FILE 31/6: 1838

Pastorals 1 Pastoral address of Murray to the Catholic tradesmen of Dublin. 2 February 1838. 2 Murray's Lenten pastoral. 19 February 1838.

From Dr Murray 3 A copy of a letter from Murray to the Earl of Shrewsbury. In reply to a query by the latter asking if the Holy See disapproved of the oath to be taken by Catholics as per the Emancipation Bill of 1829: Murray said there was no communication between the Holy See and the bishops re this, but he had heard recently that the matter had been brought to the notice of the Holy See by the bishop of Malta. The Irish bishops considered themselves competent to decide — as a point of morality — on the lawfulness or unlawfulness of the oath without referring the matter further. Murray personally thought it insulting, unnecessary and inclined to excite scruples in timid persons. Concerning the charges brought against the Irish clergy recently in regard to oaths, in a publication by the bishop of Exeter, Murray protests strongly and says that Lord Fingall can attest that this was an unjust libel. 4 April 1838. (cf. 91 below). 4 A draft of a letter from Murray to Dr Browne, bishop of Gal way (from Rahan Lodge, Tullamore). A long reply to Browne, who has changed his opinion on the system of National Education. Murray is surprised at this and asks Browne not to publish any document on the matter, in which he differs from the unanimous opinion of the Irish prelates. He takes points Browne made in a letter and deals with them systematically. The other Connaught prelates consider the National Education system would be of benefit to their people. If Browne rushes into print re the matter Murray will feel justified in publishing the correspondence between himself and Browne. 6 August 1838.

Irish Bishops (The following 34 letters are replies to a query by Murray asking their opinion on the system of National Education). 5 Dr Ryan, bishop of Limerick, to Murray. He favours the system as the best that can be expected in the present condition of the country. 7 March 1838. 6 Dr Slattery, Thurles, to Murray. Several schools in his diocese follow the system and so far he has no reason to object to it; he thinks the system will be satisfactory as long as Murray remains a member of the Education Board. 7 March 1838. 7 Dr Egan, Kerry, to Murray. He had to leave Dublin before the prelates discussed the matter but he regrets that Dr McHale thought fit to 'rush into print' with his condemnation of the system, 'giving our enemies an opportunity to denounce the Commissioners of Education'. He would prefer a better system but he and his priests are glad to be freed from the annoyance of the Kildare St Society. He gives other reasons for accepting the system and asks Murray to append his name to any document Murray may draw up approving of the system. 8 March 1838. 8 Dr Crolly, archbishop of Armagh, to Murray. He sees no reason for not supporting the present system of National Education, an opinion very few Irish bishops oppose. 9 March 1838. 9 Dr Cantwell, bishop of Meath, to Murray. If parliament would pay for a separate system of education for Catholics, he would prefer it, but as such cannot be hoped for, he would not reject the present system; he lists points in the present system which, he thinks, call for a remedy; he also is apprehensive of the removal of the present commissioners if a Tory government came to power, and of pressures put on poor parents by Tory employers. He writes at considerable length. He is happy as long as Murray remains a member of the Board of Commissioners for National Education. 9 March 1838. 10 Dr Kinsella, bishop of Ossory, to Murray. He approves of the National Education system and of the manner in which it is being administered- at least in his diocese. He holds that the commissioners have done the best possible in the circumstances and are acting fairly. Murray may publish Kinsella's opinion on this if he wishes. 9 March 1838. 11 Dr Coen, , to Murray. He regards the new system as a great boon, especially in his diocese which was overrun with proselytizers and suffered from the interference of the Kildare Place Society 'and male and female new lights'. He would naturally prefer the education of the children in his diocese to be under the care of their pastors but is aware that that is not government thinking. He knows that if anything dangerous to faith is introduced Murray will intervene. 9 March 1838. 12 Dr Kernan, bishop of Clogher, to Murray. He thinks the commissioners have acted liberally and kindly; in his diocese three or four hundred poor children are being educated and he does not fear any interference with their religion; his priests are very vigilant. 9 March 1838. 13 Dr Higgins, bishop of Ardagh, to Murray. He looks on the present system as wrong in principle and in many instances capricious and unjust in its operation. If Murray thought of resigning as commissioner,

90 MURRAY PAPERS

13 List of numbers of deaths from starvation and famine compiled by Thomas Synnott deputed by Murray to look after famine relief funds. Deaths from starvation up to 25 September 1847, 22,241; from diseases consequent on starvation, 51,884. He gives statistics for 19 counties. 21 Oct. 1 847. 14 Dr Slattery, Thurles to Murray, acknowledging receipt of a letter of credit for £500. Discusses the work of Proslytisers in Kerry. He read of the death of Gayer of Dingle but someone else will start up in his place. The people are in a worse state than they were last year. He comments on the inadequacies of outdoor relief. In the meantime Extermination goes on under the protection of Law. "Oh that 1 for once could fly from this wretched country into some solitude where I might at all events die in peace". 5 Feb. 1848. 15 Same to same acknowledging receipt of a bank order for £350. The Catholic Pastor of Rheindorf in the Rhenish Provinces wrote to him last week offering the loan of money for famine relief. 12 Apr. 1848. 16 Dr Feeney, Bishop of , to Murray (from Ballina) thanking him for £230 for famine relief in his diocese. 13 Apr. 1848. 17 Fr Michael Enright, Castletownbere, to Murray; thanking him for £15 for the poor of his parish; protesting against proselytising going on and enclosing a letter from Mr Reddington, with his protest. He asks Murray to read and forward same. A "bevy of Parsons are going hourly from house to house distributing tracts and calumniating our religion". 14June 1848. 18 Fr Fitzmaurice Clifden, to Synnott, thanking Murray for £25 for famine relief of two united and one adjoining parishes; for a year they got no aid from the Commission set up; he asks Murray to plead their case. Proselytism is rampant; 13 bible readers under command of a bankrupt landlord are doing great mischief and getting all the funds of the British Association and changing bad Catholics into good hypocrites. 19 Fr Keogh (Mayo) and Fr Keane (Galway), to Fr Synnott. Keogh has had to fly from his parish, but it is from the frying pan into the fire for they in Galway are equally destitute. 3 July 1848.

59 re religious instruction which has some features he considers dangerous. 11 March 1838. 20 Dr Denvir, bishop of Down and Conor, to Murray. He approves of the system as it operates in his diocese and did not agree with opinions expressed by some prelates against it at the bishops' meeting in Dublin; his only complaint is that the monies allotted are not half that which are needed to build and maintain the number of schools requested; but he implores Murray not to resign from the board of commissioners. 11 March 1838. 21 Dr Higgins, bishop of Ardagh, to Murray, (cf. 13 above). He thinks it wrong that non-Catholics have the right of selecting school texts. In the course of a long letter he states that though he does not approve of everything, in principle or practice, of the system, he avoids saying so publicly, unless he sees the faith or morals of his flock being in evident danger — in such a case he will speak out. 11 March 1838. 22 Dr Browne, bishop of Galway, to Murray (cf. 4 above). As long as Murray is on the board of commissioners, Browne does not fear any danger to the faith, though he would prefer separate arrangements for Catholic children. It is reported that an imprudent lecture was given by one of the masters to the trainee teachers in the model schools; he heard that the board intervened and checked the evil. In the course of a long letter he cites a few other objections, but is happy with the scheme on the whole, as long as Murray is on the board. 11 March 1838. 23 Dr Slattery, Thurles, to Murray. He thinks Lord Ebrington's action in publishing the Bishop's Memorial to the Lord Lieutenant unwarrantable and unprincipled; Ebrington acted in self-defence against Dr McHale's attack upon him in Tuam Lenten Pastoral; Slattery had misgivings that something like this would happen and he told the primate that he feared an attempt would be made to misrepresent things and place the bishops in a wrong position before the public. However, Murray's letter has put things in the proper perspective, but may bring forth 'another manifesto' from Tuam. He sends subscriptions from two bishops for the expenses of the deputies; other bishops of his province sent theirs direct to Murray. Dr Crotty, as usual, was slow in sending his and is also slow in sending his report on National Education system; he keeps asking what concessions, if any, were made to the Presbyterians. 13 March 1838. 24 Dr Blake, , to Murray (cf. 15 above). He is thankful for Murray's letter which clarified the query re religious instruction, but he is uneasy because there is such great delay in producing the monies promised to get the system started. The people will begin to think it was all only promises and get disillusioned. 13 March 1838. 92 25 Dr Keating, bishop of Ferns, to Murray. He cannot report fully on the National System of Education's working, for the simple reason that few schools in Ferns avail of it. In Enniscorthy town, though the people are very poor, they themselves maintain their schools, providing all facilities. He himself barely tolerates the system wherever it operates and states his reasons for adopting that attitude; these include the right the board claims to choose the text-books; to appoint and/or dismiss teachers; to include scriptural extracts not chosen by the bishops in school readers. Changes in government and in the board could mean that the church's influence would be nil. He thinks a joint effort by Catholics and liberal Protestants would obtain a separate system for Roman Catholics. 13 March 1838. 26 Dr McLaughlin, bishop of Deny, to Murray (dictated to his secretary by McLaughlin). McLaughlin highly approves of the system of National Education and thinks if it continues as at present no Catholic bishop could withhold approval. He sees it as productive of great good for the poor and regrets that the bishops are divided on this issue. 14 March 1838. 27 Dr Ffrench, bishop of Kilmacduagh and Kilfenora, to Murray. The National Education system works well in his diocese where all the children and the teachers are Catholic but he has heard that the same does not obtain in neighbouring dioceses. As long as the faith of the children is protected he thinks it a great boon for the poor. 14 March 1838. 28 Dr Kennedy, bishop of Killaloe, to Murray. He has not discovered any dangerous tendency in the system of National Education and thinks Catholic bishops should accept it. A rather startling allegation was made at the prelates' meeting re the conduct of one of the masters in the training school, but the board was not implicated and the meeting prudently did nothing more than draw Murray's attention to the matter; afterwards, talking to other bishops, he heard that the person who made this charge was unable to substantiate it. One prelate at meeting spoke against surrendering the bishops' rights (to give instruction) to a government board; but as long as Murray is on the board, Kennedy does not fear that. 14 March 1838. Dr Keating, bishop of Ferns, to Murray (cf. 25 above). Murray's letter only confirms him in his objections to the system of National Education. He repeats these and shows how Murray's arguments have not convinced him. He never had and has not now any hope that the government would pass measures good for Catholics; after close examination he thinks the National Education system 'to be a twin brother of the Kildare Place Society'. Murray is arguing from the working of the system; Keating argues against the principles. Further on the same lines. 16 March 1838.

93 30 Dr Burke, , to Murray. He explains delay in replying to Murray's; he is an advocate of separate education for Catholic children as he feels their faith could be endangered by the National System of Education. He thinks that the legislature, which shows itself so anxious to conciliate Protestant opinion, should make more concessions to Catholics; also, he would prefer greater Roman Catholic representation on the board. 20 March 1838. 31 Dr MacNicholas, , to Murray. As Murray is one of the board, MacNicholas does not fear any danger to the faith of Catholic children through the National System of Education. He raises a point re the scriptural extracts in school readers where the authorised and Douay versions differ; also, his clergy complain that for the past two years it is impossible to obtain the grants to pay the teachers; he gives examples of this. 27 March 1838. (Murray makes two notes on this letter, one to MacNicholas, the other re a mis-representation by Dr MacHale). 32 Dr James Browne, bishop of Kilmore, to Murray. He approves of the principles underlying the National System of Education which he enumerates and he thinks that educating children of different denominations together would produce good effects if not prevented and counteracted by violent domestic prejudices: he does not agreethat the Gospel of St Luke should be introduced; different teachers could give different interpretations of the extracts. But he does not by any means imply that Murray should resign from the board as he can prevent the efforts of those who would interfere with religion in the schools from being effected. 30 March 1838. 33 Same to same. He received Murray's letter stating that there was a paper in the office signed by Browne approving of the very extracts he had disapproved of in his last letter (32 above). He has no recollection of doing so but recalls that on one occasion he signed a letter in a hurry that he left to be filled in by someone; he asks Murray for a copy of this, as he is anxious to know how he came to be mis represented. 1 April 1838. 34 Same to same. Further re the foregoing. The regulations he was supposed to have approved of and which were sent to the Protestant archbishop of Dublin were signed 2 June 1838 when, as Murray knows, he was not in the British Dominions. They were signed by Rev. A. Douglas with whom Browne had no communication during his absence. He again asks Murray to let him see the documents mentioned. 15 April 1838. 35 Dr Crolly to Murray (partly torn). A note thanking Murray for sending a gift of 26 copies of the teaching book (? illegible) for the Armagh priests. As they cost a guinea each and Murray already had to supply Dublin diocese, Crolly thinks his action most kind and generous. 3 May 1838. 94 36 Dr Crotty, bishop of Cloyne and Ross, to Murray. A Dr O'Connor of his diocese, who taught for ten years in the Irish College, Rome, intends offering himself as a candidate for the expected Maynooth vacancy (Divinity and perhaps Logic). Crotty asks Murray and Crolly to consent (as their consent as Visitors is required by the statutes to be obtained before a candidate may apply). 23 May 1838. 37 Dr Kinsella, bishop of Ossory, to Murray. On the whole he is glad that Dr McHale has appealed to the Holy See. (1) Because Kinsella sees no other way of putting a stop to MacHale's 'mischievous agitation' in opposing his brother bishops, (2) It will give prelates like Kinsella who have accepted the National Education system an opportunity of defending their conduct. Kinsella did not wish to enter into a newspaper controversy with MacHale; this would give satisfaction to the enemies of religion; but he would be glad to state his reasons for acceptance of the system to the Holy See. He intends to write to Rome unless Murray thinks he should not. 3 June 1838. 38 Dr Slattery, Thurles, to Murray. He forwards a copy of Mr Dillon Browne's letter to him which he thought Murray and all the bishops would have received. He also sends a document which he thinks was written by Dr MacHale and which would be useful to Murray in preparing his statement for Rome. MacHale is evidently advising Dillon Browne. 7 June 1838. 39 Dr J. Browne, bishop of Galway, to Murray. He has completely changed his opinions on the subject of the National System of Education. He made a retreat and prayed about this. He gives some reasons. (1) It would be impossible for Murray to supervise all the texts; (2) Protestant and Presbyterian inspectors are being appoin ted in his diocese, (cf. 2 above and 4 above; the latter is Murray's reply to the present letter). 1 August 1838. 40 Dr O'Finan, bishop of Killala (in Rome) to Murray (cf. file 31/5, nos. i4, 112 and 114). He recommends a Fr Downes of Killala diocese, now a professor in Rome, for a Maynooth vacancy. He is disgusted with Dr MacHale's recent 'bilious effusions' against Murray, re the National System of Education. He also deprecates MacHale's conduct towards himself and accuses Propaganda of being biased towards him, but he hopes to clarify matters. 19 September 1838. 41 Dr MacHale, , to Murray. He is glad to learn, from Murray's letter, that the Killala scandals are about to be ended. Murray may rely on MacHale's cordial co-operation to effect this end. He invites Murray to visit Killala and meet the clergy; if he will come via Tuam MacHale can promise him a well-aired bed; the sooner a change is made in the administration of Killala diocese the better. He himself does not wish to have any part in recommending

95 anyone for the vacancy, but thinks Murray should consult the bishops of the province, the primate and Dr Denvir. 8 December 1838. 42 Same to same. He has asked the Connaught bishops to a meeting to have their views on a possible bishop for Killala. He can give information on the financial state of Killala diocese, which he does. 9 or 18 December 1838. 43 Three letters, attached to one another, from Fr Lyons, P.P., Belmullet (Killala diocese) to Murray. (a) A defence of Dr O'Finan who, he alleges, was harshly treated from his first coming to Killala. The decision just reached is one in favour of all the dissidents; the only redeeming feature is that Murray has been appointed administrator of the diocese. He gives his version of the dissension in the diocese and encloses an account of the episcopal revenues. 13 December 1838. (b) The V.G. of Killala, Fr Gildea, refused to allow two parish priests to audit his accounts; the writer gives this as another example of how O'Finan has been treated. He deplores how O'Finan is being treated in Rome. 19 December 1838. (c) He objects to appointment of Fr Feeny as Murray's deputy as Feeny is a partisan of Dr MacHale's; he blames MacHale for all the misfortunes of Killala and O'Finan; he narrates MacHale's efforts to unite Killala to Tuam and alleges that none of the Connaught prelates dare censure a priest in their dioceses for, with Killala as example, MacHale may step in and reverse the suspension or censure. A long account of various priests' disputes with O'Finan. 31 December 1838. Attached to (b) is a copy of a letter from O'Finan in Rome to Murray. He asks to have accounts of Killala audited and says that reports he has received of Murray's government of Killala diocese have saddened him; he did not expect such treatment from Murray. 27 December 1838. 44 Fr Gildea (Killala diocese) to Murray. Writing from Ballina he states that he received Murray's instructions on the subject of administration of the diocese and will carry them out promptly. 17 December 1838. 45 Dr MacHale to Murray. The Connaught prelates, despite the hard weather, attended the meeting, except the bishop of Elphin, who was ill, but who gave his concurrence to any decisions reached re Killala. A copy of the resolution taken, i.e. to recommend P. Feeny, P.P., Kiltulla, be appointed (to Killala?) is appended. 18 December 1838. 46 Same to same. A long letter. Fr Feeny accepts the delegated administration of Killala diocese. MacHale writes at length re

96 parish as there is controversy as to whether it is included in Killala diocese or not. 22 December 1838. 47 Fr Feeny (writing from Tuam) to Murray. MacHale gave him (Feeny) Murray's letter appointing him provisionally as administrator of Killala diocese. He will go to Ballina on 27 or 28 December and will expect a letter from Murray re faculties etc. He will try to discharge the office, to which the western bishops have appointed him, impartially and faithfully. 22 December 1838. 48 Fr Gildea (Ballina) to Murray (cf. 45 above). He has gone into the diocesan finances. The revenues in Dr Waldron's time were about £400 p.a. They went up since, but have now decreased again. The most the diocese could afford Dr O'Finan would be £100 a year. 24 December 1838. 49 Dr MacHale to Murray. The Connaught bishops, after due consideration of the finances of Killala, consider that £150 p.a. would be a fair pension for Dr O'Finan. Some time ago, the Holy See decreed in the case of a parish priest that one-third of the parochial revenues would be a just sum for a pension; the Holy See may make a similar arrangement for bishops. He expects that Fr Feeny will have trouble as Killala finances are in disorder owing to the V.G. refusing to account to his bishop for the receipts. It is to be hoped that O'Finan will remain in Rome; his presence in Killala will not promote peace and his pension would go further in Rome. 25 December 1838. 50 Fr Gildea (Ballina) to Murray. He did not refuse to show accounts to Dr O'Finan, but kept them for the inspection of the longed-for administrator. O'Finan wrote to Mr Kelly, attorney, enclosing an unsealed letter for Gildea. This was hawked about Ballina, to Gildea's prejudice, 'especially on Christmas Day'. He quotes from O'Finan's letter and gives his reasons for not disclosing the accounts to persons named in the letter and reasons why he will not pay Kelly, as directed by O'Finan. 27 December 1838. 51 Fr Feeny, Ballina, to Murray. He arrived in Ballina yesterday and received a warm welcome from the clergy and people, especially Fr Gildea. As far as he knows only two or, at most, three of the clergy are reported hostile, but so far have not manifested this. He hopes that peace will soon be restored to the diocese. 30 December 1838.

Non-Irish Bishops 52 Dr Griffith (recently appointed to Cape of Good Hope Province) to Murray. Writing from London. He is glad to learn, from Murray's letter, that Dr Carew, Maynooth, has been appointed coadjutor to Dr O'Connor, Madras. He will remit the money as Murray instructed for Carew's passage to Madras. He gives information re ships sailing to India. In letters received by him from O'Connor, no mention was

97 made of the paralysis; perhaps it was only a slight stroke. He refers to a letter that appeared in the Freeman's Journal criticising Murray's pastoral and doubts that the letter originated from Dr Wiseman. 13 March 1838.

On Education 53 A letter from James Carlile (enclosing a letter he wrote to the Duke of Leinster resigning his post as commissioner of board of National Education: letter not here (cf. 90 below) to Murray. He is resigning not by any change in his views, nor by any fault in the commissioners with whom he has been so long and amicably associated, but circumstances outside his control have rendered his resignation inevitable. Attached is a printed list, a copy of minutes of meeting of board, 17 February 1838, with a resolution appointing a district superintendent of national schools; a committee of twelve Protestants and twelve Roman Catholics being set up to make appointment. 11 December 1838.

Ordinary 54 (Printed). An appeal, sanctioned by Dr Baines, V.A., West District (at Prior Park). Appeal for Fr Collins, whose mission is at Wrexham and whose district is very large, to repair Wrexham church, in a dangerous state, and to build a school. Collins has only £40 a year; cannot afford a horse and has to attend to his widely separated flock on foot. He begs help to rebuild church and to erect a school. January 1838. 55 Bernard Mahon, Liverpool, to Murray. He was born in Dublin; through his exertions he has made money but, having no wife or family, he wishes to leave money for the relief of the Dublin poor. As the Vicars Apostolic in England have suffered through charitable bequests being wrongly worded he asks Murray, to whom he will leave the money, to tell him how this is to be done legally. 5 January 1838. 56 Same to same. In a letter 3 April and attached to the preceding, he tells about his will made 24 January: but he has been informed that, under a certain statute, it will be rendered void. He asks, after a long statement of case, for further advice. 2 April 1838. 57 C. FitzSimons, Merrion Square, to Murray, enclosing a £5 subscription for the cause mentioned by Murray in yesterday's appeal. 15 January 1838. 58 From Fr Collins, Wrexham (cf. 55 above). He is the only priest in all Denbighshire and also ministers to areas in parts of Shropshire and Flintshire; he had five Catholics when he came, has had 36 adult converts since and some poor Irishmen employed in menial work; his 98 salary is £40 per annum. He would be grateful for vestments, worn, not considered good enough for use in the Pro-Cathedral ceremonies, as he cannot afford to buy any and his flock are poor and scattered. 18 January 1838. 59 Major Palmer, Inspector General of Prisons, Prisons' Office, Dublin Castle, to Murray; he encloses a prospectus for a refuge for destitute female persons and requests Murray to become a patron; the lord lieutenant and his lady have consented to be patrons. Murray is also asked to appoint a Catholic chaplain for the institution. 5 March 1838. 60 C. Fitzsimons (evidently an attorney) to Murray. Brother Macarius of Glancullen, now in England, will make a legal assignment of the Glancullen property to Murray when he returns; he (Brother Macarius) asks to have a certain number of masses said yearly for his intentions and for those from whom he collected the money to build the house and premises. Fitzsimons suggests that a priest live there and points out the needs of the people in that district, which is poor but populous; the people are uninstructed; this is not the fault of the parish priest, who lives in Sandyford, but dates from years back. 8 March 1838. 61 A letter to Dr Meyler, Westland Row, from John Stokes, Receiver, Morgan & Flanagan, Equity Exchequer. Concerning the debt owed Denis Lenihan's heirs for monies spent on building Townsend St chapel (a project later abandoned): he encloses an abstract from the report lodged in the Remembrancer's office and sanctioned by him; the interested parties are unwilling to take hostile proceedings, but request some proposal for settlement of this debt. The payment of £50 per annum mentioned by Meyler in his letter would not amount to the yearly interest on the debt. 3 April 1838. 62 Fr James Corr, Bridge St, to Murray. He again appeals to Murray re the stipend which Fr Murphy refuses to pay him, his portion for acting as chaplain to the Mendicity institute. 27 April 1838. 63 A letter to Fr Hamilton, Pro-Cathedral, from H.M. O'Conor (Belanagare?). Asking to have mass offered for nine successive days for his brother's soul. 4 April 1838. 64 A letter from Fr Murphy, Bridge Street, to Fr Hamilton, Pro-Cathedral, refuting Fr Corr's claim to portion of stipend from Mendicity institute (cf. 61 above) and with further comments on the chaplains to that institute and the payments. 30 April 1838. 65 A letter signed by a great number of Dublin bankers and traders recommending Mr Robert Orr, Merchant's Quay, to a situation (civic) for which his qualifications render him suitable. The letter is addressed to Viscount Morpeth, chief secretary, and he is asked to present it to the lord lieutenant. The address is authenticated by Alex Boyle. 30 April 1838. 99 66 Wm Morgan, seminary of Cincinnati, U.S.A., to Murray, asking for an exeat to enable him to be ordained. 1 May 1838. 67 Francis Wm Smith, Baggot Street, to Murray. The family of Fr John Hamilton, Pro-Cathedral, live in a house owned by Mr Smith. Ten years ago Hamilton agreed to pay a yearly rent of £10 per annum; but he has never since paid it. Mr Smith enquired and was told that Hamilton can afford to pay; he does not wish to bring a priest to court, so he lays the case before Murray. (N.B. The case of Mrs Hamilton's house, Hamilton's mother, is mentioned more than once in the Hamilton papers of these years). 9 May 1838. 68 A private letter from W.J. O'Neill Daunt, M.P., to Murray. Writing from London he draws Murray's attention to an article in the Dublin Review which is considered 'by the opposite Party as the authorized Journal of the Roman Catholics.' He thinks that certain comments in the article on the Catholic oath are open to misrepresentation and refers same to Murray. He adds a query re some prayer-books. 10 May 1838. 69 (Printed). A certificate authenticating relics of St Andrew and St James the Greater, Apostles; signed by Cardinal Cadolini. 25 May1838. 70 P. McNally (?) Newtown/Milltown to Rev. J. Smyth, Inchicore. He collected in Smyth's parish on the advice and orders of Rev. Mr Hannon and the sums collected which he lists, were handed to Fr Matthews/Mathers. 10 June 1838. 71 (Printed). A notice of a meeting of the British Association for the Advancement of Science, with a list of volumes produced by the association. 18 June 1838. 72 Fr G. Canavan, P.P., Naul and Hollywood, to Murray. He regrets to admit that a spirit of . . . (illegible) is gaining ground. Gambling, drunkenness and dance halls are also there, but he has found no instance of violation of the Sabbath. 18 June 1838. 73 Rd., Dublin (Dr Whately, Protestant archbishop of Dublin) to Murray, enclosing a letter from Hempenstal of Deralossery, hoping that Murray may be able to procure and promote peace. He has always tried to do this himself and has found Murray to be of a similar disposition. 19 June 1838. (N.B. No enclosure). 74 A letter in Latin from Fr James Donohoe, P.P., Longford, stating that Patrick Magarer (?) is free to contract matrimony with someone likewise free. 12 July 1838. 75 Miss F. Daly, c/o A. Lynch, M.P., Southampton Buildings, London, to Murray. Sympathizes with Murray on his illness. Sends half-notes for £1600 and will send remaining £400 within five days. (Letters of this lady and her brothers in Paris are in earlier Murray files). She asks Murray to let her know if he is recovering. 13 July 1838. (cf. 95, 96, 97, also 99 below). 13 July 1838. 100 76 Same to same (attached to preceding letter). She is glad to hear that he is better; further about the money she is sending. 17 July 1838. 77 Fr James Hamilton, Dundrum, to Murray. A long letter on his disappointment at seeing a younger curate preferred for a position he had hoped for and to which he considers he has a claim. 5 August 1838. 78 Same to Fr Hamilton, Pro-Cathedral (attached to preceding letter). As he hears that the archbishop will be absent from the council meeting today he encloses 81 above and asks Hamilton to read it to the meeting. 6 August 1838. 79 Fr William Young, P.P., Baldoyle, to Murray. Concerning a couple who wish to marry, but there are impediments; Young gives details of these and leaves the matter to Murray for decision. 19 September 1838. 80, (Printed). Notice of two sermons to be preached in Merchants Quay church in aid of Blanchardstown Convent; at present the nuns are in great need. 23 September 1838. 81 George Spencer, London, to Murray. He was in France for the benefit of his health. Lord Clifford introduced him to the archbishop of Paris to whom he mentioned his wish for a crusade of prayer for the conversion of England. The archbishop took him to a meeting of 70 priests at St Sulpice; there he told them that he him self offered mass every Thursday for this intention; the Paris clergy received his proposal so well that he obtained a circular letter from the archbishop and visited convents and religious houses in the city; all agreed to join and get their convents throughout France to unite. The Lazarist General and the Jesuit Provincial promised to circularise their houses in the same cause; the French bishops also supported his request. He hopes Murray may recommend the idea to the bishops and priests of Ireland. 3 November 1838. 82 Lord Marlborough's agent, Mr Mailey (?), Mountmellick, to Murray. A sum of money £22 odd, is owing to Marlborough on the Ballydowd (?)/Hollywood (?) holding of which Murray is the lessee. The writer had hoped that Fr Canavan would pay this, as he has not paid Mailey applies to Murray. 16 November 1838. 83 A letter to Fr Hamilton, Pro-Cathedral, from Angelo Bacchine, writing from Belfast. He could not wait longer in Dublin and failed to see Hamilton when he called;he asks him to send him something. 20 November 1838. 84 James MacHale, address illegible, to Murray. He explains his interview with the commissioners who have mistakenly published a statement that HoUymount school is in part of his residence; the school is in the town of Hollymount in a house with which he has no connection. Part of the letter was effaced by James Down, engineer,

and there is a note from Murray at the end verifying this. 4 December 1838. 85 Fr William Young, P.P., Baldoyle, to Fr Hamilton, resigning his parish. (He entered Mount Melleray, but after a short time left and took up missionary work in Cornwall). 4 December 1838. 86 A copy of a letter from James Carlile to the Duke of Leinster. The altered constitution of the board of commissioners of National Education and his altered position has made him think of resigning as professor; he put his case to the elders of his congregation who unanimously advised him to resign. So as not to inconvenience the board he will remain until end of term to allow them appoint a successor. 10 December 1838. 87 Lord Shrewsbury to Murray (cf. 3 above). A long letter on the oath and the anticipated attack by Mr Philpotts on same in the house. Shrewsbury leaves it to Murray to decide whether to contradict or ignore Philpott's accusations against Murray. He also refers to the Malta correspondence in connection with the oath. 1838 (April?). 88 Extract from the Remembrancer's report re a debt owing for build ing of old Roman Catholic chapel in Townsend Street. Sent by Morgan and Flanagan Ltd (cf. 62 above). 1838. 89 Four parish returns for 1838 (Murray was ill for several months of the year): Swords, Naul, Garristown and Ashbourne and Finglas.1838.

France 90 Mrs Callaghan, widow of Luke Callaghan, to Mlle Catherine MacNulty, Bordeaux, informing her that she has appointed her son Luke as partner in the business under title of 'Widow of Luke Callaghan and Son'. 1 January 1838. 91 A long letter from S. Stock, Place Vendome, Paris to an unnamed lady; mostly concerned with business matters and investments following the death of Mr Daly in August 1837. The latter portion of letter indicates that the lady written to is a sister of Mr Daly and requests her to press a Mr Cassidy to repay a £500 debt her brother owed to the house of Stock. 19 March 1838. 92 Same to same. (Miss Frances Daly, London, sister of the late Mr Daly). He thanks her for letters forwarded. Further re the will of her brother. 6 April 1838. 93 Same to same. Further on same and other business. 28 May 1838. 94 Thomas Merritt, now living in Paris, to Murray, asking for a certific ate of good character etc., so that he may place his younger children well. He was formerly a silk merchant in Capel Street; his family had a business there for two hundred years; since that trade has been ruined he has come to France. His older children are in 102 England; the others with their grandmother, Baroness de Mureste in Paris. Murray will recall that Merritt's brother was a professor of theology in Ypres, later in St Paul's, Arran Quay, and that his wife was prominent in social and charitable activities in the city. 15 (?) July 1838. 95 Malachy Daly, Paris, to Murray (cf. 75, 80. 95, 96, 97 above). Solicitude for his sisters' welfare prompts him to write Murray. He understands that his cousin, Miss Frances Daly, will soon go to reside in Dublin; she seems to think it her duty to leave the greater part of her deceased brother's property to charities. He also understands that she will consult Murray re this. The writer wishes to let Murray know that one of his sisters, Mrs Ryan, has a large family and little means; two others live with his parents and have never received even the interest on monies due to them from a deeply encumbranced property. Though he knows Miss F. Daly may leave them something, he feels it will be small compared with what she may leave to charities and he pleads their case with Murray who will, he hopes, influence Miss Daly in the matter. 13 July 1838. 96 Fr Gibrat, Picpus College, Paris, to Murray. In previous years some Irish students studied theology and philosophy in the Picpus College; they were unable to pay but promised to do so at a later date. By now 30,000 francs are owing to the college. Some are certainly unable to pay; eight years ago the Irish bishops were approached regarding this matter. In the present absence of Fr Bonamie, superior-general, Picpus College, and archbishop of Chalcedon, Gibrat asks Murray to interview two past Picpus men in Dublin archdiocese, Matthew Fagan and John Tyrell about this; he states amounts they owe the college (cf. file 31/2, no. 86). 15 February 1838. (Letter in Latin). 97 (Enclosed with preceding). Fr Bonamie, archbishop of Chalcedon and superior-general, Picpus Fathers, to Murray. Concerning a Fr Cummins, a member of order until 1850. He then travelled to various places and now writes from Dublin saying that he cannot return to the congregation, in which he made perpetual vows, as he cannot afford to travel from Dublin to Paris; he asks dispensations from the vows of poverty and obedience. Bonamie is not empowered to do this; only the Pope can grant such dispensations. Before replying to Cummins, Bonamie asks Murray to tell him (1) if the report is true that Cummins is insane and in a mental home; (2) how did Cummins conduct himself while in Dublin diocese; (3) has Cummins still got his three sisters with him? Because of them he lived apart from Picpus for many years. 26 February 1838. (Letter in Latin).

103 77 Fr James Hamilton, Dundrum, to Murray. A long letter, complaining of unjust treatment by the other curates in Booterstown who leave all the Stillorgan -'a most wickedly neglected town full ofswaddlers buying the children for their schools' - work to him; the parish priest will give evidence on Fr Hamilton's behalf. 30 October 1837. 78 Fr Wilkinson, Colver Green, near Windsor, to Murray. A Mr McCann, Ann Street Chapel, Dublin, writes frequently to Mrs Gillespie of Clover Green parish, begging financial assistance for members of her family living in St Ann's parish. She has sent sums of £10 and £20 from time to time. Lately McCann has become very importunate and Mrs Gillespie wonders if he is genuine, especially as the signatures to the letters seem different. Murray is requested to investigate. 1 November 1837. 79 A very long and illegible letter from a Fr Donovan to Murray; since he left Ireland because of ill-health, he has travelled a lot in Italy, especially in the Pompeii and Naples area which he visited and re visited. He also worked on a translation of the Catechism of the Council of Trent, but the Holy Office has not given approval. He is now in Rome and describes how he spends his days. He writes from the convent of the SS. Apostoli, Rome. 1 November 1837. 80 A note from Sister Power, Presentation Convent, Thurles, to Murray, thanking him for a donation sent for P. Everard and which she will expend to the best advantage for same. 5-December 1837. 81 A communication from Thomas Bedford, Russell Street, to Murray stating the position re the bequest of the late Miss Moran. Enclosed a note in Murray's hand, stating how he disposed of the £112 received through the bequest, with the receipts from the persons to whom he gave the money. 12 December 1837. 82 Daniel Corcoran to Murray. His brother John who died December 1836 was owedmcney from Marlborough St church (building debt?). His attorney wishes him to go to law re this but he trusts that Murray will consider paying it less 10%. 16 December 1837. 83 Mr Yates, M.P. (in London) to Fr Taylor, Vice-President, Carlow College. Thanks him for forwarding the resolution passed at a public meeting of the College Academy which thanked him for his testi mony given in favour of the college. He wishes the college well. 18 December 1837. 84 A letter from someone in Paris (signature missing) to Miss Frances Daly, London, concerning the estate of her deceased brother, Dominick Daly; under his will she and her brother Malachy are joint and sole inheritors and the writer is the executor. The entire long letter is concerned with the terms of the will, statement of the deceased's assets, debts, etc. 19 December 1837.

83 Papal Nuncio 103 A letter from the Papal Nuncio Mgr Rafaela Fornari, in Brussels, to Murray (in Italian). Concerning a sum of money sent by Murray through Fr Gourlay, Tournay. A sergeant of the king, a notary in Tournay, wrote to the nuncio saying that Gourlay was dead, and that he (the notary) was not prepared to pay the money until the nuncio produced a valid power of attorney; this, to be legal, must be obtained from the minister of foreign affairs; this was done and application made to Tournay to have the money forwarded. Finally Gourlay's creditors (?) were ordered to pay the sum and he (the nuncio) was ordered to send a receipt. At last the money was paid and sent on by the nuncio to Dr Cullen, Irish College, Rome. But this was for 1836 and now another difficulty has arisen re 1837. Further re same. 12 June 1838.

From Propaganda 104 (Printed). A reply of the Holy Office on a question concerning usury and just interest on loans. The reply was printed in Turin and authenticated by the archbishop of Turin. 17 January 1838. 105 A letter to Murray from Cardinal Franzoni, prefect of Propaganda. He is pleased to learn from Murray's letter of 30 December that a worthy priest has been recommended by him as coadjutor for the V.Ap. of Madras. A decision will be given on this matter soon; it will be necessary to set aside money sent by the V.Ap. of Madras for the travel expenses of the coadjutor and the priest going with him. 20 January 1838. 106 (Printed). Summary of an indulgence granted by Pope Gregory XVI to the kingdom of Naples, with a list of days of stations. 8 February 1838. 107 Propaganda to Murray. They are pleased to learn from Murray of 6 February that Dr Griffith, V.Ap. of the Cape of Good Hope, with two priests and a seminarian, are travelling there; also that a priest may go to the Cape from another place. They thank Murray for all he did to obtain this result. Dr Cullen is forwarding £60 to help defray the missionaries' travelling expenses. 10 March 1838. 108 A petition to the pope from Fr Patrick Geoghegan, O.F.M. Provincial. He is going, with permission of his superiors, to Van Diemen's Land, and leaves for there soon. Because of eye trouble he asks permission to substitute for the Divine Office the office said by the Franciscan lay brothers (or tertiaries?). The reply, on the same paper, leaves the matter to the discretion of the bishop of Geoghegan's diocese (the diocese in which he now resides) but the grant of the faculties requested is to last only for the length of the journey. 11 March 1838. 105 109 Propaganda to Murray. Concerning the appointment of Dr Carew, Maynooth College, as coadjutor to the V.Ap. of Madras. In a letter of 2 March, Carew informed Propaganda that, besides the two priests going with him to Madras, four Maynooth students were also going, but there was no money to pay their travel expenses. Propaganda is unable to send financial help at this time but, since Madras has sufficient income, it should be possible for them to travel and have their expenses paid on arrival there. On the reverse is a note from Murray stating that he received the letter and bulls of appointment for Carew on 9 April. 24 March 1838. 110 A copy of a petition by Murray to the Pope for a plenary indulgence, to be obtained on the usual conditions. On the reverse of same paper there is a note stating that the petition is granted. 10 April 1838. 111 Propaganda to Murray. Thomas Meehan of Dublin diocese, a student in the Urban college, having taken advice, has decided that the ecclesiastical state is not for him. He returns to Dublin with the permission of the college authorities; Propaganda recommends him to Murray as outstanding in his studies, in piety and character and in intelligence. 28 April 1838. 112 Same to same. A recommendation of Fr Edmund O'Reilly of Limerick diocese who spent many years in the Irish College, Rome, where he had a distinguished career, gaining particular distinction in a public disputation in 1835. He is skilled as a theologian and controversialist. He is returning to Ireland and hopes to be considered for the chair of theology, vacant in Maynooth since Dr Carew's election as coadjutor to the V.Ap. of Madras. Propaganda recommends O'Reilly highly to Murray and the other archbishops for this post. 2 May 1838. 1 1 3 Same to same. His Holiness received a letter from Dr MacHale, Tuam, on the state of the public schools in Ireland. MacHale expressed his fears that the mixing of religions would prove injurious to the Catholic religion. Before deciding on answering MacHale, Propaganda wishes more information on all this question of the national schools from Murray which will be given to His Holiness who, however, reserves decisions in this matter to himself. They are writing to MacHale by same post as this requesting fuller information. 15 May 1838. 114 (Printed). A copy of a question sent to the holy office (with the answer given) on the admission to the sacraments of those who took the Masonic oath when they joined the Masonic sect. 27 June 1838. 115 Propaganda to Murray. They have heard that two other vacancies, besides that created by Dr Carew's appointment to Madras, exist in Maynooth at present. They wish to recommend Fr Michael O'Connor, diocese of Cloyne, an outstanding student of Propaganda

106 College; he was ordained and got his doctorate in 1833. In an earlier letter (117 above) they recommended Fr O'Reilly for one of the Maynooth vacancies. 26 May 1838. 116 Same to same. Dr Carew, in a letter to Dr Cullen, Irish College, dated 30 April, stated that he has not the money to bring more than two priests to Madras; but more priests are absolutely essential in that mission; Carew knows of others who would go but if he sets out alone he is doubtful that they will follow him. Propaganda asks Murray to give £100 sterling to them on behalf of Propaganda, who will reimburse Murray later; i.e. presuming that Carew, in addition to the two priests he is bringing with him, will bring two others. 2 June 1838. 117 Same to same. Bishop John Thomas Hynes, O.F.M. Cap.?, in the Ionian Islands is going to London to treat with the king's ministers on behalf of the Catholics in the islands, especially those in his own diocese. Anything Murray can do to forward Hynes' mission will be appreciated. 13 August 1838. 118 Same to same. Dr Fleming, V.Ap. of Newfoundland wrote to say that the deceased priest Fr Yore (Ewer?) bequested £500 sterling to Fleming but not for the purpose of maintaining a student for that diocese in the Irish College, Rome. Propaganda told Fleming to consult Murray re this, but they learn that their letter to him went astray. Murray is asked to advise Propaganda as to legality of the will; could Yore's brother give that money to Murray to pass on to the Irish College, Rome? 25 August 1838. 119 (Printed). A copy of a decree in the form of a circular letter from Propaganda, recalling decrees of 1747 and 1759 which required those under Propaganda to give an annual account of the state of their missions; these decrees are still in force. 31 October 1837. 120 Two copies of a long letter from Propaganda to Murray. The entire affair concerning Dr O'Finan of Killala was decided in a general meeting of Propaganda on 29 November 1838. He is to remain in his diocese, but suspended of his episcopal functions. An Administrator Apostolic is to be appointed; meanwhile Murray is immediately to assume the administration of Killala which he can exercise through a suitable deputy — he can recommend to Propaganda someone suitable either from his own or another diocese; this appointee may be made a bishop in partibus and appointed Administrator Apostolic of Killala. Since it is necessary that O'Finan be provided with a pension fitting to his rank, Murray is asked to furnish Propaganda with an account of the income of Killala diocese and state his (Murray's) opinion as to whether that diocese can provide a pension 20 November 1838.

107 121 Same to same. An addendum to preceding. Re Propaganda's decision on the controverted see of Killala, Murray is to inform those concerned: (a) Monies received for dispensations is to be divided between the bishop and parish priests as is done in the rest of Tuam Province. (b) Parish priests appointed by Dr MacHale when he was bishop of Killala (before his transference to Tuam) are to remain in office. 22 November 1838. 122 Same to same. A renewal of sexennial faculties to Murray. A note on margin states that these were renewed on 17 February 1842; 6 July 1845; 6 February 1848 and 20 July 1851. 23 December 1838. 123 Same to same. All faculties already conceded to Dr O'Finan, Killala, are now granted to Murray as interim Administrator Apostolic of Killala diocese. 23 December 1838. 124 Same to same. A covering letter containing the preceding two letters. 25 December 1838.

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