Tag Archives: Enniskillen

May 1942.

DUTY OF PEDESTRIANS ON ROADS. INTERESTING POINT IN IRVINESTOWN PROSECUTION. Ought pedestrians obey the road code and walk on the right-hand side of the road, or follow the custom and walk on the left? This question was discussed at Irvinestown Petty Sessions on. Friday, when a motorist was summoned for driving without due care, etc., arising out of an accident in which the car, travelling in the black-out, knocked down a soldier. Major Dickie, R.M., said it was apparent that defendant did not see the soldiers until he was right on top of them. Everybody knew that soldiers were likely to be moving out of the town about that hour, and surely defendant should have driven in such a way that he would have stopped in time. He (the R.M.) recognised that army uniforms were difficult to see in the black-out. Mr. P. J. Flanagan, LL.B., solr., defending the car driver, said the same thing could be said of the soldier, who knew there was traffic on that road, and he should have kept in. His Worship pointed out that the law said pedestrians had a perfect right to be on the road, and there was no obligation on them to be struggling along on the grass verge. Mr. Flanagan said pedestrians had no right to be all over the road.

His Worship—I do not say for a minute they were all over the road. All the Crown witnesses agree the soldiers were not over the centre of the road. His Worship added that at the present time it was much safer on the right hand side of the road at night. Mr. Flanagan said he understood the Code specified that side for pedestrians, yet if it was used they would be deemed to be negligent.His Worship remarked that in the case of traffic approaching from the front the pedestrian would have to clear into the hedge, and people objected to that. The case in question was that in which Thomas McCrossan, Irvinestown, was summoned under the usual two counts for careless driving and for not having a. P.S.V. licence. Daniel McCrossan was summoned for permitting the latter offence.

Gunner Kane gave evidence that when walking home from Irvines town on 21st March, at 11 p.m., he was on the outside of two other soldiers, with some soldiers in front and some behind. A car came up behind them, and knocked him down. He next found himself being attended by nurses in hospital. He was not seriously injured. Cross-examined, witness could not say why he did not hear the car before it struck him. They had been in Irvinestown for a night’s jollification. He did not remember sitting on a coat on the aide of the road and smoking a cigarette after the accident. Gunner Young said he saw the car go past with the last witness on the front of it between the mudguard and the bonnet. The car had no lights lit when it stopped. Gunner Haydon estimated the speed of the car at fifteen to twenty m.p.h. Gunner Wosley stated he saw Haydon pull the other two soldiers into the left as the car drew near.

Sergt. Kelly, R.U.C., gave evidence of finding the car without lights beyond the scene of the accident. The headlights were in order when switched on, and a side lamp had been broken off in the mishap. The road is 19 feet wide, at the spot where the accident happened. Thomas McCrossan swore he could not find his brother, who had contracted to bring three men out of the town, and he had to drive them, though not duty licensed for the. purpose. He was travelling on the centre of the road, and was just passing the soldiers when he heard the bump. When he stopped he switched off the lights. Later he found that the bulbs were blown. He had since taken out a P.S.V. licence. Daniel McCrossan testified to his having arranged to drive three men home, but was unable to get out in time to do so. He did not authorise his brother to drive the car. His Worship said it was not a bad case but drivers ought to drive within the circle of their own lights. For driving without due care Thomas McCrossan-was fined 40/- and 6/- costs. The second summons concerning the licence was dealt with under the Probation of Offenders Act. The summons against Daniel McCrossan was dismissed on the merits.

16-5-1942. BICYCLE WHEEL THEFTS. A Kinawley Man’s Experience. Thefts of a particularly mean type, of which cyclists are the victims, are now, with the shortage of cycles and accessories, becoming prevalent. A young man who left his bicycle outside a hall while at a dance in the Arney district found his front wheel stolen when the dance was over. Another close by had the tyres and tubes of his bicycle stolen. But a Kinawley man’s experience was worst of all. He cycled across the Border to Swanlinbar and left his bicycle on the street while he visited a house. When he emerged after some time, both, wheels had been removed from, his machine and stolen. He had to walk back across the Border with the frame on his shoulder. R.U.C. men took him to the barracks on suspicion of smuggling the frame, but on telephoning the Swanlinbar Gardaí they confirmed the man’s story that his wheels had been stolen. He had to do the rest of the journey on foot, carrying the frame on his shoulder.

16-5-1942. IDENTITY CARDS. People without National Registration Identity Cards, or with Cards which are inaccurate, will find difficulty in Obtaining new Ration Books, when they are due for issue next month. Anyone who has lost his or her Identity Card, or whose Card is inaccurate, should call at once at the local National Registration Office, which is usually the Food Office, and have the matter rectified. Some local Food Offices (see advertisement pages), intend, opening sub-offices, it which the public will be able to obtain new Personal Ration Books and Clothing Cards on production of properly completed Identity Cards and Ration Books, with the Reference Leaves accurately completed.

16-5-1942. EXCESS FLOUR AND MEAL SUPPLIES. SELLING EGGS TO A NEIGHBOUR. CHARGES AT CASTLEDERG. Before Mr. J. O. H. Long, R.M., at Castlederg Petty Sessions on Friday, Elizabeth Harkin, Garvetagh, was summoned for being in possession of an excess quantity of flour and oatmeal, Henry McAnea and Samuel Greer, both shopkeepers, Castlederg, were summoned for disposing of excess quantifies of flour and meal. Const. Wilson said he found two seven stone packs of flour and a ten-stone bag of meal in Harkin’s house on the 2nd March.. In. a statement she took full responsibility and said about six weeks ago she bought a bag of flour from McAnea and about two weeks later ordered another from him, as one bag had only lasted her six weeks. She also purchased the meal at McAnea’s about six weeks ago. – Witness interviewed McAnea, who said he only supplied Harkin with seven stones flour and ten stones meal. He had no hesitation in giving it as it was a long time since she had obtained any from him. Greer told witness that he supplied Harkin with seven stones flour on the 13th December. Witness seized eleven stones flour and 7½ stones meal. The R.M. said it was now permitted to buy any quantity of’ ‘points’ food legally acquired and a month’s supply of unrationed food. The R.M. applied the Probation of Offenders Act in all cases, and forfeited one sack of flour. The R.M. added that the prosecution was properly brought, and it was only the circumstances of the cases that caused him to deal leniently with them.

Robt. A. Scott, Drumclamph, was summoned for having an excess, quantity of flour, namely, 10 stones. Const. Irvine said on the 31st March he went to defendant’s place and was told by him that he received 3 or 4 bags of flour from his brother-in-law, Mr. Rosborough, Derry. Witness found five ten-stone bags. He seized three of them. There were five resident in the house and four full-time employees. In a statement he said while he was at Derry show, he called with his brother-in-law and told him, to send him some flour. He received eight bags of flax and five of flour. The supply would have lasted him two months. The R.M. applied the P.O. Act and forfeited two ten-stone bags.

John Love, Crewe, was summoned for selling eggs other than to a licensed collector. Jeannie Love, do., was summoned for selling eggs at a price other than at the maximum price, and for selling without a licence. James Donaghey, Faughan Bridge, Drumnahoe, Derry, was summoned for purchasing eggs otherwise than at the fixed price, for obtaining 1 lb. butter otherwise than according to the rationing regulations, and for having one lb. butter without authority. Annie O’Neill, Creeduff, was summoned for disposing of 1 lb. butter without authority.

PETROL SHORTAGE FOR AMBULANCES. SERIOUS COMPLAINT AT ENNISKILLEN. Difficulty in securing supplies of petrol for Enniskillen Union ambulances was referred to at the meeting of the Enniskillen Board of Guardians on Tuesday, Hon. C. L. Corry presiding. In a letter to the Board, Mr. John Cathcart, ambulance driver, said: “I beg to inform, you of the difficulties that exist in getting a. supply of petrol for the ambulances. When application, would be made for 140 units 80 would be supplied, and when application- for 80 was made 50 would be supplied. The number of coupons is insufficient to keep the ambulance service going, and on the 8th. inst. an inspector from the Petroleum Office called at the Workhouse and informed me it was illegal to obtain petrol without coupons from any trader. He also called with Messrs. Topping and Co. and told him he would hold him liable if he supplied petrol without coupons. I have eight gallons of petrol in stock, and when this amount is exhausted the ambulance will have to be refused for the want of petrol.”

The Clerk (Mr. J. Brown) corroborated Mr. Cathcart’s remarks, and said he (the Clerk) told the Petroleum Board representative that ambulances were of more importance than any other vehicles on the road, and that the general public could not possibly be left without ambulances to convey the sick to hospital. He also told the official that they would get petrol for the ambulances whether by surrender of coupons or not. The official promised to explain the matter at his headquarters. Mr. A. Wilson—Did you not ask the Ministry?Mr. J. J. Coalter—Send that letter to the Ministry of Home Affairs and explain the difficulty.  Clerk — The petrol authorities must have got it into their heads we were using it ourselves. Mr. Coalter’s suggestion was unanimously approved of.

CONFIRMATION AT DEVENISH. St. Mary’s Church, Devenish, was thronged on Friday last when the Most Rev. Dr. Farren, Lord Bishop of Derry, administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to upwards of 140 children and some adult converts. His Lordship was met at the church by Rev. E. Coyle, P.P., Devenish, and proceeded through the sacred edifice with a procession of over twenty priests to the High Altar. Mass was celebrated by Rev. P. Monaghan, C.C. Addressing the children after Confirmation, his Lordship congratulated them on being enrolled as soldiers in the army of Christ. Until now they had few responsibilities, but from this hour onwards it would be their duty not only to defend the Kingdom of Christ, but to extend it, and to do this they would have to take an intelligent interest in all that pertains to their faith, and particularly in the liturgy and functions of the Church. It would be easy for them to remain faithful to their religion while they were at home in Catholic Ireland, but if some of them found their way to countries where the faith has grown cold and many people would sneer at their religion, there would be danger for them unless their lives were lived in accordance with the teaching of their faith. They had in the main the Ten Commandments of God to be the general outline of their lives, and they had an informed conscience to tell them what was right and what was wrong. They had a leader, Jesus Christ, and if they were to be enthusiastic about their faith they must always remember the beauty of their Leader, and be ready to sacrifice everything for Him.

During the month of May it is the wish of His Holiness the Pope that all children should pray for his intention, and peace is a necessary preliminary to the restoration of Christian virtue. After administering the Total Abstinence pledge to the children until they attain the age of twenty-one his Lordship said it used to be a mere formality in the past for girls to take the pledge, but times had changed, and there were grave temptations for young girls to take intoxicating drink, particularly in seaside towns during the holiday season. Sponsors were, Mr. Henry McGrath, Devenish; and Mrs. Dick, ex-P.E.T., Cornahilta. His Lordship was much impressed by the splendid new Parochial Hall at Devenish, which competent authorities say is one of the best of its kind in the North.

Confirmation in Cleenish and Derrygonnelly. Administering the Sacrament of Confirmation in St. Mary’s’ Church, Arney, to the children of the three districts of the Cleenish Parish (Arney, Mullaghdun and Belcoo) , Most Rev. Dr. Farren, Lord Bishop of Derry, referred to the death of Dr. McKenna, late Bishop of Clogher, and expressed sympathy with the people of the diocese in their loss. The children confirmed numbered 130, and his Lordship, told them that the Sacrament strengthened their faith.

GREEN CROSS FUND. ENNISKILLEN I.N.F. CEILIDHE FOR GREEN CROSS. The Devenish (Enniskillen) Branch of the Irish National Foresters on Sunday held a most enjoyable and successful ceilidhe in the Foresters’ Hall, Enniskillen, in aid of the Green Cross Fund. (Ed. a fund to support the families of interned Republicans.)

A very large gathering of patrons assembled, drawn mainly from the surrounding districts, but also fairly representative of a much larger area, parties coming from Omagh, Clones and  other parts. To the excellent music of the Enniskillen St. Molaise Band, the dancers enjoyed a very large selection of Irish dances, these being participated in with the utmost pleasure. Never for a moment did the spirit of pleasure flag, and the dancers parted as they had kept happy dancing company, in the best of humour. Mr. Jim Sheridan, Lackaboy, was an efficient master of ceremonies, his dance announcements being made all in Irish. He was assisted by Mr. C. P. Drumm, secretary of Branch Devenish and organiser-in-chief of the ceilidhe. The proceedings concluded with the National Anthem, played by the band and sung by the large assembly, standing at attention.

OTHER SIMILAR FUNCTIONS. Largely contributing to the great improvement in the Ederney parish contribution to the Fund (already acknowledged) was a similar ceilidhe held in Ederney recently. It is to be hoped that other parishes will follow the Enniskillen and Ederney , examples and organise ceilidhthe or football matches in aid of the Fund apart from the ordinary parish collections.

IRVINESTOWN. The Irvinestown district collection of the Irvinestown Parish is complete, but the lodgement is being held over until the Coa and Whitehill areas have also had an opportunity to contribute to the parish total.

ARNEY. A meeting will be held on Sunday evening next, 17th inst., in the vicinity of St. Mary’s Church, Arney, after Devotions, to arrange for this year’s collection in that area. A large attendance is earnestly requested.

KNOCKNINNY. The parish collection is being taken up, and it is hoped that Teemore will also be organised shortly.

KILLESHER. The parish collection in Lower Killesher is well advanced. Nothing has as yet been done in Upper Killesher, but’ an effort is being made to organise that area.

KINAWLEY. The Kinawley collection is practically finished.

DEVENISH. Very Rev. E. Coyle, P.P., Devenish, has forwarded to the County Secretary a cheque for £34 10s 0d, being the 1942 Devenish parish collection for the Fund. The total is an increase of about £5 on last year, and Devenish is to he heartily congratulated on its prompt and generous response to the appeal.

OTHER AREAS. Will other parishes or districts in which no effort has as yet been made please arrange to have the collection taken up as soon as possible. It is desired that the county’s total effort should be concluded within a reasonable time.

EDERNEY’S FINE EFFORT. Ederney Branch of the Green Cross Society has forwarded to Mr P. J. O’Hare, Co. Fermanagh secretary, the sum of £30 2s 8d, result of the 1942 collection in the parish. This amount exceeds by nearly £10 the 1941 total, and Ederney is to be congratulated on its prompt and successful effort. Ederney has been the first parish to complete the 1942 collection. Enniskillen is almost complete, but there are still a few books to come in.

23-5-1942. BELLEEK BREAD CASES. At Belleek Petty Sessions on Tuesday, before Major Dickie, R.M., Mrs. Margaret McMahon, Ballynadoghy Belleek, was charged with having, on 22nd November, 1941, without a licence granted by the Board of Trade acquired 16 2 lb. loaves, whereby the total quantity of bread in her possession or under her control, exceeded the normal quantity required by her. The following were similarly charged in  respect to the same date, Mrs. Margaret McCann, Commons, Belleek, for 10 2 lb. loaves; Mrs. Alice Greenan, Commons, Belleek, for 10 2 lb. loaves; Mrs. Annie McGroarty, Fassagh, for 6 2 lb. loaves; Miss Mary Somerville, Fassagh, 7 2 lb. loaves.

Patrick John McCart, Forthill, Irvinestown, was charged with having on November 22nd unlawfully disposed of a quantity of bread to the above mentioned defendants, knowing that by reason of such disposal the quantity of .bread which may be lawfully acquired by these persons would be exceeded. Head Constable Briggs, Belleek, said that on the 22nd. of November, he visited a number of houses in the Commons district. He went to McMahons and found 19 2lb. loaves in a cardboard box. When questioned Mrs. McMahon told him she was giving some of them to friends in the Free State and made a statement to that effect.

The statement was read by Sergeant Blevin. Continuing Head Constable Briggs said that in McCann’s he found six loaves in a coarse bag and four in a handbag hanging from the roof. There were also two other loaves in the house some homemade bread and 9 stone of flour. There were eight people living in the house. In a statement, read by Sergt. Blevin, Mrs. McCann said she got six of the loaves from Hughes bread van. Witness sized ten of the loaves. There were five children in McCann’s as well as the defendant and her husband. The bread van only came round twice a week—on Tuesdays and Saturdays. The house was about 250 yards from the village. Head Const. Brigg’s, continuing, said he went to Greenan’s and found 14 loaves there. There was also some homemade bread and 9 stones of flour. In a statement, read by Sergt. Blevin defendant said she got all the loaves except two from Hughes van.

Sergt. Blevin cross-examined said Mrs. Greenan made no statement concerning her brother-in-law wanting the bread for a dance he was having nor did she mention her sister in hospital. One of the children made some reference to McCabe later. Head Const. Briggs said that in connection with the affair he interviewed McCart, the driver of Hughes bread van, who said he only sold bread for the use of Northern people. He sold one doz.  to McMahons; ½ doz. to McCann’s; 1 doz. to Greenan’s, ½ doz. to Miss Somerville and 5 doz. to Mrs. McGroarty. McCart had one dozen loaves in the van when he was stopped in Garrison. Cross-examined by Mr. Flanagan witness said that when questioned McCart told everything. He had been selling bread in the district for some time.

Constable Green said that on Saturday, November 22, he visited McGroarty’s and saw 9 21b loaves on the table. There were two elderly, and two young people living in the house. Mrs. McGroarty said the loaves were for their own use. Cross-examined witness said the nearest shop was a quarter of a mile away. Mrs. McGroarty would get the same bread there on Monday and Tuesday as she would buy on Saturday. There was flour in the house. Constable Green said he asked Miss Somerville had she any bread in the house and she said she had only two loaves. In a large box he found seven loaves. There were three elderly people in the house. The house was 50 yards from the border. Cross-examined witness said Miss Somerville was an old infirm woman and her brother and the other occupant of the house was much the same.

THE DEFENCE Mr. Flanagan said that his client had been selling bread in the district for some time. He was changed with “knowing” or ‘that he ought reasonably expected to have known, that the amount disposed of was in excess of the quantity to which each person was entitled.” The defendant had no means of knowing how many people lived in each house. His job was to sell bread and like a good businessman he tried to increase his sales. His worship had mentioned, perhaps rightly, that when a poor man was summoned under the Food Order, there were people behind him, but in this case, the firm who employed McCart had nothing whatever to do with it. The defendant had been suspended for a while. He was a young married man with six children.

Capt. Ramage said that Mrs. McMahon had a brother living across the Border, to whom she gave some bread. There was no question of sale. Concerning McCanns there were five, children, two who were working, and the defendant and her husband. There was not an excessive quantity of bread, in the house to last that family from Saturday evening until Tuesday. In McGroartys 9 loaves for four people for three days was not excessive.. All the cases were border line ones.

Mrs. Greenan said she had a brother- in-law John McCabe. At that time her sister Miss Gallagher was in the hospital and, her brother went to see her on that day and the house was locked up. There were three men living in it. On Friday her brother told her to get the bread for him when he was away. Mrs. McCabe was also away seeing her sister and sent a message with witness’s daughter to get some bread as her husband (McCabe) was having a dance on Sunday night, and wanted the bread for the band. She bought six loaves for McCabe, four for her brother and four for herself. Cross-examined, witness said she told the Sergeant about McCabe. There were only seven and a half stones flower in the house. McCart was fined 15/- and 6/7 costs; Mrs. McMahon, 10/6, and Miss Somerville, 10/6. The summonses against the other defendants were dismissed.

HEATH FIRE Peter Maguire, Scribbagh, was fined 8s and 2s costs for displaying a heath fire in an open field. Constable McMullen, Garrison, was complainant.

CAVAN MAN FINED. FOUND WITH CYCLE TYRES AND TEA. CHARGE AT ENNISKILLEN. A young County Cavan man with an address at Lisnaskea—John Stephen J Brady, of Cootehill,—was at a Special court in Enniskillen on Thursday before Major Dickie, R.M., fined £6 4 0d (treble the value of the goods involved) for being on the previous day knowingly concerned in dealing in six cycle tyres and 3lbs, of tea with intent to evade the prohibition of export thereof. Mr. J. Cooper prosecuted, and Mr. R. A. Herbert, LL.B, (Messrs. Maguire and Herbert) defended. Mr. Cooper said the defendant was met by Constable McKeown with a parcel in which the articles were found.

Constable McKeown said defendant went to Westville Terrace, Enniskillen, watched by witness, knocked at two doors, failing to gain admittance, and then went up the Hospital lane. Witness went up by the railway station and met Brady coming down. Asked what was in the parcel Brady said tyres. Witness put his hand in and found another parcel, which Sergt. Sherrard later at the barracks found to contain the tea. Brady had been working for some time in Fermanagh. A. Dickson, surveyor of Customs and Excise, said Brady made a statement to .him in which he said nothing he had was intended for export. Of the tyres two were intended for a man at Lisnaskea, two for a man at Enniskillen and two for himself. He had got them all in Irvinestown or vicinity, and there also, from a woman whose name he would not give, he had got the tea for his own use.

Mr. Herbert said defendant was married and had five children. He had been working in Fermanagh for some time and had been residing in Lisnaskea. At his work his way of subsistence was to take tea three times daily and this as well as the tea he got in Lisnaskea was more than the two-ounce ration would supply. Therefore he took the chance to get this extra tea for himself. In evidence, Brady bore out this, statement and also swore to the statements made to Mr. Dickson. When apprehended at Enniskillen he told Mr. Cooper he was coming from Irvinestown and going to Lisnaskea. He did not go in by train to Lisnaskea because he had a bus ticket. Constable McKeown, recalled, said at the time it was 9.5 p.m. and Brady was looking for lodgings in Enniskillen. Major Dickie — That rather upsets his story. The magistrate convicted and in addition to imposing the penalty ordered the goods to be forfeited.

23-5-1942. 14½-YEAR-OLD GIRL EARNING 35/ – WEEKLY AS CLERK. A fourteen-and-a-half years old girl is earning 35/- weekly as a clerical assistant in the office of the Clerk of Enniskillen Union. (Mr. J. Brown). Referring to the matter at the Board of Guardians’ meeting on Tuesday, Mr. W. A. Thornton, J. P., expressed this view: “If the wage was three times the amount there would be no question about it. It is too cheap, I think.”

The matter arose through a letter from the Ministry to the Board, in which it was stated that in the absence of full details of the qualifications possessed by Ethel Armstrong—(the child concerned) — and the other candidates for the position of assistant in the clerk’s office, they were not prepared to approve of the appointment to this position of a girl of such tender years and lack of experience, particularly at the comparatively high scale of remuneration proposed. The Ministry asked to be furnished with full particulars of the qualifications experience, etc., of the other candidates whom the Board considered eligible for appointment, and that the Board should forward at the same time the original applications of each. It was stated that the little girl was receiving 35/- weekly. Chairman (Hon. C. L. Corry) —What sort of work is she doing ? The Clerk — It is not very important, She is only 14½. Mr. D. Weir — Does she not do the work as well as an applicant of 20 years of age? Clerk — The Ministry say she is too young. Mr. Weir — It’s a good fault. Mr. Thornton then expressed the view j already quoted. It was decided to ask the Ministry to reconsider their decision and to allow the little girl to stay on.

1942. May. Fermanagh Herald.

9-5-1942. £50 FINE TO STAND. DERRYGONNELLY MERCHANT’S APPEAL DISMISSED. HARBOURING COFFEE, BEANS, RICE. At Enniskillen Quarter. Sessions on Thursday, Deputy Judge Ellison, K.C., dismissed the appeal of William Barton, merchant, Derrygonnelly, against the conviction, fine of £50, and forfeiture of the goods, for knowingly harbouring 6 cwts. ground coffee; 30 cwts. rice; 7 cwts. American navy (haricot) beans, with intent to evade the prohibition applicable.

Sergeant J. A. Law gave evidence of visiting defendant’s premises arid inspecting his stocks and seizing 7 cwts. of ground coffee, 33 cwts. rice and 10 cwts. American Navy (haricot) beans. Of this quantity the magistrate ordered the forfeiture of the amounts set out in the summons; the balance was to be returned to the appellant.Mr. Barton informed him that he sold 14 lbs. of coffee a week, and at that rate the quantity found would last him for three years. Barton said he sold 4 stone of rice weekly, so that his supply was enough, to do him for 66 weeks.Mr. Cooper—-Do the people in that locality drink coffee at all?Judge—I don’t think the witness knows their tastes for breakfast. Mr. Cooper — You inspected other, shops in the district? Yes. Judge—-Are you showing that appellant had monopoly of the coffee trade and therefore required a large Quantity? (Laughter). Sergt. Law said of the other shops, none had coffee, one had half a ton of rice, and the others two to four cwt. At the time neither, rice nor coffee were rationed. Mr. Cooper— Did you hear a pronouncement by Mr. De Valera as to what haricot beans were used for? Judge—I thought they were used for eating. Mr. Cooper— They are not used for eating. No one who eats them, once is likely to do so again. Mr. Ferguson— Was that why we had so many of them? (Laughter) Mr, Cooper—Did you hear Mr. De Valera’s’ statement? Witness—No. .

The appellant said he was fortunate in having such a small supply when Sergt. Law called. Rice became more popular because cereals were unobtainable at the particular time. In 1938, pre-war, one of his purchases of rice was of a ton in respect of which he produced the invoice. Green peas being off the market since the war, a. substitute was found in haricot beans, which were palatable and good to eat. If a person had his dinner of them he would require nothing else. Witness had always bought peas and beans in large quantities. Coffee was not rationed, and since tea was rationed the sale of coffee had increased considerably. Before the war he had a very big trade in tea as it was a good tea-drinking district— it was a mountainous country, and they knew that meant a good tea-drinking country. When tea was cut down a substitute beverage had to be found and he supplied coffee. Mr. Ferguson (for appellant), — The sergeant says there is a good price for coffee in the Free State?

Witness—I am in informed you cannot give it away to-day in the Free State. Mr. Cooper— Did you hear Mr. De Valera’s pronouncement that beans were to be ground up and mixed with flour? — I never heard it mentioned. Didn’t you tell us at the Petty Sessions that no one ate haricot beans?—No; – you suggested it- and I certainly changed the tune. Mr. Cooper cross-examined the witness as to his large purchases, and Mr. Barton replied, “A man must have some foresight and make some provision for the public if he is to live in business to-day, and right, well you know that. Provided you could not get tea, you would be interested in coffee. Mr. Cooper—I am very interested in coffee. Mr. Barton—You are and I know why, but if you could not get tea and wanted some other beverage, would not you be interested in coffee?—I think you would. Witness said in peace time his stock of rice was two tons. The Judge said he thought the stocks were very large, and that the magistrate’s order was right. He affirmed the conviction.

MAY 9, 1942.R.M. AND BORDER TRIPS. MOTORISTS FINED AT ROSLEA. Strong comments were made by Major Dickie at Roslea Petty Sessions in a case in which Patrick McEntee, Clonfad, Newtownbutler, was fined £3 for driving a car without being properly covered by insurance. A summon for having no driving licence was dismissed. John Hasson, Kilrea, Co. Derry, was fined £3 for permitting McEntee to drive the car without being insured. Mr. J. B. Murphy said Mr. McEntee lived near the Clones Border, His wife was a niece of two old people named McDermott, who were over 80 years.

These people lived 12 miles away and both of them died. . There was no one to look after them. but Mrs. McEntee. Mr. Hasson was a hardware salesman and came to Clones, leaving his car on the Northern side of the Border. He was advised it was dangerous to leave his car there, and went to Mr. McEntee’s house and got permission to leave his car there. Mr. McEntee asked Mr. Hasson to have the car to go to see his wife, and Mr. Hasson agreed. Mr. McEntee, who had a car in “Eire,” went in Mr. Hasson’s car to see his wife, leaving his car on the roadside. Sergt. Williams came along and seized the car as there were some goods in the back of it. Mr. Hasson had lost his car, which was a severe loss. Mr. Hasson lived 16 miles from Coleraine, where he was employed, and had since to cycle to his employment. He was an. entirely innocent party. There would be a Customs prosecution in connection with the goods, found in the car. Hasson, in evidence, stated he had been staying with friends in Clones. He thought McEntee was licensed to drive.

To Dist. Inspector Smyth —He drew a supplementary petrol allowance. Major Dickie — Is that what you travelled to Clones on? Witness—No. Major Dickie—The journey would be about 250 miles. Witness—I had some petrol saved. Major Dickie—-It is time the police looked into these cars at Coleraine and the cars this defendant is associated with. The sooner these 250 miles-per day trips to the Free State are stopped the better. This is a very different thing from a person running out a few miles on a picnic. Mr. Smyth said .he would communicate with the police in Coleraine.

9-5-1942. PRETTY DEVENISH WEDDING. MR. CHIVERS AND MISS MAGUIRE. A pretty wedding was solemnised in St. Mary’s Church, Devenish, on Thursday of last week, the contracting parties being Mr. Thos. Chivers, L.A.C, R. A.F. and Miss Eileen Maguire, youngest daughter of Mrs. Maguire and the late  Mr. Peter Maguire, Devenish. The marriage ceremony was performed by Rev. P. Monaghan, C. C., Devenish. Mr F McGovern, ‘The Hotel” Devenish was best man and the bride was attended by her sister Miss Kathleen Maguire. The bridegroom is a native of Wales and the happy couple are spending their honeymoon in that enchantingly beautiful country. The bridegroom who made a host of friends during his stay in Devenish was recently received into the Catholic Church.

9-5-1942. PROTESTANT APPOINTED WATERWORKS CARETAKER. Enniskillen Rural Council Party Vote. Applications for the position of caretaker of Tempo waterworks (£6 a year salary) were received by Enniskillen R. D. Council on Tuesday, from the following, James Rice, junr., Albert Spratt, Reginald Allen, Robert Woods, John Gilliland, all of Tempo.  Rice, a Catholic, was proposed by Mr, E. Callaghan (N.) 2nd seconded by Mr. T. McLaughlin (N.). Allen, a Protestant, was proposed by Mr, J. Beatty (U.), seconded by Mr. T. Bothwell (U.). On a party vote, Allen was appointed by 5 votes to 2. Mr. Beatty as a later stage in the meeting said £6 a year was useless. Mr. J. Burns— There are six people who like it. Mr. Beatty — Starvation wages! The other day 1 saw in the town four guineas for a pair of boots. You would not run very long in them to the reservoir and to fix bursts till they would be worn out. Mr, Crosier (late caretaker) said it would take £16 to pay him for the work. Mr. A. Elliott—Why is it there are six men in. for it, Mr. Beatty? Have a bit of wit.Mr, Beatty—£6 a year is useless. Chairman (Mr. J. J. Coulter, J.P.) — If this man you voted for does not accept it are you agreeable to the matter being brought up again and giving the job to one of the others? Mr. Beatty—All right I know it is useless. The discussion lapsed.

9-5-1942. DROWNING TRAGEDY. Fate of American Soldier. Ralph R. Helbing (22), a private with the American troops in the Six Counties, was the victim of a drowning tragedy on Tuesday evening. With four companions he was fishing on a raft, when the raft overturned throwing the five into the water. Apparently .the fishing line became entwined around the clothes and legs of the deceased. He was a strong swimmer and he disappeared immediately.

At an inquest on Wednesday morning, Private J. F. Genther said at 7-10 p.m. the previous evening he was standing near the water’s edge when he heard shouting from the direction of the water, and ran down to the edge of the water. He saw four men in the water and one man clinging to a raft. The four men were swimming towards the shore, and witness shouted to men in boats not far away. Two boats arrived and picked up three of the men in the water. He told the rescuers that there was another, but that he must .have gone under. A search was made for the deceased, whose body was recovered after an hour and twenty minutes. Private William Nain also gave similar evidence. Major Fred H. Beaumont said that when the body was recovered at 8.30 he applied artificial respiration, which was continued for two hours. The deceased did not show any sign of life when the body was taken ashore. It was found that the fishing line was entwined, around his clothes and legs. Death was due to drowning. The verdict was recorded of accidental drowning.

9-5-1942. LETTERBREEN HOUSE POSSESSION. At Enniskillen Quarter Sessions, Deputy Judge Ellison, K.C., upheld the appeal of  Mrs. Margaret Maguire of Brockagh, against the dismissal in the lower Court  of her ejectment proceedings against, John Fallon, Cornagee, in respect of a house at Cornagee, let as a weekly tenancy at a rent of 3/6. Mrs. Maguire stated she required the house for occupation by a person engaged in work necessary for the proper working of her farm. The defendant and his wife stated, the first they heard of the notice to quit was after Mrs. Maguire had asked and been refused an increase of rent. A decree for , possession was granted, with 8/- expenses and two guineas costs.

9-5-1942. KESH PETTY SESSIONS. At Kesh Petty Sessions on Tuesday week, before Major T. W. Dickie, R.M., Ernest Stewart, Irvinestown, for using an unauthorised motor headlamp was fined £3. Patrick Wm. Molloy, Tullyhommon, was fined £2 in each case for driving a motor car without due care and failing to produce insurance.

George Walshe, Oghill, for riding a bicycle without due care, was fined 1/- and £1 2s costs.

Joseph McAlynn, Doochrock, was fined 1/- and £1 12s and costs for riding a bicycle without due care at Ederney.

John Cunningham, Dullaghan, was fined £4 in a case of eight sheep affected by scab.

Charles Simpson, Edenticrummon, was fined £5 in each case for importing eight head of cattle at Ederney without a licence and giving false information.

9-5-1942. £1,500 TO LEITRIM BOY. Fergus O’Rourke. (16½), Ballinamore, Co., Leitrim, who lost a foot in a shunting accident at Ballinamore railway station last June, was awarded £1,500 damages against, the. G.S.R. Company by a High Court jury,

1942 -Are you a passenger pedaling your own bike? Smuggling.

2-5-1942 ENNISKILLEN GROCER’S SUCCESSFUL APPEAL. Ernest Colvin, grocer, High St., Enniskillen, appealed at Enniskillen Quarter. Sessions on Thursday against a penalty of £50 imposed at Enniskillen Petty Sessions on a charge of knowingly harbouring seven sacks of coffee beans with intent to evade the prohibition of export thereon. Mr. J. Cooper, D.L., Crown Solicitor, said that after Colvin had been convicted they succeeded in arresting a man from the Free State named Keenan, .for whom, this coffee was, and he was fined £50. When the case same on against Keenan they had interviewed Mr. Colvin and his assistant, and got them to come and give evidence against Keenan. In view of this fact the Customs Authorities would agree to this penalty, being reduced to £25. Mr. E. C. Ferguson, D. L. (for Colvin) agreed to this course, and accordingly his Honour affirmed the conviction, but reduced the penalty to £25.

2-5-1942 WHISKEY SEIZURE BY FLORENCECOURT POLICE. Sergeant Ryan and Constable Redpath, Florencecourt, on Saturday evening stopped a car at Drumcarn, Belnaleck, Co. Fermanagh, and on searching it found 6 five naggin bottles of whiskey, four similar bottles of wine and two large bottles of gin, as well as a dozen egg cups, a quantity of tobacco and cigarettes, a showerproof coat and quantity of sweepstake tickets, all of which were seized, together with the car. The driver was taken into custody,, and on. Sunday afternoon was allowed out on £20 bail to appear at next Enniskillen Petty Sessions. Major Dickie, R.M., attended at the Barracks, on Sunday afternoon, and the car driver was ,present with his solicitor, but no court was held, the reason being that the magistrate could not discharge any judicial function on a Sunday, though he can sit as a magistrate. The case could only have been .proceeded with had the man sufficient money to pay any fine which, if he had been convicted, might have been imposed. Had the case been heard and a fine inflicted, the order would have been unenforceable, as the Court was held on Sunday.

2-5-1942 FIRE AT CASTLECOOLE. BUILDINGS DESTROYED. An outbreak of fire occurred on Saturday afternoon in outhouses at Castlecoole, Enniskillen, the residence of the Earl of Belmore. The Enniskillen Town Brigade and the Auxiliary Fire Service, both under Mr. James Donnelly, town surveyor, receiving notification at ten minutes to one, were on the spot before one clock a quick turn-out which probably saved extensive buildings because the fire had gained a firm hold on the solid buildings and was burning fiercely. The efforts of the Brigades were chiefly directed towards confining the outbreak. Until. 2.30 p. m, the battle with the flames continued, ending only when about forty yards of the buildings had been destroyed roof and floors being burned out. The A.F.S. Brigade was under the immediate command of Mr. Freddy Bleakley with Mr. J. Lusted, A.F.S. chief in attendance.

2-5-1942 PARTY VOTE ECHO. FARTAGH COTTAGE TENANCY. An echo of a recent Enniskillen Rural Council party vote on a cottage tenancy was heard at Derrygonnelly Petty Sessions, on Friday, when the Council was granted a decree for possession of a cottage at Fartagh, against Miss Mary Millar. Miss Millar’s father was the tenant until his death a few months ago. Miss Millar applied for the cottage, but it was granted to a Unionist by a party vote of the Rural Council. Miss Millar is a Catholic.

SEIZED BICYCLE AT BELLEEK BARRIER. JUDGE RECOMMENDS RETURN ON PAYMENT OF DUTY. Are bicycles liable to purchase tax? Although, according to Mr, George Dixon, Surveyor of customs and Excise for County Fermanagh the tax is collected throughout Great Britain and the Six Counties on bicycles, Mr. R. A. Herbert, L.B. (Messrs. Maguire and Herbert, Enniskillen contended during the course of an appeal at Enniskillen Quarter Sessions on Monday, before Deputy Judge Ellison, K.C., that the wording of the Section of the Act governing the matter makes bicycles not liable.

The appeal was one brought by Terence McGowan, of Ross, Tullyrossmearn, Co. Fermanagh, against an order of Major Dickie, R. M., forfeiting a bicycle under the Customs Acts. When cross-examining Mr. Dixon, the Customs Surveyor, Mr. Herbert referred the witness to the Finance Act No. 2, 1940, which created the Purchase-Tax, and stated that the schedule set out goods that were chargeable with purchase-tax. In the first column (that setting out goods charged at the basic rate of one third were the words: Road Vehicles and Cycles (whether mechanically propelled or not) being vehicles and cycles constructed or adapted solely or mainly for the carriage of passengers.” Mr. Dixon said that was the Section, which gave authority to charge purchase tax on bicycles.Mr. Herbert — Who would be the passenger on a bicycle?—He is his own. passenger. It is being definitely charged and paid all over the United Kingdom. It is time it was questioned.Mr. Herbert said a passenger was already interpreted in law. This boy cycling on this bicycle could not be said to be a passenger. Judge Ellison said he did not think the language in the Section was very neat for the purpose.

Mr. Herbert — It is very far from neat. He further argued that a machine constructed for one person to ride did not make the machine one “constructed for the carriage of passengers.” His Honour held against Mr. Herbert who raised the paint because one of the taxes the appellant was stated to have failed to pay was his purchase tax. Giving evidence for the respondent,  Customs Officer George Forrest, Belleek, stated McGowan was cycling past the barrier there, not stopping, when witness called on him to stop, seeing that he was riding a new bicycle. McGowan in answer to witness’s questions said he belonged to Kiltyclogher, but produced a national registration, card with his address at Ross, Tullyrossmearn. He asked him to account for the fact that he had stated he was from Leitrim, while he was from Ross, and McGowan said he lived at both places off and on, and that he had been, living in the Six Counties for ten years. He said he had borrowed the bicycle from his brother in Kiltyclogher as his own had been stolen. He then offered to pay whatever was necessary. Witness seized the bicycle and an order for forfeiture was granted at the Petty Sessions. “There has not been one single instance,” said witness, “of where a bicycle has been smuggled and has been confirmed as having been smuggled into the Six Counties where the bicycle has not been stated to have been a borrowed bicycle although the bicycle has actually been new at the moment. In cross-examination by Mr. Herbert, witness said cyclists should stop, and go into the Customs hut if necessary. Do you stop all cyclists? —I do if I am on the road. We all pass these huts and see what occurs?—Sometimes it is after five o’clock (when the Customs hut closes).

George Dixon, Customs Surveyor at Enniskillen, stated a Customs duty of 30 per cent, ad valorem was chargeable on Eire-built machines unless satisfactory evidence was produced (a certificate of origin from the manufacturer) that the machine was Empire-made and that the cost of materials and labour involved reached a certain percentage. Mr. Herbert—Could it have been of anything but Empire origin in these days? –Witness stated he admitted the present circumstances, but still the certificate was necessary. Mr. Herbert—Playing with the law like a child, isn’t it?—No, it isn’t. Would you swear this is a foreign article?— I cannot swear it, but it is for the importer to displace the prima facie charge by providing evidence. Were these things drawn to the attention of the importer? —It is the importer’s duty, if he wishes to claim preference, to make a declaration that he claims preference. Don’t you think it would only be fair before putting Customs duty into force that the attention of the importer should be drawn to the provisions? —Undoubtedly, if the citizen had come into the hut and stated he had imported it. Mr. Herbert—A sort of Please, sir, can 1 pass?

Mr, Herbert said McGowan came from Kiltyclogher but had been staying with friends in Ross for some years off and on. This was the smallest thing he had ever come across in the Customs line The same sort of point was raised before where a solicitor in Donegal drove his, car up to the barrier and the Customs seized it as having been imported, but the car was subsequently returned. This boy came along a proper route at a proper time and his bicycle was seized. He had gone a hundred yards or two into Six- County territory. It was straining the law very far to say a certificate of origin was required. Why didn’t they tell him to go back? When he found out the position the boy offered to pay. Mr. Cooper said this was not the only case brought up at the same place. The smuggling of bicycles into the Six Counties was a wholesale business. Mr. Herbert—There is no evidence of that. Judge Ellison said he should be inclined to confirm the order and say he thought this boy should be let off if he paid what he should pay. Mr. Cooper—-We will forward it to the Customs, and they will obey your Honour’s recommendation. Mr. Herbert said Major Dickie had stated that if the brother had appeared to say the bicycle belonged to him he would have given it back. Unfortunately the brother could not appear as he was engaged in munitions work in England. His Honour—I think Major Dickie’s view of that was the right one.

APPEAL AGAINST JAIL SENTENCE. SUCCEEDS AT ENNISKILLEN. At Enniskillen Quarter Sessions on Thursday, before Deputy Judge Ellison, K.C., James E. Maguire, Cran, Fivemiletown appealed against sentence of three months’ imprisonment imposed at Kesh Petty Sessions in February, when he was charged with the larceny of tools from a camp where he had been employed on work of national importance. Mr. R. H. Herbert, LL.B. for appellant said appellant was a young tarried man, with two young children just school going age. He was a joiner and carpenter and had led an exemplary life.

Mr. J. Cooper, D.L., Crown Solicitor, for the Crown, said that at the time of the prosecution irregularities had been going on in the camp—stealing of goods— and the sentence in this case was very fully justified. It was the least possible sentence the magistrate could put on. Since defendant had been convicted he had given certain information to the camp authorities which enabled them to trace very considerable quantities of other goods and put an end to a very big racket that had been going on. The camp superintendent had asked him (Mr. Cooper) to ask his Honour to deal with the appellant in the same way as another defendant had been dealt with—to fine him the sum of £15. He (Mr. Cooper) would consent to that if his Honour approved of it, but only because of the very valuable information which, appellant gave to the authorities. Sidney E. Sullivan, camp superintendent, told his Honour that appellant had helped him immensely as the result of information given. His Honour affirmed the conviction, but instead of the jail sentence imposed a fine of £15.

2-5-1942 “READ EXCEPTIONALLY WELL” Customs Officer Congratulated at Belleek. When nearly two foolscap pages of closely-written matter—a statement taken down by the witness—had been read in a loud, dear voice by Customs Officer George Forrest, Belleek, at Enniskillen Quarter Sessions, on Monday, Mr. J. B. Murphy, solicitor, congratulated Forrest, remarking: “It is the first, statement I ever heard read out which I was able to hear every syllable. He certainly read it exceptionally well.” Mr. Murphy had given Mr. Forrest a severe cross-examination, but said that, despite that, he must pay Mr. Forrest the above tribute.

 

9-5-1942. JOTTINGS. Accident.— Mr. Joseph Lendrum, Civil Bill Officer, Clones, sustained severe cuts to his face and hands when he was thrown from his bicycle while on official business in Newbliss district.

Nine Typhoid Cases in One Family—In her half yearly report to Enniskillen Rural Council, Dr. Henrietta Armstrong, medical officer, Tempo, stated on Tuesday that nine cases of typhoid had occurred in one family during the period.

Only a Third Tendered For—Although tenders had been invited for the maintenance of twenty-two roads only seven tenders were sent in, it was stated by Mr. J. Brown, clerk, at the quarterly meeting of the Enniskillen Rural District Council on Tuesday.

Train Derailed—Four wagons of the goods train from Clones were derailed at Enniskillen Railway Station on Friday evening, causing suspension of services on the particular line, from shortly after 12 till 11 p.m. Crane and other equipment had to be sent from Dundalk to restore waggons to the rails and clear the line.

Cycle Combination Strikes Bus.—Harry M. Burnside, an American technician, was fined 10/- at Enniskillen Petty Sessions on Monday for having driven a motor cycle without due care and attention. District Inspector Peacocke stated that defendant pulled out of a line of traffic and struck a bus coming in the opposite direction.. The driver of the bus gave evidence that he tried to avoid a collision, but the sidecar of the motor cycle combination struck the bus.

£40 Sought for Mountain Burning— Enniskillen Rural Council on Tuesday received a preliminary notice of application for £40 compensation for the alleged malicious burning of heather mountain grazing and fences at Killyblunick Glebe, Kilskeery. The claim was forwarded by Messrs. Donnelly and O’Doherty, solrs., Omagh, on behalf of Francis Murphy. Mr. J. Brown, Clerk, thought this place was not in the Enniskillen rural area. Chairman, (Mr. J. J. Coalter, J.P.)— Part of’ the mountain may be. The matter was referred to the Council’s solicitor

9-5-1942. Tractors on Roads.—James Magowan, Innishway, Blaney, was .fined 5/- and 4s costs at Enniskillen Petty Sessions on Monday for driving a motor tractor on the public highway without being licensed for the purpose. He was also fined 5/- and 2/- costs for not having the wheels fitted with smooth-soled tyres. Const. Wilson proved the offence. For a similar offence, John Cox, Ballylucas, was fined 5/-: and costs;. Major Dickie, B.M., expressed the hope that there would be no more of these cases, as the Co. Surveyors were complaining about these things.”

9-5-1942. COMING EVENTS

Tuesday, May 9—-Home Guard Dance, Townhall, .Enniskillen.

Sunday, May 10— Dance MacNean Hall, Belcoo.

Tuesday, May 12—Home Guard Dance, Townhall, Enniskillen.

Whit Monday, May 25—E.U.F.C. Dance Townhall, Enniskillen.

9-5-1942. NEW CEMETERY FOR CATHOLICS. The present Catholic Cemetery in Enniskillen being now almost entirely used, Ven. Archdeacon Gannon, P.P., V.G., announced at the Masses in St. Michael’s Church, on Sunday, that use will be made in future of the public cemetery at the Tempo road, near the town. In the Protestant part of this burying ground, there are hundreds of graves, but not more than a dozen interments have taken place in the portion reserved for Catholics.

9-5-1942. BROUGHT EGGS FROM CO., MONAGHAN. EMYVALE MAN FINED AT ROSLEA. At Roslea Court, before Major Dickie, R.M. John McCrudden, Golan, Emyvale, Co. Monaghan, was charged with illegally importing 60 doz. eggs from County Monaghan. Mr. Cooper said defendant was caught, bringing over 60 doz. eggs on a bicycle into the Six-County area. Mr. J. B. Murphy (for defendant) said his client was the son of a six-acre farmer in Co. Monaghan, and was cycling across with the eggs. He wanted to point out the sons of small farmers in “Eire” had nothing like the money they had in the Six Counties at the present time. Defendant was fined £5 11s, equal to the single value of the duty.

9-5-1942. EDERNEY P.P. INJURED. On Friday evening at Manoo, Cross between Kesh and Irvinestown, Co., Fermanagh, a collision took place       between a motor-car driven by Rev. P. McCarney, P.P., Ederney, and a military vehicle. Father McCarney, who was coming from Irvinestown direction, was seriously injured and his car completely wrecked. He was removed to Fermanagh County Hospital, Enniskillen.

9-5-1942. THROWN FROM CART. BELTURBET MAN’S TRAGIC DEATH. Dr. J. Stuart, coroner, held an enquiry in Cavan Surgical Hospital into the death of Jas. McManus (68) farmer and shop keeper, Drumgart, Belturbet at the institution as the result of falling from a cart. The evidence was that when drawing manure in a cart the pony bolted and the deceased was thrown out of the cart. Dr McInerney, house surgeon, stated that the man died from respiratory failure due to spinal injuries. A verdict in accordance with testimony was returned.

CIVIL DEFENSE EXERCISE IN ENNISKILLEN. The Wardens, Casualty and Rescue Services of the A.R.P. organisation in Enniskillen took part in an outdoor combined exercise on Tuesday night. Casualties and incidents were staged in various parts of the town and were expeditiously dealt with by the various services concerned. Work generally was well done, services quickly on the spot, and in general the leaders of parties and instructors have every reason to congratulate themselves on the degree of efficiency attained. More drill and more practices are needed to reach the required standard, but it is obvious from this practice that the groundwork has been well done.

The Report Centre exercised efficient control and showed that they had complete knowledge of the different business of co-ordination and control. The exercise showed very plainly the need for a really efficient messenger service. Telephonic communications for short distance calls during hostile air activity may be regarded as, if not impossible, at least much too slow. More messengers are required, especially those with bicycles. Special uniform and equipment are provided free to cyclist despatch riders. The umpires who supervised the practice were:—Casualty Services, Dr. W. A. Dickson; Wardens and Rescue Parties, Major J. A. Henderson, A.R.P.O.; Report Centre, Mr. J. W. Lusted; Transport, Mr. J. W. Maxwell; Director of Practice, Capt. W. R. Shutt, M.C., County Civil Defence Officer.

MAY 9, 1942. The Regal Cinema, Friday, May 8 and Saturday—

BING CROSBY, BOB HOPE DOROTHY LAMOUR.

THE ROAD TO ZANZIBAR

Monday, May 11 and Tuesday— VIRGINIA BRUCE, JOHN

BARRYMORE. THE INVISIBLE WOMAN

Also Dennis O’Keefe, Constance Moore in

I’M NOBODY’S SWEETHEART NOW

Wednesday, May 13 Thursday— MIRIAM HOPKINS CLAUDE RAINS

LADY WITH RED HAIR

Also William Lundigan, Eddie Foy, Jr, THE CASE OF THE BLACK PARROT.

9-5-1942. INSURANCE FOR SMUGGLERS. Comments on Fermanagh Solicitor’s Statement. Commenting on a statement made by Mr. J. Cooper, Crown Solicitor for Fermanagh, in a smuggling prosecution in Newtownbutler that in Co., Monaghan people could take out policies of insurance against capture whilst smuggling, a writer in the “ British Journal of Commerce,” the leading shipping paper, says: “ By inference, the Crown Solicitor appears to have considered these insurances to be reprehensible, but if they are, then such reprehensible practices are countenanced by the very law which, the Grown Solicitor was employing in his prosecution, the law of England, which, presumably, runs in Northern. Ireland save in so far as there is special legislation for that part of the United Kingdom..

“It was in 1779 that Lord Mansfield, to whom, we owe so much of our marine insurance law, held that it was not illegal to effect an insurance on a smuggling adventure into a foreign country. It was in the case of Planche v. Fletcher, and his very words were ‘At any rate this was no fraud in this country. One nation does not take any notice of the revenue, laws of another.’

“If, however, any would-be smuggler is thinking of effecting a policy, on a cargo of contraband, presuming he can obtain the necessary export licence, he should take care to inform his under-writers of the nature of the adventure, for while it may be legal to insure a smuggling venture, to fail to inform the insurers of its nature would, surely invalidate the policy by reason of concealment of material fact.”

9-5-1942. ENNISKILLEN VANDALISM CONDITION OF TOWN HALL. “For some reason there has been a determined attempt to wreck everything in the Town Hall and public lavatories,’’ said the Borough Surveyor (“Mr. T. Donnelly) at Enniskillen Urban Council on Monday. “There seems to be a systematic wave of destruction for the past, six or nine months,’ he added. These remarks arose out of a report upon a series of malicious damages to public conveniences and lavatories in the town; also electric light fittings and clothes racks in the Town Hall. “In all cases the damage appears to have been wilful, and carried out with the object only of destroying property. During the past months the entire water supply fittings to the urinals in the Town Hall lavatories have been broken away from their positions, and left lying on the floor, although they were properly secured to the walls, the chromium-plated stand to a wash-basin was smashed, and part of it taken away, etc.” Chairman (Senator Whaley)—This damage has not been done by children—it has been done by adults.

Mr. Devine said this was all due to lack of supervision. Mr. W: S. Johnston disagreed Damage would not be done while their caretaker was about, and he could not stand all day in the lavatories. Mr. Johnston then told how he and their Surveyor tried some of the fittings and could not budge them. “It would take a superman to pull off some of the fittings-it must have taken terrific strength,” he commented.

9-5-1942. WANT TURF PRICES FIXED. ENNISKILLEN COUNCIL REQUEST. Enniskillen Urban Council is to communicate with the Ministry of Commerce with a view to having the price of turf fixed. The matter was raised by Mr. W. Monaghan, at the Council meeting on Monday, when, he said fuel was a problem. In the interests of the poor, the Council, should take up with the authorities the question of regulating the supply and price of turf. He understood exorbitant prices were being given for stacks .of turf by people who were in a position to give high prices, and this might; react against the poor during: the coming winter. Some regulation of supply and price was made during the last war.         Mr. Devine said it was a very important matter. Turf prices should be controlled. The Chairman (Senator Whaley) said he believed it was during the coal strike that there was a collection in the district to supply turf to the poor of .the town at reduced prices. The Council agreed to write to the Ministry asking for the advice of the Ministry on the whole  position and to establish fixed prices for turf and regulate the supply.

 

1942.

28-3-42. PETTIGO FARMER’S DEATH. During the latter end of February 1942 in a stately home situated on a farm in the townland at Springtown, Pettigo, there passed to his eternal reward that  hard-working and prosperous farmer, Mr. Thomas McCrea, widely known and greatly respected, throughout the county, who although advanced in age continued to work on his farm in a manner and with such skill as to put many of the present and much younger farm hands to shame, and practically up to the time of his death; yes, he had undoubtedly splendid attributes in the family sphere and what an inspiration to those of us who had the good fortune to watch his zeal and activities in order to maintain the reputation he inherited from his ancestors. He was my greatest friend of a lifetime; he who for so long served as the last link to a chain of equally good farmers and friends within, the five adjoining townlands, all of whom have preceded him in death, and how when I last paid a visit to his home some three years ago we talked around the fireside of the many little episodes occurring in our earlier days when during the long dreary and wintry days we made our nocturnal visits to the neighbouring farm houses to engage in a game of cards or some other form of entertainments and journeying home along the lonely roads and paths with an atmosphere of silence save the barking of a dog away at some isolated farmhouse. His home of which he always felt so proud was not always regarded as a home, rather would I say an institution, because I well remember the days’ when, that stately home was filled to overflow with patrons who had paid their pence and in some cases a shilling for what was then generally known as a “tea meeting” or “soiree” to provide funds for the lone widow, the aged or infirm, who dreaded the sight of a poor law institution. Yes, this was the home of big hearts, filled with kindness and sympathy; most charitable and indeed hospitable in the fullest measure. The deceased was the son of a great sporting family. Indeed there are many, people, like the writer, who can recall the annual races held at Ederney, and the great event which was won by a horse called “Wire In,” bred by father, William. This was heralded as a great victory for Pettigo and was celebrated too. Indeed almost every hillside had its bonfire or tar barrel illuminations, but those were the good old days and enjoyed by the grand old men of that time. His wife and family together with numerous and widespread friends are left to mourn a happy ending to a life full of sacrifice, love and admiration for his family circles. The writer has suffered an irreparable loss by one of the most outstanding and staunchest friends he had the good fortune to associate with and little did I imagine that on my last visit some 3 or 4 years ago when I received a most cordial reception followed by his ever increasing hospitality that such a stately and. cheerful home should be overshadowed with death.— (R.I.P.). P. McC.

4-4-1942. PETTIGO NEWS. On Monday of last week an Inspector from the Department of Supplies visited Pettigo village and met and interviewed members of the Parish Council with regard to the shortage of flour in that area. At the suggestion of the official it was decided to ask all householders to hand in the names of all residents in these households to their grocers so as to arrange that all may receive a fair quantity of flour per week.

On Thursday night a very enjoyable concert was held in Pettigo Hall. The entire programme was produced by, local artistes. The sketches which were humorous created much mirth. Songs were rendered by Mr. J. Elliott and Mm. F. M‘Crea, the accompanists being Miss Dorothy Mulhern and Miss Patsy Galligan.

POLICEMAN SHOT DEAD IN BELFAST. SHOTS EXCHANGED IN STREET. Assailant Wounded. SIX MEN CAPTURED. On Sunday afternoon in an exchange of shots in a Belfast street, a policeman was shot dead and one of his assailants wounded.

An official report issued from Stormont Castle, Belfast, stated: “About 3.15 this afternoon (Sunday) a police car containing four members of the R.U.C., was passing along Kashmir Rd., when it was fired at from behind an air-raid shelter. The car was hit, and the driver promptly pulled up. The policemen got out and pursued the armed men, who took refuge in No. 63 Cawnpore St. The police were fired at again, and the fire was returned. Constable Patrick Murphy (3090), attached to Springfield Rd. barracks, was shot dead after wounding one of his assailants. Having entered the house, the six men ran up to the top floor, where they were captured. One of them, who had been wounded, was taken to hospital. Two women were also, detained.”

The wounded man’s name was given as Robert Williams, aged 19, Cawnpore St., Belfast. Intense police activity followed and several houses were searched. There was a large attendance at the funeral of the deceased constable which took place on Tuesday from St. Paul’s Church to Milltown Cemetery. Deceased leaves a widow and nine children.

MURDER CHARGE. FIVE YOUTHS AND TWO GIRLS REMANDED.

Charged with the wilful murder of Constable Patrick Murphy on Easter Sunday, following a gun-battle between the police, and civilians, five youths and two girls appeared at the Belfast Police Court on Tuesday before Mr. J. H. Campbell, K.C., R.M. A sixth man, Thomas J. Williams, Bombay St., is under arrest in the Royal Victoria Hospital, suffering from gunshot wounds. Joseph Cahill (21), of 60 Divis Street, one of the accused, had his head heavily swathed in bandages. Margaret Nolan, of 32 Bombay St., was aged 16 years.

The other accused were Henry Gardner, 35 Malcolmson Street, 19 years, fitter; William James Perry (21), 264 Cupar St., labourer; John Terence Oliver (21), 167 Springfield Road; Patrick Simpson (18), 86 Cawnpore Street, sheet metal worker; Margaret Burns, 39 Cupar St., an 18-year- old waitress. The accused were remanded for three weeks in custody.

Mr. John Deeny, who appeared for the accused reserved has defence.

GIFTED FERMANAGH MAN’S DEATH – MR. PHIL MARTIN. Something of a sensation was caused throughout County Fermanagh on Wednesday by the news of the death, at a comparatively early age, of Mr. Phil Martin, Kilturk, Lisnaskea, the gifted Uileann piper, Radio. Eireann artiste and

£650 SETTLEMEHT. Enniskillen Bootmaker’s Death Recalled. At Fermanagh Assizes a suit was mentioned in which Mrs. Mary McDonald, 5, Down St., Enniskillen, on behalf of herself and children, Bernard and Mary, sought damages for the death of her husband Patrick, who died following an accident on 20th May, at the Hollow, opposite Dickie’s shop. The defendants were Lieut. Robin F. Fryer, then stationed near Enniskillen, who was motor-, cycling and. was seriously injured, and John A. Armstrong, 17 High St., Enniskillen, shop manager.

A settlement was announced under which £650 and costs would be paid by the defendant Fryer, and the claim against Armstrong was dismissed. The £650 will be divided as follows:—£375 to the widow, £175 to the daughter, and £30 to the son, with £20 for funeral expenses. Mr. Justice Megaw made the settlement a rule of court.

BELLEEK GIRL’S INJURIES. Mary Catherine Timoney, a worker in the Belleek Pottery, of Garvery,. Leggs P.O., sued Richard G. Roe, Lake View House, Letter, P.O., for damages sustained by reason of defendant’s negligence in the control of a motor car at Ballymagaghran Cross (Belleek-Kesh road) on the 18th August. Plaintiff stated she was cycling from her home in the afternoon and emerging on the main road at Ballymagaghran Cross she was proceeding over to her proper side when the car suddenly appeared and bore down on top of her. She remembered nothing further.

Dr. Daly, Ballyshannon, stated plaintiff suffered serious injuries, including a fractured skull. Defendant stated he was coming out of Belleek fair with three passengers when, approaching the cross, plaintiff came out about ten yards in front. He braked and swerved to avoid her. The car was almost stationary when plaintiff ran into it. The three passengers also having given evidence, Mr. Justice Megaw said he had every sympathy for the plaintiff, but unfortunately he had to decide the case on law and not on sympathy. He was satisfied there had been contributory negligence and that the defendant had no opportunity of avoiding the collision.

CYCLING ACCIDENT NEAR BLACKLION. SEQUEL AT DOWRA COURT. Two Women Knocked Down. YOUNG LADY FINED. At Dowra District Court, before Mr. M. J. C. Keane, D.J., Supt. Jackson prosecuted Lizzie McManus, Mullaghboy, Blacklion, for cycling on 31st August last in a dangerous manner at Killyglasson, Blacklion. Miss Annie Mason said she was going to Mass at Killinagh. At Killyglasson Cross She met Mrs. Dolan and they walked together. She had only stepped on to the road, and was on her right side. She heard no bell, and the next thing was that they were knocked down by a bicycle which was ridden by Miss McManus. She fell off the bicycle, and when she got up she cycled off. Witness was in a Dublin hospital for three months as a result of the accident. Mrs. M. Dolan,  who was with the last witness on the occasion, said Miss Mason came out to the road from the stile when witness met her. Miss Mason was on the right-hand side of the road and witness was on the left. She was knocked on the road, and Dr. Horkins advised her to go to hospital, and she did not.

Guard Mahaffy said the road was 17ft., wide at the point of the accident, and the person going towards the church would have a view of 70 yards.

Guard Hegarty said he interviewed Miss McManus who made a statement. She said she sounded the bell, and she was passing between the two women. She cycled off after the accident as she was too frightened.

John Sheerin said he was walking to Mass on the occasion on his correct side of the road. He saw Miss Mason coming on the road. He saw the accident. Mrs. Dolan was on the left-hand side and Miss Mason came over and shook hands with her. Mrs. Dolan went to move to the left, and Miss McManus tried to pass between them, and the next thing was that they all fell.

To Mr. Keane—Only for Mrs. Dolan moving Miss McManus could have passed on her correct or left-hand side of the road.

To Supt. Jackson—I cannot say I heard a bell sounded.

Miss Maguire deposed that she was with last witness and Mr. Dolan on the occasion going to Mass. Mrs. Dolan was on the wrong side of the road and went to cross, and when she heard the bell she turned around. Witness heard the bell sounded. If Mrs. Dolan had kept her own side of the road there would have been no accident. Mrs. Dolan was responsible for the accident. Miss McManus tried to pass between the two women.

Miss L. McManus, defendant, stated she was 16 years :of age. She passed John Sheeran, and before doing so rang the bell, and did the same passing Mrs. Dolan and Miss Mason. She rang the bell for them to keep their own place. Only for Mrs. Dolan crossing the road there would be no accident. Her bicycle was broken.

To Supt. Jackson—I went away after the accident, and my sister stayed with the two women.

To Mr. Keane—I live with my parents, and no compensation was paid the two ladies. I am cycling a few years, and am still cycling. I did not report the

JAIL FOR NEXT OFFENCE R.M.’s WARNING IN R.A.F. BLANKETS LARCENY CHARGE. “ I would like it to be known that, the next person I find taking Air Force or Army property from airmen or soldiers will be sent to prison for a lengthy term, and I shall send them to prison without the slightest hesitation.” This stern warning was issued at Enniskillen Petty Sessions on Monday by Major Dickie, R.M., when dealing with a case in which Mrs. Mary Dolan, 27 Market Street, Enniskillen, was charged with receiving six blankets, one sheet and one roller towel, property of the Air Ministry, and value £4 14s 10d, knowing same to have been stolen; her husband; Francis Dolan, was charged with receiving a pair of Air Force trousers, value 15/6, knowing them to have been stolen and Bartholomew McKeown, a lodger with, the Dolans, was charged with aiding and abetting Mrs. Dolan in receiving one Air Ministry blanket, value 12/6, by carrying it from a place of concealment to Dolan’s, knowing it to have been stolen.

Head Constable Thornton said on information received he obtained a warrant on the 9th March and went to Dolan’s house, accompanied by Sergeant Lockhart and Corporal Clarke, of the R.A.F. security police. He met Mary Dolan, wife of Francis, and told her he was going to search the house for Air Force property, and asked her had she any, and she said no. Then she said: “I will tell you the truth, I have; come on and I will show them to you.” She took them upstairs, and from, a number of lodgers’ beds she took blankets, sometimes one, sometimes two, totalling seven in all. Mrs. Dolan kept a lodging-house. They went into the room occupied by the Dolans, and from a chest of drawers she produced a sheet and roller towel. The corporal pointed out, hanging on the bedroom wall, a pair of Air Force trousers. All these were taken. Later, at an identification parade, Mrs. Dolan identified Quinn as the man who sold her the blankets and her husband the trousers. Her husband also identified Quinn. The R.A.F. man who had sold the first blanket had since been transferred to another station.

In a statement, Mrs. Dolan said she bought one blanket from an airman named Walsh. The remaining six blankets and one sheet and towel were bought from Airman Quinn, who Charged 18/- each for the first two, 15/- each for the second pair, and 8/- for the sheet, with the towel thrown in. She knew they were Air Ministry property, but did not know that there .was any harm in taking them, as Quinn, said they had been given to him. The husband, Francis Dolan, said Mr. Quinn, an Air Force man, who lived in Enniskillen about four or five weeks ago sold him a pair of trousers for 8/-. The head constable added that Quinn was a native of Enniskillen. In a statement, Keown said he was a lodger in Dolan’s, and two months ago he brought a parcel into Mrs. Dolan from a house in the country. He did not know what was in the parcel.

Cross-examined by Mr. Flanagan, the head constable said the price paid for the blankets by Mrs. Dolan would probably be£69s 0d in all. The value of the blankets would appear to be £4 14s 0d so she paid a bigger price than the actual value Yes, bigger than

1942 Fermanagh Herald.

January 17th 1942. PAIR OF TOUGHS AND BULLIES. £10 ON EACH OF TWO DEFENDANTS Ballinamallard Assault on Policemen. “ From your behaviour in Court I regard you as . toughs and bullies declared Major T. W. Dickie, R.M., when, at Irvinestown Petty Sessions on Friday, he addressed two men convicted of assaulting two policemen in Ballinamallard. One of the men, Arthur Smiley, of Coa, was summoned for assaulting “ B ” Special Graham, while in the execution of his duty, and the second man, Edward Wilson, also of Coa, was summoned for assaulting Const. James Glassey, R.U.C. D. I. Walshe prosecuted, and Mr. Aidan Herbert, solicitor, defended.

Constable Glassey swore that when on duty in Ballinamallard on 13th December he saw and heard a number of strangers shouting and singing as they left a public-house. They appeared to be rowdy, and witness stopped them, and demanded their identity cards. As witness was taking out his notebook and pencil, one of the men, Wilson, struck him a violent blow in the face, knocking him down. Defendant jumped on top of him and, putting his two hands round witness’s head, tried to batter it off the kerbstone. Special Const. Graham came to his assistance and, while attempting to release him, Smiley caught him (Graham.) by the two legs and “threw him up the street.” D, I. — A rugby tackle. (Laughter). Witness — Yes, and he kicked him at the same time. A large crowd gathered and the two men cleared off.

Cross-examined, witness agreed the night was dark—it was about 9-20 p.m. He did not see another row on the street. “Isn’t Ballinamallard street only twenty or thirty yards long?” suggested Mr. Herbert. D.I.—It is more than that. R.M.—It is a quarter of a mile at least.  Continuing, witness said he saw Wilson later, struck in a hedge outside the town. ”When he was pulled out and asked what he was doing there,- defendant replied: “ I hit nobody. ”

Special Const, Graham gave corroborative evidence as to the alleged attack by Wilson on Const. Glassey. He .went to the latter’s assistance, and while trying to separate them Smiley tossed him on his back and kicked him as well. Witness identified the men with the aid of a torch. Witness did not see any other row on the street that night. Sergt. J. V. Lewis gave evidence that following a report of the incident he went out the road and found Smiley’s car. A person standing beside it was asked where the’ other gentlemen were, and he replied that he did not know. Witness then heard a “fissling” in the hedge, and on going over found Wilson pulling himself out of the thorns; his face was covered with blood, and his clothes were torn. The first words defendant said were: “I hit nobody, skipper.” (Laughter).

RECOGNISANCES ESTREATED AT ENNISKILLEN. At the second December Court in Enniskillen, four .men were fined for coming into the Six Counties without proper documents of identity. Only two of the men surrendered to their bail. The two who returned to their homes in the Twenty-Six Counties did not appear before Major T. W. Dickie, R.M. They were fined 40/- each, and. the two fines were paid by Francis Macken, publican, Belmore Street, who had bailed the men. At Enniskillen Petty. Sessions on Monday, Mr. Macken appeared on an application by the police to estreat the recognisances entered into. Head Constable Thornton made the application, and Mr. J. O. H. Long, R.M., said bailing a man was a most serious matter, and he granted the application, estreating the recognisances in the  sum of 20/- in each of the two cases.

RAILWAYS AND ARIGNA COAL. Arigna coal, mixed; with Welsh, steam coal, is being used by Great Southern Railways Co. on a large section of the Western circuit, with the measure of success anticipated, states an Irish Independent representative. An expert explained that Arigna coal did not really suit railway engines because it was too dirty. It left a big residue of ash, and also burned the fire bars quickly and the fire box as well and abnormal renewals would be called for. It produced a fire which was really too hot for engines, but in existing circumstances, the railways would be glad to get it. The company was prepared to take increasing quantities of the coal.

“MY WIFE IS A CATHOLIC” ENGLISHMAN WHO WAS REFUSED TOWN CLERKSHIP OF BELFAST. ALLEGATIONS IN AN INTERVIEW. “I WAS ASKED MY RELIGION” Mr. W. L. Allen, town Clerk, Barrow- on-Furness, was appointed by the “Big Six’ of the corporation as Town Clerk of Belfast. He was selected as the most, competent amongst a large batch of applicants. Mr. Dawson Bates, Minister for Home Affairs, refused to sanction the appointment. Now it is alleged that the Minister’s refusal was prompted by questions of religion. This was stated by Mr. Allen in an interview with pressmen on Saturday last. I would like to make it perfectly clear,” said Mr. Allen, “that it seems to me amazing that such an issue could be seriously raised either as a recommendation or an objection to the appointment to such an important position as town clerk of a city of the importance of Belfast.

Sir Dawson Bates, Minister of Home Affairs on Saturday informed the “Big Six” Committee of Belfast Corporation that, .as requested by the Corporation, he had interviewed Mr, Allen and that nothing had emerged from the interview to alter his decision not to endorse Mr. Alley’s appointment. The “Big Six,” it is stated, have decided not to press further for the appointment, and Mr. John F. McKinstry, Acting Town Clerk who is due to retire next May, will again be asked to continue in office for an indefinite period.

Mr. ALLEN’S INTERVIEW. Mr. Allen, in an interview, said “I came over here at the direct, request of the Minister of Home Affairs. I had an interview with him, lasting 40 minutes, and it would have been a simple matter for him to have told me his decision. The first time I was over here, the first intimation I had of the appointment being refused was through the Press. This time the same thing has occurred. ‘’Since arriving on the second visit I have reason to believe that the religious question has been raised, and raised as a very serious issue. “It is incredible to me that such an issue could be raised as either, an objection or recommendation to an appointment such as Town Clark of a city as important as Belfast. One wonders what are the views of the thousands of Irishmen who fight for freedom.

“The position is that I and my family and ancestors for 250 years have been Church of England Protestants. The girl, who became my wife two years ago, after I had been widowed six years, is an English girl of Irish descent and a Catholic.

January 17th 1942. GREAT DERRYGONNELLY CEILIDHE. FR. McCAFFREY’S POWERFUL APPEAL FOR GAELIC CAUSE.A stirring appeal for support of the native games, dances and language and all things Gaelic, was made by Rev. D. McCaffrey, C.C., when on Sunday night he presented the Junior Football League Cup to the victors in the 1941 competition, Derrygonnelly Harps G.F.C., at a ceilidhe mhor organised by the club in St, Patrick’s Hall, Derrygonnelly. There was an attendance of over 400 at the ceilidhe, which was the first organised in the district for many years. The extraordinary success of the event ensures that for the future ceilidhthe will be a prominent feature of Derrygonnelly social events. Enniskillen and Cavanacross between them, alone sent nearly a hundred patrons, while travelling accommodation prevented nearly fifty more from attending also.

It was a great Irish night. Mr. Jim Sheridan, popular M.C., from Cavanacross, had a comparatively easy task in dealing with a fine programme and an orderly and happy crowd. The St. Molaise Ceilidhe Band, Enniskillen, added further lustre to its name by providing splendid music under the direction of Rev. Bro. Bede, its conductor. An excellent supper was supplied by a hard-working ladies’ committee, and contributors to a most enjoyable selection of songs, dances, etc., were: Misses Maisie Lunny, P.E.T., Eileen Early, Kathleen and May Burns, Margaret McGlone and  — Duffy, Monea; Messrs. Sean O’Boyle, J. Sheridan and J. Quinn.

Although Irish dancing has not been done in the district for some years, the performance of the dances was excellent, the Enniskillen and Cavanacross Gaels leading their Derrygonnelly friends through the various movements. Happy faces were everywhere, and as the popular chairman of the club (Mr. J. J. Maguire) remarked aptly: “at no other event could there be seen so many happy Irish faces.” Those present in addition to others mentioned were Father Duffy, Derrygonnelly; Misses Vera Tummon, P.E.T.; May, McCaffrey, teaching staff, . Convent of Mercy, Messrs. Seamus O’Ceallaigh, Secretary, Co. Board; G. McGee, M.P. S.I.  Parties were present from Belleek and Irvinestown, as well as other places mentioned.

Mr. Maguire, presiding, expressed regret at the unavoidable absence of Very Rev. T. Maguire, P.P., who was to have presented the cup. Father Maguire was the best Gael in Fermanagh, and they were sorry not to have him with them, especially as he was a native of the parish. They had a good substitute in their own beloved curate, Father McCaffrey. (Applause). He thanked all the patrons, and said it was a revelation to them in Derrygonnelly to see the pulling power of a ceilidhe. It was a lesson they were not likely to forget for the future. (Applause). He hoped 1942 would be an even more successful year for their club than 1941, and that they would retain the cup they had and add further trophies to their collection He hoped, too, that ceilidhthe would form their social entertainments for the future. (Applause). The only game they had lost during the year was to Derrylin in the Junior Championship final. Victory in that would have meant that they had won the two junior cups, but they very heartily congratulated Derrylin on their victory and wished them all success in the future. He thanked, everyone connected with the success of the night: the ladies, for their catering and the excellent band from Enniskillen.

FERMANAGH TEACHER SUED. PUPIL LOST EYE AT PLAY. CLAIM FOR DAMAGES. HEARING IN HIGH COURT. A claim brought by a 13 year-old pupil against the principal teacher of a Border school came before the Lord Chief Justice in the Belfast King’s Bench Division last week. The plaintiff, Patrick Anthony Leonard, a minor by his father, John Patrick Leonard, of Creenagho, Belcoo, claimed damages far ,the loss of his right eye alleging negligence on the part of James Ferguson, a public elementary teacher, of Belcoo, in not exercising proper supervision. The boy when playing on the road during the midday break was struck by a stone.

Mr. C. L. Sheil (instructed by Mr. Jas. Cooper) was for the plaintiff; Mr. J. D. Chambers, K.C., and Mr, J. Agnew (instructed by Messrs. Maguire & Herbert) being for the defendant.

Mr. Sheil said the accident took place during the lunch hour on March 23, 1939. The school was the last building on the border dividing Fermanagh from Cavan. The school was staffed by the defendant and two women teachers. On the day in question there were about 70 pupils at the school. Those who lived in Belcoo village or nearby got home for their lunch and about 30 children brought their lunch with them.

Mont of the playground or field had been used for instruction in horticulture by the master, and as part of it not tilled was wet the children played on the public road to the knowledge of the principal teacher.

Counsel added that one of the complaints was that the children were so allowed to play on the public road without any person being in charge of them. The children were playing football, and it is alleged that one of them lifted a handful of road material and threw it at the plaintiff,; who was struck on the right eye. The boy was attended by Dr. Hamilton and sent to Hospital. He was later taken to Belfast where the eye was removed. He submitted that the defendant should have foreseen the danger of letting the boys play on the road because of the traffic and the presence of loose road material. Under the Education Act there was cast on the defendant the statutory duty of exercising care over the children and supervision during the luncheon hour. Defendant, counsel asserted, had interviewed some of the boys, dictated to the children, and they wrote down statements. One boy would say that he was sent for by the master, who asked him to say that he (the defendant) was in fact on the road at the time of the accident.  Plaintiff gave evidence, and in reply to Mr Chambers agreed that he sometimes played on the roads at his home but not with the sanction of his parents. Sometimes the master told them not to go on the roads. Answering his Lordship, the plaintiff , said the master had told them not to be out on the road on certain days.

James McGurl, aged 16 years, said the boys used to play on the road. They were forbidden to be on the road on fair days but not on other days. The following day the master spoke to him and …………….

“IMPARTIALITY ” SERIOUSLY QUERIED. To the Editor Fermanagh Herald. ”Sir, Some of your readers who are unacquainted with the Impartial Reporters peculiar principles of impartiality, may have been misled by one of its “impartial” statements, published last week; will you, therefore allow me a few words on the subject. An article in that journal commenting on Regional Education Committee matters, concluded thus “Strange, when Mr. Hanna was appointed Principal, Captain Wray voted against him, favouring a candidate in the same line but with qualifications inferior to those of Mr. Hanna. Under the sharp pangs of remorse for having failed to favour the “Impartial Reporter’s” “highly qualified. candidate, I can just barely recall, as feeble consolation that my iniquity  on that occasion was shared by several other Corrupt nit-wits of the Committee, a few citizens with rank and title to their names – spiritual and temporal. The “Impartial Reporters” ‘‘highly qualified” candidate was, of course, championed by our well- known stalwarts of public rectitude.

The poor mutt, with the ‘‘inferior qualifications” for whom I voted had only a lot of silly stuff as certificates, one of which was from a comic naval dockyard named Chatham and, incidentally, he was only the son of a common British Naval Officer —’how ridiculously absurd to associate our Technical School, or sully its academic air, with such unqualified and inferior persons and places. Needless to add, that fellow with the “inferior qualifications” was not a Presbyterian, he was only just a Protestant, the poor devil could hardly have been more unqualified, I suppose, according to the “Impartial Reporter” unless he were a b…….. Papist.

I am Sir etc. J. P. Wray 27-1-1942.

January 1942. Fermanagh Herald.

Pettigo News. Fermanagh Herald. 17th January 1942. The death has occurred after a short illness, at her residence, Tievemore, Pettigo, of Miss Elizabeth Reid. There was a large attendance at the funeral.

On Saturday R.U.C. from Tullyhommon, Pettigo, made a search of a number of farm houses in the Cloghore and Camplagh districts along the Lettercran border, and seized a quantity of flour and bread. They also seized a quantity of sugar in bags, which had been smuggled from Donegal.

Blacklion District news. 17th January 1942. The wedding took place at Killinagh Protestant Church of Sergeant Alfred Brady R. I. F. Dungannon, a native of Florencecourt, and Miss Elizabeth Sheridan, Gola, Blacklion. Mr. George Sheridan, cousin of the bride, was best man, Miss Annie Sheridan, sister of the bride, was bridesmaid. Rev. Mr. Coleman, B. A. performed the ceremony.

There was a 90% attendance at meetings of the L.D.F. at Blacklion, Glenfarne, Barran and Glangevlin Groups during the week. At a meeting of the Locality Security Force arrangements for extending night patrols were made.

During the week 160 men started to work under the minor relief scheme in the different parts of the area.

When returning from milking cows at Drumcow, Mrs Leonard, Belcoo, fell from a foot style and had her leg broken. She was removed to Enniskillen Hospital.

FINTONA. Butter jumps 1s 7d per lb.; pork 23 carcasses; young pigs 85s to 95s each, potatoes 6s to 7s 4d per cwt.

CASTLEDERG. Pork, 40 carcases; young pigs 65s to 80s each; chickens 4s 6d to 6s 6d, hens 3s 6d to 5s 6d, ducks 3s to3s 6d each; potatoes 7s to 8s per cwt retail.

24th January 1942. CAR ON CONCESSION ROADS. QUESTION OF LIGHTS NOT “ BLACKED-OUT ” A point affecting thousands of motorists who use the Clones-Gavan Concession Road, was raised at Newtownbutler Petty Sessions, before Major T. W. Dickie, R.M., when Patrick McEntee, Clonfad, Newtownbutler, was summoned on three counts for not having the lights on his motor car properly blacked-out.

Mr. J. B. Murphy, solicitor, who appeared for defendant, said the case raised the point of black-out on the Concession- Road, on which defendant resided. The road was in and out of Monaghan and Fermanagh at points. Cars in Monaghan could use undimmed lights while the Six-County cars must be blacked-out. District Inspector Smyth, Lisnaskea, said defendant’s car was found in the Six Counties. Mr. Murphy — Any person using that road could be stopped in the Six Counties. Major Dickie—I am afraid they could. The real trouble is that Six-County “cars meeting headlights are helpless. Major Dickie said he thought it was a very proper case to be brought, to- see what would be done. Constable W. H. Walker—I brought it for that purpose. Mr. Murphy —‘What is Mr. McEntee to do in future? ‘ Major Dickie – That is the trouble with, all of us. I would suggest he should have a dipping headlight and drive with one headlamp dipped. I think if the defendant and all other Free State drivers used that form of light on the Concession Road there would be no objection by the police. Mr. Murphy asked to have the Probation of Offenders Act applied with costs, and said they in Monaghan would dip their lights. The Probation Act was applied.

24th January 1942. POPULAR ENNISKILLEN WEDDING. MAGUIRE — SMYTH. A pretty and popular wedding was solemnised in St. Michael’s, Church, Enniskillen, on Wednesday morning of last week, the contacting parties being Mr. Peter M. Maguire, the well-known Gael and secretary of Enniskillen Gaels G.A.A. club for the past 15 years and Miss Margaret (Gretta) Smyth, Wellington,, secretary of the Fermanagh County Camogie Board. The best man was Mr. James Donnelly, and the bride was attended by her sister, Miss Mary T. (‘Dot’) Smyth, P.E.T.

The ceremony, with Nuptial Mass, was performed by Rev. E. Rhatigan, C.C., Terenure, Dublin, cousin of the groom, assisted by Ven. Archdeacon Gannon, P.P., Enniskillen. The reception in the Railway Hotel, Enniskillen, was attended by a large number of relatives and friends of the happy couple. Father Rhatigan presided, and those present included Rev. Father Vincent, C. P., the Graan. The honeymoon is being spent in the South and West of Ireland.

24th January 1942. CALL FOR SECONDARY EDUCATION ON WIDER BASIS. Mr. J. J. Coalter, J.P., urged Fermanagh Regional Education Committee to appeal to the Government to place secondary education on the same basis as primary education so that all might be able to obtain the higher standard of education without extra cost. Mr. Coalter said the time had arisen when they should press upon the Government the absolute necessity of providing the same facilities for secondary as for primary education. Secondary education was not available to all pupils. It was lack of a proper secondary education that had caused the dearth of properly trained young men that were now wanted by the country in time of war. It was impossible for the ordinary man, after providing the necessities of life for children, such as food and clothing, to provide a proper secondary education.

24th January 1942. LEITRIM LADY’S DEATH IN WICKLOW. Mrs. Alice Clancy, proprietress, Grand Hotel, Wicklow, who died, was a native of Manorhamilton and was widow of Mr. Patrick Clancy, Kiltyclogher, Co. Leitrim. Formerly of the Bellevue Hotel, Dun Laoghaire, she took over the Grand Hotel, Wicklow, in 1918. She was sister of Sister Mary Therese, O.P., and Sister Mary Patrick, Holy Faith Order, both in South Africa, and mother of Mr. Joseph Clancy, who has been managing the Grand Hotel for some years; Rev. R. Clancy, C.C., Donabate, and of the late Rev. Berchmans Clancy, O Cist., Mount Melleray.

24th January 1942. DROVE WITHOUT LICENCE. John P. Brannigan, 6, Henry Street, Enniskillen, was fined 20s at Enniskillen Petty Sessions for driving a motor lorry without a licence.

January 10th 1942. RAILWAY LINE CLOSED. LAST RUN IN THE CLOGHER VALLEY. The close of the old year coincides with the passing of the Clogher Valley Railway, which has served the district for 65 years and was closed down on Wednesday of last week in accordance with an Order of the Ministry of Home Affairs. To mark the occasion members of the office and locomotive staffs with a number of local folk took a joy ride on the last train from Aughnacloy to Fivemiletown and back, the arrival home at Aughnacloy being signalled by the hooting of the engine whistle. Competition was keen as to who would have the honour of punching the last ticket issued and this distinction was credited to Dr. Gillespie of Tynan.

Some 70 employees are affected by the closing of the line, but most of them, will receive compensation on a varying scale. Although: no trains are now running the head office staff at Aughnacloy carry on as usual and will continue to do so for the present as a lot of clearing up work has to be attended to before the liquidator proceeds with the dispersal of the property.

The Ministry’s cattle grading centers at Aughnacloy, Clogher, and Fivemiletown will be carried on at the railway premises as usual, the Clogher Rural Council having made arrangements for the use of the railway weighbridges for the purpose.

It is interesting to note that the first ticket issued on the railway is retained by Mr. W. D. Graham, solicitor, Fivemiletown, having been purchased by his father, the late Mr. D. Graham, on the first run 56 years ago.

January 10th 1942. MANOR HAMILTON NEWS. Roses in Bloom. — Roses in bloom are to be seen in Mr. M. O’Donnell’s garden at Boleyhill.

L.D.F. District Command Dance. — The L.D.F. District Command Dance held on Sunday night was well patronised.

January 10th 1942. ROSLEA POTEEN CHARGE. BARREL OF WASH FOUND. JAIL SENTENCE. At Roslea Petty Sessions on Friday before Major T. W. Dickie, R.M., Thomas Beagan, farmer, Tonnaghaboy, Roslea, was sentenced to two months’ imprisonment without hard labour when he pleaded guilty to having 20 gallons of wash in his possession, on Dec. 6th. A further charge of having a bottle in his possession containing a few drops of poteen was dismissed without prejudice. Defendant was not professionally represented. In reply to District-Inspector Smyth, Lisnaskea, Sergt. Ryder, R.U.C., Fivemiletown, stated that while accompanied by Sergt. C. E. Williams, Roslea, he assisted in searching the house of defendant. In the sitting-room he found two empty 141b. tins which had contained syrup. He then went to a hayshed and with the assistance of a graip he found a barrel in the hay which contained 20 gallons of ‘wash’. The wash had matured and was ready for running. Witness heard Beagan saying it was his wash. Defendant then informed the court he admitted having the wash.

Sergt. Williams deposed to finding a large bottle which smelled strongly of poteen. When questioned about the bottle defendant stated it had been left there by a girl called Lena Murphy. In fairness to defendant he would like to say he tested that statement and found there had been a bottle left there some days previously. When questioned about the wash defendant said it was his. When asked to account for the syrup defendant’s wife said it was used for making cakes. Later after the barrel was found defendant admitted the syrup was used for making the wash. Witness destroyed the wash and kept a sample. Defendant (told the court he admitted the wash but not the poteen. In reply to his Worship, the District Inspector said there were no previous convictions. In imposing the sentence stated Major Dickie said he would not impose hard Labour, although actually he believed it made no difference. Defendant was then removed in custody.

BLACKLION NEWS. In accordance with custom, groups of ‘Wren Boys’ travelled the district in the days prior to New Year’s Day.

The annual Xmas Tree was given in the Blacklion School by Mrs and the Rev. Mr Coleman on Wednesday night. A big number of children were entertained.

A dance in aid of funds for the new band was held in the MacNean Hall, Belcoo, on New Year’s Night. The spacious Hall was packed. The music was by the Sunny Melody Band.

A special meeting of the Group Staff of the Local Security Force was held in Blacklion on Friday night. Group Leader Wynn presided. Sergt Rock and D. S. O. Maguire, N. T. were in attendance. A letter from the Minister for Justice was read, thanking the group for their services for the past year. The question of the formation of a branch of the Red Cross was discussed and it was decided to assist in forming a branch as soon as possible. The appointment of Mr. John Jas. Grane as Section Leader was sanctioned. Mr Michael Foley was appointed Asst. Section Leader. An Intelligence Officer was also appointed.

PETTIGO NEWS. The poor in Pettigo village were provided with food, clothing and fuel by a number of charitable gentlemen and ladies in the vicinity during the Christmas season. The donors include: – Guard J. Treanor and Mrs Treanor, Mr. James Gallagher, Postmaster, Mr Michael Fullerton, Customs and Excise, Mr and Mrs Thos. Bradley, Sic-Co., Customs and Mrs Dora Wrenn, C.M.B.

On Tuesday night of last week Lettercran B. Group of the L. S. F. under Squad Leader T. Haughey assembled at the local hall and underwent instruction in squad drill.

On Thursday night of last week a very enjoyable dance was held in St. Patrick’s Parochial Hall, Agheyarron, (sic) the proceeds being in aid of Parochial Funds. The music was supplied by Messrs Eddie McHugh, Corgary, and Edward Lynch, Mullinabreen. Mr. James Neill McNally was M. C.

On Wednesday night of last week a dance was held in Letter Hall, Pettigo, the proceeds being in aid of charity. The music was provided by the Trio Dance Band. Mr. William H. Marshall, Skea, was M. C.

1942. Smuggling etc.

Fermanagh Herald 1942.

ENNISKILLEN PUBLICAN SUMMONED. CASE AT PETTY SESSIONS. Mrs. Catherine McNulty, publican, The Brook, Enniskillen, was summoned at Enniskillen Petty Sessions on Monday, before Mr. J. O. H. Long, R.M., for unreasonable delay in admitting police to licensed premises.

Sergeant Torrens gave evidence that on Sunday, 7th December, he had been on plain clothes duty in the Brook with Constable Bates, and saw four people come down over the West Bridge and knock at the defendant’s licensed premises, but they left when the door was not opened to them. The constable and witness went round to the back and stood at the back gate, and when there heard a man’s voice and somebody came out and flashed a torch on them. They went round to the front again and witness knocked at the door, it being then 8-36 p.m., and shouted that they were police on public-house duty. There was a terrible scurrying of feet as if people were running all over the place. Witness heard a woman say to open the door. Witness knocked six times in all, and the door was opened at 8-45 p.m. by a daughter-in-law of the licensee, who said that she heard the knock but thought that one of the men of the family had opened the door. Witness searched the premises, and in the room on the left found a male visitor with a young lady, but they were quite satisfied as he was in the habit of visiting in the house. In the old kitchen or cellar under the bar they found a young man (charged with being on the premises) standing with his back against the wall as if hiding. He said he had been over helping Anthony, a son of the licensee, to put tyres on his car. Witness did not see Anthony in the house at that time, and  later when he saw Anthony he said he had not seen the man since that afternoon.

To .Mr. G. E. Warren (for defendant), witness said that Anthony came in after he had sent for him. Actually he had the keys of the bar. — Yes, the bar was locked. And everything was in order ? —Yes. Witness added that there was no sign of drink. The case was dismissed on. the merits.

The man found on the premises said he was down in the yard before he heard the knock at the door, and when he heard the policeman he thought it better to hide. His Worship said he would give him the benefit of the doubt this time and dismissed the case,

CARBIDE IN LARGE QUANTITIES NEAR BORDER. MINISTRY’S CONCERN

It has been brought to notice that exceptionally large quantities of carbide of calcium, are at present stored in various places convenient to the border, stated the Ministry of Home Affairs in a letter to Enniskillen Urban Council on Monday, adding that the presumption was that it was being so stored to facilitate it’s being smuggled into the Twenty-Six Counties. It was essential, stated the Ministry, that this illegal traffic should be stopped, and they asked the Council, as licensing authority, to co-operate by ensuring that no licence-holders in its district were authorised to maintain stocks of carbide of calcium in excess of the quantities stored by them prior to the outbreak of the present war.

Information as to the stocks in Enniskillen was given by the Town Clerk (Mr. A. W. G. Ritchie, M.A.), who stated that in l958-’59 there were 8 license-holders storing in all 6,816 lbs. of carbide; in 1939-’40 eight licence-holders storing 5,576 lbs; in 1940-‘41 eight licence-holders storing 5,576 lbs., and in 1941-’42 ten licence-holders to store 9,912 lbs. Richardson and Clingan, successors to Lemon, who had a licence) sought to store 560 lbs. for the present year. The firm of J. Lendrum, who had a licence for 1,000 lbs. had not taken out a licence for .this year. Stevenson’s, who had a licence for 224 lbs., had also ceased to hold a licence. In the following there was no change in the amount of carbide during the four years up to the present:—Breen and Ternan, 560 lbs.; Devine, 224 lbs.; Nethercott, 672 lbs. Jeffers were down to 1,000 lbs. from 2,240 lbs. four years ago. Increases sought were Cathcart (a new firm, seeking a new licence), 1,000 lbs.; Anderson, from 1,000 lbs. during previous years to 5,000 lbs.; Dickie, from 896 lbs. to 2,500 lbs. It was decided to supply this information to the police authorities, with whom the Ministry asked the Council to co-operate in preventing possible smuggling.

JANUARY 10, 1942. TWO MEN CHARGED! WEARING ARMY CLOTHES

JAIL SENTENCES AT ENNISKILLEN. APPEAL LODGED. Two young men appeared before Mr. J. 0. H. Long, R.M., at Enniskillen Petty Sessions on Monday, in connection with military apparel they were found to have been wearing. They were Wm. John Corrigan, rabbit trapper, of Magheradunbar, Enniskillen, and John Charles Connor, also of Magheradunbar.

Connor was charged with stealing a pair of army trousers, value £1 0s 6d, and on a second charge it was alleged he had the trousers and a military blouse belonging to H.M. Forces and under the care of the Secretary of State, such articles of clothing being reasonably suspected of having been stolen or unlawfully obtained. Corrigan was charged with the larceny of a pair of army trousers and also for being in possession of the trousers and a service-pullover, reasonably suspected of having been stolen or unlawfully obtained.

Head Constable F. Thornton, who also prosecuted, said that in response to a message from the military he went to an army camp on 11th December and found the two accused detained there. Witness brought them, to the R.U.C. Barracks in Enniskillen, where Corrigan said he found the khaki trousers he was wearing in the field known as the “Cottage Nose ” on the 7th December. Defendant alleged he found the trousers rolled up and .hidden in the mouth of a rabbit burrow. He did not give witness any information about the jersey, which witness pointed out to him, bore an army mark. Connor, who had a complete suit of military uniform, said he found the trousers in the field opposite Captain Teele’s gate, in which his (defendant’s) house was situated. The jacket or blouse had been given to him by a soldier who had been stationed in Enniskillen several months ago, and in return witness gave him a couple of rabbits. Replying to Mr. Herbert, witness stated he was not prepared to swear that these articles had been abandoned.

A Quartermaster from a military unit said the trousers cost £1 0s 6d to replace, the blouse £1 2s 6d, and the jersey 6/9. He did not consider the trousers had been abandoned. All military clothes did not bear-personal identification marks. Corrigan swore he found the trousers in a rabbit burrow half a mile from a military camp. They were very dirty, and as clothing was so scarce and he thought they had been discarded, he took them home and had them washed. He got the pullover fourteen months ago from the late Mr. Edward McNulty. Mr. Herbert said one of the McNulty family had been in the last war driving horses. Holding up the pullover, the Head Constable asked witness did he mean to ask his Worship to hold that it had been through the last war. Defendant—No.

Connor, in evidence, swore he found the trousers in the field beside his house and, thinking they were no use, he brought them home and boiled them to get the oil and dirt out of them. The jacket had been given to him by a soldier. Mr. Herbert commented that no soldier would dare go out with the blouse in that condition, the sleeve torn and buttons off and the trousers torn and dirty.

FATALITY AT THRESHING OPERATION. BROOKEBORO’ FARMER’S SAD FATE

William Ernest Cecil Johnston a farmer aged 37, residing at Gola House, Brookeborough died in Fermanagh County Hospital on Monday night as a result of the injuries received when the drum of his threshing machine exploded.  At an inquest held by Mr. G.  Warren, Coroner, a verdict was returned that death he was due to shock and hemorrhage following fracture of the school and laceration of the brain.  Thomas Alan Kettyle, farm labourer employed by deceased, said that shortly after 1.00 pm. on Monday January 5th he went with the deceased to the thresher where they were getting it ready to thresh in the afternoon.  They set it up and about 3.00 pm deceased started the engine which was let on for some time and it worked all right.  About 4.00 pm deceased lifted a sheaf of corn to put on the thresher and before he reached the drum the drum exploded with a crash.  Witness saw part of the drum hit deceased on the head and he fell.  Deceased did not speak and witness stretched him out; his head was bleeding.  Deceased was removed to the hospital shortly afterwards.  Dr. Thomas J.  Hagan, house surgeon in the County Hospital said deceased was unconscious when admitted to the hospital.  An operation was performed to relieve pressure on the brain but deceased died at 10.00 pm without regaining consciousness.

SHOTS FIRED BY “B” SPECIALS.  EVIDENCE IN DERRYLIN CASE.  At a special court in Derrylin Sean McGovern, merchant, Derrylin and a youth named Farrelly were charged with attempting to export 13 hundredweight of flour, loaves, margarine and other goods into the 26-Counties.  Sergeant A.  Sheridan, “B” Specials stated that while on duty that morning at 3.30 beside the Ballyconnell border a lorry came from Derrylin direction; he ordered the driver to halt and the machines slowed down but as he was about to step on the running board it dashed off again; witness and another constable then opened fire but the rear of the vertical was protected with bags of sulphate of ammonia and the lorry past into the 26 -Counties; just then another lorry came along was stopped and in it they found defendants who admitted they were taking the goods to the 26-Counties.  Major Dickie, RM said the defendants would have to remain in prison until the Petty Sessions next month.  Mr. Herbert, solicitor, for the defendants, appealed for bail as it was Christmas Time.  Eventually when McGovern’s father lodged  £84 in court bail was allowed defendants to appear at Enniskillen Petty Sessions on January 5th.

TWO GARRISON MEN HAD 3.600 LBS. OF CANDLES. POLICE SEIZURE IN TYRONE. “Would Supply All Fermanagh,” Says R.M. DEFENDANTS FINED AT OMAGH. The seizure by police of a lorry carrying 3,800 lbs. of candles, in a yard at Ballygawley on the night of the 2nd Oct. led to the appearance at Omagh Court on Monday, before Mr. Mark, R.M., of two Fermanagh men—Patrick Carty, Garrison, and Patrick F. McGovern, do.–charged with being knowingly concerned in dealing in and attempting to export the candles. Each of defendants was fined £20 and the lorry which belonged to Carty, with the candles, was forfeited. Notice of appeal was lodged.

Capt. Fyffe was for the Customs Authorities, and Mr. G. Grant, B.L. (instructed by Mr. P. J. Flanigan, LL.B.) defended. Constable Gordon stated that on the 2nd October at 8.35 p.m. he visited a yard attached to licensed premises in Ballygawley where he round three men standing beside a lorry on which there were thirty cases of candles. Witness asked them to produce dockets relating to the candles but they were unable to do so nor could they state where in Belfast they had purchased them. Sergt. Spratt said the men were brought to the barracks by Constable Gordon where Doherty in a statement said he brought the candles from Belfast in the lorry. McGovern refused to make a statement.

Cross-examined, witness said Doherty told him that he was employed as a driver by Carty and that on the 1st Oct. Carty told him to take the lorry to Belfast for candles and that he would be accompanied by McGovern, who would direct him where to go. Doherty also told witness that they left Garrison for Belfast at 7 a.m. When they were returning home they were delayed by a punctured wheel and the lights gave out at Ballygawley where they decided to remain for the night and had arranged for lodgings.

At this stage Mr. Grant said the explanation as to why there were no .dockets in existence in relation to the transaction was, because payment was made in cash. Sergt. Porter, Garrison, said he took statements from the defendants. McGovern said that he, Carty and others were discussing the great shortage of candles on the 1st Oct. and he told them where they could be procured in Belfast. It was arranged that he should purchase 72 cases.

LOADED ON LORRY. Thomas Lundy, Cromac St., Belfast, said on the 2nd Oct. he had been asked by a man called Bateman if he could get some candles for defendants. Witness agreed to do so and purchased the candles from a merchant in King Street at £262 l0s. The candles were brought to May’s Market where they were loaded on Carty’s lorry. Witness made about 12/6 per case on the transaction, Bateman receiving part of the profit. Witness was paid in cash.

Farming Society’s Bad Times. Fermanagh Farming Society – due to a cessation of its activities caused by the war – has fallen on hard times. The Society sought at Enniskillen Urban Council on Monday to have removed a debt of £17 1s 0d (Year’s rent) and £5 2s 1d (Half Year’s rates) due by the Society to the Council in respect of the Broadmeadow.

November 14th 1908.

14-11-1908. ECHO OF THE ARCHDALL DIVORCE CASE. SEPARATION DEED ARRANGED. APPLICATION AS TO COSTS. On Monday, in the Probate Court, Dublin, before Mr. Justice Andrews, an application in reference to costs was made in the case of Archdall v. Archdall. The petitioner was Mr. Edward Hugh Archdall, of Drumcoo, Co. Fermanagh, and the respondent was his wife, Mrs. Dorothea Frederica M. Archdall. The trial, which had attracted considerable attention, had resulted in a disagreement of the jury. Mr. Patchell, K.C. (instructed by Mr. B. L. Winslow), on behalf of the respondent, stated that the matter had been before the Court on several occasions. The original application was for an order directing that the wife’s costs should be paid when taxed. Some months ago that application was made, but it was adjourned on the ground that it might be premature. The suit had now, however, been determined, and a separator deed arranged by which the parties agreed to live separately and to enter into an arrangement of a pecuniary character for the support of the wife and the custody of the children. There was, however, in the deed, nothing in reference to costs. Mr. Justice Andrews and counsel discussed the question whether any order for costs should include those of the separation deed. Mr. Pringle who (instructed by Messrs. Falls & Pringle appeared for the petitioner, said he was not instructed as to the costs of the separation proceedings. Mr. Justice Andrews, allowed the motion to stand for a week.

14-11-1908. WHAT OTHER NATIONS ARE DOING. With reference to the methods adopted by different countries to improve the breed of horses, in Germany the Government army estimates provide £100,000 for the encouragement of horse-breeding, Austria-Hungry, £300,000, France, £100,000, England nil. In America the Government also looks well after the important matter of horse breeding.

DONEGAL ISLANDERS CLAIM FOR SALVAGE. In the Court of Admiralty, before Mr Justice Johnston. Mr Thomas Patton (instructed by Mr. J. E. O’Doherty) applied on behalf of the plaintiffs, Michael O’Donnell, Edward O’Donnell, and Michael F. O’Donnell, all residing on Arranmore Island, Burtonport, County Donegal for an order giving them leave to issue and serve a writ out of the jurisdiction on the defendants ,’the Fleetwood Steam Shipping Co.,’ Ltd. The action is for £80 claim for salvage services alleged “to have been rendered to the defendant company’s steamer Ixion while in distress off Rutland Island, County Donegal, on 9th and 10th August last. Mr. Justice Johnston granted the application, the writ to be served on the secretary of the company.

14-11-1908. CATTLE DRIVING IN CO. DERRY. On Sunday five Head of cattle were discovered to be missing from the field of Mr. Robert Simpson, having strayed or been stolen. The occurrence has been reported to the police of the entire district around. A month ago two head of cattle were stolen from Bridgend. This looks to be even worse than cattle driving, about which the Unionist organs prate so much. In the South and West the cattle are never injured nor driven away after being taken off the lands. Perhaps some of the “Carrion Crow” M.P.’s would table a question in the House.

14-11-1908. SCENE AT THE RAILWAY STATION. The majority of those who attended the hiring fair in Enniskillen on Tuesday last had to seek refuge in the various places of refreshment from the drenching downpour which prevailed during the day. The result was rather disastrous. In the evening a considerable number emerged from the public-houses fortified by the strong drinks, for which Enniskillen is said to be famous, and added to the gaiety of the town by rolling in the mud, of which there was an abundance and engaging in the usual drunken brawls. The police were kept busy during the day in quelling rows, and in the evening the two police barracks were pretty full. While awaiting the arrival of the 6.30 p.m. train from Dublin a melee occurred at the railway station between some parties from the Kesh district, and a large window at the entrance to the station was broken.

14-11-1908. LARGE AMERICAN FACTORY FOR ENGLAND. The Stolz Electrophone Co, of Chicago with London Offices at 82, Fleet Street, manufacturers of a patent pocket telephone for the deaf, have decided to move the foreign department of their Works to London in order to meet the requirements of the new patent law. The company will employ about 600 hands. In America the Stolz Electrophone has become as necessary as spectacles. The principal agent used in the Electro-phone is electricity, which enables people hard of hearing to hear clearly at any distance. The instrument is portable and a powerful sound intensifier. The whole of the European trade off this concern will be fed by the London Works.

14-11-1908. LISNASKEA HIRING FAIR. The half-yearly hiring fair was held in Lisnaskea on Saturday. Very little hiring is now done in these fairs. All the youths and maidens in the neighbourhood on pleasure bent were present, on Saturday. There was also an exceptionally large crowd of the itinerant class.

14-11-1908. ENNISKILLEN MAN’S BODY FOUND NEAR CASTLE CALDWELL. On Tuesday the body of a young man named Charles Nethercote, a boat builder, aged about 30 years, who resided in Strand St., Enniskillen, was found floating in Lough Erne. It appears deceased left his home on Monday week last in company with his brother, and proceeded by boat to Castlecaldwell for a cargo of sand. When about to return a few days later the deceased left the boat, and getting into a small punt proceeded homewards in. the direction of Enniskillen followed by his brother. Nothing was heard of him up till Tuesday last, when, as stated, his dead body was found.

14-11-1908. TO DETERMINE OLD AGE PENSIONS INCOMES. As a result of consultation with practical farmers about Magherafelt district the following figures have been adopted for determining the income of a person engaged in agriculture:— He allowed £8 per acre on potatoes, £5 on corn, £2 on black hay, £6 on white hay, a horse £6, a cow £4, heifer. £2, a calf £1, from 10s to £1 on each peck of flax sown. He allowed 25 per cent, for working expenses and the keep of animals, and also made an allowance for rent. Mr. Ward said the Treasury gave no instructions as to the values to be placed on crops and stock. It was left to the discretion of the pension officers. Of course the figures varied according to the quality of the crop.

November 1908. Hurling in Fermanagh.

7-11-1908. Enniskillen Guardians – Mr. O’Hara said they should not be giving relief to anyone who had not a doctor’s certificate. This rule was in force in other unions. The farmer was being handicapped in every way and he had to find money for everything, and the load was getting too heavy for him. The number of the inmates in the workhouse was decreasing and they had still the same number of officials and the expenditure on outdoor relief was jumping up. In other unions they adopted the system of giving no relief except a medical certificate was produced.

The Chairman. Where do they do that?

Mr O’Hara. In Clones.

The Chairman said that a great amount of money was expended yearly on outdoor relief in Monaghan and Dundalk unions. Previous to the passing of the Local Government Act it was almost impossible to get a shilling a week out door relief for any poor person from the Board of Guardians. As soon as the Act was passed the new board became more liberal and when each case came on the books came up for consideration they would find that the recipient was worthy of their charity. Mr P. Murphy said it was cheaper to give people out door relief that to have to maintain them in in the workhouse. If they brought them into the house they would cost 3 shillings a head whereas some people in receipt of out door relief only 2 shillings out of which they had to maintain a whole family.

Mr. Hands: Was there a larger number of paupers in the house nine years ago than there are at present.

The Clerk: There are not so many in the house now.

The Chairman: I know a case in which we are paying 3 shillings a week to a family of six. Is it not better to give out door relief in this case than to bring the family into the house where they would cost the ratepayers 18s a week?

After further discussion, the Chairman said there was one point upon which he was agreed with Mr. Elliott. He disapproved of out door relief money being expended in public-houses. He belonged to a society that distributed a great deal of relief, the St. Vincent de Paul Society, and they did not allow any of the recipients to get their provisions in public houses.

Mr. Dundas said that some three years ago he went over the same ground as Mr. Elliott had just gone over. He went into more details, and gave not onto the total amount but details of the amounts paid to public-houses and into large provision establishments in Enniskillen. He was not going to say one word disrespectful to any publican, but he was of opinion that a public-house was not the place for out door relief recipients to go for their goods. If these people persisted in getting their provisions in public-houses he for one would vote against their application.

The Clerk remarked that the relieving officer had no control over the recipients as to where they get their goods. The relieving officer handed the ticket to the recipient and the recipient could go where he liked for the goods.

Mr. E. Corrigan thought the members of the board were quite as good judges as the relieving officers as to who were entitled to out door relief. It must be remembered that nine years ago there were more poor people going about from door to door than there were at present, so that if the people were paying a little more in rates they were relieved in other directions. He thought if they gave more out door, relief and closed that workhouse altogether they would be acting more in the interest of humanity.

Mr. Dundas moved and Mr. W. J. Brown seconded that a committee be appointed to consider the question and report to the board. After considerable further discussion the motion was passed.

7-11-1908. Madam Albani, after 30 years’ experience on the stage, is preparing to appear at  the leading variety theatres in England and Scotland, at the highest salary – so it is stated–ever paid in Vaudeville. Her first engagement at Glasgow is at the rate of £500 a week. She says she intends to confine her selection to her usual operatic repertoire, interwoven with English and Sottish songs.

(Dame Emma Albani, DBE was a leading soprano of the 19th century and early 20th century, and the first Canadian singer to become an international star. Her repertoire focused on the operas of Mozart, Rossini, Donizetti, Bellini and Wagner. Born: November 1, 1847, Chambly, Can. Died: April 3, 1930, Kensington, London.)

14-11-1908. OUR READERS’ VIEWS. HURLING IN FERMANAGH.

To the Editor.

Dear Sir,—Knowing that you are interested in the success of the old Irish games in County Fermanagh, I beg through the medium of your valuable paper to express my regret that our fine old hurling game is fast dying out in that county. Two hurling clubs have ceased to exist within the past twelve months, and I am sorry to learn that still another will cease to be after this year’s competitions have been played out. I refer to the O’Dwyer (Coa) Hurling Club. This small but plucky club has won every contest played in the County Fermanagh during the past year, and still through a small breach of the hurling rules they are not given what I may call fair-play. Here are the facts. In the first contest with the O’Neill club for the County Cup the O’Dwyers were successful, and in the final contest with the Maguires, the scoring was —Maguires, 3 points; O’Dwyers, 15 points. But in this match the latter club allowed (not knowing at the time it was a breach of the rules) two of their men to play who had been temporarily disqualified. Now, I understand that the County Committee, notwithstanding the great odds in the scoring and the condition of the game in the county at present, would not allow a replay, But awarded the cup to the Maguires, though the O’Dwyers volunteered to play them again without their two best men who had been objected to. Of course, as they said, they were guided by the rules, but was there ever a rule without an exception? And having regard to the great odds in the scoring, to the fact that the O’Dwyers offered to play them without their two best men, and to the fact that there are now only three hurling clubs in County Fermanagh—and very soon there will be only two—would it not be more in the interest of the game to allow a replay under the circumstances? Rules, are, no doubt, necessary for order and discipline, but justice cannot always be done if rules are slavishly adhered to in every case. I write this as an outsider interested in the game, and it is with regret that I learned a few days ago from some members of the O’Dwyer Hurling Club that after this year’s competitions have been played out they the O’Dwyer club intend to sever their connection with the County Committee, as they see from the latest exhibition of narrow dealing that they need not expect fair-play in the future. Is it not a pity that those Gaelic clubs do not exercise a little more generosity in their dealing with each other—:if it were only for the sake of keeping up our fine old games? Was it generous or manly for the Maguires to stick to the cup for which they got such a beating? They have taken the cup which they certainly have not won. With this sort of dealing is it any wonder our Gaelic games are dying out? I am not interested in one club more than another, but I do not wish to see our Gaelic pastimes being killed by want of generosity and fair-play. Thanking you in anticipation for the insertion of.

21-11-1908.  OUR READERS’ VIEWS . THE GAELIC GAMES IN FERMANAGH. REPLY TO A TYRONE GAEL. A Cara – We are all anxious for the progress of Iriah Games in Fer-Monach as our correspondent, ‘A Tyrone Spectator’ only our methods differ. He apparently thinks that rules are made but to be broken. ‘Justice’ he says cannot always be done if rules are slavishly adhered to in every case.” The inference, then, is that the rules may be ignored when and where it is found expedient by a local committee. If the Gaels were to follow this dictum, one can easily foresee the death of all Irish games, not in Fear-Monach alone, but all over Ireland.

The real reason (if “Tyrone ‘Spectator” will pardon my enlightening him in the matter) for the backward condition of the Gaelic pastimes and games is admitted to be the elasticity with which the rules have been interpreted. It has given the rowdy player of the rowdy club a chance of existence in an. organisation where neither ought to have been ever permitted. I speak of clubs generally in this matter.

Better that all clubs should cease to exist tomorrow, than that we should bring disgrace upon the Gaelic Athletic Association. If some of the Coa 0‘Dwyers, by their rough play, had to be put off the field by the referee, they are manifestly no credit or source of strength to us, and their withdrawal from the G.A.A. cannot harm it much. Unless there is some penalty attached to rowdiness, decent, well-behaved clubs have no protection. The County Board was obliged by the rules to award the match to the Maguires, and there lay no option in the matter at all. Neither could the County Board order a replay.

It was a matter of following the rules or breaking them, and very wisely, I think, the members decided.

The real reason why so many Gaelic clubs have dropped off during the year is that rough play was permitted to too great an extent. Players have been merely censured who ought to have been expelled for years.     –

As to the sacrifices made by the Coa team, let me tell “Tyrone Spectator” that they have failed to play when selected by the Count Board, in inter-county matches on not less than three occasions. If the rules had been adhered to in any way, when O’Dwyers failed to turn up in the recent inter-county with Donegal, their club would have been suspended for six months. The Maguires travelled 12 men on that occasion and paid their own expanses. Moreover, the latter have gone to Belturbet, Irvinestown, Tempo, and other places with a desire of reviving an interest in the old game of hurling. They have stuck to the Irish games for years past, when there were no prospect of winning the cup, indeed, when there was no cup. They had no desire to deprive the O’Dwyers of the cup; they were in the-hands of the County Board, which felt itself in turn bound by the rules of the G.A.A.

The reason for Maguires being defeated by such a big score was the refusal of the club captain and another member, two of their best players, to take part in the game after the disgraceful scene which took place on the field on the Sunday previous, and in which O’Dwyers figured.

The interest of Irish-Irelanders in the Irish games ought to be deeper than the .winning of any cup. A club which sulks because it has lost has little to recommend it. If O’Dwyers can only be retained in the G.A.A. by cups and wins, it does not say much for the patriotism of the Coa men.

JOHN CASSIDY,

Vice-Chairman, Fermanagh Board, G. A. A. Carrigan. Enniskillen.

28-11-1908. OLD-AGE PENSIONS IN FERMANAGH. The County Fermanagh Local Pension Committee held a prolonged sitting on Friday for the consideration of claims, during the course of which they allowed 5 shillings per week in 360 cases, 4 shillings in one case, 3 shillings in one case and 1 shilling in one case and postponed 35 cases for further evidence and investigation. One application was withdrawn. The total number of cases dealt with was 399, which constitutes a record for Ireland.

 

1908.

October 17th 1908. AEROPLANE TRIUMPH. 50 MILES IN 69 MINUTES. Mr Wilbur Wright on Saturday afternoon made a fifty mile flight with a passenger remaining over sixty nine minutes in the  air. He thus beat all the world records and triumphantly completed the tests required by the Lazarc-Weiler Syndicate before purchasing the French rights of the American aeroplane for £20,000. At 4.45 Mr. Wright and Mr. Paul Painleave, a member of the French Institute, took their seats in the aeroplane before the largest number of aeronautical experts who have ever been present at the demonstrations of Mr. Wright. The aeroplane rose to a height of 25ft and Mr. Wright commenced to describe a series of eclipses and triangles. For some time the aviator maneuvered at various heights. At times he reached a height of nearly 100 ft., and during the greater part of the flight the aeroplane travelled at a great speed. The performance was accepted as entirely satisfactory by the members of the Syndicate and may therefore be regarded as the conclusion of Mr. Wright’s work at Le Mans. (France).

October 17th 1908. INVASION BY AIRSHIP.  GERMAN PLAN TO CONQUER ENGLAND. Herr Rudolph Martin, Government Councillor and author of The Coming War in the Air who is president of the recently formed German League for Motor Airship Navigation, fired the imagination of his hearers at a meeting in Berlin with a plan for the conquest of England by airships. He averted that the principal duty of aerial navigators was to induce the combined Continental Powers to construct a fleet of 10,000 Zeppelins, each to carry twenty soldiers, to fly these across the English Channel and the North Sea, preferably by night, and to land and capture the sleeping Britons before they could realise what was taking place. Herr Martin disposed of the British Fleet by predicting that they would turn tail and leave the coasts defences as soon as the aerial armada hove in view in order to avoid being blown up by the shells which would otherwise be dropped on to them from the clouds. The aerial armada would assemble at leisure at points opposite the English coast, and begin their death-dealing voyage as soon as the weather was favourable. Herr Martin thought that artillery and cavalry could be landed in England quite as easily as 200,000 infantry.

28-11-1908. VICE-REGAL PARTY IN BELLEEK. ADDRESS OF WELCOME FROM THE INHABITANTS. SPEECH OF THE LORD LIEUTENANT. His Excellency the Lord Lieutenant and the Counters of Aberdeen, who travelled from Dublin on Monday, arrived in the pretty little village of Belleek by the 7.55 train last night, and were enthusiastically received by the townspeople. The windows of a number of the houses were illuminated for the occasion, and a pretty floral arch WITH THE WORD “WELCOME, in white letters on a crimson background, spanned the main thoroughfare.

An address from the people of the town and district was presented to their Excellencies at the entrance to the hotel. There was an immense crowd outside the building. The Very Rev Dr McMeel, P. P. chairman of the Reception Committee, presided, and in the course of his speech said it was necessary for the Government, in justifying the insertion of the Compulsory Notification Clause in the Tuberculosis Bill at present before Parliament to establish sanatoria in convenient centres through, the length and breadth of Ireland, out of the millions of pounds that this country had been obliged to pay in over-taxation to the British Treasury for the past sixty or seventy years (cheers). As their Excellencies had always cordially sympathised with the ideals and aspirations of the Irish people, he trusted that they would continue their valuable services until they should have everywhere established the flourishing tranquillity of a happy and contented Ireland (cheers).

Mr Edward Knox, hon. secretary of the Reception Committee, then read the address. The Lord Lieutenant, who was loudly cheered, in replying, said he need scarcely tell them that he had always endeavoured to support Lady Aberdeen in every possible manner in her efforts to help the Home Industries, and secondly, in regard to her fight with the scourge of tuberculosis (cheers). He thought it was a happy augury, and omen that they had already, by coming forward in this way and alluding to the matter as they had done in the address, indicated their hearty’ support and concurrence with the efforts now being made to stamp out this disease (cheers). Afterwards a number of the members of the Reception Committee were introduced to Lord and Lady Aberdeen. Three ringing cheers having been given for their Excellencies the crowd dispersed. On Tuesday the Vice-regal party motored to Donegal to open the Tuberculosis Exhibition. During their stay in Belleek they will visit the famous pottery and. other places of interest in this picturesque district.

28-11-1908. OLD-AGE PENSIONS IN FERMANAGH. The County Fermanagh Local Pension Committee held a prolonged sitting on Friday for the consideration of claims, during the course of which they allowed 5 shillings per week in 360 cases, 4 shillings in one case, 3 shillings in one case and 1 shilling in one case and postponed 35 cases for further evidence and investigation. One application was withdrawn. The total number of cases dealt with was 399, which constitutes a record for Ireland.

28-11-1908. OLD-AGE PENSIONS IN FERMANAGH. The County Fermanagh Local Pension Committee held a prolonged sitting on Friday for the consideration of claims, during the course of which they allowed 5 shillings per week in 360 cases, 4 shillings in one case, 3 shillings in one case and 1 shilling in one case and postponed 35 cases for further evidence and investigation. One application was withdrawn. The total number of cases dealt with was 399, which constitutes a record for Ireland.

28-11-1908. CALUMNY REFUTED. THE PROTESTANT BIGOTS OF THE SOUTH. ALLEGED SCENES AT FUNERAL. Under the heading of “Roman Catholic Intolerance in County Limerick,” “Barbarous conduct at a Funeral,” the Fermanagh Times of last week published letter from Rev. J. S. Wylie, Castleconnell in which the rev gentleman paints a further lurid picture of the scenes alleged to have taken place at the funeral of Mr John Enright. He points out in his letter that he was a frequent caller at Mr Enright’s during his illness, and that he ministered to him three times during this period. In the Irish Independent of Thursday last the mother of the deceased, Mrs K Enright, gives the lie to this statement of the pious rector of Castleconnell. Mrs Enright, who is naturally .horrified at the disgusting dispute which has arisen over her dead son, now considers it her duty to place the true facts before the public, and to put an end once and for all to the bigots’ roar all over Ireland. She denies point blank that Mr Wylie ministered to her son during his last illness. “Since the day my son fell sick she writes, “Mr Wylie never saw him, nor, as far as I know, ever asked to see him until the 25th October, when he was unconscious. He died in less than an hour after Mr Wylie leaving him.” What has the representative of Protestant truth and Protestant tolerance in Castleconnell to say to this point blank denial of his statements? “My son,” writes Mrs Enright “had been attended to by the priest on three occasions, at his own special request, uninfluenced by anybody while he was in his perfect senses; the priest received him into the Catholic Church, administered to him the last rites of the Catholic Church and he died a Catholic. Rev Wylie had been told this.” The fact then remains that the Rev. Wylie after being informed by the relatives of the deceased of the latter’s conversion to Catholicity, and his consequent desire to be buried according to the rites of the Catholic Church, showed an inhuman disrespect, both for the wishes of the living and dead, by stopping a funeral procession at the gate of his church, and calling upon the mourners, to bear the body of the deceased inside. This is how the Christian Minister describes the scene outside the church When the coffin reached the church gate a crowd of people surrounded it. Sticks were raised in a threatening manner; some of the bearers, including Dr George Enright, were roughly handled. The coffin was then seized by the crowd, who forcibly prevented it being brought into the church, and, with shouts and cries of “‘Don’t let him be buried a Protestant,” which were heard more than a quarter of a mile away, the body was rushed past the church and placed in the grave. It is enough to say that Dr George Enright absolutely denies getting any rough handling, as well as the statement that sticks were used in a threatening manner. Our readers will take the other statements of the rev gentleman for what they are worth.

SABBATH DESECRATORS. To the Editor of the “Fermanagh Herald.” The following letter has been addressed to the editor of the “Impartial Reporter’ in. reply to one appearing in the last issue of that paper.

10-10-1908. To the Editor “Impartial Reporter. – Dear Sir, Your correspondent “Ballinamallard Unionist” and a Lover of Truth must be a very simple man. He proceeds in the course of a lengthy letter to give the truth of the Ballinamallard incident where, the God-fearing loyalists are alleged to have gathered into that mecca of Orangeism in order to prevent by physical force some peaceable people passing through the village on the Sabbath. “Lover of Truth’ denies the allegation, and if his contention be accurate it is the manifest duty of the traders and inhabitants of Ballinamallard to take action to clear their village of the serious allegations which the police have made against it. Will they act or will they not? If they do not, then we shall believe that the police were correct when they advised the competitors at the Feis to go round by another road lest a riot might ensue. But that apart, “Lover of Truth” makes himself appear quite silly when he applies the, term ‘Sabbath Desecrators” to the competitors. Does he read the papers? If so, is he aware that two Sundays ago the Brewers of England —the great driving force behind loyalty and Unionism organised an extraordinary political demonstration in Hyde Park, London, to which over a hundred thousand people came from the English provinces? Huge crowds bearing banners with political party cries filled the streets the whole day and speeches were delivered from fifty platforms. Has “Lover of the Truth” written to the papers to protest against this colossal desecration of the Lord’s Day, engineered by drink in support of Unionism, Beer, beer, glorious beer! beer and the Union, beer and loyalty?

And the dozen or so boys from Enniskillen, who are passing to a musical festival, are Sabbath desecrators! Do you have any music on the Sabbath, “Lover of Truth? Either the police were correct or it is the plain duty of the Ballinamallard people to set themselves right with the public. If they allow the matter to lie, people must not be blamed for assuming that the Christianity which prompts a man to break his neighbour’s head for the love of God is not the Christianity of the gentle Christ, who loved all men, even His enemies. ‘Yours truly, etc.

21-11-1908. CLONES LACE AT FRANCO- BRITISH EXHIBITION. One of the most prominent and attractive stalls in the section devoted to arts and crafts and home industries at the Franco-British Exhibition in London was that of Mrs Philip Maguire lace dealer Fermanagh Street, Clones, who displayed an extensive assortment of lace and crochet, arranged in a most artistic and effective manned. The stall, which was a corner one and in a central position, attracted much attention, and being lined on the inside in emerald green, made a most appropriate setting for the beautiful fabrics on view, the work of deft and patient fingers of the industrious lace-makers of Clones district. The Clones lace industry, which is the means of keeping so many families from poverty or emigration, will, no doubt, benefit immensely from the display referred to, and it is satisfactory to know that Mrs. Maguire’s enterprise in securing a stall and placing the exhibit on view has been amply rewarded by the results, notwithstanding, the heavy expenses involved. During the fortnight which she spent at the exhibition she sold an enormous quantity of lace fabrics of all kinds, besides booking orders amounting to hundreds of pounds and. which it will probably take many months to supply. Mrs Maguire was specially complimented by a leading London daily on the success of her stall, and the effective manner in which she had arranged her display at the exhibition.