And let this thought give you rather fear and pious anxiety than exultation or rash self-confidence."
This was the case I submitted for the consideration of the Viceroy, and I trust his Excellency relished it; at any rate, he could not contradict or controvert it.
When I walked forth a free man I was able to visit habitually my comrades in Richmond Prison, and witness their manly joy that at least one of the group of friends had escaped the enemy.[1]
- ↑ O'Brien, who was the soul of courtesy, followed our leave-taking by a farewell letter:--
"Dublin, Richmond Prison.
"June 6, 1849."My Dear Duffy, As it is uncertain whether I shall have an opportunity of seeing you again, I cannot refrain from writing a few lines to convey to you my farewell benediction.
"My mind is so overwhelmed with the multitude of topics connected with our intercourse, which arise to afford matter for reflection at a moment such as this, that I dare not allow my pen to record my thoughts lest I should find myself unable to check its career.
"It is enough for me to say that however painful to both of us may have been the final results of that intercourse, my esteem for your character and my admiration of your abilities remain unchanged.
"Nor do I regard with any other feelings than those of unmixed satisfaction the circumstance that you have been more successful than I have in resisting the power of British law. Both for your own sake and for that of the country I rejoice that it is your lot to remain in Ireland to work for Ireland.
"I send herewith a little volume as a parting gift. Though of trifling pecuniary value, it may perhaps be prized by you as having belonged to your sincere friend,
"William S. O'Brien."
