The history of the county and city of Cork (vol. 1)

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. Cormac's Chapel on the Rock of Cashel

   near Rock of Cashel · rock or rocks · Tipperary · 1138

   Cormac, bishop-king of Desmond, was treacherously slain in 1138. His stone-roofed church on the Rock of Cashel, called Cormac's Chapel, survives and is described by Dr Petrie as one of the most perfect Norman-style churches in the British Empire. A beautifully wrought crosier was discovered in his tomb there.

   Read the passage

   The antiquarian may see, at the present day, the stone-roofed church on the rock of Cashel, called Cormac's Chapel, which Doctor Petrie styles " one of the most curious and perfect churches, in the Norman style, in the British Empire." Here we are pointed to king Cormac's tomb, in which was discovered a crosier of " exceedingly beautiful workmanship." It

   * Corma-c, son of Muireadhach. — Some are in the habit of confounding Cormac the bishop-king of Desmond, with Cormac, son of Cuileannan, king of Cashel, who was " a king, a bishop, an anchorite, and a tcribe, profoundly learned in the Scotia tongue." This Cormac was slain in 927, at the battle at Bealach-Mughna, or rather was beheaded after the battle. The site of this battle is still pointed out, and the stone on which the king's head was cut off by a common krurn This Cormac was the author of an ancient Irish Glossarj . called Sanason Chonn.iir, and is also said to have compiled the Psalter of Cashel.

   Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 3

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere about Rock of Cashel stands Cormac's Chapel, a stone-roofed church that still survives. Doctor Petrie called it "one of the most curious and perfect churches, in the Norman style, in the British Empire." Cormac was bishop-king of Desmond, treacherously slain in 1138. His tomb is here, and in it was discovered a crosier of "exceedingly beautiful workmanship." Some confound this Cormac with another Cormac, son of Cuileannan, king of Cashel, described as a king, a bishop, an anchorite, and a scribe, profoundly learned in the Scotia tongue. That Cormac was slain in 927 at the battle of Bealach-Mughna, beheaded after the battle. The site is still pointed out, and the stone on which the king's head was cut off. He was the author of an ancient Irish glossary called Sanasán Cormaic, and is also said to have compiled the Psalter of Cashel.

2. James Desmond executed on Sir Cormac's lands at Blarney

   near Blarney · townland · Cork

   James, the younger brother of the Earl of Desmond, was caught taking a prey on Sir Cormac Mac Teige's lands near Blarney. Sir Cormac, as sheriff of the county, was involved when James was put to death and cut in quarters and little pieces.

   Read the passage

   heart" James, the younger brother of the Earl of Desmond, found the " white- washed edifices " of Sir Comae Mac Teige, of Blarney, no more than " whited sepulchres." Sir Cormac was sheriff of the county when that "noble youth" was put to death, and cut in quarters and little pieces. Desmond was caught taking a prey on Sir Cormac's lands.

   His principal residence was Blarney castle. "We have no hesitation in saying, that the word blarney has derived its peculiar significance from this loyal, rare, civil, comely-shaped, bright-countenanced man.

   Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 121

3. Capture of William Barry in Desmond, brought to Cork

   Cork · city · Cork · 1586

   William Barry, who had conveyed the Earl of Clancare's son from London to France, returned to Ireland disguised as a beggar to seek relief for the young lord. He was apprehended in Desmond, brought to Cork, and ordered sent to Dublin for interrogation.

   Read the passage

   "Rt. hon. : My humble and most bonden duty premised. Finding this bearer, my cousin, James Meagher, repairing towards the Court, I thought good to write your Honor these few lines, declairing*that William Barry the man that brought the Earl of Clancarre's son into France, is apprehended in Desmond, and now brought to Cork. I offered to bring him to your Honor, wherein I could not prevail, by reason that my Lo. Deputie did write for him; and it is meant that the said Barry shall be sent to Dublin."

   It appears from these letters that Barry, having conveyed the boy from London to France, returned to Ireland, disguised as a beggar, " to procure some relief for the young lord." What became of the lad after this, we know not ; perhaps be died.

   Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 127

   As the companion tells it

   Coming through Cork now. In 1586 this city was where William Barry's journey ended. He had conveyed the Earl of Clancare's son from London to France, and then came back to Ireland disguised as a beggar, to procure some relief for the young lord. He was apprehended in Desmond and brought here to Cork. A letter from the time says the writer offered to bring Barry to his Honor but could not prevail, because the Lord Deputy wrote for him. It was meant that Barry should be sent to Dublin. What became of the young lord after this, the record does not say. Perhaps he died.

4. Commissioners ambushed en route to Barry's Court

   near Barryscourt · street · Cork · 1568

   In 1568, commissioners sent to govern Munster arrived in Cork but were intercepted by wood kerne. Lord Barrymore and the Dean of Cloyne met them and safely led them to Barry's Court.

   Read the passage

   Commissioners were appointed to govern Munster during the earl's imprisonment. They arrive in Cork, where they write, January 14th, 1568, to the Lords Justices. "Wood kerne, under Gerot Bracke, one of the Earl of Desmond's near kinsmen, intercepted our letters, certain kerne lay in ambush for us, but Lord Barrymore and John Fitz-Edmund, Dean of Cloyne, met us, and led us to Barry's Court." They had a dangerous and wet journey, and when they got to Cork, none of the Munster chieftains came to meet them. The Countess of Desmond wrote them, January 1 1th, from Kilmallock: "the country is in such disorder that few can trust a father, a son, or a brother." She

   202 HISTORY OF CORK.

   Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 95

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere about Barryscourt, in 1568, commissioners appointed to govern Munster during the earl's imprisonment came through here. They reached Cork and wrote to the Lords Justices on January 14th, 1568. They said wood kerne under Gerot Bracke, one of the Earl of Desmond's near kinsmen, intercepted their letters. Certain kerne lay in ambush for them. But Lord Barrymore and John Fitz-Edmund, Dean of Cloyne, met them and led them to Barry's Court. It was a dangerous and wet journey, and when they got to Cork, none of the Munster chieftains came to meet them. The Countess of Desmond wrote to them from Kilmallock on January 11th. She said the country was in such disorder that few could trust a father, a son, or a brother.

5. Fitzstephen's sally from Cork and death, 1185

   Cork · city · Cork · 1185

   After MacCarthy attacked Fitzstephen, who was shut up in Cork, Raymond Le Gros sailed from Wexford with reinforcements. Fitzstephen made a sally and routed the Irish at the first onset, but broken with age and misfortune, he soon lost his senses and then his life.

   Read the passage

   set sail with a hundred archers and twenty knights. With this reinforcement, Fitzstephen made a sally, and routed the Irish at the first onset. But this was one of his last acts. " Broken with age and misfortune, he first lost his senses, and not long afterwards his life." This was the end of a man whose inheritance, by royal charter, was a million and a-half acres, Mac Carthy made a last attempt, in 1185, on the " Beautiful citie," and was encountered by Theobald Fitz-Walter, the founder of the house of Ormond, He came upon the old Irish prince, while engaged in conference with his men, and slew him and his whole party. Thus died one of the greatest and bravest of the kings of Cork. "There happened," says Friar Clin, " a great eclipse of the sun this year, which continued for some time, of a bkody colour.^

   Diarmaid Mac Carthy was succeeded by his son Donnell, who slew his own brother, Cathal Odhor. He then turned his sword against Donnell More O'Brien, who had aided the English in the erection of castles, "for the purpose of distressing the Mac Carthy." This Donnell O'Brien is styled in the Dublin copy of the Annals of Innisfallen, " a beaming lamp in peace and war, and a brilliant star of the hospitality and valor of the Momonians." He was succeeded by Murtough, who commenced his reign by uniting his forces with those of 0' Conor of Connaught, in aiding Mac Carthy to drive the English out of Cork, without permitting them to fire the city, which they attempted, Mac Carthy at this time destroyed the castle of Kilfeakle, and slew many of the English, taking two of their chiefs prisoners. He also plundered the territory

   Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 12

6. Florence's letter to the White Knight mentioning Tullylease

   Tullylease · townland · Cork · 1600

   Florence MacCarthy wrote a letter to the White Knight, who had betrayed the Earl of Desmond, dated from Palace on 27 August 1600. The letter mentioned a proposed meeting about Gortnetoberd of Tullylease, and was shown by the White Knight to the Lord President, who interpreted it as a reproof for submission to the queen.

   Read the passage

   "A letter from FLORENCE to the WHITE KNIGHT. " Damnation, I cannot but commend me heartily unto you, as bad as thou art, and do also most heartily commend me to your two sons. I would be very glad to speak with you for your good ; and because I cannot speak with you myself, yet I would have you in anywise credit your daughter, Mistress Mac Donough, concerning me, and to believe from me whom she sends, or what she sends you word of by a trusty messenger. I would have you to determine about Pierce Oge ; and that I may speak with you, I mean about Gortnetoberd of Tullylease, send word to Pierce and Dermond of the day with him, and send me word and I will come without all fail. In the meantime I leave you to God. Palace, this seven and twentieth of August, 1600.

   " Your assured loving Friend,

   Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 158

7. Mac Carthy hangs gillie at Park na Croh, Lakes of Killarney

   Killarney · town · Kerry

   After O'Connell of Ballycarbery returned Mac Carthy's fosterage cradle with the bloody head of Mac Carthy's messenger, Mac Carthy hanged the gillie who carried it back on his gallows at Park na Croh on the Lakes of Killarney.

   Read the passage

   of Ballycarbery, who returned it by a gillie, with the bloody head of Mac Carthy's messenger. Mac Carthy hung the gillie on his gallows of' Park na Croh, on the Lakes of Killarney.

   Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 75

8. Thomas Stucley styled seneschal of County Wexford

   Enniscorthy · townland · Wexford · 1571–1572

   Thomas Stucley, a figure prominent in state papers as a threat of invasion, was styled 'late of Enniscorthy, gent., seneschal of the county of Wexford.' He was held by some as a natural son of Henry VIII and was expected to arrive in Ireland to coordinate rebellion.

   Read the passage

   or Italian invasion. We are greatly surprised he was never apprehended by the English government. He was held by some as a natural son of Henry VIII. ; by the mother's side, a descendant of Diarmaid Mac Murrough, king of Leinster. He is styled Thomas Stucley, late of Enniscorthy, gent., seneschal of the county of Wexford. Under date May 2, 1571, " Stucley's man's examination, declaring his departure for Spain." May 15th, " Examination of a mariner returned from Stucley." Same date, " Stucley has a colleetorship of the Pope in Spain." March 5tb, 1672,j a notice of " Stucley 's expected arrrival in Ireland ; Viscount Barry more, O'Neill, and Mac Mahon, to rise on his landing." March 30, 1572, the examination of a French merchant at Kinsale, who reports that Don John of Austria has overthrown the Turks in a great naval engagement ; that Stukeley was in the fight, the bravest of the brave, that he has been created Duke of Ireland, with 1000 ducats a- week.

   "When James Fitzmaurice was prepared to sail, Stukely deserted him, and embarked his forces with those of the Portuguese monarch, for the coast of Africa, where he fell at the battle of Alcazar, along with the heroic Don Sebastian, king of Portugal, Mahomet, son of Abdallah, king of Fey, and Abimeleck, king of Morocco.

   Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 109

9. Tracton Abbey taken and John Enchedon slain

   near Tracton · parish · Cork · 1569

   James Fitzmaurice's forces took Tracton Abbey on a Friday, slaying John Enchedon and all his men. The abbey had previously been besieged by the rebel forces.

   Read the passage

   Mac Carthy Beagh, James Fitz-Edmund, and others, were on the qui-vive, waiting the word to start into actual rebellion. It was reported that the Earl of Desmond had sent word to his people to unite with the other Irish chieftains in throwing off the English yoke. Andrew Skiddy, writing to the Lord Deputy, says, — " Yesterday, Mac Carthy More, whom I dare not name an earl, and James Fitzmaurice, spoiled all the inhabitants of Kerrycurrihy, and the farm Sir Warham Sentleger has of the Earl of Desmond, and laid siege to the abbey of Tracton." The mayors and councils of Cork, Youghal, and Kinsale also write. The Lady Ursula St. Leger, who is besieged by the rebels in the castle of Carrigaline, writes the Deputy to this effect :— " On Wednesday, Sir Warham St. Leger, the sheriff of Cork, left for England. The next morning James Fitzmaurice, with 4000 men, spoiled Kerrycurrihy ; on Friday they took Tracton, and slew John Enchedon and all his men ; on Saturday they laid siege to the castle of Carrigaline." Jaspar Horsey, writing, says, "St. Warham St. Leger's tall ship* is threatened." Sydney did not lose an hour in marching to the lady's relief. Most opportune, he found four hundred newly arrived troops in Cork. He followed the rebels from Cork to Buttevant, and from Buttevant to Kilmallock, which was burnt before his arrival. The

   • St. Warham St. Leger's tall ship.— The district farmed by St. Leger under the Earl of Desmond, was called De Cogan's ship. It is to a great extent surrounded by water.

   Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 96

10. Venetian ship driven into Cork harbour by storm

    near Cork Harbour · estuary · Cork

    A great Venetian ship of seven hundred tons burden, together with other vessels laden with Malmsey and Spanish wool, was driven into Cork harbour by stress of weather. The Malmsey was seized and sent as a present to the king.

    Read the passage

    c< murdrede by twenty -three foynes of an Irish knyffe, given him in the very hart." William Davis, an English gentleman of rank, was cruelly murdered in the city this year, of which the mayor does not inform the Deputy, but goes on to say, that O'Sullivan Beare* had accepted a "large ransom" for the liberation of John Tomson and other pirates. They promise that no soldiers or other persons shall leave the realm without special license and passport, and that they will make a strong fortress for the defence of the town. They complain that their harbour, and their whole line of coast, is haunted and harassed by English adventurers. They mention the arrival of a "big ship " at Kinsale, from St. Malo, en route to Galway, with wine and hides, and desire to know the king's pleasure concerning pirates — whether they should apprehend or kill them? They inform the Deputy, that "a great ship of Venice, of seven hundred tons burthen," together with other vessels, laden with Malmsey and Spanish wool, have been driven into Cork harbour by stress of weather. The Malmsey has been seized and sent as a present to the king, which was likely to settle the question of their right of seizure. The letter goes on to state, that certain wild Irish, coming one night to make a prey near Cork, were met by the Lord Barry, who was going to do the like on certain other wild Irish, and that the Lord Barry killed eighty of them. It would appear from a letter, written from Carrigaline, the 2nd of December, 1548, that Maurice of Desmond, the earl's brother, had not the same scruples

    * Dermot O'Sullivan Scare was blown up in his own castle, by accident, with gunpowder, this year, and his brother Amlavus, who succeeded him, was killed soon after.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 81

11. Battle at Innishannon between Geraldines and Carbrians

    Innishannon · town · Cork

    Thomas and James, sons of Maurice Duv, marched with a force into Carbery and were attacked by the son of MacCarthy Riavach and Turlough Mac Sweeny with galloglasses. The Geraldines were pursued as far as Innishannon on the Bandon river, where two or three hundred were slain or drowned. Turlough Mac Sweeny lost a hand and foot in the fighting.

    Read the passage

    This Thomas, son of Maurice Duv, or Black Maurice, would not be his father's son, or first cousin to the earl, if he were not fond of fighting. " Thomas and James, the sons of Maurice Duv, marched with a force into Carbery. The son of Mac Carthy Eiavach and Turlough Mac Sweeny, with a party of galloglasses, attacked the plunderers." They pursued them as far as Innishannon, on the Bandon river. The Carbrians were victors. Two or three hundred of the Geraldines were either slain or drowned. It was on this occasion that Turlough Mac Sweeny lost a hand and foot, and was obliged to use a wooden leg to carry him to his death.* Thomas, the leader of the Geraldines, died about two years after this. The father's death is thus described by the Four Masters : —

    "A.D. 1564. — Maurice Duv, the son of John, went to take a prey in Muskerry. Dermot and Cormac, the sons of Teige Mac Carthy, overtook and beheaded Maurice." Other writers say, those who were left to

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 89

12. Carew meets Ormond in Kilkenny en route to Cork

    Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1600

    Sir George Carew, the newly appointed lord president of Munster, passed through Kilkenny on his way to Cork. There he met the Earl of Ormond, who told him he had arranged a parley with Owny Mac Rory O'Moore.

    Read the passage

    We conclude that this piece of poltroonery was arranged by Ormond, the Generalissimo of the queen's forces in Ireland. He left Marshal Bagnell to fight the battle of the Yellow Ford, while he went preying and spoiling in Leix, and in Leix he left the post of danger to his brother, James, who was slain by Brian O'More. The earl was informed there were only a few to guard the territory. He ordered his brother, James, to enter the pass before him. It was Sunday morning. James was loath to go ; but set out at the earl's command. He fell mortally wounded. Brian O'More died soon after of his wounds. Brian was succeeded by Owny, the son of Eory 0' Moore, who had his revenge on Ormond. The story is told in the Pacata Hibernia. Sir George Carew, the new lord president of Munster, is passing through Kilkenny, on his way to Cork. Here he meets Ormond, who tells him he has arranged a parley with Owny Mac Rory O'Moore. The place of parley is Corronneduff, eight

    * Magh Ealla, the " Plain of the Ealla." The country higher up the Black - •water is called Dhuhallow, or the Black Allo. The river above Kanturk, to its source, is still called the Allo. We have the " Allo Bridge " at Freemount.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 132

13. Cork loses and regains its charter after Warbeck rebellion

    Cork · city · Cork · 1499

    The city of Cork lost its charter for the part it took in Perkin Warbeck's rebellion, but received a new and better one, the charter of Inspezimus, which gave enlarged privileges to the corporation.

    Read the passage

    The city of Cork lost its charter for the part it took in this rebellion, but it got a new and better one, the charter of Inspezimus, which gave enlarged privileges to the corporation. Cork got its first charter while J ohn was deputy, in the reign of Henry II. It runs thus:

    " I have granted and given, and by this my charter confirm, to the citizens of Cork, all the fields held of my city of Cork, and the ground on which the city is, now for my benefit to increase the strength of the citizens. This is to them and their heirs, to hold of me, and my heirs, and to remain in frank burgage, by such custom and rent as the burgesses of Bristol, in England, pay \early lor their burgages, and to secure my city of Cork, 1 grant this to the same my citizens of Cork, all the laws, franchises, and customs or freight which are in Bristol, on whatsoever sails. And firmly commanding that the aforesaid, my citizens of Cork, and their heirs, and their successors have the aforesaid city of Cork, of me and my successors, as is aforesaid, and have all the laws and franchises, and frank customs of Bristol, and as those were wont to be used and written in my court, and in my hundred of Cork, and in all business."

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 45

    As the companion tells it

    As the road brings you through Cork, this city carries a story from 1499. Cork lost its charter that year for the part it took in Perkin Warbeck's rebellion. But it got a new and better one, the charter of Inspezimus, which gave enlarged privileges to the corporation. Cork had received its first charter while John was deputy, in the reign of Henry II. That charter runs thus: I have granted and given, and by this my charter confirm, to the citizens of Cork, all the fields held of my city of Cork, and the ground on which the city is, now for my benefit to increase the strength of the citizens. The citizens were to hold it in frank burgage, paying such custom and rent as the burgesses of Bristol in England paid for their burgages. The charter granted the citizens all the laws, franchises, and customs of Bristol, on whatsoever sails. It commanded that the citizens and their heirs and successors have the city of Cork, with all the laws and franchises and frank customs of Bristol, as those were wont to be used and written in the court and in the hundred of Cork, and in all business.

14. Don Juan de Aquila's proclamation to Kinsale inhabitants

    Kinsale · town · Cork · 1601

    The Spanish commander Don Juan de Aquila issued a proclamation in Kinsale promising the inhabitants no injury from his forces, offering them freedom to depart with their goods, and pledging to treat them as brethren and friends.

    Read the passage

    give contentment to the inhabitants of Kinsale. " We, Don Juan de Aquila, general of the armie to Philip, Kinge of Spaine, by these presents doe promise that all the inhabitants of the towne of Kinsale shall receive no injury by any of our retinew, but rather shall be used as our brethren and friends, and that it shall bee lawful for any of the inhabitants that list to transport, without any molestation in body or goods, and as muek as shaU remaine, likewise without any hurt.

    " DON JUAN IDE

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 162

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kinsale, in 1601 the Spanish commander Don Juan de Aquila issued a proclamation here. He was general of the army to Philip, King of Spain, and he promised the inhabitants they would receive no injury from his forces. He pledged they would be used as brethren and friends, and that any who wished could depart with their goods without molestation.

15. Earl of Desmond ravages Muskerry, 1520

    near Muskerry · street · Cork · 1520

    James, Earl of Desmond, began his reign by making war on Cormac Oge MacCarthy, ravaging and laying waste the barony of Muskerry with fire and sword. Archbishop of Dublin and other commissioners tried to appease him but failed; MacCarthy retaliated by confederating with Sir Thomas of Desmond.

    Read the passage

    "This year [1520] James, the Earl of Desmond, began to ravage and lay waste the barony of Muskerry, belonging to Cormac Oge Mac Carthy, with fire and sword. The archbishop of Dublin, William Eokesby, with other commissioners, went from Dublin to Waterford to appease him, but in vain, for Desmond persisted to burn and destroy Mac Carthy's lands, who was not backward in his turn, to revenge the injury, and confederating with Sir Thomas of Desmond, the earl's uncle, (but implacable enemy) they came to a pitched battle with the earl in September, which proved a bloody engagement, wherein Desmond's soldiers forsaking him, he was obliged to save himself by flight, having lost above a thousand men, and had two of his

    114 HISTORY OF CORK.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 53

16. Imprisonment in Bermingham Tower, Dublin

    Dublin · city · Dublin

    Following his kidnapping, Hugh Roe O'Donnell was confined in the Bermingham Tower in Dublin. After three years, he attempted to escape but was recaptured and loaded with irons.

    Read the passage

    The Dublin council are " rejoiced at the arrival of Hugh,'' and order him to be confined in a " strong stone castle," — the Bermiugham Tower. After three years' imprisonment, he attempts to escape, f but is retaken and loaded with irons, to the l( grief, indignation, and despair " of his people. He tries again, and succeeds. It is night. Hugh, with Henry, and Art,

    * Sir John Perrott was succeeded by Sir William Fitz-William, who was sworn in the 30ih of June, 1588. " He had formerly been a very good governer of Ireland, but being answered at Whitehall, vheii he sought some reward for his services, that the government of Ireland was a preferment, and not a service, he ever after endeavoured to make his profit of that office."— Cox's Sibernia Anglieana, vol. i.,p. 397.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 130

17. Inquisition at Shandon Castle after Desmond Rebellions

    near Shandon · locality · Cork · 1588

    An inquisition was held at Shandon Castle in Cork on 9 September 1588 to examine all persons connected with the Earl of Desmond and his rebellions. A large number were found guilty and attainted by act of parliament, and a further list of suspects was drawn up, containing both Anglo-Norman and Celtic names but omitting the four great branches of the MacCarthys.

    Read the passage

    An inquisition was held in Shandon castle, in the city of Cork, the 9th of September, 1588, on the conduct of all those who were in any way concerned in, or connected with the Earl of Desmond and his risings, or rebellions. A large number were found guilty and attainted by act of parliament. The inquisitors also, furnished a list of all persons suspected of being illdisposed to the government. These lists contain as many Anglo-Norman as Celtic names. We do not find among them the name of any of the four great branches of the Mac Carthys, namely, the Carthy More, the Mac Carthy Keagh, Donogh Mac Carthy of Duhallow, or the Lord of Muskerry, although their properties were very extensive.

    We may judge of the power of those Irish chieftains from the following list of horse and foot they were able to bring into the field. The list is given by Sir George Carew : —

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 125

    As the companion tells it

    As the road brings you through Shandon, outside Cork city, you are passing the locality where an inquisition was held at Shandon Castle on the 9th of September, 1588. Its purpose was to examine the conduct of everyone connected with the Earl of Desmond and his rebellions. A large number were found guilty and attainted by act of parliament. The inquisitors also drew up a list of all persons suspected of being ill disposed to the government. These lists contain as many Anglo-Norman as Celtic names. But the four great branches of the MacCarthys do not appear among them: not the Carthy More, not the Mac Carthy Keagh, not Donogh Mac Carthy of Duhallo, not the Lord of Muskerry, though their properties were very extensive.

18. John Walters, Mayor of Cork, executed for treason

    Cork · city · Cork · 1499

    John Walters, Mayor of Cork, was tried at Westminster, found guilty of high treason, and hanged at Tyburn in November 1499 alongside Perkin Warbeck. Their heads were afterwards set up on London bridge. His son Philip Walters, though implicated, received the royal pardon.

    Read the passage

    John Walters, Mayor of Cork, was treated somewhat differently. He was tried at Westminster, by a jury of twelve men, found guilty of high treason, and hanged at Tyburn, in November, 1499, with his friend and protege, Master Perkin Warbeck. Their heads were afterwards set up on London bridge. Philip Walters, the Mayor's son, who was implicated, received the royal pardon, though Lord Bacon says he was executed with his father.

    We learn from Campion, who wrote his Historic of Irelande, in 1570, that Perkin Warbeck made the following declaration before his execution : —

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 44

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Cork, the city carries an old mark. John Walters, Mayor of Cork, was tried at Westminster by a jury of twelve men, found guilty of high treason, and hanged at Tyburn in November 1499, with his friend and protege, Master Perkin Warbeck. Their heads were afterwards set up on London bridge. Philip Walters, the Mayor's son, was implicated but received the royal pardon, though Lord Bacon says he was executed with his father. Campion, who wrote his history of Ireland in 1570, records that Warbeck made a declaration before his execution.

19. MacCarthy's Muskerry territory reaching walls of Cork

    near Muskerry · street · Cork

    The president justified accepting MacCarthy's submission on strategic grounds, noting his territory of Muskerry reached even to the walls of Cork. Two of his castles had been taken and a third burned, and the harvest of his country was valued at £5,000 in losses.

    Read the passage

    " Secondly, it was well weighed, what a helpe and courage his combination would have afforded to the rebels, if hee had obstinately run a rebellious course, for hee was at that time the strongest man in followers of any one of the Irish in that province, and his countrey in strength and fastnesse equall with the worst part of the same; and that which required no lesse respect was the situation of his countrey, reaching even to the walls of Corke, whereby the greatest part of her majesties forces must, of necessity, have beene employed in Muskerry, which would have given great impediment to the prosecution of the service in other parts, whereas by receiving him the warre would bee removed farther off and the greatest tempest of disturbance avoyded.

    " That hee was deepely infected, and fowly stained with manifold treasons was too manifest, yet this difference was made betweene him and others, that they were in publicke action professed traytors, and he a jugling tray tor.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 187

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Muskerry, you are travelling through the country that once belonged to MacCarthy. The president who accepted his submission gave a strategic reason for it. MacCarthy was the strongest man in followers of any of the Irish in that province, and his country was equal in strength and fastness to the worst part of it. What carried no less weight was the situation of his country, reaching even to the walls of Cork. Had he obstinately run a rebellious course, the greatest part of her majesty's forces would of necessity have been employed in Muskerry, giving great impediment to the prosecution of the service in other parts. By receiving him, the war would be removed farther off and the greatest tempest of disturbance avoided. That he was deeply infected and foully stained with manifold treasons was too manifest. Yet a difference was made between him and others. They were in public action professed traitors, and he a juggling traitor. The words come from the record: a juggling traitor.

20. Mayor Patrick Myagh reports Christmas ship in Cork

    Cork · city · Cork

    Patrick Myagh, Mayor of Cork, wrote to the Lord Deputy that Thomson and Stephenson arrived in Cork on Christmas Day in a ship laden with wines, figs, and sugar, offering to trade. The mayor sought guidance on whether to trade or seize the ship and apprehend the owners.

    Read the passage

    Patrick Myagh, Mayor of Cork, wrote to the Lord Deputy, stating that one " Tamsin," or Thomson, and Ttichard Stephenson, lately in the pay of Kobert St. Leger, had arrived in Cork, on Christmas-day, in a ship laden with wines, figs, and sugar, offering to trade. Very proper commodities for Christmas, though a day or so too late. The mayor wishes to know whether he is to trade, or seize the ship and apprehend the owners.

    " There be land thieves and water thieves," quoth honest Antonio. There were port pirates, and piratical mayors and council men in " the city" in those days.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 82

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Cork now. Back in one Christmas Day, the mayor of the city, Patrick Myagh, wrote to the Lord Deputy with a problem on his hands. A ship had arrived in port laden with wines, figs, and sugar, offering to trade. The men behind it were Thomson, also called Tamsin, and Richard Stephenson, both lately in the pay of Robert St. Leger. The mayor wanted to know whether he should trade with them, or seize the ship and apprehend the owners. As the old writer put it, there were land thieves and water thieves, and port pirates too, in the city in those days.

21. Old Head of Kinsale as strategic landing point feared by English

    near Old Head of Kinsale · promontory · Cork · 1588

    Sir Thomas Norris reported that Florence Mac Carthy had laboured to gain interest in the Old Head of Kinsale, identified as the most likely port for a foreign landing, in the year of the Spanish Armada. This heightened English suspicions of Florence's loyalty.

    Read the passage

    was succeeded, according to the laws of tanistry, not by his son, but by his brother, Sir Owen Mac Carthy; and Sir Owen Mac Carthy, whom St. Leger describes as a man of years, was succeeded, not by his son, but by Donnell na-Pipy, * the son of his eldest brother, who had died ; and Donnell na-Pipy, not by his son, but by Florence, the son of the second eldest brother. But there were more serious objections to Florence than these. Sir Thomas Xorris, writing to Walsingham under date July 1st, 1558, says: — "By his own private disposition he hath always shewed himself dearly well affected and inclined to the Spaniards." Again, — " He hath by all means laboured to be interested in the Old Head of Kimale." This was the year of the Spanish Armada. For all these reasons, it was deemed prudent to arrest him.

    " Him now I have according to Her High, pleasure committed, as also according to yr later direccion in yor Ip's lres of the 4th of the last moneth, have caused the countesse, Mac Finin, Teig Merrigagh, and such others as I could learne to have bene privy to the practise to be apprehended, as I could come by them ; and doe not doubt but very shortly to come by the rest likewise, of the wch I understand that 0' Sullivan More was the greatest forwarder and nearest of councell, though indeed all the chief of that countrey were wrought by Florence to consent thereunto, who (as I am left to understand) before the marriage, gott all their hands to firme that agreement, by a generall corrfirmacion of them; and soone after accomplished the said marriage in an old broken church thereby, not in such solemnity and good sort as behoved, and as order of Law and Her Mat8 injunction doe require."

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 129

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Old Head of Kinsale, you have a headland that the English feared in 1588, the year of the Spanish Armada. Florence Mac Carthy had come into his position by tanistry, the old Gaelic law of succession. He did not inherit from his father. He followed Donnell na-Pipy, who had followed Sir Owen Mac Carthy, who had followed another before him. Sir Thomas Norris wrote to Walsingham on July 1st, 1588. He said Florence had always shown himself "dearly well affected and inclined to the Spaniards." Norris also said Florence had laboured by all means to gain interest in the Old Head of Kinsale. That made the Old Head the most likely port for a foreign landing, in a year when Spain sent its Armada against England. For these reasons it was thought prudent to arrest Florence. Norris reported he had committed him according to Her Majesty's pleasure, and according to later direction. He had also caused the Countess, Mac Finin, Teig Merrigagh, and others he learned had been privy to the affair, to be apprehended as he could come by them. He did not doubt he would shortly come by the rest. He understood that O'Sullivan More was the greatest forwarder and nearest of counsel, though all the chief of that country were wrought by Florence to consent. Before the marriage, Florence got all their hands to confirm that agreement, and soon after accomplished the marriage in an old broken church nearby, not in the solemnity that law and Her Majesty's injunction required.

22. Rival armies encamped face to face at Glengarriff

    Glengarriff · townland · Cork · 1602

    The Earl of Thomond's and O'Sullivan's forces entrenched and encamped facing each other in Glengarriff, described as one of O'Sullivan's most impregnable retreats. O'Sullivan's followers began to desert him secretly before he slipped away during Christmas.

    Read the passage

    entrenched and encamped face to face in Gleann Garbh [Glengarriff ], which glen was one of O'Sullivan's most impregnable retreats. His people now began to separate from 0' Sullivan secretly without asking his leave. First of all Captain Tyrell went away from him, and he was obliged himself to depart in the Christmas holidays, without the knowledge of, and unperceived by the earl."

    They travelled the first night from Glengarriff to Ballyvourney, in West Muskerry ; the second night to the barony of Duhallow ; the third night to Ardpatrick, in the county of Limerick, and so on to the Shannon, but not without fighting their way, and the loss of a few men.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 189

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here in 1602, the Earl of Thomond's forces and O'Sullivan's forces were entrenched and encamped face to face. This glen was one of O'Sullivan's most impregnable retreats. But his people began to slip away from him secretly, without asking his leave. Captain Tyrell went away first, and then O'Sullivan himself departed during the Christmas holidays, unperceived by the earl. From here they travelled the first night to Ballyvourney in West Muskerry, the second night to Duhallow, the third night to Ardpatrick in County Limerick, and so on to the Shannon, fighting their way and losing a few men.

23. Seneschal of Imokilly assaults Youghal

    Youghal · town · Cork · 1582

    Two years after the ambush of Raleigh at the ford near Chore Abbey, the seneschal of Imokilly demonstrated his personal daring by launching an assault on the town of Youghal in 1582.

    Read the passage

    Ealeigh met the seneschal soon after, and charged him with cowardice, in the presence of the Earl of Ormond, to which Fitzgerald made no reply. He afterwards sent him a challenge by the White Knight, offering to meet him, man for man, and cross the river at the same place, which Fitzgerald — deeming prudence the better part of valour — declined. That the seneschal was no coward, but a man of personal daring, is evinced by his assault on the town of Youghal, two years after this, in 1582.

    Sir Walter Ealeigh's next daring and unwise expedition was against Lord Eoche, whom Doctor Smith styles a " nobleman well-beloved in the country." We have a State Paper by Lord Burleigh, containing his

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 116

24. Sir John of Desmond killed near Castlelyons

    Castlelyons · town · Cork

    Sir John of Desmond, described as a roving plunderer, was intercepted by Captain Zouch's forces while crossing the river Avonmore on his way to the woods of Ratharlach. He was mortally wounded on the spot and died within a mile.

    Read the passage

    " John set out, accompanied by four horsemen, for the woods of Eatharlach, to hold a conference with Barry More, with whom he had entered into a plundering confederacy. He proceeded southwards across the river Avonmore, in the middle of a dark and misty day, and happened to be met, front to front and face to face, by Captain Siuitsi [Zouch] with his forces, though neither of them was in search of the other. John was mortally wounded on the spot, and had not advanced the space of a mile beyond that place when he died. He was carried crosswise on his own steed, with his face downwards, from thence to Cork, and when brought to that town, he was cut in quarters, and his head was sent to Dublin* as a token of victory."

    The Four Masters are in error in saying that neither was in search of the other. A spy, named Eichard Mac James, induced one of Desmond's followers to accompany him to Captain Zouch, who bribed Mac James to report that he, Zouch, was on the point of

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 117

25. Sir Thomas Norris dies at Kilmallock

    Kilmallock · town · Limerick · 1599

    According to the Four Masters, Sir Thomas Norris was carried from the battlefield to Kilmallock, where he died six weeks later from his wounds. O'Sullivan Beare alternatively says he was taken to Mallow and died within fifteen days.

    Read the passage

    The Eour Masters say he was carried from the field to Kilmallock, where he died in six weeks — O'Sullivan Beare says, to Mallow, where he died within fifteen days, and that he received his death- wound from the hand of John Burke, Nobilis Connachtus : —

    "Aliquot inde mensibus Thomas Burkus Castelconelli Baronis frater qui ab Anglis desciuit receptis a Eaymundo Barone, et eius fratre Guilielmo militibus in Muscria Kurkia* castella non satis munita expugnabat quso circa loca Norris qui cum exercitu erat, cum equitibus amplius ducentis, & peditibus mille in Thoman ire contendit, illumque cum equitatu, & bombardarijs ad Killthiliam nanciscitur. Thomas, qui ducentos tantum perdites tune habuit, loco cedere putauit. Eare non contentus Norris in eius ultimos ordines cum equitatu proruit : in cuius impetum Thomas sese conuertit, & Johannes Burkus Nobilis Connachtus Norrisem hasta per Galeam ferit in capite ferream hastse cuspidem relinquens. Norris vulnere

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 143

26. Sugan Earl's Harper from Ballyduff

    Ballyduff · townland · Cork · 1600

    The Sugan Earl, driven to shelter in woods and caves, was accompanied by his harper Dermot O'Dugan of Ballyduff, whose music cheered him in his lonely hiding places. The president offered a reward for the earl's capture, dead or alive.

    Read the passage

    The Sugan Earl is at length driven, like his uncle, to the shelter of the woods and wild glens. He is accompanied by a harper — Dermot O'Dugan, of Ballyduff — whose music cheers the solitude of the lonely caves to which he flees for shelter. The president offers a liberal reward to any one who will take him dead or alive. Lord Barry undertakes to run him down with a hundred soldiers. The earl and his friend are surprised in a wood and surrounded. The harper takes the earl's cloak, and, with the " lapwing's policie" breaks cover. A hundred soldiers, with a " Hark away !" are at his heels. He escapes into Fitzgibbon's or the White

    336 HISTORY OF CORK.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 151

27. Desmond raises rebellion standard on Ballyhoura Mountains

    near Ballyhoura Mountains · mountain or mountain range · Cork · 1579

    After being proclaimed a traitor on 1 November 1579, the Earl of Desmond raised the standard of rebellion on the Ballyhoura Mountains in County Cork. From there he descended, sweeping flocks and herds before him, taking preys from the lands of Lords Roche and Barry.

    Read the passage

    When the Lord Justice, Sir William Pelham, came to the South, the Earl of Desmond refused to join him. He, with James, his brother, were, with sound of trumpet, proclaimed traitors, on the 1st of November, 1579. He was now a desperate man. He raised the standard of rebellion on the Ballyhowra mountains, in this county, from which he descended like a torrent, sweeping flocks and herds before him, not always discriminating between friends and foes. He took his first preys from the lands of the Lords Roche and Barry. He then visited the town of Youghal (the mayors of which had ever acted as his friends), and sacked it in the most ruthless and savage way.

    " They encamped before Youghal, and finally took that town, which at that time was full of riches and goods. The Geraldines seized upon all the riches they

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 112

28. Drury defeated at Springfield in the wood of Kilmore, Co. Cork

    Kilmore · townland · Cork · 1579

    Sir William Drury left Kilmallock with four hundred men to search the wood of Kilmore in County Cork. At Gort na Tiobrad (Springfield), he engaged John and James Oge and was defeated with the loss of three hundred men and three captains.

    Read the passage

    Sir William Drury left the camp of Kilmallock at the head of four hundred men, to search the wood of Kilmore [Coill Mhor] in the county Cork. They fell in with John and James Oge at Gort na Tiobrad, the " field of the spring," or Springfield. A fierce engagement ensued, in which the Lord Justice was defeated, three hundred of his men and three of his captains (namely Herbert, Eustace, and Price) having been slain. The remnant of his army fled back to the camp near Kilmallock. Sir William left Kilmallock for Athneasy,* a ford on the Morning-star river, about four miles to the east of Kilmallock. Here he took his death sickness. Leaving Captain Malby to prosecute the war against the Geraldines, he was conveyed in a chariot to Waterford, where he died.

    * Athneaty, anciently Bel-atha-na-n Deise, i.e., the mouth of the ford «f Deis.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 111

29. Florence MacCarthy's proposed fortifications at Dunderrow

    Dunderrow · townland · Cork · 1600

    Florence MacCarthy proposed erecting fortifications at Dunderrow to defend himself and James FitzThomas against the English and to give succour to Spaniards who might come to their aid. The mound or fort is now nearly removed.

    Read the passage

    Florence, and in Florence's chamber, lie the said Florence (and none other but they two being present) said that he understood that this examinate was an engineer, and one that had skill in devising and erecting of fortifications, and that he would willingly employ him in the like. Annias demanding of Florence what or where he would have his works raised ? He answered at Dunkerran,* wherein he might upon any occasion of extremity defend himself and James Fitz- Thomas against the English, and also wherein he might give succour to such Spaniards as should come to their aid."

    This John Annias, who had been living for some time in Spain, was arrested in 1594, along with Patrick Cullen, a fencer, on the grave charge of having come to England to murder the queen. Cullen was hanged, and Annias offered to expiate his faults by doing her majesty good service. The nature of the service we learn from a letter addressed by him, when in the Tower, to the Privy Council, bearing date 1594. We do not give the whole letter.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 153

30. Invaders raise consecrated fort at Smerwick peninsula

    Smerwick · townland · Kerry · 1579

    The first operation of Fitzmaurice's invaders after landing was to raise a fort on the Smerwick peninsula, which was duly consecrated. Dr. Saunders, O'Mulrian, and Allen marched in canonicals at the head of the invaders, preceded by friars bearing the Pope's standard.

    Read the passage

    The first operation of the invaders was to raise a fort on the peninsula, where they lauded ; which was duly consecrated. Sir William Drury, who was at this time in " Great Cork of Muuster," and who should have gone in person to oppose the foreigners, sent Henry Davells, the constable of Dungarvan, and Arthur Carter, the provost-marshal of Minister, with commands to the Earl of Desmond to besiege and

    • Tres zdlepow In cause catholique. — " Ce saint homme epuise par la fatigue et par la chagrin de voir triompher 1'impiete, mourut d'une flux de sang, dans uu bois, ou il manquoit de tout secours, exeepte le spirituel, qui ltd fut admiuistre par (.'orneille, Eveque de Killalow, qui ne le quitta, qu'a la inort." — Mugceghegan Hist, Irelanap, torn, iii., p. 448.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 110

31. Milo de Cogan murdered at Lismore, 1185

    Lismore and Mocollop · parish · Cork · 1185

    Milo de Cogan and young Fitzstephen were slain at Lismore in 1185, having been invited there by Mac Tirid. Mac Tirid stole suddenly upon them and treacherously murdered them along with five of their servants.

    Read the passage

    Milo de Cogan and young Fitzstephen were slain in 1185, at Lismore, to which they were invited, bygone Mac Tirid, "who stealing suddenly and unawares upon them, treacherously murdered them, and five of their servants. This left Fitzstephen without a son. Whether or not these murders had been previously arranged by Mac Carthy, we cannot say, but he at once took advantage of them to attack Fitzstephen, who was shut up in Cork. The Norman knight once more applied to his trusty friend, Eaymond, who was at Wexford. He

    26 HISTORY OF CORK.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 12

32. O'Neill welcomed at Cashel by Sugan Earl

    Cashel · town · Tipperary · 1600

    In January 1600, Hugh O'Neill marched south to confirm alliances and met James Fitz-Thomas, the Sugan Earl of Desmond, at the gates of Cashel. Together they proceeded westward through Clann-Gibbon, the Roche's country, and the territory of Barrymore.

    Read the passage

    O'Neill opened the campaign in January, 1600, by marching into the South "to confirm his friendship with his allies in the war, and to wreak his vengeance upon his enemies." He was met and welcomed at the gates of Cashel by James Fitz-Thomas, the Sugan Earl of Desmond, now the arch- traitor of Munster. They proceeded westward through Clann- Gibbon, the Eoche's country, and the territory of Barrymore. The Barry, at this time, was David, a loyal subject, so

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 144

    As the companion tells it

    Cashel, the town the road passes through. In January 1600, Hugh O'Neill marched south to confirm his friendship with his allies in the war and to wreak his vengeance upon his enemies. At the gates of Cashel he was met and welcomed by James Fitz-Thomas, the Sugan Earl of Desmond, called the archtraitor of Munster. From there they proceeded westward through Clann-Gibbon, the Roche's country, and the territory of Barrymore. The Barry at this time was David, a loyal subject.

33. Owen Mac Egan's letter to constable of Dunboy

    near Dunboy · street · Cork

    Owen Mac Egan, the Pope's Vicar Apostolic in Munster, wrote a genial and pious letter to Richard Mac Geoghegan, constable of Dunboy, commending him and his cause to God. The letter's warmth contrasts with English accusations of Mac Egan's cruelty toward prisoners.

    Read the passage

    the constable of Dunboy, is not only genial, kind, and cheerful — and these are not the traits of a cruel man • — but sincerely pious, " I cannot but expect much, with God's assistance, in that lawful and godly cause." Then the conclusion, " In my sacrifice, and other poor prayers, I will not fail to commend you and your good cause to God;" and his "Nisi Dominus custodierit civitatem " — Except the Lord keep the city — and then his death ! It is only to be regretted that men like Owen Mac Egan should persevere, when all reasonable hopes of success have departed. Both the English and Irish Armada had failed. Every stronghold in Munster was in the hands of the Irish government. A rising in Carbery, under such circumstances, was simple madness. All was irretrievably gone. Perhaps Owen Mac Egan felt that it was so, and did not care to outlive it ; that, like some brave captain, he resolved to go down with the ship he commanded. Those days produced men of desperate courage. But many an honest man would prefer sinking with Mac Egan, to swimming with Sir George Carew, knight, Lord President of Munster.

    Sir George is now prepared to write his Pacata Hibernia. He may write it in blood as far as Munster is concerned, for it lies as still as dead men can make it. But the contrary of all this was reported, to Carew' s very great annoyance. " About this time it was vulgarly reported in England, by some who had their tongues pointed with slander, and their hearts stuffed with malice, that Munster was newly burning with fresh flames of rebellion ; that the Viscount Roch, the Lord of Cahyr, and Cormock Mac Dermond, had

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 191

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Dunboy, a letter was written that speaks against what men later said of its author. Owen Mac Egan, the Pope's Vicar Apostolic in Munster, wrote to Richard Mac Geoghegan, constable of Dunboy. The letter is genial, kind, and cheerful, and these are not the traits of a cruel man. He was sincerely pious. He wrote: I cannot but expect much, with God's assistance, in that lawful and godly cause. And at the close he said: In my sacrifice, and other poor prayers, I will not fail to commend you and your good cause to God. He quoted the psalm: Nisi Dominus custodierit civitatem. Except the Lord keep the city. And then came his death. It is to be regretted that men like Owen Mac Egan persevered when all reasonable hope of success had departed. Both the English and Irish Armada had failed. Every stronghold in Munster was in the hands of the Irish government. A rising in Carbery under such circumstances was simple madness. All was irretrievably gone. Perhaps Mac Egan felt that it was so, and did not care to outlive it. Like some brave captain, he resolved to go down with the ship he commanded. Those days produced men of desperate courage. Many an honest man would prefer sinking with Mac Egan to swimming with Sir George Carew, knight, Lord President of Munster.

34. Rebels spoil Kerrycurrihy and besiege Tracton Abbey

    Kerrycurrihy · barony · Cork · 1569

    Mac Carthy More and James Fitzmaurice spoiled all the inhabitants of Kerrycurrihy and the farm held by Sir Warham St. Leger under the Earl of Desmond, then laid siege to the abbey of Tracton. Andrew Skiddy reported these actions to the Lord Deputy.

    Read the passage

    Mac Carthy Beagh, James Fitz-Edmund, and others, were on the qui-vive, waiting the word to start into actual rebellion. It was reported that the Earl of Desmond had sent word to his people to unite with the other Irish chieftains in throwing off the English yoke. Andrew Skiddy, writing to the Lord Deputy, says, — " Yesterday, Mac Carthy More, whom I dare not name an earl, and James Fitzmaurice, spoiled all the inhabitants of Kerrycurrihy, and the farm Sir Warham Sentleger has of the Earl of Desmond, and laid siege to the abbey of Tracton." The mayors and councils of Cork, Youghal, and Kinsale also write. The Lady Ursula St. Leger, who is besieged by the rebels in the castle of Carrigaline, writes the Deputy to this effect :— " On Wednesday, Sir Warham St. Leger, the sheriff of Cork, left for England. The next morning James Fitzmaurice, with 4000 men, spoiled Kerrycurrihy ; on Friday they took Tracton, and slew John Enchedon and all his men ; on Saturday they laid siege to the castle of Carrigaline." Jaspar Horsey, writing, says, "St. Warham St. Leger's tall ship* is threatened." Sydney did not lose an hour in marching to the lady's relief. Most opportune, he found four hundred newly arrived troops in Cork. He followed the rebels from Cork to Buttevant, and from Buttevant to Kilmallock, which was burnt before his arrival. The

    • St. Warham St. Leger's tall ship.— The district farmed by St. Leger under the Earl of Desmond, was called De Cogan's ship. It is to a great extent surrounded by water.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 96

35. Blarney Castle as Sir Cormac Mac Teige's residence

    near Blarney · townland · Cork · 1583

    Sir Cormac Mac Teige, lord of Muskerry, was praised for possessing the most white-washed edifices and fine built castles in Ireland. His principal residence was Blarney Castle, from which the word 'blarney' is said to derive its peculiar significance.

    Read the passage

    His principal residence was Blarney castle. "We have no hesitation in saying, that the word blarney has derived its peculiar significance from this loyal, rare, civil, comely-shaped, bright-countenanced man.

    Aenghus O'Daly, when describing the reception he received from Sir Cormac Teige' s successor, says, " Flattery I got for food in Great Musgraidhe of Mac Diarmoda." Doctor O'Donovan, who has edited this interesting poem of the " Tribes of Ireland," says, " This is the earliest notice of the bladhmann or blarney of Munster we have yet read." Clarence Mangan's versified paraphrase of the Irish, with a few variations, runs thus : —

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 121

36. Butlers seize Portlargy during Ormond-Desmond conflict

    Waterford · city · Waterford

    During a feud between the Earls of Ormond and Desmond, the Butlers captured Portlargy (Waterford). Gerott, son of the Earl of Desmond, was taken prisoner by the Butlers. Both sides then agreed to settle their differences by a set battle.

    Read the passage

    was raysed betwixt the Earles of Ormond,* and Desmond. Gerott, son to the Earl of Desmond, was taken prisoner by the Butlers. Portlargy, [Waterford] was taken by them, but afterwards, they on both sides ordained to decide their variances by sett battle, and soe they have done ; meeting each one, with an odious irefull countenance; nevertheless, it was against the Earl of Ormond's will Mac Richard went to fight that day, for Englishmen were accustomed not to give battle on Munday, nor after noon any day ; but Mac Richard respected not that their superstitious observation, but went on, though he had the worst, he being defeated and taken prisoner also, and after the account of them that knew it, there was the number of four hundred and ten of his men buried, besides all that was eaten by the doggs, and by foules of the aive."

    The general on the Butlers' side is styled Mac Richard. His name was Edmond Butler. He was the son of Eichard, the son of James, the son of larla Balbh, or the " Stammering Earl." This Mac Eichard was in possession of a copy of the Psalter of Cashel, which he was obliged to deliver up to Thomas, the Earl of Desmond, for obtaining his liberty. This was a high price for a book, if we estimate its value by the amount paid in 1414, for the ransom of the son of the Baron of Slane, namely, fourteen hundred marks.-]* The Danes, who captured Mahon, Lord of Bregia, in 1029, exacted for his ransom, twelve hundred cows, seven score horses, three score ounces of gold, sixty ounces of white silver, along with the sword of Carlus, and other small etcetera.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 35

37. Earl of Clancare submits at Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    H. Gylberte, writing from Limerick, informed the Deputy that on the 4th of December the Earl of Clancare and M'Donough submitted, falling on their knees and acknowledging their treasons. Gylberte refused parley or peace to any rebel, insisting the queen's mercy was not to be taken for granted.

    Read the passage

    There was at this time a report that forty Spanish ships had arrived at " Dinglishe," or Dingle, but these reports were so frequent, that like that of the boy who cried " wolf !" they failed to excite alarm. Most of the Anglo-Norman, and some of the Irish lords and chieftains, offered their aid to the secretary, who succeeded in the course of a few months, in bringing the earl of Clancare to his knees, and of causing James Fitzmaurice to change his quarters. H. Gylberte, writing from Limerick, informs the Deputy, that on the 4th of December, the Earl of Clancare and M'Donough, "came in, fell on their knees, and acknowledged their treasons." Gylberte refused parley or peace to any rebel. He would not have them think that the queen had more need of their service than they had of her mercy. Clancare sends Sydney a petition, which he styles " the most humble submission of the most

    208 HISTORY OF CORK.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 96

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this is where H. Gylberte wrote to the Deputy with news of submission. It was the 4th of December when the Earl of Clancare and M'Donough, as Gylberte put it, "came in, fell on their knees, and acknowledged their treasons." Gylberte refused parley or peace to any rebel. He would not have them think that the queen had more need of their service than they had of her mercy. Clancare then sent Sydney a petition, which he styled "the most humble submission of the most" — the record breaks off there. Around this time there was also a report that forty Spanish ships had arrived at Dingle, but such reports were so frequent that, like the boy who cried wolf, they failed to excite alarm. The secretary had succeeded over the course of a few months in bringing the earl of Clancare to his knees, and in causing James Fitzmaurice to change his quarters.

38. Florence MacCarthy leaves Cork for Desmond, summons chiefs

    Cork · city · Cork · 1600

    Florence MacCarthy departed Cork and established himself in his supposed country of Desmond, writing to neighbouring gentlemen including O'Sullivan, Mac Finnin, and the two O'Donoghs to assemble and create him MacCartie More. He persecuted anyone who refused to attend as his mortal enemy.

    Read the passage

    " Whereby the indifferent reader may perceive with what prepared hatred, and prepensed malice this gallant was affected, even in this first scene of his devillish tragedie ; that there might bee no indecorum, his subsequent proceedings were in all poynts correspondent to these timely beginnings ; for having now left Corke, and gotten footing in his (supposed) countrey of Desmond, hee wrote severall letters to the gentlemen neere adjoyning, namely the 0 Sulevan, Mac Finnin, the two Odonoghs, and others, to assemble at a time and place appoynted, to create him Mac Cartie More ; and whosoever he was that refused to come, he persecuted as his mortall enemie." — Pac. Hib.

    Some of his people attack and kill some of the queen's forces under the command of Captain Flower, a few miles from Cork. The president demands an explanation. He writes a letter " stuffed with damnable oaths and execrable blasphemies, "in which hedenies allknowledge of the slaughter. He has even the audacity to go to Cork and see the president, who gives him his confidence, and informs him he is starting on an expedition to the west, which Mac Carthy at once communicates to James Fitz-Thomas, who prepares to meet him. The president discovered this treachery by James Fitz-

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 158

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Cork, this is where Florence MacCarthy's treachery began in 1600. He left the city and got his footing in his supposed country of Desmond. From there he wrote letters to the gentlemen near adjoining, namely O'Sullivan, Mac Finnin, the two O'Donoghs, and others, summoning them to assemble at a time and place appointed, to create him MacCartie More. Whoever refused to come, he persecuted as his mortal enemy. The book calls it the first scene of a devilish tragedy, marked by prepared hatred and prepensed malice. Some of his people then attacked and killed some of the queen's forces under Captain Flower, a few miles from Cork. The president demanded an explanation. MacCarthy wrote back a letter the record calls stuffed with damnable oaths and execrable blasphemies, denying all knowledge of the slaughter. He had the audacity to come to Cork and see the president, who gave him his confidence and told him he was starting an expedition to the west. MacCarthy at once passed this to James Fitz-Thomas, who prepared to meet him. The president discovered this treachery.

39. Carew's witty reply to Don Juan from Cork

    Cork · city · Cork · 1602

    Sir George Carew replied to Don Juan de Aquila from Cork on 17 September 1602, thanking him for a Book of Fortification left at departure and expressing hope that Don Juan would never return to Ireland. Carew sent an ambling hackney as a gift.

    Read the passage

    " I have received profit by the Book of Fortification which your lordship left me at your departure, and hold it as a relique in memory of you, and as a good scholler, I have put some things in practise, whereof your lordship, at your returne hither againe, (which I hope in God will be never) may be a witnesse whether I have committed any error in the art or no. My greatest defect hath beene the want of the helpe of so great a master as your lordship is, of whom I am desirous to learne, not onely that art, but in all else concerning military profession, in the which I do give your lordship the preheminence. To conclude, I rest in all I may (my dutie reserved to the queene, my mistresse,) affectionately ready at your lordship's service, and so kissing your hands. I beseech God to preserve you, with many happy yeares.

    "From Corke, the seventeenth of September, 1602."

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 175

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Cork, this is where Sir George Carew wrote to Don Juan de Aquila on the seventeenth of September, 1602. Don Juan had left Carew a Book of Fortification when he departed, and Carew wrote back to thank him. He said he held the book as a relic in memory of Don Juan, and that as a good scholar he had already put some things from it into practice. He told Don Juan that on his return to Ireland, which he hoped in God would be never, he could judge whether Carew had committed any error in the art. Carew called Don Juan a great master and gave him the preeminence in all things concerning the military profession. He sent him an ambling hackney as a gift. He closed by saying he remained affectionately ready at Don Juan's service, his duty reserved to the queen, and he kissed Don Juan's hands and prayed God preserve him with many happy years.

40. Cork mayor reports murders, pirates, and coastal raids

    Cork · city · Cork

    The mayor and bailiffs of Cork wrote to the Deputy complaining that Edmond Tyrie was treacherously murdered in Barrie's country, William Davis was killed in the city, and that their harbour and coastline were harassed by English adventurers. They also reported that O'Sullivan Beare accepted a large ransom for liberating pirates.

    Read the passage

    The mayor and bailiffs of Cork write to complain that Edmond Tyrie, while seeking the rightful possession of lands in Barrie's country, was treacherously

    170 HISTORY OF CORK.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 81

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Cork now. The mayor and bailiffs of this city once wrote to the Deputy to complain. Edmond Tyrie was treacherously murdered while seeking the rightful possession of lands in Barrie's country. William Davis was killed in the city. Their harbour and coastline were harassed by English adventurers, and O'Sullivan Beare accepted a large ransom for liberating pirates.

41. Descendant of bard Aenghus O'Daly arrested near Bantry

    Bantry · town · Cork · 1602

    A descendant of the famous poet Aenghus O'Daly of Muintir Beare was arrested on 4 May and brought before Sir George Carew. He was committed for trial rather than executed on the spot, because Carew regarded him as a descendant of his ancestors' hereditary bards.

    Read the passage

    On the 1st of May Captain Taaffe made a foray, with a troop of horse from the camp, and brought in three hundred cows, a great number of sheep, and some horses. A foray was made on the 3rd, by the sons of Sir Owen O'Sullivan— " who was firm and deserved well of her majesty" — who brought in fifty cows and a number of sheep. On the 4th, a descendant of the famous Aenghus O'Daly,* the poet of Muintir-Beare, was arrested, and brought before Sir George. He was committed for trial at the next sessions, and not hanged or shot, there and then, because Sir George held him as a descendant of the hereditary bards or rhymers of his ancestors.

    "This O'Daly's ancestor," writes Stafford, "had the country of Moynter-bary [Muintir Beare] given unto him by the Lord President's ancestor, many hundred yeares past, at which time Carew had to his inheritance the moiety of the whole kingdome of Corke, which wa,s first given by King Henry the Second unto Robert Fitz-Stephen. The service which O'Daly and

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 178

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Bantry, this town carries a story from May 1602, when the English campaign was pressing hard into this country. On the 1st of May, Captain Taaffe rode out with a troop of horse from the camp and brought in 300 cows, a great number of sheep, and some horses. Two days later the sons of Sir Owen O'Sullivan, who was described as firm and deserved well of her majesty, made their own foray and brought in 50 cows and a number of sheep. Then on the 4th of May, a descendant of the famous Aenghus O'Daly, the poet of Muintir Beare, was arrested and brought before Sir George Carew. He was committed for trial at the next sessions and not hanged or shot there and then, because Carew held him as a descendant of the hereditary bards of his ancestors. Stafford writes that this O'Daly's ancestor had the country of Muintir Beare given to him by the Lord President's ancestor many hundred years past, at which time Carew had to his inheritance the moiety of the whole kingdom of Cork, first given by King Henry the Second to Robert Fitz-Stephen.

42. Earl of Ormond's Lenten retreat at St. Kenny's church, Kilkenny

    Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny

    Sir Pierse Butler, Earl of Ormond and Ossory, retired annually during the last fortnight of Lent to a chamber near St. Kenny's church in Kilkenny, known as 'Paradise,' where he prayed, gave alms, and prepared to receive the Blessed Sacrament before returning to his dwelling on Easter Eve.

    Read the passage

    James, Lord Butler, became Earl of Ormond and Ossory the 21st of August, 1539, by the death of his father. The old Earl of Ormond is thus described by Robert Eothe :— « The said Sir Pierse Butler, Earle of Ormond and Ossorie, in all the course of his life was very religious and godly, and as I have heard, by an ancient man that lived in his tyme, he used every yeare, in the last fortnight of lent, to retire himself from all wordly business, and to lie during that time in a chamber nere St. Kenny's church of Kilkenny, called Paradise, and there he use his daily prayers, and

    150 HISTORY OF COEK.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 71

43. Edmund Spenser of Mallow buried in churchyard

    Mallow · town · Cork · 1790

    Edmund Spenser, great-great-great grandson of the poet, died in Mallow around 1790 and was buried in the graveyard of Mallow Church. His epitaph read 'UNFORTUNATE FROM HIS CRADLE TO HIS GRAVE.' The author searched for the tombstone but could not find it, though several people recalled seeing the Spenser name on a stone.

    Read the passage

    Hearing that he was buried in the graveyard of Mallow Church, I spent some time in seeking for a tomb-stone containing such an epitaph, but without success, although informed by two or three persons that they had seen the name of Spenser upon one of the stones. But very many of the inscriptions stand in need of the friendly chisel of some " Old Mortality"

    This must be the Spenser mentioned by a writer in the " Anthologia Hibernica," in 1793, as having resided a few years before in Mallow, and as having been " in possession of an original portrait of the poet, which he valued so highly as to refuse £500 which had been offered for it, with many curious records and papers concerning his venerable ancestor."

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 141

44. Flemish Artificers at Kilkenny Castle

    Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny

    The Earl and Countess of Ormond brought artificers from Flanders and other countries to work in the castle of Kilkenny. They produced diaper, tapestry, turkey carpets, and cushions to set a good example for the people.

    Read the passage

    * By whom he is ruled. — " She was man-like, and tall of stature, and very liberal and bountiful, a sure friend, a bitter enemy. Hardly disliking where she fancied, not easily fancying where she disliked. She was a good help-mete in those days, whereby her husband's country was brought to civilitie. The Earl and Countess planted great civilitie in the countie cf Tipperary and Kilkenny, and to give good example to the people, brought out of Flanders and other countries, divers artificers, who were daily at work in the castle of Kilkenny, where they wrought diaper, tapestry, turkey carpetts, cushions, and other like workes, whereof some do remaine as yet with the now Earl of Ormond," — Vidt British Museum, MSS. 4792, by Robert Eothe, in 1616.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 56

45. Garrett, poet Earl of Desmond, and Lough Gur

    near Lough Gur · lake or lakes · Limerick · 1398

    Garrett, the poet Earl of Desmond, died or disappeared in 1398. Tradition holds that his spirit appears once every seven years on Lough Gur, where he had a castle. The author warns opponents of Celtic literature professorships not to wander there after nightfall.

    Read the passage

    Garrett, the poet Earl of Desmond, whose love of Irish literature has produced this long dissertation, died or disappeared (perhaps to cultivate the muses,) in 1398. Doctor O'Donovan says, "Tradition still vividly remembers this Garrett ; and it is said his spirit appears once in seven years, on Lough Gur, where he had a castle." It would be a happy circumstance for Celtic literature if his spirit appeared every year. There was a spirit abroad lately which recommended the abolition of the professorships of Celtic literature in the Queen's Colleges. We should warn this anti-Irish spirit not to wander, after nightfall, on the margin of Lough Gur.

    In order that the poet's son, James, should receive a thoroughly Irish training, he sent him to Thomond to be educated. For this he required the king's permission. This permission was graciously granted him, as a reward of his loyalty, though so genuine an Irishman ; for the two things are not really incompatible. On a Patent Eoll of the 8th of December, 1388, and 12th Richard II., we find a license from the

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 27

46. Great famine of 1497 with grain prices in Meath

    Meath · county · Meath · 1497

    The Annals of Ireland record a great intolerable famine throughout all Ireland in 1497, the like of which the people had never seen. In Meath specifically, a peck of wheat cost five ounces and a gallon of ale sixpence, while among the Gaels a small measure of oats was traded for an in-calf cow.

    Read the passage

    " A.D. 1497. — A great intolerable famine throughout all Ireland this year, the likeness of which the people of that time had never seen, for there was scarce a corner or angle of all Ireland in which many persons did not die of that famine. Throughout Meath generally, a peck of wheat was purchased for five ounces, and a gallon of ale for sixpence, and among the Gaels, a small beart of oats, containing ten meaders, was purchased for an in-calf cow, and a beef was sold for a mark, and a milch cow for two in-calf cows, and a shilling more."

    Henry VII., Duke of Eichmond, was proclaimed Kin<^ of England, in 1485. We learn from the Annals of

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 41

    As the companion tells it

    As you travel through Meath, the annals record what happened here in 1497. A great intolerable famine fell across all Ireland that year, the like of which the people of that time had never seen. There was scarce a corner of all Ireland where many did not die of it. Throughout Meath generally, a peck of wheat was purchased for five ounces, and a gallon of ale for sixpence. Among the Gaels, a small measure of oats, containing ten meaders, was purchased for an in-calf cow. A beef was sold for a mark, and a milch cow for two in-calf cows and a shilling more.

47. Mac Carthy attacks Danes of Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1170

    Diarmaid Mac Carthy attacked the Danes of Limerick, burning their fortress and market-house, which proved to be bad policy as the Danes offered stronger opposition to the English than the native Irish did.

    Read the passage

    seem, still further to weaken the hands of the Irish party, turned against Eoderick, and as if this were not enough, Diarmaid Mac Carthy attacked the Danes of Limerick, and burned their fortress and market-house. This onslaught upon the Danes was bad policy. The English met a more manly opposition from the Danes than from the native Irish. We find the Danes of Cork, in 1174, equipping thirty-five vessels to attack an English fleet. It is true, they lost the battle, through the valor of an Englishman named Philip Walsh, who leaped on board the Admiral's ship, sword in hand, and killed Gilbert, who commanded the Danes, but the Danes fought bravely.

    But the Irish hated the Danes (who had taken possession of all their best ports) with a most sincere hatred. They were old enemies. " A.D. 820.— The city of Cork, and the adjacent country, were ransacked by a Danish fleet. A.D. 833. — The city was devastated by the Danes. A.D. 837. — This county was miserably harrassed by the Danes. Among other devastations, Inis Dambly, [Cape Clear] and Cork were plundered and burned "

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 8

48. Owen Mac Teige of Drishane scouts Tirrell's camp

    Drishane · townland · Cork

    Owen Mac Teige of Drishane, one of the MacCarthys of Muskerry, approached Tirrell's wild camp by night and returned safely. He reported to Bagnall that the enemy lay in three divisions with a strong wood behind, a bog half an Irish mile wide in front, and cragged mountains on either side.

    Read the passage

    But what of that most inveterate rebel, Captain Tirrell? Now or never, says the president, is the time to attack this daring freebooter. The moment he hears of Mac Carthy's submission, he is off among the mountains of Kerry. Sir Samuel Bagnall is ordered on his track, and if possible to intercept him, or take him by surprise. He finds Tirrell encamped in the midst of woods and bogs, on the western confines of Muskerry. One of the Mac Carthys of Muskerry, Owen Mac Teige, of Drishane, approaches his wild camp by night, and returns in safety, and informs Bagnall that the enemy is lying in three divisions, with a "strong wood" at their back ; a bog, half an Irish mile wide, in their front ; and " cragged and rocky mountains " on either side. The colonel resolves to attack the three divisions together. The night is pitch dark ; the English steal along, within a furlong of the camp ; they have no doubt of surprising it, for all seem sunk in sleep, when a soldier — an Irishman, we suspect — stumbles, and his gun goes off — those sort of accidents often occurred under similar circumstances. The alarm is given ; Tirrell runs away in his shirt, his wife at his heels in no better plight. About eighty of his men are slain. Her majesty's troops not only took the usual spoil of cows, sheep, and horses, but " some remnants of velvet," gold and silver lace, English apparel in satin and velvet, and "a portmanteau," containing a quantity of Spanish coin. Captain Tirrell was as fond of " brave attire " as Sir Walter Raleigh, He was fearfully enraged at the loss of his portmanteau, and all the velvet, satin, gold and silver lace, and Spanish coin it contained, and wreaked his ven-

    414 HISTOfiY OF CORK.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 187

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Drishane, a man called Owen Mac Teige once crept through the dark toward an enemy camp. He was one of the MacCarthys of Muskerry, and the camp belonged to Captain Tirrell, a rebel the English were desperate to catch. When Mac Carthy submitted to the crown, Tirrell fled into the mountains of Kerry. Sir Samuel Bagnall was sent after him and found him encamped among woods and bogs on the western edge of Muskerry. Owen Mac Teige of Drishane approached the camp by night and came back safely. He told Bagnall the enemy lay in three divisions, with a "strong wood" behind them, a bog half an Irish mile wide in front, and "cragged and rocky mountains" on either side. Bagnall resolved to attack all three divisions at once. The night was pitch dark and the English crept within a furlong of the camp, certain of surprise, when a soldier, an Irishman, stumbled and his gun went off. The alarm was raised. Tirrell ran away in his shirt, his wife at his heels in no better state. About 80 of his men were slain. The troops seized cows, sheep, and horses, but also "some remnants of velvet," gold and silver lace, satin and velvet apparel, and a portmanteau full of Spanish coin. Tirrell was as fond of "brave attire" as Sir Walter Raleigh, and he was fearfully enraged at losing it all.

49. Parliamentary Earl Lands at Youghal

    Youghal · town · Cork · 1600

    James Fitzgerald, the Parliamentary Earl, arrived at Youghal on 14 October 1600 after sixteen years as a prisoner in England. He was nearly overwhelmed by the embraces of local women who came to greet him. From Youghal he proceeded to Mallow where the president waited to receive him.

    Read the passage

    He arrived at Youghal on the fourteenth of October, where we find, from the chronicles of the day, "He had like to have been overthrown with the kisses of the old calleaks," or hags. From Youghal he proceeded directly to Mallow, where the president waited to receive him, for to him was committed the power of regulating all his movements, or, if need-be, of curtailing his liberty. In a letter from her majesty, Elizabeth K., to the lord president, signed by " Ro. Cecil," we read these words : — " Know this from us, that we shall never disallow it, if you, in your discretion, find it necessarie at any time that you doe abridge him of any libertie or any favour now afforded him."

    After remaining long enough in Mallow to learn his lesson from the president, he was forwarded, under the charge of the Archbishop of Cashel, to Kilmallock. Nothing could surpass the hearty welcome which the Irish — the tenants and followers of the old earl — gave the young man as he entered this fine old town. The windows and tops of the houses were crowded with spectators, .who showered down corn and salt upon his head as a token of welcome and prosperity.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 150

50. Perrott writes from Cork claiming peace in Munster, 1573

    Cork · city · Cork · 1573

    Sir John Perrott, writing from Cork on 2 July 1573, claimed there was not one man in rebellion nor any thieves in his province. Hooker echoed this with an Arcadian description of safe travel throughout Munster during Perrott's administration.

    Read the passage

    " Now every man, with a white stick only in his hands, and with great treasures, might and did travel without fear and danger where he would ; and the white sheep did keep the black,* and all the beasts lay continually in the fields without any stealing or preying." Perrott, writing from Cork, July 2, 1573, says, that he knows unot one evil man at present in rebellion, or any two picking thieves within his province."

    Every country under heaven has had its golden age. We are told that Kollo, the ancestor of the Conqueror, suspended a valuable bracelet from an oak in a forest near the Seine, and that it remained there for three years. Bede says, that a woman with a new-born child might travel through Northumberland, in the reign of Edwin, without fear or insult. The conversation of the Irish in A.M. 3960, "was as sweet a harmony to one another as any music." We suspect that Hooker's description of the man travelling with the white stick, gave Moore the idea of the lady with the " snow white wand : " —

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 104

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Cork, you are in the city from which Sir John Perrott wrote on the second of July 1573, claiming to know "not one evil man at present in rebellion, or any two picking thieves within his province." Hooker echoed this with a description of a Munster where "every man, with a white stick only in his hands, and with great treasures, might and did travel without fear and danger where he would." The white sheep kept the black, and all the beasts lay in the fields without any stealing or preying. Every country under heaven has had its golden age. Rollo, the ancestor of the Conqueror, suspended a valuable bracelet from an oak in a forest near the Seine, and it remained there for three years. Bede says a woman with a newborn child might travel through Northumberland in the reign of Edwin without fear or insult. The author suspects Hooker's description gave Moore the idea of the lady with the snow white wand.

51. Sir John Talbot lands at Dalkey, 1414

    Dalkey · townland · Dublin · 1414–1420

    Sir John Talbot, called Lord Furnival and styled the English Achilles, landed at Dalkey in September 1414 and remained in Ireland six years. He preyed and spoiled like an Irish chieftain, carrying off great preys of cattle and plundering poets of Ireland.

    Read the passage

    Sir John Stanley, who was satirised to death, was succeeded by Sir John Talbot,* called Lord Furnival. He was styled the English Achilles, on account of his bravery in the French wars, during the reign of Henry Y. He landed at Dalkey, in September, 1414, and remained in Ireland six years, preying and spoiling like any Irish chieftain. t( He carried off great preys of cows and horses, and cattle, and plundered Mic nani-Breathnack (the sons of Welshmen), and hanged Garrett, the son of Thomas Ceach, of the Geraldine blood." He also plundered a great number of the poets of Ireland. Talbot left Ireland, we are told, " being runne much in debt for victuall and divers others things, carrying along with him the curses of many." He left his brother Eichard, Archbishop of Dublin, as deputy in his stead.

    The incidents recorded during the earlship of James the Usurper, who reigned " nearly" half a century, are very few. The following is to his credit —

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 31

52. Spanish ships and arms expected on Kerry coast

    Kerry · county · Kerry · 1569

    In 1569, Mac Carthy More was meditating rebellion and corresponding with Spain. John Corbine revealed that two hundred Spanish ships fished the south-west coast annually, and two Spanish ships carrying arms were expected at Easter. The Mac Sweeneys had galleys that could aid an invader.

    Read the passage

    Mac Carthy More — for he at this time, 1569, repudiated his new title * of Earl of Clancare — was meditating rebellion, and carrying on an intercourse with Spain. One John Corbine, who had received a safe pass to travel through his kingdom of Kerry, made some important revelations to Cecil. The south-west coast was much frequented by Spaniards. Every year two hundred sail "fysheth there, and caryeth away

    * Repudiated his new title. — "Mac Carthy More, who refuseth the new title of Earl, and is offended with any one that calleth him Earl of Clancare.— Mayor of Cork to Sydney.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 96

    As the companion tells it

    As the road passes through Kerry, in 1569 this county saw a plot with Spain. Mac Carthy More had repudiated his title of Earl of Clancare and was meditating rebellion. John Corbine, given a safe pass through his kingdom, told Cecil that every year two hundred Spanish ships fished the south-west coast. Two ships carrying arms were expected at Easter. The Mac Sweeneys had galleys that could aid an invader.

53. MacCarthy slain near Cork by Theobald Fitz-Walter, 1185

    Cork · city · Cork · 1185

    MacCarthy made a last attempt on the 'Beautiful citie' of Cork in 1185 and was encountered by Theobald Fitz-Walter, founder of the house of Ormond. Fitz-Walter came upon the Irish prince while he was in conference with his men and slew him and his whole party.

    Read the passage

    set sail with a hundred archers and twenty knights. With this reinforcement, Fitzstephen made a sally, and routed the Irish at the first onset. But this was one of his last acts. " Broken with age and misfortune, he first lost his senses, and not long afterwards his life." This was the end of a man whose inheritance, by royal charter, was a million and a-half acres, Mac Carthy made a last attempt, in 1185, on the " Beautiful citie," and was encountered by Theobald Fitz-Walter, the founder of the house of Ormond, He came upon the old Irish prince, while engaged in conference with his men, and slew him and his whole party. Thus died one of the greatest and bravest of the kings of Cork. "There happened," says Friar Clin, " a great eclipse of the sun this year, which continued for some time, of a bkody colour.^

    Diarmaid Mac Carthy was succeeded by his son Donnell, who slew his own brother, Cathal Odhor. He then turned his sword against Donnell More O'Brien, who had aided the English in the erection of castles, "for the purpose of distressing the Mac Carthy." This Donnell O'Brien is styled in the Dublin copy of the Annals of Innisfallen, " a beaming lamp in peace and war, and a brilliant star of the hospitality and valor of the Momonians." He was succeeded by Murtough, who commenced his reign by uniting his forces with those of 0' Conor of Connaught, in aiding Mac Carthy to drive the English out of Cork, without permitting them to fire the city, which they attempted, Mac Carthy at this time destroyed the castle of Kilfeakle, and slew many of the English, taking two of their chiefs prisoners. He also plundered the territory

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 12

54. Betrayed letter brought to Port Láirge authorities

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1579

    Mac Carthy carried the intercepted Seneschal's letter to Port Láirge, where the Justice and the President were stationed. The letter, disguised in coded language about wheat, was decoded and used against the rebel cause.

    Read the passage

    " And be assured that I do not write this of my own accord, but at the request of my master, and that it is dangerous to write from Erin to you; for the letter which the Seneschal wrote at Ballynaskellig, to be sent to you by the merchant of San Halves, [miscarried;] that merchant, and Mac Carthy, who was that merchant's gossip, betrayed the Seneschal, and Mac Carthy brought the letter to Portlairge, where the Justice and the President were. And the form that was in it was : — ' Life and health from John, son of William, to James ; and be it knoivn to James, that the wheat of the friars has grown ivell, and that the ivlieat of the country has failed.'' And God saved the Seneschal on that occasion.

    " I have no news, except concerning the death of Mac Carthy Reagh; and that Rory Oge O'More has not left a stake or a scollop

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 108

55. Cormac Oge MacCarthy seeks English favour near Cork, 1521

    Cork · city · Cork · 1521

    Surrey reported to Wolsey that Cormac Oge MacCarthy, dwelling near Cork, offered to become the king's subject and take his lands from the king, desiring to be made a baron. MacCarthy showed a great charter granted to his grandfather under the great seal of England.

    Read the passage

    by me in all causes between them." Writing again to "Wolsey he says, " a great capteyne of Irishmen, called Cormocke Oge, dwelling nygh Cork, who is a sadd wise man, and very desirous to become the king's subject, as an Englyshman, offering to take his landes of the king ; but what yearly rent he would giye I am not certain ; desiring also to be made a baron, and to come to parliamentes and counsailes. He hath shewed me a great charter, granted to his grandfather by the king's noble progenitors, under the great seal of England." Surrey, after duly examining the charter, recommends that he should be encouraged, and adds, " surely he is substantiall of his promyse."

    One Eichard Peper, of Calais, who had been robbing on the high seas, was brought into Cork in 1521, with twenty of his companions. Surrey wrote to the king to know what he should do with them, adding, " I have noon authoritie to put them to deth, and the long keeping of them will be chargeable to your grace. I have none of their names, but Eychard Peper, wherefore, if your grace would have them put to deth, there must be lefte a blanke in the comyssion for their names to be put in."

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 54

    As the companion tells it

    As the road passes through Cork, this is where in 1521 Surrey wrote to Wolsey about a great captain of Irishmen called Cormac Oge, dwelling near the city. Surrey described him as a sad wise man, very desirous to become the king's subject, as an Englishman, offering to take his lands from the king. What yearly rent he would give, Surrey was not certain. Cormac Oge desired also to be made a baron, and to come to parliaments and councils. He showed Surrey a great charter, granted to his grandfather by the king's noble progenitors, under the great seal of England. Surrey, after examining the charter, recommended that he should be encouraged, and added, "surely he is substantiall of his promyse." That same year, Richard Peper of Calais, who had been robbing on the high seas, was brought into Cork with 20 of his companions. Surrey wrote to the king to know what he should do with them. "I have noon authoritie to put them to deth," he wrote, "and the long keeping of them will be chargeable to your grace." He had none of their names but Richard Peper, and said if the king wanted them put to death, there must be left a blank in the commission for their names to be put in.

56. Kilmallock burnt by rebels before Sydney's arrival

    Kilmallock · town · Limerick · 1569

    The Lord Deputy Sydney pursued the rebels from Cork through Buttevant to Kilmallock, but the town was burnt before he could arrive. This was part of the wider Desmond rebellion campaign.

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    Mac Carthy Beagh, James Fitz-Edmund, and others, were on the qui-vive, waiting the word to start into actual rebellion. It was reported that the Earl of Desmond had sent word to his people to unite with the other Irish chieftains in throwing off the English yoke. Andrew Skiddy, writing to the Lord Deputy, says, — " Yesterday, Mac Carthy More, whom I dare not name an earl, and James Fitzmaurice, spoiled all the inhabitants of Kerrycurrihy, and the farm Sir Warham Sentleger has of the Earl of Desmond, and laid siege to the abbey of Tracton." The mayors and councils of Cork, Youghal, and Kinsale also write. The Lady Ursula St. Leger, who is besieged by the rebels in the castle of Carrigaline, writes the Deputy to this effect :— " On Wednesday, Sir Warham St. Leger, the sheriff of Cork, left for England. The next morning James Fitzmaurice, with 4000 men, spoiled Kerrycurrihy ; on Friday they took Tracton, and slew John Enchedon and all his men ; on Saturday they laid siege to the castle of Carrigaline." Jaspar Horsey, writing, says, "St. Warham St. Leger's tall ship* is threatened." Sydney did not lose an hour in marching to the lady's relief. Most opportune, he found four hundred newly arrived troops in Cork. He followed the rebels from Cork to Buttevant, and from Buttevant to Kilmallock, which was burnt before his arrival. The

    • St. Warham St. Leger's tall ship.— The district farmed by St. Leger under the Earl of Desmond, was called De Cogan's ship. It is to a great extent surrounded by water.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 96

57. Lord Justice wounded at the Blackwater and dies at Newry

    near Newry · town · Down · 1597

    In 1597 the Lord Justice encountered a troop of O'Neill's horse on the banks of the Abhainn-Mor (Blackwater) and was wounded. He was carried in a litter to Newry, where he died of his wounds.

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    The Annals of Ireland record, under the same year, 1597, the deaths of the Earl of Kildare, the Lord Justice, and his wife's brother. The Lord Justice fell in with a troop of O'Neill's horse, on the banks of the Abhainn-Mor, or Blackwater, where he was wounded. He was carried in a litter to Newry, where he died. The sword of state was therefore entrusted to the Lord Chancellor, the Chief Justice of the Queen's Bench, antt Sir Eobert Gardiner, till a new Chief Justice or Deputy was appointed. Thomas, Earl of Ormond was appointed Generalissimo, who concluded an armistice with O'Neill. When the armistice concluded, Marshal Bagnell, whose sister had eloped with and married O'Neill, met this redoubtable chieftain between Lough Erne and Dundalk, and fell, mortally wounded, at the famous battle of the Yellow Ford.f It was fought on the 10th of August, 1598. The account of this battle, in which the English were defeated, spread like wildfire through the South, and kindled a warlike flame in the bosom of James Fitz-Thomas, the Sugan Earl of Desmond, who considered himself the legitimate heir to the title and vast estates of his outlawed uncle, Garrett. He and his brother John opened the campaign in Qmnello. Sir Thomas Norris, President of Munster, was lying at Kilmallock. The Earl of

    * Died suddenly. — 0' Sullivan Beare tells a story of Sir John and the devil, which Doctor 0' Donovan says would do credit to the author of Doctor Faustus. f Yellow Ford. — Beal an-atha-buidhe, »'*., mouth of the Yellow Ford.

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 132

58. Munster rebellion erupts after withdrawal to Cork, 1598

    Cork · city · Cork · 1598

    When Sir Thomas Norris withdrew his forces to Cork in October 1598, Munster men broke into rebellion, joined with Tyrone's forces, spoiled the country, burnt villages, and pulled down the houses and castles of the English settlers.

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    "After the defeat at the Blackwater, Tyrone sent Ony Mao Eory O'More, and one Captain Tyrel, (of English race, but a bold and unnatural enemy to his country and the English,) to trouble the province of Munster, against whom Sir Thomas Norris, Lord President, opposed himself; but as soon as he, upon necessary occasions, had withdrawn his forces to Cork, many of the Munster men now, first about October, 1598, broke into rebellion, and joined themselves with Tyrone's said forces, spoiled the country, * burnt the villages, and pulled down the houses and castles of the English, against whom (especially the female sex,) they committed all abominable outrages.

    "And now they raised James Fitz-Thomas, to be Earl of Desmond, (which title had, since the wars of Desmond, been suppressed,) with condition that (forsooth,) he should be vassal to O'Neal. The Munster rebellion broke out like a lightening, for in one month's space, almost all the Irish were in rebellious arms — the English were murdered, or stript and banished. Thus having inflamed Munster with the fire of rebellion, and leaving this sedition to be cherished and increased by this new Earl of Desmond, and other rebels of that province, the Ulster forces returned back to Tyrone. The infection which Munster men have drawn from the corrupted party in rebellion

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 133

59. Perkin Warbeck visits Cork; Earl of Desmond raises men

    Cork · city · Cork · 1497–1499

    After the siege of Waterford, Perkin Warbeck visited Cork, where the Earl of Desmond raised 120 men and procured vessels for a descent upon Cornwall. The Earl was later pardoned and received grants of customs in the ports of Cork, Kinsale, Baltimore, and Youghal.

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    Doctor Ryland does not inform us, that after the siege of Waterford, Perkin visited Cork, where the Earl of Desmond raised a hundred and twenty men, and procured vessels to enable him to make a descent upen Cornwall. Here he was well received, and joined by thousands. He assumed the title of Kichard IV., and laid siege to the city of Exeter, which shut its gates against him. He was compelled, on the approach of the king's troops, to raise the siege, and flee from the royal ire to the sanctuary of Beaulieu. After a time he surrendered himself, and was imprisoned in the tower, with the young Earl of Warwick. Perkin escaped from the tower, was retaken, and hanged.

    We omit the " two letters," as we are not writing the history of Waterford, although they are very complimentary. Henry, like a wise monarch, reserved his more substantial favors for his enemies. The Earl of Desmond, who provided both men and arms for the siege, was not only pardoned, but received " a grant of the customs of Limerick, and other the king's heriditaments in the ports, city, and towns of Cork, Kinsale, Baltimore and Youghal."

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 44

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Cork, you are moving through a city where Perkin Warbeck came after the siege of Waterford. The Earl of Desmond raised 120 men here, and procured vessels to enable Warbeck to make a descent upon Cornwall. Warbeck was well received in Cork, and joined by thousands. He assumed the title of Richard the Fourth, and laid siege to the city of Exeter, which shut its gates against him. He was compelled, on the approach of the king's troops, to raise the siege, and flee from the royal anger to the sanctuary of Beaulieu. After a time he surrendered himself, and was imprisoned in the Tower, with the young Earl of Warwick. Perkin escaped from the Tower, was retaken, and hanged. The Earl of Desmond, who provided both men and arms for the siege, was not only pardoned by Henry, but received a grant of the customs of Limerick, and other the king's hereditaments in the ports, city, and towns of Cork, Kinsale, Baltimore, and Youghal.

60. Raymond Le Gros granted inheritance in Kerry

    Lixnaw · town · Kerry · 1172

    Dermot, king of Cork, bestowed a princely inheritance in Kerry on Raymond Le Gros in gratitude for suppressing Cormac's rebellion. Raymond made it over to his eldest son Maurice, whose descendants became the Fitzmaurice barons of Lixnaw.

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    was then besieging Limerick. Raymond did not hesitate a moment, but marched, with a strong force, against Cormac, whom he arrested, and delivered into the hands of his infuriated parent, who had him beheaded. The Annals of Ireland say he was "treacherously slain by his own people." The father expressed his gratitude to the Norman knight, by bestowing on him a princely inheritance in Kerry, which then formed part of the kingdom of Cork, Raymond made over the inheritance on his eldest son, Maurice, the descen dents of whom became powerful chieftains, under the name of Fitzmaurice, and barons of Lixnaw.*

    It was two years after the signing of the charter, before Fitzstephen and De Cogan took possession of seven of the thirty -two cantreds, into which the kingdom of Cork was divided. The arrangement is thus recorded by Giraldus Cambrensis : —

    Internet Archive historyofcountyc01gibsiala, Chapter 11