Co. Cavan; Ireland Newspaper Abstracts

Anglo-Celt
Published in Cavan, county Cavan

April 3, 1851

CAVAN QUARTER SESSIONS

On Monday last the 31st ultimo, the Quarter Session for the division of Cavan, commenced before P.M. MURPHY, Esq., Q.C., the Assistant Barrister, and the following magistrates, John WILCOCKS, R.M., John M'CULLAGH, R.M., William HUMPHRYS, Andrew NIXON, Michael PHILLIPS, Theophilus THOMPSON, and F. STOREY, Esqrs. Shortly after the sitting of the court, the following Grand Jury were sworn, viz:--Thomas HARTLEY, Esq., foreman; John Alexander FARIS, Alexander KETTYLE, William MOORE, Peter BRADY, Robert WALPOLE, William NORTEN, Francis M'CABE, Edward KENNEDY, Mathew LOUGH, James REILLY, John MOORE, John WARREN, John LOVE, Hugh PORTER, Noble PADGET and James GILROY, Esqrs.

The Assistant Barrister addressed the Grand Jury after they had been sworn, and said that there was nothing in the calendar, as far as he observed, requiring any observations from him, to gentlemen who were so well acquainted with the ordinary duties that some of the Grand Jurors were in some cases witnesses for prosecutions. When those cases came before them, it would be necessary that the members of the Grand Jury who were witnesses, while such cases was under consideration, should retire from the room.

The Grand Jury then retired.

The applications for spirit licenses were taken into consideration, and in every instance, but one, granted--that to John MONTGOMERY was refused his notice, being informal, since he had not furnished the names of any sureties to the Clerk of the Peace.

Patrick SHERIDAN was indicted for the rescue of cattle distrained for rent, at Foxfield, on the 5th of August last, to which he pleaded not guilty.

The following petty jury was then sworn:--Joseph TREVOR, James BROWN, Andrew M'NEIL, Cornelius PHILLIPS, Charles KENNY, John DOBSON, Thomas BROWNE, George RAY, John MATCHETT, Samuel PRATT, William PRATT and Pat SMITH.

After the prisoner had been given in charge, Mr. Armstrong, the Sessional Crown Solicitor, called Thomas DONOHUE--he stated that he lived in Foxfield in August last; he went in company with Mr. MOOREHEAD to Ballyheelan; Mr. MOOREHEAD is agent of those lands; went their for the purpose of distraining the rent due by CASSIDY; he seized three head of cattle; brought them over to Foxfield with him; they were whilst their forcibly taken from him by the prisoner and Robert CREIGHTON and driven away. In reply to the Court, he stated he saw John SHERIDAN there; he believes the cattle which he took was his, and not CASSIDY's, who owed the rent; the prisoner is John SHERIDAN's son; he and the person with him were not able to keep the cattle from them; no blows were struck; he made no resistance; the prisoner and his party forced the cattle back; they went before them on the road and turned them; could not say whether he might have been able to resist, but did not.

The Barrister said it would, he thought, be difficult to make this a case of forceable rescue--the prisoner was only a lad.....

His Worship the Assistant Barrister charged the jury, and said it was for them to consider whether a lad, such as the prisoner, was likely to, or did effect a rescue; force, and violence, were necessary to constitute a rescue, if they believed that the bailiff permitted the cattle to be taken from them from a real and well-grounded apprehension of danger from the prisoner, on his part, that also would amount to a rescue, but the apprehension must be real, not imaginary.

The jury returned a verdict of "not guilty".

George LAHEY, William LAHEY, and John LAHEY, were indicted for a riot and for the rescue of a cow taken under a civil bill decree, and an assault on Michael and Margaret GALLIGAN--they severally pleaded not guilty, and were given in charge to the same jury.

Michael GALLIGAN examined by Mr. B. Armstrong--Is a special bailiff in a civil bill decree obtained by Margaret GALLIGAN against George LAHEY, one of the prisoners, for 10l. 7s; he made a seizure under it of some manure, which he sold and it brought about 2l.; made under the same decree a second seizure of a cow which he took away and put into the pound of M'MANUS at Ballyheelan; that cow was sold at the pound on the 30th of last November; the plaintiff in the decree, who is his sister, was the purchaser at 5l. 6s.; prisoners were present at the sale; his sister was talking about taking the cow away when the prisoner George struck her, and said he would not allow her to do so, and that he would rob her of the cow; the other prisoners were there also, and threw her down and beat her; they came to the pound gate, and with George forcibly took the cow away, he never got the cow back.

Cross-examined by Mr. James Armstrong--Prosecuted two men for a rape on his sister; they were acquitted; George LAHEY was a witness for them; does not care about that now, it is the cow he wants; the seizure of the cow was made on the 15th, and the sale was on the 30th November; the Insolvent Commissioner was in Cavan on the 19th; George LAHEY was then discharged as an insolvent; he was there to oppose him about the decree; the insolvent judge told him not to sell the cow under the decree.

The schedule was here produced, and Mr. B. Armstrong stated that the cow was not returned in it as the property of the insolvent.

Mr. J. Armstrong--That is because the cow belonged to a person named MATTHEWS.....

James LYNCH examined....Saw the two prisoners, William and George LAHEY, pushing and hustling with the woman at the poundgate; nothing was done by John LAHEY.

Bryan GIBNEY examined--Was in Ballyheelan the day of the auction, neither party would allow the other to take away the cow; afterwards seen the cow taken away by the LAHEYs.

Cross-examined--George and William only drove the cow away; the woman was only a little tossed.

FOR THE DEFENCE

Laurence COYLE examined....was present at the time the cow was taken from the pound; no stroke was given by the LAHEYs; John LAHEY never interfered at all in the affair....saw George take away the cow; Margaret GALLIGAN made several blows at him, but he never raised his hand to her.

Patrick M'ENROE gave similar evidence to that of the last witness.

John GORRIE examined...

The Barrister, in charging the jury, recapitulated the evidence, and said that if they believed the evidence, the prosecution, the prisoners were guilty.

The Jury found a verdict, acquitting John LAHEY, and finding William and George LAHEY guilty.

James SMITH and Owen SMITH were indicted for an assault on Mr. Jane MAGENNIS at Ballyjamesduff on the 24th January last.

Miss MAGENNIS examined--Resides in Ballyjamesduff; carries on there the baking, grocery, and spirit business; she has occupied the house she now resides in for more than two years, and since her brother left it; has two brothers in business in Cavan; the eldest of the latter two years ago carried on business in her present house in Ballyjamesduff; about that time he removed to Cavan, and gave her the house and some furniture; since then the house is her own; has paid the rent for it, and got the receipts in her own name; she has the license to herself; the prisoners came into her shop on the 23rd of last January to execute an order they had against her father; when they came in they asked for a naggin of sprits, which she gave them; she asked them to have it in the parlour, and one of them went up to the parlour; when he came out to the shop, James SMITH told her that he had an order to seize the goods; he said it was against her father; the order was a barrister's decree; she said the goods were her's and not her father's; they commenced taking down the goods; they took down a barrel with spirits in it, and other goods; some persons of the party went up stairs; she requested them to wait till they should see the landlord, Mr. Morrow, but they would not, and removed the goods into the streets and away; she was knocked down by each of them--first, by James SMITH, her hand was cut by the fall.

William MAGENNIS was called by the court and corroborated his sister's testimony....John CUSACK examined--Was present when the seizure was made...Mr. HARMAN proved that John MAGENNIS's defence to the process at Mr. RATHBURN's suit was that he was therein misdescribed as a baker, and that he was a publican.

William HOGG gave the prisoners a good character.

His Worship in charging the jury said that several irrelevant and collateral question had been inquired into. The real question was, did the property seized really belong to Jane MAGENNISS(sic)....

The jury found the prisoners guilty.

Peter SHEIL, Phillip M'DONALD and Patrick REILLY were indicted for having, on the 1st March, made an assault on George WEST, with intent of doing him grievous bodily harm, for like assault on James JONES, and also for a riot. They pleaded severally not guilty.

Mr. TULLY said that the prisoners were about being tried after they had been punished; they had been kept by the magistrates three weeks in prison without any inquiry at the petty sessions.

Mr. THOMPSON said that he was one of the magistrates before whom, at petty sessions, the case had come; the reason the prisoners had been remanded was, that a medical certificate had been produced to them, that one of the persons alleged to have been beaten, was unable to attend; the magistrates thereupon remanded the prisoners...

Mr. B. Armstrong then stated the case for the prosecution; he said it was much to be regretted that so unpleasant an occurrence should have originated in so trivial a cause; the affray which the prisoners were charged with having take a part in, originated in a discussion at the fair of Ballyhaise on the 1st of March, as to whether one of the prosecutors should pay 1d. for having left a pig in Mr. PRUNTY's yard; from this altercation a riot arose--violent assaults were committed--parties of different religious persuasions engaged in the affray--and ten men (those named in the indictment) were badly beaten.

George WEST cross-examined--Was at the fair of Ballyhaise on the 1st of March last; went there to sell a pig; sold it to a jobber for 1s.3d. less than £3; JONES, his brother-in-law and he took down the pig to PRUNTY's yard; the prisoner SHEIL was in charge of that yard for Mr. Prunty; whilst there the jobber refused to take the pig because he said it was meazled; witness said there was no harm done, but asked the jobber to pay the 1d. for the pig being left in the yard; he agreed to do so in the hearing of SHEIL, and told SHEIL he would pay that 1d. when he was paying for the other pigs he had there; SHEIL then asked witness if he would then take away the pig. Witness said not, but that he would come back shortly for the pig. Sheil agreed to let the pig go free, and charge the 1d. to the jobber. Witness returned in a short time, and said to Sheil that he was come for the pig, and he then went to drive the pig out of the yard. Sheil, who was standing at the gate, struck the pig on the head; to prevent the pig running back, witness stooped and caught it between his legs. Whilst thus stooped Sheil twice struck him with a stick on the back. Several persons who were standing behind the gate rushed over towards him and beat him; cannot say who they were. He was then pushed from the yard into the street; the beating of him was finished in the street; can't say who any of the persons beating him were, except Sheil. He was blinded and stunned. Saw with the corner of his eye a pool of blood about where he lay in the street. Was three weeks in his bed before he could come to the Court. Dr. ATKINS dressed his wounds on that day in Ballyhaise.

To the Court--Sheil asked for payment of the 1d. for the pig, and witness refused to give it, and told Sheil he had agreed with the jobber.

Cross-examined by Mr. Tully--Gave no provocation to Sheil. Sheil demanded payment for the pig, and witness refused it. Did not recollect a party fight. The reason he did not take the pig away at once was, he wanted to get a cart to draw it home, and he got KELLET's for that purpose. When he was struck KELLET was outside the yard gate with the horse and cart. No other person was then with him. Does not know if the jobber even paid the 1d. He never struck Sheil. Can't say if JONES did or not. Used no insulting expressions, and called for no assistance. Dr. ATKINS dressed his head, and did not see him after.

To Mr. M'CULLAGH--Can't say when he made his complaint; it was Friday was eight days when he came into Cavan. The night he was beaten he was drawn on KELLET's cart.....

Cross-examined by Mr. Knipe--Did see Sheil get a blow that day; did not hear WEST calling for assistance; Jones and Kennedy were on the brae coming to them to help the pig into the cart. No one tried in his presence to break into the yard. No one of his friends were present when he and WEST were beaten.

To Mr. M'CULLAGH--The men who rushed from behind the gate appeared to be prepared. No shouting about Orangemen, nor till after M'DONALD was taken, when JONES said he was abused for what he was.....

Jane PATTERSON examined--Saw WEST and JONES beaten at PRUNTY's yard. The blows they got were beyond count. Saw M'DONALD beating them. Did not see SHEIL or REILLY do anything.

Cross-examined by Mr. Knipe--Did nothing in the fight herself, but would if she was able. It was no fight but murder. She is not of Mr. Tully's sort, but of the right sort (laughter).

Robert KENNEDY examined--Saw a number of men beating West and Jones. West was bleeding on the ground. Saw Reilly strike him then.

Surgeon ATKINS examined and cross-examined.

Here the case for the Crown closed. From want of space we are obliged to defer publishing our report of the defence in this case until our next paper. We may add that the case did not terminate till after 8 o'clock in the evening, when the jury retired--they not agreeing, were locked up for the night, and discharged next morning. We shall give the remainder in our next.

SALE OF INCUMBERED ESTATES IN IRELAND

NOTICE TO CLAIMANTS AND INCUMBRANCERS

In the matter of the Estate of William YOUNG, Owner;

Ex-parte, Christiana Powell LESLIE, Petitioner

WHEREAS, by an absolute order, bearing date, the 24th day of MARCH, 1851, it was ordered, that the following Lands should be Sold, namely--Legalen, with its subdenominations of Ballyhillion and Conyclevan, situate in the Barony of Tullyhunco and county of CAVAN,

held in Fee-farm, and the House and Premises known as Number Twelve, Mountjoy-square West, in the City of Dublin, held under lease for Lives Renewable for Ever, being the Estate of the Owner in this matter.

Now all persons claiming Estates or Interests on the said premises, who may object to such Order, are hereby informed that the Commissioners will hear any application which any such Person may desire to bring before them, on Notice, to be served at the Office, 14, Henrietta-street, Dublin, within One Calendar Month from the date hereof.

And all Persons claiming Charges or Incumbrances on the said Premises, or any part thereof, are required to lodge a brief Statement of the Particulars thereof at the said Office, within Two Calendar Months from the date hereof, and also to send their respective Addresses, in order that they may receive notice at what time and in what manner their claims should be established.

Dated this 28th day of March, 1851.

HENRY CAREY, Secretary

Robert MURDOCH, solicitor, having the carriage of the order of the sale, 31, College-green, Dublin.

IN CHANCERY

Robert Wm. LOWRY, Esq., Plaintiff;

Humphry Stewart NIXON, Brittania Morris NIXON, otherwise JONES, his wife,

Henry STEWART, Edward HUDSON, Charles GAUSSEN, and Chichester BOLTON,

Defendants.

PURSUANT to the Decree made in this Cause, bearing date the 9th day of NOVEMBER, 1848, I will, on WEDNESDAY, the 29th day of JANUARY, 1851, at One o'Clock Afternoon, at my Chambers, Inns-Quay, Dublin, set up and Sell to the highest and fairest bidder ALL THAT AND THOSE the several Towns and Lands of Ardens and Gartbratten, situate in the Barony of Lower Loughtee, and COUNTY OF CAVAN,

And also ALL THAT AND THOSE the Rectory of the Parish Church of Drumlane, in the COUNTY OF CAVAN,

and Diocese of Kilmore, with the Rights, Members, and Appurtenances thereunto respectively belonging, or a competent part thereof for the purposes in said decree mentioned.

Dated this 7th day of December, 1850

WILLIAM HENN

The above Sale is adjourned to WEDNESDAY, the 16th day of April next, at the hour and place above mentioned

Dated this 5th day of March 1851.

WILLIAM HENN

For further particulars, Rentals and Conditions of Sale, apply to Messrs. Charles and John Samuel GAUSSEN, Plaintiff's Solicitor, No. 17, Gardiner's Place, Dublin, or to Edward HUDSON, Solicitor for Defendant, Humphry Stewart NIXON, 3, Gardiner's Place, Dublin.

The Lands of Ardens and Gartbratten are held under the See of Kilmore, and were demised by John JONES, the direct tenant under the See to the Late Andrew NIXON for 19 years, at the yearly rent of £20, late Currency; said Lease contains a Covenant on the part of the Lessor to renew every five years if required on payment of a renewal fine of £4 12s. 3d. The Lands consist of about 191 Acres 1 Rood and 36 Perches Statute Measure, fine Arable Land, and about 3 Acres of Bog. There are at present about 40 Acres unlet, but the entire when let produces a well secured profit-rent of £265 14s. 7d. The Lands are well circumstanced, being distant only half a mile from Milltown, 6 miles from Cavan, and 4 miles from the important towns of Killeshandra, Ballyconnell, and Belturbet, respectively.

The Rectory of the Parish Church of Drumlane is held under the Deans and Chapters of Christ Church and St. Patrick's, at the yearly rent of £23 13s. 1d., present currency, and produces a clear yearly income of £223 2s. 8½d., which, as it consists of Tithe and Rent-charge, and is the first charge upon Land would prove a most desirable investment.

Charles and John Samuel GAUSSEN, Solicitor for Plaintiff, 17, Gardiner's Place, Dublin

IN CHANCERY

In the Matter of Thomas TUITE, Petitioner.

John DYAS, Respondent.

PURSUANT to my Report made in this Matter, bearing date the 22d day of March, 1851, I will, on MONDAY, the 7th day of APRIL next, at the Hour of One o'Clock in the Afternoon, at my Chambers, Inns Quay, City of Dublin, Set up and Let for Seven years pending this matter, ALL THAT AND THOSE, that part of the Lands of Clanturkin, in the

COUNTY OF CAVAN,

in the petition in this Matter mentioned, late in the possession of John KERR, and also that part of said Lands late in the possession of Andrew and Margaret MELEDEY.

Dated this 22nd day of March, 1851

ACHESON LYLE

For further particulars apply to Robert OWENS, Esq., the Receiver, Kells, or to Thomas P. REEDE, 66, Middle Abbey-street, Dublin, his Solicitor.

IN CHANCERY

James FITZGERALD, Plaintiff;

James GIBSON, Defendant.

PURSUANT to the Decree made in this cause, bearing date the 24th day of JANUARY, 1851, I hereby require all Persons having charges and incumbrances affecting the Real and Freehold Estates of which Ezikiel GIBSON, formerly of Tonyarahill, in the county of Cavan, Esquire, Intestate in the Bill in this cause named, died possessed of, to come in before me at my Chambers on the Inns Quay, Dublin, on or before the 15th day of April next, and prove their respective demands, otherwise they will be precluded from the benefit of said Decree.

Dated this 21st day of March, 1851.

WILLIAM HENN.

William MOORE, Solicitor for the Plaintiff, Chambers, 7, Henrietta-street, Dublin and Clones, County Monaghan.

COUNTY OF CAVAN - DIVISION OF CAVAN

A LIST OF APPLICATIONS received by the Clerk of the Peace, from Persons seeking Excise Licenses for the Sale of Beer, Spirits, &c....to be heard and enquired into at Ballyconnell, on Monday, the 14th day of April next, immediately after the Grand Jury is Sworn.

No. Name. Residence. Barony

DRUM, Mary Ballyconnell Tullyhaw

DALY, Thomas Carrickabeehan do.

FINNEGAN, Michael Tullymangan Up. Loughtee

HANLEY, James Arvagh Tullyhunco

LOGAN, James Killera do.

MAGOURTY, Darby Corraquigley Tullyhaw

Monahan, Catharine Corahoo Up. Loughtee

MAGINNESS, James Belturbet Lr. Loughtee

GUSTAVUS TUITTE DALTON

Clerk of Peace, Co. Cavan.

Cavan, March 24, 1851

ROBBERY IN MOHILL--On the evening of Sunday, the 16th instant, two young men came to a house in Mohill, belonging to Mr. J. NICHOLSON, hotel keeper, in charge of Michael BODY, in which were deposited for safe keeping two boxes containing the several weights, beams and weighing machines, which were seized on by Mr. J. E. CULLEN. They asked BODY out to consult him on some matters, and in his absence the back door was forced open and the weights, &c., removed. BODY made an affidavit, as to the facts, before the Magistrates at Petty Sessions, on the 18th instant; but the offenders have not as yet been discovered.--Leitrim Journal.

THE CONDEMNED CRIMINAL, M'GOVERN--We understand that the unfortunate man, who was sentenced at last assizes for this county, to be hanged on the 14th April, has received pardon, and that transportation for life is to be his lot. On last Thursday morning, the governor of our county prisoner, W. P. CLARKE, Esq., received official instruction to have the criminal ready, at the shortest notice, for removal to the Convict Depot, from whence he will be sent to one of the penal colonies, where he is to spend the remainder of his days. We understand he left our prison on Monday last, under an escort of police.--Ibid.

April 10, 1851

SKETCHES OF A TOURIST IN THE COUNTY MEATH.

Sketch III.

From the marked and decided features of historical and national celebrity of the hill of Tara, it is but natural to suppose that the tourist should bestow more than a mere casual notice upon this prominent point of observation. However lost in the dim twilight of a remote antiquity, or thrown into comparative unimportance, amidst the full-grown splendour of modern civilization, still the memories of Tara hang fondly around the national heart of Ireland, and awake by the mere magic of a name and eager investigations of the student of history, and the passionate enthusiasm of the antiquarian.

Rising with an easy and graceful undulation from amidst the luxuriant glades and pasture lands of ancient Meath, the venerable "Tara of the Kings" towers above the surrounding country, and seems to droop over the scenes of traditional glory, like the guardian spirit of the past; placed in the midst of the theatre of some of the most thrilling and momentous events in the national history, the hill of Tara recalls vividly to mind the imposing dramas that have been enacted upon the soil of Ireland, and challenges (for a while at least) the most careful attentions of the traveler; and it is only by throwing the radiant sunlight of genius, scholarship, and enlightened investigation, on the remote but honoured indications of ancestral glory, that the traditional histories of any country, become practically valuable and generally attractive; and we would earnestly direct the literary taste of Ireland towards the cultivation of those studies that are so deeply identified with the greatness and national importance of all peoples; foremost, then, amidst the salient points of Ireland's historical memories, the hill of Tara must ever rear its solemn and striking prominence.

Upon this hill there may still be found the traces of several raths or mounds, one of which is denominated the Rath of Loghaire, the son of Niall. It is recorded by the traditions of the place that the body of Loghaire is interred with his shield of valour, in the external rampart, whilst his face is turned to the south, self engaged in conflict with the Lagenians, or the descendants of Beasal Breac, or Tara still may be found the celebrated coronation-stone called the "Fol" (the under stone), i.e., the stone under the King - it was said to have uttered a loud and thrilling sound under the feet of every King who took legitimate possession of the throne of Ireland. History has recorded the occurrence of three Synods at Tara; the first is said to have been that of St. Patrick, when he attempted to convert the monarch Loghaire and the Irish chiefs; 2ndly, the cursing of King Dermot by St. Ruadh, which was the cause of the desertion of Tara, on the death of that monarch in A.D. 565; 3rdly, the Synod of Adamnan A.D. 697. From this last statement, it becomes immediately manifest, that though no longer the residence of kings, Tara was still selected as the place for ecclesiastical assemblies. There is a still later instance recorded in the annals of Ulster in the year A.D. 777.

There is a tradition preserved in reference to three stones here, Mael, Bloce, Bliuchi, which were said to be distinguishing memorials of three Druids of these names respectively; two of these stones, Bloce and Bliuchi, are recorded to have opened out, so as to admit the chariot of the King at his coronation to pass between them; they were so placed as to admit the breadth of the hand between them; these still remain rudely shaped, obeliscal pillar stones, placed within the church-yard.

The monument of the dwarf was one of the 13 wonders of Ireland, and possessed the miraculous power of adapting itself to the size of every person. Thus far we think sufficient for the purposes of our hasty and necessarily imperfect notice of the celebrated heights of Tara, and however puerile many of its traditions appear, yet it must be conceded by all students of history that the early records of even the most powerful and splendid empires are necessarily involved in the gloom of legendary fable, and the imperfect memorial of superstition and popular vanity.

Of all the rivers in Ireland, perhaps there is none more deeply associated with the monuments and traditions of the past than the Boyne, connected so intimately with the great battle for constitutional freedom in 1688, it presents to the eye of the politician and statesman almost the same deep and permanent attractions which it affords to the lover of the picturesque and beautiful. After having ascended to the source of the Boyne at the celebrated hill of Carberry, and moving forward from thence to the famous mound of Clonard, the traveler should linger for a while amidst the now crumbling ruins of Monasteroris, one of the most ancient and interesting abbeys in Ireland. The ancient designation of this territory was Totmoy in Offaly, and here in 1325 was founded an abbey for conventual Franciscans, by John de Bermingham, Earl of Louth, and from the Irish name of this chieftain, it derived the appellation of "Monaster Feoris." In 1511 Cahir O'Connor, Lord of Offaly, was slain near this place, it was a position of great strength, and sustained a prolonged and vigorous siege by the Earl of Surrey, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, when he had advanced into Offaly, in his expedition against the O'Moores of Leix, who had made some incursions upon the borders of the pale in conjunction with some other Irish chieftains. The Boyne, however, is not the only river of Meath replete with the greatest interest to the tourist; the Blackwater, with its pure and classic current, flows broadly through the wide and expansive pasture lands of Meath, challenging the attention of the traveler, and contending for the palm with the confluent waters of the Boyne with which it units its stream at the ancient town of Navan.

The Blackwater (the ancient Sale, or Abhaindubh) claims the prominent notice of the tourist, as well from its own natural beauties as from its proximity to the ancient towns of Kells and Tailtean; the fair of Tailtean was established in the year of the world, 3370, in the reign of Lugh Lamlofhada, and continued down to the age of Roderick O'Connor, King of Connaught, being held annually upon the 1st of August. The chronicles and memorials of the ancient and celebrated town of Kells are most copious and voluminous, but the predominant features of its history present almost nothing, save a dismal and repulsive catalogue of bloodshed and social disorganization. And it is truly delightful to turn aside from the dark and blighted pages of mere human history, and look out for a while upon the genial and ever-uniform aspect of external nature, to behold the broad and sparkling waters of the ancient river, still gleaming beneath the golden radiance of the sunbeam, and babbling its tale of music, amidst the green pastures and fringing willows that clothe its luxuriant banks as of old; unruffled by the dark tempest of human passion, it rolls its joyous waters to the ocean, lingering still playfully (as it were) amidst the grey and mouldering habitations as tradition and national history.

W.H.B.

THE BELMORE ESTATES.

Conditional orders for the sale of those estates in Tyrone and Fermanagh has been granted by the Incumbered Estates Court.

EMIGRATION FROM MAYO.

Every day, every hour, the inhabitants of this once populous county, may be seen thronging the public high roads, on their way to England - some to take shipping for America, and thousands more in quest of that support in their sister country denied them in the land of their birth. From the present tide of emigration their can exist no doubt that in a few months hence the face of a peasant in many parts of Mayo will be looked on as a rara avis. No matter what part of the country we look to there the notes of preparation are going on - while the cries of parting friends upon the highways proclaim the separation, perhaps forever, of relatives and dear neighbours. There is another kind of emigration of a very interesting nature - we allude to that of pauper children from our workhouse to America, for whose passage provision has been made in that country by fathers, brothers or sisters. While one generation is being buried in the workhouse cemeteries, the rising one is making preparations for joining their friends in another and prosperous future.

BRIDGET M'MAHON v. JOHN M'CORMICK.

This was an action for the maintenance of the illegitimate child of the defendant.

His Worship directed a jury to be sworn, who were accordingly impanneled. (sic)

Mr. James ARMSTRONG applied that the defendant should be paid the costs of some former dismisses.

Mr. M'GAURAN said that these dismisses for or processes were at the suit of Mary M'MAHON, and for different causes of action, and the costs were refused.

Bridget M'Mahon examined by Mr. M'Gauran. Had a child 3 years and 4 months ago. The defendant is its father. She applied to him for the support of the child, and when it was 3 months old saw him in the town of Cavan in John M'Guinness's house. He came to her there and asked if the child was a boy or a girl. She told him it was a girl. He said if it had been a girl he would take it home and do more for it (laughter.) Margaret FOX was there. She had come to Cavan in company with witness to assist her in carrying the child. The defendant then gave her 7s. 6d. She got no money from him since then, and had supported the child since.

Cross-examined by Mr. Armstrong - Had brought an action against the defendant for seduction. She had since then been convicted of taking money. Her character was good till the defendant had seduced her.

The defendant was examined, and said, that in consequence of his having known the plaintiff to be a common prostitute, he did not believe he was the father of the child, and that he would not give one farthing towards it support. He denied paying the sum of 7s 6d. We refrain from further publishing his evidence.

Margaret Fox also proved the payment of the sum of 7s. 6d., as sworn by the plaintiff.

After the case had been closed, the jury returned a verdict of £10 for the support of the child up to the time of bringing the action.

It being understood that the defendant was about to appeal, his worship advised his attorney to get the case tried on its merits before the Judge as he had a strong opinion about it, and that was now sustained by the verdict of the jury.

THE ENNISKILLEN ELECTION

This is likely to be a close and bitterly contested contest. Both candidates, Messrs. WHITESIDE and COLLUM, have declared themselves Conservatives and in favour of Tenant Right This announcement, particularly on the part of Lord Enniskillen's nominee, should be enough to convince the opponents of that pre-eminently useful measure that its settlement cannot be much longer postponed.

A contemporary said:- "Some accounts have reached us, which, if correct, show a disposition on the part of the supporters of Mr. Whiteside to use other than the most legitimate means in furthering his canvass. Mr. Collum's canvass - a successful one - took place on Saturday; and Mr. Whiteside's agents, desirous to lose no time, began their work on the Sabbath, renewing it again on Monday. On that day, we are informed they acknowledged that they had not been successful, and came to the conclusion that some stronger course than mere personal solicitation should be resorted to. On Wednesday, Colonel COLE, the late representative, made his appearance. The electors were forthwith convened, and called on to rally round Mr. Whiteside, the gallant Colonel's "own personal friend." Colonel Cole and his friend then renewed their canvass. This, however, is all fair enough, and above board. And did the exercise of individual influence rest here, we should have nothing to sayagainst it. But it is stated that other and less worthy practices have been resorted to - we have been told of certain hints about notices of ejectment. This is all significantly enough, and, if our authority be correct, sufficiently alarming, too. But we hope the people of Enniskillen will discharge their duty boldly and conscientiously, and suffer no unjust control to sway them from the right path."

The nomination took place on yesterday (Wednesday.)

BIRTHS.

April 5, the wife of Mr. John HIGGINS, 29, college-green, of a son.

April 4, Mrs. William MANSFIELD, of Grafton-street, of a daughter.

MARRIED.

February 3, at Jullander, East Indies, Lieutenant John MOORE, of the 33rd Regiment, to Caroline Edith, youngest daughter of the late Captain John DANIEL, of Bellview, county Meath.

DEATHS.

April 1, at Derry, David WALKER, Esq., Solicitor.

April 1, at L____ (?) county Meath, aged 77 years, Sir Wm. Dilon (?), bart., Baron of the Holy Roman Empire.

COOTEHILL QUARTER SESSIONS

These sessions commenced on Monday morning, before P. M. MURPHY, Esq., Q.C. Assisting Barrister for this county, John WILCOCKS, Esq., R.M., and Theophilus Lucas CLEMENTS, Esq., Js.P., and are now being proceeded with. The business at them has fallen off, particularly in the civil till department, to an extent not at all expected, at least by the practitioners of the court, as will appear by the following synopsis - viz., 200 civil bill process entries. At former Sessions it was not unusual to have 1,500 and 1,000 civil bill entries. Ejectments, 16 (7 or 8 of which were defended), and a couple of years ago there were upwards of 100 ejectment entries. Replevins, 2; 4 Spirit licenses granted, out of 5 applications; one appeal from magistrates' convictions; and 47 crown numbers, principally for petty larcenies.

The following persons were sworn on the Grand Jury: - Messrs. Patrick HORAN, foreman; Edward COONEY, John CAMPBELL, Richard BROWN, Adam DEAN, Thomas Hamilton WALSH, Charles COSBY, William MAXELL, William STINSON, George PORTER, Samuel FISHER, John SHERS, Thomas FOY, Joseph ADAMS, John BERRY, John DAVIS, and Edward BLOOMER.

His Worship, the Assistant-Barrister, then briefly addressed them, congratulating them on the lightness of the calendar, and that none of the cases on it required any observations from him; and concluded by saying, gentlemen, you may retire to your room, and the bills of indictment will be sent up before you, and so soon as you shall have disposed of them, you will be discharged from further attendance. The Grand Jury then retired. The Crown business terminated at two o'clock on Tuesday, and it was expected the Sessions would terminate this evening (Thursday). We will give the remainder of the reports in our next.

April 17, 1851

BIRTHS.

April 4, at Ashburnham place, the Countess of Ashburnham, of a daughter.

March 21, at Brooklyn, New York, the wife of Mr. T. David REILLY, of twins.

MARRIED.

April 9, at Eglish Presbyterian Church, by the Rev. Wm. BELL, of Bailleborough, the Rev. Alexander Hay BARKLIE, of Eglish, to Marianne, daughter of the Rev. Hugh BELL, Rosevale, Dungannon.

On the 10th instant, at Egleshayle Church, Cornwall, by the Rev. Fancis COLE, of St. Issay, William Roberts CRAWFORD, eldest son of the late Rev. Lewis POTTER, A.M., Rector of Dromard, Sligo, 5th Fusilliers, Esq., to Susanna VERCOE, only daughter of Samuel Symonds, of Gonvans, Cornwall, Esq.

DEATHS.

March 24, at Arva, Mr. James M'DERMOTT, after a lingering illness, of consumption, which he bore with a Christian fortitude. Mr. M'Dermott's amiable and kind disposition endeared him to a large circle of sincere acquaintances; he is much regretted by all his towns people.

At her residence, upper Temple-street, Dublin, in the 88th year of her age, Mrs. Elizabeth PALLES, relict of the late Andrew Palles, formerly of Grouse Hall, in this county.

Died suddenly, of apoplexy, on the 15th instant, Mr. R. A. HOGARTH, of Kilmore, aged 44 years; he was for many years steward to the Lord Bishop of Kilmore; his death is deeply and deservedly lamented by many sorrowing friends and acquaintances. He has left three young children to deplore his loss.

April 24, 1851

SKETCHES OF A TOURIST IN THE COUNTY MEATH.

Sketch IV.

Proceeding along the bright waters of the Boyne, and pausing at intervals to contemplate the many varied and striking beauties which present themselves so abundantly on all sides, the traveler will at length direct his footsteps towards one of the most remarkable and entertaining localities upon the broad surface of Ireland. He will find himself surrounded by monuments and memorials of races long since crumbled into primeval dust, and leaving nothing to attest the reality of their existence, save records and sepulchral remains, as abiding as the magnificent masonry of the Egyptians and the solid memorials of Grecian genius and sculpture.

It is supposed by some of the most sagacious and accomplished antiquarians of our time, that upon the banks of the Boyne, about two miles beyond Slane, may be fixed the site of the Irish Memphis or city of Tombs. Here may be found profusely scattered around the tangible and manifest traces of ancient Pagan sepulchral monuments, lying immediately in front of Rosnaree, (the ancient Rosna-righ) i.e., the wood of the kings, this remarkable burial-ground presents to the antiquarian and the scholar, matter of the deepest and most abiding interest. Mr. Wilde, in his highly entertaining and valuable work on the "Beauties of the Boyne and Blackwater," maintains that the Brugh-na-Boinne was the district bordering upon the river, in which are situate the vast mounds of Knowth, New Grange; Dowth and several lesser tumuli densely collected in that neighbourhood, and that therefore we must fix in this peculiar spot the Sidh-an-Brogha, or monument of Dagha-Mor, the most celebrated of the monarches of the Tuatha-de-Danaans. If this be so, then we have within an easy distance of the metropolis of Ireland, solid memorials of a race of native princes, whose antiquity synchronises with the remote era of the elder Pharaohs, and the monuments of whose existence stand forth prominently upon the banks of the graceful Boyne, towering towards the skies in all the impressive solemnity of a rude and primeval magnificence.

'Tis thus then, that the banks of the Boyne and Blackwater are so closely and beautifully interwoven with the traditional and monumental records of Ireland; and it is for this very reason, that apart from the graces of their natural pretensions, these celebrated rivers present so many striking and alluring features to win the admiration and careful study of the antiquarian and of the tourist. Intimately connected as the Boyne is with the great and memorable struggle of 1688, it presents to the eyes of the historian a most marked and important feature of study and examination and the careful investigator of topographical accuracy, cannot have a safer or more luminous guide than Mr. Wilde's book becomes, when the great theatre of this important conflict is to be examined and fully understood. A large division of the army of William crossed the river at Slane on that eventful morning, and thus has affixed a degree of historical interest to this point of the river, whichit is never likely to lose.

And it is only by throwing the glowing mantle of historical interest around the bright and beautiful things of the earth that they become generally attractive and captivating. There are many who pass with cold and unsympathising gaze the most lovely and varied scenes, and who seem to have no intimate and congenial susceptibilities with the vast numbers of ardent and enthusiastic lovers of natural beauty; but to whose mind regions, otherwise unattractive, become engaging from the association of history and the solid memorials of ancient splendour and former importance.

To the eyes of the historian and philosopher the crumbling ruins of the Acropolis or the Parthenon, possess an immense value and thrilling interest, wholly unknown perhaps to one who merely regards the more shining beauties of external nature, and who feels no real and abiding pleasure in the contemplation of by-gone magnificence and departed genius. Tis thus also in Ireland, the statesman or the historian may derive abundant instruction and pleasure in beholding the ruins of some feudal castle or mouldering fortress, identified with the records of great national struggles, whilst the mere tourist or man of pleasure will look away upon the bright and genial aspect of some verdant meadowland or smiling glade, gratefully disclosed amidst the somber magnificence of an ancient forest.

Turning, however, away from reflections of this kind, and pursuing the sparkling current of this lovely river, the traveler will reach at length the gray and imposing ruins of Monastenboice, rising on the gently undulating slope of a verdant pasture-ground, and not far from the sweetly flowing waters of the River of Meath. Although not included within the ancient soil of Meath, still some passing notice of this now venerable and celebrated remnant of ancient monastic splendour, may prove interesting and instructive. Monasterboice, the remains of the ancient monastery of St. Breithe, owes its foundations and name to the pious son of Bronach, who in the 6th century founded a religious establishment in this place. This ancient and celebrated ruin is remarkable as containing within the enclosure of its cemetry (sic), one of the largest and most recently erected "Round Towers" in Ireland. It is generally supposed that at an early period it was higher than it is at present, and from certain appearances on the top of it, an opinion generally prevails, that it must have been blasted by lightning. By an incidental memorial preserved in the annals of the "Four Masters," a very strong presumption has been established in favour of one of the supposed uses of the Round Towers. The expression of the Annals is conveyed in this form - viz., "A.D. 1097, that Cloietheach of Mainister, containing several books and valuables, was burned." From this memorial it becomes immediately manifest that the preservation of the books and other precious articles in connection with the performance of religious service, was one of the important uses to which the Round Towers were devoted. The founder of this monastery died in the year 522, and we know but comparatively little of its history until the year 1050, when Flann Mainistreach, a distinguished poet and historian, held the important office of Abbot of this monastery. The demise of this eminent personable is thus recorded in the Annals of the Four Masters - viz., 1056, Flann of the monastery, lecturer of Monasterboice, the paragon of the Irish in history, poetry, and eloquence, died on the 4th the kalends of December.

But by far the most important and remarkable present attractions in connection with the famous Abbey of Monasterboice, are the large and splendidly sculptured crosses. Mr. Wilde, in his valuable remarks upon this subject says, "that with the exception of the great cross of Clomnanoise, and one which we ourselves recently examined near the cathedral of St. Brecan, in the great Island of Arran, there is nothing of the kind in Great Britain, or perhaps in Europe, either in magnitude, design, or execution, to compare with two at least of the crosses at Monasterboice. Directly in front of the Round Tower the tallest of these croses (sic) (and indeed the highest in Ireland) elevates its imposing form; it measures 20 feet in the shaft and is morticed into a base 20 inches high. Considerable damage appears to have been done to the shaft, as it seems to have suffered from the action of a hammer, and this desecration is by the popular traditions of the place attributed to the unscrupulous hands of the stern soldiers of Comwell (sic), who in the excess of their puritanical zeal do not spare even the most graceful and elaborate specimens of artistic skill. This cross is rightly adorned with representations of the crucifixion, and the figures of the Apostles and Virgin Mary; as also of several Irish saints and most celebrated ecclesiastics.

The foregoing details, although not strictly speaking, comprehended within a notice of the county Meath; yet, as the waters of the Boyne rose their sparkling currents equally between both counties, a kind of union seems apparently to exist, as they both drink of the crystal tide that pours its babbling stream along the mouldering basements of their crumbling castles and ruined monasteries. The genius of tradition, local story, and prejudice, seems to cling fondly around the ruins of the respective counties with not dissimilar features, and seems to indicate that their memories are closely interwoven, and that the separation between them exists merely in the chance arrangements of modern economy. Identified with some of the most spirit-stirring incidents in the history of Ireland, the closely connected counties of Meath and uth stand forth broadly upon the pages of the national memorials, and seem to invite the earnest investigations of the antiquarian, the annalist, and the admirer of picturesque and striking scenery.

W. H. B.

MORE ROBBERIES AT COOTEHILL.

On the night of Saturday, the 12th, or morning of the 13th, some parties robbed a poor man, named PIERSON, who lives at Drumgoon; the parties obtained an entrance by letting one of the gang down the chimney, who opened the door for the others. On the night of Tuesday, the 5th some parties broke the door of a house belonging to Mr. Samuel FISHER, of Cootehill, and robbed him of five bags of potatoes. Mr. Fisher has offered a reward of £5; and it is thought will succeed in detecting the thieves.

COW STEALING - UNFOUNDED CHARGE

John MURPHY, a rather well-looking lad, aged about 18 years, was given in charge for having, at Drumbran, on the night of the 14th March last, stolen three cows, the property of John M'CORMICK.

Andrew TRIMBLE sworn - Is a Head-Constable stationed at Ballybay; on Saturday the 15th March, the fair-day of Ballybay, took up three cows that were brought to the fair for sale, from information which he received, and on the Monday following, John M'Cormick, the prosecutor, identified them as being his property, which, he stated, had been stolen from him on the Thursday night previous; arrested the prisoner in Ballybay, he being one of the persons who brought the cows to the fair.

John M'Cormick sworn - Lost three cows; they were stolen from him at Brumbran, where he resides, on the night of Friday the 14th March last; found them again in the custody of the police in Ballybay. (The prisoner being undefended by any professional gentleman, the Barrister became his counsel, as by the constitution he is bound to do.)

To the Barrister - Has a son; he is away; does not know whether he was concerned in the cow stealing; has no doubt of his son being the person who stole the cows, and that the prisoner merely accompanied him to the fair; knows the prisoner; he lived in the same townland with him for the last two years, and he bears a good character.

William GLENNY sworn - Lives in Ballybay; the prisoner and another man brought the cows and put them into his yard on the fair morning.

Owen SHERIDAN sworn - Saw young M'Cormick in the March fair of Ballybay, and he sold him one of the cows for £4 10s.; he did not tell him a lie, he said he was from Scot's house. Here Court interposed, and directed the jury to acquit the prisoner. Mr. M'Cormick then applied for his expenses, but the Barrister said he should have none, for his persevering in prosecuting the prisoner, notwithstanding that he was aware that he was innocent, and that it was his son that was the robber.

The Limerick Chronicle says - "John C. EICK, Esq., LL.D., is about to resign the office of Ecclesiastical Commissioner for Ireland. His salary is £1,000 a year.

The Roman Journal of the 31st ult., announces that a French company has obtained a contract from the Pontifical Government for lighting Rome with gas.

THE LIGHTING OF CAVAN.

The preliminary meeting for this purpose which was held on Monday last was most satisfactory in many respects. There was every anxiety manifested even by those most desirous to promote the project, to ascertain whether it would occasion any unreasonable amount of taxation, and whether it was likely to produce sufficient advantages to remunerate its cost.

From the information which was then laid before the meeting, it appeared that the expense would fall much below that which many of our fellow-townsmen had anticipated; and many of those who were previously indifferent or indisposed toward the measure, became of an opposite opinion, from the evidence then submitted to the meeting.

Mr. M'CUDDEN from Enniskillen, who kindly attended at the meeting, and gave some valuable practical information which he had acquired by his experience in the lighting of that town, declared that no single inhabitant of it had repented of the adoption and carrying out of that measure; and that its useful results in the town were so apparent, that a second opinion was not entertained on its necessity and advantages. The information, which we believe will be laid before the meeting on Monday next from various other towns which are now lighted, will we expect contribute to the same favourable conclusion.

We hope that this matter may be properly taken up by the inhabitants of this town, and it will be a good begining (sic) to many necessary and desirable improvements which will cost little, and yet are essential to the health and respectability of a town such as Cavan. If the project is adopted, as we have no doubt it will, the shares of the gas company will be easily disposed of amongst the people of the town, and the necessary buildings, &c., forthwith set about.

This will be most desirable for the working people of the town, who will thereby get employment at the present, when the ceasing of spring labour would otherwise leave them comparatively unemployed.

EMIGRATION. - Never before in the recollection of the oldest inhabitants, have so many persons left this neighbourhood for the land of the Stars and Stripes. Travel on any road through the county, and crowds of Irelands' stalwart sons are to be met, wending their way, (accompanied by their families) to the seaports, and with few exceptions they are comfortable farmers, leaving behind them the home of their birth and the lands which they tilled, to be turned into grazing lands, thus saving the landlords pockets in the payment of poor rates- Bianconi's coach which leaves this at 6 a.m., has been taken off the road, and replaced by a long car, in consequence of the influx of Emigrant passengers. - Leitrim Journal.

PHYSICIAN TO THE ARMAGH DISTRICT ASYLUM. - The vacancy in this institution, caused by the death of Dr. KIDD, has been filled by the appointment of Dr. CUMING, one of the first medical practitioners in the kingdom. - Armagh Guardian.

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