendered the services of such men indispensable to the + spiritual wants of the people. Father Maguire, previous to his receiving + holy orders, had been a schoolmaster, and exercised his functions on that + capacity in holes and corners; sometimes on the sheltery or sunny side of + a hedge, as the case might be, and on other occasions when and where he + could. In his magisterial capacity, “the accomplishment” of whistling was + absolutely necessary to him, because it often happened that in stealing in + the morning from his retreat during the preceding night, he knew no more + where to meet his little flock of scholars than they did where to meet + him, the truth being that he seldom found it safe to teach two days + successively in the same place. Having selected the locality for + instruction during the day, he put his forefinger and thumb into his + mouth, and emitted a whistle that went over half the country. Having thus + given the signal three times, his scholars began gradually and cautiously + to make their appearance, radiating towards him from all-directions, + reminding one of a hen in a farm-yard, who, having fallen upon some + wholesome crumbs, she utters that peculiar sound which immediately + collects her eager little flock about her, in order to dispense among them + the good things she has to give. Poor Father Maguire was simplicity + itself, for, although cheerful, and a good deal of a humorist, yet he was + pious, inoffensive, and charitable. True, it is not to be imagined that he + could avoid bearing a very strong feeling of enmity against the + Establishment, as, indeed, we do not see, so long as human nature is what + it is, how he could have done otherwise; he hated it, however, in the + aggregate, not in detail, for the truth is, that he received shelter and + protection nearly as often from the Protestants themselves, both lay and + clerical, as he did from those of his own creed. The poor man's crime + against the State proceeded naturally from the simplicity of his character + and the goodness of his heart. A Protestant peasant had seduced a Catholic + young woman of considerable attractions, and was prevailed upon to marry + her, in order to legitimize the infant which she was about to bear. Our + poor priest, anxious to do as much good, and to prevent as much evil as he + could, was prevailed upon to perform the ceremony, contrary to the law in + that case made and provided. Ever since that, the poor man had been upon + his keeping like a felon, as the law had made him; but so well known were + his harmless life, his goodness of heart, and his general benevolence of + disposition—for, alas! he was incapable of being benevolent in any + practical sense—that, unless among the bigoted officials of the day, + there existed no very strong disposition to hand him over to the clutches + of the terrible statute which he had, good easy man, been prevailed on to + violate. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, the formidable body who had saved Reilly's life and his + own dispersed, or disappeared at least; but not until they had shaken + hands most cordially with Reilly and the priest, who now found themselves + much in the same position in which they stood previous to their surprise + and arrest. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” said Reilly, “the question is, what are we to do? where are we to + go? and next, how did you come to know of the existence in this precise + locality of such a body of men?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I have set my face against such meetings,” replied the priest. + “One of those who was engaged to be present happened to mention the fact + to me as a clergyman, but you know that, as a clergyman, I can proceed no + further.” + </p> + <p> + “I understand,” said Reilly, “I perfectly understand you. It is not + necessary. And now let me say—” + </p> + <p> + “Always trust in God, my friend,” replied the priest, in an accent quite + different from that which he had used to the peasantry. “I told you, not + long ago, that you would have, a bed to-night: follow me, and I will lead + you to a crypt of nature's own making, which, was not known to mortal man + three months ago, and which is now known only to those whose interest it + is to keep the knowledge of it silent as the grave.” + </p> + <p> + They then proceeded, and soon came to a gap or opening on the left-hand + side of the road through which they passed, the priest leading. Next they + found themselves in a wild gully or ravine that was both deep and narrow. + This they crossed, and arrived at a ledge of precipitous rocks, most of + which were overhung to the very ground with long luxuriant heather. The + priest went along this until he came to one particular spot, when he + stooped, and observed a particular round stone bedded naturally in the + earth. + </p> + <p> + “God-blessed be his name—has made nothing in vain,” he whispered; “I + must go foremost, but do as I do.” He then raised up the long heath, and + entered a low, narrow fissure in the rocks, Reilly following him closely. + The entrance was indeed so narrow that it was capable of admitting but one + man at a time, and even that by his working himself in upon his knees and + elbows. In this manner they advanced in utter darkness for about thirty + yards, when they reached a second opening, about three feet high, which + bore some resemblance to a Gothic arch. This also it was necessary to + enter consecutively. Having passed this they were able to proceed upon + their legs, still stooping, however, until, as they got onwards, they + found themselves able to walk erect. A third and larger opening, however, + was still before them, over which hung a large thick winnow-cloth. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” said the priest, “leave every thing to me. If we were to put our + heads in rashly here we might get a pair of bullets through them that + would have as little mercy on us as those of the troopers, had we got + them. No clergyman here, or anywhere else, ever carries firearms, but + there are laymen inside who are not bound by our regulations. The only + arms we are allowed to carry are the truths of our religion and the + integrity of our lives.” + </p> + <p> + He then advanced a step or two, and shook the winnow-cloth three times, + when a deep voice from behind it asked, “<i>Quis venit?</i>” + </p> + <p> + “<i>Introibo ad altare Dei,</i>” replied the priest, who had no sooner + uttered the words than the cloth was partially removed, and a voice + exclaimed, “<i>Benedicite, dilecte frater; beatus qui venit in nomine + Domini el sacrosanctae Ecclesiae</i>.” + </p> + <p> + Reilly and his companion then entered the cave, which they had no sooner + done than the former was seized with a degree of wonder, astonishment, and + awe, such as he had never experienced in his life before. The whole cavern + was one flashing scene of light and beauty, and reminded him of the + gorgeous descriptions that were to be found in Arabian literature, or the + brilliancy of the fairy palaces as he had heard of them in the mellow + legends of his own country. From the roof depended gorgeous and immense + stalactites, some of them reaching half way to the earth, and others of + them resting upon the earth itself. Several torches, composed of dried bog + fir, threw their strong light among them with such effect that the eye + became not only dazzled but fatigued and overcome by the radiance of a + scene so unusual. In fact, the whole scene appeared to be out of, or + beyond, nature. There were about fifteen individuals present, most of them + in odd and peculiar disguises, which gave them a grotesque and + supernatural appearance, as they passed about with their strong torches—some + bright and some flashing red; and as the light of either one or other fell + upon the stalactites, giving them a hue of singular brilliancy or deep + purple, Reilly could not utter a word. The costumes of the individuals + about him were so strange and varied that he knew not what to think. Some + were in the dress of clergymen, others in that of ill-clad peasants, and + nearly one-third-of them in the garb of mendicants, who, from their + careworn faces, appeared to have suffered severely from the persecution of + the times. In a few minutes, however, about half a dozen diminutive beings + made their appearance, busied, as far as he could guess, in employments, + which his amazement at the whole spectacle, unprepared as he was for it, + prevented him from understanding. If he had been a man of weak or + superstitious mind, unacquainted with life and the world, it is impossible + to say what he might have imagined. Independently of this—strong-minded + as he was—the impression made upon him by the elf-like sprites that + ran about so busily, almost induced him, for a few moments, to surrender + to the illusion that he stood among individuals who had little or no + natural connection with man or the external world which he inhabited. + Reflection, however, and the state of the country, came to his aid, and he + reasonably inferred that the cavern in which he stood was a place of + concealment for those unfortunate individuals who, like himself, felt it + necessary to evade the vengeance of the laws. + </p> + <p> + Whilst Reilly was absorbed in the novelty and excitement of this strange + and all but supernatural spectacle, the priest held a short conversation, + at some distance from him, with the strange figures which had surprised + him so much. Whenever he felt himself enabled to take his eyes from the + splendor and magnificence of all he saw around him, to follow the motions + of Father Maguire, he could observe that that gentleman, from the peculiar + vehemence of his attitudes and the evident rapidity of his language, had + made either himself or his presence there the topic of very earnest + discussion. In fact it appeared to him that the priest, from whatever + cause, appeared to be rather hard set to defend him and to justify his + presence among them. A tall, stern-looking man, with a lofty forehead and + pale ascetic features—from which all the genial impulses of + humanity, that had once characterized them, seemed almost to have been + banished by the spirit of relentless persecution—appeared to bear + hard upon him, whatever the charge might be, and by the severity of his + manner and the solemn but unyielding emphasis of his attitudes, he seemed + to have wrought himself into a state of deep indignation. But as it is + better that our readers should be made acquainted with the topic of their + discussion, rather than their attitudes, we think it necessary to commence + it in a new chapter. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X.—Scenes that took place in the Mountain Cave + </h2> + <p> + “I will not hear your apology, brother,” said the tall man with the stern + voice; “your conduct, knowing our position, and the state of this unhappy + and persecuted country, is not only indiscreet, but foolish, indefensible, + mad. Here is a young man attached—may God pardon him—to the + daughter of one of the most persecuting heretics in the kingdom. She is + beautiful, by every report that we have heard of her, even as an angel; + but reflect that she is an heiress—the inheritress of immense + property—and that, as a matter of course, the temptations are a + thousand to one against him. He will yield, I tell you, to the heretic + syren; and as a passport to her father's favor and her affection, he will, + like too many of his class, abandon the faith of his ancestors, and become + an apostate, for the sake of wealth and sensual affection.” + </p> + <p> + “I question, my lord,” replied the priest, “whether it is consistent with + Christian charity to impute motives of such heinous guilt, when we are not + in a condition to bear out our suspicions. The character of this young + gentleman as a Catholic is firm and faithful, and I will stake my life + upon his truth and attachment to our Church.” + </p> + <p> + “You know him not, father,” replied the bishop, for such he was; “I tell + you, and I speak from better information than you possess, that he is + already suspected. What has been his conduct? He has associated himself + more with Protestants than with those of his own Church; he has dined with + them, partaken of their hospitality, joined in there amusements, slept in + their houses, and been with them as a familiar friend and boon companion. + I see, father, what the result will necessarily be; first, an apostate—next, + an informer—and, lastly, a persecutor; and all for the sake of + wealth and the seductive charms of a rich heiress. I say, then, that deep + in this cold cavern shall be his grave, rather than have an opportunity of + betraying the shepherds of Christ's persecuted flock, and of hunting them + into the caverns of the earth like beasts of prey. Our retreat here is + known only to those who, for the sake of truth and their own lives, will + never disclose the knowledge of it, bound as they are, in addition to + this, by an oath of the deepest and most dreadful solemnity—an oath + the violation of which would constitute a fearful sacrilege in the eye of + God. As for these orphans, whose parents were victims to the cruel laws + that are grinding us, I have so trained and indoctrinated them into a + knowledge of their creed, and a sense of their duty, that they are + thoroughly trustworthy. On this very day I administered to them the + sacrament of confirmation. No, brother, we cannot sacrifice the interests + and welfare of our holy Church to the safety of a single life—to the + safety of a person who I foresee will be certain to betray us.” + </p> + <p> + “My lord,” replied the priest, “I humbly admit your authority and superior + sanctity, for in what does your precious life fall short of martyrdom but + by one step to the elevation which leads to glory? I mean the surrendering + of that life for the true faith. I feel, my lord, that in your presence I + am nothing; still, in our holy Church there is the humble as well as the + exalted, and your lordship will admit that the gradations of piety, and + the dispensations of the higher and the lower gifts, proceed not only from + the wisdom of God but from the necessities of man.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not properly understand you, father,” said the bishop in a voice + whose stern tones were mingled with something like contempt. + </p> + <p> + “I beg your lordship to hear me,” proceeded Father Maguire. “You say that + Reilly has associated more frequently with Protestants than he has with + persons of our own religion. That may be true, and I grant that it is so; + but, my lord, are you aware that he has exercised the influence which he + has possessed over them for the protection and advantage and safety of his + Catholic friends and neighbors, to the very utmost of his ability, and + frequently with success?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; they obliged him because they calculated upon his accession to their + creed and principles.” + </p> + <p> + “My lord,” replied the priest with firmness, “I am an humble but + independent man; if humanity and generosity, exercised as I have seen them + this night, guided and directed by the spirit of peace, and of the word of + God itself, can afford your lordship a guarantee of the high and Christian + principles by which this young man's heart is actuated, then I may with + confidence recommend him to your clemency.” + </p> + <p> + “What would you say?” asked the bishop. + </p> + <p> + “My lord, he was the principal means of saving the lives of six + Protestants-heretics, I mean—from being cut off in their iniquities + and sins this night.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you mean?” replied the stern bishop; “explain yourself!” + </p> + <p> + The good priest then gave a succinct account of the circumstances with + which the reader is already acquainted; and, after having finished his + brief narrative, the unfortunate man perceived that, instead of having + rendered Reilly a service, he had strengthened the suspicions of the + prelate against him. + </p> + <p> + “So!” said the bishop, “you advance the history of this dastardly conduct + as an argument in his favor!” + </p> + <p> + As he uttered these words, his eyes, which had actually become bloodshot, + blazed again; his breath went and came strongly, and he ground his teeth + with rage. + </p> + <p> + Father Maguire, and those who were present, looked at each other with eyes + in which might be read an expression of deep sorrow and compassion. At + length a mild-looking, pale-faced man, with a clear, benignant eye, + approached him, and laying his hand in a gentle manner upon his arm, said, + “Pray, my dear lord, let me entreat your lordship to remember the precepts + of our great Master: 'Love your enemies; bless them that curse you; do + good to them that hate you, and pray for them that despitefully use you, + and persecute you.' And surely, my lord, no one knows better than you do + that this is the spirit of our religion, and that whenever it is violated + the fault is not that of the creed, but the man.” + </p> + <p> + “Under any circumstances,” said the bishop, declining to reply to this, + and placing his open hand across his forehead, as if he felt confusion or + pain—“under any circumstances, this person must take the oath of + secrecy with respect to the existence of this cave. Call him up.” + </p> + <p> + Reilly, as we have said, saw at once that an angry discussion had taken + place, and felt all but certain that he was himself involved in it. The + priest, in obedience to the wish expressed by the bishop, went down to + where he stood, and whispering to him, said: + </p> + <p> + “Salvation to me, but I had a hard battle for you. I fought, however, like + a trump. The strange, and—ahem—kind of man you are called upon + to meet now is one of our bishops—but don't you pretend to know that—he + has heard of your love for the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, and of her love for + you—be easy now—not a thing it will be but the meeting of two + thunderbolts between you—and he's afraid you'll be deluded by her + charms—turn apostate on our hands—and that the first thing + you're likely to do, when you get out of this subterranean palace of ours, + will be to betray its existence to the heretics. I have now put you on + your guard, so keep a sharp lookout; be mild as mother's milk. But if you + 'my lord' him, I'm dished as a traitor beyond redemption.” + </p> + <p> + Now, if the simple-hearted priest had been tempted by the enemy himself to + place these two men in a position where a battle-royal between them was + most likely to ensue, he could not have taken a more successful course for + that object. Reilly, the firm, the high-minded, the honorable, and, though + last not least, the most indignant at any imputation against his + integrity, now accompanied the priest in a state of indignation that was + nearly a match for that of the bishop. + </p> + <p> + “This is Mr. Reilly, gentlemen; a firm and an honest Catholic, who, like + ourselves, is suffering for his religion.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Reilly,” said the bishop, “it is good to suffer for our religion.” + </p> + <p> + “It is our duty,” replied Reilly, “when we are called upon to do so; but + for my part, I must confess, I have no relish whatsoever for the honors of + martyrdom. I would rather aid it and assist it than suffer for it.” + </p> + <p> + The bishop gave a stem look at his friends, as much as to say: “You hear! + incipient heresy and treachery at the first step.” + </p> + <p> + “He's more mad than the bishop,” thought Father Maguire; “in God's name + what will come next, I wonder? Reilly's blood, somehow, is up; and there + they are looking at each other, like a pair o' game cocks, with their + necks stretched out in a cockpit—when I was a boy I used to go to + see them—ready to dash upon one another.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you not now suffering for your religion?” asked the prelate. + </p> + <p> + “No,” replied Reilly, “it is not for the sake of my religion that I have + suffered any thing. Religion is made only a pretext for it; but it is not, + in truth, on that account that I have been persecuted.” + </p> + <p> + “Pray, then, sir, may I inquire the cause of your persecution?” + </p> + <p> + “You may,” replied Reilly, “but I shall decline to answer you. It comes + not within your jurisdiction, but is a matter altogether personal to + myself, and with which you can have no concern.” + </p> + <p> + Here a groan from the priest, which he could not suppress, was shivered + off, by a tremendous effort, into a series of broken coughs, got up in + order to conceal his alarm at the fatal progress which Reilly, he thought, + was unconsciously making to his own ruin. + </p> + <p> + “Troth,” thought he, “the soldiers were nothing at all to what this will + be. There his friends would have found the body and given him a decent + burial; but here neither friend nor fellow will know where to look for + him. I was almost the first man that took the oath to keep the existence + of this place secret from all unless those that were suffering for their + religion; and now, by denying that, he has me in the trap along with + himself.” + </p> + <p> + A second groan, shaken out of its continuity into another comical shower + of fragmental coughs, closed this dreary but silent soliloquy. + </p> + <p> + The bishop proceeded: “You have been inveigled, young man, by the charms + of a deceitful and heretical syren, for the purpose of alienating you from + the creed of your forefathers.” + </p> + <p> + “It is false,” replied Reilly; “false, if it proceeded from the lips of + the Pope himself; and if his lips uttered to me what you now have done, I + would fling the falsehood in his teeth, as I do now in yours—yes, if + my life should pay the forfeit of it. What have you to do with my private + concerns?” + </p> + <p> + Reilly's indignant and impetuous reply to the prelate struck all who heard + it with dismay, and also with horror, when they bethought themselves of + the consequences. + </p> + <p> + “You are a heretic at heart,” said the other, knitting his brows; “from + your own language you stand confessed—a heretic.” + </p> + <p> + “I know not,” replied Reilly, “by what right or authority you adopt this + ungentlemanly and illiberal conduct towards me; but so long as your + language applies only to myself and my religion, I shall answer you in a + different spirit. In the first place, then, you are grievously mistaken in + supposing me to be a heretic. I am true and faithful to nay creed, and + will live and die in it.” + </p> + <p> + Father Maguire felt relieved, and breathed more freely; a groan was + coming, but it ended in a “hem.” + </p> + <p> + “Before we proceed any farther, sir,” said this strange man, “you must + take an oath.” + </p> + <p> + “For what purpose, sir?” inquired Reilly. + </p> + <p> + “An oath of secrecy as to the existence of this place of our retreat. + There are at present here some of the—” he checked himself, as if + afraid to proceed farther. “In fact, every man who is admitted amongst us + must take the oath.” + </p> + <p> + Reilly looked at him with indignation. “Surely,” thought he to himself, + “this man must be mad; his looks are wild, and the fire of insanity is in + his eyes; if not, he is nothing less than an incarnation of ecclesiastical + bigotry and folly. The man must be mad, or worse.” At length he addressed + him. + </p> + <p> + “You doubt my integrity and my honor, then,” he replied haughtily. + </p> + <p> + “We doubt every man until he is bound by his oath.” + </p> + <p> + “You must continue to doubt me, then,” replied Reilly; “for, most + assuredly, I will not take it.” + </p> + <p> + “You must take it, sir,” said the other, “or you never leave the cavern + which covers you,” and his eyes once more blazed as he uttered the words. + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen,” said Reiliy, “there appear to be fifteen or sixteen of you + present: may I be permitted to ask why you suffer this unhappy man to be + at large?” + </p> + <p> + “Will you take the oath, sir?” persisted the insane bishop in a voice of + thunder—“heretic and devil, will you take the oath?” + </p> + <p> + “Unquestionably not. I will never take any oath that would imply want of + honor in myself. Cease, then, to trouble me with it. I shall not take it.” + </p> + <p> + This last reply affected the bishop's reason so deeply that he looked + about him strangely, and exclaimed, “We are lost and betrayed. But here + are angels—I see them, and will join in their blessed society,” and + as he spoke, he rushed towards the stalactites in a manner somewhat wild + and violent, so much so, indeed, that from an apprehension of his + receiving injury in some of the dark interstices among them, they found it + necessary, for his sake, to grapple with him for a few moments. + </p> + <p> + But, alas! they had very little indeed to grapple with. The man was but a + shadow, and they found him in their hands as feeble as a child. He made no + resistance, but suffered himself to be managed precisely as they wished. + Two of the persons present took charge of him, one sitting on each side of + him. Reilly, who looked on with amazement, now strongly blended with pity—for + the malady of the unhappy ecclesiastic could no longer be mistaken—Reilly, + we say, was addressed by an intelligent-looking individual, with some + portion of the clerical costume about him. + </p> + <p> + “Alas! sir,” said he, “it was not too much learning, but too much + persecution, that has made him mad. That and the ascetic habits of his + life have clouded or destroyed a great intellect and a good heart. He has + eaten only one sparing meal a day during the last month; and though severe + and self-denying to himself, he was, until the last week or so, like a + father, and an indulgent one, to us all.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment the pale, mild-looking clergyman, to whom we have alluded, + went over to where the bishop sat, and throwing himself upon his bosom, + burst into tears. The sorrow indeed became infectious, and in a few + minutes there were not many dry eyes around him. Father Maguire, who was + ignorant of the progressive change that had taken place in him since his + last visit to the cave, now wept like a child, and Reilly himself + experienced something that amounted to remorse, when he reflected on the + irreverent tone of voice in which he had replied to him. + </p> + <p> + The paroxysm, however, appeared to have passed away; he was quite feeble, + but not properly collected, though calm and quiet. After a little time he + requested to be put to bed. And this leads us to the description of + another portion of the cave to which we have not yet referred. At the + upper end of the stalactite apartment, which we have already described, + there was a large projection of rock, which nearly divided it from the + other, and which discharged the office of a wall, or partition, between + the two apartments. Here there was a good fire kept, but only during the + hours of night, inasmuch as the smoke which issued from a rent or cleft in + the top of this apartment would have discovered them by day. Through this + slight chasm, which was strictly concealed, they received provisions, + water, and fuel. In fact, it would seem as if the whole cave had been + expressly designed for the purpose to which it was then applied, or, at + least for some one of a similar nature. + </p> + <p> + On entering this, Reilly found a good fire, on which was placed a large + pot with a mess in it, which emitted a very savory odor. Around the sides, + or walls of this rock, were at least a score of heather shake-down beds, + the fragrance of which was delicious. Pots, pans, and other simple + culinary articles were there, with a tolerable stock of provisions, not + omitting a good-sized keg of mountain dew, which their secluded position, + the dampness of the place, and their absence from free air, rendered very + necessary and gratifying. + </p> + <p> + “Here!” exclaimed Father Maguire, after the feeble prelate had been + assisted to this recess, “here, now, put his lordship to bed; I have + tossed it up for him in great style! I assure you, my dear friends, it's a + shakedown fit for a prince!—and better than most of the thieves + deserve. What bed of down ever had the sweet fragrance this flowery + heather sends forth? Here, my lord—easy, now—lay him down + gently, just as a mother would her sleeping child—for, indeed, he is + a child,” he whispered, “and as weak as a child; but a sound sleep will do + him good, and he'll be a new man in the morning, please God.” + </p> + <p> + Upon this rough, but wholesome and aromatic couch, the exhausted prelate + was placed, where he had not been many minutes until he fell into a + profound sleep, a fact which gratified them very much, for they assured + Reilly and the priest that he had slept but a few hours each night during + the last week, and that such slumber as he did get was feverish and + unquiet. + </p> + <p> + Our good-humored friend, however, was now cordially welcomed by these + unfortunate ecclesiastics, for such, in fact, the majority of them were. + His presence seemed to them like a ray of light from the sun. His good + humor, his excellent spirits, which nothing could repress, and his + drollery kept them alive, and nothing was so much regretted by them as his + temporary absences from time to time; for, in truth, he was their + messenger, their steward, and their newsman—in fact, the only link + that connected them with external life, and the ongoings of the world + abroad. The bed in which the bishop now slept was in a distant corner of + this inner apartment, or dormitory, as it might be termed, because the + situation was higher and drier, and consequently more healthy, as a + sleeping-place, than any other which the rude apartment afforded. The fire + on which the large pot simmered was at least a distance of twenty-five + yards from his bed, so that they could indulge in conversation without + much risk of disturbing him. + </p> + <p> + It is unnecessary to say that Reilly and his friend Father Maguire felt, + by this time, a tolerably strong relish for something in the shape of + sustenance—a relish which was exceedingly sharpened by the savory + smell sent forth throughout the apartment by the contents of whatsoever + was contained in the immense pot. + </p> + <p> + “My dear brethren,” said the priest, “let us consider this cavern as a + rich monastery; such, alas! as existed in the good days of old, when the + larder and refectory were a credit to religion and a relief to the + destitute, but which, alas!—and alas! again—we can only think + of as a—in the meantime, I can stand this no longer. If I possess + judgment or penetration in <i>re culinaria</i>, I am of opinion,” he added + (stirring up the contents of it), “that it is fit to be operated on; so, + in God's name, let us have at it.” + </p> + <p> + In a few minutes two or three immense pewter dishes were heaped with a + stew made up of mutton, bacon, hung beef, onions, and potatoes, forming + indeed a most delicious mess for any man, much less the miserable men who + were making it disappear so rapidly. + </p> + <p> + Reilly, the very picture of health, after maintaining a pace inferior to + that of none, although there were decidedly some handy workmen there, now + was forced to pull up and halt. In the meantime some slow but steady + operations went on with a perseverance that was highly creditable; and it + was now that, having a little agreeable leisure to observe and look about + him, he began to examine the extraordinary costumes of the incongruous + society in which, to his astonishment, he found himself a party. We must, + however, first account for the oddness and incongruity of the apparent + characters which they were forced to assume. + </p> + <p> + At this period the Catholics of Ireland were indeed frightfully oppressed. + A proclamation had recently been issued by the Government, who dreaded, or + pretended to dread, an insurrection—by which document convents and + monasteries were suppressed—rewards offered for the detection and + apprehension of ecclesiastics, and for the punishment of such humane + magistrates as were reluctant to enforce laws so unsparing and oppressive. + Increased rewards were also offered to spies and informers, with whom the + country unfortunately abounded. A general disarming of all Catholics took + place; domiciliary visits were made in quest of bishops, priests, and + friars, and all the chapels in the country were shut up. Many of the + clergy flew to the metropolis, where they imagined they might be more + safe, and a vast number to caverns and mountains, in order to avoid the + common danger, and especially from a wholesome, terror of that class of + men called priest-hunters. The Catholic peasantry having discovered their + clergy in these wild retreats, flocked to them on Sundays and festivals, + in order to join in private—not public-worship, and to partake of + the rites and sacraments of their Church. + </p> + <p> + Such was the state of the country at the period when the unfortunate men + whom we are about to describe were pent up in this newly discovered + cavern. + </p> + <p> + Now, Reilly himself was perfectly acquainted with all this, and knew very + well that these unhappy men, having been frequently compelled to put on + the first disguise that came to hand, had not means, nor indeed + disposition, to change these disguises, unless at the risk of being + recognized, taken into custody, and surrendered to the mercy of the law. + </p> + <p> + When their savory meal was concluded, Father Maguire, who never forgot any + duty connected with his position—be that where it might—now + went over to the large pot, exclaiming: + </p> + <p> + “It would be too bad, my friends, to forget the creatures here that have + been so faithful and so steady to us. Poor things, I could see, by the way + they fixed their longing eyes upon us while we were doing the handy-work + at the stew, that if the matter had been left to themselves, not a + spoonful ever went into our mouths but they'd have practised the doctrine + of tithe upon. Come, darlings—here, now, is a little race for you—every + one of you seize a spoon, keep a hospitable mouth and a supple wrist. + These creatures, Mr. Reilly, are so many little brands plucked out of the + burning. They are the children of parents who suffered for their faith, + and were brought here to avoid being put into these new traps for young + Catholics, called Charter Schools, into which the Government wishes to + hook in our rising generation, under pretence of supporting and educating + them; but, in point of fact, to alienate them from the affection of their + parents and relations, and to train them up in the State religion, poor + things. At all events, they are very handy to us here, for they slip out + by turns and bring us almost every thing we want—and not one of them + ever opened his lips as to the existence of this <i>spelunca</i>.” + </p> + <p> + The meal of the poor things was abundant, but they soon gave over, and in + a few minutes they tumbled themselves into their heather beds, and were + soon sunk in their innocent slumbers. + </p> + <p> + “Now, gentlemen, that we have eaten a better meal than we could expect in + this miserable place, thanks to the kindness of our faithful flocks, what + do you think of a sup of what's in the keg? Good eating deserves a drop of + mixture after it, to aid in carrying on the process of digestion! Father + Hennessy, what are you at?” he exclaimed, addressing an exceedingly + ill-looking man, with heavy brows and a sinister aspect. “You forget, sir, + that the management of the keg is my duty, whenever I am here. You are the + only person here who violates our regulations in that respect. Walk back + and wait till you are helped like another. Do you call that being + spiritually inclined? If so, there is not a doubt of it but you ought to + be a bishop; and if you come to that, I'll stake my credit on it that + you'll never let much wind into your stomach so long as you can get plenty + of the solids and fluids to keep it out.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm weak in the stomach,” replied Hennessy, with a sensual grin, “and + require it.” + </p> + <p> + “But I say,” replied Father Maguire, “that it would require stronger proof + than any your outward man presents to confirm the truth of that. As for + bearing a load either of the liquids or solids aforesaid, I'll back your + bit of abdomen there against those of any three of us.” + </p> + <p> + Cups and noggins, and an indescribable variety of small vessels that were + never designed for drinking, were now called into requisition, and a + moderate portion of the keg was distributed among them. Reilly, while + enjoying his cup, which as well as the others he did with a good deal of + satisfaction, could not help being amused by the comical peculiarity of + their disguises. + </p> + <p> + The sinister-looking clergyman, whom we have named Hennessy, subsequently + became a spy and informer, and, we may add, an enemy equally formidable + and treacherous to the Catholics of the time, in consequence of having + been deprived of his clerical functions by his bishop, who could not + overlook his immoral and irregular conduct. He is mentioned by Matthew + O'Connor, in his “History of the Irish Catholics,” and consigned to infamy + as one of the greatest scourges, against both the priesthood and the + people, that ever disgraced the country. But it must be admitted that he + stands out in dark relief against the great body of the Catholic priests + at that period, whose firmness, patience, and fidelity to their trust, + places them above all praise and all suspicion. It is, however, very + reasonable, that men so hunted and persecuted should be forced, not only + in defence of their own lives and liberties, but also for the sake of + their flocks, to assume such costumes as might most effectually disguise + them, so that they would be able still, even in secret and by stealth, to + administer the rites of their religion to the poor and neglected of their + own creed. Some were dressed in common frieze, some in servants' cast-off + liveries—however they came by them—and not a few in military + uniform, that served, as it were, to mark them staunch supporters of the + very Government that persecuted them. A reverend archdeacon, somewhat + comely and corpulent, had, by some means or other, procured the garb of a + recruiting sergeant, which fitted him so admirably that the illusion was + complete; and, what bore it out still more forcibly, was the presence of a + smart-looking little friar, who kept the sergeant in countenance in the + uniform of a drummer. Mass was celebrated every day, hymns were sung, and + prayers offered up to the Almighty, that it might please him to check the + flood of persecution which had overwhelmed or scattered them. Still, in + the intervals of devotion, they indulged in that reasonable cheerfulness + and harmless mirth which were necessary to support their spirits, + depressed as they must have been by this dreadful and melancholy + confinement—a confinement where neither the light of the blessed + sun, nor the fresh breezes of heaven, nor the air we breathe, in its usual + purity, could reach them. Sir Thomas More and Sir Walter Raleigh, however, + were cheerful on the scaffold; and even here, as we have already said, + many a rustic tale and legend, peculiar to those times, went pleasantly + around; many a theological debate took place, and many a thesis was + discussed, in order to enable the unhappy men to pass away the tedious + monotony of their imprisonment in this strange lurking-place. The only man + who kept aloof and took no part in these amusing recreations was Hennessy, + who seemed moody and sullen, but who, nevertheless, was frequently + detected in making stolen visits to the barrel. + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding all this, however, the sight was a melancholy one; and + whatever disposition Reilly felt to smile at what he saw and heard was + instantly changed on perceiving their unaffected piety, which was evident + by their manner, and a rude altar in a remote end of the cave, which was + laid out night and day for the purpose of celebrating the ceremonies and + mysteries of their Church. Before he went to his couch of heather, + however, he called Father Maguire aside, and thus addressed him: + </p> + <p> + “I have been a good deal struck to-night, my friend, by all that I have + witnessed in this singular retreat. The poor prelate I pity; and I regret + I did not understand him sooner. His mind, I fear, is gone.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, I didn't understand him myself,” replied the priest; “because this + was the first symptom he has shown of any derangement in his intellect, + otherwise I would no more have contradicted him than I would have cut my + left hand off.” + </p> + <p> + “There is, however, a man—a clergyman here, called Hennessy; who is + he, and what has been his life?” + </p> + <p> + “Why,” replied the other, “I have heard nothing to his disadvantage. He is + a quiet, and, it is said, a pious man—and I think he is too. He is + naturally silent, and seldom takes any part in our conversation. He says, + however, that his concealment here bears hard upon him, and is depressing + his spirits every day more and more. The only thing I ever could observe + in him is what you saw yourself to-night-a slight relish for an + acquaintance with the barrel. He sometimes drains a drop—indeed, + sometimes too much—out of it, when he gets our backs turned; but + then he pleads low spirits three or four times a day—indeed, so + often that, upon my word, he'll soon have the barrel pleading the same + complaint.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” replied Reilly, after listening attentively to him, “I desire you + and your friends to watch that man closely. I know something about him; + and I tell you that if ever the laws become more lenient, the moment this + man makes his appearance his bishop will deprive him of all spiritual + jurisdiction for life. Mark me now, Father Maguire; if he pleads any + necessity for leaving this retreat and going abroad again into the world, + don't let a single individual of you remain, here one hour after him. + Provide for your safety and your shelter elsewhere as well as you can; if + not, the worst consequences may—nay, will follow.” + </p> + <p> + The priest promised to communicate this intelligence to his companions, + one by one, after which, both he and Reilly, feeling fatigued and + exhausted by what they had undergone in the course of the night, threw + themselves each upon his couch of heather, and in a few minutes not only + they, but all their companions, were sunk in deep sleep. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0012" id="link2H_4_0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTEE XI.—The Squire's Dinner and his Guests. + </h2> + <p> + We now return to <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, who, after her separation from + Reilly, retired to her own room, where she indulged in a paroxysm of deep + grief, in consequence of her apprehension that she might never see him + again. She also calculated upon the certainty of being obliged to sustain + a domestic warfare with her father, as the result of having made him the + confidant of her love. In this, however, she was agreeably disappointed; + for, on meeting him the next morning, at breakfast, she was a good deal + surprised to observe that he made no allusion whatsoever to the + circumstance—if, indeed, an occasional muttering of some + unintelligible words, <i>sotto voce</i>, might not be supposed to allude + to it. The truth was, the old man found the promise he had made to Sir + Robert one of such difficulty to his testy and violent disposition, that + his language, and the restraint which he felt himself under the necessity + of putting on it, rendered his conversation rather ludicrous. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Helen,” he said, on entering the breakfast-parlor, “how did you + rest last night, my love? Rested sound—eh? But you look rather pale, + darling. (Hang the rascal!)” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot say that I slept as well as usual, sir. I felt headache.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, headache—was it? (heartache, rather. The villain.) Well come, + let me have a cup of tea and a mouthful of that toast.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you not have some chicken, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “No, my dear—no; just what I said—a mouthful of toast, and a + cup of tea, with plenty of cream in it. Thank you, love. (A good swing for + him will be delightful. I'll go to see it.) Helen, my dear, I'm going to + give a dinner-party next week. Of course we'll have your future—hem—I + mean we'll have Sir Robert, and—let me see—who else? Why, + Oxley, the sheriff”, Mr. Brown, the parson—I wish he didn't lean so + much to the cursed Papists, though—Mr. Hastings, who is tarred with + the same stick, it is whispered. Well, who next? Lord Deilmacare, a + good-natured jackass—a fellow who would eat a jacketful of carrion, + if placed before him, with as much <i>gout</i> as if it were venison. He + went home one night, out of this, with the parson's outside coat and + shovel hat upon him, and did not return them for two days.” + </p> + <p> + “Does this habit proceed from stupidity, papa?” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all; but from mere carelessness. The next two days he was out with + his laborers, and if a cow or pig chanced—(the villain! we'll hang + him to a certainty)—chanced, I say, to stray into the field, he + would shy the shovel hat at them, without remorse. Oh! we must have him, + by all means. But who next? Sir Jenkins Joram. Give him plenty to drink, + and he is satisfied.” + </p> + <p> + “But what are his political principles, papa?” + </p> + <p> + “They are to be found in the bottle, Helen, which is the only creed, + political or religious, to which I ever knew him to be attached; and I + tell you, girl, that if every Protestant in Ireland were as deeply devoted + to his Church as he is to the bottle, we would soon be a happy people, + uncorrupted by treacherous scoundrels, who privately harbor Papists and + foster Popery itself. (The infernal scoundrel.)” + </p> + <p> + “But, papa,” replied his daughter, with a melancholy smile, “I think I + know some persons, who, although very loud and vehement in their outcry + against Popery, have, nevertheless, on more than one or two occasions, + harbored Papists in their house, and concealed even priests, when the + minions of the law were in search of them.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and it is of this cursed crew of hollow Protestants that I now speak—ahem—ay—ha—well, + what the devil—hem. To be sure I—I—I—but it + doesn't signify; we can't be wise at all times. But after all, Helen (she + has me there), after all, I say, there are some good Papists, and some + good—ahem—priests, too. There now, I've got it out. However, + Helen, those foolish days are gone, and we have nothing for it now but to + hunt Popery out of the country. But to proceed as to the dinner.” + </p> + <p> + “I think Popery is suffering enough, sir, and more than enough.” + </p> + <p> + “Ho, ho,” he exclaimed with triumph, “here comes the next on my list—a + fine fellow, who will touch it up still more vigorously—I mean + Captain Smellpriest.” + </p> + <p> + “I have heard of that inhuman man,” replied Helen; “I wish you would not + ask him, papa. I am told he equals Sir Robert Whitecraft in both cowardice + and cruelty. Is not that a nickname he has got in consequence of his + activity in pursuit of the unfortunate priests?” + </p> + <p> + “It's a nickname he has given himself,” replied her father; “and he has + become so proud of it that he will allow himself to be called by no other. + He swears that if a priest gets on the windy side of him, he will scent + him as a hound would a fox. Oh! by my honor, Smellpriest must be here. The + scoundrel like Whitecraft!—eh-what am I saying? Smellpriest, I say, + first began his career as a friend to the Papists; he took large tracts of + land in their name, and even purchased a couple of estates with their + money; and in due time, according as the tide continued to get strong + against them, he thought the best plan to cover his villany—ahem—his + policy, I mean—was to come out as a fierce loyalist; and as a mark + of his repentance, he claimed the property, as the real purchaser, and + arrested those who were fools enough to trust him.” + </p> + <p> + “I think I know another gentleman of my acquaintance who holds property in + some similar trust for Papists,” observed Helen, “but who certainly is + incapable of imitating the villany of that most unprincipled man.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, come, Helen; come, my girl; tut—ahem; come, you are getting + into politics now, and that will never do. A girl like you ought to have + nothing to do with politics or religion.” + </p> + <p> + “Religion! papa.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh—hem-I don't mean exactly that. Oh, no; I except religion; a girl + may be as religious as she pleases, only she must say as little upon the + subject as possible. Come, another cup of tea, with a little more sugar, + for, I give you my honor, you did not make the last one of the sweetest;” + and so saying, he put over his cup with a grimace, which resembled that of + a man detected in a bad action, instead of a good one. + </p> + <p> + At this moment John, the butler, came in with a plate of hot toast; and, + as he was a privileged old man, he addressed his master without much + hesitation. + </p> + <p> + “That was a quare business,” he observed, using the word quare as an + equivocal one, until he should see what views of the circumstance his + master might take; “a quare business, sir, that happened to Mr. Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “What business do you allude to, you old sinner?” + </p> + <p> + “The burning of his house and place, sir. All he has, or had, is in a heap + of ashes.” + </p> + <p> + Helen felt not for the burning, but her eyes were fixed upon the features + of the old man, as if the doom of her life depended on his words; whilst + the paper on which ee write is not whiter than were her cheeks. + </p> + <p> + “What—what—how was it?” asked his master; “who did it?—and + by whose authority was it done?” + </p> + <p> + “Sir Robert Whitecraft and his men did it, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, but I can't conceive he had any authority for such an act.” + </p> + <p> + “Wasn't Mr. Reilly an outlaw, sir? Didn't the Red Rapparee, who is now a + good Protestant, swear insurrection against him?” + </p> + <p> + “The red devil, sirra,” replied the old squire, forgetting his animosity + to Reilly in the atrocity and oppression of the deed—“the red devil, + sirra! would that justify such a cowardly scoundrel as Sir Robert—ugh—ugh—ugh—that + went against my breath, Helen. Well, come here, I say, you old sinner; + they burned the place, you say?” + </p> + <p> + “Sir Robert and his men did, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm not doubting that, you old house-leek. I know Sir Robert too well—I + know the infernal—ahem; a most excellent loyal gentleman, with two + or three fine estates, both here and in England; but he prefers living + here, for reasons best known to himself and me, and—and to somebody + else. Well, they burned Reilly out—but tell me this; did they catch + the rascal himself? eh? here's five pounds for you, if you can say they + have him safe.” + </p> + <p> + “That's rather a loose bargain, your honor,” replied the man with a smile; + “for saying it?—why, what's to prevent me from saying it, if I + wished?” + </p> + <p> + “None of your mumping, you old snapdragon; but tell me the truth, have + they secured him hard and fast?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, he escaped them, and as report goes they know nothing about him, + except that they haven't got him.” + </p> + <p> + Deep and speechless was the agony in which Helen sat during this short + dialogue, her eyes having never once been withdrawn from the butler's + countenance; but now that she had heard of her lover's personal safety, a + thick, smothered sob, which, if it were to kill her, she could not + repress, burst from her bosom. Unwilling that either her father or the + servant should witness the ecstasy which she could not conceal, and + feeling that another minute would disclose the delight which convulsed her + heart and frame, she arose, and, with as much composure as she could + assume, went slowly out of the room. On entering her apartment, she signed + to her maid to withdraw, after which she closed and bolted the door, and + wept bitterly. The poor girl's emotion, in fact, was of a twofold + character; she wept with joy at Reilly's escape from the hands of his + cruel and relentless enemy, and with bitter grief at the impossibility + which she thought there existed that he should ultimately be able to keep + out of the meshes which she knew Whitecraft would spread for him. The + tears, however, which she shed abundantly, in due time relieved her, and + in the course of an hour or two she was able to appear as usual in the + family. + </p> + <p> + The reader may perceive that her father, though of an abrupt and cynical + temper, was not a man naturally of a bad or unfeeling heart. Whatever mood + of temper chanced to be uppermost influenced him for the time; and indeed + it might be said that one half of his feelings were usually in a state of + conflict with the other. In matters of business he was the very soul of + integrity and honor, but in his views of public affairs he was uncertain + and inconsistent; and of course his whole life, as a magistrate and public + man, was a perpetual series of contradictions. The consequence of all this + was, that he possessed but small influence, as arising from his personal + character; but not so from his immense property, as well as from the fact + that he was father to the wealthiest and most beautiful heiress in the + province, or perhaps, so far as beauty was concerned, in the kingdom + itself. + </p> + <p> + At length the day mentioned for the dinner arrived, and, at the appointed + hour, so also did the guests. There were some ladies asked to keep Helen + in countenance, but we need scarcely say, that as the list of them was + made out by her thoughtless father, he paid, in the selection of some of + them, very little attention to her feelings. There was the sheriff, Mr. + Oxley, and his lady—the latter a compound in whom it was difficult + to determine whether pride, vulgarity, or obesity prevailed. Where the + sheriff had made his capture of her was never properly known, as neither + of them belonged originally to that neighborhood in which he had, several + years ago, purchased large property. It was said he had got her in London; + and nothing was more certain than that she issued forth the English + language clothed in an inveterate cockney accent. She was a high moralist, + and a merciless castigator of all females who manifested, or who were + supposed to manifest, even a tendency to walk out of the line of her own + peculiar theory on female conduct. Her weight might be about eighteen + stone, exclusive of an additional stone of gold chains and bracelets, in + which she moved like a walking gibbet, only with the felon in it; and to + crown all, she wore on her mountainous bosom a cameo nearly the size of a + frying-pan. Sir Jenkins Joram, who took her down to dinner, declared, on + feeling the size of the bracelets which encircled her wrists, that he + labored for a short time under the impression that he and she were + literally handcuffed together; an impression, he added, from which he was + soon relieved by the consoling reflection that it was the sheriff himself + whom the clergyman had sentenced to stand in that pleasant predicament. Of + Mrs. Brown and Mrs. Hastings we have only to say that they were modest, + sensible, unassuming women, without either parade or pretence, such, in + fact, as you will generally meet among our well-bred and educated + countrywomen. Lord Deilmacare was a widower, without family, and not a + marrying man. Indeed, when pressed upon this subject, he was never known + to deviate from the one reply. + </p> + <p> + “Why don't you marry again, my lord?—will you ever marry?” + </p> + <p> + “No, madam, I got enough of it,” a reply which, somehow, generally checked + any further inquiry on the subject. Between Lady Joram and Mrs. + Smellpriest there subsisted a singular analogy with respect to their + conjugal attachments. It was hinted that her ladyship, in those secret but + delicious moments of matrimonial felicity which make up the sugar-candy + morsels of domestic life, used to sit with Sir Jenkins for the purpose, by + judicious exercise, of easing, by convivial exercise, a rheumatic + affection which she complained of in her right arm. There is nothing, + however, so delightful as a general and loving sympathy between husband + and wife; and here it was said to exist in perfection. Mrs. Smellpriest, + on the other hand, was said to have been equally attached to the political + principles of the noble captain, and to wonder why any clergyman should be + suffered to live in the country but those of her own Church; such + delightful men, for instance, as their curate, the Rev. Samson Strong, who + was nothing more nor less than a divine bonfire in the eyes of the + Christian! world. Such was his zeal against Papists, she said, as well as + against Popery at large, that she never looked on him without thinking + that there was a priest to be burned. Indeed Captain Smellpriest, she + added, was under great obligations to him, for no sooner had his reverence + heard of a priest taking earth in the neighborhood, than he lost no time + in communicating the fact to her husband; after which he would kindly sit + with and comfort her whilst fretting lest any mischief might befall her + dear captain. + </p> + <p> + The dinner passed as all dinners usually do. They hobnobbed, of course, + and indulged in that kind of promiscuous conversation which cannot well be + reported. From a feeling of respect to Helen, no allusion was made either + to the burning of Reilly's property or to Reilly personally. The only + person who had any difficulty in avoiding the subject was the old squire + himself, who more than once found the topic upon his lips, but with a kind + of short cough he gulped it down, and got rid of it for the time. In what + manner he might treat the act itself was a matter which excited a good + deal of speculation in the minds of those who were present. He was known + to be a man who, if the whim seized him to look upon it as a cowardly and + vindictive proceeding, would by no means scruple to express his opinions + strongly against it; whilst, on the other hand, if he measured it in + connection with his daughter's forbidden attachment to Reilly, he would, + of course, as vehemently express his approbation of the outrage. Indeed, + they were induced to conclude that this latter view of it was that which + he was most likely to take, in consequence of the following proposal, + which, from any other man, would have been an extraordinary one: + </p> + <p> + “Come, ladies, before you leave us we must have one toast; and I shall + give it in order to ascertain whether we have any fair traitresses among + us, or any who are secretly attached to Popery or Papists.” + </p> + <p> + The proposal was a cruel one, but the squire was so utterly destitute of + consideration or delicacy of feeling that we do not think he ever once + reflected upon the painful position in which it placed his daughter. + </p> + <p> + “Come,” he proceeded, “here is prosperity to Captain Smellpriest and + priest-hunting!”* + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * We have been charged by an able and accomplished writer + with an incapacity of describing, with truth, any state of + Irish society above that of our peasantry; and the toast + proposed by the eccentric old squire is, we presume, the + chief ground upon which this charge is rested. We are, + however, just as well aware as our critic, that to propose + toasts before the female portion of the company leave the + dinner-table, is altogether at variance with the usages of + polite society. But we really thought we had guarded our + readers against any such, inference of our own ignorance by + the character which we had drawn of the squire, as well as + by the words with which the toast is introduced—where we + said, “from any other man would have been an extraordinary + one.” I may also refer to Mrs. Brown's reply. +</pre> + <p> + “As a Christian minister,” replied Mr. Brown, “and an enemy to persecution + in every sense, but especially to that which would punish any man for the + great principle which we ourselves claim—the rights of conscience—I + decline to drink the toast;” and he turned down his glass. + </p> + <p> + “And I,” said Mr. Hastings, “as a Protestant and a Christian, refuse it on + the same principles;” and he also turned down his glass. + </p> + <p> + “But you forget, gentlemen,” proceeded the squire, “that I addressed + myself principally to the ladies.” + </p> + <p> + “But you know, sir,” replied Mrs. Brown, with a smile, “that it is quite + unusual and out of character for ladies to drink toasts at all, especially + those which involve religious or political opinions. These, I am sure, you + know too well, Mr. Folliard, are matters with which ladies have, and ought + to have, nothing to do. I also, therefore, on behalf of our sex, decline + to drink the toast; and I trust that every lady who respects herself will + turn down her glass as I do.” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Hastings and Helen immediately followed her example, whilst at the + same time poor Helen's cheeks and neck were scarlet. + </p> + <p> + “You see, sir,” said Mr. Brown, good-humoredly, “that the sex—at + least one-half of them—are against you.” + </p> + <p> + “That's because they're Papists at heart,” replied the squire, laughing. + </p> + <p> + Helen felt eased at seeing her father's good humor, for she now knew that + the proposal of the toast was but a jest, and did not aim at any thing + calculated to distress her feelings. + </p> + <p> + “But, in the meantime,” proceeded the squire, “I am not without support. + Here is Lady Joram and Mrs. Smellpriest and Mrs. Oxley—and they are + a host in themselves—each of them willing and ready to support me.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't see,” said Lady Joram, “why a lady, any more than a gentleman, + should refuse to drink a proper toast as this is; Sir Jenkins has not + turned down his glass, and neither shall I. Come, then, Mr. Folliard, + please to fill mine; I shall drink it in a bumper.” + </p> + <p> + “And I,” said Mrs. Oxley, “always drinks my 'usband's principles. In + Lunnon, where true 'igh life is, ladies don't refuse to drink toasts. I + know that feyther, both before and after his removal to Lunnon, used to + make us all drink the ''Ard ware of Old Hingland'—by witch,” she + proceeded, correcting herself by a reproving glance from the sheriff—“by + witch he meant what he called the glorious sinews of the country at large, + lestwise in the manufacturing districts. But upon a subject like this”—and + she looked with something like disdain at those who had turned down their + glasses—“every lady as is a lady ought to 'ave no objection to + hexplain her principles by drinking the toast; but p'raps it ain't fair to + press it upon some of 'em.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then,” proceeded the squire, with a laugh that seemed to have more + than mirth in it, “are all the loyal subjects of the crown ready? Lord + Deilmacare, your glass is not filled; won't you drink it?” + </p> + <p> + “To be sure,” replied his lordship; “I have no hatred against Papists; I + get my rent by their labor; but I never wish to spoil sport—get + along—I'll do anything.” + </p> + <p> + With the exceptions already mentioned, the toast was drank immediately, + after which the ladies retired to the drawing-room. + </p> + <p> + “Now, gentlemen,” said the squire, “fill your glasses, and let us enjoy + ourselves. You have a right to be proud of your wife, Mr. Sheriff, and you + too, Sir Jenkins—for,—upon my soul, if it had been his + Majesty's health, her ladyship couldn't have honored it with a fuller + bumper. And, Smellpriest, your wife did the thing handsomely as well as + the rest. Upon my soul, you ought to be happy men, with three women so + deeply imbued with the true spirit of our glorious Constitution.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, Mr. Folliard,” said Smellpriest, “you don't know the value of that + woman. When I return, for instance, after a hunt, the first question she + puts to me is—Well, my love, how many priests did you catch to-day? + And out comes Mr. Strong with the same question. Strong, however, between + ourselves, is a goose; he will believe any thing, and often sends me upon + a cold trail. Now, I pledge you my honor, gentlemen, that this man, who is + all zeal, has sent me out dozens of times, with the strictest instructions + as to where I'd catch my priest; but, hang me, if ever I caught a single + priest upon his instructions yet! still, although unfortunate in this kind + of sport, his heart is in the right place. Whitecraft, my worthy brother + sportsman, how does it happen that Reilly continues to escape you?” + </p> + <p> + “Why does he continue to escape yourself, captain?” replied the baronet. + </p> + <p> + “Why,” said the other, “because I am more in the ecclesiastical line, and, + besides, he is considered to be, in an especial manner, your game.” + </p> + <p> + “I will have him yet, though,” said Whitecraft, “if he should assume as + many shapes as Proteus.” + </p> + <p> + “By the way, Whitecraft,” observed Folliard, “they tell me you burned the + unfor—you burned the scoundrel's house and offices.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish you had been present at the bonfire, sir,” replied his intended + son-in-law; “it would have done your heart good.” + </p> + <p> + “I daresay,” said the squire; “but still, what harm did his house and + place do you? I know the fellow is a Jesuit, a rebel, and an outlaw—at + least you tell me so; and you must know. But upon what authority did you + burn the rascal out?” + </p> + <p> + “As to that,” returned the baronet, “the present laws against Popery and + the general condition of the times are a sufficient justification; and I + do not think that I am likely to be brought over the coals for it; on the + contrary, I look upon myself as a man who, in burning the villain out, + have rendered a very important service to Government.” + </p> + <p> + “I regret, Sir Robert,” observed Mr. Brown, “that you should have + disgraced yourself by such an oppressive act. I know that throughout the + country your conduct to this young man is attributed to personal malice + rather than to loyalty.” + </p> + <p> + “The country may put what construction on my conduct it pleases,” he + replied, “but I know I shall never cease till I hang him.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hastings was a man of very few words; but he had an eye the expression + of which could not be mistaken—keen, manly, and firm. He sat sipping + his wine in silence, but turned from time to time a glance upon the + baronet, which was not only a searching one, but seemed to have something + of triumph in it. + </p> + <p> + “What do you say, Hastings?” asked Whitecraft; “can you not praise a loyal + subject, man?” + </p> + <p> + “I say nothing, Sir Robert,” he replied; “but I think occasionally.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, and what do you think occasionally?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, that the times may change.” + </p> + <p> + “Whitecraft,” said Smellpriest, “I work upon higher principles than they + say you do. I hunt priests, no doubt of it; but then I have no personal + malice against them; I proceed upon the broad and general principle of + hatred to Popery: but, at the same time, observe it is not the man but the + priest I pursue.” + </p> + <p> + “And when you hang or transport the priest, what becomes of the man?” + asked the baronet, with a diabolical sneer. “As for me, Smellpriest, I + make no such distinctions; they are unworthy of you, and I'm sorry to hear + you express them. I say, the man.” + </p> + <p> + “And I say, the priest,” replied the other. + </p> + <p> + “What do you say, my lord?” asked Mr. Folliard of the peer. + </p> + <p> + “I don't much care which,” replied his lordship; “man or priest, be it as + you can determine; only I say that when you hang the priest, I agree with + Whitecraft there, that it is all up with the man, and when you hang the + man, it is all up with the priest. By the way, Whitecraft,” he proceeded, + “how would you like to swing yourself?” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure, my lord,” replied the baronet, “you wouldn't wish to see me + hanged.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I don't know—perhaps I might, and perhaps I might not; but I + know you would make a long corpse, and I think you would dangle handsomely + enough; you have long limbs, a long body, and half a mile of neck; upon my + soul, one would think you were made for it. Yes, I dare say I should like + to see you hanged—I am rather inclined to think I would—it's a + subject, however, on which I am perfectly indifferent; but if ever you + should be hanged, Sir Robert, I shall certainly make it a point to see you + thrown off if it were only as a mark of respect for your humane and + excellent character.” + </p> + <p> + “He would be a severe loss to the country,” observed Sir Jenkins; “the + want of his hospitality would be deeply felt by the gentry of the + neighborhood; for which reason,” he observed sarcastically, “I hope he + will be spared to us as long as his hospitality lasts.” + </p> + <p> + “In the meantime, gentlemen,” observed the sheriff, “I wish that, with + such keen noses for priests and rebels and criminals, you could come upon + the trail of the scoundrel who robbed me of three hundred and fifty + pounds.” + </p> + <p> + “Would you know him again, Mr. Sheriff?” asked Sir Robert, “and could you + describe his appearance?” + </p> + <p> + “I have been turning the matter over,” replied the sheriff, “and I feel + satisfied that I would know him if I saw him. He was dressed in a + broadcloth brown coat, light-colored breeches, and had silver buckles in + his shoes. The fellow was no common robber. Stuart—one of your + dragoons, Sir Robert, who came to my relief when it was too late—insists, + from my description of the dress, that it was Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you sure he was not dressed in black?” asked Smellpriest. “Did you + observe a beads or crucifix about him?” + </p> + <p> + “I have described the dress accurately,” replied the sheriff; “but I am + certain that it was not Reilly. On bringing the matter to my recollection, + after I had got rid of the pain and agitation, I was able to remember that + the ruffian had a coarse face and red whiskers. Now Reilly's hair and + whiskers are black.” + </p> + <p> + “It was a reverend Papist,” said Smellpriest; “one of those from whom you + had levied the fines that day, and who thought it no harm to transfer them + back again to holy Church. You know not how those rascals can disguise + themselves.” + </p> + <p> + “And you blame them, Smellpriest,” said the squire, “for disguising + themselves? Now, suppose the tables were turned upon us, that Popery got + the ascendant, and that Papists started upon the same principles against + us that we put in practice against them; suppose that Popish soldiers were + halloed on against our parsons, and all other Protestants conspicuous for + an attachment to their religion, and anxious to put down the persecution + under which we suffered; why, hang it, could you blame the parsons, when + hunted to the death, for disguising themselves? And if you could not, how + can you blame the priests? Would you have the poor devils walk into your + hands and say, 'Come, gentlemen, be good enough to hang or transport us?' + I am anxious, to secure Reilly, and either to hang or transport him. I + would say the latter, though.” + </p> + <p> + “And I the former,” observed Sir Robert. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Bob, that is as may happen; but in the meantime, I say he never + robbed the sheriff here; and if he were going to the gallows to-morrow, I + would maintain it.” + </p> + <p> + Neither the clergyman nor Mr. Hastings took much part in the conversation; + but the eye of the latter was, during the greater portion of the evening, + fixed upon the baronet, like that of a basilisk, accompanied by a hidden + meaning, which it was impossible to penetrate, but which, nevertheless, + had such an effect upon Whitecraft that he could not help observing it. + </p> + <p> + “It would seem, Mr. Hastings,” said he, “as if you had never seen me + before. Your eye has scarcely been off me during the whole evening. It is + not pleasant, sir, nor scarcely gentlemanly.” + </p> + <p> + “You should feel proud of it, Sir Robert,” replied Hastings; “I only + admire you.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, I wish you would express your admiration in some other manner + than by staring at me.” + </p> + <p> + “Gadzooks, Sir Robert,” said the squire, “don't you know that a cat may + look at a king? Hastings must be a man of devilish good taste, Bob, and + you ought to thank him.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Brown and Mr. Hastings soon afterwards went upstairs, and left the + other gentlemen to their liquor, which they now began to enjoy with a more + convivial spirit. The old squire's loyalty rose to a very high pitch, as + indeed did that of his companions, all of whom entertained the same + principles, with the exception of Lord Deilmacare, whose opinions never + could be got at, for thee very sufficient reason that he did not know them + himself. + </p> + <p> + “Come, Whitecraft,” said the squire, “help yourself, and push the bottle; + now that those two half-Papists are gone, we can breathe and speak a + little more freely. Here's our glorious Constitution, in Church and State, + and curse all priests and Papists—barring a few, that I know to be + honest.” + </p> + <p> + “I drink it, but I omit the exception,” said Sir Robert, “and I wonder, + sir, you would make any exception to such a toast.” + </p> + <p> + “I drink it,” said Smellpriest, “including the rascal priest.” + </p> + <p> + “And I drink it,” said the sheriff, “as it has been proposed.” + </p> + <p> + “What was it?” said Lord Deilmacare; “come, I drink it—it doesn't + matter. I suppose, coming from our excellent host, it must be right and + proper.” + </p> + <p> + They caroused deeply, and in proportion as the liquor affected their + brains, so did their determination to rid the squire of the rebel Reilly + form itself into an express resolution to that effect. + </p> + <p> + “Hang Reilly—hang the villain—the gallows for him—hurra!” + and in this charitable sentiment their voices all joined in a fierce and + drunken exclamation, uttered with their hands all clasped in each other + with a strong and firm grip. From one mouth alone, however, proceeded, + amidst a succession of hiccups, the word “transportation,” which, when + Lord Deilmacare heard, he changed his principle, and joined the old squire + in the same mitigation of feeling. + </p> + <p> + “I say, Deilmacare,” shouted Sir Robert, “we must hang him high and dry.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” replied his lordship, “with all my heart, Sir Robert; we must + hang you high and dry.” + </p> + <p> + “But, Deilmacare,” said the squire, “we should only transport him.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good,” exclaimed his lordship, emptying a bumper; “we shall only + transport you, Sir Robert.” + </p> + <p> + “Hang him, Deilmacare!” + </p> + <p> + “Very well, hang him!” + </p> + <p> + “Transport him, I say, Deilmacare,” from the squire. + </p> + <p> + “Good again,” said his lordship; “transport him, say I.” + </p> + <p> + And on went the drunken revel, until they scarcely knew what they said. + </p> + <p> + The clergyman and Mr. Hastings, on reaching the drawing-room, found Helen + in a state of inexpressible distress. A dispute upon the prevailing morals + of all modern young Lidies had been got up by Lady Joram and Mrs. Oxley, + for the express purpose of venting their petty malice against the girl, + because they had taken it into their heads that she paid more attention to + Mrs. Brown and Mrs. Hastings than she did to them. This dispute was + tantamount to what, in the prize ring, is called <i>cross</i>, when the + fight is only a mock one, and terminates by the voluntary defeat of one of + the parties, upon a preconcerted arrangement. + </p> + <p> + “I don't agree with you, my lady; nor can I think that the morals of young + ladies in 'igh life, by witch I mean the daughters and heiresses of + wealthy squires—” + </p> + <p> + “But, my dear Mrs. Oxley,” said her ladyship, interrupting her, and + placing her hand gently upon her arm, as if to solicit her consent to the + observation she was about to make, “you know, my dear Mrs. Oxley, that the + daughter of a mere country squire can have no pretensions to come under + the definition of high life.” + </p> + <p> + “Wy not?” replied Mrs. Oxley; “the squires are often wealthier than the + haris-tocracy; and I don't at all see,” she added, “wy the daughter of + such a man should not be considered as moving in 'igh life—always, + of course, provided that she forms no disgraceful attachments to Papists + and rebels and low persons of that 'ere class. No, my lady, I don't at all + agree with you in your view of 'igh life.” + </p> + <p> + “You don't appear, madam, to entertain a sufficiently accurate estimate of + high life. + </p> + <p> + “I beg pardon, ma'am, but I think I can understand 'igh life as well as + those that don't know it better nor myself. I've seen a great deal of 'igh + life. Feyther 'ad a willar at I'gate, and I'gate is known to be the + 'igh-est place about the metropolis of Lunnon—it and St. Paul's are + upon a bevel.” + </p> + <p> + “Level, perhaps, you mean, ma'am?” + </p> + <p> + “Level or bevel,'it doesn't much diversify—but I prefer the bevel to + the level on all occasions. All I knows is,” she proceeded, “that it is a + shame for any young lady, as is a young lady, to take a liking to a + Papist, because we know the Papists are all rebel; and would cut our + throats, only for the protection of our generous and merciful laws.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know what you mean by merciful laws,” observed Mrs. Brown. “They + surely cannot be such laws as oppress and persecute a portion of the + people, and give an unjust license to one class to persecute another, and + to prevent them from exercising the duties which their religion imposes + upon them.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Lady Joram, “all I wish is, that the Papists were + exterminated; we should then have no apprehensions that our daughters + would disgrace themselves, by falling in love with them.” + </p> + <p> + This conversation was absolutely cruel, and the amiable Mrs. Brown, from + compassion to Helen, withdrew her into a corner of the room, and entered + into conversation with her upon a different topic, assuring her previously + that she would detail their offensive and ungenerous remarks to her + father, who, she trusted, would never see them under his roof again, nor + give them an opportunity of indulging in their vulgar malignity a second + time. Helen thanked her, and said their hints and observations, though + rude and ungenerous, gave her but little pain. The form of language in + which they were expressed, she added, and the indefensible violation of + all the laws of hospitality, blunted the severity of what they said. + </p> + <p> + “I am not ashamed,” she said, “of my attachment to the brave and generous + young man who saved my father's life. He is of no vulgar birth, but a + highly educated and a highly accomplished gentleman—a man, in fact, + my dear Mrs. Brown, whom no woman, be her rank in life ever so high or + exalted, might blush to love. I do not blush to make the avowal that I + love him; but, unfortunately, in consequence of the existing laws of the + country, my love for him, which I will never conceal, must be a hopeless + one.” + </p> + <p> + “I regret the state of those laws, my dear Miss Folliard, as much as you + do; but still their existence puts a breach between you and Reilly, and + under those circumstances my advice to you is to overcome your affection + for him if you can. Marriage is out of the question.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not marriage I think of—for that is out of the question—but + Reilly's life and safety. If he were safe, I should feel comparatively + happy; happiness, in its full extent, I never can hope to enjoy; but if he + were only safe—if he were only safe, my dear Mrs. Brown! I know that + he is hunted like a beast of prey, and under such circumstances as disturb + and distract the country, how can he escape?” + </p> + <p> + The kind-hearted lady consoled her as well as she could; but, in fact, her + grounds for consolation were so slender that her arguments only amounted + to those general observations which, commonplace as they are, we are in + the habit of hearing from day to day. Helen was too high-minded to shed + tears, but Mrs. Brown could plainly perceive the depth of her emotion, and + feel the extent of wrhat she suffered. + </p> + <p> + We shall not detail at further length the conversation of the other ladies—if + ladies they can be called; nor that of the gentlemen, after they entered + the drawing-room. Sir Robert Whitecraft attempted to enter into + conversation with Helen, but found himself firmly and decidedly repulsed. + In point of fact, some of the gentlemen were not in a state to grace a + drawing-room, and in a short time they took their leave and retired. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0013" id="link2H_4_0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTEE XII.—Sir Robert Meets a Brother Sportsman + </h2> + <h3> + —Draws his Nets, but Catches Nothing. + </h3> + <p> + “'Tis conscience that makes cowards of us all,” said Shakespeare, with + that wonderful wisdom which enlightens his glorious pages; and, in fact, + Sir Robert Whitecraft, in his own person, fully corroborated the truth of + the poet's apophthegm. The man, besides, was naturally a coward; and when + to this we add the consciousness of his persecutions and cruelties, and + his apprehensions from the revenge of Reilly—the destruction of + whose property, without any authority from Government for the act, he felt + himself guilty of—the reader may understand the nature and extent of + his terrors on his way home. The distance between his own house and that + of his intended father-in-law was about three miles, and there lay a long + space of level road, hedged in, as was then the custom, on both sides, + from behind which hedges an excellent aim could be taken. As Sir Robert + proceeded along this lonely path, his horse stumbled against some stones + that were in his way, or perhaps that had been purposely placed there. Be + that as it may, the baronet fell, and a small man, of compact size and + vigorous frame, was found aiding him to rise. Having helped him into the + saddle, the baronet asked him, with an infirm and alarmed voice, who he + was. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Sir Robert,” he replied, “you must know I am not a Papist, or I + wouldn't be apt to render you any assistance; I am somewhat of your own + kidney—a bit of a priest-hunter, on a small scale. I used to get + them for Captain Smellpriest, but he paid me badly, and as there was great + risk among the bloody Papists, I made up my mind to withdraw out of his + service; but you are a gentleman, Sir Robert, what Captain Smellpriest is + not, and if you want an active and useful enemy to Popery, I am your man.” + </p> + <p> + “I want such a person, certainly,” replied the baronet, who, in + consequence of the badness of the road and the darkness of the night, was + obliged to walk his horse with caution. “By the way,” said he, “did you + not hear a noise behind the hedge?” + </p> + <p> + “I did,” replied the other, “but it was the noise of cattle.” + </p> + <p> + “I am not aware,” replied Sir Robert, “what the devil cattle can have to + do immediately behind the hedge. I rather think they are some of our own + species;” and as he ceased speaking the tremendous braying of a jackass + came upon their ears. + </p> + <p> + “You were right, Sir Robert,” replied his companion; “I beg pardon, I mean + that was right; you know now it was cattle.” + </p> + <p> + “What is your name?” asked Sir Robert. + </p> + <p> + “Rowland Drum, Sir Robert; and, if you will permit me, I should like to + see you safe home. I need not say that you are hated by the Papists; and + as the road is lonesome and dangerous, as a priest-hunter myself I think + it an act of duty not to leave you.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you,” said Sir Robert, “you are a civil person, and I will accept + your escort.” + </p> + <p> + “Whatever danger you may run, Sir Robert, I will stand by your side and + partake of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, friend,” replied Sir Robert; “there is a lonely place before + us, where a ghost is said to be seen—the ghost of a priest whom I + hunted for a long time; Smellpriest, it is said, shot him at the place I + allude to. He was disguised as a drummer, and is said to haunt the + locality where he was shot.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I shall see you safe over the place, Sir Robert, and go home with + you afterwards, provided you will promise to give me a bed and my supper; + to-morrow we can talk on matters of business.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall certainly do so,” replied Sir Robert, “not only in consequence of + your attention to me, but of our common purpose.” + </p> + <p> + They then proceeded onwards—passed the haunted spot—without + either hearing or seeing the spectral drummer. On arriving at home, Sir + Robert, who drank privately, ordered wine for himself, and sent Rowland + Drum to the kitchen, where he was rather meagerly entertained, and was + afterwards lodged for the night in the garret. + </p> + <p> + The next morning, after breakfast, Sir Robert sent for Mr. Drum, who, on + entering the breakfast parlor, was thus addressed by his new patron: + </p> + <p> + “What's this you say your name is?” + </p> + <p> + “Rowland Drum, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Rowland Drum! Well, now, Rowland Drum, are you well acquainted with the + priests of this diocese?” + </p> + <p> + “No man better,” replied the redoubtable Rowland. “I know most of them by + person, and have got private descriptions of them all from Captain + Smellpriest, which will be invaluable to you, Sir Robert. The fact is—and + this I mention in the strictest confidence—that Smellpriest is + suspicious of your attachment to our glorious Constitution.” + </p> + <p> + “The confounded rascal,” replied the baronet. “Did he ever burn as many + Popish houses as I have done? He has no appetite for any thing but the + pursuit and capture of priests; but I have a far more general and + unsparing practice, for I not only capture the priests, where I can, but + every lay Papist that we suspect in the country. Here, for instance. Do + you see those papers? They are blank warrants for the apprehension of the + guilty and suspected, and also protections, transmitted to me from the + Secretary of State, that I may be enabled, by his authority, to protect + such Papists as will give useful information to the Government. Here they + are, signed by the Secretary, but the blanks are left for myself to fill + up.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish we could get Reilly to come over,” said Mr. Drum. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! the infernal villain,” said the baronet, “all the protections that + ever were or could be issued from the Secretary's office would not nor + could not save him. Old Folliard and I will hang him, if there was not + another man to be hanged in the three kingdoms.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment a servant came in and said, “Sir Robert, there is a woman + her who wishes to have some private conversation with you.” + </p> + <p> + “What kind of a woman is she?” asked the baronet. + </p> + <p> + “Faith, your honor, a sturdy and strapping wench, somewhat rough, in the + face, but of great proportions.” + </p> + <p> + Now it so happened that Mr. Drum had been sitting at the window during + this brief conversation, and at once recognized, under the disguise of a + woman, the celebrated informer, the Rev. Mr. Hennessy, a wretch whose + criminal course of life, as we said before, was so gross and reprobate + that his pious bishop deemed it his duty to suspend him from all clerical + functions. + </p> + <p> + “Sir Robert,” said Drum, “I must go up to my room and shave. My presence, + I apprehend, won't be necessary where there is a lady in question.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” replied the baronet; “I know not what her business may be; + but I shall be glad to speak with you after she shall have gone.” + </p> + <p> + It was very well that Hennessy did not see Drum, whom he would at once + have recognized; but, at all events, the interview between the reprobate + priest and the baronet lasted for at least an hour. + </p> + <p> + After the Rev. Miss Hennessy had taken her departure, Mr. Drum was sent + for by the baronet, whom he still found in the breakfast parlor. + </p> + <p> + “Drum,” said he, “you have now an opportunity of essentially serving not + only me, but the Government of the country. This lady turns out to be a + Popish priest in disguise, and I have taken him into my confidence as a + guide and auxiliary. Now you have given me proofs of personal attachment, + which is certainly more than he has done as yet. I have heard of his + character as an immoral priest; and the man who could be false to his own + creed is not a man to be relied upon. He has described to me the position + of a cavern, in which are now hiding a set of proscribed priests; but I + cannot have confidence in his information, and I wish you to go to the + ravine or cavern, or whatever the devil it is, and return to me with + correct intelligence. It may be a lure to draw me into danger, or perhaps + to deprive me of my life; but, on second thought, I think I shall get a + military force, and go myself.” + </p> + <p> + “And perhaps never return, unless with your heels foremost, Sir Robert. I + tell you that this Hennessy is the most treacherous scoundrel on the face + of the earth. You do not know what he's at, but I will tell you, for I + have it from his own cousin. His object is to have you assassinated, in + order to restore himself to the good graces of the bishop and the Catholic + party, who, I must say, however, would not countenance such a murderous + act; still, Sir Robert, if you were taken off, the man who took you off + would have his name honored and exalted throughout the country.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I believe you are right, Drum; they are thirsting for my blood, but + not more than I am thirsting for theirs.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then,” said Drum, “don't trust yourself to the counsels of this + Hennessy, who, in my opinion, only wants to make a scapegoat of you. Allow + me to go to the place he mentions, for I know the ravine well, but I never + knew nor do I believe that there is a cavern at all in it, and that is + what makes me suspect the scoundrel's motives. He can have hundreds of + outlaws secretly armed, who would never suffer you to escape with your + life. The thing is an ambuscade; take my word for it, it is nothing less. + Of course you can go, yourself and your party, if you wish. You will + prevent me from running a great risk; but I am only anxious for your + safety.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then,” said Sir Robert, “you shall go upon this mission. It may not + be safe for me to do so. Try if you can make out this cavern, if there be + a cavern.” + </p> + <p> + “I will try, Sir Robert; and I will venture to say, that if it can be made + out, I will make 't out.” Rowland Drum accordingly set out upon his + mission, and having arrived at the cavern, with which he was so well + acquainted, he entered it with the usual risk. His voice, however, was + recognized, and he got instant admittance. + </p> + <p> + “My dear friends,” said he, after he had entered the inner part of it, + “you must disperse immediately. Hennessy has betrayed you, and if you + remain here twenty-four hours longer, Sir Kobert Whitecraft and a party of + military, guided, probably, by the treacherous scoundrel himself, will be + upon you. The villain had a long interview with him, and gave a full + detail of the cavern and its inmates.” + </p> + <p> + “But how did you become acquainted with Sir Kobert Whitecraft?” asked the + bishop. + </p> + <p> + “In order, my lord, to ascertain his intentions and future proceedings,” + replied Mr. Drum, “that we might guard against his treachery and + persecution. On his way home from a dinner at Squire Folliard's I met him + in a lonely part of the road, where he was thrown from his horse; I helped + him into his saddle, told him I was myself a priest-hunter, and thus got + into his confidence so far as to be able to frustrate Hennessy's + treachery, and to counteract his own designs.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” said the bishop sternly, “you have acted a part unworthy of a + Christian clergyman. We should not do evil that good may follow; and you + have done evil in associating yourself, in any sense and for any purpose, + with this bloodthirsty tiger and persecutor of the faithful.” + </p> + <p> + “My lord,” replied the priest, “this is not a time to enter into a + discussion on such a subject. Hennessy has betrayed us; and if you do not + disperse to other places of safety, he will himself, as I said, lead Sir + Robert Whitecraft and a military party to this very cavern, and then may + God have mercy on you all.” + </p> + <p> + “Brethren,” said the bishop, “this is, after all, possible that our + brother has, by the mercy and providence of God, through his casual + meeting with this remorseless man, been made the instrument of our safety. + As for myself, I am willing to embrace the crown of martyrdom, and to lay + down my life, if necessary, for the faith that is in me. You all know what + I have already suffered, and you know that persecution drives a wise man + mad. My children,” he added, “it is possible, and I fear too probable, + that some of us may never see each other in this life again; but at the + same time, let it be our hope and consolation that we shall meet in a + better. And for this purpose, and in order to secure futurity of + happiness, let us lead spotless and irreproachable lives, such as will + enable ur to meet the hour of death, whether it comes by the hand of God + or the persecution of man. Be faithful to the principles of our holy + religion—be faithful to truth—to moral virtue—be + faithful to God, before whose awful tribunal we must all appear, and + render an account of our lives. It would be mere wantonness to throw + yourselves into the hands of our persecutors. Reserve yourselves; for the + continuance and the sustainment of our blessed religion; but if you should + happen to fall, by the snares and devices of the enemy, into the power of + those who are striving to work our extermination, and if they should press + you to renounce your faith, upon the alternative of banishment or death, + then, I say, banishment, or death itself, sooner than become apostates to + your religion. I shall retire to a neighborhood only a few miles distant + from this, where the poor Catholic population are without spiritual aid or + consolation. I have been there before, and I know their wants, and were it + not that I was hunted and pursued with a view to my death—to my + murder, I should rather say—I would have remained with them still. + But that I considered it a duty to that portion of the Church over which + God called upon me to preside and watch, I would not have avoided those + inhuman traffickers in the blood of God's people. Yet I am bound to say + that, from the clergymen of the Established Church, and from many + Protestant magistrates, we have received kindness, sympathy, and shelter. + Their doors, their hearths, and their hearts have been open to us, and + that, too, in a truly Christian spirit. Let us, then, render them good for + good; let us pray for their conversion, and that they may return to the + right path.” + </p> + <p> + “They have acted generously and nobly,” added Reilly, “and in a truly + Christian spirit. Were it not for the shelter and protection which I + myself received from one of them, my mangled body would probably be + huddled down into some obscure grave, as a felon, and my property—which + is mine only by a necessary fiction and evasion of the law—have + passed into the hands of Sir Robert Whitecraft. I am wrong, however, in + saying that it could. Mr. Hastings, a generous and liberal Protestant, + took it in his own name for my father, but gave me a deed of assignment, + placing it as securely in my hands, and in my power, as if I were Sir + Robert Whitecraft himself; and I must add—which I do with pleasure—that + the deed in question is now in the possession of the Rev. Mr. Brown, the + amiable rector of the parish.” + </p> + <p> + “But he is a heretic,” said a red-faced little man, dressed in leather + breeches, top boots, and a huntsman's cap; <i>vade retro sathanas</i>, It + is a damnable crime to have any intercourse with them, or to receive any + protection from them: <i>vade retro, sathanas</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “If I don't mistake,” said the cook—an archdeacon, by the way—“you + yourself received protection from them, and were glad to receive it.” + </p> + <p> + “If I did receive protection from one of their heretic parsons, it was for + Christian purposes. My object was not so much to seek protection from him + as to work out his salvation by withdrawing him from his heresy. But then + the fellow was as obstinate as <i>sathanas</i> himself, and had Greek and + Hebrew at his fingers' ends. I made several passes at him—tried + Irish, and told him it was Italian. 'Well,' said he, smiling, 'I + understand Italian too;' and to my astonishment he addressed me in the + best Irish I ever heard spoken. 'Now,' said he, still smiling, 'you + perceive that I understand Italian nearly—I will not say so well—as + you do.' Now, as I am a sinner, that, I say, was ungenerous treatment. He + was perfectly irreclaimable.” + </p> + <p> + This man was, like Mr. Maguire, what has been termed a hedge-priest—a + character which, as we have already said, the poverty of the Catholic + people, during the existence of the penal laws, and the consequent want of + spiritual instruction, rendered necessary. There were no Catholic colleges + in the country, and the result was that the number of foreign priests—by + which I mean Irish priests educated in foreign colleges—was utterly + inadequate to meet the spiritual necessities of the Irish population. + Under those circumstances, men of good and virtuous character, who + understood something of the Latin tongue, were ordained by their + respective bishops, for the purpose which we have already mentioned. But + what a difference was there between those half-educated men and the class + of educated clergymen who now adorn, not only their Church, but the + literature of the country! + </p> + <p> + “Well, my dear friend,” said the bishop, “let us be thankful for the + protection which, we have received at the hands of the Protestant clergy + and of many of the Protestant laity also. We now separate, and I for one + am sensible how much this cruel persecution has strengthened the bonds of + Christian love among us, and excited our sympathy for our poor persecuted + flocks, so many of whom are now without a shepherd. I leave you with tears—but + they are tears of affection, and not of despair. I shall endeavor to be + useful wherever I may abide. Let each of you do all the spiritual good you + can—all the earthly good—all good in its most enlarged and + purest sense. But we must separate—probably, some of us, forever; + and now may the blessing of the Almighty God—of the Father, Son, and + Holy Ghost, rest upon you all, and be with you and abide in your hearts, + now and forever! Amen!” + </p> + <p> + Having pronounced these words, he covered his face with his two hands and + wept bitterly. There were indeed few dry eyes around him; they knelt + before him, kissed his ring, and prepared to take their departure out of + the cavern. + </p> + <p> + “My lord,” said Reilly, who still entertained apprehensions of the return + of his malady, “if you will permit me I shall share your fate, whatever it + may be. The poor people you allude to are not in a condition to attend to + your wants. Allow me, then, to attend and accompany you in your retreat.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear friend,” said the bishop, clasping his hand, “you are heaping + coals of fire upon my head. I trust you will forgive me, for I knew not + what I did. I shall be glad of your companionship. I fear I still stand in + need of such a friend. Be it so, then,” he proceeded—“be it so, my + dear friend; only that I should not wish you to involve yourself in + unnecessary danger on my account.” + </p> + <p> + “Danger, my lord!” replied Reilly; “there is not an individual here + against whom personal malignity has directed the vengeance of the law with + such a bloodthirsty and vindictive spirit as against myself. Why else am I + here? No, I will accompany your lordship, and share your fate.” + </p> + <p> + It was so determined, and they left the cavern, each to procure some place + of safety for himself. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, Sir Robert Whitecraft, having had another interview with + Hennessy, was prevailed upon to get a military party together, and the + cunning reprobate, in order to excite the baronet's vengeance to a still + higher pitch, mentioned a circumstance which he had before forgotten, to + wit, that Reilly, his arch-enemy, was also in the cave. + </p> + <p> + “But,” said Sir Robert, who, as we have already said, was a poltroon and a + coward, “what guarantee can you give me that you are not leading me into + an ambuscade? You know that I am unpopular, and the Papists would be + delighted to have my blood; what guarantee, then, can you give me that + you, are acting by me in good faith?” + </p> + <p> + “The guarantee of my own life,” replied the other. “Let me be placed + between two of your men, and if you see any thing like an ambuscade, let + them shoot me dead on the spot.” + </p> + <p> + “Why,” replied the baronet, “that is fair; but the truth is, I have been + put on my guard against you by a person who escorted me home last night. + He rendered me some assistance when I fell from my horse, and he slept + here.” + </p> + <p> + “What is his name?” asked Hennessy. + </p> + <p> + “He told me,” replied the baronet, “that his name was Drum.” + </p> + <p> + “Could you give me a description, Sir Robert, of his person?” + </p> + <p> + Sir Robert did so. + </p> + <p> + “I declare to God, Sir Robert, you have had a narrow escape from that man. + He is one of the most bigoted priests in the kingdom. He used to disguise + himself as a drummer—for his father was in the army, and he himself + was a drummer in his boyhood; and his object in preventing you from + bringing a military party to the cavern was merely that he might have an + opportunity of giving them notice of your intentions. I now say that if + you lose an hour's time they will be gone.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Robert did not lose an hour's time. The local barracks were within a + few hundred yards of his house. A party of military were immediately + called out, and in a short time they arrived, under the guidance of + Hennessy, to the very mouth of the cavern, which he disclosed to them. It + is unnecessary to detail the particulars of the search. The soldiers + entered it one by one, but found that the birds had flown. The very fires + were burning, but not a living soul in the cave; it was completely + deserted, and nothing remained but some miserable relics of cold + provisions, with which, by the aid of fir splices, that served as torches, + they regaled themselves as far as they went. + </p> + <p> + Sir Robert Whitecraft now felt full confidence in Hennessy; but would have + given a trifle to renew his acquaintance with Mr. Rowland Drum, by whose + ingenuity he was so completely outwitted. As it was, they scoured the + country in search of the inmates of the cave, but above all things in + search of Reilly, for whose capture Whitecraft would have forgiven every + man in the cavern. The search, however, was unsuccessful; not a man of + them was caught that day, and gallant Sir Robert and his myrmidons were + obliged to return wearied and disappointed men. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII.—Reilly is Taken, but Connived at by the Sheriff + </h2> + <h3> + —The Mountain Mass + </h3> + <p> + Reilly and the bishop traversed a wild and remote part of the country, in + which there was nothing to be seen but long barren wastes, over which were + studded, here and there, a few solitary huts; upon its extremity, however, + there were some houses of a more comfortable description, the habitations + of middling farmers, who possessed small farms at a moderate rent. As they + went along, the prelate addressed Reilly in the following-terms: + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Reilly,” said he, “I would advise you to get out of this unhappy + country as soon as you can.” + </p> + <p> + “My lord,” replied Reilly, who was all candor and truth, and never could + conceal his sentiments, at whatever risk, “I cannot think of leaving the + country, let the consequences be what they may. I will not trouble your + lordship with my motives, because they are at variance with your character + and religious feelings; but they are not at variance with religion or + morality. It is enough to say that I wish to prevent a beautiful and + innocent girl from being sacrificed. My lord, you know too well that + persecution is abroad; and when I tell you that, through the influence + which this admirable creature has over her father—who, by the way, + has himself the character of a persecutor—many Catholics have been + protected by him, I am sure you will not blame me for the interest which I + feel in her fate. In addition to this, my lord, she has been a ministering + angel to the Catholic poor in general, and has contributed vast sums, + privately, to the relief of such of our priesthood as have been brought to + distress by the persecution of the times. Nay, she has so far influenced + her father that proscribed priests have found refuge and protection in his + house.” + </p> + <p> + The bishop, on hearing this, stood, and taking off his hat, raised his + right hand, and said: “May the blessing of the Almighty God rest upon her, + and guard her from the snares of those who would make her unhappy! But, + Reilly, as you say you are determined, if possible, to rescue her from + ruin, you know that if you go at large in your usual dress you will + unquestionably be taken. I advise you, then, to disguise yourself in such + a way as that you will not, if possible, be known.” + </p> + <p> + “Such, my lord, is my intention—but who is this? what—eh—yes, + 'tis Fergus O'Reilly, a distant and humble relation of mine who is also in + disguise. Well, Fergus, where have you been for some time past?” + </p> + <p> + “It would be difficult to tell that, God knows; I have been everywhere—but,” + he added in a whisper, “may I speak freely?” + </p> + <p> + “As free as the wind that blows, Fergus.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, I tell you that Sir Robert Whitecraft has engaged me to be on + the lookout for you, and said that I would be handsomely rewarded if I + could succeed in enabling the scoundrel to apprehend you.” + </p> + <p> + “But how did that come about, Fergus?” + </p> + <p> + “Faith, he met me one day—you see I have got a bag at my back—and + taking me for a beggarman, stopped me on the road. 'I say, you, poor + man,' says he, 'what's your name?' 'Paddy M'Fud,' says I—'I belong to + the M'Fuds of Ballymackknockem.' 'You're a beggar,' says he, 'and travel + from place to place about the country.' 'It's true enough, your honor,' I + replied, 'I travel about a good deal, of coorse, and it's only that way + that I get my bit and sup.' 'Do you know the notorious villain called + Willy Reilly'?' 'Not by sight, your honor, but I have often heard of him. + Wasn't he in love with the beautiful <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, Squire + Folliard's daughter?' 'That's not the question between us,' he said, 'but + if you enable me to catch Reilly, I will give you twenty pounds.' 'Well, + your honor,' says I, 'lave the thing to myself; if he is to be had it'll + go hard but I'll find him.' 'Well, then,' says he, 'if you can tell me + where he is I will give you twenty pounds, as I said.' 'Well, sir,' says + I, 'I expect to hear from you; I am not sure he's in the country—indeed + they say he is not—but if he is, I think I'll find him for you;' and + so we parted.” + </p> + <p> + “Fergus,” said Reilly, “I feel that a disguise is necessary. Here is money + to enable you to purchase one. I do not know where you may be able to find + me; but go and buy me a suit of frieze, rather worn, a dingy caubeen hat, + coarse Connemara stockings, and a pair of clouted brogues; some course + linen, too; because the fineness of my shirts, should I happen to be + apprehended, might betray me. Leave them with widow Buckley, and I can + find them there.” + </p> + <p> + It was so arranged. Fergus went on his way, as did Reilly and the bishop. + The latter conducted him to the house of a middling farmer, whose son the + bishop had sent, at his own expense, to a continental college. They were + both received with the warmest affection, and, so far as the bishop was + concerned, with every expression of the deepest gratitude. The situation + was remote, and the tumult of pursuit did not, reach them. Reilly + privately forced upon the farmer compensation for their support, under a + solemn injunction that he should not communicate that circumstance to the + bishop, and neither did he. They were here, then, comparatively safe, but + still Reilly dreaded the active vigilance of his deadly enemy, Sir Robert + Whitecraft. He felt that a disguise was absolutely necessary, and that, + without it, he might fall a sacrifice to the diabolical vengeance of his + powerful enemy. In the course of about ten days after he had commissioned + Fergus to procure him the disguise, he resolved to visit widow Buckley, in + order to make the necessary exchange in his apparel. He accordingly set + out—very foolishly we must admit—in open day, to go to the + widow's house. The distance was some miles. No appearance of danger, or + pursuit, was evident, until he came to the sharp angle of the road, where + he was met by four powerful constables, who, on looking at him, + immediately surrounded him and made him prisoner. Resistance was + impossible; they were well armed, and he was without any weapon with which + he could defend himself. + </p> + <p> + “We have a warrant for your apprehension, sir,” said one of them. + </p> + <p> + “Upon what grounds?” replied Reilly. “I am conscious of no offence against + the laws of the land. Do you know who I am? and is my name in your + warrant?” + </p> + <p> + “No, but your appearance answers completely to the description given in + the <i>Hue and Cry</i>. Your dress is the same as that of the robber, and + you must come with us to the sheriff whom you have robbed. His house is + only a quarter of a mile from this.” + </p> + <p> + They accordingly proceeded to the sheriff's house, whom they found at + home. On being informed that they had captured the man “who had robbed + him, he came downstairs with great alacrity, and in a spirit replete with + vengeance against the robber. The sheriff, however, was really a + good-natured and conscientious man, and would not lend himself to a + dishonorable act, nor had he ever been known to do so. When he appeared, + Reilly addressed him: + </p> + <p> + “I am here, sir,” said he, “under a charge of having robbed you. The + charge against me is ridiculous. I am a gentleman, and never was under the + necessity of having recourse to such unlawful means of raising money.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” replied the sheriff, “your dress is precisely the same as the + fellow wore when he robbed me. But I feel confident that you are not the + man. Your hair is black, his was red, and he had large red whiskers. In + the excitement and agitation of the moment I forgot to mark the villain's + features distinctly; but I have since thought over the matter, and I say + that I would now know him if I saw him again. This, however,” he added, + turning—to the constables, “is not the person who robbed and beat me + down from my horse.” + </p> + <p> + “But he may be Willy Reilly, sir, for all that; and you know the reward + that is offered for his apprehension.” + </p> + <p> + “I know Willy Reilly,” replied the sheriff, “and I can assure you that + this gentleman is not Willy Reilly. Go, now, continue your pursuit. The + robber lurks somewhere in the neighborhood. You know the reward; catch + him, and you shall have it.” The constables departed; and after they had + gone the sheriff said, “Mr. Reilly, I know you well; but I would scorn to + avail myself of the circumstance which has thus occurred. I am aware of + the motive which urges Sir Robert Whitecraft against you—so is the + whole country. That penurious and unprincipled villain is thirsting for + your blood. Mr. Hastings, however, has a rod in pickle for him, and he + will be made to feel it in the course of time. The present administration + is certainly an anti-Catholic one; but I understand it is tottering, and + that a more liberal one will come in. This Whitecraft has succeeded in + getting some young profligate Catholics to become Protestants, who have, + consequently, ousted their fathers out of their estates and property; + younger sons, who, by this act of treachery, will get the estates into + their own possession. The thing is monstrous and unnatural. But let that + pass; Whitecraft is on our trail in all directions; beware of him, I say; + and I think, with great respect to you, Mr. Reilly, it is extremely + foolish to go abroad in your usual apparel, and without disguise.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” replied Reilly, “I cannot express, as I would wish, my deep + gratitude to you for your kindness and forbearance. That Sir Robert + Whitecraft is thirsting for my blood I know. The cause of that vengeance + is now notorious.” + </p> + <p> + “You know Mr. Hastings, Mr. Reilly?” + </p> + <p> + “Intimately, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “He took your property in his own name?” + </p> + <p> + “He did, sir; he purchased it in his own name. The property was hereditary + property, and when my title to it, in point of law, as a Catholic, was + questioned, and when one of my family, as a Protestant, put in his claim + for it, Mr. Hastings came in as the purchaser, and ousted him. The money + was supplied by me. The moment, however, that I found Whitecraft was after + me, I immediately surrendered the whole of it back to him; so that Sir + Robert, in burning what he considered my property, in fact burned Mr. + Hastings.” + </p> + <p> + “And I have reason to know, Mr. Reilly, that it will be the blackest act + of his guilty life. This, however, I mention to you in the strictest + confidence. Keep the secret, for if it transpired the scoundrel might + escape from the consequences of his own cruelty and oppression. In the + meantime, do you take care of yourself—keep out of his way, and, as + I said, above all things, procure a disguise. Let the consequences be what + they may, I don't think the beautiful <i>Cooleen Baum</i> will ever marry + him.” + </p> + <p> + “But,” replied Reilly, “is there no risk of compulsion by her father?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, I must confess there is,” replied the sheriff; “he is obstinate and + headstrong, especially if opposed, and she will find it necessary to + oppose him—and she will oppose him. I myself have had a conversation + with her on the subject, and she is firm as fate against such a union; and + I will tell you more, Reilly—it was she who principally engaged me + to protect you as far as I could, and so I shall, you may rest assured of + it. I had only to name you a few minutes ago, and your fate was sealed. + But, even if she had never spoken to me on the subject, I could not fend + myself to the cruel plots of that villain. God knows, in consequence of my + official situation, I am put upon tasks that are very painful to me; + levying fines from men who are harmless and inoffensive, who are peaceable + members of society, who teach the people to be moral, well-conducted, and + obedient to the laws, and who do not themselves violate them. Now,” he + added, “be advised by me, and disguise yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” said Reilly, “your sentiments do you honor; I am this moment on my + way to put on a disguise, which has been procured for me. I agree with you + and other friends that it would be impossible for me to remain in the + country in my own natural aspect and dress. Allow me, before I go, to + express my sense of your kindness, and believe me I shall never forget + it.” + </p> + <p> + “The disguise, above all things,” said the sheriff, smiling and holding + out his hand. Reilly seized it with a warm pressure; they bid each other + farewell, and so they parted. + </p> + <p> + Reilly then wound his way to the cottage of Mrs. Buckle, but not by the + public road. He took across the fields, and, in due time, reached her + humble habitation. Here he found the disguise, which his friend Fergus had + provided-a half-worn frieze coat, a half-worn caubeen, and a half-worn + pair of corduroy breeches, clouted brogues, and Connemara stockings, also + the worse for the wear, with two or three coarse shirts, in perfect + keeping with, the other portion of the disguise. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mrs. Buckley,” said he, “how have you been since I saw you last?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, then, Mr. Reilly,” said she, “it's a miracle from God that you did + not think of stopping here! I had several visits from the sogers who came + out to look for you.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I suppose so, Mrs. Buckley; but it was one comfort that they did + not find me.” + </p> + <p> + “God be praised for that!” replied the poor woman, with tears in her eyes; + “it would a' broken my heart if you had been catched in my little place.” + </p> + <p> + “But, Mrs. Buckley,” said Reilly, “were there any plain clothes left for + me here?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, indeed there was, sir,” she replied, “and I have them safe for you; + but, in the meantime, I'll go outside, and have an eye about the country, + for somehow they have taken it into their heads that this would be a very + likely place to find you.” + </p> + <p> + While she was out, Reilly changed his dress, and in a few minutes + underwent such a metamorphosis that poor Mrs. Buckley, on reentering the + house, felt quite alarmed. + </p> + <p> + “Heavenly Father! my good man, where did you come from? I thought I left + Mr. —” here she stopped, afraid to mention Reilly's name. + </p> + <p> + “Don't be alarmed, Mrs. Buckley,” said Reilly; “I am only changed in + outward appearance; I am your true friend still; and now accept this for + your kindness,” placing money in her hand. + </p> + <p> + “I can't, Mr. Reilly; you are under the persecutions, and will want all + the money you have to support yourself. Didn't the thieves of the devil + burn you out and rob you, and how can you get through this wicked world + without money—keep it yourself, for I don't want it.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, come, Mrs. Buckley, I have money enough; you must take this; I only + ask you to conceal these clothes in some place where the hell-hounds of + the law can't find them. And now, good-by, Mrs. Buckley; I shall take care + that, whatever may happen me, you shall not be disturbed out of your + little cabin and your garden.” + </p> + <p> + The tears ran down the poor old woman's cheeks, and Reilly left her + sobbing and crying behind him. This indeed was an eventful day to him, + Strong in the confidence of his disguise, he took the public road, and had + not gone far when he met a party of Sir Robert Whitecraft's. To fly would + have been instant ruin; he accordingly commenced an old Irish song at the + very top of his lungs. Sir Robert Whitecraft was not himself of the party, + but scarcely any individual was met by them whom they did not + cross-examine. + </p> + <p> + “Hallo, my good fellow,” said the leader of the party, “what is that + you're singin'?” + </p> + <p> + Reilly stared at him like a man who was sorely puzzled; “<i>Ha neil bearla + agum;</i>” that is, “I have no English.” + </p> + <p> + “Here, Connor, you can speak Irish; sift this able-bodied tyke.” + </p> + <p> + A conversation in that language then took place between them which + reflected everlasting honor upon Connor, who, by the way, was one of + Reilly's tenants, but himself and his progenitors were Protestants for + three generations. He was a sharp, keen man, but generous and honorable, + and after two or three glances at our hero, at once recognized him. This + he could only intimate by a wink, for he knew that there were other + persons there who spoke Irish as well as either of them. The dialogue, + however, was not long, neither was it kind-hearted Connor's wish that it + should be so. He was asked, however, if he knew any thing about Willy + Reilly, to which he replied that he did not, only by all accounts he had + left the country. This, indeed, was the general opinion. + </p> + <p> + “This blockhead,” said Connor, “knows nothing about him, only what he has + heard; he's a pig dealer, and is now on his way to the fair of Sligo; come + on.” + </p> + <p> + They passed onwards, and Reilly resumed his journey and his song. + </p> + <p> + On reaching the farmer's house where he and the bishop lodged, the unhappy + prelate felt rather annoyed, at the appearance of a stranger, and was + about to reprove their host for his carelessness in admitting such + persons. + </p> + <p> + “What do you want here, my good man?” inquired the farmer. + </p> + <p> + “Do you wish to say anything to me?” asked the bishop. + </p> + <p> + “A few words,” replied Reilly; but, on consideration, he changed his + purpose of playing off a good-humored joke on his lordship and the farmer. + For the melancholy prelate he felt the deepest compassion and respect, and + apprehended that any tampering with his feelings might be attended with + dangerous consequences to his intellect. He consequently changed his + purpose, and added, “My lord, don't you know me?” + </p> + <p> + The bishop looked at him, and it was not without considerable scrutiny + that he recognized him. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime the farmer, who had left the room previous to this + explanation, and who looked upon Reilly as an impostor or a spy, returned + with a stout oaken cudgel, exclaiming, “Now, you damned desaver, I will + give you a jacketful of sore bones for comin' to pry about here. This + gintleman is a doctor; three of my family are lying ill of faver, and that + you may catch it I pray gorra this day! but if you won't catch that, + you'll catch this,” and he whirled the cudgel about his head, and most + unquestionably it would have descended on Reilly s cranium were it not for + the bishop, who interposed and prevented the meditated violence. + </p> + <p> + “Be quiet, Kelly,” said he, “be quiet, sir; this is Mr. Reilly disguised.” + </p> + <p> + “Troth, I must look closely at him first,” replied Kelly; “who knows but + he's imposin' upon you, Dr. Wilson?” + </p> + <p> + Kelly then looked closely into his face, still holding a firm grip of the + cudgel. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Kelly,” said Reilly, “what the deuce are you at? Don't you know my + voice at least?” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” replied Kelly, “bad luck to the like o' that ever I see. Holy + Moses, Mr. Reilly, but you had a narrow escape, Devil a man in the barony + can handle a cudgel as I can, and it was a miracle, and you may thank his + lordship here for it that you hadn't a shirtful of sore bones.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, my dear friend,” said Reilly, “put up your cudgel; I really don't + covet a shirtful of sore bones; but, after all, perhaps you would have + found my fist a match for your cudgel.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense!” replied Kelly; “but God be praised that you escaped the + welting anyhow; I would never forgive myself, and you the friend of his + lordship.” + </p> + <p> + He then left the room, his terrific cudgel under his arm, and Reilly, + after his absence, related to the bishop the events of the day, involving, + as they did, the two narrow escapes which he had had. The bishop thanked + God, and told Reilly to be of good courage, for that he thought the hand + of Providence was protecting him. + </p> + <p> + The life they led here was, at all events, quiet and peaceable. The bishop + was a man of singular, indeed of apostolic, piety. He spent most of the + day in meditation and prayer; fasting beyond the powers of his enfeebled + constitution: and indeed it was fortunate that Reilly had accompanied him, + for so ascetic were his habits that were it not for his entreaties, and + the influence which he had gained over him, it is not at all unlikely that + his unfortunate malady might have returned. The neighborhood in which they + resided was, as wo have said, remote, and exclusively Catholic; and upon + Sundays the bishop celebrated mass upon a little grassy platform—or + rather in a little cave, into which it led. This cave was small, barely + large enough to contain a table, which served as a temporary altar, the + poor shivering congregation kneeling on the platform outside. At this + period of our story all the Catholic chapels and places of worship were, + as we have said, closed by proclamation, and the poor people were deprived + of the means of meeting to worship God. It had soon, however, become known + to them that an opportunity of public worship was to be had every Sunday, + at the place we have described. + </p> + <p> + Messengers had been sent among them with information to that effect; and + the consequence was that they not only kept the secret, but flocked in + considerable numbers to attend mass. On the Sunday following the adoption + of Reilly's disguise, the bishop and he proceeded to the little cave, or + rather cleft, where a table had been placed, together with the vestments + necessary for the ceremony. They found about two or three hundred persons + assembled—most of them of the humblest class. The day was stormy in + the extreme. It was a hard frost, and the snow, besides, falling heavily, + the wind strong, and raging in hollow gusts about the place. The position + of the table-altar, however, saved the bishop and the chalice, and the + other matters necessary for the performance of worship, from the direct + fury of the blast, but not altogether; for occasionally a whirlwind would + come up, and toss over the leaves of the missal in such a way, and with + such violence, that the bishop, who was now trembling from the cold, was + obliged to lose some time in finding out the proper passages. It was a + solemn sight to see two or three hundred persons kneeling, and bent in + prostrate and heartfelt adoration, in the pious worship of that God who + sends and withholds the storm; bareheaded, too, under the piercing drift + of the thick-falling granular snow, and thinking of nothing but their own + sins, and that gladsome opportunity of approaching the forbidden altar of + God, now doubly dear to them that it ivas forbidden. As the ceremony was + proceeding the bishop was getting on to that portion of the sacred rites + where the consecration and elevation of the Host are necessary, and it was + observed by all that an extraordinary and sudden lull took place, and that + the rage of the storm had altogether ceased. He proceeded, and had + consecrated the Host—hoc est corpus meum—when cry of terror + arose from the affrighted congregation. + </p> + <p> + “Mylord, fly, and save yourself! Captain Smellpriest and his gang are upon + us.” + </p> + <p> + The bishop never once turned round, nor seemed to hear them; but Reilly + did, and saw that the whole congregation had fled, and that there only + remained the bishop and himself. + </p> + <p> + “Our day of doom,” said he to himself, “is come. Nothing now can save us.” + </p> + <p> + Still the bishop proceeded undisturbed in the worship of the Almighty; + when, lo! the military party, headed and led on by the notorious Captain + Smellpriest, came thundering up, the captain exclaiming: + </p> + <p> + “You idolatrous Papist, stop that mummery—or you shall have twelve + bullets in your heart before half a minute's time.” + </p> + <p> + The bishop had consecrated the Host, as we have said, but had not yet had + time to receive it. + </p> + <p> + “Men,” said Smellpriest, “you are all primed and loaded. Present.” + </p> + <p> + They accordingly did so; every musket was levelled at him. The bishop now + turned round, and, with the calmness of a martyr—a calmness and + conduct that were sublime—he said: + </p> + <p> + “Sir, I am engaged in the worship of the Eternal God, and if you wish to + shed my blood I should rather it were here and now than in any other + place. Give me but a few minutes—I do not ask more.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh,” said Smellpriest, “we will give you ten, if you wish it, and the + more so because we are sure of you.” + </p> + <p> + When the bishop turned round again, after having received the Host, his + pale face had altogether changed its complexion—it burned with an + expression which it is difficult to describe. A lofty sense of the + sacrifice he was about to make was visible in his kindling and + enthusiastic eye; his feeble frame, that had been, dining the ceremony of + mass, shivering under the effects of the terrible storm that howled around + them, now became firm, and not the slightest mark of fear or terror was + visible in his bearing; calmly and undauntedly he turned round, and with a + voice full and steady he said: + </p> + <p> + “I am willing to die for my religion, but I say to you that the slaughter + of an inoffensive man at the foot of God's altar will not smooth the + pillow of your deathbed, nor of those who shoot down a minister of God + while in the act of worshipping his Creator, My congregation, poor timid + creatures, have fled, but as for me, I will not! I dare not! Here, now, I + spread out my arms—fire!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0008" id="linkimage-0008"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img src="images/page091.jpg" + alt="Page 91-- Here, Now, I Spread out My Arms--fire! " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + “I also,” said Reilly, “will partake of whatever fate may befall the + venerable clergyman who is before you,” and he stood up side by side with + the bishop. + </p> + <p> + The guns were still levelled, the fingers of the men on the triggers, when + Smellpriest shouted out, “Ground arms! By —-,” says he, “here is a + new case; this fellow has spunk and courage, and curse me, although I give + the priests a chase wherever I can, still I am a soldier, and a man of + courage, and to shoot down a priest in the worship of God would be + cowardly. No, I can't do it—nor I won't; I like pluck, and this + priest has shown it. Had he taken to his heels, by —-, he would have + had half a dozen bullets in his rear; but, as I said, I like pluck, and on + that account we shall pass him by this time. To the right about. As to the + clerk, by —-, he has shown pluck too, but be hanged to him, what do + we care about him?” + </p> + <p> + We must say a word or two here about Smellpriest. He was, in the true + sense of the word, a priest-hunter; but yet, with all his bigotry, he was + a brave man, and could appreciate courage wherever he found it. The reader + already knows that his range of persecution was by no means either so wide + or so comprehensive as that of the coward Whitecraft. He was a dashing, + outspoken fellow, with an equal portion of boisterous folly and mischief; + whereas Whitecraft was a perfect snake—treacherous, cruel, + persevering in his enmity, and unrelenting in his vengeance. Such was the + difference in the character of these two worthies. + </p> + <p> + After Smellpriest had drawn off his men, the bishop concluded the ceremony + of the mass; but when he turned round to announce its conclusion in the + words, <i>ite, missa est</i>, there was not a soul before him, the + terrified congregation, as we have said, having all betaken themselves to + flight. Reilly then assisted him to unrobe, and placed the vestments, the + chalice, pix, and every thing connected with the ceremony, in a pair of + saddle-bags, which belonged to the parish priest, whose altar was then + closed, as we said, by proclamation. + </p> + <p> + Reilly and the bishop then proceeded to the farmer's house, Reilly + carrying the saddlebags, and as they went along the following conversation + took place between them: + </p> + <p> + “My lord,” said his companion, “if I might presume to advise you, I think + it would be more prudent for you to retire to the Continent for a time. + This ferocious captain, who, subdued by the sublime tenor of your conduct, + spared you on this occasion, may not under other and less impressive + circumstances, exercise a similar forbearance.” + </p> + <p> + “But, my dear Reilly,” replied the bishop, in a tone of deep melancholy, + “I am not in circumstances to go to the Continent; I am poor; most of my + available money I have distributed among the unhappy people, until I am + now nearly as poor as themselves; but, independently of that, I do not + think it would be right to abandon the charge which God has entrusted to + my keeping. The shepherd should not desert his flock, especially in the + moment of danger, when the wolves ire abroad.” + </p> + <p> + “But, my lord,” replied Reilly, “under the present circumstances of the + country your residence here can be of no service to them. The chapels are + all closed, and public worship forbidden by law. This cannot, and, I hope, + will not, last long; but in the meantime, think if it be not wiser in you + to go for a time into what I may call a voluntary exile, than be forced + into banishment by a cruel edict of the law, as you will be if you should + be discovered.” + </p> + <p> + “There is great truth in what you say, my dear Reilly, and on thinking + over the circumstances of the country, I am indeed of opinion that your + advice is good; but, unfortunately, my present poverty prevents me from + acting on it.” + </p> + <p> + “But that shall not be, my lord; I have the means—amply, too—of + enabling your lordship to withdraw to the Continent, where you can remain + quite safe until better times return, as I hope in God they will soon.” + </p> + <p> + “And yourself, Reilly? why not accompany me? You, it is said, are + outlawed; why then remain in a country where your danger is still greater + than mine?” + </p> + <p> + “My lord,” replied Reilly, “do not press me on that subject.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not wish to do so, Reilly; but here are the circumstances: you and + the beautiful daughter of that old squire are attached—in other + words, you love each other passionately. Now, you know, marriage is + impossible, unless you should abandon the creed of your fathers.” + </p> + <p> + “I think, my lord,” replied Reilly, in a very serious and somewhat + offended tone, “that my conduct this day, and within the last half hour, + was not that of a man likely to abandon the creed of his fathers.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not—most certainly not,” replied the bishop. “I would + have died this day for my religion, and so would you.” + </p> + <p> + “And so would I certainly, my lord, any day, sooner than renounce it for + the love of woman. So far let your lordship's mind be at rest. But in the + meantime, let me impress upon your lordship's consideration the absolute + necessity of retiring to the Continent for a time. Your lordship's charity + has made you poor; but, thank God, I am not poor—but in a position + to place £200 in your hands to enable you to bear the expenses of your + voyage, and to maintain your ecclesiastical rank and position for a time, + when you get there.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh,” replied the bishop, “if I were once there, very little money would + be necessary; I could almost immediately get a professorship of divinity, + especially in the College of Louvain, where I held a professorship for + several years.” + </p> + <p> + It was arranged that the bishop should go, at least until the times should + change, and in the course of a week, Reilly having furnished him with the + necessary funds, he departed and reached the Continent in safety. + </p> + <p> + Their separation was extremely affecting. The bishop wept bitterly, not + only in consequence of his parting with Reilly, but still more because he + was forced to separate himself from his flock. Reilly was deeply affected, + nor could he restrain his tears. The bishop put his hand on his head and + blessed him. “I feel,” said he, “as if it were a prophetic impulse, that + God will bring you out of the tribulations that encompass you. Forget not + his word nor his law; love and adhere to your religion; be guided by its + precepts, let them sink deeply into your heart. Take care, also, that the + love of woman shall not seduce you from your allegiance to our Church. And + now, may the Almighty God bless and protect you, and rescue you from the + hands and the snares of your enemies!” And so they parted. + </p> + <p> + No stronger proof could exist, so far as the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> was + concerned, than her extraordinary power of conciliating love and + attachment from all who approached her, or were engaged in attending upon + her person. The singular softness of her sweet and mellow voice was in + itself an exponent of the remarkable suavity and benignity of her + disposition. In fact, she carried a charm about her—an atmosphere of + kindness and benevolence that no human being who came within its influence + could resist. Her smile was a perfect fascination, which, in addition to + her elegance of form—her grace and harmony of motion—her + extensive charity—her noble liberality of sentiment—and, above + all, her dazzling beauty, constituted a character which encircled her with + admiration and something almost bordering on worship. + </p> + <p> + At this time a scheme came into the fertile brain of Whitecraft, worthy of + being concocted only in the infernal pit itself. This was to prevail on + the squire to remove her faithful, attached, and confidential maid, Ellen + Connor, from about her person, under the plea that as, unfortunately, Miss + Folliard had been seduced into an affection for Reilly, it was not only + probable that her attendant had originated and encouraged her passion, but + that it was also likely that, as Reilly was a Catholic, Connor, the + confidant, being herself of that persuasion, might so work upon the + feelings and principles of his daughter as to induce her, for the sake of + the more easily bringing about their marriage, to abandon her own + religion, and embrace that of her lover. The old man became instantly + alarmed, and, with his usual fiery impetuosity, lost not a moment in + dismissing her altogether from his family. + </p> + <p> + When this faithful girl found that she was about to be separated from her + fair and affectionate young mistress, no language could depict the + violence of her grief, nor could that mistress herself refuse the tribute + of her tears to her sense of the loss which she knew she must sustain by + her absence at a crisis when she stood so much in need of her friendship + and attachment. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! it is not for myself, my dear mistress, that I feel this grief,” + exclaimed Connor, weeping bitterly as she spoke, “but for you. Here you + will be alone,” she proceeded, “without one being on whom you can depend, + or to whom you can open your heart—for many a time you eased that + poor heart by telling me of your love for him, and by dwellin' upon his + accomplishments and beauty—and, indeed, it's no wonder you should, + for where, oh! where is his aiquil to be found? Like yourself, every one + that comes near him must love him; and, like you, again, isn't he charity + itself to the poor, no matter what their creed may be—oh, no! it's + he that is neither the bigot nor the oppressor, although God he knows what + he himself is sufferin' from both. God's curse on that blasted Sir Robert + Whitecraft! I declare to mercy, I think, if I was a man, that I'd shoot + him, like a mad dog, and free the country of him at wanst.” + </p> + <p> + The Cooleen was herself in tears, occasioned by such a glowing picture of + her lover, as well as by the loss of this faithful and devoted girl. Yet + she could not repress a smile at the indignation expressed by Ellen + against the man whom she looked upon with such detestation and abhorrence, + </p> + <p> + “My dear Ellen,” said she, drying her tears, “we must only have patience. + Every thing is in the hands of God, and in him let us trust. Do not weep + so. It is true that, without your society, I shall feel as if I were in a + desert, or rather, I should say, in a dungeon; for, indeed, I fear that I + am about to become a prisoner in my father's house, and entangled more and + more every day in the meshes of that detestable villain. In the meantime, + we must, as I said, have courage and patience, and trust to a change of + circumstances for better times.” + </p> + <p> + “May the Lord in heaven grant them soon and sudden, for both your sakes,” + ejaculated Ellen. “I pray the Saviour that he may!” + </p> + <p> + “But, Ellen,” said the Cooleen, “didn't you hint to me, once or twice, + that you yourself have, or had, a lover named Reilly!” + </p> + <p> + “I did,” she replied, “not that I have, but that I had—and, what is + more, an humble and distant relation of him.” + </p> + <p> + “You say you had. What do you mean by that, Ellen? Have you, too, + experienced your crosses and calamities?” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, ma'am, I have had my share; and I know too well what it is to + have the heart within as full of sorrow, and all but broken.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, my poor girl, and have you too experienced disappointment and + affliction?” + </p> + <p> + “God, ma'am, has given me my share; but, in my case, the affliction was + greater than the disappointment, although that too came soon enough upon + me.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, did not the affliction, in your case, proceed from the + disappointment?” + </p> + <p> + “Not exactly, miss, but indeed partly it did. It's but a short story, my + dear mistress, and I'll tell it to you. Fergus is his name—Fergus + O'Reilly. His father, for doin' something or other contrary to the laws—harborin' + some outlaw, I believe, that was a relation of his own, and who was found + by the army in his house—well, his father, a very ould man, was + taken prisoner, and put into jail, where he died before they could try + him; and well it was he did so, for, by all accounts, they'd have + transported or hanged the poor ould man, who was then past seventy. Now, + over and above that, they'd have done the same thing with his son Fergus, + but that he disappeared and but few knows what became of him.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, did he go without having had an interview with you?” asked the + Cooleen. + </p> + <p> + “Indeed he did, miss, and small blame to him; for the truth is, he had + little time for leave-takin'—it was as much as he could do to make + his escape, which, thank God, he did. But, indeed, I oughtn't to thank God + for it, I doubt, because it would have been better, and ten times more + creditable to himself, if he had been transported, or hanged himself—for + that, ma'am, is many a good man's case, as every one knows.” + </p> + <p> + “I agree with you, Ellen. There is, indeed, a most essential difference + between flagitious crimes, such as theft, robbery, murder, and other + dreadful outrages of that character, and those which may be termed + offences arising from political opinions, which are often honestly + entertained by individuals who, in all the relations of life, are + sometimes the most exemplary members of society. But proceed, Ellen—what + was the result?” + </p> + <p> + Poor Ellen's eyes filled with tears, and she could scarcely summon + composure enough to reply: + </p> + <p> + “Worse than transportation or even death, my dear mistress; oh! far worse—guilt + and crime. Yes: he that had gained my affections, and gave me his, joined + the Red Rapparee and his gang, and became—a robber. I was goin' to + say an outlaw, but he was that before he joined them, because he wouldn't + submit to the laws—that is, wouldn't submit to be transported, or + maybe hanged—or you know, ma'am, how little a thing it is that will + either hang or transport any one of our unfortunate creed now.” + </p> + <p> + “Alas! my dear Ellen, you forget that I am a living witness of it, and an + afflicted one; but proceed. Have you ever seen your lover since?” + </p> + <p> + “I did, ma'am, but at that time he mentioned nothing about his havin' + joined the Rapparees. He came, he said, to bid me farewell, and to tell me + that he wasn't worthy of me. 'The stain that's upon me,' said he, 'draws a + gulf between you and me that neither of us can ever pass.' He could + scarcely speak, but he dashed away the tears that came to his eyes—and—and—so + he took his departure. Now, my dear young mistress, you see how well I can + understand your case, and the good reason I have to feel for you, as I do, + and ever will, until God in his mercy may set you both free from what + you're sufferin'.” + </p> + <p> + “But, are you certain, Ellen, that he actually has joined the Rapparees?” + </p> + <p> + “Too sure, ma'am—too sure; my father had it in private from his own + lips, for, as the poor boy said, he hadn't the courage himsell to tell + me.” + </p> + <p> + “But, Ellen,” asked Miss Folliard, “where had you an opportunity of seeing + and becoming acquainted with this young man? You surely could not have + known him, or conceived an attachment for him, previous to your coming to + reside with us?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no, ma'am,” replied Ellen; “it was at my father's I became acquainted + with him, principally whenever I got lave to spend a Sunday at home. And + now, my dear mistress,” she proceeded, sobbing, “I must go—your + poor, faithful Ellen will never let you, nor the thought of your sorrows, + out of her heart. All she can do now is to give you her prayers and her + tears. Farewell! my darlin' mistress—may the blessing of God guard + and prosper you both, and bring you to the happiness you deserve.” She + wept bitterly as she concluded. + </p> + <p> + “Ellen,” replied her mistress, and she paused—“Ellen,” said she + again—she would, indeed, have spoken, but, after a silent struggle, + she covered her eyes with her handkerchief, and was fairly carried away by + her emotions—“Ellen,” said she, taking her hand, and recovering + herself, “be of courage; let neither of us despair—a brighter light + may shine on our path yet. Perhaps I may have it in my power to befriend + you, hereafter. Farewell, Ellen; and if I can prevail on my father to + bring you back, I will.” And so they parted. + </p> + <p> + Connor's father was a tenant of the squire's, and held rather a + comfortable farm of about eighteen or twenty acres. Ellen herself had, + when very young, been, by some accident or other, brought within the + notice of Mrs. Folliard, who, having been struck by her vivacity, neatness + of figure, and good looks, begged permission from her parents to take the + little girl under her care, and train her up to wait upon her daughter. + She had now been eight years in the squire's family—that is, since + her fourteenth—and was only two years older than the <i>Cooleen Baum</i>, + who was now, and had been for the last three years, her only mistress. She + had consequently grown, is it were, into all her habits, and we may justly + say that there was not an individual in existence who had a better + opportunity of knowing and appreciating her good qualities and virtues; + and, what was much to her honor, she never for a moment obtruded her own + private sorrows upon the ear or heart of her mistress, who, she saw, had a + sufficient number of her own to bear. + </p> + <p> + It was late in the evening when she took farewell of her mistress, and + twilight had come on ere she had got within half mile of her father's + house. On crossing a stile which led, by a pathway, to the little hamlet + in which her father lived, she was both surprised and startled by + perceiving Fergus Reilly approach her. He was then out of his disguise, + and dressed in his own clothes, for he could not prevail upon himself to + approach her father's house, or appear before any of the family, in the + tattered garb of a mendicant. On this occasion he came to tell them that + he had abandoned the gang of the Red Rapparee, and come to the resolution + of seeking his pardon from the Government, having been informed that it + offered protection to all who would come in and submit to the laws, + provided they had not been guilty of shedding human blood. This + intelligence, however, was communicated to the family, as a means of + preparing them for still more important information upon the subject of + his own liberty—a matter with which the reader will soon become + acquainted, as he will with the fact of his having left off his disguise + only for a brief period. In the meantime, he felt perfectly conscious of + the risk he ran of a failure in the accomplishment of his own project, by + throwing off his disguise, and was then hastening on his way to the + cottage of widow Buckley, where he had left his mendicant apparel for the + time being. + </p> + <p> + When Ellen saw him she felt a tumult in her bosom which almost overcame + her. Her heart palpitated almost audibly, and her knees became feeble + under her. There was something so terrible associated with the idea of a + Rapparee that she took it for granted that some frightful transformation + of person and character must have taken place in him, and that she would + now meet a man thoroughly imbued with all the frightful and savage vices + which were so frequently, and too often so generally, attributed to that + fierce and formidable class. Still, the recollection of their former + affection, and her knowledge of the oppression which had come upon himself + and his family, induced her to hope that the principles of humanity could + not have been altogether effaced from his heart. Full of doubt and + anxiety, therefore, she paused at the stile, against which she felt it + necessary to lean for support, not without a touch of interest and + somewhat of curiosity, to control the vague apprehensions which she could + not help feeling. We need scarcely inform the reader that the meeting on + both sides was accidental and unexpected. + </p> + <p> + “Heavenly Father!” exclaimed Ellen, in a voice trembling with agitation, + “is this Fergus O'Reilly that I see before me? Fergus, ruined and undone!” + She then looked cautiously about her, and added, “Fergus, the Rapparee!” + </p> + <p> + “God bless me!” he exclaimed in return, “and may I ask, is this Ellen + Connor on my path?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I think I may say so, in one sense. Sure enough, I am Ellen Connor; + but, unfortunately, not the Ellen Connor that you wanst knew; neither, + unfortunately again, are you the Fergus O'Reilly that I wanst knew. We are + both changed, Fergus—I into sorrow, and you into crime.” + </p> + <p> + “Ellen,” said he, nearly as much agitated as herself, “I stand before you + simply as Fergus O'Seilly, but not Fergus the Rapparee.” + </p> + <p> + “You will not deny your own words to my father,” she replied. + </p> + <p> + “No, Ellen, I will not—they were true then, but, thank God, they are + not true now.” + </p> + <p> + “How is that, Fergus?” + </p> + <p> + “Simply because I was a Rapparee when I spoke to your father; but I have + left them, once and for ever.” + </p> + <p> + “How long have you left them?” + </p> + <p> + “Ever since that night. If it were not for Reilly and those that were out + with him duck-shooting, the red villain would have murdered the squire and + Andy Cummiskey, as sure as there is life in my body. After all, it is + owin' to Mr. Reilly that I left him and his cursed crew. And now, Ellen, + that I have met you, let me spake to you about ould times. In the first + place, I am heart sorry for the step I took; but you know it was + oppression and persecution that drove me to it.” + </p> + <p> + “Fergus,” she replied, “that's no excuse. Persecution may come upon us, + but that's no reason why we should allow it to drive us into evil and + crime. Don't you know that it's such conduct that justifies the + persecutors in their own eyes and in the eyes of the world. What will + become of you now? If you're caught, you must die a shameful death.” + </p> + <p> + “Devil a fear of it, my darlin' Ellen. I could tell you something, if I + thought myself at liberty to do so—something <i>mavourneen</i>, that + 'ud give you a light heart.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, Fergus, I don't wish to hear any of your secrets. It's my opinion + they would not be fit for me to hear. But in the mane time,” she added—prompted + by the undying principle of female curiosity, and, let us add, a better + and more generous feeling—“in the mane time, Fergus, if it's any + thing about yourself, and that it would give me a light heart, as you say + it would, and that there is nothing wrong and dishonorable in it, I would, + for your sake, be glad to hear it.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then, Ellen, I will tell it; but it must, for reasons that there's + no use in mentionin' to you, be a secret between us, for some time—not + a long time, I hope. I am, thank God, free as the air of heaven, and may + walk abroad, openly, in the face of day, if I like, without any one darin' + to ask me a question.” + </p> + <p> + “But, Fergus,” said Ellen, “I don't undherstand this. You were a robber—a + Rapparee—and now you are a free man. But what did you do to deserve + this at the hands of the Government?” + </p> + <p> + “Don't be alarmed, my darlin' Ellen—nothing imbecomin' an honest + man.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope,” she proceeded—her cheeks mantling with indignation and + scorn—“I hope, Fergus, you wouldn't think of stoopin' to treachery + against the unfortunate, ay, or even against the guilty. I hope you + wouldn't sell yourself to the Government, and got your liberty, affcher + all, only as a bribe for villany, instead of a free gift.” + </p> + <p> + “See, now,” he returned, “what I have brought on myself by tellin' you any + thing at all about it—a regular ould house on my shouldhers. No, + darlin',” he proceeded, “you ought to know me better.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Fergus,” she replied quickly, “I thought I knew you wanst.” + </p> + <p> + “Is that generous, Ellen?” he said, in a tone of deep and melancholy + feeling, “afther statin' my sorrow for that step?” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” she replied, moved by what she saw he suffered in consequence of + her words, “if I have given you pain, Fergus, forgive me—you know + it's not in my nature to give pain to any one, but, above all persons in + the world, to you.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, darlin',” said he, “you will know all in time; but there is a good + deal to be done yet. All I can say, and all I will say, is, that if God + spares me life, I will take away one of the blackest enemies that Willy + Reilly and the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> has in existence. He would do any thing + that the villain of perdition he's a slave to would bid him. Now, I'll say + no more; and I'm sure, as the friend of your beautiful mistress, the fair + <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, you'll thank me for what I have promised to do + against the Red Bapparee.” + </p> + <p> + “I will pry no further into your affairs or intentions, Fergus; but, if + you can take danger out of the way of the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> or Reilly, I + will forgive you a great deal—every thing, indeed, but treachery or + dishonor. But, Fergus, I have something to mention, that will take a, + start out of you. I have been discharged by the squire from his family, + and—<i>mavrone</i>, oh!—I can now be of no service to the <i>Cooleen + Bawn</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “Discharged!” replied Fergus with astonishment; “why, how did that come? + But I suppose I needn't ask—some of the mad old Squire's tantrums, I + suppose? And what did the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> herself say?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, she cried bitterly when I was lavin' her; indeed if I had been her + sister she couldn't feel more; and, as might be expected from her, she + promised to befriend me as long as she had it in her power; but, poor + thing, if matters go against her, as I'm afeared they will—if she's + forced to marry that villain, it is little for any thing that's either + good or generous ever she'll have in her power; but marry him she never + will I heard her say more than wanst that she'd take her own life first; + and indeed I'm sartain she will, too, if she is forced to it. Either that, + or she'll lose her senses; for, indeed, Fergus, the darlin' girl was near + losin' them wanst or twist as it is—may God pity and relieve her.” + </p> + <p> + “Amen,” replied Fergus. “And you're now on your way home, I suppose?” + </p> + <p> + “I am,” said Ellen, “and every thing belongin' to me is to be sent to my + father's; but indeed, Fergus, I don't much care now what becomes of me. My + happiness in this world is bound up in hers; and if she's to be sunk in + grief and sorrow, I can never be otherwise—we'll have the one fate, + Fergus, and God grant it may be a happy one, although I see no likelihood + of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, come, Ellen,” replied Fergus, “you think too much of it. The one + fate!—No, you won't, unless it is a happy one. I am now free, as I + said; and at present I see nothing to stand between your happiness and + mine. We loved one another every bit as well as Reilly and she does—ay, + and do still, I hope; and, if they can't be happy, that's no raison why + you and I shouldn't. Happy! There's nothing to prevent us from bein' so. I + am free, as I said; and all we have to do is to lave this unfortunate + country and go to some other, where there's neither oppression nor + persecution. If you consent to this, Ellen, I can get the means of + bringing us away, and of settlin' comfortably in America.” + </p> + <p> + “And I to leave the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> in the uncertain state she's in? + No, never, Fergus—never.” + </p> + <p> + “Why? of what use can you be to her now, and you separated from her—ay, + and without the power of doin' any thing to sarve her?” + </p> + <p> + “Fergus,” said she, resolutely, “it's useless at the present time to speak + to me on this subject. I'm glad you've got yourself from among these cruel + and unconscionable Rapparees—I'm glad you're free; but I tell you + that if you had the wealth of Squire Folliard—ay, or of Whitecraft + himself, which they say is still greater, I wouldn't become your wife so + long as she's in the state she's in.” + </p> + <p> + “That's strong language, Ellen, and I am sorry to hear it from you. My + God! can you think of nobody's happiness but the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>'s? As + for me, it's my opinion I like Reilly as well every bit as you do her; + but, for all that, not even the state he's in, nor the danger that + surrounds him, would prevent me from marryin' a wife—from bindin' + your heart and mine together for life, my darlin' Ellen.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! Fergus, you're a man—not a woman—and can't undherstand + what true attachment is. You men never can. You're a selfish set—at + least the most of you are—with some exceptions, I grant.” + </p> + <p> + “And, upon my soul, Ellen,” replied Fergus, with a good-humored smile, + “I'm one of the choicest and natest of the exceptions. I prefer + everybody's happiness to my own—poor Sir Robert Whitecraft's, for + instance. Now, don't you call that generosity?” + </p> + <p> + She gave a mournful smile, and replied, “Fergus, I can't join in your + mirth now as I used to do. Many a pleasant conversation we've had; but + then our hearts were light, and free from care. No, Fergus, you must lave + all thoughts of me aside, for I will have nothing of either love or + courtship till I know her fate. Who can say but I may be brought back? She + said she'd try what she could do with her father to effect it. You know + how whimsical the old Squire is; and who knows whether she may not stand + in need of me again? But, Fergus, there's one thing strikes me as odd, + and, indeed, that doesn't rise you much in my good opinion. But first, let + me ask you, what friend it is who'd give you the means of going to another + country?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, who else but Reilly?” he replied. + </p> + <p> + “And could you,” she returned, with something like contempt stamped upon + her pretty features—“could you be mane and ungrateful enough to + leave him now in the trouble and sorrow that he's in, and think only of + yourself?” + </p> + <p> + “No, indeed, my dear Ellen; but I was only layin' the plan whenever we + might be able to put it in practice. I'm not exactly a boy of that kidney—to + desart my friend in the day of his trouble—devil a bit of it, my + darlin'.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I am glad to hear you speak as you do,” she said, with a smile; + “and now, to reward your constancy to him, I tell you that whenever + they're settled, or, at all events, out of their troubles, if you think me + worth your while, I won't have any objection to become your wife; and—there—what + are you about, Fergus? See this, now—you've almost broken the + tortoise-shell crooked-comb that she made me a present of.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, blood alive, Ellen, sure it was only sealin' the bargain I was.” + </p> + <p> + “But remember it is a bargain, and one I'll stick to. Now leave me; it's + gettin' quite dark; or, if you like, you may see me across the fields.” + </p> + <p> + Such, in fact, was the indomitable attachment of this faithful girl to her + lovely and affectionate mistress that, with a generosity as unselfish as + it was rare, and almost heroic, she never for a moment thought of putting + her own happiness or prospects in life in competition with those of the <i>Cooleen + Bawn</i>. The latter, it is true, was conscious of this unparalleled + attachment, and appreciated it at its true value. How nobly this admirable + girl fulfilled her generous purpose of abiding by the fate and fortunes of + her unhappy mistress will be seen as the narrative goes along. + </p> + <p> + Ellen's appearance in her father's house surprised the family not a + little. The expression of sorrow which shaded her very handsome features, + and a paleness which was unusual to her, alarmed them considerably—not + so much from any feeling connected with herself, as from an apprehension + that some new-distress or calamity had befallen the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, + to whom they all felt almost as deeply attached as she did herself. After + the first affectionate salutations were over, she said, with a languid + smile: + </p> + <p> + “I suppose you all wonder to see me here at this hour; or, indeed, to see + me here at all.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope, Ellen,” said-her father, “that nothing unpleasant has happened to + her.” + </p> + <p> + “May the Lord forbid,” said her mother, “and may the Lord take the darlin' + creature out of all her troubles. But has there, Ellen—has anything + happened to her?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing more than usual,” replied their daughter, “barring that I have + been sent away from her—I am no longer her own maid now.” + </p> + <p> + “<i>Chierna</i>!” exclaimed her mother; “and what is that for, <i>alanna</i>?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, indeed, mother, I can't exactly say,” replied Ellen, “but I suppose + it is because they knew I loved her too much to be a spy upon her. I have + raison, however, to suspect that the villain is at the bottom of it, and + that the girl who came in my place will act more like a jailer than a maid + to her. Of course they're all afraid that she'll run away with Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “And do you think she will, Ellen?” asked her father. + </p> + <p> + “Don't ask me any such questions,” she replied. “It's no matter what I + think—and, besides, it's not my business to mention my thoughts to + any one—but one thing I know, it'll go hard if she ever leaves her + father, who, I really think, would break his heart if she did.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” observed the father, with a smile, “divil a one o' you girls, Ellen, + ever thinks much of father or mother when you have made up your minds to + run away wid your <i>buchaleens</i>—sorra a taste.” + </p> + <p> + “<i>Arra</i>, Brian, will you have sinse,” said his wife; “why wouldn't + they think o' them?” + </p> + <p> + “Did you do it?” he asked, winking at the rest, “when you took a brave + start wid myself across Crockaniska, one summer Sunday night, long ago. Be + me sowl, you proved youself as supple as a two-year-old—cleared, + drain and ditch like a bird—and had me, when we reached my uncle's, + that the ayes wor startin' out o' my head.” + </p> + <p> + “Bad scran to him, the ould slingpoker! Do you hear him,” she exclaimed, + laughing—“never mind him, children!—troth, he went at sich a + snail's pace that one 'ud think it was to confession he was goin', and + that he did nothing but think of his sins as he went along.” + </p> + <p> + “That was bekaise I knew that I had the penance before me,” he replied, + laughing also. + </p> + <p> + “Any how,” replied his wife, “our case was not like their's. We were both + Catholics, and knew that we'd have the consent of our friends, besides; we + only made a runaway because it was the custom of the counthry, glory be to + God!” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, ay,” rejoined her husband; “but, faith, it was you that proved + yourself the active girl that night, at any rate. However, I hope the Lord + will grant her grace to go, wid him, at all events, for, upon my sowl, it + would be a great boast for the Catholics—bekaise we know there is + one thing sure, and that is, that the divil a long she'd be wid him till + he'd have left her fit to face Europe as a Christian and a Catholic, + bekaise every wife ought to go wid her husband, barrin' he's a + Prodestant.” + </p> + <p> + Poor Ellen paid little attention to this conversation. She felt deeply + depressed, and, after many severe struggles to restrain herself, at last + burst into tears. + </p> + <p> + “Come, darlin',” said her father, “don't let this affair cast you down so + much; all will yet turn out for the betther, I hope. Cheer up, <i>avillish</i>; + maybe that, down-hearted as you are, I have good news for you. Your ould + sweetheart was here this evenin', and hopes soon to have his pardon—he's + a dacent boy, and has good blood in his veins; and as for his joinin' + O'Donnel, it wasn't a a bad heart set him to do it, but the oppression + that druv him, as it did many others, to take the steps he took—oppression + on the one side, and bitterness of heart on the other.” + </p> + <p> + “I saw him awhile ago,” she replied, “and he tould me a good deal about + himself. But, indeed, father, it's not of him I'm thinkin', but on the + darlin' girl that's on the brink of destruction, and what I know she's + sufferin'.” + </p> + <p> + “I wondher where Reilly is,” said her mother. “My goodness! sure he ought + to make a push, and take her off at wanst. I dunna is he in the country at + all? What do you think, Ellen?” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, mother,” she replied, “very few, I believe, knows any thing about + him. All I'm afraid of is, that, wherever he may be, he'll hardly escape + discovery.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said her father, “I'll tell you what we'll do. Let us kneel down + and offer up ten pathers, ten aves, and a creed, that the Lord may protect + them both from their enemies, and grant them a happy marriage, in spite of + laws, parliaments, magistrates, spies, persecutors and priest-hunters, + and, as our hands are in, let us offer up a few that God may confound that + villain, Whitecraft, and bring him snugly to the gallows.” + </p> + <p> + This was immediately complied with, in a spirit of earnestness surpassing + probably what they might have felt had they been praying for their own + salvation. The prayers having been concluded, and supper prepared, in due + time the family retired to rest for the night. + </p> + <p> + When Fergus Reilly took his leave of Ellen, he directed his steps to the + cottage of Mrs. Buckley, where, for certain purpose connected with his + designs on the Red Rapparee, he had been in the habit of meeting: the + sagacious fool, Tom Steeple. It was there, besides, that he had left his + disguise, which the unaccomplished progress of his projects rendered it + necessary that he should once more resume. This, in fact, was the place of + their rendezvous, where they generally met at night. These meetings, + however, were not always very regular; for poor Tom, notwithstanding his + singular and anomalous: cunning, was sometimes led away by his gastric + appetite to hunt for a bully dinner, or a bully supper, or a mug of strong + beer, as the case might be, and after a gorge he was frequently so + completely overtaken by laziness and a consequent tendency to sleep, that + he retired to the barn, or some other outhouse, where he stretched his + limbs on a shake-down of hay or straw, and lapped himself into a state of + luxury which many an epicure of rank and wealth might envy. + </p> + <p> + On reaching the widow's cottage, Fergus felt somewhat disappointed that + Tom was not there, nor had he been seen that day in any part of the + neighborhood. Fergus, however, whilst the widow was keeping watch outside, + contrived to get on his old disguise once more, after which he proceeded + in the direction of his place of refuge for the night. On crossing the + fields, however, towards the wild and lonely road, which was at no great + distance from the cottage, he met Tom approaching it, at his usual + sling-trot pace. + </p> + <p> + “Is that Tom?” said he—“tall Tom?” + </p> + <p> + “Hicco, hicco!” replied Tom, quite gratified with the compliment. “You be + tall, too—not as tall as Tom dough. Tom got bully dinner to-day, and + bully sleep in de barn, and bully supper, but wasn't sleepy den—hicco, + hicco.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Tom, what news about what you know?” + </p> + <p> + “In toder house,” replied Tom; “him sleeps in Peg Finigan's sometimes, and + sometimes in toder again—dat is, Mary Mahon's. Him's afeared o' + something—hard him say so, sure, to ould Peg.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Tom, if you will keep your eye on him, so as that you can let us + know where to find him, we engage to give you a bully dinner every day, + and, a bully supper every night of your life, and a swig of stout ale to + wash it down, with plenty of straw to sleep on, and a winnow-cloth and + lots of sacks to keep you as warm and cosey as a winter hob. You know + where to find me every evenin' after dusk, Tom, and when you come with + good news, you'll be a made man; and, listen, Tom, it'll make you a foot + taller, and who knows, man alive, but we may show you for a giant, now.” + </p> + <p> + “Hicco, hicco!” said Tom; “dat great—never mind; me catch him for + you. A giant!—oh, gorramarcy!—a giant!—hicco!—gorramarcy!” + and with these words he darted off in some different direction, whilst + Fergus went to his usual place of rest for the night. + </p> + <p> + It would seem by the Red Rapparee s movements at this time as if he + entertained some vague suspicions of awakened justice, notwithstanding the + assurances of safety previously communicated to him by Sir Robert + Whitecraft. Indeed, it is not impossible that even the other individuals + who had distinguished themselves under that zealous baronet might, in + their conversations with each other, have enabled the Rapparee to get + occasional glimpses of the new state of things which had just taken place, + and that, in consequence, he shifted about a good deal, taking care never + to sleep two nights in succession under the same roof. Be this as it may, + the eye of Tom Steeple was on him, without the least possible suspicion on + his part that he was under his surveillance. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV.—Reilly takes Service with Squire Folliard. + </h2> + <p> + Reilly led a melancholy life after the departure of the pious bishop. A + week, however, had elapsed, and he felt as if it had been half a year. His + anxiety, however, either to see or hear from his <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> + completely overcame him, and he resolved, at all events, to write to her; + in the meantime, how was he to do this? There was no letter-paper in the + farmer's house, nor any to be procured within miles, and, under these + circumstances, he resolved to pay a visit to Mr. Brown. After some trouble + he was admitted to the presence of that gentleman, who could scarcely + satisfy himself of his identity; but, at length, he felt assured, and + asked him into the study. + </p> + <p> + “My dear Reilly,” said he, “I think you are infatuated. I thought you had + been out of the country long before this. Why, in heaven's name, do you + remain in Ireland, when you know the difficulty of escape? I have had, + since I saw you last, two or three domiciliary visits from Whitecraft and + his men, who searched my whole house and premises in a spirit of insolence + that was, most indelicate and offensive. Hastings and I have sent a + memorial to the Lord Lieutenant, signed by some of the most respectable + Protestant gentry in the, country, in which we stated his wanton tyranny + as well as his oppression of his Majesty's subjects—harmless and + loyal men, and whom he pursues with unsatiable vengeance, merely because + they are Roman Catholics. I certainly do not expect that our memorial will + be attended to by this Administration. There is a report, however, that + the present Ministry will soon go out, and be succeeded by one more + liberal.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” replied Reilly, “since I saw you last I have had some narrow + escapes; but I think it would be difficult to know me in my present + disguise.” + </p> + <p> + “I grant that,” said Mr. Brown, “but then is there nothing to be + apprehended from treachery?” + </p> + <p> + “I think not,” replied the other. “There is only the farmer and his + family, with whom the bishop and I harbored, who are aware of my disguise, + and to that number I must now add yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” replied Mr. Brown, smiling, “I do not think you have much to + apprehend from me.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” said Reilly, “you have given me too many substantial proofs of your + confidence for that. But I wish to write a letter; and I have neither pen, + ink, nor paper; will you be good enough to lend me the use of your study + for a few minutes, and your writing materials?” + </p> + <p> + The excellent clergyman immediately conducted him to the study, and placed + the materials before him with his own hands, after which he left the room. + Reilly then sat down, and penned the following letter to his dear <i>Cooleen + Bawn</i>: + </p> + <p> + “I am now thoroughly disguised, indeed so effectually that my nearest and + dearest friends could not know me; nay, I question whether even you + yourself would, except by the keen intuition of affection, which is said + to penetrate all disguises, unless those of falsehood and hypocrisy. + These, however, are disguises I have never worn, nor ever shall wear—either + to you or any human being. I had intended to go to the Continent until + this storm of persecution might blow over; but on reflection I changed my + purpose, for I could not leave you to run the risk of being ensnared in + the subtle and treacherous policy of that villain. It is my intention to + visit your father's house and to see you if I can. You need not, for the + sake of my safety, object to this, because no one can know me. The + description of my dress, though somewhat undignified, I must give you. In + the first place, then, I am, to all outward appearance, as rude-looking a + country lout as ever you looked upon. My disguise consists, first, of a + pair of brogues embroidered with clouts, or what is vulgarly denominated + patches, out of the point of one of which—that of the right foot—nearly + half my toe visibly projects. The stockings are coarse Connemaras, with + sufficient air-holes, both in feet and legs, to admit the pure atmosphere, + and strengthen the muscular system. My small-clothes are corduroys, bought + from a hard-working laborer, with a large patch upon each knee. A tailor, + however, has promised to get some buttons for them and sew them on. The + waistcoat is altogether indescribable; because, as its materials seem to + have been rescued, that is, stolen, from all the scarecrows in the + country, I am' unable to come at the first fabric. The coat itself is also + beautifully variegated, its patches consisting of all the colors of the + rainbow, with two or three dozen that never appeared in that beautiful + phenomenon. But what shall I say of the pendiment, or caubeen, which is a + perfect gem of its kind? The villain who wore it, I have been told by the + person who acted as factor for me in its purchase, was one of the most + quarrelsome rascals in Ireland, and seldom went without a black eye or a + broken pate. This, I suppose, accounts for the droop in the leaf, which + covers the left eye so completely, as well as for the ventilator, which so + admirably refreshes the head, and allows the rain to come in so abundantly + to cool it. I cannot help reflecting, however, on the fate of those who + have nothing better to wear, and of the hard condition which dooms them to + it. And now, my beloved <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, whilst I have thus endeavored + to make you smile, I assure you I have exaggerated very little. This + dress, you know, is precisely that of a wretched Connaught-man looking for + employment. The woman, who will, through our confidant, Lanigan, deliver + this to you, is a poor faithful creature, a pensioner of mine, who may be + trusted. Appoint through her a day and hour when, as a man seeking for + labor, I will stand at the hall-door. I am quite satisfied that neither + your father, nor the villain, will know me from Adam. The woman who is to + bring this will call on the second day after its delivery, and I shall be + guided by whatever message you may send me. On one thing, however, I am + determined, which is that if it should cost me my life, I will prevent the + meditated marriage between you and him. Sooner than such an event should + take place, I would put a pistol to his head and blow his guilty soul into + that perdition which awaits it. Don't write; let your message be verbal, + and destroy this.” + </p> + <p> + On going to widow Buckley's, he learned—after some trouble in + identifying himself—that she had several visits from Sir Robert and + his men, at all hours, both by night and day. He therefore hastily gave + her the necessary instructions how to act, and, above all things, to ask + to see Lanigan, and, if possible, to bring some eggs or chickens for sale, + which fact, he said, would give a color to her appearance there, and + prevent the possibility of any suspicion. Having placed the letter in her + keeping, together with some silver to enable her to purchase either the + eggs or the chickens, in case she had them not herself, he then returned + to the farmer's, where he remained quietly and without disturbance of any + kind until the third day, when widow Buckley made her appearance. He + brought her out to the garden, because in discussing matters connected + with his <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> he did not wish that even the farmer's family + should be auditors—although we may say here that not only were the + loves of Willy Reilly and <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> known to the farmer and his + family, but also to the whole country, and, indeed, through the medium of + ballads, to the greater portion of the kingdom. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mrs. Buckley,” said he, “did you see her?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, bad scran to you, Mr. Reilly! you're the very sarra among the girls + when you could persuade that lovely creature to fall in love with you—and + you a Catholic, an' her a Protestant! May I never, if I think there's her + angil out o' heaven! Devil an angel I think in it could hould a candle to + her for beauty and figure. She only wants the wings, sir—for they + say that all the angels have wings; and upon my conscience if she had them + I know the man she'd fly to.” + </p> + <p> + “But what happened, Mrs. Buckley?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, I sould some chickens and eggs to the cook, who at wanst knew me, + because I had often sould him chickens and eggs before. He came up to the + hall-door, and—'Well, Mrs. Buckley,' says he, 'what's the news?' '<i>Be + dhe husth</i>,' says I, 'before I sell you the chickens, let me ax is the + <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> at home?' 'She is,' says he, lookin' me sharp and + straight in the face; 'do you want her?' 'I would like to see her,' says + I, 'for a minute or two.' 'Ay,' says he, back agin to me, 'you have a + message—and you know besides that she never buys chickens; that's my + business.' 'But,' says I, back agin, 'I was tould by him that you were + faithful, and could be depinded on.' 'Ay,' says he; 'but I thought he had + left the counthry.' 'Troth, then,' says I, 'he's to the fore still, and + won't lave the counthry till he sees her wanst more, at all events.' 'Have + you a letther?' 'Betherahin,' says I, 'could you let me see her; for he + tould me to say to her that she is not, to indite letthers to him, for + fraid of discovery.' 'Well,' says he, 'as the master's at home, I'll have + some difficulty in spakin' to her. Devil a move she gives but he watches; + and we got a new servant the other day, and devil a thing she is but a spy + from Sir Robert Whitecraft, and some people say that her master and she + forgot the Gospel between them. Indeed I believe that's pretty well known; + and isn't he a horrid villain to send such a vagabone to attend and be + about the very woman that he expects to be his own wife?'” + </p> + <p> + “Don't be so particular in your descriptions, Mrs. Buckley,” said Reilly. + “Did you see the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>?” + </p> + <p> + “Look at that,” she replied, opening her hand, and showing him a golden + guinea—“don't you know by that that I seen her? but you must let me + go on my own way. 'Well,' says Lanigan, the cook, 'I must go and see what + I can do.' He then went upstairs, and contrived to give her a hint, and + that was enough. 'The Lord bless us, Mr. Reilly, what won't love do? This + girl—as Lanigan tould me—that the villain Whitecraft had sent + as a spy upon her actions, was desired to go to her wardrobe, to pick out + from among her beautiful dresses one that she had promised her as a + present some days before. The cook had this from the girl herself, who was + the sarra for dress; but, anyhow, while the the spy was tumbling about <i>Cooleen + Bawn</i>'s dresses, the darlin' herself whipped downstairs, and coming to + me says, 'The cook tells me you have a message for me.' Jist at this + moment, and after she had slipped the letter into her bosom, her father + turns a corner round the garden, and seeing his daughter, which was a very + unusual thing, in conversation with a person like myself, he took the + alarm at once. 'How, Helen? who is this you are speaking to'? No + go-between, I hope? Who are you, you blasted old she-whelp?' 'I am no more + a she-whelp than you are.' 'Then maybe you are a he one in disguise. What + brought you here?' 'Here! I came to sell my eggs and my chickens, as I + done for years.' 'Your eggs and your chickens! curse you, you old Jezebel, + did you ever lay the eggs or hatch the chickens? And if you did, why not + produce the old cock himself, in proof of the truth of what you say? I'll + have you searched, though, in spite of your eggs and chickens. Here,' he + said to one of the footmen, who was passing through the hall—'here, + Jones, send up Lanigan, till we see whether he knows this old faggot, who + has the assurance to tell me that she lays eggs and hatches chickens.' + When Lanigan came up again, he looked at me as at an old acquaintance, + which, in point of fact, we were. 'Why, your honor,' said he, 'this is a + poor, honest creature that has been selling us eggs and chickens for many + years.' 'She wouldn't be a go-between, Lanigan—eh? What's your name, + you old faggot—eh?' 'My name | is Scrahag, your honor,' says I, 'one + of the Scrahags of Ballycumpiatee—an honest and dacint family, sir; + but if your honor would buy the eggs, at any rate, and hatch them + yourself,' says I to him (for she had a large stock of Irish humor), 'you + know, sir, you could have the chickens at first cost.' 'Ha, ha, ha,' and + the squire laughed till he nearly split his sides; 'by —- I'm hit'—God + pardon me for repeatin' his oaths. 'Here, Lanigan, bring her down to the + kitchen, and give her a fog meal.' 'I understand you, sir,' said Lanigan, + smiling at him. 'Yes, Lanigan, give her a cargo of the best in the pantry. + She's a shrewd and comical old blade,' said he; 'give her a kegful of beef + or mutton, or both, and a good swill of ale or porter, or whatever she + prefers. Curse me, but I give the old whelp credit for the hit she gave + me. Pay her, besides, whatever she asks for her eggs and chickens. Here, + you bitter old randle-tree, there are three thirteens for you; and if you + will go down to the kitchen with the cook, he will give you a regular + skinful.' The cook, knowing that the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> wished to send + some message back to you, sir, brought me down, and gave me not only + plenty to ait and drink, but stuffed the praskeen that I had carried the + eggs and chickens in with as much cold meat and bread as it could + contain.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but did you not see her afterwards? and did she send no message?” + </p> + <p> + “Only two or three words; the day afther to-morrow, at two o'clock, come + to look for labor, and she will contrive to see you.” + </p> + <p> + This was enough, and Reilly did not allow his ambassadress to leave him + without substantial marks of his bounty also. + </p> + <p> + When the old squire went to his study, he desired the gardener to be sent + for, and when that individual entered, he found his master in a towering + passion. + </p> + <p> + “What is the reason, Malcomson,” said he, “that the garden is in such a + shameful state? I declare to God it is scandalous.” + </p> + <p> + “Ou, your honor,” replied Malcomson, who was a Scotchman, “e'en because + you will not allow me an under gerdener. No one man could manage your + gerden, and it canna be managed without some clever chiel, what + understands the sceence.” + </p> + <p> + “The what?” + </p> + <p> + “The sceence, your honor.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, confound you, sir, what science is necessary in gardening?” + </p> + <p> + “I tell your honor that the management of a gerden requires baith skeel + and knowledge, and feelosophy.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, confound you, sir, again, what kind of doctrine is this?” + </p> + <p> + “It's vera true doctrine, sir. You have large and spacious green-hooses, + and I wad want some one to assist me wha understands buttany.” + </p> + <p> + “Buttony—Buttony—why, confound you, sirra, send for a tailor, + then, for he understands buttony.” + </p> + <p> + “I see your honor is detarmined to indulge in a jocular spirit the day. + The truth is, your honor, I hae no men to assist me but common laborers, + who are athegether ignorant of gerdening; now, if I had a man who could + direct the operations—” + </p> + <p> + “Operations! curse your Scotch impudence, do you think yourself a + general?” + </p> + <p> + “Na, na, sir; but a better man; and I tell ye that I winna remain in your + service unless I get an assistant; and I say that, if it were-na for the + aid of Miss Folliard, I wouldna been able to keep the green-hoose e'en in + its present state. She has trailed the passionflower wi' her ain hands + until it is nourishing. Then she has a beautiful little plot of + forget-me-nots; but, above a', it wad do your honor's heart gude to see + the beautiful bed she has of sweet-william and love-lies-bleeding.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, ay! love-lies-bleeding; no doubt but she'll take care of that. Well, + go and get an under-gardener wherever you can, and let my garden be, at + all events, such as a stranger can walk through, and such as becomes my + name and property. Engage such a person, give him whatever you consider + fair wages, and the house-steward will pay him weekly. These are matters I + can't trouble myself with now-I have other things to think of.” + </p> + <p> + On the day mentioned in <i>Cooleen Bawn's</i> message, Reilly hazarded a + visit to the squire's house, and after giving a single knock, begged to + see the cook. The porter having looked at him with the usual contempt + which menials of his class bestow upon poor persons, went down to the + kitchen with a good deal of reluctance, and told the cook, with a grin, + that one of his relations wanted to see him. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” replied Lanigan, who had been made aware of the intended visit, + “it's wonderful, in these hard times, the number of respectable but + reduced families that's goin' about. What kind of a gentleman is he, John? + because I am very busy now. To be sure there is a great deal of cold + vittles left, that would be lost and destroyed if we didn't give them to + the poor; and you know the masther, who is a charitable man, desired us to + do so. I'll go up and see what the poor devil wants.” + </p> + <p> + He accordingly went up to the hall-door, and found Reilly there. It was to + no purpose that he had been already apprised of his disguise—it was + so complete that he did not know him—his beard was half an inch + long; and, besides, Reilly, knowing the risk he ran in this daring + adventure, had discolored his complexion with some wash that gave it the + tinge of a mulatto. The cook was thunderstruck. + </p> + <p> + “Well, my good fellow,” said he, not in the slightest degree recognizing + him, “what do you want with me?” + </p> + <p> + “Lanigan,” replied Reilly, “don't you know me?” + </p> + <p> + “Know you! how the devil should I know you?—I never saw you before. + What do you want with me?” + </p> + <p> + “Lanigan,” whispered the other, “did you never hear of Willy Reilly?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I did; have you any message from him?” + </p> + <p> + “I am the man myself,” said Reilly, “but you don't know me, I am so + completely disguised. Don't you know my voice?” + </p> + <p> + “Merciful Father!” said the cook, “I'm in a doldrum; can I be sure that + you don't come from Sir Robert Whitecraft, the notorious blackguard?” + </p> + <p> + “Lanigan, I am Willy Reilly: my voice ought to tell you so; but I wish to + see and speak with my dear <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, my God, sir!” replied Lanigan, “but this love makes strange + transmigrations. She won't know you, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Make your mind easy on that point,” replied Reilly; “only let her know + that I am here.” + </p> + <p> + “Come down to the kitchen then, sir, and I shall put you into the + servants' hall, which branches off it. It is entered, besides, by a + different door from that of the kitchen, and while you stay there—and + you can pass into it without going through the kitchen—I will try to + let her know where you are. She has at present a maid who was sent by Sir + Robert Whitecraft, and she is nothing else than a spy; but it'll go hard, + or I'll baffle her.” + </p> + <p> + He accordingly placed Reilly in the servants' hall, and on his way to the + drawing-room met Miss Folliard going to her own apartment, which commanded + a view of the front of the house. He instantly communicated to her the + fact of Reilly's presence in the servants' hall; “but,” added Lanigan, + “you won't know him—his own mother, if she was livin', wouldn't know + a bone in his body.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” she replied, whilst her eyes flashed fearfully, in fact, in a manner + that startled the cook—“oh! if he is there I shall soon know him. He + has a voice, I think—he has a voice! Has he not, Lanigan?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, ma'am,” replied Lanigan, “he has a voice, and a heart too.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! yes, yes,” she said, “I must go to him; they want to marry me to that + monster—to that bigot and persecutor, on this very day month; but, + Lanigan, it shall never be—death a thousand times sooner than such a + union. If they attempt to bind us, death shall cut the link asunder—that + I promise you, Lanigan. But I must go to him—I must go to him.” + </p> + <p> + She ran down the stairs as she spoke, and Lanigan, having looked after + her, seemed deeply concerned. + </p> + <p> + “My God!” he exclaimed, “what will become of that sweet girl if she is + forced to marry that wealthy scoundrel? I declare to my God I hardly think + she is this moment in her proper senses. There's a fire in her eyes; and + something in her manner, that I never observed before. At all events, I + have locked the door that opens from the kitchen into the servants' hall, + so that they cannot be interrupted from that quarter.” + </p> + <p> + When the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> entered, she shrank back instinctively. The + disguise was so complete that she could not impose even on her imagination + or her senses. The complexion was different, in fact, quite sallow; the + beard long, and the costume such as we have described it. There was, in + fact, something extremely ludicrous in the meeting. Here was an elegant + and beautiful young woman of fashion, almost ready, as it were, to throw + herself in the arms of a common pauper, with a beard upon him better than + half an inch long. As it was, she stopped suddenly and retreated a step or + two, saying, as she did so: + </p> + <p> + “This must be some mistake. Who are you?” + </p> + <p> + “Helen!” + </p> + <p> + “Reilly! oh, that voice has set all right. But, my God, who could know you—in + this disguise?” + </p> + <p> + They approached, and Reilly, seizing her hand, said, “I will shake hands + with you; but until this disguise is off I would consider it sacrilege to + approach nearer to your person.” + </p> + <p> + “No disguise can ever shut you out from my heart, dear Reilly; but what is + to be done? I have discovered, by one of my maids, who overheard my father + say, in a short soliloquy—'Well, thank God, she'll be Sir Robert's + wife within a month, and then my mind will be easy at last.' Oh! I'm glad + you did not leave this country. But, as I said, what is to be done? What + will become of us?” + </p> + <p> + “Under our peculiar circumstances,” replied Reilly, “the question cannot, + for the present at least, be answered. As for leaving the country, I might + easily have done it, but I could not think of leaving you to the snares + and windings of that villain. I declare solemnly, I would rather die than + witness a union between you and him.” + </p> + <p> + “But what, think you, should I feel? You would be only a spectator of the + sacrifice, whereas I should be the victim.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not be cast down, my love; whilst I have life, and a strong arm, it + snail never be. Before I go I shall make arrangements with Lanigan when + and where to see you again.” + </p> + <p> + “It will be a matter of some difficulty,” she replied, “for I am now under + the strictest surveillance. I am told, and I feel it, that Whitecraft has + placed a spy upon all my motions.” + </p> + <p> + “How is that?” inquired Reilly. “Are you not under the protection of your + father, who, when occasion is necessary, has both pride and spirit?” + </p> + <p> + “But my poor credulous father is, notwithstanding, easily imposed on. I + know not exactly the particulars,” replied the lovely girl, “but I can + easily suspect them. My father it was, certainly, who discharged my last + maid, Ellen Connor, because, he said, he did not like her, and because, he + added, he would put a better and a more trustworthy one in her place. I + cannot move that she is not either with me or after me; nay, I cannot + write a note that she does not immediately acquaint papa, who is certain + to stroll into my apartment and ask to see the contents of it, adding, + 'Helen, when a young lady of rank and property forms a clandestine and + disgraceful attachment it is time that her father should be on the + lookout; so I will just take the liberty of throwing my eye over this + little billet-doux.' I told him often that he was at liberty to inspect + every line I should write, but that I thought that very few parents would + express such want of confidence in their daughters, if, like me, the + latter had deserved such confidence at their hands as I did at his.” + </p> + <p> + “What is the name of your present maid?” asked Reilly, musing. + </p> + <p> + “Oh,” replied Miss Folliard, “I have three maids altogether, but she has + been installed as own maid. Her name is Eliza Herbert.” + </p> + <p> + “A native of England, is she not? Eliza Herbert!” he exclaimed; “in the + lowermost depths of perdition there is not such a villain. This Eliza + Herbert is neither more nor less than one of his—but I will not pain + your pure and delicate mind by mentioning at further length what she is + and was to him. The clergyman of the parish, Mr. Brown, knows the whole + circumstances. See him at church, and get him to communicate them to your + father. The fact is, this villain, who is at once cunning and + parsimonious, had a double motive, each equally base and diabolical, in + sending her here. In the first place, he wished, by getting her a good + place, to make your father the unconscious means of rewarding her + profligacy; and in the second of keeping her as a spy upon you.” + </p> + <p> + A blush, resulting from her natural sense of delicacy, as well as from the + deepest indignation at a man who did not scruple to place the woman whom + he looked upon as almost immediately to become his wife, in the society of + such a wretch—such a blush, we say, overspread her whole neck and + face, and for about two minutes she shed bitter tears. But she felt the + necessity of terminating their interview, from an apprehension that Miss + Herbert, as she was called, on not finding her in the room, might + institute a search, and in this she was not mistaken. + </p> + <p> + She had scarcely concluded when the shrill voice of Miss Herbert was + heard, as she rushed rapidly down the stairs, screaming, “Oh, la! oh, dear + me! oh, my goodness! Where, where—oh, bless me, did any one see Miss + Folliard?” + </p> + <p> + Lanigan, however, had prepared for any thing like a surprise. He planted + himself, as a sentinel, at the foot of the stairs, and the moment he heard + the alarm of Miss Herbert on her way down, he met her half way up, after + having given a loud significant cough. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, cook, have you seen Miss Folliard? I can't find her in the house!” + </p> + <p> + “Is her father in his study, Miss Herbert? because I want to see him; I'm + afeared there's a screw loose. I did see Miss Folliard; she went out a few + minutes ago—indeed she rather stole out towards the garden, and, I + tell you the truth, she had a—condemned look of her own. Try the + garden, and if you don't find her there, go to the back gate, which you'll + be apt to find open.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I will, I will; thank you, cook. I'm certain it's an elopement.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, I wouldn't be surprised to find,” replied Lanigan, “that she is + with Reilly this moment; any way you haven't a minute to lose.” + </p> + <p> + She started towards the garden, which she ran over and over; and there we + shall leave her, executing the fool's errand upon which Lanigan had sent + her. “Now,” said he, going in, “the coast's clear; I have sent that + impertinent jade out to the garden, and as the back gate is open—the + gardener's men are wheeling out the rubbish—and they are now at + dinner—I say, as the back gate is open, it's ten to one but she'll + scour the country. Now, Miss Folliard, go immediately to your room; as for + this poor man, I will take care of him.” + </p> + <p> + “Most sincerely do I thank you, Lanigan; he will arrange with you when and + where to see me again. Farewell, Reilly—farewell; rely upon my + constancy;” and so they parted, Reilly to the kitchen, and the <i>Cooleen + Bawn</i> to her own room. + </p> + <p> + “Come into the pantry, poor man,” said good-natured Lanigan, addressing + our hero, “till I give you' something to eat and drink.” + </p> + <p> + “Many thanks to you, sir,” replied he; “troth and whaix, I didn't taste a + morshel for the last fwhour—hugh—hugh-and twenty hours; and + sure, sir, it's this cough that's killin' me by inches.” + </p> + <p> + A thought struck Lanigan, who had been also spoken to by the gardener, + about half an hour before, to know if he could tell him where he might + have any chance of finding an assistant. At all events they went into the + pantry, when Lanigan, after having pulled to the door, to prevent their + conversation from being overheard, disclosed a project, which had just + entered his head, of procuring Reilly employment in the garden. Here it + was arranged between them that the latter, who was both a good botanist + and florist, should be recommended to the gardener as an assistant. To be + sure, his dress and appearance were both decidedly against him; but still + they relied upon the knowledge which Reilly confidently assured the cook + that he possessed. After leaving the pantry with Lanigan, whom our hero + thanked in a thorough brogue, the former called after him, as he was going + away: + </p> + <p> + “Come here again, my good man.” + </p> + <p> + “What is it, shir? may God bless you anyhow, for your charity to the—hugh—hugh—hugh—to + the poor man. Oh, then, but it's no wondher for you all to be fat and rosy + upon sich beautiful vittles as you gave to me, shir. What is it, achora? + and may the Lord mark you with grace!” + </p> + <p> + “Would you take employment from the master, his honor Mr. Folliard, if you + got it?” + </p> + <p> + “Arrah now, shir, you gave me my skinful of what was gud; but don't be + luakin' fwhun o' me after. Would I take employment, achora?—ay, but + where would I get it?” + </p> + <p> + “Could you work in a garden? Do you know any thing about plants or + flowers?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh thin, that I may never sup sarra (sorrow), but that's just what I'm + fwhit fwhor.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm afeared this scoundrel is but an imposthor afther all,” whispered + Lanigan to the other servants; “but in ordher to make sure, we'll try him. + I say—what's this your name is?” + </p> + <p> + “Solvesther M'Bethershin, shir.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, now, would you have any objection to come with me to the garden and + see I the gardener? But hould, here he is. Mr. Malcomson,” continued + Lanigan, “here is a poor man, who says he understands plants and flowers, + and weeds of that kind.” + </p> + <p> + “Speak wi' reverence, Mr. Lanigan, o' the art o' gerdening. Dinna ye ken + that the founder o' the hail human race was a gerdener?-Hout awa, moil; + speak o' it wi' speck.” + </p> + <p> + “Upon my conscience,” replied Lanigan, “whether he was a good gardener or + not is more than I know; but one thing I do know, that he didn't hould his + situation long, and mismanaged his orchard disgracefully; and, indeed, + like many more of his tribe, he got his walkin' papers in double quick—was + dismissed without a characther—ay, and his wife, like many another + gardener's wife, got a habit of stalin' the apples. However, I wish Mr. + Malcomson, that you, who do undherstand gardenin', would thry this fellow, + because I want to know whether he's an imposthor or not.” + </p> + <p> + “Weel,” replied Malcomson, “I dinna care if I do. We'll soon find that + out. Come wi' me and Maisther Lanigan here, and we'll see what you ken + about the sceentific profession.” + </p> + <p> + They accordingly went to the garden, and it is unnecessary to say that + Reilly not only bore the examination well, but proved himself by far the + better botanist of the two. He tempered his answers, however, in such a + way as not to allow the gardener's vanity to be hurt, in which case he + feared that he might have little chance of being engaged. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV.—More of Whitecraft's Plots and Pranks + </h2> + <p> + On the Sunday following, Miss Folliard, as was her usual custom, attended + divine service at her parish church, accompanied by the virtuous Miss + Herbert, who scarcely ever let her for a moment out of her sight, and, in + fact, added grievously to the misery of her life. After service had been + concluded, she waited until Mr. Brown had descended from the pulpit, when + she accosted him, and expressed a wish to have some private conversation + with him in the vestry-room. To this room they were about to proceed, when + Miss Herbert advanced with an evident intention of accompanying them. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Brown,” said the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, looking at him significantly, + “I wish that our interview should be private.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, my dear Miss Folliard, and so it shall be. Pray, who is this + lady?” + </p> + <p> + “I am forced, sir, to call her my maid.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Brown was startled a good deal, not only at the words, but the tone in + which they were uttered. + </p> + <p> + “Madam,” said he, “you will please to remain here until your mistress + shall return to you, or, if you wish, you can amuse yourself by reading + the inscriptions on the tombstones.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, but I have been ordered,” replied Miss Herbert, “by her father and + another gentleman, not to let her out of my sight.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Brown, understanding that something was wrong, now looked at her more + closely, after which, with a withering frown, he said, + </p> + <p> + “I think I know you, madam, and I am very sorry to hear that you are an + attendant upon this amiable lady. Remain where you are, and don't attempt + to intrude yourself as an ear-witness to any communication Miss Folliard + may have to make to me.” + </p> + <p> + The profligate creature and unprincipled spy bridled, looked disdain and + bitterness at the amiable clergyman, who, accompanied by our heroine, + retired to the vestry. It is unnecessary to detail their conversation, + which was sustained by the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> with bitter tears. It is + enough to say that the good and pious minister, though not aware until + then that Miss Herbert had, by the scoundrel baronet, been intruded into + Squire Folliard's family, was yet acquainted, from peculiar sources, with + the nature of the immoral relation in which she stood to that hypocrite. + He felt shocked beyond belief, and assured the weeping girl that he would + call the next day and disclose the treacherous design to her father, who, + he said, could not possibly have been aware of the wretch's character when + he admitted her into his family. They then parted, and our heroine was + obliged to take this vile creature into the carriage with her home. On + their return, Miss Herbert began to display at once the malignity of her + disposition, and the volubility of her tongue, in a fierce attack upon, + what she termed, the ungentlemanly conduct of Mr. Brown. To all she said, + however, Helen uttered not one syllable of reply. She neither looked at + her nor noticed her, but sat in profound silence, not, however, without a + distracted mind and breaking heart. + </p> + <p> + On the next day the squire took a fancy to look at the state of his + garden, and, having got his hat and cane, he sallied out to observe how + matters were going on, now that Mr. Malcomson had got an assistant, whom, + by the way, he had not yet seen. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Malcomson,” said he, “as you have found an assistant, I hope you + will soon bring my garden into decent trim. What kind of a chap is he, and + how did you come by him?” + </p> + <p> + “Saul, your honor,” replied Malcomson, “he's a divilish clever chiel, and + vara weel acquent wi' our noble profession.” + </p> + <p> + “Confound yourself and your noble profession! I think every Scotch + gardener of you believes himself a gentleman, simply because he can nail a + few stripes of old blanket against a wall. How did you come by this + fellow, I say?” + </p> + <p> + “Ou, just through Lanigan, the cook, your honor.” + </p> + <p> + “Did Lanigan know him?” + </p> + <p> + “Hout, no, your honor—it was an act o' charity like.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, ay, Lanigan's a kind-hearted old fool, and that's just like him; but, + in the meantime, let me see this chap.” + </p> + <p> + “There he is, your honor, trimming, and taking care of that bed of + 'love-lies-bleeding.'” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, ay; I dare say my daughter set him to that task.” + </p> + <p> + “Na, na, sir. The young leddy hasna seen him yet, nor hasna been in the + gerden for the last week.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, confound it, Malcomson, that fellow's more like a beggarman than a + gardener.” + </p> + <p> + “Saul, but he's a capital hand for a' that. Your honor's no' to tak the + beuk by the cover. To be sure he's awfully vulgar, but, ma faith, he has a + richt gude knowledgeable apprehension o' buttany and gerdening in + generhal.” + </p> + <p> + The squire then approached our under-gardener, and accosted him, + </p> + <p> + “Well, my good fellow, so you understand gardening?” + </p> + <p> + “A little, your haner,” replied the other, respectfully touching his hat, + or caubeen rather. + </p> + <p> + “Are you a native of this neighborhood?” + </p> + <p> + “No, your haner. I'm fwaither up—from Westport, your haner.” + </p> + <p> + “Who were you engaged with last?” + </p> + <p> + “I wasn't engaged, shir—it was only job-work I was able to do—the + health wasn't gud wid me.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you no better clothes than these?” + </p> + <p> + “You see all that I have on me, shir.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, come, I'll give you the price of a suit rather than see such a + scarecrow in my garden.” + </p> + <p> + “I couldn't take it, shir.” + </p> + <p> + “The devil you couldn't! Why not, man?” + </p> + <p> + “Bekaise, shir, I'm under pinance.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, why don't you shave?” + </p> + <p> + “I can't, shir, for de same raison.” + </p> + <p> + “Pooh, pooh! what the devil did you do that they put such a penance on + you.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, I runned away wit' a young woman, shir.” + </p> + <p> + “Upon my soul you're a devilish likely fellow to run away with a young + woman, and a capital taste she must have had to go with you; but perhaps + you took her away by violence, eh?” + </p> + <p> + “No, slur; she was willin' enough to come; but her fadher wouldn't + consint, and so we made off wit' ourselves.” + </p> + <p> + This was a topic on which the squire, for obvious reasons, did not like to + press him. It was in fact a sore subject, and, accordingly, he changed it. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose you have been about the country a good deal?” + </p> + <p> + “I have, indeed, your haner.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you ever happen to hear of, or to meet with, a person called Reilly?” + </p> + <p> + “Often, shir; met many o' dem.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, but I mean the scoundrel called Willy Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “Is dat him dat left the country, shir?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, how do you know that he has left the country?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know myself, shir; but dat de people does be sayhi' it. Dey say + dat himself and wan of our bishops went to France togither” + </p> + <p> + The squire seemed to breathe more freely as he said, in a low soliloquy, + “I'm devilish glad of it; for, after all, it would go against my heart to + hang the fellow.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he said aloud, “so he's gone to France?” + </p> + <p> + “So de people does be sayin, shir.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, tell me—do you know a gentleman called Sir Robert + Whitecraft?” + </p> + <p> + “Is dat him, shir, dat keeps de misses privately?” + </p> + <p> + “How do you know that he keeps misses privately?” + </p> + <p> + “Fwhy, shir, dey say his last one was a Miss Herbert, and dat she had a + young one by him, and dat she was an Englishwoman. It isn't ginerally + known, I believe, shir, but dey do be sayin' dat she was brought to bed in + de cottage of some bad woman named Mary Mahon, dat does be on de lookout + to get sweethearts for him.” + </p> + <p> + “There's five thirteens for you, and I wish to God, my good fellow, that + you would allow yourself to be put in better feathers.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I expect my pinance will be out before a mont', shir; but, until den, + I couldn't take any money.” + </p> + <p> + “Malcomson,” said he to the gardener, “I think that fellow's a half fool. + I offered him a crown, and also said. I would get him a suit of clothes, + and he would not take either; but talked about some silly penance he was + undergoing.” + </p> + <p> + “Saul, then, your honor, he may be a fule in ither things, but de'il a ane + of him's a fule in the sceence o' buttany. As to that penance, it's just + some Papistrical nonsense, he has gotten into his head—de'il hae't + mair: but sure they're a' full o't—a' o' the same graft, an' a bad + one I fear it is.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I believe so, Malcomson, I believe so. However, if the unfortunate + fool is clever, give him good wages.” + </p> + <p> + “Saul, your honor, I'll do him justice; only I think that, anent that + penance he speaks o', the hail Papish population, bad as we think them, + are suffering penance eneuch, one way or tither. It disna' beseem a + Protestant—that is, a prelatic Government—to persecute ony + portion o' Christian people on, account o' their religion. We have felt + and kenned that in Scotland, sairly. I'm no freend to persecution, in ony + shape. But, as to this chiel, I ken naething aboot him, but that he is a + gude buttanist. Hout, your honor, to be sure I'll gi'e him a fair wage for + his skeel and labor.” + </p> + <p> + Malcomson, who was what we have often met, a pedant gardener, saw, + however, that the squire's mind was disturbed. In the short conversation + which they had, he spoke abruptly, and with a flushed countenance; but he + was too shrewd to ask him why he seemed so. It was not, he knew, his + business to do so; and as the squire left the garden, to pass into the + house, he looked after him, and exclaimed to himself, “my certie, there's + a bee in that man's bonnet.” + </p> + <p> + On going to the drawing-room, the squire found Mr. Brown there, and Helen + in tears. + </p> + <p> + “How!” he exclaimed, “what is this? Helen crying! Why, what's the matter, + my child? Brown, have you been scolding her, or reading her a homily to + teach her repentance. Confound me, but I know it would teach her patience, + at all events. What is the matter?” + </p> + <p> + “My dear Miss Folliard,” said the clergyman, “if you will have the + goodness to withdraw, I will explain this shocking business to your + father.” + </p> + <p> + “Shocking business! Why, in God's name, Brown, what has happened? And why + is my daughter in tears, I ask again?” + </p> + <p> + Helen now left the drawing-rooom, and Mr. Brown replied: + </p> + <p> + “Sir, a circumstance which, for baseness and diabolical iniquity, is + unparalleled in civilized society. I could not pollute your daughter's + ears by reciting it in her presence, and besides she is already aware of + it.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, but what is it? Confound you, don't keep me on tenter hooks.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall not do so long, my dear friend. Who do you imagine your + daughter's maid—I mean that female attendant upon your pure-minded + and virtuous child—is?” + </p> + <p> + “Faith, go ask Sir Robert Whitecraft. It was he who recommended her; for, + on hearing that the maid she had, Ellen Connor, was a Papist, he said he + felt uneasy lest she might prevail on my daughter to turn Catholic, and + marry Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “But do you not know who the young woman that is about your daughter's + person is? You are, however, a father who loves your child, and I need not + ask such a question. Then, sir, I will tell you who she is. Sir, she is + one of Sir Robert Whitecraft's cast-off mistresses—a profligate + wanton, who has had a child by him.” + </p> + <p> + The fiery old squire had been walking to and fro the room, in a state of + considerable agitation before—his mind already charged with the same + intelligence, as he had heard it from the gardener (Reilly). He now threw + himself into a chair, and' putting his hands before his face, muttered out + between his fingers—“D—n seize the villain! It is true, then. + Well, never mind, I'll demand satisfaction for this insult; I am not too + old to pull a trigger, or give a thrust yet; but then the cowardly + hypocrite won't fight. When he has a set of military at his back, and a + parcel of unarmed peasants before him, or an unfortunate priest or two, + why, he's a dare devil—Hector was nothing to him; no, confound me, + nor mad Tom Simpson, that wears a sword on each side, and a double case of + pistols, to frighten the bailiffs. The scuundrel of hell!—to impose + on me, and insult my child!” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Folliard,” observed the clergyman calmly, “I can indeed scarcely + blame your indignation; it is natural; but, at the same time, it is + useless and unavailable. Be cool, and restrain your temper. Of course, you + could not think of bestowing your daughter, in marriage, upon this man.” + </p> + <p> + “I tell you what, Brown—I tell you what, my dear friend—-let + the devil, Satan, Beelzebub, or whatever you call him from the pulpit—I + say, let him come here any time he pleases, in his holiday hoofs and + horns, tail and all, and he shall have her sooner than Whitecraft.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Brown could not help smiling, whilst he said: + </p> + <p> + “Of course, you will instantly dismiss this abandoned creature.” + </p> + <p> + He started up and exclaimed, “Cog's 'ounds, what am I about?” He instantly + rang the bell, and a footman attended. “John, desire that wench Herbert to + come here.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you mean Miss Herbert, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “I do—<i>Miss</i> Herbert—egad, you've hit it; be quick, + sirra.” + </p> + <p> + John bowed and withdrew, and in a few minutes Miss Herbert entered. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Herbert,” said the squire, “leave this house as fast as the devil + can drive you; and he has driven you to some purpose before now; ay, and, + I dare say, will again. I say, then, as fast as he can drive you, pack up + your luggage, and begone about your business. Ill just give you ten + minutes to disappear.” + </p> + <p> + “What's all this about, master?” + </p> + <p> + “Master!—why, curse your brazen impudence, how dare you call me + master? Begone, you jade of perdition.” + </p> + <p> + “No more a jade of perdition, sir, than you are; nor I shan't begone till + I gets a quarter's wages—I tell you that.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall get whatever's coming to you; not another penny. The + house-steward will pay you—begone, I say!” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, I shan't begone till I gets a, quarter's salary in full. You + broke your agreement with me, wich is wat no man as is a gentleman would + do; and you are puttin' me away, too, without no cause.” + </p> + <p> + “Cause, you vagabond! you'll find the cause squalling, I suppose, in Mary + Mahon's cottage, somewhere near Sir Robert Whitecraft's; and when you see + him, tell him I have a crow to pluck with him. Off, I say.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I suppose you mean the love-child I had by him—ha, ha! is that + all? But I never had a hankerin' after a rebel and a Papist, which is far + worser; and I now tell you you're no gentleman, you nasty old Hirish + squire. You brought me here, and Sir Robert sent me here, to watch your + daughter. Now, what kind of a young lady must she be as requires watching? + I was never watched; because as how I was well conducted, and nothing + could ever be laid to my charge but a love-child.” + </p> + <p> + “By the great Boyne,” he exclaimed, running to the window and throwing up + the sash—“yes, by the great Boyne, there is Tom Steeple, and if he + doesn't bring you and the pump acquainted, I'm rather mistaken. Here, Tom, + I have a job for you. Do you wish to earn a bully dinner, my boy?” + </p> + <p> + Miss Herbert, on hearing Tom's name mentioned, disappeared like lightning, + and set about packing her things immediately. The steward, by his master's + desire, paid her exactly what was due to her, which she received without + making a single observation. In truth, she entertained such a terror of + Tom Steeple, who had been pointed out to her as a wild Irishman, not long + caught in the mountains, that she stole out by the back way, and came, by + making a circuit, out upon the road that led to Sir Robert Whitecraft's + house, which she passed without entering, but went directly to Mary + Malion's, who had provided a nurse for her illegitimate child in the + neighborhood. She had not been there long when she sent her trusty friend, + Mary, to acquaint Sir Robert with what had happened. He was from home, + engaged in an expedition of which we feel called upon to give some account + to the reader. + </p> + <p> + At this period, when the persecution ran high against the Catholics, but + with peculiar bitterness against their priesthood, it is but justice to a + great number of the Protestant magistracy and gentry—nay, and many + of the nobility besides—to state that their conduct was both liberal + and generous to the unfortunate victims of those cruel laws. It is a well + known fact that many Protestant justices of the peace were imprisoned for + refusing to execute such oppressive edicts as had gone abroad through the + country. Many of them resigned their commissions, and many more were + deprived of them. Amongst the latter were several liberal noblemen—Protestants—who + had sufficient courage to denounce the spirit in which the country was + governed and depopulated at the same time. One of the latter—a + nobleman of the highest rank and acquirements, and of the most amiable + disposition, a warm friend to civil freedom, and a firm antagonist to + persecution and oppression of every hue—this nobleman, we say, + married a French lady of rank and fortune, who was a Catholic, and with + whom he lived in the tenderest love, and the utmost domestic felicity. The + lady being a Catholic, as we said, brought over with her, from France, a + learned, pious, and venerable ecclesiastic, as her domestic chaplain and + confessor. This man had been professor of divinity for several years in + the college of Louvain; but having lost his health, he accepted a small + living near the chateau of ——, the residence of Marquis De———, + in whose establishment he was domesticated as chaplain. In short, he + accompanied Lord ——— and his lady to Ireland, where he + acted in the same capacity, but so far only as the lady was concerned; + for, as we have already said, her husband, though a liberal man, was a + firm but not a bigoted Protestant. This harmless old man, as was very + natural, kept up a correspondence with several Irish and French clergymen, + his friends, who, as he had done, held professorships in the same college. + Many of the Irish clergymen, knowing the dearth of religious instruction + which, in consequence of the severe state of the laws, then existed in + Ireland, were naturally anxious to know the condition of the country, and + whether or not any relaxation in their severity had taken place, with a + hope that they might be able with safety to return to the mission here, + and bestow spiritual aid and consolation to the suffering and necessarily + neglected folds of their own persuasion. On this harmless and pious old + man the eye of Hennessy rested. In point of fact he set him for Sir Robert + Whitecraft, to whom he represented him as a spy from France, and an active + agent of the Catholic priesthood, both here and on the Continent; in fact, + an incendiary, who, feeling himself sheltered by the protection of the + nobleman in question and his countess, was looked upon as a safe man with + whom to hold correspondence. The Abbe, as they termed him, was in the! + habit, by his lordship's desire, and that of his lady, of attending the + Catholic sick of his large estates, administering to them religious + instruction, and the ordinance of their Church, at a time when they could + obtain them from no other source. He also acted as their almoner, and + distributed relief to the sick, the poor, and the distressed, and thus + passed his pious, harmless, and inoffensive, but useful life. Now all + these circumstances were noted by Hennessy, who had been on the lookout, + to make a present of this good old man to his new patron, Sir Robert. At + length having discovered—by; what means it is impossible to + conjecture—that the Abbe was to go on the day in question to relieve + a poor sick family, at about a distance of two miles from Castle ———, + the intelligence was communicated by Hennessy to Sir Robert, who + immediately set out for the place, attended by a party of his myrmidons, + conducted to it by the Red Rapparee, who, as we have said, was now one of + Whitecraft's band. There is often a stupid infatuation in villany which + amounts to what they call in Scotland fey—that is, when a man goes + on doggedly to commit some act of wickedness, or rush upon some + impracticable enterprise, the danger and folly of which must be evident to + every person but himself, and that it will end in the loss of his life. + Sir Robert, however, had run a long and prosperous career of persecution—a + career by which he enriched himself by the spoils he had torn, and the + property he had wrested from his victims, generally under the sanction of + Government, but very frequently under no other sanction than his own. At + all events the party, consisting of about thirty men, remained in a deep + and narrow lane, surrounded by high whitethorn hedges, which prevented the + horsemen—for they were all dragoons—from being noticed by the + country people. Alas, for the poor Abbe! they had not remained there more + than twenty minutes when he was seen approaching them, reading his + breviary as he came along. They did not move, however, nor seem to notice + him, until he had got into the midst of them, when they formed a circle + round him, and the loud voice of Whitecraft commanded him to stand. The + poor old priest closed his breviary, and looked around him; but he felt no + alarm, because he was conscious of no offence, and imagined himself safe + under the protection of a distinguished Protestant nobleman. + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen,” said he, calmly and meekly, but without fear, “what is the + cause of this conduct towards an inoffensive old man? It is true I am a + Catholic priest, but I am under the protection of the Marquis of———. + He is a Protestant nobleman, and I am sure the very mention of his name + will satisfy you, that I cannot be the object either of your suspicion or + your enmity.” + </p> + <p> + “But, my dear sir,” replied Sir Robert, “the nobleman you mention is a + suspected man himself, and I have reported him as such to the Government. + He is married to a Popish wife, and you are a seminary priest and harbored + by her and her husband.” + </p> + <p> + “But what is your object in stopping and surrounding me,” asked the + priest, “as if I were some public delinquent who had violated the laws? + Allow me, sir, to pass, and prevent me at your peril; and permit me, + before I proceed, to ask your name?” and the old man's eyes flashed with + an indignant sense of the treatment he was receiving. + </p> + <p> + “Did you ever hear of Sir Robert Whitecraft?” + </p> + <p> + “The priest-hunter, the persecutor, the robber, the murderer? I did, with + disgust, with horror, with execration. If you are he, I say to you that I + am, as you see, an old man, and a priest, and have but one life; take it, + you will anticipate my death only by a short period; but I look by the + light of an innocent conscience into the future, and I now tell you that a + woful and a terrible retribution is hanging over your head.” + </p> + <p> + “In the meantime,” said Sir Robert, very calmly, as he dismounted from his + horse, which he desired one of the men to hold. “I have a warrant from + Government to arrest you, and send you back again to your own country + without delay. You are here as a spy, an incendiary, and must go on your + travels forthwith. In this, I am acting as your friend and protector, and + so is Government, who do not wish to be severe upon you, as you are not a + natural subject. See sir, here is another warrant for your arrest and + imprisonment. The fact is, it was left to my own discretion, either to + imprison you, or send you out of the country. Now, sir, from a principle + of lenity, I am determined on the latter course.” + </p> + <p> + “But,” replied the priest, after casting his eye over both documents, “as + I am conscious of no offence, either against your laws or your Government, + I decline to fly like a criminal, and I will not; put me in prison, if you + wish, but I certainly shall not criminate myself, knowing as I do that I + am innocent. In the meantime, I request that you will accompany me to the + castle of my patron, that I may acquaint him with the charges against me, + and the cause of my being forced to leave his family for a time.” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir,” replied Whitecraft, “I cannot do so, unless I betray the trust + which Government reposes in me. I cannot permit you to hold any + intercourse whatever with your patron, as you call him, who is justly + suspected of being a Papist at heart. Sir, you have been going abroad + through the country, under pretence of administering consolation to the + sick, and bestowing alms upon the poor; but the fact is, you have been + stirring them up to sedition, if not to open rebellion. You must, + therefore, come along with us, this instant. You proceed with us to Sligo, + from whence we shall ship you off in a vessel bound for France, which + vessel is commanded by a friend of mine, who will treat you kindly, for my + sake. What shall we do for a horse for him?” he asked, looking at his men + for information on that point. + </p> + <p> + “That, your honor,we'll provide in a crack,” replied the Red Rapparee, + looking up the road; “here comes Sterling, the gauger, very well mounted, + and, by all the stills he ever seized, he must walk home upon shank's + mare, if it was only to give him exercise and improve his appetite.” + </p> + <p> + We need not detail this open robbery on the king's officer, and on the + king's highway besides. It is enough to say that the Rapparee, confident + of protection and impunity, with the connivance, although not by the + express orders of the baronet, deprived the man of his horse, and, in a + few minutes, the poor old priest was placed upon the saddle, and the whole + cavalcade proceeded on their way to Sligo, the priest in the centre of + them. Fortunately for Sir Robert's project, they reached the quay just as + the vessel alluded to was about to sail; and as there was, at that period, + no novelty in seeing a priest shipped out of the country, the loungers + about the place, whatever they might have thought in their hearts, seemed + to take no particular notice of the transaction. + </p> + <p> + “Your honor,” said the Red Rapparee, approaching and giving a military + salute to his patron, “will you allow me to remain in town for an hour or + two? I have a scheme in my head that may come to something. I will tell + your honor what it is when I get home.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well, O'Donnel,” replied Sir Robert; “but I'd advise you not to ride + late, if you can avoid it. You know that every man in your uniform is a + mark for the vindictive resentment of these Popish rebels.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! maybe I don't know that, your honor; but you may take my word for it + that I will lose little time.” + </p> + <p> + He then rode down a by-street, very coolly, taking the gauger's horse + along with him. The reader may remember the fable of the cat that had been + transformed into a lady, and the unfortunate mouse. The Rapparee, whose + original propensities were strong as ever, could not, for the soul of him, + resist the temptation of selling the horse and pocketing the amount. He + did so, and very deliberately proceeded home to his barracks, but took + care to avoid any private communication with his patron for some days, + lest he might question him as to what he had done with the animal. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, this monstrous outrage upon an unoffending priest, who + was a natural subject of France, perpetrated, as it was, in the open face + of day, and witnessed by so many, could not, as the reader may expect, be + long concealed. It soon reached the ears of the Marquis of ———and + his lady, who were deeply distressed at the disappearance of their aged + and revered friend. The Marquis, on satisfying himself of the truth of the + report, did not, as might have been expected, wait upon Sir Robert + Whitecraft; but without loss of time set sail for London, to wait upon the + French Ambassador, to whom he detailed the whole circumstances of the + outrage. And here we shall not further proceed with an account of those + circumstances, as they will necessarily intermingle with that portion of + the narrative which is to follow. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI.—Sir Robert ingeniously extricates Himself out of a + great Difficulty. + </h2> + <p> + On the day after the outrage we have described, the indignant old squire's + carriage stopped at the hall-door of Sir Robert Whitecraft, whom he found + at home. As yet, the latter gentleman had heard nothing of the + contumelious dismissal of Miss Herbert; but the old squire was not + ignorant of the felonious abduction of the priest. At any other time, that + is to say, in some of his peculiar stretches of loyalty, the act might, + have been a feather in the cap of the loyal baronet; but, at present, he + looked both at him and his exploits through the medium of the insult he + had offered to his daughter. Accordingly, when he entered the baronet's + library, where he found him literally sunk in papers, anonymous letters, + warrants, reports to Government, and a vast variety of other documents, + the worthy Sir Robert rose, and in the most cordial manner, and with the + most extraordinary suavity of aspect, held out his hand, saying: + </p> + <p> + “How much obliged am I, Mr. Folliard, at the kindness of this visit, + especially from one who keeps at home so much as you do.” + </p> + <p> + The squire instantly repulsed him, and replied: + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; I am an honest, and, I trust, and honorable man. My hand, + therefore, shall never touch that of a villain.” + </p> + <p> + “A villain!—why, Mr. Folliard, these are hard and harsh words, and + they surprise me, indeed, as proceeding from your lips. May I beg, my + friend, that you will explain yourself?” + </p> + <p> + “I will, sir. How durst you take the liberty of sending one of your + cast-off strumpets to attend personally upon my pure and virtuous + daughter? For that insult I come this day to demand that satisfaction + which is due to the outraged feelings of my daughter—to my own also, + as her father and natural protector, and also as an Irish gentleman, who + will brook no insult either to his family or himself. I say, then, name + your time and place, and your weapon—sword or pistol, I don't care + which, I am ready.” + </p> + <p> + “But, my good sir, there is some mystery here; I certainly engaged a + female of that name to attend on Miss Folliard, but most assuredly she was + a well-conducted person.” + </p> + <p> + “What! Madam Herbert well conducted! Do you imagine, sir, that I am a + fool? Did she not admit that you debauched her?” + </p> + <p> + “It could not be, Mr. Folliard; I know nothing whatsoever about her, + except that she was daughter to one of my tenants, who is besides a + sergeant of dragoons.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, yes, sir,” replied the squire sarcastically; “and I tell you it was + not for killing and eating the enemy that he was promoted to his + seirgeantship. But I see your manoeuvre, Sir Robert; you wish to shift the + conversation, and sleep in a whole skin. I say now, I have provided myself + with a friend, and I ask, will you fight?” + </p> + <p> + “And why not have sent your friend, Mr. Folliard, as is usual upon such + occasions?” + </p> + <p> + “Because he is knocked up, after a fit of drink, and I cannot be just so + cool, under such an insult, as to command patience to wait. My friend, + however, will attend us on the ground; but, I ask again, will you fight?” + </p> + <p> + “Most assuredly not, sir; I am an enemy to duelling on principle; but in + your case I could not think of it, even if I were not. What! raise my hand + against the life of Helen's father!—no, sir, I'd sooner die than do + so. Besides, Mr. Folliard, I am, so to speak, not my own property, but + that of my King, my Government, and my country; and under these + circumstances not at liberty to dispose of my life, unless in their + quarrel.” + </p> + <p> + “I see,” replied the squire bitterly; “it is certainly an admirable + description of loyalty that enables a man, who is base enough to insult + the very woman who was about to become his wife, and to involve her own + father in the insult, to ensconce himself, like a coward, behind his + loyalty, and refuse to give the satisfaction of a man, or a gentleman.” + </p> + <p> + “But, Mr. Folliard, will you hear me? there must, as I said, be some + mystery here; I certainly did recommend a young female named Herbert to + you, but I was utterly ignorant of what you mention.” + </p> + <p> + Here the footman entered, and whispered something to Sir Robert, who + apologized to the squire for leaving him two or three minutes. “Here is + the last paper,” said he, “and I trust that before you go I will be able + to remove clearly and fully the prejudices which you entertain against me, + and which originate, so far as I am concerned, in a mystery which I am + unable to penetrate.” + </p> + <p> + He then followed the servant, who conducted him to Hennessy, whom he found + in the back parlor. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Hennessy,” said he, impatiently, “what is the matter now?” + </p> + <p> + “Why,” replied the other, “I have one as good as bagged, Sir Robert.” + </p> + <p> + “One what?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, a priest, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Hennessy, I am particularly engaged now; but as to Reilly, can + you not come upon his trail? I would rather have him than a dozen priests; + however, remain here for about twenty minutes, or say half an hour, and I + will talk with you at more length. For the present I am most particularly + engaged.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well, Sir Robert, I shall await your leisure; but, as to Reilly, I + have every reason to think that he has left the country.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Robert, on going into the hall, saw the porter open the door, and Miss + Herbert presented herself. + </p> + <p> + “Oh,” said he, “is this you? I am glad you came; follow me into the front + parlor.” + </p> + <p> + She accordingly did so; and after he had shut the door he addressed her as + follows: + </p> + <p> + “Now, tell me how the devil you were discovered; or were you accessory + yourself to the discovery, by your egregious folly and vanity?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, la, Sir Robert, do you think I am a fool?” + </p> + <p> + “I fear you are little short of it,” he replied; “at all events, you have + succeeded in knocking up my marriage with Miss Folliard. How did it happen + that they found you out?” + </p> + <p> + She then detailed to him the circumstances exactly as the reader is + acquainted with them. + </p> + <p> + He paused for some time, and then said, “There is some mystery at the + bottom of this which I must fathom. Have you any reason to know how the + family became acquainted with your history?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; not in the least.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think Miss Folliard meets any person privately?” + </p> + <p> + “Not, sir, while I was with her.” + </p> + <p> + “Did she ever attempt to go out by herself?” + </p> + <p> + “Not, sir, while I was with her.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well, then, I'll tell you what you must do; her father is above with + me now, in a perfect hurricane of indignation. Now you must say that the + girl Herbert, whom I recommended to the squire, was a friend of yours; + that she gave you the letter of recommendation which I gave her to Mr. + Folliard; that having married her sweetheart and left the country with + him, you were tempted to present yourself in her stead, and to assume her + name. I will call you up by and by; but what name will you take?” + </p> + <p> + “My mother's name, sir, was Wilson.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good; what was her Christian name?” + </p> + <p> + “Catherine, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “And you must say that I know nothing whatsoever of the imposture you were + guilty of. I shall make it worth your while; and if you don't get well + through with it, and enable me to bamboozle the old fellow, I have done + with you. I shall send for you by and by.” + </p> + <p> + He then rejoined the squire, who was walking impatiently about the room. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Folliard,” said he, “I have to apologize to you for this seeming + neglect; I had most important business to transact, and I merely went + downstairs to tell the gentleman that I could not possibly attend to it + now, and to request him to come in a couple of hours hence; pray excuse + me, for no business could be so important as that in which I am now + engaged with you.'” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but in the name of an outraged father, I demand again to know + whether you will give me satisfaction or not?” + </p> + <p> + “I have already answered you, my dear sir, and if you will reflect upon + the reasons I have given you, I am certain you will admit that I have the + laws both of God and man on my side, and I feel it my duty to regulate my + conduct by both. As to the charge you bring against me, about the girl + Herbert, I am both ignorant and innocent of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, sir, how can you say so? how have you the face to say so?—did + you not give her a letter of recommendation to me, pledging yourself for + her moral character and fidelity?” + </p> + <p> + “I grant it, but still I pledge you my honor that I looked upon her as an + extremely proper person to be about your daughter; you know, sir, that you + as well as I have had—and have still—apprehensions as to + Reilly's conduct and influence over her; and I did fear, and so did you, + that the maid who then attended her, and to whom I was told she was + attached with such unusual affection, might have availed herself of her + position, and either attempted to seduce her from her faith, or connive at + private meetings with Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir Robert, I know your plausibility—and, upon my soul, I pay it a + high compliment when I say it is equal to your cowardice.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Folliard, I can bear all this with patience, especially from you—What's + this?” he exclaimed, addressing the footman, who rushed into the room in a + state of considerable excitement. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Sir Robert, there is a young woman below, who is crying and + lamenting, and saying she must see Mr. Folliard.” + </p> + <p> + “Damnation, sir,” exclaimed Sir Robert, “what is this? why am I + interrupted in such a manner? I cannot have a gentleman ten minutes in my + study, engaged upon private and important business, but in bolts some of + you, to interrupt and disturb us. What does the girl want with me?” + </p> + <p> + “It is not you she wants, sir,” replied the footman, “but his honor, Mr. + Folliard.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, tell her to wait until he is disengaged.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” replied Mr. Folliard, “send her up at once; what the devil can this + be? but you shall witness it.” + </p> + <p> + The baronet smiled knowingly. “Well,” said he, “Mr. Folliard, upon my + honor, I thought you had sown your wild oats many a year ago; and, by the + way, according to all accounts—hem—but no matter; this, to be + sure, will be rather a late crop.” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, I sowed my wild oats in the right season, when I was hot, young, + and impetuous; but long before your age, sir, that field had been allowed + to lie barren.” + </p> + <p> + He had scarcely concluded when Miss Herbert, acting upon a plan of her + own, which, were not the baronet a man of the most imperturbable coolness, + might have staggered, if not altogether confounded him, entered the room. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, sir!” she exclaimed, with a flood of tears, kneeling before Mr. + Folliard, “can you forgive and pardon me?” + </p> + <p> + “It is not against you, foolish girl, that my resentment is or shall be + directed, but against the man who employed you—and there he sits.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, sir!” she exclaimed, again turning to that worthy gentleman, who + seemed filled with astonishment. + </p> + <p> + “In God's name!” said he, interrupting his accomplice, “what can this + mean? Who are you, my good girl?” + </p> + <p> + “My name's Catherine Wilson, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Catherine Wilson!” exclaimed the squire—“why, confound your brazen + face, are you not the person who styled yourself Miss Herbert, and who + lived, thank God, but for a short time only, in my family?” + </p> + <p> + “I lived in your family, sir, but I am not the Miss Herbert that Sir + Robert Whitecraft recommended to you.” + </p> + <p> + “I certainly know nothing about you, my good girl,” replied Sir Robert, + “nor do I recollect having ever seen you before; but proceed with what you + have to say, and let us hear it at once.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; but perhaps you are not the gentleman as is known to be Sir + Robert Whitecraft—him as hunts the priests. Oh, la, I'll surely be + sent to jail. Gentlemen, if you promise not to send me to jail, I'll tell + you everything.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, proceed,” said the squire; “I will not send you to jail, + provided you tell the truth.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor I, my good girl,” added Sir Robert, “but upon the same conditions.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, gentlemen, I was acquainted with Miss Herbert—she is + Hirish, but I'm English. This gentleman gave her a letter to you, Mr. + Folliard, to get her as maid to Miss Helen—she told me—oh, my + goodness, I shall surely be sent to jail.” + </p> + <p> + “Go on, girl,” said the baronet somewhat sternly, by which tone of voice + he intimated—to her that she was pursuing the right course, and she + was quick enough to understand as much. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” she proceeded, “after Miss Herbert had got the letter, she told + her sweetheart, who wouldn't by no means allow her to take service, + because as why, he wanted to marry her; well, she consented, and they did + get married, and both of them left the country because her father wasn't + consenting. As the letter was of no use to her then, I asked her for it, + and offered myself in her name to you, sir, and that was the way I came + into your family for a short time.” + </p> + <p> + The baronet rose up, in well-feigned agitation, and exclaimed, + “Unfortunate girl! whoever you may be, you know not the serious mischief + and unhappiness that your imposture was nearly entailing upon me.” + </p> + <p> + “But did you not say that you bore an illegitimate child to this + gentleman?” asked the squire. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, la! no, sir; you know I denied that; I never bore an illegitimate + child; I bore a love-child, but not to him; and there is no harm in that, + sure.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, she certainly has exculpated you, Sir Robert.” + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen, will you excuse and pardon me? and will you promise not to + send me to jail?” + </p> + <p> + “Go about your business,” said Sir Robert, “you unfortunate girl, and be + guilty of no such impostures in future. Your conduct has nearly been the + means of putting enmity between two families of rank; or rather of + alienating one of them from the confidence and good-will of the other. + Go.” + </p> + <p> + She then courtesied to each, shedding, at the same time, what seemed to be + bitter tears of remorse—and took her departure, each of them looking + after her, and then at the other, with surprise and wonder. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Mr. Folliard,” said Sir Robert solemnly, “I have one question to ask + you, and it is this: could I possibly, or by any earthly natural means, + have been apprised of the honor of your visit to me this day? I ask you in + a serious—yes, and in a solemn spirit; because the happiness of my + future life depends on your reply.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, no,” replied the credulous squire, “hang it, no, man—no, Sir + Robert; I'll do you that justice; I never mentioned my intention of coming + to call you out, to any individual but one, and that on my way hither; he + was unwell, too, after a hard night's drinking; but he said he would shake + himself up, and be ready to attend me as soon as the place of meeting + should be settled on. In point of fact, I did not intend to see you + to-day, but to send him with the message; but, as I said, he was knocked + up for a time, and you know my natural impatience. No, certainly not, it + was in every sense impossible that you could have expected me: yes, if the + devil was in it, I will do you that justice.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I have another question to ask, my dear friend, equally important + with, if not more so than, the other. Do you hold me free from all blame + in what has happened through the imposture of that wretched girl?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, after what has occurred just now, I certainly must, Sir Robert. As + you laid no anticipation of my visit, you certainly could not, nor had you + time to get up a scene.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, now, Mr. Folliard, you have taken a load off my heart; and I will + candidly confess to you that I have had my frailties like other men, sown + my wild oats like other men; but, unlike those who are not ashamed to + boast of such exploits, I did not think it necessary to trumpet my own + feelings. I do not say, my dear friend, that I have always been a saint.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, now, that's manly and candid, Sir Robert, and I like you the better + for it. Yes, I do exonerate you from blame in this. There certainly was + sincerity in that wench's tears, and be hanged to her; for, as you + properly said, she was devilish near putting between our families, and + knocking up our intimacy. It is a delightful thing to think that I shall + be able to disabuse poor Helen's mind upon the subject; for, I give you my + honor, it caused her the greatest distress, and excited her mind to a high + pitch of indignation against you; but I shall set all to rights.” + </p> + <p> + “And now that the matter is settled, Mr. Folliard, we must have lunch. I + will give you a glass of Burgundy, which, I am sure, you will like.” + </p> + <p> + “With all my heart,” replied the placable and hearty old squire; “after + the agitation of the day a good glass of Burgundy will serve me + certainly.” + </p> + <p> + Lunch was accordingly ordered, and the squire, after taking half a dozen + bumpers of excellent wine, got into fine spirits, shook hands as cordially + as ever with the baronet, and drove home completely relieved from the + suspicions which he had entertained. + </p> + <p> + The squire, on his return home, immediately called for his daughter, but + for some time to no purpose. The old man began to get alarmed, and had not + only Helen's room searched, but every room in the house. At length a + servant informed him that she was tending and arranging the green-house + flowers in the garden. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, ay!” said he, after he had dismissed the servants, “Thank God—thank + God! I will go out to the dear girl; for she is a dear girl, and it is a + sin to suspect her. I wish to heaven that that scoundrel Reilly would turn + Protestant, and he should have her with all the veins of my heart. Upon my + soul, putting religion out of the question, one would think that, in other + respects, they were made for each other. But it's all this cursed pride of + his that prevents him; as if it signified what any person's religion is, + provided he's an honest man, and a loyal subject.” + </p> + <p> + He thus proceeded with his soliloquy until he reached the garden, where he + found Reilly and her arranging the plants and flowers in a superb + green-house. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Helen, my love, how is the greenhouse doing? Eh! why, what is + this?” + </p> + <p> + At this exclamation the lovers started, but the old fellow was admiring + the improvement, which even he couldn't but notice. + </p> + <p> + “Why, what is this?” he proceeded; “by the light of day, Helen, you have + made this a little paradise of flowers.” + </p> + <p> + “It was not I, papa,” she replied; “all that I have been able to + contribute to the order; and beauty of the place has been very slight + indeed. It is all the result of this poor man's taste and skill. He's an + admirable botanist.” + </p> + <p> + “By the great Boyne, my girl, I think he could lick Malcomson himself, as + a botanist.” + </p> + <p> + “Shir,” observed Reilly, “the young lady is underwaluin' herself; sure, + miss, it was yourself directed me what to do, and how to do it.” + </p> + <p> + “Look at that old chap, Helen,” said her father, who felt in great good + humor; first, because he found that Helen was safe; and again, because Sir + Robert, as the unsuspecting old man thought, had cleared up the + circumstances of Miss Herbert's imposture; “I say, Helen, look at that old + chap: isn't he a nice bit of goods to run away with a pretty girl? and + what a taste she must have had to go with him! Upon my soul, it beats + cock-fighting—confound me, but it does.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0009" id="linkimage-0009"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img src="images/page115.jpg" + alt="Page 115-- Isn't he a Nice Bit of Goods to Run Away With A Pretty Girl? " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + Helen's face became crimson as he spoke; and yet, such was the ludicrous + appearance which Reilly made, when put in connection with the false scent + on which her father was proceeding at such a rate, and the act of + gallantry imputed to him, that a strong feeling of humor overcame her, and + she burst into a loud ringing laugh, which she could not, for some time, + restrain; in this she was heartily joined by her father, who laughed till + the tears came down his cheeks. + </p> + <p> + “And yet, Helen—ha—ha—ha, he's a stalwart old rogue + still, and must have been a devil of a tyke when he was young.” + </p> + <p> + After another fit of laughter from both father and daughter, the squire + said: + </p> + <p> + “Now, Helen, my love, go in. I have good news for you, which I will + acquaint you with by and by.” + </p> + <p> + When she left the garden, her father addressed Reilly as follows: + </p> + <p> + “Now, my good fellow, will you tell me how you came to know about Miss + Herbert having been seduced by Sir Robert Whitecraft?” + </p> + <p> + “Fvhy, shir, from common report, shir.” + </p> + <p> + “Is that all? But don't you think,” he replied, “that common report is a + common liar, as it mostly has been, and is, in this case. That's all I + have to say upon the subject. I have traced the affair, and find it to be + a falsehood from beginning to ending. I have. And now, go on as you're + doing, and I will make Malcomson raise your wages.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, shir,” and he touched his nondescript with an air of great + thankfulness and humility. + </p> + <p> + “Helen, my darling,” said her father, on entering her own sitting-room, “I + said I had good news for you.” + </p> + <p> + Helen looked at him with a doubtful face, and simply said, “I hope it is + good, papa.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, my child, I won't enter into particulars; it is enough to say that I + discovered from an accidental meeting with that wretched girl we had here + that she was not Miss Herbert, as she called herself, at all, but another, + named Catherine Wilson, who, having got from Herbert the letter of + recommendation which I read to you, had the effrontery to pass herself for + her; but the other report was false. The girl Wilson, apprehensive that + either I or Sir Robert might send her to jail, having seen my carriage + stop at Sir Robert's house, came, with tears in her eyes, to beg that if + we would not punish her she would tell us the truth, and she did so.” + </p> + <p> + Helen mused for some time, and seemed to decide instantly upon the course + of action she should pursue, or, rather, the course which she had + previously proposed to herself. She saw clearly, and had long known that + in the tactics and stratagems of life, her blunt but honest father was no + match at all for the deep hypocrisy and deceitful plausibility of Sir + Robert Whitecraft, the consequence was, that she allowed her father to + take his own way, without either remonstrance or contradiction. She knew + very well that on this occasion, as on every other where their wits and + wishes came in opposition, Sir Robert was always able to outgeneral and + overreach him; she therefore resolved to agitate herself as little as + possible, and to allow matters to flow on tranquilly, until the crisis—the + moment for action came. + </p> + <p> + “Papa,” she replied, “this intelligence must make your mind very easy; I + hope, however, you will restore poor faithful Connor to me. I never had + such an affectionate and kind creature; and, besides, not one of them + could dress me with such skill and taste as she could. Will you allow me + to have her back, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “I will, Helen; but take care she doesn't make a Papist of you.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, papa, that is a strange whim: why, the poor girl never opened her + lips to me on the subject of religion during her life; nor, if I saw that + she attempted it, would I permit her. I am no theologian, papa, and detest + polemics, because I have always heard that those who are most addicted to + polemical controversy have least religion.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, my love, you shall have back poor Connor; and now I must go and + look over some papers in my study. Good-by, my love; and observe, Helen, + don't stay out too late in the garden, lest the chill of the air might + injure your health.” + </p> + <p> + “But you know I never do, and never did, papa.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, good-by again, my love.” + </p> + <p> + He then left her, and withdrew to his study to sign some papers, and + transact some business, which he had allowed to run into arrear. When he + had been there better than an hour, he rang the bell, and desired that + Malcomson, the gardener, should be sent to him, and that self-sufficient + and pedantic person made his appearance accordingly. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Malcomson,” said he, “how do you like the bearded fellow in the + garden?” + </p> + <p> + “Ou, yer honor, weel eneugh; he does ken something o' the sceence o' + buttany, an' 'am thinkin' he must hae been a gude spell in Scotland, for I + canna guess whare else he could hae become acquent wi' it.” + </p> + <p> + “I see Malcomson, you'll still persist in your confounded pedantry about + your science. Now, what the devil has science to do with botany or + gardening?” + </p> + <p> + “Weel, your honor, it wadna just become me to dispute wi' ye upon that or + any ither subjeck; but for a' that, it required profoond sceence, and vera + extensive learnin' to classify an' arrange a' the plants o' the yearth, + an' to gie them names, by whilk they dan be known throughout a' the + nations o' the warld.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well—I suppose I must let you have your way.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, your honor,” replied Malcomson, “'am sure it mair becomes me to let + you hae yours; but regerding this ould carl, I winna say, but he has been + weel indoctrinated in the sceence.” + </p> + <p> + “Ahem! well, well, go on.” + </p> + <p> + “An' it's no easy to guess whare he could hae gotten it. Indeed, 'am of + opinion that he's no without a hantle o' book lair; for, to do him + justice, de'il a question I spier at him, anent the learned names o' the + rare plants, that he hasna at his finger ends, and gies to me off-hand. + Naebody but a man that has gotten book lair could do yon.” + </p> + <p> + “Book lair, what is that?” + </p> + <p> + “Ou, just a correck knowledge o' the learned names of the plants. I dinna + say, and I winna say, but he's a velliable assistant to me, an' I shouldna + wish to pairt wi' him. If he'd only shave off yon beard, an' let himsel' + be decently happed in good claiths, why he might pass in ony gentleman's + gerden for a skeelful buttanist.” + </p> + <p> + “Is he as good a kitchen gardener as he is in the green-house, and among + the flowers?” + </p> + <p> + “Weel, your honor, guid troth, 'am sairly puzzled there; hoot, no, sir; + de'il a thing almost he kens about the kitchen gerden—a' his + strength lies among the flowers and in the green-house.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, that's where we principally want him. I sent for you, + Malcomson, to desire you'd raise his wages—the laborer is worthy of + his hire; and a good laborer of good hire. Let him have four shillings a + week additional.” + </p> + <p> + “Troth, your honor, 'am no sayin' but he weel deserves it; but, Lord haud + a care o' us, he's a queer one, yon.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, what do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, de'il heat he seems to care about siller any mair than if it was + sklate stains. On Saturday last, when he was paid his weekly wages by the + steward, he met a puir sickly-lookin' auld wife, wi' a string o' + sickly-looking weans at the body's heels; she didna ask him for charity, + for, in troth, he appeared, binna it wearna for the weans, as great an + objeck as hersel'; noo, what wad yer honor think? he gaes ower and gies + till her a hale crown o' siller out o' his ain wage. Was ever onything + heard like yon?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I know the cause of it, Malcomson. He's under a penance, and can + neither shave nor change his dress till his silly penance is out; and I + suppose it was to wash off a part of it that he gave this foolish charity + to the poor woman and her children. Come, although I condemn the folly of + it, I don't like him the worse for it.” + </p> + <p> + “Hout awa', your honor, what is it but rank Papistry, and a dependence + upon filthy works. The doited auld carl, to throw aff his siller that + gate; but that's Papistry a' ower—substituting works for grace and + faith—a' Papistry, a' Papistry! Well, your honor, I sal be conform + to your wushes—it's my duty, that.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII.—Awful Conduct of Squire Folliard + </h2> + <h3> + —Fergus Reilly begins to Contravene the Red Rapparee + </h3> + <p> + After Malcomson quitted him, the squire, with his golden-headed cane, went + to saunter about his beautiful grounds and his noble demesne, proud, + certainly, of his property, nor insensible to the beautiful scenery which + it presented from so many points of observation. He had not been long here + when a poor-looking peasant, dressed in shabby frieze, approached him at + as fast a pace as he could accomplish; and the squire, after looking at + him, exclaimed, in an angry tone: + </p> + <p> + “Well, you rascal, what the devil brings you here?” + </p> + <p> + The man stood for a little, and seemed so much exhausted and out of breath + that he could not speak. + </p> + <p> + “I say, you unfortunate old vagrant,” repeated the squire, “what brought + you here?” + </p> + <p> + “It is a case of either life or death, sir,” replied the poor peasant. + </p> + <p> + “Why,” said the squire, “what crime did you commit? Or, perhaps, you broke + prison, and are flying from the officers of justice; eh! is that it? And + you come to ask a magistrate to protect you!” + </p> + <p> + “I am flying from the agents of persecution, sir, and know not where to + hide my head in order to avoid them.” + </p> + <p> + The hard-pressed but amiable priest—for such he was—adopted + this language of truth, because he knew the squire's character, and felt + that it would serve him more effectually than if he had attempted to + conceal his profession. “I am a Catholic priest, sir, and felt from bitter + experience that this disguise was necessary to the preservation of my + life. I throw myself upon your honor and generosity, for although hasty, + sir, you are reported to have a good and kind heart.” + </p> + <p> + “You are disposed to place confidence in me, then?” + </p> + <p> + “I am, sir; my being before you now, and putting myself in your power, is + a proof of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Who are pursuing you? Sir Robert Whitecraft—eh?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, Captain Smellpriest and his gang.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, out of the frying pan into the fire; although I don't know that, + either. They say Smellpriest can do a generous thing sometimes—but + the other, when priest-hunting, never. What's your name?” + </p> + <p> + “I'll tell you, without hesitation, sir—Macguire; I'm of the + Macguires of Fermanagh.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay! ay! why, then, you have good blood in your veins. But what offence + were you guilty of that you—but I need not ask; it is enough, in the + present state of the laws, that you are a Catholic priest. In the + meantime, are you aware that I myself transported a Catholic priest, and + that he would have swung only for my daughter, who went to the viceroy, + and, with much difficulty, got his sentence commuted to transportation for + life? I myself had already tried it, and failed; but she succeeded, God + bless her!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, God bless her!” replied the priest, “she succeeded, and her fame has + gone far and near, in consequence; yes, may God of his mercy bless and + guard her from all evil!” and as the poor hunted priest spoke, the tears + came to his eyes. This symptom of respect and affection, prompted by the + generous and heroic conduct of the far-famed Cooleen Bawn, touched her + father, and saved the priest. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said he, after musing for a while, “so you say Smellpriest is + after you?” + </p> + <p> + “He is, sir; they saw me at a distance, across the country, scrambling + over the park wall, and indeed I was near falling into their hands by the + difficulty I had in getting over it.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, come,” replied the squire, “since you have had the courage to place + confidence in me, I won't abuse it; come along, I will both conceal and + protect you. I presume there is little time to be lost, for those priest + hounds will be apt to ride round to the entrance gate, which I will desire + the porter to close and lock, and then leave the lodge.” + </p> + <p> + On their way home he did so, and ordered the porter up to the house. The + magnificent avenue was a serpentine one, and our friends had barely time + to get out of sight of the lodge, by a turn in it, when they heard the + voices of the pursuers, hallooing for the porter, and thundering at the + gate. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, thunder away, only don't injure my gate, Smellpriest, or I'll make + you replace it; bawl yourselves hoarse—you are on the wrong side for + once!” + </p> + <p> + When they were approaching the hall-door, which generally lay open— + </p> + <p> + “Confound me,” said the squire, “if I know what to do with you; I trust in + God I won't get into odium by this. At all events, let us steal upstairs + as quietly as we can, and, if possible, without any one seeing us.” + </p> + <p> + To the necessity of this the priest assented, and they had reached the + first landing of the staircase when out popped right in their teeth two + housemaids each with brush in hand. Now it instantly occurred to the + squire that in this unlucky crisis bribery was the safest resource. He + accordingly addressed them: + </p> + <p> + “Come here, you jades, don't say a word about this man's presence here—don't + breathe it; here's five shillings apiece for you, and let one of you go + and bring me up, secretly, the key of the green-room in the garret; it has + not been opened for some time. Be quick now; or stay, desire Lanigan to + fetch it, and refreshment also; there's cold venison and roast beef, and a + bottle of wine; tell Lanigan I'm going to lunch, and to lay the table in + my study. Lanigan can be depended on,” he added, after the chambermaid had + gone, “for when I concealed another priest here once, he was entrusted + with the secret, and was faithful.” + </p> + <p> + Now it so happened that one of those maids, who was a bitter Protestant, + at once recognized Father Maguire, notwithstanding his disguise. She had + been a servant for four or five years in the house of a wealthy farmer who + lived adjoining him, and with whom he had been in the habit of frequently + dining when no danger was to be apprehended from the operation of the + laws. Indeed, she and Malcomson, the gardener, were the only two + individuals in the squire's establishment who were not Catholics. + Malcomson was a manoeuvrer, and, as is pretty usual with individuals of + his class and country, he looked upon “Papistry” as an abomination that + ought to be removed from the land. Still, he was cautious and shrewd, and + seldom or never permitted those opinions to interfere with or obstruct his + own interests. Be this is it may, the secret was not long kept. Esther + Wilson impeached her master's loyalty, and she herself was indignantly + assailed for her treachery by Molly Finigan, who hoped in her soul that + her master and young mistress would both die in the true Church yet. + </p> + <p> + The whole kitchen was in a buzz; in fact, a regular scene ensued. Every + one spoke, except Lanigan, who, from former experience, understood the + case perfectly; but, as for Malcomson, whose zeal on this occasion + certainly got the better of his discretion, he seemed thunderstruck. + </p> + <p> + “Eh, sirs! did ony one ever hear the like o' this?—to hide a rebel + priest frae the offended laws! But it canna be that this puir man is + athegether right in his head. Lord ha'e a care o' us! the man surely must + be demented, or he wouldna venture to bring such a person into his ain + house—into the vara house. I think, Maisther Lanigan, it wad be just + a precious bit o' service to religion and our laws to gang and tell the + next magistrate. Gude guide us! what an example he is settin' to his loyal + neighbors, and his hail connections! That ever we should see the like o' + this waefu' backsliding at his years! Lord ha'e a care o' us, I say aince + mair.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, but there's more to come,” said one of them, for, in the turmoil + produced by this shocking intelligence, they had forgotten to deliver the + message to Lanigan. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Lanigan,” said Esther, and her breath was checked by a hysteric + hiccup, “Mr. Lanigan, you are to bring up the key of the green-room, and + plenty of venison, roast beef, and a bottle of wine! There!” + </p> + <p> + “Baal, Maisther Lanigan, I winna stay langer under this roof; it's nae + cannie; I'll e'en gang out, and ha'e some nonsense clavers wi' yon queer + auld carl i' the gerden. The Lord ha'e a eare o' us!—what will the + warld come to next!” + </p> + <p> + He accordingly repaired to the garden, where the first thing he did was to + give a fearful account to Reilly of their master's political profligacy. + The latter felt surprised, but not at all at Malcomson's narrative. The + fact was, he knew the exact circumstances of the case, because he knew the + squire's character, which was sometimes good, and sometimes the reverse—just + according to the humor he might be in: and in reply observed to Malcomson, + that— + </p> + <p> + “As his honor done a great dale o' good! to the poor o' the counthry, I + think it wouldn't be daicent in us, Misther Malcomson, to go for to + publish this generous act to the poor priesht; if he is wrong, let us lave + him to Gad, shir.” + </p> + <p> + “Ou ay, weel I dinna but you're richt; the mair that we won't hae to + answer for his transgressions; sae e'en let every herring hang by its ain + tail.” + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, Lanigan, who understood the affair well enough, addressed + the audience in the kitchen to the following effect: + </p> + <p> + “Now,” said he, “what a devil of a hubbub you all make about nothing! + Pray, young lady,” addressing Esther Wilson, who alone had divulged the + circumstance, “did his honor desire you to keep what you seen saicret?” + </p> + <p> + “He did, cook, he did,” replied Esther; “and gave us money not to speak + about it, which is a proof of his guilt.” + </p> + <p> + “And the first thing you did was to blaze it to the whole kitchen! I'll + tell you what it is now—if he ever hears that you breathed a + syllable of it to mortal man, you won't be under his roof two hours.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, but, surely, cook—” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, but, surely, madam,” replied Lanigan, “you talk of what you don't + understand; his honor knows very well what he's about, mid has authority + for it.” + </p> + <p> + This sobered her to some purpose; and Lanigan proceeded to execute his + master's orders. + </p> + <p> + It is true Miss Esther and Malcomson were now silent, for their own sakes; + but it did not remove their indignation; so far from that, Lanigan himself + came in for a share of it, and was secretly looked upon in the light of + the squire's confidant in the transaction. + </p> + <p> + Whilst matters were in this position, the Red Rapparee began gradually to + lose the confidence of his unscrupulous employer. He had promised that + worthy gentleman to betray his former gang, and deliver them up to + justice, in requital for the protection which he received from him. This + he would certainly have done, were it not for Fergus, who, happening to + meet one of them a day or two after the Rapparee had taken service with + Whitecraft upon the aforesaid condition,—informed the robber of that + fact, and advised him, if he wished to provide for his own safety and that + of his companions, to desire them forthwith to leave the country, and, if + possible, the kingdom. They accordingly took the hint; some of them + retired to distant and remote places, and others went beyond seas for + their security. The promise, therefore, which the Rapparee had made to the + baronet as a proof of gratitude for his protection, he now found himself + incapable of fulfilling, in consequence of the dispersion and + disappearance of his band. When he stated this fact to Sir Robert, he + gained little credit from him; and the consequence was that his patron + felt disposed to think that he was not a man to be depended on. Still, + what he had advanced in his own defence might be true; and although his + confidence in him was shaken, he resolved to maintain him yet in his + service, and that for two reasons—one of which was, that by having + him under his eye, and within his grasp, he could pounce upon him at any + moment; the other was, that, as he knew, from the previous shifts and + necessities of his own lawless life, all those dens and recesses and + caverns to which the Catholic priesthood, and a good number of the people, + were obliged to fly and conceal themselves, he must necessarily be a + useful guide to him as a priest-hunter. It is true he assured him that he + had procured his pardon from Government, principally, he said, in + consequence of his own influence, and because, in all his robberies, it + had not been known that he ever took away human life. In general, however, + this was the policy of the Rapparees, unless when they identified + themselves with political contests and outrages, and on those occasions + they were savage and cruel as fiends. In simple robbery on the king's + highway, or in burglaries in houses, they seldom, almost never, committed + murder, unless when resisted, and in defence of their lives. On the + contrary, they were quite gallant to females, whom they treated with a + kind of rude courtesy, not unfrequently returning the lady of the house + her gold watch—but this only on occasions when they had secured a + large booty of plate and money. The Threshers of 1805-6 and '7, so far as + cruelty goes, were a thousand times worse; for they spared neither man nor + woman in their infamous and nocturnal visits; and it is enough to say, + besides, that their cowardice was equal to their cruelty. It has been + proved, at special commissions held about those periods, that four or five + men, with red coats on them, have made between two or three hundred of the + miscreants run for their lives, and they tolerably well-armed. Whether Sir + Robert's account of the Rapparee's pardon was true or false will appear in + due time; for the truth is, that Whitecraft was one of those men who, in + consequence of his staunch loyalty and burning zeal in carrying out the + inhuman measures of the then Government, was permitted with impunity to + run into a licentiousness of action, as a useful public man, which no + modern government would, or dare, permit. At the period of which we write, + there was no press, so to speak, in Ireland, and consequently no + opportunity of at once bringing the acts of the Irish Government, or of + public men, to the test of public opinion. Such men, therefore, as + Whitecraft, looked upon themselves as invested with irresponsible power; + and almost in every instance their conduct was approved of, recognized, + and, in general, rewarded by the Government of the day. The Beresford + family enjoyed something like this unenviable privilege, during the + rebellion of '98, and for some time afterwards. We have alluded to Mrs. + Oxley, the sheriffs, fat wife; whether fortunately or unfortunately for + the poor sheriff, who had some generous touches of character about him, it + so happened, at this period of our narrative she popped off one day, in a + fit of apoplexy, and he found himself a widower. Now, our acquaintance, + Fergus Reilly, who was as deeply disguised as our hero, had made his mind + up, if possible, to bring the Rapparee into trouble. This man had led his + patron to several places where it was likely that the persecuted priests + might be found; and, for this reason, Fergus knew that he was serious in + his object to betray them. This unnatural treachery of the robber + envenomed his heart against him, and he resolved to run a risk in watching + his motions. He had no earthly doubt that it was he who robbed the + sheriff. He knew, from furtive observations, as well as from general + report, that a discreditable intimacy existed between him and Mary Mahon. + This woman's little house was very convenient to that of Whitecraft, to + whom she was very useful in a certain capacity. She had now given up her + trade of fortune-telling—a trade which, at that period, in + consequence of the ignorance of the people, was very general in Ireland. + She was now more beneficially employed. Fergus, therefore, confident in + his disguise, resolved upon a bold and hazardous stroke. He began to + apprehend that if ever Tom Steeple, fool though he was, kept too much + about the haunts and resorts of the Rapparee, that cunning scoundrel, who + was an adept in all the various schemes and forms of detection, might take + the alarm, and, aided probably by Whitecraft, make his escape out of the + country. At best, the fool could only assure him of his whereabouts; but + he felt it necessary, in addition to this, to procure, if the matter were + possible, such evidence of his guilt as might render his conviction of the + robbery of the sheriff complete and certain. One evening a + wretched-looking old man, repeating his prayers, with beads in hand, + entered her cottage, which consisted of two rooms and a kitchen; and after + having presented himself, and put on his hat—for we need scarcely + say that no Catholic ever prays covered—he asked lodging in Irish, + for the night, and at this time it was dusk. + </p> + <p> + “Well, good man,” she replied, “you can have lodgings here for this night. + God forbid I'd put a poor wandherer out, an' it nearly dark.” + </p> + <p> + Fergus stared at her as if he did not understand what she said; she, + however, could speak Irish right well, and asked him in that language if + he could speak no English—“<i>Wuil Bearlha agud?</i>” (Have you + English?) + </p> + <p> + “<i>Ha neil foccal vaun Bearlha agum</i>.” (I haven't one word of + English.) + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said she, proceeding with the following short conversation in + Irish, “you can sleep here, and I will bring you in a wap o' straw from + the garden, when I have it to feed my cow, which his honor, Sir Robert, + gives me grass for; he would be a very kind man if he was a little more + generous—ha! ha! ha!” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, but doesn't he hunt an' hang, an' transport our priests?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, indeed, I believe he doesn't like a bone in a priest's body; but + then he's of a different religion—and it isn't for you or me to + construe him after our own way.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well,” said Fergus, “it isn't him I'm thinking of; but if I had a + mouthful or two of something to ait I'd go to sleep—for dear knows + I'm tired and hungry.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, then, of coorse you'll have something to ait, poor man, and while + you're eatin' it I'll fetch in a good bunch of straw, and make a + comfortable shake-down for you.” + </p> + <p> + “God mark you to grace, avourneen!” + </p> + <p> + She then furnished him with plenty of oaten bread and mixed milk, and + while he was helping himself she brought in a large launch of straw, which + she shook out and settled for him. + </p> + <p> + “I see,” said she, “that you have your own blankets.” + </p> + <p> + “I have, acushla. Cheerna, but this is darlin' bread! Arra was this baked + upon a griddle or against the <i>muddhia arran?</i>”*. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * The muddhia arran was a forked branch, cut from a tree, + and shaped exactly like a letter A—with a small stick + behind to support it. A piece of hoop iron was nailed to + it at the bottom, on which the cake rested—not + horizontally, but opposite the fire. When one side was done + the other was turned, and thus it was baked. +</pre> + <p> + “A griddle! Why, then, is it the likes o' me would have a griddle? that + indeed! No; but, any how, sure a griddle only scalds the bread; but you'll + find that this is not too much done; bekaise you know the ould proverb, 'a + raw dad makes a fat lad.'” + </p> + <p> + “Troth,” replied Fergus, “it's good bread, and fills the <i>boast</i>** of + a man's body; but now that I've made a good supper, I'll throw myself on + the straw, for I feel as if my eyelids had a millstone apiece upon them. I + never shtrip at night, but just throws my blanket over me, an' sleeps like + a top. Glory be to God! Oh, then, there's nothing like the health ma'am: + may God spare it to us! Amin, this night!” + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ** Boast—a figurative term, taken from a braggadocio or + boaster; it applies to any thing that is hollow or + deceitful: for instance, when some potatoes that grow + unusually large are cut in two, an empty space is found in + the centra, and that potato is termed boast, or empty. +</pre> + <p> + He accordingly threw himself on the shakedown, and in a short time, as was + evident by his snoring, fell into a profound sleep. + </p> + <p> + This was an experiment, though a hazardous one, as we have said; but so + far it was successful. In the course of half an hour the Red Rapparee came + in, dressed in his uniform. On looking about him he exclaimed, with an + oath, + </p> + <p> + “Who the hell is here?” + </p> + <p> + “Why,” replied Mary Mahon, “a poor ould man that axed for charity an' + lodgin' for the night.” + </p> + <p> + “And why did you give it to him?” + </p> + <p> + “Bekaise my charity to him may take away some of my sins.” + </p> + <p> + “Some of your devils!” replied the savage, “and I think you have enough of + them about you. Didn't you know I was to come here to-night, as I do + almost every night, for an hour or two?” + </p> + <p> + “You was drinkin',” she replied, “and you're drunk.” + </p> + <p> + “I am drunk, and I will be drunk as often as I can. It's a good man's + case. Why did you give a lodgin' to this ould vagabone?” + </p> + <p> + “I tould you the raison,” she replied; “but you needn't care about him, + for there's not a word of English in his cheek.” + </p> + <p> + “Faith, but he may have something in his purse, for all that. Is he ould?” + </p> + <p> + “A poor ould man.” + </p> + <p> + “So much the betther; be the livin' I'll try whether he has any ould coins + about him. Many a time—no, I don't say many a time—but twic't + I did it, and found it well worth my while, too. Some of these ould + scamers lie wid a purse o' goolden guineas under their head, and won't + confess it till the last moment. Who knows what this ould lad may have + about him? I'll thry anyhow,” said the drunken ruffian; “It's not aisy to + give up an ould custom, Molly—the sheriff, my darlin', for that. I + aised him of his fines, and was near strikin' a double blow—I + secured his pocket-book, and made a good attempt to hang Willy Reilly for + the robbery into the bargain. Now, hang it, Molly, didn't I look a + gentleman in his' clothes, shoes, silver buckles, and all; wasn't it well + we secured them before the house was burned? Here,” he added, “take a + sneeshin of this,” pulling at the same time a pint bottle of whiskey out + of his pocket; “it'll rise your spirits, an' I'll see what cash this ould + codger has about him; an', by the way, how the devil do we know that he + doesn't understand every word we say. Suppose, now—(hiccup)—that + he heard me say I robbed the sheriff, wouldn't I be in a nice pickle? But, + tell me, can you get no trace of Reilly?” + </p> + <p> + “Devil a trace; they say he has left the country.” + </p> + <p> + “If I had what that scoundrel has promised me for findin' him out or + securin' him—here's—here's—here's to you—I say, if + I had, you and I would”—Here he pointed with his thumb over his + shoulder, as much as to say they would try another climate. + </p> + <p> + “And now,” he proceeded, “for a search on the shake-down. Who knows but + the ould fellow has the yellow boys (guineas) about him? “—and he + was proceeding to search Fergus, when Mary flew at him like a tigress. + </p> + <p> + “Stop, you cowardly robber!” she exclaimed; “would you bring down the + curse and the vengeance of God upon both of us. We have enough and too + much to answer for, let alone to rob the ould an' the poor.” + </p> + <p> + “Be aisy now,” said he, “I'll make the search; sure I'm undher the + scoundrel Whitecraft's protection.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, you are, and you're undher my protection too; and I tell you, if you + lay a hand upon him it'll be worse for you.” + </p> + <p> + “What—what do you mane?” + </p> + <p> + “It's no matther what I mane; find it out.” + </p> + <p> + “How do I know but he has heard us?” + </p> + <p> + We must now observe that Fergus's style of sleeping was admirably adapted + for his purpose. It was not accompanied by a loud and unbroken snore; on + the contrary, after it had risen to the highest and most disagreeable + intonations, it stopped short, with a loud and indescribable backsnort in + his nose, and then, after a lull of some length, during which he groaned + and muttered to himself, he again resumed his sternutations in a manner so + natural as would have imposed upon Satan himself, if he had been present, + as there is little doubt he was, though not exactly visible to the eyes of + his two precious agents. + </p> + <p> + “Listen to that,” replied the woman; “do you think, now, he's not asleep? + and even if he was sitting at the fire beside us, devil a syllable we said + he could understand. I spoke to him in English when he came in, but he + didn't know a word I said.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, let the ould fellow sleep away; I won't touch him.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, now, that's a good boy; go home to your barracks, and take a good + sleep yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, yes, certainly; but have you Reilly's clothes safe—shoes, + silver buckles, and all?” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, as safe as the head on your shoulders; and, upon my soul, a great + dale safer, if you rob any more sheriffs.” + </p> + <p> + “Where are they, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, they're in my flat box, behind the bed, where nobody could see + them.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well, Molly, that will do; I may want them wanst more,” he replied, + pointing again with his thumb over his shoulder towards Whitecraft's + residence; “so goodnight; be a good girl, and take care of yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” she replied, “but do you be a good boy, and take care of yourself.” + And so they parted for the night. + </p> + <p> + The next day Fergus, possessed of very important evidence against the + Rapparee, was travelling along the public road, not more than half a mile + from the residence of Sir Robert Whitecraft, when whom should he meet but + the identical sheriff, on horseback, that the Rapparee had robbed. He put + his hand to his hat, and asked him for charity. + </p> + <p> + “Help a poor ould man, for the love and honor of God.” + </p> + <p> + “Why don't you go to work—why don't you go to work?” replied the + sheriff. + </p> + <p> + “I am not able, sir,” returned Fergus; “it wouldn't be good for my health, + your honor.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, pass on and don't trouble me; I have nothing for you.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! thin, sir, if you'd give me a trifle, maybe I'd make it worth your + while.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean?” asked the sheriff, who knew that persons like him had + opportunities of hearing and knowing more about local circumstances, in + consequence of their vagrant life, than any other class of persons in + society. + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean by what you have just said?” + </p> + <p> + “Aren't you the sheriff, sir, that was robbed some time ago?” + </p> + <p> + “I am.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, sir, I see you are dressed in black; and I heard of the death of the + misthress, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but what has that to do with what you have just now said—that + you would make it worth my while if I gave you alms?” + </p> + <p> + “I said so, sir; and I can, if you will be guided by me.” + </p> + <p> + “Speak out; I don't understand you.” + </p> + <p> + “Would you like to see the man that robbed you, sir, and would you know + him if you did see him?” + </p> + <p> + “Unquestionably I would know him. They say it was Reilly, but I have seen + Reilly since; and although the dress was the same which Reilly usually + wears, yet the faces were different.” + </p> + <p> + “Is your honor going far?” asked Fergus. + </p> + <p> + “No, I am going over to that farm-house, Tom Brady's; two or three of his + family are ill of fever, and I wish to do something for him; I am about to + make him my land bailiff.” + </p> + <p> + “What stay will you make there, your honor?” + </p> + <p> + “A very short one—not more than ten or fifteen minutes.” + </p> + <p> + “Would it be inconvenient for your honor to remain there, or somewhere + about the house, for an hour, or may be a little longer?” + </p> + <p> + “For what purpose? You are a mysterious old fellow.” + </p> + <p> + “Bekaise, if you'd wish to see the man that robbed you, I'll undhertake to + show him to you, face to face, within that time. Will your honor promise + this?” + </p> + <p> + The sheriff paused upon this proposal, coming as it did from such an + equivocal authority. What, thought he, if it should be a plot for my life, + in consequence of the fines which I have been forced to levy upon the + Catholic priests and bishops in my official capacity. God knows I feel it + to be a painful duty. + </p> + <p> + “What is your religion?” he asked, “and why should a gentleman in my + condition of life place any confidence upon the word of a common vagrant + like you, who must necessarily be imbued with all the prejudices of your + creed—for I suppose you are a Catholic?” + </p> + <p> + “I am, sir; but, for all that, in half an hour's time I'll be a rank + Protestant.” + </p> + <p> + The sheriff smiled and asked, “How the devil's that?” + </p> + <p> + “You are dressed in black, sir, in murnin' for your wife. I have seen you + go into Tom Brady's to give the sick creatures the rites of their Church. + I give notice to Sir Robert Whitecraft that a priest is there; and my word + to you, he and his hounds will soon be upon you. The man that robbed you + will be among them—no, but the foremost of them; and if you don't + know him, I can't help it—that's all, your honor.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” replied the sheriff, “I shall give you nothing now; because I know + not whether what you say can be relied upon or not. In the meantime, I + shall remain an hour or better, in Brady's house; and if your words are + not made good, I shall send to Sir Robert Whitecraft for a military party + to escort me home.” + </p> + <p> + “I know, your honor,” replied Fergus, “that Sir Robert and his men are at + home to-day; and if I don't fulfil my words, I'll give your honor lave to + whip me through the county.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said the sheriff, “I shall remain an hour or so in Brady's; but I + tell you that if you are deceiving me you shall not escape me; so look to + it, and think if what you propose to me is honest or not—if it be + not, woe betide you.” + </p> + <p> + Fergus immediately repaired to Sir Robert Whitecraft, to whom he + represented himself as a poor Protestant of the name of Bingham, and + informed him that a Popish priest was then in Tom Brady's house, + administering the rites of Popery to those who were sick in the family. + </p> + <p> + “I seen him, your honor, go into the house; and he's there this minute'. + If your honor makes haste you'll catch him.” + </p> + <p> + In less than a quarter of an hour Sir Robert and his crew were in + stirrups, and on their way to Tom Brady's; and in the meantime, too, the + sheriff, dressed as he was, in black, came outside the door, from time to + time, more in apprehension of a plot against his life than of a visit from + Whitecraft, which he knew must end in nothing. Now, Whitecraft and his + followers, on approaching Brady's house, caught a glimpse of him—a + circumstance which not only confirmed the baronet in the correctness of + the information he had received, but also satisfied the sheriff that the + mendicant had not deceived him. Rapid was the rush they made to Brady's + house, and the very first that entered it was the Red Rapparee. He was + about to seize the sheriff, whom he pretended not to know; but in a moment + Sir Robert and the rest entered, when, on recognizing each other, an + explanation took place, with all due apologies to the functionary, who + said: + </p> + <p> + “The mistake, Sir Robert, is very natural. I certainly have a clerical + appearance, as I am in mourning for my wife. I trust you will neither hang + nor transport me.” + </p> + <p> + “I am very sorry indeed, Mr. Oxley; but I only acted on information + received.” + </p> + <p> + “And I don't doubt, Sir Robert,” replied the sheriff, “that the person who + gave you the information may have been deceived himself by my + ecclesiastical looking dress. I am sorry you have had so much trouble for + nothing; but, upon my word, I feel extremely delighted that I am not a + priest.” + </p> + <p> + In the meantime the sheriff had recognized the Rapparee, by a single + glance, as the man that had robbed him. He was now certain; but he took + care not to bestow the least sign of recognition upon him; so far from + that, he appeared to pay no attention whatsoever to the men; but chatted + with Sir Robert for some time, who returned home deeply disappointed, + though without imputing blame to his informant, who, he thought, was very + naturally misled by the dress of the sheriff. Fergus, however, + apprehensive of being involved in the prosecution of the Rapparee, and + thus discovered, made a point to avoid the sheriff, whose + cross-examination a consciousness of his previous life led him to dread. + Still, he had, to a certain extent, though not definitely, resolved to + become evidence against him; but only, as we have said, on the condition + of previously receiving a full pardon for his own misdeeds, which was + granted. For upwards of a month, however, the sheriff was confined to his + bed, having caught, whilst in Brady's, the malignant fever which then + raged throughout the country. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0019" id="link2H_4_0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTEE XVIII.—Something not very Pleasant for all Parties. + </h2> + <p> + The position of England at this period was any thing but an easy one. The + Rebellion of '45 had commenced, and the young Pretender had gained some + signal victories. Independently of this, she was alarmed by the rumor of a + French invasion on her southern coast. Apprehensive lest the Irish + Catholics, galled and goaded as they were by the influence of the penal + laws, and the dreadful persecution which they caused them to suffer, + should flock to the standard of Prince Charles, himself a Catholic, she + deemed it expedient, in due time, to relax a little, and accordingly she + “checked her hand, and changed her pride.” Milder measures were soon + resorted to, during this crisis, in order that by a more liberal + administration of justice the resentment of the suffering Catholics might + be conciliated, and their loyalty secured. This, however, was a proceeding + less of justice than expediency, and resulted more from the actual and + impending difficulties of England than from any sincere wish on her part + to give civil and religious freedom to her Catholic subjects, or + prosperity to the country in which, even then, their numbers largely + predominated. Yet, singular to say, when the Rebellion first broke out, + all the chapels in Dublin were closed, and the Administration, as if + guided by some unintelligible infatuation, issued a proclamation, + commanding the Catholic priesthood to depart from the city. Those who + refused this senseless and impolitic edict were threatened with the utmost + severity of the law. Harsh as that law was, the Catholics obeyed it; yet + even this obedience did not satisfy the Protestant party, or rather that + portion of them who were active agents in carrying out this imprudent and + unjustifiable rigor at such a period. They were seized by a kind of panic, + and imagined forsooth that a broken down and disarmed people might engage + in a general massacre of the Irish Protestants. Whether this + incomprehensible terror was real, is a matter of doubt and uncertainty; or + whether it was assumed as a justification for assailing the Catholics in a + general massacre, similar to that which they apprehended, or pretended to + apprehend, is also a matter of question; yet certain it is, that a + proposal to massacre them in cold blood was made in the Privy Council. + “But,” says O'Connor, “the humanity of the members rejected this barbarous + proposal, and crushed in its infancy a conspiracy hatched in Lurgan to + extirpate the Catholics of that town and vicinity.” + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, so active was the persecuting spirit of such men as + Whitecraft and Smellpriest that a great number of the unfortunate priests + fled to the metropolis, where, in a large and populous city, they had a + better chance of remaining <i>incogniti</i> than when living in the + country, exposed and likely to be more marked by spies and informers. A + very dreadful catastrophe took place about this time. A congregation of + Catholic people had heard mass upon an old loft, which had for many years + been decayed—in fact, actually rotten. Mass was over, and the priest + was about to give them the parting benediction, when the floor went down + with a terrific crash. The result was dreadful. The priest and a great + many of the congregation were killed on the spot, and a vast number of + them wounded and maimed for life. The Protestant inhabitants of Dublin + sympathized deeply with the sufferers, whom they relieved and succored as + far as in them lay, and, by their remonstrances, Government was shamed + into a more human administration of the laws. + </p> + <p> + In order to satisfy our readers that we have not overdrawn our picture of + what the Catholics suffered in those unhappy times, we shall give a + quotation from the. Messrs. Chambers, of Edinburgh, themselves fair and + liberal men, and as impartial as they are able and well informed: + </p> + <p> + “Since the pacification of Limerick, Ireland had been ruled exclusively by + the Protestant party, who, under the influence of feelings arising from + local and religious antipathies, had visited the Catholics with many + severities. The oath which had excluded the Catholics from office had been + followed, in 1698, by an Act of the Irish Parliament, commanding all + Romish priests to leave the kingdom, under the penalty of transportation, + a return from which was to be punishable by death. Another law decreed + forfeiture of property and civil rights to all who should send their + children abroad to be educated in the Catholic faith.” * + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * “History and Present State of the British Empire.” + Edinburgh, W. and R. Chambers. +</pre> + <p> + Can any reasonable person be in doubt for a moment that those laws were + laws of extermination? In the meantime, let us hear the Messrs. Chambers + further: + </p> + <p> + “After the death of William, who was much opposed to severities on account + of religion, Acts of still greater rigor were passed for preventing the + growth of Popery. Any child of a Roman Catholic who should declare himself + a Protestant was entitled to become the heir of his estate, the father + merely holding it for his lifetime, and having no command over it. + Catholics were made incapable of succeeding to Protestants, and lands, + passing over them, were to go to the next Protestant heir. Catholic + parents were prevented from being guardians,to their own children; no + Protestant possessing property was to be permitted to marry a Catholic; + and Catholics were rendered incapable of purchasing landed property or + enjoying long leases. These measures naturally rendered the Catholics + discontented I subjects, and led to much turbulence. The common people of + that persuasion, being denied all access to justice, took it into their + own hands, and acquired all those lawless habits for which they have since + been remarkable. Treachery, cruelty, and all the lower passions, were + called into vigorous exercise. Even the Protestants, for their own sakes, + were often obliged to connive at the evasion of laws so extremely severe, + and which introduced much difficulty in their dealings with Catholics; + but, when any Protestant wished to be revenged upon a Catholic, or to + extort money from him, he found in these laws a ready instrument for his + purpose. By an additional Act, in 1726, it was ordained that a Roman + Catholic priest, marrying a Protestant to a Catholic, should suffer death; + and in order that legal redress might be still less accessible to the + Catholics, it was enacted, in 1728, that no one should be entitled to + practise as an attorney who had not been two years a Protestant.” + </p> + <p> + This is a clear and succinct epitome of the penal laws; true, much more + might be added; but it is enough to say that those who sow the wind will + reap the whirlwind. It is not by placing restrictions upon creeds or + ceremonies that religion can ever be checked, much less extinguished. Like + the camomile plant, the more it is trampled on the more it will spread and + grow; as the rude winds and the inclemency of the elements only harden and + make more vigorous the constitutions of those who are exposed to them. In + our state of the world, those who have the administration of political + laws in their hands, if they ever read history, or can avail themselves of + the experiences of ages, ought to know that it is not by severity or + persecution that the affections of their fellow-subjects can be + conciliated. We ourselves once knew a brutal ruffian, who was a dealer in + fruit in the little town of Maynooth, and whose principle of correcting + his children was to continue whipping the poor things until they were + forced to laugh! A person was one day present when he commenced chastising + one of them—a child of about seven—upon this barbarous + principle. This individual was then young and strong, and something + besides of a pugilist; but on witnessing the affecting efforts of the + little fellow to do that which was not within the compass of any natural + effort, he deliberately knocked the ruffian down, after having first + remonstrated with him to no purpose. He arose, however, and attacked the + other, but, thanks to a good arm and a quick eye, he prostrated him again, + and again, and again; he then caught him by the throat, for he was already + subdued, and squeezing his windpipe to some purpose, the fellow said, in a + choking voice, “Are you going to kill me?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” replied the other, “I only want to see the length of your tongue; + don't be alarmed, the whole thing will end merrily; come, now, give three + of the heartiest laughs you ever gave in your life, or down goes your + apple-cart—you know what that means?” + </p> + <p> + “I—I c—a—n'—t,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, you can,” replied his castigator; “nothing's more easy; come, be + merry.” + </p> + <p> + The caitiff, for he was a coward, and wanted bottom, upon getting a little + wind, whilst the other held him by the throat, gave three of the most + ludicrous, but disastrous, howls that ever were witnessed. On his opponent + letting him go, he took to his heels, but got a kick on going out that was + rather calculated to accelerate his flight. Legislators, therefore, ought + to know that no political whipping will ever make a people laugh at the + pleasure of it. + </p> + <p> + But to resume our narrative. England, now apprehensive, as we have said, + of a descent of the French upon her southern coast, and startled by the + successes of the young Pretender, who had cut Cope's army to pieces, + deemed it expedient to send over the celebrated Earl of Chesterfield as + Viceroy, with instructions to relax the rigor of the laws, and conciliate + the Catholics, as well as he could, so, at least, as to prevent them from + joining the Pretender, whose object it was understood to be to cross the + frontier and march upon London. Lord Chesterfield's policy afforded great + gratification to the Catholics, who were now restored to their usual + privileges; and its political object was so far successful that, as we + have said, not a single man of them ever joined the Pretender. Still, the + liberal Protestants, or, as they were termed, the patriotic party, were + not satisfied with the mere removal of the Catholic restrictions. Ireland, + at that time, was studded with men, or rather with monsters, like + Smellpriest and Whitecraft, who were stained with the blood of their + fellow-subjects and fellow-Christians. Sir Robert Whitecraft, especially, + was now in a bad position, although he himself was ignorant of it. The + French Ambassador demanded satisfaction, in the name of his Court and the + French nation, for the outrage that had been committed upon a French. + subject, and by which international law was so grossly violated. We must + say here that Whitecraft, in the abundance of his loyalty and zeal, was in + the habit, in his searches after priests, and suspected lay Catholics, to + pay domiciliary visits to the houses of many Protestant magistrates, + clergymen, and even gentlemen of wealth and distinction, who were + suspected, from their known enmity to persecution, of harboring Catholic + priests and others of that persuasion; so that, in point of fact, he had + created more enemies in the country than any man living. The Marquis of———, + Mr. Hastings, Mr. Brown, together with a great number of the patriotic + party, had already transmitted a petition to the Lord Lieutenant, under + the former Administration; but it was not attended to, the only answer + they got having been a simple acknowledgment of its receipt. This, on + coming to Sir Robert's ears, which it did from one of the underlings of + the Castle, only gave a spur to his insolence, and still more fiercely + stimulated his persecuting spirit. He felt conscious that Government would + protect him, or rather reward him, for any acts of violence which he might + commit against the Catholic party, and so far, under his own pet + Administration, he was right. + </p> + <p> + The petition we have alluded to having been treated with studied contempt, + the persons and party already mentioned came to the determination of + transmitting another, still more full and urgent, to the new Viceroy, + whose feeling it was, for the reasons we have stated, to reverse the + policy of his predecessor. + </p> + <p> + His liberal administration encouraged them, therefore, to send him a clear + statement of the barbarous outrages committed by such men as Smellpriest + and Sir Robert Whitecraft, not only against his Majesty's Roman Catholic + subjects, but against many loyal Protestant magistrates, and other + Protestants of distinction and property, merely because they were supposed + to entertain a natural sympathy for their persecuted fellow-subjects and + fellow-countrymen. They said that the conduct of those men and of the + Government that had countenanced and encouraged them had destroyed the + prosperity of the country by interrupting and annulling all bonafide + commercial transactions between, Protestants and Catholics. That those men + had not only transgressed the instructions they received, from his + predecessor, but all those laws that go to the security of life and + property. That they were guilty of several cruel and atrocious murders, + arsons, and false imprisonments, for which they were never brought to + account; and that, in fine, they were steeped in crime and blood, because + they knew that his predecessor, ignorant, perhaps, of the extent of their + guilt, threw his shield over them, and held them irresponsible to the laws + for those savage outrages. + </p> + <p> + They then stated that, in their humble judgment, a mere relaxation in the + operation of the severe and penal laws against Catholics would not be an + act of sufficient atonement to them for all they had greviously suffered; + that to overlook, or connive at, or protect those great criminals would be + at variance, not only with all principles of justice, but with the spirit + of the British Constitution itself, which never recognizes, much less + encourages, a wicked and deliberate violation of its own laws. That the + present was a critical moment, which demanded great judgment and equal + humanity in the administration of the laws in Ireland. A rebellion was + successfully progressing in Scotland, and it appeared to them that not + only common justice but sound policy ought to prompt the Government to + attract and conciliate the Catholic population of Ireland by allowing them + to participate in the benefits of the Constitution, which hitherto existed + not for them, thousands of whom, finding their country but a bed of + thorns, might, from a mere sense of relief, or, what was more to be + dreaded, a spirit of natural vengeance, flock to the standard of the + Pretender. + </p> + <p> + His excellency, already aware of the startling but just demand which had + been made by the French Ambassador, for the national insult by Whitecraft + to his country, was himself startled and shocked by the atrocities of + those blood-stained delinquents. + </p> + <p> + His reply, however, was brief, but to the purpose. + </p> + <p> + His secretary acknowledged the receipt of the memorial, and stated that + the object of his Excellency was not to administer the laws in cruelty, + but in mercy; that he considered all classes of his Majesty's subjects + equally entitled to their protection; and that with respect to the persons + against whom such serious charges and allegations had been made, he had + only to say, that if they were substantiated against them in a court of + justice, they must suffer like other criminals—if they can be + proved, Government will leave them, as it would any common felons, to the + laws of the country. His Excellency is determined to administer those laws + with the strictest impartiality, and without leaning to any particular + class or creed. So far as the laws will allow him, their protection shall + be extended, on just and equal principles to the poor and to the rich, to + the Catholic and to the Protestant. + </p> + <p> + This communication, which was kept strictly secret, reached the Marquis of + —— at a critical period of our narrative. Whitecraft, who was + ignorant of it, but sufficiently aware of the milder measures which the + new Administration had adopted, finding that the trade of priest-hunting + and persecution was, for the present, at an end, resolved to accelerate + his marriage with Miss Folliard, and for this purpose he waited upon her + father, in order to secure his consent. His object was to retire to his + English estates, and there pass the remainder of his life with his + beautiful but reluctant bride. He paid his visit about two o'clock, and + was told that Miss Folliard and her father were in the garden. Hither he + accordingly repaired, and found the squire, his daughter, and Reilly, in + the green-house. When the squire saw him he cried out, with something of a + malicious triumph: “Hallo, Sir Robert! why art thou so pale, young lover? + why art thou so pale?—and why does thy lip hang, Sir Robert?—new + men, new measures, Sir Robert—and so, 'Othello's occupation's gone,' + and the Earl of Chesterfield goes to mass every Sunday, and is now able to + repeat his padareem in Irish.” + </p> + <p> + “I am glad to find you so pleasant, Mr. Folliard; but I'm delighted to see + the beautiful state of your green-house—oh, Miss Folliard!—excuse + me. Your back was to me, and you were engaged in trailing that beautiful + shrub; allow me the honor of shaking hands with you.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir Robert, I bid you good-day, but you see that I have my garden gloves + on; you will excuse me.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Miss Folliard,” he replied, “your will is the spirit of the British + Constitution to me.” + </p> + <p> + “A spirit which, I fear, you have too frequently violated, Sir Robert; + but, as papa says, I believe your cruel occupation is gone—at least + I hope so.” + </p> + <p> + “'Gad, you got it there, Sir Robert,” replied her father, laughing. + </p> + <p> + “I must confess it,” replied the baronet; “but I think, in order to + ingratiate myself with Miss Folliard, I shall take whatever side she + recommends me. How, Mr. Folliard,” he proceeded, fixing his eyes upon + Reilly—“what the deuce is this? Have you got Robinson Crusoe here?” + </p> + <p> + “We have,” replied the squire; “but his man Friday has got married to a + Tipperary woman, and he's now in quest of a desert, island for him and her + to settle in.” + </p> + <p> + “I think, papa,” said Helen, “that if the principles of Sir Robert and his + class were carried out, he would not have far to go to look for one.” + </p> + <p> + “Another hit, Bob, you dog—another hit. W'ell said, Helen—well + said, I say. Crusoe, you villain, hold up your head, and thank God you're + christened.” + </p> + <p> + “Wid de help o' Gad, shir, I was christhened afwhore, sure, by de + priesht.” + </p> + <p> + This visit occurred about six weeks after the appointment of the new + Viceroy to the Government of Ireland, and about five after the sheriff's + illness. + </p> + <p> + “Come, Whitecraft,” said the squire, “come and let us have lunch: I'll + hold a crown I give you as good a glass of Burgundy as you gave me the + other day, and will say done first.” + </p> + <p> + “Won't Miss Folliard join us at lunch?” asked Whitecraft, looking to her + for an assent. + </p> + <p> + “Why, I suppose so,” replied her father; “won't you come, Helen?” + </p> + <p> + “You know, papa, I never lunch.” + </p> + <p> + “'Gad, and neither you do, Helen. Come, Sir Robert, we will have a + mouthful to eat, and something good to wash it down; come along, man. what + the devil are you scrutinizing poor old Robinson Crusoe for? Come along. I + say, the old chap is making the green-house thrive; he beats Malcomson. + Here. Malcomson, you know Sir Robert Whitecraft, don't you?” + </p> + <p> + “Hout, your honor, wha' disna ken Sir Robert Whitecraft? Isn't his name + far and near, as a braw defender o' the faith, and a putter down o' + Papistry?” + </p> + <p> + “By the way, Malcomson,” said Sir Robert, “where did you get Robinson + Crusoe, by which I mean that wild-looking man in the green-house?” + </p> + <p> + “Saul, sir, it's a question I never speered at him. He cam' here as a + gaberlunzie, and on stating that he was indoctrinated in the sceence o' + buttany, his honor garred me employ him. De'il hae't but the truth I'll + tell—he's a clever buttanist, and knows a' the sceentific names aff + hand.” + </p> + <p> + “So that's all you know about him?” said Sir Robert. “He has a devil of a + beard, and is shockingly dressed. Why doesn't he shave?” + </p> + <p> + “Ou, just some Papistry nonsense,” replied the gardener; “but we hae + naething to do wi' that, sae lang's we get the worth o' our siller out o' + him.” + </p> + <p> + “Here's a shilling, Malcomson,” said Sir Robert. + </p> + <p> + “Na, na, your honor; a shilling's no for a man that understands the + sceence o' buttany: a shilling's for a flunky in livery; but as for me, I + couldna conscientiously condescend upon less than ten o' them, or may be a + pund British, but I'm feart that's contrair to your honor's habits.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then,” said Sir Robert, “I have no more silver, and so I leave you + to the agreeable society of Robinson Crusoe.” + </p> + <p> + Reilly had watched Sir Robert's motions, as well as his countenance, in a + manner as furtively as possible. Sometimes, indeed, he stared at him + broadly, and with a stupid, oafish look, and again placed himself in such + a position behind the range of flower-pots which were placed upon the + ledges, that he could observe him without being perceived himself. The + force of habit, however, is extraordinary. Our hero was a man exceedingly + remarkable for personal cleanliness, and consequently made a point to wash + his hands morning and evening with peculiar care. Be this as it may, the + lynx eye of Sir Robert observed their whiteness, and he instantly said to + himself, “This is no common laborer; I know that he is not, from the + whiteness of his hands. Besides, he is disguised; it is evident from the + length of his beard, and the unnecessary coarseness of his apparel. Then + his figure, the symmetry and size of which no disguise can conceal; this, + and everything else, assures me that he is disguised, and that he is, + besides, no other individual than the man I want, William Reilly, who has + been hitherto my evil genius; but it shall go hard with me, or I shall be + his now.” Such were his meditations as he passed along with the squire to + join him at lunch. + </p> + <p> + When they had left the garden, Reilly addressed his <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> as + follows: + </p> + <p> + “Helen, I am discovered.” + </p> + <p> + “Discovered! O my God, no!” + </p> + <p> + “Unquestionably, there is no doubt of it; it is certain.” + </p> + <p> + “But how do you know that it is certain?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I observed that Whitecraft's eyes were never off my hands; he + knew that a common laborer could not possibly have such hands. Helen, I am + discovered, and must fly.” + </p> + <p> + “But you know that there is a change of Administration, and that the + severity of the laws has been relaxed against Catholics.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, you told me so, and I have no fear for myself; but what I apprehend + is that this discovery, of which I feel certain, will precipitate your + marriage with that miscreant; they will entrap you into it, and then I am + miserable for ever.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, William, we must fly this very night; we will proceed to the + Continent, to some Protestant state, where we can get married without any + danger to the clergyman who may unite us.” + </p> + <p> + “It is all that is left for us,” replied Reilly; “I should sooner lose + life than you, my beloved Helen; and now, what is to be done? fly we must; + and in anticipation of the necessity of this step I left a suit of clothes + with Lanigan: or rather with a poor widow, who was a pensioner of mine—a + Mrs. Buckley, from whom Lanigan got them, and has them. I could not think + of accompanying you in this vile dress. On your way in, try to see + Lanigan, and desire him to come out to me. There is not a moment to be + lost; and, my dear Helen, show no marks of agitation; be calm and firm, or + we are undone.” + </p> + <p> + “Rely on me, dear Reilly, rely on me; I shall, send Lanigan to you.” + </p> + <p> + She left him, and went to her room, when she rang the bell, and her maid, + the faithful Connor, who had been restored to her service, came to her. + </p> + <p> + “Connor,” said she, “I shall not be able to dine with papa to-day, + especially as that wretch Whitecraft is likely to dine with him. Go to + Lanigan, and tell him to come to me, for I wish to know if he has any + thing light and delicate that he could send to my room; Connor, I am very + unhappy.” + </p> + <p> + “But, miss, sure they say that the laws are changed, and that Mr. Reilly + may go at large if he wishes.” + </p> + <p> + “I know that, Connor; but send Lanigan to me immediately.” + </p> + <p> + “When Lanigan entered he found the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> in tears. + </p> + <p> + “My God, Miss Folliard,” said he, “what is the matter with you? why are + you crying, or what have they done to you?” + </p> + <p> + “Lanigan,” she replied, wiping her eyes, “you and Connor only are in our + secret; we must fly this night.” + </p> + <p> + “This night, Miss Folliard!” + </p> + <p> + “This night, Lanigan; and you must assist us.” + </p> + <p> + “To the last drop of my blood, I will.” + </p> + <p> + “Lanigan, Reilly is discovered.” + </p> + <p> + “Discovered, miss! good God, how was he discovered?” + </p> + <p> + “By his hands—by the whiteness of his beautiful hands. Now, Lanigan, + Sir Robert, aware that he cannot act the tyrant at present, as he used to + do, will instigate my father to some act of outrage against him; for you + know, Lanigan, how cowardly, how cruel, how vindictive, the detestable + villain is; and most assuredly he will make my credulous and generous, but + hot-tempered, father the instrument of his vengeance upon Reilly; and, + besides, he will certainly urge him to bring about an immediate marriage + between himself and me, to which, it is true, I would, and will die, + sooner than consent. I will dine here, Lanigan, for I cannot bear to look + upon my dear father, whom I am about to—” Here her tears interrupted + her, and she could proceed no farther; at length she recovered herself, + and resumed: “I know,” she added, “that Whitecraft is now detailing his + discovery and his plans. Oh!! that, for Reilly's sake, I could become + acquainted with them!” + </p> + <p> + “What would you wish for dinner, Miss Folliard?” asked Lanigan calmly. + </p> + <p> + “For dinner? oh, any thing, any thing; I care not what; but see Reilly, + tell him I have a second key for the back gate in the garden, and also for + the front; and, Lanigan—” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Miss Folliard; but, for God's sake, don't cry so; your eyes will + get red, and your father may notice it.” + </p> + <p> + “True, thank you, Lanigan; and Reilly, besides, told me to keep myself + calm; but how can I, Lanigan? Oh, my father! my beloved father! how can I + abandon—desert him? No, Lanigan, I will not go; say to Reilly—say + I have changed my mind; tell him that my affection for my father has + overcome my love for him; say I will never marry—that my heart is + his, and never will or can be another's. But then again—he, the + noble-minded, the brave, the generous, the disinterested—alas! I + know not what to do, Lanigan, nor how to act. If I remain here, they will + strive to force this odious marriage on me; and then some fearful + catastrophe will happen; for, sooner than marry Whitecraft, I would stab + either him or myself. Either that, Lanigan, or I should go mad; for do you + know, Lanigan, that there is insanity in our family, by my father's side?” + </p> + <p> + “Unfortunately I know it, Miss Folliard; your uncle died in a mad-house, + and it was in that way the estate came to your father. But remember what + you say Mr. Reilly told you; be calm; I will send up some light nourishing + dinner to you, at the usual hour; and in the meantime I will see him + before then, and forge some excuse for bringing it up myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Stay, Lanigan, I am sadly perplexed; I scarcely know what I say; I am in + a state of inconceivable distraction. Suppose I should change my mind; it + is not unlikely; I am whirled about by a crowd of contending emotions; but—well—let + me see—oh, yes—it will be as well, Lanigan, to have two horses + ready saddled; that is no crime, I hope, if we should go. I must, of + course, put on my riding habit.” + </p> + <p> + “Begging your pardon, Miss Folliard, you'll do no such thing; would you + wish to have yourself discovered in the first inn you might put up at? No, + dress yourself in one of Connor's dresses so that you may appear as humble + as possible, and any thing but a lady of rank; otherwise, it will be + difficult for you to escape observation.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Lanigan, all I can say is, that he and I shall place ourselves + under your advice and guidance. But my father—oh, my dear father!” + and again she wrung her hands and wept bitterly. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Helen,” said he, “as sure as the Lord's in heaven, you will discover + yourself; and, after all, how do you know that Sir Robert has found out + Mr. Reilly? Sure it's nothing but bare suspicion on both your parts. At + any rate, I'll saddle Paudeen O'Rafferty wid my own hands, and I'll put on + Molly Crudden's big pillion, for you know she's too fat to walk to mass, + and you will feel yourself quite easy and comfortable in it” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, Lanigan; I know not why the impression is on me; but I feel as if + I were never to experience comfort more. Go to Mr. Reilly; make what + arrangements he and you may think proper, and afterwards you can acquaint + me with them. You see, Lanigan, in what a state of excitement and + uncertainty I am. But tell Reilly that, rather than be forced into a + marriage, with Whitecraft—rather than go distracted—rather + than die—I shall fly with him.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX.—Reilly's Disguise Penetrated + </h2> + <p> + —Fergus Reilly is on the Trail of the Rapparee—He Escapes—Sir + Robert begins to feel Confident of Success. + </p> + <p> + Lanigan, on passing the dining parlor, heard what he conceived to be loud + and angry voices inside the room, and as the coast was clear he + deliberately put his ear to the key-hole, which ear drank in the following + conversation: + </p> + <p> + “I say, Sir Robert, I'll shoot the villain. Do not hold me. My pistols are + unloaded and loaded every day in the year; and ever since I transported + that rebel priest I never go without them. But are you sure, Sir Robert? + Is it not possible you may be mistaken? I know you are a suspicious + fellow; but still, as I said, you are, for that very reason, the more + liable to be wrong. But, if it is he, what's to be done, unless I shoot + him?” + </p> + <p> + “Under the last Administration, sir, I could have answered your question; + but you know that if you shoot him now you will be hanged. All that's left + for us is simply to effect this marriage the day after tomorrow; the + documents are all ready, and in the course of to-morrow the license can be + procured. In the meantime, you must dispatch him to-night.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean, Sir Robert?” + </p> + <p> + “I say you must send him about his business. In point of fact, I think the + fellow knows that he is discovered, and it is not unlikely that he may + make an effort to carry off your daughter this very night.” + </p> + <p> + “But, Sir Robert, can we not seize him and surrender him to the + authorities? Is he not an outlaw?” + </p> + <p> + “Unfortunately, Mr. Folliard, he is not an outlaw; I stretched a little + too far there. It is true I got his name put into the <i>Hew and-Cry</i>, + but upon representations which I cannot prove.” + </p> + <p> + “And why did you do so, Sir Robert?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, Mr. Folliard, to save your daughter.” + </p> + <p> + The old man paused. + </p> + <p> + “Ah,” he exclaimed, “that is a bad business—I mean for you; Sir + Robert; but we will talk it over. You shall stop and dine with me; I want + some one to talk with—some one who will support me and keep me in + spirits;” and as he spoke he sobbed bitterly. “I wish to God,” he + exclaimed, “that neither I nor Helen—my dear Helen—had ever + seen that fellow's face. You will dine with me, Bob?” + </p> + <p> + “I will, upon the strict condition that you keep yourself quiet, and won't + seem to understand any thing.” + </p> + <p> + “Would you recommend me to lock her up?” + </p> + <p> + “By no means; that would only make matters worse. I shall dine with you, + but you must be calm and quiet, and not seem to entertain any suspicions.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well, I shall; but what has become of our lunch? Touch the bell.” + </p> + <p> + This hint sent Lanigan downstairs, who met the butler coming up with it. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Pat,” said he, “what kept you so long with the lunch?” + </p> + <p> + “I was just thinking,” replied Pat, “how it would be possible to poison + that ugly, ill-made, long-legged scoundrel, without poisoning my master. + What's to be done, Lanigan? He will marry this darlin' in spite of us. And + sure, now we have our privileges once more, since this great Earl came to + rule over us; and sure, they say, he's a greater gentleman than the king + himself. All I can say is, that if this same Sir Robert forces the Cooleen + Baum to such an unnatural marriage, I'll try a dose, hit or miss, for a + cowheel anyway.” + </p> + <p> + Lanigan laughed, and the butler passed on with the lunch. + </p> + <p> + We may state here that the squire, notwithstanding his outspoken manner + against Popery, like a terrible reverend baronet not long deceased, who, + notwithstanding his discovery of the most awful Popish plots, and + notwithstanding the most extravagant denunciations against Popery, like + him, we say, the old squire seldom had more than one or two Protestant + servants under his roof. Pat hated Longshanks, as he termed him, as did + all the household, which, indeed, was very natural, as he was such a + notorious persecutor of their religion and their clergy. + </p> + <p> + Lanigan lost no time in acquainting Reilly with what he had heard, and the + heart of the latter palpitated with alarm on hearing that the next day but + one was likely to join his <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, by violent and unnatural + proceedings, to the man whom she so much detested. He felt that it was now + time to act in order to save her. Arrangements were consequently made + between them as to the time and manner of their escape, and those + arrangements, together with the dialogue he had overheard, Lanigan + communicated to the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>. + </p> + <p> + The squire on that day experienced strange alternations of feeling. His + spirits seemed to rise and sink, as the quicksilver in the glass is + affected by the state of the atmosphere. He looked into the future with + terror, and again became, to the astonishment of his guest—we now + talk of their conduct after dinner—actuated by some thought or + impulse that put him into high spirits. Whitecraft, cool and cautious, + resolved to let him have his way; for the squire was drinking deeply, and + the Burgundy was good and strong. + </p> + <p> + “Bob, my boy,” said he, “you don't drink, and that is a bad sign. You have + either a bad head of late, or a bad heart, which is worse. Hang you, sir, + why don't you drink? I have seen you lay lots of my guests under the table + when you were quite cool; but now, what are you at? They can't run away + to-night. Helen doesn't know that the discovery has been made. And now, + Bob, you dog, listen to me, I say—would you have had the manliness + and courage to expose yourself for the sake of a pretty girl as he did?—that + is—here's a bumper to Helen! Curse you, will nothing make you drink? + No, faith, he hadn't seen Helen at the time; it was for a worthless old + fellow like me that he exposed himself; but no matter, you may be right; + perhaps it was a plot to get acquainted with her. Still, I'm not sure of + that; but if it was, I'll make him smart.” + </p> + <p> + After dinner the squire drank deeply—so deeply, indeed, that + Whitecraft was obliged to call up some of the male servants to carry him + to his chamber and put him to bed. In this task Lanigan assisted, and + thanked his stars that he was incapacitated from watching the lovers, or + taking any means to prevent their escape. As for Whitecraft, thought he, I + will soon send him about his business. Now, this gentleman's suspicions + were the more deeply excited, in consequence of Helen's refusal to meet + him at either lunch or dinner, a refusal which she gave on the plea of + indisposition. He had therefore made up his mind to watch the motions of + <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, and he would have included Reilly in his surveillance + were it not that Lanigan informed him of what he termed the mysterious + disappearance of the under-gardener. + </p> + <p> + “What!” exclaimed Whitecraft, “is he gone?” + </p> + <p> + “He has gone, Sir Robert, and he left his week's wages behind him, for he + never came to the steward to ask it. And now, Sir Robert, to tell you the + truth, I'm not sorry he's gone; he was a disagreeable old fellow, that + nobody could make either head or tail of; but, Sir Robert, listen—wait, + sir, till I shut the door—it will soon be getting dusk: you know + you're not liked in the country, and now that we—I mean the + Catholics—have the countenance of Government, I think that riding + late won't be for your health. The night air, you know, isn't wholesome to + some people. I am merely givin' you a hint, Sir Robert, bekaise you are a + friend of my masther's, and I hope for your own sake you'll take it. The + sooner you mount your horse the better; and if you be guided by me, you'll + try and reach your own house before the darkness sets in. Who knows what + Reilly may be plotting? You know he doesn't like a bone in your honor's + skin; and the Reillys are cruel and desperate.” + </p> + <p> + “But, Lanigan, are you aware of any plot or conspiracy that has been got + up against my life?” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all, your honor; but I put it to yourself, sir, whether you don't + feel that I'm speaking the truth.” + </p> + <p> + “I certainly know very well,” replied the baronet, “that I am exceedingly + unpopular with the Popish party; but, in my conduct towards them, I only + carried out the laws that had been passed against them.” + </p> + <p> + “I know that, Sir Robert, and, as a Catholic, I am sorry that you and + others were supported and egged on by such laws. Why, sir, a hangman could—give + the same excuse, because if he put a rope about your neck, and tied his + cursed knot nately under your left ear, what was he doin' but fulfillin' + the law as you did? And now, Sir Robert, who would shake hands with a + hangman, unless some unfortunate highway robber or murderer, that gives + him his hand because he knows that he will never see his purty face agin. + This discourse is all folly, however—you haven't a minute to lose—shall + I order your horse?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, you had better, Lanigan,” replied the other, with a dogged + appearance of cowardice and revenge. He could not forgive Lanigan the + illustration that involved the comparison of the hangman; still his + conscience and his cowardice both whispered to him that the cook was in + the right. + </p> + <p> + This night was an eventful one. The course of our narrative brings us and + our readers to the house of Captain Smellpriest, who had for his next-door + neighbor the stalwart curate of the parish, the Rev. Samson Strong, to + whom some allusion has been I already made in these pages. Now the + difference between Smellpriest and Whitecraft was this—Smellpriest + was not a magistrate, as Whitecraft was, and in his priest-hunting + expeditions only acted upon warrants issued by some bigoted and + persecuting magistrate or other who lived in the district. But as his + propensity to hunt those unfortunate persons was known, the execution of + the warrants was almost in every instance entrusted to his hands. It was + not so with Sir Robert, who, being himself a magistrate, might be said to + have been in the position at once of judge and executioner. At all events, + the race of blood was pretty equal between them, so far as the clergy was + concerned; but in general enmity to the Catholic community at large, + Whitecraft was far more cruel and comprehensive in his vengeance. It is + indeed an observation founded upon truth and experience, that in all + creeds, in proportion to his ignorance and bigotry, so is the violence of + the persecutor. Whitecraft, the self-constituted champion of + Protestantism, had about as much religion as Satan himself—or indeed + less, for we are told that he believes and trembles, while Whitecraft, on + the contrary, neither believed nor trembled. But if he did not fear God, + he certainly feared man, and on the night in question went home with as + craven a heart—thanks to Lanigan—as ever beat in a coward's + bosom. Smellpriest, however, differed from Whitecraft in many points; he + was brave, though cruel, and addicted to deep potations. Whitecraft, it is + true, drank more deeply still than he did; but, by some idiosyncrasy of + stomach or constitution, it had no more effect upon him than it had upon + the cask from which it had been drawn, unless, indeed, to reduce him to + greater sobriety and sharpen his prejudices. + </p> + <p> + Be this as it may, the Rev. Samson Strong made his appearance in + Smellpriest's house with a warrant, or something in the shape of one, + which he placed in the gallant captain's hands, who was drunk. + </p> + <p> + “What's this, oh, Samson the Strong? said Smellpriest, laughing and + hiccuping both at the same time. + </p> + <p> + “It's a hunt, my dear friend. One of those priests of Baal has united in + unholy bands a Protestant subject with a subject of the harlot of + abominations.” + </p> + <p> + “Samson, my buck,” said Smellpriest, “I hope this Popish priest of yours + will not turn out to be a wild-goose. You know you have sent me upon many + a wild-goose chase before; in—in—in fact, you nev—never + sent me upon any other. You're a blockhead, oh, divine Samson; and that—that + thick head of yours would flatten a cannon-ball. But what is it?—an + intermarriage between the two P's—Popish and Protestant?” + </p> + <p> + “My dear,” said his wife, “you must be aware that the Popishers have only + got liberty to clatter their beads in public; but not to marry a Popisher + to a Protestanter. This is a glorious opportunity for you to come home + with a feather in your cap, my dear. Has he far to go, Mr. Strong? because + he never goes out after the black game, as you call them, sir, that I + don't feel as if I—but I can't express what I feel at his dear + absence.” + </p> + <p> + Now we have said that Smellpriest was drunk, which, in point of fact, was + true; but not so drunk but that he observed some intelligent glances pass + between his wife and the broad-shouldered curate. + </p> + <p> + “No, madam, only about two miles. Smellpriest, you know Jack Houlaghan's + stripe?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes—I know Jack Houlaghan's stripe, in Kilrudden.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, when you g'et to the centre of the stripe, look a little to your + right, and—as the night is light enough—you will see a house—a + cottage rather; to this cottage bring your men, and there you will find + your game. I would not, captain, under other circumstances, advise you to + recruit your spirits with an additional glass or two of liquor; but, as + the night is cold, I really do recommend you to fortify yourself with a + little refreshment.” + </p> + <p> + He was easily induced to do so, and he accordingly took a couple of + glasses of punch, and when about to mount his horse, it was found that he + could not do so without the assistance of his men who were on duty, in all + about six, every one of whom, as well as the captain himself, was well + armed. It is unnecessary to state to the reader that the pursuit was a + vain one. They searched the house to no purpose; neither priest or friar + was there, and he, consequently, had the satisfaction of performing + another wild-goose chase with his usual success, whenever the Rev. Samson + Strong sent him in pursuit. In the meantime the moon went down, and the + night became exceedingly dark; but the captain's spirits were high and + boisterous, so much so that they began to put themselves forth in song, + the song in question being the once celebrated satire upon James the + Second and Tyrconnell, called “Lillibullero,” now “The Protestant Boys.” + How this song gained so much popularity it is difficult to guess, for we + are bound to say that a more pointless and stupid production never came + from the brain of man. Be this as it may, we must leave the gallant + captain and his gang singing it in full chorus, and request our readers to + accompany us to another locality. + </p> + <p> + The sheriff had now recovered from a dreadful attack of the prevailing + epidemic, and was able to resume his duties. In the meantime he had heard + of the change which had taken place in the administration of affairs at + headquarters—a change at which he felt no regret, but rather a good + deal of satisfaction, as it relieved him from the performance of very + disagreeable and invidious duties, and the execution of many severe and + inhuman laws. He was now looking over and signing some papers, when he + rang the bell, and a servant entered. “Tom,” said he, “there is an old + man, a poor mendicant, to call here, who was once a servant in our family; + when he comes show him into the office. I expect some important family + information from him respecting the property which we are disputing about + in the Court of Chancery.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well, sir,” replied the servant, “I shall do so.” + </p> + <p> + This occurred on the day of Whitecraft's visit to Squire Folliard, and it + was on the evening of the same that Smellpriest was sent upon the usual + chase, on the information of the Rev. Samson Strong; so that the events to + which we have alluded occurred, as if by some secret relation to each + other, on the same day. + </p> + <p> + At length our friend Fergus entered the office, in his usual garb of an + aged and confirmed mendicant. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Reilly,” said the sheriff, “I am glad you have come. I could have + taken up this ruffian, this Red Rapparee, as he is properly called, upon + suspicion; but that would have occasioned delay; and it is my object to + lodge him in jail this night, so as to give him no chance of escape unless + he breaks prison; but in order to prevent that, I shall give strict + injunctions, in consequence of the danger to be apprehended from so + powerful and desperate a character, that he be kept in strong irons.” + </p> + <p> + “If it be within the strength of man, sir, to break prison, he will; he + done it twice before; and he's under the notion that he never was born to + be hanged; some of the ould prophecy men, and Mary Mahon, it seems, tould + him so.” + </p> + <p> + “In the meantime, Reilly, we shall test the truth of such prophecies. But + listen. What is your wish that I should do for you, in addition to what I + have already done. You know what I have promised you, and that for some + time past, and that I have the Secretary's letter stating that you are + free, and have to dread neither arrest nor punishment; but that is upon + the condition that you shall give all the evidence against this man that + you are possessed of. In that case the Government will also bountifully + reward you besides.” + </p> + <p> + “The Government need not think of any such thing, your honor,” replied + Reilly; “a penny of Government money will never cross my pocket. It isn't + for any reward I come against this man, but because he joined the + blood-hounds of Sir Robert Whitecraft against his own priests and his own + religion; or at last against the religion he professed, for I don't think + he ever had any.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, I can make you one of my officers.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it to go among the poor and distressed, sir, and help, maybe, to take + the bed from undher the sick father or the sick mother, and to leave them + without a stick undher the ould roof or naked walls? No, sir; sooner than + do that I'd take to the highway once more, and rob like a man in the face + of danger. That I may never see to-morrow,” he proceeded, with vehemence, + “but I'd rather rob ten rich men than harish one poor family. It was that + work that druv me to the coorse I left—that an' the persecution that + was upon us. Take my word, sir, that in nineteen cases out of twenty it + was the laws themselves, and the poverty they brought upon the country, + that made the robbers.” + </p> + <p> + “But could you not give evidence against some others of the gang?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; there is not one of them in this part of the kingdom, and I + believe the most of them all are out of it altogether. But, even if they + were not, I, sir, am not the man to betray them; the Red Rapparee would, + if he could get at them; but, thank God, I've put every man of them beyond + his reach.” + </p> + <p> + “You did! and pray, now, why, may I ask, did that happen?” + </p> + <p> + “Bekaise it came to my ears that it was his intention to inform against + them, and to surrender them all to the Government.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Reilly, after all, I believe you to be an honest fellow, even + although you were once a robber; but the question now is, what is to be + done? Are you sure of his whereabouts?” + </p> + <p> + “I think so, sir; or, if I am not, I know one that is. But I have an + observation to make. You know, sir, I would a' gone abroad, a freeman + before this time, only that it's necessary I should still keep on my + disguise, in ordher that I may move about as I wish until I secure this + Red Rapparee. After that, sir, please God, I'll taste a mouthful of + freedom. In the meantime I know one, as I said, that will enable us to + make sure of him.” + </p> + <p> + “Pray, who is that?” + </p> + <p> + “Tom Steeple, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you mean the poor fool of that name—or rather, I believe, of + that nickname?” + </p> + <p> + “I do, sir; and in many things he's less of a fool than wiser men. He has + been dodg-in' him for the last two or three days; and he's a person that + no one would ever suspect, unless, indeed, the cautious and practised + Rapparees; but in ordher to meet any such suspicion, I have got upon the + right trail myself—we're sure of him now, I think.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Reilly,” proceeded the sheriff, “I leave the management of the + capture of this man to yourself. You shall have a strong and determined + party to support you. Do you only show them the man, and, take my word for + it, they will secure the robber. After this affair is over you must throw + off those rags. I will furnish you with decent clothes, and you can go out + at large without fear or risk, and that under your own name too. I took + your hint, and declined swearing the informations against him before the + old squire, as I had intended, from an apprehension that he might possibly + blab the fact to Whitecraft, who, if your information be correct, would + have given him notice to fly, or otherwise concealed him from justice.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir,” said Reilly, “it's my opinion that the Rapparee will lodge in + Sligo jail before to-morrow mornin'; and it's a thousand pities that + Whitecraft shouldn't be sent there to keep him company.” + </p> + <p> + “He certainly is the most unpopular man living. In the exuberance of his + loyalty he has contrived to offend almost every liberal Protestant in the + county, and that with an unjustifiable degree of wanton, and overbearing + insolence, arising from his consciousness of impunity. However, thank God, + his day is gone by. But, mark me, Reilly—I had almost forgotten—don't + neglect to secure the clothes in which the villain robbed me; they will be + important.” + </p> + <p> + “I had no intention of forgetting them, sir; and that scheme for throwing + the guilt of his own villany on Mr. Reilly is another reason why I appear + against him.” + </p> + <p> + It was not, indeed, very easy for the Rapparee to escape. Whitecraft got + home safe, a little before dusk, after putting his unfortunate horse to + more than his natural speed. On his arrival he ordered wine to be brought, + and sat down to meditate upon the most feasible plan for reinstating + himself in the good graces of the new Government. After pondering over + many speculations to that effect, it occurred to him that to secure the + Rapparee, now that he could, as an agent and a guide, be of no further use + to him, was the most likely procedure to effect his purpose. He + accordingly rang for his usual attendant, and asked him if he knew where + O'Donnel was. The man replied that he waa generally in or about Mary + Mahon's. + </p> + <p> + “Then,” proceeded his master, “let him be with me to-morrow morning at + eleven o'clock.” + </p> + <p> + “If I see him, sir, I shall tell him.” + </p> + <p> + “And say that I have something to his advantage to mention to him.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; I shan't forget it.” + </p> + <p> + “Now,” said he, after the servant had withdrawn, and taking a bumper of + wine, “I know not how it is, but I feel very uncomfortable somehow. I + certaintly did not expect a change in the Administration, nor a relaxation + in the carrying out of the laws against Papists; and, under this + impression, I fear I have gone too far, and that I may be brought over the + coals for my conduct. I understand that the old French Abbe is returned, + and once more a resident in the family of that cursed marquis. I think, by + the way, I should go and apologize to both the marquis and the Abbe, and + throw the blame of my own violence upon the conduct and instructions of + the last Government; that, and the giving up of this ruffianly Rapparee to + the present, may do something for me. This country, however, now that + matters have taken such an unexpected turn, shall not long be my place of + residence. As for Reilly, my marriage on the day after tomorrow with that + stubborn beauty, Helen Folliard, will place an impassable barrier between + him and her. I am glad he has escaped, for he will not be in our way, and + we shall start for my English estates immediately after the ceremony. + To-morrow, however, I shall secure the Rapparee, and hand him over to the + authorities. I could have wished to hang Reilly, but now it is impossible; + still, we shall start for England immediately after the nuptial knot is + tied, for I don't think I could consider myself safe, now that he is at + large, and at liberty to appear in his proper name and person especially + after all the mischief I have done him, in addition to the fact of my + bearing away his <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, as she is called.” + </p> + <p> + In fact, the man's mind was a turbid chaos of reflections upon the past + and the future, in which selfishness, disappointed vengeance, terror, + hypocritical policy, and every feeling that could fill the imagination of + a man possessed of a vacillating, cowardly, and cruel heart, with the + exception only of any thing that could border upon penitence or remorse. + That Miss Folliard was not indifferent to him is true; but the feeling + which he experienced towards her contained only two elements—sensuality + and avarice. Of love, in its purest, highest, and holiest sense, he was + utterly incapable; and he was not ignorant himself that, in the foul + attachment which he bore her, he was only carrying into effect the + principles of his previous life—those of a private debauchee, and a + miser. That amiable, but unhappy and distracted, lady spent that whole + evening in making preparations for her flight with Reilly. Her manner was + wild and excited; indeed, so much so that the presence of mind and cool + good sense, for which her maid Connor was remarkable, were scarcely + sufficient to guide and direct her in this distressing emergency. She + seemed to be absorbed by but one thought, and that was of her father. His + affection for her enlarged and expanded itself in her loving heart, with a + force and tenderness that nearly drove her into delirium. Connor, in the + meantime, got all things ready, she herself having entrusted the + management of every thing to her. The unhappy girl paced to and fro her + room, sobbing and weeping bitterly, wringing her hands, and exclaiming + from time to time: + </p> + <p> + “Oh, my father! my dear and loving father! is this the return I am making + you for your tenderness and affection? what am I about to do? what steps + am I going to take? to leave you desolate, with no heart for yours to + repose upon! Alas! there was but one heart that you cared for, and in the + duty and affection of that all your hopes for my happiness lay; and now, + when you awake, you will find that that heart, the very heart | on which + you rested, has deserted you! When you come down to breakfast in the + morning, and find that your own Helen, your only one, has gone—oh! + who will sustain, or soothe, or calm you in the frenzied grief of your + desolation? But alas! what can I do but escape from that cowardly and + vindictive villain—the very incarnation of oppression and + persecution; the hypocrite, the secret debauchee, the mean, the dastardly, + whose inhuman ambition was based upon and nurtured by blood? Alas! I have + but the one remedy—flight with my noble minded lover, whom that + dastardly villain would have hunted, even to his murder, or an ignominious + death, which would have been worse. This flight is not spontaneously mine; + I am forced to it, and of two evils I will choose the least; surely I am + not bound to seal my own misery forever.” + </p> + <p> + Connor had by this time attempted, as far as she could, to disguise her in + one of her own dresses; but nothing could conceal the elegance and + exquisite proportion of her figure, nor the ladylike harmony and grace of + her motions. She then went to the oaken cabinet, mentioned by her father + in the opening of our narrative, and as she always had the key of that + portion of it which contained her own diamonds, and other property, she + took a casket of jewels of immense value from it, and returned to her + room, where she found Connor before her. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Reilly is ready, miss,” she said, “and is waiting for you behind the + garden; the only one I dread in the house is Andy Cummiskey; he is so much + attached to the master that I think if he knew you were about to escape he + would tell him.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Connor, we must only avoid him as well as we can; but where, or + how, shall I carry these jewels? in these slight pockets of yours, Connor, + they could not be safe.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, can't you give them to him to keep, and they'll be safe?” + </p> + <p> + “True, Connor, so they will; but I give him a heart which he prizes above + them all. But, alas! my father! oh! Connor, shall I abandon him?” + </p> + <p> + “Do not distress yourself, my dear Miss Folliard; your father loves you + too much to hold out his anger against you long. Did you not tell me that + if Reilly was a Protestant your father said he would rather marry you to + him than to Sir Robert, the villain, with all his wealth?” + </p> + <p> + “I did, Connor, and my father certainly said so; but the serpent, Connor, + entwined himself about the poor credulous man, and succeeded in + embittering him against Reilly, who would rather go to the scaffold—yes, + and—which he would consider a greater sacrifice—rather abandon + even me than his religion. And do you think, Connor, that I do not love my + noble-minded Reilly the more deeply for this? I tell you, Connor, that if + he renounced his religion upon no other principle than his love for me, I + should despise him as a dishonorable, man, to whom it would not be safe + for me to entrust my happiness.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well; but now it is time to start, and Reilly, as I said, is + waiting for you behind the garden.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Connor, and is it come to this? my dear papa! but I cannot go until I + see him; no, Connor, I could not; I shall go quietly into his room, and + take one look at him; probably it may be the last. Oh, my God! what am I + about to do! Connor, keep this casket until I return; I shall not be + long.” + </p> + <p> + She then went to his chamber. The blinds and curtains of the windows had + not been drawn, and it occurred to her that as her dress was so different + from any which her father had ever seen on her, some suspicion might be + created should he observe it. She therefore left the candlestick which she + had brought with her on the inside sill of a lobby window, having observed + at the door that the moonlight streamed in through the windows upon his + bed. Judge of her consternation, however, when, on entering the room, her + father, turning himself in the bed, asked: + </p> + <p> + “Is that Helen?” + </p> + <p> + “It is, papa; I thought you had been asleep, and I came up to steal my + good-night kiss without any intention of awakening you.” + </p> + <p> + “I drank too much, Helen, with Whitecraft, whom wine—my Burgundy—instead + of warming, seems to turn into an icicle. However, he is a devilish shrewd + fellow. Helen, darling, there's a jug of water on the table there; will + you hand it to me; I'm all in a flame and a fever.” + </p> + <p> + She did so, and her hand trembled so much that she was near spilling it. + He took a long draught, after which he smacked his lips, and seemed to + breathe more freely. + </p> + <p> + “Helen,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “Well, dear papa.” + </p> + <p> + “Helen, I had something to mention to you, but—” + </p> + <p> + “Don't disturb yourself to-night, papa; you are somewhat feverish,” she + added, feeling his pulse; if you will excuse me, papa, I think you drank + too much; your pulse is very quick; if you could fall into rest again it + would be better for you.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it would; but my mind is uneasy and sorrowful. Helen, I thought you + loved me, my darling.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, could you doubt it, papa? You see I am come as usual—no, not as + usual, either—to kiss you; I will place my cheek against yours, as I + used to do, dear papa, and you will allow me to weep—to weep—and + to say that never father deserved the love of a daughter as you have + deserved mine; and never did daughter love an affectionate and indulgent + father more tenderly than your <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> does you.” + </p> + <p> + “I know it, Helen, I know it; your whole life has been a proof of it, and + will be a proof of it; I know you have no other object in this world than + to make papa happy; I know I feel that you are great-minded enough to + sacrifice everything to that.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but, papa,” she continued, “for all my former offences against you + will you pity and forgive me?” + </p> + <p> + “I do both, you foolish darling; but what makes you speak so?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I feel melancholy to-night, papa; and now, papa, if ever I should + do any thing wrong, won't you pity and forgive your own <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>?” + </p> + <p> + “Get along, you gipsy—don't be crying. What could you do that papa + wouldn't forgive you, unless to run away with Reilly? Don't you know that + you can wind me round your finger?” + </p> + <p> + “Farewell, papa,” she said, weeping all the time, for, in truth, she found + it impossible to control herself; “farewell—good night! and remember + that you may have a great deal to forgive your own <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> + some of these days.” + </p> + <p> + On leaving the bedroom, where she was hurried by her feelings into this + indiscreet dialogue, she found herself nearly incapable of walking without + support. The contending affections for her father and her lover had nearly + overcome her. By the aid of the staircase she got to her own room, where + she was met by Connor, into whose arms she fell almost helpless. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, Connor,” she said, alluding to her father, whom she could not trust + herself to name, “to-morrow morning what will become of him when he finds + that I am gone? But I know his affectionate heart. He will relent—he + will relent for the sake of his own <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>. The laws against + Catholics are now relaxed, and I am glad of it. But I have one + consolation, my dear girl, that I am trusting myself to a man of honor. We + will proceed directly to the Continent;—that is, if no calamitous + occurrence should take place to prevent us; and there, after our nuptials + shall have been duly celebrated, I will live happy with Reilly—that + is, Connor, as happy as absence from my dear father will permit me—and + Reilly will live happy, and, at least, free from the persecution of bad + laws, and such villains as base and vindictive Whitecraft. You, Connor, + must accompany me to the back of the garden, and see me off. Take this + purse, Connor, as some compensation for your truth and the loss of your + situation.” + </p> + <p> + It was now, when the moment of separation approached, that Connor's tears + began to flow, far less at the generosity of her mistress than her + affection, and that which she looked upon as probably their final + separation. + </p> + <p> + “Dear Connor,” said her mistress, “I would expect that support to my + breaking heart which I have hitherto experienced from you. Be firm now, + for you see I am not firm, and your tears only render me less adequate to + encounter the unknown vicissitudes which lie before me.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, I will be firm, my dear mistress; and I tell you that if + there is a God in heaven that rewards virtue and goodness like yours, you + will be happy yet. Come, now, he is waiting for you, and the less time we + lose the better. We shall go out by the back way—it is the safest.” + </p> + <p> + They accordingly did so, and had nearly reached the back wall of the + garden when they met Malcomson and Cummiskey, on their way into the + kitchen, in order to have a mug of strong ale together. The two men, on + seeing the females approach, withdrew to the shelter of a clump of trees, + but not until they were known by Connor. + </p> + <p> + “Come, my dear mistress,” she whispered, “there is not one second of time + to be lost. Cummiskey, who is a Catholic, might overlook our being here at + this hour; because, although he is rather in the light of a friend than a + servant to your father, still he is a friend to Reilly as well; but as for + that ugly Scotchman, that is nothing but bone and skin, I would place no + dependence whatever upon him.” + </p> + <p> + We will not describe the meeting between Reilly and the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>. + They had no time to lose in the tender expressions of their feelings. Each + shook hands with, and bid farewell to, poor affectionate Connor, who was + now drowned in tears; and thus they set off, with a view of leaving the + kingdom, and getting themselves legally married in Holland, where they + intended to reside. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX.—The Rapparee Secured + </h2> + <h3> + —Reilly and the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> Escape, and are Captured. + </h3> + <p> + Cummiskey had a private and comfortable room of his own, to which he and + the cannie Scotchman proceeded, after having ordered from the butler a + tankard of strong ale. There was a cheerful fire in the grate, and when + the tankard and glasses were placed upon the table the Scotchman observed: + </p> + <p> + “De'il be frae my saul, maisther Cummiskey, but ye're vera comfortable + here.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, in troth, I can't complain, Mr. Malcomson; here's your health, sir, + and after that we must drink another.” + </p> + <p> + “Mony thanks, Andrew.” + </p> + <p> + “Hang it, I'm not Andrew: that sounds like Scotch; I'm Andy, man alive.” + </p> + <p> + “Wfiel mony thanks, Andy; but for the maitter o' that, what the de'il waur + wad it be gin it were Scotch?” + </p> + <p> + “Bekaise I wouldn't like to be considered a Scotchman, somehow.” + </p> + <p> + “Weel, Andrew—Andy—I do just suppose as muckle; gin ye war + considered Scotch, muckle more might be expeck' frae you than, being an + Irisher as you are, you could be prepared to answer to; whereas—” + </p> + <p> + “Why, hang it, man alive, we can give three answers for your one.” + </p> + <p> + “Weel, but how is that now, Andy? Here's to ye in the meantime; and 'am no + savin' but this yill is just richt gude drink; it warms the pit o' the + stamach, man.” + </p> + <p> + “You mane by that the pit o' the stomach, I suppose.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, just that.” + </p> + <p> + “Troth, Mr. Malcomson, you Scotchers bring everything to the pit o' the + stomach—no, begad, I ax your pardon, for although you take care of + the pratie bag, you don't forget the pocket.” + </p> + <p> + “And what for no, Andy? why the de'il war pockets made, gin they wanna to + be filled? but how hae ye Irishers three answers for our ane?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, first with our tongue; and even with that we bate ye—flog you + hollow. You Scotchmen take so much time in givin' an answer that an + Irishman could say his pattherin aves before you spake. You think first + and spake aftherwards, and come out in sich a way that one would suppose + you say grace for every word you do spake; but it isn't 'for what we are + to receive' you ought to say 'may the Lord make us thankful, but for what + we are to lose'—that is, your Scotch nonsense; and, in troth, we + ought to be thankful for losin' it.” + </p> + <p> + “Weel, man, here's to ye, Andy—ou, man, but this yill is + extraordinar' gude.” + </p> + <p> + “Why,” replied Andy, who, by the way, seldom went sober to bed, and who + was even now nearly three sheets in the wind, “it is. Mr. Malcomson, the + right stuff. But, as I was sayin', you Scotchmen think first and spake + afther—one of the most unlucky practices that ever anybody had. Now, + don't you see the advantage that the Irishman has over you; he spakes + first and thinks aftherwards, and then, you know, it gives him plenty of + time to think—here's God bless us all, anyhow—but that's the + way an Irishman bates a Scotchman in givin' an answer; for if he fails by + word o' mouth, why, whatever he's deficient in he makes up by the fist or + cudgel; and there's our three Irish answers for one Scotch.” + </p> + <p> + “Weel, man, a' richt—a' richt—we winna quarrel aboot it; but I + thocht ye promised to gie us another toast—de'il be frae my; saul, + man, but I'll drink as mony as you like wisiccan liquor as this.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, troth, I did say so, and devil a thing but your Scotch nonsense put + it out o' my head. And now, Mr. Malcomson, let me advise you, as a friend, + never to attempt to have the whole conversation to yourself; it I isn't + daicent. + </p> + <p> + “Weel, but the toast, man?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, ay; troth, your nonsense would put any thing out of a man's head. + Well, you see this comfortable room?” + </p> + <p> + “Ou, ay; an vara comfortable it is; ma faith, I wuss I had ane like it. + The auld squire, however, talks o' buildin' a new gertlen-hoose.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, fill your bumper. Here's to her that got me this room, and + had it furnished as you see, in order that I might be at my aise in it for + the remaindher o' my life—I mane the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>—the + Lily of the Plains of Boyle. Come, now, off with it; and if you take it + from your lantern jaws! till it's finished, divil a wet lip ever I'll give + you.” + </p> + <p> + The Scotchman was not indisposed to honor the toast; first, because the + ale was both strong and mellow, and secondly, because the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> + was a great favorite of his, in consequence of the deference she paid to + him as a botanist. + </p> + <p> + “Eh, sirs,” he exclaimed, after finishing | his bumper, “but she's a + bonnie lassie that, and as gude as she's bonnie—and de'il a higher + compliment she could get, I think. But, Andy, man, don't they talk some + clash and havers anent her predilection for that weel-farrant callan, + Reilly?” + </p> + <p> + “All, my poor girl,” replied Cummiskey, shaking his head sorrowfully; “I + pity her there; but the thing's impossible—they can't be married—the + law is against them.” + </p> + <p> + “Weel, Andy, they must e'en thole it; but 'am thinkin' they'll just break + bounds at last, an' tak' the law, as you Irish do, into their am hands.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mane by that?” asked Andy, whose temper began to get warm by + the observation. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, man,” replied the Scotchman, “dinna let your birses rise at that + gate. Noo, there's the filbert trees, ma friend, of whilk ane is male and + the tither female; and the upshot e'en is, Andy, that de'il a pickle o' + fruit ever the female produces until there's a braw halesome male tree + planted in the same gerden. But, ou, man, Andy, wasna yon she and that + bonnie jaud, Connor, that we met the noo? De'il be frae my laul, but I + jalouse she's aff wi' him this vara nicht.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, dear, no!” replied Cummiskey, starting; “that would kill her father; + and yet there must be something in it, or what would bring them there at + such an hour? He and she may love one another as much as they like, but I + must think of my mas-ther.” + </p> + <p> + “In that case, then, our best plan is to gie the alarm.” + </p> + <p> + “Hould,” replied Andy; “let us be cautious. They wouldn't go on foot, I + think; and before we rise a ruction in the house, let us find out whether + she has made off or not. Sit you here, and I'll try to see Connor, her + maid.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, but, Andy, man, it's no just that pleasant to sit hei-e dry-lipped; + the tankard's, oot, ye ken.” + </p> + <p> + “Divil tankard the Scotch sowl o'you—who do you suppose could think + of a tankard, or any thing else, if what we suspect has happened? It will + kill him.” + </p> + <p> + He then proceeded to look for Connor, whom he met in tears, which she was + utterly unable to conceal. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Miss Connor,” he asked, “what's the matther? You're cryin', I + persave.” + </p> + <p> + “All, Cummiskey, my mistress is unwell.” + </p> + <p> + “Unwell! why she wasn't unwell a while ago, when the gardener and I met + her and you on your way to the back o' the garden.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, yes,” replied Connor; “I forced her to come out, to try what a little + cool air-might do for her.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, but, Connor, did you force her to come in again?” + </p> + <p> + “Force! there was no force necessary, Cummiskey. She's now in her own + room, quite ill.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, then, if she's quite ill, it's right that her father should know it, + in ordher that a docther may be sent for.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, but she's now asleep, Cummiskey—that sleep may set her to + rights; she may waken quite recovered; but you know it might be dangerous + to disturb her.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, I believe you,” he replied, dissembling; for he saw at once, by + Connor's agitated manner, that every word she uttered was a lie; “the + sleep will be good for her, the darlin'; but take care of her, Connor, for + the masther's sake; for what would become of him if any thing happened + her? You know that if she died he wouldn't live a week.” + </p> + <p> + “That's true, indeed,” she replied; “and if she get's worse, Cummiskey, + I'll let the master know.” + </p> + <p> + “That's a good girl; ma gragal that you! war—good-by, acushla,” and + he immediately! returned to his own room, after having observed that + Connor went down to the kitchen. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Mr. Malcomson,” said he, “there is a good fire before you. I ax your + pardon—just sit in the light of it for a minute or so; I want this + candle.” + </p> + <p> + “'Am sayin', Andy, gin ye haud awa to the kitchen, it wadna be a crime to + send up anither tankard o' that yill.” + </p> + <p> + To this the other made no reply, but walked out of the room, and very + deliberately proceeded to that of Helen. The door was open, the bed + unslept upon, the window-curtains undrawn; in fact, the room was + tenantless, Connor a liar and an accomplice, and the suspicions of himself + and Malcomson well founded. He then followed Connor to the kitchen; but + she too had disappeared, or at least hid herself from him. He then desired + the other female servants to ascertain whether Miss Folliard was within or + not, giving it as his opinion that she had eloped with Willy Reilly. The + uproar then commenced, the house was searched, but no <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> + was found. Cummiskey himself remained comparatively tranquil, but his + tranquillity was neither more nor less than an inexpressible sorrow for + what he knew the affectionate old man must suffer for the idol of his + heart, upon whom he doted with such unexampled tenderness and affection. + On ascertaining that she was not in the house, he went upstairs to his + master's bedroom, having the candlestick in his hand, and tapped at the + door. There was no reply from within, and on his entering he found the old + man asleep. The case, however, was one that admitted of no delay; but he + felt that to communicate the melancholy tidings was a fearful task, and he + scarcely knew in what words to shape the event which had occurred. At + length he stirred him gently, and the old man, half asleep, exclaimed: + </p> + <p> + “Good-night, Helen—good-night, darling! I am not well; I had + something to tell you about the discovery of—but I will let you know + it to-morrow at breakfast. For your sake I shall let him escape: there + now, go to bed, my love.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” said Cummiskey, “I hope you'll excuse me for disturbing you.” + </p> + <p> + “What? who? who's there? I thought it was my daughter.” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, I wish it was; I'm come to tell you that Miss Folliard can't be + found: we have searched every nook and corner of the house to no purpose: + wherever she is, she's not undher this roof. I came to tell you, and to + bid you get up, that we may see what's to be done.” + </p> + <p> + “What,” he exclaimed, starting up, “my child!—my child—my + child gone! God of heaven! God of heaven, support me!—my darling! my + treasure! my delight!—Oh, Cummiskey!—but it can't be—to + desert me!—to leave me in misery and sorrow, brokenhearted, + distracted!—she that was the prop of my age, that loved me as never + child loved a, father! Begone, Cummiskey, it is not so, it can't be, I + say: search again; she is somewhere in the house; you don't know, sirra, + how she loved me: why, it was only this night that, on taking her + good-night kiss, she—ha—what? what?—she wept, she wept + bitterly, and bade me farewell! and said—Here, Cummiskey, assist me + to dress. Oh, I see it, Cummiskey, I see it! she is gone! she is gone! + yes, she bade me farewell; but I was unsteady and unsettled after too much + drink, and did not comprehend her meaning.” + </p> + <p> + It is impossible to describe the almost frantic distraction of that loving + father, who, as he said, had no prop to lean upon but his <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, + for he himself often loved to call her by that appellation. + </p> + <p> + “Cummiskey,” he proceeded, “we will pursue them—we must have my + darling back: yes, and I will forgive her, for what is she but a child, + Cummiskey, not yet twenty. But in the meantime I will shoot him dead—dead—dead—if + he had a thousand lives; and from this night out I shall pursue Popery, in + all its shapes and disguises; I will imprison it, transport it, hang it—hang + it, Cummiskey, as round as a hoop. Ring the bell, and let Lanigan unload, + and then reload my pistols; he always does it; his father was my + grandfather's gamekeeper, and he understands fire-arms. Here, though, help + me on with my boots first, and then I will be dressed immediately. After + giving the pistols to Lanigan, desire the grooms and hostlers to saddle + all the horses in the stables. We must set out and pursue them. It is + possible we may overtake them yet. I will not level a pistol against my + child; but, by the great Boyne! if we meet them, come up with them, + overtake them, his guilty spirit will stand before the throne of judgment + this night. Go now, give the pistols to Lanigan, and tell him to reload + them steadily.” + </p> + <p> + We leave them now, in order that we may follow the sheriff and his party, + who went to secure the body of the Red Rapparee. This worthy person, not + at all aware of the friendly office which his patron, Sir Robert, intended + to discharge towards him, felt himself quite safe, and consequently took + very little pains to secure his concealment. Indeed, it could hardly be + expected that he should, inasmuch as Whitecraft had led him to understand, + as we have said, that Government had pardoned him his social + trangressions, as a <i>per contra</i> for those political ones which they + still expected from him. Such was his own view of the case, although he + was not altogether free from misgiving, and a certain vague apprehension. + Be this as it may, he had yet to learn a lesson which his employer was not + disposed to teach him by any other means than handing him over to the + authorities on the following day. How matters might have terminated + between him and the baronet it is out of our power to detail. The man was + at all times desperate and dreadful, where either revenge or anger was + excited, especially as he labored under the superstitious impression that + he was never to be hanged or perish by a violent death, a sentiment then + by no means uncommon among persons of his outrageous and desperate life. + It has been observed, and with truth, that the Irish Rapparees seldom + indulged in the habit of intoxication or intemperance, and this is not at + all to be wondered at. The meshes of authority were always spread for + them, and the very consciousness of this fact sharpened their wits, and + kept them perpetually on their guard against the possibility of arrest. + Nor was this all. The very nature of the lawless and outrageous life they + led, and their frequent exposure to danger, rendered habits of caution + necessary—and those were altogether incompatible with habits of + intemperance. Self-preservation rendered this policy necessary, and we + believe there are but few instances on record of a Rapparee having been + arrested in a state of intoxication. Their laws, in fact, however + barbarous they were in other matters, rendered three cases of drunkenness + a cause of expulsion from the gang. O'Donnel, however, had now relaxed + from the rigid observation of his own rules, principally for the reasons + we have already stated—by which we mean, a conviction of his own + impunity, as falsely communicated to him by Sir Robert Whitecraft. The + sheriff had not at first intended to be personally present at his capture; + but upon second consideration he came to the determination of heading the + party who were authorized to secure him. This resolution of Oxley's had, + as will presently be seen, a serious effect upon the fate and fortunes of + the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> and her lover. The party, who were guided by Tom + Steeple, did not go to Mary Mahon's, but to a neighboring cottage, which + was inhabited by a distant relative of O'Donnel. A quarrel had taken place + between the fortune-teller and him, arising from his jealousy of Sir + Robert, which caused such an estrangement as prevented him for some time + from visiting her house. Tom Steeple, however, had haunted him as his + shadow, without ever coming in contact with him personally, and on this + night he had him set as a soho man has a hare in her form. Guided, + therefore, by the intelligent idiot and Fergus, the party readied the + cottage in which the Rapparee resided. The house was instantly surrounded + and the door knocked at, for the party knew that the man was inside. + </p> + <p> + “Who is there?” asked the old woman who kept the cottage. + </p> + <p> + “Open the door instantly,” said the sheriff, “or we shall smash it in.” + </p> + <p> + “No, I won't,” she replied; “no, I won't, you bosthoon, whoever you are. I + never did nothin' agin the laws, bad luck to them, and I won't open my + door to any strolling vagabone like you.” + </p> + <p> + “Produce the man we want,” said the sheriff, “or we shall arrest you for + harboring an outlaw and a murderer. Your house is now surrounded by + military, acting under the king's orders.” + </p> + <p> + “Give me time,” said the crone; “I was at my prayers when you came to + disturb me, and I'll finish them before I open the door, if you were to + burn the house over my head, and myself in it. Up,” said she to the + Rapparee, “through the roof—get that ould table undher your feet—the + thatch is thin—slip out and lie on the roof till they go, and then + let them whistle jigs to the larks if they like.” + </p> + <p> + The habits of escape peculiar to the Rapparees were well known to Fergus, + who cautioned those who surrounded the house to watch the roof. It was + well they did so, for in less-time than we have taken to describe it the + body of the Rapparee was seen projecting itself upwards through the thin + thatch, and in an instant several muskets were levelled at him, + accompanied by instant orders to surrender on pain of being shot. Under + such circumstances there was no alternative, and in a few minutes he was + handcuffed and a prisoner. The party then proceeded along the road on + which some of the adventures already recorded in this narrative had taken + place, when they were met, at a sharp angle of it, by Reilly and his <i>Cooleen + Bawn</i>, both of whom were almost instantly recognized by the sheriff and + his party. Their arrest was immediate. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Reilly,” said the sheriff, “I am sorry for this. You must feel aware + that I neither am or ever was disposed to be your enemy; but I now find + you carrying away a Protestant heiress, the daughter of my friend, + contrary to the laws of the land, a fact which in itself gives me the + power and authority to take you into custody, which I accordingly do in + his Majesty's name. I owe you no ill will, but in the meantime you must + return with me to Squire Folliard's house. Miss Folliard, you must, as you + know me to be your father's friend, consider that I feel it my duty to + restore you to him.” + </p> + <p> + “I am not without means of defence,” replied Reilly, “but the exercise of + such means would be useless. Two of your lives I might take; but yours, + Mr. Sheriff, could not be one of them, and that you must feel.” + </p> + <p> + “I feel, Mr. Reilly, that you are a man of honor; and, in point of fact, + there is ample apology for your conduct in the exquisite beauty of the + young lady who accompanies you; but I must also feel for her father, whose + bereavement, occasioned by her loss, would most assuredly break his + heart.” + </p> + <p> + Here a deep panting of the bosom, accompanied by violent sobs, was heard + by the party, and <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> whispered to Reilly, in a voice + nearly stifled by grief and excitement: + </p> + <p> + “Dear Reilly, I love you; but it was madness in us to take this step; let + me return to my father—only let me see him safe?” + </p> + <p> + “But Whitecraft?” + </p> + <p> + “Death sooner. Reilly, I am ill, I am ill; this struggle is too much for + me. What shall I do? My head is swimming.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0010" id="linkimage-0010"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img src="images/page140.jpg" + alt="Page 140-- Discharged a Pistol at Our Hero " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + She had scarcely uttered these words when her father, accompanied by his + servants, dashed rapidly up, and Cummiskey, the old huntsman, instantly + seized Reilly, exclaiming, “Mr. Reilly, we have you now;” and whilst he + spoke, his impetuous old master dashed his horse to one side, and + discharged a pistol at our hero, and this failing, he discharged another. + Thanks to Lanigan, however, they were both harmless, that worthy man + having forgotten to put in bullets, or even as much powder as would singe + an ordinary whisker. + </p> + <p> + “Forbear, sir,” exclaimed the sheriff, addressing Cummiskey; “unhand Mr. + Reilly. He is already in custody, and you, Mr. Folliard, may thank God + that you are not a murderer this night. As a father, I grant that an + apology may be made for your resentment, but not to the shedding of + blood.” + </p> + <p> + “Lanigan! villain! treacherous and deceitful villain!” shouted the squire, + “it was your perfidy that deprived me of my revenge. Begone, you sneaking + old profligate, and never let me see your face again. You did not load my + pistols as you ought.” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir,” replied Lanigan, “and I thank God that I did not. It wasn't my + intention to see your honor hanged for murder.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Folliard,” observed the sheriff, you ought to bless God that gave you + a prudent servant, who had too much conscience to become the instrument of + your vengeance. Restrain your resentment for the present, and leave Mr. + Reilly to the laws of his country. We shall now proceed to your house, + where, as a magistrate, you can commit him to prison, and I will see the + warrant executed this night. We have also another prisoner of some + celebrity, the Red Rapparee.” + </p> + <p> + “By sun and moon, I'll go bail for him,” replied the infuriated squire. “I + like that fellow because Reilly does not. Sir Robert spoke to me in his + favor. Yes, I shall go bail for him, to any amount.” + </p> + <p> + “His offence is not a bailable one,” said the cool sheriff; “nor, if the + thing were possible, would it be creditable in you, as a magistrate, to + offer yourself as bail for a common robber, one of the most notorious + highwaymen of the day.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but come along,” replied the squire; “I have changed my mind; we + shall hang them both; Sir Robert will assist and support me. I could + overlook the offence of a man who only took my purse; yes, I could + overlook that, but the man who would rob me of my child—of the + solace and prop of my heart and life—of—of—of—” + </p> + <p> + Here the tears came down his cheeks so copiously that his sobs prevented + him from proceeding. He recovered himself, however, for indeed he was yet + scarcely sober after the evening's indulgence, and the two parties + returned to his house, where, after having two or three glasses of + Burgundy to make his hand steady, he prepared himself to take the + sheriff's informations and sign unfortunate Reilly's committal to Sligo + jail. The vindictive tenacity of resentment by which the heart of the + ruffian Rapparee was animated against that young man was evinced, on this + occasion, by a satanic ingenuity of malice that was completely in keeping + with the ruffian's character. It was quite clear, from the circumstances + we are about to relate, that the red miscreant had intended to rob + Folliard's house on the night of his attack upon it, in addition to the + violent abduction of his daughter. We must premise here that Reilly and + the Rapparee were each strongly guarded in different rooms, and the first + thing the latter did was to get some one to inform Mr. Folliard that he + had a matter of importance concerning Reilly to mention to him. This was + immediately on their return, and before the informations against Reilly + were drawn up. Folliard, who knew not what to think, paused for some time, + and at! last, taking the sheriff along with him, went! to hear what + O'Donnel had to say. + </p> + <p> + “Is that ruffian safe?” he asked, before entering the room; “have you so + secured him that he can't be mischievous?” + </p> + <p> + “Quite safe, your honor, and as harmless as a lamb.” + </p> + <p> + He and the sheriff then entered, and found the huge savage champing his + teeth and churning with his jaws, until a line of white froth encircled + his mouth, rendering him a hideous and fearful object to look at. + </p> + <p> + “What is this you want with me, you misbegotten villain,” said the squire. + “Stand between the ruffian and me, fellows, in the meantime—what is + it, sirra?” + </p> + <p> + “Who's the robber now, Mr. Folliard?” he asked, with something, however, + of a doubtful triumph in his red glaring eye. “Your daughter had jewels in + a black cabinet, and I'd have secured the same jewels and your daughter + along with them, on a certain night, only for Reilly; and it was very + natural he should out-general me, which he did; but it was only to get + both for himself. Let him be searched at wanst, and, although I don't say + he has them, yet I'd give a hundred to one he has; she would never carry + them while he was with her.” + </p> + <p> + The old squire, who would now, with peculiar pleasure, have acted in the + capacity of hangman in Reilly's case, had that unfortunate young man been + doomed to undergo the penalty of the law, and that no person in the shape + of Jack Ketch was forthcoming—he, we say—the squire—started + at once to the room where Reilly was secured, accompanied also by the + sheriff, and, after rushing in with a countenance inflamed by passion, + shouted out: + </p> + <p> + “Seize and examine that villain; he has robbed me—examine him + instantly: he has stolen the family jewels.” + </p> + <p> + Reilly's countenance fell, for he knew his Fearful position; but that + which weighed heaviest upon his heart was a consciousness of the + misinterpretations which the world might put upon the motives of his + conduct in this elopement, imputing it to selfishness and a mercenary + spirit. When about to be searched, he said: + </p> + <p> + “You need not; I will not submit to the indignity of such an examination. + I have and hold the jewels for Miss Folliard, whose individual property I + believe they are; nay, I am certain of it, because she told me so, and + requested me to keep them For her. Let her be sent for, and I shall hand + them back to her at once, but to no other person without violence.” + </p> + <p> + “But she is not in a condition to receive them,” replied the sheriff + (which was a fact); “I pledge my honor she, is not.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, Mr. Sheriff, I place them in your hands; you can do with them + as you wish—that is, either return them to Miss Folliard, the legal + owner of them, or to her father.” + </p> + <p> + The sheriff received the caske't which contained them, and immediately + handed it to Mr. Folliard, who put it in his pocket, exclaiming: + </p> + <p> + “Now, Reilly, if we can hang you for nothing else, we can hang you for + this; and we will, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “You, sir,” said Reilly, with melancholy indignation, “are privileged to + insult me; so, alas! is every man now; but I can retire into the integrity + of my own heart and find a consolation there of which you cannot deprive + me. My life is now a consideration of no importance to myself since I + shall die with the consciousness that your daughter loved me. You do not + hear this for the first time, for that daughter avowed it to yourself! and + if I had been mean and unprincipled enough to have abandoned my religion, + and that of my persecuted forefathers, I might ere this have been her + husband.” + </p> + <p> + “Come,” said Folliard, who was not prepared with an answer to this, + “come,” said he, addressing the sheriff, “come, till we make out his <i>mittimus</i>, + and give him the first shove to the gallows.” They then left him. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI.—Sir Robert Accepts of an Invitation. + </h2> + <p> + The next morning rumor had, as they say, her hands and tongues very full + of business. Reilly and the Red Rapparee were lodged in Sligo jail that + night, and the next morning the fact was carried by the aforesaid rumor + far and wide over the whole country. One of the first whose ears it + reached was the gallant and virtuous Sir Robert Whitecraft, who no sooner + heard it than he ordered his horse and rode at a rapid rate to see Mr. + Folliard, in order, now that Reilly was out of the way, to propose an + instant marriage with the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>. He found the old man in a + state very difficult to be described, for he had only just returned to the + drawing-room from the strongly sentinelled chamber of his daughter. + Indignation against Reilly seemed now nearly lost in the melancholy + situation of the wretched <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>. He had just seen her, but, + somehow, the interview had saddened and depressed his heart. Her position + and the state of her feelings would have been pitiable, even to the eye of + a stranger; what, then, must they not have been to a father who loved her + as he did? “Helen,” said he, as he took a chair in her room, after her + guards had been desired to withdraw for a time, “Helen, are you aware that + you have eternally disgraced your own name, and that of your father and + your family?” + </p> + <p> + Helen, who was as pale as death, looked at him with vacant and + unrecognizing eyes, but made no reply, for it was evident that she either + had not heard, or did not understand, a word he said. + </p> + <p> + “Helen,” said he, “did you hear me?” + </p> + <p> + She looked upon him with a long look of distress and misery, but there was + the vacancy still, and no recognition. + </p> + <p> + This, I suppose, thought the father, is just the case with every love-sick + girl in her condition, who will not be allowed to have her own way; but of + what use is a father unless he puts all this nonsense down, and + substitutes his own judgment for that of a silly girl. I will say + something now that will startle her, and I will say nothing but what I + will bring about. + </p> + <p> + “Helen, my darling,” he said, “are you both deaf and blind, that you can + neither see nor hear your father, and to-morrow your wedding-day? Sir + Robert Whitecraft will be here early; the special license is procured, and + after marriage you and he start for his English estates to spend the + honeymoon there, after which you both must return and live with me, for I + need scarcely say, Helen, that I could not live without you. Now I think + you ought to be a happy girl to get a husband possessed of such immense + property.” + </p> + <p> + She started and looked at him with something like returning consciousness. + “But where is Willy Reilly?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “The villain that would have robbed me of my property and my daughter is + now safe in Sligo jail.” + </p> + <p> + A flash of something like joy—at least the father took it as such—sparkled + in a strange kind of triumph from her eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Ha,” said she, “is that villain safe at last? Dear papa, I am tired of + all this—this—yes, I am tired of it, and it is time I should; + but you talked about something else, did you not? Something about Sir + Robert Whitecraft and a marriage. And what is my reply to that? why, it is + this, papa: I have but one life, sir. Now begone, and leave me, or, upon + my honor, I will push you out of the room. Have I not consented to all + your terms. Let Sir Robert come tomorrow and he shall call me his wife + before the sun reaches his meridian. Now, leave me; leave me, I say.” + </p> + <p> + In this uncertain state her father found himself compelled to retire to + the drawing-room, where Sir Robert and he met. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Folliard,” said the baronet, “is this true?” + </p> + <p> + “Is what true, Sir Robert?” said he sharply. + </p> + <p> + “Why, that Reilly and the Red Rapparee are both in Sligo jail?” + </p> + <p> + “It is true, Sir Robert; and it must be a cursed thing to be in jail for a + capital crime.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you becoming penitent,” asked the other, “for bringing the laws of + the land to bear upon the villain that would have disgraced, and might + have ruined, your only daughter?” + </p> + <p> + The father's heart was stung by the diabolical pungency of this question. + </p> + <p> + “Sir Robert,” said he, “we will hang him if it was only to get the villain + out of the way; and if you will be here to-morrow at ten o'clock, the + marriage must take place. I'll suffer no further nonsense about it; but, + mark me, after the honeymoon shall have passed, you and she must come and + reside here; to think that I could live without her is impossible. Be + here, then, at ten o'clock; the special license is ready, and I have asked + the Rev. Samson Strong to perform the ceremony. A couple of my neighbor + Ashford's daughters will act as bridesmaids, and I myself will give her + away: the marriage articles are drawn up, as you know, and there will be + little time lost in signing them; and yet, it's a pity to—but no + matter—be here at ten.” + </p> + <p> + Whitecraft took his leave in high spirits. The arrest and imprisonment of + Reilly had removed the great impediment that had hitherto lain in the way + of his marriage; but not so the imprisonment of the Red Rapparee. The + baronet regretted that that public and notorious malefactor had been taken + out of his own hands, because he wished, as the reader knows, to make the + delivering of him up to the Government one of the elements of his + reconciliation to it. Still, as matters stood, he felt on the whole + gratified at what had happened. + </p> + <p> + Folliard, after the baronet had gone, knew not exactly how to dispose of + himself. The truth is, the man's heart was an anomaly—a series of + contradictions, in which one feeling opposed another for a brief space, + and then was obliged to make way for a new prejudice equally transitory + and evanescent. Whitecraft he never heartily liked; for though the man was + blunt, he could look through a knave, and appreciate a man of honor, with + a great deal of shrewd accuracy. To be sure, Whitecraft was enormously + rich, but then he was penurious and inhospitable, two vices strongly and + decidedly opposed to the national feeling. + </p> + <p> + “Curse the long-legged scoundrel,” he exclaimed; “if he should beget me a + young breed of Whitecrafts like himself I would rather my daughter were + dead than marry him. Then, on the other hand, Reilly; hang the fellow, had + he only recanted his nonsensical creed, I could—but then, again, he + might, after marriage, bring her over to the Papists, and then, by the + Boyne, all my immense property would become Roman Catholic. By Strongbow, + he'd teach the very rivers that run through it to sing Popish psalms in + Latin: he would. However, the best way is to hang him out of the way, and + when Jack Ketch has done with him, so has Helen. Curse Whitecraft, at all + events!” + </p> + <p> + We may as well hint here that he had touched the Burgundy to some purpose; + he was now in that state of mental imbecility where reason, baffled and + prostrated by severe mental suffering and agitation, was incapable of + sustaining him without having recourse to the bottle. In the due progress + of the night he was helped to bed, and had scarcely been placed and + covered up there when he fell fast asleep. + </p> + <p> + Whitecraft, in the meantime, suspected, of course, or rather he was + perfectly aware of the fact, that unless by some ingenious manoeuvre, of + which he could form no conception, a marriage with the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> + would be a matter of surpassing difficulty; but he cared not, provided it + could be effected by any means, whether foul or fair. The attachment of + this scoundrel to the fair and beautiful <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> was composed + of two of the worst principles of the heart—sensuality and avarice; + but, in this instance, avarice came in to support sensuality. What the + licentious passions of the debauchee might have failed to tempt him to, + the consideration of her large fortune accomplished. And such was the + sordid and abominable union of the motives which spurred him on to the + marriage. + </p> + <p> + The next morning, being that which was fixed for his wedding-day, he was + roused at an early hour by a loud rapping at his hall-door. He started on + his elbow in the bed, and ringing the bell for his valet, asked, when that + gentleman entered his apartment half dressed, “What was the matter? what + cursed knocking was that? Don't they know I can hunt neither priest nor + Papist now, since this polite viceroy came here.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know what the matter is, Sir Robert; they are at it again; shall + I open the door, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly; open the door immediately.” + </p> + <p> + “I think you had better dress, Sir Robert, and see what they want.” + </p> + <p> + The baronet threw his long fleshless shanks out of the bed, and began to + get on his clothes as fast as he could. + </p> + <p> + “Ha!” said he, when he was nearly dressed, “what if this should be a + Government prosecution for what I have undertaken to do on my own + responsibility during the last Administration? But no, surely it cannot + be; they would have given me some intimation of their proceedings. This + was due to my rank and station in the country, and to my exertions, a + zealous Protestant, to sustain the existence of Church and State. Curse + Church and State if it be! I have got myself, perhaps, into a pretty mess + by them.” + </p> + <p> + He had scarcely uttered the last words when Mr. Hastings, accompanied by + two or three officers of justice, entered his bedroom. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, Hastings, my dear friend, what is the matter? Is there any thing + wrong, or can I be of any assistance to you? if so, command me. But we are + out of power now, you know. Still, show me how I can assist you. How do + you do?” and as he spoke he put his hand out to shake hands with. Mr. + Hastings. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0011" id="linkimage-0011"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img src="images/page143.jpg" + alt="Page 143-- No, Sir Robert, I Cannot Take Your Hand " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + “No, Sir Robert, I cannot take your hand, nor the hand of any man that is + red with the blood of murder. This,” said he, turning to the officers, “is + Sir Robert Whitecraft; arrest him for murder and arson.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, bless me, Mr. Hastings, are you mad? Surely, I did nothing, unless + under the sanction and by the instructions of the last Government?” + </p> + <p> + “That remains to be seen, Sir Robert; but, at all events, I cannot enter + into any discussion with you at present. I am here as a magistrate. + Informations have been sworn against you by several parties, and you must + now consider yourself our prisoner and come along with us. There is a + party of cavalry below to escort you to Sligo jail.” + </p> + <p> + “But how am I to be conveyed there? I hope I will be allowed my own + carriage?” + </p> + <p> + “Unquestionably,” replied Mr. Hastings; “I was about to have proposed it + myself. You shall be treated with every respect, six.” + </p> + <p> + “May I not breakfast before I go?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, sir; we wish to discharge our duty in the mildest possible + manner.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, Hastings, thank you; you were always a good-hearted, + gentlemanly fellow. You will, of course, breakfast with me; and these men + must be attended to.” + </p> + <p> + And he rang the bell. + </p> + <p> + “I have already breakfasted, Sir Robert; but even if I had not, it would + not become me, as your prosecutor, to do so; but perhaps the men—” + </p> + <p> + “What,” exclaimed the baronet, interrupting him, you my prosecutor! For + what, pray?” + </p> + <p> + “That will come in time,” replied the other; “and you may rest assured + that I would not be here now were I not made aware that you were about to + be married to that sweet girl whom you have persecuted with such a mean + and unmanly spirit, and designed to start with her for England this day.” + </p> + <p> + Whitecraft, now that he felt the dreadful consequences of the awful + position in which he was placed, became the very picture of despair and + pusillanimity; his complexion turned haggard, his eyes wild, and his hands + trembled so much that he was not able to bring the tea or bread and butter + to his lips; in fact, such an impersonation of rank and I unmanly + cowardice could not be witnessed. He rose up, exclaiming, in a faint and + hollow voice, that echoed no other sensation than that of horror: + </p> + <p> + “I cannot breakfast; I can eat nothing. What a fate is this! on the very + day, too, which I thought would have consummated my happiness! Oh, it is + dreadful!” + </p> + <p> + His servant then, by Mr. Hastings' orders, packed up changes of linen and + apparel in his trunk, for he saw that he himself had not the presence of + mind to pay attention to any thing. In the course of a few minutes the + carriage was ready, and with tottering steps he went down the stairs, and + was obliged to be assisted into it by two constables, who took their + places beside, him. Mr. Hastings bowed to him coldly, but said nothing; + the coachman smacked his whip, and was about to start, when he turned + round and said: + </p> + <p> + “Where am I to drive, Sir Robert?” + </p> + <p> + “To Sligo jail,” replied one of the constables, “as quick as you can too.” + </p> + <p> + The horses got a lash or two, and bounded on, whilst an escort of cavalry, + with swords drawn, attended the coach until it reached its gloomy + destination, where we will leave it for the present. + </p> + <p> + The next morning, as matters approached to a crisis, the unsteady old + squire began to feel less comfortable in his mind than he could have + expected. To say truth, he had often felt it rather an unnatural process + to marry so lovely a girl to “such an ugly stork of a man as Whitecraft + was, and a knave to boot. I cannot forget how he took me in by the + 'Hop-and-go-constant' affair. But then he's a good Protestant—not + that I mean he has a single spark of religion in his nondescript carcass; + but in those times it's not canting and psalm-singing we want, but good + political Protestantism, that will enable us to maintain our ascendancy by + other means than praying. Curse the hound that keeps him? Is this a day + for him to be late on? and it now half past ten o'clock; however, he must + come soon; but, upon my honor, I dread what will happen when he does. A + scene there will be no doubt of it; however, we must only struggle through + it as well as we can. I'll go and see Helen, and try to reconcile her to + this chap, or, at all events, to let her know at once that, be the + consequences what they may, she must marry him, if I were myself to hold + her at the altar.” + </p> + <p> + When he had concluded this soliloquy, Ellen Connor, without whose society + Helen could now scarcely live, and who, on this account, had not been + discharged after her elopement, she, we say, entered the room, her eye + resolute with determination, and sparkling with a feeling which evinced an + indignant sense of his cruelty in enforcing this odious match. The old man + looked at her with surprise, for, it was the first time she had ever + ventured to obtrude her conversation upon him,or to speak, unless when + spoken to. + </p> + <p> + “Well, madam,” said he, “what do you want? Have you any message from your + mistress? if not, what brings you here?” + </p> + <p> + “I have no message from my mistress,” she replied in a loud, if not in a + vehement, voice; “I don't think my mistress is capable of sending a + message; but I came to tell you that the God of heaven will soon send you + a message, and a black one too, if you allow this cursed marriage to go + on.” + </p> + <p> + “Get out, you jade—leave the room; how is it your affair?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I have what you want—a heart of pity and affection in my + breast. Do you want to drive your daughter mad, or to take her life?” + </p> + <p> + “Begone, you impudent hussy; why do you dare to come here on such an + occasion, only to annoy me?” + </p> + <p> + “I will not begone,” she replied, with a glowing cheek, “unless I am put + out by force—until I point out the consequences of your selfish + tyranny and weakness. I don't come to annoy you, but I come to warn you, + and to tell you, that I know your daughter better than you do yourself. + This marriage must not go on; or, if it does, send without delay to a + lunatic asylum for a keeper for that only daughter. I know her well, and I + tell you that that's what it'll come to.” + </p> + <p> + The squire had never been in the habit of being thus addressed by any of + his servants; and the consequence was that the thing was new to him; so + much so that he felt not only annoyed, but so much astounded, that he + absolutely lost, for a brief period, the use of his speech. He looked at + her with astonishment—then about the room—then up at the + ceiling, and at length spoke: + </p> + <p> + “What the deuce does all this mean? What are you driving at? Prevent the + marriage, you say?” + </p> + <p> + “If the man,” proceeded Connor, not even waiting to give him an answer—“if + the man—had but one good point—one good quality—one + virtue in his whole composition to redeem him from contempt and hatred—if + he had but one feature in his face only as handsome as the worst you could + find in the devil's—yes, if he had but one good thought, or one good + feature in either his soul or body, why—vile as it would be—and + barbarous as it would be—and shameful and cruel as it would be—still, + it would have the one good thought, and the one good feature to justify + it. But here, in this deep and wretched villain, there is nothing but one + mass of vice and crime and deformity; all that the eye can ses, or the + heart discover, in his soul or body, is as black, odious, and repulsive as + could be conceived of the worst imp of perdition. And this is the man—the + persecutor—the miser—the debauchee—the hypocrite—the + murderer, and the coward, that you are going to join your good—virtuous—spotless—and + beautiful daughter to! Oh, shame upon you, you heartless old man; don't + dare to say, or pretend, that you love her as a father ought, when you + would sacrifice her to so base and damnable a villain as that. And again, + and what is more, I tell you not to prosecute Reilly; for, as sure as the + Lord above is in heaven, your daughter is lost, and you'll not only curse + Whitecraft, but the day and hour in which you were born—black and + hopeless will be your doom if you do. And now, sir, I have done; I felt it + to be my duty to tell you this, and to warn you against what I know will + happen unless you go back upon the steps you have taken.” + </p> + <p> + She then courtesied to him respectfully, and left the room in a burst of + grief which seized her when she had concluded. + </p> + <p> + Ellen Connor was a girl by no means deficient in education—thanks to + the care and kindness of the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, who had herself + instructed her. 'Tis true, she had in ordinary and familiar conversation a + touch of the brogue; but, when excited, or holding converse with + respectable persons, her language was such as would have done no discredit + to many persons in a much higher rank of life. + </p> + <p> + After she had left the room, Folliard looked towards the door by which she + had taken her exit, as if he had her still in his vision. He paused—he + meditated—he walked about, and seemed taken thoroughly aback. + </p> + <p> + “By earth and sky,” he exclaimed, “but that's the most comical affair I + have seen yet. Comical! no, not a touch of comicality in it. Zounds, is it + possible that the, jade has coerced and beaten me?—dared to beard + the lion in his own den—to strip him, as it were, of his claws, and + to pull the very fangs out of his jaws, and, after all, to walk away in + triumph? Hang me, but I must have a strong touch of the coward in me or I + would not have knuckled as I did to the jade. Yet, hold—can I, or + ought I to be angry with her, when I know that this hellish racket all + proceeded from her love to Helen. Hang me, but she's a precious bit of + goods, and I'll contrive to make her a present, somehow, for her courage. + Beat me! by sun and sky she did.” + </p> + <p> + He then proceeded to Helen's chamber, and ordered her attendants out of + the room; but, on looking at her, he felt surprised to perceive that her + complexion, instead of being pale, was quite flushed, and her eyes + flashing with a strange wild light that he had never seen in them before. + </p> + <p> + “Helen,” said he, “what's the matter, love? are you unwell?” + </p> + <p> + She placed her two snowy hands on her temples, and pressed them tightly, + as if striving to compress her brain and bring it within the influence of + reason. + </p> + <p> + “I fear you are unwell, darling,” he continued; “you look flushed and + feverish. Don't, however, be alarmed; if you're not well, I'd see that + knave of a fellow hanged before I'd marry you to him, and you in that + state. The thing's out of the question, my darling Helen, and must not be + done. No: God forbid that I should be the means of murdering my own + child.” + </p> + <p> + So much, we may fairly presume, proceeded from the pithy lecture of Ellen + Connor; but the truth was, that the undefinable old squire was the + greatest parental coward in the world. In the absence of his daughter he + would rant and swear and vapor, strike the ground with his staff, and give + other indications of the most extraordinary resolution, combined with + fiery passion, that seemed alarming. No sooner, however, did he go into + her presence, and contemplate not only her wonderful beauty, but her + goodness, her tenderness and affection for himself, than the bluster + departed from him, his resolution fell, his courage oozed away, and he + felt that he was fairly subdued, under which circumstances he generally + entered into a new treaty of friendship and affection with the enemy. + </p> + <p> + Helen's head was aching dreadfully, and she felt feverish and distracted. + Her father's words, however, and the affection which they expressed, went + to her heart; she threw her arms about him, kissed him, and was relieved + by a copious flood of tears. + </p> + <p> + “Papa,” she said, “you are both kind and good; surely you wouldn't kill + your poor Helen?” + </p> + <p> + “Me kill you, Helen!—oh, no, faith. If Whitecraft were hanged + to-morrow it wouldn't give me half so much pain as if your little finger + ached.” + </p> + <p> + Just at this progress of the dialogue a smart and impatient knock came to + the door. + </p> + <p> + “Who is that?” said the squire; “come in—or, stay till I see who you + are.” He than opened the door and exclaimed, “What! Lanigan!—why, + you infernal old scoundrel! how dare you have the assurance to look me in + the face, or to come under my roof at all, after what I said to you about + the pistols?” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, but you don't know the good news I have for you and Miss Helen.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Lanigan, is Reilly safe?—is he set at large? Oh, I am sure he + must be. Never was so noble, so pure, and so innocent a heart.” + </p> + <p> + “Curse him, look at the eye of him,” said her father, pointing his cane at + Lanigan; “it's like the eye of a sharp-shooter. What are you grinning at; + you old scoundrel?” + </p> + <p> + “Didn't you expect Sir Robert Whitecraft here to-day to marry Miss + Folliard, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “I did, sirra, and I do; he'll be here immediately.” + </p> + <p> + “Devil a foot he'll come to-day, I can tell you; and that's the way he + treats your daughter!” + </p> + <p> + “What does this old idiot mean, Helen? Have you been drinking, sirra?” + </p> + <p> + “Not yet, sir, but plaise the Lord I'll soon be at it.” + </p> + <p> + “Lanigan,” said Helen, “will you state at once what you have to say?” + </p> + <p> + “I will, miss; but first and foremost, I must show you how to dance the + 'Little House under the Hill,'” and as he spoke he commenced whistling + that celebrated air and dancing to it with considerable alacrity and + vigor, making allowances for his age. + </p> + <p> + The father and daughter looked at each other, and Helen, notwithstanding + her broken spirits, could not avoid smiling. Lanigan continued the dance, + kept wheeling about to all parts of the room, like an old madcap, cutting, + capering, and knocking up his heels against his ham, with a vivacity that + was a perfect mystery to his two spectators, as was his whole conduct. + </p> + <p> + “Now, you drunken old scoundrel,” said his master, catching him by the + collar and flourishing the cane over his head, “if you don't give a direct + answer I will cane you within an inch of your life. What do you mean when + you say that Sir Robert Whitecraft won't come here to-day?” + </p> + <p> + “Becaise, sir, it isn't convanient to him.” + </p> + <p> + “Why isn't it convenient, you scoundrel?” + </p> + <p> + “Bekaise, sir, he took it into his head to try a change of air for the + benefit of his health before he starts upon his journey; and as he got a + very friendly invitation to spend some time in Sligo jail he accepted it, + and if you go there you will find him before you. It seems he started this + morning in great state, with two nice men belonging to the law in the + carriage with him, to see that he should want for nothing, and a party of + cavalry surroundin' his honor's coach, as if he was one of the judges, or + the Lord Lieutenant.” + </p> + <p> + The figurative style of his narrative would unquestionably have caused him + to catch the weight of the cane aforesaid had not Helen interfered and + saved him for the nonce. + </p> + <p> + “Let me at him, Helen, let me at him—the drunken old rip; why does + he dare to humbug us in this manner?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, sir, if you wish to hear the good news, and especially you, + Miss Folliard, it will probably relieve your heart when I tell you that + Sir Robert Whitecraft is, before this time, in the jail of Sligo, for a + charge of murdher, and for burnin' Mr. Reilly's house and premises, which + it now seems aren't Mr. Reilly's at all—nor ever were—but + belong to Mr. Hastings.” + </p> + <p> + “Good heavens!” exclaimed the squire, “this is dreadful: but is it true, + sirra?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, sir, if you go to his house you'll find it so.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, papa,” said Helen, “surely they wouldn't hang him?” + </p> + <p> + “Hang him, Helen; why, Helen, the tide's turned; they want to make him an + example for the outrages that he and others have committed against the + unfortunate Papists. Hang him!—as I live, he and the Red Rapparee + will both swing from the same gallows; but there is one thing I say—if + he hangs I shall take care that that obstinate scoundrel, Reilly, shall + also swing along with him.” + </p> + <p> + Helen became as pale as ashes, the flush had disappeared from her + countenance, and she burst again into tears. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, papa,” she exclaimed, “spare Reilly: he is innocent.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll hang him,” he replied, “if it should cost me ten thousand pounds. Go + you, sirra, and desire one of the grooms to saddle me Black Tom; he is the + fastest horse in my stables; I cannot rest till I ascertain the truth of + this.” + </p> + <p> + On passing the drawing-room he looked in, and found Mr. Strong and the two + Misses Ashford waiting, the one to perform, and the others to attend, at + the ceremony. + </p> + <p> + “Sir. Strong and ladies,” said he, with looks of great distraction, “I + fear there will be no marriage here to-day. An accident, I believe, has + happened to Sir Robert Whitecraft that will prevent his being a party in + the ceremony, for this day at least.” + </p> + <p> + “An accident!” exclaimed the ladies and the clergyman. “Pray, Mr. + Folliard, what is it? how did it happen?” + </p> + <p> + “I am just going to ride over to Sir Robert's to learn everything about + it,” he replied; “I will be but a short time absent. But now!” he added, + “here's his butler, and I will get everything from him. Oh, Thomas, is + this you? follow me to my study, Thomas.” + </p> + <p> + As the reader already knows all that Thomas could tell him, it is only + necessary to say that he returned to the drawing-room with a sad and + melancholy aspect. + </p> + <p> + “There is no use,” said he, addressing them, “in concealing what will soon + be known to the world. Sir Robert Whitecraft has been arrested on a charge + of murder and arson, and is now a prisoner in the county jail.” + </p> + <p> + This was startling intelligence to them all, especially to the parson, who + found that the hangman was likely to cut him out of his fees. The ladies + screamed, and said, “it was a shocking thing to have that delightful man + hanged;” and then asked if the bride-elect had heard it. + </p> + <p> + “She has heard it,” replied her father, “and I have just left her in + tears; but upon my soul, I don't think there is one of them shed for him. + Well, Mr. Strong, I believe, after all, there is likely to be no marriage, + but that is not your fault; you came here to do your duty, and I think it + only just—a word with you in the next apartment,” he added, and then + led the way to the dining-room. “I was about to say, Mr. Strong, that it + would be neither just nor reasonable to deprive you of your fees; here is + a ten-pound note, and it would have been twenty had the marriage taken + place. I must go to Sligo to see the unfortunate baronet, and say what can + be done for him—that is, if anything can, which I greatly doubt.” + </p> + <p> + The parson protested, against the receipt of the ten-pound note very much + in the style of a bashful schoolboy, who pretends to refuse an apple from + a strange relation when he comes to pay a visit, whilst, at the same time, + the young monkey's chops are watering for it. With some faint show of + reluctance he at length received it, and need we say that it soon + disappeared in one of his sanctified pockets. + </p> + <p> + “Strong, my dear fellow,” proceeded the squire, “you will take a seat with + these ladies in their carriage and see them home.” + </p> + <p> + “I would, with pleasure, my dear friend, but that I am called upon to + console poor Mrs. Smellpriest for the loss of the captain.” + </p> + <p> + “The captain! why, what has happened him?” + </p> + <p> + “Alas! sir, an unexpected and unhappy fate. He went out last night a + priest-hunting, like a godly sportsman of the Church, as he was, and on + his return from an unsuccessful chase fell off his horse while in the act + of singing that far-famed melody called 'Lillibullero,' and sustained such + severe injuries that he died on that very night, expressing a very ungodly + penitence for his loyalty in persecuting so many treasonable Popish + priests.” + </p> + <p> + The squire seemed amazed, and, after a pause, said: + </p> + <p> + “He repented, you say; upon my soul, then, I am glad to hear it, for it is + more than I expected from him, and, between you and me, Strong, I fear it + must have taken a devilish large extent of repentance to clear him from + the crimes he committed against both priests and Popery.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah,” replied Strong, with a groan of deep despondency, “but, + unfortunately, my dear sir, he did not repent of his sins—that is + the worst of it—Satan must have tempted him to transfer his + repentance to those very acts of his life upon which, as Christian + champion, he should have depended for justification above—I mean, + devoting his great energies so zealously to the extermination of idolatry + and error. What was it but repenting for his chief virtues, instead of + relying, like a brave and dauntless soldier of our Establishment, upon his + praiseworthy exertions to rid it of its insidious and relentless enemies?” + </p> + <p> + The squire looked at him. + </p> + <p> + “I'll tell you what, Strong—-by the great Boyne, I'd give a trifle + to, see you get a smart touch of persecution in your own person; it might + teach you a little more charity towards those who differ with you; but, + upon my honor, if any change in our national parties should soon take + place, and that the Papists should get the upper hand, I tell you to your + teeth that if ever your fat libs should be tickled by the whip of + persecution, they would render you great injustice who should do it for + the sake of religion—a commodity with which I see, from the spirit + of your present sentiments, you are not over-burdened. However, in the + meantime, I daresay that whatever portion you possess of it, you will + charitably expend in consoling his widow, as you say. Good-morning!” + </p> + <p> + We must return, however, to the close of Smellpriest's very sudden and + premature departure from the scene of his cruel and merciless labors. + Having reached the strip already described to him by Mr. Strong, and to + which he was guided by his men, he himself having been too far advanced in + liquor to make out his way with any kind of certainty, he proceeded, still + under their direction, to the cottage adjoining, which was immediately + surrounded by the troopers. After knocking at the door with violence, and + demanding instant admittance, under the threat of smashing it in, and + burning the house as a harbor for rebellious priests, the door was + immediately opened by a gray-headed old man, feeble and decrepit in + appearance, but yet without any manifestation of terror either in his + voice or features. He held a candle in his hand, and asked them, in a + calm, composed voice, what it was they wanted, and why they thus came to + disturb him and his family at such an unseasonable hour. + </p> + <p> + “Why, you treasonable old scoundrel,” shouted Smellpriest, “haven't you + got a rebel and recusant Popish priest in the house? I say, you + gray-headed old villain, turn him out on the instant, or, if you hesitate + but half a minute, well make a bonfire of you, him, the house, and all + that's in it. Zounds, I don't see why I shouldn't burn a house as well as + Whitecraft. That cursed baronet is getting ahead of me, but I think I am + entitled to a bonfire as well as he is. Shall we burn the house?” he + added, addressing his men. + </p> + <p> + “I think you had better not, captain,” replied the principal of them; + “recollect there are new regulations now. It wouldn't be safe, and might + only end in hanging every man of us—yourself among the rest.” + </p> + <p> + “But why doesn't the old rebel produce the priest?” asked their leader. + “Come here, sirra—hear me—produce that lurking priest + immediately.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't exactly understand you, captain,” replied the old man, who + appeared to know Smellpriest right well. “I don't think it's to my house + you should come to look for a priest.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not, you villain? I have been directed here, and told that I would + find my game under your roof.” + </p> + <p> + “In the first place,” replied the old man, with a firm and intrepid voice, + “I am no villain; and in the next, I say, that if any man directed you to + this house in quest of a priest, he must have purposely sent you upon a + fool's errand. I am a Protestant, Captain Smellpriest; but, Protestant as + I am, I tell you to your face that if I could give shelter to a poor + persecuted priest, and save him from the clutches of such men as you and + Sir Robert Whitecraft, I would do it. In the meantime, there is neither + priest nor friar under this roof; you can come in and search in the house, + if you wish.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, gog's 'ouns, father,” exclaimed one of the men, “how does it come + that we find you here?” + </p> + <p> + “Very simply, John,” replied his father—for such he was—“I + took this cottage, and the bit of land that goes with it, from honest Andy + Morrow, and we are not many hours in it. The house was empty for the last + six months, so that I say again, whoever sent Captain Smellpriest here + sent him upon a fool's errand—upon a wild-goose chase.” + </p> + <p> + The gallant captain started upon hearing these latter words. + </p> + <p> + “What does he say,” he asked—“a wild-goose chase! Right—right,” + he added, in a soliloquy; “Strong is at the bottom of it, the black + scoundrel! but still, let us search the house; the old fellow admits that + he would shelter a priest. Search the house I say. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + 'There was an old prophecy found in a bog, + Lillibullero, bullen ala, &c., &c.'” + </pre> + <p> + The house was accordingly searched, but it is unnecessary to add that + neither priest nor friar was found under the roof, nor any nook or corner + in which either one or the other could have been concealed. + </p> + <p> + The party, who then directed their steps homewards, were proceeding across + the fields to the mountain road which ran close by, and parallel with the + stripe, when they perceived at once that Smellpriest was in a rage, by the + fact of his singing “Lillibullero;” for, whenever either his rage or + loyalty happened to run high, he uniformly made a point to indulge himself + in singing that celebrated ballad. + </p> + <p> + “By jabers,” said one of them to his companions, “there will be a battle + royal between the captain and Mr. Strong if he finds the parson at home + before him.” + </p> + <p> + “If there won't be a fight with the parson, there will with the wife,” + replied the other. “Hang the same parson,” he added; “many a dreary chase + he has sent us upon, with nothing but the fatigue of a dark and slavish + journey for our pains. With what bitterness he's giving us 'Lillibullero,' + and he scarcely able to sit on his horse! I think I'll advance, and ride + beside him, otherwise, he may get an ugly tumble on this hard road.” + </p> + <p> + He accordingly did so, observing, as he got near him, “I have taken the + liberty to ride close beside you, lest, as the night is dark, your horse + might stumble.” + </p> + <p> + “What! do you think I'm drunk, you scoundrel?—fall back, sir, + immediately. + </p> + <p> + “'Lillibullero, bullen ala.' + </p> + <p> + “I say I'm not drunk; but I'm in a terrible passion at that treacherous + scoundrel; but no matter, I saw something to-night—never mind, I + say. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “'There was an old prophecy found in a bog, + Lillibullero, bullen ala; + + That Ireland should be ruled by an Ass and a Dog, + Lillibullero, bullen ala; + + And now that same prophecy has come to pass— + Lillibullero, bullen ala; + + For Talbot's the Dog, and James is the Ass, + Lillibullero, bullen ala.' +</pre> + <p> + “Never mind, I say; hang me, but I'll crop the villain, or crop both, + which is better still—steady, Schomberg—curse you.” + </p> + <p> + The same rut or chasm across the more open road on which they had now got + out, and that had nearly been so fatal to Mr. Brown, became decidedly so + to unfortunate Smellpriest. The horse, as his rider spoke, stopped + suddenly, and, shying quickly to the one side, the captain was pitched + off, and fell with his whole weight upon the hard pavement. The man was an + unwieldy, and consequently a heavy man, and the unexpected fall stunned + him into insensibility. After about ten minutes or so he recovered his + consciousness, however, and having been once more placed upon his horse, + was conducted home, two or three of his men, with much difficulty, + enabling him to maintain his seat in the saddle. In this manner they + reached his house, where they stripped and put him to bed, having + observed, to their consternation, that strong gushes of blood welled, + every three or four minutes, from his mouth. + </p> + <p> + The grief of his faithful wife was outrageous; and Mr. Strong, who was + still there kindly awaiting his safe return, endeavored to compose her + distraction as well as he could. + </p> + <p> + “My dear madam,” said he, “why will you thus permit your grief to overcome + you? You will most assuredly injure your own precious health by this + dangerous outburst of sorrow. The zealous and truly loyal captain is not, + I trust, seriously injured; he will recover, under God, in a few days. You + may rest assured, my dear Mrs. Smellpriest, that his life is too valuable + to be taken at this unhappy period. No, he will, I trust and hope, be + spared until a strong anti-Popish Government shall come in, when, if he is + to lose it, he will lose it in some great and godly exploit against the + harlot of abominations.” + </p> + <p> + “Alas! my dear Mr. Strong, that is all very kind of you, to support my + breaking heart with such comfort; but, when he is gone, what will become + of me?” + </p> + <p> + “You will not be left desolate, my dear madam—you will be supported—cheered—consoled. + Captain my friend, how do you feel now? Are you easier?” + </p> + <p> + “I am,” replied the captain feebly—for he had not lost his speech—“come + near me, Strong.” + </p> + <p> + “With pleasure, dear captain, as becomes my duty, not only as a friend, + but as an humble and unworthy minister of religion. I trust you are not in + danger, but, under any circumstances, it is best, you know, to be prepared + for the worst. Do not then be cast down, nor allow your heart to sink into + despair. Remember that you have acted the part of a zealous and faithful + champion on behalf of our holy Church, and that you have been a blessed + scourge of Popery in this Pope-ridden country. Let that reflection, then, + be your consolation. Think of the many priests you have hunted—and + hunted successfully too; think of how many bitter Papists of every class + you have been the blessed means of committing to the justice of our laws; + think of the numbers of Popish priests and bishops you have, in the + faithful discharge of your pious duty, committed to chains, imprisonment, + transportation, and the scaffold—think of all these things, I say, + and take comfort to your soul by the retrospect. Would you wish to receive + the rites and consolations of religion at my hands?” + </p> + <p> + “Come near me, Strong,” repeated Smell-priest. “The rites of religion from + you—the rights of perdition as soon, you hypocritical scoundrel;” + and as he spoke he caught a gush of blood as it issued from his mouth and + flung it with all the strength he had left right into the clergyman's + face. “Take that, you villain,” he added; “I die in every sense with my + blood upon you. And as for my hunting of priests and Papists, it is the + only thing that lies at this moment heavy over my heart. And as for that + wife of mine, I'm sorry she's not in my place. I know, of course, I'll be + damned; but it can't be helped now. If I go down, as down I will go, won't + I have plenty of friends to keep me in countenance. I know—I feel + I'm dying; but I must take the consequences. In the meantime, my best word + and wish is, that that vile jade shan't be permitted to approach or touch + my body after I am dead. My curse upon you both! for you brought me to + this untimely death between you.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, my dear Smellpriest—” exclaimed the wife. + </p> + <p> + “Don't call me Smellpriest,” he replied, interrupting her; “my name is + Norbury. But it doesn't matter—it's all up with me, and I know it + will soon be all down with me; for down, down I'll go. Strong, you + hypocritical scoundrel, don't be a persecutor: look at me on the very + brink of perdition for it. And now the only comfort I have is, that I let + the poor Popish bishop off. I could not shoot him, or at any rate make a + prisoner of him, and he engaged in the worship of God.” + </p> + <p> + “Alas!” whispered Strong, “the poor man is verging on rank Popery—he + is hopeless.” + </p> + <p> + “But, Tom, dear,” said the wife, “why are you displeased with me, your own + faithful partner? I that was so loving and affectionate to you? I that + urged you on in the path of duty? I that scoured your arms and regimentals + with my own hands—that mixed you your punch before you went after + the black game, as you used to say, and, again, had it ready for you when + you returned to precious Mr. Strong and me after a long hunt. Don't die in + anger with your own Grizzey, as you used to call me, my dear Tom, or, if + you do, I feel that I won't long survive you.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! you jade,” replied Tom, “didn't I see the wink between you to-night, + although you thought I was drunk? Ah, these wild-goose chases!” + </p> + <p> + “Tom, dear, we are both innocent. Oh, forgive your own Grizaey!” + </p> + <p> + “So I do, you jade—my curse on you both.” + </p> + <p> + Whether it was the effort necessary to speak, in addition to the + excitement occasioned by his suspicions, and whether these suspicions were + well founded or not, we do not presume to say; but the fact was, that, + after another outgulp of blood had come up, he drew a long, deep sigh, his + under-jaw fell, and the wretched, half-penitent Captain Smellpriest + breathed his last. After which his wife, whether from sorrow or remorse, + became insensible, and remained in that state for a considerable time; but + at length she recovered, and, after expressing the most violent sorrow, + literally drove the Rev. Mr. Strong out of the house, with many deep and + bitter curses. But to return: + </p> + <p> + In a few minutes the parties dispersed, and Folliard, too much absorbed in + the fates of Reilly and Whitecraft, prepared to ride to Sligo, to + ascertain if any thing could be done for the baronet. In the meantime, + while he and his old friend Cummiskey are on their way to see that + gentleman, we will ask the attention of our readers to the state of + Helen's mind, as it was affected by the distressing events which had so + rapidly and recently occurred. We need not assure them that deep anxiety + for the fate of her unfortunate lover lay upon her heart like gloom of + death itself. His image and his natural nobility of character, but, above + all, the purity and delicacy of his love for herself his manly and + faithful attachment to his religion, under temptations which few hearts + could resist—temptations of which she herself was, beyond all + comparison, the most trying and the most difficult to be withstood; his + refusal to leave the country on her account, even when the bloodhounds of + the law were pursuing him to his death in every direction; and the + reflection that this resolution of abiding by her, and watching over her + welfare and happiness, and guarding her, as far as he could, from domestic + persecution—all these reflections, in short, crowded upon her mind + with such fearful force that her reason began to totter, and she felt + apprehensive that she might not be able to bear the trial which Reilly's + position now placed before her in the most hideous colors. On the other + hand, there was Whitecraft, a man certainly who had committed many crimes + and murders and burnings, often, but not always, upon his own + responsibility; a man who, she knew, entertained no manly or tender + affection for her; he too about to meet a violent death! That she detested + him with an abhorrence as deep as ever woman entertained against man was + true; yet she was a woman, and this unhappy fate that impended over him + was not excluded out of the code of her heart's humanity. She wished him + also to be saved, if only that he might withdraw from Ireland and repent + of his crimes. Altogether she was in a state bordering on frenzy and + despair, and was often incapable of continuing a sustained conversation. + </p> + <p> + When Whitecraft reached the jail in his carriage, attended by a guard of + troopers, the jailor knew not what to make of it; but seeing the carriage, + which, after a glance or two, he immediately recognized as that of the + well-known grand juror, he came out, with hat in hand, bowing most + obsequiously. + </p> + <p> + “I hope your honor's well; you are coming to inspect the prisoners, I + suppose? Always active on behalf of Church and State, Sir Robert.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, Mr. O'Shaughnessy,” said one of the constables, “get on with no + nonsense. You're a mighty Church and State man now; but I remember when + there was as rank a rebel under your coat as ever thumped a craw. Sir + Robert, sir, is here as our prisoner, and will soon be yours, for murder + and arson, and God knows what besides. Be pleased to walk into the hatch, + Sir Robert, and there we surrender you to Mr. O'Shaughnessy, who will + treat you well if you pay him well.” + </p> + <p> + They then entered the hatch. The constable produced the <i>mittimus</i> + and the baronet's person both together, after which they withdrew, having + failed to get the price of a glass from the baronet as a reward for their + civility. + </p> + <p> + Such scenes have been described a hundred times, and we consequently shall + not delay our readers upon this. The baronet, indeed, imagined that from + his rank and influence the jailer might be induced to give him comfortable + apartments. He was in, however, for two capital felonies, and the jailer, + who was acquainted with the turn that public affairs had taken, told him + that upon his soul and conscience if the matter lay with him he would not + put his honor among the felons; but then he had no discretion, because it + was as much as his place was worth to break the rules—a thing he + couldn't think of doing as an honest man and an upright officer. + </p> + <p> + “But whatever I can do for you, Sir Robert, I'll do.” + </p> + <p> + “You will let me have pen and ink, won't you?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, let me see. Yes, I will, Sir Robert; I'll stretch that far for the + sake of ould times.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0023" id="link2H_4_0023"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII.—The Squire Comforts Whitecraft in his Affliction. + </h2> + <p> + The old squire and Cummiskey lost little time in getting over the ground + to the town of Sligo, and, in order to reach it the more quickly, they + took a short cut by the old road which we have described at the beginning + of this narrative. On arriving at that part of it from which they could + view the spot where Reilly rescued them from the murderous violence of the + Red Rapparee, Cummiskey pointed to it. + </p> + <p> + “Does your honor remember that place, where you see the ould buildin'?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I think so. Is not that the place where the cursed Rapparee attacked + us?” + </p> + <p> + “It is, sir; and where poor Reilly saved both our lives; and yet your + honor is goin' to hang him.” + </p> + <p> + “You know nothing about it, you old blockhead. It was all a plan got up by + Reilly and the Rapparee for the purpose of getting introduced to my + daughter, for his own base and selfish purposes. Yes, I'll hang him + certainly—no doubt of that.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir,” replied Cummiskey, “it's one comfort that he won't hang by + himself.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” said the other, “he and the Rapparee will stretch the same rope.” + </p> + <p> + “The Rapparee! faith, sir, hell have worse company.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean, sirra?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, Sir Robert Whitecraft, sir; he always had gallows written in his + face; but, upon my soul, he'll soon have it about his neck, please God.” + </p> + <p> + “Faith, I'm afraid you are not far from the truth, Cummiskey,” replied his + master; “however, I am going to make arrangements with him, to see what + can be done for the unfortunate man.” + </p> + <p> + “If you'll take my advice, sir, you'll have nothing to do with him. Keep + your hand out o' the pot; there's no man can skim boiling lead with his + hand and not burn his fingers—but a tinker.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't be saucy, you old dog; but ride on, for I must put Black Tom to his + speed.” + </p> + <p> + On arriving at the prison, the squire found Sir Robert pent up in a + miserable cell, with a table screwed to the floor, a pallet bed, and a + deal form. Perhaps his comfort might have been improved through the medium + of his purse, were it not that the Prison Board had held a meeting that + very day, subsequent to his committal, in which, with some dissentients, + they considered it their duty to warn the jailer against granting him any + indulgence beyond what he was entitled to as a felon, and this under pain + of their earnest displeasure. + </p> + <p> + When the squire entered he found the melancholy baronet and priest-hunter + sitting upon the hard form, his head hanging down upon his breast, or, + indeed, we might say much farther; for, in consequence of the almost + unnatural length of his neck, it appeared on that occasion to be growing + out of the middle of his body, or of that fleshless vertebral column which + passed for one. + </p> + <p> + “Well, baronet,” exclaimed Folliard pretty loudly, “here's an exchange! + from the altar to the halter; from the matrimonial noose to honest Jack + Ketch's—and a devilish good escape it would be to many unfortunate + wretches in this same world.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Mr. Folliard,” said the baronet, “is not this miserable? What will + become of me?” + </p> + <p> + “Now, I tell you what, Whitecraft, I am come to speak to you upon your + position; but before I go farther, let me say a word or two to make you + repent, if possible, for what you have done to others.” + </p> + <p> + “For what I have done, Mr. Folliard! why should I not repent, when I find + I am to be hanged for it?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, hanged you will be, there is no doubt of that; but now consider a + little; here you are with a brown loaf, and—is that water in the + jug?” + </p> + <p> + “It is.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well; here you are, hard and fast, you who were accustomed to + luxuries, to the richest meats, and the richest wines—here you are + with a brown loaf, a jug of water, and the gallows before you! However, if + you wish to repent truly and sincerely, reflect upon the numbers that you + and your bloodhounds have consigned to places like this, and sent from + this to the gibbet, while you were rioting in luxury and triumph. Good + God, sir, hold up your head, and be a man. What if you are hanged? Many a + better man was. Hold up your head, I say.” + </p> + <p> + “I can't, my dear Folliard; it won't stay up for me.” + </p> + <p> + “Egad! and you'll soon get a receipt for holding it up. Why the mischief + can't you have spunk?” + </p> + <p> + “Spunk; how the deuce could you expect spunk from any man in my condition? + It is difficult to understand you, Mr. Folliard; you told me a minute ago + to repent, and now you tell me to have spunk; pray what do you mean by + that?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, confound it, I mean that you should repent with spunk. However, let + us come to more important matters; what can be done for you?” + </p> + <p> + “I know not; I am incapable of thinking on any thing but that damned + gallows without; yet I should wish to make my will.” + </p> + <p> + “Your will! Why, I think you have lost your senses; don't you know that + when you're hanged every shilling and acre you are possessed of will be + forfeited to the crown?” + </p> + <p> + “True,” replied the other, “I had forgotten that. Could Hastings be + induced to decline prosecuting?” + </p> + <p> + “What! to compromise a felony, and be transported himself. Thank you for + nothing baronet; that's rather a blue look up. No, our only plan is to try + and influence the grand jury to throw out the bills; but then, again, + there are indictments against you to no end. Hastings' case is only a + single one, and, even if he failed, it would not better your condition a + whit. Under the late Administration we could have saved you by getting a + packed jury; but that's out of the question now. All we can do, I think, + is to get up a memorial strongly signed, supplicating the Lord Lieutenant + to commute your sentence from hanging to transportation for life. I must + confess, however, there is little hope even there. They will come down + with their cursed reasoning and tell us that the rank and education of the + offender only aggravate the offence; and that, if they allow a man so + convicted to escape, in consequence of his high position in life, every + humble man found guilty and executed for the same crime—is murdered. + They will tell us it would be a prostitution of the prerogative of the + Crown to connive at crime in the rich and punish it in the poor. And, + again, there's the devil of it; your beggarly want of hospitality in the + first place, and the cursed swaggering severity with which you carried out + your loyalty, by making unexpected domiciliary visits to the houses of + loyal but humane Protestant families, with the expectation of finding a + priest or a Papist under their protection: both these, I say, have made + you the most unpopular man in the county; and, upon my soul, Sir Robert, I + don't think there will be a man upon the grand jury whose family you have + not insulted by your inveterate loyalty. No one, I tell! you, likes a + persecutor. Still, I say, I'll try what I can do with the grand jury. I'll + see my friends and yours—if you have any now; make out a list of + them in a day or two—and you may rest assured that I will leave + nothing undone to extricate you.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, Mr. Folliard; but do you know why I am here?” + </p> + <p> + “To be sure I do.” + </p> + <p> + “No, you don't, sir. William Reilly, the Jesuit and Papist, is the cause + of it, and will be the cause of my utter ruin and ignominious death.” + </p> + <p> + “How is that? Make it plain to me; only make that plain to me.” + </p> + <p> + “He is the bosom friend of Hastings, and can sway him and move him and + manage him as a father would a child, or, rather, as a child would a + doting father. Reilly, sir, is at the bottom of this, his great object + always having been to prevent a marriage between me and your beautiful + daughter; I, who, after all, have done so much for Protestantism, am the + victim of that Jesuit and Papist.” + </p> + <p> + This vindictive suggestion took at once, and the impetuous old squire + started as if a new light had been let in upon his mind. We call him + impetuous, because, if he had reflected only for a moment upon the + diabolical persecution, both in person and property, which Reilly had + sustained at the baronet's hands, he ought not to have blamed him had! he + shot the scoundrel as if he had been one of the most rabid dogs that ever + ran frothing across a country. We say the suggestion, poisoned as it was + by the most specious falsehood, failed not to accomplish the villain's + object. + </p> + <p> + Folliard grasped him by the hand. “Never-mind,” said he; “keep yourself + quiet, and leave Reilly to me; I have him,that's enough.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” replied the baronet, “it is not enough, because I know what will + happen: Miss Folliard's influence over you is a proverb; now she will + cajole and flatter and beguile you until she prevails upon you to let the + treacherous Jesuit slip through your fingers, and then he will get off to + the Continent, and laugh at you all, after having taken her with him; for + there is nothing more certain, if he escapes death through your + indulgence, than that you will, in the course of a few years, find + yourself grandfather to a brood of young Papists; and when I say Papists, + need I add rebels?” + </p> + <p> + “Come,” replied the hot-headed old man, “don't insult me; I am master of + my own house, and, well as I love my daughter, I would not for a moment + suffer her to interfere in a public matter of this or any other kind. Now + good-by; keep your spirits up, and if you are to die, why die like a man.” + </p> + <p> + They then separated; and as Folliard was passing through the hatch, he + called the jailer into his own office, and strove to prevail upon him, not + ineffectually, to smuggle in some wine and other comforts to the baronet. + The man told him that he would with pleasure do so if he dared; but that + the caution against it which he had got that very day from the Board + rendered the thing impossible. Ere the squire left him, however, his + scruples were overcome, and the baronet, before he went to bed that night, + had a rost duck for supper, with two bottles of excellent claret to wash + it down and lull his conscience into slumber. + </p> + <p> + “Confound it,” the squire soliloquized, on their way home, “I am as stupid + as Whitecraft himself, who was never stupid until now; there have I been + with him in that cursed dungeon, and neither of us ever thought of taking + measures for his defence. Why, he must have the best lawyers at the Bar, + and fee them like princes. Gad! I have a great notion to ride back and + speak to him on the subject; he's in such a confounded trepidation about + his life that he can think of nothing else. No matter, I shall write to + him by a special messenger early in the morning. It would be a cursed slap + in the face to have one of our leading men hanged—only, after all, + for carrying out the wishes of an anti-Papist Government, who connived at + his conduct, and encouraged him in it. I know he expected a coronet, and I + have no doubt but he'd have got one had his party remained in; but now all + the unfortunate devil is likely to get is a rope—and be hanged to + them! However, as to my own case about Reilly—I must secure a strong + bar against him; and if we can only prevail upon Helen to state the facts + as they occurred, there is little doubt that he shall suffer; for hang he + must, in consequence of the disgrace he has brought upon my daughter's + name and mine. Whatever I might have forgiven, I will never forgive him + that.” + </p> + <p> + He then rode on at a rapid pace, and did not slacken his speed until he + reached home. Dinner was ready, and he sat down with none but Helen, who + could scarcely touch a morsel. Her father saw at once the state of her + mind, and felt that it would be injudicious to introduce any subject that + might be calculated to excite her. They accordingly talked upon + commonplace topics, and each assumed as much cheerfulness, and more than + they could command. It was a miserable sight, when properly understood, to + see the father and daughter forced, by the painful peculiarity of their + circumstances, thus to conceal their natural sentiments from each other. + Love, however, is often a disturber of families, as in the case of Reilly + and <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>; and so is an avaricious ambition, when united to + a selfish and a sensual attachment, as in the case of Whitecraft. + </p> + <p> + It is unnecessary now, and it would be only tedious, to dwell upon the + energetic preparations that were made for the three approaching trials. + Public rumor had taken them up and sent them abroad throughout the greater + portion of the kingdom. The three culprits were notorious—Sir Robert + Whitecraft, the priest-hunter and prosecutor; the notorious Red Rapparee, + whose exploits had been commemorated in a thousand ballads; and “Willy + Reilly,” whose love for the far-famed <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, together with + her unconquerable passion for him, had been known throughout the empire. + In fact, the interest which the public felt in the result of the + approaching trials was intense, not only in Ireland, but throughout + England and Scotland, where the circumstances connected with them were + borne on the wings of the press. Love, however, especially the romance of + it—and here were not only romance but reality enough—love, we + say, overcomes all collateral interests—and the history of the loves + of Willy Reilly and his “dear <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>” even then touched the + hearts of thousands, and moistened many a young eye for his calamities and + early fate, and the sorrows of his <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>. + </p> + <p> + Helen's father, inspired by the devilish suggestions of Whitecraft, now + kept aloof from her as much as he could with decency do. He knew his own + weakness, and felt that if he suffered her to gain that portion of his + society to which she had been accustomed, his resolution might break down, + and the very result prognosticated by Whitecraft might be brought about. + Indeed his time was so little his own, between his activity in defence of + that villain and his energetic operations for the prosecution of Reilly, + that he had not much to spare her, except at meals. It was not, however, + through himself that he wished to win her over to prosecute Reilly. No; he + felt his difficulty, and knew that he could not attempt to influence her + with a good grace, or any force of argument. He resolved, therefore, to + set his attorney to work, who, as he understood all the quirks and + intricacy of the law, might be able to puzzle her into compliance. This + gentleman, however, who possessed at once a rapacious heart and a stupid + head, might have fleeced half the country had the one been upon a par with + the other. He was, besides, in his own estimation, a lady-killer, and knew + not how these interviews with the fair <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> might end. He, + at all events, was a sound Protestant, and if it were often said that you + might as well ask a Highlander for a knee-buckle as an attorney for + religion, he could conscientiously fall back upon the fact that political + Protestantism and religion were very different things—for an + attorney. + </p> + <p> + Instructed by Folliard, he accordingly waited upon her professionally, in + her father's study, during his absence, and opened his case as follows: + </p> + <p> + “I have called upon you, Miss Folliard, by the direction of your father, + professionally, and indeed I thank my stars that any professional business + should give me an opportunity of admiring so far-famed a beauty.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you not Mr. Doldrum,” she asked, “the celebrated attorney?” + </p> + <p> + “Doldrum is certainly my name, my lovely client.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Doldrum, I think I have heard of you; but permit me to say that + before you make love, as you seem about to do, I think it better you + should mention your professional business.” + </p> + <p> + “It is very simple, Miss Folliard; just to know whether you have any + objection to appearing as an evidence against—he—hem—against + Mr. Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, then your business and time with me will be very brief, Mr. Doldrum. + It is my intention to see justice done, and for that purpose I shall + attend the trial, and if I find that my evidence will be necessary, I + assure you I shall give it. But, Mr. Doldrum, one word with you before you + go.” + </p> + <p> + “A hundred—a thousand, my dear lady.” + </p> + <p> + “It is this: I beg as a personal favor that you will use your great + influence with my father to prevent him from talking to me on this subject + until the day of trial comes. By being kind enough to do this you will + save me from much anxiety and annoyance.” + </p> + <p> + “I pledge you my honor, madam, that your wishes shall be complied with to + the letter, as far, at least, as any influence of mine can accomplish + them.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, sir; I wish you a good-morning.” + </p> + <p> + “Good-morning, madam; it shall not be my fault if you are harassed upon + this most painful subject; and I pledge you my reputation that I never + contributed to hang a man in my life with more regret than I experience in + this unfortunate case.” + </p> + <p> + It is quite a common thing to find vanity and stupidity united in the same + individual, as they were in Mr. Doldrum. He was Mr. Folliard's country + attorney, and, in consequence of his strong Protestant politics, was + engaged as the law agent of his property; and for the same reason—that + is, because he was a violent, he was considered a very able man. + </p> + <p> + There is a class of men in the world who, when they once engage in a + pursuit or an act of any importance, will persist in working it out, + rather than be supposed, by relinquishing it, when they discover + themselves wrong, to cast an imputation on their own judgments. To such a + class belonged Mr. Folliard, who never, in point of fact, acted upon any + fixed or distinct principle whatsoever; yet if he once took a matter into + his head, under the influence of caprice or impulse, no man could evince + more obstinacy or perseverance, apart from all its justice or moral + associations, so long, at least, as that caprice or impulse lasted. The + reader may have perceived from his dialogue with Helen, on the morning + appointed for her marriage with Whitecraft, that the worthy baronet, had + he made appearance, stood a strong chance of being sent about his business + as rank a bachelor as he had come. And yet, because he was cunning enough + to make the hot-brained and credulous old man believe that Reilly was at + the bottom of the plan for his destruction, and Hastings only the passive + agent in his hands; we say, because he succeeded in making this + impression, which he knew to be deliberately false, upon his plastic + nature, he, Folliard, worked himself up into a vindictive bitterness + peculiar to little minds, as well as a fixed determination that Reilly + should die; not by any means so much because he took away his daughter as + that his death might be marked in this conflict of parties as a set-off + against that of Whitecraft. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime he and Helen entertained each a different apprehension; he + dreaded that she might exercise her influence over him for the purpose of + softening him against Reilly, whom, if he had suffered himself to analyze + his own heart, he would have found there in the shape of something very + like a favorite. Helen, on the contrary, knew that she was expected to + attend the trial, in order to give evidence against her lover; and she + lived for a few days after his committal under the constant dread that her + father would persecute her with endless arguments to induce her attendance + at the assizes. Such, besides, was her love of truth and candor, and her + hatred of dissimulation in every shape, that, if either her father or the + attorney had asked her, in explicit terms, what the tendency of her + evidence was to be, she would at once have satisfied them that it should + be in favor of her lover. In the meantime she felt that, as they did not + press her on this point, it would have been madness to volunteer a + disclosure of a matter so important to the vindication of Reilly's + conduct. To this we may add her intimate knowledge of her father's + whimsical character and unsteadiness of purpose. She was not ignorant + that, even if he were absolutely aware that the tenor of her evidence was + to go against Reilly, his mind might change so decidedly as to call upon + her to give evidence in his defence. Under these circumstances she acted + with singular prudence, in never alluding to a topic of such difficulty, + and which involved a contingency that might affect her lover in a double + sense. + </p> + <p> + Her father's conduct, however, on this occasion, saved them both a vast + deal of trouble and annoyance, and the consequence was that they met as + seldom as possible. In addition to this, we may state that Doldrum + communicated the successful result of his interview with Miss Folliard—her + willingness to attend the trial and see justice done, upon condition that + she should not have the subject obtruded on her, either by her father or + any one else, until the appointed day should arrive, when she would + punctually attend. In this state were the relative positions and feelings + of father and daughter about a month before the opening of the assizes. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime the squire set himself to work for the baronet. The ablest + lawyers were obtained, but Whitecraft most positively objected to + Folliard's proposal of engaging Doldrum as his attorney; he knew the + stupidity and ignorance of the man, and would have nothing to do with him + as the conductor of his case. His own attorney, Mr. Sharply, was engaged; + and indeed his selection of a keen and able man such as he was did credit + both to his sagacity and foresight. + </p> + <p> + Considering the state of the country at that particular period, the matter + began to assume a most important aspect, A portion of the Protestant + party, by which we mean those who had sanctioned all Whitecraft's brutal + and murderous excesses, called every energy and exertion into work, in + order to defeat the Government and protect the leading man of their own + clique. On the other hand, there was the Government, firm and decided, by + the just operation of the laws, to make an example of the man who had not + only availed himself of those laws when they were with him, but who + scrupled not to set them aside when they were against him, and to force + his bloodthirsty instincts upon his own responsibility. The Government, + however, were not without large and active support from those liberal + Protestants, who had been disgusted and sickened by the irresponsible + outrages of such persecutors as Whitecraft and Smellpriest. Upon those men + the new Government relied, and relied with safety. The country was in a + tumult, the bigoted party threatened an insurrection; and they did so, not + because they felt themselves in a position to effect it, but in order to + alarm and intimidate the Government. On the other hand, the Catholics, who + had given decided proofs of their loyalty by refusing to join the + Pretender, now expressed their determination to support the Government if + an outbreak among that section of the Protestant party to which we have + just alluded should take place. + </p> + <p> + But perhaps the real cause of the conduct of the Government might be + traced to Whitecraft's outrage upon a French subject in the person of the + Abbe ———. The matter, as we have stated, was seriously + taken up by the French Ambassador, in the name, and by the most positive + instructions, of his Court. The villain Whitecraft, in consequence of that + wanton and unjustifiable act, went far to involve the two nations in a + bitter and bloody war. England was every day under the apprehension of a + French invasion, which, of course, she dreaded; something must be done to + satisfy the French Court. Perhaps, had it not been for this, the general + outrages committed upon the unfortunate Catholics of Ireland would never + have become the subject of a detailed investigation. An investigation, + however, took place, by which a system of the most incredible persecution + was discovered, and a milder administration of the laws was found + judicious, in order to conciliate the Catholic party, and prevent them + from embracing the cause of the Pretender. At all events, what between the + necessity of satisfying the claims of the French Government, and in + apprehension of a Catholic defection, the great and principal criminal was + selected for punishment. The Irish Government, however, who were already + prepared with their charges, found themselves already anticipated by Mr. + Hastings, a fact which enabled them to lie on their oars and await the + result. + </p> + <p> + Such was the state and condition of affairs as the assizes were within ten + days of opening. + </p> + <p> + One evening about this time the old squire, who never remained long in the + same mode of feeling, sent for his daughter to the dining-room, where he + was engaged at his Burgundy. The poor girl feared that he was about to + introduce the painful subject which she dreaded so much—that is to + say, the necessity of giving her evidence against Reilly, After some + conversation, however, she was relieved, for he did not allude to it; but + he did to the fate of Reilly himself, the very subject which was wringing + her heart with agony. + </p> + <p> + “Helen,” said he, “I have been thinking of Reilly's affair, and it strikes + me that he may be saved, and become your husband still; because, you know, + that if Whitecraft was acquitted, now that he has been publicly disgraced, + I'd see the devil picking his bones—and very hard picking he'd find + them—before I'd give you to him as a wife.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, my dear papa; but let me ask why it is that you are so active + in stirring up his party to defend such a man?” + </p> + <p> + “Foolish girl,” he replied; “it is not the man, but the cause and + principle, we defend.” + </p> + <p> + “What, papa, the cause! bloodshed and persecution! I believe you to be + possessed of a humane heart, papa; but, notwithstanding his character and + his crimes, I do not wish the unfortunate man to be struck into the grave + without repentance.” + </p> + <p> + “Repentance, Helen! How the deuce could a man feel repentance who does not + believe the Christian religion?” + </p> + <p> + “But then, sir, has he not the reputation of being a sound and leading + Protestant?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, hang his reputation; it is not of him I wish to speak to you, but + Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + Helen's heart beat rapidly and thickly, but she spoke not. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said he, “I have a project in my head that I think may save + Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “Pray, what is it, may I ask, papa?” + </p> + <p> + “No, you may not; but to-morrow I will give him an early call, and let you + know how I succeed, after my return to dinner; yes, I will tell you after + dinner. But listen, Helen, it is the opinion of the baronet's friends that + they will be able to save him.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope they may, sir; I should not wish to see any fellow-creature + brought to an ignominious death in the midst of his offences, and in the + prime of life.” + </p> + <p> + “But, on the contrary, if he swings, we are bound to sacrifice one of the + Papist party for him, and Reilly is the man. Now don't look so pale, Helen—don't + look as if death was settled in your face; his fate may be avoided; but + ask me nothing—the project's my own, and I will communicate it to no + one until after I shall have ascertained whether I fail in it or not.” + </p> + <p> + “I trust, sir, it will be nothing that will involve him in anything + dishonorable; but why do I ask? He is incapable of that.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, leave the matter in my hand; and now, upon the strength of my + project, I'll take another bumper of Burgundy, and drink to its success.” + </p> + <p> + Helen pleaded some cause for withdrawing, as she entertained an + apprehension that he might introduce the topic which she most dreaded—that + of her duty to give evidence against Reilly. When she was gone he began to + ponder over several subjects connected with the principal characters of + this narrative until he became drowsy, during which period halters, + gibbets, gallowses, hangmen, and judges jumbled each other alternately + through his fancy, until he fell fast asleep in his easy-chair. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIII.—The Squire becomes Theological and a Proselytizer, + but signally fails. + </h2> + <p> + The next morning he and Cummiskey started for Sligo, and, as usual, when + they reached the jail the turnkey was about to conduct the squire to Sir + Robert's room, when the former turned and said: + </p> + <p> + “I wish to see Mr. Reilly; lead me to his cell.” + </p> + <p> + “Reilly, sir!” exclaimed the man in astonishment. “Are you sure, sir, it's + not Sir Robert Whitecraft you want?” + </p> + <p> + “Are you sure, sir, that it's not a cut of my whip about the ears you + want? Conduct me to where Reilly is, you rascal; do you pretend to know + the individual I wish to see better than I do myself? Push along, sirra.” + </p> + <p> + The turnkey accordingly conducted him to Reilly's cell, which, + considerably to his surprise, was a much more comfortable one than had + been assigned to the baronet. When they had reached the corridor in which + it was situated, Folliard said, “Knock at the door, and when he appears + tell him that I wish to see him.” + </p> + <p> + “I will, your honor.” + </p> + <p> + “Say I won't detain him long.” + </p> + <p> + “I will, your honor.” + </p> + <p> + “Hang your honor, go and do what I desire you.” + </p> + <p> + “I will, your honor.” + </p> + <p> + Reilly's astonishment was beyond belief on learning that his vindictive + prosecutor had called upon him; but on more mature reflection, and + comparing what had happened before with the only motive which he could + assign for such a visit, he felt pretty certain that the squire came to + revive, in his own person, a subject which he had before proposed to him + through his daughter. There was no other earthly object to which he could + attribute his visit; but of course he made up his mind to receive him with + every courtesy. At length Folliard entered, and, before Reilly had time to + utter a syllable, commenced: + </p> + <p> + “Reilly,” said he, “you are astonished to see me here?” + </p> + <p> + “I am, sir,” replied Reilly, “very much.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I thought you would; and very few persons, except myself, would come + upon such an errand to the man that has disgraced my daughter, myself, and + my family; you have stained our name, sir—a name that was never + associated with any thing but honor and purity until you came among us.” + </p> + <p> + “If you have paid me this visit, sir, only for the purpose of uttering + language which you know must be very painful to me, I would rather you had + declined to call upon me at all. I perceive no object you can have in it, + unless to gratify a feeling of enmity on your part, and excite one of + sorrow on mine. I say sorrow, because, on considering our relative + positions, and knowing the impetuosity of your temper, I am sorry to see + you here; it is scarcely generous in you to come, for the purpose of + indulging in a poor, and what, after all, may be an equivocal and + premature triumph over a man whose love for your daughter, you must know, + will seal his lips against the expression of one offensive word towards + you.” + </p> + <p> + “But how, let me ask, sir, do you know what brought me here? I didn't come + to scold you, nor to triumph over you; and I have already said the worst I + shall say. I know very well that you and Whitecraft will be hanged, + probably from the same rope too, but, in the meantime, I would save you + both if I could. I fear indeed that to save him is out of the question, + because it appears that there's a cart-load of indictments against him.” + </p> + <p> + “How could you doubt it, sir, when you know the incredible extent of his + villany, both private and public? and yet this is the man to whom you + would have married your daughter!” + </p> + <p> + “No; when I found Helen reduced to such a state the morning on which they + were to be married, I told her at once that as she felt so bitterly + against him I would never suffer him to become her husband. Neither will + I; if he were acquitted tomorrow I would tell him so; but you, Reilly, + love my daughter for her own sake.” + </p> + <p> + “For her own sake, sir, as you have said, I love her. If she had millions, + it could not increase my affection, and if she had not a penny, it would + not diminish it.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but you can have her if you wish, notwithstanding.” + </p> + <p> + Reilly first looked at him with amazement; but he was so thoroughly + acquainted with his character, both from what he had seen and heard of it, + that his amazement passed away, and he simply replied: + </p> + <p> + “Pray how, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, I'll tell you what, Reilly; except with respect to political + principles, I don't think, after all, that there's the difference of a a + rush between the Papist and the Protestant Churches, as mere religions. My + own opinion is, that there's neither of them any great shakes, as to any + effect they have on society, unless to disturb it. I have known as good + Papists as ever I did Protestants, and indeed I don't know why a Papist + should not be as good a man as a Protestant; nor why a Protestant should + not be as good a man as a Papist, on the other hand. Now, do you see what + I'm driving at?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I can't exactly say that I do,” replied Reilly. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0012" id="linkimage-0012"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img src="images/page157.jpg" + alt="Page 157-- There is Not a Toss-up Between Them " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + “Then the upshot of the argument is this, that there is not a toss-up + between them, and any man getting into a scrape, and who could get out of + it by changing from one to the other—of course I mean from Popery to + Protestantism—would prove himself a man of good sound sense, and + above the prejudices of the world.” + </p> + <p> + The truth is, Reilly saw ere this what Folliard was approaching, and, as + he determined to allow him full scope, his reply was brief: + </p> + <p> + “You seem fond of indulging in speculation, sir,” replied Reilly, with a + smile; “but I should be glad to know why you introduce this subject to + me?” + </p> + <p> + “To you?” replied Folliard; “why, who the devil else should or could I + introduce it to with such propriety? Here now are two religions; one's not + sixpence better nor worse than the other. Now, you belong to one of them, + and because you do you're here snug and fast. I say, then, I have a + proposal to make to you: you are yourself in a difficulty—you have + placed me in a difficulty—and you have placed poor Helen in a + difficulty—which, if any thing happens you, I think will break her + heart, poor child. Now you can take her, yourself, and me, out of all our + difficulties, if you have only sense enough to shove over from the old P—— + to the young P——. As a Protestant, you can marry Helen, Reilly—but + as a Papist, never! and you know the rest; for if you are obstinate, and + blind to your own interests, I must do my duty.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you allow me to ask, sir, whether Miss Folliard is aware of this + mission of yours to me?” + </p> + <p> + “She aware! She never dreamt of it; but I have promised to tell her the + result after dinner to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir,” replied Reilly, “will you allow me to state to you a few + facts?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly; go on.” + </p> + <p> + “In the first place, then, such is your daughter's high and exquisite + sense of integrity and honor that, if I consented to the terms you + propose, she would reject me with indignation and scorn, as she ought to + do. There, then, is your project for accomplishing my selfish and + dishonest apostacy given to the winds. Your daughter, sir, is too pure in + all her moral feelings, and too noble-minded, to take to her arms a + renegade husband—a renegade, too, not from conviction, but from + selfish and mercenary purposes.” + </p> + <p> + “Confound the thing, this is but splitting hairs, Reilly, and talking big + for effect. Speak, however, for yourself; as for Helen, I know very well + that, in spite of your heroics and her's, she'd be devilish glad you'd + become a Protestant and marry her.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry to say, sir, that you don't know your own daughter; but as for + me, Mr. Folliard, if one word of your's, or of her's, could place me on + the British throne, I would not abandon my religion. Under no + circumstances would I abandon it; but least of all, now that it is so + barbarously persecuted by its enemies. This, sir, is my final + determination.” + </p> + <p> + “But do you know the alternative?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, nor do you.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't I, faith? Why, the alternative is simply this—either marriage + or hanging!” + </p> + <p> + “Be it so; in that case I will die like a man of honor and a true + Christian and Catholic, as I hope I am.” + </p> + <p> + “As a true fool, Reilly—as a true fool. I took this step privately, + out of respect for your character. See how many of your creed become + Protestants for the sake of mere property; think how many of them join our + Church for the purpose of ousting their own fathers and relatives from + their estates; and what is it all, on their parts, but the consequence of + an enlightened judgment that shows them the errors of their old creed, and + the truth of ours? I think, Reilly, you are loose about the brains.” + </p> + <p> + “That may be, sir, but you will never find me loose about my principles.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you aware, sir, that Helen is to appear against you as an evidence?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, I am not, neither do I believe it. But now, sir, I beg you to + terminate this useless and unpleasant interview. I can look into my own + conscience with satisfaction, and am prepared for the worst. If the + scaffold is to be my fate, I cannot but remember that many a noble spirit + has closed the cares of an unhappy life upon it. I wish you good-day, Mr. + Folliard.” + </p> + <p> + “By the Boyne! you are the most obstinate blockhead that ever lived; but + I've done; I did all in my power to save you—yet to no purpose. Upon + my soul, I'll come to your execution.” + </p> + <p> + “And if you do, you will see me die like a man and a gentleman; may I + humbly add, like a Christian!” + </p> + <p> + The squire, on his way home, kept up a long, low whistle, broken only by + occasional soliloquies, in which Reilly's want of common-sense, and + neglect not only of his temporal interests, but of his life itself, were + the prevailing sentiments. He regretted his want of success, which he + imputed altogether to Reilly's obstinacy, instead of his integrity, + firmness, and honor. + </p> + <p> + This train of reflection threw him into one of those capricious fits of + resentment so peculiar to his unsteady temper, and as he went along he + kept lashing himself up into a red heat of indignation and vengeance + against that unfortunate gentleman. After dinner that day he felt somewhat + puzzled as to whether he ought to communicate to his daughter the result + of his interview with Reilly or not. Upon consideration, however, he + deemed it more prudent to avoid the subject altogether, for he felt + apprehensive that, however she might approve of her lover's conduct, the + knowledge of his fate, which depended on it, would only plunge her into + deeper distress. The evening consequently passed without any allusion to + the subject, unless a peculiar tendency to melody, on his part, might be + taken to mean something; to this we might add short abrupt ejaculations + unconsciously uttered—such as—“Whew, whew, whew—o—whew—o—hang + the fellow! Whew, whew—o—whew—he's a cursed goose, but + an obstinate—whew, whew—o—whew—o. Ay, but no + matter—well—whew, whew—o, whew, whew! Helen, a cup of + tea. Now, Helen, do you know a discovery I have made—but how could + you? No, you don't, of course; but listen and pay attention to me, because + it deeply affects myself.” + </p> + <p> + The poor girl, apprehensive that he was about to divulge some painful + secret, became pale and a good deal agitated; she gave him a long, + inquiring look, but said nothing. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Helen, and the discovery is this: I find from experience that tea + and Burgundy—or, indeed, tea and any kind of wine—don't agree + with my constitution: curse the fel—whew, whew, whew, whew—o—whew; + no, the confounded mixture turns my stomach into nothing more nor less + than a bag of aquafortis—if he had but common—whew—” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but, papa, why do you take tea, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I'm an old fool, Helen; and if I am, there are some young ones + besides; but it can't be helped now—whew, whew—it was done for + the best.” + </p> + <p> + In this manner he went on for a considerable time, ejaculating mysteries + and enigmas, until he finished the second bottle, after which he went to + bed. + </p> + <p> + It may be necessary to state here that, notwithstanding the incredible + force and tenderness of his affection for his daughter, he had, ever since + her elopement with Reilly, kept her under the strictest surveillance, and + in the greatest seclusion—that is to say, as the proverb has it, “he + locked the stable door when the steed was stolen;” or if he did not + realize the aphorism, he came very near it. + </p> + <p> + Time, however, passes, and the assizes were at hand, a fearful Avatar of + judicial power to the guilty. The struggle between the parties who were + interested in the fate of Whitecraft, and those who felt the extent of his + unparalleled guilt, and the necessity not merely of making him an example + but of punishing him for his enormous crimes, was dreadful. The + infatuation of political rancor on one side, an infatuation which could + perceive nothing but the virtue of high and resolute Protestantism in his + conduct, blinded his supporters to the enormity of his conduct, and, as a + matter of course, they left no stone unturned to save his life. As we + said, however, they were outnumbered; but still they did not despair. + Reilly's friends had been early in the legal market, and succeeded in + retaining some of the ablest men at the bar, his leading counsel being the + celebrated advocate Fox, who was at that time one of the most + distinguished men at the Irish bar. Helen, as the assizes approached, + broke down so completely in her health that it was felt, if she remained + in that state, that she would be unable to attend; and although Reilly's + trial was first on the list, his opposing counsel succeeded in getting it + postponed for a day or two in order that an important witness, then ill, + he said, might be able to appear on their part. + </p> + <p> + It is not our intention to go through the details of the trial of the Red + Rapparee. The evidence of Mary Mahon, Fergus O'Reilly, and the sheriff, + was complete; the chain was unbroken; the change of apparel—the + dialogue in Mary Mahon's cabin, in which he; avowed the fact of his having + robbed the sheriff—the identification of his person by the said + sheriff in the farmer's house, as before stated, left nothing for the jury + to do I but to bring in a verdict of guilty. Mercy was out of the + question. The hardened ruffian—the treacherous ruffian—who had + lent himself to the bloodthirsty schemes of Whitecraft—and all this + came out upon his trial, not certainly to the advantage of the baronet—this + hardened and treacherous ruffian, we say, who had been a scourge to that + part of the country for years, now felt, when the verdict of guilty was + brought in against him, just as a smith's anvil might feel when struck by + a feather. On hearing it, he growled a hideous laugh, and exclaimed: + </p> + <p> + “To the divil I pitch you all; I wish, though, that I had Tom Bradley, the + prophecy man, here, who tould me that I'd never be hanged, and that the + rope was never born for me.” + </p> + <p> + “If the rope was not born for you,” observed the judge, “I fear I shall be + obliged to inform you that you were born for the rope. Your life has been + an outrage,upon civilized society.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, you ould dog!” said the Rapparee, “you can't hang me; haven't I a + pardon? didn't Sir Robert Whitecraft get me a pardon from the Government + for turnin' against the Catholics, and tellin' him where to find the + priests? Why, you joulter-headed ould dog, you can't hang me, or, if you + do, I'll leave them behind me that will put such a half ounce pill into + your guts as will make you turn up the whites of your eyes like a duck in + thundher. You'll hang me for robbery, you ould sinner! But what is one + half the world doin' but robbin' the other half? and what is the other + half doin' but robbin' them? As for Sir Robert Whitecraft, if he desaved + me by lies and falsehoods, as I'm afraid he did, all I say is, that if I + had him here for one minute I'd show him a trick he'd never tell to + mortal. Now go on, bigwig.” + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding the solemnity of the position in which this obdurate + ruffian was placed, the judge found it nearly impossible to silence the + laughter of the audience and preserve order in the court. At length he + succeeded, and continued his brief address to the Rapparee: + </p> + <p> + “Hardened and impenitent reprobate, in the course of my judicial duties, + onerous and often painful as they are and have been, I must say that, + although it has fallen to my lot to pronounce the awful sentence of death + upon many an unfeeling felon, I am bound to say that a public malefactor + so utterly devoid of all the feelings which belong to man, and so strongly + impregnated with those of the savage animal as you are, has never stood in + a dock before me, nor probably before any other judge, living or dead. + Would it be a waste of language to enforce upon you the necessity of + repentance? I fear it would; but it matters not; the guilt of impenitence + be on your own head, still I must do my duty; try, then, and think of + death, and a far more awful judgment than mine. Think of the necessity you + have for; supplicating mercy at the throne of your Redeemer, who himself + died for you, and for all of us, between two thieves.” + </p> + <p> + “That has nothing to do with my case; I never was a thief; I robbed like + an honest man on the king's highways; but as for thievin', why, you ould + sinner, I never stole a farthing's worth in my life. Don't, then, pitch + such beggarly comparisons into my teeth. I never did what you and your + class often did; I never robbed the poor in the name of the blessed laws + of the land; I never oppressed the widow or the orphan; and for all that I + took from those that did oppress them, the divil a grain of sorrow or + repentance I feel for it, nor ever will feel for it. Oh! mother of Moses! + if I had a glass of whiskey!” + </p> + <p> + The judge was obliged to enforce silence a second time; for, to-tell the + truth, there was something so ludicrously impenitent in the conduct of + this hardened convict that the audience could not resist it, especially + when it is remembered that the sympathies of the lower Irish are always + with such culprits. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” continued the judge, when silence was again restored, “your + unparalleled obduracy has gained one point; it was my intention to have + ordered you for execution tomorrow at the hour of twelve o'clock; but, as + a Christian man, I could not think for a moment of hurrying you into + eternity in your present state. The sentence of the court then is that you + be taken from the dock in which you now stand to the prison from whence + you came, and that from thence you be brought to the place of execution on + next Saturday, and there be hanged by the neck until you be dead, and may + God have mercy on your soul!” + </p> + <p> + The Rapparee gazed at him with a look of the most hardened effrontery, and + exclaimed, “Is it in earnest you are?” after which he was once mor|e + committed to his cell, loaded with heavy chains, which he wore, by the I + way, during his trial. + </p> + <p> + Now, in order to account for his outrageous conduct, we must make a + disclosure to the reader. There is in and about all jails a certain + officer yclept a hangman—an officer who is permitted a freer ingress + and egress than almost any other person connected with those gloomy + establishments. This hangman, who resided in the prison, had a brother + whom Sir Robert Whitecraft had hanged, and, it was thought, innocently. Be + this as it may, the man in question was heard to utter strong threats of + vengeance against Sir Robert for having his brother, whose innocence he + asserted, brought to execution. In some time after this a pistol was fired + one night at Sir Robert from behind a hedge, which missed him; but as his + myrmidons were with him, and the night was light, a pursuit took place, + and the guilty wretch was taken prisoner, with the pistol on his person, + still warm after having been discharged. The consequence was that he was + condemned to death. But it so happened that at this period, although there + were five or six executions to take place, yet there was no hangman to be + had, that officer having died suddenly, after a fit of liquor, and the + sheriff would have been obliged to discharge the office with his own hands + unless a finisher of the law could be found. In brief, he was found, and + in the person of the individual alluded to, who, in consequence of his + consenting to accept the office, got a pardon from the Crown. Now this man + and the Rapparee had been old acquaintances, and renewed their friendship + in prison. Through the means of the hangman O'Donnel got in as much + whiskey as he pleased, and we need scarcely say that they often got + intoxicated together. The secret, therefore, which we had to disclose to + the reader, in explanation of the Rapparee's conduct at his trial, was + simply this, that the man was three-quarters drunk. + </p> + <p> + After trial he was placed in a darker dungeon than before; but such was + the influence of the worthy executioner with every officer of the jail, + that he was permitted to go either in or out without search, and as he + often gave a “slug,” as he called it, to the turnkeys, they consequently + allowed him, in this respect, whatever privileges he wished. Even the + Rapparee's dungeon was not impenetrable to him, especially as he put the + matter on a religious footing, to wit, that as the unfortunate robber was + not allowed the spiritual aid of his own clergy, he himself was the only + person left to prepare him for death, which he did with the + whiskey-bottle. + </p> + <p> + The assizes on that occasion were protracted to an unusual length. The + country was in a most excited state, and party feeling ran fearfully high. + Nothing was talked of but the two trials, par excellence, to wit, that of + Whitecraft and Reilly; and scarcely a fair or market, for a considerable + time previous, ever came round in which there waa not a battle on the + subject of either one or the other of them, and not unfrequently of both. + Nobody was surprised at the conviction of the Red Rapparee; but, on the + contrary, every one was glad that the country had at last got rid of him. + </p> + <p> + Poor Helen, however, was not permitted to remain quiet, as she had + expected. When Mr. Doldrum had furnished the leading counsel with his + brief and a list of the witnesses, the other gentleman was surprised to + see the name of Helen Folliard among them. + </p> + <p> + “How is this?” he inquired; “is not this the celebrated beauty who eloped + with him?” + </p> + <p> + “It is, sir,” replied Doldrum. + </p> + <p> + “But,” proceeded the other, “you have not instructed me in the nature of + the evidence she is prepared to give.” + </p> + <p> + “She is deeply penitent, sir, and in a very feeble state of health; so + much so that we were obliged to leave the tendency of her evidence to be + brought out on the trial.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you subpoenaed her?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “And why not, Mr. Doldrum? Don't you know that there is no understanding + the caprices of women. You ought to have subpoenaed her, because, if she + be a leading evidence, she may still change her mind and leave us in the + lurch.” + </p> + <p> + “I certainly did not subpoena her,” replied Doldrum, “because, when I + mentioned it to her father, he told me that if I attempted it he would + break my head. It was enough, he said, that she had given her promise—a + thing, he added, which she was never known to break.” + </p> + <p> + “Go to her again, Doldrum; for unless we know what she can prove we will + be only working in the dark. Try her, at all events, and glean what you + can out of her. Her father tells me she is somewhat better, so I don't + apprehend you will have much difficulty in seeing her.” + </p> + <p> + Doldrum did see her, and was astonished at the striking change which had, + in so short a time, taken place in her appearance. She was pale, and + exhibited all the symptoms of an invalid, with the exception of her eyes, + which were not merely brilliant, but dazzling, and full of a fire that + flashed from them with something like triumph whenever her attention was + directed to the purport of her testimony. On this subject they saw that + it; would be quite useless, and probably worse than useless, to press her, + and they did not, consequently, put her to the necessity of specifying the + purport of her evidence. + </p> + <p> + “I have already stated,” said she, “that I shall attend the trial; that + ought, and must be, sufficient for you. I beg, then, you will withdraw, + sir. My improved health will enable me to attend, and you may rest assured + that if I have life I shall be there, as I have already told you; but, I + say, that if you wish to press me for the nature of my evidence, you shall + have it, and, as she spoke, her eyes flashed fearfully, as they were in + the habit of doing whenever she felt deeply excited. Folliard himself + became apprehensive of the danger which might result from the discussion + of any subject calculated to disturb her, and insisted that she should be + allowed to take her own way. In the meantime, after they had left her, at + her own request, her father informed the attorney that she was getting + both strong and cheerful, in spite of her looks. + </p> + <p> + “To be sure,” said he, “she is pale! but that's only natural, after her + recent slight attack, and all the excitement and agitation she has for + some time past undergone. She sings and plays now, although I have heard + neither a song nor a tune from her for a long time past. In the evening, + too, she is exceedingly cheerful when we sit together in the drawing-room; + and she often laughs more heartily than I ever knew her to do before in my + life. Now, do you think, Doldrum, if she was breaking her heart about + Reilly that she would be in such spirits?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; she would be melancholy and silent, and would neither sing, nor + laugh, nor play; at least I felt, so when I was in love with Miss + Swithers, who kept me in a state of equilibrium for better than two years;—but + that wasn't the worst of it, for she knocked the loyalty clean out of me + besides—indeed, so decidedly so that I never once sang + 'Lillibullero' during the whole period of my attachment, and be hanged to + her.” + </p> + <p> + “And what became of her?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, she married my clerk, who used to serve my love-letters upon her; + and when I expected to come in by execution—that is, by marriage—that + cursed little sheriff, Cupid, made a return of <i>nulla bona</i>. She and + Sam Snivel—a kind of half Puritan—entered a <i>dis</i>appearance, + and I never saw them since; but I am told they are in America. From what + you tell me, sir, I have no doubt but Miss Folliard will make a capital + witness. In fact, Reilly ought to feel proud of the honor of being hanged + by her evidence; she will be a host in herself.” + </p> + <p> + We have already stated that the leading counsel against Reilly had + succeeded in getting his trial postponed until Miss Folliard should arrive + at a sufficient state of health to appear against him. In the meantime, + the baronet's trial, which was in a political, indeed, we might say, a + national point of view, of far more importance than Reilly's, was to come + on next day. In the general extent of notoriety or fame, Reilly had got in + advance—though not much—of his implacable rival. The two + trials were, in fact, so closely united by the relative position of the + parties that public opinion was strangely and strongly divided between + them. Reilly and his <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> had, by the unhappy peculiarity + of their fate, excited the interest of all the youthful and loving part of + society—an interest which was necessarily reflected upon Whitecraft, + as Reilly's rival, independently of the hold which his forthcoming fate + had upon grave and serious politicians. Reilly's leading counsel, Fox, a + man of great judgment and ability, gave it as his opinion that in + consequence of the exacerbated state of feeling produced against the + Catholics by the prosecution of Whitecraft—to appease whom, the + opinion went that it was instituted—it seemed unlikely that Reilly + had a single chance. Had his trial, he said, taken place previous to that + of Whitecraft's, he might have escaped many of the consequences of + Whitecraft's conviction; but now, should the latter be convicted, the + opposing party would die in the jury-box rather than let Reilly escape. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIV.—Jury of the Olden Time + </h2> + <h3> + —Preparations—The Scales of Justice. + </h3> + <p> + At last the trial came on, and Sir Robert Whitecraft, the great champion + of Protestantism—a creed which he did not believe—was + conducted into the court-house and placed in the dock. He was dressed in + his best apparel, in order to distinguish himself from common culprits, + and to give this poor external evidence of his rank, with a hope that it + might tell, to a certain extent at least, upon the feeling of the jury. + When placed in the dock, a general buzz and bustle agitated the whole + court His friends became alert, and whispered to each other with much + earnestness, and a vast number of them bowed to him, and shook hands with + him, and advised him to be cool, and keep up his spirits. His appearance, + however, was any thing but firm; his face was deadly pale, his eyes dull + and cowardly, his knees trembled so much that he was obliged to support + himself on the front of the dock. + </p> + <p> + At length the trial commenced, and the case having been opened by a young + lawyer, a tall, intellectual-looking man, about the middle age, of pale + but handsome features, and an eye of singular penetration and brilliancy, + rose; and after pulling up his gown at the shoulders, and otherwise + adjusting it, proceeded to lay a statement of this extraordinary case + before the jury. + </p> + <p> + He dwelt upon “the pain which he felt in contemplating a gentleman of rank + and vast wealth occupying the degraded position of a felon, but not, he + was sorry to say, of a common felon. The circumstances, my lord, and + gentlemen of the jury, which have brought the prisoner before you this + day, involve a long catalogue of crimes that as far transcend, in the + hideousness of their guilt, the offences of a common felon as his rank and + position in life do that of the humblest villain who ever stood before a + court of justice. + </p> + <p> + “The position, gentlemen, of this country has for a long series of years + been peculiar, anomalous, and unhappy. Divided as it is, and has been, by + the bitter conflict between two opposing creeds and parties, it is not to + be wondered at that it should be a melancholy scene of misery, + destitution, famine, and crime; and, unhappily, it presents to us the + frightful aspect of all these. The nature, however, of the conflicts + between those creeds and parties, inasmuch as it bears upon the case of + the prisoner, gentlemen, who now stands for trial and a verdict at your + hands, is such as forces me, on that account, to dwell briefly upon it. In + doing so, I will have much, for the sake of our common humanity, to regret + and to deplore. It is a fundamental principle, gentlemen, in our great and + glorious Constitution, that the paramount end and object of our laws is to + protect the person, the liberty, and the property of the subject. But + there is something, gentlemen, still dearer to us than either liberty, + person, or property; something which claims a protection from those laws + that stamps them with a nobler and a loftier character, when it is + afforded, and weaves them into the hearts and feelings of men of all + creeds, when this divine mission of the law is fulfilled. I allude, + gentlemen, to the inalienable right of every man to worship God freely, + and according to his own conscience—without restraint—without + terror—without oppression, and, gentlemen of the jury, without + persecution. A man, or a whole people, worship God, we will assume, + sincerely, according to their notions of what is right, and, I say, + gentlemen, that the individual who persecutes that man, or those people, + for piously worshipping their Creator, commits blasphemy against the + Almighty—and stains, as it were, the mercy-seat with blood. + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen of the jury, let me ask you what has been the state and + condition of this unhappy and distracted country? I have mentioned two + opposing creeds, and consequently two opposing parties, and I have also + mentioned persecution; but let me also ask you again on which side has the + persecution existed? Look at your Roman Catholic fellow-subjects, and ask + yourselves to what terrible outburst of political and religious vengeance + have they not been subjected? But it is said they are not faithful and + loyal subjects, and that they detest the laws. Well, let us consider this—let + us take a cursory view of all that the spirit and operation of the laws + have left them to be thankful for—have brought to bear upon them for + the purpose, we must suppose, of securing their attachment and their + loyalty. Let us, gentlemen, calmly and solemnly, and in a Christian + temper, take a brief glance at the adventures which the free and glorious + spirit of the British Constitution has held out to them, in order to + secure their allegiance. In the first place, their nobles and their gentry + have been deprived of their property, and the right of tenure has been + denied even to the people. Ah, my lord, and gentlemen of the jury, what + ungrateful and disloyal miscreant could avoid loving a Constitution, and + hugging to his grateful heart laws which showered down such blessings upon + him, and upon all those who belong to a creed so favored? But it would + seem to have been felt that these laws had still a stronger claim upon + their affections. They would protect their religion as they did their + property; and in order to attach them still more strongly, they shut up + their places of worship—they proscribed and banished and hung their + clergy—they hung or shot the unfortunate people who tied to worship + God in the desert—in mountain fastnesses and in caves, and threw + their dead bodies to find a tomb in the entrails of the birds of the air, + or the dogs which even persecution had made mad with hunger. But again—for + this pleasing panorama is not yet closed, the happy Catholics, who must + have danced with delight, under the privileges of such a Constitution, + were deprived of the right to occupy and possess all civil offices—their + enterprise was crushed—their industry made subservient to the + rapacity of their enemies, and not to their own prosperity. But this is + far from being all. The sources of knowledge—of knowledge which only + can enlighten and civilize the mind, prevent crime, and promote the + progress of human society—these sources of knowledge, I say, were + sealed against them; they were consequently left to ignorance, and its + inseparable associate—vice. All those noble principles which result + from education, and which lead youth into those moral footsteps in which + they should tread, were made criminal in the Catholic to pursue, and + impossible to attain; and having thus been reduced by ignorance to the + perpetration of those crimes which it uniformly produces—the people + were punished for that which oppressive laws had generated, and the + ignorance which was forced upon them was turned into a penalty and a + persecution. They were first made ignorant by one Act of Parliament, and + then punished by another for those crimes which ignorance produces. + </p> + <p> + “And now, my lord, and gentlemen of the jury, it remains for me to take + another view of the state and condition of this wretched country. Perhaps + there is not in the world so hideously a penal code of laws as that which + appertains to the civil and religious rights of our unfortunate Roman + Catholic countrymen. It is not that this code is fierce, inhuman, + unchristian, barbarous, and Draconic, and conceived in a spirit of blood—because + it might be all this, and yet, through the liberality and benevolence of + those into whose hands it ought to be entrusted for administration, much + of its dreadful spirit might be mitigated. And I am bound to say that a + large and important class of the Protestant community look upon such a + code nearly with as much horror as the Catholics themselves. + Unfortunately, however, in every state of society and of law analogous to + ours, a certain class of men, say rather of monsters, is sure to spring + up, as it were, from hell, their throats still parched and heated with + that insatiable thirst which the guilty glutton felt before them, and + which they now are determined to slake with blood. For some of these men + the apology of selfishness, an anxiety to raise themselves out of the + struggles of genteel poverty, and a wolfish wish to earn the wages of + oppression, might be pleaded; although, heaven knows, it is at best but a + desperate and cowardly apology. On the other hand, there are men not + merely independent, but wealthy, who, imbued with a fierce and unreasoning + bigotry, and stained by a black and unscrupulous ambition, start up into + the front ranks of persecution, and carry fire and death and murder as + they go along, and all this for the sake of adding to their reprobate + names a title—a title earned by the shedding of innocent blood—a + title earned by the oppression and persecution of their unresisting + fellow-subjects—a title, perhaps that of baronet; if I am mistaken + in this, the individual who stands before you in that dock could, for he + might, set me right. + </p> + <p> + “In fact, who are those who have lent themselves with such delight to the + execution of bad laws? of laws that, for the sake of religion and + Christianity, never ought to have been effected? Are they men of moral and + Christian lives? men whose walk has been edifying in the sight of their + fellows? are they men to whom society could look up as examples of private + virtue and the decorous influence of religion? are they men who, on the + Sabbath of God, repair with their wives and families to his holy worship? + Alas! no. These heroic persecutors, who hunt and punish a set of disarmed + men, are, in point of fact, not only a disgrace to that religion in whose + name they are persecutors, and on whose merciful precepts they trample, + but to all religion, in whatever light true religion is contemplated. + Vicious, ignorant, profligate, licentious, but cunning, cruel, bigoted, + and selfish, they make the spirit of oppressive laws, and the miserable + state of the country, the harvest of their gain. Look more closely at the + picture, gentlemen of the jury, and make, as I am sure you will, the + dismal and terrible circumstances which I will lay before you your own. + Imagine for a moment that those who are now, or at least have been, the + objects of hot and blood-scenting persecution, had, by some political + revolution, got the power of the State and of the laws into their own + hands; suppose, for it is easily supposed, that they had stripped you of + your property, deprived you of your civil rights, disarmed you of the + means of self-defence, persecuted yourselves and proscribed your religion, + or, vice versa, proscribed yourselves and persecuted your religion, or, to + come at once to the truth, proscribed and persecuted both; suppose your + churches shut up, your pious clergy banished, and that, when on the bed of + sickness or of death, some of your family, hearing your cries for the + consolations of religion, ventured out, under the clouds of the night, + pale with sorrow, and trembling with apprehension, to steal for you, at + the risk of life, that comfort which none but a minister of God can + effectually bestow upon the parting spirit; suppose this, and suppose that + your house is instantly surrounded by some cruel but plausible Sir Robert + Whitecraft, or some drunken and ruffianly Captain Smellpriest, who, + surrounded and supported by armed miscreants, not only breaks open that + house, but violates the awful sanctify of the deathbed itself, drags out + the minister of Christ from his work of mercy, and leaves him a bloody + corpse at our threshold. I say, change places, gentlemen of the jury, and + suppose in your own imaginations that all those monstrous persecutions, + all those murderous and flagitious outrages, had been inflicted upon + yourselves, with others of an equally nefarious character; suppose all + this, and you may easily do so, for you have seen it all perpetrated in + the name of God and the law, or, to say the truth, in the hideous union of + mammon and murder; suppose all this, and you will feel what such men as he + who stands in that dock deserves from humanity and natural justice; for, + alas! I cannot say, from the laws of his country, under the protection of + which, and in the name of which, he and those who resemble him have + deluged that country with innocent blood, laid waste the cabin of the + widow and the orphan, and carried death and desolation wherever they went. + But, gentlemen, I shall stop here, as I do not wish to inflict unnecessary + pain upon you, even by this mitigated view of atrocities which have taken + place before your own eyes; yet I cannot close this portion of my address + without, referring to so large a number of our fellow-Protestants with + pride, as I am sure their Roman Catholic friends do with gratitude. Who + were those who, among the Protestant party, threw the shield of their name + and influence over their Catholic neighbors and friends? Who, need I ask? + The pious, the humane, the charitable, the liberal, the benevolent, and + the enlightened. Those were they who, overlooking the mere theological + distinctions of particular doctrines, united in the great and universal + creed of charity, held by them as a common principle on which they might + meet and understand and love each other. And indeed, gentlemen of the + jury, there cannot be a greater proof of the oppressive spirit which + animates this penal and inhuman code than the fact that so many of those, + for whose benefit it was enacted, resisted its influence, on behalf of + their Catholic fellow-subjects, as far as they could, and left nothing + undone to support the laws of humanity against those of injustice and + oppression. When the persecuted Catholic could not invest his capital in + the purchase of property, the generous Protestant came forward, purchased + the property in his own name, became the <i>bona fide</i> proprietor, and + then transferred its use and advantages to his Catholic friend. And again, + under what roof did the hunted Catholic priest first take refuge from + those bloodhounds of persecution? In most cases under that of his + charitable and Christian brother, the Protestant clergyman. Gentlemen, + could there be a bitterer libel upon the penal laws than the notorious + facts which I have the honor of stating to you? + </p> + <p> + “The facts which have placed the prisoner at the bar before you are these, + and in detailing them I feel myself placed in circumstances of great + difficulty, and also of peculiar delicacy. The discharge, however, of a + public duty, which devolves upon me as leading law officer of the Crown, + forces me into a course which I cannot avoid, unless I should shrink from + promoting and accomplishing the ends of public justice. In my position, + and in the discharge of my solemn duties here to-day, I can recognize no + man's rank, no man's wealth, nor the prestige of any man's name. So long + as he stands at that bar, charged with great and heinous crimes, I feel it + my duty to strip him of all the advantages of his birth and rank, and + consider him simply a mere subject of the realm. + </p> + <p> + “In order to show you, gentlemen of the jury, the animux under which the + prisoner at the bar acted, in the case before us, I must go back a little—a + period of some months. At that time a highly respectable gentleman of an + ancient and honored family in this country was one evening on his way home + from this town, attended, as usual, by his servant. At a lonely place on a + remote and antiquated road, which they took as a shorter way, it so + happened that, in consequence of a sudden mist peculiar to those wild + moors, they lost their path, and found themselves in circumstances of + danger and distress. The servant, however, whistled, and his whistle was + answered; a party of men, of freebooters, of robbers, headed by a person + called the Red Rapparee, who has been convicted at these assizes, and who + has been the scourge of the country for years, came up to them, and as the + Rapparee had borne this respectable gentleman a deadly and implacable + enmity for some time past, he was about to murder both master and man, and + actually had his musket levelled at him, as others of his gang had at his + aged servant, when a person, a gentleman named Reilly—[there there + was a loud cheer throughout the court, which, however, was soon repressed, + and the Attorney-General proceeded]—this person started out from an + old ruin, met the robber face to face, and, in short, not only saved the + lives of the gentleman and his servant, but conducted them safely home. + This act of courage and humanity, by a Roman Catholic to a Protestant, had + such an effect upon the old gentleman's daughter, a lady whose name has + gone far and wide for her many virtues and wonderful beauty, that an + attachment was formed between the young gentleman and her. The prisoner at + the bar, gentlemen, was a suitor for her hand; but as the young and + amiable lady was acquainted with his character as a priest-hunter and + persecutor, she, though herself a Protestant, could look upon him only + with abhorrence. At all events, after the rescue of her father's life, and + her acquaintance with Mr. Reilly, the prisoner at the bar was rejected + with disdain, as he would have been, it seems, if Reilly never had + existed. Now, gentlemen I of the jury, observe that Reilly was a Catholic, + which was bad enough in the eyes of the prisoner at the bar; but he was + more; he was a rival, and were it not for the state of the law, would, it + appears, for there is no doubt of it now, have been a successful one. From + henceforth the prisoner at the bar marked Mr. Reilly for vengeance, for + destruction, for death. At this time he was in the full exercise of + irresponsible authority; he could burn, hang, shoot, without being called + to account; and as it will appear before you, gentlemen, this + consciousness of impunity stimulated him to the perpetration of such + outrages as, in civil life, and in a country free from civil war, are + unparalleled in the annals of crime and cruelty. + </p> + <p> + “But, gentlemen, what did this man do? this man, so anxious to preserve + the peace of the country; this man, the terror of the surrounding + districts; what did he do, I ask? Why, he took the most notorious robber + of: his day, the fierce and guilty Rapparee—he took him into his + councils, in order that he might enable him to trace the object of his + vengeance, Reilly, in the first place, and to lead him to the + hiding-places of such unfortunate Catholic priests as had taken refuge in + the caves and fastnesses of the mountains. Instead of punishing this + notorious malefactor, he took him into his own house, made him, as he was + proud to call them, one of his priest-hounds, and induced him to believe + that he had procured him a pardon from Government. Reilly's name he had, + by his foul misrepresentations, got into the <i>Hue-and-Cry</i>, and + subsequently had him gazetted as an outlaw; and all this upon his own + irresponsible authority. I mention nothing, gentlemen, in connection with + this trial which we are not in a capacity to prove. + </p> + <p> + “Having forced Reilly into a variety of disguises, and hunted him like a + mad dog through the country; having searched every: lurking-place in which + he thought he might I find him, he at length resolved on the only course + of vengeance he could pursue. He surrounded his habitation, and, after + searching for Reilly himself, he openly robbed him of all that was + valuable of that gentleman's furniture, then set fire to the house, and in + the clouds of the night reduced that and every out-office he had to ashes—a + capital felony. It so happens, however, that the house and offices were, + in point of fact, not the property of Reilly at all, but of a most + respectable Protestant gentleman and magistrate, Mr. Hastings, with whose + admirable! character I have no doubt you are all acquainted; and all that + remains for me to say is, that he is the prosecutor in this case. + </p> + <p> + “And now, gentlemen, we expect a calm, deliberate, and unbiassed verdict + from you. Look upon the prisoner at the bar as an innocent man until you + can, with a clear conscience, find him guilty of the charges which we are + in a condition to prove against him; but if there be any doubt upon your + minds, I hope you will give him the benefit of it.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Robert Whitecraft, in fact, had no defence, and could procure no + witnesses to counteract the irresistible body of evidence that was + produced against him. Notwithstanding all this, his friends calculated + upon the prejudices of a Protestant jury. His leading counsel made as able + a speech in his defence as could be made under the circumstances. It + consisted, however, of vague generalities, and dwelt upon the state of the + country and the necessity that existed for men of great spirit and + Protestant feeling to come out boldly, and, by courage and energy, carry + the laws that had passed for the suppression of Popery into active and + wholesome operation. “Those laws were passed by the wisest and ablest + assembly of legislators in the world, and to what purpose could + legislative enactments for the preservation of Protestant interests be + passed if men of true faith and loyalty could not be found to carry them + into effect. There were the laws; the prisoner at the bar did not make + those laws, and if he was invested with authority to carry them into + operation, what did he do but discharge a wholesome and important duty? + The country was admitted, on all sides, to be in a disturbed state; Popery + was attempting for years most insidiously to undermine the Protestant + Church, and to sap the foundation of all Protestant interests; and if, by + a pardonable excess of zeal, of zeal in the right direction, and + unconscious lapse in the discharge of what he would call, those noble but + fearful duties had occurred, was it for those who had a sense of true + liberty, and a manly detestation of Romish intrigue at heart, to visit + that upon the head of a true and loyal man as a crime. Forbid it, the + spirit of the British Constitution—forbid it, heaven—forbid + it, Protestantism. No, gentlemen of the jury,” etc., etc. + </p> + <p> + We need not go further, because we have condensed in the few sentences + given the gist of all he said. + </p> + <p> + When the case was closed, the jury retired to their room, and as Sir + Robert Whitecraft's fate depends upon their verdict, we will be kind + enough to avail ourselves of the open sesame of our poor imagination to + introduce our readers invisibly into the jury-room. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” said the foreman, “what's to be done? Are we to sacrifice a + Protestant champion to Popery?” + </p> + <p> + “To Popery! To the deuce,” replied another. “It's not Popery that is + prosecuting him. Put down Popery by argument, by fair argument, but don't + murder those that profess it, in cold blood. As the Attorney* General + said, let us make it our own case, and if the Papishes treated us as we + have treated them, what would we say? By jingo, I'll hang that fellow. + He's a Protestant champion, they say; but I say he's a Protestant + bloodhound, and a cowardly rascal to boot.” + </p> + <p> + “How is he a cowardly rascal, Bob? Hasn't' he proved himself a brave man + against the Papishes? eh?” + </p> + <p> + “A brave man! deuce thank him for being a brave man against poor devils + that are allowed nothing stouter than a horse-rod to defend themselves + with—when he has a party of well-armed bloodhounds at his back. He's + the worst landlord in Ireland, and, above all things, he's a tyrant to his + Protestant tenants, this champion of Protestantism. Ay, and fierce as he + is against Popery, there's not a Papish tenant on his estate that he's not + like a father to.” + </p> + <p> + “And how the deuce do you know that?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I was head bailiff to him for ten years.” + </p> + <p> + “But doesn't all the world know that he hates the Papists, and would have + them massacred if he could?” + </p> + <p> + “And so he does—and so he would; but it's all his cowardice, because + he's afraid that if he was harsh to his Popish tenants some of them might + shoot him from behind a hedge some fine night, and give him a leaden + bullet for his supper.” + </p> + <p> + “I know he's a coward,” observed another, “because he allowed himself to + be horsewhipped by Major Bingham, and didn't call him out for it.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, as to that,” said another, “it was made up by their friends; but + what's to be done? All the evidence is against him, and we are on our + oaths to find a verdict according to the evidence.” + </p> + <p> + “Evidence be hanged,” said another; “I'll sit here till doom's-day before + I find him guilty. Are we, that are all loyal Protestants, to bring out a + varjuice to please the Papishes? Oh, no, faith; but here's the thing, + gentlemen; mark me; here now, I take off my shoes, and I'll ait them + before I find him guilty;” and as he spoke he deliberately slipped of his + shoes, and placed them on the table, ready for his tough and loyal repast. + </p> + <p> + “By Gog,” said another, “I'll hang him, in spite of your <i>teeth</i>; + and, afther aiten your brogues, you may go barefooted if you like. I have + brogues to ait as well as you, and one of mine is as big as two of yours.” + </p> + <p> + This was followed by a chorus of laughter, after which they began to + consider the case before them, like admirable and well-reasoning jurors, + as they were. Two hours passed in wrangling and talking and recriminating, + when, at last, one of them, striking the table, exclaimed with an oath: + </p> + <p> + “All Europe won't save the villain. Didn't he seduce my sister's daughter, + and then throw her and her child back, with shame and disgrace, on the + family, without support?” + </p> + <p> + “Look at that,” said the owner of the shoe, holding it up triumphantly; + “that's my supper to-night, and my argument in his defence. I say our—Protestant + champion mustn't hang, at least until I starve first.” + </p> + <p> + The other, who sat opposite to him, put his hand across the table, and + snatching the shoe, struck its owner between the two eyes with it and + knocked him back on the floor. A scene of uproar took place, which lasted + for some minutes, but at length, by the influence of the foreman, matters + were brought to a somewhat amicable issue. In this way they spent the time + for a few hours more, when one of the usual messengers came to know if + they had agreed; but he was instantly dismissed to a very warm settlement, + with the assurance that they had not. + </p> + <p> + “Come,” said one of them, pulling out a pack of cards, “let us amuse + ourselves at any rate. Who's for a hand at the Spoil Five?” + </p> + <p> + The cards were looked upon as a godsend, and in a few moments one half the + jury were busily engaged at that interesting game. The other portion of + them amused themselves, in the meantime, as well as they could. + </p> + <p> + “Tom,” said one of them, “were you ever on a special jury in a revenue + case?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” replied Tom, “never. Is there much fun?” + </p> + <p> + “The devil's own fun; because if we find for the defendant, he's sure to + give us a splendid feed. But do you know how we manage when we find that + we can't agree?” + </p> + <p> + “No. How is it?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, you see, when the case is too clear against him, and that to find + for him would be too barefaced, we get every man to mark down on a slip of + paper the least amount of damages he is disposed to give against him; when + they're all down, we tot them up, and divide by twelve—“* + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + *By no means an uncommon proceeding in revenue cases, + even at the present day. +</pre> + <p> + “Silence,” said another, “till we hear John Dickson's song.” + </p> + <p> + The said John Dickson was at the time indulging them with a comic song, + which was encored with roars of laughter. + </p> + <p> + “Hallo!” shouted one of those at the cards, “here's Jack Brereton has + prigged the ace of hearts.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, gentlemen,” said Jack, who was a greater knave at the cards than any + in the pack, “upon, my honor, gentlemen, you wrong me.” + </p> + <p> + “There—he has dropped it,” said another; “look under the table.” + </p> + <p> + The search was made, and up was lugged the redoubtable ace of hearts from + under one of Jack's feet, who had hoped, by covering it, to escape + detection. Detected, however, he was, and, as they all knew him well, the + laughter was loud accordingly, and none of them laughed louder than Jack + himself. + </p> + <p> + “Jack,” said another of them, “let us have a touch of the legerdemain.” + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen, attention,” said Jack. “Will any of you lend me a halfpenny?” + </p> + <p> + This was immediately supplied to him, and the first thing he did was to + stick it on his forehead—although there had been brass enough there + before—to which it appeared to have been glued; after a space he + took it off and placed it in the palm of his right hand, which he closed, + and then, extending both his hands, shut, asked those about him in which + hand it was. Of course they all said in the right; but, upon Jack's + opening the said hand, there was no halfpenny there. + </p> + <p> + In this way they discussed a case of life or death, until another knock + came, which “knock” received the same answer as before. + </p> + <p> + “Faith,” said a powerful-looking farmer from near the town of Boyle—the + very picture of health, “if they don't soon let us out I'll get sick. It's + I that always does the sickness for the jury when we're kept in too long.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, then, Billy Bradley,” asked one of them, “how could you, of all men + living, sham sickness on a doctor?” + </p> + <p> + “Because,” said Billy, with a grin, “I'm beginning to feel a divarsion of + blood to the head, for want of a beefsteak and a pot o' porther. My father + and grandfather both died of a divarsion of blood to the head.” + </p> + <p> + “I rather think,” observed another, “that they died by taking their + divarsion at the beefsteak and the pot of porter.” + </p> + <p> + “No matther,” said Billy, “they died at all events, and so will we all, + plaise God.” + </p> + <p> + “Gome,” said one of them, “there is Jack Brereton and his cane—let + us come to business. What do you say, Jack, as to the prisoner?” + </p> + <p> + Jack at the time had the aforesaid cane between his legs, over which he + was bent like a bow, with the head of it in his mouth. + </p> + <p> + “Are you all agreed?” asked Jack. + </p> + <p> + “All for a verdict of guilty, with the exception of this fellow and his + shoes.” + </p> + <p> + Jack Brereton was a handsome old fellow, with a red face and a pair of + watery eyes; he was a little lame, and crippled as he walked, in + consequence of a hip complaint, which he got by a fall from a + jaunting-car; but he was now steady enough, except the grog. + </p> + <p> + “Jack, what do you say?” asked the foreman; “it's time to do something.” + </p> + <p> + “Why,” replied Jack, “the scoundrel engaged me to put down a pump for him, + and I did it in such a manner as was a credit to his establishment. To be + sure, he wanted the water to come whenever it was asked; but I told him + that that wasn't my system; that I didn't want to make a good thing too + cheap; but that the water would come in genteel time—that is to say, + whenever they didn't want it; and faith the water bore me out.” And here + Jack laughed heartily. “But no matter,” proceeded Jack, “he's only a <i>bujeen</i>; + sure it was his mother nursed me. Where's that fellow that's going to eat + his shoes? Here, Ned Wilson, you flaming Protestant, I have neither been a + grand juror nor a petty juror of the county of Sligo for nothing. Where + are you? Take my cane, place it between your knees as you saw me do, put + your mouth down to the head of it, suck up with all your strength, and + you'll find that God will give you sense afterwards.” + </p> + <p> + Wilson, who had taken such a fancy for eating his shoes, in order to show + his loyalty, was what is called a hard-goer, and besides a great friend of + Jack's. At all events, he followed his advice—put the head of the + huge cane into his mouth, and drew up accordingly. The cane, in fact, was + hollow all through, and contained about three half-pints of strong + whiskey. There was some wrangling with the man for a little time after + this; but at length he approached Jack, and handing him the empty cane, + said: + </p> + <p> + “What's your opinion, Jack?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, we must hang him,” replied Jack. “He defrauded me in the pump; and I + ask you did you ever put your nose to a better pump than that?” * + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * We have been taken to task about this description of the + jury-room; but we believe, and have good reason to believe, + that every circumstance mentioned in it is a fact Do our + readers remember the history of Orr's trial, where three- + fourths of the jurors who convicted him were drunk—a fact + to which they themselves confirmed upon oath afterwards? +</pre> + <p> + “Give me your hand, Jack, we're agreed—he swings!” + </p> + <p> + At this moment an officer came to ask the same question, when, in reply, + the twelve jurymen came out, and, amidst the most profound silence, the + foreman handed down the issue paper to the Clerk of the Crown. + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen,” said that officer, after having cast his eye over it, “have + you agreed in your verdict?” + </p> + <p> + “We have.” + </p> + <p> + “Is the prisoner at the bar guilty, or not guilty?” + </p> + <p> + “Guilty!” + </p> + <p> + Let us pause here a moment, and reflect upon the precarious tenure of + life, as it is frequently affected by such scenes as the above, in the + administration of justice. Here was a criminal of the deepest dye, + shivering in the dock with the natural apprehension of his fate, but + supported, notwithstanding, by the delay of the jury in coming to a + verdict. He argued reasonably enough, that in consequence of that very + delay he must necessarily have friends among them who would hold out to + the last. The state of suspense, however, in which he was held must have + been, and was, dreadful. His lips and throat became parched by excitement, + and he was obliged to drink three or four glasses of water. Being unable + to stand, he was accommodated with a chair, on which, while he sat, the + perspiration flowed from his pallid face. Yet, with the exception of his + own clique, there was scarcely an individual present who did not hope that + this trial would put an end to his career of blood. After all, there was + something of the retributive justice of Providence even in the conduct and + feelings of the jury; for, in point of fact, it was more on account of his + private crimes and private infamy that they, however wrongly, brought in + their verdict. Here was he, encircled by their knowledge of his own + iniquities, apart from his public acts; and there, standing in that dock, + from which he might have gone out free, so far as regarded his political + exploits, he found, although he did not know it, the black weight of his + private vices fall upon his head in the shape of the verdict just + delivered. It would be impossible to describe his appearance on hearing + it; his head fell down upon his breast listless, helpless, and with a + character of despair that was painful to contemplate. + </p> + <p> + When the verdict was handed down, the judge immediately put on the + black-cap; but Whitecraft's head was resting on his breast, and he did not + for some time see it. At length, stirred into something like life by the + accents of the judge, he raised his head with an effort. The latter + addressed him as thus: “Sir Robert Whitecraft, you have been convicted + this day by as enlightened a jury as ever sat in a jury-box. You must be + aware yourself, by the length of time, and consequently the deep and + serious investigation which they bestowed—and, it is evident, + painfully bestowed—upon your unhappy case, that your conviction is + the deliberate result of their conscientious opinion. It is obvious, as I + said, from the length of time occupied in the jury-room, that the evidence + in your case was sifted closely, and canvassed with the ability and + experience of able and honest men. In the verdict they have returned the + Court perfectly concurs; and it now only remains for me to pass upon you + that awful sentence of the law which is due to your cruel life and + flagitious crimes. Were you a man without education, nurtured in + ignorance, and the slave of its debasing consequences, some shade of + compassion might be felt for you on that account. But you cannot plead + this; you cannot plead poverty, or that necessity which urges many a + political adventurer to come out as a tyrant and oppressor upon his + fellow-subjects, under the shield of the law, and in the corrupt + expectation of reward or promotion. You were not only independent in your + own circumstances, but you possessed great wealth; and why you should + shape yourself such an awful course of crime can only be attributed to a + heart naturally fond of persecution and blood. I cannot, any more than the + learned Attorney-General, suffer the privileges of rank, wealth, or + position to sway me from the firm dictates of justice. You imagined that + the law would connive at you—and it did so too long, but, believe + me, the sooner or later it will abandon the individual that has been + provoking it, and, like a tiger when goaded beyond patience, will turn and + tear its victim to pieces. It remains for me now to pronounce the awful + sentence of the law upon you; but before I do so, let me entreat you to + turn your heart to that Being who will never refuse mercy to a repentant + sinner; and I press this upon you the more because you need not entertain + the slightest expectation of finding it in this world. In order, + therefore, that you may collect and compose your mind for the great event + that is before you, I will allow you four days, in order that you may make + a Christian use of your time, and prepare your spirit for a greater + tribunal than this. The sentence of the Court is that, on the fifth day + after this, you be, etc., etc., etc.; and may God have mercy on your + soul!” + </p> + <p> + At first there was a dead silence in the Court, and a portion of the + audience was taken completely by surprise on hearing both the verdict' and + the sentence. At length a deep, condensed murmur, which arose by degrees + into a yell of execration, burst forth from his friends, whilst, on the + other hand, a peal of cheers and acclamations rang so loudly through the + court that they completely drowned the indignant vociferations of the + others. In the meantime silence was restored, and it was found that the + convict had been removed during the confusion to one of the condemned + cells. What now were his friends to do? Was it possible to take any steps + by which he might yet be saved from such a disgraceful death? Pressed as + they were for time, they came to the conclusion that the only chance + existing in his favor was for a deputation of as many of the leading + Protestants of the county, as could be prevailed upon to join in the + measure, to proceed to Dublin without delay. Immediately, therefore, after + the trial, a meeting of the baronet's friends was held in the head inn of + Sligo, where the matter was earnestly discussed. Whitecraft had been a man + of private and solitary enjoyments—in social and domestic life, as + cold, selfish, inhospitable, and repulsive as he was cruel and + unscrupulous in his public career. + </p> + <p> + The consequence was that he had few personal friends of either rank or + influence, and if the matter had rested upon his own personal character + and merits alone, he would have been left, without an effort, to the fate + which had that day been pronounced upon him. The consideration of the + matter, however, was not confined to himself as an individual, but to the + Protestant party at large, and his conviction was looked upon as a Popish + triumph. On this account many persons of rank and influence, who would not + otherwise have taken any interest in his fate, came forward for the + purpose, if possible, of defeating the Popish party—who, by the way, + had nothing whatsoever to do in promoting his conviction—and of + preventing the stigma and deep disgrace which his execution would attach + to their own. A very respectable deputation was consequently formed, and + in the course of the next day proceeded to Dublin, to urge their claims in + his favor with the Lord Lieutenant. This nobleman, though apparently + favorable to the Catholic people, was nevertheless personally and secretly + a bitter enemy to them. The state policy which he was instructed and + called upon to exercise in their favor differed <i>toto coelo</i> from his + own impressions. He spoke to them, however, sweetly and softly, praised + them for their forbearance, and made large promises in their favor, + whilst, at the same time, he entertained no intention of complying with + their request. The deputation, on arriving at the castle, ascertained, to + their mortification, that the viceroy would not be at home until the + following day, having spent the last week with a nobleman in the + neighborhood; they were consequently obliged to await his arrival. After + his return they were admitted to an audience, in which they stated their + object in waiting upon him, and urged with great earnestness the necessity + of arresting the fate of such a distinguished Protestant as Sir Robert + Whitecraft; after which they entered into a long statement of the + necessity that existed for such active and energetic men in the then + peculiar and dangerous state of the country. + </p> + <p> + To all this, however, he replied with great suavity, assuring them that no + man felt more anxious to promote Protestant interests than he did, and + added that the relaxation of the laws against the Catholics was not so + much the result of his own personal policy or feeling as the consequence + of the instructions he had received from the English Cabinet. He would be + very glad to comply with the wishes of the deputation if he could, but at + present it was impossible. This man's conduct was indefensible; for, not + content in carrying out the laws against the Catholics with unnecessary + rigor, he committed a monstrous outrage against a French subject of + distinction, in consequence of which the French Court, through their + Ambassador in London, insisted upon his punishment. + </p> + <p> + “Very well, my lord,” replied the spokesman of the deputation, “I beg to + assure you, that if a hair of this man's head is injured there will be a + massacre of the Popish population before two months; and I beg also to let + you know, for the satisfaction of the English Cabinet, that they may + embroil themselves with France, or get into whatever political + embarrassment they please, but an Irish Protestant will never hoist a + musket, or draw a sword, in their defence. Gentlemen, let us bid his + Excellency a good-morning.” + </p> + <p> + This was startling language, as the effect proved, for it startled the + viceroy into a compliance with their wishes, and they went home + post-haste, in order that the pardon might arrive in time. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXV.—Reilly stands his Trial + </h2> + <h3> + Rumor of <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>'s Treachery—How it appears—Conclusion. + </h3> + <p> + Life, they say, is a life of trials, and so may it be said of this tale—at + least of the conclusion of it; for we feel that it devolves upon us once + more to solicit the presence of our readers to the same prison in which + the Red Rapparee and Sir Robert Whitecraft received their sentence of + doom. + </p> + <p> + As it is impossible to close the mouth or to silence the tongue of fame, + so we may assure our readers, as we have before, that the: history of the + loves of those two celebrated individuals, to wit, Willy Reilly and the + far-famed <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, had given an interest to the coming trial + such as was never known within the memory of man, at that period, nor + perhaps equalled since. The Red Rapparee, Sir Robert Whitecraft, and all + the other celebrated “villains of that time, have nearly perished out of + tradition itself, whilst those of our hero and heroine are still fresh in + the feelings of the Connaught and Northern peasantry, at whose hearths, + during the winter evenings, the rude but fine old ballad that commemorated + that love is still sung with sympathy, and sometimes, as we can I testify, + with tears. This is fame. One circumstance, however, which deepened the + interest felt by the people, told powerfully against the consistency of + the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, which was, that she had resolved to come forward + that day to bear evidence against; her lover. Such was the general + impression received from her father, and the attorney Doldrum, who + conducted the trial against Reilly, although our readers are well aware + that on this point they spoke without authority. The governor of the + prison, on going that morning to conduct him to the bar, said: + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry, Mr. Reilly, to be the bearer of bad news; but as the + knowledge of it may be serviceable to you or your lawyers, I think I ought + to mention it to you.” + </p> + <p> + “Pray, what is it?” asked Reilly. + </p> + <p> + “Why, sir, it is said to be a fact that the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> has proved + false and treacherous, and is coming this day to bear her testimony + against you.” + </p> + <p> + Reilly replied with a smile of confidence, which the darkness of the room + prevented the other from seeing, “Well, Mr. O'Shaugh-nessy, even if she + does, it cannot be helped; have you heard what the nature of her evidence + is likely to be?” + </p> + <p> + “No; it seems her father and Doldrum the attorney asked her, and she would + not tell them; but she said she had made her mind up to attend the trial + and see justice done. Don't be cast down, Mr. Reilly, though, upon my + soul, I think she ought to have stood it out in your favor to the last.” + </p> + <p> + “Come,” said Reilly, “I am ready; time will tell, Mr. O'Shaughnessy, and a + short time too; a few hours now, and all will know the result.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope in God it may be in your favor, Mr. Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, O'Shaughnessy; lead on; I am ready to attend you.” + </p> + <p> + The jail was crowded even to suffocation; but this was not all. The street + opposite the jail was nearly as much crowded as the jail itself, a moving, + a crushing mass of thousands having been collected to abide and hear the + issue. It was with great difficulty, and not without the aid of a strong + military force, that a way could be cleared for the judge as he approached + the prison. The crowd was silent and passive, but in consequence of the + report that the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> was to appear against Reilly, a + profound melancholy and an expression of deep sorrow seemed to brood over + it. Immediately after the judge's carriage came that of the squire, who + was accompanied by his daughter, Mrs. Brown and Mrs. Hastings, for Helen + had insisted that her father should procure their attendance. A private + room in the prison had, by previous arrangement, been prepared for them, + and to this they were conducted by a back way, so as to avoid the crushing + of the crowd. It was by this way also that the judge and lawyers entered + the body of the court-house, without passing through the congregated mass. + </p> + <p> + At length the judge, having robed himself, took his seat on the bench, + and, on casting his eye over the court-house, was astonished at the dense + multitude that stood before him. On looking at the galleries, he saw that + they were crowded with ladies of rank and fashion. Every thing having been + now ready, the lawyers, each with his brief before him, and each with a + calm, but serious and meditative aspect, the Clerk of the Crown cried out, + in a voice which the hum of the crowd rendered necessarily loud: + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Jailer, put William Reilly to the bar.” + </p> + <p> + At that moment a stir, a murmur, especially among the ladies in the + gallery, and a turning of faces in the direction of the bar, took place as + Reilly came forward, and stood erect in front of the judge. The very + moment he made his appearance all eyes were fastened on him, and whatever + the prejudices may have been against the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> for falling + in love with a Papist, that moment of his appearance absolved her from all—from + every thing. A more noble or majestic figure never stood at that or any + other bar. In the very prime of manhood, scarcely out of youth, with a + figure like that of Antinous, tall, muscular, yet elegant, brown hair of + the richest shade, a lofty forehead, features of the most manly cast, but + exquisitely formed, and eyes which, but for the mellow softness of their + expression, an eagle might have envied for their transparent brilliancy. + The fame of his love for the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> had come before him. The + judge surveyed him with deep interest; so did every eye that could catch a + view of his countenance; but, above all, were those in the gallery riveted + upon him with a degree of interest—and, now that they had seen him, + of sympathy—which we shall not attempt to describe. Some of them + were so deeply affected that they could not suppress their tears, which, + by the aid of their handkerchiefs, they endeavored to conceal as well as + they could. Government, in this case, as it was not one of political + interest, did not prosecute. A powerful bar was retained against Reilly, + but an equally powerful one was engaged for him, the leading lawyer being, + as we have stated, the celebrated advocate Fox, the Curran of his day. + </p> + <p> + The charge against him consisted of only two counts—that of robbing + Squire Folliard of family jewels of immense value, and that of running + away with his daughter, a ward of Chancery, contrary to her consent and + inclination, and to the laws in that case made and provided. + </p> + <p> + The first witness produced was the sheriff—and, indeed, to state the + truth, a very reluctant one was that humane gentleman on the occasion. + Having been sworn, the leading counsel proceeded: + </p> + <p> + “You are the sheriff of this county?” + </p> + <p> + “I am.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you aware that jewellery to a large amount was stolen recently from + Mr. Folliard?” + </p> + <p> + “I am not.” + </p> + <p> + “You are not? Now, is it not a fact, of which you were an eye-witness, + that the jewellery in question was found upon the person of the prisoner + at the bar, in Mr. Folliard's house?” + </p> + <p> + “I must confess that I saw him about to be searched, and that a very + valuable case of jewellery was found upon his person.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, found upon his person—a very valuable case of jewellery, the + property of Mr. Folliard, found upon his person; mark that, gentlemen of + the jury.” + </p> + <p> + “Pardon me,” said the sheriff, “I saw jewellery found upon him; but I + cannot say on my oath whether it belonged to Mr. Folliard or not; all I + can say is, that Mr. Folliard claimed the jewels as his.” + </p> + <p> + “As his—just so. Nobody had a better right to claim them than the + person to whom they belonged. What took place on the occasion?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, Mr. Folliard, as I said, claimed them, and Mr. Reilly refused to + give them up to him.” + </p> + <p> + “You hear that, gentlemen—refused to surrender him the property of + which he had robbed him, even in his own house.” + </p> + <p> + “And when you searched the prisoner?” + </p> + <p> + “We didn't search him; he refused to submit to a search.” + </p> + <p> + “Refused to submit to a search! No wonder, I think! But, at the time he + refused to submit to a search, had he the jewellery upon his person?” + </p> + <p> + “He had.” + </p> + <p> + “He had? You hear that gentlemen—at the time he refused to be + searched he had the jewellery upon his person.” + </p> + <p> + The sheriff was then cross-examined by Fox, to the following effect: + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Sheriff, have you been acquainted, or are you acquainted, with the + prisoner at the bar?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; I have known him for about three years—almost ever since he + settled in this county.” + </p> + <p> + “What is your opinion of him?” + </p> + <p> + “My opinion of him is very high.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes—your opinion of him is very high,” with a significant glance at + the jury—“I believe it is, and I believe it ought to be. Now, upon + your oath, do you believe that the prisoner at the bar is capable of the + theft or robbery imputed to him?” + </p> + <p> + “I do not!” + </p> + <p> + “You do not? What did he say when the jewels were found upon him?” + </p> + <p> + “He refused to surrender them to Mr. Folliard as having no legal claim + upon them, and refused, at first, to place them in any hands but Miss + Folliard's own; but, on understanding that she was not in—a state to + receive them from him, he placed them in mine.” + </p> + <p> + “Then he considered that they were Miss Folliard's personal property, and + not her father's?” + </p> + <p> + “So it seemed to me from what he said at the time.” + </p> + <p> + “That will do, sir; you may go down.” + </p> + <p> + “Alexander Folliard” and the father then made his appearance on the table; + he looked about him, with a restless eye, and appeared in a state of great + agitation, but it was the agitation of an enraged and revengeful man. + </p> + <p> + He turned his eyes upon Reilly, and exclaimed with bitterness: “There you + are, Willy Reilly, who have stained the reputation of my child, and + disgraced her family.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Folliard,” said his lawyer, “you have had in your possession very + valuable family jewels.” + </p> + <p> + “I had.” + </p> + <p> + “Whose property were they?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, mine, I should think.” + </p> + <p> + “Could you identify them?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly I could.” + </p> + <p> + “Are these the jewels in question?” + </p> + <p> + The old man put on his spectacles, and examined them closely. + </p> + <p> + “They are; I know every one of them.” + </p> + <p> + “They were stolen from you?” + </p> + <p> + “They were.” + </p> + <p> + “On whose person, after having been stolen, were they found?” + </p> + <p> + “On the person of the prisoner at the bar.” + </p> + <p> + “You swear that?” + </p> + <p> + “I do; because I saw him take them out of his pocket in my own house after + he had been made prisoner and detected.” + </p> + <p> + “Then they are your property?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly—I consider them my property; who else's property could + they be.” + </p> + <p> + “Pray, is not your daughter a minor?” + </p> + <p> + “She is.” + </p> + <p> + “And a ward in the Court of Chancery?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “That will do, sir.” + </p> + <p> + The squire was then about to leave the table, when Mr. Fox addressed him: + </p> + <p> + “Not yet, Mr. Folliard, if you please; you swear the jewels are yours?” + </p> + <p> + “I do; to whom else should they belong?” + </p> + <p> + “Are you of opinion that the prisoner at the bar robbed you of them?” + </p> + <p> + “I found them in his possession.” + </p> + <p> + “And you now identify them as the same jewels which you found in his + possession?” + </p> + <p> + “Hang it, haven't I said so before?” + </p> + <p> + “Pray, Mr. Folliard, keep your temper, if you please, and answer me + civilly and as a gentleman. Suffer me to ask you are there any other + family jewels in your possession?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, the Folliard jewels?” + </p> + <p> + “The Folliard jewels! And how do they differ in denomination from those + found upon the prisoner?” + </p> + <p> + “Those found upon the prisoner are called the Bingham jewels, from the + fact of my wife, who was a Bingham, having brought them into our family.” + </p> + <p> + “And pray, did not your wife always consider those jewels as her own + private property?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, I believe she did.” + </p> + <p> + “And did she not, at her death-bed, bequeath those very jewels to her + daughter, the present Miss Folliard, on the condition that she too should + consider them as her private property?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, I believe she did; indeed, I am sure of it, because I was present at + the time.” + </p> + <p> + “In what part of the house were those jewels deposited?” + </p> + <p> + “In a large oak cabinet that stands in a recess in my library.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you keep what you call the Folliard jewels there?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, all our jewellery was kept there.” + </p> + <p> + “But there was no portion of the Folliard jewellery touched?” + </p> + <p> + “No; but the Bingham sets were all taken, and all found upon the + prisoner.” + </p> + <p> + “What was your opinion of the prisoner's circumstances?” + </p> + <p> + “I could form no opinion about them.” + </p> + <p> + “Had he not the reputation of being an independent man?” + </p> + <p> + “I believe such was the impression.” + </p> + <p> + “In what style of life did he live?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly in the style of a gentleman.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think, then, that necessity was likely to tempt a man of + independence like him to steal your daughter's jewels?” + </p> + <p> + “I'd advise you, Sergeant Fox, not to put me out of temper; I haven't much + to spare just now. What the deuce are you at?” + </p> + <p> + “Will you answer my question?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I don't think it was.” + </p> + <p> + “If the Bingham jewellery had been stolen by a thief, do you think that + thief would have left the Folliard jewellery behind him?” + </p> + <p> + “I'll take my oath you wouldn't, if you had been in the place of the + person that took them. You'd have put the Bingham jewellery in one pocket, + and balanced it with the Folliard in the other. But,” he added, after a + slight pause, “the villain stole from me a jewel more valuable and dearer + to her father's heart than all the jewellery of the universal world put + together. He stole my child, my only child,” and as he spoke the tears ran + slowly down his cheeks. The court and spectators were touched by this, and + Fox felt that it was a point against them. Even he himself was touched, + and saw that, with respect to Reilly's safety, the sooner he got rid of + the old man, for the present at least, the better. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Folliard,” said he, “you may withdraw now. Your daughter loved, as + what woman has not? There stands the object of her affections, and I + appeal to your own feelings whether any living woman could be blamed for + loving such a man. You may go down, sir, for the present.” + </p> + <p> + The prosecuting counsel then said: “My lord, we produce Miss Folliard + herself to bear testimony against this man. Crier, let Helen Folliard be + called.” + </p> + <p> + Now was the moment of intense and incredible interest. There was the + far-famed beauty herself, to appear against her manly lover. The stir in + the court, the expectation, the anxiety to see her, the stretching of + necks, the pressure of one over another, the fervor of curiosity, was such + as the reader may possibly conceive, but such certainly as we cannot + attempt to describe. She advanced from a side door, deeply veiled; but the + tall and majestic elegance of her figure not only struck all hearts with + admiration, but prepared them for the inexpressible beauty with which the + whole kingdom rang. She was assisted to the table, and helped into the + witness's chair by her father, who seemed to triumph in her appearance + there. On taking her seat, the buzz and murmur of the spectators became + hushed into a silence like that of death, and, until she spoke, a feather + might have been heard falling in the court. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Folliard,” said the judge, in a most respectful voice, “you are + deeply veiled—but perhaps you are not aware that, in order to give + evidence in a court of justice, your veil should be up; will you have the + goodness to raise it?” + </p> + <p> + Deliberately and slowly she raised it, as the court had desired her—but, + oh! what an effulgence of beauty, what wonderful brilliancy, what + symmetry, what radiance, what tenderness, what expression! + </p> + <p> + But we feel that to attempt the description of that face, which almost had + divinity stamped upon it, is beyond all our powers. The whole court, every + spectator, man and woman, all for a time were mute, whilst their hearts + drank in the delicious draught of admiration which such beauty created. + After having raised her veil, she looked around the court with a kind of + wonder, after which her eyes rested on Reilly, and immediately her lids + dropped, for she feared that she had done wrong in looking upon him. This + made many of those hearts who were interested in his fate sink, and wonder + why such treachery should be associated with features that breathed only + of angelic goodness and humanity. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Folliard,” said the leading counsel engaged against Reilly, “I am + happy to hear that you regret some past occurrences that took place with + respect to you and the prisoner at the bar.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” she replied, in a voice that was melody itself, “I do regret them.” + </p> + <p> + Fox kept his eye fixed upon her, after which he whispered something to one + or two of his brother lawyers; they shook their heads, and immediately set + themselves to hear and note her examination. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Folliard, you are aware of the charges which have placed the + prisoner at the bar of justice and his country?” + </p> + <p> + “Not exactly; I have heard little of it beyond the fact of his + incarceration.” + </p> + <p> + “He stands there charged with two very heinous crimes—one of them, + the theft or robbery of a valuable packet of jewels, your father's + property.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no,” she replied, “they are my own exclusive property—not my + father's. They were the property of my dear mother, who, on her death-bed, + bequeathed them to me, in the presence of my father himself; and I always + considered them as mine.” + </p> + <p> + “But they were found upon the person of the prisoner?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, yes; but that is very easily explained. It is no secret now, that, in + order to avoid a marriage which my father was forcing on me with Sir + Robert Whitecraft, I chose the less evil, and committed myself to the + honor of Mr. Reilly. If I had not done so I should have committed suicide, + I think, rather than marry Whitecraft—a man so utterly devoid of + principle and delicacy that he sent an abandoned female into my father's + house in the capacity of my maid and also as a spy upon my conduct.” + </p> + <p> + This astounding fact created an immense sensation throughout the court, + and the lawyer who was examining her began to feel that her object in + coming there was to give evidence in favor of Reilly, and not against him. + He determined, however, to try her a little farther, and proceeded: + </p> + <p> + “But, Miss Folliard, how do you account for the fact of the Bingham jewels + being found upon the person of the prisoner?” + </p> + <p> + “It is the simplest thing in the world,” she replied. “I brought my own + jewels with me, and finding”, as we proceeded, that I was likely to lose + them, having no pocket sufficiently safe in which to carry them, I asked + Reilly to take charge of them, which he did. Our unexpected capture, and + the consequent agitation, prevented him from returning them to me, and + they were accordingly found upon his person; but, as for stealing them, he + is just as guilty as his lordship on the bench.” + </p> + <p> + “Miss Folliard,” proceeded the lawyer, “you have taken us by surprise + to-day. How does it happen that you volunteered your evidence against the + prisoner, and, now that you have come forward, every word you utter is in + his favor? Your mind must have recently changed—a fact which takes + very much away from the force of that evidence.” + </p> + <p> + “I pray you, sir, to understand me, and not suffer yourself to be misled. + I never stated that I was about to come here to give evidence against Mr. + Reilly; but I said, when strongly pressed to come, that I would come, and + see justice done. Had they asked me my meaning, I would have instantly + told them; because, I trust, I am incapable of falsehood; and I will say + now, that if my life could obtain that of William Reilly, I would lay it + willingly down for him, as I am certain he would lay down his for the + preservation of mine.” + </p> + <p> + There was a pause here, and a murmur of approbation ran through the court. + The opposing counsel, too, found that they had been led astray, and that + to examine her any further would be only a weakening of their own cause. + They attached, however, no blame of insincerity to her, but visited with + much bitterness the unexpected capsize which they had got, on the stupid + head of Doldrum, their attorney. They consequently determined to ask her + no more questions, and she was about to withdraw, when Fox rose up, and + said: + </p> + <p> + “Miss Folliard, I am counsel for the prisoner at the bar, and I trust you + will answer me a few questions. I perceive, madam, that you are fatigued + of this scene; but the questions I shall put to you will be few and brief. + An attachment has existed for some time between you and the prisoner at + the bar? You need not be ashamed, madam, to reply to it.” + </p> + <p> + “I am not ashamed,” she replied proudly, “and it is true.” + </p> + <p> + “Was your father aware of that attachment at any time?” + </p> + <p> + “He was, from a very early period.” + </p> + <p> + “Pray, how did he discover it?” + </p> + <p> + “I myself told him of my love for Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “Did your father give his consent to that attachment?” + </p> + <p> + “Conditionally he did.” + </p> + <p> + “And pray, Miss Folliard, what were the conditions?” + </p> + <p> + “That Reilly should abjure his creed, and then no further obstacles should + stand in the way of our union, he said.” + </p> + <p> + “Was ever that proposal mentioned to Reilly?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I mentioned it to him myself; but, well as he loved me, he would + suffer to go into an early grave, he said, sooner than abandon his + religion; and I loved him a thousand times better for his noble adherence + to it.” + </p> + <p> + “Did he not save your father's life?” + </p> + <p> + “He did, and the life of a faithful and attached old servant at the same + time.” + </p> + <p> + Now, although this fact was generally known, yet the statement of it here + occasioned a strong expression of indignation against the man who could + come forward and prosecute the individual, to whose courage and gallantry + he stood indebted for his escape from murder. The uncertainty of + Folliard's character, however, was so well known, and his whimsical + changes of opinion such a matter of proverb among the people, that many + persons said to each other: + </p> + <p> + “The cracked old squire is in one of his tantrums now; he'll be a proud + man if he can convict Reilly to-day; and perhaps to-morrow, or in a month + hence, he'll be cursing; himself for what he did—for that's his + way.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Miss Folliard,” said Fox, “we will not detain you any longer; this + to you must be a painful scene; you may retire, madam.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0013" id="linkimage-0013"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img src="images/page175.jpg" + alt="Page 175-- Give That Ring to the Prisoner " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + She did not immediately withdraw, but taking a green silk purse out of her + bosom, she opened it, and, after inserting her long, white, taper fingers + into it, she brought out a valuable emerald ring, and placing it in the + hands of the crier, she said: + </p> + <p> + “Give that ring to the prisoner: I know not, William,” she added, “whether + I shall ever see you again or not. It may so happen that this is the last + time my eyes can ever rest upon you with love and sorrow.” Here a few + bright tears ran down her lovely cheeks. “If you should be sent to a + far-off land, wear this for the sake of her who appreciated your virtues, + your noble spirit, and your pure and disinterested love; look upon it + when, perhaps, the Atlantic may roll between us, and when you do, think of + your <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, and the love she bore you; but if a still + unhappier fate should be yours, let it be placed with you in your grave, + and next that heart, that noble heart, that refused to sacrifice your + honor and your religion even to your love for me. I will now go.” + </p> + <p> + There is nothing so brave and fearless as innocence. Her youth, the + majesty of her beauty, and the pathos of her expressions, absolutely + flooded the court with tears. The judge wept, and hardened old barristers, + with hearts like the nether millstone, were forced to put their + handkerchiefs to their eyes; but as they felt that it might be detrimental + to! their professional characters to be caught weeping, they shaded off + the pathos under the hypocritical pretence of blowing their noses. The + sobs from the ladies in the gallery were loud and vehement, and Reilly + himself was so deeply moved that he felt obliged to put his face upon his + hands, as he bent over the bar, in order to conceal his emotion. He + received the ring with moist eyes, kissed it, and placed it in a small + locket which he put in his bosom. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” said the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, “I am ready to go.” + </p> + <p> + She was then conducted to the room to which we have alluded, where she met + Mrs. Brown and Mrs. Hastings, both of whom she found in tears—for + they had been in the gallery, and witnessed all that had happened. They + both embraced her tenderly, and attempted to console her as well as they + could; but a weight like death, she said, pressed upon her heart, and she + begged them not to distract her by their sympathy, kind and generous as + she felt it to be, but to allow her to sit, and nurture her own thoughts + until she could hear the verdict of the jury. Mrs. Hastings returned to + the gallery, and arrived there in time to hear the touching and brilliant + speech of Fox, which we are not presumptuous enough to imagine, much less + to stultify ourselves by attempting to give. He dashed the charge of + Reilly's theft of the jewels to pieces—not a difficult task, after + the evidence that had been given; and then dwelt upon the loves of this + celebrated pair with such force and eloquence and pathos that the court + was once more melted into tears. The closing speech by the leading counsel + against Reilly was bitter; but the gist of it turned upon the fact of his + having eloped with a ward of Chancery, contrary to law; and he informed + the jury that no affection—no consent upon the part of any young + lady under age was either a justification of, or a protection against, + such an abduction as that of which Reilly had been guilty. The state of + the law at the present time, he assured them, rendered it a felony to + marry a Catholic and a Protestant together; and he then left the case in + the hands, he said, of an honest Protestant jury. + </p> + <p> + The judge's charge was brief. He told the jury that they could not convict + the prisoner on the imputed felony of the jewels; but that the proof of + his having taken away Miss Folliard from her father's house, with—as + the law stood—her felonious abduction, for the purpose of inveigling + her into an unlawful marriage with himself, was the subject for their + consideration. Even had he been a Protestant, the law could afford him no + protection in the eye of the Court of Chancery. + </p> + <p> + The jury retired; but their absence from their box was very brief. + Unfortunately, their foreman was cursed with a dreadful hesitation in his + speech, and, as he entered, the Clerk of the Crown said: + </p> + <p> + “Well, gentlemen, have you agreed in your verdict?” + </p> + <p> + There was a solemn silence, during which nothing was heard but a + convulsive working about the chest and glottis of the foreman, who at + length said: + </p> + <p> + “We—we—we—we have.” + </p> + <p> + “Is the prisoner at the bar guilty or not guilty?” + </p> + <p> + Here the internal but obstructed machinery of the chest and throat set to + work again, and at last the foreman was able to get out—“Guilty—” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Hastings had heard enough, and too much; and, as the sentence was + pronounced, she instantly withdrew; but how to convey the melancholy + tidings to the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> she knew not. In the meantime the + foreman, who had not fully delivered himself of the verdict, added, after + two or three desperate hiccups—“on the second count.” + </p> + <p> + This, if the foreman had not labored under such an extraordinary + hesitation, might have prevented much suffering, and many years of + unconscious calamity to one of the unhappy parties of whom we are writing, + inasmuch as the felony of the jewels would have been death, whilst the + elopement with a ward of Chancery was only transportation. + </p> + <p> + When Mrs. Hastings entered the room where the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> was + awaiting the verdict with a dreadful intensity of feeling, the latter rose + up, and, throwing her arms about her neck, looked into her face, with an + expression of eagerness and wildness, which Mrs. Hastings thought might be + best allayed by knowing the worst, as the heart, in such circumstances, + generally collects itself, and falls back upon its own resources. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mrs. Hastings, well—the verdict?” + </p> + <p> + “Collect yourself, my child—be firm—be a woman. Collect + yourself—for you will require it. The verdict—Guilty!” + </p> + <p> + The <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> did not faint—nor become weak—but she + put her fair white hand to her forehead—then looked around the room, + then upon Mrs. Brown, and lastly upon Mrs. Hastings. They also looked upon + her. God help both her and them! Yes, they looked upon her countenance—that + lovely countenance—and then into her eyes—those eyes! But, + alas! where was their beauty now? Where their expression? + </p> + <p> + “Miss Folliard! my darling Helen!” exclaimed Mrs. Hastings, in tears—“great + God, what is this, Mrs. Brown? Come here and look at her.” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Brown, on looking at her, whispered, in choking accents, “Oh! my God, + the child's reason is overturned; what is there now in those once glorious + eyes but vacancy? Oh, that I had never lived to see this awful day! Helen, + the treasure, the delight of all who ever knew you, what is wrong? Oh, + speak to us—recognize us—your own two best friends—Helen—Helen! + speak to us.” + </p> + <p> + She looked upon them certainly; but it was with a dead and vacant stare + which wrung their hearts. + </p> + <p> + “Come,” said she, “tell me where is William Reilly? Oh, bring me to + William Reilly; they have taken me from him, and I. know not where to find + him.” + </p> + <p> + The two kind-hearted ladies looked at one another, each stupefied by the + mystery of what they witnessed. + </p> + <p> + “Oh,” said Mrs. Hastings, “her father must be instantly sent for Mrs. + Brown, go to the lobby—there is an officer there—desire him to + go to Mr. Folliard and say that—but we had better not alarm him too + much,” she added, “say that Miss Folliard wishes to see him immediately.” + </p> + <p> + The judge, we may observe here, had not yet pronounced sentence upon + Reilly. The old man, who, under all possible circumstances, was so + affectionately devoted and attentive to his daughter, immediately + proceeded to the room, in a state of great triumph and exultation + exclaiming, “Guilty, guilty; we have noosed him at last.” He even snapped + his fingers, and danced about for a time, until rebuked by Mrs. Hastings. + </p> + <p> + “Unhappy and miserable old man,” she exclaimed, with tears, “what have you + done? Look at the condition of your only child, whom you have murdered. + She is now a maniac.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0014" id="linkimage-0014"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img src="images/page176.jpg" + alt="Page 176-- What, What is This? What Do You Mean? " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + “What,” he exclaimed, rushing to her, “what, what is this? What do you + mean? Helen, my darling, my child—my delight—what is wrong + with you? Recollect yourself, my dearest treasure. Do you not know me, + your own father? Oh, Helen, Helen! for the love of God speak to me. Say + you know me—call me father—rouse yourself—recollect me—don't + you know who I am?” + </p> + <p> + There, however, was the frightfully vacant glance, but no reply. + </p> + <p> + “Oh,” said she, in a low, calm voice, “where is William Reilly? They have + taken me from him, and I cannot find him; bring me to William Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you know me, Helen? don't you know your loving father? Oh, speak to + me, child of my heart! speak but one word as a proof that you know me.” + </p> + <p> + She looked on him, but that look filled his heart with unutterable + anguish; he clasped her to that heart, he kissed her lips, he strove to + soothe and console her—but in vain. There was the vacant but + unsettled eye, from which the bright expression of reason was gone; but no + recognition—no spark of reflection or conscious thought—nothing + but the melancholy inquiry from those beautiful lips of—“Where's + William Reilly? They have taken me from him—and will not allow me to + see him. Oh, bring me to William Reilly!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, wretched fate!” exclaimed her distracted father, “I am—I am a + murderer, and faithful Connor was right—Mrs. Brown—Mrs. + Hastings—hear me, both—I was warned of this, but I would not + listen either to reason or remonstrance, and now I am punished, as Connor + predicted. Great heaven, what a fate both for her and me—for her the + innocent, and for me the guilty!” + </p> + <p> + It is unnecessary to dwell upon the father's misery and distraction; but, + from all our readers have learned of his extraordinary tenderness and + affection for that good and lovely daughter, they may judge of what he + suffered. He immediately ordered his carriage, and had barely time to hear + that Reilly had been sentenced to transportation for seven years. His + daughter was quite meek and tractable; she spoke not, nor could any + ingenuity on their part extract the slightest reply from her. Neither did + she shed a single tear, but the vacant light of her eyes had stamped a + fatuitous expression on her features that was melancholy and heartbreaking + beyond all power of language to describe. + </p> + <p> + No other person had seen her since the bereavement of her reason, except + the officer who kept guard on the lobby, and who, in the hurry and + distraction of the moment, had been dispatched by Mrs. Brown for a glass + of cold water. Her father's ravings, however, in the man's presence, added + to his own observation, and the distress of her female friends were quite + sufficient to satisfy him of the nature of her complaint, and in less than + half an hour it was through the whole court-house, and the town besides, + that the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> had gone mad on hearing the sentence that was + passed upon her lover. Her two friends accompanied her home, and remained + with her for the night. + </p> + <p> + Such was the melancholy conclusion of the trial of Willy Reilly; but even + taking it at its worst, it involved a very different fate from that of his + vindictive rival, Whitecraft. It appeared that that worthy gentleman and + the Red Rapparee had been sentenced to die on the same day, and at the + same hour. It is true, Whitecraft was aware that a deputation had gone + post-haste to Dublin Castle to solicit his pardon, or at least some + lenient commutation of punishment. Still, it was feared that, owing to the + dreadful state of the roads, and the slow mode of travelling at that + period, there was a probability that the pardon might not arrive in time + to be available; and indeed there was every reason to apprehend as much. + The day appointed for the execution of the Red Rapparee and him arrived—nay, + the very hour had come; but still there was hope, among his friends. The + sheriff, a firm, but fair and reasonable man, waited beyond the time named + by the judge for his execution. At length he felt the necessity of + discharging his duty; for, although more than an hour beyond the appointed + period had now elapsed, yet this delay proceeded from no personal regard + he entertained for the felon, but from respect for many of those who had + interested themselves in his fate. + </p> + <p> + After an unusual delay the sheriff felt himself called upon to order both + the Rapparee and the baronet for execution. In waiting so long for a + pardon, he felt that he had transgressed his duty, and he accordingly + ordered them out for the last ceremony. The hardened Rapparee died sullen + and silent; the only regret he expressed being that he could not live to + see his old friend turned off before him. + </p> + <p> + “Troth,” replied the hangman, “only that the sheriff has ordhered me to + hang you first as bein' the betther man, I would give you that same + satisfaction; but if you're not in a very great hurry to the warm corner + you're goin' to, and if you will just take your time for a few minutes, + I'll engage to say you will soon have company. God speed you, any way,” he + exclaimed as he turned him off; “only take your time, and wait for your + neighbors. Now, Sir Robert,” said he, “turn about, they say, is fair play—it's + your turn now; but you look unbecomin' upon it. Hould up your head, man, + and don't be cast down. You'll have company where you're goin'; for the + Red Rapparee tould me to tell you that he'd wait for you. Hallo!—what's + that?” he exclaimed as he cast his eye to the distance and discovered a + horseman riding for life, with a white handkerchief, or flag of some kind, + floating in the breeze. The elevated position in which the executioner was + placed enabled him to see the signal before it could be perceived by the + crowd. “Come, Sir Robert,” said he, “stand where I'll place you—there's + no use in asking you to hould up your head, for you're not able; but + listen. You hanged my brother that you knew to be innocent; and now I hang + you that I know to be guilty. Yes, I hang you, with the white flag of the + Lord Lieutenant's pardon for you wavin' in the distance; and listen again, + remember Willy Reilly;” and with these words he launched him into + eternity. + </p> + <p> + The uproar among his friends was immense, as was the cheering from the + general crowd, at the just fate of this bad man. The former rushed to the + gallows, in order to cut him down, with a hope that life might still be in + him, a process which the sheriff, after perusing his pardon, permitted + them to carry into effect. The body was accordingly taken into the prison, + and a surgeon procured to examine it; but altogether in vain; his hour had + gone by, life was extinct, and all the honor they could now pay Sir Robert + Whitecraft was to give him a pompous funeral, and declare him a martyr to + Popery both of which they did. + </p> + <p> + On the day previous to Reilly's departure his humble friend and namesake, + Fergus, at the earnest solicitation of Reilly himself, was permitted to + pay him a last melancholy visit. After his sentence, as well as before it, + every attention had been paid to him by O'Shaughnessy, the jailer, who, + although an avowed Protestant, and a brand plucked from the burning, was, + nevertheless, a lurking Catholic at heart, and felt a corresponding + sympathy with his prisoner. When Fergus entered his cell he found him + neither fettered nor manacled, but perfectly in the enjoyment at least of + bodily freedom. It is impossible, indeed, to say how far the influence of + money may have gone in securing him the comforts which surrounded him, and + the attentions which he received. On entering his cell, Fergus was struck + by the calm and composed air with which he received him. His face, it is + true, was paler than usual, but a feeling of indignant pride, if not of + fixed but stern indignation, might be read under the composure into which + he forced himself, and which he endeavored to suppress. He approached + Fergus, and extending his hand with a peculiar smile, very difficult to be + described, said: + </p> + <p> + “Fergus, I am glad to see you; I hope you are safe—at least I have + heard so.” + </p> + <p> + “I am safe, sir, and free,” replied Fergus; “thanks to the Red Rapparee + and the sheriff for it.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” proceeded Reilly, “you have one comfort—the Red Rapparee + will neither tempt you nor trouble you again; but is there no danger of + his gang taking up his quarrel and avenging him?” + </p> + <p> + “His gang, sir? Why, only for me he would a' betrayed every man of them to + Whitecraft and the Government, and had them hanged, drawn, and quartered—ay, + and their heads grinning at us in every town in the county.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Fergus, let his name and his crimes perish with him; but, as for + you, what do you intend to do?” + </p> + <p> + “Troth, sir,” replied Fergus, “it's more than I rightly know. I had my + hopes, like others; but, somehow, luck has left all sorts of lovers of + late—from Sir Robert Whitecraft to your humble servant.” + </p> + <p> + “But you may thank God,” said Reilly, with a smile, “that you had not Sir + Robert Whitecraft's luck.” + </p> + <p> + “Faith, sir,” replied Fergus archly, “there's a pair of us may do so. You + went nearer his luck—such as it was—than I did.” + </p> + <p> + “True enough,” replied the other, with a serious air; “I had certainly a + narrow escape; but I wish to know, as I said, what you intend to do? It is + your duty now, Fergus, to settle industriously and honestly.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, sir, honestly. I didn't expect that from you, Mr. Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me, Fergus,” said Reilly, taking him by the hand; “when I said + honestly I did not mean to intimate any thing whatsoever against your + integrity. I know, unfortunately, the harsh circumstances which drove you + to associate with that remorseless villain and his gang; but I wish you to + resume an industrious life, and, if Ellen Connor is disposed to unite her + fate with yours, I have provided the means—ample means for you both + to be comfortable and happy. She who was so faithful to her mistress will + not fail to make you a good wife.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah,” replied Fergus, “it's I that knows that well; but, unfortunately, I + have no hope there.” + </p> + <p> + “No hope; how is that? I thought your affection was mutual.” + </p> + <p> + “So it is, sir—or, rather, so it was; but she has affection for + nobody now, barring the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>.” + </p> + <p> + Reilly paused, and appeared deeply moved by this. “What,” said he, “will + she not leave her? But I am not surprised at it.” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, she will not leave her, but has taken an oath to stay by her + night and day, until—better times come.” + </p> + <p> + We may say here that Reillys friends took care that neither jailer nor + turnkey should make him acquainted with the unhappy state of the <i>Cooleen + Bawn</i>; he was consequently ignorant of it, and, fortunately, remained + so until after his return home. + </p> + <p> + “Fergus,” said Reilly, “can you tell me how the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> bears + the sentence which sends me to a far country?” + </p> + <p> + “How would she bear it, sir? You needn't ask: Connor, at all events, will + not part from her—not, anyway, until you come back.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Fergus,” proceeded Reilly, “I have, as I said, provided for you + both; what that provision is I will not mention now. Mr. Hastings will + inform you. But if you have a wish to leave this unhappy and distracted + country, even without Connor, why, by applying to him, you will be enabled + to do so; or, if you wish to stay at home and take a farm, you may do so.” + </p> + <p> + “Divil a foot I'll leave the country,” replied the other. “Ellen may stick + to the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, but, be my sowl, I'll stick to Ellen, if I was + to wait these seven years. I'll be as stiff as she is stout; but, at any + rate, she's worth waitin' for.” + </p> + <p> + “You may well say so,” replied Reilly, “and I can quarrel neither with + your attachment nor your patience; but you will not forget to let her know + the provision which I have left for her in the hands of Mr. Hastings, and + tell her it is a slight reward for her noble attachment to my dear <i>Cooleen + Bawn</i>. Fergus,” he proceeded, “have you ever had a dream in the middle + of which you awoke, then fell asleep and dreamt out the dream?” + </p> + <p> + “Troth had I, often, sir; and, by the way, talkin' of dreams, I dreamt + last night that I was wantin' Ellen to marry me, and she said, 'not yet, + Fergus, but in due time.'” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Fergus,” proceeded Reilly, “perhaps there is but half my dream of + life gone; who knows when I return—if I ever do—but my dream + may be completed? and happily, too; I know the truth and faith of my dear + <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>. And, Fergus, it is not merely my dear <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> + that I feel for, but for my unfortunate country. I am not, however, + without hope that the day will come—although it may be a distant one—when + she will enjoy freedom, peace, and prosperity. Now, Fergus, good-by, and + farewell! Come, come, be a man,” he added, with a melancholy smile, whilst + a tear stood even in his own eye—“come, Fergus, I will not have + this; I won't say farewell for ever, because I expect to return and be + happy yet—if not in my own country, at least in some other, where + there is more freedom and less persecution for conscience' sake.” + </p> + <p> + Poor Fergus, however, when the parting moment arrived, was completely + overcome. He caught Reilly in his arms—wept over him bitterly—and, + after a last and sorrowful embrace, was prevailed upon to take his leave. + </p> + <p> + The history of the <i>Cooleen Bawn's</i> melancholy fate soon went far and + near, and many an eye that had never rested on her beauty gave its tribute + of tears to her undeserved sorrows. There existed, however, one individual + who was the object of almost as deep a compassion; this was her father, + who was consumed by the bitterest and most profound remorse. His whole + character became changed by his terrible and unexpected shock, by which + his beautiful and angelic daughter had been blasted before his eyes. He + was no longer the boisterous and convivial old squire, changeful and + unsettled in all his opinions, but silent, quiet, and abstracted almost + from life. + </p> + <p> + He wept incessantly, but his tears did not bring him comfort, for they + were tears of anguish and despair. Ten times a day he would proceed to her + chamber, or follow her to the garden where she loved to walk, always in + the delusive hope that he might catch some spark of returning reason from + those calm-looking but meaningless eyes, after which he would weep like a + child. With respect to his daughter, every thing was done for her that + wealth and human means could accomplish, but to no purpose; the malady was + too deeply seated to be affected by any known remedy, whether moral or + physical. From the moment she was struck into insanity she was never known + to smile, or to speak, unless when she chanced to see a stranger, upon + which she immediately approached, and asked, with clasped hands: + </p> + <p> + “Oh! can you tell me where is William Reilly? They have taken me from him, + and, I cannot find him. Oh! can you tell me where is William Reilly?” + </p> + <p> + There was, however, another individual upon whose heart the calamity of + the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> fell like a blight that seemed to have struck it + into such misery and sorrow as threatened to end only with life. This was + the faithful and attached Ellen Connor. On the day of Reilly's trial she + experienced the alternations of hope, uncertainty, and despair, with such + a depth of anxious feeling, and such feverish excitement, that the period + of time which elapsed appeared to her as if it would never come to an end. + She could neither sit, nor stand, nor work, nor read, nor take her meals, + nor scarcely think with any consistency or clearness of thought. We have + mentioned hope—but it was the faintest and the feeblest element in + that chaos of distress and confusion which filled and distracted her mind. + She knew the state and condition of the country too well—she knew + the powerful influence of Mr. Folliard in his native county—she knew + what the consequences to Reilly must be of taking away a Protestant + heiress; the fact was there—plain, distinct, and incontrovertible, + and she knew that no chance of impunity or acquittal remained for any one + of his creed guilty of such a violation of the laws—we say, she knew + all this—but it was not of the fate of Reilly she thought. The girl + was an acute observer, and both a close and clear thinker. She had + remarked in the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, on several occasions, small gushes, + as it were, of unsettled thought, and of temporary wildness, almost + approaching to insanity. She knew, besides, that insanity was in the + family on her father's side; * and, as she had so boldly and firmly stated + to that father himself, she dreaded the result which Reilly's conviction + might produce upon a mind with such a tendency, worn down and depressed as + it had been by all she had suffered, and more especially what she must + feel by the tumult and agitation of that dreadful day. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * The reader must take this as the necessary material for + our fiction. There never was insanity in Helen's family; and + we make this note to prevent them from taking unnecessary + offence. +</pre> + <p> + It was about two hours after dark when she was startled by the noise of + the carriage-wheels as they came up the avenue. Her heart beat as if it + would burst, the blood rushed to her head, and she became too giddy to + stand or walk; then it seemed to rush back to her heart, and she was + seized with thick breathing and feebleness; but at length, strengthened by + the very intensity of the interest she felt, she made her way to the lower + steps of the hall door in time to be present when the carriage arrived at + it. She determined, however, wrought up as she was to the highest state of + excitement, to await, to watch, to listen. She did so. The carriage + stopped at the usual place, the coachman came down and opened the door, + and Mr. Folliard came out. After him, assisted by Mrs. Brown, came Helen, + who was immediately conducted in between the latter and her father. In the + meantime poor Ellen could only look on. She was incapable of asking a + single question, but she followed them up to the drawing-room where they + conducted her mistress. When she was about to enter, Mrs. Brown said: + </p> + <p> + “Ellen, you had better not come in; your mistress is unwell.” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Hastings then approached, and, with a good deal of judgment and + consideration, said: + </p> + <p> + “I think it is better, Mrs. Brown, that Ellen should see her, or, rather, + that she should see Ellen. Who can tell how beneficial the effect may be + on her? We all know how she was attached to Ellen.” + </p> + <p> + In addition to those fearful intimations, Ellen heard inside the sobs and + groans of her distracted father, mingled with caresses and such tender and + affectionate language as, she knew by the words, could only be addressed + to a person incapable of understanding them. Mrs. Brown held the door + partially closed, but the faithful girl would not be repulsed. She pushed + in, exclaiming: + </p> + <p> + “Stand back, Mrs. Brown, I must see my mistress!—if she is my + mistress, or anybody's mistress now,”—and accordingly she approached + the settee on which the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> sat. The old squire was + wringing his hands, sobbing, and giving vent to the most uncontrollable + sorrow. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Ellen,” said he, “pity and forgive me. Your mistress is gone, gone!—she + knows nobody!” + </p> + <p> + “Stand aside,” she replied; “stand aside all of you; let me to her.” + </p> + <p> + She knelt beside the settee, looked distractedly,—but keenly, at her + for about half a minute—but there she sat, calm, pale, and + unconscious. At length she turned her eyes upon Ellen—for ever since + the girl's entrance she had been gazing on vacancy—and immediately + said: + </p> + <p> + “Oh! can you tell me where is William Reilly? They have taken me from him, + and I cannot find him. Oh! will you tell me where is William Reilly?” + </p> + <p> + Ellen gave two or three rapid sobs; but, by a powerful effort, she + somewhat composed herself. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Folliard,” she said, in a choking voice, however, “darling Miss + Folliard—my beloved mistress—<i>Cooleen Bawn</i>—oh, do + you not know me—me, your own faithful Ellen, that loved you—and + that loves you so well—ay, beyond father and mother, and all others + living in this unhappy world? Oh, speak to me, dear mistress—speak + to your own faithful Ellen, and only say that you know me, or only look + upon me as if you did.” + </p> + <p> + Not a glance, however, of recognition followed those loving solicitations; + but there, before them all, she sat, with the pale face, the sorrowful + brow, and the vacant look. Ellen addressed her with equal tenderness again + and again, but with the same melancholy effect. The effect was beyond + question—reason had departed; the fair temple was there, but the + light of the divinity that had been enshrined in it was no longer visible; + it seemed to have been abandoned probably for ever. Ellen now finding that + every effort to restore her to rational consciousness was ineffectual, + rose up, and, looking about for a moment, her eyes rested upon her father. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Ellen!” he exclaimed, “spare me, spare me—you know I'm in your + power. I neglected your honest and friendly warning, and now it is too + late.” + </p> + <p> + “Poor man!” she replied, “it is not she, but you, that is to be pitied. + No; after this miserable sight, never shall my lips breathe one syllable + of censure against you. Your punishment is too dreadful for that. But when + I look upon her—look upon her now—oh, my God! what is this?”— + </p> + <p> + “Help the girl,” said Mrs. Brown quickly, and with alarm. “Oh, she has + fallen—raise her up, Mr. Folliard. Oh, my God, Mrs. Hastings, what a + scene is this!” + </p> + <p> + They immediately opened her stays, and conveyed her to another settee, + where she lay for nearly a quarter of an hour in a calm and tranquil + insensibility. With the aid of the usual remedies, however, she was, but + with some difficulty, restored, after which she burst into tears, and wept + for some time bitterly. At length she recovered a certain degree of + composure, and, after settling her dress and luxuriant brown hair, aided + by Mrs. Brown and Mrs. Hastings, she arose, and once more approaching her + lovely, but unconscious, mistress, knelt down, and, clasping her hands, + looked up to heaven, whilst she said: + </p> + <p> + “Here, I take the Almighty God to witness, that from this moment out I + renounce father and mother, brother and sister, friend and relative, man + and woman, and will abide by my dear unhappy <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>—that + blighted flower before us—both by day and by night—through all + seasons—through all places wherever she may go, or be brought, until + it may please God to restore her to reason, or until death may close her + sufferings, should I live so long, and have health and strength to carry + out this solemn oath; so may God hear me, and assist me in my intention.” + </p> + <p> + She then rose, and, putting her arms around the fair girl, kissed her + lips, and poured forth a copious flood of tears into her bosom. + </p> + <p> + “I am yours now,” she said, caressing her mournfully: “I am yours now, my + ever darling mistress; and from this hour forth nothing but death will + ever separate your own Connor from you.” + </p> + <p> + Well and faithfully did she keep that generous and heroic oath. Ever, for + many a long and hopeless year, was she to be found, both night and day, by + the side of that beautiful but melancholy sufferer. No other hand ever + dressed or undressed her; no other individual ever attended to her wants, + or complied with those little fitful changes and caprices to which persons + of her unhappy class are subject. The consequence of this tender and + devoted attachment was singular, but not by any means incompatible, we + think, even with her situation. If Connor, for instance, was any short + time absent, and another person supplied her place, the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, + in whose noble and loving heart the strong instincts of affection could + never die, uniformly appeared dissatisfied and uneasy, and looked around + her, as if for some object that would afford her pleasure. On Ellen's + reappearance a faint but placid smile would shed its feeble light over her + countenance, and she would appear calm and contented; but, during all this + time, word uttered she none, with the exception of those to which we have + already alluded. + </p> + <p> + These were the only words she was known to utter, and no stranger ever + came in her way to whom she did not repeat them. In this way her father, + her maid, and herself passed through a melancholy existence for better + than six years, when a young physician of great promise happened to settle + in the town of Sligo, and her father having heard of it had him + immediately called in. After looking at her, however, he found himself + accosted in the same terms we have already given: + </p> + <p> + “Oh! can you tell me where is William Reilly?” + </p> + <p> + “William Reilly will soon be with you,” he replied; “he will soon be + here.” + </p> + <p> + A start—barely, scarcely perceptible, was noticed by the keen eye of + the physician; but it passed away, and left nothing but that fixed and + beautiful vacancy behind it. + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” said the physician, “I do not absolutely despair of Miss Folliard's + recovery: the influence of some deep excitement, if it could be made + accessible, might produce a good effect; it was by a shock it came upon + her, and I am of opinion that if she ever does recover it will be by + something similar to that which induced her pitiable malady.” + </p> + <p> + “I will give a thousand pounds—five thousand—ten thousand, to + any man who will be fortunate enough to restore her to reason,” said her + father. + </p> + <p> + “One course,” proceeded the physician, “I would recommend you to pursue; + bring her about as much as you can; give her variety of scenery and + variety of new faces; visit your friends, and bring her with you. This + course may have some effect; as for medicine, it is of no use here, for + her health is in every other respect good.” + </p> + <p> + He then took his leave, having first received a fee which somewhat + astonished him. + </p> + <p> + His advice, however, was followed; her father and she, and Connor, during + the summer and autumn months, visited among their acquaintances and + friends, by whom they were treated with the greatest and most considerate + kindness; but, so far as poor Helen was concerned, no symptom of any + salutary change became visible; the long, dull blank of departed reason + was still unbroken. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * * * * * * * +</pre> + <p> + Better than seven years—and a half had now elapsed, when she and her + father came by invitation to pay a visit to a Mr. Hamilton, grandfather to + the late Dacre Hamilton of Monaghan, who—the grandfather we mean—was + one of the most notorious priest-hunters of the day, We need not say that + her faithful Connor was still in attendance. Old Folliard went riding out + with his friend, for he was now so much debilitated as to be scarcely able + to walk abroad for any distance, when, about the hour of two o'clock, a + man in the garb, and with all the bearing of a perfect gentleman, knocked + at the door, and inquired of the servant who opened it whether Miss + Folliard were not there. The servant replied in the affirmative, upon + which the stranger asked if he could see her. + </p> + <p> + “Why, I suppose you must be aware, sir, of Miss Folliard's unfortunate + state of mind, and that she can see nobody; sir, she knows nobody, and I + have strict orders to deny her to every one unless some particular friend + of the family.” + </p> + <p> + The stranger put a guinea into his hand, and added, “I had the pleasure of + knowing her before she lost her reason, and as I have not seen her since, + I should be glad to see her now, or even to look on her for a few + minutes.” + </p> + <p> + “Come up, sir,” replied the man, “and enter the drawing-room immediately + after me, or I shall be ordered to deny her.” + </p> + <p> + The gentleman followed him; but why did his cheek become pale, and why did + his heart palpitate as if it would burst and bound out of his bosom? We + shall see. On entering the drawing-room he bowed, and was about to + apologize for his intrusion, when the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, recognizing him + as a stranger, approached him and said: + </p> + <p> + “Oh! can you tell me where is William Reilly? They have taken me from him, + and I cannot find him. Oh, can you tell me any thing about William + Reilly?” + </p> + <p> + The stranger staggered at this miserable sight, but probably more at the + contemplation of that love which not even insanity could subdue. He felt + himself obliged to lean for support upon the back of a chair, during which + brief space he fixed his eyes upon her with a look of the most + inexpressible tenderness and sorrow. + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” she repeated, “can you tell me where is William Reilly?” + </p> + <p> + “Alas! Helen,” said he, “I am William Reilly.” + </p> + <p> + “You!” she exclaimed. “Oh, no, the wide, wide Atlantic is between him and + me.” + </p> + <p> + “It was between us, Helen, but it is not now; I am here in life before you—your + own William Reilly, that William Reilly whom you loved so well, but so + fatally. I am he: do you not know me?” + </p> + <p> + “You are not William Reilly,” she replied; “if you were, you would have a + token.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you forget that?” he replied, placing in her hand the emerald ring she + had given him at the trial. She started on looking at it, and a feeble + flash was observed to proceed from her eyes. + </p> + <p> + “This might come to you,” she said, “by Reilly's death; yes, this might + come to you in that way; but there is another token which is known to none + but himself and me.” + </p> + <p> + “Whisper,” said he, and as he spoke he applied his mouth to her ear, and + breathed the token into it. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0015" id="linkimage-0015"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img src="images/page182.jpg" alt="Page 182-- It is He! It Is He! " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + She stood back, her eyes flashed, her beautiful bosom heaved; she + advanced, looked once more, and exclaimed, with a scream, “It is he! it is + he!” and the next moment she was insensible in his arms. Long but precious + was that insensibility, and precious were the tears which his eyes rained + down upon that pale but lovel countenance. She was soon placed upon a + settee, but Reilly knelt beside her, and held one of her hands in his. + After a long trance she opened her eyes and again started. Reilly pressed + her hand and whispered in her ear, “Helen, I am with you at last.” + </p> + <p> + She smiled on him and said, “Help me to sit up, until I look about me, + that I may be certain this is not a dream.” + </p> + <p> + She then looked about her, and as the ladies of the family spoke tenderly + to her, and caressed her, she fixed her eyes once more upon her lover, and + said, “It is not a dream then; this is a reality; but, alas! Reilly, I + tremble to think lest they should take you from me again.” + </p> + <p> + “You need entertain no such apprehension, my dear Helen,” said the lady of + the mansion. “I have often heard your father say that he would give twenty + thousand pounds to have you well, and Reilly's wife. In fact, you have + nothing to fear in that, or any other quarter. But there's his knock; he + and my husband have returned, and I must break this blessed news to him by + degrees, lest it might be too much for him if communicated without due and + proper caution.” + </p> + <p> + She accordingly went down to the hall, where they were hanging up their + great coats and hats, and brought them into her husband's study. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Folliard,” said she with a cheerful face, “I think, from some + symptoms of improvement noticed to-day in Helen, that we needn't be + without hope.” + </p> + <p> + “Alas, alas!” exclaimed the poor father, “I have no hope; after such a + length of time I am indeed without a shadow of expectation. If unfortunate + Reilly were here, indeed her seeing him, as that Sligo doctor told me, + might give her a chance. He saw her about a week before we came down, and + those were his words. But as for Reilly, even if he were in the country, + how could I look him in the face? What wouldn't I give now that he were + here, that Helen was well, and that one word of mine could make them man + and wife?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well,” she replied, “don't be cast down; perhaps I could tell you + good news if I wished.” + </p> + <p> + “You're beating about the bush, Mary, at all events,” said her husband, + laughing. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps, now, Mr. Folliard,” she continued, “I could introduce a young + lady who is so fond of you, old and ugly as you are, that she would not + hesitate to kiss you tenderly, and cry with delight on your bosom you old + thief.” + </p> + <p> + They both started at her words with amazement, and her husband said: + “Egad, Alick, Helen's malady seems catching. What the deuce do you mean, + Molly? or must I, too, send for a doctor?” + </p> + <p> + “Shall I introduce you to the lady, though?” she proceeded, addressing the + father; “but remember that, if I do, you must be a man, Mr. Folliard!” + </p> + <p> + “In God's name! do what you like,” said Mr. Hamilton, “but do it at once.” + </p> + <p> + She went upstairs, and said, “As I do not wish to bring your father up, + Helen, until he is prepared for a meeting with Mr. Reilly, I will bring + you down to him. The sight of you now will give him new life.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, come, then,” said Helen, “bring me to my father; do not lose a + moment, not a moment—oh, let me see him instantly!” + </p> + <p> + The poor old man suspected something. “For a thousand!” said he, “this is + some good news about Helen!” + </p> + <p> + “Make your mind up for that,” replied his mend; “as sure as you live it + is; and if it be, bear it stoutly.” + </p> + <p> + In the course of a few minutes Mrs. Hamilton entered the room with Helen, + now awakened to perfect reason, smiling, and leaning upon her arm. “Oh, + dear papa!” she exclaimed, meeting him, with a flood of tears, and resting + her head on his bosom. + </p> + <p> + “What, my darling!—my darling! And you know papa once more!—you + know him again, my darling Helen! Oh, thanks be to God for this happy + day!” And he kissed her lips, and pressed her to his heart, and wept over + her with ecstasy and delight. It was a tender and tearful embrace. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, papa!” said she, “I fear I have caused you much pain and sorrow: + something has been wrong, but I am well now that he is here. I felt the + tones of his voice in my heart.” + </p> + <p> + “Who, darling, who?” + </p> + <p> + “Reilly, papa.” + </p> + <p> + “Hamilton, bring him down instantly; but oh, Helen, darling, how will I + see him?—how can I see him? but he must come, and we must all be + happy. Bring him down.” + </p> + <p> + “You know, papa, that Reilly is generosity itself.” + </p> + <p> + “He is, he is, Helen, and how could I blame you for loving him?” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0016" id="linkimage-0016"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img src="images/page183.jpg" alt="Page 183-- My Son! My Son! " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + Reilly soon entered; but the old man, already overpowered by what had just + occurred, was not able to speak to him for some time. He clasped and + pressed his hand, however, and at length said: + </p> + <p> + “My son! my son! Now,” he added, after he had recovered himself, “now that + I have both together, I will not allow one minute to pass until I give you + both my blessing; and in due time, when Helen gets strong, and when I get + a little stouter, you shall be married; the parson and the priest will + make you both happy. Reilly, can you forgive me?” + </p> + <p> + “I have nothing to forgive you, sir,” replied Reilly; “whatever you did + proceeded from your excessive affection for your daughter; I am more than + overpaid for any thing I may have suffered myself; had it been ages of + misery, this one moment would cancel the memory of it for ever.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot give you my estate, Reilly,” said the old man, “for that is + entailed, and goes to the next male issue; but I can give you fifty + thousand pounds with my girl, and that will keep you both comfortable for + life.” + </p> + <p> + “I thank you, sir,” replied Reilly, “and for the sake of your daughter I + will not reject it; but I am myself in independent circumstances, and + could, even without your generosity, support Helen in a rank of life not + unsuitable to her condition.” + </p> + <p> + It is well known that, during the period in which the incidents of our + story took place, no man claiming the character of a gentleman ever + travelled without his own servant to attend him. After Reilly's return to + his native place, his first inquiries, as might be expected, were after + his <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>; and his next, after those who had been in some + degree connected with those painful circumstances in which he had been + involved previous to his trial and conviction. He found Mr. Brown and Mr. + Hastings much in the same state in which he left them. The latter, who had + been entrusted with all his personal and other property, under certain + conditions, that depended upon his return after the term of his sentence + should have expired, now restored to him, and again reinstated him on the + original terms into all his landed and other property, together with such + sums as had accrued from it during his absence, so that he now found + himself a wealthy man. Next to <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, however, one of his + first inquiries was after Fergus Reilly, whom he found domiciled with a + neighboring middleman as a head servant, or kind of under steward. We need + not describe the delight of Fergus on once more meeting his beloved + relative at perfect liberty, and free from all danger in his native land. + </p> + <p> + “Fergus,” said Reilly, “I understand you are still a bachelor—how + does that come?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, sir,” replied Fergus, “now that you know every thing about the + unhappy state of the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, surely you can't blame poor + Ellen for not desartin' her. As for me I cared nothing about any other + girl, and I never could let either my own dhrame, or what you said was + yours, out o' my head. I still had hope, and I still have, that she may + recover.” + </p> + <p> + Reilly made no reply to this, for he feared to entertain the vague + expectation to which Fergus alluded. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Fergus,” said he, “although I have undergone the sentence of a + convict, yet now, after my return, I am a rich man. For the sake of old + times—of old dangers and old difficulties—I should wish you to + live with me, and to attend me as my own personal servant or man. I shall + get you a suit of livery, and the crest of O'Reilly shall be upon it. I + wish you to attend upon me, Fergus, because you understand me, and because + I never will enjoy a happy heart, or one day's freedom from sorrow again. + All hope of that is past, but you will be useful to me—and that you + know.” + </p> + <p> + Fergus was deeply affected at these words, although he was gratified in + the highest degree at the proposal. In the course of a few days he entered + upon his duties, immediately after which Reilly set out on his journey to + Monaghan, to see once more his beloved, but unhappy, Cooleen Baton. On + arriving at that handsome and hospitable town, he put up at an excellent + inn, called the “Western Arms,” kept by a man who was the model of + innkeepers, known by the sobriquet of “honest Peter Philips”. We need, not + now recapitulate that with which the reader is already acquainted; but we + cannot omit describing a brief interview which took place in the course of + a few days after the restoration of the <i>Cooleen Bawn</i> to the perfect + use of her reason, between two individuals, who, we think, have some claim + upon the good-will and good wishes of our readers. We allude to Fergus + Reilly and the faithful Ellen Connor. Seated in a comfortable room in the + aforesaid inn—now a respectable and admirably kept hotel—with + the same arms over the door, were the two individuals alluded to. Before + them stood a black bottle of a certain fragrant liquor, as clear and + colorless as water from the purest spring, and, to judge of it by the eye, + quite as harmless; but there was the mistake. Never was hypocrisy better + exemplified than by the contents of that bottle. The liquor in question + came, Fergus was informed, from the green woods of Truagh, and more + especially from a townland named Derrygola, famous, besides, for stout men + and pretty girls. + </p> + <p> + “Well, now, Ellen darlin',” said Fergus, “if ever any two bachelors * were + entitled to drink their own healths, surely you and I are. Here's to us—a + happy marriage, soon and sudden. As for myself, I've had the patience of a + Trojan.” + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * “Bachelor,” in Ireland, especially in the country parts of + it, where English is not spoken correctly, is frequently + applied to both the sexes. +</pre> + <p> + Ellen pledged him beautifully with her eyes, but very moderately with the + liquor. + </p> + <p> + “Bedad!” he proceeded, “seven years—ay, and a half—wasn't a + bad apprenticeship, at any rate; but, as I tould Mr. Reilly before he left + the country—upon my sowl, says I, Mr. Reilly, she's worth waitin' + for; and he admitted it.” + </p> + <p> + “But, Fergus, did ever any thing turn out so happy for all parties? To me + it's like a dream; I can scarcely believe it.” + </p> + <p> + “Faith, and if it be a dhrame, I hope it's one we'll never waken from. And + so the four of us are to be married on the same day; and we're all to live + with the squire.” + </p> + <p> + “We are, Fergus; the Cooleen Bawn will have it so; but, indeed, her father + is as anxious for it almost as she is. Ah, no, Fergus, she could not part + with her faithful Ellen, as she calls me; nor, after all, Fergus, would + her faithful Ellen wish to part with her?” + </p> + <p> + “And he's to make me steward; begad, and if I don't make a good one, I'll + make an honest one. Faith, at all events, Ellen, we'll be in a condition + to provide for the childre', plaise God.” + </p> + <p> + Ellen gave him a blushing look of reproach, and desired him to keep a + proper tongue in his head. + </p> + <p> + “But what will we do with the five hundred, Ellen, that the squire and Mr. + Reilly made up between them?” + </p> + <p> + “We'll consult Mr. Reilly about it,” she replied, “and no doubt but he'll + enable us to lay it out to the best advantage. Now, Fergus dear, I must + go,” she added; “you know she can't bear me even now to be any length of + time away from her. Here's God bless them both, and continue them in the + happiness they now enjoy.” + </p> + <p> + “Amen,” replied Fergus, “and here's God bless ourselves, and make us more + lovin' to one another every day we rise; and here's to take a foretaste of + it now, you thief.” + </p> + <p> + Some slight resistance, followed by certain smacking sounds, closed the + interview; for Ellen, having started to her feet, threw on her cloak and + bonnet, and hurried out of the room, giving back, however, a laughing look + at Fergus as she escaped. + </p> + <p> + In a few months afterwards they were married, and lived with the old man + until he became a grandfather to two children, the eldest a boy, and the + second a girl. Upon the same day of their marriage their humble but + faithful friends were also united; so that there was a double wedding. The + ceremony, in the case of Reilly and his <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>, was performed + by the Reverend Mr. Brown first, and the parish priest afterwards; Mr. + Strong, who had been for several years conjoined to Mrs. Smellpriest, + having been rejected by both parties as the officiating clergyman upon the + occasion, although the lovely bride was certainly his parishioner. Age and + time, however, told upon the old man; and at the expiration of three years + they laid him, with many tears, in the grave of his fathers. Soon after + this Reilly and his wife, accompanied by Fergus and Ellen—for the <i>Cooleen + Bawn</i> would not be separated from the latter—removed to the + Continent, where they had a numerous family, principally of sons; and we + need not tell our learned readers, at least, that those young men + distinguished not only themselves, but their name, by acts of the most + brilliant courage in continental warfare. And so, gentle reader, ends the + troubled history of Willy Reilly and his own <i>Cooleen Bawn</i>. + </p> + <div style="height: 6em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Willy Reilly, by William Carleton + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK WILLY REILLY *** + +***** This file should be named 16001-h.htm or 16001-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/1/6/0/0/16001/ + +Produced by David Widger + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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