SIR,--I am writing in the name of all the righteously indignant sons of
Erin, to protest against the base shameless and infamous treatment
accorded to that glorious champion and apostle of National freedom, the
hero, WILLIAM O'BRIEN, by the despicable set of traitors, who, under
cover of the title of "Her Majesty's Government," are trampling, at
Westminster, the liberties of my beloved country in the mud and
preparing to fling her sons by thousands into the depths of the foul and
filthy dungeons already marked out for their reception. It is reported
that this, the first victim of their malignant spleen and hatred, is to
be subjected to the gross indignity of receiving the ordinary treatment
of a common criminal, and be subjected to the usual regulations of gaol
discipline. Now, Sir, in the name of all that is enlightened and
progressive, I ask, if, at the close of the nineteenth century, such
outrage is to be committed? Surely in answer to my appeal the generous
people of England will rise in their might and with one voice compel the
myrmidons appointed to carry out the malignant and iniquitous behests of
the Castle to provide the noble spirit that they had intended to torture
with chains and darkness with a comfortable and roomy four-post
bedstead, cheerful apartments, a champagne dinner with not less than
seven courses, daily carriage exercise, the use of a piano and
billiard-table if required, and an introduction to the best society of
the neighbourhood, including the Bishop, the Mayor and other notables.
Thus, and thus only, should Irish martyrs be allowed to suffer for
Ireland's wrongs, and in this way alone will the Irish people in their
thousands consent even to the momentary incarceration of the heralds of
that mighty struggle with a tyrannic despotism that they are heroically
maintaining, backed by the hearty and enthusiastic support of an
onlooking and applauding Universe, against the blind and blustering
bullying of a blood-thirsty Government. If I write with moderation and
temperately it is because I feel confidently that the trivial
relaxations I propose must, if not at once conceded by, be forthwith
instantly wrung from the thieves and scoundrels who at the present
moment are responsible for the Executive of my patient and law-abiding
country. Relying on the generous impulse of all those who would not wish
to see the patriot deprived of his home comforts, I beg, Sir, with much
self-restraint, to subscribe myself,
Your calm and dispassionate Correspondent,