The Diocese of Meath: Ancient and Modern (vol. 3)

Each story keeps the passage it was read from. Open one to read the passage as the book has it, and, where the companion has written its own telling, that too.

1. Chapel of Kells forcibly shut by mob

   Kells · town · Meath · 1790

   The day after Smyth's claimed verbal collation, the chapel of Kells was shut by Tom Smyth and a group of men he employed, on what was to have been the bishop's solemn visitation day. This is cited by Dr. Plunket as evidence against Smyth's claim to the parish.

   Read the passage

   " Nothing short of constant occupation could have prevented me from returning an earlier answer to your kind favour of the 7th instant. Accept my wishes for your preservation during a long succession of happy years ; wishes not the less warm and sincere for being expressed so late. I request our common friends may through you accept similar wishes of many, many happy years. I had not time to tell you in my last scrawl that Mr. Smyth had at length appealed to the Holy See ; and that it became necessary for me to state with minuteness all this iniquitous business from the origin. I understand his chief plea is, that he got from me on the 7th of August, 1790, a viva voce collation, which has been, such as it was, attested by Messrs. Dempsey and Duffy of Kells, with whom I had on that day an interview. This pretension I have, I think, completely refuted, by proving that on that day no collation could have been given, because there was not then a vacancy. Rev. Laurence O'Reilly being at that very time in peaceable possession of the parish, as I have shewn by his own solemn declaration, which is gone off with the packet I sent to you on Tuesday night last. This decisive fact, which it is impossible to overthrow, is further supported by other facts which demonstrate, that no idea of a collation had been entertained by Mr. Smyth and friends from the 7th of August, 1790, until the 12th of February, 1791, when this bubble first appeared in the letter which gave me notice that he was going to take possession of the chapel of Kells. 1°. The very day after this pretended collation, reported to Smyth and his brother on the evening of the interview, that is the 8th of August, 1790, the chapel of Kells was shut by Tom Smyth, and a set of ruffians employed for the purpose ; and it was to have been the solemn visitation

   168 THE EISHOPS OF MEATH — DR. PLUNKET.

   Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 34

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Kells in Meath, you are on ground where a dispute over the Catholic parish boiled into open force in 1790. Dr. Plunket, the bishop, was fighting a claim by a man named Smyth to the parish. Smyth said that on the 7th of August 1790, Plunket had given him a verbal collation, a spoken appointment, witnessed by two men of Kells, Dempsey and Duffy. Plunket said this was false. He proved that on that day no vacancy existed, because the Reverend Laurence O'Reilly was in peaceable possession of the parish at that very time. Then Plunket pointed to what happened the next day. On the 8th of August 1790, the day after this supposed collation, the chapel of Kells was shut by Tom Smyth and, in Plunket's words, "a set of ruffians employed for the purpose." It was to have been the bishop's solemn visitation day. Plunket argued that this showed the collation never happened. He noted that no idea of a collation had been mentioned by Smyth or his friends from the 7th of August 1790 until the 12th of February 1791, when the claim first appeared in a letter giving notice that Smyth was going to take possession of the chapel. Smyth had appealed to the Holy See, and Plunket was laying out the whole business from the beginning to refute him.

2. Danish plundering of Lough Ree monasteries

   near Lough Ree · lake or lakes · Westmeath · 843–937

   In 843 the Danish tyrant Turgesius entered Lough Ree and plundered the various monasteries and churches on its islands. Further Danish raids in 920, 922, 927, 929 and 937 brought death and destruction to the same area.

   Read the passage

   Before St. Keiran left Hare Island for Clonmacnoise, he placed over his monastery a Munsterman, named Dorian,* or Adonnan, who governed here for several years. The festival of St. Donan is marked in the Martijrology of Tallagkt at the 7th of January. Of the names of hia successors we have now no record, but our annalists have handed down the ruin inflicted on the abbeys and churches of the islands of Lough-Ree, during the invasion of the Danes. In 843, Turgesius, the Danish tyrant, entered Lough-Ree, and plundered the various monasteries and churches of the islands. — The Four Masters record at A.D., 894, and 895 : —

   " An army was led by the Connaughtmen into Westmeath. Inis-Aiugin (Hare Island) was profaned, and a man was mor-

   Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 109

3. De Lacy's castle and the corporate town of Kilbixy

   Kilbixy · townland · Westmeath · 1192–1682

   In 1192 a castle was erected at Kilbixy by De Lacy, and a town of considerable importance arose with twelve burgesses in scarlet gowns, a mayor and other officers, as recorded by Sir Henry Piers in 1682, along with remains of the Burgage-castle and Burgage land.

   Read the passage

   In 1192 a castle was erected here by De Lacy, which was subsequently occupied by Geoflry de Constantine, who founded on his estate the Priory of Canons Regular of Tristernagh. A town of considerable importance arose here in ancient times, of which Sir Henry Piers tells us there "were twelve burgesses in their scarlet gowns, a mayor or sovereign, with other officers suitable to so great a port." He tells us that in his time (in A.D. 1682), there was a large piece of an old square castle called the Burgagecastle, and forty acres of ground adjoining, called also the Burgage land, which were the town-house and the land belonging to the corporation. On the bank of Lough-Iron, adjoining, there is a place called " the Haven of the Market," which was the landing-place of the eastern frequenters of the market of Kilbixy. In 1430 the town of Kilbixy, as being an Anglo-Norman citadel, was plundered and burned by O'Neill and the northern Irish. In 1450 Mageoghegan, then at warwilh the English, burned Kilbixy and other Anglo-Norman towns, and the Four Masters add:—

   * Four Masters, by TV. O' Donovan. The editor remarks that when he visited Kilbixy in 1837, he found, "1. The Leper-house, a mere rnin; 2. The site of the castle, but no remains whatever of its walls ; 3. A moat, surrounded by one circular fosse ; 4. Site of the gallows. A holy well near the church called the well of St. Bigseach." I may add, to Dr. O'Donovan's observations, that when I visited Kilbixy on the -tth of August, 1863, I found one of the old fonts of the church stuck in the wall of a donkey-stable, at one of the private entrances to the churchyard.

   Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 112

4. Dr. Logan dies at the Cove of Cork and is buried in Kells chapel

   Kells · town · Meath · 1830

   Suffering physical infirmity, Bishop Logan was sent by medical advice to the Cove of Cork (Queenstown) where he died on 22 April 1830; his remains were brought home and interred with a marble monument in the chapel of Kells, honoured by Protestants and Catholics alike.

   Read the passage

   1827, he succeeded as Bishop of Meath. On the death of the venerable Archdeacon Kearney, P.P. of Kells, on the llth of February, 1827, he petitioned the Holy See for the vacant parish, and having obtained it, he appointed the Very Rev. Eugene O'Reilly, who had been president of the Seminary of Navan, to succeed Dr. Plunket as pastor of Navan. Alas ! the days of Dr. Logan's episcopal rule were few. From the time the aged prelate of Meath departed this life, Dr. Logan began to pine away. He performed visitation throughout the diocese in 1827 and during a portion of 1828 ; and edified clergy and laity by his unostentatious piety and charity, by his great humility, and by his pithy, pointed, and impressive sermons, which proved him not an unworthy successor to the great departed, who, in his day, had been considered a model of style, an accomplished scholar and divine. At length, physicial infirmity obliged him to succumb. By medical advice he was ordered to the Cove of Cork, now Queenstown, where, after a short time, he sank rapidly, and departed this life on the 22nd of April, 1830. When his death was made known there was the greatest regret ; for he had endeared himself to clergy and laity, on account of his meekness and his rare humility. His remains were conveyed home to his parish of Kells, where every respect was paid to his memory by Protestants as well as Catholics. All vied in giving due honour to departed worth; and to this day, all who had been spectators of his life, and who had heard his sermons, speak with veneration of the saintly Dr. Logan. He was interred in the chapel of Kells, and over his tomb a marble monument commemorates him, with the following inscription : —

   " Underneath are deposited

   Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 83

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Kells, this is where Dr. Logan finally came home. He became Bishop of Meath in 1827, succeeding the venerable Archdeacon Kearney, and straight away appointed the Very Rev. Eugene O'Reilly as pastor of Navan. But his days as bishop were few. From the time the aged prelate before him died, Logan began to pine away. He carried out visitation through the diocese in 1827 and part of 1828, and he edified clergy and laity alike with his unostentatious piety, his great humility, and his pithy, pointed, impressive sermons. At length, physical infirmity obliged him to succumb. By medical advice he was ordered to the Cove of Cork, now Queenstown, where after a short time he sank rapidly and died on the 22nd of April, 1830. The regret was great, because his meekness and rare humility had endeared him to everyone. His remains were conveyed home to his parish of Kells, where every respect was paid to his memory by Protestants as well as Catholics. All vied in giving due honour to departed worth, and to this day those who had seen his life and heard his sermons speak with veneration of the saintly Dr. Logan. He was interred in the chapel of Kells, and over his tomb a marble monument commemorates him.

5. Maynooth College disrupted by 1798 insurgents

   Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1798

   Very Rev. Peter Flood, President of Maynooth College, wrote in June 1798 that the college's tradesmen (carpenters, slaters, joiners) had been forced away by insurgents, and that some had threatened to force the students to march in their ranks, delaying building works.

   Read the passage

   "We commence vacation this day. Prudence prevents me from entering into any details. Give me leave to refer your Lordship to the bearer, Mr. Keogan, or Mr. Koe, for particulars. I hope ere long to see you in person, and, os ad os loqui, I shall only tell you at present that I act under the instructions and advice of Lord Castlereagh, Secretary Cooke, Dr. Troy, and Lord Kenmare. I waited on Lord Castlereagh twice la.st week, and I am happy to inform you that he has repeatedly assured me that the College should continue to enjoy the fullest, protection from Government. We received, a few days ago, from the Treasury — without solicitation — £750. We expect, Deo juvante. to resume studies on the 24th or 25th of August next, but I fear it will not be in our power to receive additional students; pendent opera interrupta: all our carpenteis, slaters, joiners, &c., have been forced away by the insurgents. Some of these miscreants have repeatedly threatened to make the students march in their ranks. God convert them, and bring them to a sense of their duty.

   "Rev. Messrs. Keogan, Roe, Kennedy, White, Kelly, Kearney, and Bannon, set out to-morrow. I have no reproach to make

   Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 41

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Maynooth in Kildare, you're near the old college that found itself caught up in the rebellion of 1798. In June of that year the president of Maynooth College, Very Reverend Peter Flood, wrote that all the carpenters, slaters and joiners working on the building had been forced away by insurgents. Some of them, he said, had repeatedly threatened to make the students march in their ranks. He called them miscreants and prayed God would convert them and bring them to a sense of their duty. Flood sent the students on vacation and hoped to resume studies on the 24th or 25th of August, but feared the college could not take in additional students because the building works stood interrupted. He had met Lord Castlereagh twice the week before and said Castlereagh repeatedly assured him the college would enjoy the fullest protection from government. The Treasury had sent 750 pounds without any solicitation. Flood acted under the advice of Lord Castlereagh, Secretary Cooke, Doctor Troy, and Lord Kenmare, and he kept the details spare, writing that prudence prevented him from entering into them.

6. Mullingar Repeal banquet and Dr. Cantwell's speech

   Mullingar · town · Westmeath · 1843

   At the Repeal monster meeting in Mullingar on 14 May 1843, Dr. Cantwell chaired the banquet, proposing the toast to O'Connell to a rapturous quarter-hour ovation, and O'Connell in turn praised the Irish hierarchy at length.

   Read the passage

   " A rapturous burst of popular feeling, which could take place only in Ireland, and only after .such a toast, succeeded. The entire company continued waving their hats and handkerchiefs, with deafening and rapturous peals of acclamation, for nearly a quarter of an hour. The band played ' See the Conquering Hero comes,' &c."

   O'Connell, in proposing the health of the chairman at a later period of the evening, said : —

   Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 90

7. O'Carolan's Schooling and Romance at Cruisetown

   Cruisetown · townland · Louth

   O'Carolan was sent to school at Cruisetown, where he met Miss Bridget Cruise, who inspired many of his finest poems. He later lost his sight to smallpox at age fifteen.

   Read the passage

   Torlogh, or Terence O'Carolan, the celebrated poet and musician, was the son of John O'Carolan, an industrious farmer, and was born in the year 1670, in the neighbourhood of Nobber. He was sent to school to Cruisetown, and there became acquainted with Miss Bridget Cruise, in whose praise he, in after years, composed many of his finest poems. At the age of fifteen he was attacked with small-pox, and lost his sight, which he never afterwards

   Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 131

8. Priest Declared Destitute of Jurisdiction at Longwood

   Longwood · town · Meath · 1810–1811

   Rev. T. Hitchcock, O.P., late administrator of Longwood, was publicly declared by the bishop to be without jurisdiction after disobeying since the previous St. Stephen's Day; confirmation was refused to children whose parents supported his defiance.

   Read the passage

   „ „ The Rev. T. Hitchcock, O.P., late administrator of Longwood, was declared by me to be destitute of jurisdiction, and confirmation was refused to the children he presented, whose parents abetted his disobedience to the bishop since last St. Stephen's Day, when the bishop deprived him of the faculties of the diocese. From that day he remained disobedient, deceived the unfortunate flock, and on this day, the 22nd of August, declared he would continue to be their pastor, when a number of the flock were not ashamed to tell the bishop publicly that they would adhere to him.

   „ 24. Kildalkey (Rev. J. Rickard), 51.

   Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 66

9. St. Colman Elo founds monastery of Lynally in cleared forest

   Lynally · parish · Offaly · 590–610

   St. Colman, granted the forest of Fidh-Elo in Fercall by King Aidus, founded a monastery there known as Lann-Elo, later Lynally, where followers cleared the forest and established religious life; he died in 610 and was buried in the church of Lynally.

   Read the passage

   Lynally is a parish in the barony of Ballycowan, King's County. A monastery was erected here at the close of the sixth century, by St. Colman or Columban, called also Colman Elo or Ela.* This eminent man was the son of Beognai, of the race or tribe of Sailni, and was born about the year 555. He was a native of Meath, but spent most of his early years in the diocese of Connor, where he founded the abbey and church of Muckamore. He returned to Meath about the year 590, and having attended a meeting at which were present St. Columbkill, Aldus, Flan or Slani, King of Meath, afterwards Monarch of Ireland, St. Cannich, and many other celebrities, it was proposed by Columbkill that a site be granted to their relative, Colman, on which he might establish a monastery. This request was granted by King Aidus, and, accordingly, a large forest, named Fidh-Elo, in the district of Fercall, was offered to, and accepted by St. Colman, as the scene of his future labours and services to religion. A monastery was erected here, which obtained the name of Lann-Elo, " the house or church of Elo," since called Lynally, and the great sanctity of St. Colman soon attracted numbers of selfsacrificing followers, who cleared the forest, converted the wilderness into a garden, and vied with the founder, in the observance of every rule and the practice of every virtue. In 597 St. Colman visited the great Columbian monastery of Hy or lona, and, at his departure, St. Columbkill foretold that they would never meet again in this world. After his return to Ireland, St. Colman was consecrated bishop, but by whom, or in what precise year, I am unable to state. After a glorious life, spent in the service of God, St. Colman died on the 26th of September, in the year 610,

   * Usher's Primordium, p. 960 ; O'Donovan's Four Masters, A.D. 610 ; Lanigan, vol. ii., pp. 304-310 ; Adamnan. In the Martyrology of Donegal, Appendix to Introduction (p. 44), it is recorded that then (1630) " The staff •of Colman Ealo is still to be found."

   Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 116

10. St Fechin founds monastery of Fore, ruling 300 monks

    Fore · townland · Westmeath · 600–699

    The monastery of Fobhar, now Fore, was founded by St Fechin early in the seventh century on firm ground amid a bog, surrounded by wild and beautiful scenery. It grew to house 300 monks who subsisted by their own labour under Fechin's austere rule.

    Read the passage

    The monastery of Fobhar, now Fore, was founded by St. Fechin, early in the seventh century. It was situated on a firm spot of ground, in the midst of a bog, and encompassed by the magnificent scenery of a wild and beautiful country. The great sanctity of the founder soon attracted numbers to his retreat, and before long the monastery of Fore numbered 300 monks, over whom St. Fechin ruled, as a father and a guide, and all of whom subsisted by their own labour. Hence, in the office of St. Fechin we read : —

    " Dehinc fuit monachorum Dux et pater trecentorum Quos instruxit lege morum Murus contra vitia."

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 107

11. Aodh Allan slain in battle near Kells

    Kells · town · Meath · 738

    Aodh (Hugh) Allan, Monarch of Ireland, who commenced his reign in 780, was slain in a battle fought near Kells in 738; he was also a composer of poems recorded in the Four Masters.

    Read the passage

    Aodh (Hugh) Attain, Monarch of Ireland, commenced his reign in the year 780, and was slain, in a battle near Kells, in 738. He composed some poems, of which fragments are inserted in the Four Masters at A.D. 734 and 738, and others in O'Clery's Book of Invasions.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 122

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Kells now. Near this town, in 738, Aodh Allan, Monarch of Ireland, was slain in battle. He had commenced his reign in 780 and was a poet whose fragments appear in the Four Masters at 734 and 738, and in O'Clery's Book of Invasions.

12. Bishop's carriage accident near Mullingar

    Mullingar · town · Westmeath · 1801

    Returning late to Mullingar from dining with General Payne of Portlemon, the bishop was thrown from his carriage and lay under it in a ditch after it overturned, escaping with only bruises. He said Mass of thanksgiving the following day for his deliverance.

    Read the passage

    „ 25. I dined with General Payne, of Portlemon. On my return late to Mullingar I escaped, through Divine Providence, from an accident by which I might have perished, having been thrown from the carriage which conveyed me, and lain under it for some time in the ditch where it overset. I suffered only a few bruises, and was next day able to say Mass of thanksgiving for the protection of heaven.

    „ 26. Taghmon (Rev. Thomas Stafford), 111 .—Neglect of the Sacraments ; delay of repentance.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 54

13. Establishment of the Presentation Convent at Killina, Rahan

    Killina · townland · Offaly · 1817

    Bishop Plunket established the Convent of the Presentation at Killina, near Rahan, in August 1817. A subsequent letter from the Superioress, Mary Angela Bigger, described the opening of a school which quickly attracted over one hundred children, and the nuns' improved health from the air of Rahan.

    Read the passage

    " Allow me to say that I have frequently wished to write to your Lordship since I have had the honour of seeing you ; but not having any particular matter for consultation, timidity withheld me from what I deemed an unnecessary intrusion on your precious time and many weighty cares. However, your fatherly solicitude encourages, and affords me the gratification of acquainting your Lordship that, according to your advice, we commenced our annual retreat the day after the feast of the Assumption, and opened our school on the first of September. A great number of children presented themselves on that day, and before the end of the week we had more than one hundred. They continued very constant until the commencement of the harvest, when the greater number of the grown girls were obliged to remain at home. We find the dispositions of the children very favourable ; they are mild and docile. A great number of women attend instructions on Sundays after Mass. All appear most attentive and inclined to piety. We have to regret that our school-room is too small, either for the children on week-days, or for the women on Sundays. We certainly feel the want of another nun, and cherish the hope that, through your Lordship's influence, Dr. Troy may, in some time, grant us one from Dublin. . . . Howerer, thank God, we feel no material inconvenience in going through much more labour than we were equal to in Dublin, and find our health greatly improved by the air of Eahin. 'Tis true we cannot be in all points as regular to every rule as in a more numerous community would be requisite, but we strive to manage as well as we can. . . . We trust that God, in his own time, will provide additional help. Rev. Mr. Kenney was here last month, and, in compliance with your Lordship's appointment, assisted us one day. Rev. Mr. Cunningham continues uniform in his attention. He celebrates Mass for us every day he can conveniently do so. Rev. Mr. Coghlan, the curate, too, does all in his power likewise for us. ...

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 72

14. Gilla Modhuda O'Cassidy, Abbot of Ardbraccan

    Ardbraccan · townland · Meath · 1143

    Gilla Modhuda O'Cassidy, alias Dall Clairineach, Abbot of Ardbraccan, died in 1143. He was described as a learned historian and famous poet who composed hundreds of verses on the Christian monarchs of Ireland.

    Read the passage

    Gilla Modhuda O'Cassidy, alias Dall Clairineach, Abbot of Ardbraccan, died in the year 1143. O'Reilly calls him " a very learned man, a well-informed historian, and a famous poet." (Catalogue, p. 84.) Amongst his other productions he .composed 368 verses on the Christian monarchs of Ireland, from Laoghaire, A.D. 428, to the death of Malachy II., in the year 1022 ; 204 verses containing a catalogue of the monarchs of Ireland, showing how many kings of each name governed the country ; 374 verses on the names of the wives and mothers of the kings and chiefs of Ireland of the Milesian race.

    The Four Masters enter, under A.D. 1185 — " Maelisa, O'Daly, ollave (chief poet) of Ireland and Scotland, Lord of Corcaree and Corca-Adain (in Westmeath), a man illustrious for his poetry, hospitality, and nobility, died while on a pilgrimage at Clonard."

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 124

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Ardbraccan stood the monastery of an abbot called Gilla Modhuda O'Cassidy, or Dall Clairineach, who died in 1143. O'Reilly called him "a very learned man, a well-informed historian, and a famous poet." He composed 368 verses on the Christian monarchs of Ireland, from Laoghaire in 428 to the death of Malachy II in 1022, plus 204 verses cataloguing the monarchs by name, and 374 verses on the wives and mothers of the kings and chiefs of the Milesian race.

15. Great Catholic Demonstration at Navan in support of the Pope

    Navan · town · Meath · 1859

    On 29 December 1859 a huge Catholic meeting took place at Navan, presided over by the Bishop of Meath, in support of Pope Pius IX against the loss of the Papal States. Over 7,000 people packed the Metropolitan Church with thousands more unable to gain entry, and an address of sympathy to the Pope was adopted.

    Read the passage

    " The Meath demonstration took place to-day, and a more important and decisive expression of public feeling, even on the part of the Catholic county of Meath, could scarcely be imagined. For some short period arrangements had been in progress amongst the clergy and laity to render the meeting in every way successful and potential, to accomplish the great object for which it was convened. The expectations of its pro-

    520 THE BISHOPS OF MEATH — DR. CANTWELL.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 92

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Navan, this is the town where, on 29 December 1859, a great Catholic demonstration took place in support of Pope Pius IX against the loss of the Papal States. The Bishop of Meath presided. Over 7,000 people packed the Metropolitan Church, with thousands more unable to get in, and an address of sympathy to the Pope was adopted.

16. Inis-Mochta plundered by Danes on the ice

    Inishmot · parish · Meath · 939–1025

    The Danes plundered Inis-Mochta while crossing the frozen lake in 939, and again in 1025 an army under Flavertach O'Neill and Maelseachlainn crossed the ice to plunder the island then held by the Danes.

    Read the passage

    " 939.— Unusual frost, so that the rivers and lakes were passible; and the foreigners (Danes) plundered Inis-Mochta on the ice.

    " 1025. — An army was led by Flavertach O'Neill, and Maelseachlainn, into Meath, and they obtained hostages, and entered Inis-Mochta upon the ice, and plundered the island, then in* the possession of the foreigners (Danes).

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 101

17. Kells clergy meeting protests episcopal election process

    Kells · town · Meath · 1824

    A number of pastors of the diocese met in Kells under the presidency of the Archdeacon of Meath to draft resolutions protesting undue influence and lay interference in the selection of a coadjutor-bishop.

    Read the passage

    THE venerable and saintly Dr. Plunket, after a long life of incessant labour, spent in the discharge of his onerous and sacred duties, was at length approaching the end, and was destined soon to pass away and receive his reward. From the year 1822 he was gradually sinking, mentally and physically, and in the summer of 1823 he petitioned the Holy See for a coadjutor, on account of age and infirmity, requesting to have Rev. Christopher Banon, P.P. of Milltown, County Westmeath, appointed to that office. Cardinal della Somalia, Prefect of the Sacred Congregation, replied to this application, on the 31st of January, 1824, to the effect that three names should be sent to Rome, ecclesiastics remarkable for learning, piety, and prudence, and that, on the fulfilment of these preliminaries, a coadjutor would be selected for the diocese of Meath. In the meantime, many of the clergy of the diocese felt uneasy and dissatisfied that a matter of such momentous importance should be undertaken without consulting their wishes, and accordingly a number of pastors met in Kells, under the presidency of the Archdeacon of Meath, who approved of and adopted the following resolutions : —

    " We, the undersigned clergymen of the diocese of Meath, have unanimously agreed to the following resolutions : —

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 81

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Kells, in Meath, this is where a number of the clergy of the diocese gathered in 1824 to protest how a coadjutor-bishop was being chosen. Dr. Plunket, the bishop, had been gradually sinking since 1822, mentally and physically. In the summer of 1823 he petitioned the Holy See for a coadjutor on account of age and infirmity, and he requested that Rev. Christopher Banon, parish priest of Milltown, County Westmeath, be appointed to that office. Cardinal della Somalia, Prefect of the Sacred Congregation, replied on the 31st of January 1824, saying that three names should be sent to Rome, ecclesiastics remarkable for learning, piety, and prudence, and that on the fulfilment of these preliminaries a coadjutor would be selected for the diocese of Meath. Many of the clergy of the diocese felt uneasy and dissatisfied that a matter of such momentous importance should be undertaken without consulting their wishes. A number of pastors met in Kells, under the presidency of the Archdeacon of Meath, and approved and adopted a set of resolutions. The clergy declared, "We, the undersigned clergymen of the diocese of Meath, have unanimously agreed to the following resolutions."

18. Lambert's 1614 raid and imprisonment at Mullingar gaol

    Mullingar · town · Westmeath · 1614

    Sir Oliver Lambert surrounded Multifarnam with soldiers in 1614, seized all the friars he met, and lodged them in the gaol of Mullingar.

    Read the passage

    crepit and unable to stand, was ruthlessly torn from his cloister and flung, as they thought, dead, into a ditch of thorns. Father Mooney, who wrote in 1617, tells us that some of their most cruel persecutors were Sir Dudley Loftus, son of the Protestant Archbishop of Dublin ; Sir "Richard Grear, Patrick Fox, high sheriff of Westmeath, and Sir Oliver Lambert. Loftus and Grear attacked Multifarnam in 1607, and carried off five of the fathers to Dublin, where they were confined in prison for eighteen months. Fox stole on the friars in 1613, and, amongst others, arrested Father Bernard Gray, who, after a few years' imprisonment was allowed to seek refuge in France, where he died of disease contracted in the fetid dungeons of Dublin Castle. Lambert surrounded Multifarnam with soldiers in 1614, seized all the friars he met, and lodged them in the gaol of Mullingar.

    Dr. Kichard Brady, mentioned above, belonged to a princely house in Brefney, studied with great success, and took the habit of St. Francis in the Monastery of Cavan. He was an eminent jurist, and was universally respected for his abilities, learning, and piety. On the 23rd of January, 1576, he was promoted by the Holy See to the bishopric of Ardagh, and was, subsequently, translated to Kilmore. After the visitation of his diocese, he resided for the most part in Multifarnam ; wore the habit of the order, and led a very austere life. He was three times arrested by the English authorities, was twice ransomed from prison, and on the third occasion of his arrest, the habit was torn from his person, and he was flung into a thicket. Towards the close of his days he resigned the see of Kilmore, departed this life in Multifarnam, in September, 1607, and was buried in the choir of the church.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 114

19. New Chapel at Rathkenny and Hitchcock's Penance

    Rathkenny · townland · Meath · 1812

    The bishop complimented the parish of Rathkenny on the erection of its beautiful new chapel in 1812; the same day Rev. Mr. Hitchcock, who had defied the bishop over Longwood, came on his knees to ask pardon for the scandal of his schism.

    Read the passage

    27. Rathkenny (Rev. M. O'Hanlon), 109. — Compliments on the erection of the beautiful new chapel of Rathkenny. On the 2 1 st Rev. Mr. Hitchcock came to me at Rev. Mr. Clarke's, and on his knees asked pardon for the scandal he had given by his schism.

    Nov. 11. I attended the board of College Trustees, at which assisted the Primate, Dr. Troy, and his Coadjutor, Dr. Murray, who assisted as President of the College of Maynooth; Drs. Bray (Cashel), Plunket (Meath), Delany of Kildare, Moylan of Cork, Coppinger of Cloyne, and the Earl of Fingall, with Mr. Strange. The Earl of Kenmare was chosen a trustee in the place of his father, lately deceased. We petitioned Parliament for the sum of £13,000, which the college had under the Duke of Bedford. „ 13. I assisted at the general meeting of the prelates of Ireland relative to the wishes of government concerning our dignities.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 67

20. Repeal monster meeting at Kells

    Kells · town · Meath · 1843

    A Repeal monster meeting was held at Kells on 23 April 1843, attended by an estimated 150,000 people, where Dr. Cantwell spoke to the vote of confidence.

    Read the passage

    O'Connell called the memorable year 1843 pre-eminently the Repeal year. We shall confine ourselves to the part Dr. Can tw ell took in the political agitation of the Repeal year. In referring to the tiles of the periodicals of that period we find that Dr. Cantwell attended the Repeal banquet to O'Connell in Trim,* on the 19th of March, 1843 ; and he responded to the toast of the Catholic Hierarchy of Ireland. At the Repeal monster meeting, held at Kells, April 23rd, same year, he spoke to the same vote of confidence. At the Repeal monster meeting, held in Mullingar on the 14th of May, Dr. Cantwell acted as chairman at the banquet, and, in proposing the health of O'Connell, his Lordship said : —

    " Gentlemen, we are now come to the principal toast of the evening, as you may easily perceive that I must combine the

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 90

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kells, you are moving through the site of a great Repeal monster meeting held on 23 April 1843. O'Connell had called 1843 pre-eminently the Repeal year, and an estimated 150,000 people gathered here. Dr. Cantwell, who had earlier responded to the toast of the Catholic Hierarchy at a Repeal banquet in Trim, spoke at Kells to the same vote of confidence.

21. Reputed Healing Waters of Kilbrew

    Kilbrew · townland · Meath · 1789

    Archbishop Butler writes of hearing much said of the virtue of the waters of Kilbrew, on Mr. Gorges' estate, believed to cure asthma, jaundice, and dropsy. He notes reports that the water retains its healing quality even when transported and kept for a long time.

    Read the passage

    " I hear much said of the virtue of the waters of Kilbrew, on Mr. Gorges' estate, for the asthma, jaundice, and dropsy. I would be happy to know from your Lordship if they be so efficacious as it is reported they are. I am told they lose nothing of their good quality by being transported — that they retain it a long time.

    THE BISHOPS OF MEATH— DR. PLUNKET. 131

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 32

22. St. Aid's miraculous staff and Patrick's curse on Uisnech's stones

    Rahugh · townland · Westmeath

    St. Aodh Mac Brie founded a monastery at Rathugh in the sixth century; his miraculous staff of brass inlaid with silver survived in local possession. Patrick foretold his descent and gave him fifteen townlands around Cillair after cursing the stones of Uisnech so that they should not take hold together.

    Read the passage

    ofMeath. His miraculous staff, made of finnbruin, i.e., brassr inlaid with silver, is in the possession of Peter MacEochagain. Rath-Aodha, a parish church, remains there still. It was he himself (viz., Peter MacEochagain), who found the staff, facit platanea miracula in perjuros, and Cillair is still the church of Aedh. Patrick foretold his descent from Fiachach, when he gave him fifteen townlands around Cillair, after cursing the stones of Uisnech, that they should not take hold together."

    Taghmon.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 115

23. Birth of Dr. Patrick Joseph Plunket at Kells

    Kells · town · Meath · 1738

    Patrick Joseph Plunket, future Bishop of Meath, was born at Kells, County Meath, on Christmas-Eve 1738. He received his early education there under his uncle, the parish priest of Kells, before continuing his studies in Dublin and France.

    Read the passage

    PATRICK JOSEPH PLUNKET, as we have stated,* was born at Kells, County Meath, on Christmas-Eve, 1738, received his rudimental education, under his venerable uncle, the parish priest of Kells, and, subsequently, at a school in Dublin. At the age of fourteen, he was articled to a merchant, in Pill-lane, Dublin, and sent to France, as if on his master's business, but in reality to evade the penal statute against Catholic education, and thus to graduate for the ecclesiastical state on the continent. He arrived in Paris, in 1752, accompanied by satisfactory testimonials, and obtained a place in the celebrated College of Trent-trois. Years passed by, and, at length, this holy youth, who had distinguished himself in every class of philosophy, theology, and the Sacred Scriptures, had all his aspirations consummated, by being ordained a priest, on the 30th of September, 1764. We next find him taking the degree of Doctor of Divinity, after which his learning and unobtrusive piety procured for him the office of Chief Almoner to one of the first families in France, an Associate of Navarre, a professor, and one of the four principal superiors, in the Irish College of the Lombards. Allusion has been already made to the venerable Father Betagh,f the early com-

    * Diocese of Meath, vol. L, p. 234, &c. ; vol. ii., pp. 17t' — 227. f Diocese of Meath, vol. ii., p. 179.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 5

    As the companion tells it

    Kells is the town you're passing through, and it's the birthplace of a remarkable man. Patrick Joseph Plunket was born here on Christmas Eve 1738, a future Bishop of Meath. His early education came from his uncle, the parish priest of Kells, before he went on to a school in Dublin. At the age of 14, he was articled to a merchant in Pill-lane in the city, and sent to France as if on his master's business. In truth, it was to evade the penal statutes against Catholic education and to graduate for the priesthood on the continent. He arrived in Paris in 1752 with satisfactory testimonials and obtained a place in the celebrated College of Trente-trois. He distinguished himself in philosophy, theology, and the Sacred Scriptures, and was ordained a priest on the 30th of September 1764. He took his Doctor of Divinity, and his learning and piety won him the office of Chief Almoner to one of the first families in France. He became an Associate of Navarre, a professor, and one of the four principal superiors in the Irish College of the Lombards.

24. Bishop Hugh's memory and miracles at Killare

    Killare · parish · Westmeath

    St Aid, known familiarly by the people as 'Bishop Hugh', built other churches such as Rathhugh near Kilbeggan and is said to have performed several miracles. His memory is held in great reverence throughout Westmeath despite the lapse of years since his death in 588.

    Read the passage

    to inherit a portion of the ancestral property. In this, however, he was disappointed, as his brothers deprived him of his share. On his return to Munster, he was passing by the abbey of Jttathlibhten, in the present King's County, when, being noticed by St. Illaud, who was bishop and abbot there, he was ottered a home inside the hospitable walls. He entered, joined the community, and graduated for some years in scripture, theology, and monastic discipline. St. Illand at length sent him, with some of the community, to Munster, to found a religious house, and having arrived there, he erected the monastery of Enachmicbrivin. After his return to Heath, he was consecrated a bishop, and fixed his sae at Killare,* which he had already founded. He built other churches and abbeys, such as Rathhugh, near Kilbeggan, and is said to have performed several miracles. Notwithstanding the lapse of years since his death, his memory is held in great reverence throughout Westmeath, and he is still familiarly called by the people " Bishop Hugh." The Four Masters enter his death thus : —

    " 588. St. Aedh, son of Breac, Bishop of Gill-Air, in Meath, died on the 10th of November."

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 111

25. Chapel Doors Shut Against Priest at Kilberry

    Kilberry · townland · Meath · 1813

    Individuals of the Kilberry parish scandalously resisted the nomination of Rev. Eugene O'Reilly and shut the chapel doors against him, forcing the bishop to withdraw the appointment.

    Read the passage

    „ 28. Kilberry (Rev. M. Kelsh), 82. — Reproaches to those individuals of the parish who scandalously resisted the nomination to the parish of Rev. Eugene O'Reilly, shut the chapel doors against him, and reduced the bishop to the necessity of withdrawing Rev. Eugene O'Reilly from Kilberry.

    Reply of Dr. Plunket to Dr. Peter Kenney.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 68

26. Children Praying in the Street for Fr. Dogherty's Recovery at Frankford

    Frankford · townland · Offaly · 1785

    During Rev. Henry Dogherty's serious illness at Frankford, local children were reported to kneel in the street outside his window to pray for his recovery, a gesture that gave him great comfort. He also described Protestants and Catholics alike showing him unexpected kindness during his sickness.

    Read the passage

    " Mr. Kearney arrived here on Wednesday last. He is a genteel young man, and from his conversation I look upon him to be sensible and well informed. My longest excursion, since my recovery, was yesterday, to Mr. Frank Molloy's, where I dined, together with Mr. Kearney. I cannot tell you, my Lord, how much I am indebted to this good couple. My father and mother (had they lived) could not shew a more anxious concern for my situation, or more sincere joy for my recovery. You know Miss Pritchett. I need say no more. Indeed, both in my illness and since my recovery, I have experienced more marks of kindness from Protestants as well as Catholics, than ever I thought them capable of shewing one who is as yet a stranger amongst them. What gave me the most heartfelt satisfaction was to hear that the little children used frequently to kneel down in

    the street, opposite my window, to pray for me I

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 28

27. Custom of distributing whiskey at funerals condemned at Enniskeen

    Enniskeen · parish · Meath · 1802

    During the visitation at Muff in the parish of Enniskeen, the bishop reprobated the scandalous local custom of distributing whiskey at funerals, along with the drunkenness, fighting and litigation that resulted from it.

    Read the passage

    „ 12. Enniskeen, at Muff (Rev. James Birmingham), 140. — The scandalous custom of distributing whiskey at funerals reprobated, as also drunkenness and its effects — fighting and quarrelling, revenge and litigation.

    „ 13. Drumcondra, at Ballinavoran (Rev. Philip Mulligan), 109. — Some few animadverted upon for neglecting the Paschal duty ; the flock of Ardagh reproached for their propensity to deceive each other by little tricks and cunning, and for their fondness of litigation.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 56

28. Lord Conyngham Lays Foundation Stone of Slane Catholic Chapel

    Slane · townland · Meath · 1801

    Dr. Plunket wrote to Lord Conyngham of Slane thanking him for granting a site for a new Catholic chapel and for offering to lay its foundation stone. The letter recalls that in earlier 'angry times' Catholic worship had been removed from Slane to another location, causing hardship to the town, before being restored under the Conyngham family's patronage.

    Read the passage

    " How unusual and delightful the scene that presents itself to view ! The apparatus of the ceremony your Lordship is ready to perform, the presence of your illustrious parents with which it is to be honoured, the concourse of surrounding spectators, the visible joy of a numerous class of inhabitants made happy — every circumstance conspires to render this day memorable at Slane. In angry times, the R. Catholic worship was hence removed to another place. The town suffered by the removal Divine service became too distant to be attended without loss of time ; inconvenience followed, public and private ; even the pious traveller who came this way lamented his disappointment. Thanks to a benign and enlightened Legislature, milder times

    246 THE BISHOPS OF MEATH — DR. PLUNKET.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 44

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Slane, in 1801, Lord Conyngham laid the foundation stone of a new Catholic chapel. Dr. Plunket wrote to him, recalling what he called the "angry times" when Catholic worship had been removed from Slane to another place. The town suffered by the removal. Divine service became too distant to be attended without loss of time, and even the pious traveller who came this way lamented his disappointment. Now, under the Conyngham family's patronage, a site had been granted and the foundation stone was to be laid. Plunket called it a memorable day, with spectators gathered and the people of Slane made happy again.

29. O'Connor, Defender leader, linked to Agher parish

    Agher · townland · Meath · 1795

    Dr. Troy relates that O'Connor, a leader of the Defenders then imprisoned, had been a schoolmaster and occasional parish clerk in the parish of Agher, county Meath. Seditious and inflammatory publications were found on him, and his connection to the parish priest caused controversy.

    Read the passage

    " It is said that O'Connor, a leader of defenders, now in the new prison, was a schoolmaster, and occasional parish clerk in the parish of Agher, in the diocese and county Meath.

    THE BISHOPS OF HEATH — DR. PLUNKET. 203

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 38

30. Ruins found at Kilbixy: leper-house, castle site, moat and gallows

    Kilbixy · townland · Westmeath · 1837

    When O'Donovan visited Kilbixy in 1837 he found the Leper-house a mere ruin, the site of the castle with no remains of its walls, a moat surrounded by a circular fosse, and the site of the gallows, plus a holy well called the well of St Bigseach.

    Read the passage

    * Four Masters, by TV. O' Donovan. The editor remarks that when he visited Kilbixy in 1837, he found, "1. The Leper-house, a mere rnin; 2. The site of the castle, but no remains whatever of its walls ; 3. A moat, surrounded by one circular fosse ; 4. Site of the gallows. A holy well near the church called the well of St. Bigseach." I may add, to Dr. O'Donovan's observations, that when I visited Kilbixy on the -tth of August, 1863, I found one of the old fonts of the church stuck in the wall of a donkey-stable, at one of the private entrances to the churchyard.

    P2

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 112

31. Simultaneous deaths of Rev. Richard Macken and his sister at Drogheda and Arcachon

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1868

    Rev. Richard Macken of Slane died at Arcachon, France on Christmas Day 1868 while seeking health treatment, and about the same hour his sister, Sister Mary Gertrude of the Convent of Mercy, Drogheda, also died.

    Read the passage

    The Rev. Richard Macken, a native of the parish of Slane, an alumnus of Navan and Maynooth, died, in the second year after his ordination, at Arcachon,in France, whither he went for the good of his health, universally lamented for his many excellent qualities, on Christmas Day, 1868; and about the same hour, his saintly sister, Sister Mary Gertrude, of the Convent of Mercy, Drogheda, departed this life, and went, with her beloved brother, to enjoy the reward which awaits innocence of life and fidelity in the service of God.

    The Rev. James Moran, of Bally oate, Westmeath, died on the 5th of March, 1868.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 138

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Drogheda, there is a strange and sorrowful story from Christmas Day 1868. About the same hour that day, a brother and sister both died, far apart. The Reverend Richard Macken, a native of Slane and a priest only two years ordained, died at Arcachon in France, where he had gone for his health. His sister, Sister Mary Gertrude of the Convent of Mercy here in Drogheda, departed this life at about the same hour. They were buried in separate places but the record says they went together to enjoy the reward which awaits innocence of life and fidelity in the service of God.

32. Slaying of Donnell O'Molloy at Rahin

    Rahin · townland · Kildare · 1141

    In 1141, Donnell, son of Rory O'Molloy, Lord of Fercall, was slain by the Muintir-Luainimh at Rahin, another instance of the violent feuding recorded at this site.

    Read the passage

    "1141. Donnell, son of Rory O'Molloy, Lord of Fercall, was slain by the Muintir-Luainimh in Raliin.

    "1153. Tadhg O'Brien marched with his forces to Rahin to relieve Comiaught.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 117

33. St Patrick makes Cormack Bishop of Trim; burial there

    Trim · town · Meath · 433–497

    Cormack, nephew of King Leogaire, was made bishop of Trim by St Patrick and later succeeded to Armagh. He died in 497 and was buried in Trim.

    Read the passage

    Cormack was nephew to Leogaire, King of Heath and Monarch of Ireland. He was baptised by St. Patrick, and educated under four of his disciples ; by whose instructions he became eminent for innocence of life, learning, piety, and the knowledge of the Holy Scriptures. He was made bishop of Trim by St. Patrick, and after the death of Jarlath, he was appointed to the See of Armagh. The Annals of Ulster call him St. Patrick's heir, because he survived him. He died on the 17th of February, 497, and was buried in Trim. — Harris's Ware, p. 36.

    Colman, Abbot of Clonard, became Bishop of Clonmacnoise, and died in the year 924.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 95

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Trim now. Cormack, nephew of Leogaire, King of Meath and Monarch of Ireland, was baptised by St Patrick and educated under four of his disciples. Patrick made him bishop of Trim, and after the death of Jarlath he was appointed to the See of Armagh. The Annals of Ulster called him St Patrick's heir, because he survived him. He died on the 17th of February, 497, and was buried here in Trim.

34. Student Rebellion at Maynooth College

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1803

    In 1803, students at Maynooth College entered into a combination of disobedience and resistance against the president and professors, prompting Dr. Plunket to threaten their removal unless they submitted and asked pardon. The disturbance disrupted college discipline and study for months.

    Read the passage

    " Having been informed that the lawful authority of the president and immediate superiors in our College at Maynooth has lately been, and still continues to be, scandalously violated, by unjustifiable disobedience and resistance on the part of the students, I request you will, in quality of Vicar-General of

    344 THE BISHOPS OF MEATH — DR. PLUNKET.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 59

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Maynooth, in Kildare. In 1803 the college here was thrown into disorder when students rose in disobedience and resistance against their president and superiors. Dr. Plunket warned that unless they submitted and asked pardon, they would be removed. The trouble disrupted discipline and study for months.

35. The Path of the Saints at Affane

    Affane · townland · Waterford · 630

    On his journey from the Desies mountain to Lismore, St. Carthage passed through Affane on the Avonmore river, at a spot still called Casan na naomh, 'The path of the saints'.

    Read the passage

    great sanctity, and the universal respect in which he was held, failed to screen him from the envy and jealousy of others, and, accordingly, we find him expelled from Rahin, owing to the hostility of some neighbouring monks,* and the tyranny of Blathmac, son of the monarch, Aedh-Slaine, prince of the country. In the year 630, St. Carthage and his whole community, numbering about 847 monks, exclusive of lay attendants and the pupils of his school, yielding to force, took their departure from* Rahin, and, on their way into Munster, halted at St. Barrind's Monastery of Drumcullin. They then proceeded to St. Kiaran's of Saighir, next to St. Cronan's of Roscrea, and subsequently to Cashel, where they were kindly received by King Failbhe Fland, who offered them a site for a monastery. Declining this favour, St. Carthage proceeded to Ardfinan, and here he was offered a site by the chieftain of the Desies, whose wife dreamed on the preceding night that a flock of birds were flying to her for protection. He again declined, and the prince then said, " There is, beyond the mountain, a wild tract, extensive and secluded, rich in forests and in fish — it shall be yours for ever." Accordingly St. Carthage travelled over the mountain, and from that to Affane, on the Avonmore, at the spot still called " Casan na naomh, — The path of the saints." He crossed the Blackwater, the waves of which are said to have rolled back, and passed on to Magh-Sciath, since called Lismore, where he founded a monastery, a college, and an asylum ; and his school became so renowned for sanctity and learning as to be frequented by alumni not only from Great Britain and Ireland, but from all parts of Europe. For the last year and a-half of his life St. Carthage retired to a lonely part of the valley, to the east of his great monastery, and here he spent his time in mortification, prayer, and the practice of every virtue, preparing for the judgments of God. On the 14th day of May, in the year 637 — at the well, where a cross was afterwards erected,

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 116

36. Tradition of Reformation-era bells thrown into Lough Iron

    near Lough Iron · lake or lakes · Westmeath

    A local tradition in the parish holds that at the time of the Reformation, the bells of Tristernagh abbey and church were taken down by the Friars and thrown into Lough Iron to prevent their seizure.

    Read the passage

    There is a tradition in the parish that at the time of the Reformation, the bells of the abbey and church were taken down by the Friars, and thrown into Lough-Iron.

    608 ABBEYS OF WESTMEATH.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 115

37. Tullamore Repeal meeting and banquet

    Tullamore · town · Offaly · 1843

    Dr. Cantwell, again with Dr. O'Higgins, attended the Tullamore Repeal monster meeting on 16 July 1843, presiding at the banquet with dignity; the meeting drew an estimated 150,000 people.

    Read the passage

    in Longford, on the 25th of May, 1843 ; and in company with the same illustrious prelate, attended the monster meeting of Tullamore, King's County, on the 16th of July, same year, on which occasion his Lordship presided with his usual dignity and grace at the banquet ; "but all these meetings sink into absolute insignificance compared to the national convention of the Irish people on the historic hill of Tara, on the memorable 15th of August, 1843. This was perhaps the greatest political meeting which ever assembled in Ireland or in any other country ; and when we bear in mind that not an act of intemperance took place, not an angry word passed, not a single law was violated amidst such numbers, we might fairly challenge any nation in the world to exhibit such a high standard of morality. During the entire of the preceding night, thousands and tens of thousands, accompanied with bands playing national tunes, were pouring from north, south, east, and west of Ireland, through the various villages and towns, on their way to the hill of Tara. The long-suffering serfs, the hereditary bondsmen, so long ground to the dust under foreign and domestic oppression, were resolved to show themselves worthy of freedom, and there was not a man there who was not ready at O'Connell's bidding to ' do or die.' Early on that morning Masses were celebrated on the hill, and exhortations were addressed to the people to violate no law, to prove themselves worthy of true liberty. When the uncrowned monarch of a nation's love was in sight the scene surpassed description ; and the great leader of the Irish people was so overwhelmed with amazement at the prodigious numbers, and at the indiscribable enthusiasm, that, uncovering his head, he said in a voice to be heard afar off " Oh, good Heavens, what a multitude ! " While O'Connell was addressing the masses of the people from the platform, Dr. Cantwell and Dr. M'Loughlin, Bishop of Derry, ascended the hill from the Navan road ; and the moment the eagle eye of the Liberator observed them, he called on the meeting, in a voice of thunder, to open a passage and make way for the

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 90

38. Anonymous letter sent to the Portreeve of Trim against Plunket

    Trim · town · Meath · 1779

    An anonymous letter attempting to deter Dr. Plunket from accepting the episcopal dignity was sent to the Portreeve of Trim, who passed it to Mr. Rowley. Plunket dismissed the scheme as silly and wicked, forgiving its authors.

    Read the passage

    " I received your favour of the 15th of last month, in which you give me early notice of the anonymous letter sent to the Portreeve of Trim, and by him to Mr. Eowley. This charitable invention made just as little impression upon me as you would wish. Such machinations might do mischief, and therefore alarm, in the last century, or in the beginning of the present one ; now, I believe, the absurdity of them is too palpable to gain credit. The dangers, indeed, and difficulties of my new station I see strongly enough to be terrified by them ; but they are not the dangers that may be, and sometimes are threatened by men, that make me apprehensive : I think I dread only those of a higher order ; such as I would expose myself to, by rushing unprepared into the exercise of functions tremendous and awful in every "sense. The strange attempt made to deter me from accepting the episcopal dignity is so silly and so wicked, that I can scarce be induced to believe it was framed by men of a character any way sacred. Whoever the authors of it be, I forgive them from my heart. I have no sort

    THE BISHOPS OF MEATH — DR. PLUNKET. 11

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 6

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through the town of Trim in Meath, this is where an anonymous letter arrived in 1779, addressed to the Portreeve. The Portreeve passed it on to a Mr. Rowley. The letter was an attempt to stop Dr. Plunket from accepting the episcopal dignity. Plunket himself wrote about it in reply. He said the scheme made little impression on him. He called it a charitable invention. In times past, such machinations might have done mischief and caused alarm, but now, he said, the absurdity of them was too palpable to gain credit. He could see the dangers and difficulties of his new station clearly enough to be terrified by them. But the threats of men were not what frightened him. He said he dreaded only dangers of a higher order, such as he would expose himself to by rushing unprepared into the exercise of functions tremendous and awful in every sense. He called the attempt so silly and so wicked that he could scarce believe it was framed by men of any sacred character. Whoever the authors were, he forgave them from his heart.

39. Coenachair Burned to Death in the Belfry of Slane

    Slane · townland · Meath

    Coenachair, chief lecturer in the schools of Slane, was burned to death by the Danes in the belfry of Slane. He has been identified with Probus, author of a Life of St. Patrick dedicated to the Bishop of Indenen near Slane.

    Read the passage

    Coenachair, chief lecturer in the schools of Slane, was burned to death, as we have seen, in the belfry of Slane

    636 THE WRITERS AND POETS OF MEATH.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 123

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Slane, the Danes burned Coenachair to death in the belfry. He was chief lecturer in the schools of Slane, and has been identified with Probus, who wrote a Life of Saint Patrick dedicated to the Bishop of Indenen near Slane.

40. Dall M'Cuairt Buried at Monknewtown

    Monknewtown · townland · Meath

    The bard James M'Cuairt (Dall M'Cuairt) was reportedly buried in the churchyard of Monknewtown, in the union of Slane.

    Read the passage

    He composed a poem of 210 verses on the battle of Aughrim; 18 verses addressed to Torlogh O'Carolan on his return to Meath ; 88 verses on a great match of football, contested at the Boyne-meadow, near Slane, between the young men of Meath and Louth; and a vast number of others, including hymns, some of the headings of which may be seen in O'Reilly's Catalogue (p. 211). He was buried, I have been informed, in the churchyard of Monknewtown, in the present union of Slane.

    Francis Nugent, a native of Mullingar, nourished about the year 1713. He was the author of two poems, in the Irish language, addressed to the Rev. Paul M'Egan, a Franciscan friar, who, in the persecution of 1710, was confined in the Black-dog prison, at Corn-market, near Newgate. This Father M'Egan was a celebrated Irish poet, and his sufferings in those days enlisted the sympathies of all Irish scholars. He composed 40 verses on the losses sustained by the Irish in their adherence to Charles and James II. ; 44 verses to his friend John O'Norton, a Meath poet ; 52 verses, on the miserable state of the Irish of that day, both clergy and laity; and several others on his privations and sufferings. — O'Reilly's Catalogue, pp. 208,213.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 130

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Monknewton, the bard known as Dall M'Cuairt lies buried in the churchyard, in what was called the union of Slane. He was a poet of considerable output. He composed a poem of 210 verses on the battle of Aughrim. He wrote 18 verses addressed to Torlogh O'Carol​an on his return to Meath. He wrote 88 verses on a great match of football, contested at the Boyne-meadow near Slane, between the young men of Meath and Louth. Beyond these, he produced a vast number of other works, including hymns, some of the headings of which may be seen in O'Reilly's Catalogue. The record of his burial here is given not as fact but as information received, the author saying he was buried, I have been informed, in the churchyard of Monknewtown. No monument is mentioned, no date of death, no details of his life beyond the list of his compositions. What remains is the word of his burial in this place, and the verses he left behind.

41. Death and burial of Dr. Plunket in Navan chapel

    Navan · town · Meath · 1827

    The venerable Bishop Plunket died on 11 January 1827 in his eighty-ninth year and was interred in the chapel of Navan on 13 January after a long and celebrated episcopacy of the diocese of Meath.

    Read the passage

    The time at length came when the venerable Dr. Plunket, whom the Most Rev. Dr. Curtis, Archbishop of Armagh, appropriately called " the ornament and father of the Irish Church," was called to enjoy the reward of his labours. At a patriarchal age, in the eighty-ninth year of his earthly career, the noble old bishop departed this life on the llth of January, 1827, and on the 13th of the same month, after due honour and celebration, was interred in the chapel of Navan.

    Those who remember him, and there are many still living, both clergy and laity, speak of him in terms of admiration and filial affection; and they add that so venerable-looking a prelate, so dignified and apostolic, in face and form, they have never seen.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 82

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Navan, this is the town where Bishop Plunket was laid to rest. He died on 11 January 1827, in his eighty-ninth year, after a long and celebrated episcopacy of the diocese of Meath. Two days later, on 13 January, he was interred in the chapel of Navan. The Archbishop of Armagh, Dr. Curtis, called him "the ornament and father of the Irish Church." Those who remembered him, clergy and laity alike, spoke of him with admiration and affection, and said they had never seen so venerable-looking a prelate, so dignified and apostolic in face and form.

42. Death and Funeral of Dr. Cantwell in Mullingar Cathedral

    Mullingar · town · Westmeath · 1862–1866

    Bishop Cantwell suffered paralysis in January 1862 and died on 11 December 1866. His elaborate funeral was held at Mullingar Cathedral, with thousands attending and multiple bishops presiding, and he was buried in the body of the church to the left of the high altar.

    Read the passage

    " The Most Rev. Dr. Nulty officiated at the grave, which is

    528 THE BISHOPS OF MEATH — DR. CANTWELL.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 93

43. Meath Parish Priests Oppose the Veto

    Meath · county · Meath · 1799

    At diocesan conferences in Meath, the parish priests indignantly expressed their dissent from the veto resolutions agreed by the bishops, and ultimately succeeded in bringing Dr. Plunket round to their opposing views.

    Read the passage

    the loyalty of the person appointed, is just, and ought to be agreed to." They wisely, however, referred all to the Pope, "that, agreeably to the discipline of the Roman Catholic Church, these regulations can have no effect without the sanction of the Holy See." This was the origin of the question of the veto, which disturbed the tranquillity of the Irish Church for many years ; and it is just to the memory of the parish priests of Meath, to record that at all the conferences of the diocese they indignantly expressed their dissent, and ultimately brought Dr. Plunket round to their views.

    On the 8th of March, 1799, Dr. Flood, President of the College of Maynooth, writes to Dr. Plunket : —

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 42

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through County Meath, it is worth recalling that in 1799 the parish priests here took a firm stand. The bishops had agreed to a veto on Catholic appointments, but at diocesan conferences across Meath the parish priests indignantly expressed their dissent. They succeeded in bringing Dr. Plunket round to their views. The veto question disturbed the Irish Church for many years. On the 8th of March, 1799, Dr. Flood, President of the College of Maynooth, wrote to Dr. Plunket about the matter.

44. Meeting of Irish chieftains at Rahugh convened by Malachy

    Rahugh · townland · Westmeath · 857

    In 857 the Four Masters record a meeting of Irish chieftains convened at Rahugh by Malachy, Monarch of Ireland, to establish peace between the tribes, attended by the Primate of Armagh and the abbot of Clonard.

    Read the passage

    857. In this year the Four Masters record a meeting of the Irish chieftains, convened at Rahugh by Malachy, Monarch of Ireland, for the purpose of establishing peace and concord between the various tribes. Of the ecclesiastics who attended mention is especially made of Fethghna, the Primate of Armagh, and Suairleach, abbot of Clonard.

    The monastery of Rathugh seems not to have survived the Danish wars.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 115

45. Methodist preachers cause concern for Catholics at Oldcastle

    Oldcastle · town · Meath · 1800

    At Oldcastle, the bishop cautioned the town's Catholics against external and internal enemies of the faith, prompted specifically by the activity of Methodist preachers active in the area during a time of scarcity.

    Read the passage

    „ 24. Oldcastle (Rev. Bernard Reilly), 82. — Cautions to the Catholics of the town against the external and internal enemies of the faith, occasioned by the hostility of certain Methodist preachers, and by nominal Catholics. Allusions to this time of general scarcity and distress. „ 25. This day I dined at Stonefield. „ 26. This day I dined at Stonefield, and in the evening

    went to Rev. Mr. Flood's, Collinstown. „ 27. Fore, at Collinstown (Rev. James Flood), 59. — The

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 53

46. Military quartered at Maynooth College during 1798 disturbances

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1798

    Dr. Flood reported in August 1798 that about 450 soldiers were quartered in the small town of Maynooth, occupying the houses previously tenanted by the college, hampering its ability to accommodate students.

    Read the passage

    " ;Tis with regret I must inform you that our works have been almost stationary here these three months past. Under the pressure of the times, little or nothing could have been done. We have about 450 of the military quartered in this little town. The houses tenanted by the college last year are full of soldiers, and hence I fear we can have few or no externs. I am preparing, with all possible expedition, reoms in the new biiilding for the 50 students on the present establishment, and I think I shall be able to accommodate one additional subject from each diocese. We shall then be 75 on the 17th of next

    THE BISHOPS OF MEATH — DE. PLUNKET.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 41

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Maynooth, a town in Kildare that found itself packed with soldiers in the summer of 1798. Dr. Flood reported that about 450 military were quartered in what he called this little town, filling the houses the college had tenanted the year before. With soldiers billeted in those buildings, he feared few or no extern students could be taken in. He was preparing rooms in a new building for the 50 students already on the establishment, and hoped to accommodate one additional student from each diocese, bringing the number to 75 by the 17th of the next month. He wrote that the works had been almost stationary for three months past, and that under the pressure of the times little or nothing could be done.

47. New Catholic chapel opened at Kells with Marquis of Headfort's support

    Kells · town · Meath · 1801

    The bishop confirmed parishioners in the new chapel at Kells, expressing gratitude to the Marquis of Headfort for donating the ground plot and £100, and to Protestant gentlemen who contributed funds for the Catholic chapel.

    Read the passage

    „ 11. Kells — in the new chapel — (Rev. Peter O'Reilly, P.P.), 40. — Grateful sentiments expressed to the Most Noble the Marquis of Headfort for giving the ground plot and £100 ; towards the Protestant gentlemen of the neighbourhood for their contributions ; compliments paid to all the Catholics who subscribed, especially to the parishioners, who were reminded of the faith received by their ancestors, and exhorted to prove and honour it by living according to its maxims, and not imitating

    Y

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 55

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Kells in Meath. In 1801 the bishop confirmed parishioners in a new Catholic chapel here, and spoke his thanks to the Marquis of Headfort for giving the ground plot and £100. Protestant gentlemen of the neighbourhood also gave money toward the chapel. The parishioners were reminded of the faith received from their ancestors and urged to live by it.

48. Nicholas Plunket's Manuscript History Preserved at Killeen Castle

    Killeen Castle · man-made feature · Meath · 1711

    Nicholas Plunket of Killeen wrote a contemporary history of the Civil Wars in Ireland, preserved in manuscript at the library of the Earl of Fingall at Killeen Castle, providing insight into the Jacobite wars.

    Read the passage

    Nicholas Plunket, a member of the house of Killeen, wrote a cotemporary history of the Civil Wars in Ireland, in 2 vols. quarto, which is preserved at present, in manuscript, in the library of the Earl of Fingall, at Killeen Castle. The title of the work is — " A Light to the Blind, whereby they may see the Dethronement of James II., King of England ; with a brief Narrative of the Wars in Ireland, and of the Wars of the Emperor and the King of France for the Crown of Spain; anno 1711." This work must be invaluable, as it throws considerable light on the Jacobite wars ; and a lucid analysis of the contents, with copious extracts, has been communicated a few years ago to the Royal Irish Academy by Dr. (now Sir William) Wilde.

    Torlogh, or Terence O'Carolan, the celebrated poet and musician, was the son of John O'Carolan, an industrious farmer, and was born in the year 1670, in the neighbourhood of Nobber. He was sent to school to Cruisetown, and there became acquainted with Miss Bridget Cruise, in whose praise he, in after years, composed many of his finest poems. At the age of fifteen he was attacked with small-pox, and lost his sight, which he never afterwards

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 131

49. O'Molloy treacherously slain on the green of Lynally

    Lynally · parish · Offaly · 1533

    In 1533 O'Molloy, Lord of Fircall, was treacherously slain on the green of Lynally by his own brother, as recorded in the Four Masters' annals.

    Read the passage

    " 1038. Cuinnen, Bishop, Abbot, and Lector of Connor, successor of Mac Nisi and Colman Eala, died. " " 1533. O'Molloy, Lord of Fircall, was treacherously slain on the green of Lynally by his own brother.

    "1557. The houses and churches of Lynally were plundered and burned by Sir Henry Sidney, Lord Treasurer of Ireland."

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 116

50. O'Suanaigh's Cross and the forfeiture of lands at Rahin

    Rahin · townland · Kildare

    There was an ancient stone cross at Rahin called O'Suanaigh's cross. The Leabhar Breac records that certain families of the Cinell Fiacha were punished and forfeited their lands for violating O'Suanaigh's guarantee and insulting his cross.

    Read the passage

    There was also at Rahin an ancient stone cross, called O Suanaigh's cross, and in the Leabhar Bread* (fol. 35, p. b.) we read of a notice relative to the punishment and

    * Round Towers of Ireland, pp. 239, 242. For a full description of the ruins of Kahin, see from page 238 to 24:3. f Round Towers, p. 241.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 117

51. Peter Walsh's failed Remonstrance mission at Multyfarnham

    Fearbranagh or Multyfarnham · townland · Westmeath · 1663

    In January 1663, Peter Walsh met a number of his brethren at Multifarnam and spent three days and nights trying to persuade the Fathers to sign his Remonstrance, without success.

    Read the passage

    In 1663, Father Peter Geanor was guardian of Multifarnam, and, in January, same year, Peter Walsh met a number of his brethren here, and spent, as he tells us, " three whole days and nights endeavouring to induce the Fathers to sign his Remonstrance." He admits that all he said " was to no more purpose than to wash the Blackamore." — History of Eemon, pp. 90, 94.

    598 ABBEYS OF WESTMEATH. — MULTIFERNAM.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 114

52. Prelates' declaration signed at Tullow against Blanchardist schism

    Tullow · town · Carlow · 1809

    The prelates of the province assembled at Tullow and unanimously signed a declaration of communion with Pius VII, censuring propositions from Pierre Louis Blanchard's work, part of the Blanchardist Schism controversy.

    Read the passage

    " The prelates of this province, having assembled at Tullow, unanimously signed a declaration of being in communion with Pius VII., and censured several propositions extracted from a work, entitled Abus sans exemple, &c., by Pierre Louis Blanchard,* who appealed to the Irish prelates, declaring he would consider their silence as an approbation of his doctrines

    " Our declaration was considered by my confreres, the metropolitans, and other prelates lately assembled at Maynooth, who unanimously signed it, and also affixed the names of some of their absent brethren. Your Lordship's signature was added,

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 64

53. Profanation of Hare Island and mortal wounding, 894

    near Hare Island · townland · Galway · 894

    An army led by the Connaughtmen into Westmeath profaned Inis-Aingin (Hare Island), and a man was mortally wounded in the middle of it along with the Shrine of Ciaran and a Synod of Seniors including the Bishop of Clonmacnoise.

    Read the passage

    " An army was led by the Connaughtmen into Westmeath. Inis-Aiugin (Hare Island) was profaned, and a man was mor-

    * In the Maitijrology of Donegal, at January 7th, we have the following notice of St. Konnaii: — ''J-onnan, Priest of Inis-Aingin in Loch- Ribhe. The Life, of tiVovm of C'luain, states that he was the son of Senan's brother. This is what it siates — " Monnan, the son ot Senan's brother came to Ciaran, to Ins-Angin, and he and t^enan had tl.esana mother ; and he left him the island, and also his gospel and its true bearer i.e., Maelodlirain. "

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 109

54. Repeal banquet to O'Connell in Trim

    Trim · town · Meath · 1843

    Dr. Cantwell attended the Repeal banquet to O'Connell held in Trim on 19 March 1843, responding to the toast of the Catholic Hierarchy of Ireland. The event drew an estimated 20,000 attendees according to the footnote citing the Nation newspaper.

    Read the passage

    O'Connell called the memorable year 1843 pre-eminently the Repeal year. We shall confine ourselves to the part Dr. Can tw ell took in the political agitation of the Repeal year. In referring to the tiles of the periodicals of that period we find that Dr. Cantwell attended the Repeal banquet to O'Connell in Trim,* on the 19th of March, 1843 ; and he responded to the toast of the Catholic Hierarchy of Ireland. At the Repeal monster meeting, held at Kells, April 23rd, same year, he spoke to the same vote of confidence. At the Repeal monster meeting, held in Mullingar on the 14th of May, Dr. Cantwell acted as chairman at the banquet, and, in proposing the health of O'Connell, his Lordship said : —

    " Gentlemen, we are now come to the principal toast of the evening, as you may easily perceive that I must combine the

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 90

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim, this is where a Repeal banquet for O'Connell drew an estimated 20,000 people on 19 March 1843. O'Connell called that year pre-eminently the Repeal year. Dr. Cantwell was among those present and responded to the toast of the Catholic Hierarchy of Ireland.

55. Requiem for the Earl of Fingall at Killeen Castle

    Killeen Castle · man-made feature · Meath · 1793

    Following the Earl of Fingall's death, Bishop Plunket said Mass at Killeen Castle for the repose of his soul, then sang High Mass there with twelve priests assisting at the Office, before the interment took place that evening.

    Read the passage

    ,, 23. I said Mass at Killeen Castle for the repose of the soul of the Earl of Fingall.

    „ 24. I sang the High Mass with the same intention, and presided at the Office, at which twelve priests assisted, and was present at the interment, which took place between six and seven o'clock in the evening.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 47

56. Whiteboys' nightly meetings near Cork

    Cork · city · Cork · 1791

    Cormick's letter mentions that the Whiteboys had begun holding nightly meetings near Cork, with four men taken into custody but immediately bailed out.

    Read the passage

    " Several copies of the declaration have been sent to Limerick in order to spread the contagion. He has set his face against them. He hopes the prelates of the nation — those of this province in partipular — will use their most strenuous, but prudent efforts to save their respective flocks from the infection. Unanimity if ever is now wanting. If your Lordship has turned this business in your mind, I will humbly request your sentiments thereon. I fear much that Government apprehends a coalition between the R C. and the Presbyterians, and will, in consequence, refuse to grant further favours for the present. The Whiteboys have already begun their nightly meetings near Cork. Four of them have been taken, but were immediately bailed out. Should the necessity of the times require it, I will call a meeting of the respectable Catholics of this diocese, and publish their sentiments of loyalty and attachment to his Majesty's person and Government. I will cautiously wait for the necessary moment. I have the heartiest satisfaction in telling your Lordship that this diocese and parish are in the most flourishing state of religion, and that I have extinguished a great fire kindled in Roscrea, &c., by the priest and parishioners appealing to me from a suspension and interdict. I went to Nenagh in order to meet the bishop and other parties interested, and was happy in having so much influence over them as to make peace between them. I warmly spoke to them on the agonizing state of religion in other kingdoms, &c.

    " I am, with the most unlimited respect, " Your Lordship's ever devoted and most obliged servant,

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 35

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Cork, this is where the Whiteboys began holding their nightly meetings in 1791. A letter from Cormick, written to his Lordship, reports that several copies of a declaration had been sent to Limerick to spread the contagion. He had set his face against them. He hoped the prelates of the nation, those of this province in particular, would use their most strenuous but prudent efforts to save their respective flocks from the infection. He feared that Government apprehended a coalition between the Roman Catholics and the Presbyterians, and would in consequence refuse to grant further favours for the present. The Whiteboys had already begun their nightly meetings near Cork. Four of them had been taken, but were immediately bailed out. Cormick said that should the necessity of the times require it, he would call a meeting of the respectable Catholics of this diocese and publish their sentiments of loyalty and attachment to his Majesty's person and Government. He would cautiously wait for the necessary moment. He told his Lordship that this diocese and parish were in the most flourishing state of religion, and that he had extinguished a great fire kindled in Roscrea by the priest and parishioners appealing to him from a suspension and interdict. He went to Nenagh to meet the bishop and other interested parties, and made peace between them.

57. Attempted robbery of parish priest at Mayne

    Mayne · townland · Westmeath · 1800

    At Mayne, the bishop expressed indignation over three separate attempts to rob the Parish Priest in his own house, condemning those who countenanced such scandal and vice.

    Read the passage

    „ 20. Castlepollard (Rev. John Murray), 117. „ 21. Mayne (Rev. James Murray), 30. — Indignation expressed against three attempts to rob the Parish Priest in his own house ; the guilt of those who countenance scandal and encourage vice. „ 22. This day I went to dine at Mr. Campbell's, Newcastle.

    „„ 23. Killeigh and Kilbride, at Balnacree (Rev. Peter Brady), 109. — Pilfering and thieving an unprofitable habit, ruinous to soul and body. The prevailing spirit of charity recommended ; the unfeeling disposition of some farmers in this time of distress reprobated.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 53

58. Bishop Plunket Struck by Severe Illness at Navan

    Navan · town · Meath · 1806

    After saying Mass and hearing confessions at Navan in March 1806, Bishop Plunket was suddenly seized with violent shivering followed by fever and spitting of blood, and was told afterward he had been in danger of death.

    Read the passage

    Mar. 29. This morning, after saying Mass, and hearing confessions about half an hour, being returned to my room, I was seized with a violent shivering, succeeded by violent heat and fever, which continued until Good Friday morning. During this time I was confined to my bed, and for a few days more. Bleeding and purging, the first day, by the prescription of Dr. Gibney, approved by Dr. Sheridan and Dr. Nicholl, diminished the violence of the disorder, which, with the spitting of blood that accompanied it, at length, under heaven, yielded to the skill and care of these physicians. I was, after my recovery, informed that I had been in danger. My strength was not restored until after a few weeks. Part of the time of my convalescence I spent at Kells, with my constant

    350 THE BISHOPS OF MEATH— DR. PLUNKET.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 60

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Navan, this is where Bishop Plunket fell dangerously ill in March 1806. He had said Mass and heard confessions for about half an hour, then returned to his room and was seized with violent shivering, followed by violent heat and fever. He was confined to bed, spitting blood, and was bled and purged on the first day by Dr. Gibney, with Dr. Sheridan and Dr. Nicholl approving. Under their care the disorder yielded, but he was told afterward he had been in danger of death. His strength took weeks to return, and part of his convalescence he spent at Kells.

59. Catholic Young Men's Society march to Navan's Metropolitan Church

    Navan · town · Meath · 1859

    Upwards of thirteen hundred members of the Catholic Young Men's Society marched from their rooms to the Metropolitan Church in Navan, headed by their guardian Rev. A. Cogan and a band, to take part in the 1859 demonstration.

    Read the passage

    moters were realized to the fullest extent. Every class and interest in the country sent a representative, and the proceedings were satisfactory, both as indicating Catholic feelings of sympathy with the Holy Father, and a determination to resist to the utmost any encroachment upon his temporal rights. The town of Navan, which had been selected as the locality in which the meeting was to take place, presented quite a gala appearance. Triumphal arches were erected at intervals in the principal streets, and the houses were decorated with an endless variety of evergreens. The reception accorded to the respected county representatives, Messrs. Corbally and M'Evoy, was most flattering ; they were met at the entrance to the town, and escorted by several hundred persons to the place of meeting. A prominent feature in the day's proceedings was the presence of upwards of thirteen hundred members of the Catholic Young Men's Society, who, at an early hour, headed by their estimable and zealous guardian, the Eev. A. Cogan, and preceded by their excellent band, marched from their rooms to the Metropolitan Church, and took the places allotted for their accommodation. When the chair was taken at twelve o'clock, it was calculated that upwards of seven thousand persons had secured standing room within the church, and that quite as many more were unable to obtain admission. Owing to the very crowded attendance, we were unable to obtain a list of names, but we have ascertained that nearly every priest of this patriotic diocese was present, and that the following were amongst those who occupied places on the platform.

    [Then follows a list of names.]

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 92

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Navan, this is the town where, in 1859, a great Catholic demonstration took place. Navan was chosen as the place for the meeting, and it presented quite a gala appearance that day. Triumphal arches were erected at intervals in the principal streets, and the houses were decorated with an endless variety of evergreens. The county representatives, Messrs. Corbally and M'Evoy, were met at the entrance to the town and escorted by several hundred persons to the place of meeting. A prominent feature in the day was the presence of upwards of 1,300 members of the Catholic Young Men's Society. At an early hour, headed by their guardian, the Reverend A. Cogan, and preceded by their band, they marched from their rooms to the Metropolitan Church and took the places allotted for their accommodation. When the chair was taken at 12 o'clock, it was calculated that upwards of 7,000 persons had secured standing room within the church, and that quite as many more were unable to obtain admission. The crowd was so great that a full list of names could not be obtained, but nearly every priest of the diocese was present. The proceedings indicated Catholic feelings of sympathy with the Holy Father, and a determination to resist any encroachment upon his temporal rights.

60. Dr. Logan consecrated Coadjutor-Bishop in Duleek chapel

    Duleek · town · Meath · 1824

    After a contested election process among the Meath clergy, Rev. Robert Logan of Duleek was appointed Coadjutor-Bishop of Meath by Rome and was consecrated in the chapel of Duleek on 29 October 1824.

    Read the passage

    had previously written to Dr. Curtis for his opinion of the relative merits of the respective candidates, and he represented Dr. Logan in terms so highly advantageous and complimentary as to leave no doubt who would be selected. Rome at length spoke; Dr. Logan was appointed Coadjutor of Meath, and was consecrated in the chapel of Duleek, on the 29th of October, 1824. Thus terminated a painful controversy, and in a short time the diocese resumed its usual tranquillity and repose.

    Internet Archive dioceseofmeathan03cogaiala, Chapter 81