[347]
the false and foul slanders of his Tory enemies, in reference to what is called ‘the O'Connell rent,’ a sum placed annually in his hands by a grateful people, and which he has devoted scrupulously to the great object of Ireland's political redemption.
He has acquired no riches by his political efforts; his heart and soul and mind and strength have been directed to his suffering country and the cause of universal freedom.
For this he has deservedly a place in the heart and affections of every son of Ireland.
One million of ransomed slaves in the British dependencies will teach their children to repeat the name of O'Connell with that of Wilberforce and Clarkson.
And when the stain and caste of slavery shall have passed from our own country, he will be regarded as our friend and benefactor, whose faithful rebukes and warnings and eloquent appeals to our pride of character, borne to us across the Atlantic, touched the guilty sensitiveness of the national conscience, and through shame prepared the way for repentance.
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Boston and New York, Houghton, Mifflin and company, 1888-89.
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