CORK 1797 - 1799

 

Notices & Reports from the 'Hibernian Chronicle,' with notes

 

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Notes  in [italics]. Cork place names in bold. Names of the United Irishme/Defenders  in bold Capitals.

 

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1796

22nd December, 1796 French Fleet in Bantry Bay

 

1796 - The French fleet arrived in Bantry Bay towards the close of December.  A letter written by a Bandon man to his brother, in a few weeks afterwards, gives us an opportunity of seeing matters as they were - or, at least, as they then presented themselves to one who was there, and saw them at that eventful period.  After alluding to the journey of a friend and himself from Limerick, he says: - ‘When we came to Bandon, there was nothing there but the appearance of war and hunger.  I could not get as much bread in town as would do me for my breakfast.  Bread was so scarce that the bakers were obliged by the provost to bake on Christmas-day, to supply the wants of the great number of soldiers that were in the town; and which were increasing, for they were coming from all parts of the kingdom, with artillery and cannon continually rolling in.  The churches, meeting-house, and preaching-house, were filled with soldiers.  The chapel was formed into a horse-barrack, so that our town was dressed in all the horrors of war.  All the little towns and country were thronged with militia.  Express hourly arriving from Bantry.’  Again: - ‘Many of the moneyed people here took their flight from Cork and Dublin, to embark for England.  Lord Bandon sent off his family with all his valuable effects.  The ladies and married people are greatly in dread.  Many of them had their money at interest, and those were tortured by double fears.  Thus were the holidays spent in Bandon, and for seven days after, until the Lord arose a mighty wind that drove them from the bay, and damaged their shipping, so that they could never muster after.’ (George Bennett, ‘History Of Bandon,’ 1869, Chapter XIV)

 

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1797

 

JANUARY 1797

 

2^nd - Extract of a letter from Colonel White dated, Bantry, December 30. - Lest you should receive unnecessary alarms, believe nothing but from me. - A Lugger this day came to anchor back of Whiddy Island full of men. Eight of my tenants went on boards with provisions and were detained. An American brig came to anchor before the house this instant, she saw two French frigates, one of 20 guns, the larger at anchor near Beer Island. - The frigates fired at her. They are at anchor with the lugger, they have a small English brig - no other ship in our Bay - the rest must be disposed of - I went to Whiddy to see the lugger - they cannot be so mad as to land.

Five o'Clock at night - What we thought were frigates are two 64's, they appear as if they were in an engagement, from the shattered condition of their bowspirits and riggings, and this from the report of our Naval officer - they are at anchor at the north side of the Island. - This instant Admiral Elphinstone and Hull's despatches are, that a French 40 gun frigates, 346 seamen with 230 soldiers on board, is wrecked at Barley-Cove, only seven saved. If Kingsmill could send any force to Elphinstone, they would be taken. - all the Country People are prepared with Pikes, Spades, &c. and will do their best.

Since our last the French fleet, which was dispersed in the late storm, returned to Bantry-bay to the number of four of 64 guns, 3 frigates, 2 razures, and two corvettes, with some transports outside. Saturday they landed about 500 men on Whiddy Island, and no sooner was this effected, and they discovered to be there, than the Galway Militia burned with ardour to attack them, promising that not one of them should ever quit it alive; but this was considered too rash, as easier means would be found as soon as Lord Bridport and Admiral Kingsmill appeared, which was daily expected.

 

Cove, Dec. 31, 1796 - Yesterday arrived his Majesty's ship Champion, Capt. Roper, from Spithead; and last night arrived his Majesty's ship Unicorn, Capt. Sir Thomas Williams, after having escorted the Sheerness and her convoy to lat. 43 long 10h. where he left them all well, with a fair wind on the 15th instant, since which, the Unicorn has experienced dreadful weather, and has come in very much damaged in her masts and rigging. Three French 74s and a frigate were not far from the Unicorn on the 24th; want of force, not of spirit, obliged Sir Thomas to make the best of his way here. Were out cruziers adequate in point of force to the enemy, who has insulted out coast, they no doubt, would give as good an account of them as they did of Moulson's squadron; inferior as they are, they are all cruizing for the protection of the homeward bound trade, numbers of which are now at sea. The Easterly gale of the 27th, has completely driven our invaders off the coast. Admiral Kingsmill is using every exertion to get the three frigates now here, ready for sea.

 

[Cove] Jan. 1, 1797 - Yesterday arrived his Majesty's ship Apollo, Capt. Manley, from a cruize; she had dreadful weather, and suffered considerably by the late gales. He parted his Majesty's ship Polyphemus six days ago, in a very heavy gale; they have taken a French schooner of 14 guns and 60 men, ten days from Bordeaux; had taken the snow Britannica from Lisbon, bound to Waterford, and the James and William from Lisbon to Liverpool, and another brig from Lisbon to Cork, which was retaken by the Apollo ad afterwards foundered, crew saved by the Apollo. Capt. Manley saw two frigates off Cape Clear, supposed to be French, and offered them battle; but they made all the sail they could from him. Also arrived his Majesty's ship Powerful, from Admiral Colpoy's fleet, and the Druid frigate, Capt. Roderington from Lisbon. The Powerful chased a French 74, but could not come up with her. A frigate is now off the harbour dismasted, supposed to have had an action with some of the French ships; she is thought to be the Dryad, Lord Aurelius Beauclerk.

Admiral Kingsmill has now made a signal for sailing, and it is supposed he will have four or five frigates, with the Powerful, refitted, so as to sail to-morrow morning. Every man in the merchant ships in this port, and every other person able to work, are employed in watering and refitting his squadron, which unfortunately has been severely damaged in the late gales. The Polyphemus's prize is arrived, called L'Deux Amis, a very beautiful schooner, English built and coppered, quite new.

 

We heard that such of the French as have been landed on Whiddy Island were convalescent troops, sent there to be aired; have taken nothing, but paid for such provisions as they got. - Our Streets, Lanes and Allys have never been so quiet since the days when our Volunteers took charge of the City, as they have been at present under the care of our Yeomanry, scarce a common person is to be met after ten o clock at night - such is the respect paid to orders. The roisy chairmen do not even incommode the inhabitants of the Exchange with their nightly carols - and strange to tell, and we report it with much satisfaction, that the voice of an impure is scarce heard in our Streets, since the notice we received of an invading foe. Never was more internal tranquillity experienced.

Last Friday the Freedom of this City was ordered to be presented in a silver box to the Right Reverend Doctor Francis Moylan [RC Bishop of Cork & Ross 1787-1815], to perpetuate our grateful approbation of his pious exertions, in promoting the peace and good order of his country, at the moment of menace and invasion.

 

[Advertisement] -  At a Meeting of the City of Cork Committee, held at the Council Chamber, the 31st Dec., 1796. - RESOLVED AT this moment of threatened Invasion, that letters, signed by our Chairman, be immediately forwarded to the Noblemen and Gentlemen particularly interested in the welfare and preservation of this Country, requesting their immediate subscriptions towards relieving and averring the temporary distress.

RESOLVED. That the Subscribers Names, with their Contributions annexed, shall be published.

The Committee s.. every day in the Council Chamber, from 10 to 4 o'Clock, to receive Subscriptions, and direct the application of the Fund, the present object of which are,

To support the Wives and Children of those brave Soldiers, who which so much spirit and alacrity have marched forth to meet the enemy.

To prevent the necessity of pressing Horses, thereby facilitating the public service, and securing a constant and plentiful supply of Provisions to our Market.

The Committee have also in contemplation other important objects, which they hope the liberality of the Public, will soon enable them to carry into execution.

The recommendation of his Excellency the Lord Lieutenant, and the Resolutions already adopted by the City, respecting the Banks having been read,

RESOLVED, That the security of the Banks being unquestionable, it is materially the interest of the Country in general not to press for any Payments until the present alarm shall subside.

And as they conceive that Guinea Notes will generally answer the purposes of small payments, we recommend to the Bankers immediately to issue them in exchange for Larger Notes, and we hope that no Friend of this Country will, in any respect impede their circulation. - PATRICK O CONNOR, Chairman, January 1, 1797

 

5^th - A Captain Warren, taken off Scilly, the 20th ult. by two French frigates, made oath before Col. White, that on board a French frigate, he heard that the Brest fleet consisted of 52 sail, 18 of the line, 15 frigates, the rest luggers and store ships; that they had on boards 20,000 men, including 5000 dismounted cavalry, 100 field pieces in three divisions; that they were to rendezvous off Cape Clear; and having Landed their men, the ships were to return to Cherbourg, where they were to take 60,000 men to make a landing in England. Coming out of Brest water a French 74 went down and 1000 men on board, and only 60 saved; and that an 80 gun ship run down a frigate, and none saved.

 

Capt. Irwin of the Aurora of Appledore, spoke the Polyphemus on Monday night last, who was running for port, having taken a French frigate, and had 430 prisoners on board. - This morning the Polyphemus brought into Cove a French frigate prize. - Yesterday evening the Powerful of 74 guns, with seven frigates, sailed from our harbour for Bantry Bay.

 

On Tuesday Lord Jocelyn's and Lord Glentworth's cavalry marched from the neighbourhood of Bandon towards Limerick. They halted here only one hour, during which time the Cork Committee ordered every man a pot of porter and a loaf of bread. - General Sir James Duff, arrived here this morning, says that the French left the Shannon for their rendezvous at Bantry Bay. Two English Captains captured by them, and released; say that the enemy are starving, and dying on board very fast; and if not suffered to land they will cut their cables. Sir James set off to General Dalrymple; and has ordered Lord Jocelyn's and Lord Glentworth's cavalry from Mallow; and the Westmeath militia to Cork.

 

A Gentleman of Beerhaven, on whose veracity we can depend, yesterday gave the following account: - That on Monday the 2d Jan. there were 13 French ships at anchor across the mouth of the Bay of Bantry, from Beer Island to Sheephead, of which two were line of battle ships, and that there were six other ships high up in the Bay, back of the Island of Whiddy, and one league from Bantry S.W. of Whiddy. That about 2 o'clock on that day, a brig was detached from the 13 ships to work up the Bay, which she did, and then made a signal to the seven, one of whom fired a gun. They then set fire to a prize, they had, and five of the seven got under way and sailed down the Bay, leaving two line of battle ships behind them, which he considers as disabled ships. That they liberated some English prisoners, who heard that the French fleet had 25,000 troops on board; whilst others reported but 16,000; but all agreed that they were in want of provisions. - That on Tuesday the 3d instant, he went up the high hill back of the town of Bantry, at 9 o clock in the morning, and could only see the ships, which he considered as disabled; but the weather was hazy, and he could not see further than eight or nine miles. That they had no horses on board, but what belonged to the General, and relied upon getting horses in this country for their purpose.

 

On the 30^th of last month the Council ordered, that the Freedom of this City should be presented to the Hon. and Rev. Thomas St. Laurence, Dean of Cork, in testimony of his Virtues, and the Liberality of his Sentiments: - they also ordered, that the Freedom of this City should be presented in a silver box to the Right Rev. Doctor Moylan to perpetuate their grateful approbation of his pious Exertions in promoting the peace and good order of this Country at the moment of threatened invasion.

 

9^th - COUNTRY NEWS – Limerick, January 4. – On the 15^th ul, the Elizabeth and Peggy, Cap. Harvey, and the Peggy, Captain M’Donnell, laden with Government Provisions, by Den Lyons, jun; the Agent of this Port, sailed under convoy of the Viper sloop of war and the Beresford cutter; on the 20^th the Convoy parted them, on seeing the French fleet off Bantry bay; - on the 22d, the Elizabeth and Peggy was captured by the Le Charante French frigate of 44 guns; the Peggy bore away for Valentia, and is now safe at Tarbert. The cargo of the captured vessel consisted of 1100 casks of butter, and 250 tierces of Beef. – As no account has since been received of the Viper or Beresford, there is reason to apprehend, they have fallen into the hands of the Enemy. – Le Charante also took the Alfred, from Bristol to this Port, which she sunk; and a Sloop bound here from Biddeford, with brick and tiles, which she ransomed for 250 guineas.

 

CORK – It were to be wished that some of the French soldiers were brought to Cork, that the People may have an opportunity of viewing the Angels that want to introduce their fraternal Blessings into this Country.

 

Cove, Jan. 8, 1797. – On Thursday morning last, arrived his Majesty’s ship Polyphemus, Capt. Lumsdain, from a cruize of six weeks, and brought in with her L’Tarter, French frigate of 44 guns, 18 pounders, 300 seamen and 350 soldiers on board, taken on the 31^st December, about 200 leagues West of Cape Clear. – the Polyphemus also captured L’Justine, a large French ship armed ensiute, with 600 soldiers on board besides 1200 stand of arms, twenty tun of gunpowder, and several brass field pieces; she was in so leaky a state that it was impossible to bring her in. Captain Lumsdain run her 130 off the Coast where she went down: - the Polyphemus at different times saw divisions of the French fleet, and beings account of the Jason, Captain Sterling, of 38 guns, one of the Irish cruizers, having captured another ship armed ensiute, with 500 soldiers on board. The Polyphemus, though much damaged from the late gales, is now refitted, and Admiral Kingsmill this day hoisted his flag on board her, and sails the first opportunity with the Dryad, Lord Beauclerk, and Hazard sloop; - no account has been yet received from the squadron which sailed on Thursday last, under command of Capt. Manly, of the Apollo.

 

[Advertisement] -  Bantry, 30^th Dec., 1796 – ALLOW me, Sir, upon the part of the Public and myself, to return to you my most humble and faithful Acknowledgement of your Goodness, Patriotism, and Liberality. There are very few instances wherein any Gentleman has shewn so much Attachment to his Master and Constitution, as well as Benevolence to private Persons in times of such calamity and distress as the present threatened to be. You may rest satisfied that the Government shall not be ignorant of its Debt to you, and I think I can safely answer for its Gratitude. - To the Yeomanry Cavalry, the Gentlemen, and the Inhabitants of the Country, equal praise is to be given, as everyone in his situation has pursued, to the utmost power and ability, the splendid example set by you. - Brigadier General Coote adopts most fully the above Sentiments. We will not dishonour it by enlarging on its merits; it is above any description we can give you. Permit me, Sir, to add, in my own name, and that of all that have experienced your Protection and Assistance in the execution of their public Duties, that I am, with the greatest respect and regard, your most humble and most obedient Servant, WILLIAM DALRYMPLE – To RICHARD WHITE, Esq.

 

[Advertisement] -  SIR, THE approbation of my Conduct, which you have in such flattering terms been kind enough to convey to me, is, I assure you, the highest gratification I can receive. - From the moment of your arrival I only acted under your Command; and all the good that has arisen proceeded from your appearance. – I only the humble instrument to execute. I should be very unworthy of the situation I am placed in here, did I for a moment lost sight of my Duty to my King and Country. The Loyalty of the Country Gentlemen, the Yeomanry and Inhabitants of this District, is justly entitled to your praise; and I shall not fail to communicate to them your favourable opinion. - To Brigadier General Coote I am under great Obligation – I beg my Acknowledgement to the Officers of your Suite, for whom I have the highest respect. I have the honour to remain, with the greatest Respect and Esteem, your most obedient and most humble Servant, RICHARD WHITE. Seafield Park, near Bantry, 31^st Dec., 1796.

 

26^th - CORK - This day there was a solemn Te Deum, High Mass and Thanksgiving at Carey's-lane Chapel [S.S. Peter's & Paul's], for the happy escape we had from our invading foes, after which a most excellent Sermon suitable to the occasion was preached by the Rev. Dr. M'Carthy to a very numerous congregation.

 

[Advertisement] -  THE Inhabitants of the Town and Neighbourhood of Bantry being this day convened, feel themselves happy in an eminent degree, in presenting their sincere Acknowledgements to W.P.K. Trench, Col. Commanding Officer here, for his spirited and loyal exertions on the late awful occasion, and request that he may return the Officers composing the Garrison their warmest Thanks, for their humane and vigilant conduct and example. They assure him, that the care and soldierly attention of him and his Officers, which inspired the brave Troops under his command with order and moderation, will never be erased from their memory. Signed by Order of the Meeting, PIERCE NAGLE, JOHN YOUNG, JOHN BIRD senr., DAN M'CARTHY, Deputies, Bantry, 15 January, 1797. WPK Trench, Col. Commanding Bantry Garrison.

 

[Advertisement] -  SIR, PERMIT me in the name of the Officers composing the Garrison of Bantry, to embrace this first moment of relaxation, to express our many obligations, for your unremitting attention to us during a period of infinite anxiety and alarm. - The conduct, manliness, and affability of your conduct we were immediately witness of. – To you Sir, we are the Army indebted for substance and every comfort and accommodation that could be procured. Your unshaken Loyalty and discretion, seconded by the vigilance and activity of your Brother and backed by the unanimous and faithful attachment of your Tenantry and Neighbourhood, will ever reflect credit on the Town and Vicinity of Bantry. – We feel most sensibly for the unavoidable sufferings of the Inhabitants, during our late Campaign. The cheerfulness with which they devoted their Persons and Property to our accommodation, aggravates those feelings. – Our Brother Soldiers, the YEOMEN of Bantry and the Neighbouring Districts, have persevered in a very harassing line of duty, with a spirit that every one must admire; the relief they were to us, we shall ever remember with gratitude. Upon the whole, Sir, we beg leave to congratulate you and the country at large, on the convincing proof we now have, ‘That the first appearance of an Enemy on our Coasts is the signal for IRISHMEN, of every description, to cement in one impenetrable mass of Loyalty and true Patriotism, wisely and affectionately attached to the Best of KING’s and Happiest of COUNTRIES, - …WM. P.K. TRENCH, Col. Commanding Garrison Bantry January 9, 1797.

 

30^th - [Advertisement] -  At a numerous and respectable Meeting of the Inhabitants of KINSALE, held at the Tholsel of said Town, on MONDAY, the 9^th day of January, 1797 – WILLIAM NEWMAN, Esq; Sovereign, in the Chair. – Resolved Unanimously – THAT we cannot sufficiently express our admiration and praise of the Alertness and brilliant Zeal displayed by the SLIGO and LEITRIM Regiments of Militia when ordered hence, to meet the Invading Enemy. – Resolved. That we feel particular satisfaction, that we have an opportunity on the return of the Sligo Regiment to this Town, of expressing our perfect Approbation of their whole Conduct, as well as that of the Leitrim Militia, from the time of their arrival in these Quarters. – Resolved. That we with pleasure, seize this occasion of expressing the high sense we entertain of the distinguished activity shewn by ARTHUR BROWN, Esq; Lieutenant-Governor of Charles Fort, and JOHN JEMMETT DENIS, Esq; Fort Major, on the late alarming Crisis. – Resolved. That the Sovereign be … to present these our Sentiments….Resolutions to the Right Hon. Colonel KING of the Sligo Militia, and Colonel JONES of the Leitrim Militia, requesting their communications of them, to the Officers, Non-commissioned Officers and Privates of their respect Regiments. – Resolved. That the Sovereign do present the same to Lieutenant Governor BROWNE and JOHN JEMMETT DENIS, Esqrs, Fort Major. – Resolved. That the above Resolutions be published in Falkiner’s Dublin Journal, and the Cork newspapers. – The Sovereign having quitted the Chair and the Right Hon. Lord Kingsale being called thereto. – Resolved That the Thanks of this Meeting be given to the Worshipful the Sovereign, for his very proper conduct in the Chair. – January 16, 1797.

 

[Advertisement] -  At an Assembly of the Mayor, Sheriffs, and Common Council of the City of Cork, the 27^th day of January, 1797 – RESOLVED. That the sincere Thanks of this Board be, and are hereby given to the Yeomanry Corps of the County and City of Cork, who so eminently distinguished themselves in the Public Service at the late alarming crisis. – Resolved. That this Board are highly sensible of the Spirit and Prompatude which prevailed amongst the Regular and Militia Forces, and the dependence to be placed on their Exertions, and for which we return them our particular Thanks. – Resolved. That the Thanks of this Board be, and are hereby given to Sir PATRICK O CONOR, Knt., Chairman, and to the GENTLEMEN who composed the CORK COMMITTEE, for the ability and attention with which they executed the Duties undertaken by them, and which this Board consider to have been most highly beneficial to the Public. – Resolved. That as a testimony of our approbation of the conduct and the Committee, it be, and is hereby Ordered, That Sir PATRICK O CONOR, Knt. Be admitted to a Freeman at Large of this City. – Resolved. That the sincere Thanks of this Board be, and are hereby given to RICHARD WHITE, Esq; of Seafield Park, near Bantry, for his spirited, liberal and judicious Conduct, on the late attempt of the French to invade this Country. – W. JONES, Town Clerk.

 

[Advertisement] -  THE MEMBERS of the BANDON CAVALRY are requested to parade in Bandon, on FRIDAY, the 3d of February, at 11 o clock in the Forenoon. – Signed by Order, E. COTTER, Sec’y.

 

[Advertisement] -  To the GENTLEMEN, CLERGY & INHABITANTS of the Town and Neighbourhood of CLONAKILTY, - Gentlemen, - PERMIT me in the name of the Officers, Non-commissioned Officers and Privates of the WATERFORD Regiment of Militia, to return you their most sincere Thanks for the kind Attention and Hospitality they received during their residence in your Town at the late alarming Period. – I have the honour to be, GENTLEMEN, Your most obedient, and humble Servant, TYRONE, Col. 33d, or WATERFORD Regt. Militia. – Cork, January 30, 1797. 

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FEBRUARY 1797

 

CORK – Lord Dillon, in his speech in our Parliament, has the following particulars, which deserve attention – ‘ The disposition of France towards Ireland cannot be better illustrated than by the selection of General Hoche, the hero of La Vendee, as he is called, and the most sanguine of all the Generals of the French Republic, to the command of the invading army. This monster has to answer to a Supreme Being, whom his guilt makes him deny, for the murder, in cold blood, of half a million of men, women and children, in the devoted province of La Vendee. It was his morning pastime to be present at the execution of that loyal and unfortunate people. Such was the man chosen to fraternize the Irish, and the cement the union of Ireland and France with the blood of Irishmen. It is well known that he had promised the troops engaged in this expedition THIRTY DAYS PLUNDER in Ireland; he had granted the same indulgence to the army in La Vendee, and they had availed themselves of the full extent of the inhuman licence. They came to Ireland with the hope of renewing the same exercise of cruelty and devastation.’

 

[Advertisement] -  Bandon, 26^th Jan. 1797 – SIR, WE should think ourselves wanting gratitude, did we not in the most public manner, return you our sincere Acknowledgement for your extreme attention to the Army in general, and your hospitality to us in particular; at a time when the greatest danger was apprehended you stood firm, and gave up your own comfort, and that of your family to accommodate the Troops. In this you were seconded by the Gentlemen of the Town. It is not to be wondered at that Bandon  has always been so remarkable for its Loyalty to its Sovereign, and Attachment to the Constitution, when they are set so bright an example by you, their Chief Magistrate. Believe us sincere when we assure you, that with the best wishes for the happiness of you and your family. – We are your obliged, and very humble Servants [There follows a list of officers in the Wexford Regiment, not included here.] – To SAMPSON JERVOIS, Esq; Provost of Bandon.

 

CORK – It is with great concern, we announce the sufferings of the poor cottagers in and near Bantry, Dunmanway, &c. in consequence of the late visit from the French. The removal of their little furniture, consumption of their pigs, potatoes and turf, &c. which they had for a … supply – the first to pay the rent, - that they generously gave to the soldiery .. that hospitality becoming the natives of Ireland. – Surely a compensation from Parliament would be a most benevolent act .. we hope it will not be ……… only a recompense due to their loyalty .. justice for the loss our fellow-beings have sustained.

 

[Advertisement] -  At a Meeting of the - LOYAL CORK LEGION - Held at the Crown Tavern, in the City of Cork, the 24^th Jan. 1797 – The Right Hon. Lord DONOUGHMORE in the Chair – The following Resolution was proposed by RICHARD FITTON, Esq; and seconded by HENRY SADLEIR, Esq; - WE reflect with pride, that we were among the first to offer our services to Government, while we the Protestant Officers and Soldiers enjoy the heartfelt satisfaction that we did so in conjunction with our Catholic Brethren whose active Loyalty, spirited Attachment to the Constitution, and indefatigable Exertions in the day of danger stamp a value on the name of Yeoman.  We therefore, the Protestant and Catholic Officers and Soldiers, convinced that the continual Salvation of All, must depend on the Union of All; are firmly resolved to persevere in a participation of civil communion at the common altar of the King whom we love, the Constitution which we admire, and the Country which we boast of. - DONOUGHMORE 

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MARCH 1797

 

[Advertisement] -  Address to the Public - MRS. WARD, - RELYING on her Innocence, and on the result of the Trial of her Son, (who surrendered himself for that end) and which will take place next Assizes, hoped, that then, every one would be satisfied how little she deserved the imputation of DISLOYALTY, and other base Calumnies that have been heaped on her, as void of Truth, as of Justice or Mercy.

Another attempt is now made to Ruin her; a second Conspiracy to rob her of that fair Fame she possessed, & for which she laboured upwards of twenty two years, in a useful and honourable Profession: she finds it necessary to repel these violent and Malicious Falsehoods, and submits to a discerning and IMPARTIAL PUBLIC the following Affidavits:

City of Cork, to Wit – Before Me, the Right Worshipful VESIAN PICK Esq; Mayor of the City of Cork – On this day, personally appeared,

MARTHA WARD, of the City of Cork, who voluntarily deposeth on the Holy Evangelists of GOD, that she did not know that the Two French Prisoners of War (who were taken out of a Cabin at Evergreen [Evergreen St.] were concealed there, nor had Deponent the least intercourse with them, nor did she know in what places they were harboured or concealed. – MARTHA WARD - Sworn before me, at the Mansion House, in said City, this 25^th day of March, 1797 – VESIAN PICK, Mayor

FRANCIS WARD, of the City of Cork, Woollen-Draper, voluntarily deposeth, that he did not know that the Two French Prisoners of War (who were taken out of a Cabin in Evergreen) were concealed there, nor had Deponent the least intercourse with them, nor did he know where they were harboured or concealed. – FRANCIS WARD - Sworn before me, at the Mansion House, in said City, this 25^th day of March, 1797 – VESIAN PICK, Mayor

PATRICK HOLLAND, of Evergreen, Labourer, voluntarily desposeth, that he did not know that the two French Prisoners of War, whom his Wife lodged in his Cabin at Evergreen, on the Night of the 23d Instant, were there, as he does not live in it; nor had Deponent the least intercourse with them. Deponent also declares that, to his knowledge, neither Mrs. WARD, nor her Children had any thing to say to them. – PATRICK HOLLAND + His Mark - Sworn before me, at the Mansion House, in said City, this 25^th day of March, 1797 – VESIAN PICK, Mayor

JOAN HOLLAND, otherwise MAHONY, wife of the above PATRICK, voluntarily desposeth, that neither her said Husband, Mrs. WARD or her Children knew of the Frenchmen being in her Cabin, and they were but one Night in her House – JOAN HOLLAND + Her Mark - Sworn before me, at the Mansion House, in said City, this 25^th day of March, 1797 – VESIAN PICK, Mayor

Mrs. WARD feels most sensibly her great obligations to the very many respectable and generously humane Gentlemen and Ladies who have protected her: and whose exertions have preserved her School from Ruin; it is too poor to say she thanks them! She will ever cherish the warmest and most grateful sense of their powerful and well-directed interference, and hopes to prove to the World that they have not patronized an unworthy Person.

She most warn those who, without the smallest provocation or injury done to them, are her Enemies, that she will no longer suffer herself and her family to be wantonly and cruelly aspersed; their Sufferings authorise and compel her to avail herself of the Protection of the Law, and she is resolved to enforce it against those who shall persist to slander her or her family – George’s-street Boarding School, 27^th March, 1797 

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APRIL 1797

 

Committed to the County Gaol last Monday, by the Right Hon. Lord Bantry, JOHN M’CULL, otherwise CULLOGH, and JN. CULNANE, charged with feloniously tendering Oaths; also JOHN SULLIVAN, otherwise COONAGH, charged with being present at the tendering and administering an unlawful Oath.

 

On the thirteenth of April, 1797, lord bantry conveyed to the gaol of Cork, four (sic) of these culprits [Defenders], one of whom was the steward of ROGER O CONNOR, in whose pocket his lordship found the defenders oath; the tenor of which was to be true to one another; not to pay rent, tithes, or taxes; and to assist the French soon expected. - (Richard Musgrave, Bart, Memoirs of the different Rebellions in Ireland, from the arrival of the English, 1801)

 

Yesterday [19^th April] our Assizes ended and the following persons were found guilty in the County Court: …..CORNELIUS M’INNERNY, for seditious expressions, to be pilloried twice in Bandon and imprisoned three months. 

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MAY  1797

 

15^th - Yesterday the Royal Cork Volunteers, Cavalry and Infantry, were inspected by Major General Loftus, near the Lough, when he was pleased to express the greatest approbation of their martial appearance and expertness in exercise and evolutions. During the whole the Lines were kept by the Cavalry of the Loyal Cork Legion with the greatest regularity.

 

Extract of a letter from Tallow, May 11 – ‘On Tuesday last the Kinnataloon and Coshbride Troops of Yeoman Cavalry, Commanded by Captain Bowles, and Captain Green, were inspected near Curriglass, by Major General Myers. These two corps appeared in the field so well appointed in every particular, and performed a number of Evolutions with such military skill and exactness would do honour to veteran Troops, of which the worthy General expressed his entire approbation in terms that reflect the highest credit on the Commanders and Gentlemen who compose these very respectable Corps.’

 

Extract of a letter from Bandon, May 13 – ‘ Last Thursday there was a partial inspection of the different Yeomanry Corps, in and about this neighbourhood, at Barliew : the severity of the weather did not damp the ardour of the men, who made a very handsome appearance. The troop commanded by Lord Bandon, engaged the attention of the spectators by the ease with which it went through several military evolutions; it certainly was a pleasingly sight, and which ought to cover with a salutary conclusion the enemies of peace and good order (if any were present) to see a number of respectable Gentlemen, several of whom were of independent fortunes, who came forward, at the hour of danger, and cheerfully enrolled themselves, under the banners of that patriotic Nobleman, who on every occasion, shews himself a true friend to his Country, and a great part of whose princely fortune is expended in acts of munificence. General Coote attended, and expressed his entire satisfaction; the approbation of one of distinguished military talent must be highly gratifying to each individual corps, and it is a homage we owe to truth, to acknowledge, that his laudable exertions to promote discipline, and the gentleness of his manners endear him to the inhabitants of all denominations, and we can justly affirm, that it is owing to his wise regulations that Bandon, tho’ crowded with soldiers, enjoys the most profound tranquillity.

 

22^nd - Yesterday the Loyal Cork Legion, Cavalry and Infantry, were inspected and reviewed by Major General Loftus, in a Field near Black Rock, when they went through the exercises and different manoeuvres with a degree of exactness that would reflect honour on veteran troops. The General was pleased to express the highest satisfaction at their performance.

Yesterday evening, in consequence of private information, a search was made in different houses, for persons called UNITED IRISHMEN, when above twenty were apprehended and committed to Bridewell, among them, we hear, are two Delegates from the North.

‘Tis pity that the patriotic laurels we so justly obtained when the French were on our coast, should now be sullied with the smallest disloyalty among our fellow-citizens.

 

[Advertisement] -  To Lord Viscount DONERAILE, Commanding the South Cork Militia – My Lord, - WE, the Non-Commissioned Officers and Privates of the South Cork Regiment of Militia, having heard that seditious Hand Bills have been circulated for the purpose of seducing the Army of this Kingdom from their duty in order the better to discover such person or persons as shall attempt to seduce us, or any of us, or shall offer to circulate any unlawful writing amongst us, do hereby solemnly pledge ourselves, that we will, without delay, seize and bring before our Commanding, or other of our Officers, any such Incendiary, to be dealt with as they may judge proper; and the better to bring to Justice any such Traitor, wee do hereby promise to pay the Sum of Ten Guineas to any person who shall discover on any one attempting to distribute such seditious Papers amongst us. – GEORGE DEANE, Serj. Major. S.C.M, Ennis, May 11, 1797

 

25^th - All the men taken up on Sunday last, after a strict examination were liberated, except THOMAS NIXON and JOHN ATKINS, both hair dressers of this city; RICHARD DRY and JOHN EATON, supposed to be Northern Delegates, and WILLIAM BOURKE, who were committed to the city gaol by Alderman Shaw.

 

We hear from Dunmanway, that on Tuesday last Captain Ellard and some other Gentlemen, went to apprehend disaffected persons in that neighbourhood, when one of them fired at the Captain, whose cheek was grazed by the ball; he drew his pistol, shot the delinquent dead, and his party apprehended ten of them; and another, supposed to be the principal, escaped.

 

29^th - This morning SHERRY and O NEIL, soldiers in the Wexford militia, were escorted from this city to Killeady-hill, under a very strong guard, where all the troops in garrison marched; also those quartered in Kinsale, Bandon, &c. to witness the execution of the above men, who, pursuant to sentence, were shot for having highly offended against the laws of their country, by taking the oath prescribed by UNITED IRISHMEN.

Last night the Loyal Cork Legion took charge of the city, in place of the troops ordered to witness the execution of the above men; and this day the Royal Cork Volunteers relieved them.

Friday morning the Leitrim militia left to encamp to the west of Bandon.

Last Saturday were committed to our County Gaol, by the Provost of Bandon, JOHN HURLEY, JOSEPH CRONAGH, DENIS DONOVAN, WM. MURPHY, ARTHUR LEARY, DENNIS and JOHN DINNEEN and PATRICK KELLY, charged with unlawfully assembling; and that the said JOHN HURLEY did fire a shot at Lieut. Ellard, and a party of his Majesty’s second Regiment of Fencible Dragoons, under the command of Brigadier General Coote, on the night of the 23d May, inst. at Inchifune [Inchafune, parish of Ballymoney] in this County. 

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JUNE  1797

 

1^st - A paragraph has appeared in the Waterford Herald of the 30^th inst. stating that the Privates of the Wexford Regt. to shew their loyalty had voluntarily offered themselves to execute the sentence passed in the unfortunate Comrades O NEIL and SHERRY, who were shot on Monday last at Killeady-hill. – We trust, however, for the sake of humanity, that there is no foundation for such a report. Tho’ anxious to hear that all Militia men were emulous in proving their allegiance to the best of Sovereigns and attachment to the Constitution, we confess ourselves unwilling to believe that any of them could be found so unfeeling as to offer their Services for a Duty which however just and necessary, must be extremely painful to every man possessed of the smallest share of sensibility.

 

22^nd - Committed to the County Gaol by… Robert Hedges, Esq; MATHEW and JOHN TWOMY, charged with having made use of seditious and treasonable expression in the house of John Quill

 

26^th - This day orders were given to the several Recruiting Parties to enlist no more men until farther notice.

Last Saturday it was rumoured here that disaffection and disloyalty had broken out in the Camp near Bandon, in which others than those of the military were implicated; but after making many enquiries, we do not find that it is a matter of much magnitude.

Committed to the County gaol by the Hon. A. Barry, MICHAEL ENGLISH, for speaking treasonable words against the king. By the Rev. C. Fennell, …. EDM. LEE, ..for endeavouring to seduce Nich. Farrel, Soldier in the Kilkenny Militia, to become a UNITED IRISHMEN, and to assist the French in cutting off the head of the King of England; By Lionel Fleming, Esq; JER. HENYAWNE, charged with speaking several seditious words, such as, ‘May the French soon come to visit us, and ‘damn their enemies,’ also with having declared himself a DEFENDER.

 

29^th - Last Tuesday the following persons brought in from Bandon, Dunmanway, &c. charged with disaffection to the present Government, were committed to our County Gaol: - ISAAC SILLETO, JAMES DALLEA, MICH. & TIM. CANTY, AENEAS DEALY, TIM. DOWNEY, JOHN M’CARTHY, JOHN CALLANAN, TEAD BUTLER, MICHAEL FITZGERALD, EDWARD FITZGERALD, COR. HAWKES, MICHAEL MURPHY, WM. KIRUKEN, JOHN WALSH, TIM CONNOR, JER. CONNOR, PAT. MADDEN, DAN. SHEEHAN, JOHN CALLAHAN. [See also July 3]

 

[Advertisement] -  HAVING read the Order for an increase of Pay to the Soldiery to the five Companies of the Galway Militia Quartered here, they immediately solicited me to express thus publickly, the lively sensations of gratitude they felt at this new instance of his Majesty’s paternal goodness and the liberality of Parliament towards them, and the Army in general; and, at the same time to declare to declare their indignation at the idea of a Solider being seduced from his duty, to so benevolent a Master – contrary to the Oath he has taken, and repugnant to the cause he is bound to protect, and they have requested that I would offer a reward from them for apprehending and prosecuting to conviction, any Person or Persons who shall be found guilty of endeavouring to seduce Soldiers from their Allegiance. I do therefore promise to pay a Reward of Fifty Pounds on the conditions above specified. – His Majesty’s munificence having been also communicated to the Detachments of said Regiment at Mill-street, Kenmare, and Bantry, together with the feelings excited to the breasts of their brother soldiers here, have declared themselves animated with the same sentiments of gratitude, and with the same horror of every attempt tending to corrupt the Faith and Loyalty which should pre-eminently mark the Military department, and therefore desire to contribute their proportion to the above-mentioned Reward. – W.P.K TRENCH, Colonel Galway Militia, Macroom, June 24, 1797 

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JULY  1797

 

3^rd - Committed to the County Gaol, the 27^th inst by Richd Bowden, Esq; ISAAC SILLETO, charged with having administered unlawful, treasonable, and seditious oaths, and with divers other treasonable practices. Same day, by Brig. Gen. Coote, JAMES DULLEA, JOHN CARTHY, JOHN CALNAN, MICHAEL CANTY, TIM CANTY, ENEAS DALY, TIMOTHY DOWNEY, TIM. BUTLER, MICHAEL MURPHY, JEREMIAH CONNOR, TIM. CONNOR, JOHN CALLAGHAN, JOHN WALSH, WM. KEURICANE, DANIEL SHEEHAN, EDWARD FITZGERALD, PATRICK MADDEN, CON. HAWKES, and MICHAEL FITZGERALD, charged with administering and taking unlawful oaths, and other treasonable and seditious practices. By the same, PATRICK CROWLEY, charged with taking an unlawful oath and with divers unlawful and seditious practices.

 

13^th - Committed to the County Gaol by the Rev. Richard Meade, SAMUEL FORD, charged with having, on the 18^th June last at Innishannon, feloniously tendered an administered an unlawful oath….by the Provost of Bandon, ELLENOR BRYAN and ROBERT BRYAN alias OLIFFE – charged on strong suspicion of having instigated a gang of armed ruffians, who, on the night of Friday the 7^th inst. feloniously entered the house of John Oliffe, and thereto murdered Thomas Oliffe, late of Lissanisky [Lissaniksy, prob. parish of Knockavilly]*, gentleman; by Richard Bowden, Esq. DENIS MAHONY, charged with having aided and assisted a French prisoner in breaking his parole and getting off; by the Hon. Augustus Barry, PATRICK CLONMAUM, charged with having taken unlawful oaths, and with being concerned in swearing people to de…….

 

20^th - Committed to the county gaol by Henry Puxly, Esq; PATRICK KINNEGAN, charged with strong suspicion of being concerned in the murder of John Oliffe; - by John Warren, Esq.; JEREMIAH HARTNETT, charged on suspicion of being concerned in the burglary and felony committed the 7^th inst. at the house of John Oliffe….By John Hawkes, Esq; WILLIAM MURPHY and JOHN HALLISY, charged with being concerned in tendering an unlawful oath, and on strong suspicion of being concerned in the murder of Tho. Oliffe of Lissanisky* – also DENIS KELEHER, charged with being concerned in rendering unlawful oaths.

*Not entirely clear if the Oliffe case was of a seditious nature

 

30^th - DUBLIN, July 29 – Tuesday last, R. [ROGER] O CONNOR, ESQ; under an examination before Mr. Pelham and other Members of the Privy Council, after which he was discharged. MR. O CONNOR surrendered himself, and was brought up from Bandon to Dublin, by General Coote, accompanied by Captain Roche, of the 30^th regiment. 

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SEPTEMBER  1797

7^th - Bandon, Sept. 7 – Yesterday we witnessed an awful scene near Innishannon, where DOMINICK GILLIGAN, of the Roscommon Militia, PAT. DRUMGOLD of the West Meath Militia, were shot pursuant to the sentence of a Court Martial, together with OWEN M’AULIFFE and one LARESSY [or LARRACY, WILLIAM], of the 2d Fencibles [of the Second Fencible Dragoons], they acknowledged they had taken unlawful oath, for which they justly suffered death but solemnly declared, there was not the least mention made of killing their officers, or murdering protestants or any other persons. GILLIGAN, with his last breath persisted in saying that Reily the Approver perjured himself, but forgave him from his heart, as did the rest, their other prosecutors who they declared has sworn something true against them, but blended with many falsehoods – they died penetrated with the liveliest terrors of God’s judgements as men do who are allured into any crimes contrary to their conscience and their religious principles, when going to appear before the Sovereign Judge of human actions.

 

24^th - The Soldiers who were shot the other day near Innishannon, pursuant to the sentence of a Court martial, behaved with astonishing fortitude, one of the heavy charges against them, was their having conspired to destroy their Officers, and to murder Protestants, they declared in the most solemn manner, before Lord Westmeath, Lord Glentworth and several other Officers, and in presence of that God, to whom they were just going to be judged, that there never was the least mention of killing their Officers or any other persons. DROMGOLD declared with his last breath, that Reily the approver had perjured himself, but forgave him from his heart, as did the rest their other prosecutors.

 

28^th - The French prisoners at Kinsale, are to be removed to England.

Yesterday ROGER O CONNOR, ESQ; was apprehended at his Lodgings in this city on a charge, as it is said, of a treasonable nature, and committed to the County Gaol.

Since the commencement of our Assizes, the following have been convicted and received their respective sentences, in the city: - RICHARD DRY, for administering unlawful oaths to Charles Callanan, to become a member of a seditious society, under the denomination of UNITED IRISHMEN.

DARBY KELIHER, DANIEL KELIHER, DENIS KELIHER, JOHN HALLISSY, WILLIAM MURPHY, and MICHAEL SHEEHAN, for administering unlawful oaths to Michael Harrington, to join in a party for the purpose of committing a burglary and felony, in the dwelling house of John Bennett, Esq; of rockspring in the North liberties of the City of Cork – all to be transported for life pursuant to the Statute. 

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OCTOBER  1797

 

5^th - Our Assizes in the County are not yet ended, being adjourned last Saturday until Monday next. The following are those who have been tried and convicted, in that Court from the commencement :

MICHAEL FITZGERALD, for administering unlawful oaths, to be transported for life.

JEREMIAH CONNOR, otherwise [MORETE ?] for the life, to be transported for 7 years.

HENRY FORBES, for perjury, to be transported for 7 years.

 

30^th - [Advertisement] - Just Published, At Connor’s Circulating-Library, Castle-street, price 1s. 1d. – THE TRIAL OF RICHARD DRY, - For tendering an unlawful Oath. – Also Price British Sixpence, Counsellor JOHN SHEARES’ M…. in Arrest of Judgement, on behalf of RICHARD DRY.

Committed to the County Gaol, by S. Swete, Esq; MICHAEL COX, charged with administering oaths, to be faithful and true to the UNITED IRISHMEN 

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NOVEMBER  1797

 

13^th - As the spirit of sedition and turbulence, of robbery and murder, under political names, seems fast approaching to disturb the enviable tranquillity of our peaceful and happy country, we are desired to suggest to the Noblemen and Gentlemen commanding troops and corps, on the borders of the disturbed counties, the propriety of establishing NIGHT PATROLES. About sixteen years ago, when a similar unhappy spirit prevailed, under the name of  WHITE BOYS, a Patrole established by the late Mr. Rothe, proved a decisive and effectual check to the further progress of nocturnal depredation in his neighbourhood, and assisted more than could be imagined to restore to the county, the blessings of tranquilly and industry.

 

23^rd - This morning four companies of the Rothsay and Caithness fencibles marched hence for the Barony of Imokilly, to quell any disturbances that may happen there by lawless insurgents.

Committed to the co. Gaol, the 22d. inst. on the Warrant of the Right Hon. Sec.. Pelham, STEPHEN MILES and THOMAS HARTNETT, charged with being concerned with treasonable practices. By Thomas Pow.. Esq; JOHN BARRY, charged with being concerned with others in conspiring to murder John Robertson, Esq; of Kilworth, one of his Majesty’s Justices of the Peace for this County.

 

27^th - Committed to the County Gaol by Sir Henry Mannix, Bart; WILLIAM GREEN and ISAAC COLLINS for treasonable practices.

 

[Advertisement] – At a Meeting of the Committee of the Barony of BARRYMORE at Glanmire, Monday, 20^th November, 1797 – RESOLVED – That we do pledge ourselves to enquire whether the collection of Tythes in this Barony is, or is not, oppressive, and that at a proper time we do call a Meeting of this Barony to deliver our opinion to the Gentlemen thereof, on that subject.

 

[Advertisement] – At a numerous Meeting of the Gentlemen and Principal Inhabitant of the Barony of IMOKILLY, Assembled at Castlemartyr, this 25^th Day of October, 1797 – The following Resolutions were entered into:

RESOLVED – That we behold with great concern and abhorrence, the wanton outrages and cruelties which have been recently committed in this Barony, and which we consider as highly disgraceful to our County, long distinguished for peacefulness and social Order.

And whereas several Notices have been posted in different places in said Barony, and several Anonymous Letters have been written to certain individuals residing therein, threatening destruction to the Lives and Properties of such persons as should dare purchase their own Tythes, or any such Articles as may be exposed to sale as Distress for Rent.

And whereas many of the said threats have been put into execution, by destroying the Corn, and Houghing, Maiming, and Killing the Cattle of several of the Inhabitants, and also the tendering or taking of Unlawful Oaths.

RESOLVED – That we do hereby promise a Reward of ONE HUNDRED GUINEAS to any such Person as shall, within six Calendar Months, from the date hereof, voluntarily give Information before any Magistrate, of any Person or Persons guilty of, or any way concerned in that perpetration of any of the said Felonies, so that the said Person or Persons may be prosecuted to Conviction.

And we do further promise a Reward of FIFTY GUINEAS to any Person who shall give private Information to any Member of our Committee, of any Secret Meeting or Assembly of Persons who shall associate and confederate together for the purpose of perpetrating any such Felonies, or in order to administer any Oaths contrary to Law.

Provided that such Persons shall be surprised and taken in the act of such illegal Meetings and Confederacy, or of exhibiting any Unlawful Oaths.

And we do solemnly pledge ourselves that no Member of said Committee will ever disclose the Names of any Person or Persons who shall give such private Information.

And we further promise that if any such Person who shall have given such private Information should be discovered, or even suspected of having given the same, that we will, at the request of such Person, give him every security and protection in our power.

RESOLVED – That id the property of any Person in this Barony should be injured in consequence of his resisting or endeavouring to suppress such malignant and atrocious proceedings, that we will assist him with the utmost zeal to have the amount of any Damages which he may so sustain, levied on the County, Barony, or Half-Barony, or Parish, according to Law.

RESOLVED – That we do solemnly declare and pledge ourselves to each other, and to the peaceable Inhabitants of this Barony, that we will, as the risque of our Lives and Fortunes, maintain and support the Laws of our Country, and our truly happy Constitution.

And we do promise and declare, that if any Person concerned in any of the aforesaid unlawful atrocious Proceedings, shall discover any of his Accomplices concerned in the same, so that said Accomplice or Accomplices may be prosecuted to conviction, that we will use our utmost exertion to obtain his Majesty’s Pardon for such Person or Persons who shall make such discovery, and so prosecute to Conviction.

RESOLVED – That should those outrages continue to be practiced, we will forthwith take effectual measures to have the Barony Proclaimed and put out of the King’s Peace, which will introduce into the County the miseries attendant upon Martial Law.

RESOLVED – That the Gentlemen composing the respective Committees do forthwith take the Oath of Secrecy before a Magistrate, and that no Person be permitted to act as Committee-man until he shall have taken such Oath.

And we do agree and promise to pay the several sums annexed to our Names, respectively, for the discovery and apprehending of the Persons who have been guilty of the offences lately committed in our Neighbourhood, to be applied by a Committee, to be chosen for the purpose, in manner the most effectual to answer the end proposed of Justice and safety.

RESOLVED – That the following Gentlemen are appointed a Committee, who are authorised to receive and reward any secret Information that may lead to the discovery of any Person concerned in the above Outrages. [There follows a list of subscriber’s names not included here.] 

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DECEMBER  1797

 

4^th - Last Saturday a Proclamation was posted in this City, declaring the Baronies of Imokilly and Kinnatolloon in this County, out of the King’s Peace.

 

[Advertisement] – At a Meeting of the Committee – Glanmire, the 3d of December, 1797. – RESOLVED – That we are happy to declare from every information we have received, that the late Disturbances in this Barony, have nearly ceased: and, we think is our duty, to exhort the well-affected Inhabitants, to continue their exertions in preserving the Peace, and thereby preventing the dreadful necessity of Proclaiming the Barony. – Signed by Order – WILLIAM MARTIN

 

[Advertisement] – County of Cork – By Virtue of an Act passed in this Kingdom in the 36^th year of his Majesty’s reign, entitled, ‘An Act more effectually to suppress Insurrections and prevent the disturbances of the public Peace,’ and in pursuance of a Requisition to me directed, under the Hands and Seals of two of his Majesty’s Justices of the Peace for said County, bearing date the 2d day of Dec. last, I do hereby summons a special Session of the Peace to be holden at Midleton, in said County, on Friday the 8^th day of Dec. inst. between the hours of 12 at noon and one in the afternoon, to consider the state of the County – and I do hereby summon all Justices of the Peace within said County, to attend at said Sessions, of which all Persons concerned are to take Notice. Dated this 4^th day of December, 1797 – JAMES CHATTERTON, jun., Clerk of the Peace.

 

11^th - In the night of Wednesday the 6^th inst. the House of Peter Morgan, of Bride’s Town, in the Barony of Barrymore, Esq; a Magistrate of this County, was attacked by a number of armed ruffians, and his Arms forcibly carried off, and three other Gentlemen in the same Barony were also deprived of their Arms, and four Cows the property of a tenant of Digby Foulke, Esq; whose Hay and Corn were lately burnt, were barbarously houghed.

A special Session of the Peace was holden at Midleton on Friday the 8^th inst. for the purpose of considering the propriety of proclaiming the Barony of Barrymore. Twenty-four Magistrates attended- of whom twenty approved of the Measure, four only opposed it – the proper Application has been accordingly made to his Excellency the Lord Lieutenant, and the Privy Council.

 

[Advertisement] – County of Cork – By Virtue of an Act passed in this Kingdom in the 36^th year of his Majesty’s reign, entitled, ‘An Act more effectually to suppress Insurrections and prevent the disturbances of the public Peace,’ and in pursuance of a Requisition to me directed, under the Hands and Seals of two of his Majesty’s Justices of the Peace for said County, bearing date the 7th of Dec. last, I do hereby summons a special Session of the Peace to be holden at Fermoy, in said County, on Thursday the 14^th day of Jan. inst. between the hours of 12 at noon and one in the afternoon, to consider the state of the County – and I do hereby summon all Justices of the Peace within said County, to attend at said Sessions, of which all Persons concerned are to take Notice. Dated this 9^th day of December, 1797 – JAMES CHATTERTON, jun., Clerk of the Peace.

 

14^th - Committed to the County gaol, by the Rev. Charles Fennel, WM. HALEY, charged with administering an unlawful oath to a Soldier of the Roscommon Militia. By Joseph Mason Ormsby, Esq; JOHN CLANCY, JOHN AND RICHARD MOREEN, ANDREW KENNELLY, JOHN QUINLAN, PETER BROODERS, JOHN NEIL, and JOHN MAGUIRE, charged with felony, and treasonable practices.

 

18^th - Committed to the county gaol by J. M. Ormsby, Esq; JOHN AHERN, charged with treasonable practices; by Thomas Power, and John Robertson, Esqrs; PATRICK CASEY, charged with having come to the house of the Rev. John Lodge, and demanded arms of him, and with having assaulted him.

 

25^th - Committed to the County Gaol, by the Right Hon. Lord Boyle, GEORGE HARRINGTON and WM. DONOVAN, the former charged on suspicion of being concerned in the murder of Patrick Murphy, and the latter with being concerned in treasonable and seditious practices. By Charles Widenham, Esq; JOHN and JAS. QUINLAN, charged with feloniously administering unlawful oaths, and with other crimes.

 

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1798

 

 JANUARY  1798

 

1^st - CORK - Yesterday the Loyal Cork Legion, horse and foot, were inspected by the Right Hon. Lord Viscount Donoughmore, their Commander, when his Lordship expressed the highest satisfaction at the military appearance and discipline of these Citizen Soldiers.

Committed to the County Gaol, by Joseph Mason Orsmby, Esq; DANIEL BRODER, charged with felony and treasonable practices.

Yesterday, the Royal Cork Volunteers, in pursuance of their unanimous Voice, assembled on their Parade, and presented an elegant Sword to Thomas Townshend, Esq; their Adjutant, as a small testimony of the sense they entertained of his exertions and zeal, in the Discipline of the Corps…

 

1^st - [Advertisement] -  COUNTY OF CORK - AT an Adjournment of a Petty Sessions of the Peace duly held at East Glanmire, in the Barony of Barrymore, in said County, on Friday, the 29th day of December, 1797, under the Insurrection Act, and the Proclamation, declaring the said Barony to be in a State of Disturbance - Sir HENRY MANNIX, Bart, in the Chair - RESOLVED - That as the Inhabitants in said Proclaimed District shall persist in no-compliance with the Plan adopted at a former Session for the restoration of the Peace in said District, and have not brought their Arms, as the Act requires, nor entered into the securities by the said Plan directed: it is therefore determined, and Notice is hereby given, the Act and the Penalties thereby implied will be strictly enforced, unless the regulations of the said Plan be complied with, on or before the next Adjournment of this Session, which will be held at Middleton, in said County, on Friday the 5^th day of January next, and at which the attendance of the Magistrates of said District is particularly requested. – Signed by Order, - HENRY MANNIX, Chairman. – The Chief and Sub-Constables are directed to attend.

 

1^st - [Advertisement] -  COUNTY OF CORK - AT an Adjournment of a Petty Sessions of the Peace duly held at CASTLEMARTYR, in said County, on Thursday, the 28^th day of December, 1797, under the Insurrection Act, and the Proclamation declaring the Baronies of Imokilly and Kinnatalloon, to be in a State of Disturbance. – MICHAEL GREEN, Esq. – In the Chair – RESOLVED – That as we have reason to be assured that a great part of the Inhabitants in said Proclaimed District, have not brought in their Arms, and complied with the Plan adopted at a former Session for the restoration of the Peace in said District; the suspension of the operation for the Act for Suppressing Insurrections under the said Proclamation shall be no longer continued in this District, and that the said Act and the Penalties which it imposes shall be strictly enforced, of which this Notice is given to all Persons concerned. – Signed by Order – MICHAEL GREENE, Chairman.

 

1^st - [Advertisement] -  Such Members as wish to Join in forming an Armed Association, under the inspection of Government, to be called the CORK BOYNE, are requested to insert their names in a Book left for that purpose at the Boyne Room, Mr. Greaves, Grattan-street.

 

11^th - CORK - Committed to the County Gaol, by C. Widenham, Esq; TIMOTHY MEARA charged on suspicion of robbing Arthur Hyde, Esq; of cash and bank notes to a considerable amount. By Michael Green, Esq; JOHN BARRY, charged with having in his possession concealed arms, he not being qualified by law to keep them.

 

11^th - [Advertisement] -  COUNTY OF CORK - AT an Adjournment of a Petty Sessions of the Peace, holden at Midleton, in said County, on Friday, the 5^th day of January, Instant, under the Insurrection Act, and the Proclamation declaring the Barony of Barrymore, in said County, to be in a State of Disturbance – Sir HENRY MANNIX, Bart., in the Chair – IT appearing that the lenient measures adopted since the issuing of  said Proclamation, have not produced the good effects expected from them or induced many of the Inhabitants of said Barony to bring in their Arms notwithstanding, the several Notices given for that purpose – Resolved, Therefore, That we will not further interfere to prevent the operation of said Act and Proclamation, but that the same and the Penalties therein contained, shall be strictly enforced against those Persons who have not brought in their Arms, and complied with the Terms proposed for the restoration of Peace in said Barony – HENRY MANNIX, Chairman.

 

11^th - [Advertisement] -  COUNTY OF CORK – Whereas, pursuant to an Act passed in this Kingdom, in the 16^th year of his Majesty’s Reign, Eleven Justices of the Peace for said County…..duly assembled, pursuant to said Act, at a Special Sessions of the Peace, holden at Fermoy…..on Thursday the 14^th day of December last, did, by Memorial, by them signed, signify to his Excellency the Ld. Lieutenant, that the Barony of Condons and Clangibbons, and the Parishes of Killatty, Ballyhooly, Castle-hyde otherwise Litter, Dunmahon and Killenymurry, and the Union of Glanworth, all in the Barony of Fermoy, in said County, to be in a State of Disturbance, or immediate danger of becoming so, and pray that the same may be Proclaimed, pursuant to said Act. And, whereas a Proclamation from the Lord Lieutenant and Council dated the 4^th day of January, Inst. did accordingly .., declaring the said Barony, Parishes, and Union to be in a state of Disturbance, or in immediate danger of becoming so. Now, I do hereby give Notice, that a Petty Session of the Peace will be holden at Doneraile, in said County, on Wednesday, the 17^th inst. for the purpose of carrying said Act into Execution……. 

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FEBRUARY 1798

 

4^th - [Advertisement] – At a Meeting at MOVIDDY, on the 2d day of Feb. 1798, pursuant to a public Advert [feinenr?] dated the 22d of January last – Sir Rob. Warren, Bart, in the Chair – RESOLVED – THAT having considered the Baronies of West Muskerry, East Muskerry, Barretts and its vicinity, (in which part of the liberties of the City of Cork is included) infested some Years by a desperate gang of Robbers, rendered, not more formidable by their extensive confederacy and their atrocious acts of violence, than by their perjuries and acts of subornation: We whose Names are hereunto subscribed, anxious for the protection of the Persons and Properties of the Inhabitants of our District, to whose Loyalty and Peaceable Demeanour we are happy in having this opportunity of bearing testimony, deem it expedient that a Society be formed for the porpoise of aiding the Civil Magistrates in detecting, apprehending and prosecuting, heinous Offenders within our District, and we form ourselves into a Society for that Purpose. ….. [There follows a list of names not included here]

 

12^th - CORK - Last Friday night a lawless banditti, of about thirty men, attacked the house of Jasper Uniacke, Esq; at Arraglan, near Kilworth, demanded that St. George Mansergh, Esq; who was then in the house, should be sent out to then; this being refused, they rushed into seize him, on which he shot one of them dead, which so exasperated the rest, that with pitchforks, and other weapons, they fell on him, and Mr. Uniacke, until they barbously murdered both. And to add to their inhumanity, they wounded Mrs. Uniacke, while in the act of saving her husband, so that she lies dangerously ill. We hear that a number of persons are taken up, for being concerned in this diabolical outrage. - Saturday a private belonging to the Dublin Militia was shot, accidentally, by one of his own regiment, while firing at a mark on the Mardyke. He survived but a short time, as the ball went thro’ his body, and wounded another in the wrist.

 

15^th - [Advertisement] – DESERTED – ON the Night of the 12^th Inst. JOHN FLYN, Private Solider in the Leitrim Militia. He is a Man 5 Feet 6 Inches high, dark complexioned, black small Eyes, round visaged, and black Hair cut short at the sides; he was seemingly upwards of 40 Years old; he went off in a blue Coat, white striped Waistcoat, and dark olive thickest Breeches, mized worstead Stockings, and new Shoes. He robbed his master of Ten Pound [Rauk?].. Bill. – Whoever will apprehend the above Deserter, shall receive a Guinea reward over and above the usual Bounty given by Government; and apply to Lieut. [Grosk?]; the Leitrim Militia, Bandon.

 

15^th - CORK – Three of the perpetrators of the inhuman murders, committed near Rathcormac, have been amongst a great number of others, apprehended by the Fermoy cavalry, and fully identified by Mrs. Uniacke, who fainted on seeing them brought in her presence; their names are TIMOTHY KEEFFE, JOHN HOY and MICHAEL POWER, (the servant boy who opened the door for the dreadful Gang.) They will be escorted to Cork next Saturday, by the Fermoy Cavalry we have no doubt that our Cork Yeomanry will show an equal alacrity, in guarding delinquents of such magnitude. (Cork Herald.)

 

15^th - [Advertisement] – WE, the Under-signed Magistrates and Gentlemen, Resident in the Baronies of Condons, Clangibbon, Fermoy, and the Vicinity thereof, assembled at Kilworth, on Monday, the 12^th of February instant; do behold, with the utmost abhorrence and concern, the inhuman MURDER lately committed upon the Bodies of RICHARD MANSERGH ST. GEORGE, Esq; and JASPER UNIACKE, Esq; both deceased, at Carey’s Lodge, in the Glen of  ARAGLYN, in this Neighbourhood; and, We do hereby pledge ourselves to each other, and to the Public, to exert ourselves as far as possible, to bring the Perpetrators of their horrid Murders to Justice. – And We do further pledge ourselves to each other, and to the Public, collectively and individually, to be ready, upon all occasions, to enforce a due obedience to the Laws of this Kingdom, and to resist, as far as possible, all illegal Proceedings. [There follows a list of names not included here]

 

19^th - CORK – Yesterday TIMOTHY HICKEY, JOHN HOY, MICHAEL POWER, JOHN HICKEY, MICHAEL HICKEY and THOMAS DONNOHUE, were brought prisoners here, charged with being concerned in the murders of Richard St. George Mansergh St. George, and Jasper Uniacke, Esqrs; at Carey’s Lodge in the glyn of Araglyn in this county, on the night of Friday, the 9^th instant. These prisoners were brought under the committal of John Hyde, Esq; by an escort of the 89^th foot, who were joined on the Road by the Loyal Cork Legion, and safely lodged in our County Gaol, to abide their trials for this shocking outrage.

Committed to the County Gaol, by Edward H. Reeves, Esq, DENNIS KEEFFE, charged with being concerned in robbing Arthur Hyde, Esq… By James Sealy, Esq;  WILLIAM LOONEY, MICHAEL LOONEY and DENNIS LOONEY, charged with a burglary and felony in the dwelling house of Thomas Lane. – By Edward Uniacke, Esq; JOHN COLLINS, charged with sedition. – On a Capias forth of the Crown, DANIEL CARTHY, charged with a murder.

 

22^nd - CORK – Tuesday a man of the name of SULLIVAN was taken up, for administering the United Irishmen’s oath to a Solider of the co. Dublin Militia. We understand the Solider had been drinking in his company the evening before, when SULLIVAN proposed to the Solider (who was drunk) the oath of secrecy, when he immediately acceded to. – The next morning, during parade, MR. SULLIVAN, we suppose, wished to fraternize with his new apostate, and walking down the ranks to discover him, he was immediately recognized by the Solider, who pointed him out, and he was apprehended.

On Friday night last a most atrocious and daring outrage was committed by two Officers, one of the 89^th Regiment, and the other of the County Clare Militia, in the Guard-room, at Fermoy. CATHERINE FLYNN, late a servant to the unfortunate Jasper Uniacke, of Arraglyn; after having undergone an examination by the Coroner for this County, on the inquest held on that melancholy occasion, and not being able to find sufficient sureties for her appearance to prosecute, was committed to the charge of the officers on guard, as the properest place of security. We are sorry to add, that this trust was violated, and a rape committed on the unfortunate woman – by men whose duty and humanity should have urged them to protect her.- The Officers of the 89^th Regiment refusing protection to delinquents of such magnitude, have over ONE HUNDRED GUINES for the apprehension of the person to belongs to their Corps, Lieutenant William Vennill; and it is not doubted but the Clare Regiment will follow so praiseworthy an example, in offering a reward for apprehending Thady Lawler, Lieutenant in the Light Company attached to their Regiment.

About 8 o clock, this morning, a recruit watering a horse at Perry’s quay, the horse slipped, threw the man into the river, and … a number of boats were near, they suffered the man to be drowned, only one person making a trifling effort to save him. A humane spectator offered four guineas for rescuing him from the watery grave, but it had no effect – they suffered the man to perish!

A Correspondence suggest the necessity of every Person’s, particularly those who live in the Country, keeping a Diary on their daily transactions, the company they have been in, where they have been, &c. &c. lest any evil disposed persons, thro’ malice, or the hope of reward, may be tempted to swear any matter against them.

 

26^th - CORK – Committed to the County Gaol, by John Drury, Esq; PETER MURPHY, TIMOTHY MAHONY and WILLIAM FITZGERALD, charged with coming to the Island of Cove, for the purpose of buying arms and gun-powder, with a felonious intent to disturb the peace of the Inhabitants of said Island; also THOMAS FLYN and JOHN SULLIVAN, charged with declaring they would put Captain Drury to death.

 

26^th - Extract of a letter from Kilworth, dated the 18^th Inst. – ‘Having seen in the Dublin Journal of the 15^th Inst. an account of the murder committed on Colonel St. George Mansergh, and Jasper Uniacke, Esq; in this neighbourhood, and finding the account not founded on truth, I shall relate the particulars respecting the Murder, which were proved on the Coroner’s Inquest by the different witnesses that were examined, and I shall also relate some circumstances, which happened previous to this melancholy event. – Mr. St. George Mansergh who has a considerable estate in this County, which is chiefly in the Glins of Araglin, came here some time ago to assist in quieting the County (his Tenantry in particular), he was very active, and from his exertions, with his assistance of the Militia and Yeomanry much good was expected, and in some degree thought to be affected, but his conduct was in a great measure marked with fool-hardiness, as appears by the last imprudent Act. He had a confidential Sergeant who always attended him, with a Sword, Blunderbuss, and a case of Pistols, in general he would not go from one House to another without this man - he frequently went to these Glins, but always had this Sergeant, and usually some Soldiers with him, he once burnt a house where he was informed meetings of those people called United Irishmen was held, but here he was assisted by the Military; he declared publickly that he would burn and demolish every House in the Glins, and that he would first begin with his own Tenantry. – The day of the night on which he was murdered, he went to those Glins about 11 o clock in the morning, to view some depredations that were committed in his Woods, he took with him, a Magistrate who lives in this Town, his Orderly Sergeant and two Soldiers, but would not suffer them to take any arms with them; he met a number of People in a field on his own Estate, most of them his own Tenantry, and after declaring his intention of burning, &c – he told them he was to be seen at Mr. Uniacke’s that night, unprotected, where he was afraid to  meet CAPTAIN DOE (a title assumed by the leader of those under arms). He accordingly came to Mr. Uniacke’s, dined, and passed the evening there; between 10 and 11 o clock, Mr. Uniacke went upstairs to shew Mr. St. George his Bed-chamber. Soon after a number of armed Men entered the House, passed thro’ the Parlour where Mrs. Uniacke was with her Son, a Boy about 13 years of age, immediately rushed upstairs, where they met Mr. Uniacke and Mr. St. George, whom they dragged down to the Kitchen, where they murdered them in a most barbarous manner, having fractured their sculls by repeated blows. Mrs. Uniacke endeavouring to prevail on them to spare her Husband, was knocked down at the parlour door, where she lay until the party had left the House. Unfortunately, it so happened that Mr. Uniacke's House was totally unprovided with arms, which prevented the possibility of making any defence.

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MARCH 1798

 

3^rd – CORK – Yesterday evening about four o clock, as Sir Henry Mannix was returning from the Little Island, he was met by three men at the wood of Factory Hill, one of whom fired at him and ledged a ball in his back….there are all hopes of his recovery.

 

15^th - CORK – On Wednesday last, as a party of Soldiers were returning to Fermoy, after having guarded a Prisoner to Cork, they met a country man on the road near Glanmire …….the pretence of pressing ……. attacked him in a violent …….. beating him severely. Most………the poor fellow, Colonel ….. happened to be travelling that way, and immediately interfered. In consequence the whole party were put under an arrest, and sent prisoners to Cork, where, after being tried by a Court Martial, each of them were sentenced to receive 200 lashes each for their daring temerity. The highest praise is due to General Myres, who has declared that no act of aggression on the part of the Soldiery, in this District, shall go unpunished.

Extract of a Letter from Kinsale, dated the 12^th of March, to a Gentleman in this City – That spirit of loyalty which the Kinsale fishermen have been ever known to possess, was fully evinced here yesterday : a great number of them assembled in his Majesty’s dock-yard, and begged that the crews of each hooker might be allowed to subscribe half-a-guinea, in defence of their King and Country. The proposal was made with such a degree of warmth and cheerfulness, that clearly proved the heart deeply interested. I hope so loyal an example will be followed by others in similar situations.

 

15^th - [Advertisement] – LOYAL CORK LEGION – Committee Room, March 13, 1798 – At a General Meeting of the Loyal Cork Legion, on Sunday, the 25^th ultimo, for the purpose of deciding upon a Proposition for contributing Six Hundred Pounds per Annum, towards the Defence of the Country, during the War, which was Unanimously agreed to; much heat and intemperance having been manifested by a few individuals, which furnished a pretext for misrepresentations. – WE, the Committee, thought it our duty to institute an immediate enquiry into the transactions of that day; as also into a Charge of Disobedience of Orders on the preceding Sunday’s Parade, brought forward on Thursday the first instant, by the Commanding Officer, Captain Shaw. We accordingly sat from day to day, and made the most minute and diligent investigation, assisted by Captain Shaw; and having referred to the determination of a Court of Honour, the Charge exhibited by him; and also every other Charge, which the result of our enquiries enabled us to found against any of our Members, the Court of Honour made these decisions. Of three Members charged with disobedience of Orders, and five with Un-gentlemen like Conduct, two on the former Charge, and one on the latter, were found Guilty, and immediately Expelled. And the remainder were honourably acquitted. – The Committee would have rested satisfied in having thus vindicated the Discipline of the Loyal Cork Legion, if certain reports, equally injurious to the Honour of the Corps, as utterly false, and destitute even of the shadow of any foundation, had not been propagated with such malignant industry, as to call for observation on our part, and to make it necessary to us to advert to some Occurrences, which, under any other circumstances, would not have required to be thus publicly noticed. – On Sunday evening, the 25^th ult., immediately after the General Meeting, and whilst the feelings of every individual of the Corps were at the height of agitation, in the absence of Lord Donoughmore, sent up his resignation to Government, and afterwards to the Committee by whom it was accepted. – The retirement of our Commanding Officer, at such a moment, was not much calculated to allay the ferment, which has unhappily been raised by the intemperance of a very few individuals; and it could not have failed to suggest reflections highly injurious to the Credit of the Corps. It therefore became the bounden duty of the Committee to enquire into the nature of Captain Shaw’s resignation, and whether it was accompanied by any, and what reasons – and they accordingly applied to him for a Copy of his Letter, to the Right Hon. Mr. Pelham, of the 25^th ult. Was laid before the Committee:

‘Cork, February 25, 1798 – SIR – I take the liberty to acquaint you, that at a Meeting of the Loyal Cork Legion (which I have the honour to command in the absence of my Lord Donoughmore) held this day, for the purpose of Subscribing towards the defence of the Country, some circumstances occurred, in which the grossest insults were offered to that part of the Corps, who brought forward the measure, by a certain description of Persons, whose Principles and Characters, I have so far discovered, that I feel it a duty due, as well as to Government as myself, to discontinue my Command over this body of Men, for the conduct of some of whom I cannot undertake to be answerable. I have therefore to request his Excellency will be pleased to accept  of my resignation, as second Captain of the Loyal Cork Legion. – I have the Honour to be, Sir – Your most obedient humble Servant – BERNARD SHAW – Rt. Hon. T. Pelham.’

Certain expressions in this letter appearing to the Committee to admit of misconstruction, they thought it necessary to resort to Mr. Shaw for an explanation, and his answer not being considered sufficiently explicit, a very respectable Gentleman waited upon Mr. Shaw, and was authorised by him to assure the Committee of the Loyal Cork Legion, ‘That he did not mean, in any manner, in his letter to Mr. Pelham, to impeach the Loyalty of that Corps; and that the expulsion of three of its Members has, in his mind, cleared the Corps (or words to that effect) of the improper or refractory part of it.’

The misrepresentations which had been so industriously circulated, respecting the cause of Mr. Shaw’s resignation, and the reasons which were supposed to have accompanied it in his communication with Government, being thus completely exposed and refuted by the best possible evidence, the declaration of Mr. Shaw himself. The Committee feel too proudly for the Dignity of the Corps, which they have the honour to represent, to condescend to enter into any vindication of its Character, against the foul aspirations by which it has been assailed. – They think it however their indispensable duty to declare, that, after the most earnest and anxious endeavour to trace and investigate these perjurious reports, they find themselves justified in giving, to their Brethren of the Loyal Cork Legion, the Government, and the Public, the solemn assurance, that, excepting only the misrepresentations which attended the resignation of their late Second Captain, under all the circumstances of the case, and the misconception of some expressions in his letter to Mr. Pelham, by which this resignation was communicated, they have not been enabled to discover any other foundation for all the Calumnies, equally base as malicious, which have been directed against the Principles and Honour of their Corps. – JOHN THERRY, Chairman of the Committee, Loyal Cork Legion.

 

19^th - CORK – Last Saturday being the night on which so much alarm had spread itself abroad, for the general safety, orders were issued by Major General Myres for the whole Garrison to hold themselves in readiness to turn out immediately on a Signal being given from the Main Guard – The Artillery horses had their tackling on all night and the men stood ready to put them to the Carriages should the Signal be given. – Alarm Posts were assigned to the Yeomanry, and strong Patroles of the Cavalry and Infantry of the Loyal Cork Legion patrolled the whole of the City and its neighbourhood by the General’s desire. – Lord Donoughmore, at the head of one of the parties, was on horseback from nine at night till near five in the morning, traversing all the country from Lower Glanmire  to White Church, a circuit of twenty miles. All the parties being in by six o clock, and the city and its neighbourhood being found in a perfect state of tranquillity, his Lordship dismissed them.

 

19^th - [Advertisement] – It having been insinuated in the Cork Herald of Wednesday, the 14^th instant, that Counsellor M’Nally was among the Persons apprehended in the house of Oliver Bond in Dublin; the Proprietor of the Cork Herald is happy in declaring to the Public that the information from which that article was … is void of foundation, and that Mr. M’Nally was not implicated in the apprehensions on that occasion.

 

22^nd – CORK – On …..Sheriffs of this City …….Alexander, apprehended the following persons, MR. _____ WILSON, Clerk, belonging to the Banking house of Sir Thomas Roberts, & Co. and MR. HUGH KELIHER, on a warrant from the Privy Council. On the same evening they also took up MR. JOHN DALY, Printer of the Harp of Erin, on a Judge’s Warrant. They were all committed to the city gaol that night, and yesterday morning, the two former were transmitted to Dublin, under an escort of the military.

Friday night last, Mr. Pierce Philpott was murdered at Knockbrack in this co.

Committed to the County Gaol, by Major General Myers, THOMAS HAMMOND, currier, charged with declaring himself a United Irishman  and sworn as such. By Thomas Flynn, Esq; MICHAEL HORROGAN, charged with feloniously tendering oaths to two soldiers of the Roscommon Militia. By the Rt. Hon. Lord Longueville, DARBY BEYAN, for delivering to the Rev. Thomas Carson, a threatening message from the persons called United Irishmen. By Michael Green, Esq; WM. THOMPSON, for having papers of a seditious tendency in his possession. By George Montgomery, Esq; RICH. HIGGINS, charged with being concerned in the death of Pierce Philpott, who was murdered on the night of Friday the 16^th March inst. at Knockbracke.

 

26^th – CORK – Last Saturday some Magistrates, with a party of the army, searched several houses to discover where the Harp of Erin was printing; at last they found out the place to be Carey’s Lane, where they seized on all the Papers, part of which were printing, threw out the [Forms?], and carried the entire to the Mansion House.

From the Cork Herald – Saturday morning the Mail-Coach from Dublin was stopped by a party of armed men, The Guard having quitted his seat, was walking up the hill after the Coach, when a number of men rushed from a house by the road-side, and demanded a surrender of the Arms, which was obliged to be complied with. No violence was offered wither to the Mail or the Passengers.

A Post-Chaise was stopped by the same gang of depredators, and a Gentleman robbed of a Case of Pistols only. - The anxiety of the lower classes of the people, to procure arms, seems to predict that some event big with horror, is near at hand.

Last Thursday night about twelve o clock, a party of armed ruffians attacked the house of the Rev. Mr. Stopford at Blarney. Mr. Stopford and his wife had been some time in bed, when they were alarmed by the breaking in of the street-door pannels, by a sledge. Mr. Stopford had but just time to leap out of  a bark window into his garden, and escaped over the wall into the fields; fearing that his shirt might discover him in his retreat, he threw it off, and in that naked situation, he was constrained to lie in a wet ditch for upwards of an hour. He at length crept from the place of his concealment, and waded across the river to the Castle of Blarney. Where he got shelter. The depredators remained some time in the house and after in vain searching for its master, they burnt every paper and parchment of consequence, and demolished the stair case. They offered no personal violence to Mrs. Stopford, except the alarm necessarily produced by their appearance.

 

29^th  – CORK –  This day the following persons were brought in prisoners under a strong guard and lodged in South Gaol, under the Committal of Redmond Barry, Esq. -

WILLIAM FOULOWE, GEORGE WALSH, WM. JOYCE, THOMAS HAYNES, JOHN MORGAN, GEORGE EVANS, WILLIAM EVANS, THOMAS GREEN, JOHN LOMBARD, FRANCIS FOULOWE, TIMOTHY REDDIN, JOHN HORROGAN and WILLIAM BRYAN, charged with having administered unlawful oaths, and committing other seditious and felonious practices.

Yesterday was apprehended MR. JOHN SWINY, Woollen-draper, of Shandon-street [Cork], on a warrant from the Privy Council, and lodged in the North Gaol of this City. - He was this morning taken to Dublin under a military escort

Yesterday a man named TIMOTHY CAVANAGH fired at Mr. William Martin of Ballycreen, and the ball went thro' his hat, he fired a second shot without effect, on which Mr. Martin secured him and brought him prisoner before Sir Henry Mannix, Bart, at Richmond [Glanmire], in order to lodge examinations against him; but no sooner had the culprit appeared that Sir Henry declared that he was the man who fired at and wounded him some weeks ago.

Yesterday JAMES MURPHY and PATRICK HALVEY, Privates in the County Dublin Militia, were shot at the Mardyke Field, pursuant to a sentence past on them by a General Court-Martial for Seditious Practices. They were attended by two Roman Catholic Clergymen, and conducted themselves on the awful occasion in the most exemplary manner

 

29^th - [Advertisement] – THE GLANMIRE COMMITTEE - AND the several Persons whose names are hereto Subscribed, being strongly impressed with the senses of the horrid and outrageous attempt lately made against the life of SIR HENRY MANNIX, Bart, a Magistrate of this County, do hereby pledge themselves to pay the sums annexed to their respective names for the apprehending and Prosecuting to Conviction within the space of Six Months from this date hereof, the Persons concerned in said outrages. [There follows a list of names not included here] 

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APRIL 1798

 

2^nd - CORK - The Lord Lieutenant and Privy Council have issued a Proclamation directing the most positive orders to the officers commanding his Majesty's forces, for the immediate suppression of open … and rebellion; and also to record the arms which have been forced from his Majesty's peaceable and loyal subjects.

On Saturday night, or early on Sunday morning, a part of the Longueville Yeomanry fell in with a large part of eighty Insurgents near Buttevant, who had taken arms from several houses in the neighbourhood of Ballyclogh; when the Yeomanry came up with them they divided and made off in every direction - four were … closely pursued, and after some … in which one of the unhappy men lost his life, having been shot thro' the heart, was secured and brought to Mallow. The Prisoners were armed with guns, swords and pistols, which they had obtained in the course of the preceding night's depredations.

On Wednesday night last, the house of William Morris, Esq; of B…., near Ross, in this county, was attacked by a band of armed men, who after having forced the doors, demanded some rent which he had received but the day before, amounting to Twenty Guineas. Mr. Morris made no sort of resistance to the demands of those ruffians, delivered to them all of the cash in his house, amounting to Twenty Six Guineas: They then demanded his arms, which he delivered in the like unresisting manner. This however did not satisfy the party; and one of them presenting a musket at him, snapt it three several times, till at last the ruffian indignantly recollecting that he had a bayonet screwed on the musket, plunged it into Mr. Morris's body. After he had fallen, the gang struck him several blows to the head, and left him for dead. We understand, that tho' Mr. Morris's wounds are of the most serious nature, that his friends have not yet altogether despaired of his life.

The ruffian who presented the musket at Mr. Morris, with the greatest coolness hammered his flint and put in fresh priming, on the third attempt; another discharged a blunderbuss at Mr. M. which tore away part of his side, and several blows were given him on the head after he fell. During this horrid scene Mrs. Morris and ten little Children were on their knees supplicating the mercy of those barbarians; who declared that they would destroy Mr. Morris, because he was a Yeoman and searched the house for two of his friends, whom they thought were concealed. They amounted to eleven.

 

2^nd  - [Advertisement] – JOHN SWINEY, Shandon-street, RESPECTFULLY informs his Friends and the Public, that his Business in the WOOLLEN DRAPERY Line will be carried on in the same extensive manner as usual, and request all who are indebted to him will order immediate Payment

 

5^th  - CORK - Early this morning, in consequence of General Orders, large detachments of the Loyal Cork Legion and Royal Cork Volunteers, Cavalry and Infantry, marched from this city; one detachment at two, and the other at four o clock, the cavalry under the command of General Myers, the infantry under Colonel Finlay. They were joined by parties of the Co. Dublin Militia, the North Mayo and Highlanders.

What praise is not due for the alacrity of our Citizen-Soldiers, who with the promptitude of the most experienced veterans, encountered the greatest fatigue amidst a very severe storm and rain, traversed the country from this city to Carrigtwohill, near twenty miles, searching all suspected places for arms.

Some guns, blunderbusses, swords and pistols, together with a quantity of powder and ball they found, and secured one man who had a gun, some powder, and a great number of bullets concealed under his bed.

The entire Yeomanry did not return home till 4 this afternoon. The military are to remain in the Country for some days. General Myres proceeded to Youghall. This must shew the deluded banditties, that they are only hurling destruction on their heads by flying in the face of the laws, which they must find in the end too powerful for them.

Committed to the County Gaol by John Longfield, Esq; NICHOLAS DUGGAN, THO. WALSH and DENIS BOURKE, charged with having committed several burglaries and felonies in and near Ballyclogh; also with being present when David Harley, was killed in rebellion, on the night of the 31st March last; by William Galwey, Esq; STEPHEN HARDING and JEREMIAH CREMIN, (now called Major Cremin), charged with feloniously administering an unlawful oath.

 

12^th  - CORK - This day came on in the County Court-House, the trial of ROGER O CONNER, ESQ; and no person appearing to prosecute, he was immediately liberated.

We are sorry, that a system of robbery and plunder has commenced in the western part of this county, by the peasantry, who, under a system of terror, and reform, attacked and enter (we cannot say indiscriminately) the houses of every person of property and fortune. Not less than ten houses have been plundered, and some nearly demolished within the last three days in the West, and not by a few desperadoes, but by an armed multitude, who, under the pretence of searching for arms, carry off property of every description, not excepting wearing apparel, and kitchen stores, such as bacon, hams, beef, &c. &c.

A party of plunderers have been repulsed near Dunmanway, at the house of a gentleman, who fortunately had notice of their visit, and strengthened himself with six soldiers, who gave them such a warm reception, that one was left dead, and another so severely wounded that he was taken prisoner, and many others supposed to have been severely wounded. The wretch who was taken promises to make many useful discoveries.

If we may judge from the attack on the kitchens  of the Western Gentlemen, we pronounce that they will never be able to save their bacon by conciliation.

Monday night last, the house of the Rev. Richard Townshend, at Skull, was attacked by an armed mob of at least 500; after breaking the windows and the doors to pieces, they robbed the house of every portable article which they could find – seven musquets and 80 Guineas in Bank Notes. With much difficulty Mr. Townshend preserved his life, by getting on the leads of his house, in company with a gentleman who happened to be with him.

Among the persons who have been plundered and driven from their houses, we are sorry to find the names of Mr. Robert Swanton, Ballybane, Mr. William Swanton, Ballygrab, Mr. Wright, Glendore, and Mr. Dibbs, of ditto, and Mr. Hungerford, of ditto.

 

16^th  - CORK - Saturday came on in the County Court, the trial of JOHN HICKEY and JOHN HOY, for the murder of Richard Mansergh St. George, and Jasper Uniacke, Esqrs on the 9th of February last, when after a trial which lasted till night, they were both found guilty, and ordered for Execution this day, and their bodies given for dissection.

Yesterday they were conveyed from hence, under a strong guard to Fermoy, and were this day transmitted to the Glen of Araglen, where the horrid murder was committed, and suffered for said barbarous offence.

We sincerely hope this example will open the eyes of the misguided people of this, and other counties, and stimulate them to refrain from barbarous excesses that must bring on them the wrath of God, and the just vengeance of the Law. Let them return to their lawful avocations, be amenable to the Magistrates, give up all concealed arms, refrain from cutting timber, and other licentious robberies, attend industriously to the culture of the earth, more profitable than nightly depredations that must end in their destruction. Oh! what disgrace must entail on the families of those who die on a gibbet, and have their bodies delivered up to Surgeons to be cut-up piece-meal after execution; or what misery must effect the relatives of those who are transported to the West Indies to serve among blacks, and never to return to their native country and kindred.

Last Tuesday, MR. SAMUEL KENNEDY, JUNR. was tried in the City Court House, before the Hon. Justice Kelly, on a charge of Treasonable Practice, and associating with United Irishmen - when the Judge, expressing his astonishment at the different contradictory Charges and absurd and unauthenticated accusations acknowledged, was pleased to acquit him in the most honourable manner.

Last Saturday, MR. JOHN DALY was tried in the City Court for Printing a Libel in the Harp of Erin, and found guilty. He was sentenced to six months imprisonment and to stand on the Pillory.

 

16^th  - [Advertisement] – THE Inhabitants of Castlelyons, Rathcormack, and Neighbourhood, take this method of testifying their approbation, of the good Behaviour of the Detachment of the 89th Regiment, quartered in Castlelyons these five Months past; and they beg to express their warmest Thanks to Lieutenant John and Archibald MacDonald, of said Regiment, for their great exertions to preserve the Peace, and to protect the Persons and Property of Individuals, and while they regret the removal of these Officers, on whom they placed their full confidence and reliance, they sincerely hope to see their merit rewarded in that Profession, to which their conduct has done honour. [There follows a list of names not included here]

 

19^th  - CORK - Yesterday PATRICK HAYNES was executed at Gallows Green, for the murder of Colonel St. George Mansergh and J. Uniacke, Esqrs. He confessed that he was guilty of the crime for which he was about to suffer, and died very penitent forgiving his Prosecutors. - It is to be hoped that the examples which have been made in the different parts of this country, for this horrid offence, will deter, in future, others from crimes of such magnitude.

Same day TIMOTHY M'CARTHY, otherwise Souney [or Sawney], was sent off under an escort of the Royal Cork Volunteers, to be executed this day at Dunmanway, for attacking the house of John Gillman, Esq; near that Town. Any person now detected in breaking into a House, can expect no mercy after this example.

Tuesday night a Committee of United Irishmen were apprehended in a public house, opposites Conway's Livery Stables, in St. Finn Barry's [Cork city]. Papers of a treasonable nature having been found on them, they were committed to Bridewell. - This day seven infatuated persons were found guilty in the County Court, for being United Irishmen.

 

23^rd - CORK - Last Thursday, TIMOTHY CARTHY [McCarthy, above] was executed at Millane, near Dunmanway, for the attack on Mr. Gillman's house, the following is his declaration, signed by himself, in presence of the Clergymen who attended him, and several Officers:

'I acknowledge the justice of my sentence, and sincerely forgive my prosecutors, hoping that my untimely end, will be an awful warning to all deluded and ill-disposed persons, and inspire them with horror, for any infringement of the laws, whereby they expose themselves to shame and infamy in this life, and to external punishment in the next.'

It is to be hoped, that the unhappy end of this unfortunate young man, will induce the desired effect, and induce all persons to avoid bad company, and those horrid combinations, which bring certain ruin on themselves and families.

Friday Hompesch's Chasseurs, amounting to 500 men, marched from Cove to this City. - They are a remarkable fine body of men, and almost all foreigners. At present they are dismounted; horses are expected from Dublin in the course of a few days for their use, when they will march to the County of Limerick, Charleville, &c. - Saturday morning the 5^th battalion of the 60^th Regiment, consisting of ..00 men, marched from this to Bandon. They are all foreigners, and are to an individual Rifle men.

Baron Hompeshe is the nobleman to whom the ci-devant Major Semple practised a swindling scheme, so successfully, some years ago, on the Continent.

Saturday evening our Assizes closed for the present, but are adjourned to the 28^th of May next to try the remainder of the prisoners now in custody; and we sincerely hope the examples that have been made, will excite our unhappy insurgents to a peaceable demeanour, and that no addition will be made to out criminal calendar.

Convictions in the County Court. - JOHN AHERN, STEPHEN MYLES, RICHARD MOREEN, JN. CLANCY, for a conspiracy to murder a soldier of the County Limerick Militia, to be hanged on Wednesday the 25^th of April; DENIS SULLIVAN, DAVID KEEFFE, for administering an unlawful oath, to be transported for life; JOHN COLLINS [of Skibbereen], for seditious expressions to be fined and imprisoned three months; JAMES COPPINGER, CORNELIUS CALLAGHAN, CHARLES CARTY, DANIEL CALLAGHAN, RICHARD BOURKE, PATRICK HURLEY, THOMAS FITZGERALD [of Skibbereen], for seditious expressions, to be fined and imprisoned 6 months; TIM KAVENAGH, for firing at Mr. Wm. Martin with intent to kill him, to be hanged on Saturday, the 2d of June; PHILIP BARRY, ADAM SUPPLE, EDW. COGHLAN, JOHN RUDDLE, MICHAEL DAUGHILL, DAVID DOOLAN, for a violent assault on Richard Bryan, to be imprisoned two years, and PHILIP BARRY to be also fined.

 

26^th - CORK - Yesterday JOHN AHERN, STEPHEN MYLES, RICHARD MOREEN and JOHN CLANCHY, were executed at Gallows-green, pursuant to their sentence for conspiring in the death of one Bourke, a soldier in the Limerick militia. They all behaved in a very penitential manner, and at the place of execution prayed one of the attending Clergymen to publish their resignation to the visitation of God's justice for their sins. They acknowledged the fairness of their sentence; at the same time, admonishing the people not to let themselves be duped by designing men into factious and illegal meetings, which under colour of obtaining redress of grievances, immediately aimed at the introduction of anarchy, and the subversion of all religion. They bewailed the misfortunes that have been brought on the country, by the mal-practices of wicked men, who whilst they play off, as puppets, the credulous peasant, remain behind the scene, concealing both the hands that communicates the impulse, and the intention which directs it to general ruin. - We are authorised to say, from the best authority, that the above declaration is the only one that has ever been made by these unfortunate men. - This day, three more prisoners were brought in, charged with the murder of the above soldier. - We hear that three of the most disturbed parishes in the West, have delivered up what arms they had, and have taken the Oath of Allegiance.

 

30^th - CORK - Yesterday a most excellent Pastoral Letter from the Right Rev. Dr. Moylan was read out at all the Chapels in this Diocess, exhorting his flock not to be lead away from their allegiance by the machinations of ill-designing men, and from which we hope the best consequences will result. 

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MAY 1798

 

17^th - CORK - Committed to the County Gaol. DAN and JOHN O HARA, TIMOTHY CONNELL, PATRICK GRIFFIN, TIMOTHY COLLINS, M. MURPHY, DARBY LEARY, JOHN LINNANE, by Lord Doneraile, being concerned in the murder of Mathias Byron, previous to the last Assizes: JAMES FEHANE, JEREMIAH FEHANE, TIMOTHY REAGH, for breaking into and robbing the house of Wm. Morris, Esq. of Castle Salem; by Sir J. Freke, JAMES DONOVAN and DENIS DONOVAN, for taking arms out of the house of Charles Green, of Spanish Island. By Redmond Uniacke, Esq; TIMOTHY MAHONY, for being a United Irishman. JAMES PIGGOTT, for stealing bank notes and cash, by Rev. Richard Townsend.

 

17^th - [Advertisement] - WHEREAS it is thought necessary that the Magistrates should be informed of the different Arms in the several parishes within the City of Cork, and Liberties thereof, except such Arms as are now in the possession of the Army of Yeomanry. - NOW I KINGSMILL BERRY, Mayor of said City, in pursuance of the Act of Parliament authorising me thereto, do hereby require all and every Person and Persons within this City and Liberties, having in their possession Arms, whether registered or not, forthwith to deliver unto me an exact list of all such Arms, to be  verified upon oath - and all Persons refusing or neglecting so to do, after this public notice, will be subject to such Penalties as the Law directs.

 

24^th – CORK – Committed to the County Gaol, by the Mayor of Cork, ISAAC SILLETO, charged with having stolen from John White a five Guinea bank note, and other papers; By the Right Honourable Lord Doneraile, RICHARD NAGLE and JOHN NAGLE, charged with the murder of Mathias Byron of Buttevant; by the Rev. Horatio Townsend, JOHN ARUNDEL, charged with having administered an unlawful oath to James M’Grath; by the Rev. Horatio Townsend, TIMOTHY KEOHANE, charged with having taken a Guinea from John Bateman, in consequence of a threatening notice posted on his door; by John Warren, Esq; DANIEL DESMOND, charged with having fire arms found in his possession; By the Rev. George Sealy, TIMOTHY FOWLUE, charged with having pointed a pistol at Michael Foohy and threatening to hough his cattle.

 

24^th – CORK – Last Friday, this city was thrown into a state of the utmost conjecture at the non-arrival of the Mail from Dublin, from whence none has since come. On Saturday and yesterday some expresses arrived, but their contents are kept very secret.

The County Dublin Militia, with two pieces of Ordnance got orders to march from this city, and set out this morning. The Loyal Cork Legion and the Royal Cork Volunteers have taken charge of this city with a promptness and alacrity that reflect on them the highest honour.

They paraded the streets and vicinity on Saturday and Sunday night last, and every person was found in a state of the most profound tranquillity, which does great credit to the working people of this city and neighbourhood, than whom none can be more orderly.

 

24^th - [Advertisement] - A Meeting of the Governors and Deputy-Governors of the County of Cork will be held for the South Division of said County, at the King's Old Castle, Cork, on Monday, the 28^th day of  May, instant, at which such Parishes as have not then paid in the Sums respectively appointed for them to pay, or furnished Men, to fill in the Vacancies, in the South Cork Regiment of Militia, will be proceeded against without further notice. - GEORGE JACK, Clerk of said Division. 

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JUNE 1798

 

4^th - [Advertisement] - By the Right Worshipful the Mayor and Sheriffs of the City of Cork - A PROCLAMATION - WHEREAS, we think it particulary necessary at this Time, to use every precaution in preserving the present Peace and Tranquillity of this City, and conceiving that all Public Houses, of every description whatever, being shut up at a reasonable Hour, every night, will be particularly conducive thereto. - WE, therefore, do hereby require and direct, that all Taverns and Public Houses, without Distinction, shall be shut up at the Hour of Ten o Clock every Night from the date hereof, until further Orders, and that no Company after that Hour be entertained therein, as all persons offending herein, must answer the consequences at their Peril. Given under our Hands, at the Mansion House of the City of Cork, this 30^th Day of May, 1798 - KINGSMILL BERRY, Mayor, ROBERT HARDING, JOHN CUTHBERT, Sheriffs.

 

4^th - CORK - Last Friday came on the trials of BOLAND, two of the name of GARDE, BRENAN and KEARNEY, in the county Court, for conspiring the death of George Courtenay, Esq; when they were all capitally convicted, and ordered for immediate execution, which was performed by ten o clock at night. - They were guarded to Gallows Green by a large body of the Military and most of the Yeomanry Corps in this city, and died very penitent.

MR. TIMOTHY CONWAY, watchmaker of this town, was last week apprehended at Crosshaven, and MR. MITCHELL, writing-master in this city on charges of a treasonable nature, and committed to the Guard House in Tuckey's-street

This being the anniversary of his Majesty's birth-day, the same was observed here with every effusion of Loyalty. The troops in garrison, and the Yeomanry Corps assembled on the Grand Parade, and fired three volleys in honour of the day. - An encampment is speedily to take place on the Windmill Hill. The intrenchments are throwing up.

 

11^th - [Advertisement] -The MAYOR and SHERRIFFS will thankfully receive any Information respecting Concealed Arms, or any treasonable Preparation or Practices within the County of the City of Cork, or the City of Cork. The Informations may be conveyed in any manner most convenient. Strict secrecy will be observed, and Rewards given in proportion to the discovery which may be made.

 

11^th - [Advertisement] -The MAYOR and SHERRIFFS give this Notice, that they will protect all Horses and Carriages bringing provisions to Market, and returning home. - Mansion-house, Cork, June 11; 1798

 

11^th - CORK - Saturday THOMAS MEAGHER was executed pursuant to his sentence at Gallows Green, for attempting to seduce a soldier of the North Mayo Regiment, and engaging him in a dangerous conspiracy against the Government of this country.

Same morning early, the North Mayo militia marched from this city on their way to Youghal. At the same time the detachment of the Tyrone stationed at Blarney, marched for Cove, and were relived by a company of the Elgin Fencibles.

Friday afternoon, the flank companies composing the garrison at Bandon marched into this city, from whence part of them marched this morning for Clonmell. They are certainly the flower of the Army in this Kingdom.

Yesterday the Royal County Limerick Militia arrived here in boats from Cove, and set off early this morning towards Clonmell; as did a party of Hessians.

On Friday last a judicious disposition was suddenly made of one Garrison and Yeomanry who took possession of the different Avenues of the Town, when a minute search for arms took place, the result was a consoling proof that Treason and Rebellion have not taken a deep root amongst us, no concealment of arms having being discovered through the whole City.

 

14^th - CORK - Last Monday, THOMAS NEIL, of this Co., a rich farmer, was tried by a General Court Martial, for the murder of Patrick Mahony and the evidence for the Crown closed in the evening. Tuesday was appointed for his Defence, which was no other than calling on some persons as to his character. About four o clock same evening, he was taken to the lower end of the Grand Parade and hanged to a lamp-post. Before his execution he made the following Confession: -

'I, THOMAS NEIL, do at this awful moment, acknowledge the justice of the sentence now going to be executed on me; and that I was present at the murder of Patrick Murphy [at Ballymacoda]; but I must declare that it was against my will, and from threats of destruction to myself, my family, and my property, that I have been brought to consent to this wicked conspiracy. I further declare, that I never had any knowledge respecting the Rev. Mr. O Neil, of Ballymacody, having been a party in any Conspiracy whatsoever, or in any manner whatsoever, but that all that I did say respecting him was merely on the Declaration of others, as I told Lord Loftus; I think I owe him this candid declaration at this dreadful moment.

I beg the forgiveness of all Men, and of my Creator.

I warmly conjure my deluded countrymen, to return to the ways of innocence and peace, and to abstain from those wicked associations which lead them insensibly into crimes; and to give the only retribution in their power to their injured country, by making such declaration of their wicked ways as may be the surest pledges of their repentance; and which I have often declared before to many of them. I solemnly call their attentions to my just though dreadful state - THOMAS NEIL - Present; THOMAS O CONNOR, RC Vicar of St. Mary's Shandon; JOHN BOURCHIER, Lieut. Col. R.I.A.; GEORGE TOWNSHEND; GEORGE HAY, Major Elgin Fen. Regiment.

 

14^th - [Advertisement] -  At a Meeting of the City of Cork Committee, held at the Council Chamber, Wednesday, the 13^th June, 1798, - Sir Patrick O Conor, in the chair - RESOLVED - That there shall be paid out of the Fund in their hands, the sum of Ten shillings and Sixpence for each Horse and Car, of the first One Thousand Cork Cars, which may be wanted for the accommodation of Regiments marching from this City; this Bounty is in addition to the liberal allowance paid by Government; and given in order to prevent the necessity in future of pressing any Car which may come from the Country with Provisions, or any other Article for sale. June 14

 

18^th - CORK - Friday THOMAS PROSSER of Blarney, was tried by the permanent Court Martial for disaffection to Government and administering an unlawful oaths. He was found guilty and sentenced to be transported for life.

[THOMAS PROSSER was transported to Australia in 1800 on the "Minerva". He was a cotton and linen printer from Cork, Ireland. In 1795 he married Margaret Scannell and was living in or around Blarney. In june 1798 he was tried by court martial at Cork for actively recruiting for the United Irishmen and was sentenced to transportation. - Information from Prosser's descendant, Donna Bailey]

Saturday [GARRET & JOHN DAHILL/DOYLE] DAHILL, [NICHOLAS] BURKE and [FLORENCE] M'CARTHY were tried by said Court Martial for being United Irishmen, and the latter for forcibly taking arms out of a gentleman's house. They were found guilty, and sent off this morning to Curriglass, where they committed the offences, to be executed.

Yesterday 17 prisoners were brought to town from Bantry and its neighbourhood, under charges of a treasonable nature. They were escorted by the Bandon Yeomanry.

 

21^st - CORK - Tuesday an alarm was produced in this city, by a report of the rebels having raised the standard of rebellions near Bandon. It however turned out to be premature, and was occasioned by a mob having attempted to rescue a prisoner which was conveying from Bantry to Bandon. It is said the prisoner was shot, and 150 of the mob were killed on the spot - a punishment which we trust will deter others from similar acts of temerity. [See also June 25^th, below]

 

25^th - Copy of a Letter from Sir Hugh O Reilly, Lieut. Col. Of the Westmeath regiment of Militia, to Lieut. Gen. Sir James Stewart, at Cork, dated Bandon, 20^th June 1798 - SIR, I have the honour to inform you, that a party of the Westmeath regiment, consisting of 220 men, rank and file, with two .. pounders, under my command, were yesterday attacked on our march from Cloghnakilty to Bandon, near a village called Ballynascarty, by the Rebels, who took up the best position on the whole march. - The attack was made from a height on the left of our column of march, with very great rapidity, and without the least previous notice, by between three and four hundred men, as nearly as I can judge, armed mostly with pikes and very few fire arms. We had hardly time to form, but very soon repulsed them with considerable loss, when they retreated precipitously but not in great confusion, and when they regained the height, I could perceive that they were joined by a very considerable force. I, with the greatest difficulty and risk to the officers, restrained the men, halted and rowed the greater part of them, when I saw that the enemy were filing off  a high bank, with an intention to take possession of our guns. - A detachment of 100 men of the Caithness Legion, under the command of Major Jones, was on his march to replace us at Cloghnakilty, and hearing our fire pressed forwards and very critically fired upon them, whilst we were forming, and made them fly in every direction with great precipitation. At the same moment, a very considerable force shewed itself on the heights in our rear. A vast number of pikes appeared, and some with hats upon them, and other signals. I suppose in order to collect their forces. I ordered the guns to prepare for action, and very fortunately bro't them to bear upon the enemy with good effect, as they dispersed in a short time and … have left a considerable number dead. Some were killed in attempting to carry away the dead bodies. It is impossible to ascertain the loss of the enemy, but a dragoon, who came this morning from Cloghnakilty to Bandon, reports that their loss is 130. - I feel most highly gratified by the conduct and spirit of the officers and men of the Westmeath regiment, and had only to complain of the great ardour of the latter, which it was almost impossible to restrain. I cannot give too much praise to Major Jones, Captain …, and all the officers, non-commissioned officers and privates of the Caithness Legion, for their cool, steady conduct, and the every effectual support I received from them. Our loss was one serjeant and one private.'

 

25^th - CORK - Friday evening was executed at the Temporary Gallows on the Parade, JOSEPH BURNISTON, convicted by the Court Martial, of crimes at which human nature shudders to reflect on.

 

28^th - CORK - Tuesday in consequence of an invitation by Lord Viscount Donoughmore, and the Officers of the Loyal Cork Legion, to Capt. Westropp, and the Officers of the Royal Cork Volunteers, a superb dinner was given at Scragg's tavern, to which Lieut. Gen. Sir James Stewart, Brigadier-General Sir Charles Ross, the entire Staff and Officers commanding the Regiments in our Garrison, received cards of invitation. This friendly union of these two corps offered the highest gratification, and was productive of all that generous festivity, which a union of sentiment and true loyalty can produce. The dinner and wines were in the first style of excellence; and the evening concluded with the greatest hilarity and good humour. After dinner the following toasts were given:- The King - The King and Constitution - Duke of York and the Army - Lord Howe and the Navy - Sir James Stewart and the southern District - Sir Charles Ross and the garrison of Cork

By Sir James Stewart - The Yeomanry of Cork - By Lord Donoughmore - Capt. Westropp and the Royal Cork Volunteers - General Myers and the Yeomanry of Dublin - Colonel Howarth and the Royal British Artillery - Colonel Bourchier and the Royal Irish Artillery - Major Lockart and the 30^th regiment - Lords Muskerry and Kilconnell, Sir H. O Reilly, and the Militia of Ireland - Sir James …, bart, and the Middle Lothian Cavalry - By Capt. Westropp - Ld. Donoughmore and the Loyal Cork Legion - Major H….., Captain …., and the Fencibles - By Sir Charles Ross - May the same zeal, loyalty, and unanimity ever prevail in the garrison of Cork as at present - Gen. Johnson and his Brigade - Gen. Moore and the Light Brigade - The Militia of England who have volunteered their services to us at this moment. - May the connection between Great Britain and Ireland continue until time shall be no more - Sir Ralph Abercrombie, KB 

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JULY 1798

 

2^nd  - [Advertisement] - WE, the Roman Catholic Inhabitants of the Parish of Fermoy, Assembled at our Chapel, on the 17^th of June, Instant, in presence of God and at his Holy Altar, Sincerely pledge ourselves to be faithful and bear true Allegiance to his Majesty King George the Third. We also solemnly declare that we have never entertained a thought of rising in a Body to massacre our Protestant Brethren. We cannot even contemplate the idea, without being filled with horror; such an infernal project could only enter into the mind of a wretch destitute of Religion, and of every feeling which can dignify the Human heart. - We thus assure our Protestant Brethren of our sincere affection for them, and as we wish to have no interest separate from theirs, They shall always find us ready to assist them to the utmost of our power in repelling every attack which may be made on them, either in their Persons or Properties. - Signed by Six Hundred and seventy-two of the Inhabitants of said Parish - EDWARD BARRY, PP

 

2^nd - CORK - On Thursday the 28^th Inst. Eleven Privates of the Westmeath Regiment of Militia were brought from Skibbereen charged with being United Irishmen. They were escorted from Bandon to this City by Lord Viscount Bandon and a Detachment of his Lordship's Corps of Yeomanry Cavalry.

 

12^th - CORK - By accounts from Mallow, we learn that Monday last, was a day of great festivity in that Town. The Gentlemen of the Town and Neighbourhood gave a splendid dinner at the King's Arms, to Major General Johnson, as a small token of their respect and gratitude to him for his great and eminent Services. Upwards of sixty Gentlemen sat down to dinner, and among the number were Sir James Stewart, Sir Cha. Ross, and other distinguished Characters, who honoured the Meeting with their company. The most loyal Toasts were drank, nor was the 5^th June forgot, that great and memorable day, so honourable to General Johnson, and so fatal to the hopes of disloyalty and rebellion. The evening concluded with a Ball and Supper, and every person vied in their endeavours to shew how strongly they felt the importance of his public services, as well as their personal attachment to him, for his many private virtues.

In consequence of a late attack on the Limerick mail coach near Dublin, the departure of all mails has been changed from evening to morning, which was the cause of ours not arriving 'till 4 o clock yesterday evening.

When so large a sum as £442.9.9 has been already subscribed, by a few of the Loyal Cork Legion, for the relief of the Widows and Children of such Soldiers as have fallen in the Rebellion, what an increase may we not expect when the remainder give in their names.

Committed to the Co. Gaol by George Montgomery, Esq; JOHN WALSH, TIMOTHY BEGLY, TIMOTHY BRENNAN, JOHN BARRY, THOMAS BEGLY and JOHN CARROLL, charged with conspiring to rob and plunder the house of Wm. Croker, of Johnstown, Esq; also JAMES HASSETT, charged with ……………… the aforesaid robbers; also MATHIAS ROCHE, WILLIAM LEDDY and EDMOND FAHY, charged with a conspiracy to murder, and with sitting in Committees and conspiring to Dethrone all Kings and join the French. By John Hyde, Esq; ULICK BURKE and JOHN CORBETT, charged with having declared they were to have the first hit at the Protestants, and for having been concerned in the robbery of the Dublin Mail Coach; also GARRETT FITZGERALD, charged with being a Captain of United Irishmen.

 

26^th - CORK - The Picquet Guards were on Tuesday night doubled, it was supposed in consequence of some appearances of tumult at Fermoy, the proceeding evening. The activity and vigilance of our brave yeomanry for their service, entitle them to the warmest gratitude of their fellow citizens, who now acknowledge them the Saviours of their Country. - Tuesday Major General Myers arrived in Town from Dublin; we understand that he was attacked by a party of Rebels, about the Nine mile-house, near Clonmel; which, with a few of the military and a small party of the Yeomanry, he routed, having killed fourteen of their number and wounded several.

 

30^th - CORK - This day four privates of the Westmeath militia were shot on the Mardyke field, viz [JOHN] BRAY, CONLAN, REDDY and [MICHAEL] GANTLY pursuant to their sentence at a General Court Martial, for capital offences. 

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AUGUST 1798

 

23^rd - CORK - Yesterday orders were issued to the several Yeomanry Corps to be constantly dressed, and to assemble at their different Parades whenever they were noticed by sound of Drum or Trumpet, and to be furnished with twenty rounds of ball-cartridges. - Various are the conjectures which have been made as to the cause of this sudden and unexpected mandate, but we are well assured, from the known abilities of the Commander of our Garrison, that he is taking every step which prudence or foresight can dictate. 

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SEPTEMBER 1798

 

17^th - CORK - Last Saturday two pike-makers were brought in from the country and committed to gaol. - This day twelve men were apprehended on the information of the above smiths having made pikes for them.

 

24^th - CORK - The following persons have been already convicted at the present Assizes - In the County - ROBERT WALSH and PATRICK BHANAGHAN [SHANAHAN,], conspiring to murder Patrick Murphy [at Ballymacoda]; WILLIAM DESMOND, for administering an unlawful oath; MICHAEL CONNOR, JOHN BRUSNAHANE, JOHN DESMOND, JAMES CURTIN, PATRICK DOOLING, PATRICK KEEFFE and ED. RUSSELL, guilty of taking arms forcibly, and capitally convicted of on the white boy act; CORNELIUS SULLIVAN, JOHN SHEA, ED. And JOHN BROOKS, DANIEL SULLIVAN, DENIS FITZGERALD, and CORNELIUS SULLIVAN, guilty of administering oaths; TIMOTHY SHEEHAN, DARBY, DANIEL and DENNIS KELLIHER and WILLIAM MURPHY, for divers burglaries and felonies. - In the City – [DENIS] CASEY, for conspiring to murder Sheriff Harding.

 

27^th - CORK - Last Monday our Assizes closed for the City and County, when the following received their sentence in the county, viz. - TIMOTHY SHEEHAN, DARBY, DANIEL and DENIS KELIHER, WILLIAM MURPHY, MICHAEL SHEEHAN and DARBY CORKERANE, for robbing the dwelling house of the Rev. Cornelius Mahony, and breaking into the house of Mathias Dromey, and shooting at, with intent to murder him, all to be hanged on Saturday the 29^th inst.

MICHAEL CONNORS, JOHN BRUSHEHAN, PATRICK DOOLIN, JAMES CURTIN, PATRICK KEEFE, DAVID GIBBON, EDMOND RUSSEL & JOHN DESMOND, for causing arms to be delivered to them by different persons near Liscarrol, to be hanged on Saturday the 3d November next.

ROBERT WALSH and PATRICK SHANAHAN for a conspiracy to murder Patrick Murphy; DENIS SULLIVAN, otherwise Ginger for a burglary and felony out of the dwelling house of Daniel Leary, to be hanged on Saturday the 6^th of October next.

The following to be transported:

CORNELIUS SULLIVAN, JOHN SHEA, EDMOND BROOKS, JOHN BROOKS, DANIEL MAGRATH SULLIVAN, DENIS M'CAN FITZGERALD, CORNELIUS KEATH SULLIVAN for administering an unlawful oath to Edward Power near Bantry. WILLIAM DESMOND for the like to John Mitchell, a soldier of the Galway Militia; and MICHAEL COX for the like to Jeremiah M'Carthy.

The following were presented by the Grand Jury as Vagabonds to be transported pursuant to the Statute:

TIMOTHY and THOMAS BEGLEY, J. WELSH, TIMOTHY BRENAN, JOHN BARRY, JOHN CARROL and JAMES HASSETT.

The following persons were tried and found guilty in the City:

JOHN CRONIN, for feloniously administering the United Irishman's Oath to Thomas Murphy to be transported for life.

Yesterday DENIS CASEY, was executed at Gallows Green pursuant to his sentence in the City Court House, for conspiring to murder Dr. Harding one of our High Sheriffs.

 

29^th - [Advertisement] - T. CONWAY, - HAS just received an elegant assortment of Gold, Silver, and Pinchbeck Watches, in addition to his former Stocks. Is also supplied with every article in the Silver, Jewellery, and Hardware line, which he is determined to sell at the lowest Profit; being now enable to give his personal attention to Business, will be careful that all Commands shall …..and dispatch. - Is particularly grateful to those Friends, who during the long period of his Imprisonment, continued their Business at his House. 

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OCTOBER 1798

 

10^th - CORK - This day JOHN GRIFFIN; a gardener, who some days ago was tried by Court Martial here, for swearing some soldiers as United Irishmen, was executed at Ballintemple, in the South Suburbs, near where he lived: his Excellency the Lord Lieutenant having approved of the sentence of the Court Martial.

 

18^th - CORK - The news of the glorious victory obtained by Admiral Nelson, over the French fleet, arrived here on Friday evening, by a ship in 30 hours from Bristol, the Captain of which brought the London Gazette. This is some measure, (tho' a far greater extent of victory) corresponded with the account published in our last paper, from Caermarthen, which exceeded any ever obtained, particularly when we consider to what a disadvantage our gallant Admiral fought; but no force can subdue British ships, manned with Irish Tars. - Same night the whole city blazed with illuminations, the garrison consisting of the 27^th, 41^st, 6oth foot, Berwickshire Fencible horse, Royal Tyrone, Galway, Meath, Westmeath, and Clare militia, the Loyal Cork Legion, and the Royal Cork Volunteers, were drawn up on the Grand Parade, their lines extending from thence round the South Mall, Cold Harbour, Merchant's Quay, and up St. Patrick's-street, where they fired a feu de joye, the grandest we ever remember to hear, the bands playing God save the King, Rule Britannia, and the [1^st?] of August, and concluded with loud huzzas from the greatest concourse we ever saw assembled on so joyful an occasion.

Last Saturday, ROBERT WALSH, and PATRICK SHANAHAN, for a conspiracy to murder Pat. Murphy; and DENIS SULLIVAN, otherwise Ginger, for burglary and felony in the house of Daniel Leary in this county, were executed at Gallows-green, pursuant to their sentence at the last Assizes.

 

28^th - [Advertisement] - A BASE and unprovoked attack having been made on Me, and my Family, in a species of mock Proclamation, signed T. J. FITZGERALD, Sheriff, which was posted in various parts of the County of Tipperary, and also sent to Cork for publication, I am obliged, though reluctantly, to animadvert on this extraordinary production. - Among a variety of absurd falsehoods, it asserts that ' the invading Army, (which landed at Killalla) are commanded by General ROCHE, a County of Cork man, and Brother to Colonel Roche, of Trabolgan.' This assertion I declare to be false and malicious! And that I had neither Relation, Friend, nor Acquaintance in the invading Army. I feel Justified in the assertion, that it was as malicious as false, from its having appeared at a moment when it may have prejudiced the minds of a Court Martial, and have been the cause of depriving my Brother [EDMOND 'MON' ROCHE] of his Life, his Property, and what must be dearer still, his Honour and Character. But this mean and detestable stratagem has failed, in its object. The Court acquitted my Brother, and his Excellency, the Lord Lieutenant has approved of their decision. - An attack of this kind was such as no generous, no brave Man could have made, considering how I was unfortunately circumstanced, absent from my Country, (by the orders of my Physicians, and the permission of Lieutenant-General Sir James Stewart,) therefore incapable of immediately defending myself, agitated by my Brother's situation, and oppressed with apprehensions of a total deprivation of Sight. - I think it unnecessary farther to remark on a production in which I have in vain endeavoured to trace the dignity of the Magistrate, the honour of a Gentleman, or the feelings of a Man. - EDWARD ROCHE, Trabolgan, Oct. 15, 1798 

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NOVEMBER 1798

 

5^th - CORK - Last Friday a respite arrived here for the following persons who were to have been executed last Saturday, MICHAEL CONNORS, JAMES CURTIN, PATRICK KEEFFE, DAVID GIBBON, EDMOND RUSSEL, and JOHN DESMOND who received sentence of death at our Assizes for forcibly taking arms from different persons.

 

17^th - DUBLIN - The situation of MR. THEOBALD WOLF TONE was yesterday considered as extremely dangerous; it is said that spasms have taken place in his neck, and that it is unlikely that he can recover. Nothing concerning his business was stirred in the Courts.

 

22^nd - NOTICE - TO THE COUNTRY PEOPLE - THE Mayor, Sheriffs, and Major General Myers, Commanding the Garrison, will give every protection to the Country people bringing Potatoes and other Articles to Market. - The following Garrison Orders, have been issued by the Major General: - GARRISON-ORDERS - Cork, Nov. 17, 1798 - Complaints are again preferred against the Soldiers of the Garrison, who, as they have been presented from ill-conduct towards the Country-People in the Markets, go out into the avenues leading to the city, stop them and force from them their Potatoes, &c., and for which they pay only their own price, to the manifest injury of individuals; the Inhabitants of this City, and disgrace to discipline. To put an end to this unjust conduct, Cavalry Patroles are ordered on all the roads leading to the town, who will make prisoners all Soldiers of the Garrison they find without the lamps, that have not a Pass, and who will be immediately tried and severely punished. The Rolls of the Garrison to be called every two hours, and a Serjeant, and twelve rank and file, will attend every market from morning parade, until half an hour before retreat beating, to assist the Magistrates in securing the tranquillity of the city; to protect the Country-people in the sale of their articles; and make prisoners all riotous and disorderly Soldiers. The Major of Brigade, will acquaint the Adjutants of the different guards, to be furnished for each Market, by the several Regiments. These Orders to be read at the Head of each Company this evening.

 

26^th - Last Saturday a soldier belonging to the Hessian (or 60^th) regiment was shot in a field on the Blackrock Road, pursuant to sentence of a Court Martial for desertion. He was a young man, by birth a Hungarian, about 20 years old, was attended by a Roman Catholic Clergyman, and died very penitent. 

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DECEMBER 1798

 

3^rd - CORK - Saturday Morning between the hours of 2 and 3 o clock, the house of Michael Casey, Esq; of Flower Hill in the North liberties of this city, was surrounded by a party of Ruffians armed with pikes and guns. After breaking in, they robbed the house of near 100 pounds in bank notes a quantity of fire arms and effected their escape undiscovered.

A few nights ago a desperate Banditti broke into the house of Christopher Bond, Esq; near Doneraile, which they robbed and afterwards cut and abused Mr. B. in a most barbarous manner; not content with this they proceeded to hang him, which they certainly would have effected, but for the interference of one of the party who was placed as a guard over him, while the rest were plundering the house; they were armed with pikes.

 

3^rd - [Advertisement] - The Debts due to JOHN SWINEY, Late of Cork, Woollen Draper, are to be forthwith paid to JEREMIAH M'SWINEY, of Cork, Distiller, otherwise Proceedings will be indispensable. M'Swiney begs to be furnished with the nature and amount of all Demands against the said SWINEY, that some arrangement may be made for the Payment of them

 

10^th - CORK - Committed to the County Gaol, by Samuel Swete, Esq; JAMES MURPHY, charged with tendering unlawful oaths; On a Capias, WILLIAM HEILIHY, charged with a felony; By Nicholas G. Evans, Esq; RICHARD HIGGINS, charged on strong suspicion of being concerned with several others in burglariously breaking into the house of Christopher Bond, Esq, and robbing the same of several articles of wearing apparel, and with having violently assaulted him; By George Montgomery Esq; JOHN CONDON, charged with perjury; By the Provost of Bandon, CALLAGHAN QUINLAN, charged with having uttered treasonable expressions; By Daniel O Sullivan, Esq; JOHN M'ALLEN and PATRICK M'Allen, charged with defenderism, and holding unlawful meetings.

 

17^th - [Advertisement] - This Day was published - At the CORK HERALD OFFICE - THE QUESTION SOLVED! - How far the Roman Catholics (as a Body) have been concerned in the late - REBELLION; - In a series of Letters from a Gentleman in the County of Cork, to his Friend at Bath, wherein are traced, to their original source, the causes of those Discontents, both Political and Religious, which produced the unprincipled Rebellion  in this Kingdom - Price, a British Shilling.

 

17^th - This day the Hessian, or 60^th regiment, marched from hence to Waterford.

 

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1799

 

JANUARY  1799

 

14^th  – CORK - If the Wife or Children of Wm. Burk, who was severely wounded on board His Majesty’s ship Ardent, in Lord Duncan’s engagement with the Dutch fleet, will apply to the Mayor, they will hear of something to their advantage.

We hear that on Thursday last the house of the Rev. Mr. Blackwood near Castlelyons, was beset by a lawless banditti, who drank all the wine they could come at, and horrid to relate, murdered a proctor who was in care of it.

Extract of a Letter from Mitchelstown dated Jan. 12, 1799 – Thursday night John Clancy a Bailiff, who had been serving Processes for the Rev. Mr. Delany near Killdorrery for tythes, was most barbarously murdered about three miles west of this place, and thrown into the river Ownegerah. Tho’ a Bailiff he was a very harmless and honest man.

 

17^th  – CORK - On Wednesday night the 9^th inst. the house of Mr. C. O Leary, of Goodmount, within three miles of Skibbereen, was attacked by a large party of Ruffians with their faces blackened, armed with pikes, &c., &c., between the hours of 11 and 12 o clock – the manner in which they commenced the attack was, one of the villains having knocked very hard at the door, and being asked by Mrs. O Leary who he was, he answered his name was Cornelius Leary and he had a letter of importance to deliver Mr. O Leary from his son at Skibbereen, thinking thereby to get immediate entrance, which probably would have been the case had not Mrs. O Leary heard one of the party desire him to say it was a letter from her son he had; on which she went to Mr. O Leary who was then in bed, and informed him of the circumstances, upon which he got up and went to the window, informed the person he would not let him into his house that night; the ruffian then answered he would get admittance immediately; scarcely a minute passed when he heard his hall door forced in and the ruffians in the hall; they then proceeded to the parlour the door of which they broke open and the chest therein, put of which they took £.20 in cash, also a gardevine-case and bottles, and a tea-chest – after having done a great deal more injury, they proceeded to the foot of the stairs where they demanded from Mr. O Leary to give them more money, he answered he had none; they then told him if he did not they would have his life; he answered he would have some of their lives first: part of them went into the kitchen and having a lighted candle which they brought with then, they began to throw stones from the outside with dreadful force at the windows that commanded the stair case back and front, so as to break even the sashes to pieces, they supposing Mr. O Leary to be at the head of the stairs. Mr. O L frequently advised the ruffians to go home to their families and not murder him, as he would not wish to kill any of them; but in vain – he at last perceived them advancing up stairs with the candle as soft as possible; they had very long pikes in their hands, upon which he discharged a blunderbuss loaded with slugs and three musket balls – it is pretty certain from the quantity of blood left on the stairs that more than one person must have been killed. Mrs. O Leary saw two of them fall, the rest drew the bodies from the foot of the stairs outside the door with their pikes, and immediately retreated, taking the bodies with them, leaving a hat and a shoe on the stairs. The situation of this elderly Gentleman was dreadful beyond all description, having, all the time while the ruffians were threatening his life, his wife at his shoulder, and his grandson a child of two years old crying with his arms encircled round him. In that situation he remained for five hours, having no person but a small-boy-a-servant, and maid in the house, his other man servant being from home. – Had every gentleman of the country acted in the same spirited manner as this gentleman, few things of this kind would happen.

 

17^th  – [Advertisement excerpt] - ..At a Court of D’Oyer Hundred, held for the City and County of the City of Cork, at the Guild-Hall thereof, the 15^th day of January, 1799 – A MOST respectable Deputation of the Freeman at Large, having, on the 5^th day of January instant, waited on the Mayor and Council, praying that they might take under their consideration the Expediency of a UNION between the two Kingdoms, Great Britain and Ireland, as the most certain means of restoring Internal Tranquillity, and defending Us from all future Hostile attempts of our Inveterate Foe, aided and encouraged by the Treachery and Rebellious Machinations of many of his Majesty’s deluded and ill-disposed Subjects within the Realm. The Council after giving the subject their most serious Consideration, came to the following Resolutions, viz: - RESOLVED, - That We conceive an UNION between Great Britain and Ireland, grounded upon just and equitable Terms, will be the most effectual and decisive means of establishing and preserving the Peace and Prosperity of this Kingdom …

 

21^st  – Waterford, January 15 – Saturday last arrived the Lively transport, Captain Dobson, from Dublin, bound to Cork, with convicts on board for Botany Bay, among whom is the noted Holt, the Wicklow rebel chief.

 

21^st  – CORK - Saturday night, about 11 o clock, some nefarious villains attacked the house of Mr. Timothy McCarthy, of Currabah, in this county, forced in the door, on which he arose from bed, fired at them, and it is supposed killed one, on which they dragged Mr. McCarthy out into his garden, and with savage barbarity, stabbed him in several parts of his body, beat his head with stones until they killed him; then seven of them re entered the house, attacked an old man of 60 years in bed, until they killed him. After this they compelled Mrs. McCarthy to give up all her keys, what money she had, (about 12 guineas,) her gold watch, and a silver one of her husband’s, opened all the locks, destroyed bonds notes & other securities, of considerable amount, drank all the wine and spirits, eat what cold meat was in the house, and departed.

Just as this Paper was going to Press, eleven men were brought in by the Muskerry Cavalry, charged with being concerned in the above inhuman murder.

 

21^st  – CORK - Twenty seven prisoners were brought in this evening on suspicion of being concerned in the murder of Mr. Timothy McCarthy and his servant, near Ardrum. One of those brought in last Monday has turned approver, and it is supposed those apprehended this day have been taken in consequence of his discovery.

 

31^st  – CORK - On Monday the Bells of this City were rung, and at night numberless Bonfires were lighted up in consequence of the Rejection of an UNION by the Independent and Virtuous Majority of the Representatives of the People.

On Saturday morning about 4 o clock, an armed Mob attacked the Bridewell of Mitchelstown, and liberated some prisoners confined there for Seditious practices.

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FEBRUARY 1799

  

4^TH  – CORK - Committed to the county gaol …

by Robt. Hedges, Esq., JAMES LAUGHLIN, charged with the murder of Robert McFadden a Corporal in the Louth Militia. – On Capias’s, CHARLES MCCARTHY, and CORNELIUS LYHANE, the former charged with a burglary and felony, and the latter with being concerned in a murder.

by Rev. Rich. Townsend, TIMOTHY DRISCOLL, charged with administering unlawful oaths, and with conspiring to take away the lives of Richard and Wm. Hull, Esqrs.

by Thom. Dorman, Esq., TIM FLYN, charged with stealing a piece of a Hauser, part of a wreck.

by George Jack, Esq., WM. QUIRK, charged with having concealed arms found in his possession.

by Wm. Dobbyn and Fran. Woodley, Esqrs., JAMES BRIEN, charged with violently assaulting William Newell and taking from him Tythe Notes and Decrees …. one hundred pounds and upwards, together with a ten shilling note and a pistol, the property of said Newell.

 

11^TH  – CORK - Committed to the county gaol …

by the Right Hon. Lord Kingston, JOHN MAHONY, charged with having been concerned with several others in administering unlawful oaths.

by William Lumley, Esq., DENIS KENNAH, JOHN CASHMAN, AND CORNELIUS COLLINS, charged with having committed several burglaries and robberies in the Barony of Imokilly, and also with having on the night of Wednesday the 23d January last broke into the house of Darby Ryan, of Gorteen, near Killeagh, Farmer, and with having fired a shot at him from a pistol and wounding him, of which he has languished and died.

by John Wallis, Esq., DENNIS READY and DARBY CONNELL, charged with making pikes, and with having committed other acts of treason and rebellion.

by Rich. Bowden, Esq., TIMOTHY CROWLEY, charged with beating and wounding Herbert Gilman, Esq., and with taking from him a gun his property.

 

21^ST  - CORK - Committed to the county gaol …by Rev. William Silletto, JOHN FITZGERALD, charged with having with several others committed a burglary and felony in the house of George Fuller, of Brade.

 

28^TH  – CORK – We are not in habits of intimacy with Spies or Informers, and consequently know nothing of acquitted Felons, or United Irishmen; it is the duty of those who do, to point them out. Neither do we pretend to a personal knowledge of every one who signed the Addresses; but this we assert in the face of our Country, and we stake our veracity on the assertion, that there is more Property among some of those who have signed them, than would be sufficient to purchase the entire property of all who voted for an Union at the Court of D’Oyer Hundred, and the Fee Simple of the Guildhall along with it. If the Editors of the Advertiser will inform us what they understand by a Principal Manufacturer, as we pledge ourselves to find as many of them, as they will acquitted Felons or United Irishmen among the Signatures.

[This would seem to be a response to an implication in the ‘Cork Advertiser’ that some of the signatories to the petition of the  were United Irishmen. See:- Hc28.2.1799_WEB.jpg and Hc28.2.1799b_WEB.jpg ]

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MARCH 1799

 

7^TH  – CORK - Committed to the county gaol …

by the Sovereign of Kinsale, WM. BRYAN, otherwise Billy the Quilter, charged with exciting quarrels between the North Mayo and Royal County Limerick militia, and with having uttered treasonable expressions.

by Rt. Hon. Lord Kingston, JOHN CAREY charged with tendering oaths.

by  Wm. Stammers, Esq., JN. CULNANE, PATRICK, TIMOTHY, and JOHN M’CARTHY, charged with having concealed arms, gun powder, ball, and candles, found on them, they are also suspected of having committed different robberies in the West of this County.

by Daniel Gibbs, Esq., REDMOND GEARY, charged on suspicion of having been concerned in the murder of Tim. and Michl. M’Carthy.

by John Wallis, Esq., MAT KEILY, charged with being concerned in administering unlawful oaths.

 

18^TH  – CORK – Last night and this morning, the Royal Cork Volunteers patrolled the City and Suburbs, took up a number of disorderly persons, some of whom were committed to Bridewell.

 

21^ST  – CORK – This morning two Pike-makers were apprehended near Riverstown, & brought prisoners to this city. - Monday night, or Tuesday morning, some unfeeling diabolical villains houghed, and mangled, (supposed with scythes) seven cows the property of Mr. Timothy Creeden of Threshers-town, a gentleman farmer, who has ever conducted himself with the greatest propriety to his neighbours. Six of the cows were brought dead thro’ this city on cars, & 1 scarcely able to walk with her entrails trailing the streets, enough to shock humanity. - A party of the Berwick Cavalry set off on Tuesday night & brought in a number of persons suspected of the above atrocious offence.

 

25^TH  – CORK – Friday morning, at the hour four o clock, Francis John Johnson, Esq., proceeded, with a detachment of the Berwickshire Cavalry, on an information, against three of the murderers of the late unfortunate Mr. M’Carthy. After traversing the parish of Donoughmore, and from thence, to the farthest part of the parish of Glaunthane, approached the dwellings of those miscreants, who, on seeing the military, immediately took refuge in a bog which joined their houses. Two of them, however, brothers, of the name of COTTER were immediately seized, the third escaped, notwithstanding an immediate pursuit – in which the serjeant of the party was in imminent danger of perishing in the bog, from whence he was obliged to be extricated with ropes. We cannot help observing that the great activity and perseverance of Mr. Johnson on this very adventurous service entitle him to the warmest applauses of his country.

Last Friday night the house of Mr. Orpen of Black-rock was entered by fourteen fellows, with their faces blackened, who plundered the house of plate, and other valuables to considerable amount, after tying two men who had the care of the house, they effected their escape undiscovered.

Charles M’Carthy, the deserter from the 41^st regiment, who was apprehended a few days since, for the robbery of Messrs. Keating and Farrell, near Watergrass-hill, was executed this day at the above place, pursuant to a sentence of Court Martial.

 

25^TH  – [Advertisement] – The Rev. DANIEL M’CARTHY, returns his most sincere Thanks to Francis Johnson, Esq., and Mr. John Dwyer, for their spirited exertions & extraordinary perseverance in apprehending several persons strongly suspected of the Murder of his late Brother, Mr. Timothy M’Carthy of Currebehy. And from the great activity shewn by Mr. Johnson, he entertains the most lively hopes that the cruel perpetrators of that atrocious deed, will shortly be brought to justice and condign punishment.

 

28^TH – CORK – Same day [Monday] the noted CAPTAIN SLASHER was brought prisoner from Macroom by the Muskery Cavalry, commanded by Captain Gustavus Warren. He is charged with posting illegal notices.

 

28^TH  – [Advertisement (excerpt)] – City Grand Jury Room – Cork, March 26^th, 1799 – WE, the High Sheriffs and under signed Grand Jurors of the County of the City of Cork, assembled at Spring Assizes, 1799 – feel it incumbent on us to take into our most serious Consideration The Measure of a Legislative Union between the Kingdoms of Great Britain and Ireland.

Whilst we lament that any difference of opinion should exist in this Kingdom upon so important a Question – We cannot but remark how unanimous  the rebellious and traitorous Enemies of the Country are in their reprobation of the measure.

At the present awful moment, whilst we await the threatened attempt of the Enemies of Religion and of Man, to crush us in their sacrilegious embraces; whilst their diabolical influence cherishes Rebellion, and promotes Assassination in the Land, we look back with gratitude to the timely interposition of Great Britain, which has, more than once, rescued us from that infidel yoke under so great a portion of distracted Europe at this moment groans: we have still to acknowledge how necessary that interposition is, to protect us from the further attempts of an unprincipled foe, and We are sorry to confess, that to her assistance we are, at this instant, in a great measure indebted for keeping down an unnatural but wide-extended Rebellion within the bosom of this country…

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APRIL 1799

 

1^ST  – CORK – Friday evening Lieutenant Gen. Lake arrived in this city. - Yesterday the Barrymore Legion brought in prisoner MRS. T ______ from near Lisgoold, charged with having concealed fire arms in her house. On search being made some were found.

 

8^TH  – CORK – Last Saturday JAMES O BRIEN was conveyed under a strong guard of Yeomanry, from this City to Conna Cross, near Curriglass, and executed pursuant to a Court Martial sentence, for abusing and robbing one Newell, of Tallow, of tythe notes. – His body was ordered to remain suspended from the gallows for some days.

DR. O CONNOR, and MR. M’CARTHY, were remanded from Dublin, and arrived here yesterday, under care of a King’s Messenger.

 

18^TH  – CORK – CASHMAN AND COLLINS who were tried here by Court-martial, and found guilty, are to be executed on Saturday next, at Two-mile-bridge, near Youghal.

 

22^ND  – CORK – On Friday night, a murderous banditti forcibly entered the house of Robert Hutchinson, Esq., near Macroom. On hearing the alarm, this worthy Gentleman, confident that he had never deserved ill of any individual, descended towards the hall, when, melancholy to think, he was inhumanly killed on the spot. Hoping and wishing, as we most sincerely do, that the horrid perpetrators of this cruel and atrocious murder may be speedily detected and brought to condign punishment we have only to remark, that if lenity and benevolence in the Magistrate, charity and forbearance in the Landlord, kindness and affection in the Neighbour, and candour and sincerity in the Friend, could have secured one person more than another from the cursed effects of modern depravity, Mr. Hutchinson would have been that person.

 

25^TH  – [Advertisement] – Just published – price 6dh or 4 s per dozen, - DOCTOR MOYLAN’S LETTER to the Lower Order of the Roman Catholic Inhabitants of the Diocess of Cork – A Publication particularly well calculated to impress on the minds of the deluded Peasantry, that respect and obedience to the Laws, and love of Religion, so essentially necessary to the support of good Order and Government.

 

25^TH  – CORK – General Court Martial – The following prisoners have been brought before the General Court Martial now sitting in this city:

John Sullivan and Connor Fowlue, for breaking open houses, and for the murder of Daniel Lynch.

DANIEL SULLIVAN, PAT M’ALLEN, DARBY SHEA, DENIS SHEA, and JEFFERY SULLIVAN, for unlawfully assembling with arms, tendering unlawful oaths, and for murder committed at Beerhaven.

TIMOTHY CASEY for seditious expression at the same place.

WILLIAM COGHLAN for tendering unlawful oaths, and procuring pikes to be made in the parish of Kinnelea.

PATRICK and CORNELIUS LEARY, for swearing, and inducing a solider of the Devon and Cornwall regiment at Bantry to desert.

The several sentences of these men have not yet been made public, except the two first, viz, JOHN SULLIVAN AND CONNOR FOWLUE, who were on Tuesday escorted by a troop of horse to Mallow, and there executed pursuant to their sentence, for the murder of Daniel Lynch.

CALLAGHAN M’CARTHY is to be tried before the same tribunal, for administering unlawful oaths at Courtmacsherry. Likewise, TIMOTHY DRISCOL, JOHN FAHY, and JOHN MURPHY for unlawful assembling in arms at night, &c, &c.

 

29^TH  – CORK - Extract of a letter from Macroom to a Gentleman in this City – ‘As I find the circumstances of the atrocious murder committed on Mr. Hutchinson have been much misrepresented, I am induced to state them to you as far as they could be collected from the evidence on the inquest. On Friday se’nnight, about one o clock in the morning, Miss Hutchinson, the sister of Mr. Hutchinson, hearing a noise at the window of the kitchen, which was beneath her bed chamber, got up, lifted the sash, and saw three men standing outside. They ordered here instantly to take in her head or else they would murder her – she complied, and retired to a back room. Mr. Hutchinson was now alarmed by his servant man, who entered the room and told him there were robbers below. Upon which Mr. H. desired him to assist him to put on his cloaths and that he would go down to them; but the boy requested him to remain where he was, and that he would go down to the garret to call another servant who slept in an out office. In the mean time Mr. H. tho’ much debilitated from the gout, got up and dressed himself, and going down stairs was heard by his sister to cry out to one of the party ‘Damn you, you rascal, what brings you here;’ from which it appears evident that he knew one of them. He had scarcely uttered these words when one of the villains stabbed him above the left breast with a weapon which from the shape of the wound seems to have resembled the bar of a palisade. They then proceeded up stairs, entered every room except Mr. Hutchinson’s, and broke open two chests, apparently with the same weapon with which they had perpetrated the murder. They had previously lit a candle in the kitchen, where there were two muskets which they did not take, tho’ they must have seen them.

The boy who had gone up to call his fellow servant returning to his master’s room, and not finding him there, searched all the other rooms for him. He then came to the lobby, and there met the only maid servant in the house, whom he entreated to go back, least she should be murdered. The girl then got out on the roof of the house, and let up an outcry which alarmed two men of the neighbourhood who came running towards the house. – The villains now made off, and were seen by the servant maid who counted only 4 of them. I am sure you will join me in lamenting the death of this worthy man, His tenants have lost the best of landlords, the country a vigilant and active, though mild magistrate, and the poor a charitable though not ostentatious benefactor.’

Saturday FRANCIS HANAN, an  excise officer was apprehended on charges of a treasonable nature.

On Wednesday evening DANIEL REEN, WILLIAM REEN, his son, WILLIAM and JOHN REEN, brothers, DANIEL EDWARD COTTER [? Daniel and Edward Cotter], DANIEL LEARY, NORRY COLLINS, and CORNELIUS DONOHUE (a deserter from the Militia) were brought in prisoners, on suspicion of being concerned in the murder of Mr. Hutchinson.

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MAY 1799

  

2^ND  – CORK - Eleven of the gang who murdered Mr. Hutchinson have been apprehended, and they acknowledge their guilt; and we heard a Father has turned approver against his Son. There are eight more of this gang who committed a number of robberies in this county, occupying a range of country near 80 miles; and it is expected from the pursuit after them that they must be all taken.

Committed yesterday to the County Gaol, by John Warren, Esq; JOHN DUGGAN, alias CAPTAIN THUNDERBOLT, charged with being present, aiding and assisting in the murder of the late Robert Hutchinson, Esq.

 

6^TH  – CORK – This day FRANCIS HANNAN, a guager, whose trial by Court Martial ended last week, was executed at Gallows Green. – The charge against him was for encouraging a Serjeant to desert and join the rebels.

A rumour on Saturday prevailed here, with some degree of credit, that the French Fleet, consisting of Thirteen Sail of the Line, had sailed from Brest on the 26^th ultimo. Their destination is not positively known; however, we suppose it is for this country; and we have the pleasure to state, that Lord Bridport is at this moment on our coast with sixteen Sail of the Line and six Frigates, and will be joined immediately by the force now in this harbour, which was getting under weigh, when the messenger left Cove, at 12 o clock on Saturday. Should the French, in their desperation, make this last effort to invade Ireland, there cannot be the smallest doubt of their total destruction; as in addition to the very superior force of Lord Bridport; Lord Hugh Seymour, with 12 ships of the line, has sailed to prevent the return into Brest of any fugitive ship which may escape his Lordship. Thus guarded as our coast is, & with such a well disciplined and well provided army, as we now have in perfect readiness in the country, we should rather wish that the French were destined for Ireland, that, by a complete overthrow, their hopes of success may be for ever blasted. However, we most earnestly caution the public against crediting any unfounded rumour that may be circulated on this subject, and we pledge ourselves that the earliest and most authentic information shall be published until the fate of this expedition be known.

A luggar arrived at Cove on Saturday morning with dispatches from Lord Bridport, for Admiral Kingsmill, the contents of which are said to be of the utmost importance; this luggar left the Grand Fleet off Cape Clear in the most anxious expectation of falling in with that of the French, therefore we may very soon expect to give our readers the Glorious News of their Total Defeat.

A French luggar has been taken by Lord Bridport, with dispatches for the Traitors of this Country; these completely develop the whole plan of the intended invasion and contain the names of all those active Citizens who were to have assisted in giving up their Country to republican plunderers.

For the gratification of our readers, we have collected the following further particulars, which have since transpired respecting the …… of the much lamented Mr. Hutchinson. Some time after the body of the unfortunate sufferer had been interred, some men were apprehended by that very active Corps, the Muskerry Cavalry, they were escorted to the Bridwell of Macroom; one of the villains, by a private sign, signified to a gentleman of that Corps, that he wished to make some discovery, he was accordingly put into separate confinement, where, on being questioned he confessed the entire, and on being asked the manner of Mr. H –‘s death, he replied, that he had been shot. After the Coroner’s verdict, and the universal belief that he had been piked, it was not without good cause that the informer’s veracity was questioned, he however remained stubborn in his assertion, and staked his future truth on the result of having the grave opened, and the body examined. This was complied with, and on Thursday last Doctor Ronayne of this City, assisted by a Surgical Gentleman of the Louth Militia, opened the body, and found that he had been shot thro’ the heart, and in such unequivocal a direction, that the heart had been almost entirely blown to pieces, not more than an eighth part remaining from which several grains of Duck shot were extracted. The circumstances thus completely ascertained, and the Informer’s credit having been in a great measure established, we entertain no doubt but the inhuman perpetrators of this savage and detestable act of barbarity, will shortly pay the forfeit of their lives to the injured laws of the country.

Committed to the County Gaol,

By Thomas Smith, Esq., RICH. WALL, WALTER WALL and DANIEL M’CARTHY charged with having conspired with several others to take away the life of John Warren, Esq; of Windsor Hill, a Magistrate for this County.

By John Warren, Esq; JOHN BUCKLEY, THOMAS HALEY, JOHN HALEY, WM. and DENIS RIORDAN, DENIS DONOGHUE, DANIEL BREEN and PAT. CALLAGHAN, charged with being aiding and assisting in breaking open, feloniously and burglariously, the dwelling house of the Rev. Mr. Stopford, of Blarney; also M. SCANLAN charged with keeping an irregular house, and entertaining a gang of murderers, knowing them to be such.

The above mentioned prisoners were apprehended by the Gentlemen of the Muskerry Yeomen.

 

13^TH  – CORK – On Thursday evening, the body of one of the deserters from the Royal Meath Regiment, was brought into town on a car. – He had been shot by a party of the Elgin Fencibles, which were in close pursuit of the remainder of his wicker companions. The body was exposed, suspended to a lamp post, as a public spectacle of shame, until Friday evening, when it was buried; at which time (about 4 o clock) another fugitive of the same party, was brought in a prisoner; he was directly taken to the private parade of the Royal Meath Regiment, where, after being officially recognised as a mutinous deserter, he was strung up without further ceremony. It is hoped that this salutary example, joined to a most appropriate and impressive speech on the occasion from the Colonel, Earl Bective, will be the means of exposing and preventing the melancholy effects of that mad delusion, which has plunged these wretched men into a premature eternity.

Friday the Loyal Cork Legion took the guard of this City, and it was with much pleasure we witnessed their very Soldierly-like appearance.

DUGGAN, alias CAPTAIN THUNDERBOLT, M’CARTHY, and SCANLAN, three of the execrable murderers of the late much revered Mr. Hutchinson, were on Friday convicted by the Gen. Court Martial, and on Tuesday the villains are to be executed near the scene of their remorseless cruelty.

On the trail of these monsters, the exterminating system of UNITED IRISHMEN was clearly proved; the country was soon to be free, by which freedom was meant, desolation, in the butchery of every man of property and loyalty, who stood in the way of those bloody savages.

Poor is the sacrifice of such wretches to insulted justice – poor the atonement of their lives to the outraged feelings of sorrowing friendship. Though indignation and horror at the dreadful crime of murder may, for a moment, absorb the finer feelings of the human mind – the regretful tear of manly sensibility must flow, when memory retraces the virtues of a man whose life was as unsullied as his death has been lamented.

 

16^TH  – CORK – This day PETER REILY, a Corporal of the Royal Meath militia was executed at Gallows-green, pursuant to sentence of a Court Martial, for being concerned with the MALLOW UNITED IRISHMEN.

A strict attention to a rigorous execution of the Insurrection Act, is most earnestly recommended to the Magistrates of the county and city. This summary punishment awarded by the act would if rigorously carried into effect, save the General Court martial much trouble, by deterring house-holders, particularly publicans, from keeping, or allowing any person to keep unseasonable hours; and thus prevent the midnight conspiracies of treason and assassination, which offer up so man wretched victims to public justice. Indeed this necessary law has been almost totally forgotten, by those to whom its execution was entrusted, we should, therefore, wish to direct the particular attention of all Magistrates to this act which, by a late amendment, empowers government to send the delinquent convicted under it to a place they think proper, instead of sending them on board the fleet.

Tuesday morning, JOHN DUGGAN, alias CAPTAIN THUNDERBOLT, OWEN SCANLAN, CALLAGHAN M’CARTHY, and two others of the gang, who were convicted on Monday, were sent off, under an escort of yeoman cavalry, to Macroom, where they suffered death and decapitation for the murder of the late unfortunate Mr. Hutchinson. – The sentence of REEN, who was his servant, and tried at the same time, is not yet made public.

Tuesday, that truly respectable corps; the Royal Cork Volunteers took the guard of this city. To the steadiness and discipline of veterans, those enthusiastically loyal fellows united all that can grace and dignify the exalted character of a citizen soldier.

 

20^TH  – CORK – We learn this day that Admiral Lord Bridport’s fleet have put into Bantry Bay, and that Transports are hired to carry them fresh provisions.

Early this morning two pistol shots were fired in the room where Lieutenant Col. C---, of the Royal Meath Militia lodged. On examining the room the Colonel was found in his bed with a gunshot wound in his head, and a part of the brains hanging out, ‘tho; he was not dead, but incapable of speaking. The ball of the other pistol was found in the wall of the room.

At an early hour on Friday morning, WALTER BAKER was taken from this city, under an escort of the Royal Cork Volunteer Cavalry and the Loyal Cork Legion, and conveyed to Mallow, where he was executed pursuant to his sentence, on a piece of ground behind his own house. – The concourse of people that attended was immense – no disposition to riot appeared, and the cavalry returned to town the same evening.

Saturday, WALTER DEVEREUX, of Wexford was executed at Gallows Green, pursuant to his sentence.

 

23^RD  – CORK – Tuesday the Loyal Cork Legion took the guard of the city. The Kangaroo sloop of war arrived on Monday evening at Cove.

 

30^TH  – CORK – Yesterday morning Francis Johnson, Esq; received information, of a number of sailors, (supposed to have deserted from Lord Bridport’s fleet,) being on the road from Cork to Bantry; he immediately set out with a party of the Loyal Cork Legion, commanded by Lieut. Anthony Perrier, and near the Ovens, apprehended five of the Fugitives, and lodged them in the Main Guard House, by order of Major Hamilton, Field Officer of the Day; many other are said to have gone through the Country, in different parties, about an hour before Mr. Johnson came up with the Legion.

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JUNE 1799

 

3^RD  – CORK – Last Friday Lord Bridport’s fleet sailed from Bantry Bay, towards the N. West Coast.

This day, TIMOTHY CARTHY, for the murder of Mr. Hutchinson, was conveyed from this city to Macroom to be executed for said horrid offence.

 

11^TH  – CORK – Yesterday CHARLES and OWEN M’CARTHY, brothers, were conveyed to Macroom, and there executed pursuant to a Court Martial sentence, for the inhuman murder of Robert Hutchinson, Esq; of Codrum.

 

24^TH – CORK – Thursday the Glamorganshire Fencibles landed here, and next day marched to country cantonments. The 92d (Highland) regiment, and the Guards, commanded by Gen. Stanwiz?, marched on Saturday to the camp at Monkstown, and the latter were embarked and sailed for the Isle of Wight yesterday.

Last Friday JOHN BUCKLEY of Blarney, was conveyed from this city, under an escort of the Berwickshire cavalry, to Blarney, where he was executed pursuant to a Court Martial sentence, for burglary in the house of the Rev. Mr. Stopford of said place. After he hung for some time, his body was placed in a butt, and brought to Croppies Hole in the new gaol and interred.

 

27^TH – CORK – JAMES CURRY late Corporal of the Meath militia, is to be executed to-morrow, for Desertion and Mutiny.

A few days ago died in the South Suburbs of this city, a man named Kidney, a labourer, at the great age of 120 years. He worked at the Gardens in Cat lane for the last 40 years, and was able to perform his duty until a few days before his death, tho’ his employer for some years wished him to retire on his wages for the remainder of his days; but this he refused, saying that an idle life would shorten his time. – He remembered Blarney-lane to be a forest, and connected with Dunscomb’s-wood.

Yesterday, the Herefordshire militia from Fermoy, the West Kent, from Youghal, and the 6^th, from Athlone, arrived here. - The Glamorganshire Militia marched this morning for Fermoy, and are attached to the Brigade under Major Gen. Graham. – The Herefordshire Militia marched this day to Monkstown to be embarked, and the West Kent were embarked at Lapp’s-Island, the time for which they volunteered for this kingdom being complete.

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JULY 1799

  

8^TH  – CORK – Yesterday, CHARLES M’CARTHY and OWEN M’CARTHY, Brothers, and OWEN RIORDAN, were brought in, for the murder of Mr. Hutchinson.

The following were brought in by the Muskerry yeomen, apprehended, some in the Wood of Glanflesk, and others adjoining it, for aiding and assisting the above. JAMES LOONEY, CORN. LOONEY, JOHN LOONEY, DAN. LOONEY, PAT LOONEY, GARRETT BOURKE, DAN. DONOGHUE; DENNIS DONOGHUE, SENR.; MATHEW DONOGHUE, DEN. DONOGHUE, JUNR.; CORN. DONOGHUE, SENR.; JOHN DONOGHUE, CORN. DONOGHUE, JUNR., WHITE RAHILLY, MORGAN RAHILLY and CHARLES O CONNOR.

 

22^ND  – CORK – On Friday last, JAMES COLLINS, of Rathcormack, was tried in the County Courthouse, charged with having conspired to murder Captain Miller, Mr. Reeves, and the Rev. Mr. Blackwood, three of our co. Magistrates; - he was convicted on that charge, and sentenced to transportation…

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AUGUST 1799

 

5^TH  – CORK – Saturday about three o clock his Excellency the Marquis Cornwallis, Lord Lieutenant General and General Governor of Ireland … arrived here from Castle Mary. He was met at Glanmire by detachments from the Loyal Cork Legion Cavalry and Berwick Horse, and a great concourse of spectators, who instantly unharnessed the horses from his carriage and drew him all the way to his lodgings on the Terrace, amidst shouts of joy for the honour conferred on us by the Representative of Majesty…

 

19^TH  – CORK – Last Saturday Philip Cleary, a soldier in the Co. Limerick militia, was executed at Gallows Green, pursuant to sentence at our last Assizes, for the murder of Owen Field.

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SEPTEMBER 1799

 

16^TH  – CORK – A General Court-Martial has been appointed to sit. It meets on Wednesday next, under the Presidency of Col. Lord Viscount Corry, for the trial of such prisoners as shall be brought before them. – The gang which were on Friday brought in, it is said will be the first.

Friday morning, eight men were brought in, prisoners from Tallagh, under an escort of the Rothsay and Caithness fencibles, some of whom are accused to being concerned in the late conspiracy which has been discovered in this part of the Kingdom; and others have been taken on information, as being the murderers of the Elgin soldier, about a year since, at the house of the Rev. Mr. Blackwood, near Rathcormuck.

We understand a number of prisoners have been brought into Youghall, from the surrounding country, accused of several acts of violence and insurrection. That part of the country which borders on the county of Waterford, we are concerned to hear is in a state of disturbance.

 

23^RD – CORK – Saturday morning early, as a workman was about to cross Sunday’s Well ferry, to go to his daily avocation, he found an umbrella, and a military hat lying on the steps, close to the river’s bank. On further examination, and on their being brought to town, they proved to belong to Capt. D.--- of the Co. Limerick Regiment, who had not been heard of, on enquiry at his lodgings, nor amongst his friends, since Friday night. From some circumstances which have since appeared, there are grounds for supposing that he was himself the author of this rash and unfortunate act, and which is in part accounted for by some recent losses at play. His body was found in the evening near the place where he went in.

Saturday the first division of the Antrim Militia, commanded by Lord O Neil, arrived in this city, where they are to do garrison duty.

Yesterday twenty-two men were committed to the County Gaol, for unlawfully assembling on the night before, between 12 and 2 o clock, on the mountain of Coome.

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OCTOBER 1799

  

7^TH  – CORK – This day two men of the name of ROCHFORD [DARBY & MICHAEL] were conveyed from this city to Rathcormack; and there executed pursuant to Court Martial sentence, for the murder of one Hogg, of the Elgin Fencibles, at the Rev. Mr. Blackwood’s, near Rathcormack.

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DECEMBER 1799

 

5^TH  – CORK - Committed to the County Gaol, by Sir John Freke, Bart., DANIEL DONOVAN, charged with unlawfully assembling with others and feloniously carrying away stock, corn, and other things. – By the Sovereign of Kinsale, WILLIAM BRYEN, otherwise Billy the Quilter, charged with having made use of several disaffected expressions in the town of Kinsale.

 

12^TH  – CORK – Last Friday night, three men of a suspicious appearance, were apprehended in Blarney, by a serjeant of the Tyrone militia, on searching them they were found armed with pistols, which were charged, - one of them says he is a deserter from the County Limerick militia, and that he was coming from Tarbert to join the regiment, however, a number of circumstances concurring to throw much discredit on their accounts, they have been committed for further examination.

 

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