No More Learning

The first person the forces (of O'Donnell) who went guard the pass was O'Boyle, namely, Niall, the son
his camp that night, and the following morning
marched Fearsad-Ranna-an-Liagain pass
the river Sligo, which flows from Lough Gill), cross into Cuil-Irrae. O'Conor was this time Sligo, preparing his people march against O’Donnell prevent him from crossing
the pass. While the tide was the forces both sides were closely watching, and reconnoi tering each other. O'Conor perceiving that had not equal forces oppose O’Donnell, came the resolution not engage him that place, and
and his forces, being dismayed and terrified
the approach O’Donnell, arranged and mar
shalled his men, and after preparing their guns
and accoutrements the verge the pass,
marched them off another more secure place.
O’Donnell then crossed the pass unopposed,
the place was left unguarded and undefended
after that, some the chiefs North Connaught
sent flying parties attack O’Donnell's forces, but they were, however, met and opposed the
other party, and man who was great loss the Torlogh, who hoped should encounter his Mac Donoghs was slain that occasion, namely, enemies, exercise his vengeance them. The Malachy, the son Teige, son Roderick, who
party Hugh Buighe, the son O’Donnell, pro fell the shot ball, and another horseman ceeded guard another direction, without the O’Donnell’s forces, namely, James Ballach, the knowledge O'Boyle, any his party, and son Niall, son John (O’Donnell), was slain both parties happened meet, and they did not by thrust spear. After that they retired, and recognise each other, consequence O'Boyle O'Donnell then proceeded into the territory the having engaged conflict, and having fought
fiercely and precipitately against his enemies,
thought, that slew great number them short time, and while was contending with
them that manner, they encircled him, and
tribe Bryan O'Conor, which remained for three nights, spoiling and burning the country,
was length slain
the second day
the death Niall, son Torlogh, was great loss the poor, the indigent, the clergy and sol
during which time O’Connor remained encamped lear him Belandroichid. He (O’Donnell), then marched westward across the strand, into Tireragh
the Moy, and his forces destroyed much corn and many towns, for the entire country was his power, except few castles, and they seized
much cattle about the Ox mountain; they marched westward across the river Moy, the instigation the sept Rickard Burke, pur
his own faithful friends, the kalends August; and
diers. Although this great loss was source tribulation O’Donnell, did not, however, pre
vent his expedition, and proceeded forward suit some the cattle preys belonging the Sinnfhir, and body the cavalry Cathal O’Dowds, and that occasion, they happened
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402 ANNALS OF THE FOUR MASTERS, A. D. 1536.
to meet with the daughter of Walter Burke, the district Roscommon), both the churches wife of Owen O’Dowd, while carrying away her and country; from thence they passed into the property. The prey and booty seized on that ex Tuatha (also Roscommon), and the O’Hanleys
pedition by O’Donnell's forces was so immense, gave them hostages and prisoners behalf their that two beeves were frequently given for a Bonn territory. They then proceeded into Hy Maine, (a piece of money which varied from a groat to a and they spoiled and completely plundered every shilling), in his camp at that time. Mac Dermott, person who was friendly O'Conor Roe, except the sons of Teige Mac Dermott, and the sons of those who were protected O’Rourke's son, for
Mac David, came to aid the people of North
Connaught, against O’Donnell. After having com
pleted his expedition in Tireragh, O'Donnell pre
pared to return home. The chiefs of North Con
naught, and those forces which came to aid them,
put on a firm resolution of giving battle to O’Don
nell on his return, but they gave him a feeble and
flying attack, at the pass of Rinn-an-Liagain. The
cause of this place being called Rinn-an-Liagain
was, that Liagan, a heroic warrior of the Fomori expedition their satisfaction, and took the host
was not plunder went thither, but rather make peace between Mac Dermott, his kinsmen,
and O'Conor Roe, together with those who joined either party the contest. Caislean-an-Turraig
(the castle Turrick, Galway), was taken and demolished by these forces, and Donogh, the son Edmond O’Kelly, came and surrendered himself them, lest his country should spoiled. Those forces then returned, after having completed their
ans, was slain there by Lughaidh Lambfada (a king ofthe Danans), while on his march to the
battle of Moytuire, and from him it derived name. was during that skirmishing attack,
while O’Donnell's forces were crossing this pass, that horseman the people Cathal Oge O'Co
ages with them Sligo, namely, the son O’Kelly and the son O’Hanley; they also car ried away the speckled portal-door the castie they had taken, put the gateway the castle Sligo.
The Saxon lord justice marched westward with army into Munster, and Carricocainnell (the castle Carrickagonnell, near Limerick), and broke
down Murrogh O'Brien's bridge (O’Brien’s-bridge
Clare), and some say that Donogh, the son O’Brien, was concerned instigating the lord jus
tice undertake that expedition.
Bryan Ballach, the son Owen, son Tiarnan
nor, namely, Hugh Ballach, the son
Hugh, was slain, and the son Hugh, the son Owen, son
Bryan, son
Mac Dermott,
Teige, was
deeply wounded. O’Donnell returned home with
out receiving rent, tribute, submission, homage from the chiefs North Connaught that occa sion, which was unusual occurrence with him.
Donogh, the son Teige, son Roderick, son O'Rourke, was nominated the O’Rourke, and
Conor, son Teige, son Tomaltach, son demolished Caislean-an-Chairthe (the castle Maurice Mac Donogh, was nominated the Mac Glencar, Leitrim).
Donogh, although Mac Donogh himself was not Donal, the son Donogh O’Kelly, expe
dead the time, namely Owen, the son Donogh, rienced commander and tanist son Murrogh, who, however, was near the ter Caraidh Grian (in the counties
Hy Maine, from IRoscommon
Malachy, son
mination his age, having lost his sight. con tention arose between the sons of Owen and Mac
Donogh about the lordship, but nothing conse quence was spoiled between them.
and Galway), and Eigneachan, son
The Giolla Duv, the son Hugh, son Rode stigation the sons Donal's own brother, rick O’Conor, died. the sons Teige, the son Donogh O’Kelly.
O'Conor Sligo; Bryan, the son O'Rourke, The sons MacWilliam Clanrickard, namely, and the son Cathal Oge O'Conor, marched John Duv and Edmond Roe, the sons Rickard, with their forces, the request Mac Dermott, the son Ulick, were slain the sons the and the sons Teige Mac Dermott, against Tor other Mac William, namely, the sons Rickard logh Roe, the son Teige Buighe, the son Oge, after they were overtaken pursuit, while Cathal Roe O'Conor. They spoiled the Cluainte carrying off the preys the country.
Donogh, his brother’s son, were both treache rously slain Malachy, the son William, son
Malachy O'Kelly, the Fews Athlone, the in
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Hugh Roe, the Wine,
protected from violation the sacred properties be longing the religious orders, ecclesiastics, poets and professors. The forementioned O’Donnell, namely Hugh, the son Hugh Roe, died the 5th July, being Thursday, the monastery Donegal, having previously taken upon him the habit St. Francis, having repented his transgres
sions and faults, and done penance for his sins and the frailties his life, and was buried the same monastery with great honours and solemnity, which
REIGN OF HENRY VIII. 4 (33 Mac Costello, i. e. John, the son of Giolla Duv, deeds) Inisowen, Kinel Moain, and Fermanagh,
to confirm the old charts which his ancestors held guished military commander in noble exploits, was for these territories, that the government and treacherously killed by a party of his own kinsmen. the service their forces were peaceably and
O'Conor Faily, i. e. Bryan, the son of Cahir, was submissively under his control; this was not expelled from his territory, and after many of his wondered for his enemies never gained people had been slain, his castles were taken victory over him, nor did ever retreat one foot and demolished the Saxon lord justice, i. e. lord from any force, whether small great; was man Leonard (lord Leonard Gray), and was through distinguished for repressing evil deeds and bad
a bounteous and very hospitable man, and a distin
the conspiracy, and the instigation O'Conor’s own brother, Cathal Roe, these acts were per petrated.
Donogh O'Carroll deposed Ferganainm, and Anthony Carrach, his brother, and deprived them both their lordship.
A. D. 1537.
contention arose between Hugh Buighe
O'Donnell and Manus
was possession the castle
aided the sons O'Boyle;
spread throughout Tirconnell,
contentions carried on between the sons of O'Don nell, and through this great many the tribe the bishop O'Gallagher were slain the sons O'Boyle, namely, the son Torlogh Oge, the son
Bryan, and the two sons Owen Ballach, the son Bryan, with many others.
O’Donnell, Hugh, the son
the son Niall Garv, son Torlogh
lord Tirconnell, Inisowen, Kinel Moain, Fer
managh, and North Connaught; man whom rents and tributes had been paid other territo ries over which had jurisdiction and power, such
practices, for destroying and banishing rebels and plunderers; rigid enforcer the established laws
and ordinances; man during whose time the
seasons had been favourable, that both sea and
land had been fruitful and productive during his
government; man who had established every person his country his rightful inheritance,
that none them might bear enmity ano ther; man who had not suffered the English
O’Donnell; Hugh,
power league
land,
come into his country, for had formed peace and amity with the king Eng
who Donegal, was
soon saw that the Irish would not the superiority any one among them
great commotion account the
submit
selves, but that friends and relations fiercely con tended against each other; man who properly
were his due Manus O’Donnell was inaugurated Moylurg, Machaire Chonacht (the plain Con his successor by the coarbs Columkille", with
naught, Roscommon), Clan Conway (in Galway),
Costello, Gallen, Tyrawley, and Conmaicne Cuile
(all four territories Mayo), the west; and
the east O’Kane's country (in Derry), the Routes (in Antrim), and Clannaboy (in Down and An
trim); for those territories there was none that had not given him tributes, besides willing
payments for his protection. was this man that compelled the four lords (the O'Neills), who ruled Tyrone his time, give him new charts (or
Tir
Maguire, i. e. Cuchonacht, the son
nacht, son Bryan, son Philip, lord
nagh, charitable, humane man, the most distin guished the race Clan Colla that had lived for long time for manual exploits, nobility, and hospita lity, and who brought from Clones Caol Uisge
(the Narrow Water, on the river Erne, near Ballyshannon) under his jurisdiction; man who
the permission and consent the nobles connell, both lay and ecclesiastical.
A. D. 1537.
The Coarbs Columkille, that the successors St. territories appears the O'Donnells, princes Tirconnell, ex
cremnan Donegal and Drumcliffe Sligo over all which Columkille, who were abbots Derry; Itaphoe and Kilma tended their authority.
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404 ANNALS OF THE FOUR MASTERS, A. D. 1537.
suppressed plunderers and evil doers, a man (all in Sligo). On that expedition the town who was prosperous and wealthy during his time, of O’Hara Riavach was taken by O’Donnell, and wastreacherously slain on Creachan in Lough Erne, after O’Hara himself was in his power, he extended
namely, the Island of the Friars, by the tribes of to him his protection and mercy, and carried him
Thomas Maguire and of Torlogh Maguire, namely Flaherty, the son of Philip, son of Torlogh, and was first buried at Devinish, but in some time after his remains were exhumed by the Friars Minor, and conveyed to the monastery of Donegal, where they were re-interred by the friars with due solemnity.
away prisoner to his house.
O'Gara, i. e. Owen, the son of Dermod, son of
Owen, lord of Coolavin (in Sligo), died.
Teige, the son of Hugh, son of Hugh Mac Con
snamha (Ford), chief of Muintir Kenny (in Lei trim), died.
O'Neill, i. e. Con, marched with a force into
Trian Congail, and spoiled and plundered a great
part of the country; but O’Neill’s son, however,
was taken prisoner in the rear of the forces, at Bel property.
fast, and O’Neill then returned home. The son of O’Dogherty, i. e. Niall Caoch, the
Niall Oge, the son of Niall, son of Con O'Neill, son of Gerald, son of Donal, son of Felim, was
lord of Trian Congail (O’Neill, lord of Clannaboy, in Down and Antrim), died suddenly at that time;
O’Neill returned again into Trian Congail, and obtained his son, who was in imprisonment there;
contentions and disputes arose in Trian Congail about the lordship.
slain in a nocturnal attack by Roderick, the son of Felim O’Dogherty, at Baile-na-goananach, in the
Termon of Derry.
O'Flanagan of Tura, i. e. Gillaisa, and his son,
were slain by his own kindred, and much damage was done in Fermanagh, both by burning and plundering, after the death of Maguire.
The son of O’Reilly, namely, Cahir Modardha (Cahir the Stern), the son of John, son of Cathal, was slain by the English, while in pursuit of his
Niall, the son of Hugh, son of Niall, son of Con,
son of Hugh Buighe, heir to the lordship of Trian
Congail, a man who was likely to follow in the the Calvach O’Donnell, in Clanawley, and he also
footsteps of his ancestors, in nobility and hospi
tality, in patronising learned men and exiles, was
slain by the Scots.
The son of O’Reilly, namely, Bryan, the son of
-
own territory, despite of the Saxon lord justice,
and of his own kinsmen, namely, the sons of O'Conor; and many persons were slain by him.
Fergal, an immense loss in his own country, was
slain by the people of the Saxon lord justice, who
had gone to make depredations in Clan Mahon (in Murrogh, was killed by the son of O'Conor Faily;
the county of Cavan).
The son of Mac Sweeney, i. e. Maolmurry, was
killed by the sons of Murrogh Mac Sweeney. O’Donnell, i. e. Manus, marched with a force into North Connaught, in the month of Septem
and he was the most illustrious and renowned of
his race in his age.
Torlogh Cleireach, i. e. O’Melaghlin, was slain
in Calry (in Westmeath), by the sons of Felim,
namely, Cedach and Conall, and Art O’Melagh
ber, spoiled much corn, and burned and overran lin assumed the place of O’Melaghlin.
the entire of North Connaught, namely, Carbury, Thomas, the son of the earl of Kildare,” the
Tireragh, the two Lieneys, Corran, and Tirerrill best man who lived in his time of the English of
2. The Rebellion of Silken Thomas. -The following particulars of the great insurrection commonly called the Rebellion of Silken Thomas, have been collected from Stanihurst, Campion, Cox's Hi bernia Anglicana, Lodge's Peerage, the Histories of Moore and Mac Geoghegan, and various other sources. As already explained at the year 1535, Gerald Fitzgerald, earl of Kildare, lord de puty of Irelaud, was summoned to England in the year 1534, and on various charges was imprisoned in the Tower of London, where he died in the month of December following ; on his departure from Ireland he left his son Thomas, then a young man in the 21st year of his age, in his stead as lord deputy. An unfounded report
having reached Ireland that the earl had been beheaded in Lon don, lord Thomas, enraged at the news, organised a powerful in surrection against the English governinent. He was generally called by the Irish Tomas-an-tSioda, signifying Thomas of the Silk, from the splendid silken banners borne by his horsemen, and also from their dresses being elegantly embroidered with silk. Lord Thomas was a young man of great spirit, abilities, and valour, but fiery, rash, and impetuous. According to Cox and others, he proceeded from the mansion of the earls of Kildare, in Thomas court, Dublin, on the 11th of June, 1534, and marched through the city to Dalues-gate, accompanied by seven score horsemen in
Depredations and burnings were committed by
plundered O’Kane.
O'Conor Faily regained the jurisdiction of his
The son of O’Melaghlin, i. e. James, the son of
=
REIGN OF HENRY VIII. 405
Ireland, and his father's five brothers, as we have ver, John, Walter, and Richard, were put to death before mentioned, namely, James Meirgeach, Oli in England, on the 3rd of the Nones of February;
their coats of mail, with waving plumes in their helmets, and bearing silken banners; they crossed the river and proceeded to St. Mary's Abbey, where the council, according to appointment, waited his coming, and attended by many of his armed followers he rushed into the council chamber. The lord Thomas addressed a speech to the council with great vehemence, which is given as followsbyCox:—“Howsoever injuriously webehandledandforced to defend ourselves in arms, when neither our service, nor our good meaning towards our prince's crown availeth, yet say not hereafter but in this open hostility which we here profess and proclaim, we have shewed ourselves no villains nor churls, but warriors and gentlemen. This sword of state is yours, and not mine ; I received it with an oath and used it to your benefit, and I should stain mine honour if I turned the same to your annoyance. Now have I need of mine own sword which I dare trust. As for the common sword it flattereth me with a painted scabbard, but hath indeed a pesti lentedge, already bathed in the Geraldine's blood, and now is newly whetted in hope of a further destruction. Therefore save yourselves from us as from open enemies. I am none of Henry's deputies, I am his foe. I have luore mind to conquer than to
govern,to meet him in the field, than to serve him in office. If
the hearts England and Ireland that have cause thereto, wouldjoin this quarrel, hope they will, thfa should soon
Artane, the house was taken prisoner
Mr. Hollywood, where, the 25th July, some lord Thomas's party, and brought said Irish “Beir uaim an Bodach,” that
before him, which
“Remove the Churl from my presence,” intending, says Cox,
imprison him, but some
murdered the bishop
Allen had always been
having been sent Ireland for that purpose cardinal Wolsey, and Allen was chiefly instrumental having the earl Kildare summoned London, where was imprisoned the Tower. All the murderers were excommunicated and cursed tremendous terms, related Cox. Lord Thomas made prisoners the baron
Howth and Luttrell, chief justice the common pleas, and sent some his captains and forces besiege the castle Dublin; they opened fire with three pieces ordnance called fal cons; the besiegers being stationed Sheep-street, now Ship street, but they were driven thence the cannon the castle, and the houses which were thatched, says Cox, were burned by wildfire cast from the castle; lord Thomas endeavoured prevent the supply water the city, by stopping all the rivers near Dublin; burned Thomas-street, New-street, and other parts the city, and fortified his men near Thomas-court;
also besieged Newgate, which was bravely defended the gaoler, Richard Staunton, who being an excellent marksman, killed many
the besiegers. The citizens made powerful sally Fitz gerald's forces, defeated them, and slew one hundred his gallo glasses, who left their falcon behind them, and lord Thomas him self was forced take refuge the abbey Grey friars Fran cis-street for the night, until was able join the remainder
Fitzgerald's fierce followers barbarously revenge old resentments, for archbishop most determined enemy the Geraldines,
madesensible, for which the age ancienttyrants
trust shall, his tyranny and cruelty, come may lawfully scor/him up among the
most abominable and hateful memory. ”
The primate, George Cromer, archbishop Armagh, and lord chancelior, who was present, besought lord/Thomas long and
pathetic oration (which given Cox), the tears trickling down
his cheeks, not enter into rebellion which would cause his de his forces. Fitzgerald then agreed raise the siege Dublin,
struction, but retract his hasty declarations, and keep the sword state, but all purpose; Fitzgerald flung down the sword state the council table with great violence and indignation,
and hostages were delivered between himself and the citizens; he next proceeded with his forces Howth, and planted his artillery
on the promontory attack and prevent the landing the forces coming from England against him, commanded Musgrave and
and departed with his associates; lord Thomas addressed his sol
diers the Irish language, which appears was chiefly spoken the two Hamertons; these two commanders, with 180 soldiers,
his followers, for said they did not understand word the speech made primate Cromer the council table, and imagined was making oration like bard Brehon, favour
Silken Thomas, and cheered him accordingly; stated Cox that lord Thomas's chief bard, named Nelan, recited rhap sody praise his master. Lord Thomas proceeded organise his forces, and applied his cousin, lord James Butler, son the earl Ossory, join the confederacy, but lord Butler gave him
downright refusal. stated Cox and others, that lord Thomas despatched for assistance Charles Mac Ranmall, archdea con Kells, his ambassador, Pope Paul III. , and sir Domi
arrived from England, and their march Dublin were encoun tered near Clontarf lord Thomas the head 200 horsemen, and they fought valiantly, and one the Hamertons wounded Fitzgerald the forehead, yet the English forces were mostly all slain, and those who were taken prisoners sent the castle Maynooth their ships were forced from Howth, and vessel freighted with choice English saddle horses was also taken cap tain Rourks, whom Cox calls Fitzgerald's pirate. Soon after the Englebys and Dacres, with body horse, landed Skerries Fingall, and sir William Brereton and his son John also arrived from England with 250 soldiers, and were followed by captain Salisbury with 200 archers, who landed the slip near the bridge
nick Poer the emperor Charles V. , whom sent present
twelve great hawks, and fourteen fair horses hobbies. Lord
Thomas was joined many men note both the Anglo-Irish
and Irish chiefs, O'Neill Tyrone, O'Conor Offaly, his kins was nominated marshal; they madeevery preparation carry man, O'Moore Leix, several the Fitzgeralds, sir Richard the war against lord Thomas; the English fleet sailed towards Walsh, who was called parson Lough Seudy Westmeath, Drogheda and captured Brode, one Fitzgerald's naval command
Peter Lynch, lord the Knock Meath, John Burnell Bal griffin Fingall, captain James Field Lusk, De Bathe Dol lard's town, captain James Hide, Oliver Grace, Teeling, Purcell, and many others, amongst whom mentioned Rouks Rourks, probably O'Rourke, who called Campion pirate the seas. Lord Thomas with his troops proceeded plunder Fingal, and the citizens Dublin collected their forces, intending
intercept prey the bridge Kilmainham, they were defeated Fitzgerald's men near the wood Salcock, where four score
the citizens were slain. the mean time John Allem, archbishop Dublin, and the chief baron Patrick Finglass, got into the cas tle and fortified for security, and alderman John Fitzsimon sent into the castle 20 tuns wine, 24 tuns beer, two thousand dry ling, hogsheads beef, and various other articles. Archbishop
Allen, afraid stand siege, left the castle and privately got
board ship the Liffey night, but the vessel was stranded Clontarf, and the archbishop proceeded the adjoining village
ers, which, says Cox, was much enraged that he threat ened besiege Drogheda, where the lord deputy proceeded, and the high cross proclaimed lord Thomas traitor. the fol
lowing spring hostilities recommenced, and lord Thomas had this time his possession six strong castles, namely those Port lester Meath, Maynooth, Rathangan and Athy Kildare, Ley
Queen's county, and that Carlow, all well garrisoned proceeded himself Connaught raise forces amongst his allies, but the mean time the lord deputy Skeffington, taking advantage
his absence, proceeded Maynooth, the castle which commenced besiege the 15th March sir William Brere
ton summoned the castle surrender, which, says Cox, scof fing and ludibrious answer was returned after the Irish manner, whereupon the artillery began play, but made impression for ten twelve days; breach however was last effected, and
the besiegers made assault and slew many the garrison. The castle could have held out till Fitzgerald's return, being extremely
Dublin. Sir William Skeffington arrived Dublin October, lord deputy Ireland, attended lord Leonard Gray, who
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406 ANNALS OF THE FOUR MASTERS, A. D. 1537.
the Geraldines Leinster were dispossessed their properties, and expelled; the earldom
new heresy and error arose England, Carmelites and Augustinians; and the possessions
Kildare was assumed for the king, and every per
son who was taken their people both lay and
ecclesiastical was put death and exterminated;
their destruction and loss were immenselylamented nons, Nuns, Friars the Cross, and the four throughout Ireland that time. poor orders, viz. , the Minor order, the Preachers,
through pride, vain-glory, avarice, sensuality and many strange speculations, that the people England went into opposition the Pope and
Rome. They the same time embraced extra ordinary opinions, and the old law Moses,
imitation the Jewish people, and nominated the
strong, and garrisoned one hundred choice men, but, says Cox,
“the perfidious governor Christopher Parese(who was lord Thomas's foster-brother), white-livered traitor, resolved purchase his
and livings those were taken up for the king. They demolished the monasteries, sold their roofs and bells, and there was not monastery, from Aran the Saints the Iccian sea, that was not shattered and completely destroyed, except only few Ireland, which the English did not find out
others, raised force seven thousand men, with which de signed raise the siege Maynooth, but upon news its surren der his men deserted him daily with his few remaining forces he proceeded Clane Kildare, and the lord deputy marched
lahyde and Hayward, both choristers, prostrated themselves, war earl Kildare five thousand marks. Lord Leonard Gray was
bling sweet sonnet called Dulcis omica their melodies saved their lives, which, the request chief justice Aylmer, the de puty pardoned. Parese expecting some great reward, with abun dance confidence and great familiarity, presented himself before the deputy, who told him that he was thank him the king's behalf for his service, which saved much charge and many lives, and doubted not when the king was acquainted therewith, he would provide for him during his life; and the better advise the king how reward him, he desired know what Fitzgerald had done for him. Parese set agog, with this discourse, recounted the most minute instances Fitzgerald's liberality him, upon which the deputy replied “And how Parese couldst thou find thy heart betray the castle kind lord? ' then turning
his head. “Had known this,' says Parese, ‘your lordship should the earl Kildare who had died the Tower, and were the
coldest weather, according authorities, quoted by Moore
his officers bids them pay him the money, and then chop of History Ireland. the following spring the five brothers
not have had the castle easily’; whereupon one Mr. Boyce, who was present, cried out Irish n-Antrath, that “too late,’ which occasioned afterwards common saving, “too late quoth Boyce;” thus Parese, after being paid the stipulated sum,
mockery, was immediately afterwards beheaded, he had made no conditions about his life being saved. At the time the castle was surrendered, there were amongst the garrison Donogh O'Do gan, master the ordnance, the dean Kildare, and sir Simon Walsh, priest, and was stated by them that the emperor Germany had promised send lord Thomas ten thousand men May, and that was also receive aid from the king Scot land; few days after the surrender Maynooth, twenty-five
the principal persons the garrison were beheaded, and their heads placed the castle turrets.
the mean time lord Thomas, aided by O'Conor Faily and
uncles lord Thomas, were invited banquet by lord Gray promise protection, but according Leland, were treache
rously made prisoners and sent England, and they were confined the Tower along with their nephew, lord Thomas, al though stated the Four Masters that they opposed him, but according other accounts, two three them joined
his insurrection; his five uncles were sir James and sir John Fitz gerald, knights Rhodes and St. John Jerusalem, and Oliver, Richard, and Walter Fitzgerald. Lord Thomas, together with his five uncles above-mentioned, were all hanged and be headed Tyburn, the 3rd February, 1536, though the event
these Annals. Burnell Bel ecclesiastic, particular friends
Tyburn.
king during his own reign chief head the church God. New laws and statutes were enacted by the king and council, according their own will;
they ruined the religious orders who were entitled hold worldly possessions, namely, Monks, Ca
own security with his lord's ruin, and got letters conveyed the
lord deputy, importing that he would surrender the castle cer Naas, where took seven score Pitzgerald's galloglasses, all
tain conditions, which concerned only his own profit, without men tion his safety. The lord deputy accepted the offer, whereupon Parese, after some advantage gained sally, caused the garrison
rejoice and carouse that degree that they were all dead drunk,
and then upon signal given the English scaled the walls and siderable force, though frequently defeated and slew many entered the castle. Captain Holland, being one the first, hap the English skirmishing parties and ainbushes Meath and pened leap down into hogshead feathers and stuck there, Kildare, particularly Trim and Rathangan, and attacked
and sir William Brereton having got cried out “St. George,” whereat one the garrison awoke and shot captain Holland, but was rescued out the feathers his companions, who killed the soldier. The castle was them taken, and sir William Brereton advanced his standard the top the turret. ” The spoil and plunder this castle, says Cox, were exceeding great and rich, this being accounted the best furnished house belonging
any subject the king's dominions. “The lord deputy entered the afternoon, before whom,” says Cox, “two varlets, James De
Athboy, burned part Trim, besieged Dunboyne, and ravaged much the English Pale. the early part this insurrection, lord Thomas with his forces, accompanied O'Neill, the O'Moores, and O'Conors, &c. , marched Kilkenny, and laid waste much the country the Butlers, and defeated their troops under lord James Butler, son the earl Ossory and the course the insurrection, the O'Tooles and O'Byrnes Wicklow rose out and plundered the English settlements Dublin, and destroyed the great castle Powerscourt, the erection which had cost the
whom put death, oneonly excepted, mainedEdmond Oleme,
who escaped stark naked lord Thomas; there was bog between both parties, but the lord deputy's artillery put Fitzgerald's few
troops flight, and was never after able muster any con
sent England for troops, and returned August, 1533, with
body
parts
O’Briens
horsemen and archers, who were garrisoned different the Paie. Lord Thomas retired Munster amongst the Thomond, endeavouring raise forces, where he was
lord Gray and sir William Brereton; after someskir
followed
mishes Fitzgerald surrendered lord Gray, promise pardon,
and rode with him Dublin the latter end August, and soon
afterwards accompanied lord Gray England, but the king being
enraged and implacable, caused lord Thomas arrested his way Windsor, and he was imprisoned the Tower, where he
suffered the most severe privations, having scarcely any clothes cover him, and forced go bare-footed and bare-legged the
his
stated Cox
also mentioned
griffin, and John Travers,
that year Fitzgerald, were also executed
have taken place February, 1537, and
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REIGN OF HENRY VIII. 407
or discover. They also broke and burned the cele of St. Patrick to that period, and had been in the brated images, shrines, and the relics of the saints hands of Christ while he was among men. They of Ireland and England. They also burned, after made Archbishops, and Sub-Bishops for them that, the image of the illustrious Virgin Mary, selves, and though great was the persecution of
which was at Athtruim (Trim in Meath), which the Roman emperors against the Church, it is wrought wonders and miracles, and healed the doubtful if so great as this ever came from Rome; blind, the deaf, the lame and persons affected with so that it would be impossible to relate or give various diseases; also the Staff of Jesus, which a description of unless told by person who
was in Dublin, and wrought miracles from the time
saw it. ”
The abbots the following monasteries were mitred abbots, and together with the priors here mentioned, making all twenty-four, sat amongst the lords, barons, and bishops, spiritual peers the
3. Suppression of Monasteries. —In the years 1537, 1538, and
1541, various Acts of Parliament were passed for the suppression
of religious houses in Ireland, and during the reigns of Henry VIII. ,
Edward VI. , and Elizabeth, all the abbeys, monasteries, priories, Irish Parliament, according are and others. The abbot the
convents, &c. , were abolished ; their extensive lands and endow
ments were confiscated and seized by the crown, and the abbey
and church lands, and Erenach lands, all of which were denomi
nated Termon lands, were conferred in large grants on laymen,
chiefly the nobility and gentry of the country. Numerous col
leges, seminaries, and schools attached to the abbeys, were also
suppressed, and likewise the hospitals and Biatachs. The Biatachs
were charitable institutions or houses of hospitality, and are fre tercians of Tracton
quently mentioned in the course of these Annals; the name in the Irish is Biadhtach, derived from Biadh food, and teach a house, hence signifying houses of entertainment, and the lands appropri
ated for their maintenance were termed Baile Biadhtach, angli
cised Ballybetaghs, that is, the townland of the Biatach, and the Mary's Abbey Dublin. The abbot the Augustinians St.
name Biatach or Betagh, was likewise applied to the keepers of
those houses, who were sometimes laymen, and sometimes eccle
siastics, and many of them are recorded in the course of these
Annals. These Biatachs were amply endowed with grants of
lands, cattle, sheep, &c. , by the Irish princes and chiefs, for the
public entertainment of all travellers and strangers; the sick, the Newtown, near Trim Meath. The prior the Augustinian poor, and indigent. These houses of hospitality were extremely monastery the Virgin Mary Louth. The prior the Bene
numerous in all parts of the country in ancient times, and it is estinated that there were at least two thousand of then through out Ireland, one or more generally in every parish. These houses were generally erected at cross-roads, always well supplied with provisions and meat boiled in large cauldrons, and supplies of va
rious kinds were always kept ready cooked for all comers.
At the Reformation, according to the accounts in Ware's works,
Abbeys and Priories of Augustinians, Canons, and Canons regular, Aroasians, and Victorines, - - Convents of Canonesses or Augustinian Nuns, -
Priories of Premonstratensians or White Canons, a branch of the Augustinians, who were also called Norbertimes,
Houses of Hermits of St. Augustine, called Austin friars, Commanderies, Preceptories, and Priories of Knights Hos
pitalers, or of St. John of Jerusalem, under the rule of St. Augustine, someof which institutions had previously belonged to the Knights Templars, - -
Hospitals and Priories of Trinitarians under the rule of St.
Augustine, established for the redemption of captives in
the Holy Land, and also of Cruciferi or Crouched Friars called Cross-bearers, - - -
Abbeys and Priories of Benedictines, called Black Monks, Convents of Benedictime Nuns, called Black Nuns, .
Abbeys and Priories of Cistercian Monks or Bernardines, Cistercian Nunneries,
Abbeys and Priories of Dominican Friars, called Black
Friars and Friars Preachers, - - - Abbeys and Priories of Franciscans or Grey friars, inclu ding the Friars Minors, Observantines, and Conventuals
Convents of Carmelites or White Friars, - - A Priory of Culdees at Armagh, - - -
dictines Downpatrick Down. The prior the Augustinians
Inonasteries
the ruins which
:-
Galway, which was ancient times
and Archdall's Monasticon, there were in Ireland the following
gion,
still remain, and the island was called
signifying Aran the Saints. The Iccian Sea mentioned the text under the name Muir Niocht, the sea between Great Britain and France, particularly that part the English Channel called the Straits Dover, and got that name from the Portus Iccius, which, according the old geographers, was either the harbour Boulogne Calais France; hence the sea was called Mare Iccium.
Destruction Images. —Sir Richard Cox, his Hibernia Anglicana, reign Henry VIII. , says, that the month May,
1538, “the lord deputy Leonard Gray, marched from Trim pursue O'Reilly Cavan, who made his submission, and the deputy then proceeded against Savage, degenerate Englishman, into Ardes and Lecale (in the county Down), and there also took Magennis's castle Dundrum, and seven other castles, and wasted and preyed that country, and which was worse, burned the cathedral church Downe (Downpatrick), and defaced the monuments the saints Patrick, Bridget, and Columbus, and committed many other sacrileges; and about the same time the images saints were every where defaced taken away, and particularly the famous image the Blessed Virgin Trim, was burned, and the oblations and treasures which votaries had offered
there, were also taken and carried away. ”
St. Patrick's Crozier—This reimarkable relic, which was also
223 38
8 24
22
14 9 5 42 2
41
114 20 l
called St.
Patrick's Staff, frequently mentioned St. Patrick, particularly the Tripartite Life, Trias Thaumaturga, p. 263, and Lanigan, (vol.
the Lives Colgan, his 178), and
Cistercian monastery
Mellifont Louth, the first that order the twelfth century. The abbot the Cis
founded tercians Baltinglass
Ireland, Bective
Meath. The abbot of the Cistercians of
Wexford. The abbot
The abbot the Cistercians The abbot of the Cistercians of Tintern the Cistercians Jerpoint Kilkenny.
the Cis
the Cistercians
Douske Kilkenny. The abbot
Cork. The abbot of the Cistercians of
Wicklow.
Dunbrody Wexford. The abbot
Monaster-Nenay
Abington Wotheney Limerick. The abbot the Cistercians
Limerick. The abbot the Cistercians
Holy-Cross Tipperary. The abbot the Cistercians Monaster-Evin Kildare. The abbot the Cistercians of St.
Thomas the Martyr, Dublin. The prior the Knights St. John Jerusalein, Kilmainliam Dublin. The prior the Augustinians the Holy Trinity Christ Church, Dublin. The prior the Augustinians All Saints Dublin, now Trinity Col lege. The prior the Augustinians SS. Peter and Paul
Great Comuall Kildare. The prior the Augustinians Kells Kilkenny. The prior the Augustinians Athassel
Tipperary. The prior stated the text
the Augustinians Rattoo Kerry.
the Annals, that the monasteries were
all demolished from Aran the Saints was the Island
the Saints Aran,
the Iccian Sea; Aran
the Atlantic, off the coast
celebrated seat reli
and several churches were erected
there,
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408 ANNALS OF THE FOUR MASTERS, A. D. 1538.
A. D. 1538.
Hugh Buighe O’Donnell, the son of Hugh
Duv, son of Hugh Roe, heir to the lordship of Tirconnell, a man skilled and learned in all the arts, the most distinguished man for benevolence,
hospitality, feats of arms, fierce conflicts and in
the pass of danger, and who was expected to be
nefit most the lordship of his own country, accord ing to promise and appearances, died at Kilodom
rair (Killymard, in Donegal), after communion and sacraments, on the 22nd of March.
Niall, the son of Con, son of Art O’Neill, a
summa dignitatis venerationis gente illa. Nempe notissima sunt celeberrimaque populis, atque reverentia, apud omnes qui illa habere visus fuerit, ipsum habeat episcopum populus stultus insipiens. ” “Nigel, however, seeing that his flight was
likewise in St. Patrick's Life, by Joceline the Monk, in the twelfth century. Numerous miracles are said to have been performed by
this staff, which was compared with the rod of Moses; St. Pa trick is said to have received it from a hermit who lived in an is
land of the Etruscan sea, supposed to have been Lerins, near
Antibes, off the coast of France, where there was a celebrated
monastery in ancient times, in which St. Patrick studied some belonged St. Patrick, and staff covered with gold, and
years, and, as before stated, he was considered to have been a
native of Gaul; according to Joceline the name of the hermit was
Justus, and he had brought the staff from the Holy Land, and it
was said to have been possessed by our Saviour, hence called in
Irish Bachall Iosa, latinised Baculus Jesu, signifying the Staff of remarkable and celebrated amongst the people, and held such Jesus; by the Irish writers it was generally called Bachall Pha reverence all, that whoever was seen possess them, the draig, that the Staff Patrick, the word Bachall Irish sig
Rath-Airthir) apud Nundinas. ” “A sacrilegious carrying off
first who ornamented the staff Jesus with his church Rath-Colptha, near Downpatrick,
precious covering; the east. ” This mentioned the
Jesus, and relics St. Patrick, Donogh, the son the eastern rath, called Rath Airthir, the Fair As
the Staff
Donal,
sembly. ”
probably situated near Armagh. At 1027, the Annals
the fifth century, and
St. Thassach lived
Lives St. Patrick, art goldsmith.
Tigearmach, the Baculus Jesu thus mentioned “Bacal Innisfallen, the Bachall Phadraig, St. Patrick's Staff, was re Iosa da sharugadh” which Dr. O'Conor (Rerum Hiberni moved from Armagh Dublin William Fitz Adelm. Giraldus carum Scrip. 279), thus translates: “Baculum Jesu Cambrensis, the twelfth century, thus mentions this relic: “In sacrilege raptum,” that “The staff Jesus was sacri ter universos Hiberniae Baculos ligneaeque naturae Sanctorum re legiously carried off. ” the Annals the Four Mas liquias, virtuosus ille famosus, quem Baculum Jesu vocant, mon
ters, A. 1030, thus again mentioned “Bachall Iosa sarugadh im thri caiplibh agus marbhadh ría Cion nomhe fear roda saraigh,” which thus translated by Dr. O'Conor: “Baculum Jesu ablatun sacrilege, cum tribus equis, occisusest ante novem dies vir qui sacrilege idtemeravit,” that “The staff Jesus was sacrilegiously carried off, together with three horses, and the man who sacrilegiously dared that deed was slain before nine days. ” observed that all these passages translated Dr. O'Conor, renders the word sarughadh
sacrilegious and forcible carrying off, which the real meaning the word. Again, the Annals the Four Masters, the year 1080, this relic mentioned, where stated that hostile
Rath Airthir signifies the eastern Rath, and was
skilled the working
force was led Torlogh O'Brien, king Thomond, Dublin
and Meath, where Malachy, king Meath, came into his camp
with the Staff Jesus, accompanied by the successor St. Pa sited Christ Church, Dublin, where, from the twelfth the trick and the clergy Munster; and again the same Annals,
the year 1143, mentioned that Muiredach O’Duffy, arch
bishop Tuam the lords and chiefs Connaught; the succes
sor St. Patrick, having the Baculus Jesu with him; the
coarb St. Feichin (the abbot Fore), with the Bell St. Fei Browne, archbishop Dublin, related D'Alton's Arch chin, together with the Bo ban St. Kevin, were all pledges
peace between Torlogh O'Conor, king Connaught, and Mur togh O’Melaghlin, king Meath.
St. Bernard, his Life St. Malachy, archbishop Armagh
the beginning the twelfth century, given the Benedictine edition the Fathers, thus speaks the Baculus Jesu “Porro Nigellus videns sibi imminere fugam, tulit secum insignia quaedam sedis illius, textum scilicet Evangeliorum, qui fuit beati Patricii, Baculumque auro tectum, gemmis pretiosissimis adornatum
quem nominant Baculum Jesu, quod ipse Dominus (ut fert opinio) eum suis manibus tenuerit, atque formaverit. Et haec
bishops Dublin. Ware's Annals the reign Henry VIII. are the following passages: “Also about the same time (A. 1538), among the famous images whereunto pilgrimages
were designed, the statue the Blessed Virgin Mary was burned,
then kept Trim, the abbey the Canons Regular, and the gifts
the pilgrims were taken away from thence. The image Christ crucified, the abbey Ballibogan, and St. Patrick's
Staff, the Cathedral Church the Holy Trinity Dublin, which William, the son Adelm, brought from Armagh, and gave gift that church the year 1180, underwent the like fate.
impending, took with him certain celebrated things belonging that see (Armagh), namely, the Book the Gospels, which had
adorned with the most precious gems, which they named the Staff Jesus, because the Lord himself (as the opinion is), held his own hands, and formed it; and these were held the highest ho nour and veneration that nation. For these things were most
foolish and silly people considered him the real bishop. ” observed that this Nigel, above-mentioned, had that time usurped the see Armagh, and seized upon the Baculus
nifying staff, like the Latin Baculus; hence Bachall, Bachall
Easpuic, that bishop's staff, was the term applied
crozier, therefore by Patrick's staff was meant his crozier. This Jesu, and the Book the Gospels, thereby endeavouring secure staff crozier frequently mentioned by the ancient Irish annal
ists, and the Annals the Four Masters, 784, men
tioned passage thus translated from the Irish Dr. O'Conor,
“Sacrilega direptio Baculi Jesu, Reliquiarum Patricii per Ecclesia ipsius est Rath-Colptha juxta Dunum Orientem. ” Donnchadum filium Donaldi apud Arcem Orientalem (dictum “Tassach was the worker metals St. Patrick, and was the
his succession the see. Colgan, his Trias Thaumaturga,
has the following passage: “Thassachus fuit faber aerarius Pa tricii; fuit primus qui Baculum Jesu pretioso tegumento obcelavit,
metals, and the the year 180, according the Annals
immerito primus precipuus esse videtur; per quem, vulgari opi
mione, Patricius venenosos insula vermes ejecit, cujus siqui dem tam incertus est ortus quam certissima virtus. Nostris autem temporibus nostrorum opera, nobilis thesaurus Armachia Dubliniam est translatus. ” “Amongst all the croziers Ireland, and relics saints made wood, that potent and famous one which they call the Staff Jesus, not undeservedly, seems
the prime and chief, by which, the common opinion, St. Patrick banished poisonous reptiles from the island. The origin
indeed, uncertain, its virtue certain. But our times, and by the assistance our people, this noble treasure was translated from Armagh Dublin. ” William Fitz-Adelm Burgo, lord deputy Ireland, was the person who, either 1179 1180, transferred St. Patrick's crozier from Armagh, and depo
sixteenth century, was preserved with the greatest care, and held the highest veneration; but A. 1538, the gems and golden ornaments being removed, was publicly burned, together with many other religious relics, High-street, order George
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- A. D. 1539.
Magheracloone, the barony Farney, county Monaghan, which place mentioned the text Fearnmaigh, from which came the name Ferney Farney; the place situated the
worthy man, distinguished for noble deeds and excellence, was slain in a nocturnal attack by the son of Niall O'Neill, in the castle of Omagh, after the town had been betrayed by a party who were in the castle; Niall O'Neill then demolished the castle, and his own son was pursued for that slaying.
The son of Mac Clancy, i. e. Cahir, the son of
Feredach, the son of William, heir to the chief
tancy of Dartry, died at Dun Cairbre (the castle of Duncarberry, near the Atlantic, at Bundrowes
in Leitrim).
Ferganainm, the son of Feardorcha (Ferdinand),
Mac Coghlan, tanist of Delvin Eathra King's
county), was slain the sons the prior Mac Coghlan.
O’Donnell, i. e. Manus, marched with force into North Connaught, and fortunately succeeded
taking the castle Sligo, which was well fur mished with guards and ordnance, after had been for considerable time out his possession, being strongly defended against his father, that
could not taken until then. After having taken the castle, and left his guards possession
son Torlogh, son Teige, was inaugurated his successor, just reward his own merits.
O’Donnell, i. e. Manus, marched with force
into North Connaught, between Christmas and
the festival St. Bridget, and having received
from the inhabitants his full tribute and hostages, he returned home safe.
O'Neill, i. e. Con, having gone O’Donnell’s
residence Donegal, about Easter, they formed
entire country. On his return came castle called Moy O'Gara (in the barony avin, county Sligo), which was taken
the Cool
English the latter times, that spoiled much the property Meath, than did these preda tory forces; great indeed was the booty, consist
REIGN OF HENRY VIII. 409
him
happened, however, that Niall Garv, the son of ing gold, silver, brass, iron, treasure, and every
O'Donnell, was unfortunately killed the shot kind property and goods general, they took ball from the castle, the time they attacked from the towns Ath-Firdiadh (Ardee) and Nua the town but O’Donnell pardoned the person Chongbhail (Navan), having completely plundered
whom the deed was committed, who, under them that expedition. On the return those
his protection, was liberty; O'Donnell
turned safe with his forces, except that great loss,
after having spoiled Moylurg, and the plain
Connaught, except such those who paid him his justice, lord Leonard, received intelligence this, tribute.
A. D. 1539.
Thomond, i. e. Conor, the son
collected the English forces Ireland, with those many the great towns Meath, both lay and ecclesiastic, and the fleets the neighbouring coasts, and particularly immense fleet which lay Cuan-Cairlinne (the bay Car lingford); after those forces were brought to
O’Brien
Torlogh, son
the lordship considerable time, during which gether the lord justice, marched pursuit his country flourished great affluence and pros the Irish army Oriel, place called Bel perity. Murrogh, the son O’Brien, i. e. the athahoa, Fearnmaigh'. The Irish forces were
Teige, died, after having been
Bellahoe was fought August 1539, and the
The Battle
place called Bellahoa, Ballyhoe, situated the parish
league peace, amity, and alliance, firmly possible, with each other.
Maguire, i. e. Cormac, the son Cuchonacht, son Cuchonacht, son Bryan, son Philip, tanist Fermanagh, worthy man, distinguished for his nobleness and hospitality,
was treacherously slain the people his own brethren, and even their presence.
O'Neill, i. e. Con, and O’Donnell, i. e. Manus,
marched, with mutual accord and consent, with their forces into Meath, and such territories did not pay them tribute they devastated and burned before them far Tara. They seized
between them strictly and
The son
immense booty that expedition, and the marched into Moylurg, and spoiled the Irish had not mustered army attack the
forces, there was exultation, boasting, vain-glory,
and pride, about the immense booty they obtained without any opposition. When the Saxon lord
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410 ANNALS OF THE FOUR MASTERS, A. D. 1540.
not able to form into proper order as they should, slain at Beandchor, (Banagher, in King's county), neither did they obey the commands of their by the sons of O'Madden, namely, Malachy leaders to keep and defend the field of battle, but Godh, after mass on a Sunday, on the second of rather dispersed in a scattered and disorderly the Nones of July.
manner, and left a great deal of their own pro The lordship of Delvin (in King's county), was perty, as well as the booty they had taken from divided by O’Melaghlin, namely, Felim, between the English, in the hands of their enemies at that Art, the son of Cormac Mac Coghlan, Donal, the place, after they were defeated; many of their son of Ferdorcha (Ferdinand), and Malachy, the common soldiers were slain, and not a few of their son of Edmond.
chiefs besides; and of the Tirconallians Maol
murry Meirgeach, son of John Roe Mac Sweeney, - A. D. 1540.
fell on the field of battle. Magennis, i. e. Mur Roderick O'Maoleoin, bishop of Ardagh, and
togh, was taken prisoner by a party of the people of Oriel, after having been separated with a few from his own forces in that defeat of Bellahoe; he was kept privately in imprisonment for a consi derable time, and they afterwards treacherously slew him at the instigation of some of his own tribe, who gave a bribe to those who had him in confinement, for putting him to death.
Niall Oge O'Boyle was killed by Conor, the son of O'Boyle.
O’Melaghlin, i. e. Art, a prosperous, intrepid man, and his son, Cahir O’Melaghlin, dean of Clon macnoise, were slain at Fornocht (Forgney, in Longford, on the borders of Westmeath), by the sons of Felim O’Melaghlin; and Felim assumed the lordship.
Mac Coghlan, i. e. Felim, the son of Myler, was
coadjutor bishop of Clonmacnoise, aprosperous and
man,
affluent
died. (This Roderick O’Malone is
not given in Ware's Bishops; Terence Kerawan,
or Kirwan, was then bishop of Clonmacnois).
The monastery of Clonroad, (at Ennis, in the
county of Clare), was given to the friars de ob servantia, at the request of O’Brien, namely, Mur
rogh, the son of Torlogh, and of the nobles of Thomond, with the permission and consent of the superiors of the order of St. Francis.
The English, in every place throughout Ireland
where they established their power, persecuted
and banished the nine religious orders, and par
ticularly, they destroyed the monastery of Mo
naghan' and beheaded the guardian, and a num ber of the friars.
borders of Cavan, Monaghan, Meath, and Louth, between Kings defeated, and the booty recovered. According to Cox, Magen
court, Carrickmacross, and Ardee; and the large lake of Ballyhoe is situated partly in the parish of Drumcondra, county of Meath, and partly in the parish of Magheracloone, in the county of Mo naghan, and from this lake runs the river Legan, at which the battle was fought. The following particulars of it have been col lected from Cox's Hibernia Anglicana, Campion, Leland, and Mac Geoghegan. Con O'Neill, prince of Tyrone, who was called Con Bacach, or Con the Lame, together with O'Donnell, Magennis, O'Kane, O'Hanlon, Mac William, and others, jointly invaded the Pale with a powerful force, marched to Meath, burned Ardee and Navan, and plundered all the country through which they passed, till they came to the hill of Tara, where they reviewed their forces with great ostentation; and having taken vast booty, they returned towards home. The lord deputy, Leonard Gray, having some time before sent to England for aid, sir William Brereton was imme diately despatched to Ireland with 250 Cheshire men, and, together with these, the lord deputy collected the forces of the Pale, with the mayors and citizens of Dublin and Drogheda, and marched to Bellahoe, where O'Neill was encamped on the other side of the river. The English forces came to the river by break of day; James Fleming, baron of Slane, led the van; but Robert Half penny, his standard bearer, having declined to advance because of the danger, he substituted the valiant Robert Betagh of Moy nalty, in Meath, to carry the standard, and he rushed boldly into the river, being well supported by Mahe of Mabestown, a com mander of great courage. The lord deputy's forces with great diffi culty crossed the river, and after a sharp conflict, at length suc ceeded in routing the Irish galloglasses; Mabe, and many of the
Anglo-Irish forces were slain; but O'Neill's forces were at length
mis, lord of Iveagh, was slain, together with about 400 of O’Neill's men. Mac Geoghegan, in his History of Ireland, says “Les Ir landois perdirent dans cette action pres de quatre cens hommes tues avec Magennis, un de leurs chefs; la perte des Anglois mefut pas moins grande, ayant laisse quelques-uns deleurs chefs, entr'autres le general Mabe, morts sur le champ de bataille. ” “The Irish lost in that engagement nearly four hundred men slain, together
with Magennis, one of their chiefs; the loss of the English was not much less, having left some of their commanders, amongst others general Mabe, dead on the field of battle. ” In some of the English editions of Mac Geoghegan, the number of the Irish slain has, by some typographical error, been made four thousand instead of four hundred, as in the French original, whereas, ac cording to Cox, and all the other accounts of this battle, only about four hundred of the Irish were slain; and as, according to Mac Geoghegan, nearly the same number of the English were killed, therefore about eight hundred fell on both sides in this bat tle. The lord deputy, says Cox, commanded in person with great courage, and after the battle, he knighted on the field, for their services, the chief justice Aylmer, Talbot, of Malahide, James Fitzsimon, mayor of Dublin, and Michael Courcey, mayor of Drogheda. Sir John Davies says of this battle, “that prosperous fight at Bellahoe, on the borders of Meath, the memory whereof is yet famous. ”
A. D. 1540.
1. The Monastery of Monaghan was founded by St. Moelo dius, or Maclodius, about the sixth century, and the place was called Muineachan, signifying the town of the monks; it was an Augustinian abbey of note for several centuries, and many of
its
REIGN OF HENRY VIII. 41 l
The two sons of O'Boyle, namely Niall Roe tains, and then returned home safe, in triumph and and Conor, were in dispute and contention with victory.
each other, and Niall went to make an attack on O’Donnell collected a force, and the following Conor at Luachras (Loughros, near Ardara, persons joined him, namely, Niall Conallach, the county of Donegal), for it was there Conor’s place son of Art Oge, tanist of Tyrone, and the son of of residence was, and he remained for a night in Mac Donnell of Scotland, namely, Colla, the son ambush in the church of Seanchan. On the fol of Alexander, together with a great many of the lowing day Conor appeared on the hill near the
church, when Niall sallied forth with his party
from the church; when Conor beheld them ad
vancing towards him, he retired to avoid comin
in contact with them, as he had only a few of his
men along with him, and who were of no service to him. The direction he took alone was down
across the strand of Loughros; Niall pursued him as quickly as he could, and having outrun his own party, he challenged Conor to a single combat, whereupon they attacked each other actively and fiercely, without regard to friendship or relation
ship; Conor gave a stroke to Niall on the crown
of the head and felled him to the ground, upon
which Conor fled from the place, being wounded.
Niall’s party having come up to him, he told them
to follow Conor, as he was not himself in danger
of death on that occasion; Niall’s people accord
ingly did so, and overtook Conor at the side of a
lake in the neighbourhood; they did not come gal), from which they began to spoil the country. into close combat with him, but knocked him
down with the stones which lay along the margin of the lake, and they then attacked him with their arms; on their return they found Niall quite dead; and there were not of their tribe in their time a greater loss, than those two who were slain by each other.
O'Donnell took them both prisoners, and also Eigneachan O’Donnell, at Baile-na-Congbhala;
of Felim, a man distinguished for nobility and The sons of William Mac-an-Easpuig O'Gal hospitality, died at an advanced age, after having
lagher, namely, William Oge and Hugh Gruama,
were slain by the sons of O'Boyle, namely, Donal
and Torlogh, in revenge for the death of their father.
O'Donnell, i. e. Manus, marched with a force into the province of Connaught, and did not halt until he entered Moylurg, from whence he proceeded to Clan Conway (in Galway); and he devastated and burned the entire of Moylurg, and Clan Conway, after which he took a prey at the Curlew moun
abbots are mentioned by the Four Masters, Colgan, and Archdall, from the eighth the fifteenth century, when, 1462, the monastery was rebuilt and re-founded for Conventual Franciscans, by Felim Mac Mahon, lord Monaghan. Its abbots were chiefly
the family Mac Mahon, and continued flourish the
gained the victory over the world and the devil. Donall, the son of Niall O'Boyle, was nomi
nated the O'Boyle.